bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the impact of future climate change on maize yield and water use efficiency in agro‐pastoral ecotone of Northwestern China
Authors: Han Zhibo , Zhang Baoqing , Yang Lixiao , He Chansheng
Published: January 2021

Maize plays an important role in the Agro‐pastoral ecotone of Northwestern China (APENC), where highly sensitive to changes in climate conditions. However, little is reported on the impacts of climate change on crops in the region. In this study, we used Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer model driven by future climate data from 20 general circulations models under two representative concentration pathways (RCPs: RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) to project the effects of climate change on maize yield and water use efficiency (WUE) in eight future time periods (interval: 10 years; from 2020s to 2100s). The model was first calibrated based on field observation for phenology, leaf area index, maize yield and calibrated and evaluated results were reasonably good. Simulated results showed that without and with consideration of CO2 effects, maize yield at the end of the 21st century will decrease by 11.7% and 10.3% under the RCP4.5 scenario, and by 22.1% and 21.2% under the RCP8.5 scenario, respectively. We found that there is a significant correlation between maize yield reduction and warming. Specifically, when the increment of annual average temperature reaches 1°C, the maize yield begins to decrease by 11.27% and 10.8% per 1°C warming without and with consideration of CO2 effects, respectively. Furthermore, high temperature not only affects maize yield but also has a negative effect on WUE. The WUE would change by −8.1% and −18.8% under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively. But if we consider the effects of CO2, the WUE will improve 1.5% under RCP4.5 and 2.2% under RCP8.5, in comparison to those without consideration of CO2 effects. Overall, future climate warming will seriously affect maize yield and WUE. Although the increase of CO2 concentration is beneficial to raise maize yield and WUE, it is hard to offset the negative effects of the increase in temperature. Besides, change in the planting date can be beneficial for the adaptation of maize to climate change in the APENC. These results will provide comprehensive information to support local policy and decision‐making in agricultural production and water resources management.
Everything Old is New Again: The Age of Consumer‐Centric Supply Chain Management
Authors: Esper Terry L. , Castillo Vincent E. , Ren Kate , Sodero Anníbal , Wan Xiang , Croxton Keely L. , Knemeyer A. Michael , DeNunzio Steven , Zinn Walter , Goldsby Thomas J.
Published: January 2021

Over the past several decades, the disciplines of marketing and logistics grew apart from their common historical origins as marketing became more behavioral and more quantitative, while logistics leaned toward a more operational orientation. We argue in this editorial that social and technological changes in the past 20 years, coupled with the effects of the COVID pandemic, have created the conditions for the two disciplines to reconnect. We propose that scholars and practitioners consider a consumer‐centric approach to supply chain management. Such an approach advocates that the entire supply chain should focus on consumer experience rather than mere customer service and that experiences might include issues such as last‐mile delivery, supply chain visibility, and consumer values. We also introduce the papers appearing in this issue of the journal.
A case of anomalous aortic origin of coronary artery associated with a coved‐type electrocardiogram
Authors: Kamakura Tsukasa , Cetran Laura , Sacher Frédéric , Hocini Mélèze , Duchateau Josselin
Published: January 2021

Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a sudden cardiac death syndrome characterized by a coved‐type electrocardiogram (ECG). Different disorders, such as ischemia, can emulate a Brugada‐pattern ECG (Brugada phenocopy). We report herein, the first case of surgical epicardial electrophysiological mapping in a successfully resuscitated patient with an anomalous aortic origin of the coronary artery (AAOCA) associated with a coved‐type ECG. It was debatable whether the coved‐type ECG and the abnormal arrhythmogenic substrate in the epicardial right ventricular outflow tract were derived from BrS or from repetitive ischemia due to AAOCA; however, the epicardial electrophysiological mapping helped in deciding the treatment strategy.
Piezo type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1 facilitates gastric cancer omentum metastasis
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Cheng Guang , Miao Yu , Qiu Fangyuan , Bai Lugen , Gao Zhongfei , Huang Yunning , Dong Liru , Niu Xing , Wang Xin , Li Yuyang , Tang Hui , Xu Yuanyi , Song Xudong
Published: January 2021

The peritoneum, especially the omentum, is a common site for gastric cancer (GC) metastasis. Our aim was to expound the role and mechanisms of Piezo1 on GC omentum metastasis. A series of functional assays were performed to examine cell proliferation, clone formation, apoptosis, Ca2+ influx, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and migration after overexpression or knockdown of Piezo1. A GC peritoneal implantation and metastasis model was conducted. After infection by si‐Piezo1, the number and growth of tumours were observed in abdominal cavity. Fibre and angiogenesis were tested in metastatic tumour tissues. Piezo1 had higher expression in GC tissues with omentum metastasis and metastatic lymph node tissues than in GC tissues among 110 patients. High Piezo1 expression was associated with lymph metastasis, TNM and distant metastasis. Overexpressed Piezo1 facilitated cell proliferation and suppressed cell apoptosis in GC cells. Moreover, Ca2+ influx was elevated after up‐regulation of Piezo1. Piezo1 promoted cell migration and Calpain1/2 expression via up‐regulation of HIF‐1α in GC cells. In vivo, Piezo1 knockdown significantly inhibited peritoneal metastasis of GC cells and blocked EMT process and angiogenesis. Our findings suggested that Piezo1 is a key component during GC omentum metastasis, which could be related to up‐regulation of HIF‐1α.
The pioneer and differentiation factor FOXA2 is a key driver of yolk‐sac tumour formation and a new biomarker for paediatric and adult yolk‐sac tumours
Authors: Wruck Wasco , Bremmer Felix , Kotthoff Mara , Fichtner Alexander , Skowron Margaretha A. , Schönberger Stefan , Calaminus Gabriele , Vokuhl Christian , Pfister David , Heidenreich Axel , Albers Peter , Adjaye James , Nettersheim Daniel
Published: January 2021

Yolk‐sac tumours (YSTs), a germ cell tumour subtype, occur in newborns and infants as well as in young adults of age 14‐44 years. In clinics, adult patients with YSTs face a poor prognosis, as these tumours are often therapy‐resistant and count for many germ cell tumour related deaths. So far, the molecular and (epi)genetic mechanisms that control development of YST are far from being understood. We deciphered the molecular and (epi)genetic mechanisms regulating YST formation by meta‐analysing high‐throughput data of gene and microRNA expression, DNA methylation and mutational burden. We validated our findings by qRT‐PCR and immunohistochemical analyses of paediatric and adult YSTs. On a molecular level, paediatric and adult YSTs were nearly indistinguishable, but were considerably different from embryonal carcinomas, the stem cell precursor of YSTs. We identified FOXA2 as a putative key driver of YST formation, subsequently inducing AFP, GPC3, APOA1/APOB, ALB and GATA3/4/6 expression. In YSTs, WNT‐, BMP‐ and MAPK signalling‐related genes were up‐regulated, while pluripotency‐ and (primordial) germ cell‐associated genes were down‐regulated. Expression of FOXA2 and related key factors seems to be regulated by DNA methylation, histone methylation / acetylation and microRNAs. Additionally, our results highlight FOXA2 as a promising new biomarker for paediatric and adult YSTs.
Identification of abnormal protein expressions associated with mouse spermatogenesis induced by cyclophosphamide
Authors: Liu Xuexia , Li Qian , Wang Zhixin , Liu Fujun
Published: January 2021

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a clinical anticancer drug that can cause male reproductive abnormalities, but the underlying mechanisms for this remain unknown. The present study aimed to explore the potential toxicity induced by CP in spermatogenesis events of germ cell proliferation, meiosis, and blood‐testis barrier integrity at the molecular level. CP‐treated mice showed significantly reduced serum testosterone levels, sperm motility and concentration. The results of immunohistochemistry and Western blot showed that CP reduced the proliferation of germ cells (PCNA, PLZF) and increased germ cell apoptosis (Bax and TUNEL‐positive cells) in CP‐treated mice testes. The expression of meiotic related proteins (SYCP3, REC8, MLH1) decreased significantly in the fourth week after administration, and the expression of blood‐testis barrier related proteins (β‐catenin, ZO‐1) and sperm quality‐associated proteins (PGK2, HSPA4) decreased significantly in the first week after administration. CP leads to the apoptosis of male germ cells, inhibits the proliferation of germ cells, and affects meiosis and the blood‐testis barrier, resulting in the decline of sperm quality. This study provides information to further the study of molecular mechanism and protective strategy of CP influence.
Annual Research Review: Anterior Modifiers in the Emergence of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (AMEND)—a systems neuroscience approach to common developmental disorders
Authors: Johnson Mark H. , Charman Tony , Pickles Andrew , Jones Emily J. H.
Published: January 2021

We present the Anterior Modifiers in the Emergence of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (AMEND) framework, designed to reframe the field of prospective studies of neurodevelopmental disorders. In AMEND we propose conceptual, statistical and methodological approaches to separating markers of early‐stage perturbations from later developmental modifiers. We describe the evidence for, and features of, these interacting components before outlining analytical approaches to studying how different profiles of early perturbations and later modifiers interact to produce phenotypic outcomes. We suggest this approach could both advance our theoretical understanding and clinical approach to the emergence of developmental psychopathology in early childhood.
Improved time in range and postprandial hyperglycemia with canagliflozin in combination with teneligliptin: Secondary analyses of the CALMER study
Authors: Cho Kyu Yong , Nomoto Hiroshi , Nakamura Akinobu , Kawata Shinichiro , Sugawara Hajime , Takeuchi Jun , Nagai So , Omori Kazuno , Tsuchida Kazuhisa , Miya Aika , Shigesawa Ikumi , Tsuchida Kenichi , Yanagiya Shingo , Kameda Hiraku , Yokoyama Hiroki , Taneda Shinji , Kurihara Yoshio , Aoki Shin , Nishimoto Naoki , Atsumi Tatsuya , Miyoshi Hideaki
Published: January 2021

Aims/Introduction

We recently reported the beneficial effect of the combination of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor on daily glycemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Additional favorable effects of combination therapy were explored in this secondary analysis.

Materials and Methods

The CALMER study was a multicenter, open‐label, prospective, randomized, parallel‐group comparison trial for type 2 diabetes mellitus involving continuous glucose monitoring under meal tolerance tests. Patients were randomly assigned to switch from teneligliptin to canagliflozin (SWITCH group) or to add canagliflozin to teneligliptin (COMB group). The continuous glucose monitoring metrics, including time in target range, were investigated.

Results

All 99 participants (mean age 62.3 years; mean glycated hemoglobin 7.4%) completed the trial. The time in target range was increased in the COMB group (71.2–82.7%, P < 0.001). The extent of the reduction in time above target range was significantly larger in the COMB group compared with the SWITCH group (−14.8% vs −7.5%, P < 0.01). Area under the curve values for glucose at 120 min after all meal tolerance tests were significantly decreased in the COMB group compared with the SWITCH group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor combined with dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor improved the quality of glycemic variability and reduced postprandial hyperglycemia compared with each monotherapy.
Biliary diversion increases resting energy expenditure leading to decreased blood glucose level in mice with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Yin Haixin , Chen Weijie , Dong Liangbo , Zhou Shengnan , Gong Fengying , He Xiaodong
Published: January 2021

Aims/Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolism abnormalities in carbohydrates and energy. Our aim was to investigate resting energy expenditure (REE) and blood glucose changes after biliary diversion in mice with diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Male mice with diabetes were randomly divided into biliary diversion and sham groups. REE was detected by indirect calorimetry, the levels of fasting blood glucose, total bile acids and triiodothyronine were analyzed. After mice were killed, the weight amount of brown adipose tissue (BAT) and gastrocnemius was measured, and the expression level of G protein‐coupled bile acid receptor and type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase in BAT and gastrocnemius were examined.

Results

The two groups of mice were pair‐fed, the bodyweights (P < 0.001) and the fasting blood glucose level (P < 0.001) in the biliary diversion group significantly decreased 24 weeks after surgery. The intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (P = 0.035) and oral glucose tolerance test (P = 0.027) showed improvement in glucose tolerance after surgery. The REE level significantly increased 24 weeks after surgery (P = 0.005), the levels of total bile acids (P = 0.014) and triiodothyronine (P < 0.001) increased at the 24th postoperative week. The weight ratio of BAT (P = 0.038) and gastrocnemius (P = 0.026) in the biliary diversion group were higher than that in the sham group. The expression of G protein‐coupled bile acid receptor in BAT (P < 0.001) and gastrocnemius (P = 0.003) were upregulated after surgery, and the type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase expression also increased in BAT (P = 0.015) and gastrocnemius (P = 0.015).

Conclusions

The REE level increased and the glucose metabolism improved in mice with diabetes after biliary diversion.
Human Papillomavirus‐type distribution in anogenital lesions of prepubertal children
Authors: Braun S.A. , Silling S. , Schloer S.M. , Hofmann S.C. , Fritzen B. , Oellig F. , Lehmann P. , Homey B. , Assaf C. , Emmert S. , Fölster‐Holst R. , Tigges C. , Wieland U. , Kreuter A.
Published: January 2021

Background

In contrast to adults, only limited data are available on the human papillomavirus (HPV)‐type spectrum in anogenital warts (AGW) of children.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the HPV‐type spectrum in AGW of prepubertal children.

Materials & methods

In a retrospective German multicentre study, HPV genotyping was performed in AGW biopsies of 55 1‐ to 12‐year‐old children using HPV group‐specific PCRs followed by hybridization with type‐specific probes or sequence analysis.

Results

Human papillomavirus‐DNA was found in 53 of the 55 AGW. In 58.5% (31/53) of the HPV‐positive AGW, mucosal HPV types were detected. HPV6 (27/53, 50.9%) was the predominant type. 43.4% (23/53) of the lesions were induced by cutaneous HPV types (HPV2, HPV27, HPV57). Mucosal HPV types were significantly more common in children under 5 years of age than in children 5 years of age and older (22/25, 88.0% [95% CI: 70.0–95.8] vs. 9/28, 32.1% [95% CI: 17.9–50.7], P < 0.001). In contrast, cutaneous HPV types were significantly more prevalent in the 5‐ to 12‐year age group (4/25, 16.0% [95% CI 6.4–34.7] vs. 19/28, 67.9% [95% CI 49.3–82.1], P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Anogenital warts in 5‐ to 12‐year‐old children are frequently associated with cutaneous HPV types, possibly due to horizontal transmission. HPV typing, in addition to comprehensive clinical and psychosocial evaluation, can potentially help in the assessment of these cases.
Estimating the most effective and economical pheromone for monitoring the European spruce bark beetle
Authors: Šramel Nina , Kavčič Andreja , Kolšek Marija , de Groot Maarten
Published: January 2021

In recent decades, there have been an increasing number of outbreaks of Ips typographus in Europe. A large amount of sanitary felling has taken place, with significant economic and ecological consequences. In order to anticipate such large‐scale outbreaks, an effective monitoring system should be set up. One important aspect of monitoring is deciding which pheromone to use. Therefore, we decided to test five different commercially available pheromone lures under different disturbance conditions: Pheroprax®, IT Ecolure Extra®, Ipstyp®, Ipsowit® and Typosan®. We investigated the ability of the pheromones to distinguish between disturbed and undisturbed locations, their cost‐efficiency ratio, and side effects such as bycatch abundance and composition. We set 50 traps in two areas with sites that were disturbed and undisturbed by windstorms. We collected the catch from traps every 1–2 weeks from the end of March until the end of September in 2019. We found that IT Ecolure Extra®, Ipsowit® and ® Pheroprax® caught the most I. typographus and best showed changes in the trap catch of I. typographus throughout the whole season. There was a low amount of bycatch (<6% of the total catch) and a low number of predators (a few specimens), but some groups seem to prefer certain pheromones. The cost of the pheromones increased with their effectiveness. However, pheromone costs are low relative to the personnel costs involved in setting traps and collecting the catch. Based on all of the gathered data, we created an index which helps to assess the cost‐efficiency of the five chosen commercially available pheromones. We also present guidelines on how to make such an index to assist other researchers in choosing the right pheromone for monitoring populations of I. typographus or other bark beetle species.
Empirical evidence of the mediterranean fruit fly movement between orchard types
Authors: Krasnov Helena , Cohen Yafit , Goldshtein Eitan , Silberstein Miriam , Gazit Yoav , Blank Lior
Published: January 2021

Understanding species movement in the agroecological system is an important theme in ecology. A mark–release–capture experiment was conducted to study the dispersion behaviour of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wied.; Diptera: Tephritidae; Medfly) in northern Israel. Four pairs of pear and citrus orchards were selected for the field experiments. Sterile flies dyed with different colours were released in three seasons during 2015 and 2016, based on the phenological stages of the hosts. The total number of captured marked sterile flies per trap (FT) was approx 300 in both April and August. In November, FT values decreased by about 35% to approximately 200. The wild Medfly that were also captured showed an opposite trend, from an FT of 1.8 and 6.4 in April and August, respectively, to an FT of about 330 in November. Marked sterile flies were captured in both the release and the neighbouring orchard sites. We found that the Medfly migrates from pear to citrus orchards during spring and from citrus to pear during summer, when there are no fruit‐bearing trees in the orchards. However, during November, when the wild Medfly population prevails in the area, a clear pattern of migration is hard to identify, perhaps because of a possible interaction with the wild fly's population.
Artificial intelligence in small bowel capsule endoscopy ‐ current status, challenges and future promise
Authors: Dray Xavier , Iakovidis Dimitris , Houdeville Charles , Jover Rodrigo , Diamantis Dimitris , Histace Aymeric , Koulaouzidis Anastasios
Published: January 2021

Neural network‐based solutions are under development to alleviate physicians from the tedious task of small‐bowel capsule endoscopy reviewing. Computer‐assisted detection is a critical step, aiming to reduce reading times while maintaining accuracy. Weakly supervised solutions have shown promising results; however, video‐level evaluations are scarce, and no prospective studies have been conducted yet. Automated characterization (in terms of diagnosis and pertinence) by supervised machine learning solutions is the next step. It relies on large, thoroughly labeled databases, for which preliminary “ground truth” definitions by experts are of tremendous importance. Other developments are under ways, to assist physicians in localizing anatomical landmarks and findings in the small bowel, in measuring lesions, and in rating bowel cleanliness. It is still questioned whether artificial intelligence will enter the market with proprietary, built‐in or plug‐in software, or with a universal cloud‐based service, and how it will be accepted by physicians and patients.
Medication Use Quality and Safety in Older Adults: 2019 Update
Authors: Ailabouni Nagham J. , Marcum Zachary A. , Schmader Kenneth E. , Gray Shelly L.
Published: January 2021

Improving the quality of medication use and medication safety are important priorities for prescribers who care for older adults. The objective of this article was to identify four exemplary articles with this focus in 2019. We selected high‐quality studies that moved the field of research forward and were not merely replication studies. The chosen articles cover domains related to aspects of suboptimal prescribing and medication safety. The first study used a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries to examine the continuation of medications with limited benefit in patients admitted for cancer and non‐cancer diagnoses in hospice (domain: potentially inappropriate medications). The second study, a retrospective cohort study of older adults in Ontario, Canada, assessed the association between prescribing oral anticoagulants in an emergency department relative to not prescribing anticoagulants in the emergency department and their persistence at 6 months (domain: underuse of medications). The third study, a cluster randomized trial in Quebec, Canada, evaluated the effect of conducting electronic medication reconciliation on several outcomes including adverse drug events and medication discrepancies (domain: medication safety). Lastly, the fourth study, a retrospective study using national inpatient and outpatient Veteran Health Administration combined with clinical and Medicare Claims data, examined the effects of intensification of antihypertensive medications on older adults' likelihood for hospital re‐admission and other important clinical outcomes (domain: medication safety). Collectively, this review succinctly highlights pertinent topics related to promoting safe use of medications and promotes awareness of optimizing older adults' medication regimens.
Experiences and perceptions of dietitians for obesity management: a general practice qualitative study
Authors: Abbott S. , Parretti H. M. , Greenfield S.
Published: January 2021

Background

Multi‐component lifestyle interventions are the first line treatment for obesity. Dietitians are ideally placed healthcare professionals to deliver such interventions. However, only a small proportion of patients with obesity are referred by general practice to dietitians, and the reasons for this are not clear. The present study aimed to explore general practice healthcare professionals’ (GPHCPs) experiences and perceptions of dietitians in the context of obesity management.

Methods

A convenience sample of GPHCPs practicing in the UK was recruited via a targeted social media strategy, using virtual snowball sampling. Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews and analysed using framework analysis.

Results

In total, 20 participants were interviewed (11 general practice nurses and nine general practitioners). Experiences of referring patients with obesity for dietetic intervention resulted in two main themes: (i) access barriers and (ii) the dietetic consult experience. Three themes emerged from participants’ perceptions of a role for general practice dietitians: (i) utilising dietetic expertise; (ii) access to dietitian; and (iii) time. Participants experienced barriers to accessing dietitians for obesity management and felt that having a dietitian working within their general practice team would help address this. Having a dietitian embedded within their general practice team was perceived to have the potential to alleviate GPHCPs’ clinical time pressures, offer opportunities for upskilling, and may improve patient engagement with obesity management.

Conclusions

GPHCPs perceived that embedding a dietitian within their general practice team would be valuable and beneficial for obesity management. Our findings provide support for the funding of general practice dietitian roles in the UK.
Chromatin remodeling factors regulate environmental stress responses in plants
Authors: Song Ze‐Ting , Liu Jian‐Xiang , Han Jia‐Jia
Published: January 2021

Environmental stress from climate change and agricultural activity threatens global plant biodiversity as well as crop yield and quality. As sessile organisms, plants must maintain the integrity of their genomes and adjust gene expression to adapt to various environmental changes. In eukaryotes, nucleosomes are the basic unit of chromatin around which genomic DNA is packaged by condensation. To enable dynamic access to packaged DNA, eukaryotes have evolved Snf2 (sucrose nonfermenting 2) family proteins as chromatin remodeling factors (CHRs) that modulate the position of nucleosomes on chromatin. During plant stress responses, CHRs are recruited to specific genomic loci, where they regulate the distribution or composition of nucleosomes, which in turn alters the accessibility of these loci to general transcription or DNA damage repair machinery. Moreover, CHRs interplay with other epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and deposition of histone variants. CHRs are also involved in RNA processing at the post‐transcriptional level. In this review, we discuss major advances in our understanding of the mechanisms by which CHRs function during plants’ response to environmental stress.
Fig fruit ripening is regulated by the interaction between ethylene and abscisic acid
Authors: Qiao Han , Zhang Han , Wang Zhun , Shen Yuanyue
Published: January 2021

Fleshy fruit ripening is typically regulated by ethylene in climacteric fruits and abscisic acid (ABA) in non‐climacteric fruits. Common fig (Ficus carica) shows a dual‐ripening mechanism, which is not fully understood. Here, we detected separate peaks of ethylene and ABA in fig fruits at the onset‐ and on‐ripening stages, in conjunction with a sharp rise in glucose and fructose contents. In a newly‐designed split‐fruit system, exogenous ethylene failed to rescue fluridone‐inhibited fruit ripening, whereas exogenous ABA rescued 2‐amino‐ethoxy‐vinyl glycine (AVG)‐inhibited fruit ripening. Transcriptome analysis revealed changes in the expression of genes key to both ABA and ethylene biosynthesis and perception during fig fruit ripening. At the de‐greening stage, downregulation of FcACO2 or FcPYL8 retarded ripening, but downregulation of FcETR1/2 did not; unexpectedly, downregulation of FcAAO3 promoted ripening, but it inhibited ripening only before the de‐greening stage. Furthermore, we detected an increase in ethylene emissions in the FcAAO3‐RNAi ripening fruit and a decrease in ABA levels in the FcACO2‐RNAi unripening fruit. Importantly, FcPYL8 can bind to ABA, suggesting that it functions as an ABA receptor. Our findings support the hypothesis that ethylene regulates the fig fruit ripening in an ABA‐dependent manner. We propose a model for the role of the ABA–ethylene interaction in climacteric/non‐climacteric processes.
Genome‐wide distribution and functions of the AAE complex in epigenetic regulation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Yi‐Zhe , Lin Juncheng , Ren Zhizhong , Chen Chun‐Xiang , Miki Daisuke , Xie Si‐Si , Zhang Jian , Chang Ya‐Nan , Jiang Jing , Yan Jun , Li Qingshun Q. , Zhu Jian‐Kang , Duan Cheng‐Guo
Published: January 2021

Heterochromatin is widespread in eukaryotic genomes and has diverse impacts depending on its genomic context. Previous studies have shown that a protein complex, the ASI1‐AIPP1‐EDM2 (AAE) complex, participates in polyadenylation regulation of several intronic heterochromatin‐containing genes. However, the genome‐wide functions of AAE are still unknown. Here, we show that the ASI1 and EDM2 mostly target the common genomic regions on a genome‐wide level and preferentially interacts with genetic heterochromatin. Polyadenylation (poly(A) sequencing reveals that AAE complex has a substantial influence on poly(A) site usage of heterochromatin‐containing genes, including not only intronic heterochromatin‐containing genes but also the genes showing overlap with heterochromatin. Intriguingly, AAE is also involved in the alternative splicing regulation of a number of heterochromatin‐overlapping genes, such as the disease resistance gene RPP4. We provided evidence that genic heterochromatin is indispensable for the recruitment of AAE in polyadenylation and splicing regulation. In addition to conferring RNA processing regulation at genic heterochromatin‐containing genes, AAE also targets some transposable elements (TEs) outside of genes (including TEs sandwiched by genes and island TEs) for epigenetic silencing. Our results reveal new functions of AAE in RNA processing and epigenetic silencing, and thus represent important advances in epigenetic regulation.
A systematic review of the behaviours associated with depression in people with severe–profound intellectual disability
Authors: Eaton C. , Tarver J. , Shirazi A. , Pearson E. , Walker L. , Bird M. , Oliver C. , Waite J.
Published: January 2021

The assessment of depression in people with severe to profound intellectual disability (severe–profound ID) is challenging, primarily due to inability to report internal states such as mood, feelings of worthlessness and suicidal ideation. This group also commonly presents with challenging behaviours (e.g. aggression and self‐injury) with debate about whether these behaviours should be considered ‘depressive equivalents’ or are sensitive for, but not specific to, depression in severe–profound ID. We conducted a systematic review exploring behaviours associated with depression and low mood in individuals with severe–profound ID. The review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (2009) guidelines. Three electronic databases were searched (Embase, PsycINFO and Ovid MEDLINE), and 13 studies were included and rated for quality. Few studies were rated as having high methodological quality. Behaviours captured by standard diagnostic schemes for depression (e.g. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and International Classification of Diseases) showed a relationship with depression in severe–profound ID, including the two core symptoms (depressed affect and anhedonia), as well as irritability, sleep disturbance, psychomotor agitation, reduced appetite and fatigue. Challenging behaviours such as aggression, self‐injury, temper tantrums, screaming and disruptive behaviour were associated with depression. Challenging behaviours show a robust relationship with depression. Whilst these behaviours may suggest an underlying depression, study limitations warrant caution in labelling them as ‘depressive equivalents’. These limitations include not controlling for potential confounds (autism, other affective disorders and pain) and bias associated with comparing depressed/non‐depressed groups on the same behavioural criteria used to initially diagnose and separate these groups. Future studies that use depressive measures designed for ID populations, which control for confounds and which explore low mood irrespective of psychiatric diagnosis, are warranted to better delineate the behaviours associated with depression in this population (PROSPERO 2018: CRD42018103244).
Factors related to perceived control and health‐related quality of life of patients after acute coronary syndrome during admission and after discharge
Authors: Kondo Akiko , Oki Tomomi , Otaki Amane , Abuliezi Renaguli , Eckhardt Ann L.
Published: January 2021

Aim

To explore the relationship between demographic factors, acute coronary syndrome‐related factors, perceived control and health‐related quality of life during admission, 3 months and 6 months after discharge, in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Methods

Participants were recruited for this longitudinal study after admission for acute coronary syndrome in three university hospitals in the Tokyo metropolitan area, Japan. Self‐administered questionnaires included demographic data, perceived control, health‐related quality of life, acute coronary syndrome symptoms, fatigue, depression and anxiety.

Results

Participants (N = 137) had an average age of 62.8 (SD 11.6) years and 80.3% were male. As a result of Path analysis, higher perceived control (β = 0.258, p = .001), lower anxiety (β = −0.226, p = .009) and lower fatigue (β = −0.231, p = .010), were significantly related to better health‐related quality of life (General health). Only annual income was significantly related to perceived control (β = 0.187, p = .029). Eighty‐two (59.9%) participants at 3 months and 54 (39.4%) participants at 6 months completed the questionnaires. Perceived control (F = 7.074, p = .001) and General health (χ2 = 10.22, p = .006) significantly increased over the 6 months. Perceived control during admission was significantly related with health‐related quality of life at 3 months. Perceived control at 3 months was significantly related with health‐related quality of life at 6 months.

Conclusion

Perceived control was an important factor for health‐related quality of life of the Japanese patients with acute coronary syndrome. It is necessary to investigate whether nursing interventions to enhance perceived control lead to improvement of health‐related quality of life.
Using stable isotope labeling to advance our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease etiology and pathology
Authors: Hark Timothy J. , Savas Jeffrey N.
Published: January 2021

Stable isotope labeling with mass spectrometry (MS)‐based proteomic analysis has become a powerful strategy to assess protein steady‐state levels, protein turnover, and protein localization. Applying these analyses platforms to neurodegenerative disorders may uncover new aspects of the etiology of these devastating diseases. Recently, stable isotopes‐MS has been used to investigate early pathological mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) with mouse models of AD‐like pathology. In this review, we summarize these stable isotope‐MS experimental designs and the recent application in the context of AD pathology. We also describe our current efforts aimed at using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis of stable isotope‐labeled amyloid fibrils from AD mouse model brains. Collectively, these methodologies offer new opportunities to study proteome changes in AD and other neurodegenerative diseases by elucidating mechanisms to target for treatment and prevention.

image
Cutaneous and muscular afferents from the foot and sensory fusion processing: Physiology and pathology in neuropathies
Authors: Felicetti Guido , Thoumie Philippe , Do Manh‐Cuong , Schieppati Marco
Published: January 2021

The foot‐sole cutaneous receptors (section 2), their function in stance control (sway minimisation, exploratory role) (2.1), and the modulation of their effects by gait pattern and intended behaviour (2.2) are reviewed. Experimental manipulations (anaesthesia, temperature) (2.3 and 2.4) have shown that information from foot sole has widespread influence on balance. Foot‐sole stimulation (2.5) appears to be a promising approach for rehabilitation. Proprioceptive information (3) has a pre‐eminent role in balance and gait. Reflex responses to balance perturbations are produced by both leg and foot muscle stretch (3.1) and show complex interactions with skin input at both spinal and supra‐spinal levels (3.2), where sensory feedback is modulated by posture, locomotion and vision. Other muscles, notably of neck and trunk, contribute to kinaesthesia and sense of orientation in space (3.3). The effects of age‐related decline of afferent input are variable under different foot‐contact and visual conditions (3.4). Muscle force diminishes with age and sarcopenia, affecting intrinsic foot muscles relaying relevant feedback (3.5). In neuropathy (4), reduction in cutaneous sensation accompanies the diminished density of viable receptors (4.1). Loss of foot‐sole input goes along with large‐fibre dysfunction in intrinsic foot muscles. Diabetic patients have an elevated risk of falling, and vision and vestibular compensation strategies may be inadequate (4.2). From Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth 1A disease (4.3) we have become aware of the role of spindle group II fibres and of the anatomical feet conditions in balance control. Lastly (5) we touch on the effects of nerve stimulation onto cortical and spinal excitability, which may participate in plasticity processes, and on exercise interventions to reduce the impact of neuropathy.
Ontogenetic and in silico models of spatial‐packing in the hypermuscular mouse skull
Authors: Jeffery Nathan S. , Sarver Dylan C. , Mendias Christopher L.
Published: January 2021

Networks linking single genes to multiple phenotypic outcomes can be founded on local anatomical interactions as well as on systemic factors like biochemical products. Here we explore the effects of such interactions by investigating the competing spatial demands of brain and masticatory muscle growth within the hypermuscular myostatin‐deficient mouse model and in computational simulations. Mice that lacked both copies of the myostatin gene (‐/‐) and display gross hypermuscularity, and control mice that had both copies of the myostatin gene (+/+) were sampled at 1, 7, 14 and 28 postnatal days. A total of 48 mice were imaged with standard as well as contrast‐enhanced microCT. Size metrics and landmark configurations were collected from the image data and were analysed alongside in silico models of tissue expansion. Findings revealed that: masseter muscle volume was smaller in ‐/‐ mice at day 1 but became, and remained thereafter, larger by 7 days; ‐/‐ endocranial volumes begin and remained smaller; ‐/‐ enlargement of the masticatory muscles was associated with caudolateral displacement of the calvarium, lateral displacement of the zygomatic arches, and slight dorsal deflection of the face and basicranium. Simulations revealed basicranial retroflexion (flattening) and dorsal deflection of the face associated with muscle expansion and abrogative covariations of basicranial flexion and ventral facial deflection associated with endocranial expansion. Our findings support the spatial‐packing theory and highlight the importance of understanding the harmony of competing spatial demands that can shape and maintain mammalian skull architecture during ontogeny.
Acute abdominal pain in triage: A retrospective observational study of the Manchester triage system’s validity
Authors: Zaboli Arian , Ausserhofer Dietmar , Pfeifer Norbert , Magnarelli Gabriele , Ciccariello Laura , Siller Marianne , Turcato Gianni
Published: January 2021

Objective

Roughly 5% to 10% of patients admitted to the emergency department suffer from acute abdominal pain. Triage plays a key role in patient stratification, identifying patients who need prompt treatment versus those who can safely wait. In this regard, the aim of this study was to estimate the performance of the Manchester Triage System in classifying patients with acute abdominal pain.

Methods

A total of 9,851 patients admitted at the Emergency Department of the Merano Hospital with acute abdominal pain were retrospectively enrolled between 1 January 2017 and 30 June 2019. The study was conducted and reported according to the STROBE statement. The sensitivity and specificity of the Manchester Triage System were estimated by verifying the triage classification received by the patients and their survival at seven days or the need for acute surgery within 72 h after emergency department access.

Results

Among the patients with acute abdominal pain (median age 50 years), 0.4% died within seven days and 8.9% required surgery within 72 hours. The sensitivity was 44.7% (29.9–61.5), specificity was 95.4% (94.9–95.8), and negative predictive value was 99.7% (99.2–100) in relation to death at seven days.

Conclusions

The Manchester Triage System shows good specificity and negative predictive value. However, its sensitivity was low due to the amount of incorrect triage prediction in patients with high‐priority codes (red/orange), suggesting overtriage in relation to seven‐day mortality. This may be a protective measure for the patient. In contrast, the need for acute surgery within 72 h was affected by under‐triage.

Relevance to clinical practice

The triage nurse using Manchester Triage System can correctly prioritise the majority of patients with acute abdominal pain, especially in low acuity patients. The Manchester Triage System is safe and does not underestimate the severity of the patients.
Stressors for emergency department nurses: Insights from a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Alomari Ali H. , Collison James , Hunt Leanne , Wilson Nathan J.
Published: January 2021

Aims and Objectives

This study aimed to profile stress, exploring whether demographics and/or other factors uniquely contribute to stress for emergency departments nurses.

Background

Nursing has been identified as a stressful profession with the potential to have negative impacts on nurses’ physical and mental health. Nurses working in emergency departments face unique daily stressors.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey using a correlational design.

Methods

The survey was distributed in May 2019 to ED nurses working in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. A total of 242 nurses completed the survey, of which 190 cases were analysed. A standardised scale was used in the survey, the Expanded Nursing Stress Scale (ENSS). The sampling method for this research was non‐probability purposive sampling. STROBE checklist was used for this manuscript.

Results

The results of this study indicated that emergency department nurses experience stress in their work settings. Stress is experienced predominantly because of problems in dealing with patients and their families, high workloads, and uncertainty concerning treatment.

Conclusions

The results of this study provide valuable insights into the work‐related stress experienced by emergency department nurses. This information can be used to inform the development of strategies to minimise stress for emergency nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study builds on existing, and contributes to new, knowledge about the current stressors for emergency department nurses. The results provide insights into how policies and procedures may need to be adjusted and interventions developed, that can help in reducing stress.
Techniques to select site of insertion for a peripheral intravenous catheter with vessel locating devices using light, sounds or tactile actions (or palpations)
Authors: Higgins Niall , Iu Peter , Carr Peter , Ware Robert , Van Zundert André
Published: January 2021

Background

Approximately 80% of patients admitted to acute hospitals have at least one peripheral intravenous catheter inserted during their admission, for the administration of fluids and medicines, and/or diagnostic tests, so the failure rate is concerning. New technology may decrease these rates even when used by inexperienced inserters. The choice of insertion site for an intravenous catheter is a known predictor of catheter failure. Therefore, the objective for this study was to evaluate the utility of vessel locating devices for novice clinicians to select catheter insertion sites in the forearm.

Methods

An inter‐subject incomplete counterbalanced research design was employed with healthy volunteers. Novice clinicians used either a vessel locating device using light or sound waves or they used palpation to identify relatively superficial veins in the forearm. This was compared to site selection performed by an expert clinician using palpation method only. Measurements of differences were analysed from photos of chosen sites. Bland–Altman agreement analysis was used to plot novice expert agreement. The STROBE checklist was followed in reporting this study (Techniques to select site of insertion for a peripheral intravenous catheter with vessel locating devices (Appendix S1)).

Results

A total of 32 novice clinicians used three vessel locating devices and a palpation technique. Novice clinicians did not choose more veins for optimum catheter placement when assisted with vessel locating devices compared to palpation techniques. All methods had a similar mean difference between novice and expert measurements and a similar percentage difference in distance from the expert choice. Bland–Altman agreement analysis did not identify any advantage for the novice with vessel locating devices over palpation.

Conclusion

Vessel locating devices do not enhance the ability of novice clinicians any greater than palpation when selecting suitable forearm veins. If vessel locating device approaches are to be adopted in clinical practice to support better insertion outcomes then current PIVC teaching techniques should include structured vessel locating devices theory and practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Successful insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) on the first attempt is a challenging procedure for nurses. Careful consideration of the selected site of insertion could modify this risk factor for catheter failure. The choice of PIVC insertion site by a novice clinician compared to an expert does not necessarily improve with the use of vein locating technology. While there is a range of technological devices available to assist with locating vessels, there needs to be more emphasis from educators on how to select an appropriate insertion site for intravenous therapy.
Hospital and unit variables of missed nursing care in acute care hospitals: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jarošová Darja , Gurková Elena , Zeleníková Renáta , Plevová Ilona , Janíková Eva
Published: January 2021

Aims and Objectives

To investigate hospital, unit and staff variables as the correlates of missed nursing care (MNC) in Czech hospitals.

Background

There is a considerable variability in patterns of MNC across different hospital, unit and staff characteristics.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted. The STROBE guidelines for reporting observational studies were followed for reporting of the research study.

Methods

A sample of 513 nurses working in nine acute care hospitals was recruited. MNC activities were measured with the MISSCARE Survey. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and univariate logistic regression.

Results

Type of unit was confirmed as a significant predictor of MNC. Staff characteristics (nurses’ work position, level of education and perceived adequacy of unit staff) and hospital variables did not contribute significantly to MNC.

Conclusions

The study replicated the patterns of MNC across different conceptual approaches. MNC was influenced by work environment characteristics rather than individual staff variables.

Relevance to clinical practice

The results of this research showed that missed nursing care is influenced by work environment characteristics rather than individual staff variables.