bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential cytotoxicity, ER/oxidative stress, dysregulated AMPKα signaling, and mitochondrial stress by ethanol and its metabolites in human pancreatic acinar cells
Authors: Srinivasan Mukund P. , Bhopale Kamlesh K. , Caracheo Anna A. , Kaphalia Lata , Loganathan Gopalakrishnan , Balamurugan Appakalai N. , Rastellini Cristiana , Kaphalia Bhupendra S.
Published: March 2021

Background

Alcoholic chronic pancreatitis (ACP) is a serious inflammatory disorder of the exocrine pancreatic gland. A previous study from this laboratory showed that ethanol (EtOH) causes cytotoxicity, dysregulates AMPKα and ER/oxidative stress signaling, and induces inflammatory responses in primary human pancreatic acinar cells (hPACs). Here we examined the differential cytotoxicity of EtOH and its oxidative (acetaldehyde) and nonoxidative (fatty acid ethyl esters; FAEEs) metabolites in hPACs was examined to understand the metabolic basis and mechanism of ACP.

Methods

We evaluated concentration‐dependent cytotoxicity, AMPKα inactivation, ER/oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses in hPACs by incubating them for 6 h with EtOH, acetaldehyde, or FAEEs at clinically relevant concentrations reported in alcoholic subjects using conventional methods. Cellular bioenergetics (mitochondrial stress and a real‐time ATP production rate) were determined using Seahorse XFp Extracellular Flux Analyzer in AR42J cells treated with acetaldehyde or FAEEs.

Results

We observed concentration‐dependent increases in LDH release, inactivation of AMPKα along with upregulation of ACC1 and FAS (key lipogenic proteins), downregulation of p‐LKB1 (an oxidative stress‐sensitive upstream kinase regulating AMPKα) and CPT1A (involved in β‐oxidation of fatty acids) in hPACs treated with EtOH, acetaldehyde, or FAEEs. Concentration‐dependent increases in oxidative stress and ER stress as measured by GRP78, unspliced XBP1, p‐eIF2α, and CHOP along with activation of p‐JNK1/2, p‐ERK1/2, and p‐P38MAPK were present in cells treated with EtOH, acetaldehyde, or FAEEs, respectively. Furthermore, a significant decrease was observed in the total ATP production rate with subsequent mitochondrial stress in AR42J cells treated with acetaldehyde and FAEEs.

Conclusions

EtOH and its metabolites, acetaldehyde and FAEEs, caused cytotoxicity, ER/oxidative and mitochondrial stress, and dysregulated AMPKα signaling, suggesting a key role of EtOH metabolism in the etiopathogenesis of ACP. Because oxidative EtOH metabolism is negligible in the exocrine pancreas, the pathogenesis of ACP could be attributable to the formation of FAEEs and related pancreatic acinar cell injury.
The intermediary role of adolescent temperamental and behavioral traits on the prospective associations between polygenic risk and cannabis use among young adults of European Ancestry
Authors: Brick Leslie A. , Benca-Bachman Chelsie E. , Bertin Lauren , Martin Kathleen P. , Risner Victoria , Palmer Rohan H. C.
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

Cannabis use (CU) is an etiologically complex behavior with several social, temperamental, neurocognitive, and behavioral precursors. Biometrical and molecular studies suggest an interplay of environmental and pleiotropic influences. However, it remains unclear whether identified genetic effects related to behavioral and temperamental characteristics have developmentally direct or indirect mechanisms on CU behavior. The Transmissible Liability Index (TLI) is a measure of continuous liability based on developmental precursors of substance use disorders. This study aimed to examine if the TLI plays a role in understanding genetic risk for CU behaviors.

Design

Genome‐wide association studies (n > 10 000; European Ancestry [EA]) of CU, risk tolerance, neuroticism, anxiety, and depression were used to construct polygenic scores (PGSs). Analyses assessed whether PGSs indirectly impacted risk for repeated use via TLI.

Setting

United States of America.

Participants

From Add Health study, 4077 individuals of EA age 11 to 21 during baseline interview collection.

Measurements

Outcomes were initiation and repeated cannabis use (>5× in lifetime). The TLI was parameterized using a latent factor from 21 questions assessing for precursors of disordered use.

Findings

The marker‐based heritability of TLI, initiation, and repeated use were significant, but modest (14%, P = 0.033; 15%, P = 0.025; and 17%, P = 0.008, respectively). TLI and repeated use were genetically correlated (rg = 0.76, P = 0.033). The PGS for CU was associated with increased risk for repeated use and PGS for risk tolerance and depression were associated with TLI. Mediation analyses indicated significant, but very weak, indirect effects of PGS for risk tolerance and depression on repeated CU via the TLI.

Conclusions

Adolescent behavioral and temperamental characteristics (i.e. the Transmissible Liability Index) appear to be early indicators of repeated cannabis use in adulthood. Although polygenic scores for cannabis use directly increased risk for repeated cannabis use, weak evidence was found for the role of polygenic scores of other internalizing/externalizing traits acting through adolescent derived Transmissible Liability Index on cannabis use behavior.
Computed tomography and cross‐sectional anatomy of the head in the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)
Authors: Farha Aline Herrera , da Silva Jeana Pereira , Bete Stela Bonadia de Souza , Mamprim Maria Jaqueline , Schimming Bruno Cesar
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study was to identify the anatomical structures in the head region of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) using computed tomography. For this, three giant anteater corpses, adult and female, were used. The tomographic analysis was performed in sequential order in rostrocaudal direction. Subsequently, the heads of these animals were sectioned in cross sections of approximately 1.5 cm each. Tomographic images were compared with anatomical sections. The association between computed tomography and anatomical sections allowed the visualization of anatomical structures found in the nasal, oral, cranial, pharyngeal and ear cavities. An elongated oral cavity delimited by the elongated mandible was observed. The oral cavity was mainly occupied by a thin and elongated tongue formed mainly by the union of the sternoglossal muscles. The nasopharynx and oropharynx extended up to the neck at the level of the fifth cervical vertebra. The findings of this study suggest that the giant anteater has a head with structures morphologically adapted to its feeding habits, such as an elongated skull, tongue, styloid bones and mandible. In addition, based on the results of this study, it is possible to suggest that computed tomography is a pivotal tool for the veterinary routine of wild animals, since it allowed the identification of anatomical structures found in the head of the giant anteater.
Long‐term relapse rates after cognitive behaviour therapy for anxiety and depressive disorders among older adults: A follow‐up study during COVID‐19
Authors: Johnco Carly J. , Chen Jessamine T. H. , Muir Courtney , Strutt Paul , Dawes Piers , Siette Joyce , Dias Cintia Botelha , Hillebrandt Heidi , Maurice Olivia , Wuthrich Viviana M.
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study assessed the long‐term symptom relapse rates among older adults previously treated with cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for anxiety and/or depression during COVID‐19.

Methods

Participants were 37 older adults (M = 75 years, SD = 5; 65% female) previously treated with CBT for anxiety and/or unipolar depression who were re‐assessed an average of 5.6 years later, during the first Australian COVID‐19 lockdown.

Results

On average, there was no significant group‐level change in anxiety, depression or quality of life. When assessing change in symptoms based on clinical cut‐off points on self‐report measures, results suggest only 17%‐22% showed a relapse of symptoms by the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that CBT may be protective in coping with life stressors many years after treatment ends. However, results warrant replication to attribute continued symptom improvement to CBT given the lack of control group.
Left ventricular assist device inflow cannula implantation: Why a “Step sideways” technique can be helpful
Authors: Loardi Claudia , Ricciardi Gabriella , Zanobini Marco , Vermes Emmanuelle
Published: March 2021

Preservation of right ventricle vascularization that is dependent on left coronary network collateral development is essential during left ventricular assist device implantation to avoid postoperative right heart failure. Our technique was performed on a patient who underwent implantation as a bridge to transplantation; the technique is characterized by providing a moderate lateral and inferior displacement of the inflow cannula position, which achieves both the objectives of respecting the apical course of a left anterior descending coronary artery supplying an occluded right coronary and of maintaining a sufficient orientation degree toward the plane of the mitral valve for correct left ventricular unloading.
The canine chronic atrioventricular block model in cardiovascular preclinical drug research
Authors: Loen Vera , Vos Marc A. , van der Heyden Marcel A. G.
Published: March 2021

Ventricular cardiac arrhythmia is a life threating condition arising from abnormal functioning of many factors in concert. Animal models mirroring human electrophysiology are essential to predict and understand the rare pro‐ and anti‐arrhythmic effects of drugs. This is very well accomplished by the canine chronic atrioventricular block (CAVB) model. Here we summarize canine models for cardiovascular research, and describe the development of the CAVB model from its beginning. Understanding of the structural, contractile and electrical remodelling processes following atrioventricular (AV) block provides insight in the many factors contributing to drug‐induced arrhythmia. We also review all safety pharmacology studies, efficacy and mechanistic studies on anti‐arrhythmic drugs in CAVB dogs. Finally, we compare pros and cons with other in vivo preclinical animal models. In view of the tremendous amount of data obtained over the last 100 years from the CAVB dog model, it can be considered as man's best friend in preclinical drug research.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Preclinical Models for Cardiovascular disease research (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.5/issuetoc
The evolution of longevity: Evidence from Canada
Authors: Milligan Kevin , Schirle Tammy
Published: March 2021

Canadian men in the top earnings ventile live eight years (11%) longer than do men in the bottom ventile. For women, the difference is 3.6 years. This earnings–longevity gradient has shifted uniformly across earnings groups through time, in stark contrast to in the US. We demonstrate that the widely used period measurement method can differ from cohort measures. For middle‐aged men, we find a recent slowdown of mortality improvements, echoing the situation in the US. With comparable data, the Canadian earnings–longevity gradient is half the US gradient; but one quarter of this gap may result from Canada–US earnings differences.
The effect of post‐extraction socket preservation laser treatment on bone density 4 months after extraction: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Križaj Dumić Aleksandra , Pajk Franja , Olivi Giovanni
Published: March 2021

Background

Post‐extraction bone resorption may affect the outcome of ensuing restorations.

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate a comprehensive laser post‐extraction protocol by comparing resulting alveolar bone regeneration with that obtained after standard extraction procedure.

Materials and Methods

About 53 simple extractions were randomized to either laser or control group. In the laser group, erbium (Er:YAG; 2940 nm) and neodymium (Nd:YAG; 1064 nm) lasers were used for degranulation, disinfection, de‐epithelialization of the surrounding gingiva, clot stabilization, and photobiomodulation. The primary outcome measure was change in bone density in the extraction area between day 1 and 4 months after extraction. Patients were monitored for potential side effects.

Results

Increase in bone density at the follow‐up CBCT was significantly higher in laser than in control group (p < 0.001). No post‐operative pain, bleeding, or swelling was present in the laser group. In the control group, one patient had bleeding 3–5 days after extraction, two patients had swelling and three patients reported post‐operative pain rated 3–5 on a 0–10 pain scale up to 3 days after extraction.

Conclusions

The proposed laser post‐extraction procedure is a safe and effective method to improve post‐extraction bone healing.
Prevalence and screening of specific aeroallergens in Chinese male patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A retrospective cross‐sectional observational study
Authors: Hou Lili , Li Zhengyu , Bao Luhong , Zhou Zhiguo , Li Shanqun , Zhou Xin , Zhang Min
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Sensitization to aeroallergens was linked to severe symptoms and frequent exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Elevated serum total immunoglobulin E (tIgE) level is a hallmark of allergic COPD patients. Phadiatop test exhibited high sensitivity for predicting specific aeroallergens (SAs) sensitization. However, the prevalence of aeroallergens, the value of Phadiatop test, alone or combined with tIgE, for predicting aeroallergens sensitization in male COPD patients have not been explored in China.

Objectives

To explore the prevalence and predictors of aeroallergens in the context of COPD.

Methods

The predictive value of Phadiatop test for SAs sensitization in male COPD patients was analyzed via the area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs).

Results

The top five SAs in the context of COPD were d2, mx2, i6, d1, and tx5, of which the seasonal distribution showed no significant differences. Allergic group showed higher levels of blood eosinophils, total Phadiatop IgE and tIgE than the nonallergic group (all P ≤ 0.001). The AUCs of total Phadiatop IgE and tIgE for predicting the sensitization to SAs, SAs excluding mx2 (AEM) and mx2 were ((0.921 vs. 0.879, P = 0.2522), (0.967 vs. 0.807, P = 0.0003), and (0.780 vs. 0.883, P < 0.05)) (AUCPhadiatop vs AUCtIgE), respectively. The combined application of these two parameters (model) increased the AUC of SAs, significantly higher than the single parameter used (P < 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

d2, mx2, i6, and d1 were the top four SAs sensitized in male COPD patients; Phadiatop test was valuable for predicting the sensitization to SAs when it was > 0.13 kAU/L.
Efficacy of detection canines for avian botulism surveillance and mitigation
Authors: Reynolds Michelle H. , Johnson Kyoko N. , Schvaneveldt Eleni R. , Dewey Daniel L. , Uyehara Kimberly J. , Hess Steven C.
Published: March 2021

Hawai'i's endangered waterbirds have experienced epizootics caused by ingestion of prey that accumulated a botulinum neurotoxin produced by the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium botulinum (avian botulism; Type C). Waterbird carcasses, necrophagous flies, and their larvae initiate and spread avian botulism, a food‐borne paralytic disease lethal to waterbirds. Each new carcass has potential to develop toxin‐accumulating necrophagous vectors amplifying outbreaks and killing hundreds of endangered waterbirds. Early carcass removal is an effective mitigation strategy for preventing avian intoxication, toxin concentration in necrophagous and secondary food webs, and reducing the magnitude of epizootics. However, rapid detection of carcasses can be problematic and labor intensive. Therefore, we tested a new method using scent detection canines for avian botulism surveillance on Kaua'i Island. During operational surveillance and a randomized double‐blind field trial, trained detector canines with experienced field handlers improved carcass detection probability, especially in dense vegetation. Detector canines could be combined with conventional surveillance to optimize search strategies for carcass removal and are a useful tool to reduce risks of the initiation and propagation of avian botulism.
Chicken or egg? What comes first in Lutheranism, grace or faith?
Authors: Tarkki Jarmo
Published: March 2021

For many Lutherans Martin Luther's idea of salvation by grace alone is complicated and confusing. Acceptance of salvation as God's work alone seems scandalous. We want our efforts to matter to God, and so we become inadvertently God's co‐workers in our own salvation. Modern humans tend to fall into the same trap from which Luther liberated himself. In a Lutheran interpretation of Christianity, we are not saved because we have faith, but we have faith because we are saved. In the article, the interplay between grace and faith is addressed throughout history with main emphasis on a Lutheran understanding of saved by grace alone.
Intergenerational changes in hippocampal transcription in an animal model of maternal depression
Authors: Alyamani Reema , Nephew Ben , Murgatroyd Chris
Published: March 2021

Chronic stress during early life, such as exposure to social conflict or deficits in parental care, can have persistent adverse behavioural effects. Offspring in a rodent model of maternal depression and early life stress have increased susceptibility to maternal depression themselves, suggesting a pathway by which maternal stress could be intergenerationally inherited. The overall aim of this study was to explore the genetic regulatory pathways underlying how maternal social stress and reduced care mediates stress‐related behavioural changes in offspring across generations. This study investigated a social stress‐based rat model of postpartum depression and the intergenerational inheritance of depressed maternal care where F0 (dams exposed to male intruder stress during lactation) and F1 offspring are directly exposed to social stress. RNASeq was used to investigate genome‐wide transcriptome changes in the hippocampus of F1 and F2 generations. Transcriptome analyses revealed differential expression of 69 genes in the F1 generation and 14 in the F2 between controls versus social stress differences. Many of these genes were receptors and calcium‐binding proteins in the F1 and involved in cellular oxidant detoxification in F2. The present data identify and characterize changes in the neural expression of key genes involved in the regulation of depression maintained between the generations, suggesting a potential neural pathway for the intergenerational transmission of depressed maternal care and maternal anxiety in the CSS model. Further work is needed to understand to what extent these results are due to molecular germline inheritance and/or the social propagation of deficits in maternal care.
Low‐intensity kangaroo grazing has largely benign effects on soil health
Authors: Eldridge David J. , Ding Jingyi , Travers Samantha K.
Published: March 2021

Kangaroos (Macropus spp., Osphranter spp.) are the most ubiquitous free‐ranging herbivores in Australia. Much has been written on their impacts on plant community composition and how they interact with livestock, particularly in extensive rangelands. Little is known, however, about how kangaroos affect soil function and their relationship with healthy soils, nor the impact of peri‐urban populations of kangaroos where they might come into conflict with humans. To address this, we used exclosures to examine the impacts of low densities of kangaroos on the morphology of the soil surface in a peri‐urban environment on the outskirts of Sydney, Australia. We found that kangaroo grazing was associated with reduced herbaceous biomass and cover, and biocrust cover, and surfaces were generally more stable, had a greater cover and incorporation of litter and had greater plant species richness compared to inside the exclosures. There were no differences in indices of nutrient cycling nor stability. Overall, our study supports the notion that kangaroo grazing, at the current low densities experienced in this peri‐urban reserve, has had no significant deleterious effect on soil surface health, as measured by the morphology of the surface. We conclude that grazing at the current low levels (˜70 kangaroos km−2) is unlikely to have major long‐term negative effects on soil surface condition.
Embeddedness of Inter‐firm Ties and Knowledge Creation†
Authors: Jha Pushkar P. , Cottam Ed
Published: March 2021

This study examines consequences for knowledge creation due to differences in embeddedness of inter‐firm ties, more specifically, between informal or Arm's Length Relationships (ALRs) and formal collaborations. Qualitative data from 41 respondents across 22 SMEs is used to examine knowledge conversion processes comprising the SECI (Socialisation, Externalisation, Combination, Internalisation) framework of knowledge creation. We show a difference based on embeddedness of ties for how knowledge creation unfolds. Implications for spin off between ties and for firm attention to deliberating and managing a varied portfolio of ties for superior performance, are also drawn.
Vitamin D and white matter hyperintensities: results of the population‐based Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study and 1000BRAINS
Authors: Schramm Sara , Schliephake Lea , Himpfen Heiko , Caspers Svenja , Erbel Raimund , Jöckel Karl‐Heinz , Moebus Susanne
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose

Cross‐sectional studies showed an inverse association between serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) whereas the few longitudinal studies did not. The association between baseline 25OHD and WMHs at 10‐year follow‐up in the Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study plus 1000BRAINS was investigated.

Methods

Data of 505 participants (49% women, 56.2 ± 6.6 years) with 25OHD at baseline (2000–2003) and WMH volume and grade of WMHs using the Fazekas classification at 10‐year follow‐up were analysed. The association between deseasonalized 25OHD and the base‐10 logarithm of WMH volume was evaluated by multiple linear regression, adjusted for age, sex, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, sports, diabetes mellitus, systolic blood pressure and total cholesterol. β‐estimators were transformed back (10β). Using multiple logistic regression, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated to evaluate the association between deseasonalized 25OHD and Fazekas grades (0, absence and 1, punctate foci vs. 2, beginning and 3, large confluence).

Results

Mean 25OHD was 17.0 ± 8.2 ng/ml, and mean deseasonalized 25OHD was 16.9 ± 7.5 ng/ml. Mean WMH volume was 16.6 ± 17.4 ml, range 1–132 ml. Most grade 2–3 WMHs were found to be periventricular (39% of the participants), parietal (32%) and frontal (31%) (temporal 6%, occipital 3%). The linear regression showed an inverse association between 25OHD and WMH volume. On average, a 25OHD increase of 1 ng/ml was associated with a reduced WMH volume by a factor of 0.99 (95% CI 0.98; 1.00) (fully adjusted). There was also some indication for an inverse association between 25OHD and extent of periventricular (OR 0.98 [95% CI 0.96; 1.01]), frontal (0.99 [0.97; 1.02]) and parietal (0.98 [0.95; 1.00]) WMHs according to the Fazekas classification.

Conclusions

Lower 25OHD may be a risk factor for the occurrence of WMHs.
High incidence of stroke in young adults in Tartu, Estonia, 2013 to 2017: A prospective population‐based study
Authors: Kõrv Liisa , Vibo Riina , Mallene Sandra , Kõrv Janika
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose

Previous studies conducted elsewhere in the world have demonstrated an increase in the incidence of ischemic stroke (IS) in younger ages. We sought to determine stroke incidence and 28‐day case‐fatality rates in 15‐ to 54‐year‐old residents of Tartu, Estonia from 2013 to 2017.

Methods

All stroke cases that were the first ever in a lifetime (IS, nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage [ICH], and subarachnoid hemorrhage [SAH]) in 15‐ to 54‐year‐old residents of Tartu, Estonia were prospectively registered from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2017. Several additional overlapping data sources were used for case ascertainment including other departments of the Tartu University Hospital and outpatient clinic, Estonian Cause of Death Registry, and the Estonian Electronic Health Record. All cases were thoroughly validated before inclusion.

Results

We identified 110 cases (43.6% female) of first‐ever stroke (IS 72.7%, ICH 12.7%, SAH 14.6%), out of which 85.5% were included prospectively. The mean age at onset was 44.3 ± 8.5 (SD) years. The mean age at onset was higher for men than for women (p = 0.046). The incidence of stroke standardized to the 1976 European standard population (EUR) was 46.1/100,000 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 37.4–54.8). IS incidence was 33.4/100,000 EUR (95% CI: 26–40.7). The total stroke incidence was higher in 45‐ to 54‐year‐old men than in women in the same age group (rate ratio, 2.24; 95% CI: 1.35–3.71). There were no more significant differences between sexes or age groups. The 28‐day case‐fatality rate was 10.9% for all strokes.

Conclusions

Our study shows higher crude incidence and case fatality of stroke in the young compared to studies from other high‐income countries.
Temperature‐associated decreases in demographic rates of Afrotropical bird species over 30 years
Authors: Neate‐Clegg Montague H. C. , Stanley Thomas R. , Şekercioğlu Çağan H. , Newmark William D.
Published: March 2021

Tropical mountains harbor globally significant levels of biodiversity and endemism. Climate change threatens many tropical montane species, yet little research has assessed the effects of climate change on the demographic rates of tropical species, particularly in the Afrotropics. Here, we report on the demographic rates of 21 Afrotropical bird species over 30 years in montane forests in Tanzania. We used mark–recapture analyses to model rates of population growth, recruitment, and apparent survival as functions of annual mean temperature and annual precipitation. For over one‐half of focal species, decreasing population growth rates were associated with increasing temperature. Due to the trend in temperature over time, we substituted a time covariate for the temperature covariate in top‐ranked population growth rate models. Temperature was a better explanatory covariate than time for 6 of the 12 species, or 29% of all focal species. Population growth rates were also lower for species found further below their elevational midpoint and for smaller‐bodied species. Changes in population growth rates were more closely tied to changes in recruitment than to changes in apparent survival. There were no consistent associations between demographic rates and precipitation. This study demonstrates temperature‐associated demographic impacts for 6 (29%) of 21 focal species in an Afrotropical understory bird community and highlights the need to incorporate the impacts of climate change on demographic rates into conservation planning across the tropics.
Global patterns of functional trait variation along aridity gradients in bats
Authors: Conenna Irene , Santini Luca , Rocha Ricardo , Monadjem Ara , Cabeza Mar , Russo Danilo
Published: March 2021

Aim

Our understanding of the biological strategies employed by species to cope with challenges posed by aridity is still limited. Despite being sensitive to water loss, bats successfully inhabit a wide range of arid lands. We here investigated how functional traits of bat assemblages vary along the global aridity gradient to identify traits that favour their persistence in arid environments.

Location

Global.

Time period

Contemporary.

Major taxa studied

Bats.

Methods

We mapped the assemblage‐level averages of four key bat traits describing wing morphology, echolocation and body size, based on a grid of 100‐km resolution and a pool of 915 bat species, and modelled them against aridity values. To support our results, we conducted analyses also at the species level to control for phylogenetic autocorrelation.

Results

At the assemblage level, we detected a rise in values of aspect ratio, wing loading and forearm length, and a decrease in echolocation frequency with increasing aridity. These patterns were consistent with trends detected at the species level for all traits.

Main conclusions

Our findings show that trait variation in bats is associated with the aridity gradient and suggest that greater mobility and larger body size are advantageous features in arid environments. Greater mobility favours bats’ ability to track patchy and temporary resources, while the reduced surface‐to‐volume ratio associated with a larger body size is likely to reduce water stress by limiting cutaneous evaporation. These findings highlight the importance of extending attention from species‐specific adaptations to broad scale and multispecies variation in traits when investigating the ability of species to withstand arid conditions.
UNCERTAINTY IN PROCUREMENT CONTRACTING WITH TIME INCENTIVES
Authors: Gao Wenzheng , Zhang Daiqiang , Zhao Naibao
Published: March 2021

This article studies cost‐plus‐time (A+B) procurement contracting with time incentives in the highway construction industry. In the presence of construction uncertainty, the contractor's actual completion time may deviate from the bid completion time, and the A+B contract design is not ex post efficient. Using data from highway procurement contracts in California, we show that an ex post efficient lane rental contract would reduce the social cost by $41.39 million (43.11%) on average. Moreover, the average commuter cost would decrease by $62.06 million (78.96%), suggesting a substantial reduction in the construction externality to commuters from lane rental contracts.
Tâches, professions et salaires dans les pays de l'OCDE
Authors: AGASISTI Tommaso , JOHNES Geraint , PACCAGNELLA Marco
Published: March 2021

Les auteurs examinent la relation entre les gains, le capital humain et les tâches. Ils reprennent le modèle théorique d'Autor et Handel (2013), tout en élargissant l'analyse empirique à 21 pays, grâce aux données de l'enquête de l'OCDE sur les compétences des adultes (PIAAC). Celles‐ci permettent en outre de caractériser plus précisément le capital humain des travailleurs, en fournissant une mesure directe des compétences cognitives. L'analyse empirique confirme l'influence du contenu en tâches de l'emploi sur les écarts de salaire, à la fois entre les catégories professionnelles et en leur sein. Les prédictions du modèle se vérifient dans la grande majorité des pays.
Falls and fractures associated with type 2 diabetic polyneuropathy: A cross‐sectional nationwide questionnaire study
Authors: Khan Karolina Snopek , Christensen Diana Hedevang , Nicolaisen Sia Kromann , Gylfadottir Sandra Sif , Jensen Troels Staehelin , Nielsen Jens Steen , Thomsen Reimar Wernich , Andersen Henning
Published: March 2021

Aims/Introduction

To examine the prevalence of falls and fractures, and the association with symptoms of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) in patients with recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A detailed questionnaire on neuropathy symptoms and falls was sent to 6,726 patients enrolled in the Danish Center for Strategic Research in Type 2 Diabetes cohort (median age 65 years, diabetes duration 4.6 years). Complete data on fractures and patient characteristics were ascertained from population‐based health registries. We defined possible DPN as a score ≥4 on the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instruments questionnaire. Using Poisson regression analyses, we estimated the adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) of falls and fractures, comparing patients with and without DPN.

Results

In total, 5,359 patients (80%) answered the questions on the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instruments questionnaire and falls. Within the year preceding the questionnaire response, 17% (n = 933) reported at least one fall and 1.4% (n = 76) suffered from a fracture. The prevalence ratio of falls was substantially increased in patients with possible DPN compared with those without (aPR 2.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.06–2.63). The prevalence ratio increased with the number of falls from aPR 1.51 (95% CI 1.22–1.89) for one fall to aPR 5.89 (95% CI 3.84–9.05) for four or more falls within the preceding year. Possible DPN was associated with a slightly although non‐significantly increased risk of fractures (aPR 1.32, 95% CI 0.75–2.33).

Conclusions

Patients with recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes and symptoms of DPN had a highly increased risk of falling. These results emphasize the need for preventive interventions to reduce fall risk among patients with type 2 diabetes and possible DPN.
Intussusception caused by intestinal neoplasia in mature rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792)
Authors: Hoitsy Márton , Hoitsy György , Jakab Csaba , Molnár Tamás , Gál János , Baska Ferenc
Published: March 2021

The aquaculture industry is growing and includes the farming and breeding of more than 580 aquatic species worldwide. The rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792) is the most commonly bred trout species in Hungary. As broodfish form the basis of most fish farms, investigation into tumours occurring in trout, although under‐researched, has proven to be a valuable and necessary field of study. During our investigation, we examined a broodstock of 3‐ to 6‐year‐old rainbow trouts (800) affected with idiopathic intestinal tumours (3%) which had consequentially led to ileus (40%). While performing necropsy, initial pathological observations showed intussusceptions. Tumours were discovered upon opening the body cavity, as well as metastasis forming in the livers and in the vessels of the gills. Histopathological and immunohistochemical tests allowed us to identify the neoplasms. The primary adenocarcinoma was found to have been developed within the intestines of the fish. The tumour tissue broke through the basal membrane and infiltrated the propria, protruding asymmetrically into the lumen of the mid‐intestines, causing it to narrow significantly. This subsequently led to passage disorders, invagination of the intestinal segment and finally the emaciation of the fish. Histopathological and immunohistochemical inspection of the tumour cells displayed a high mitotic index, confirming malignancy.
A Geriatrician's Guide to Hearing Loss
Authors: Jilla Anna M. , Reed Nicholas S. , Oh Esther S. , Lin Frank R.
Published: March 2021

The high prevalence of hearing loss among older adults creates a perception that it is simply a benign consequence of aging, which leads to unaddressed communication needs. Strategies to address hearing loss as part of routine clinical care are pertinent to the geriatric care setting where hearing loss is prevalent in two out of every three patients 70 years and older. Our objectives are to briefly discuss the pathophysiology of hearing loss, describe the epidemiologic prevalence and impact, identify statutory barriers facing older adults in accessing hearing care, discuss current progress on legislation to address accessibility issues, and provide actionable strategies for addressing hearing loss as a barrier to effective communication. Simple steps can be taken to improve hearing care accessibility for older adults with hearing loss and can optimize understanding in daily communication, re‐engage patients in being actively involved in their care, and promote patient autonomy in informed decision‐ making.
A Technique to Record and Transfer the Distance Between the Bone Crest and the Interproximal Contact Point to the Dental Laboratory to Maintain the Interdental Papilla While Fabricating Implant Supported Restorations
Authors: Dhingra Ajay , Taylor Thomas , Flinton Robert
Published: March 2021

The interdental papilla plays an important role in terms of esthetics and function. Management of the interdental papilla, especially around implants can be challenging. One of the factors mentioned in the literature that affects the viability of the papilla is the distance of the interdental contact point from the crest of the bone. The following case report describes a technique to predictably achieve an interdental contact area within the proper distance from the crest of the bone to help maintain the papilla for the long term.
Host autophagy is a shared target of virulence factors of Phytophthora infestans and Plasmodium parasite
Authors: Wu Wenxian , Datla Raju , Ren Maozhi
Published: March 2021

Phytophthora infestans and Plasmodium are extremely harmful and economically important pathogens. Although they belong to distinct groups and infect very different hosts, P. infestans and Plasmodium display some common similarities. Such as they are closely related phylogenetically and have similarities in the strategies they use for the evasion or suppression of host defences, etc. In addition, both pathogens produce abundant effector proteins that confer enhanced pathogenicity and adaptability. The P. infestans RxLR (Arg‐X‐Leu‐Arg) effector protein shares a conserved host‐targeting motif with the Plasmodium PEXEL‐containing export protein. In this review, we focused on the common distribution features of P. infestans RxLR genes and Plasmodium virulence factor genes in genomes, comparative analysis of the both types of virulence proteins secretion and translocation processes, and description of their molecular functions. We highlight the convergent evolutionary characteristics of P. infestans RxLR effector protein and Plasmodium virulence factor in mediating the autophagy process of host cells. This review will present and discuss current research challenges and opportunities for future research to get better understanding and insights by investigating pathogen effector–host interactions.
Emotions, personhood and social ontology: A critical realist approach
Authors: Walsh Philip
Published: March 2021

This paper addresses the question of the relations between emotions and personhood, with a view to advancing a critical realist account of the role of emotions in social life. It is argued that the constitution of persons has to be approached from an ontological perspective, and that this raises questions about how sociology has addressed the meaning and role of emotions. Margaret Archer's critical realist perspective on them as commentaries on human concerns is broadly endorsed, but some significant correctives are proposed, especially with respect to the important distinction between primary and secondary emotions. To this end, it is argued that the affect spectrum theory advanced by Warren TenHouten can be fruitfully appended to a critical realist theory of emotions.
Cognitive and Socioaffective Predictors of L2 Microdevelopment in Late Adulthood: A Longitudinal Intervention Study
Authors: KLIESCH MARIA , PFENNINGER SIMONE E.
Published: March 2021

The question of cognition in second language (L2) acquisition later in life is of importance inasmuch as L2 learning is largely mediated by domain‐general cognitive capacities. While a number of these capacities have been shown to decline with age, individual differences in cognition increase over the lifespan. This microdevelopment study investigates the L2 trajectories of 28 older German‐speaking adults (age 64+) who participated in a combined computer‐assisted and classroom‐instructed 7‐month Spanish training for beginners. We made use of generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs) to quantify linear and nonlinear learner trajectories as well as any predictors thereof. Participants were assessed on a range of behavioral, L2, socioaffective, and background variables. We found a significant (linear and nonlinear) increase across all measures of L2 proficiency. Between‐subject cognitive, socioaffective, and background variables significantly predicted the overall level of L2 proficiency as well as developmental patterns over time. Daily variances in cognitive performance and socioaffect had little impact on fluctuations in L2 performance. Findings are discussed against the backdrop of complex dynamic systems theory and highlight the necessity for dense longitudinal research designs to capture nonlinearity in third‐age L2 learning.
Performance of epimyocardial leads in patients with a single ventricle circulation
Authors: Zartner Peter A. , Mini Nathalie , Vergnat Mathieu , Momcilovic Diana , Schneider Martin B. , Dittrich Sven
Published: March 2021

Background

Cardiac pacing can be challenging after a Fontan operation, and limited data exist regarding strategies to plan these epimyocardial systems while minimizing the number of surgical procedures.

Methods

A retrospective review of all our 47 patients (mean age 18 years, standard deviation 9 years) with a Fontan palliation who received an epimyocardial cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) between 2002 and 2020 with regard to the stability of the epimyocardial lead parameters and the incidence of system revisions.

Results

Over the last 18 years, 84 implantations or revisions of the epimyocardial CIED in 47 Fontan patients were performed. Mean age at time of the first implantation was 9.4 (range 0.28–29.3) years. Follow‐up period ranges from 0.11 to 18.2 (mean 7.7, standard deviation 4.2) years. A total of 123 pacing leads were implanted of which 99 are still active. From 2010 triple lead cardiac resynchronization devices were used in 17 patients to better cope with lead problems. The initial pacing threshold of the leads inactivated during this study period proved significantly higher (mean 1.66 V) than in the "all leads" group (mean 1.27 V, p = .0005) or the group of the still active leads (mean 1.17 V, p = .00004).

Conclusions

When implanted with a low pacing threshold, the bipolar epimyocardial electrodes show stable and good long‐term results in young patients with a Fontan circulation. Resynchronization pacing systems and the prospective implantation of reserve leads may help to reduce the rate of resternotomies and provide a flexible concept to deal with lead failure.
The Mismatch Problem: Why Mele's Approach to the Puzzle of Synchronic Self‐control Does Not Succeed
Authors: Altehenger Hannah
Published: March 2021

Most of us have had the experience of resisting our currently strongest desire, for example, resisting the desire to eat another cookie when eating another cookie is what we most want to do. The puzzle of synchronic self‐control, however, says that this is impossible: an agent cannot ever resist her currently strongest desire. The paper argues that one prominent solution to this puzzle – the solution offered by Al Mele – faces a serious ‘mismatch problem’, which ultimately undermines its plausibility. It is furthermore argued that this problem can be avoided if we adopt a ‘divided mind’ solution instead.
Reducible Markov Decision Processes and Stochastic Games
Authors: Ning Jie
Published: March 2021

Markov decision processes (MDPs) provide a powerful framework for analyzing dynamic decision making. However, their applications are significantly hindered by the difficulty of obtaining solutions. In this study, we introduce reducible MDPs whose exact solutions can be obtained by solving simpler MDPs, termed the coordinate MDPs. The value function and an optimal policy of a reducible MDP are linear functions of those of the associated coordinate MDP. Because the coordinate MDP does not involve the multi‐dimensional endogenous state, we achieve dimension reduction on a reducible MDP. Extending the MDP framework to multiple players, we introduce reducible stochastic games. We show that these games reduce to simpler coordinate games that do not involve the multi‐dimensional endogenous state. We specify sufficient conditions for the existence of a pure‐strategy Markov perfect equilibrium in reducible stochastic games and derive closed‐form expressions for the players’ equilibrium values. The reducible framework encompasses a variety of linear and nonlinear models and offers substantial simplification in analysis and computation. We provide guidelines and illustrative examples on formulating problems as reducible models. We demonstrate the applicability and modeling flexibility of reducible models in a wide range of contexts including capacity and inventory management and duopoly competition.
Autoregressive cross‐lagged modelling of the relationship between social activity, depressive symptoms, and cognitive function in Korean elderly
Authors: Bae Sung‐Man
Published: March 2021

Background

This study aimed to verify the reciprocal relationship between social activity, depressive symptoms, and cognitive function in Korean elderly, utilizing data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (conducted by the Korea Employment Information Service biennially from 2006 to 2018).

Methods

The data of 5549 people aged 60 and over (mean age 70.27 years, standard deviation = 7.26) were used in the final analysis. Autoregressive cross‐lagged analysis was used to examine bidirectional relationships between the variables over time. Frequency of participation in social activities, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Korean version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination were used to measure social activity, depressive symptoms, and cognitive function.

Results

Results of the analysis were as follows. First, social activity was found to have a negative effect on depressive symptoms over time, but depressive symptoms did not affect social activity. Second, a bidirectional relationship between depressive symptoms and cognitive function was identified. In other words, more depressive symptoms were related to lower cognitive function, and cognitive function had a negative impact on depressive symptoms over time. Third, social activity was found to positively affect cognitive function, but cognitive function did not affect social activity over time.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that social activity is closely related to depressive symptoms and cognitive function in the elderly, and suggests that social activity can be a key preventive factor for depression and cognitive impairment in this population.
How Gabriel Harvey read tragedy*
Authors: Demetriou Tania
Published: March 2021

In 1579, Gabriel Harvey bound together in a composite collection a surprising group of texts: an Italian grammar, an Italian translation of Terence’s comedies, Lodovico Dolce’s Italian rifacimenti of Euripides’ Medea and Seneca’s Thyestes, and Euripides’ Hecuba and Iphigenia in Erasmus’ Latin. The volume is now dispersed, but all its parts survive. This essay explores the story of this hitherto unknown artefact and what it reveals about Harvey’s reading practices and his engagement with drama, especially Greek tragedy. Parsing the elaborate system of signs with which Harvey multifariously annotated these works, it argues that he read tragedies with an emphasis on situation and utterance rather than extractable sententiae, as has been suggested. Harvey probed local detail in the tragedies with attentiveness, and with an eye to recurring observations that revealed the ‘thought’ of these works. He was drawn especially to the political dimension of this ‘thought’. Reading tragedies in juxtaposition, he became interested in their different exploration of rulers’ obligation to rule by their people’s consent. And he found Euripides’ plays particularly endowed with political wisdom, no doubt partly because he believed that they had been co‐authored by Euripides’ mentor and Harvey’s own icon of pragmatic wisdom, Socrates.