bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serotonin 5‐HT7 receptors require cyclin‐dependent kinase 5 to rescue hippocampal synaptic plasticity in a mouse model of Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Costa Lara , Tempio Alessandra , Lacivita Enza , Leopoldo Marcello , Ciranna Lucia
Published: May 2021

Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic form of intellectual disability associated with autism, epilepsy and mood disorders. Electrophysiology studies in Fmr1 knockout (KO) mice, a murine model of Fragile X Syndrome, have demonstrated alterations of synaptic plasticity, with exaggerated long‐term depression induced by activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR‐LTD) in Fmr1 KO hippocampus. We have previously demonstrated that activation of serotonin 5‐HT7 receptors reverses mGluR‐LTD in the hippocampus of wild‐type and Fmr1 KO mice, thus correcting a synaptic dysfunction typically observed in this disease model. Here we show that pharmacological inhibition of cyclin‐dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5, a signaling molecule recently shown to be a modulator of brain synaptic plasticity) enhanced mGluR‐LTD in wild‐type hippocampal neurons, which became comparable to exaggerated mGluR‐LTD observed in Fmr1 KO neurons. Furthermore, Cdk5 inhibition prevented 5‐HT7 receptor‐mediated reversal of mGluR‐LTD both in wild‐type and in Fmr1 KO neurons. Our results show that Cdk5 modulates hippocampal synaptic plasticity. 5‐HT7 receptors require Cdk5 to modulate synaptic plasticity in wild‐type and rescue abnormal plasticity in Fmr1 KO neurons, pointing out Cdk5 as a possible novel target in Fragile X Syndrome.
Movements of transposable elements contribute to the genomic plasticity and species diversification in an asexually reproducing nematode pest
Authors: Kozlowski Djampa K. L. , Hassanaly‐Goulamhoussen Rahim , Da Rocha Martine , Koutsovoulos Georgios D. , Bailly‐Bechet Marc , Danchin Etienne G. J.
Published: May 2021

Despite reproducing without sexual recombination, Meloidogyne incognita is an adaptive and versatile phytoparasitic nematode. This species displays a global distribution, can parasitize a large range of plants, and can overcome plant resistance in a few generations. The mechanisms underlying this adaptability remain poorly known. At the whole‐genome level, only a few single nucleotide variations have been observed across different geographical isolates with distinct ranges of compatible hosts. Exploring other factors possibly involved in genomic plasticity is thus important. Transposable elements (TEs), by their repetitive nature and mobility, can passively and actively impact the genome dynamics. This is particularly expected in polyploid hybrid genomes such as the one of M. incognita. Here, we have annotated the TE content of M. incognita, analyzed the statistical properties of this TE landscape, and used whole‐genome pool‐seq data to estimate the mobility of these TEs across twelve geographical isolates, presenting variations in ranges of compatible host plants. DNA transposons are more abundant than retrotransposons, and the high similarity of TE copies to their consensus sequences suggests they have been at least recently active. We have identified loci in the genome where the frequencies of presence of a TE showed substantial variations across the different isolates. Overall, variations in TE frequencies across isolates followed their phylogenetic divergence, suggesting TEs participate in the species diversification. Compared with the M. incognita reference genome, we detected isolate and lineage‐specific de novo insertion of some TEs, including within genic regions or in the upstream regulatory regions. We validated by PCR the insertion of some of these TEs inside genic regions, confirming TE movements have possible functional impacts. Overall, we show DNA transposons can drive genomic plasticity in M. incognita and their role in genome evolution of other parthenogenetic animal deserves further investigation.
Focal peritarsal cellulitis with long digital extensor tenosynovitis
Authors: Kalka A. , Harding P. G. , Cullimore A. M.
Published: May 2021

This study reviews seven cases of focal peritarsal infection with long digital extensor tendon sheath (LoDETS) tenosynovitis, which presented to the same metropolitan equine practice over a 3‐year period (2016‐2019). All horses presented with acute‐onset severe hindlimb lameness, in combination with swelling and pain of the dorsal tarsus. In all cases, tarsal ultrasound demonstrated diffuse thickening of subcutaneous tissues and increased hypoechoic fluid volume in the LoDETS. Sampling and analysis of the LoDETS fluid demonstrated increased nucleated cell count, neutrophil percentage or total protein, consistent with sepsis in 6/7 cases. No bacterial organisms were identified on cytology or culture. Treatment consisted of systemic and local antimicrobial therapies, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and hand walking. Treatment duration ranged from 15 to 33 days. Lameness resolved in five cases; the remaining two cases were euthanised due to complicating factors prior to resolution of lameness. The study demonstrates the use of ultrasound and synovial fluid analysis in the diagnostic work‐up of suspected cases of focal peritarsal infection and identifies concurrent sepsis of the LoDETS as a novel finding. The prognosis for resolution of peritarsal cellulitis with concurrent sepsis of the LoDETS is considered good, with early diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial treatment.
Efficacy of group‐based multi‐component psycho‐education for caregivers of people with dementia: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Seike Aya , Sumigaki Chieko , Takeuchi Sayaka , Hagihara Junko , Takeda Akinori , Becker Carl , Toba Kenji , Sakurai Takashi
Published: May 2021

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the ability of a group‐based multi‐component psycho‐educational intervention (GMC‐PEI) to reduce depression, and improve caregiving appraisals, coping skills of informal caregivers and the condition of people with dementia.

Methods

In this randomized controlled and blinded trial, we enrolled 54 informal caregivers of people with dementia visiting the Japan National Center of Geriatrics and Gerontology, and divided them into GMC‐PEI and control groups. The intervention group received a 12‐week GMC‐PEI program that included six 2‐h structured sessions to enhance their knowledge of dementia, caregiving skills and coping skills. The control group received leaflets containing information about dementia. We evaluated caregivers' depression, caregiving time, subjective burden, caregiving appraisal and care coping skills. We also evaluated people with dementia at baseline and 12 weeks, and reassessed 20 participants from the intervention group at 24 and 48 weeks.

Results

The GMC‐PEI significantly improved depression, positive appraisals of fulfillment in caregiving, affection for care recipients, self‐growth and coping skills, such as seeking formal support. Depression, fulfillment and affection for people with dementia showed a peak improvement at 24 weeks; formal support‐seeking showed a linear improvement throughout the 48‐week follow‐up period.

Conclusions

The group‐based multi‐component psycho‐educational intervention reduced depression, improved self‐appraisal and enhanced coping skills in caregivers. However, emotional enhancements dissipated sooner than support‐seeking skills, suggesting that caregivers should be reviewed every 12–24 weeks. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 561–567.
Institutional proximity and judicial corruption: A spatial approach
Authors: Wang Juan , Liu Sida
Published: May 2021

This article develops a relational explanation for judicial corruption, namely, a spatial theory of institutional proximity, to complement existing behavioral and institutional approaches. Institutional proximity refers to the spatial proximity between adjacent political or social institutions, including courts. This proximity can be a result of political or administrative regulations, workplace interactions, or the mobility of individual actors between them. Linking ecologies and space travelers are two key spatial mechanisms through which institutional proximity enables judicial corruption. They pave the pathways of judicial corruption, that is, how corrupt transactions and related social interactions are facilitated by and communicated through institutions adjacent to the court. The theory is operationalized in the context of Chinese courts and the various pathways of judicial corruption are exemplified through a number of publicly reported cases in China.
Patient perspectives on quality of care for depression and anxiety in primary health care teams: A qualitative study
Authors: Ashcroft Rachelle , Menear Matthew , Greenblatt Andrea , Silveira Jose , Dahrouge Simone , Sunderji Nadiya , Emode Monica , Booton Jocelyn , Muchenje Marvelous , Cooper Rachel , Haughton Asante , McKenzie Kwame
Published: May 2021

Background

Widespread policy reforms in Canada, the United States and elsewhere over the last two decades strengthened team models of primary care by bringing together family physicians and nurse practitioners with a range of mental health and other interdisciplinary providers. Understanding how patients with depression and anxiety experience newer team‐based models of care delivery is essential to explore whether the intended impact of these reforms is achieved, identify gaps that remain and provide direction on strengthening the quality of mental health care.

Objective

The main study objective was to understand patients’ perspectives on the quality of care that they received for anxiety and depression in primary care teams.

Methods

This was a qualitative study, informed by constructivist grounded theory. We conducted focus groups and individual interviews with primary care patients about their experiences with mental health care. Focus groups and individual interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Grounded theory guided an inductive analysis of the data.

Results

Forty patients participated in the study: 31 participated in one of four focus groups, and nine completed an individual interview. Participants in our study described their experiences with mental health care across four themes: accessibility, technical care, trusting relationships and meeting diverse needs.

Conclusion

Greater attention by policymakers is needed to strengthen integrated collaborative practices in primary care so that patients have similar access to mental health services across different primary care practices, and smoother continuity of care across sectors. The research team is comprised of individuals with lived experience of mental health who have participated in all aspects of the research process.
Burkitt lymphoma with a granulomatous reaction: an M1/Th1‐polarised microenvironment is associated with controlled growth and spontaneous regression
Authors: Granai Massimo , Lazzi Stefano , Mancini Virginia , Akarca Ayse , Santi Raffaella , Vergoni Federica , Sorrentino Ester , Guazzo Raffaella , Mundo Lucia , Cevenini Gabriele , Tripodo Claudio , Di Stefano Gioia , Puccini Benedetta , Ponzoni Maurilio , Sabattini Elena , Agostinelli Claudio , Bassüllü Nuray , Tecimer Tülay , Demiroz Ahu Senem , Mnango Leah , Dirnhofer Stephan , Quintanilla‐Martinez Leticia , Marafioti Teresa , Fend Falko , Leoncini Lorenzo
Published: May 2021

Aims

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B‐cell lymphoma that, in some instances, may show a granulomatous reaction associated with a favourable prognosis and occasional spontaneous regression. In the present study, we aimed to define the tumour microenvironment (TME) in four such cases, two of which regressed spontaneously.

Methods and results

All cases showed aggregates of tumour cells with the typical morphology, molecular cytogenetics and immunophenotype of BL surrounded by a florid epithelioid granulomatous reaction. All four cases were Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐positive with type I latency. Investigation of the TME showed similar features in all four cases. The analysis revealed a proinflammatory response triggered by Th1 lymphocytes and M1 polarised macrophages encircling the neoplastic cells with a peculiar topographic distribution.

Conclusions

Our data provide an in‐vivo picture of the role that specific immune cell subsets might play during the early phase of BL, which may be capable of maintaining the tumour in a self‐limited state or inducing its regression. These novel results may provide insights into new potential therapeutic avenues in EBV‐positive BL patients in the era of cellular immunotherapy.
Concordance between flow cytometry CLL scores
Authors: Sorigue Marc , Raya Minerva , Vergara Sara , Junca Jordi
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Multiple flow cytometry scores/diagnostic systems for the classification of leukemic lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) have been published but few have been compared between them.

Patients and Methods

We classified a cohort of leukemic LPD based on eleven published flow cytometry scores/diagnostic systems and compared their classification as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or non‐CLL LPD.

Results

329 patients were included. Patients classified as CLL ranged from 46% to 73%, depending on the score/diagnostic system used. All eleven scores/diagnostic systems agreed in 184/324 (57%) of patients while in 58/324 (18%) at least two scores/diagnostic systems classified the patient differently (from the majority). Fleiss kappa was 0.74, but pairwise agreement was variable (Cohen's kappa: 0.48 to 0.87).

Conclusion

This study found a suboptimal agreement between published flow cytometry scores/diagnostic systems for the classification of LPD.
Development of a model to predict closure of chronic wounds in Germany: Claims data analysis
Authors: Hagenström Kristina , Protz Kerstin , Petersen Jana , Augustin Matthias
Published: May 2021

Patients with chronic leg ulcer, pressure ulcer, or diabetic foot ulcer suffer from significant disease burden. With a view to improving healthcare provision sustainably, a predictive model of time to closure (time‐to‐event analysis) based on claims data was developed. To identify potential predictors of wound closure, clinical information absent from statutory health insurance (SHI) data was modelled. In patients with leg ulcers, age of the patient (hazard ratios [HR] 0.99), increasing number of comorbidities (HR 0.94), inpatient stays (HR 0.74), and treatment by a specialised wound care professional (HR 1.18) were significant predictors of time to closure (adjusted model). In almost all models, the number of inpatient stays and of comorbidities predicted a lower probability of healing. In addition, the age and the sex of the patient were found to be significant predictors in some models (leg ulcer: HR 0.99; pressure ulcer: HR 0.99). Increasing number of comorbidities and inpatient stays were predictors for closure time in all models. Since these predictors may give an indication of wound severity, further clinical information should be considered in future models, as also indicated by the moderate values of thec‐statistics. This requires future data linkage between SHI and primary studies (eg, registers).
Nintedanib attenuates peritoneal fibrosis by inhibiting mesothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, inflammation and angiogenesis
Authors: Liu Feng , Yu Chao , Qin Huan , Zhang Shenglei , Fang Lu , Wang Yi , Wang Jun , Cui Binbin , Hu Susie , Liu Na , Zhuang Shougang
Published: May 2021

Nintedanib, an Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitor, exhibits an anti‐fibrotic effect in lung and kidneys. Its effect on peritoneal fibrosis remains unexplored. In this study, we found that nintedanib administration lessened chlorhexidine gluconate (CG)‐induced peritoneal fibrosis and reduced collagen I and fibronectin expression. This coincided with suppressed phosphorylation of platelet‐derived growth factor receptor, fibroblast growth factor receptors, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor and Src family kinase. Mechanistically, nintedanib inhibited injury‐induced mesothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (MMT), as demonstrated by decreased expression of α‐smooth muscle antigen and vimentin and preserved expression of E‐cadherin in the CG‐injured peritoneum and cultured human peritoneal mesothelial cells exposed to transforming growth factor‐β1. Nintedanib also suppressed expression of Snail and Twist, two transcription factors associated with MMT in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, nintedanib treatment inhibited expression of several cytokines/chemokines, including tumour necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β and interleukin‐6, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 and prevented infiltration of macrophages to the injured peritoneum. Finally, nintedanib reduced CG‐induced peritoneal vascularization. These data suggest that nintedanib may attenuate peritoneal fibrosis by inhibiting MMT, inflammation, and angiogenesis and have therapeutic potential for the prevention and treatment of peritoneal fibrosis in patients on peritoneal dialysis.
Metabolic changes during carbon monoxide poisoning: An experimental study
Authors: Simonsen Carsten , Magnusdottir Sigriður Olga , Andreasen Jan Jesper , Wimmer Reinhard , Rasmussen Bodil Steen , Kjærgaard Benedict , Maltesen Raluca Georgiana
Published: May 2021

Carbon monoxide (CO) is the leading cause of death by poisoning worldwide. The aim was to explore the effects of mild and severe poisoning on blood gas parameters and metabolites. Eleven pigs were exposed to CO intoxication and had blood collected before and during poisoning. Mild CO poisoning (carboxyhaemoglobin, COHb 35.2 ± 7.9%) was achieved at 32 ± 13 minutes, and severe poisoning (69.3 ± 10.2% COHb) at 64 ± 23 minutes from baseline (2.9 ± 0.5% COHb). Blood gas parameters and metabolites were measured on a blood gas analyser and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, respectively. Unsupervised principal component, analysis of variance and Pearson's correlation tests were applied. A P‐value ≤ .05 was considered statistically significant. Mild poisoning resulted in a 28.4% drop in oxyhaemoglobin (OHb) and 12‐fold increase in COHb, while severe poisoning in a 65% drop in OHb and 24‐fold increase in COHb. Among others, metabolites implicated in regulation of metabolic acidosis (lactate, P < .0001), energy balance (pyruvate, P < .0001; 3‐hydroxybutyrc acid, P = .01), respiration (citrate, P = .007; succinate, P = .0003; fumarate, P < .0001), lipid metabolism (glycerol, P = .002; choline, P = .0002) and antioxidant‐oxidant balance (glutathione, P = .03; hypoxanthine, P < .0001) were altered, especially during severe poisoning. Our study adds new insights into the deranged metabolism of CO poisoning and leads the way for further investigation.
Telomerase/myocardin expressing mesenchymal cells induce survival and cardiovascular markers in cardiac stromal cells undergoing ischaemia/reperfusion
Authors: Madonna Rosalinda , Guarnieri Simone , Kovácsházi Csenger , Görbe Aniko , Giricz Zoltán , Geng Yong‐Jian , Mariggiò Maria Addolorata , Ferdinandy Péter , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: May 2021

Cardiac stromal cells (CSCs) contain a pool of cells with supportive and paracrine functions. Various types of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can influence CSCs in the cardiac niche through their paracrine activity. Ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) leads to cell death and reduction of the paracrine activity of CSCs. The forced co‐expression of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and myocardin (MYOCD), known to potentiate anti‐apoptotic, pro‐survival and pro‐angiogenic activities of MSCs isolated from the adipose tissue (AT‐MSCs), may increase CSC survival, favouring their paracrine activities. We aimed at investigating the hypothesis that CSCs feature improved resistance to simulated I/R (SI/R) and increased commitment towards the cardiovascular lineage when preconditioned with conditioned media (CM) or extracellular vesicles (EV) released from AT‐MSCs overexpressing TERT and MYOCD (T/M AT‐MSCs). Murine CSCs were isolated with the cardiosphere (CSps) isolation technique. T/M AT‐MSCs and their secretome improved spontaneous intracellular calcium changes and ryanodine receptor expression in aged CSps. The cytoprotective effect of AT‐MSCs was tested in CSCs subjected to SI/R. SI/R induced cell death as compared to normoxia (28 ± 4 vs 10 ± 3%, P = .02). Pre‐treatment with CM (15 ± 2, P = .02) or with the EV‐enriched fraction (10 ± 1%, P = .02) obtained from mock‐transduced AT‐MSCs in normoxia reduced cell death after SI/R. The effect was more pronounced with CM (7 ± 1%, P = .01) or the EV‐enriched fraction (2 ± 1%, P = .01) obtained from T/M AT‐MSCs subjected to SI/R. In parallel, we observed lower expression of the apoptosis marker cleaved caspase‐3 and higher expression of cardiac and vascular markers eNOS, sarcomeric α‐actinin and cardiac actin. The T/M AT‐MSCs secretome exerts a cytoprotective effect and promotes development of CSCs undergoing SI/R towards a cardiovascular phenotype.
Glucose‐lowering action through targeting islet dysfunction in type 2 diabetes: Focus on dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibition
Authors: Ahrén Bo
Published: May 2021

Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibition is a glucose‐lowering medication for type 2 diabetes. It works through stimulation of insulin secretion and inhibition of glucagon secretion in a glucose‐dependent manner, resulting in lowered fasting and postprandial glycemia with low risk of hypoglycemia. As impaired insulin secretion and augmented glucagon secretion are key factors underlying hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes, DPP‐4 inhibition represents a therapy that targets the underlying mechanisms of the disease. If insufficient in monotherapy, it can preferably be used in combination with metformin, which targets insulin resistance, and also in combination with sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibition, thiazolidinediones and insulin, which target other mechanisms. In individuals of East Asian origin, islet dysfunction is of particular importance for the development of type 2 diabetes. Consequently, it has been shown in several studies that DPP‐4 is efficient in these populations. This mini‐review highlights the islet mechanisms of DPP‐4 inhibition, islet dysfunction as a key factor for hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes and that, consequently, DPP‐4 is of particular value in populations where islet dysfunction is central, such as in individuals of East Asian origin.
Active share: A blessing and a curse
Authors: Cline Brandon N. , Gilstrap Collin
Published: May 2021

We examine the implications of active mutual fund management across manager skill levels. We find that funds in the highest active share quintile outperform funds in the lowest active share quintile on a risk‐adjusted basis. When sorted on both active share and capture ratio, only managers with high skill and high active share experience positive future performance. Funds with high active share and low skill experience negative future risk‐adjusted returns, and these funds underperform all funds with low active share. We conclude that only funds with both high active management and high manager skill are preferable to index funds.
‘It was quite a shock’: A qualitative study of the impact of organisational and personal factors on newly qualified nurses' experiences
Authors: Ho Szu‐Szu , Stenhouse Rosie , Snowden Austyn
Published: May 2021

Aims and objectives

To explore how newly qualified nurses’ work experiences are constructed through the interplay between self, workplace and home‐life influencing their retention.

Background

Nurses are critical to achieving the goal of universal health coverage. However, shortages of nursing staff are endemic. Of particular concern, newly qualified nurses are more likely to leave the nursing workforce. The point of transition to working as a newly qualified nurse is a time of vulnerability. Most studies attempt to discover why nurses leave. This study uses the concept of job embeddedness to examine the experience of this transition and first two years of practice to understand what might help newly qualified nurses stay.

Design

Qualitative approach using semi‐structured telephone interviews.

Methods

Self‐selecting sample of nurses (n = 23) who participated 1‐year (n = 12) and 2 years (n = 11) post‐qualification. Participants were part of a larger longitudinal cohort (n = 867) study which has followed them since September 2013 when they entered nurse education in two Scottish universities. Thematic analysis was used to understand the interplay between organisation/workplace and the individual.

Results

Three themes were developed: transition shock; workplace factors and work/life balance. Two further subthemes were developed: experience of support and belonging; and feeling unsupported and alienated. Eight participants had changed job or left, and two were looking to leave nursing.

Conclusion

This study highlights how the experience of transition shock can be positively or negatively impacted by the workplace environment, and how in turn this impacts the home environment. Ultimately, this impacts retention of newly qualified nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice

Having adequate support resources, such as staffing, supportive team morale, professional development and family‐friendly work environment, can create a work environment where they feel the purpose and meaningfulness of working as a nurse. This ‘job embeddedness’ can potentially enhance nurse retention. Reporting follows the COREQ checklist.
Tubal stump pregnancy after salpingectomy—Does the time interval from surgical intervention to conception matter?
Authors: Melcer Yaakov , Naaman Hilli Zur , Hausman Reut , Vaknin Zvi , Levinsohn‐Tavor Orna , Maymon Ron , Smorgick Noam
Published: May 2021

Aim

Ectopic pregnancy implantation on the tubal stump after salpingectomy is a rare location for extrauterine pregnancy, whose pathogenesis is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the time interval elapsed from salpingectomy may predispose the embryo to implantation on the tubal stump in the next pregnancy subsequent to tube removal.

Methods

Nine women operated for stump pregnancy (study group) between 2008 and 2019 were retrospectively identified. For each case in the study group, 12 consecutive cases that underwent laparoscopic salpingectomy constituted the control group. A sample size of 100 control patients was calculated to achieve statistical power (97.8%) and an α of 0.05. The control groups were triple‐matched with the study group for patients' age, indications for salpingectomy (tubal pregnancy or hydrosalpinx prior to in vitro fertilization treatment) and mode of conception of the subsequent pregnancy following salpingectomy.

Results

Nine women underwent surgery for stump pregnancy during the study period. All women had a surgical history of laparoscopic salpingectomy. The time interval from prior salpingectomy to subsequent pregnancy was significantly shorter in study group than in the control group (4.3 ± 2.1 months vs. 15.6 ± 13.7 months, respectively, p = 0.016).

Conclusion

A possible association between the short time interval from prior salpingectomy to ectopic implantation on the tubal stump in the subsequent pregnancy was found. The clinical implications of these findings and in particular whether patients should be advised to wait at least 4 months from the salpingectomy to the subsequent pregnancy remain unclear.
Transcriptome analysis and identification of genes and single‐nucleotide polymorphisms associated with growth traits in the Chinese soft‐shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis
Authors: Zeng Dan , Xiong Gang , Wang Xiaoqing , Zhou Xianwen , Wang Pei , Peng Na , Luo Zhijia , Li Xiao
Published: May 2021

The Chinese soft‐shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, is an important aquaculture species in China. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of growth regulation may contribute to its genetic improvement and lead to increases in the production. Growth rate in this species varies greatly among individuals, and the variation apparently has a genetic basis. To identify growth‐related genes and explore the molecular mechanism of its growth regulation, fast‐growing and slow‐growing turtles were selected from two growth stages, juveniles or adults, respectively, for transcriptome sequencing with liver tissue using the Illumina sequencing platform. Analyses showed that, in juveniles, 303 genes were differentially expressed, of which 217 genes were expressed at higher levels in the fast‐growing turtles. In adults, 1,093 genes were differentially expressed, of which 682 genes were expressed at higher levels in the fast‐growing turtles. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identifies three functional groups being significantly enriched in juveniles, but 71 functional groups in adults. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis of DEGs in juveniles identified only one pathway being significantly enriched, the proxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, while eight pathways mostly related to fatty acid metabolism were identified in adults. These findings suggest that regulation of growth is more complicated and involves more genes and pathways in adults compared with juveniles, and metabolic or metabolic‐related genes may relate to the growth difference of P. sinensis. Some key genes related to growth were identified from another six growth‐related signaling pathways, and DEGs in GH‐IGF 1 axis genes and Jak–STAT signaling pathway might play important roles in the growth difference of P. sinensis. In addition, 73 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 23 growth‐related genes were successfully genotyped. Growth association analysis in 280 individuals revealed that 2 SNPs in 2 key genes (IGF2R and SLC27A2) were associated with growth of P. sinensis. This study provides information on key genes, SNPs, and biological processes that may be involved in growth and highlights the differentiation of growth regulation in different growth stages of P. sinensis.
Exclusive breastfeeding among working mothers in Kenya: Perspectives from women, families and employers
Authors: Ickes Scott B. , Sanders Hannah , Denno Donna M. , Myhre Jennifer A. , Kinyua Joyceline , Singa Benson , Lemein Hellen Sankaine , Iannotti Lora L. , Farquhar Carey , Walson Judd L. , Nduati Ruth
Published: May 2021

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first 6 months of life improves survival, growth and development. In Kenya, recent legislation and policies advocate for maternity leave and workplace support for breastfeeding and breast milk expression. We conducted a qualitative study to describe factors influencing EBF for 6 months among mothers employed in commercial agriculture and tourism. We interviewed employed mothers (n = 42), alternate caregivers and employed mothers' husbands (n = 20), healthcare providers (n = 21), daycare directors (n = 22) and commercial flower farm and hotel managers (n = 16) in Naivasha, Kenya. Despite recognizing the recommended duration for EBF, employed mothers describe the early cessation of EBF in preparation for their return to work. Managers reported supporting mothers through flexible work hours and duties. Yet, few workplaces have lactation spaces, and most considered adjusting schedules more feasible than breastfeeding during work. Managers and healthcare providers believed milk expression could prolong EBF but thought mothers lack experience with pumping. The most frequently suggested interventions for improving EBF duration were to expand schedule flexibility (100% of groups), provide on‐site daycare (80% of groups) and workplace lactation rooms (60% of groups), improve milk expression education and increase maternity leave length (60% of groups). Returning to work corresponds with numerous challenges including lack of proximate or on‐site childcare and low support for and experience with milk expression. These factors currently make EBF for 6 months unattainable for most mothers in these industries. Interventions and supports to improve breastfeeding upon return to work are recommended to strengthen employed mothers' opportunity for EBF.
Critically ill patients' experience of agitation: A qualitative meta‐synthesis
Authors: Freeman Samantha , Yorke Janelle , Dark Paul
Published: May 2021

Background

Acute episodes of agitation are frequently experienced by patients during critical illness, yet what is not understood is the experience of agitation from the patient and family perspectives.

Aims and objectives

To search existing literature, appraise it and then provide a synthesized interpretation to broaden the understanding of patients' and their families' experience of agitation during an adult critical care admission.

Design

Qualitative meta‐synthesis.

Methods

A qualitative meta‐synthesis based on a systematic literature search registered with PROSPERO. The search conducted between July and September 2019 was applied to ProQuest, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, British Nursing Index, Cochrane Library, Ovid Medline, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases. We appraised the selected literature and presented a synthesized interpretation. Analysis was based on the approach of Gadamerian hermeneutics. Due to the lack of data identified; the family experiences of agitation could not be addressed within the review.

Results

In total, 8 studies were included capturing the experiences of 494 patients, aged between 18 and 92 years, with 225 (45%) women. The analysis generated three core themes: (a) What is real, what is not, (b) loss of communication and dependency, and (c) what helps, what does not. Fear of death, the emotion of anxiety, and feelings of pain alongside transient periods of fluctuating conscious levels provoked a feeling of intense vulnerability. The loss of effective communication and the feeling of dependence incite agitation and distress.

Conclusions

The patient's recollection of their critical illness can be completely or partially absent and disjointed with uncertainty around what is real and what is not. Family members observe the full effect of the patient's critical care illness and could be a wealth of untapped information.

Relevance to clinical practice

Increasing awareness of the critically ill patients' experience of agitation highlights possible contributing factors to agitation development, such as staff interaction and communication skills, and the critical care environment.
Preclinical development of plant‐based oral immune modulatory therapy for haemophilia B
Authors: Srinivasan Aparajitha , Herzog Roland W. , Khan Imran , Sherman Alexandra , Bertolini Thais , Wynn Tung , Daniell Henry
Published: May 2021

Anti‐drug antibody (ADA) formation is a major complication in treatment of the X‐linked bleeding disorder haemophilia B (deficiency in coagulation factor IX, FIX). Current clinical immune tolerance protocols are often not effective due to complications such as anaphylactic reactions against FIX. Plant‐based oral tolerance induction may address this problem, as illustrated by the recent first regulatory approval of orally delivered plant cells to treat peanut allergy. Our previous studies showed that oral delivery of plant cells expressing FIX fused to the transmucosal carrier CTB (cholera toxin subunit B) in chloroplasts suppressed ADA in animals with haemophilia B. We report here creation of the first lettuce transplastomic lines expressing a coagulation factor, in the absence of antibiotic resistance gene. Stable integration of the CTB‐FIX gene and homoplasmy (transformation of ˜10 000 copies in each cell) were maintained in both T1 and T2 generation marker‐free plants. CTB‐FIX expression in lyophilized leaves of T1 and T2 marker‐free plants was 1.0–1.5 mg/g dry weight, confirming that the marker excision did not affect antigen levels. Oral administration of CTB‐FIX to Sprague Dawley rats at 0.25, 1 or 2.5 mg/kg did not produce overt adverse effects or toxicity. The no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level (NOAEL) is at least 2.5 mg/kg for a single oral administration in rats. Oral administration of CTB‐FIX at 0.3 or 1.47 mg/kg either mixed in food or as an oral suspension to Beagle dogs did not produce any observable toxicity. These toxicology studies should facilitate filing of regulatory approval documents and evaluation in haemophilia B patients.
The “grammatical” nature of Wittgenstein's private language investigation
Authors: Lin Francis Y.
Published: May 2021

In this paper, I examine the grammatical nature of Wittgenstein's private language argument (PLA). On my interpretation, the definition of private language implies that the private speaker has no natural expressions for his sensations. This in turn implies that he has no criterion of correctness for using his sensation‐words. This then implies, together with the grammatical rule that a word is senseless without a criterion of correctness for its use, that private sensation‐words are senseless, and hence also that private language is senseless. So in my analysis, Wittgenstein succeeds in dissolving the problem of private language through a grammatical investigation, and therefore, his treatment of private language is consistent with his metaphilosophy. I further explain that Wittgenstein provides a diagnosis of the error of the philosopher who thinks that private language is possible and that he also offers a therapy consisting of analogies or objects of comparison. I also make a comparison with previous studies on the PLA and discuss a number of novelties in my interpretation.
Contemporary art and the geopolitics of extractivism in Turkey's Kurdistan
Authors: Çaylı Eray
Published: May 2021

Discussing a body of artwork made in Turkey's Kurdistan, I explore contemporary art's potential to facilitate critical insight into the (geo)politics of ecology today. A significant strand of the growing geographical literature on art's critical potential focuses on issues of ecological import such as climate change, locating critique in problematisation of Eurocentric aesthetics for its links with colonialism and racialised humanism. Still another strand focuses on neoliberal geopolitics, appraising contemporary art's critical potential against post‐political approaches to democracy, peace, and prosperity. I bring together these two strands, both methodologically and empirically, as I consider the politics of ecology in Turkey's Kurdistan, inextricably intertwined with both state‐endorsed racial violence in the 20th century and neoliberal democratisation and peace‐making in the 21st century. Methodologically, I develop and operationalise the concept of extractivism in conversation with recent critics of the Anthropocene thesis who foreground racial capitalism rather than humanity as the geopolitical – geological and geographical – force afflicting ecology. Empirically, I draw on the artworks under discussion to unpack how extractivism in Turkey's Kurdistan has not only continued unabated throughout the neoliberal‐democratic transition from “war” to “peace” but has also structured the latter paradigm on the former, influencing realms beyond resource extraction. The resulting argument is the following. Challenging the Eurocentrism of aesthetics and/or the neoliberal post‐political paradigm remain important indicators of art's critical (geo)political potential. However, a fuller appraisal of this potential also requires asking if and to what extent such challenges redistribute agency vis‐à‐vis power relations formed by and formative of extractivism as a set of racialised practices operating not only through industries of extraction proper, like mining, agriculture, and construction, but also through cultural ones like art.
Fortalece el estado de salud y nutrición de jóvenes y niños
Authors: Villamil Parra Ruby Alejandra , Rueda Gómez Alba Lucía , Robelto Arias Gloria Elizabeth , Ordóñez Chaparro María José , Guzmán Silva María Paula , Giha Gutierrez Valeria , Santos Maldonado Alejandra , Gómez Cruz Estefanía
Published: May 2021

Este libro tiene por objetivo compartir información referente a alimentación saludable y preparaciones tradicionales colombianas que permitan contar con pautas que incentiven entornos saludables dentro del hogar. Incluye consejos para una adecuada selección, transformación y consumo de alimentos saludables en el hogar; además, se encuentran recetas fáciles de preparar en familia y que se pueden incluir en los refrigerios y almuerzos. También se encuentran disponibles sugerencias para mantener la inocuidad de las preparaciones en todo momento y, más aún, en tiempos de emergencia sanitaria.
Three new species of oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) from Mozambique

Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Bakowski Marek
Published: May 2021

Three new species of oribatid mites (Allonothrus malgorzatae Ermilov & Bąkowski sp. nov., Aleurodamaeus murombodziensis Ermilov sp. nov. and Pilobatella sofalaensis Ermilov sp. nov.) are described from central Mozambique. The morphology of tritonymph of A. murombodziensis is studied.
Linear viscoelastic properties of adhesive soft particle glasses
Authors: Shahmohammadi Ali , Bonnecaze Roger T.
Published: May 2021

A model is presented to predict the linear viscoelastic rheology of hydrophobically modified adhesive soft particle glasses in an aqueous solution. The hydrophobes on the surfaces of particles in contact preferentially associate with each other, creating an adhesive force between particles. The extent of this adhesive force depends on the number of associating or physically bonded hydrophobes and the strain on the bonds. The model is first presented for two horizontal surfaces with hydrophobes attached to them. The force required for oscillatory movement between these adhesive surfaces exhibits a Maxwellian behavior with a single relaxation time that is about the time for hydrophobe dissociation. The model is extended to predict the storage and loss moduli of adhesive soft particle glasses in ordered cubic lattices. In addition to the adhesive force, the particles also exhibit repulsive elastic and elastohydrodynamic interparticle forces. For situations where there is no adhesive force between particles, the storage modulus is independent of frequency, and the loss modulus is a linear function of frequency. The storage and loss moduli as functions of frequency are richer with adhesive forces. The storage modulus exhibits two plateaus, one at low and one at high frequency. The loss modulus exhibits a local maximum in frequency that occurs at approximately the dissociation rate of the hydrophobes.
M. Biceps Femoris Long Head Architecture and Sprint Ability in Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Ritsche Paul , Bernhard Thomas , Roth Ralf , Lichtenstein Eric , Keller Martin , Zingg Sabrina , Franchi Martino V. , Faude Oliver
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Hamstring muscle architecture may be associated with sprint performance and the risk of sustaining a muscle injury, both of which increase during puberty. In this study, we investigated the m. biceps femoris long head (BFlh) cross-sectional area (ACSA), fascicle length (FL) and pennation angle (PA), and sprint performance as well as their relationship in under 13 to 15 youth soccer players. Methods: We measured 85 players in under-13 (n = 29, age = 12.5 [0.1] y, height = 155.3 [6.2] cm, weight = 43.9 [7.6] kg), under-14 (n = 25, age = 13.5 [0.3] y, height = 160.6 [7.7] cm, weight = 47.0 [6.8] kg), and under-15 (n = 31, age = 14.4 [0.3] y, height = 170.0 [7.7] cm, weight = 58.1 [8.8] kg) teams. We used ultrasound to measure BFlh ACSA, FL and PA, and sprint tests to assess 10- and 30-m sprint time, maximal velocity  (vmax), and maximal acceleration (αmax). We calculated Pearson r to assess the relationship between sprint ability and architectural parameters. Results: All muscle architectural parameters increased from the under-13 to the under-15 age group (BFlh ACSA = 37%, BFlh FL = 11%, BFlh PA = 8%). All sprint performance parameters improved from the under-13 to under-15 age categories (30-m time = 7%, 10-m time = 4%, vmax = 9%, αmax = 7%). The BFlh ACSA was correlated with 30-m sprint time (r = −.61 (95% compatibility interval [CI] [−.73, −.45]) and vmax (r = .61, 95% CI [.45, .72]). A combination of BFlh ACSA and age best predicted 30-m time (R² = .47 [.33, .62]) and 10-m time (R² = .23 [.08, .38]). Conclusions: Muscle architectural as well as sprint performance parameters increase from the under-13 to under-15 age groups. Even though we found correlations for all assessed architectural parameters, BFlh ACSA was best related to the assessed sprint parameters.
Implementation and Effectiveness of a CSPAP-Informed, Online Secondary Methods Course With Virtual Field Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Webster Collin A. , Moon Jongho , Bennett Hayes , Griffin Stephen
Published: May 2021

This study examined the implementation and effectiveness of a comprehensive school physical activity program (CSPAP)-informed, 15-week physical education secondary methods course, adapted from its previous in-person format to be completely online for fall 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants were 15 preservice physical education teachers (PPETs) and three course instructors. Each PPET taught six virtual physical education lessons to middle and high school students learning at home. Multiple data sources including focus groups, individual interviews, and course artifacts were analyzed to address research questions centered on the fidelity of course delivery, adaptations made to the course during implementation, and the PPETs’ approach to lesson planning and teaching. The findings showed a high level of implementation fidelity, and few adaptations were made to the course. Three themes were identified with respect to the PPETs’ pedagogical approach: personalization, inquiry-based instruction, and resilience. This study provides a case example of trying to prepare PPETs for professional roles in the COVID era.
Charged skyrmions and topological origin of superconductivity in magic-angle graphene
Authors: Khalaf Eslam , Chatterjee Shubhayu , Bultinck Nick , Zaletel Michael P. , Vishwanath Ashvin
Published: May 2021

Pairing from topology explains superconductivity in magic-angle graphene and predicts other unconventional superconductors.
Characterization of KPC-82, a KPC-2 Variant Conferring Resistance to Ceftazidime-Avibactam in a Carbapenem-Nonsusceptible Clinical Isolate of Citrobacter koseri
Authors: Lebreton Francois , Corey Brendan W. , McElheny Christi L. , Iovleva Alina , Preston Lan , Margulieux Katie R. , Cybulski Robert J. , Mc Gann Patrick , Doi Yohei , Bennett Jason W.
Published: May 2021

KPC-82 is a KPC-2 variant identified in a carbapenem-nonsusceptible
Citrobacter koseri
that confers high-level resistance to ceftazidime-avibactam. Genomic analysis revealed that
bla
KPC-82
is carried by a chromosomally integrated Tn
4401
transposon (disrupting porin gene
phoE
) and evolved by a 6-nucleotide tandem repeat duplication causing a two-amino-acid insertion (Ser-Asp) within the Ala
267
-Ser
275
loop.
GCN4 Regulates Secondary Metabolism through Activation of Antioxidant Gene Expression under Nitrogen Limitation Conditions in Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Lian Lingdan , Wang Lingshuai , Song Shuqi , Zhu Jing , Liu Rui , Shi Liang , Ren Ang , Zhao Mingwen
Published: May 2021

Nitrogen has been widely reported to regulate secondary metabolism in fungi. Our study assessed the specific nitrogen regulatory mechanisms in
Ganoderma lucidum
.
Second-Generation Live-Attenuated Candid#1 Vaccine Virus Resists Reversion and Protects against Lethal Junín Virus Infection in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Gowen Brian B. , Hickerson Brady T. , York Joanne , Westover Jonna B. , Sefing Eric J. , Bailey Kevin W. , Wandersee Luci , Nunberg Jack H.
Published: May 2021

Our most successful vaccines comprise weakened strains of virus that initiate a limited and benign infection in immunized persons. The live-attenuated Candid#1 strain of Junín virus (JUNV) was developed to protect field workers in Argentina from rodent-borne hemorrhagic fever but is not licensed in the United States, in part due to the likelihood of genetic reversion to virulence.