bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of testicular cancer and testicular self-examination on knowledge, attitude and health beliefs in university students in Turkey
Authors: Demir Bilsev , Türkben Polat Hilal
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This research was planned and applied as a descriptive study in order to determine the knowledge, attitudes and behaviors about testicular cancer (TC) and testicular self-examination (TSE) of male students who receiving health education.

Design/methodology/approach

This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted between May and August 2019 with male students. Early diagnosis of TC is quite important in terms of prognosis of the disease. The data were collected by using the questionnaire prepared by the researchers in accordance with the literature and the Turkish version of health belief model scale (HBMS) for TSE. The data were analyzed by number, percentage, mean and standard deviation and t test.

Findings

TSE HBMS, it was observed that the mean score of susceptibility subscale was 11.23 ± 3.73, the mean score of seriousness subscale was 28.20 ± 7.66, the mean score of benefit subscale was 21.57 ± 5.90, the mean score of the barriers subscale was 22.74 ± 5.16, the mean score of self-efficacy subscale was 9.91 ± 3.13 and the mean score of the health motivation subscale was 8.92 ± 2.84.

Originality/value

There was a statistically significant relationship between having heard of TC and health motivation (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant relationship between the knowledge of TC and self-efficacy and health motivation (p < 0.05). There was a significant relationship between self-efficacy and TSE performing status (p < 0.05). There was also a significant relationship between the desire to obtain information about TSE and seriousness, barriers, self-efficacy and health motivation (p < 0.05). It was determined that majority of university students did not have any information about TC and TSE.
Abusive supervision: exploring the relationship with narcissism, self-promotion and unpredictability
Authors: Finney Treena Gillespie , Finney R. Zachary , Roach III John G.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study investigates whether subordinates who rate their managers higher on narcissism are also more likely to view their managers as abusive. In particular, the study explores the extent to which managers whom subordinates rate higher on narcissism use certain behaviors (self-promotion and unpredictability) that mediate the relationship between narcissism and perceived abuse.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey participants (n = 949) rated their most-destructive manager in terms of self-promotion, unpredictability, narcissism and abusiveness. A bootstrap analysis assessed the positive, mediating effects of leader self-promotion and unpredictability on the narcissism–abuse relationship.

Findings

Degree of perceived supervisor narcissism predicted subordinates' perceptions of abusive supervision. However, the supervisor's self-promotion activities and unpredictability fully mediated this relationship.

Research limitations/implications

This study identifies perceived narcissism as an antecedent of abusive supervision and identifies two mediators relevant to subordinates' perceptions of abuse. Using multiple methods and multiple sources, the authors recommend that scholars identify additional mediators. Further research should consider variables such as gender, organizational culture and occupational status.

Practical implications

Findings highlight how subordinates connect supervisor narcissism to abuse; this allows human resource practitioners to better predict and address subordinates' perceptions of their managers and to design interventions for improving supervisors' behaviors.

Originality/value

This study helps in explaining destructive leadership by empirically examining perceptions of narcissism as a driver of abusive supervision. Also, the study reveals the characteristics of narcissistic managers that impede productive relationships with subordinates.
Multiple co-first authors, co-corresponding authors and co-supervisors: a synthesis of shared authorship credit
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Authorship is the ultimate status of intellectual recognition in academic publishing. Although fairly robust guidelines have already been in place for a considerable amount of time regarding authorship criteria and credit, such as those by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors or Contributor Roles Taxonomy, the lack of reliable verification techniques hamper their accuracy, thereby reducing the validity of authorship claims in such statements. This paper aims to focus on the authorship status and responsibilities of co-first authors and co-corresponding authors.

Design/methodology/approach

To appreciate authorship responsibilities in this subset of authors, the broader academic authorship literature, as well as position statements, rules and guidelines, were consulted.

Findings

Academic publishing that relies on metrics is a global multi-billion-dollar business, so strict measures to assess and confirm authorship, which can be intellectually or financially “profitable” among academics that game such metrics, are needed. The current assessment is that there are inconsistent rules for equally credited authors such as co-first authors, co-corresponding authors and co-supervisors. In shared and collaborative authorship, there are also shared authorship-related responsibilities, but these are infrequently discussed, or tend to only be dealt with broadly.

Originality/value

Within the wider, and important, discussion about authorship, which is one of the most central issues in academic publishing, there has been a limited focus on equally credited authors such as co-first authors, co-corresponding authors and co-supervisors. This paper expands and fortifies that discussion.
Assessing insect herbivory on broadleaf canopy trees at 19 natural forest sites across Japan
Authors: Takafumi Hino , Kanno Yuri , Abe Shin , Abe Tetsuto , Enoki Tsutomu , Hirao Toshihide , Hiura Tsutom , Hoshizaki Kazuhiko , Ida Hideyuki , Ishida Ken , Maki Masayuki , Masaki Takashi , Naoe Shoji , Noguchi Mahoko , Otani Tatsuya , Sato Takanori , Sakimoto Michinori , Sakio Hitoshi , Takagi Masahiro , Takashima Atsushi , Tokuchi Naoko , Utsumi Shunsuke , Hidaka Amane , Nakamura Masahiro
Published: March 2021

We present the largest freely available herbivory dataset for Japan representing data collected from a network of 19 natural forest sites across the country. Sampled network sites were part of the Monitoring Sites 1000 Project organized by the Ministry of the Environment. Sites were located across a range of climate zones, from subarctic to subtropical, and broadleaf trees (both evergreen and deciduous) were targeted at each site. Litterfall traps were used to assess leaf damage caused by leaf‐chewing insects in 2014 and 2015. Using a standardized protocol, we assessed herbivory on 117,918 leaves of 39 dominant tree species. Preliminary analyses suggest that insect herbivory increases with increasing latitude for deciduous broadleaf species. In particular, oak (Quercus crispula) and beech (Fagus crenata) were subject to increased insect herbivory with increasing latitude. In contrast, insect herbivory decreased with increasing latitude in evergreen broadleaf species. The latitudinal gradient of herbivory differed according to leaf type (i.e., evergreen or deciduous). This dataset offers excellent opportunities for meta‐analysis and comparative studies of herbivory among various forest types. The complete dataset for this abstract published in the Data Paper section of the journal is available in electronic format in MetaCat in JaLTER at http://db.cger.nies.go.jp/JaLTER/metacat/metacat/ERDP-2021-01.1/jalter-en.
Diastolic blood pressure is associated with brain atrophy in hemodialysis patients: A single center case–control study
Authors: Cohen‐Hagai Keren , Fanadka Feda , Grumberg Tania , Topaz Guy , Nacasch Naomi , Greenberg Meidad , Zitman‐Gal Tali , Benchetrit Sydney
Published: March 2021

Brain atrophy (BA) is often found in neuroimaging of hemodialysis patients, representing parenchymal cerebral damage. Likely contributing factors to BA are age, chronic hypertension, diabetes mellitus and other cardiovascular risk factors of atherosclerosis that are also common among hemodialysis patients. BA may also occur due to focal ischemia and hypoperfusion during hemodialysis. However, data on optimal blood pressure (BP) in these patients are limited. The goal of this study was to determine whether the prevalence and severity of BA would be higher among hemodialysis patients with lower BP. A blinded neuroradiologist graded BA of all hemodialysis patients who underwent brain non‐contrast computerized tomography (CT) from 2015 to 2017 in our institution. Age‐ and sex‐matched patients with normal kidney function who underwent brain CT during the same period and technique served as the control group. A total of 280 patients were included in this retrospective study, with average BP of 140/70 mmHg among hemodialysis patients and 142/75 mmHg in the control group. BA was more common in dialysis patients and its severity increased with age and traditional cardiovascular risk factors. We observed a significant negative correlation between diastolic BP (DBP) at dialysis initiation and BA. Average DBP decreased with increasing severity of BA. These findings were observed in both hemodialysis and non‐CKD patients. BA was associated with lower DBP, which may induce cerebral hypoperfusion and ischemia. This finding should discourage over‐treatment of hypertension among hemodialysis patients.
The politics of forgetting: Unmaking memories and reacting to memory‐place‐making
Authors: Shin HaeRan , Jin Yerin
Published: March 2021

This article examines responses to place‐of‐memory making that provoke the memory unmaking practices which constitute the politics of forgetting. Based on in‐depth interviews, participant observations, and archival research the work focuses on two tragic incidents in South Korean history, the May 18 Democratic Uprising in Gwangju in 1980 and the Sewol Ferry disaster on 16 April 2014. In both cases, once the indurate actions of the conservative national governments in power at both times became known, they provoked nationwide anger that precipitated each regime's eventual downfall. Despite widespread outrage, those in government during the respective events had support from right‐wing organisations as well as private citizens both in the actions taken and the ensuing politics of forgetting that enabled them to obscure these two tragedies. We argue that the erosion of memory places using the politics of forgetting exemplified by these two events is the result of each governing party's search for exoneration. By focusing on the positive as well as the negative reactions to the memories in question, this study expands discussions on the diversity of spatial strategies that inform the politics of forgetting and remembering.
Regulation of colony morphology and biofilm formation in Shewanella algae
Authors: Martín‐Rodríguez Alberto J. , Villion Katia , Yilmaz‐Turan Secil , Vilaplana Francisco , Sjöling Åsa , Römling Ute
Published: March 2021

Bacterial colony morphology can reflect different physiological stages such as virulence or biofilm formation. In this work we used transposon mutagenesis to identify genes that alter colony morphology and cause differential Congo Red (CR) and Brilliant Blue G (BBG) binding in Shewanella algae, a marine indigenous bacterium and occasional human pathogen. Microscopic analysis of colonies formed by the wild‐type strain S. algae CECT 5071 and three transposon integration mutants representing the diversity of colony morphotypes showed production of biofilm extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and distinctive morphological alterations. Electrophoretic and chemical analyses of extracted EPS showed differential patterns between strains, although the targets of CR and BBG binding remain to be identified. Galactose and galactosamine were the preponderant sugars in the colony biofilm EPS of S. algae. Surface‐associated biofilm formation of transposon integration mutants was not directly correlated with a distinct colony morphotype. The hybrid sensor histidine kinase BarA abrogated surface‐associated biofilm formation. Ectopic expression of the kinase and mutants in the phosphorelay cascade partially recovered biofilm formation. Altogether, this work provides the basic analysis to subsequently address the complex and intertwined networks regulating colony morphology and biofilm formation in this poorly understood species.
Zinc‐finger E‐box‐binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) plays a crucial role in the maintenance of lung cancer stem cells resistant to gefitinib
Authors: Nurwidya Fariz , Takahashi Fumiyuki , Winardi Wira , Tajima Ken , Mitsuishi Yoichiro , Murakami Akiko , Kobayashi Isao , Nara Takeshi , Hashimoto Muneaki , Kato Motoyasu , Hidayat Moulid , Suina Kentaro , Hayakawa Daisuke , Asao Tetsuhiko , Ko Ryo , Shukuya Takehito , Yae Toshifumi , Shimada Naoko , Yoshioka Yasuko , Sasaki Shinichi , Takahashi Kazuhisa
Published: March 2021

Background

Zinc‐finger E‐box‐binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) is an important regulator of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and is involved in the maintenance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) via miR‐200c and BMI1 pathway. Recent studies revealed that ZEB1 contributes to the EMT‐mediated acquired resistance to gefitinib in EGFR‐mutant non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the precise role of ZEB1 in the maintenance of lung CSCs that lead to acquired resistance to gefitinib remains unclear.

Methods

PC9 and HCC827 NSCLC cell lines were treated with high concentrations of gefitinib, and surviving cells were referred to as “gefitinib‐resistant persisters” (GRPs). ZEB1 knockdown or overexpression was performed to determine the biological significance of ZEB1 in the CSC features of GRPs, and animal models were studied for in vivo validation. Expression of ZEB1, BMI1, and ALDH1A1 was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in tumor specimens from NSCLC patients with acquired resistance to gefitinib.

Results

GRPs had characteristic features of mesenchymal and CSC phenotypes with high expression of ZEB1 and BMI1, and decreased miR‐200c, in vitro and in vivo. ZEB1 silencing attenuated the suppression of miR‐200c, resulting in the reduction in BMI1 and reversed the mesenchymal and CSC features of GRPs. Furthermore, ZEB1 overexpression induced EMT and increased the levels of CD133‐ and BMI1‐positive GRPs in vitro and gefitinib resistance in vivo. Finally, ZEB1, BMI1, and ALDH1A1 were highly expressed in tumor specimens from EGFR‐mutant NSCLC patients with gefitinib resistance.

Conclusions

ZEB1 plays an important role in gefitinib‐resistant lung CSCs with EMT features via regulation of miR‐200c and BMI1.
Understanding the natural selection of human embryos: Blastocyst quality modulates the inflammatory response during the peri‐implantation period
Authors: Fernández Laura , Grasso Esteban , Soczewski Elizabeth , Gori Soledad , Calo Guillermina , Hauk Vanesa , Sabbione Florencia , Gallino Lucila , Martínez Gustavo , Irigoyen Marcela , Bestach Yesica , Pérez Leirós Claudia , Ramhorst Rosanna
Published: March 2021

Problem

Decidualized cells display an active role during embryo implantation sensing blastocyst quality, allowing the implantation of normal developed blastocysts and preventing the invasion of impaired developed ones. Here, we characterized the immune microenvironment generated by decidualized cells in response to soluble factors secreted by blastocysts that shape the receptive milieu.

Method of Study

We used an in vitro model of decidualization based on the Human Endometrial Stromal Cells line (HESC) differentiated with medroxiprogesterone and dibutyryl‐cAMP, then treated with human blastocysts‐conditioned media (BCM) classified according to their quality.

Results

Decidualized cells treated with BCM from impaired developed blastocysts increased IL‐1β production. Next, we evaluated the ability of decidualized cells to modulate other mediators associated with menstruation as chemokines. Decidualized cells responded to stimulation with BCM from impaired developed blastocysts increasing CXCL12 expression and CXCL8 secretion. The modulation of these markers was associated with the recruitment and activation of neutrophils, while regulatory T cells recruitment was restrained. These changes were not observed in the presence of BCM from normal developed blastocysts.

Conclusion

Soluble factors released by impaired developed blastocysts induce an exacerbated inflammatory response associated with neutrophils recruitment and activation, providing new clues to understand the molecular basis of the embryo‐endometrial dialogue.
Endometriosis and pelvic pain: Time to treat the symptoms not the assumptions?
Authors: Grover Sonia R. , Joseph Karen
Published: March 2021

The high incidence and burden of pelvic pain are increasingly recognised in both the healthcare sector and by the general public. Current approaches to management assume that the diagnosis and remediation of identified lesions will ease this burden. The evidence base and successes in other areas of medicine would suggest that this assumption requires reconsideration.
Effect of basal forebrain somatostatin and parvalbumin neurons in propofol and isoflurane anesthesia
Authors: Cai Shuang , Tang Ai‐Chen , Luo Tian‐Yuan , Yang Shao‐Cheng , Yang Huanhuan , Liu Cheng‐Xi , Shu Yue , Pan Yun‐Chao , Zhang Yu , Zhou Liang , Yu Tian , Yu Shou‐Yang
Published: March 2021

Aims

The basal forebrain (BF) plays an essential role in wakefulness and cognition. Two subtypes of BF gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurons, including somatostatin‐expressing (GABASOM) and parvalbumin‐positive (GABAParv) neurons, function differently in mediating the natural sleep–wake cycle. Since the loss of consciousness induced by general anesthesia and the natural sleep–wake cycle probably share similar mechanisms, it is important to clarify the accurate roles of these neurons in general anesthesia procedure.

Methods

Based on two transgenic mouse lines expressing SOM‐IRES‐Cre and PV‐IRES‐Cre, we used a combination of genetic activation, inactivation, and chronic ablation approaches to further explore the behavioral and electroencephalography (EEG) roles of BFSOM and BFParv neurons in general anesthesia. After a single intravenous injection of propofol and the induction and recovery times of isoflurane anesthesia, the anesthesia time was compared. The changes in cortical EEG under different conditions were also compared.

Results

Activation of BF GABASOM neurons facilitates both the propofol and isoflurane anesthesia, manifesting as a longer anesthesia duration time with propofol anesthesia and a fast induction time and longer recovery time with isoflurane anesthesia. Moreover, BF GABASOM‐activated mice displayed a greater suppression of cortical electrical activity during anesthesia, showing an increase in δ power bands or a simultaneous decrease in high‐frequency power bands. However, only a limited and nuanced effect on propofol and isoflurane anesthesia was observed with the manipulated BF GABAParv neurons.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that BF GABASOM neurons play a critical role in propofol and isoflurane general anesthesia, while BF GABAParv neurons appeared to have little effect.
The 100 most‐cited articles about the role of neurovascular unit in stroke 2001–2020: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Xie Lv , Lu Bingwei , Ma Yezhi , Yin Jiemin , Zhai Xiaozhu , Chen Chen , Xie Wanqing , Zhang Yueman , Zheng Li , Li Peiying
Published: March 2021

Background

The neurovascular unit (NVU) is emerging as a potential therapeutic target in neurological conditions, such as stroke, brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease; meanwhile, stroke is the second leading cause of death globally. The purpose of the study is to analyze the most influential articles, authors, countries, and topics in the role of NVU in stroke.

Methods

The Web of Science (WoS) database was used for bibliometric analysis using the search terms “Stroke” and “Neurovascular unit” on January 1st, 2021. Data were extracted from the WoS database to identify collaborations between authors, countries, organizations, and keywords using VOSviewer (1.6.16 mac). Two bibliometric indicators, the activity index (AI) and category normalized citation impact (CNCI), were computed. The keywords of bursts were also identified by CiteSpace.

Results

A total of 770 articles were analyzed by VOSviewer. AIs and CNCIs were computed of the eighteen countries according to VOSviewer co‐authorship analysis results. The majority of authors mainly came from the United States and Japan. Romania, Hungary, and Poland have emerged as rising‐star countries. In the 100 most‐cited articles, the number of citations ranged from 1873 to 69, with a total of 15,758 citations. Most articles were published in 2011 and 2012 (n = 13 each), followed by 2009 (n = 11) and 2013, 2014, and 2015 (n = 8 each). Stroke and Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism were the two top journals. EH Lo from Harvard University/ Massachusetts General Hospital was the top first author and corresponding author. Harvard University/Massachusetts General Hospital was the most productive affiliated institution with 15 publications.

Conclusion

There has been growing attention and efforts made in the field of stroke and NVU. The merit of the above findings may help to shape the research policy in ischemic stroke both at the country and institutional level.
Electroacupuncture facilitates the integration of a grafted TrkC‐modified mesenchymal stem cell‐derived neural network into transected spinal cord in rats via increasing neurotrophin‐3
Authors: Yang Yang , Xu Hao‐Yu , Deng Qing‐Wen , Wu Guo‐Hui , Zeng Xiang , Jin Hui , Wang Lai‐Jian , Lai Bi‐Qin , Li Ge , Ma Yuan‐Huan , Jiang Bin , Ruan Jing‐Wen , Wang Ya‐Qiong , Ding Ying , Zeng Yuan‐Shan
Published: March 2021

Aims

This study was aimed to investigate whether electroacupuncture (EA) would increase the secretion of neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3) from injured spinal cord tissue, and, if so, whether the increased NT‐3 would promote the survival, differentiation, and migration of grafted tyrosine kinase C (TrkC)‐modified mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)‐derived neural network cells. We next sought to determine if the latter would integrate with the host spinal cord neural circuit to improve the neurological function of injured spinal cord.

Methods

After NT‐3‐modified Schwann cells (SCs) and TrkC‐modified MSCs were co‐cultured in a gelatin sponge scaffold for 14 days, the MSCs differentiated into neuron‐like cells that formed a MSC‐derived neural network (MN) implant. On this basis, we combined the MN implantation with EA in a rat model of spinal cord injury (SCI) and performed immunohistochemical staining, neural tracing, electrophysiology, and behavioral testing after 8 weeks.

Results

Electroacupuncture application enhanced the production of endogenous NT‐3 in damaged spinal cord tissues. The increase in local NT‐3 production promoted the survival, migration, and maintenance of the grafted MN, which expressed NT‐3 high‐affinity TrkC. The combination of MN implantation and EA application improved cortical motor‐evoked potential relay and facilitated the locomotor performance of the paralyzed hindlimb compared with those of controls. These results suggest that the MN was better integrated into the host spinal cord neural network after EA treatment compared with control treatment.

Conclusions

Electroacupuncture as an adjuvant therapy for TrkC‐modified MSC‐derived MN, acted by increasing the local production of NT‐3, which accelerated neural network reconstruction and restoration of spinal cord function following SCI.
Cardiovascular effects of sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists: The P value and beyond
Authors: Kloecker David E. , Davies Melanie J. , Khunti Kamlesh , Zaccardi Francesco
Published: March 2021

Despite growing awareness of the dangers of a dichotomous interpretation of trial results based on the ‘statistical significance’ of a treatment effect, the uptake of new approaches has been slow in diabetes medicine. We showcase a number of ways to interpret the evidence for a treatment effect applied to the cardiovascular outcome trials of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) and sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2is): the P value function (or confidence curves), which depicts the treatment effect across the whole spectrum of confidence levels; the counternull value, which is the hazard ratio (i.e. treatment effect size) supported by the same amount of evidence as the null value (i.e. no treatment effect); and the S value, which quantifies the strength of the evidence against the null hypothesis in terms of the number of coin tosses yielding the same side. We show how this approach identifies potential treatment effects, highlights similarities among trials straddling the threshold of statistical significance, and quantifies differences in the strength of the evidence from trials reporting statistically significant results. For example, while REWIND, CANVAS and CREDENCE failed to reach statistical significance at the .05 level for all‐cause mortality, their counternull values indicate that reduced death rates by 19%, 24% and 31%, respectively, are supported by the same amount of evidence as that indicating no treatment effect. Moreover, similarities among results emerge in trials of GLP‐1RAs (REWIND, EXSCEL and LEADER) lying closely around the threshold of ‘statistical significance’. Lastly, several S values, such as for the primary outcome in HARMONY Outcomes (S value 10.9) and all‐cause death in EMPAREG‐OUTCOME (S value 15.0), stand out compared with values for other outcomes and other trials, suggesting much larger differences in the evidence between these studies and several others that cluster around the .05 significance threshold. P value functions, counternull values and S values should complement the standard reporting of the treatment effect to help interpret clinical trials and make decisions among competing glucose‐lowering medications.
Subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in men under androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer, revealed by speckle‐tracking‐derived parameters, repolarization, and myocardial injury markers
Authors: Gheorghe Andrei C. D. , Ciobanu Ana , Hodorogea Andreea S. , Radavoi George D. , Jinga Viorel , Rascu Alexandru S. C. , Nanea Ioan T. , Gheorghe Gabriela S.
Published: March 2021

Objective

To analyze global left ventricular longitudinal strain (GLS), mechanical dispersion (MD), electrocardiographic repolarization, and myocardial injury markers changes during androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and subsequent hypogonadism in men with advanced prostate cancer.

Methods

We included 31 patients 69.7 ± 7.3 years old, in sinus rhythm, with stable cardiac conditions and evaluated them by echocardiography, electrocardiography, and blood sampling for high sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs‐cTnI), and N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP), at ADT initiation (M0) and after 6 months of treatment (M1). Peak longitudinal strain by speckle‐tracking echocardiography was assessed in 17 left ventricular segments and averaged to GLS. Standard deviation of time intervals from the start of Q/R on electrocardiogram to peak longitudinal strain in the 17 segments (MDSD), and the difference between the longest and shortest time‐to‐peak strain intervals (MDdelta) were calculated as indices of MD. Fridericia corrected electrocardiographic repolarization parameters were analyzed as follows: QT interval (QTc), mean and maximum values of Tpeak‐Tend interval (Tpe), and Tpe/QT ratio, Tpe dispersion (Tped).

Results

Significant impairments of the following parameters were registered between M0 and M1: GLS (%) (−16.93 ± 3.89; −14.43 ± 3.57, P < .001), MDSD (ms) (77.4 ± 21.4; 89 ± 27, P = .004), MDdelta (ms) (225.3 ± 78.3; 259.9 ± 108.4, P = .02), QTc (ms) (458.8 ± 43.4; 485.6 ± 45.1, P = .01), maxTpe/QT (0.246 ± 0.04; 0.268 ± 0.04, P = .01), maxTpe (ms) (105.4 ± 23.2; 119.5 ± 26.4 P = .01), meanTpe (ms) (83.3 ± 16.8; 90.7 ± 19.3, P = .02), and hs‐cTnI (ng/mL) (4.6 ± 5.4; 5.4 ± 6.4, P = .01). Mean serum testosterone level at M1 was 0.1 ± 0.13 ng/mL. The patients’ clinical cardiological status remained stable during follow‐up.

Conclusions

ADT and subsequent hypogonadism induce subclinical alterations in GLS, MD, electrocardiographic repolarization parameters, and hs‐cTnI during the first 6 months of treatment.
Topological structure of a tritrophic network composed of host plants, gall‐inducing insects and parasitoids in a restinga area in Brazil
Authors: de Araújo Walter Santos , Maia Valéria Cid
Published: March 2021

Plants, insect herbivores and parasitoids can form tritrophic networks that are species rich and complex in interactions. In the present study, we describe the network structure of an assemblage composed of host plants, cecidomyiid gall midges and hymenopteran parasitoids in a restinga in Brazil. We used data collected between 1992 and 2011 to build plant‐galling and galling‐parasitoid networks. In total we recorded 44 species of host plants, 79 species of gall midges and 70 taxa of parasitoids. The network of host plants and gall midges was very specialized, being characterized by 79 distinct interactions, low connectance, low linkage density and high modularity. This specialized pattern is because all species of gall midges have been monophages. In contrast, galling‐parasitoid interactions were more numerous (203 distinct interactions) and were more connected, and less modular than expected based on the null model. The occurrence of generalist parasitoids (i.e. 35.7% of parasitoid species occurring on two or more hosts) is the main factor that explains this lower specialization in the galling‐parasitoid network when compared to the plant‐galling network. Our findings corroborate previous studies indicating high specialization for the interactions of gall midges with their plants but indicate a slightly smaller specialization of the parasitoids in relation to the gall midge species.
Systematic investigation of PRMT6 substrate recognition reveals broad specificity with a preference for an RG motif or basic and bulky residues
Authors: Hamey Joshua J. , Rakow Sinja , Bouchard Caroline , Senst Johanna M. , Kolb Peter , Bauer Uta‐Maria , Wilkins Marc R. , Hart‐Smith Gene
Published: March 2021

Protein arginine methyltransferase 6 (PRMT6) catalyses the asymmetric dimethylation of arginines on numerous substrate proteins within the human cell. In particular, PRMT6 methylates histone H3 arginine 2 (H3R2) which affects both gene repression and activation. However, the substrate specificity of PRMT6 has not been comprehensively analysed. Here, we systematically characterise the substrate recognition motif of PRMT6, finding that it has broad specificity and recognises the RG motif. Working with a H3 tail peptide as a template, on which we made 204 amino acid substitutions, we use targeted mass spectrometry to measure their effect on PRMT6 in vitro activity. We first show that PRMT6 methylates R2 and R8 in the H3 peptide, although H3R8 is methylated with lower efficiency and is not an in vivo PRMT6 substrate. We then quantify the effect of 194 of these amino acid substitutions on methylation at both H3R2 and H3R8. In both cases, we find that PRMT6 tolerates essentially any amino acid substitution in the H3 peptide, but that positively charged and bulky residues are preferred near the target arginine. We show that PRMT6 also has preference for glycine, but only in the position immediately following the target arginine. This indicates that PRMT6 recognises the RG motif rather than the RGG motif. We further confirm this preference for the RG motif on another PRMT6 substrate, histone H4R3. This broad specificity and recognition of RG rather than RGG are distinctive among the PRMT family and has implications for the development of drugs to selectively target PRMT6.

Databases

Panorama Public (https://panoramaweb.org/PRMT6motif.url); ProteomeXchange (PXD016711).
Effect of different accessory devices on the dose delivered from pressurised metred‐dose inhalers
Authors: Nicola Mina , Hussein Raghda R. S. , Soliman Youssef M. A. , Abdelrahim Mohamed
Published: March 2021

Introductions

Improved aerosol delivery of bronchodilators to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) subjects is a cornerstone in the treatment approach. Drug delivery and response are improved with the use of accessory devices [spacers and valved holding chambers (VHCs)] with metred‐dose inhalers (pMDIs). However, different accessory devices are available in the market with different properties that could affect aerosol delivery. Thus, this study aimed to assess the relative lung deposition and systemic bioavailability and compare bronchodilator response of salbutamol delivered using different accessory devices attached to pMDIs.

Methods

Twelve healthy subjects and twelve COPD subjects inhaled 300 μg salbutamol (3 pMDI puffs) using five different accessory devices with either masks or mouthpieces (Able, Aerochamber plus flow Vu, Dolphin chamber, Tipshaler spacer, and modified Drink bottle spacer). Urine samples were collected thirty minutes post‐dosing and cumulatively for the next twenty‐four hours, to determine and compare the relative lung deposition [0‐0.5 hour excretion of urinary salbutamol (USAL0.5)] and systemic bioavailability [0.5‐24 hours excretion of urinary salbutamol (USAL24)] of salbutamol from the selected accessory devices. Also, the difference between pre and post‐inhalation forced expiratory volume in one second (ΔFEV1%) of predicted was determined for each accessory device.

Results

Urinary excretion of salbutamol (both USAL0.5 and USAL24 samples) in COPD subjects was significantly (P < .05) lower than in healthy subjects for all accessory devices. USAL0.5 and USAL24 in non‐antistatic spacers (modified Drink bottle spacer and Dolphin chamber spacers) were significantly lower (P < .05) than that for antistatic spacers (Aerochamber plus flow Vu, Able and Tips‐haler). No significant difference in USAL0.5 and USAL24 was observed between facemasks and mouthpieces.

There was a significant difference (P < .05) in ΔFEV1% of predicted values between COPD subjects and healthy subjects. However, within the COPD group and the healthy group there was no significant difference in ΔFEV1% of predicted values between all accessory devices or between with mouthpiece or with a mask.

Conclusions

COPD subjects had lower aerosol delivered compared with healthy subjects. Anti‐static accessory devices delivered a higher amount of aerosol compared with non‐antistatic accessory devices. Even though the presence of a significant difference in aerosol delivery between non‐antistatic and antistatic accessory devices no significant difference was found in the ΔFEV1% between all accessory devices.
Prospective association between maternal bonding disorders and child toothbrushing frequency: A cross‐sectional study of the Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Tsuchiya Shinobu , Tsuchiya Masahiro , Momma Haruki , Nagatomi Ryoichi , Arima Takahiro , Yaegashi Nobuo , Igarashi Kaoru ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study Group
Published: March 2021

Background

Daily toothbrushing prevents early childhood caries, but reinforcement depends on facilitative parenting behaviours. Mother‐to‐infant bonding, the maternal affection towards the infant, is an environmental factor that strongly influences parenting.

Aim

This study examined the association between maternal bonding and children's daily toothbrushing frequency.

Design

The sample consisted of 83 954 mother‐infant pairs at two years postpartum, derived from the initial sample of JECS (cohort study), which included 104 062 foetuses. Maternal bonding disorders were assessed using the Mother‐to‐Infant Bonding Scale (MIBS). After multiple imputation for missing data, a multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted with adjustments for several maternal (eg, age at delivery) and child‐related (eg, self‐performed toothbrushing) variables.

Results

The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for the association of maternal bonding disorders with the low (once per day) and the very low child toothbrushing frequency (<1 per day) was 1.12 (1.07‐1.17) and 1.23 (0.91‐1.66), respectively, after covariate adjustments. Furthermore, the univariate general linear model showed that the mean MIBS scores significantly decreased as the daily child toothbrushing frequency increased.

Conclusions

The prevalence of maternal bonding disorders at one year postpartum was prospectively associated with a lower frequency of child toothbrushing at two years of age.
The immunogenicity and safety of respiratory syncytial virus vaccines in development: A systematic review
Authors: Shan Jing , Britton Philip N. , King Catherine L. , Booy Robert
Published: March 2021

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of acute lower respiratory infection globally. There are vaccine candidates in development, but a systematic review on immunogenicity and safety of vaccine is lacking.

Methods

This systematic review of RSV vaccine clinical trials was undertaken using four databases. Searches were conducted using both controlled vocabulary terms such as “Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human,” “Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections,” “Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines,” “Immunization,” “Immunization Programs” and “Vaccines” and corresponding text word terms. The included studies were limited to clinical trials published from January 2000 to 31 December 2020. RSV infection case was defined as RSV‐associated medically attended acute respiratory illness (MAARI) or RSV infection by serologically confirmed test (Western blot) during the RSV surveillance period. We calculated the relative risk of each vaccine trial with RSV infection case.

Results

Of 6306 publications, 38 were included and data were extracted covering four major types of RSV vaccine candidates, these being live‐attenuated/chimeric (n = 14), recombinant‐vector (n = 6), subunit (n = 12) and nanoparticle vaccines (n = 6). For RSV infection cases, nine trials were involved and none of them showed a vaccine‐related increased MAARI during RSV surveillance season.

Conclusion

LID ∆M2‐2, MEDI M2‐2, RSVcps2 and LID/∆M2‐2 /1030s (live‐attenuated) were considered the most promising vaccine candidates in infant and children. In the elderly, a nanoparticle F vaccine candidate and Ad26.RSV.preF were considered as two potential effective vaccines. A promising maternal vaccine candidate is still lacking.
Nondermatophyte mould onychomycosis
Authors: Gupta A.K. , Summerbell R.C. , Venkataraman M. , Quinlan E.M.
Published: March 2021

Nondermatophyte moulds (NDMs) onychomycosis is often difficult to diagnose as NDMs have been considered contaminants of nails. There are several diagnostic methods used to identify NDMs, however, repeated laboratory isolation is recommended to validate pathogenicity. With NDM and mixed infection (dermatophytes plus NDM) onychomycosis on the rise, accurate clinical diagnosis along with mycological tests is recommended. Systemic antifungal agents such as itraconazole and terbinafine (e.g. pulse regimen: 1 pulse = every day for one week, followed by no treatment for three weeks) have shown efficacy in treating onychomycosis caused by various NDMs such as Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., Scopulariopsis brevicaulis, and Onychocola canadensis. Studies investigating topical therapy and devices for NDM onychomycosis are limited. The emergence of antifungal resistance necessitates the incorporation of antifungal susceptibility testing into diagnosis when possible, for the management of recalcitrant infections. Case studies documented in the literature show newer azoles such as posaconazole and voriconazole as sometimes effective in treating resistant NDM onychomycosis. Treatment with broad‐spectrum antifungal agents (e.g. itraconazole and efinaconazole) and other combination therapy (oral + oral and/or oral + topical) may be considerations in the management of NDM onychomycosis.
Impact of occlusal force on decline in body mass index among older Japanese adults: Finding from the SONIC study
Authors: Fukutake Motoyoshi , Takahashi Toshihito , Gondo Yasuyuki , Kamide Kei , Masui Yukie , Matsuda Ken‐ichi , Enoki Kaori , Takeshita Hajime , Mihara Yusuke , Hatta Kodai , Sato Hitomi , Murotani Yuki , Hagino Hiromasa , Kabayama Mai , Ishizaki Tatsuro , Sugimoto Ken , Rakugi Hiromi , Maeda Yoshinobu , Moynihan Paula , Ikebe Kazunori
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To determine any independent influence of occlusal force and of number of natural teeth on decline in body mass index (BMI) among older Japanese adults.

Design

Longitudinal study over a 3‐ to 6‐year period.

Setting

Urban and rural area in Japan.

Participants

Independently living Japanese adults aged 69–71 years and 79–81 years at baseline. This analysis excluded participants who were defined as underweight at baseline.

Measurements

Information was collected on age, gender, occlusal force, the number of teeth, BMI, socioeconomic factors, medical history, the number of daily prescription medications, cognitive function, depressive symptoms, hand grip strength, and physical function. Maximal occlusal force was measured with a pressure‐sensitive sheet. Nutritional status was assessed using BMI, and participants with BMI <21.5 were defined as underweight. Then, they were divided into two groups: a “BMI declined” group who were defined as underweight at either 3‐ or 6‐year follow‐up survey, and a “BMI maintained” group who were not defined as underweight at both follow‐up surveys. Logistic generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were used to assess the effect of occlusal force and the number of teeth at baseline on decline in BMI over 3 or 6 years, after adjusting for possible covariates associated with nutritional status.

Results

The final analysis included 704 participants. Eighty‐six (12.2%) participants were classified into the BMI declined group. Logistic GEE models showed that the number of teeth was not significantly associated with decline in BMI. However, occlusal force was significantly associated with decline in BMI (odds ratio = 0.90, 95% confidence interval = 0.83–0.97) after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusion

Participants with lower occlusal force were more likely to be in the BMI less than 21.5 kg/m2. The findings suggest that to prevent decline in oral function is important to maintain nutritional status.
Impact of humate substances and Bacillus subtilis PB6 on thyroid activity and histomorphometry, iron profile and blood haematology of quail
Authors: Elnesr Shaaban S. , Abdel‐Razik Abdel‐Razik H. , Elwan Hamada A. M.
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of dietary humate substances (HS) and CloSTAT (Bacillus subtilis PB6) on the thyroid activity and histology, iron profile, blood haematology and performance of growing Japanese quail. A total of 216 unsexed 7‐day‐old quail chicks were randomly assigned to six groups. The first group was fed a basal diet (BD) without any additives (control); the 2nd group received BD plus 0.05% CloSTAT, the 3rd and 4th groups were given BD plus 0.4% and 0.8% HS, respectively; and the 5th and 6th groups were administered BD plus CloSTAT + 0.4% HS and BD plus CloSTAT + 0.8% HS, respectively. The results showed that the growth performance was improved with the addition of CloSTAT alone or in combination with 0.4% HS compared with the control. Haematological parameters, iron level and transferrin saturation % were significantly (p < 0.001) increased by feeding HS compared with the control group. Serum thyroxin and triiodothyronine levels were significantly (p = 0.001) increased by adding CloSTAT relative to the control. Supplementation of 0.8% HS caused deterioration in histomorphometry parameters of the thyroid gland, but these parameters were improved in response to CloSTAT compared with the control. In conclusion, dietary B. subtilis PB6 as CloSTAT or CloSTAT + 0.4% HS supplementation may be efficacious in enhancing the growth performance and boosting the thyroid activity of growing Japanese quail. Moreover, the addition of 0.4% or 0.8% HS to quail diets boosted their iron profile and haematological parameters.
Insight into an acute hepatitis A outbreak in Indiana
Authors: Samala Niharika , Abdallah Wassim , Poole Ashley , Shamseddeen Hani , S Are Vijay , S Orman Eric , Patidar Kavish R. , Vuppalanchi Raj
Published: March 2021

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection causes an acute enteric hepatitis associated with substantial morbidity and mortality, particularly in older individuals. Incidence of HAV infection is low in the United States, mostly related to consumption of contaminated food. Starting in 2017, Indiana reported a large HAV outbreak. We sought to characterize the risk‐exposures, clinical features and outcomes of HAV and examine the differences based on underlying cirrhosis and age. Adults ≥18 years diagnosed with HAV between January 2017 and April 2019 at two large healthcare systems in Indiana were identified. Demographic data, risk‐exposures, clinical features, laboratory data and clinical outcomes were collected for analysis. The HAV cohort constituted 264 individuals with mean age of 41‐years, 62% male and 94% Caucasian. Risk‐exposures identified were illicit drug use (74%), food‐borne (15%), person‐to‐person (11%) and incarceration (11%). Mortality rate was 2%, acute liver failure (ALF) was seen in 4% and acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) was seen in 30% (6 of 20 with underlying cirrhosis). Admission MELD score was the only factor associated with ALF [OR = 1.17 (1.08–1.2), p < 0.0001], on multivariable logistic regression analysis. Higher proportion of individuals with underlying cirrhosis developed acute kidney injury (AKI) (26% vs. 9%, p = 0.03), ascites (45% vs. 11%, p < 0.0001) and hepatic encephalopathy (35% vs. 4%, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, illicit drug use was the predominant risk‐exposure in the current HAV outbreak, which was associated with 2% mortality rate, and those with cirrhosis had worse outcomes (AKI, ascites and HE), of whom 30% developed ACLF.
Understanding the metabolome and metagenome as extended phenotypes: The next frontier in macroalgae domestication and improvement
Authors: DeWeese Kelly J. , Osborne Melisa G.
Published: March 2021

“Omics” techniques (including genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and metagenomics) have been employed with huge success in the improvement of agricultural crops. As marine aquaculture of macroalgae expands globally, biologists are working to domesticate species of macroalgae by applying these techniques tested in agriculture to wild macroalgae species. Metabolomics has revealed metabolites and pathways that influence agriculturally relevant traits in crops, allowing for informed crop crossing schemes and genomic improvement strategies that would be pivotal to inform selection on macroalgae for domestication. Advances in metagenomics have improved understanding of host–symbiont interactions and the potential for microbial organisms to improve crop outcomes. There is much room in the field of macroalgal biology for further research toward improvement of macroalgae cultivars in aquaculture using metabolomic and metagenomic analyses. To this end, this review discusses the application and necessary expansion of the omics tool kit for macroalgae domestication as we move to enhance seaweed farming worldwide.