bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drift dynamics in microbial communities and the effective community size
Authors: Sloan William T. , Nnaji Chioma F. , Lunn Mary , Curtis Thomas P. , Colloms Sean D. , Couto Jillian M. , Pinto Ameet J. , Connelly Stephanie , Rosser Susan J.
Published: March 2021

The structure and diversity of all open microbial communities are shaped by individual births, deaths, speciation and immigration events; the precise timings of these events are unknowable and unpredictable. This randomness is manifest as ecological drift in the population dynamics, the importance of which has been a source of debate for decades. There are theoretical reasons to suppose that drift would be imperceptible in large microbial communities, but this is at odds with circumstantial evidence that effects can be seen even in huge, complex communities. To resolve this dichotomy we need to observe dynamics in simple systems where key parameters, like migration, birth and death rates can be directly measured. We monitored the dynamics in the abundance of two genetically modified strains of Escherichia coli, with tuneable growth characteristics, that were mixed and continually fed into 10 identical chemostats. We demonstrated that the effects of demographic (non‐environmental) stochasticity are very apparent in the dynamics. However, they do not conform to the most parsimonious and commonly applied mathematical models, where each stochastic event is independent. For these simple models to reproduce the observed dynamics we need to invoke an ‘effective community size’, which is smaller than the census community size.
Challenging ‘colour time’: A practice and narrative approach to organising waiting time in hospitals
Authors: Pedersen Anne Reff , Johansen Mette Brehm , Scheller Vibeke Kristine
Published: March 2021

Waiting time in hospitals is often studied from one of two perspectives: a distributed resource in hospitals or a potential steering and measuring factor. In this article, waiting time in an emergency department is examined from a practice and a narrative perspective, placing time at the core of our analysis. Our article explores patient waiting time as a local practice that builds on the temporal structuring that affects how waiting time is regulated by both normal clock time and event time—as interpretative time. We also consider how individual narratives in situated spaces allow for negotiations, but we also present isolated time experiences. The empirical data derive from an organisational ethnographic study of a newly introduced triage system for incoming patients at an emergency department in Denmark. The analysis shows how waiting time is organised in the formal visitation system as ‘colour time’ based on the negotiations of the health‐care professional as at the ‘right time’ and as the patient's individual illness experiences with ‘wasting time’. The findings indicate the importance of the unequal relationship between clock time and event time and the different contextual situations affecting the possibilities of organising.
Development of gelatine‐based edible film by addition of whey powders with different demineralisation ratios: Physicochemical, thermal, mechanical and microstructural characteristics
Authors: Sert Durmuş , Üçok Gamze , Kara Ümmügülsüm , Mercan EMİN
Published: March 2021

The effects of using whey powders with different demineralisation rates on the physicochemical, thermal, mechanical, and microstructural properties of gelatine‐based edible films were investigated. Films were produced from film‐forming solutions (FFS) containing whey powder (WP) and 50, 70 and 90% demineralised whey powder (50DWP, 70DWP, 90DWP). The addition of whey powders increased the pH and particle size values of FFS. The zeta potential decreased significantly in the WP sample and gradually reduced depending on the demineralisation rate in the DWP samples. The addition of whey powders partially increased the density of the films. WP addition reduced the hydrophobicity of the film, while the addition of DWPs did not cause any change. The addition of whey powders decreased the L* and a* values of the films while increasing the b* values. Control was the most transparent, while 70DWP and 90DWP films had higher opacity. WP films had the most uniform and smooth surface. The highest degradation temperature (269.64 °C) was observed in the control sample. The weight loss of the control was 95%, whereas those of WP and DWP samples were 88–89%. WP addition reduced the tensile strength and increased the elasticity of the films.
Pregnancy outcome in homozygous sickle cell disease: observations from the Jamaican Birth Cohort
Authors: Lewis G , Thame M , Howitt C , Hambleton I , Serjeant GR
Published: March 2021

Objective

To document pregnancy outcome in homozygous sickle cell (SS) disease and in age‐matched controls with a normal haemoglobin genotype followed from birth for up to 45 years.

Methods

A total of 100 000 consecutive non‐operative deliveries screened for sickle cell disease at the main Government maternity hospital in Kingston, Jamaica between 1973 and 1981 detected 311 (149 female) babies with SS disease who were matched by age and gender with 250 (129 female) controls with an AA haemoglobin phenotype. These individuals have been followed from birth with prospective assessment of menarche and detailed documentation of all pregnancies.

Results

There were 177 pregnancies in 71 SS patients and 226 pregnancies in 74 AA controls. Mothers with SS disease had more spontaneous abortions (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 3.2, 95% CI 1.6–6.1), fewer live births (aRR 0.7, 95% CI 0.6–0.9) and their offspring were more likely to have a gestational age <37 weeks (aRR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1–3.7) and low birthweight <2.5 kg (aRR 3.0, 95% CI 1.6–5.3). They were more prone to acute chest syndrome (aRR 13.7, 95% CI 4.1–45.5), urinary tract infection (aRR 12.8, 95% CI 1.3–125.9), pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia (aRR 3.1, 95% CI 1.1–8.8), retained placenta (aRR 10.1, 95% CI 1.1–90.3), sepsis (Fisher's Exact test 0.04) and pregnancy‐related deaths (Fisher's Exact test 0.02). Four of five deaths were attributable to acute chest syndrome. There was no genotypic difference in pregnancy‐induced hypertension or postpartum haemorrhage.

Conclusion

Pregnancy in SS disease carries risks for both mother and child. The variable characteristics of pregnancy‐related deaths complicate their prevention.

Tweetable abstract

Pregnancy in SS disease compared with controls showed increased abortions and stillbirths, fewer live births and maternal deaths in 7% patients.
The aflatoxin situation in Africa: Systematic literature review
Authors: Meijer Nathan , Kleter Gijs , de Nijs Monique , Rau Marie‐Luise , Derkx Ria , van der Fels‐Klerx H. J.
Published: March 2021

Contamination of African staple foods is a major issue for human and animal health, nutrition, and trade. This review aimed to collect and synthesize the available evidence on geographical spread, scale of contamination, disease burden, economic impact, and mitigation measures for aflatoxins in Africa by way of a systematic literature review. This knowledge can enhance management strategies for the major challenges to combat aflatoxins. The search was conducted by applying a predefined search strategy, using bibliographic databases and websites, covering the period 2010 to 2018. Results showed that maize, peanuts, and animal feeds were the most studied commodities. For maize, all studies indicated mean AFB1 to exceed the European Union legal limit. From studies on contamination levels and biomarkers, it is clear that overall exposure is high, leading to a substantial increase in long‐term disease burden. In addition, concentrations in food occasionally can reach very high levels, causing acute aflatoxicoses. The trade‐related impact of aflatoxin contamination was mainly evaluated from the standpoint of aflatoxin regulation affecting products imported from Africa. There was a limited number of studies on health‐related economic impacts, pointing out a gap in peer‐reviewed literature. A number of mitigation measures have been developed, but proof of cost‐effectiveness or even costs alone of the practices is often lacking. We recommend more emphasis to be put in peer‐reviewed studies on evidence‐based cost‐effective mitigation strategies for aflatoxins, on the scale and spread of the problem and its impacts on public health and economics for use in evidence‐based policies.
EGFR‐mutant lung adenocarcinoma associated with antisynthetase syndrome successfully treated with osimertinib
Authors: Hara Reina , Kanazu Masaki , Iwai Ami , Kuge Tomoki , Ishijima Mikako , Uenami Takeshi , Akazawa Yuki , Yano Yukihiro , Yamaguchi Toshihiko , Mori Masahide
Published: March 2021

Here, we report a rare case involving a 66‐year‐old man with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐mutant lung adenocarcinoma and antisynthetase syndrome (ASS) treated with osimertinib. The patient presented with respiratory failure and bilateral pulmonary opacities; he was diagnosed with ASS accompanied by interstitial lung disease (ILD), consistent with paraneoplastic syndrome. After steroid pulse therapy, osimertinib was administered for lung adenocarcinoma without ILD exacerbation. Osimertinib could therefore be a treatment option for EGFR‐mutant lung cancer with paraneoplastic ILD.
The Effect of Auditor Style on Reporting Quality: Evidence from Germany
Authors: Porumb Vlad‐Andrei , De Jong Abe , Huijgen Carel , Marra Teye , Van Dalen Jan
Published: March 2021

This paper examines whether the ‘style’ of individual auditors influences financial reporting quality in Germany. Audit quality in Germany should be uniformly high, because of strong reputational needs, strict controls on operating procedures, and quality enforcement mechanisms. An audit partner's style should not affect this quality level. However, our results do not support this expectation. Exploiting a unique dataset comprising the names of the audit engagement and review partners of listed German companies, we find that audit engagement partners in Germany have a significant influence on audit quality, beyond firm‐ and office‐level factors. In contrast, audit review partners do not have a consistent significant influence on audit quality. We measure audit quality by the level of a firm's abnormal accruals and its propensity to meet or beat an earnings target. We also find that the 2005 adoption of a new audit quality enforcement system that includes ‘naming and shaming’ does not reduce the influence of audit partner style on financial reporting quality.
Why do team members help each other? Investigating cross‐level antecedents of organisational citizenship behaviour
Authors: Kao Feng‐Hsia , Huang Min‐Ping , Cheng Bor‐Shiuan , Peng Chang‐Hung
Published: March 2021

In this study, we investigated the effect of cross‐level factors, including team members’ altruistic personalities, the quality of team member exchange (TMX), interdependence of team structure, as well as interactions between these variables, on team members’ organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB). Using the military teams in Taiwan as samples, we collected empirical data of 90 teams, each with three team members and one team leader. Results of hierarchical linear modelling analysis showed that (a) a team member’s altruistic personality has no significant relationship with OCB, (b) both TMX and team interdependence have positive relationships with OCB, and (c) team interdependence has a cross‐level moderating effect on the relationship between TMX and OCB. For team management, establishing high TMX and interdependent working styles can promote OCB among team members. The results of this study add to knowledge on team members’ display of OCB from a holistic perspective. Findings of this study also support the important influence of TMX and team interdependence, especial for team management, strengthening the cross‐level theory in the study of OCB.
Implantation of retropupillary iris‐claw lenses: A review on surgical management and outcomes
Authors: Drolsum Liv , Kristianslund Olav
Published: March 2021

Iris‐claw lenses have gained increasing popularity over the last years and are by many surgeons regarded as viable options in eyes with insufficient capsular or zonular support. The iris‐claw lens has two haptics with fine fissures for folding (enclavating) the mid‐peripheral part of the iris stroma and can either be placed in front of or posterior to the iris. In particular, the retropupillary implantation has been increasingly chosen probably due to having an anatomical position similar to that of the crystalline lens. The present review is based on a literature review and also on the authors’ clinical experience with this lens, and it focuses on surgical techniques and outcomes especially related to the characteristics of this lens, having haptics with claws that fixate the lens to the posterior iris. Implanting retropupillary iris‐claw lenses has a relatively short learning curve, and there are only few complications reported during surgery. Retropupillary iris‐claw lenses have demonstrated generally favourable efficiency and safety. However, the outcomes are probably more influenced by the reason for surgery and eye comorbidity than the lens itself. Albeit seldom reported, the postoperative complications have mostly been related to atrophy of the iris at the site of the haptics, or IOL decentration or disenclavation of one of the haptics. To date, however, there are few randomized clinical trials comparing this lens to other lens alternatives in eyes exhibiting insufficient capsular or zonular support for placing the lens in the ciliary sulcus. In the future, prospective studies with large samples should be performed to gain insights into the long‐term safety of retropupillary placed iris‐claw lenses, and for comparisons with the various other techniques of lens fixation.
An Isotopic Assessment of Makurian Monastic Diet at the Medieval Nubian Monastery of Ghazali, Sudan (Ca. 680–1,275 CE)
Authors: Stark R. J. , Ciesielska J. A. , Obłuski A.
Published: March 2021

In contrast to contemporaneous Byzantine and Egyptian textual accounts, little is known about medieval Nubian monastic diets. Femur samples from 30 monks interred at Ghazali monastery (occupied ca. 680–1,275 CE), Sudan were examined for δ13Ccoland δ15N. δ13C averaged ‐ 17.0‰ ± 1.0‰ (range: −14.7‰ to −19.0‰); δ15N averaged 11.3‰ ± 1.1‰ (range: 7.5‰ to 13.4‰), suggesting primarily mixed C3/C4diets with variable animal protein consumption. Such data, the first from Nubian monastic contexts, bring forth questions about expected versus actual monastic diets, as well as access to foodstuffs and dietary variation over time, as the diets of the monks were not entirely uniform.
Estimating the effects of non‐discriminatory trade policies within structural gravity models
Authors: Heid Benedikt , Larch Mario , Yotov Yoto V.
Published: March 2021

We propose a simple method to identify the effects of unilateral and non‐discriminatory trade policies on bilateral trade within a theoretically consistent empirical gravity model. Specifically, we argue that structural gravity estimations should be performed with data that include not only international trade flows but also intra‐national trade flows. The use of intra‐national sales allows identification of the effects of non‐discriminatory trade policies such as most favoured nation tariffs, even in the presence of exporter and importer fixed effects. A byproduct of our approach is that it can be used to recover estimates of the trade elasticity, a key parameter for quantitative trade models. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our techniques in the case of most favoured nation tariffs and “time to export” as representative non‐discriminatory determinants of trade on the importer and on the exporter side, respectively. Our methods can be extended to quantify the impact on trade of any country‐specific characteristics as well as any non‐trade policies.
Featured Cover
Authors: Li Shufeng , Zheng Xiaojuan , Wang Ting , Xue Jun
Published: March 2021

The cover image is based on the Letter to the Editor Clinical characterization of novel HSPA9 splice variant in a Chinese woman by Shufeng Li et al., https://doi.org/10.1111/cge.13910.

image
Characteristics and outcome‐related factors of seizure at the first onset of autoimmune encephalitis: A retrospective study
Authors: Wang Yilin , Li Xin , He Pingping , Yin Jiangning , Dong Ruofei , Fu Yu , Zhang Hong
Published: March 2021

Aims

Seizure outcome of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) varies from seizure‐free to refractory epilepsy, and the associated factors remain unclear. We aimed to describe seizure characteristics, identify seizure outcome‐related factors, and discuss the medication strategy of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) at the first onset of AE.

Methods

We retrospectively studied the data of 86 patients with clinically diagnosed AE. The clinical characteristics were described using a chi‐square test. Seizure outcome‐related factors were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

56 patients were finally enrolled, with antibodies to N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor found in 29, to γ‐aminobutyric acid receptor B found in 13, and to leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated protein 1 found in 14. Status epilepticus occurrence and onset with seizure lead to a poor seizure outcome, while administration of human gamma globulin and a low antibody titer contributed to a good seizure outcome.

Conclusions

In the acute phase, seizure characteristics may be considered in the utilization of AEDs. For patients with seizure‐free status in the acute phase, clinical manifestation (onset with seizure or not, whether status epilepticus occurs or not), therapy regimen (human gamma globulin administered or not), and antibody titer may be considered when formulating the strategy for withdrawal of AEDs post‐acute phase.
Characteristic appearance of the oropharynx in patients with postnasal drip (PND)‐induced cough
Authors: Tomita Katsuyuki , Ikeuchi Tomoyuki , Touge Hirokazu , Nakamura Yosuke , Yamamoto Yuko , Takeuchi Hiromi , Yamasaki Akira
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Post‐nasal drip (PND)‐induced cough is a common cause of chronic cough. However, there is little known about the characteristic physical findings of this condition.

Objectives

We investigated views of the pharyngeal wall in patients with PND‐induced cough using a handy endoscopic images.

Methods

The subjects were 135 consecutive patients referred to our hospital with a sensation of something “dripping down the throat” as one of their symptoms. Physical findings for the oropharynx were examined using Wi‐Fi endoscope camera. The difference in probability of symptoms in patients with acute cough and those with subacute/chronic cough was assessed using a Bayesian Fisher exact test on a 2 × 2 table.

Results

Among the patients, 105 (78%) complained of cough, 78 (58%) of acute cough, 20 (15%) of subacute cough, and 7 (5%) of chronic cough; and 71 (53%) had coexisting asthma. Using Bayesian inference, a sore or scratchy throat and fever were more common in patients with acute cough than in those with subacute/chronic cough. In endoscopic images of the oropharynx, a reddish curtain sign on the posterior pharyngeal wall behind the palatopharyngeal arch was found in 121 patients (90%).

Conclusion

Patients with acute PND‐induced cough have a component of acute upper respiratory infection, because of high probability of a sore or scratchy throat and fever as symptom. A reddish curtain sign may be a useful finding for identifying PND‐induced cough in these cases.
Selenium status and oxidative stress in obese: Influence of adiposity
Authors: Soares de Oliveira Ana R. , Jayanne Clímaco Cruz Kyria , Beatriz Silva Morais Jennifer , Rocha Dos Santos Loanne , Rodrigues de Sousa Melo Stéfany , Fontenelle Larissa C. , Santos de Sousa Gustavo , Costa Maia Carla Soraya , Oliveira Duarte de Araújo Camilla , Leal Mendes Islanne , Simeone Henriques Gilberto , Costa Silva Vladimir , do Nascimento Marreiro Dilina
Published: March 2021

Background

Selenium deficiency appears to limit antioxidant defense in obese individuals. This study evaluated the association between adiposity indices, selenium status, and oxidative stress in obese women.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study involving 139 women who were divided into the following two groups: the case group (obese women, n = 63) and the control group (normal‐weight women, n = 76). Plasma, erythrocyte, and urinary selenium levels were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Body weight, height, waist circumference, hip circumference and neck circumference were measured. Body mass index, waist/height ratio, conicity index, body fat index, body adiposity index, body circularity index, and visceral adiposity index were calculated. Plasma levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were determined. The erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity was determined using an automatic biochemical analyzer and Ransel kit.

Results

Obese women had selenium deficiency characterized by reduction in plasma and erythrocyte concentrations (P < .001). The urinary selenium excretion was higher in the case group compared to the control group (P < .001). Adiposity indices values and plasma concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were significantly elevated in obese women (P < .001). There was a significant association between adiposity indices and selenium status (P < .001), and between erythrocyte selenium and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity (P < .001).

Conclusion

Obese women evaluated in the study have reduced plasma and erythrocyte concentrations of selenium and an increased urinary excretion of selenium. The correlation analysis reveals an association between intra‐abdominal fat accumulation and selenium metabolism and oxidative stress.
The effect of temperature and wetting–drying cycles on soil wettability: Dynamic molecular restructuring processes at the solid–water–air interface
Authors: Bachmann Joerg , Söffker Steffen , Sepehrnia Nasrollah , Goebel Marc‐O. , Woche Susanne K.
Published: March 2021

The impact of heat treatment and wetting–drying cycles on the wetting properties of sandy forest soils was explored. Topsoil and upper subsoil were sampled at three beech forest sites in northern Germany. The air‐dried soils were treated at 20, 40 and 80°C for 24 h, with materials treated at 20°C serving as reference. After wetting, materials were air‐dried or shock‐frozen in liquid N2 and freeze‐dried. Interfacial properties were monitored by sessile drop contact angles (CAs) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), which provide physical and chemical information on the outermost particle interface layer. CAs of reference samples were around 90° and significantly increased after 80°C‐treatment to >90°, whereas 40°C‐treatment had in comparison to reference soils no distinct impact on CA. Depending on the initial temperature treatment, air‐drying after wetting decreased CA to 60–80% and shock‐freezing and freeze‐drying decreased CA to 10–50% of the reference value. Results suggest that shock‐freezing may preserve the organic matter molecular structure that prevails during contact with water at the solid–liquid interface, thus indicating the wettability of the wet surface. Generally, wetting–drying cycles had the least impact on 80°C‐treated material. XPS analysis confirmed dynamic interfacial molecular restructuring processes by changes in O and C content and the content of non‐polar C compounds. A second heat treatment after two wetting–drying cycles again proved the distinct and pronounced impact of 80°C‐treatment on CA, especially with prior shock‐freezing and freeze‐drying. In conclusion, the findings of our study indicate a sensitive and partly reversible reorganization of the solid interfacial wetting properties. Results may conceptually be used to develop dynamic wettability models, which are needed to simulate the sensitive interplay between wettability and dynamic soil hydraulic functions at sites that are exposed to intensive and periodic moisture fluctuations.

Highlights

T > 40°C increased contact angle; after wetting contact angle depended on how the water was removed

Shock‐freezing and freeze‐drying preserves contact angle of the wetted state

Contact angle changes confirm interface molecular restructuring due to heat treatment or wetting

Contact angle change goes along with changes in element content within XPS analysis depth
Keratinocyte‐derived IL‐1β induces PPARG downregulation and PPARD upregulation in human reconstructed epidermis following barrier impairment
Authors: Blunder Stefan , Krimbacher Thomas , Moosbrugger‐Martinz Verena , Gruber Robert , Schmuth Matthias , Dubrac Sandrine
Published: March 2021

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of nuclear hormone receptors. In skin, PPARs modulate inflammation, lipid synthesis, keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation and thus are important for skin barrier homeostasis. Accordingly, PPAR expression is altered in various skin conditions that entail epidermal barrier impairment, that is atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis. Using human epidermal equivalents (HEEs), we established models of acute epidermal barrier impairment devoid of immune cells. We assessed PPAR and cytokine expression after barrier perturbation and examined effects of keratinocyte‐derived cytokines on PPAR expression. We show that acetone or SDS treatment causes graded impairment of epidermal barrier function. Furthermore, we demonstrate that besides IL‐1β and TNFα, IL‐33 and TSLP are highly relevant markers for acute epidermal barrier impairment. Both SDS‐ and acetone‐mediated epidermal barrier impairment reduce PPARG expression levels, whereas only SDS enhances PPARD expression. In line with findings in IL‐1β and TNFα‐treated HEEs, abrogation of IL‐1 signalling restores PPARG expression and limits the increase of PPARD expression in SDS‐induced epidermal barrier impairment. Thus, following epidermal barrier perturbation, keratinocyte‐derived IL‐1β and partly TNFα modulate PPARG and PPARD expression. These results emphasize a role for PPARγ and PPARβ/δ in acute epidermal barrier impairment with possible implications for diseases such as AD and psoriasis.
Four‐dimensional collision detection and behaviour based on the physics‐based calculation
Authors: Nakai Yuki , Miwa Takanobu , Shigemune Hiroki , Sawada Hideyuki
Published: March 2021

In the field of 4‐D space visualization, the information of 4‐D space is obtained by projecting 4‐D data onto 3‐D space. Most of the previous research has been aimed at the recognition of 4‐D space, whereas the target of the recognition has been limited to the geometrical information of 4‐D objects in 4‐D space or static spatial information without dynamics. Our research aims to develop a visualization system for providing the human experience of the physics‐based environment in 4‐D space. In this research, we mainly focus on collision detection and the behaviour of 4‐D objects in 4‐D space in order to construct the physics‐based environment of 4‐D space. Our contribution in this paper is the development of a collision detection algorithm for 4‐D objects and a calculation method for physics based behaviour of 4‐D objects. Our proposed collision detection algorithm is based on the intersection test of tetrahedrons in 4‐D space, so that 4‐D objects in our system is represented as tetrahedral meshes. The tetrahedron‐based collision detection algorithm is performed by a combination of half‐space tests with the use of 5‐D homogeneous processing to enhance the calculation accuracy of the collision detection. Our proposed method calculates the behaviour of the 4‐D objects after the collision by solving the motion equation based on the principle of physics. Consequently, the visualization system with the proposed algorithm allows us to observe the physics‐based environment in 4‐D space.
Transforming growth factor‐β1 inhibits interleukin‐1β‐induced expression of inflammatory genes and Cathepsin S activity in human vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Dhaouadi Nedra , Nehme Ali , Faour Wissam H. , Feugier Patrick , Cerutti Catherine , Kacem Kamel , Eid Ali H. , Li Jacques‐Yuan , Zibara Kazem
Published: March 2021

Objective and design

This study investigated the opposite mechanisms by which IL‐1β and TGF‐β1 modulated the inflammatory and migratory phenotypes in cultured human intimal vascular smooth muscle cells vSMCs.

Materials and treatment

Primary human vSMCs, obtained from twelve hypertensive patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy, were incubated for 24 hours with either 40 pM TGF‐β1, or 1 nmol/L IL‐1β, or their combination in presence or absence of anti‐TGF‐β neutralizing antibody.

Methods

The expression levels of matrix metalloproteases and their inhibitors, and the elastolytic enzyme cathepsin S (CTSS) and its inhibitor cystatin C were evaluated with RT‐PCR. CTSS activity was measured by fluorometry.

Results

TGF‐β1 reversed IL‐1β‐induced expression of iNOS, CXCL6, IL1R1, MMP12, and CTSS, while upregulated TIMP2 expression. Furthermore, anti‐TGF‐β neutralizing antibody abrogated TGF‐β effects. Combination with IL‐1β and TGF‐β1 induced the expression of IL1α, IL1β, IL1R1, and CTSS, but suppressed CST3 expression. CTSS expression in the combination treatment was higher than that of cells treated with anti‐TGF‐β antibodies alone. Moreover, IL‐1β‐induced CTSS enzymatic activity was reduced when human vSMCs were co‐treated with TGF‐β, whereas this reduction was abrogated by anti‐TGF‐β neutralizing antibody.

Conclusion

TGF‐β1 abrogated IL‐1β‐induced expression of inflammatory genes and elastolytic activity in cultured human vSMCs. Thus, TGF‐β1 can play a crucial role in impairing IL‐1β‐induced vascular inflammation and damage involved in the etiology of cardiovascular diseases.
Role of the runt‐related transcription factor (RUNX) family in prostate cancer
Authors: Ashe Hannah , Krakowiak Patryk , Hasterok Sylwia , Sleppy Rosalie , Roller Devin G. , Gioeli Daniel
Published: March 2021

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a very complex disease that is a major cause of death in men worldwide. Currently, PCa dependence on the androgen receptor (AR) has resulted in use of AR antagonists and antiandrogen therapies that reduce endogenous steroid hormone production. However, within two to three years of receiving first‐line androgen deprivation therapy, the majority of patients diagnosed with PCa progress to castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). There is an urgent need for therapies that are more durable than antagonism of the AR axis. Studies of runt‐related transcription factors (RUNX) and their heterodimerization partner, core‐binding factor subunit b (CBFβ), are revealing that the RUNX family are drivers of CRPC. In this review, we describe what is presently understood about RUNX members in PCa, including what regulates and is regulated by RUNX proteins, and the role of RUNX proteins in the tumor microenvironment and AR signaling. We discuss the implications for therapeutically targeting RUNX, the potential for RUNX as PCa biomarkers, and the current pressing questions in the field.
Gender roles during COVID‐19 pandemic: The experiences of Turkish female academics
Authors: Parlak Simel , Celebi Cakiroglu Oya , Oksuz Gul Feride
Published: March 2021

This study aims to explore the COVID‐19 experiences of Turkish female academics in terms of gender roles by focusing on how these women have dealt with domestic and academic responsibilities. The study group consisted of 21 female academics working from home, along with their spouses. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze the data collected through semistructured telephone interviews. The findings were clustered under five main themes: the early days of the pandemic, work life after the pandemic, domestic responsibilities after the pandemic, family relationships after the pandemic, and the perception of gender roles. The results indicate that the pandemic has deepened gender inequalities, and the academic life of female academics has changed in terms of academic productivity. Therefore, we recommend that more research examining the quarantine process and involving women in other occupations and of different socioeconomic statuses should be done to develop more effective social policies.
Health information diffusion on Twitter: The content and design of WHO tweets matter
Authors: Hönings Holger , Knapp Daniel , Nguyễn Bích Châu , Richter Daniel , Williams Kelly , Dorsch Isabelle , Fietkiewicz Kaja J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Micro‐blogging services empower health institutions to quickly disseminate health information to many users. By analysing user data, infodemiology (i.e. improving public health using user contributed health related content) can be measured in terms of information diffusion.

Objectives

Tweets by the WHO were examined in order to identify tweet attributes that lead to a high information diffusion rate using Twitter data collected between November 2019 and January 2020.

Methods

One thousand hundred and seventy‐seven tweets were collected using Python's Tweepy library. Afterwards, k‐means clustering and manual coding were used to classify tweets by theme, sentiment, length and count of emojis, pictures, videos and links. Resulting groups with different characteristics were analysed for significant differences using Mann–Whitney U‐ and Kruskal–Wallis H‐tests.

Results

The topic of the tweet, the included links, emojis and (one) picture as well as the tweet length significantly affected the tweets’ diffusion, whereas sentiment and videos did not show any significant influence on the diffusion of tweets.

Discussion

The findings of this study give insights on why specific health topics might generate less attention and do not showcase sufficient information diffusion.

Conclusion

The subject and appearance of a tweet influence its diffusion, making the design equally essential to the preparation of its content.
1. TIMES OF THE EVENT: AN INTRODUCTION
Authors: JUNG THEO , KARLA ANNA
Published: March 2021

This introduction sets the stage for the following contributions by outlining the current state of research on the two fundamental categories that this forum brings together: the event and time. In a brief survey, we discuss the ways in which the temporality of events has been theorized across disciplines. We also present our core argument for understanding the event as a temporal focal point. In dialogue with existing approaches, we seek to develop a theoretically enriched and empirically fruitful conceptualization of the event, thus offering new perspectives to the academic historiography of events as well as to historical culture at large.
3. BEYOND REPRESENTATION: PICTORIAL TEMPORALITY AND THE RELATIONAL TIME OF THE EVENT
Authors: HOCHKIRCHEN BRITTA
Published: March 2021

Pictures are often connected with the mediation of the event but, paradoxically, not with temporality as such. Although there are several existing approaches that focus on the interplay between the event and its literary representation, the relation between pictorial time and the temporal constitution of the event remains unexplored. The field of image theory has offered insights into the multiple dimensions of the picture's temporality. It has shown that the picture's temporality concerns not only the depicted event but also the picture's immanent modes of producing different temporalities within one pictorial plane. The picture thus not only makes visible but also generates multilayered times of the event. This article brings together insights from image theory and from theories of historical times to demonstrate the relationship between the times of the event and the inner logic of the picture. In order to identify the various qualities of the picture that structure the times of the event, this article uses the case study of Reinhart Koselleck's practical and theoretical work with pictures. This article reads Koselleck's approaches to pictures alongside new insights concerning the relationality of time to the event and the picture. By exploring the picture's agency with regards to the politics of time, this article lays bare the picture's potential to structure the times of the event.
The Endodontic Complexity Assessment Tool (E‐CAT): A digital form for assessing root canal treatment case difficulty
Authors: Essam O. , Boyle E. L. , Whitworth J. M. , Jarad F. D.
Published: March 2021

Aims

To develop an evidence‐based, valid and reliable assessment tool that educational establishments and dental practitioners may use to assess the complexity of root canal treatment (RCT) utilizing digital advancements. The study also aimed to provide a more objective definition of the term ‘uncomplicated’ root canal treatment as described by the Association for Dental Education in Europe (ADEE) and the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) undergraduate curriculum guidelines for Endodontology.

Methodology

The development process involved a narrative review of the literature to identify the complexity factors associated with root canal treatment on permanent teeth; an iterative development and analysis process to assess the weighting of these factors; and the programming of digital software to enhance the efficiency and user interface of the assessment form. Validation of the tool was sought with a panel of 35 specialist endodontists to assess clinical scenarios and assess the consensus inter‐examiner agreement with the outcomes provided by the E‐CAT. The inter‐user and intra‐user reliability studies were conducted with 15 dentists to evaluate the same clinical cases and by repeating the experiment 9 months later. The ease of use of the form was also assessed.

Results

The E‐CAT was successfully developed with a total of 19 complexity criteria and hosted on a secure server under the domain of www.e‐cat.uk. The tool provides a smart interactive filtering mechanism and automatic background calculation of the risk scores. Three levels of complexity were defined: class I (uncomplicated), class II (moderately complicated) and class III (highly complicated). The consensus of the panel of endodontists had excellent agreement with the outcome of the E‐CAT. The inter‐user and intra‐user reliability was found to be 0.80 and 0.90, respectively. The average time to assess a case was 1:36 min.

Conclusion

The E‐CAT gave promising results providing an efficient and reliable platform to assess the complexity of cases undergoing root canal treatments. The study design allowed the formulation of a more objective definition to describe ‘uncomplicated’ root canal treatment as referred to by the ESE and ADEE guidelines. This study is advantageous for educational, public health and referral pathways.
BE CAUTIOUS IN THE LAST MONTH: THE SUNK COST FALLACY HELD BY CAR INSURANCE POLICYHOLDERS
Authors: Ma Chao
Published: March 2021

Investigating a unique large data set, we find that automobile insurance policyholders are more likely to encounter accidents during the last month of the insurance policy term than during any other month. Our interpretation is that this effect is driven by the sunk cost fallacy held by policyholders, which exacerbates their moral hazard. The explanation is that in the last month, policyholders may become concerned that they may “waste” the premiums paid upfront if they have not encountered an accident before the policy expires; thus, they will reduce their accident‐prevention efforts, although the premiums are sunk costs and cannot be reversed.
The lncRNA SLCO4A1‐AS1/miR‐876‐3p/RBBP6 axis regulates cell proliferation and apoptosis in acute lymphocytic leukemia via the JNK signaling pathway
Authors: Mao Jianping , Gao Wenliang , Xue Lianguo , Wang Juan , Zhao Lidong
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is a hematologic malignancy caused by the clonal proliferation of immature lymphocytes. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported as critical regulators in several cancers, including ALL. LncRNA SLCO4A1 antisense RNA 1 (SLCO4A1‐AS1) has been revealed to be implicated in tumorigenesis of several cancers. Our study focused on the role of SLCO4A1‐AS1 in ALL.

Methods

RT‐qPCR, Western blot analysis, CCK‐8, EdU, and Flow cytometry analysis were used to explore the biological function of SLCO4A1‐AS1 in ALL cellular processes. Luciferase reporter and RNA pull‐down assays were applied to explore the mechanism of SLCO4A1‐AS1 in ALL cells.

Results

SLCO4A1‐AS1 was upregulated in ALL tissues and cell lines. We found that suppression of SLCO4A1‐AS1 suppressed ALL cell proliferation and facilitated cell apoptosis. Our result confirmed that SLCO4A1‐AS1 acted as a ceRNA by sponging microRNA 876‐3p (miR‐876‐3p) to upregulate retinoblastoma binding protein 6 (RBBP6) expression in ALL cells. Moreover, SLCO4A1‐AS1 activated the JNK signaling pathway by upregulating RBBP6. Rescue assays revealed that the activation of the JNK signaling or overexpression of RBBP6 revered the suppressive effect of SLCO4A1‐AS1 knockdown on growth of ALL cells.

Conclusion

SLCO4A1‐AS1 promoted cell growth of ALL by the miR‐876‐3p/RBBP6 axis to activate the JNK signaling pathway.
Cell death as part of innate immunity: Cause or consequence?
Authors: Riera Romo Mario
Published: March 2021

Regulated or programmed cell death plays a critical role in the development and tissue organization and function. In addition, it is intrinsically connected with immunity and host defence. An increasing cellular and molecular findings cause a change in the concept of cell death, revealing an expanding network of regulated cell death modalities and their biochemical programmes. Likewise, recent evidences demonstrate the interconnection between cell death pathways and how they are involved in different immune mechanisms. This work provides an overview of the main cell death programmes and their implication in innate immunity not only as an immunogenic/inflammatory process, but also as an active defence strategy during immune response and at the same time as a regulatory mechanism.
Self‐guided field trips take invertebrate zoology students away from their screens and into the environment for hands‐on learning
Authors: Middlebrooks Michael L. , Salewski Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

There is a great importance for undergraduate biology students to study organisms in their natural context. Safety concerns surrounding the global COVID‐19 pandemic prevented Marine Invertebrate Zoology students at the University of Tampa from participating in traditional faculty‐led field trips during the Fall of 2020. Instead, students were assigned to conduct a diversity‐focused field trip on their own and report their findings. Here we describe considerations and methods for creating a safe and valuable self‐guided field trip assignment for upper‐level invertebrate zoology students. These methods are adaptable for a variety of different habitat types and can be conducted with little to no special equipment or training. Students were successful in completing this assignment and found it highly enriching.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of sequential fecal microbiota transplantation for fulminant Clostridioides difficile infection
Authors: Gupta Sanchit , Zhu Jinyi , McCarty Thomas R , Pruce Jordan , Kassam Zain , Kelly Colleen , Fischer Monika , Allegretti Jessica R
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Fulminant Clostridioides difficile infections (FCDI) account for 8% of cases and substantial healthcare burden. Fecal microbiota transplantation is recommended for recurrent CDI, but emerging data support use for FCDI. We aimed to assess the cost‐effectiveness of a sequential fecal microbiota transplantation (sFMT) protocol for FCDI compared with current standard therapy.

Methods

A Markov model simulated patients with FCDI in a 1‐year time horizon. The treatment algorithm for up to three sFMTs, clinical probabilities, and direct costs were used from published sources. Outcomes were quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) and costs. The healthcare sector perspective was used with a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $100 000 per QALY.

Results

Sequential fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for FCDI was associated with lower overall cost ($28 309 vs $33 980) and higher QALY (0.765 vs 0.686) compared with standard therapy. sFMT is cost‐effective in 100% of iterations. sFMT remained cost‐effective at cure rates > 44.8% for the first FMT and at stool preparation cost < $6944 per instillation. We find a wide range of efficacies for the first versus second FMT at which sFMT is still preferred. Value of information analysis estimates the expected value of perfect information to be low at $1.89 per person, quantified with net monetary benefit.

Conclusions

An sFMT strategy strongly dominates standard therapy, with lower cost and higher QALY. Sensitivity analysis demonstrates benefit even if FMT cure rates are lower than expected and when multiple FMTs are required. FMT material in 2020 was priced at $1695 per treatment but remains cost‐effective at a much higher cost.
The dynamics of being homebound over time: A prospective study of Medicare beneficiaries, 2012–2018
Authors: Ankuda Claire K. , Husain Mohammed , Bollens‐Lund Evan , Leff Bruce , Ritchie Christine S. , Liu Shelley H. , Ornstein Katherine A.
Published: March 2021

Background/Objectives

Approximately 2 million people, or 6% of older adults in the United States, are homebound. In cross‐sectional studies, homebound older adults have high levels of morbidity and mortality, but there is little evidence of longitudinal outcomes after becoming homebound. The aim of this research is to prospectively assess over 6 years the dynamics of homebound status, ongoing community residence, and death in a population of community‐dwelling older adults who are newly homebound.

Design/setting

Prospective cohort study using 2011–2018 data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), an annual, nationally‐representative longitudinal study of aging in the United States.

Participants

Two hundred and sixty seven newly homebound older adults in 2012.

Measurements

Homebound status was defined via self‐report as living in the community but rarely/never leaving home in the prior month. Semi‐homebound was defined as leaving the house only with difficulty or help.

Results

One year after becoming newly homebound, 33.1% remained homebound, 22.8% were completely independent, 23.8% were semi‐homebound, 2.2% were in a nursing home, and 18.0% died. Homebound status is highly dynamic; 6 years after becoming homebound, 13.5% remained homebound and 65.0% had died. Recovering from being homebound at 1 year was associated with younger age and lower baseline rates of receiving help with activities of daily living, in particular, with bathing.

Conclusion

Homebound status is a dynamic state. Even if transient, becoming homebound is strongly associated with functional decline and death. Identifying newly homebound older adults and developing interventions to mitigate associated negative consequences needs to be prioritized.
Is systemic isotretinoin use a risk factor for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19)?
Authors: Gundogdu Mustafa , Dere Gokturk
Published: March 2021

Aim

To investigate whether acne treatment agent systemic isotretinoin causes susceptibility to COVID‐19 disease.

Material and method

Patients admitted to a single center due to acne between March 2020 and December 2020 were included. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of acne patients receiving systemic isotretinoin or topical treatments. The patients with PCR‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were recorded.

Results

302 patients who used isotretinoin and 329 patients who used topical treatment were included in the study. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of age (p = 0.151). It was found that of the 302 patients who used isotretinoin, 33 had PCR test for SARS‐CoV‐2 and two of these had PCR positivity, while of the 329 patients who received topical treatment, 45 had PCR test and five of these had PCR positivity. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of having SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity with PCR (p = 0.692).

Conclusion

Susceptibility to COVID‐19 disease was not observed in patients using systemic isotretinoin.