bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving sustainable and climate‐resilient fisheries requires marine ecosystem forecasts to include fish condition
Authors: Bolin Jessica A. , Schoeman David S. , Evans Karen J. , Cummins Scott F. , Scales Kylie L.
Published: May 2021

Marine ecosystem forecasting is an important innovation in fisheries science with considerable value for industry and management, providing new data‐driven means of predicting the distribution and availability of commercially exploited fish stocks over a range of timescales, including near‐real‐time and seasonal. Marine ecosystem forecasting is rapidly advancing as a field, yet tools produced for fisheries to date focus primarily on predicting species distributions. The next generation of marine ecosystem forecasting products could be enhanced by also incorporating predictions of biological characteristics of fish caught, such as body condition and epidemiological status, thereby expanding the utility of these methods beyond predicting distribution alone. Improving the biological dimensions of marine ecosystem forecasting could allow for optimization of efficiencies in wild‐capture fisheries by minimizing discarding and waste and maximizing the value of landed fish. These advancements are of direct benefit to industry and management, address several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals pertaining to fisheries sustainability and have the potential to support the maintenance of global food and micronutrient security under rapidly changing environmental conditions. Here, we describe the current state of the art in marine ecosystem forecasting; review the physical‐biological linkages that underlie variability in the body condition of commercially valuable fish and shellfish with particular reference to marine climate change; and outline key considerations for the next generation of marine ecosystem forecasting tools for wild‐capture fisheries.
Movements of common bream Abramis brama in a highly connected, lowland wetland reveal sub‐populations with diverse migration strategies
Authors: Winter Emily R. , Hindes Andrew M. , Lane Steve , Britton J. Robert
Published: May 2021

Studies suggest the migratory behaviours of potamodromous fishes can be highly variable in barrier‐free systems, where differing movement types enable populations to exploit a wide range of food and space resources. This intra‐population diversity in spatial and temporal resource use is important to our ecological understanding of fish distribution patterns and population structure. Despite this, freshwater ecosystems are increasingly characterised by high levels of fragmentation and degradation that restrict mobile fauna, and limit opportunities to study natural, unconstrained movement behaviour.

Common bream Abramis brama (bream) is a potentially strong model species for testing the importance of diverse migration patterns in lowland rivers, but existing studies have been largely restricted to spatially confined and/or anthropogenically modified systems. This study's principal focus was to examine the diversity of bream movement behaviour in a highly connected, lowland system using passive acoustic telemetry, which provided continuous, multi‐year data on the movements of 181 bream across a tidally influenced, lowland wetland in eastern England (c. 60 km of continuous river length plus numerous interconnected shallow lakes and dykes). Tracked bream were grouped according to their initial location and timing of tagging.

Bream migratory behaviours varied considerably between tagging groups, but with greater consistency within groups. There was little mixing of groups outside of spawning periods, with season and tidal phase being significant predictors of movement. Rates of movement and swimming speeds were highest in spring, with movements also generally occurring in the direction of tidal flows.

For fish sampled just prior to spawning, there was considerable diversity in their post‐spawning behaviour, with some remaining in the immediate vicinity of the sampling location and others that moved to areas c. 25 km away. These spatially discrete patterns remained until the following spawning period.

These results suggest that this lowland fish population is comprised of several distinct, semi‐independent subpopulations that only share space resources in their spawning period. This indicates the importance of connectivity in lowland freshwater systems for enabling and maintaining high phenotypic diversity in the movement behaviours of potamodromous fishes.
Oral health‐related quality of life is associated with the prevalence and development of depressive symptoms in older Japanese individuals: The Ohasama Study
Authors: Ohi Takashi , Murakami Takahisa , Komiyama Takamasa , Miyoshi Yoshitada , Endo Kosei , Hiratsuka Takako , Satoh Michihiro , Asayama Kei , Inoue Ryusuke , Kikuya Masahiro , Metoki Hirohito , Hozawa Atsushi , Imai Yutaka , Watanabe Makoto , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Hattori Yoshinori
Published: May 2021

Objective

This prospective study investigated the cross‐sectional association between impaired oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) and the prevalence of depressive symptoms, and the longitudinal association between impaired OHRQoL and development of depressive symptoms among older adults.

Background

Previous studies have shown a relationship between poor oral health and depression among older adults; however, findings are inconsistent.

Materials and Methods

Participants were 669 community‐dwelling older Japanese individuals aged≥55 years (mean: 67.8 ± 7.2 years). Data of 296 participants were used for longitudinal analyses. OHRQoL was evaluated using the Oral Impacts on Daily Performances scale. Impaired OHRQoL was defined as the presence of at least one impact on the scale. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Japanese version of the Zung self‐rating depression scale with a cut‐off score of 40.

Results

The cross‐sectional logistic regression model demonstrated that impaired OHRQoL was significantly associated with depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR], 5.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.99‐8.95) independent of age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, cerebrovascular/cardiovascular disease, smoking, drinking alcohol, education, cognitive function, objective oral health (dentition status) and oral health behaviour (dental visit within 1 year). Similarly, impaired OHRQoL predicted the development of depressive symptoms within 4 years in a fully adjusted longitudinal model (OR, 6.00; 95% CI, 1.38‐26.09).

Conclusion

Impaired OHRQoL was identified as a potential comorbidity of depressive symptoms and a predictor for depressive disorder later in life. OHRQoL may be a useful clinical outcome for elder patients with regard to their mental and oral health.
Palisadegrass pastures with or without nitrogen or mixed with forage peanut grazed to a similar target canopy height. 2. Effects on animal performance, forage intake and digestion, and nitrogen metabolism
Authors: Homem Bruno G. C. , de Lima Italo Braz G. , Spasiani Paola P. , Borges Lucas P. C. , Boddey Robert M. , Dubeux José C. B. , Bernardes Thiago F. , Casagrande Daniel R.
Published: May 2021

The lack of nitrogen (N) input on pastures is the main limiting factor to increase animal performance in tropical regions. This 2.5‐year study assessed animal performance, forage intake and digestion, and N metabolism responses of three pasture treatments: (1) mixed Marandu palisadegrass—Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R.D. Webster (syn. Urochloa brizantha Stapf cv. Marandu)—and forage peanut (Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. BRS Mandobi) pastures (GRASS + LEGUME), (2) monoculture Marandu palisadegrass pastures with 150 kg of N/ha (GRASS + N), and (3) monoculture Marandu palisadegrass without N fertilizer (GRASS). Continuous stocking with variable stocking rate was used with a target canopy height of 20 to 25 cm. The average daily gain was greatest at GRASS + N and GRASS + LEGUME (p = .081). GRASS + N pasture had greatest stocking rate and liveweight gain per area (p < .001 and p < .001, respectively), followed by GRASS + LEGUME pasture. No differences between treatments were found for the dry matter forage intake (p = .729); however, GRASS + N and GRASS + LEGUME pastures had greater crude protein and digestible organic matter intakes than GRASS pasture (p = .007 and p = .083, respectively). Greatest microbial protein synthesis and efficiency of microbial synthesis were found for GRASS + N and GRASS + LEGUME pastures (p = .016 and p = .067, respectively). Apparent efficiency of N utilization and microbial protein/CP intake ratio was greatest at GRASS + LEGUME pastures (p = .009 and p = .042, respectively). Nitrogen application or the integration of forage peanut in grass pasture increases animal performance, forage digestibility, and microbial protein synthesis.
Proteome analysis demonstrates involvement of endoplasmic reticulum stress response in human myocardium with subclinical left ventricular diastolic dysfunction
Authors: Sato Mizuho , Tsumoto Hiroki , Toba Ayumi , Soejima Yurie , Arai Tomio , Harada Kazumasa , Miura Yuri , Sawabe Motoji
Published: May 2021

Aim

Heart failure is increasing in Japan, in particular that with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) prevalent in older‐aged patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the pathophysiology during the early stage of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction by the quantitative proteome analysis of human myocardium.

Methods

Among 331 post‐mortem autopsy patients, we selected 23 patients (aged 79 ± 9.6 years) with echocardiographic data and without major comorbidities, except hypertension. Cryopreserved autopsy tissue of the LV myocardium was subjected to proteome analysis. LV diastolic function was evaluated by echocardiographic data. Thirteen patients were classified into the impaired diastolic function (IDF) group, and 10 the normal cardiac function group. We performed comparative proteome analysis between the IDF and normal groups by isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) using nano‐liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

The iTRAQ‐based proteome analysis revealed 57 differentially expressed proteins in the IDF group. Molecular network analysis of differentially expressed proteins indicated that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was a potentially important event. Furthermore, the expressions of proteins associated with the ER stress response, such as glucose‐regulated protein 78 kDa, inositol‐requiring kinase 1α and spliced X‐box binding protein 1, were significantly decreased in the IDF group.

Conclusions

This study suggested that reduced ER stress responses were involved during the early stage of LV diastolic dysfunction. Geriatr Gerontol Int ••; ••: ••–•• Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 577–583.
Overcoming barriers to new regional industrial path development: The role of a centre for research‐based innovation
Authors: Kyllingstad Nina
Published: May 2021

How regional industries can develop in an economically sustainable way is high on the research agenda. While the literature on regional change has focused primarily on historical case studies, it has said less about the barriers that hinder the desired change. This article contributes to a better understanding of barriers in regional innovation systems that hamper new regional industrial path development. Furthermore, the article analyses how a new knowledge organisation, the Centre for Research‐based Innovation Offshore Mechatronics in the Agder region of Norway, can contribute to overcoming these barriers. The Centre, which is a policy instrument funded by the Research Council of Norway, aims to contribute to path extension and potentially path modernisation. However, since its foundation, oil prices have dropped severely, resulting in new conditions for the Centre and its partners. The article concludes by discussing whether and how the Centre has contributed to overcoming the barriers that hinder developments beyond path extension.
Bat–bat fly interactions in Central Panama: host traits relate to modularity in a highly specialised network
Authors: Hiller Thomas , Vollstädt Maximilian G. R. , Brändel Stefan D. , Page Rachel A. , Tschapka Marco
Published: May 2021

Recently, network approaches have gained increasing popularity in studies of species interactions. These analyses provide important information about structural and functional organisation, as well as on the dynamics of species interactions. Common model systems for network studies include seed dispersal, pollination, and also parasite interactions.

Bat flies (Diptera: Streblidae, Nycteribiidae) are obligate blood‐sucking ectoparasites of bats. Resource partitioning allows multiple fly species to co‐occur on a single host individual, making them an ideal model system for network analyses.

Between 2013 and 2018 in Central Panama, 6528 bats from 53 species were examined for the presence of bat flies. Thereof, we collected a total of 6077 bat flies belonging to 52 species.

The resulting interaction network showed a significantly higher specificity (H2' = 0.97) and modularity (Q = 0.78) than expected by chance, indicating a very high host specificity of the bat flies. To investigate parasite interactions in the context of host size, host abundance and roosting preferences, we pooled parasite identifications on genus level. The majority of our identified modules were associated with bats using persistent roosting structures. Neither host size nor host abundance appeared to affect module structure. Further, module structure appeared not to be host‐phylogeny driven, instead modules were often composed of species known to share roosting structures.

Their high host‐specificity could put bat flies at risk of extinction in changing environments.
Exploring and explaining older consumers' behaviour in the boom of social media
Authors: Bui Hien Thu
Published: May 2021

The growing number of ageing consumers and their increasingly active engagement in social media platforms present a great opportunity for digital marketing to the grey market. However, the potential of this segment has been underrated by both marketers and marketing scholars. The empirical belief of senior consumers' technological illiteracy somewhat discourages industrial and academic approaches to seeking the answer to some critical questions such as what older consumers think about social media‐based advertising, influencers, or peer communications. Thus, this study aims to explore and explain older consumers' social media‐related behaviour through (a) delving into motives behind their frequently used social media site(s), (b) investigating older consumers' purchase behaviour aspects (i.e., determinant(s) to purchase decisions, favoured shopping modes), (c) discovering what senior consumers think about social media‐based advertising, influencers, and peer communications, and (d) evaluating the impact of social media on older consumers' purchase behaviour. Five key themes emerging from the adopted qualitative approach are (1) Facebook predominance, (2) Scepticism, (3) Price sensitivity, (4) Asymmetric social influences, and (5) Favoured physical store shopping. Each finding is demonstrated in a detailed causal explanation. Academic contributions and implications for social media marketers are highlighted and discussed.
IFN‐α and TNF‐α serum levels and their association with disease severity in Egyptian children and adults with alopecia areata
Authors: Omar Shaimaa I. , Hamza Ashraf M. , Eldabah Nermeen , Habiba Doaa A.
Published: May 2021

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune skin disease characterized by abnormal levels of several cytokines, such as interferon alpha (IFN‐α) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), which are T‐helper type 1 cytokines that have important roles in the pathogenesis of AA. The aim of our study was to correlate circulating IFN‐α and TNF‐α levels with disease severity, activity, and clinical type in patients with AA and to evaluate the relationship between the two cytokines.

Methods

We investigated serum IFN‐α and TNF‐α levels in 72 patients with AA (35 children and 35 adults) and 75 healthy control individuals (34 children and 41 adults) using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. We evaluated AA severity using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) and determined the activity based on dermoscopic criteria of disease activity.

Results

Serum IFN‐α and TNF‐α concentrations were significantly higher in the patients than in the controls. There was a significant positive correlation between serum IFN‐α and TNF‐α levels in all patients with alopecia areata, as well as between serum TNF‐α levels and disease severity in all patients and in children.

Conclusions

Our results support the association between IFN‐α and TNF‐α levels and AA and suggest that TNF‐α might be related to disease severity.
Chemical profiles of heated perilla meal extracts and their antioxidant activities
Authors: Park JungYong , Seo HeeBin , La JinWook , Yang Seung‐Ok , Lee YoonHee , Lee JaeHwan
Published: May 2021

Chemical profiles of aqueous or ethanolic extracts of 140, 170 and 200 °C‐heated perilla meal were identified by GC‐MS, and antioxidant properties of the extracts were observed via in vitro assays and in bulk oil or oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsion. A total of 22 and 27 chemicals were found in aqueous and ethanolic extracts from non‐heated samples, respectively. As the heating temperature increased to 200 °C, the carbohydrate and derivative contents decreased significantly (P < 0.05), whereas rosmarinic acid concentration decreased in both extracts. Ethanolic extracts possessed higher antioxidant activities than aqueous extracts based on the results of radical scavenging and ferric‐reducing antioxidant power assays and the Rancimat assay, but there were no significant differences among samples (P > 0.05). In the case of O/W emulsions, aqueous extracts inhibited lipid oxidation more efficiently than ethanolic extracts at 50 °C. In particular, heat treatment decreased the antioxidant activities of ethanolic extracts and not aqueous extracts in the O/W emulsion system. Aqueous extracts are recommended in moisture‐rich emulsion‐based foods while ethanolic extracts are more suitable in a lipid‐rich environment for enhancing oxidative stability.
Recovery of bioactive compounds from walnut (Juglans regia L.) green husk by supercritical carbon dioxide extraction
Authors: Romano Raffaele , Aiello Alessandra , Meca Giuseppe , De Luca Lucia , Pizzolongo Fabiana , Masi Paolo
Published: May 2021

In this work, the use of supercritical carbon dioxide, a nontoxic solvent, was proposed to extract bioactive compounds from Juglans regia L. green husk and was compared to other traditional techniques based on solvents such as ethanol, methanol and water. Supercritical CO2 was combined with ethanol as an organic modifier at a rate of 20% of the total flow to achieve greater extraction of polar compounds. The extracts were characterised in terms of extraction yields, antioxidant activity, total polyphenol content, phenolic acids, juglone, volatile organic compounds and antifungal activity. The results showed that the extracts obtained with supercritical CO2 were rich in polyphenols (10750 mg GAE/100 g) and juglone (1192 mg/100 g) and exerted high antioxidant activity and antifungal activity compared with the tested fungi. Walnut green husk is not just a food industry waste but also an important economic source of bioactive compounds that could be used for food active packaging.
Consumer perceptions of insect consumption: a review of western research since 2015
Authors: Ardoin Ryan , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: May 2021

Edible insects have been touted as a sustainable food of the future, but for Western consumers, the concept of entomophagy is largely unfamiliar and often disgusting. This review article discusses current trends in perceptual entomophagy research in Australia, Canada, Europe and the USA since 2015, along with an analysis of the guiding theoretical approaches to predicting insect consumption. Instead of trying to convince unwilling consumers, sensory and consumer science should turn to optimising insect‐eating experiences for potential early adopters. Hedonic evaluations of insect‐based products highlight differences in regional palates, but certain emotional responses seem consistent, including a group of newly coined ‘food‐evoked sensation seeking emotions’. Through clear‐cut insect‐inclusive legislation and effective product development, entomophagy‐specific fear and disgust may diminish over time. Researchers, food companies and governments all play critical roles in integrating insects into modern food systems, but consumer behaviour will ultimately determine the success of novel foods like insects.
Situating service work in action: A review and a pragmatist agenda for analysing interactive service work
Authors: Schneider Anna , Subramanian Dilip , Suquet Jean‐Baptiste , Ughetto Pascal
Published: May 2021

Research on interactive service work has paid close attention to how organizations and frontline employees deal with the inherent complexity of the customer–employee–employer triangle. This raises questions about the agency of interactive service workers with respect to the indeterminacy of service interactions. Our meta‐narrative review finds that the theorization of worker agency in service interactions remains underdeveloped in the two dominant research streams of mainstream management and labour process theory studies. Implicitly or explicitly, these streams either subsume agency under managerial prescription or view it through the binary polar of control and resistance. There has been less focus on service workers’ efforts to overcome practical difficulties in everyday service interactions. To address this lacuna, we offer a conceptual framework that draws on a less prominent, third research stream, which we label pragmatist. This stream includes scholarship largely unfamiliar to the international English‐speaking community, published mainly in French and German academic journals. We propose three contributions in this paper. First, we contribute to the interactive service work literature by mapping the theoretical plurality within and beyond the English‐speaking community. Second, we problematize established streams of research by articulating the intellectual axes of the field; this allows us to present a new research area to account for the concrete dynamics of service interaction and to capture frontline employee agency. Third, we propose a pragmatist research framework coupled with a future research agenda more attentive to the embeddedness and materiality of frontline workers’ situated actions. This way, we address the indeterminacy of interactive situations.
Prostate‐specific antigen density during dutasteride treatment for 1 year predicts the presence of prostate cancer in benign prostatic hyperplasia after the first negative biopsy (PREDICT study)
Authors: Inoue Takaaki , Yoshimura Koji , Terada Naoki , Tsukino Hiromasa , Murota Takashi , Kinoshita Hidefumi , Kamoto Toshiyuki , Ogawa Osamu , Matsuda Tadashi
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To prospectively evaluate the detection rate of prostate cancer, and to identify the risk factors of prostate cancer detection after a 1‐year administration of dutasteride and first negative prostate biopsy.

Methods

Patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia who presented high prostate‐specific antigen levels after the first negative prostate biopsy were administered 0.5 mg dutasteride daily for 1 year. They underwent a repeat prostate biopsy after 1 year. The primary end‐point was the detection rate of prostate cancer. The secondary end‐point was the ability of prostate‐specific antigen kinetics to predict prostate cancer detection. Prostate‐specific antigen was measured before the initial prostate biopsy and at 6, 9 and 12 months after starting dutasteride. Patients were classified into a prostate cancer and a non‐prostate cancer group.

Results

Prostate cancer was detected in 15 of 149 participants (10.1%). The total prostate‐specific antigen change between the prostate cancer and non‐prostate cancer group at 1 year was significantly different (P = 0.002). Although prostate‐specific antigen levels at baseline did not significantly differ between study groups (P = 0.102), prostate‐specific antigen levels at 6, 9 and 12 months were significantly different (P = 0.002, P = 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). The mean reduction rate of prostate‐specific antigen density between the prostate cancer and non‐prostate cancer group at 1 year was significantly different (−4.25 ± 76.5% vs −38.0 ± 28.7%, P = 0.001). Using a multivariate analysis, a >10% increase of prostate‐specific antigen density at 1 year post‐dutasteride treatment was the only predictive risk factor for prostate cancer after the first negative prostate biopsy (odds ratio 11.238, 95% confidence interval 3.112–40.577, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In the present study cohort, >10% increase in prostate‐specific antigen density represented the only significant predictive risk factor for prostate cancer diagnosis in patients with elevated prostate‐specific antigen after the first negative prostate biopsy.
COVID‐19 and family violence: Is this a perfect storm?
Authors: Usher Kim , Bradbury Jones Caroline , Bhullar Navjot , Durkin Dr Joanne , Gyamfi Naomi , Fatema Syadani Riyad , Jackson Debra
Published: May 2021

Disasters including public health crises like the COVID‐19 pandemic are known to increase instances of family violence against women, children, and other diverse populations. This paper discusses and provides evidence of disaster‐related vulnerability of and violence towards specific groups of people. We argue that the COVID‐19 pandemic presents the ‘perfect storm’ for family violence, where a set of rare circumstances combine, resulting in a significant aggravation of the resulting event. Given the mental health implications of family violence, mental health professionals need to be aware of this issue during the pandemic and ready to assist with the development of strategies to overcome the situation where possible. To provide protection and prevent violence, there is a need to include at‐risk groups in disaster response and community planning. Such a plan could involve gender and disaster working groups at the local community, state, and national levels.
K4CaSi6O15—Solving a 90‐year‐old riddle
Authors: Liu Hang , Hildebrandt Elias , Krammer Hans , Kahlenberg Volker , Krüger Hannes , Schottenberger Herwig
Published: May 2021

Polycrystalline K4CaSi6O15 was prepared from (a) solid‐state reactions between stoichiometric mixtures of the corresponding oxides/carbonates and (b) combustion solution synthesis using K‐ and Ca‐nitrates, tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), and glycine (fuel component) as starting reagents. The compound was characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction. Differential thermal analysis indicated that K4CaSi6O15 melts congruently at about 956°C. On cooling down from the liquid state, a distinct glass‐forming tendency was observed. Single crystals suitable for further structural investigations were obtained from sinter experiments just below the melting point. Basic crystallographic data are as follows: monoclinic symmetry, space group Pc, a = 6.9299(2) Å, b = 27.3496(9) Å, c = 12.2187(4) Å, β = 93.744(3)°, V = 2310.86(13) Å3, Z = 3. The crystal structure of K4CaSi6O15 belongs to the group of interrupted framework silicates with exclusively Q3‐units. The tetrahedral network is the first inorganic representative of the so‐called eth‐type. Charge compensation in the structure is achieved by the incorporation of potassium and calcium cations, which are coordinated by five to nine oxygen ligands. Ninety years after its first mention the present contribution proves the existence of K4CaSi6O15 as a stable phase in the ternary system K2O–CaO–SiO2.
Editorial: Is there a core deficit in specific learning disabilities?
Authors: Lervåg Arne
Published: May 2021

Difficulties with learning mathematics and learning to read have for a long time been categorised into diagnostic categories like dyscalculia and dyslexia. This categorization has been based on ideas that some core deficits underlie and cause the difficulties. However, no clear and sufficient core deficit has been found for these difficulties and no qualitative differences has been identified distinguishing those assigned to the diagnoses from people not assigned to the diagnoses – thus, the diagnostic cut‐offs are arbitrary. In addition, several of the factors associated with one disorder are also associated with other disorders. These issues favour a multi‐factored view of the diagnoses that have implication for both clinical practice and research.
Cognitive decline in older adults: What can we learn from optical coherence tomography (OCT)‐based retinal vascular imaging?
Authors: Abraham Alison G. , Guo Xinxing , Arsiwala Lubaina T. , Dong Yanan , Sharrett A. Richey , Huang David , You Qisheng , Liu Liang , Lujan Brandon J. , Tomlinson Alexander , Mosley Thomas , Coresh Josef , Jia Yali , Mihailovic Aleksandra , Ramulu Pradeep Y.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Accumulated vascular damage contributes to the onset and progression of vascular dementia and possibly to Alzheimer's disease. Here we evaluate the feasibility and utility of using retinal imaging of microvascular markers to identify older adults at risk of cognitive disease.

Methods

The “Eye Determinants of Cognition” (EyeDOC) study recruited a biracial, population‐based sample of participants from two sites: Jackson, MS, and Washington Co, MD. Optical coherence tomographic angiography (OCTA) was used to capture vessel density (VD) from a 6 × 6 mm scan of the macula in several vascular layers from 2017 to 2019. The foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area was also estimated. Image quality was assessed by trained graders at a reading center. A neurocognitive battery of 10 tests was administered at three time points from 2011 to 2019 and incident mild cognitive impairement (MCI)/dementia cases were ascertained. Linear mixed‐effects models were used to evaluate associations of retinal vascular markers with cognitive factor score change over time.

Results

Nine‐hundred and seventy‐six older adults (mean age of 78.7 (± 4.4) years, 44% black) were imaged. Gradable images were obtained in 55% (535/976), with low signal strength (66%) and motion artifact (22%) being the largest contributors to poor quality. Among the 297 participants with both high‐quality images and no clinically significant retinal pathology, the average decline in global cognitive function factor score was −0.03 standard deviations per year. In adjusted analyses, no associations of VD or FAZ with longitudinal changes in either global cognitive function or with incident MCI/dementia were found.

Conclusions

In this large biracial community sample of older adults representative of the target population for retinal screening of cognitive risk, we found that obtaining high‐quality OCTA scans was infeasible in a nearly half of older adults. Among the select sample of healthier older adults with scans, OCTA markers were not predictive of cognitive impairment.
Food‐related quality of life in adults with inflammatory bowel disease is associated with restrictive eating behaviour, disease activity and surgery: A prospective multicentre observational study
Authors: Day Alice S. , Yao Chu K. , Costello Samuel P. , Andrews Jane M. , Bryant Robert V.
Published: May 2021

Background

Measuring food‐related quality of life (FRQoL) quantifies the psychosocial impact of eating and drinking. FRQoL and associated factors are not well explored in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), despite IBD being a chronic disease affecting the digestive tract. The present study aimed to characterise and identify any patient or disease‐related predictors of FRQoL in individuals with IBD.

Methods

Adults with a formal diagnosis of IBD were recruited to a prospective multicentre cross‐sectional study between April 2018 and December 2019. Participants completed questionnaires measuring FRQoL (FRQoL‐29), clinical disease activity (Harvey Bradshaw Index and Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index), restrictive eating behaviour (Nine‐Item Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Screen), mental health (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale‐21) and other patient and disease‐related variables. A multivariable regression was performed to identify factors associated with FRQoL.

Results

One hundred and eight participants completed the questionnaires (n = 39, Crohn's disease; n = 69, ulcerative colitis). The mean FRQoL was 79 (95% confidence interval = 75–84) (poor, 0; superior, 145). Poorer FRQoL was observed in those with restrictive eating behaviour associated with fear of a negative consequence from eating (p < 0.0001) and reduced appetite (p < 0.030). Greater FRQoL was observed in those with lower disease activity (p < 0.0001) and previous IBD surgery (p = 0.024). FRQoL was not associated either way by IBD phenotype, duration, or gender. The majority of participants obtained their dietary information from the internet (60%) or gastroenterologist (46%).

Conclusions

FRQoL in people with IBD is poorer in those with restrictive eating behaviours and clinically active disease. Interestingly, it was greater in those with previous IBD surgery. Further research is required to validate these associations and explore longitudinal effects of poor FRQoL on patient outcomes and potential strategies for prevention or management of impaired FRQoL in IBD.
MicroRNA‐124‐3p attenuates the development of nerve injury–induced neuropathic pain by targeting early growth response 1 in the dorsal root ganglia and spinal dorsal horn
Authors: Jiang Mingjun , Zhang Xuan , Wang Xueli , Xu Feng , Zhang Jian , Li Liren , Xie Xiaohang , Wang Li , Yang Yin , Xu Ji‐Tian
Published: May 2021

Emerging evidence indicates the early growth response 1 (Egr1) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic pain. However, the regulation of Egr1 expression in the DRG and spinal cord in neuropathic pain remains unclear. In the current study, the neuropathic pain was conducted by lumber 5 spinal nerve ligation (SNL) in rats. The role of miR‐124‐3p in Egr1 expression was examined. Our results showed that the SNL led to a significant increase in the expression of Egr1 mRNA and protein in the DRG and dorsal horn. This increased expression of Egr1 correlated with a reduction of miR‐124‐3p in the same region. Prior i.t. injection of Egr1 decoy AYX1 inhibited the expression of Egr1 and attenuated the neuropathic pain‐like hypersensitivity following SNL. The dual‐luciferase reporter assay revealed the luciferase activity of the Egr1 3′‐UTR plasmid was inhibited by the miR‐124‐3p agomir. But this inhibition was completely reversed in the mutant 3′‐UTR Egr1 group. In vivo, the SNL‐induced behavioral signs of neuropathic pain and the increases in Egr1 mRNA and protein in the DRG and dorsal horn were prevented by prior to i.t. injection of miR‐124‐3p agomir. While, i.t. injection of miR‐124‐3p antagomir in naïve rats resulted in mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia and an overexpression of Egr1 in the DRG and dorsal horn. Together, our results suggest that the miR‐124‐3p‐regulated Egr1 expression in the DRG and dorsal horn contributes to the development of neuropathic pain. Targeting miR‐124‐3p might be a promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of chronic pain.

image
α‐Conotoxin Bt1.8 from Conus betulinus selectively inhibits α6/α3β2β3 and α3β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes
Authors: Ning Huying , Huang Biling , Tae Han‐Shen , Liu Zhuguo , Yu Shuo , Li Liang , Zhang Longxiao , Adams David J. , Guo Chenyun , Dai Qiuyun
Published: May 2021

α‐Conotoxins are small disulfide‐rich peptides found in the venom of marine cone snails and are potent antagonists of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). They are valuable pharmacological tools and have potential therapeutic applications for the treatment of chronic pain or neurological diseases and disorders. In the present study, we synthesized and functionally characterized a novel α‐conotoxin Bt1.8, which was cloned from Conus betulinus. Bt1.8 selectively inhibited ACh‐evoked currents in Xenopus oocytes expressing rat(r) α6/α3β2β3 and rα3β2 nAChRs with an IC50 of 2.1 nM and 9.4 nM, respectively, and similar potency for human (h) α6/α3β2β3 and hα3β2 nAChRs. Additionally, Bt1.8 had higher binding affinity with a slower dissociation rate for the rα6/α3β2β3 subtype compared to rα3β2. The amino acid sequence of Bt1.8 is significantly different from other reported α‐conotoxins targeting the two nAChR subtypes. Further Alanine scanning analyses demonstrated that residues Ile9, Leu10, Asn11, Asn12 and Asn14 are critical for its inhibitory activity at the α6/α3β2β3 and α3β2 subtypes. Moreover, the NMR structure of Bt1.8 indicated the presence of a relatively larger hydrophobic zone than other α4/7‐conotoxins which may explain its potent inhibition at α6/α3β2β3 nAChRs.

image
Food system and social reproduction realities for women in agriculture across the Caribbean: Evidence from Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Authors: Barry Tessa , Gahman Levi
Published: May 2021

This article provides evidence of the food system challenges and structural barriers faced by women farmers and food producers in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States. The aim of the piece is to add to critical literatures on political economy, development and food systems in the Majority World via recognizing the political agency of rural grassroots women in the Caribbean. To do so, we focus on the role that social reproduction has in the lives of working Caribbean women who are engaged in agricultural production. The analysis we offer was generated via a mix‐method project that included 111 farmers and agro‐processors from Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We deliberately centre the perspectives of Afrodescendant rural women. Our study reveals the main barriers faced by women in agriculture are lack of access to land, concessions and capital; non‐gender responsive Agricultural Extension Services; an absence of national and sectorial gender policies; and ongoing dismissals of the time and effort that goes into unwaged socially reproductive labour. In illustrating these realities, we cast light on how the barriers faced by women food producers in the OECS are inextricably linked to persistent colonial‐plantation relations, patriarchal social norms and liberal‐capitalist logics.
Organisational and individual resources as antecedents of older nursing professionals’ organisational commitment: Investigating the mediating effect of the use of selection, optimisation and compensation strategies
Authors: Salminen Hanna , von Bonsdorff Monika , Vanhala Mika , McPhee Deborah , Miettinen Merja
Published: May 2021

Aim and objectives

To investigate how organisational and individual resources are linked to older (50+) nursing professionals’ organisational commitment, and to examine the possible mediating role of the active use of selection, optimisation and compensation (SOC) strategies.

Background

Many healthcare organisations need to find ways to retain their older nursing professionals due to nursing shortage.

Design

To test a set of hypotheses, cross‐sectional survey data (n = 396) were used. Data were analysed using correlation analysis and partial least‐squares structural equation modelling. STROBE Statement for cross‐sectional studies has been followed in this study.

Results

The results exhibited that both individual and organisational resources and the active use of SOC strategies were positively associated with older nursing professionals’ organisational commitment. The active use of SOC strategies had a partially mediating role in the relationship between individual resource (career management self‐efficacy) and organisational commitment. Similarly, career management self‐efficacy partially mediated the association between organisational resources (perceived high‐involvement work practices) and organisational commitment.

Conclusions

Regarding the retention of older nursing professionals, attention should be paid to both individual and organisational resources and the active use of SOC strategies.

Relevance for clinical practice

By providing opportunities to actively use SOC strategies and by paying attention to career management self‐efficacy among older nursing professionals, nursing managers may influence the retention of the older nursing workforce. Similarly, supportive organisational practices can support older nursing professionals’ career management self‐efficacy and their organisational commitment.
Scale dependence of species–area relationships is widespread but generally weak in Palaearctic grasslands
Authors: Zhang Jinghui , Gillet François , Bartha Sándor , Alatalo Juha Mikael , Biurrun Idoia , Dembicz Iwona , Grytnes John‐Arvid , Jaunatre Renaud , Pielech Remigiusz , Van Meerbeek Koenraad , Vynokurov Denys , Widmer Stefan , Aleksanyan Alla , Bhatta Kuber Prasad , Campos Juan Antonio , Czortek Patryk , Dolezal Jiri , Essl Franz , García‐Mijangos Itziar , Guarino Riccardo , Güler Behlül , Hájek Michal , Kuzemko Anna , Li Frank Yonghong , Löbel Swantje , Moradi Halime , Naqinezhad Alireza , Silva Vasco , Šmerdová Eva , Sonkoly Judit , Stifter Simon , Talebi Amir , Török Péter , White Hannah , Wu Jianshuang , Dengler Jürgen
Published: May 2021

Questions

Species–area relationships (SARs) are fundamental for understanding biodiversity patterns and are generally well described by a power law with a constant exponent z. However, z‐values sometimes vary across spatial scales. We asked whether there is a general scale dependence of z‐values at fine spatial grains and which potential drivers influence it.

Location

Palaearctic biogeographic realm.

Methods

We used 6,696 nested‐plot series of vascular plants, bryophytes and lichens from the GrassPlot database with two or more grain sizes, ranging from 0.0001 m² to 1,024 m² and covering diverse open habitats. The plots were recorded with two widespread sampling approaches (rooted presence = species “rooting” inside the plot; shoot presence = species with aerial parts inside). Using Generalized Additive Models, we tested for scale dependence of z‐values by evaluating if the z‐values differ with gran size and tested for differences between the sampling approaches. The response shapes of z‐values to grain were classified by fitting Generalized Linear Models with logit link to each series. We tested whether the grain size where the maximum z‐value occurred is driven by taxonomic group, biogeographic or ecological variables.

Results

For rooted presence, we found a strong monotonous increase of z‐values with grain sizes for all grain sizes below 1 m². For shoot presence, the scale dependence was much weaker, with hump‐shaped curves prevailing. Among the environmental variables studied, latitude, vegetation type, naturalness and land use had strong effects, with z‐values of secondary peaking at smaller grain sizes.

Conclusions

The overall weak scale dependence of z‐values underlines that the power function generally is appropriate to describe SARs within the studied grain sizes in continuous open vegetation, if recorded with the shoot presence method. When clear peaks of z‐values occur, this can be seen as an expression of granularity of species composition, partly driven by abiotic environment.
The status of spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus) as a technologically feasible species for U.S. marine aquaculture
Authors: Blaylock Reginald , Saillant Eric , Apeitos Angelos , Abrego David , Cason Paul , Vega Robert
Published: May 2021

Culture models and facilities for large‐scale, commercial production of popular Gulf of Mexico species are unavailable. The spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus) is one of the most popular recreational fishes in the Gulf of Mexico. Seatrout culture techniques were adapted from red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) protocols developed in the 1970s. Broodstock husbandry, spawning, and extensive pond rearing techniques using fertilized and bloomed brackish ponds were well‐established by the 1980s. By 2018, approximately 80 million 25–30‐day old seatrout had been produced, mainly for stock enhancement. Cannibalism and poor nutrition hindered intensive tank culture. Between 2005 and 2015, an intensive tank‐rearing protocol that reduced cannibalism and intracohort variability and increased average survival to almost 50% was developed using algal concentrate, rotifers, brine shrimp (Artemia sp.), and microencapsulated feeds. Preliminary results suggested that a 500 g fish could be produced in approximately 10 months. Nevertheless, interest in commercialization has remained low. Zootechnical performance throughout the latter stages of culture, the economics of production, consumer preferences/perceptions, and market capacity must be documented to complete the assessment of the spotted seatrout as a species for commercial aquaculture. The optimization of aquafeeds specific for seatrout and a domestication program is warranted to further facilitate industry growth.
Combination antiretroviral therapy improves recurrent primary biliary cholangitis following liver transplantation
Authors: Lytvyak Ellina , Niazi Mina , Pai Rohit , He Daniel , Zhang Guangzhi , Hübscher Stefan G. , Mason Andrew L.
Published: May 2021

Recurrent primary biliary cholangitis (rPBC) is frequent following liver transplantation and associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It has been argued that rPBC behaves like an infectious disease because more potent immunosuppression with tacrolimus is associated with earlier and more severe recurrence. Prophylactic ursodeoxycholic acid is an established therapeutic option to prevent rPBC, whereas the role of second line therapies, such as obeticholic acid and bezafibrate in rPBC, remains largely unexplored. To address the hypothesis that a human betaretrovirus plays a role in the development of PBC, we have tested antiretroviral therapy in vitro and conducted randomised controlled trials showing improvements in hepatic biochemistry. Herein, we describe the utility of combination antiretroviral therapy to manage rPBC in two patients treated with open label tenofovir/emtricitabine‐based regimens in combination with either lopinavir or raltegravir. Both patients experienced sustained biochemical and histological improvement with treatment, but the antiretroviral therapy was associated with side effects.