bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term iron deprivation and subsequent recovery uncover heterogeneity in the response of cyanobacterial populations
Authors: Qiu Guo‐Wei , Lis Hagar , Qiu Bao‐Sheng , Keren Nir
Published: February 2021

Cyanobacteria are globally important primary producers and nitrogen fixers. They are frequently limited by iron bioavailability in natural environments that often fluctuate due to rapid consumption and irregular influx of external Fe. Here we identify a succession of physiological changes in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 occurring over 14–16 days of iron deprivation and subsequent recovery. We observe several adaptive strategies that allow cells to push their metabolic limits under the restriction of declining intracellular Fe quotas. Interestingly, cyanobacterial populations exposed to prolonged iron deprivation showed discernible heterogeneity in cellular auto‐fluorescence during the recovery process. Using FACS and microscopy techniques we revealed that only cells with high auto‐fluorescence were able to grow and reconstitute thylakoid membranes. We propose that ROS‐mediated damage is likely to be associated with the emergence of the two subpopulations, and, indeed, a rapid increase in intracellular ROS content was observed during the first hours following iron addition to Fe‐starved cultures. These results suggest that an increasing iron supply is a double‐edged sword ‐ posing both an opportunity and a risk. Therefore, phenotypic heterogeneity within populations is crucial for the survival and proliferation of organisms facing iron fluctuations within natural environments.
What emotional‐centred challenges do children attending special schools face over primary–secondary school transition?
Authors: Bagnall Charlotte L. , Fox Claire L. , Skipper Yvonne
Published: February 2021

Primary–secondary school transition encompasses multiple social, academic and environmental changes which can negatively impact children’s emotional well‐being. Children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health difficulties (SEMH) are believed to be especially vulnerable during this time. However, the voices of children with SEMH are heavily underrepresented in this field within practice and research. The present case study examined how children with SEMH difficulties within one special school experience primary–secondary school transition and how they are supported, in order to make recommendations to improve this period. The case study was qualitative and longitudinal, conducted over 18‐months and methodologies included ethnographic observations, child photo‐elicitation focus groups (with 11 Year 6 children) and three adult interviews. Findings demonstrated that over primary–secondary school transition children with SEMH difficulties (a) negotiate significant structural changes in support (often unanticipated) and (b) need to feel a sense ofsafetyandbelonging. To manage this effectively, transition provision for children with SEMH difficulties needs to consider their short‐term emotional well‐being whilst still in primary school, in addition to their long‐term well‐being looking ahead to secondary school. Greater collaboration and communication across schools and stakeholders can help ensure children receive continuity in standards and support.
Measurements of the dermal exposure to bystanders from direct off‐crop drift during the application of plant protection products
Authors: Kuster Christian J. , Hewitt Nicola J. , Butler Ellis Clare , Timmermann Christian , Anft Thomas
Published: February 2021

We determined the dermal exposure of plant protection products containing prothioconazole (PTZ) after spraying a standard crop using a tractor‐operated boom sprayer. Dermal exposure of adult and child bystanders to PTZ and its metabolite, PTZ‐desthio was quantified in bystander drift studies. Exposure was greater on mannequins placed 2 m from the zero line, compared with 5 m or 8 m. When the overall boom height above the ground was the same, the relative boom and canopy heights had no impact on the spray drift, allowing pooling of data from different studies. Wind tunnel experiments were used to compare two flat fan nozzle types, which allowed dermal exposure measured in early bystander field studies using the flat fan TeeJet XR 110 03 nozzle to be adjusted using a conversion factor to reflect exposure from Hypro F110‐03 nozzles. Values from studies using both flat fan nozzle types were pooled and compared with exposure using drift reduction nozzles. For the first time, 3D life‐size mannequins used in field studies have shown that drift reduction nozzles exceed the EFSA‐recommended 50% reduction in drift (potential exposure was reduced by 58–67%). The BREAM2 (Bystander and Resident Exposure Assessment Model) model resulted in better predictions of measured dermal exposure of PTZ equivalents than BREAM, albeit producing more conservative values for the 75th and 95th percentiles of potential dermal exposure compared to field studies (2.6‐fold higher than measured values). Our results using measured potential and actual exposures indicate that the EFSA calculation of 18% protection by light clothing was too conservative.
Phosphatidylethanol in whole blood of rhesus monkeys correlates with ethanol consumption
Authors: Lopez‐Cruzan Marisa , Walter Nicole A. R. , Sanchez Jesus J. , Ginsburg Brett C. , Koek Wouter , Jimenez Vanessa A. , Grant Kathleen A. , Javors Martin A.
Published: February 2021

Background

Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) homologs are ethanol metabolites used to identify and monitor alcohol drinking in humans. In this study, we measured levels of the 2 most abundant homologs, PEth 16:0/18:1 and PEth 16:0/18:2, in whole blood samples from rhesus macaque monkeys that drank ethanol daily ad libitum to assess the relationship between PEth levels and recent ethanol exposure in this animal model.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from The Monkey Alcohol Tissue Research Resource. The monkeys were first induced to consume 4% (w/v) ethanol in water from a panel attached to their home cage. Then, monkeys were allowed to drink ethanol and water ad libitum 22 h daily for 12 months and the daily amount of ethanol each monkey consumed was measured. Whole, uncoagulated blood was collected from each animal at the end of the entire experimental procedure. PEth 16:0/18:1 and PEth 16:0/18:2 levels were analyzed by HPLC with tandem mass spectrometry, and the ethanol consumed during the preceding 14 days was measured. Combined PEth was the sum of the concentrations of both homologs.

Results

Our results show that (1) PEth accumulates in the blood of rhesus monkeys after ethanol consumption; (2) PEth homolog levels were correlated with the daily average ethanol intake during the 14‐day period immediately preceding blood collection; (3) the application of established human PEth 16:0/18:1 cutoff concentrations indicative of light social or no ethanol consumption (<20 ng/ml), moderate ethanol consumption (≥ 20 and < 200 ng/ml) and heavy ethanol consumption (≥ 200 ng/ml) predicted significantly different ethanol intake in these animals. PEth homologs were not detected in ethanol‐naïve controls.

Conclusions

This study confirms that PEth is a sensitive biomarker for ethanol consumption in rhesus macaque monkeys. This nonhuman primate model may prove useful in evaluating sources of variability previously shown to exist between ethanol consumption and PEth homolog levels among humans.
Eltrombopag second‐line therapy in adult patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia in an attempt to achieve sustained remission off‐treatment: results of a phase II, multicentre, prospective study
Authors: Lucchini Elisa , Palandri Francesca , Volpetti Stefano , Vianelli Nicola , Auteri Giuseppe , Rossi Elena , Patriarca Andrea , Carli Giuseppe , Barcellini Wilma , Celli Melania , Consoli Ugo , Valeri Federica , Santoro Cristina , Crea Enrico , Vignetti Marco , Paoloni Francesca , Gigliotti Casimiro Luca , Boggio Elena , Dianzani Umberto , Giardini Ilaria , Carpenedo Monica , Rodeghiero Francesco , Fanin Renato , Zaja Francesco ,   for Gruppo Italiano Malattie Ematologiche dell’Adulto (GIMEMA)
Published: February 2021

Up to 30% immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) patients achieve a sustained remission off‐treatment (SROT) after discontinuation of thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO‐RAs). Factors predictive of response are lacking. Patients aged ≥18 years with newly diagnosed or persistent ITP were treated with eltrombopag for 24 weeks. Primary end‐point was SROT: the proportion of responders that were able to taper and discontinue eltrombopag maintaining the response during a period of observation (PO) of six months. Secondary end‐points included the association between some immunological parameters (TPO serum levels, cytokines and lymphocyte subsets) and response. Fifty‐one patients were evaluable. Primary end‐point was achieved in 13/51 (25%) treated patients and 13/34 (38%) patients who started the tapering. Baseline TPO levels were not associated with response at week 24 nor with SROT. Higher baseline levels of IL‐10, IL‐4, TNF‐α and osteopontin were negative factors predictive of response (P = 0·001, 0·008, 0·02 and 0·03 respectively). This study confirms that SROT is feasible for a proportion of ITP patients treated with eltrombopag. Some biological parameters were predictive of response.
Limited‐stage diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: current management and challenges
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Yin , Collins Graham P. , Cutter David J. , Eyre Toby A.
Published: February 2021

Twenty‐five to thirty per cent of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) presents as limited stage (I–II). Prognosis is generally excellent with four to six cycles of R‐CHOP alone (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, prednisolone) or combined‐modality therapy with three or four cycles and involved‐site radiotherapy (RT). There is growing interest in optimising algorithms to retain disease control whilst minimising long‐term toxicity, with several recent studies focusing on the safety of abbreviating chemotherapy and omitting RT in low‐risk patients and the utility of PET‐based response‐adapted approaches. As these studies are limited to younger patients without risk factors, application of similar approaches in elderly or higher‐risk patients is hampered by a lack of evidence. Whilst there has been a move away from using RT in low‐risk patients, it remains a useful adjunct in specific situations. Current evidence cannot exclude a clinically meaningful benefit from RT even in low‐risk patients and, given the low expected toxicity from modern RT techniques, a risk–benefit assessment should be individualised and considered in a multidisciplinary fashion. The optimal approach for extranodal limited‐stage DLBCL (~40% of cases) varies according to site of origin. Herein we discuss the latest clinical trial evidence and how this can be applied in routine practice.
Low‐dose fludarabine and cyclophosphamide combined with rituximab in the first‐line treatment of elderly/comorbid patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL): long‐term results of project Q‐lite by the Czech CLL Study Group
Authors: Smolej Lukáš , Brychtová Yvona , Cmunt Eduard , Doubek Michael , Špaček Martin , Belada David , Šimkovič Martin , Stejskal Lukáš , Zygulová Irena , Urbanová Renata , Brejcha Martin , Zuchnická Jana , Móciková Heidi , Kozák Tomáš ,   for the Czech CLL Study Group
Published: February 2021

Therapeutic options used to be very limited for treatment‐naïve elderly/comorbid patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) before the introduction of chemo‐immunotherapy. Because dose‐reduced fludarabine‐based regimens yielded promising results, the Czech CLL Study Group initiated a prospective observational study to assess safety and efficacy of low‐dose fludarabine and cyclophosphamide combined with rituximab (FCR) in elderly/comorbid patients. Between March 2009 and July 2012, we enrolled 107 patients considered ineligible for full‐dose FCR (median age, 70 years; median Cumulative Illness Rating Scale score, 5; median creatinine clearance, 69 ml/min). Notably, 77% patients had unfavourable biological prognosis [unmutated immunoglobulin heavy‐chain variable‐region gene (IGHV), 74%; deletion 17p, 9%). Fludarabine was reduced to 12 mg/m2 intravenously (iv) or 20 mg/m2 orally on days 1–3 and cyclophosphamide to 150 mg/m2 iv/orally on days 1–3. Grade 3–4 neutropenia occurred in 56% of the patients, but there were serious infections in only 15%. The median progression‐free survival was 29 months, but was markedly longer in patients with mutated IGHV (median 53 months), especially in absence of del 11q or 17p (median 74 months). Low‐dose FCR is a well‐tolerated and effective first‐line regimen for selected elderly/comorbid patients with CLL/SLL with favourable biology. The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02156726).
Riverscape nesting dynamics of Neosho Smallmouth Bass: To cluster or not to cluster?
Authors: Miller Andrew D. , Brewer Shannon K.
Published: February 2021

Aim

Hierarchical stream habitat conditions influence patterns of fish abundance and population dynamics. The spawning period is important for stream fishes but coincides with unpredictable environmental conditions and stressors. Thus, identifying habitats that confer suitable spawning is crucial to managing vulnerable fish populations, including narrow‐range endemics. Here, we evaluate reach‐ and catchment‐scale habitat features related to Neosho Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu velox) nest presence, abundance and aggregations (clusters) and quantify nest microhabitat.

Location

Ozark Highlands ecoregion, USA.

Methods

We conducted snorkel and habitat surveys from 2016 to 2018 to quantify nest abundance, describe nest cluster characteristics and quantify nest microhabitat. We used field‐collected and geospatial variables and developed generalized mixed models to evaluate the influence of multi‐scale habitat features on nest cluster presence and nest abundance.

Results

Nest clusters, scarcely known for other Smallmouth Bass populations, contained 25% of all documented nests. Presence of nests was more likely in warmer stream reaches with wide, shallow channels and more pool habitat. Nest cluster presence was more likely with greater nest densities and earlier in the spawning season. The abundance of Smallmouth Bass nests was related to several reach‐scale habitat conditions, with greater nest counts in warmer reaches and reaches with deeper pool habitat. Regardless of cluster behaviour, nesting Smallmouth Bass used similar microhabitats, including a range of depths (0.26–1.85 m), low velocities (<0.1 m/s) and typically gravel substrates.

Main conclusions

Our results indicate plasticity in nesting ecology within Neosho Smallmouth Bass populations and highlight the need to consider multiple aspects of stream habitat when developing conservation and management plans. The importance of reach‐scale habitat features suggests it may be important to limit landscape and channel alterations. Nest clustering behaviour suggests these populations may be vulnerable to human influence during the nesting season, but also provides management opportunities for protection during critical time periods.
Endoscopic resection of the lesion on the inverted appendix using an endoloop
Authors: Ishii Rindo , Ohata Ken , Muramoto Takashi
Published: February 2021

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Are growth diagnostics biased against the poor? Evidence from the Millennium Challenge Corporation
Authors: Bhatt Jigar D.
Published: February 2021

Motivation

The growth diagnostics methodology was developed to encourage context‐specific problem‐solving and priority‐setting as a substitute for the universal prescriptions that characterized the Washington Consensus era. While growth diagnostics have been praised and become popular in development planning, little is known about what they do in practice.

Purpose

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a new aid agency, adopted growth diagnostics in 2007 to guide decision‐making for bilateral development assistance after forging nearly 20 agreements informed by existing Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers. This study examines how the MCC’s adoption of growth diagnostics affected its development investments.

Approach and methods

The study used a mixed‐methods approach with primary and secondary data and an interrupted time‐series research design that compares MCC agreements designed with and without growth diagnostics.

Findings

The study found that growth diagnostics helped move the MCC’s investment portfolio away from multi‐sector integrated rural development programmes aimed at high‐poverty regions towards programmes in fewer sectors concentrated in urban areas with large policy and institutional reform components reminiscent of earlier structural adjustment programmes. The article explains how features of the growth diagnostic methodology largely contributed to these changes.

Policy implications

Development planners committed to using diagnostics should employ inclusive growth diagnostics, which modify the original diagnostic in ways that identify and target constraints to achieve pro‐poor growth.
Identification of genes and pathways related to breast cancer metastasis in an integrated cohort
Authors: Wang Lingchen , Mo Changgan , Wang Liqin , Cheng Minzhang
Published: February 2021

Background

Breast cancer is the most common malignant disease in women. Metastasis is the most common cause of death from this cancer. Screening genes related to breast cancer metastasis may help elucidate the mechanisms governing metastasis and identify molecular targets for antimetastatic therapy. The development of advanced algorithms enables us to perform cross‐study analysis to improve the robustness of the results.

Materials and methods

Ten data sets meeting our criteria for differential expression analyses were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Among these data sets, five based on the same platform were formed into a large cohort using the XPN algorithm. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with breast cancer metastasis were identified using the differential expression via distance synthesis (DEDS) algorithm. A cross‐platform method was employed to verify these DEGs in all ten selected data sets. The top 50 validated DEGs are represented with heat maps. Based on the validated DEGs, Gene Ontology (GO) functional and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed. Protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed to further illustrate the direct and indirect associations among the DEGs. Survival analysis was performed to explore whether these genes can affect breast cancer patient prognosis.

Results

A total of 817 DEGs were identified using the DEDS algorithm. Of these DEGs, 450 genes were validated by the second algorithm. Enriched KEGG pathway terms demonstrated that these 450 DEGs may be involved in the cell cycle and oocyte meiosis in addition to their functions in ECM‐receptor interaction and protein digestion and absorption. PPI network analysis for the proteins encoded by the DEGs indicated that these genes may be primarily involved in the cell cycle and extracellular matrix. In particular, several genes played roles in multiple signalling pathways and were related to patient survival. These genes were also observed to be targetable in the CTD2 database.

Conclusions

Our study analysed multiple cross‐platform data sets using two different algorithms, helping elucidate the molecular mechanisms and identify several potential therapeutic targets of metastatic breast cancer. In addition, several genes exhibited promise for applications in targeted therapy against metastasis in future research.
Contrasting patterns of food and macronutrient limitation in the field among co‐existing omnivorous carnivores
Authors: Toft Søren , Pavón‐Peláez Camila , Martinez‐Villar Mauro , Rengifo Laura , Arroyave Alejandra , Pompozzi Gabriel , Franco Viviana , Albo Maria J.
Published: February 2021

1. Carnivores are often food and/or macronutrient limited in their natural habitats, but whether they are limited mostly by protein or lipid is still a matter of controversy. As many predators and carnivorous scavengers also include plant material in their diet (omnivory), carbohydrate limitation is also possible.

2. The authors used a recently described double‐test procedure to test for food and macronutrient limitation in five co‐existing species of predators and omnivorous scavengers from Uruguay (two crickets: Gryllus sp. and Miogryllus verticalis; two cockroaches: Blatta orientalis and Blaptica dubia and a harvestman: Acanthopachylus aculeatus).

3. The authors found that the two crickets and one cockroach were food limited and one cockroach was non‐protein (lipid) limited in the field. The harvestman showed a dramatic change in food limitation between two dates separated by only 3 weeks, but was non‐protein (lipid) limited over both dates. From all species, the harvestman showed the highest self‐selected intake of carbohydrates (27%), indicating a high level of omnivory. In contrast, the two cockroaches selected a surprisingly low proportion of carbohydrates (13–14%), while the crickets were intermediate (14–19%). The authors hypothesize that these omnivores are more carnivorous in the wild than expected from studies of laboratory populations.

4. Though individuals were collected from the same habitats and all species self‐selected macronutrient ratios characteristic of omnivorous carnivores, they showed different patterns of food and macronutrient limitation, reflecting species' niche segregation and individual differences in foraging success.
Examining the effect of stress on the flexible updating of avoidance responses
Authors: Lemmens Anke , Quaedflieg Conny W. E. M. , Dibbets Pauline , Rijkeboer Marleen , Smeets Tom
Published: February 2021

Acute stress has been found to impair the flexible updating of stimulus − outcome associations. However, there is a lack of studies investigating the effect of acute stress on the flexible updating of stimulus–response associations, like active avoidance responses. The current study used an avoidance reversal learning paradigm to address this question. Sixty‐one participants learned that a red dot was associated with an aversive sound, whereas a green dot was not (Pavlovian Acquisition phase). Next, they were trained to avoid the aversive stimulus by selectively pressing a button in response to the red, but not the green, dot (Avoidance Acquisition phase). Subsequently, participants either underwent a stress induction task or a no‐stress control task. The flexible updating of expectancies of the US and avoidance responses were assessed after reversal of the original contingencies (Reversal Test). Acute stress did not impair the flexible updating of avoidance responses during the Reversal Test. In contrast, results showed that in the stress group the expectancies of the aversive sound were more in accordance with the reversed contingencies compared to the ratings of control participants. Additionally, cortisol responders avoided less often in comparison to cortisol non‐responders. Increased noradrenergic activity in stressed participants was related to impairments in the flexible updating of avoidance responses after contingency reversal, while this association was absent in the control participants. In conclusion, our results suggest that the autonomic response might account for shifting the balance toward inflexible updating of stimulus–outcome awareness while stress does not impair flexible updating of avoidance responses.
Assortative mating in space and time: patterns and biases
Authors: Rios Moura Rafael , Oliveira Gonzaga Marcelo , Silva Pinto Nelson , Vasconcellos‐Neto João , Requena Gustavo S.
Published: February 2021

Despite the important roles of assortative mating for understanding evolutionary processes, our knowledge on the variation in assortative mating across populations and breeding periods has been overshadowed by the greater attention given to general patterns. Obtaining data on mating pairs are difficult for most species; therefore, researchers often group data from different populations or breeding periods, which can increase positive biases in detecting and estimating assortative mating. We used a meta‐analytic approach to investigate the biases caused by spatially or temporally pooling data and the assortative mating consistency across populations and breeding periods. We describe assortative mating patterns across and within animal taxa. We performed a systematic review to search studies reporting measures of size‐assortative mating (SAM). Grouping data from multiple populations and seasons incurred positive biases. Overall, assortative mating moderately exhibited low repeatability in space and time, but it was inconsistent for most taxa. After excluding pooled measures, the average estimate for assortative mating was moderate and positive. Thus, our findings demonstrate that pooling data can produce misleading results. We also highlight the importance of further investigation of hypotheses that explain spatial and temporal variation in assortative mating, after its detection. Our study reinforces the significance of investigating mating patterns at various spatial and temporal scales before drawing broad conclusions.
In silico model reveals the key role of GABA in KCNT1‐epilepsy in infancy with migrating focal seizures
Authors: Kuchenbuch Mathieu , Nabbout Rima , Yochum Maxime , Sauleau Paul , Modolo Julien , Wendling Fabrice , Benquet Pascal
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study was undertaken to investigate how gain of function (GOF) of slack channel due to a KCNT1 pathogenic variant induces abnormal neuronal cortical network activity and generates specific electroencephalographic (EEG) patterns of epilepsy in infancy with migrating focal seizures.

Methods

We used detailed microscopic computational models of neurons to explore the impact of GOF of slack channel (explicitly coded) on each subtype of neurons and on a cortical micronetwork. Then, we adapted a thalamocortical macroscopic model considering results obtained in detailed models and immature properties related to epileptic brain in infancy. Finally, we compared simulated EEGs resulting from the macroscopic model with interictal and ictal patterns of affected individuals using our previously reported EEG markers.

Results

The pathogenic variants of KCNT1 strongly decreased the firing rate properties of γ‐aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) interneurons and, to a lesser extent, those of pyramidal cells. This change led to hyperexcitability with increased synchronization in a cortical micronetwork. At the macroscopic scale, introducing slack GOF effect resulted in epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizures (EIMFS) EEG interictal patterns. Increased excitation‐to‐inhibition ratio triggered seizure, but we had to add dynamic depolarizing GABA between somatostatin‐positive interneurons and pyramidal cells to obtain migrating seizure. The simulated migrating seizures were close to EIMFS seizures, with similar values regarding the delay between the different ictal activities (one of the specific EEG markers of migrating focal seizures due to KCNT1 pathogenic variants).

Significance

This study illustrates the interest of biomathematical models to explore pathophysiological mechanisms bridging the gap between the functional effect of gene pathogenic variants and specific EEG phenotype. Such models can be complementary to in vitro cellular and animal models. This multiscale approach provides an in silico framework that can be further used to identify candidate innovative therapies.
Enhanced fracture toughness of silica glass by ion‐implanted platinum nanoparticles
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Menchaca Jesús , Garay‐Tapia Andrés Manuel , Torres‐Torres David , Arizmendi‐Morquecho Ana María , Leyva‐Porras Cesar , Torres‐Torres Carlos , Oliver Alicia
Published: February 2021

The enhancement of fracture toughness exhibited by silica glass (SG) remains a challenge for a wide variety of technology applications, particularly without implying significant changes in the glass structure. The present work shows that embedded platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) can significantly improve the mechanical performance of silica glass (PtNPs/SG). The PtNPs were implanted into a high‐purity SG substrate with 3MV Tandem accelerator Pelletron and thermally annealed at 600°C. Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy characterizations disclosed a Gaussian distribution of PtNPs at 600‐nm depth. Nanoindentation test revealed that brittleness (B) decreased about 24% and the effective elastic modulus (Er) increased by about 7% for the nanostructured compound. Additionally, an increase in fracture toughness (Kc) of 19% and an enhancement of elasto‐plastic performance behavior during the scratch test were observed. Therefore, embedded PtNPs represent a potential solution for brittleness problems in SG.
Effect of the consumption of amaranth seeds and their sprouts on alterations of lipids and glucose metabolism in mice
Authors: Corzo‐Ríos Luis Jorge , Garduño‐Siciliano Leticia , Sánchez‐Chino Xariss M. , Martínez‐Herrera Jorge , Cardador‐Martínez Anaberta , Jiménez‐Martínez Cristian
Published: February 2021

Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) is appreciated for its nutritional and functional quality. This study evaluated the effects of consuming amaranth seeds and their sprouts on the metabolic markers in ICR male mice. Ungerminated amaranth seeds (A) and one‐day (G1) and three‐day (G3) germinated amaranth sprouts were dried and milled. The mice groups (n = 10) were fed standard (N) or hypercaloric (H) diets and 1 g A, G1 or G3/kg body weight for 28 days. The total cholesterol (TC), high‐ and low‐density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL), atherogenic index (AI), triglyceride (TG) and glucose levels were determined in blood samples. Germination increased the dietary fibre, phenolic and flavonoid concentration and decreased ash and squalene concentration. A, G1 or G3 consumption also decreased body weight, TC, LDL, AI and glucose levels in H group mice. Thus, amaranth seed or sprout consumption could be beneficial for people with altered lipid metabolism.
When and why does sense of power hinder self‐reported helping behavior? Testing a moderated mediation model in Chinese undergraduates
Authors: Sun Peng , Li Hui , Liu Zhen , Ren Minzhi , Guo Qingke , Kou Yu
Published: February 2021

Many studies on power and its influence on pro‐social behavior have been conducted with Western samples. Little is known about whether the relevant research findings can be extended to other cultural settings. This study investigates the relationship between sense of power and self‐reported helping behavior in Chinese culture. Using a sample of 388 undergraduate students, this study examines a moderated mediation model in which moral identity serves as a moderator and perspective taking serves as a mediator. The results show that sense of power is negatively associated with helping behavior, and this association is mediated by perspective taking. That is, sense of power exerts a negative effect on perspective taking, thereby decreasing people's tendency to help others. In addition, moral identity moderates the direct and indirect effect from sense of power to helping behavior. Specifically, when moral identity is low, sense of power exerts negative effects on perspective taking and helping behavior, but these effects become non‐significant when moral identity is high. This study sheds new light on the understanding of sense of power by examining its profound role in influencing pro‐social engagement in Eastern cultures. Our findings suggest that powerful people with lower levels of moral identity may be less willing to consider others' thoughts and feelings, and act less helping behavior. While high moral identity may buffer the negative effect of sense of power and enable powerful people to better play a role in promoting social harmony.
A three‐step model for the gamification of training and automaticity acquisition
Authors: Jamshidifarsani Hossein , Tamayo‐Serrano Paul , Garbaya Samir , Lim Theodore
Published: February 2021

Training design for automatic skills has a vast domain of application, such as education, physical and cognitive rehabilitation, as well as sports, arts and professional training. Gamification concept used in technology‐assisted training has the potential to increase motivation, engagement and adherence to the training programme. Currently, the general gamification models of learning, did not take into account the temporal specificity of the game elements for automaticity acquisition training. In order to address this problem, an extensive overview of the key training attributes that impact automaticity acquisition was carried out. Then, based on this review, the three steps of a proposed model were presented. The first step of this model, named Task Analytics, helps with task‐specific training decisions. The second step provides descriptive and prescriptive approaches for the three phases of automaticity acquisition (fast learning, slow learning and automatization). The descriptive part characterizes each phase using psychological and performance‐related qualities, while the prescriptive part recommends the appropriate training elements for each phase. Based on the prescriptive part, a game‐design model is proposed in the third step, which classifies the game mechanics and maps them onto each phase of automaticity acquisition. Finally, to validate this approach, a mobile game was designed based on the proposed gamification model, and it was compared to control design. The two approaches are tested with 49 participants. The results showed that the experimental group had a significantly better engagement and higher performance. Furthermore, the experimental group showed significantly better performance in a multitasking challenge designed to evaluate the automaticity. The main contribution of this article is the proposed game design model that takes into account the temporal specificity of game elements during the acquisition of automaticity.
A novel hypoxia gene signature indicates prognosis and immune microenvironments characters in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Qiangnu , Qiao Lijun , Liao Juan , Liu Quan , Liu Pengyu , Liu Liping
Published: February 2021

Due to the lack of a suitable gene signature, it is difficult to assess the hypoxic exposure of HCC tissues. The clinical value of assessing hypoxia in HCC is short of tissue‐level evidence. We tried to establish a robust and HCC‐suitable hypoxia signature using microarray analysis and a robust rank aggregation algorithm. Based on the hypoxia signature, we obtained a hypoxia‐associated HCC subtypes system using unsupervised hierarchical clustering and a hypoxia score system was provided using gene set variation analysis. A novel signature containing 21 stable hypoxia‐related genes was constructed to effectively indicate the exposure of hypoxia in HCC tissues. The signature was validated by qRT‐PCR and compared with other published hypoxia signatures in multiple large‐size HCC cohorts. The subtype of HCC derived from this signature had different prognosis and other clinical characteristics. The hypoxia score obtained from the signature could be used to indicate clinical characteristics and predict prognoses of HCC patients. Moreover, we reveal a landscape of immune microenvironments in patients with different hypoxia score. In conclusion, we identified a novel HCC‐suitable 21‐gene hypoxia signature that could be used to estimate the hypoxia exposure in HCC tissues and indicated prognosis and a series of important clinical features in HCCs. It may enable the development of personalized counselling or treatment strategies for HCC patients with different levels of hypoxia exposure.
Lower bone mineral density and higher bone resorption marker levels in premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes in Japan
Authors: Yoshioka Fumi , Nirengi Shinsuke , Murata Takashi , Kawaguchi Yaeko , Watanabe Tomokazu , Saeki Kunio , Yoshioka Muneto , Sakane Naoki
Published: February 2021

Aims/Introduction

Type 1 diabetes is associated with poorer bone quality. Quantitative ultrasound provides an estimate of bone mineral density (BMD) and can also be used to evaluate bone quality, which is associated with an increased fracture risk in people with type 1 diabetes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between menopausal status and a bone turnover marker with heel BMD using quantitative ultrasound in women with type 1 diabetes and age‐ and body mass index‐matched controls.

Materials and Methods

A total of 124 individuals recruited in Kyoto and Osaka, Japan – 62 women with type 1 diabetes (mean age 47.2 ± 17.3 years) and 62 age‐, menopausal status‐, sex‐ and body mass index‐matched non‐diabetic control individuals (mean age 47.3 ± 16.3 years) – were enrolled in this study. Heel BMD in the calcaneus was evaluated using ultrasonography (AOS‐100NW, Hitachi‐Aloka Medical, Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). A bone turnover marker was also measured.

Results

The heel BMD Z‐score was significantly lower in premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes than in the premenopausal control group, but not in postmenopausal women with type 1 diabetes. Levels of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐5b, a bone resorption marker, were significantly higher in premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes than in the premenopausal control group, but not in postmenopausal women with type 1 diabetes. The whole parathyroid hormone level was significantly lower in both pre‐ and postmenopausal women with type 1 diabetes.

Conclusions

Lower heel BMD, higher tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐5b level and lower parathyroid hormone were observed in premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes. Premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes require osteoporosis precautions for postmenopause.
Economic Policy Uncertainty and Bond Risk Premia
Authors: IOANNIDIS CHRISTOS , KA KOOK
Published: February 2021

We study the forecasting power of economic uncertainty about government policy for future bond returns. Using the economic policy uncertainty measure () developed by Baker, Bloom, and Davis (2016), we investigate its relationship to expected bond returns. The impact of the is shown to be large for earlier maturities at shorter investment horizons. Estimating an affine term structure model incorporating the , we show that term premia estimates from this model with this additional pricing factor exhibit higher fluctuations and move closely with the variations in observed yields. The implied term premia show strong countercyclical movements, hence better explaining higher risk compensation under adverse economic conditions as expected by theory.
Prevalence of musculoskeletal low back pain among registered nurses: Results of an online survey
Authors: Gilchrist Andrea , Pokorná Andrea
Published: February 2021

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) and the use of lifting aids and ergonomics among Czech registered nurses.

Background

Low back pain is the most common occupational health problem affecting nurses. Frequent manual lifting of heavy loads, including patients, is one of the main duties of nursing staff, which causes compressive and shear forces on the vertebrae of the lower spine. Training in manual handling and lifting aids reduce the physical burden on the musculoskeletal system, thus decreasing work‐related back injuries and further back problems.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The online survey was distributed to 1460 randomly selected nurses involved in caring for patients. The survey comprised the extended version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and a self‐structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using STATA 15 at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

Of the 569 respondents, 84.7% reported high occurrence of LBP over the previous 12‐month period. The lower back was the most commonly reported body region for pain, followed by the neck, shoulders and upper back. LBP was found to occur significantly less among nursing staff who used mechanical lifting aids. Nurses with a higher level of education were found significantly more likely to use mechanical patient‐lifting equipment in their clinical practice.

Conclusions

The study findings show that LBP is a frequent problem among nurses and has highlighted a lack of organisational safety practices and culture in clinical nursing practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study provides valuable information about the extent of LBP among nurses with insufficient preventive measures or health and safety practices at work. The results provide useful baseline data for the Czech Republic, that may lead to increased awareness and therefore implementation of preventative strategies, and thus enable a reduction in the risk of back injuries among nursing professionals.
Understanding nurses’ perspectives of physical restraints during mechanical ventilation in intensive care: A qualitative study
Authors: Perez Dawn , Murphy Gillian , Wilkes Lesley , Peters Kath
Published: February 2021

Aims and objectives

This study explored the experiences of nurses using physical restraints on mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care.

Background

Physical restraints are frequently used to prevent treatment interference and maintain patient safety in intensive care units worldwide. However, physical restraints are found to be ineffective in preventing treatment interference and cause negative outcomes for patients. The practices surrounding physical restraints are inconsistent due to a lack of education, training and protocols.

Design

This research was conducted as a qualitative study with a naturalistic inquiry framework adhering to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines.

Methods

Twelve in‐depth, semi‐structured conversations were conducted with registered nurses who have experience working in intensive care and have cared for patients who were physically restrained and mechanically ventilated. These conversations were audio‐recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Three major themes emerged from the data. The themes were as follows: the ICU culture and its impacts on physical restraint practices; the consequences of physical restraints through a nursing lens; and understanding the ways of learning.

Conclusion

The insights into the ICU culture, the nurses’ understanding of the consequences of physical restraints and the ways in which nurses learn physical restraint practices have provided a greater depth of knowledge and understanding of the realities of current practice in ICU. This new information demonstrates nurses’ understanding of the potential harm caused by physical restraints and the way in which current practices are guided more‐so by workplace norms and expectations rather than on critical thinking and decision‐making.

Relevance to clinical practice

These insights provide valuable information to intensive care clinicians, educators and policymakers to guide future practice and improve patient outcomes by highlighting the importance of education on physical restraint practices and informing the development of policies and guidelines.
Relationships between comprehensive characteristics of nurse work schedules and adverse patient outcomes: A systematic literature review
Authors: Bae Sung‐Heui
Published: February 2021

Aims

To review the comprehensive characteristics of adverse nurse work schedules and to synthesise the evidence of their relationships with adverse patient outcomes.

Background

To manage nurse shortages and fluctuations in patient censuses, nurses often work overtime. This increases nurses’ work hours and causes them to have fewer breaks. Such extended work schedules, long shift length, long weekly work hours and insufficient beaks can be considered as adverse nurse work schedules. Understanding how these adverse nurse work schedules affect patient outcomes is important to ensure patient safety.

Design

A systematic review of nursing and healthcare literature was conducted in this study.

Methods

Eight electronic bibliographic databases (CINAHL, Cochrane Library, DBpia, EBSCO, PubMed, PsycINFO, RISS and Web of Science) were used to search research articles published from 2000 to 2019. The study selection process followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA).

Results

From the search, 2,366 articles were identified, 22 of which were included in this review. Working more than 12 hours in a day had an adverse effect on patient outcomes, as was working more than 40 hours per week. There were mixed findings in the relationship between nurse overtime and adverse patient outcomes.

Conclusions

This study found a conclusive relationship between excessive nurse work hours and adverse patient outcomes. This review highlights the importance of managing adverse nurse schedules such as long daily and weekly work hours to improve patient safety and prevent adverse patient outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice

Study findings support the importance of monitoring and regulating nurse work schedules and adverse scheduling practices to improve nurse well‐being and health and to prevent adverse patient outcomes.
Complex histories of gene flow and a mitochondrial capture event in a nonsister pair of birds
Authors: Andersen Michael J. , McCullough Jenna M. , Gyllenhaal Ethan F. , Mapel Xena M. , Haryoko Tri , Jønsson Knud A. , Joseph Leo
Published: February 2021

Hybridization, introgression, and reciprocal gene flow during speciation, specifically the generation of mitonuclear discordance, are increasingly observed as parts of the speciation process. Genomic approaches provide insight into where, when, and how adaptation operates during and after speciation and can measure historical and modern introgression. Whether adaptive or neutral in origin, hybridization can cause mitonuclear discordance by placing the mitochondrial genome of one species (or population) in the nuclear background of another species. The latter, introgressed species may eventually have its own mtDNA replaced or “captured” by other species across its entire geographical range. Intermediate stages in the capture process should be observable. Two nonsister species of Australasian monarch‐flycatchers, Spectacled Monarch (Symposiachrus trivirgatus) mostly of Australia and Indonesia and Spot‐winged Monarch (S. guttula) of New Guinea, present an opportunity to observe this process. We analysed thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from ultraconserved elements of all subspecies of both species. Mitochondrial DNA sequences of Australian populations ofS. trivirgatusform two paraphyletic clades, one being sister to and presumably introgressed byS. guttuladespite little nuclear signal of introgression. Population genetic analyses (e.g., tests for modern and historical gene flow and selection) support at least one historical gene flow event betweenS. guttulaand AustralianS. trivirgatus. We also uncovered introgression from the Maluku Islands subspecies ofS. trivirgatusinto an island population ofS. guttula, resulting in apparent nuclear paraphyly. We find that neutral demographic processes, not adaptive introgression, are the most likely cause of these complex population histories. We suggest that a Pleistocene extinction ofS. guttulafrom mainland Australia resulted from range expansion byS. trivirgatus.