bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Hiemenz flow of Reiner-Rivlin fluid over a stretching/shrinking sheet
Authors: Sarkar Golam Mortuja , Sarkar Suman , Sahoo Bikash
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to theoretically and numerically investigate the steady two-dimensional (2D) Hiemenz flow with heat transfer of Reiner-Rivlin fluid over a linearly stretching/shrinking sheet.

Design/methodology/approach

The Navier–Stokes equations are transformed into self-similar equations using appropriate similarity transformations and then solved numerically by using shooting technique. A simple but effective mathematical analysis has been used to prove the existence of a solution for stretching case (λ> 0). Moreover, an attempt has been laid to carry the asymptotic solution behavior for large stretching. The obtained asymptotic solutions are compared with direct numerical solutions, and the comparison is quite remarkable.

Findings

It is observed that the self-similar equations exhibit dual solutions within the range [λc, −1] of shrinking parameter λ, where λc is the turning point from where the dual solutions bifurcate. Unique solution is found for all stretching case (λ > 0). It is noticed that the effects of cross-viscous parameter L and shrinking parameter λ on velocity and thermal fields show opposite character in the dual solution branches. Thus, a linear temporal stability analysis is performed to determine the basic feasible solution. The stability analysis is based on the sign of the smallest eigenvalue, where positive or negative sign leading to a stable or unstable solution. The stability analysis reveals that the first solution is stable that describes the main flow. Increase in cross-viscous parameter L resulting in a significant increment in skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number and dual solutions domain.

Originality/value

This work’s originality is to examine the combined effects of cross-viscous parameter and stretching/shrinking parameter on skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number, velocity and temperature profiles of Hiemenz flow over a stretching/shrinking sheet. Although many studies on viscous fluid and nanofluid have been investigated in this field, there are still limited discoveries on non-Newtonian fluids. The obtained results can be used as a benchmark for future studies of higher-grade non-Newtonian flows with several physical aspects. All the generated results are claimed to be novel and have not been published elsewhere.
Implementation of the QoS framework using fog computing to predict COVID-19 disease at early stage
Authors: Singh Prabhdeep , Kaur Rajbir
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide more accurate structure that allows the estimation of coronavirus (COVID-19) at a very early stage with ultra-low latency. The machine learning algorithms are used to evaluate the past medical details of the patients and forecast COVID-19 positive cases, which can aid in lowering costs and distinctively enhance the standard of treatment at hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud/fog computing are integrated to strengthen COVID-19 patient prediction. A delay-sensitive efficient framework for the prediction of COVID-19 at an early stage is proposed. A novel similarity measure-based random forest classifier is proposed to increase the efficiency of the framework.

Findings

The performance of the framework is checked with various quality of service parameters such as delay, network usage, RAM usages and energy consumption, whereas classification accuracy, recall, precision, kappa static and root mean square error is used for the proposed classifier. Results show the effectiveness of the proposed framework.

Originality/value

AI and cloud/fog computing are integrated to strengthen COVID-19 patient prediction. A novel similarity measure-based random forest classifier with more than 80% accuracy is proposed to increase the efficiency of the framework.
Integrated MOORA-ELECTRE approach for solving multi-criteria decision problem
Authors: R. Ranjith , Vimalkumar S. Nalin
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The most difficult tasks in the design and development of products for diverse engineering applications were the selection of suitable materials. Choice of inappropriate process variables leads to poor performance, which increases the cost of the product. The selection of the best option of available alternatives is important to improve the performance and productivity of the manufacturing enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper aims to develop Hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision Making (HMCDM) by integrating two potential optimization techniques Elimination Et Choix Traduisant la REalité and multi-objective optimization on the basis of ratio analysis. The weight of the criteria was calculated using the critic weight method.

Findings

The efficiency and flexibility of the proposed HMCDM technique were illustrated and validated by two examples. In the first case, the best electrode material among the five available alternatives was selected for the electrical discharge machining of AZ91/B4Cp magnesium composites. In the second case, the optimum weight percentage of composites providing the best tribological properties was chosen.

Originality/value

It was noted that the HMCDM methodology was quite simple to comprehend, easy to apply and provided reliable rankings of the material alternatives. The proposed hybrid algorithm is suitable for product optimization as well as design optimization.
Facilitation and competition shape a geographical mosaic of flower colour polymorphisms
Authors: Coetzee Anina , Seymour Colleen L. , Spottiswoode Claire N.
Published: June 2021

Flower colour differs dramatically between populations for some plant species; yet, we know little about what drives this variation. Such polymorphisms can be influenced by plant–pollinator interactions, but whether they are also influenced by pollinator‐mediated plant–plant interactions is unknown.

We test whether flower colour polymorphisms can arise through convergence (facilitation) or divergence (competition) of flower phenotypes resulting from plant–plant interactions mediated by the shared, and only, pollinator (orange‐breasted sunbird) of 10 Erica communities in South Africa.

Sunbird visitation rates to the less‐preferred Erica species in communities increased with colour similarity to the most‐visited species, suggesting that polymorphisms can be maintained by selection for colour convergence within communities, which promotes shared signals through rewarding mimicry (i.e. facilitation).

Colour similarity was lowest when risk of reproductive interference was greatest: that is, when reproductive morphology (stigma–anther distance) and flowering phenology was most similar, and when floral density differed greatly between species. This implies that polymorphisms can also be maintained by selection for colour divergence, since this promotes assortative pollinator foraging (i.e. competition).

Different populations of a species may experience opposite selective pressures, depending on their community context. This is the first evidence that a geographic mosaic of plant–plant pollination interactions could maintain colour polymorphisms in congeneric species sharing a single pollinator.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Analyzing the outcomes of skeletal trauma within a forensic population: Potential issues and implications in inferential modeling of blunt force trauma
Authors: Dempsey Nicholas , Bassed Richard , Blau Soren
Published: June 2021

Analyzing complex skeletal trauma can present a challenge for forensic practitioners to reliably determine the causes and circumstances of traumatic injury. The forensic value of skeletal fracture pattern analysis can be diminished due to obscuration and similarity between injuries associated with various impact mechanisms (e.g., vertical vs horizontal blunt force) and can provide issues when questions arise surrounding circumstances of traumatic injuries. Using the Python coding language, code was written that segments traumatized regions of interest from post‐mortem computed tomography (PMCT) scans, allowing the user to calculate percentage of fragmentation in the context of extreme trauma events. Using cases of known trauma which resulted in fragmentation of the femur, the objective was to assess if there were statistical differences in the fragmentation resulting from horizontal pedestrian motor vehicle impacts (PMVIs; n = 44) compared to vertical high impact falls (>3 m; n = 41). Results indicated that percentage differences between the PMVI group and high impact falls group were statistically significant. Although it was possible to develop a standardized method that records fragmentation, and results were significant in distinguishing between the two groups, the outcomes of the data follow an exponential distribution which has implications for how skeletal trauma is modeled.
Emergency department management of severely injured children in New South Wales
Authors: Curtis Kate , Kennedy Belinda , Lam Mary K , Mitchell Rebecca J , Black Deborah , Burns Brian , Dinh Michael , Smith Holly , Holland Andrew JA
Published: June 2021

Objective

Presentations to EDs for major paediatric injury are considerably lower than for adults. International studies report lower levels of critical intervention, including intubation, required in injured children. A New South Wales study demonstrated an adverse event rate of 7.6% in children with major injury. Little is known about the care and interventions received by children presenting to Australian EDs with major injury.

Methods

The ED care of injured children <16 years who ultimately received definitive care at a New South Wales Paediatric Trauma Centre between July 2015 and September 2016, and had an Injury Severity Score ≥9, required intensive care admission or died were included.

Results

There were 491 injured children who received treatment at 64 EDs, half (49.4%, n = 243) were treated initially in a Paediatric Trauma Centre. One third (32.8%) sustained an Injury Severity Score >12, more than half (n = 251, 51.1%) of children were classified as a triage category 1 or 2, and 38.3% received trauma team activation. Critical intervention was infrequent. Intubation was documented in 9.2% (n = 45), needle thoracostomy and activation of massive transfusion protocol in two (0.4%) and eight (1.6%) had intraosseous access established. Only a small proportion (14.7%, n = 63) had two or more observations outside the normal range.

Conclusion

A small proportion of children arriving in the ED post‐major trauma have deranged clinical observations and receive critical interventions. The limited exposure in the management of trauma in paediatric patients requires measures to ensure clinicians have adequate training, skills and confidence to manage these clinical presentations in all EDs.
Evaluation of reference genes for miRNA expression analysis inGaleruca daurica(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) using qRT‐PCR
Authors: Wang Hai‐Chao , Li Ling , Li Yan‐Yan , Tan Yao , Pang Bao‐Ping
Published: June 2021

The selection of suitable reference genes (RGs) for data normalization is a crucial step for obtaining reliable results from gene expression analysis using the quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Expression stability of eleven putative RGs (miR‐100‐5p, miR‐92a‐3p, miR‐998‐3p, miR‐279d‐3p, miR‐305‐5p, miR‐276a‐3p, miR‐275‐3p, miR‐9a‐5p, miR‐2a‐3p, U6 snRNA and 5S rRNA) was assessed by using a web‐based tool: RefFinder, which integrates four algorithms (Delta Ct, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper), and the best combination number of RGs was calculated by geNorm. Validation of selected RGs was performed by an expression analysis of let‐7‐5p under different experimental conditions. The best combinations of RGs were shown as follows: miR‐100‐5p + miR‐275‐3p for temperature treatment, miR‐100‐5p + miR‐305‐5p for adult tissues, miR‐276a‐3p + miR‐9a‐5p for genders, miR‐2a‐3p + miR‐276a‐3p for days after eclosion, U6 snRNA + miR‐9a‐5p + miR‐2a‐3p for developmental stages, and U6 snRNA + miR‐279d‐3p for all above conditions, and there was no one RG suitable for all experimental conditions. Incorrect RG selection affected the evaluation of let‐7‐5p abundance. Our findings demonstrate that an integrated approach of multiple algorithms is necessary to identify reliable, stable RGs for miRNA evaluation, and provide a basis for further studies on expression and function analysis of miRNAs and their target genes inGaleruca daurica, a new pest with great outbreaks in Inner Mongolia since 2009.
Changes in dependence, withdrawal, and craving among adult smokers who switch to nicotine salt pod‐based e‐cigarettes
Authors: Leavens Eleanor L. S. , Nollen Nicole L. , Ahluwalia Jasjit S. , Mayo Matthew S. , Rice Myra , Brett Emma I. , Pulvers Kim
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims

For electronic cigarettes (e‐cigarettes) to be a viable substitute for combustible cigarettes, it is likely that they must be rewarding enough for regular use, indicated by factors such as craving and dependence, important aspects of reinforcement. This study aimed to understand short‐term changes in measures of nicotine dependence between groups differing by use trajectory in a switching trial, and within group changes of these measures.

Design

Secondary data analysis of one arm of an e‐cigarette randomized clinical trial.

Setting

San Diego, California and Kansas City, Missouri, United States.

Participants

114 African American (n = 60) and Latinx (n = 54) smokers (58.8% male) attempting to switch to nicotine salt pod system (NSPS) e‐cigarettes in a 6‐week trial.

Measurements

At week 6, participants were classified by use trajectory: exclusive smokers (n = 16), exclusive e‐cigarette (n = 32), or dual users (n = 66). E‐cigarette, cigarette, and total nicotine dependence (cigarette + e‐cigarette), use patterns, cigarette craving and nicotine withdrawal, and cotinine were assessed at baseline and week 6 using standard measures.

Findings

In between group comparisons, exclusive e‐cigarette and dual users showed greater reductions in cigarette dependence (e‐cigarette: −32.38, 95% CI = −37.7,−27.1; dual: −18.48, 95% CI = −22.2,−14.7), withdrawal (e‐cigarette: −6.25, 95% CI = −8.52,−3.98; dual: −3.18, 95% CI = −5.02,−1.34), craving (e‐cigarette: −11.44, 95% CI = −14.2,8.7; dual: −9.59, 95% CI = −11.6,−7.59), and cigarettes per day (CPD; e‐cigarette: −11.19, 95% CI = −13.1,−9.27; dual: −9.39, 95% CI = −11.3, −7.52) compared with exclusive smokers. In within group analyses, e‐cigarette and dual users showed reductions in craving and withdrawal from baseline to week 6. Exclusive e‐cigarette and dual users, maintained cotinine levels (all Ps > 0.05) and showed reductions in CPD and cigarette dependence (all Ps < 0.01). Findings were inconclusive regarding changes in total nicotine dependence from baseline to week 6 among exclusive e‐cigarette users (P = 0.123). Dual users showed increased total nicotine dependence (P < 0.001) and smokers showed decreased total dependence (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Smokers who switch to nicotine salt pod system e‐cigarettes maintain their nicotine levels and transfer their dependence, suggesting that nicotine salt pod system e‐cigarettes have a similar reinforcement potential to cigarettes and facilitate switching.
Alcohol use among young Australian adults in May–June 2020 during the COVID‐19 pandemic: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Clare Philip J. , Aiken Alexandra , Yuen Wing See , Upton Emily , Kypri Kypros , Degenhardt Louisa , Bruno Raimondo , McCambridge Jim , McBride Nyanda , Hutchinson Delyse , Slade Tim , Mattick Richard , Peacock Amy
Published: June 2021

Aims

To estimate change in young people's alcohol consumption during COVID‐19 restrictions in Australia in early‐mid 2020, and test whether those changes were consistent by gender and level of consumption prior to the pandemic.

Design

Prospective longitudinal cohort.

Setting

Secondary schools in New South Wales, Tasmania and Western Australia.

Participants

Subsample of a cohort (n = 443) recruited in the first year of secondary school in 2010–11. Analysis data included three waves collected in September 2017–July 2018, September 2018–May 2019 and August 2019–January 2020), and in May–June 2020.

Measurements

The primary predictors were time, gender and level of consumption prior to the pandemic. Outcome variables, analysed by mixed‐effects models, included frequency and typical quantity of alcohol consumption, binge drinking, peak consumption, alcohol‐related harm and drinking contexts.

Findings

Overall consumption (frequency × quantity) during the restrictions declined by 17% [incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.83; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.73, 0.95] compared to February 2020, and there was a 35% decline in the rate of alcohol‐related harms in the same period (IRR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.54, 0.79). Changes in alcohol consumption were largely consistent by gender.

Conclusions

From a survey of secondary school students in Australia, there is evidence for a reduction in overall consumption and related harms during the COVID‐19 restrictions.
The susceptibility of farmland loans to default under falling farmland and commodity prices
Authors: Wu Yifei , Dorfman Jeffrey H. , Brewer Brady E.
Published: June 2021

Periods of high commodity prices and rising farmland debt loads are typically accompanied with speculation that there will eventually be declines in commodity and farmland prices that may lead to a farm credit crisis. We evaluate the likelihood of such a crisis using a simulation model of heterogeneous farmers during periods of volatile commodity and farmland prices. This model simulates a period of increasing commodity and farmland prices with a subsequent drop in prices of farmland and commodities. We find default rates are less sensitive to commodity prices than farmland prices, that the length of time prices remain low matters significantly, and that when both farmland and commodity prices fall together defaults rise more than the sum of the responses to separate price shocks.
Use of a quality improvement strategy to introduce co‐design of the mental health discharge plan in rural and remote New South Wales
Authors: Kealy‐Bateman Warren , Ouliaris Calina , Viglione Luke , Wetton Rebecca , Bullen Patricia
Published: June 2021

Problem

Patients have not traditionally partnered in the design of their discharge plans, with discharge summaries at times not completed. In rural settings, discharge planning communicates care to a complex geographic area with fragmented resources. Patients may also be socially disadvantaged, with relatives and friends sometimes excluded.

Design

Situational analysis and liaison with key partners occurred in the months prior to the core project. Opportunities for improvement were noted. An audit of all discharges in May 2020 was planned to assess rates of discharge completion, co‐design and inclusion of next of kin. Qualitative feedback was also noted from staff.

Setting

Dubbo inpatient mental health units (Gundaymarra and Barraminya).

Key measures for improvement

Rates of discharge summary completion, co‐design of discharge plan, engagement of next of kin. Qualitative measures included reflections of clinical staff involved.

Strategy for change

Junior doctors were key in facilitating each patient to co‐design their discharge plan and collaborate with all biological and psychosocial treatments and providers in a forum for open discussion. The inclusion of nominated next of kin was core.

Effects of change

Discharge summary completion rates were high; co‐design of discharge plans occurred frequently; and next of kin were involved with few exceptions. The adoption of the person as expert in modifying their plan became a norm. Medical staff wanted this care frame for each person.

Lessons learnt

Engaging patients and their next of kin directly in their discharge planning improves care opportunities in a rural setting, as well as understanding for all parties. This approach also prioritises the process of discharge completion.
Understanding the “extracorporeal membrane oxygenation gap” in veno‐arterial configuration for adult patients: Timing and causes of death
Authors: Makhoul Maged , Heuts Samuel , Mansouri Abdulrahman , Taccone Fabio Silvio , Obeid Amir , Mirko Belliato , Broman Lars Mikael , Malfertheiner Maximilian Valentin , Meani Paolo , Raffa Giuseppe Maria , Delnoij Thijs , Maessen Jos , Bolotin Gil , Lorusso Roberto
Published: June 2021

Timing and causes of hospital mortality in adult patients undergoing veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V‐A ECMO) have been poorly described. Aim of the current review was to investigate the timing and causes of death of adult patients supported with V‐A ECMO and subsequently define the “V‐A ECMO gap,” which represents the patients who are successfully weaned of ECMO but eventually die during hospital stay. A systematic search was performed using electronic MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through PubMed. Studies reporting on adult V‐A ECMO patients from January 1993 to December 2020 were screened. The studies included in this review were studies that reported more than 10 adult, human patients, and no mechanical circulatory support other than V‐A ECMO. Information extracted from each study included mainly mortality and causes of death on ECMO and after weaning. Complications and discharge rates were also extracted. Sixty studies with 9181 patients were included for analysis in this systematic review. Overall mortality was 38.0% (95% confidence intervals [CIs] 34.2%‐41.9%) during V‐A ECMO support (reported by 60 studies) and 15.3% (95% CI 11.1%‐19.5%, reported by 57 studies) after weaning. Finally, 44.0% of patients (95% CI 39.8‐52.2) were discharged from hospital (reported by 60 studies). Most common causes of death on ECMO were multiple organ failure, followed by cardiac failure and neurological causes. More than one‐third of V‐A ECMO patients die during ECMO support. Additionally, many of successfully weaned patients still decease during hospital stay, defining the “V‐A ECMO gap.” Underreporting and lack of uniformity in reporting of important parameters remains problematic in ECMO research. Future studies should uniformly define timing and causes of death in V‐A ECMO patients to better understand the effectiveness and complications of this support.
Antecedents of corporate misconduct: A linguistic content analysis of decoupling tendencies in sustainability reporting
Authors: Conrad Marcus , Holtbrügge Dirk
Published: June 2021

Corporate social irresponsibility and corporate misconducts are a severe threat to the endeavours to establish more responsible business practices. Therefore, academia and practice alike try to find ways to anticipate these behaviors. In this regard, linguistic analysis can provide an approach to detect decoupling tendencies of firms, that is to identify firms that fail to walk the talk. This paper examines how the sustainability reports of eight manufacturing firms in the automotive and aircraft industries differ in regard to their linguistic composition. By applying the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count software, we emphasize how sustainability reports of decouplers and implementors differ in morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics. The analysis reveals that decouplers, among other factors, communicate in a less cognitively complex way. As they use shorter sentences, more informal language, less past and future references, and fewer conjunctions, we derive that decouplers are characterized by a lower linguistic sophistication. Moreover, decouplers’ reports can be classified by their linguistic hubris, which is defined by fewer emotional references, more self‐references, less references to risk and anxiety, and heavy reliance on male language. The paper contributes to the debate on decoupling and corporate social irresponsibility, identifies linguistic antecedents of corporate misconduct, and enriches the domain of CSR reporting with a linguistic perspective. It supports the understanding of managers, policymakers and stakeholders of firms to evaluate whether a firm may fail to walk the talk.
Cancer‐associated fibroblasts in renal cell carcinoma: implication in prognosis and resistance to anti‐angiogenic therapy
Authors: Ambrosetti Damien , Coutts Michael , Paoli Charlotte , Durand Matthieu , Borchiellini Delphine , Montemagno Christopher , Rastoin Olivia , Borderie Arnaud , Grepin Renaud , Rioux‐Leclercq Nathalie , Bernhard Jean‐Christophe , Pagès Gilles , Dufies Maeva
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To investigate the role of cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) with respect to tumour aggressiveness, metastasis development, and resistance to anti‐angiogenic therapy (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors [VEGFR‐TKI]).

Patients and Methods

Our study involved tissue samples from three distinct and independent cohorts of patients with ccRCC. The presence of CAFs and tumour lymphangiogenesis was investigated, respectively, by transcriptional signatures and then correlated with tumour development and prognosis. The effect of these CAFs on tumour cell migration and VEGFR‐TKI resistance was analysed on co‐cultures of ccRCC cells with CAFs.

Results

Results from our cohorts and from in silico investigations showed that VEGFR‐TKI significantly increase the number of CAFs in tumours. In the same populations of patients with ccRCC, the proportion of intra‐tumoral CAFs correlated to shorter disease‐free and overall survival. The presence of CAFs was also correlated with lymphangiogenesis and lymph node metastasis. CAFs increased the migration and decreased the VEGFR‐TKI‐dependent cytotoxic effect of tumour cells.

Conclusions

Our results show that VEGFR‐TKI promote the development of CAFs, and CAFs favour tumour aggressiveness, metastatic dissemination, and resistance to treatment in ccRCC. CAFs could represent a new therapeutic target to fight resistance to treatment of ccRCC. Targeting CAF and immunotherapies combination are emerging as efficient treatments in many types of solid tumours. Our results highlight their relevance in ccRCC.
‘Family, God, Brazil, Guns…’: The State of Criminal Governance in Contemporary Brazil
Authors: Funari Gabriel
Published: June 2021

The article interrogates whether the social science scholarship on the political authority of organised crime in Brazil can serve as an analytical framework to understand the violent underpinnings of the Bolsonaro presidency. Reviewing ethnographic work on criminal governance groups in Brazil alongside judicial documents detailing the links between Bolsonaro and militia operatives as well as statements given by the president regarding organised crime and gun ownership indicates that criminal governance finds ideological support and functional resonance in the Bolsonaro administration. The interchange between organised crime and state criminality demands urgent dialogue between urban activists and ethnographers in Brazil.
Delta‐like canonical Notch ligand 3 as a potential therapeutic target in malignancies: A brief overview
Authors: Matsuo Kentaro , Taniguchi Kohei , Hamamoto Hiroki , Inomata Yosuke , Komura Kazumasa , Tanaka Tomohito , Lee Sang‐Woong , Uchiyama Kazuhisa
Published: June 2021

Delta‐like canonical Notch ligand 3 (DLL3) is a member of the Delta/Serrate/Lag2 (DSL) Notch receptor ligand family and plays a crucial role in Notch signaling, which influences various cellular processes including differentiation, proliferation, survival, and apoptosis. DLL3 is expressed throughout the presomitic mesoderm and is localized to the rostral somatic compartments; mutations in DLL3 induce skeletal abnormalities such as spondylocostal dysostosis. Recently, DLL3 has attracted interest as a novel molecular target due to its high expression in neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung. Moreover, a DLL3‐targeting Ab‐drug conjugate, rovalpituzumab tesirine (ROVA‐T), has been developed as a new treatment with proven antitumor activity. However, the development of ROVA‐T was suspended because of shorter overall survival compared to topotecan, the second‐line standard treatment. Thus, several studies on the mechanism and function of DLL3 in several malignancies are underway to find a new strategy for targeting DLL3. In this review, we discuss the roles of DLL3 in various malignancies and the future perspectives of DLL3‐related research, especially as a therapeutic target.
Anti-vimentin/cardiolipin IgA in the anti-phospholipid syndrome: A new tool for ‘seronegative’ diagnosis
Authors: Capozzi Antonella , Riitano Gloria , Mancuso Silvia , Recalchi Serena , Manganelli Valeria , Garofalo Tina , Alessandri Cristiano , Longo Agostina , Misasi Roberta , Conti Fabrizio , Truglia Simona , Sorice Maurizio
Published: June 2021

Anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder defined by the simultaneous presence of vascular clinical events, pregnancy morbidity and anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL). In clinical practice, it is possible to find patients with APS who are persistently negative for the routine aPL tests (seronegative APS; SN-APS). Recently, the identification of aPL immunoglobulin (Ig)A and/or anti-β2-glycoprotein-I (β2-GPI) IgA was shown to represent a further test in SN-APS patients. In this study we analyzed the presence of anti-vimentin/cardiolipin (aVim/CL) IgA in a large cohort of patients with SN-APS, evaluating their possible association with clinical manifestations of the syndrome. This study includes 60 consecutive SN-APS patients, 30 patients with APS and 40 healthy donors. aVim/CL IgA were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results show that 12 of 30 APS patients (40%) and 16 of 60 SN-APS patients (26.7%) resulted positive for aVim/CL IgA. Interestingly, SN-APS patients who tested positive for aVim/CL IgA showed a higher prevalence of arterial thrombosis (p = 0.017, likelihood positive ratio = 5.7). This study demonstrates for the first time, to our knowledge, the presence of aVim/CL IgA in sera of patients with APS. In particular, they revealed a potential usefulness in identification of a significant proportion of SN-APS patients. Moreover, as patients tested positive for aVim/CL IgA reported a high likelihood ratio to have the clinical features of APS, this test may be considered a suitable approach in the clinical evaluation of SN-APS.
Adaptive immune system in pulmonary sarcoidosis—Comparison of peripheral and alveolar biomarkers
Authors: d'Alessandro Miriana , Bergantini Laura , Cameli Paolo , Mezzasalma Fabrizio , Refini Rosa Metella , Pieroni Maria , Sestini Piersante , Bargagli Elena
Published: June 2021

Sarcoidosis is a multi-systemic granulomatous disease of unknown origin. Recent research has focused upon the role of autoimmunity in its development and progression. This study aimed to determine and define the disturbance and distribution of T and B cell subsets in the alveolar and peripheral compartments. Thirteen patients were selected for the study [median age, interquartile range (IQR) = 57 years (48–59); 23% were male]. Twelve healthy controls [median age, IQR = 53 years (52–65); 16% male] were also enrolled into the study. Cellular and cytokine patterns were measured using the cytofluorimetric approach. Peripheral CD8 percentages were higher in sarcoidosis patients (SP) than healthy controls (HC) (p = 0.0293), while CD4 percentages were lower (p = 0.0305). SP showed low bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) percentages of CD19 (p = 0.0004) and CD8 (p = 0.0035), while CD19+CD5+CD27− percentages were higher (p = 0.0213); the same was found for CD4 (p = 0.0396), follicular regulatory T cells (Treg) (p = 0.0078) and Treg (p < 0.0001) cells. Low T helper type 17 (Th17) percentages were observed in BAL (p = 0.0063) of SP. Peripheral CD4+ C-X-C chemokine receptor (CXCR)5+CD45RA−) percentages and follicular T helper cells (Tfh)-like Th1 (Tfh1) percentages (p = 0.0493 and p = 0.0305, respectively) were higher in the SP than HC. Tfh1 percentages and Tfh-like Th2 percentages were lower in BAL than in peripheral blood (p = 0.0370 and p = 0.0078, respectively), while CD4+ C-X-C motif CXCR5+CD45RA− percentages were higher (p = 0.0011). This is the first study, to our knowledge, to demonstrate a link between an imbalance in circulating and alveolar Tfh cells, especially CCR4-, CXCR3- and CXCR5-expressing Tfh subsets in the development of sarcoidosis. These findings raise questions about the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis and may provide new directions for future clinical studies and treatment strategies.
The intact parasympathetic nerve promotes submandibular gland regeneration through ductal cell proliferation
Authors: Wang Xue , Li Zhilin , Shao Qi , Zhang Chunmei , Wang Jinsong , Han Zhengxue , Wang Songlin , Qin Lizheng
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Salivary gland regeneration is closely related to the parasympathetic nerve; however, the mechanism behind this relationship is still unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the parasympathetic nerve and morphological differences during salivary gland regeneration.

Materials and Methods

We used a duct ligation/deligation‐induced submandibular gland regeneration model of Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats. The regenerated submandibular gland with or without chorda lingual (CL) innervation was detected by haematoxylin–eosin staining, real‐time PCR (RT‐PCR), immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. We counted the number of Ki67‐positive cells to reveal the proliferation process that occurs during gland regeneration. Finally, we examined the expression of the following markers: aquaporin 5, cytokeratin 7, neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) and polysialyltransferases.

Results

Intact parasympathetic innervation promoted submandibular gland regeneration. The process of gland regeneration was significantly repressed by cutting off the CL nerve. During gland regeneration, Ki67‐positive cells were mainly found in the ductal structures. Moreover, the expression of NCAM and polysialyltransferases‐1 (PST) expression in the innervation group was significantly increased during early regeneration and decreased in the late stages. In the denervated submandibular glands, the expression of NCAM decreased during regeneration.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed that the regeneration of submandibular glands with intact parasympathetic innervation was associated with duct cell proliferation and the increased expression of PST and NCAM.
Ultra‐rapid‐acting insulins for adults with diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Avgerinos Ioannis , Papanastasiou Georgia , Karagiannis Thomas , Michailidis Theodoros , Liakos Aris , Mainou Maria , Matthews David R. , Tsapas Apostolos , Bekiari Eleni
Published: June 2021

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy and safety of the novel, ultra‐rapid‐acting insulins aspart and lispro in adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Our primary outcome was change in HbA1c from baseline. We additionally assessed eight efficacy and six safety endpoints. We calculated weighted mean differences (WMD) for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous outcomes, alongside 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We additionally assessed statistical heterogeneity among studies with the I2 statistic, considering values greater than 60% as indicative of substantial heterogeneity. Nine studies comprising 5931 patients were included in the systematic review; eight active‐controlled studies could be synthesized in terms of a meta‐analysis. Treatment with ultra‐rapid‐acting insulins had a similar effect on change in HbA1c compared with rapid‐acting insulins (WMD −0.02%, 95% CI −0.08 to 0.05, I2 = 61% for patients with type 1 diabetes and −0.02%, 95% CI −0.09 to 0.04, I2 = 19% for patients with type 2 diabetes). Similarly, no difference was evident in terms of change in fasting plasma glucose, self‐measured plasma glucose, body weight, basal or bolus insulin dose, incidence of serious adverse events and hypoglycaemia. Compared with rapid‐acting insulins, ultra‐rapid‐acting insulins reduced 1‐ and 2‐hour postprandial glucose (PPG) increment based on a liquid meal test, both in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes (WMD −0.94 mmol/L, 95% CI −1.17 to −0.72, I2 = 0% and −0.56 mmol/L, 95% CI −0.79 to −0.32, I2 = 0%, respectively, for change in 1‐hour PPG increment). In conclusion, ultra‐rapid‐acting insulins were as efficacious and safe as rapid‐acting insulins, showing a favourable effect solely on PPG control.
Developmental programming and ageing of male reproductive function
Authors: Zambrano Elena , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Rodríguez‐González Guadalupe L.
Published: June 2021

Developmental programming predisposes offspring to metabolic, behavioural and reproductive dysfunction in adult life. Evidence is accumulating that ageing phenotype and longevity are in part developmentally programmed in each individual. Unfortunately, there are few studies addressing the effects of developmental programming by maternal nutrition on the rate of ageing of the male reproductive system. This review will discuss effects of foetal exposure to maternal environmental challenges on male offspring fertility and normal ageing of the male reproductive system. We focus on several key factors involved in reproductive ageing such as decreased hormone production, DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress, telomere shortening, epigenetics, maternal lifestyle and nutrition. There is compelling evidence that ageing of the male reproductive system is developmentally programmed. Both maternal over‐ or undernutrition accelerate ageing of male offspring reproductive function through similar mechanisms such as decreased serum testosterone levels, increase in oxidative stress biomarkers in both the testes and sperm and changes in sperm quality. Importantly, even in adult life, exercise in male offspring of obese mothers improves adverse effects of programming on reproductive function. Maternal consumption of a low‐protein diet causes transgenerational effects in progeny via the paternal line. The seminal fluid has effects on the intrauterine environment. Programming by male factors may involve more than just the sperm. Improving knowledge on developmental programming ageing interactions will improve not only male health and life span but also the health of future generations by reducing programming via the paternal line.
Amphibian diversity in the Amazonian floating meadows: a Hanski core‐satellite species system
Authors: Fonte Luis Fernando Marin da , Latombe Guillaume , Gordo Marcelo , Menin Marcelo , de Almeida Alexandre Pinheiro , Hui Cang , Lötters Stefan
Published: June 2021

The Amazon catchment is the largest river basin on earth, and up to 30% of its waters flow across floodplains. In its open waters, floating plants known as floating meadows abound. They can act as vectors of dispersal for their associated fauna and, therefore, can be important for the spatial structure of communities. Here, we focus on amphibian diversity in the Amazonian floating meadows over large spatial scales. We recorded 50 amphibian species over 57 sites, covering around 7000 km along river courses. Using multi‐site generalised dissimilarity modelling of zeta diversity, we tested Hanski's core‐satellite hypothesis and identified the existence of two functional groups of species operating under different ecological processes in the floating meadows. ‘Core' species are associated with floating meadows, while ‘satellite' species are associated with adjacent environments, being only occasional or accidental occupants of the floating vegetation. At large scales, amphibian diversity in floating meadows is mostly determined by stochastic (i.e. random/neutral) processes, whereas at regional scales, climate and deterministic (i.e. niche‐based) processes are central drivers. Compared with the turnover of ‘core' species, the turnover of ‘satellite' species increases much faster with distances and is also controlled by a wider range of climatic features. Distance is not a limiting factor for ‘core' species, suggesting that they have a stronger dispersal ability even over large distances. This is probably related to the existence of passive long‐distance dispersal of individuals along rivers via vegetation rafts. In this sense, Amazonian rivers can facilitate dispersal, and this effect should be stronger for species associated with riverine habitats such as floating meadows.
A randomised, controlled trial to determine the effect of levothyroxine on Standardbred racehorses
Authors: Kritchevsky Janice , Olave Carla , Tinkler Stacy , Tropf Melissa , Ivester Kathleen , Forsythe Lauren , Couetil Laurent
Published: June 2021

Background

The use of thyroid supplement is pervasive in athletic horses although its effects on measures of performance are not known.

Objectives

One purpose of this study was to determine whether supra‐physiologic doses of levothyroxine affect the velocities at which blood lactate was greater than 4 mmol/L (VLa4) and heart rate was over 150 (V150) and 200 (V200) beats per minute respectively. Additionally, a survey of post‐race blood samples was also conducted to determine whether high thyroxine concentrations were common in racehorses.

Study design

A randomised, crossover, trial was performed in six healthy Standardbred racehorses.

Methods

Study 1: T4 was determined in 50 post‐race samples from a single Standardbred meet. Study 2: Research horses were trained to fitness and then randomised to one of three treatments: carrier, 0.1 mg/kg thyroxine or 0.25 mg/kg thyroxine for 2 weeks. Horses completed a standardised exercise treadmill test (SET) to fatigue on the last day of treatment. Serum free and total thyroxine and triiodothyronine were determined on the day of SET testing. Blood lactate and ECG data were collected during the SET at 6, 8, 10, 11, and 12 m/s and during recovery. The effect of treatment and SET on heart rate and blood lactate was examined using generalised linear mixed models. Post hoc analysis was adjusted for multiple comparisons using Tukey's Test. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation andP < .05 was considered significant.

Results

Study 1: The median T4 value in this population of horses was 2.00 µg/dL (laboratory's normal range 1.5‐4.5 µg/dL) and 3 of 50 racehorses had values above the laboratory reference range. Study 2: Levothyroxine at 0.25 mg/kg resulted in higher heart rates during SET (199 ± 30, 223 ± 17 and 239 ± 9 bpm at 6, 8 and 10 m/s respectively) and recovery (144 ± 20 and 119 ± 15 at 5 and 15 min) as compared to placebo (176 ± 18, 203 ± 10 and 219 ± 6 bpm at 6, 8, and10 m/s and 126 ± 5, 102 ± 11 at 5‐15 minutes respectively). Three of six horses developed cardiac arrhythmias including atrial fibrillation.

Main limitations

A relatively small number of animals were used and a SET is not identical to actual racing conditions.

Conclusions

Supra‐physiologic thyroxine supplementation caused a decreased V200during a standard exercise test and may result in cardiac arrhythmias.
Between Vulnerability and Resilience: Parents of Transgender Young Adults
Authors: Tsfati Maya , Nadan Yochay
Published: June 2021

This study explores the lived experiences of Israeli parents of transgender young adults, depicting gender diversity as a family‐relational phenomenon. The analysis of 18 in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with Israeli parents of trans young adults suggests that the parents’ experiences were characterized by a dialectic between feelings of vulnerability and resilience. The parents’ vulnerability was shaped by their social positioning as a minority group as well as their socio‐political environment, and their ability to cope with these hardships enhanced their resilience. As the parents developed their resilience through meaning‐making, social support, and activism, they gained a new sense of agency alongside a deep sense of vulnerability, suggesting that vulnerability and resilience are not objective, opposite binaries but rather fluid categories that are continually constructed through the intersection of micro‐ and macro‐level factors.
General dentists’ attitudes and perceived barriers in providing domiciliary dental care to older adults in long‐term care facilities or their homes in Northern Ireland: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Kerr Emma , Watson Sinead , McMullan Julie , Srinivasan Murali , McKenna Gerald J.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Many older patients, housebound or living in long‐term care facilities (LTCFs) have limited access to dental care. This descriptive qualitative study aimed to understand general dental practitioners (GDPs) attitudes and perceived barriers to undertaking Domiciliary Dental Care (DDC) for those patients in Northern Ireland (NI).

Methods

Semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 12 GDPs in Northern Ireland. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. An iterative coding process using theme‐analytic methods was used.

Results

The data were characterised into four major themes—risk of professional litigation, remuneration for those undertaking DDC, complexity of treatment, and the overall framework of the dental care system in NI. Two minor themes identified were practice culture and reasons for undertaking DDC. The GDPs in the study identified a number of barriers to undertaking DDC including a legal requirement to transport oxygen, lack of organisation and limited oral hygiene care provision in LTCFs, and confusion around their responsibilities for provision of DDC. Those GDPs who were providing DDC indicated that they did so out of kindness and a sense of loyalty to their long‐standing patients.

Conclusion

The GDPs in this study identified a number of significant barriers to provision of DDC at organisational, structural and clinical levels. The GDPs indicated that they required clarification of their responsibilities around DDC with clear guidelines necessary given the increase in demand for this service.
Korean mistletoe (Viscum album var. coloratum) extends the lifespan via FOXO activation induced by dSir2 in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lee Shin‐Hae , Lee Hye‐Yeon , Min Kyung‐Jin
Published: June 2021

Aim

We examined the underlying mechanisms associated with the longevity effects of Korean mistletoe extract (KME) in Drosophila melanogaster.

Methods

We measured the lifespan of sirtuin, chico and foxo mutant flies fed KME, the expression of the forkhead box O (FOXO) target genes and insulin‐like peptide genes, and the localization of FOXO in flies fed the KME.

Results

The longevity effect of KME was abolished in sirtuin, chico and foxo null mutant flies. In addition, the expression of FOXO target genes and the localization of FOXO into nuclei were increased in flies fed KME, but the expression of the insulin‐like peptide genes was decreased by KME supplementation.

Conclusions

The results show that KME extends the fly lifespan through sirtuin‐induced FOXO activation. We suggest that KME has potential use as a beneficial anti‐aging and longevity supplement. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 725–731.