bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinal variation in investment into reproduction versus maintenance suggests a ‘pace-of-life’ syndrome in a widespread butterfly
Authors: Günter Franziska , Beaulieu Michaël , Franke Kristin , Toshkova Nia , Fischer Klaus
Published: July 2020

Extreme weather events such as heat waves are predicted to increase in the course of anthropogenic climate change. Widespread species are exposed to a variety of environmental conditions throughout their distribution range, often resulting in local adaptation. Consequently, populations from different regions may vary in their capacity to deal with challenging conditions such as thermal stress. In this study, we investigated clinal variation in body size, fecundity, and oxidative markers along a pan-European latitudinal gradient in the green-veined white butterflyPieris napi, and additionally gene expression in German individuals. We exposed butterflies from replicated Italian, German, and Swedish populations to cold, control, or hot temperatures for 24 h. Under hot conditions, molecular chaperones were up-regulated, while oxidative damage remained unaffected and levels of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) were reduced under cold and hot conditions. Thus, the short-term exposure to heat stress did not substantially affect oxidative balance. Moreover, we found decreased body size and fecundity in cooler compared with warmer regions. Interestingly, oxidative damage was lowest in Swedish animals exhibiting (1) high levels of GSH, (2) low early fecundity, and (3) low larval growth rates. These results suggest that Swedish butterflies have a slower life style and invest more strongly into maintenance, while those from warmer regions show the opposite pattern, which may reflect a ‘pace-of-life’ syndrome.
Transient mantle cooling linked to regional volcanic shut-down and early rifting in the North Atlantic Igneous Province
Authors: Millett J. M. , Hole M. J. , Jolley D. W. , Passey S. R. , Rossetti L.
Published: July 2020

The Paleocene to Early Eocene Faroe Islands Basalt Group (FIBG) comprises a c. 6.5-km-thick lava flow–dominated sequence located within the centre of the North Atlantic Igneous Province (NAIP). The currently defined pre-breakup and syn-breakup sequences of the FIBG are separated by a significant volcanic hiatus, during which time the coal-bearing Prestfjall Formation was deposited. This major volcanic hiatus is identified across large parts of the NAIP and was preceded on the Faroe Islands by a reduction in eruption rate evidenced by an increased number and thickness of inter-lava sedimentary beds between the simple lava flows of the pre-breakup Beinisvørd Formation. High tempo eruptions resumed after this hiatus with the development of the compound lava flow fields of the Malinstindur Formation which reveal limited evidence for inter-lava breaks. In order to investigate this key transition, flow by flow geochemical sampling of a composite c.1.1-km-thick lava flow sequence spanning this transition were collected and analysed. Three chemically distinct groups are defined based on rare earth elements (REEs) and incompatible trace element signatures. Two high-Ti groups (TiO2 > 2 wt%), B2 and B3, dominate the sampled Beinisvørd Formation and display light REE-enriched signatures (La/YbN c. 2.9–5.9) and evidence for garnet in the source melting region (Dy/YbN c. 1.5–1.6). At the very top of the Beinisvørd Formation, a distinct group of lava flows, B1, displaying lower TiO2 for a given MgO wt% (TiO2 c. 1–2 wt%), weakly light REE-enriched profiles (La/YbN c. 1.7–2.4) and a spinel-dominated mantle melting signature (Dy/YbN c. 1.1–1.2) is identified. Sr, Nd and Pb isotopic signatures for the three groups overlap, revealing limited evidence of crustal contamination, and therefore supporting a mantle melting origin for inter-group variations, rather than source composition or contamination. The group B1 lava flows form a unique stratigraphic occurrence on the islands and provide clear evidence for both a reduction in the initial pressure of melting, alongside an increase in the overall degree of partial melting relative to groups B2 and B3. Increased partial melting is interpreted as evidence for the early onset of rifting and lithospheric thinning to the north of the Faroe Islands. The accompanying reduction in initial pressure of melting provides the first petrological evidence that a transient reduction in mantle temperature leads to the province-wide volcanic hiatus. Our study demonstrates an intimate linkage between rifting history and fluctuations in mantle temperature highlighting that any over-arching model for the evolution of the NAIP must take both into equal account.
General surgery and COVID-19: review of practical recommendations in the first pandemic phase
Authors: Bresadola Vittorio , Biddau Carlo , Puggioni Alessandro , Tel Alessandro , Robiony Massimo , Hodgkinson Jonathan , Leo Cosimo Alex
Published: July 2020

Background

In March, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. The absence of previous knowledge of COVID-19 has made decision-making difficult for all in health care, including surgical departments. We reviewed the management recommendations for surgical activity and changes to surgical practice, identifying concordances and discrepancies, based on the literature published in the early phase of the pandemic.

Method

We searched the electronic datasets, PubMed Database, Google, and Google Scholar, using the keywords “SARS-CoV-2”, “COVID-19”, “surgery”, “recommendations”, “guideline”, and “triage”. The search was limited to the first 2 months after the pandemic began and was closed on May 6, 2020.

Results

Twenty papers were included in the analysis and their recommendations are divided into the following categories: 1. general aspects, such as maintaining the safety of health personnel and indications for surgery. 2. The preoperative phase, with recommendations about activating different care pathways for COVID-19 positive patients. 3. The operative phase, with recommendations about activating safety measures for aerosol-generating procedures. 4. The postoperative phase, with recommendations for managing operating theatres and patient transfers.

Conclusion

The recommendations proposed in the revised documents are considered good practices aimed at keeping patients and healthcare professionals safe. However, these recommendations must be contextualized in each individual hospital.
Psychosocial factors promoting resilience during the menopausal transition
Authors: Süss Hannah , Willi Jasmine , Grub Jessica , Ehlert Ulrike
Published: July 2020

Despite significant biological, psychological, and social challenges in the perimenopause, most women report an overall positive well-being and appear to be resilient to potentially negative effects of this life phase. The objective of this study was to detect psychosocial variables which contribute to resilience in a sample of perimenopausal women. A total of 135 healthy perimenopausal women aged 40–56 years completed a battery of validated psychosocial questionnaires including variables related to resilience, well-being, and mental health. First, using exploratory factor analysis, we examined which of the assessed variables related to resilience can be assigned to a common factor. Second, linear regression analyses were performed to investigate whether a common resilience factor predicts well-being and mental health in the examined sample of women. Optimism (LOT-R-O), emotional stability (BFI-K-N), emotion regulation (ERQ), self-compassion (SCS-D), and self-esteem (RSES) in perimenopausal women can be allocated to a single resilience-associated factor. Regression analyses revealed that this factor is related to higher life satisfaction (SWLS; β = .39, p < .001, adj. R2 = .20), lower perceived stress (PSS-10; β = − .55, p < .001, adj. R2 = .30), lower psychological distress (BSI-18; β = − .49, p < .001, adj. R2 = .22), better general psychological health (GHQ-12; β = − .49, p < .001, adj. R2 = .22), milder menopausal complaints (MRS II; β = − .41, p < .001, adj. R2 = .18), and lower depressive symptoms (ADS-L; β = − .32, p < .001, adj. R2 = .26). The α levels were adjusted for multiple testing. Our findings confirm that several psychosocial variables (optimism, emotional stability, emotion regulation, self-compassion, and self-esteem) can be allocated to one common resilience-associated factor. This resilience factor is strongly related to women’s well-being as well as mental health in perimenopause.
Environmental changes to reduce self-harm on an adolescent inpatient psychiatric ward: an interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Reen Gurpreet K , Bailey Jill , McGuigan Lorna , Bloodworth Natasha , Nawaz Rasanat Fatima , Vincent Charles
Published: July 2020

Existing interventions to reduce self-harm in adolescents admitted to psychiatric wards are usually focused on individual psychological treatments. However, the immediate ward environment in which treatment takes place is an important factor in the success of the treatment and can also influence the likelihood of self-harming behaviours. The aim of the current study was to evaluate changes made to a psychiatric ward environment on incidence of self-harm in adolescents. A quasi-experimental interrupted time series study was conducted on one child and adolescent psychiatric ward. An intervention was developed alongside staff and patients to address the high incidence of self-harm on weekday evenings on the ward. The intervention components involved adding a regular twilight shift (3–11 pm) for nursing staff and introducing a structured evening activity programme on the ward. A segmented regression analysis of an interrupted time series found that the rate of self-harm per 100 bed days was already declining at baseline and continued to decline post-intervention, but the rate of decline was not significant (p = 0.415). However, the proportion of patients self-harming was increasing at baseline and significantly reduced post-intervention (p = 0.001), and this reduction was significantly larger in the evenings (p = 0.004) compared to other times of day (p = 0.09). A tailored intervention targeting the psychiatric ward environment helped to reduce the proportion of adolescents self-harming on the ward. An interrupted time series analysis should be considered for future interventions making changes to health systems over time.
Influence of the second layer on geometry and spectral properties of doped two-dimensional hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Chojecki Michał , Lewandowska Ewa , Korona Tatiana
Published: July 2020

Influence of the additional layer of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) on structure, energetics, and electronic spectra of a layer doped with magnesium, silicon, phosphorus, aluminum, or carbon atoms has been examined by theoretical methods. The h-BN layers are modeled as BN clusters of over thirty atoms with the defect in the center. The calculations show that atom positions undergo some modifications in the presence of the second layer, which in several cases lead to significant changes in electronic spectra, like (i) modifications of the character of some states from local excitation to a partial charge transfer; (ii) redshift of the majority of lowest excitations; (iii) absence or appearance of new states in comparison with the monolayers. For instance, a zero-intensity excitation below 4 eV for the carbon atom in place of boron transforms into a dipole-allowed one in the presence of the second layer. A comparison of the interaction energies of doped and undoped clusters shows a strong dependence of the stabilizing of destabilizing effect on the dopant atom, the replaced atom, and in some cases also on the stacking type (AA’ or AB). The stabilization energy per BN pair, calculated for two undoped clusters, is equal to − 31 and − 28 meV for the AA’ and AB stacking, respectively, thus confirming a larger stability of the AA’ stacking for the h-BN case.
Stability studies with tigecycline in bacterial growth medium and impact of stabilizing agents
Authors: Amann Lisa F. , Vicente Emilia Ruda , Rathke Mareike , Broeker Astrid , Riedner Maria , Wicha Sebastian G.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the degradation of tigecycline in Mueller Hinton broth (ca-MHB), as knowledge about bacterial susceptibility is key for therapeutic decisions.

Methods

Antioxidative stabilizers were evaluated on tigecycline stability in a quantitative chromatography assay and tigecycline induced kill against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC29213) was determined in time kill studies.

Results

Ascorbic acid caused rapid degradation of tigecycline and resulted in loss of antibacterial activity. Tigecycline was stabilized in aged broth by 2% pyruvate and bacterial growth, and tigecycline killing was similar to fresh broth without supplementation, but independent of age.

Conclusion

Our results underline the importance of using freshly prepared ca-MHB or the need for stabilizers for tigecycline susceptibility testing while using aged ca-MHB.
Weighted voting on the IMF Managing Director
Authors: Mayer Alexander , Napel Stefan
Published: July 2020

Executive Directors of the International Monetary Fund elect the Fund’s Managing Director from a shortlist of three candidates; financial quotas of IMF members define the respective numbers of votes. The implied a priori distribution of success (preference satisfaction) is compared across different electoral procedures. The USA’s Executive Director can expect to come closer to its top preference under plurality rule than for pairwise majority comparisons or plurality with a runoff; opposite applies to everybody else. Differences of US success between voting rules dominate the within-rule differences between most other Directors, and much of the latest reform of quotas.
Pesticide residue levels in vegetables and surface waters at the Central Rift Valley (CRV) of Ethiopia
Authors: Loha Kumelachew Mulu , Lamoree Marja , de Boer Jacob
Published: July 2020

Seven pesticides, profenofos, metalaxyl, λ-cyhalothrin, 4,4′-DDT, 4,4′-DDE, and α- and β-endosulfan, were determined in vegetables (tomato, onion) from 20 locations and surface waters from 12 locations in the Central Rift Valley (CRV) of Ethiopia. Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) and solid phase extraction (SPE) methods were used for the vegetables and water, respectively. In 2.5% of the tomato samples, profenofos was detected above European maximum residue limits (MRLs), in 12.5% of the samples metalaxyl, and in 2.5% α- and β-endosulfan. In 5% of the onion samples, profenofos was detected above European MRLs, in 7.5% of the onion samples metalaxyl, and in 5% λ-cyhalothrin. In surface water, profenofos was detected at the highest concentration of 2300 μg/L in the Bulbula River, 890 μg/L near the agricultural land north of Lake Ziway (ANLZ-1), 1700 μg/L in the floriculture effluent (FE-1), and 900 μg/L in tap water at the Batu Drinking Water (BDW) supply. These results show that the levels of pesticides are in several cases substantially elevated, and emphasize the need of regular pesticide monitoring programs for surface waters and vegetables in the Ethiopian CRV.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure Analyses of Wild Relatives and Cultivated Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) from Senegal Using Simple Sequence Repeat Markers
Authors: Sarr Awa , Bodian Amy , Gbedevi Kodjo Mawuena , Ndir Khadidiatou Ndoye , Ajewole Oyatomi Olaniyi , Gueye Badara , Foncéka Daniel , Diop Elisabeth A.M.C. , Diop Baye Magatte , Cissé Ndiaga , Diouf Diaga
Published: July 2020

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata(L.)) is an important crop for food security in Senegal; therefore, understanding the genetic diversity of local germplasm is relevant for crop improvement and genetic maintenance in the era of climate change. For this purpose, 15 microsatellite markers were used to estimate the genetic diversity of Senegalese cowpea germplasm, including 671 accessions grown in eight regions and 66 wild relatives and intermediate forms (weedy). For the cultivated, the main expected heterozygosity (mHe) ranged between 0.317 (Fatick) and 0.439 (South). A narrow genetic variation between accessions from the different regions was observed with genetic similarity ranging from 0.861 to 0.965 and genetic differentiation indices (Fst) between 0.018 and 0.100. The accessions from southern Senegal (Kédougou, Sédhiou, and Kolda regions) are more diverse than the others. However, the accessions from the North (Saint-Louis) are genetically different from other regions. The diversity analysis in wild relatives from Senegal, which had never been performed before, revealed that the wild/weedy forms remain more diverse than the cultivated with genetic diversity values (He) of 0.389 and 0.480, respectively. STRUCTURE software divided the Senegalese germplasm into five subpopulations. Three of them (i, ii, and iii) included only cultivated accessions from several regions, one (v) mainly from Saint-Louis, and one (iv) the wild/weedy with some cultivated accessions. Our results support the hypothesis thatVigna unguiculatavar.spontaneais the wild progenitor of cowpea. The accessions from the South, the northern recession accessions, and the wild/weedy could serve as sources of new genes for the genetic improvement of cowpea in Senegal.
Assessment of academic stress and its coping mechanisms among medical undergraduate students in a large Midwestern university
Authors: Joseph Nitin , Nallapati Aneesha , Machado Mitchelle Xavier , Nair Varsha , Matele Shreya , Muthusamy Navya , Sinha Aditi
Published: July 2020

Academic stress is the most common mental state that medical students experience during their training period. To assess academic stress, to find out its determinants, to assess other sources of stress and to explore the various coping styles against academic stress adopted by students. Methods: It was a cross sectional study done among medical students from first to fourth year. Standard self-administered questionnaires were used to assess academic stress and coping behaviour. Mean age of the 400 participants was 20.3 ± 1.5 years. 166(41.5%) of them were males. The academic stress was found to be of mild, moderate and severe level among 68(17%), 309(77.3%) and 23(5.7%) participants respectively. Overall coping with stress was found to be poor, average and good among 15(3.8%), 380(95%) and 5(1.2%) participants respectively. Passive emotional (p = 0.054) and passive problem (p = 0.001) coping behaviours were significantly better among males. Active problem coping behaviour (p = 0.007) was significantly better among females. Active emotional coping behaviour did not vary significantly between genders (p = 0.54). Majority of the students preferred sharing their personal problems with parents 211(52.7%) followed by friends 202(50.5%). Binary logistic regression analysis found worrying about future (p = 0.023) and poor self-esteem (p = 0.026) to be independently associated with academic stress. Academic stress although a common finding among students, the coping style to deal with it, was good only in a few. The coping behaviours were not satisfactory particularly among male participants. This along with other determinants of academic stress identified in this study need to be addressed during counselling sessions.
Vom Wissen zum Handeln: Vermittelt die Kompetenz zur Unterrichtsreflexion zwischen mathematischem Professionswissen und der Kompetenz zum Handeln im Mathematikunterricht? Eine Mediationsanalyse
Authors: Jeschke Colin , Lindmeier Anke , Heinze Aiso
Published: July 2020

Trotz zunehmender Praxisanteile im Lehramtsstudium wird das an der Universität erworbene Wissen von angehenden Lehrkräften häufig als zu theoretisch und wenig hilfreich für die unterrichtliche Praxis empfunden. Insbesondere für das Handeln im Unterricht, bei dem fachspezifisches Wissen unter Zeitdruck angewendet werden muss, kann das erworbene Professionswissen oftmals nicht effektiv genutzt werden. In der Lehramtsausbildung gilt die Unterrichtsreflexion (d. h. Vorbereitung und Analyse sowie Nachbereitung von Unterricht) als zentrale Tätigkeit, bei der Lehrkräfte ihr (deklaratives) Professionswissen nutzen sollen, um das zukünftige unterrichtliche Handeln zu antizipieren und passende Handlungsoptionen zu generieren. Es wird hierbei angenommen, dass eine umfassende Befähigung zur Unterrichtsreflexion – hier definiert alsreflexive Kompetenz– einen positiven Effekt auf die Befähigung zur spontanen Wissensanwendung im Unterricht – hier definiert alsaktionsbezogene Kompetenz– hat. Quantitative empirische Studien zu dieser Hypothese gibt es jedoch kaum. Folglich wurden in der vorliegenden Studie Zusammenhänge zwischen deklarativem mathematischem Professionswissen (fachliches und fachdidaktisches Wissen), reflexiver Kompetenz und aktionsbezogener Kompetenz beiN = 251 angehenden und praktizierenden Mathematiklehrkräften untersucht. Die Ergebnisse zeigen substanzielle positive Korrelationen zwischen dem mathematischen Professionswissen, der reflexiven und der aktionsbezogenen Kompetenz. Insbesondere korrelieren die reflexive und aktionsbezogene Kompetenz moderat bis hoch miteinander. Der direkte Effekt von mathematischem Professionswissen auf die aktionsbezogene Kompetenz wird partiell durch die reflexive Kompetenz mediiert. In der Teilstichprobe aus Lehramtsstudierenden (n = 116) ist diese Mediation vollständig. Mögliche Implikationen für die Professionsforschung und Lehramtsausbildung werden diskutiert.
Methods to Determine the Current Efficiency in AC Electrolysis
Authors: Kireev S. Yu. , Perelygin Yu. P. , Kireeva S. N. , Jaskula M. J.
Published: July 2020

The paper presents several methods (analytical, electromechanical and electronic) for determining the cathodic current efficiency of the metal deposition processes carried out by AC or pulse current. Based on the results of own experimental researches (for indium, cadmium, nickel, tin and zinc), the appropriate equations are given and the distribution of both faradaic and non-faradaic parts of charge (charging of the electrode double layer) is calculated.
Closing the Gaps in Disaster Management and Response: Drawing on Local Experiences with Cyclone Idai in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe
Authors: Chanza Nelson , Siyongwana Pakama Q. , Williams-Bruinders Leizel , Gundu-Jakarasi Veronica , Mudavanhu Chipo , Sithole Vusomuzi B. , Manyani Albert
Published: July 2020

Cyclone Idai in Zimbabwe exposed deficiencies in the country’s disaster management system. This study uses a phenomenological case exploration of the experiences of local residents in Rusitu Valley following cyclone-induced floods that affected the area in March 2019. Through capturing narratives of participants who were recruited through chain referrals, the research intends to understand how local actors, utilizing their local-based response systems, managed to fill in the voids that characterize disaster management practice in Zimbabwe. Results show that the participation of local “heroes” and “Samaritans,” by deploying their social networks, norms, relationships, practices, and modest ingenuity, helped to speed up response times and minimize threats to lives and livelihoods. Documentation of the stories of local actors about their disaster experiences also gives a richer picture of the Cyclone Idai disaster. Although the community response system also facilitated the operation of external disaster management agencies, their premature withdrawal tended to weaken the trust and values existing in the area, and created tensions between the disaster-affected people and other villagers. Given the delays in formal responses by the government and other external relief agencies, the practices of local actors, although spontaneous and largely uncoordinated, offer rich insights into the design and development of disaster management regimes.
Towards a Modern-Day Teaching Machine: The Synthesis of Programmed Instruction and Online Education
Authors: Root William B. , Rehfeldt Ruth Anne
Published: July 2020

The 21st century has seen rapid enrollment in online courses and environmental and biological determinates, such as COVID-19, that challenge how universities respond to education. However, this “new way of doing things” has empirical support from the past. Skinner (1968) laid out a science of teaching derived from operant conditioning principles and provided methods for adopting programmed instruction into what he termed a “teaching machine.” This series of investigations evaluated the validity of programmed instruction in online courses, as measured by quiz performance, the frequency of discussion posts, instructor time commitment, generalization, and student perceptions of the online modalities used. Results are discussed for the synthesis of programmed instruction and group learning towards a modern teaching machine.
Barriers to help-seeking for memory problems in older adults
Authors: Pearman Ann
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Early detection of age- and disease-related cognitive problems affords patients the opportunities to receive medical treatment, engage in research, and plan for the future. Understanding help-seeking behavior has potential to aid both patients and clinicians. This study was designed to identify predictors of endorsed barriers to memory-related help-seeking as well as medical help-seeking endorsement.

Methods

This cross-sectional correlational study used a convenience sample of 97 older adults. The participants answered anonymous questionnaires about subjective memory, mood, and health and several items designed to investigate help-seeking for memory issues.

Results

Persons who endorsed multiple barriers to help-seeking were more likely to also endorse having hearing problems. In addition, participants who reported that they would not talk to a doctor or physician about memory concerns also had significantly worse subjective hearing.

Conclusion

Hearing loss may be a particular risk for not seeking help for memory problems. Physicians and healthcare agencies can work to design outreach for persons who experience barriers, such as hearing loss and the concomitant outcomes.
Ungleiche Grundschulen und die meritokratische Fiktion im deutschen Schulsystem
Authors: Breidenstein Georg
Published: July 2020

Der Beitrag vertritt die These, dass Ungleichheit im Primarbereich ein Tabu darstellt, und zwar deshalb, weil sie meritokratisch nicht legitimierbar ist. Die Fiktion der Chancengleichheit erscheint zugleich notwendig, um die Selektion im Übergang zur Sekundarstufe rechtfertigen zu können. Denn die Verteilung von Schülerinnen und Schülern auf unterschiedlich aussichtsreiche Bildungsgänge im Sekundarbereich kann nur durch schulisch festgestellte und individuellen Kindern zugeschriebene Unterschiede im „Leistungsvermögen“ gerechtfertigt werden. Angesichts neuerer Befunde zur sozialräumlichen Segregation, zur elterlichen Schulwahl und zur Forcierung des Wettbewerbs im Bereich der Grundschule kann von gleichen Bildungschancen im Primarbereich allerdings kaum die Rede sein. Diese Einsicht ist prekär, sowohl für das Selbstverständnis der Grundschule als Institution als auch für die Legitimationsbasis des gegliederten Schulsystems insgesamt in Deutschland.
Influence of metformin on HIF-1 pathway in multiple myeloma
Authors: Kocemba-Pilarczyk Kinga A. , Trojan Sonia , Ostrowska Barbara , Lasota Małgorzata , Dudzik Paulina , Kusior Dorota , Kot Marta
Published: July 2020

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is defined as plasma cells malignancy, developing in the bone marrow. At the beginning of the disease, the malignant plasma cells are dependent on bone marrow microenvironment, providing growth and survival factors. Importantly, the recent studies pointed hypoxia as an important factor promoting progression of MM. In particular, hypoxia-triggered HIF-1 signaling was shown to promote chemoresistance, angiogenesis, invasiveness and induction of immature phenotype, suggesting that strategies targeting HIF-1 may contribute to improvement of anti-myeloma therapies.

Methods

The Western Blot and RT-PCR techniques were applied to analyze the influence of metformin on HIF-1 pathway in MM cells. To evaluate the effect of metformin on the growth of MM cell lines in normoxic and hypoxic conditions the MTT assay was used. The apoptosis induction in metformin treated hypoxic and normoxic cells was verified by Annexin V/PI staining followed by FACS analysis.

Results

Our results showed, for the first time, that metformin inhibits HIF-1 signaling in MM cells. Moreover, we demonstrated the effect of metformin to be mainly oxygen dependent, since the HIF-1 pathway was not significantly affected by metformin in anoxic conditions as well as after application of hypoxic mimicking compound, CoCl2. Our data also revealed that metformin triggers the growth arrest without inducing apoptosis in either normoxic or hypoxic conditions.

Conclusions

Taken together, our study indicates metformin as a promising candidate for developing new treatment strategies exploiting HIF-1 signaling inhibition to enhance the overall anti-MM effect of currently used therapies, that may considerably benefit MM patients.
Analyzing the impact of CryoSat-2 ice thickness initialization on seasonal Arctic Sea Ice prediction
Authors: Allard Richard , Metzger E. Joseph , Barton Neil , Li Li , Kurtz Nathan , Phelps Michael , Franklin Deborah , Smedstad Ole Martin , Crout Julia , Posey Pamela
Published: July 2020

Twin 5-month seasonal forecast experiments are performed to predict the September 2018 mean and minimum ice extent using the fully coupled Navy Earth System Prediction Capability (ESPC). In the control run, ensemble forecasts are initialized from the operational US Navy Global Ocean Forecasting System (GOFS) 3.1 but do not assimilate ice thickness data. Another set of forecasts are initialized from the same GOFS 3.1 fields but with sea ice thickness derived from CryoSat-2 (CS2). The Navy ESPC ensemble mean September 2018 minimum sea ice extent initialized with GOFS 3.1 ice thickness was over-predicted by 0.68 M km2 (5.27 M km2) vs the ensemble forecasts initialized with CS2 ice thickness that had an error of 0.40 M km2 (4.99 M km2), a 43% reduction in error. The September mean integrated ice edge error shows a 18% improvement for the Pan-Arctic with the CS2 data vs the control forecasts. Comparison against upward looking sonar ice thickness in the Beaufort Sea reveals a lower bias and RMSE with the CS2 forecasts at all three moorings. Ice concentration at these locations is also improved, but neither set of forecasts show ice free conditions as observed at moorings A and D.
Hospital Preparedness Measures for Biological Hazards: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis
Authors: Dowlati Mohsen , Seyedin Hesam , Moslehi Shandiz
Published: July 2020

Background:

Biological hazards are one of the most important and common types of hazards in emergencies and disasters. Hospital preparedness measures for biological hazards are essential for a proper response and mitigation of its effects. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate hospital preparedness measures for biological hazards.

Methods:

For this research, electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, ProQuest, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library from March 1950 to June 2019 were searched. Key words such as hospital, emergency department, preparedness, plan, management, and biological hazards were used in combination with the Boolean operators OR and AND. A thematic synthesis approach through the use of MAXQDA software was applied to analyze the data.

Results:

In total, 5257 articles were identified, in which 23 articles meet the inclusion criteria for entering the process of final analysis. The findings showed three main administrative, specialized, and logistical issues regarding preparedness measures for biological hazards in hospitals.

Conclusion:

Hospital preparedness for biological hazards is one of the most important hospital disaster plans. Results of this systematic review present valuable advice for policy-makers and hospital managers to prepare and enhance hospital performance against biological hazards.
Biosafety Measures at the Dental Office After the Appearance of COVID-19: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cabrera-Tasayco Fiorella del Pilar , Rivera-Carhuavilca Juana Mercedes , Atoche-Socola Katherine Joselyn , Peña-Soto Claudio , Arriola-Guillén Luis Ernesto
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this research was to determine biosecurity measures at the dental office after the appearance of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A search was conducted in the main databases of the scientific literature using the words “COVID-19, coronavirus, SARS-Cov2, biosecurity, disinfection and dentistry.” We analyzed biosecurity and disinfection standards at the dental office and dental health personnel to date, and their adaptation to the needs and way of working of each. As a result, according to the information collected the following procedure was identified: a telephone appointment must be made and a questionnaire should be given before dental care; at arrival to the appointment, the temperature of the patient should be taken and proper cleaning and disinfection of the waiting room should be maintained. Panoramic radiography and CBCT are the auxiliary methods of choice. Absolute isolation and atraumatic restorative therapy techniques are a good alternative to decrease fluid exposure. The removal of protective clothing and accessories must follow a specific order and washing hands before and after is essential. In conclusion, the efficient biosecurity for dentists and patients in all dental care processes before, during, and immediately after the appointment reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection and allows healthy dental care environments.
Trading Liberty: Assisted Repatriation in Liberal Democracies
Authors: Kalicki Konrad
Published: July 2020

Surging flows of international migrants challenge the state's capacity to control borders. This problem is especially acute when it involves unwanted, yet often the most vulnerable, incomers. In liberal democracies, policymakers are caught in the dilemma of how to block their presence without contravening the state's fundamental liberal principles. Against the backdrop of these realities, this article traces the development of monetized means of inducing the voluntary repatriation of such migrants. In contrast to the conventional view that associates this political phenomenon with the neoliberal marketization of belonging, I contend that the growing practice of incentivizing migrants to leave is better conceptualized as a subset of immigration control policies rooted in the liberal ideals that imbue the institutional orders of liberal democracies. From the state's perspective, such post-arrival measures pay greater attention to the individual rights of migrants. This argument is advanced with special reference to the underexplored case of Japan.
Low-frequency rTMS inhibits the anti-depressive effect of ECT. A pilot study
Authors: Buchholtz Poul Erik , Ashkanian Mahmoud , Hjerrild Simon , Hauptmann Line Kirstine , Devantier Torben Albert , Jensen Paulina , Wissing Sanne , Thorgaard Mette Viller , Bjerager Laerke , Lund Julie , Alrø Anja Johnsen , Speed Maria Simonsen , Brund Rene Børge Korsgaard , Videbech Poul
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the prefrontal cortex has been shown to have a statistically and clinically significant anti-depressant effect. The present pilot study was carried out to investigate if right prefrontal low-frequency rTMS as an add-on to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) accelerates the anti-depressant effect and reduces cognitive side effects.

Methods:

In this randomised, controlled, double-blind study, thirty-five patients with major depression were allocated to ECT+placebo or ECT+low-frequency right prefrontal rTMS. The severity of depression was evaluated during the course using the Hamilton scale for depression (the 17-item as well as the 6-item scale) and the major depression inventory (MDI). Furthermore, neuropsychological assessment of cognitive function was carried out.

Results:

The study revealed no significant difference between the two groups for any of the outcomes, but with a visible trend to lower scores for MDI after treatment in the placebo group. The negative impact of ECT on neurocognitive functions was short-lived, and scores on logical memory were significantly improved compared to baseline 4 weeks after last treatment. The ECT-rTMS group revealed generally less impairment of cognitive functions than the ECT-placebo group.

Conclusion:

The addition of low-frequency rTMS as an add-on to ECT treatment did not result in an accelerated response. On the contrary, the results suggest that low-frequency rTMS could inhibit the anti-depressant effect of ECT.
To Punish or Not to Punish? Ukraine’s Approach to Retribution for Crimes Associated with the Donbas Conflict and Its Potential Meaning for National Reconciliation
Authors: Lyubashenko Igor
Published: July 2020

The article analyzes the approach of the Ukrainian state to criminal accountability for crimes associated with the ongoing Donbas conflict: crimes against state security, which led to the outbreak of the conflict, and crimes committed by persons directly engaged in the conflict. The main question addressed in the article is whether there is any trace of a deliberate policy of mitigating punishments to those who engaged themselves in different sorts of anti-government actions associated with the Donbas conflict, for the sake of achieving peace. The article contains a comparative analysis of relevant court decisions in order to identify the combinations of conditions that led to the issue of suspended prison sentences (less punitive judgements). The findings suggest that Ukrainian authorities have consistently punished their adversaries in accordance with existing regulations. During the first four years of the conflict, the authorities have not appeared to provide any sort of concessions to their adversaries that could be justified by the circumstances of an armed conflict, and have acted in a manner that can be called “legalist.”
THE OLDEST RULERS OF EARLY MEDIEVAL BOHEMIA AND RADIOCARBON DATA
Authors: Frolik Jan , Sneberger Jiri , Svetlik Ivo , Kaupová Sylva Drtikolová , Pachnerova Brabcova Katerina , Ovsonkova Zuzana A
Published: July 2020

Given the nature of medieval artifacts and resulting research requirements, a precise temporal classification is essential. It is especially important for the purposes of medieval archaeology in interpreting archaeological finds/finding situations and identifying them with a historical events or figures, for example, to identify skeletal remains of a known historical figure or to establish a chronological sequence of various cultural and architectural changes within an area. Due to the fact that the uncertainties of radiocarbon (14C) analyses have been decreasing in recent years, the applicability of 14C dating for such purposes is now growing. In this work, we aim to demonstrate the current possibilities of the use of AMS 14C analyses on specific cases and confront the results with other available data. 14C data from skeletal remains of members of the oldest Czech ruling dynasty of the Přemyslids (about 880–1306 AD) were obtained in recent years. Archaeological research conducted in the three oldest churches in the Prague Castle discovered skeletal remains of three members of the second, two members of the fourth and two members of the fifth generation. This case study of the application of 14C data has three parts: i) identification of excavated individuals; ii) demonstration of the application using current AMS-based analysis of 14C on medieval osteological material and tests of our preparation method; iii) contributing to discussion and consulting with other problematical 14C age alteration influenced by diet, age of bone collagen or seasonal variation of 14C activity. The obtained results and the issues arising from them clearly highlight the necessity of a multidisciplinary cooperation in this type of study.
ANCIENT LOGBOATS IN LITHUANIA: NEW FINDS, WOOD TAXA AND CHRONOLOGY
Authors: Piličiauskas Gytis , Pranckėnaitė Elena , Peseckas Kęstutis , Mažeika Jonas , Matuzevičiūtė Simona
Published: July 2020

More than 70 logboats are known in Lithuania and about half of them date before 1800 cal AD. This paper reviews these more ancient logboats, which were discovered in the beds of former or still existing lakes and rivers and present new radiocarbon (14C) dates and wood taxa identifications. Special attention is paid to the logboat found at Šventoji 58, which is at present the oldest 14C-dated (2895–2640 cal BC) logboat found East of the Baltic Sea. Most logboats from the pre-1800s period were 14C dated to medieval and early modern periods and they were made out of pine and oak wood. From a very scarce dataset available it seems that oak wood was introduced into logboat building by Neolithic people, who also brought new technologies in stone tool production. We also noted that 14C dating does not confirm the logboat typology suggested in earlier studies.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 response to whey protein is less diminished by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 in comparison with responses to dextrin, a lipid and casein in rats
Authors: Shimizu Yuki , Hara Hiroshi , Hira Tohru
Published: July 2020

Although glucose is the best-known nutrient to stimulate glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion, dietary peptides also potently stimulate GLP-1 secretion. Certain peptide fragments derived from dietary proteins possess dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitory activity in vitro. Hence, we hypothesised that dietary peptides protect GLP-1 from degradation through attenuating DPP-4 activity in vivo. Here, we compared GLP-1 responses with dietary proteins, a carbohydrate and a lipid (Intralipos) in rats having or not having plasma DPP-4 activity. Plasma GLP-1 concentrations clearly increased by oral administration of whey protein (2–4 g/kg), but not by that of dextrin (2–4 g/kg), in control rats (untreated Sprague–Dawley rats and F344/Jcl rats), having DPP-4 activity. In contrast, dextrin administration increased the plasma GLP-1 concentrations as the whey protein administration did, in rats having reduced or no DPP-4 activity (a DPP-4 inhibitor, sitagliptin-treated Sprague–Dawley rats or DPP-4-deficient F344/DuCrl/Crlj rats). DPP-4 inhibition by sitagliptin treatment also enhanced GLP-1 response to Intralipos, and casein, but the treatment did not further enhance GLP-1 response to whey protein. Intestinal GLP-1 content and gastric emptying rate were not associated with differences in GLP-1 responses to test nutrients. The luminal contents from rats administered whey protein decreased DPP-4 activity in vitro. These results suggest that GLP-1 released by dextrin, Intralipos and casein was immediately degraded by DPP-4, while GLP-1 released by whey protein was less degraded. Our study provides novel in vivo evidence supporting the hypothesis that dietary peptides not only stimulate GLP-1 secretion but also inhibit DPP-4 activity to potentiate GLP-1 response.
A negative association of dietary advanced glycation end products with obesity and body composition in Iranian adults
Authors: Ghorbaninejad Parivash , Djafarian Kurosh , Babaee Nadia , Davarzani Samira , Ebaditabar Mojdeh , Clark Cain C.T. , Shab-Bidar Sakineh
Published: July 2020

Obesity caused by excessive deposited fat is generally classified as BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2. Research regarding the association between dietary advanced glycation end products (dAGE) and obesity is limited. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between dAGE and obesity and body composition in Iranian adults. This cross-sectional study included 265 adults aged 18–75 years from Tehran, Iran. dAGE were estimated using a validated semi-quantitative FFQ, according to the published food carboxymethyl lysine–AGE database for 549 routinely consumed food items for the Northeastern American multiethnic urban population, and were reported by dividing total energy intake. Dietary intake, sociodemographic data and physical activity status were collected using validated questionnaires, and anthropometric characteristics were measured. Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis, and obesity was defined based on WHO guidelines. The intake of fat and meat was significantly increased in higher tertiles, compared with the first tertile of dAGE (P< 0·001). No association between dAGE and body composition measures and obesity was observed; however, there was a significant negative association between dAGE and BMI (BMI;P= 0·01), waist circumference (P= 0·01), waist:hip ratio (P= 0·03), fat-free mass (P= 0·02) and muscle mass index (P= 0·01) in non-linear models. In conclusion, higher consumption of dAGE was associated with increased intake of fat and meat and was negatively related to changes in body composition measurements. Therefore, dAGE may connect obesity to diet by energy imbalance.
The effect of nut consumption (tree nuts and peanuts) on the gut microbiota of humans: a systematic review
Authors: Fitzgerald Emily , Lambert Kelly , Stanford Jordan , Neale Elizabeth P.
Published: July 2020

There is increasing evidence linking the gut microbiota to various aspects of human health. Nuts are a food rich in prebiotic fibre and polyphenols, food components which have been shown to have beneficial effects on the gut microbiota. This systematic review aimed to synthesise the evidence regarding the effect of nut consumption on the human gut microbiota. A systematic search of the databases MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL and CINAHL was performed until 28 November 2019. Eligible studies were those that investigated the effects of nut consumption in humans (aged over 3 years old), utilising next-generation sequencing technology. Primary outcome measures were between-group differences inα- andβ-diversity metrics and gut microbial composition. A total of eight studies were included in the review. Included studies assessed the effects of either almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts or pistachios on the gut microbiota. Overall, nut consumption had a modest impact on gut microbiota diversity, with two studies reporting a significant shift inα-diversity and four reporting a significant shift inβ-diversity. Walnuts, in particular, appeared to more frequently explain shifts inβ-diversity, which may be a result of their unique nutritional composition. Some shifts in bacterial composition (including an increase in genera capable of producing SCFA:Clostridium, Roseburia,LachnospiraandDialister) were reported following the consumption of nuts. Nut intake may yield a modulatory effect on the gut microbiota; however, results were inconsistent across studies, which may be explained by variations in trial design, methodological limitations and inter-individual microbiota.
Neglecting Peter to Fix Paul: How Shared Directors Transmit Bank Shocks to Nonfinancial Firms
Authors: Pugachev Leonid , Schertler Andrea
Published: July 2020

We trace a corporate governance channel of bank shock transmission into the real economy. Using 1,245 U.S. bank enforcement actions (EAs) issued between 1990 and 2017, we show that when a nonfinancial firm (NFF) and bank share a common director, NFF stock prices fall around bank EAs. Severe EAs elicit more negative returns. During enforcement, valued directors substitute NFF board meeting attendance with bank board meeting attendance. Impaired credit relationships, director reputational damage, and endogenous director selection cannot fully explain our results. These findings imply that shared directors could transmit larger bank shocks into the real economy.