bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations among marijuana use, health‐related quality of life, exercise, depression and sleep in cancer survivors
Authors: Xu Wanli , Gilmer Declan O. , Starkweather Angela , Kim Kyounghae
Published: February 2021

Aims

To assess associations among cannabis use, health‐related quality of life, exercise, depression and sleep among a nationally representative sample of US adults living with cancer.

Design

A cross‐sectional correlational study.

Methods

We used survey data from the 2016–2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Analyses were considered for sample weights and the complex designs. Logistic regression was performed to assess associations among cannabis use (0, 1–19, vs. 20–30 [frequent] days), health‐related quality of life (0–13 vs. ≥14 mentally or physically unhealthy days in the past 30 days; 0–13 vs. ≥14 functionally limited days), exercise, depression, and sleep after accounting for covariates. Reason for cannabis use (medical vs. non‐medical) was also assessed.

Results

Frequent users had significantly more physically unhealthy days (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.28–2.51, p < .01) and reported ≥ 14 mentally unhealthy days (adjusted OR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.78–3.32, p < .001) and depression (adjusted OR: 2.65, 95% CI: 1.97–3.57, p < .001) compared with non‐users. A positive relationship between frequency of cannabis use and depression existed only among non‐medical cannabis users.

Conclusion

Cancer survivors using cannabis frequently (20 days+ in the past month) had poorer mental health‐related quality of life. The reason for cannabis use as well as frequency of use may be important considerations in predicting depression.

Impact

This is the first study that evaluates the associations among cannabis use, the purpose of cannabis use, HRQoL, exercise, depression and sleep in a nationally representative sample of US adults living with cancer. Frequent cannabis users are likely vulnerable to poorer mental health‐related quality of life and depression, and non‐medical cannabis use in frequent users was associated with depression. Given expanding medical cannabis legalization, these findings warrant further attention so that this information can be used by people living with cancer in decision‐making for symptom self‐management.
A mixed methods study of the healthcare received by patients diagnosed with a personality disorder on acute general hospital wards
Authors: Sharda Leila , Baker John , Cahill Jane
Published: February 2021

Aim

The study examined concurrent mental and physical healthcare received by patients diagnosed with a personality disorder on acute general hospital wards. The specific objectives were (i) to conduct a web based cross sectional survey and (ii) to explore experiences and perspectives with a subsection of the survey sample, using telephone interviews.

Design

A convergent parallel mixed methods design, which comprised a web‐based cross sectional survey (n = 65) with embedded qualitative telephone interviews (n = 12). Participants were social media users, with a self‐reported diagnosis of personality disorder, admitted to an acute general hospital in the UK in the previous 2 years.

Methods

Participants were recruited on social media between May 2017 and August 2017 by snowballing. Mixed data were integrated at the stage of analysis using a framework approach. Findings are reported thematically.

Results

Most of the participants surveyed (94%, n = 61) reported distress during admission to the acute general hospital. However, the findings indicated the hospital environment was not conducive to mental health. Four interrelated themes were identified and related to: patient distress; the workforce; service delivery; and service design.

Conclusion

Findings indicated that patients with a personality disorder diagnosis received disadvantaged healthcare, might be at considerable risk of treatment noncompletion, and were languishing in the gaps between mental and physical health services.

Impact

This is one of the first studies to collect primary data on the concurrent mental and physical healthcare received by patients diagnosed with a personality disorder on acute general hospital wards. Ad hoc training and education focused on raising awareness of ‘personality disorder’ would not seem sufficient to address the deficits.

This research may be of interest to people who use mental health services, acute general hospital and liaison clinicians, hospital managers and researchers.
Prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in Nigeria in 1995 and 2020: A systematic analysis of current evidence
Authors: Adeloye Davies , Owolabi Eyitayo O. , Ojji Dike B. , Auta Asa , Dewan Mary T. , Olanrewaju Timothy O. , Ogah Okechukwu S. , Omoyele Chiamaka , Ezeigwe Nnenna , Mpazanje Rex G. , Gadanya Muktar A. , Agogo Emmanuel , Alemu Wondimagegnehu , Adebiyi Akindele O. , Harhay Michael O.
Published: February 2021

Improved understanding of the current burden of hypertension, including awareness, treatment, and control, is needed to guide relevant preventative measures in Nigeria. A systematic search of studies on the epidemiology of hypertension in Nigeria, published on or after January 1990, was conducted. The authors employed random‐effects meta‐analysis on extracted crude hypertension prevalence, and awareness, treatment, and control rates. Using a meta‐regression model, overall hypertension cases in Nigeria in 1995 and 2020 were estimated. Fifty‐three studies (n = 78 949) met our selection criteria. Estimated crude prevalence of pre‐hypertension (120‐139/80‐89 mmHg) in Nigeria was 30.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.0%‐39.7%), and the crude prevalence of hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg) was 30.6% (95% CI: 27.3%‐34.0%). When adjusted for age, study period, and sample, absolute cases of hypertension increased by 540% among individuals aged ≥20 years from approximately 4.3 million individuals in 1995 (age‐adjusted prevalence 8.6%, 95% CI: 6.5‐10.7) to 27.5 million individuals with hypertension in 2020 (age‐adjusted prevalence 32.5%, 95% CI: 29.8‐35.3). The age‐adjusted prevalence was only significantly higher among men in 1995, with the gap between both sexes considerably narrowed in 2020. Only 29.0% of cases (95% CI: 19.7‐38.3) were aware of their hypertension, 12.0% (95% CI: 2.7‐21.2) were on treatment, and 2.8% (95% CI: 0.1‐5.7) had at‐goal blood pressure in 2020. Our study suggests that hypertension prevalence has substantially increased in Nigeria over the last two decades. Although more persons are aware of their hypertension status, clinical treatment and control rates, however, remain low. These estimates are relevant for clinical care, population, and policy response in Nigeria and across Africa.
Novel chimeric TLR2/NOD2 agonist CL429 exhibited significant radioprotective effects in mice
Authors: Cheng Ying , Du Jicong , Liu Ruling , Dong Suhe , Cai Jianming , Gao Fu , Liu Cong
Published: February 2021

Severe ionizing radiation causes the acute lethal damage of haematopoietic system and gastrointestinal tract. Here, we found CL429, the novel chimeric TLR2/NOD2 agonist, exhibited significant radioprotective effects in mice. CL429 increased mice survival, protected mice against the lethal damage of haematopoietic system and gastrointestinal tract. CL429 was more effective than equivalent amounts of monospecific (TLR2 or NOD2) and combination (TLR2 + NOD2) of molecules in preventing radiation‐induced death. The radioprotection of CL429 was mainly mediated by activating TLR2 and partially activating NOD2. CL429‐induced radioprotection was largely dependent on the activation of TLR2‐MyD88‐NF‐κB signalling pathway. In conclusion, the data suggested that the co‐activation of TLR2 and NOD2 could induce significant synergistic radioprotective effects and CL429 might be a potential high‐efficiency selective agent.
Role of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptors in vascular injury of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Wang Xuewen , Chen Shuhua , Xiang Hong , Liang Ziwei , Lu Hongwei
Published: February 2021

Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptors (S1PRs) have an impact on the intestinal inflammation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by regulating lymphocyte migration and differentiation. S1PR modulators as an emerging therapeutic approach are being investigated for the treatment of IBD. However, the role of S1PRs in intestinal vessels has not drawn much attention. Intestinal vascular damage is one of the major pathophysiological features of IBD, characterized by increased vascular density and impaired barrier function. S1PRs have pleiotropic effects on vascular endothelial cells, including proliferation, migration, angiogenesis and barrier homeostasis. Mounting evidence shows that S1PRs are abnormally expressed on intestinal vascular endothelial cells in IBD. Unexpectedly, S1PR modulators may damage intestinal vasculature, for example increase intestinal bleeding; therefore, S1PRs are thought to be involved in the regulation of intestinal vascular function in IBD. However, little is understood about how S1PRs regulate intestinal vascular function and participate in the initiation and progression of IBD. In this review, we summarize the pathogenic role of S1PRs in and the underlying mechanisms behind the intestinal vascular injury in IBD in order for improving IBD practice including S1PR‐targeted therapies.
P62‐positive aggregates are homogenously distributed in the myocardium and associated with the type of mutation in genetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: van der Klooster Zoë Joy , Sepehrkhouy Shahrzad , Dooijes Dennis , te Rijdt Wouter P. , Schuiringa Frederique S. A. M. , Lingeman Jolanthe , van Tintelen Johannes Peter , Harakalova Magdalena , Goldschmeding Roel , Suurmeijer Albert J. H. , Asselbergs Folkert W. , Vink Aryan
Published: February 2021

Genetic cardiomyopathy is caused by mutations in various genes. The accumulation of potentially proteotoxic mutant protein aggregates due to insufficient autophagy is a possible mechanism of disease development. The objective of this study was to investigate the distribution in the myocardium of such aggregates in relation to specific pathogenic genetic mutations in cardiomyopathy hearts. Hearts from 32 genetic cardiomyopathy patients, 4 non‐genetic cardiomyopathy patients and 5 controls were studied. Microscopic slices from an entire midventricular heart slice were stained for p62 (sequestosome‐1, marker for aggregated proteins destined for autophagy). The percentage of cardiomyocytes with p62 accumulation was higher in cardiomyopathy hearts (median 3.3%) than in healthy controls (0.3%; P < .0001). p62 accumulation was highest in the desmin (15.6%) and phospholamban (7.2%) groups. P62 accumulation was homogeneously distributed in the myocardium. Fibrosis was not associated with p62 accumulation in subgroup analysis of phospholamban hearts. In conclusion, accumulation of p62‐positive protein aggregates is homogeneously distributed in the myocardium independently of fibrosis distribution and associated with desmin and phospholamban cardiomyopathy. Proteotoxic protein accumulation is a diffuse process in the myocardium while a more localized second hit, such as local strain during exercise, might determine whether this leads to regional myocyte decay.
Lifestyle changes as a result of COVID‐19 containment measures: Bodyweight and glycemic control in patients with diabetes in the Japanese declaration of a state of emergency
Authors: Tanaka Nagaaki , Hamamoto Yoshiyuki , Kurotobi Yuri , Yamasaki Yuji , Nakatani Susumu , Matsubara Miho , Haraguchi Takuya , Yamaguchi Yuko , Izumi Kiyohiro , Fujita Yuki , Kuwata Hitoshi , Hyo Takanori , Yamada Yuichiro , Kurose Takeshi , Seino Yutaka
Published: February 2021

To clarify the association between lifestyle changes as a result of coronavirus disease 2019 containment measures and changes in metabolic and glycemic status in patients with diabetes, a cross‐sectional, single‐center, observation study was carried out. A self‐reported questionnaire was provided to ascertain the frequency of various lifestyle activities before and after the coronavirus disease 2019 containment measures in Japan. Among 463 patients, change in glycated hemoglobin was significantly associated with change in bodyweight. After stratification by age 65 years, binary logistic regression analysis showed that increased frequency of snack eating increased bodyweight (odds ratio 1.709, P = 0.007) and glycated hemoglobin (odds ratio 1.420, P = 0.025) in the younger group, whereas in the older patients, reduced walking activities resulted in weight gain (odds ratio 0.726, P = 0.010). In conclusion, changes in eating behavior and physical activity increased bodyweight and reduced glycemic control among diabetes patients, but by different processes depending on age under the coronavirus disease 2019 containment measures in Japan.
Embracing complexity with systems thinking in general practitioners' clinical reasoning helps handling uncertainty
Authors: Stolper Erik , Van Royen Paul , Jack Edmund , Uleman Jeroen , Olde Rikkert Marcel
Published: February 2021

Clinical reasoning in general practice is increasingly challenging because of the rise in the number of patients with multimorbidity. This creates uncertainty because of unpredictable interactions between the symptoms from multiple medical problems and the patient's personality, psychosocial context and life history. Case analysis may then be more appropriately managed by systems thinking than by hypothetic‐deductive reasoning, the predominant paradigm in the current teaching of clinical reasoning. Application of “systems thinking” tools such as causal loop diagrams allows the patient's problems to be viewed holistically and facilitates understanding of the complex interactions. We will show how complexity levels can be graded in clinical reasoning and demonstrate where and how systems thinking can have added value by means of a case history.
Willingness of households to reduce flood risk in southern France
Authors: Champonnois Victor , Erdlenbruch Katrin
Published: February 2021

This article analyses the scope for individual adaptation to flood risk in the South of France. We collected data concerning the implementation of individual adaptation measures and the willingness to pay for individual and collective measures in a survey of 418 respondents living in two flood‐prone areas. First, we observed the current level of adaptation and compared the willingness to pay for individual versus collective measures. We then analysed the drivers of implementation and of willingness to pay. We then provide a cost–benefit analysis of individual adaptation. The survey results show that, despite willingness to pay for reduced risk, few adaptation measures have been implemented. Perceptions of hazards and of damage are important drivers but have different influences: the first favours the implementation of measures; the second increases willingness to pay for measures. Finally, our cost–benefit analysis suggests that completely dry proofing a house up to a height of one metre may not be economically viable. This calls for the promotion of cheaper and more cost‐efficient measures.
Development of a quantum dots‐based strip immunoassay for the detection of pyrimethanil in fruit and vegetable samples
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Zou Xiaonan , Wang Zhiyu , Wang Ying , Zhang Yi , Liu Zejing , Zhang Tiantian , Wang Yihui , Zhang Guifang , Tian Yunlong
Published: February 2021

We present a quantum dots (QDs)‐based lateral flow immunoassay for the determination of pyrimethanil in fruit and vegetable samples. This QDs‐based strip immunoassay had a cut‐off value of 25 ng/ml, under optimal conditions; linear calibration for pyrimethanil was obtained in the range of 1.9–13.3 ng/ml. The entire sample detection operation could be completed in 30 min. With the strip assay, vegetable and fruit samples spiked with pyrimethanil were extracted and tested, the average recoveries were ranging from 85.6 to 104.3%, with the coefficient of variation below 15%. The results tested from the strip assay were consistent with that obtained from liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (R2 = .98), indicating the developed QDs‐based strip assay is a convincing and useful tool.
Microglial phagocytosis of neurons in neurodegeneration, and its regulation
Authors: Butler Claire A. , Popescu Alma S. , Kitchener Emily J. A. , Allendorf David H. , Puigdellívol Mar , Brown Guy C.
Published: February 2021

There is growing evidence that excessive microglial phagocytosis of neurons and synapses contributes to multiple brain pathologies. RNA‐seq and genome‐wide association (GWAS) studies have linked multiple phagocytic genes to neurodegenerative diseases, and knock‐out of phagocytic genes has been found to protect against neurodegeneration in animal models, suggesting that excessive microglial phagocytosis contributes to neurodegeneration. Here, we review recent evidence that microglial phagocytosis of live neurons and synapses causes neurodegeneration in animal models of Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies, Parkinson's disease, frontotemporal dementias, multiple sclerosis, retinal degeneration and neurodegeneration induced by ischaemia, infection or ageing. We also review factors regulating microglial phagocytosis of neurons, including: nucleotides, frackalkine, phosphatidylserine, calreticulin, UDP, CD47, sialylation, complement, galectin‐3, Apolipoprotein E, phagocytic receptors, Siglec receptors, cytokines, microglial epigenetics and expression profile. Some of these factors may be potential treatment targets to prevent neurodegeneration mediated by excessive microglial phagocytosis of live neurons and synapses.

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Evaluation of the Langerhans cells role in vitiligo and its relationship to NB‐UVB
Authors: Shoeib Mohammed , Farag Azza Gaber Antar , Eltorgman Mona , Abdou Asmaa Gaber
Published: February 2021

Background

Langerhans cells (LCs) are antigen‐presenting cells that are characterized by CD1a and CD207/langerin expression. The disturbance in the communication network among keratinocytes, melanocytes, and antigen‐presenting cells may be involved in vitiligo pathogenesis.

Aims

The current work aims to detect and quantify LCs in involved skin of patients affected by vitiligo before and after treatment with NB‐UVB using CD1a immunohistochemistry, in addition to correlate percentage of LCs with the clinicopathological parameters.

Methods

Twenty vitiligo patients and 10 age and sex matched controls were investigated. Patients were received NB‐UVB thrice weekly for 12 weeks.

Results

There was a significant reduction in LCs percentage in skin affected by vitiligo before treatment in comparison with normal skin. About 65% (13/20) of vitiligo patients responded to NB‐UVB, and the liability to respond was correlated with LCs percentage in specimens before treatment. However, there was no statistical difference between specimens before and after treatment regarding LCs percentage.

Conclusions

Reduction in LCs in vitiligo may be a sign of active disease and melanocytes destruction. The percentage of LCs affects response to NB‐UVB since higher percentage is associated with greater response to therapy. Therefore, modulation of LCs as a type of immunotherapy could be beneficial in improvement of vitiligo.
How and when paradoxical leadership benefits work engagement: The role of goal clarity and work autonomy
Authors: Fürstenberg Nils , Alfes Kerstin , Kearney Eric
Published: February 2021

Paradoxical leadership behaviour (PLB) represents an emerging leadership construct that can help leaders deal with conflicting demands. In this paper, we report three studies that add to this nascent literature theoretically, methodologically, and empirically. In Study 1, we validate an effective short‐form measure of global PLB using three different samples. In Studies 2 and 3, we draw on the job demands–resources model to propose that paradoxical leaders promote followers’ work engagement by simultaneously fostering follower goal clarity and work autonomy. The results of survey data from Studies 2 and 3 largely confirm our model. Specifically, our findings show that PLB is positively associated with follower goal clarity and work autonomy, and that PLB exerts an indirect effect on work engagement via these variables. Moreover, our results support a hypothesized interaction effect of goal clarity and work autonomy to predict followers’ work engagement, as well as a conditional indirect effect of PLB on work engagement via the interactive effect. We discuss the practical implications for leaders and organizations.

Practitioner points

To effectively engage followers in their work, leaders should create work environments in which followers know exactly what to do (i.e., have high goal clarity), but at the same time can determine on their own how to do their work (i.e., have high work autonomy)

To foster both goal clarity and work autonomy, leaders should combine communal (e.g., other‐centred, flexibility‐providing) and agentic aspects of leadership (e.g., maintaining decision control and enforcing performance standards).

HR departments should design leadership trainings that help leaders to combine seemingly opposing, yet ultimately synergistic behaviours.
The risk protection and redistribution effects of long‐term care co‐payments
Authors: Wouterse Bram , Hussem Arjen , Wong Albert
Published: February 2021

Co‐payments for long‐term care (LTC) can impose a substantial financial burden on the elderly. How this burden is distributed across income groups depends on the design of the co‐payment. We estimate the lifecycle dynamics of LTC using Dutch administrative data. These estimates are inputs in a stochastic lifecycle decision model. Using the model, we analyze the welfare effects of the Dutch income‐ and wealth‐dependent co‐payment system and compare it to alternative systems. We find that the Dutch co‐payment system redistributes income to low‐income groups, who use the most care over their life but contribute the least co‐payments, from high‐income groups, who pay the most. Moreover, the Dutch system protects the middle‐income groups relatively well against financial risk: although alternative co‐payment systems hardly affect these groups average payments, they induce welfare losses of 2% to 4% due to an increased risk of very high co‐payments.
3‐Dprinted texture spoons for food flavor and satiety
Authors: Smith Molly I. , Dando Robin
Published: February 2021

Foods are perceived when they are eaten through input from the senses, however our sensory modalities (taste, smell, touch, sight, and hearing) do not operate entirely independently. The objective of this study was to test how sensory input from texture, provided extrinsically to the food, impacts taste, and underlying feelings of satiety from food consumption. In order to perturb the perceived texture of a sample without altering the food itself, a set of six 3‐D printed spoons, including a smooth‐textured control, was created. A total of 106 panelists tested samples of yogurt in a consumer test of liking, perceived flavor intensity, and ideal consumption amount. Although no changes in the sample's flavor were reported by the panel, participants displayed small but significant differences in how much they perceived they would eat using the texture spoons, without a significant reduction in liking of the yogurt when consumed from either of the spoons versus control. From these results, a second test (n = 65) compared ad libitum consumption of yogurt on 2 consecutive days, using an un‐textured spoon versus one of the textured 3‐D printed spoons. Although slightly less yogurt was consumed from the textured spoons, differences were not statistically significant versus control.

Practical Applications

There is growing interest in the food industry in 3‐D printing. Here, we present 3‐D printed spoons with varying textures, aimed at influencing a product's flavor or satiating properties. Panelists rated their ideal portion sizes to be lower with the spoons, suggesting they may have some utility in portion control.
How has COVID‐19 affected mental health nurses and the delivery of mental health nursing care in the UK? Results of a mixed‐methods study
Authors: Foye Una , Dalton‐Locke Christian , Harju‐Seppänen Jasmine , Lane Rebecca , Beames Lewys , Vera San Juan Norha , Johnson Sonia , Simpson Alan
Published: February 2021

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, there has been research considering the impact on medical healthcare professionals and the mental health needs of the general population. However, limited focus has been placed on mental health services or mental health staff providing care in the community and in hospitals. While nurses make up the largest section of the mental health workforce in the UK, the impact that this pandemic has had on their work has been largely ignored.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

This paper provides a unique insight into the experiences and impact that the COVID‐19 pandemic has had on mental health nurses across a range of community and inpatient settings to understand what has changed in their work and the care they can and do provide during this crisis. This includes exploring how services have changed, the move to remote working, the impact of the protective equipment crisis on nurses and the difficult working conditions facing those in inpatient settings where there is minimal guidance provided.

What are the implications for practice?

By understanding the impact the pandemic has had on mental health nursing care, we can understand the gaps in guidance that exist, the challenges being faced and the impact the crisis has had on care for mental health service users. By doing so, we can plan for the ongoing nature of this pandemic and the aftermath that the crisis may leave for our service users and workforce alike.

Introduction

While evidence has emerged concerning the impact of COVID‐19 on the general population and the challenges facing health services, much less is known regarding how the pandemic has directly affected the delivery of mental health nursing care.

Aim

This paper aimed to explore how COVID‐19 has affected the ability of mental health nurses to deliver care in community and inpatient mental health services in the UK.

Method

We investigated staff reports regarding the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on mental healthcare and mental health service users in the UK, using a mixed‐methods online survey. A total of 897 nurses across a range of inpatient and community settings participated.

Discussion

Key themes within the data explore the following: new ways of working; remote working; risks of infection/infection control challenges; and the impact on service users. Targeted guidelines are required to support mental health nurses providing care and support during a pandemic to people in severe mental distress, often in unsuitable environments.

Implications for Practice

Service developments need to occur alongside tailored guidance and support for staff welfare supported by clear leadership. These findings identify areas requiring attention and investment to prepare for future crises and the consequences of the pandemic.
Roles of Alkaline Phosphatase PhoA in Algal Metabolic Regulation under Phosphorus‐replete Conditions
Authors: Zhang Kaidian , Li Jiashun , Zhou Zhi , Huang Ruiping , Lin Senjie
Published: February 2021

Alkaline phosphatase (AP) in plants and algae is known to hydrolyze dissolved organophosphate (DOP) in order to obtain phosphorus when the preferred dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) is present in limited supply. By conducting comparative analyses of physiologies and transcriptomes on a mutant of PhoA type AP (mPhoA) and wild type (WT) of the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum CCAP 1055/1 under P‐replete and P‐depleted conditions, we document other roles of this gene than DOP scavenging. PhoA mutation created by CRISPR/Cas9 diminished its DOP hydrolase activity but led to significant increases in cellular contents of pigment, carbon, and lipids, photosynthetic rate, growth rate, and the transcriptional levels of their corresponding metabolic pathways. All the results in concert indicate that besides P‐nutrient scavenging under DIP deficiency, AP also functions, under the P‐replete condition, to constrain pigment biosynthesis, photosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, and cell division. These functions have important implications in maintaining metabolic homeostasis and preventing premature cell division.
Design, synthesis, and evaluation of mono‐carbonyl analogues of curcumin (MCACs) as potential antioxidants against periodontitis
Authors: Zhao Ya , Zheng Zhiwei , Zhang Menghan , Wang Yi , Hu Rongdang , Lin Weijia , Huang Chenyang , Xu Chuchu , Wu Jianzhang , Deng Hui
Published: February 2021

Background and objective

The application of curcumin is limited by its instability. Mono‐carbonyl analogues of curcumin (MCACs) are structurally stable, yet the intermediate bridging ketones in their skeletons account for increased toxicity. This study aimed to synthesize and screen MCACs that exhibit low cytotoxicity and high antioxidant ability, and the effects of MCACs on experimental periodontitis were also investigated.

Materials and methods

The cytotoxicity of MCACs on MC3 T3‐E1 was determined by MTT assay. The antioxidant capacity was investigated by the cell viability against H2O2‐induced damage and the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA). The localization and protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) was detected by immunofluorescence and western blot, respectively. In addition, MCAC was intragastrically administrated in rats with ligature‐induced experimental periodontitis. The effects were assessed by bone resorption, as well as the immunohistology staining of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.

Results

MCACs with cyclopentanone and containing pyrone showed lower toxicity than natural curcumin were synthesized (1A‐10A, 1H‐10H), among which, 1A exhibited the most potent cytoprotective effect against H2O2‐induced damage. Such effects could be explained by the reduced MDA and ROS level, possibly through the nucleus translocation of Nrf2 and the induction of HO‐1. Micro‐CT results further indicated that 1A significantly reduced bone loss, along with an increased level of Nrf2 and HO‐1, and decreased TNF‐α and IL‐1β.

Conclusion

The present study has synthesized a novel antioxidant MCAC 1A with good biosafety and stability. MCAC 1A could serve as a host response modulator with preventive and protective effects on periodontitis.
Low plasma taurine levels in English cocker spaniels diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Basili M. , Pedro B. , Hodgkiss‐Geere H. , Navarro‐Cubas X. , Graef N. , Dukes‐McEwan J.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The aims of this study were to evaluate taurine levels in English cocker spaniels with dilated cardiomyopathy and assess their survival time and natural progression of their disease.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective comparison of English cocker spaniels with dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype with and without taurine deficiency at the cardiology department of a UK academic referral centre between 2008 and 2018.

Results

Taurine plasma concentration was available in 16 English cocker spaniels with dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype; 13 of 16 had congestive heart failure and three of 16 did not. Taurine concentration was low (<50 μmol/L) in 13 of 16 and normal in three of 16. Deficient dogs received taurine supplementation in addition to conventional cardiac medications. Eight dogs were still alive at the end of this study and eight were dead. MST for all dogs included in the study was 2800 days. Left ventricular systolic function improved and left ventricular dimensions reduced in English cocker spaniels with taurine deficiency following taurine supplementation and conventional cardiac therapy, although similar results were observed in English cocker spaniels with normal taurine concentration on cardiac therapy alone.

Clinical Significance

Based on laboratory reference intervals, low taurine concentrations were common in English cocker spaniels with dilated cardiomyopathy, showing a possible association between dilated cardiomyopathy in English cocker spaniels and taurine deficiency; supplementation with taurine was not curative.
Severe effects of the COVID‐19 confinement on young children’s sleep: A longitudinal study identifying risk and protective factors
Authors: Markovic Andjela , Mühlematter Christophe , Beaugrand Matthieu , Camos Valérie , Kurth Salome
Published: February 2021

The COVID‐19 confinement has dramatically altered daily routines, causing decreased sleep quality in adults. This necessitates careful observation, as sleep plays a crucial role in brain maturation and poor sleep increases the risk of psychopathology, particularly in the young population. Through an online survey with one baseline (April 2020) and two follow‐up assessments (May and June 2020), we examined the effect of confinement on sleep quality in 452 babies (0–35 months) and 412 preschool children (36–71 months) from several, mainly European, countries. An acute decrease in sleep quality was found in both groups of children. However, at follow‐up assessments, this effect rebounded to the level reported for the period before the confinement. Importantly, caregiver's stress level was identified as a substantial risk factor determining lower sleep quality in both groups of children across assessments. Protective factors conserving children's sleep quality included caregiver's engagement in mindfulness techniques or childcare, and the presence of siblings and pets. In the near future, we may repeatedly experience the circumstances of abruptly enforced confinement. Our findings reveal promising pathways of action to protect young children's sleep, with which to essentially mitigate the long‐term consequences of the pandemic on brain development and mental health.
Community Found: Young Adult Catholic Identity and Commitment
Authors: Reinhart Rachelle
Published: February 2021

This article attempts to fill the gap in the sociological literature at the intersection of religion and community by examining how local, urban Catholic churches shape and nurture community commitment. My empirical research shows that the collective identity of young adult Catholics emerges from patterns of religious identity that areactivatedin church settings anddefinedthrough meaningful role identities established by the organizational framing and resonance of clergy leadership. As previous research has shown, participation in church activities and strong social connections within congregations contribute to greater voluntarism and commitment to the larger community. Further, collective efforts achieve greater success if the stated goals relate back to shared collective identities and an aspirational source of shared moral obligation that gives weight to the voluntarist commitment. The example of local Catholic churches highlights the importance of multidimensional social networks that can align collective identities with bespoke calls to action amid the evolving needs and aspirations of multiple groups and constituencies.
Diet composition of the golden jackal Canis aureus in south‐east Europe – a review
Authors: Lange Pauline N. A. M. J. G. , Lelieveld Glenn , De Knegt Henjo J.
Published: February 2021

The golden jackal Canis aureus is spreading throughout Europe and settling in countries where it has never been found before. Understanding its trophic ecology is increasingly important as it colonises new areas and ecosystems.

This paper aims to review the diet studies that have been performed on the golden jackal in Europe and provide a complete overview of its food intake, feeding behaviour and strategy.

Golden jackals were found to eat mainly small mammals (54% biomass), followed by domestic animals, ungulates and plants; together, these items make up 90% of the golden jackal’s diet. Birds and lagomorphs were also often found in the diet. Domestic animals and ungulates were primarily consumed as carcasses, and not hunted or killed by golden jackals.

The diet composition differs greatly between areas and seasons, which points towards the golden jackal as a highly adaptive opportunistic omnivore, and demonstrates its ability to use many available food resources. The golden jackal provides regulating and maintenance ecosystem services as a scavenger and consumer of crop pests.
Trends in cetacean research in the Eastern North Atlantic
Authors: Cartagena‐Matos Bárbara , Lugué Klervi , Fonseca Paulo , Marques Tiago A. , Prieto Rui , Alves Filipe
Published: February 2021

Cetaceans are considered ecosystem engineers and useful bioindicators of the health of marine environments. The Eastern North Atlantic is an area of great geographical and oceanographic complexity that favours ecosystem richness and, consequently, cetacean occurrence. Although this occurrence has led to relevant scientific research on this taxon, information on the composition of this research has not been assessed.

We aimed to describe and quantify the evolution of research on cetaceans in the Eastern North Atlantic, highlighting the main focal areas and trends.

We considered 380 peer‐reviewed publications between 1900 and 2018. For each paper, we collected publication year, research topics and regions, and species studied. We assessed differences among regions with distinct socio‐economic landscapes, and between coastal and oceanic habitats. To evaluate the changes in scientific production over time, we fitted a General Additive Model to the time series of numbers of papers.

Although research in this region has been increasing, the results show relatively little research output in North African and coastal regions within the study area. Moreover, except for four studies, research was restricted to a few miles around the coast of the main islands, leaving offshore regions less well surveyed. There was little research on genetics, acoustics, and behaviour. Most papers were focused on the Azores and Canary Islands, and mostly involved Tursiops truncatus, Delphinus delphis, and Physeter macrocephalus. Species considered Endangered or Near Threatened were the subjects of only 10% of the studies.

We suggest a greater research focus on beaked whales (Ziphiidae) in Macaronesia, as well as collaborative efforts between research teams in the region, by sharing data sets, and aiming to produce long‐term research. Moreover, a Delphi method approach, based on questionnaires answered by experts, could be attempted to identify priority research for cetaceans in these areas.
Publishing during COVID‐19: Lessons for health professions education research
Authors: Eva Kevin W.
Published: February 2021

Want to know how COVID‐19 changes health professional education research priorities? Our Editor‐in‐chief argues that in the most important ways it shouldn't.
Beyond Silence: Toward an Eschatology of Praise
Authors: Troutner Timothy
Published: February 2021

In this article, I identify and attempt to resolve a tension running through the Christian tradition concerning the eschatological fate of language, a tension between “eschatologies of silence” and “eschatologies of praise.” Drawing on the apophatic tradition, “eschatologies of silence” argue that language cannot persist into beatitude without introducing absence or lack and will pass away into silent union. Meanwhile, “eschatologies of praise” depict the heavenly liturgy as doxology, the maximal profusion of speech. This tension between the persistence and abolition of speech raises a pressing theological problem, exacerbated by the postmodern linguistic turn. For postmodernity highlights language’s constitutive, and thus unsurpassable, role in the human condition, yet problematizes language’s compatibility with eschatological presence due to its susceptibility to endless deferral. I resolve the tension in favor of an “eschatology of praise” by showing that the logic of doxological speech is compatible with union with divine infinity, especially when epektasis is incorporated into eschatology. Against “eschatologies of silence” like those of Paul Griffiths and Denys Turner, I argue that eschatological suppression of language is equivalent to the rejection of creaturely finitude. Language is never abolished but plays a constitutive role in an eschatological encounter without any shadow of lack.
Diagnostic accuracy of Aspergillus‐specific antibodies for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Anan Keisuke , Kataoka Yuki , Okabayashi Shinji , Yamamoto Ryohei , Namkoong Ho , Yamamoto Yosuke
Published: February 2021

We performed this study to provide the latest evidence of the diagnostic accuracy of all Aspergillus antibodies for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA). In this meta‐analysis, we searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, and other databases, until 19 March 2020, for studies that examined the diagnostic accuracy of each Aspergillus‐specific antibody for CPA and assessed the risk of bias using the revised Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2 tool. We integrated the results using a hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic (HSROC) model and calculated the point estimates of specificity with sensitivity fixed at 0.90 using the HSROC curve. We identified 32 published and one unpublished studies, including 75 studies on five antibody test types: 18 of precipitin test (2810 participants), 46 of IgG (8197), three of IgA (283), six of IgM (733) and two of combined IgG and IgM (IgG + IgM) (920). The results of specificity with sensitivity fixed at 0.90 were as follows: precipitin test, 0.93 (95% credible intervals: 0.86, 1.00); IgG, 0.90 (0.86, 0.95); IgA, 0.74 (0.00, 1.00); IgM, 0.50 (0.37, 0.53); IgG + IgM, 0.47 (0.00, 1.00). However, the precipitin test showed imprecision and instability in the sensitivity analysis. Most studies had a high risk of bias due to the case‐control design. Although there is lack of applicability for malignancy or immunosuppressive patients, our study suggests a preference for IgG over other antibody tests in CPA screening. Particularly, IgG should be used as an adjunct when ruling out CPA.
Curcuma ruiliensis (Zingiberaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Authors: Chen Juan , Ye Yu‐Shi , Xia Nian‐He
Published: February 2021

A new species of Curcuma L. subg. Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) from China, C. ruiliensis N. H. Xia & Juan Chen, is described and illustrated. The chromosome number (2n = 84) is reported here. The new species is most similar to C. kwangsiensis S. G. Lee & C. F. Liang, but distinguished by pale yellow rhizomes, obovate tubers, longer ligule, lanceolate, obliquely spreading coma bracts, apex attenuate never obtuse, not reflexed, densely imbricated, lanceolate to ovate, obliquely spreading fertile bracts, apex narrowly acute never obtuse, not reflexed or slightly reflexed, larger flowers, longer calyx and fan‐shaped labellum.
A systematic review of imaging studies of human brown adipose tissue
Authors: Santhanam Prasanna , Rowe Steven P. , Solnes Lilja B. , Quainoo Brittany , Ahima Rexford S.
Published: February 2021

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is involved in energy dissipation and has been linked to weight loss, insulin sensitivity, and reduced risk of atherosclerotic disease. BAT is found most often in the supraclavicular region, as well as mediastinal and paravertebral areas, and it is predominantly seen in young persons. BAT is activated by cold temperature and the sympathetic nervous system. In humans, BAT was initially detected via 2‐deoxy‐2‐[18F]fluoro‐d‐glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), a high‐resolution molecular imaging modality used to identify and stage malignancies. Recent studies have shown that BAT can be localized using conventional imaging modalities, such as CT or magnetic resonance imaging, as well as radiotracers used for single‐photon emission CT. In this systematic review, we have summarized the evidence for BAT detection in humans using various imaging techniques.
Does the Left Spend More? An Econometric Survey of Partisan Politics*
Authors: Magkonis Georgios , Zekente Kalliopi‐Maria , Logothetis Vasilios
Published: February 2021

This study provides a quantitative review of the empirical literature on partisan politics. Given the voluminous work on this subject, we focus on the relationship between government ideology and public spending. By exploiting a dataset of 800 estimates from papers published between 1992 and 2018, we find no evidence of publication bias. Taking into account the differences in the various categories of spending, proxies of ideologies, estimations methods, as well as, data and publication characteristics, we find evidence of a small positive and significant effect.
Linked networks reveal dual roles of insect dispersal and species sorting for bacterial communities in flowers
Authors: Zemenick Ash T. , Vannette Rachel L. , Rosenheim Jay A.
Published: February 2021

Due to the difficulty of tracking microbial dispersal, it is rarely possible to disentangle the relative importance of dispersal and species sorting for microbial community assembly. Here, we leverage a detailed multilevel network to examine drivers of bacterial community assembly within flowers. We observed flower visitors to 20 focal plant species in a coflowering community in the Sierra Nevada, revealing 289 species of arthropods. We also analyzed bacterial communities on flowers of each species. We found that plant species with similar visitor communities tend to have similar bacterial communities, and visitor identity to be more important than plant relatedness in structuring floral bacterial communities. However, plant species that were hubs of arthropod visitation were not necessarily hubs of floral bacteria, suggesting an important role for species sorting. Across plant species, the composition of flower‐visiting Diptera (flies), bees and non‐bee Hymenoptera best predicted bacterial species composition on flowers. Taken together, our analyses suggest dispersal is important in determining similarity in microbial communities across plant species, but not as important in determining the overall macrostructure (nestedness, modularity) and microstructure (connectedness based on shared interactors) of the floral bacterial network. A multilevel network approach thus allows us to address features of community assembly that cannot be considered when viewing networks as separate entities.