bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning in advance? Interspecific recognition ability in male Eurasian blackcaps
Authors: Matyjasiak Piotr
Published: May 2021

Interspecific aggression is common in bird communities. It is thought to be a consequence of learned behavior or misdirected intraspecific aggression. In the former case birds acquire the ability to identify individuals of other species by social learning of species-specific traits during interactions with heterospecifics in a shared habitat. I conducted a two-choice song playback experiment to investigate the role of associating signals from two sensory modalities, auditory and visual, in shaping the agonistic response of male Eurasian Blackcaps (Sylvia atricapilla) to simulated male Garden Warbler (S. borin) intruders. I measured focal males’ response to playbacks to the song of a Blackcap or a Garden Warbler while giving them a choice between stuffed male models of both species presented in their territories. The experiments were carried out in early spring, before the arrival of Garden Warblers from Africa. I found that male Blackcaps were able to associate species-specific songs with species-specific plumage types. The ability to associate signals characterized not only experienced after-second-year old males, but also second-year old males that had not had the opportunity to defend breeding territories against heterospecifics. This suggests that second-year old male Blackcaps acquire the ability to associate Garden Warbler song with plumage before they use this skill when defending territory during their first breeding episode. Male Blackcaps do not mistake male Garden Warblers for males of their species, but rather learn these associations during the first months of life. However, the possibility that these associations are innate cannot be excluded.
Von Nähe und Sicherheit: Die Artikel-Verordnung nach §§26, 27 Standortauswahlgesetz –
Sicherheitsanforderungen, Dogmatik, Öffentlichkeitsbeteiligung
Authors: Smeddinck Ulrich
Published: May 2021

Die Standortsuche für ein Endlager ist neu angelaufen. Für die Auswahl von günstigen
Teilgebieten wurden Sicherheitskriterien auf Geodaten angewendet. Regelungen zu Kriterien und zur Untersuchung
von Sicherheitsaspekten sind insbesondere in der neuen Artikel-Verordnung nach §§26, 27 StandAG
geregelt. Der Beitrag informiert über die Regelungsinhalte, setzt aber den Schwerpunkt auf die Beteiligung
der allgemeinen Öffentlichkeit im Verordnungsverfahren. Vor dem Hintergrund wird die Dogmatik der
Beteiligung bei der Erarbeitung von Rechtsverordnungen hinterfragt. Die Bedeutung von Nähe und Transparenz
werden als Leitwerte gegen Vertrauensverluste und Elitenverachtung konturiert.
Under-Reporting of Known HIV-Positive Status Among People Living with HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Soni Nirali , Giguère Katia , Boily Marie-Claude , Fogel Jessica M. , Maheu-Giroux Mathieu , Dimitrov Dobromir , Eshleman Susan H. , Mitchell Kate M.
Published: May 2021

Monitoring progress towards the UNAIDS ‘first 90’ target requires accurate estimates of levels of diagnosis among people living with HIV (PLHIV), which is often estimated using self-report. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis quantifying under-reporting of known HIV-positive status using objective knowledge proxies. Databases were searched for studies providing self-reported and biological/clinical markers of prior knowledge of HIV-positive status among PLHIV. Random-effects models were used to derive pooled estimates of levels of under-reporting. Thirty-two estimates from 26 studies were included (41,465 PLHIV). The pooled proportion under-reporting known HIV-positive status was 20% (95% confidence interval 13–26%, I2 = 99%). In sub-group analysis, under-reporting was higher among men who have sex with men (32%, number of estimates [Ne] = 10) compared to the general population (9%, Ne = 10) and among Black (18%, Ne = 5) than non-Black (3%, Ne = 3) individuals. Supplementing self-reported data with biological/clinical proxies may improve the validity of the ‘first 90’ estimates.
A finite deformation isogeometric finite element approach to fibre-reinforced composites with fibre bending stiffness
Authors: Witt Carina , Kaiser Tobias , Menzel Andreas
Published: May 2021

It is a common technique in many fields of engineering to reinforce materials with certain types of fibres in order to enhance the mechanical properties of the overall material. Specific simulation methods help to predict the behaviour of these composites in advance. In this regard, a widely established approach is the incorporation of the fibre direction vector as an additional argument of the energy function in order to capture the specific material properties in the fibre direction. While this model represents the transverse isotropy of a material, it cannot capture effects that result from a bending of the fibres and does not include any length scale that might allow the simulation of size effects. In this contribution, an enhanced approach is considered which relies on the introduction of higher-gradient contributions of the deformation map in the stored energy density function and which eventually allows accounting for fibre bending stiffness in simulations. The respective gradient fields are approximated by NURBS basis functions within an isogeometric finite element framework by taking advantage of their characteristic continuity properties. The isogeometric finite element approach that is presented in this contribution for fibre-reinforced composites with fibre bending stiffness accounts for finite deformations. It is shown that the proposed method is in accordance with semi-analytical solutions for a representative boundary value problem. In an additional example it is observed that the initial fibre orientation and the particular bending stiffness of the fibres influence the deformation as well as the stress response of the material.
Impact of pharmacy intervention on influenza vaccination acceptance: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Murray Erin , Bieniek Karolina , del Aguila Michael , Egodage Sonya , Litzinger Severine , Mazouz Assia , Mills Henry , Liska Jan
Published: May 2021

Background Vaccination plays an important role in the prevention of influenza. Channels that improve vaccination adherence can play a vital part in improving patient care. This study seeks to inform the design and implementation of pharmacy interventions at scale on improving influenza vaccination rates. Aim of the review The aim of this study was to identify key success factors for effective pharmacy intervention design and implementation to improve vaccination acceptance rates in influenza. Methods A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL was performed to find literature on influenza vaccinations delivered at pharmacies, pharmacist-delivered influenza vaccinations, or influenza vaccination campaigns originating in the pharmacy setting. A meta-analysis using a random effects model estimated the impact of pharmacy intervention on vaccination rates (assessed as relative risk [RR] and 95% confidence intervals [95% CI]). Results A total of 1221 studies were found that met the search criteria, of which 12 were selected for the literature review following eligibility screening. A meta-analysis of studies that contained binary total population and vaccination rate data was conducted on 6 studies, including 3182 participants, the vaccination rate was 24% higher in those who used the pharmacy-based intervention compared with those who used standard care [RR (95% CI) 1.24 (1.05, 1.47)]. Two separate sensitivity analyses were run for the vaccination rate. In participants aged ≥ 65 years, the vaccination rate was 3% higher in those who received the pharmacy-based intervention compared with those who received standard care; however, this change was not significant [RR (95% CI) 1.03 (0.86, 1.24)]. Additionally, a qualitative review showed that more successful pharmacy-based interventions were those with the more active involvement of pharmacists in routine care. This included regular checkup of vaccine status, proactive conversations and recommendations about vaccination, and pharmacy-based immunization programs, with specific vaccination days. In-pharmacy communication rather than passive information, such as through leaflets and posters was also more effective. Conclusion Pharmacists can play a significant role to improve patient treatment, adherence, and outcomes associated with influenza vaccines. Once pharmacy-based immunization is established, proactive involvement of is key to ensure successful program implementation and results. Expanding access for pharmacists and pharmacy intervention to provide vaccinations may increase vaccination acceptance and could be a valuable intervention in patient care. Additional studies should consider high-risk populations to inform optimal design and implementation strategies.
Kategorisieren, Vergleichen, Bewerten und Quantifizieren im Spiegel sozialer Beobachtungsformate
Authors: Heintz Bettina
Published: May 2021

In den letzten Jahren haben sich rund um die Praktiken des Vergleichens, Bewertens, Kategorisierens und Quantifizierens eigenständige Forschungsfelder etabliert: die Soziologie der Bewertung und des Vergleichs, die Kategorisierungs- und die Quantifizierungsforschung. Das Sonderheft der Kölner Zeitschrift für Soziologie und Sozialpsychologie rückt die Verbindungen zwischen den vier Forschungsfeldern in den Vordergrund. Am Beispiel empirischer Fallstudien zeigt es auf, welchen Gewinn es bringt, wenn man die vier Praktiken nicht unabhängig voneinander untersucht, sondern sie in ihrem Zusammenwirken analysiert. Die Fallstudien befassen sich mit unterschiedlichen Formaten sozialer Beobachtung und decken ein breites thematisches Spektrum ab: Die Themen reichen von der Kolonialstatistik und dem frühen Staatenvergleich, der Kolonial- und der inter/nationalen Statistik, über Monitoringsysteme und Rankings bis hin zu Recommendersystemen, digitalen Plattformen und prädiktiven Algorithmen. Der einleitende Beitrag entwickelt den theoretischen Rahmen, der dem Band zugrunde liegt, und setzt die Beiträge zueinander in Beziehung.
Consciousness, decision making, and volition: freedom beyond chance and necessity
Authors: Liljenström Hans
Published: May 2021

What is the role of consciousness in volition and decision-making? Are our actions fully determined by brain activity preceding our decisions to act, or can consciousness instead affect the brain activity leading to action? This has been much debated in philosophy, but also in science since the famous experiments by Libet in the 1980s, where the current most common interpretation is that conscious free will is an illusion. It seems that the brain knows, up to several seconds in advance what “you” decide to do. These studies have, however, been criticized, and alternative interpretations of the experiments can be given, some of which are discussed in this paper. In an attempt to elucidate the processes involved in decision-making (DM), as an essential part of volition, we have developed a computational model of relevant brain structures and their neurodynamics. While DM is a complex process, we have particularly focused on the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) for its emotional, and the lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC) for its cognitive aspects. In this paper, we present a stochastic population model representing the neural information processing of DM. Simulation results seem to confirm the notion that if decisions have to be made fast, emotional processes and aspects dominate, while rational processes are more time consuming and may result in a delayed decision. Finally, some limitations of current science and computational modeling will be discussed, hinting at a future development of science, where consciousness and free will may add to chance and necessity as explanation for what happens in the world.
Medical devices nomenclature systems: a scoping review
Authors: Iadanza Ernesto , Cerofolini Samuele , Lombardo Chiara , Satta Francesca , Gherardelli Monica
Published: May 2021

Inventory is a fundamental process throughout the life cycle of medical devices. The maintenance program for each piece of equipment must comply with current regulations that are constantly evolving. The need to set up an evidence based management of the inventory of thousands of medical devices hosted in the Careggi University Hospital (AOUC), in Florence (Italy), has suggested to conceive a method to group medical devices in sub-classes, in order to monitor their performances and maintenance. The starting point to reach this goal is to establish a suitable nomenclature, a complex system of rules, codes, and definitions employed by healthcare systems and organizations to identify sets of medical devices. This paper describes the literature search performed on both Ovid and Scopus databases, that made it possible to identify several classifications and nomenclatures for medical devices. On the basis of this search, only a few works fulfil the requirement of classifying medical devices for management purposes (e.g., inventories, database, and supply chains). The analysis has shown that it is possible to reduce the number of classes into macro groups when applying the Italian National Classification of Medical Devices (CND). Although the CND nomenclature shows inconsistencies for complex groups it is an effective and successful choice, in terms of efficiency and optimization, also considering that it is the basis for the European Medical Device Nomenclature (EMDN).
Is sustainable marketing based on virtue ethics the answer to addressing socio-ecological challenges facing humankind?
Authors: Prothero Andrea , McDonagh Pierre
Published: May 2021

This commentary provides a review of Dyck and Manchanda’s work on the use of virtue ethics, through Sociological and Ecological Thought (SET) Oriented Marketing, in tackling socio-ecological challenges within society. While we concur with the focus of the paper on moving away from a central emphasis on profit maximization, we differ in how we believe this can be achieved. We critique the SET approach put forward from three key positions: (a) the SET approach and the application of virtue ethics; (b) the SET approach and the use of the marketing mix to operationalize it in practice; and, (c) the missing systemic and institutional barriers which we believe render SET problematic both theoretically and in practical terms. We conclude by suggesting that instead of utilising normative ethical theories to address socio-ecological challenges marketing researchers turn to other perspectives, such as ecofeminism.
Treatment of industrial oily wastewater by advanced technologies: a review
Authors: Adetunji Adegoke Isiaka , Olaniran Ademola Olufolahan
Published: May 2021

Oily wastewater consists of fats, oils and greases together with a broad spectrum of dissolved organic and/or inorganic substances in suspension. It is regarded as one of the most hazardous wastewaters, causing serious environmental and health threats to the ecosystems, flora and fauna. The global increase in the discharge of oily wastewater coupled with stringent regulations for effluent discharge and incessant drive for re-use of treated wastewater necessitate the need for treatment of the wastewater. Conventional approaches employed in the past are inept for oily wastewater treatment due to low treatment efficiency and high operational costs, among others, hence the need for adoption of advanced technologies as promising alternatives to existing treatment systems for oily wastewater. Furthermore, the use of combined treatment processes is effective for the removal of hazardous pollutants present in high-strength oily wastewater. This review provides insights into advanced and emerging state-of-the-art technologies for safe and efficient treatment of industrial oily wastewater.
Testing of aerosolized ciprofloxacin nanocarriers on cystic fibrosis airway cells infected with P. aeruginosa biofilms
Authors: Juntke Jenny , Murgia Xabier , Günday Türeli Nazende , Türeli Akif Emre , Thorn Chelsea R. , Schneider Marc , Schneider-Daum Nicole , de Souza Carvalho-Wodarz Cristiane , Lehr Claus-Michael
Published: May 2021

The major pathogen found in the lungs of adult cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which builds antibiotic-resistant biofilms. Pulmonary delivery of antibiotics by inhalation has already been proved advantageous in the clinic, but the development of novel anti-infective aerosol medicines is complex and could benefit from adequate in vitro test systems. This work describes the first in vitro model of human bronchial epithelial cells cultivated at the air–liquid interface (ALI) and infected with P. aeruginosa biofilm and its application to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of aerosolized anti-infective nanocarriers. Such a model may facilitate the translation of novel therapeutic modalities into the clinic, reducing animal experiments and the associated problems of species differences. A preformed biofilm of P. aeruginosa PAO1 was transferred to filter-grown monolayers of the human CF cell line (CFBE41o-) at ALI and additionally supplemented with human tracheobronchial mucus. This experimental protocol provides an appropriate time window to deposit aerosolized ciprofloxacin-loaded nanocarriers at the ALI. When applied 1 h post-infection, the nanocarriers eradicated all planktonic bacteria and reduced the biofilm fraction of the pathogen by log 6, while CFBE41o- viability and barrier properties were maintained. The here described complex in vitro model approach may open new avenues for preclinical safety and efficacy testing of aerosol medicines against P. aeruginosa lung infection.

Graphical abstract
Ecological network analysis to link interactions between system components and performances in multispecies livestock farms
Authors: Steinmetz Lucille , Veysset Patrick , Benoit Marc , Dumont Bertrand
Published: May 2021

Organic farming relies on ecological processes to replace chemical inputs, and organic farmers have developed various strategies, including several forms of diversification, to remain viable. Herein, we hypothesized that diversified organic farming systems can enhance their performance by increasing the level of interactions between system components. We therefore performed an ecological network analysis to characterize both within-farm and farm-environment interactions. Flows were expressed on an annual basis according to the quantity of biomass exchanges multiplied by nitrogen content. Seventeen organic farms were surveyed in French grassland areas, each associating beef cattle with either sheep, pigs, or poultry. The ecological network analysis was then coupled with the assessment of farm economic, environmental, and social performances. A hierarchical clustering on principal components distinguished five groups of farms based on farm and herd size, presence of monogastrics, percentage of crops in the farm area, and system activity indicators. A large farm size, in terms of area or number of workers, can limit the implementation of a homogeneous flow network within the system. A higher level of within-system interactions did not lead to better farm economic, environmental, and social performances. Systems with large monogastric production enterprises were highly dependent on inputs, which led to less homogeneous flow networks and a poor farm nitrogen balance without gaining economic efficiency. Managing a complex system with a dense and complex flow network did not appear to increase farmers’ mental workload. To our knowledge, this study is the first to quantify farm-scale interactions using ecological network indicators in temperate livestock farms and to analyze the links between farm performance and operating processes. The ecological network analysis thus potentially provides a common framework for comparing a wide range of livestock farms. Given the variability of multispecies livestock farms, a larger database will be used to extend our conclusions.
Unterrichtsqualität in der Religionsdidaktik – fachspezifische und fachübergreifende Aspekte
Authors: Rothgangel Martin
Published: May 2021

Von Ausnahmen abgesehen weist der religionsdidaktische Diskurs bislang v.a. zwei Problempunkte auf: Zwar wurden diverse religionsdidaktische „Qualitätsmodelle“ publiziert, jedoch nehmen diese oftmals unzureichend aufeinander Bezug und es dominiert der theoretische Diskurs über Qualität gegenüber der empirischen Überprüfung der entsprechenden Konzepte. Dementsprechend zeigt auch der Vergleich mit dem Syntheseframework von Praetorius et al. einerseits deutliche religionsdidaktische Forschungsdesiderate auf; andererseits weisen religionsdidaktische Qualitätsmodelle auf die Bedeutung von Kontextfaktoren des Unterrichts hin und werfen drei grundsätzliche Fragen auf, die generell für die bildungswissenschaftliche Bestimmung fachspezifischer und fachübergreifender Aspekte von Unterrichtsqualität relevant sein können.
Correction to: Nebivolol attenuates the anticonvulsant action of carbamazepine and phenobarbital against the maximal electroshock-induced seizures in mice
Authors: Borowicz-Reutt Kinga K. , Banach Monika , Rudkowska Monika
Published: May 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s43440-021-00275-7
“I can try and plan, but still get pregnant”: The complexity of pregnancy intentions and reproductive health decision‐making for adolescents
Authors: Offiong Asari , Powell Terrinieka W. , Gemmill Alison , Marcell Arik V.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Teen pregnancy rates have declined in the United States; however, disparities continue to persist particularly among minority, low‐income adolescents. A greater understanding of how pregnancy intentions are conceptualized for adolescents, and the role of the social context may illuminate reasons for disparities. The aim of this study was to expand the lens in which adolescents’ perspectives of pregnancy are studied by exploring the contextual factors that frame how pregnancy intentions are developed among urban adolescents.

Methods

Thirteen focus groups (N = 46) were conducted with male and female adolescents 15–19 years old in Baltimore, Maryland. Participants were recruited from local high schools, and focus groups were stratified by sex and age (15–17 and 18–19). A phenomenological approach was applied to analyze the data both deductively and inductively, allowing for themes to emerge and align within an existing conceptual framework.

Results

Two themes identified were stated pregnancy intentions and shared schemas of sex and pregnancy. Participants discussed a range of pregnancy intentions and expressed five social perspectives which informed those intentions: sex is a gendered responsibility, teen pregnancy is cyclical and common, teen pregnancy is not a completely negative experience, having a child fulfills emotional and relational voids, and pregnancy should happen early, just not too early.

Conclusion

Pregnancy intentions for adolescents are expansive and driven by complex social perspectives set in their context. More consideration of the context is needed to provide and offer adolescents, particularly those of vulnerable communities, supports that align with their reproductive health needs.
The Law and Practice of Peacekeeping
Authors: Freedman Rosa , Lemay-Hébert Nicolas , Wills Siobhán
Published: May 2021

In an increasingly complex world, it is more crucial than ever to have a full picture of how international peacekeeping can be a force for good, but can also have potentially negative impacts on host communities. After thirteen years of presence in Haiti, the highly controversial United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti has now withdrawn. The UN's legacy in Haiti is not all negative, but it does include sexual scandals, the divisive use of force to 'clean up' difficult neighbourhoods as well as a cholera epidemic, brought inadvertently by Nepalese peacekeepers that killed more than 8,000 Haitians and infected more than 600,000. This book presents a unique multi-disciplinary analysis of the legacy of the mission for Haiti. It presents an innovative account of contemporary international peacekeeping law and practice, arguing for a new model of accountability, going beyond the outdated immunity mechanisms to foreground human rights.
The Philosophy of Ecology
Authors: Justus James
Published: May 2021

Ecology is indispensable to understanding the biological world and addressing the environmental problems humanity faces. Its philosophy has never been more important. In this book, James Justus introduces readers to the philosophically rich issues ecology poses. Besides its crucial role in biological science generally, climate change, biodiversity loss, and other looming environmental challenges make ecology's role in understanding such threats and identifying solutions to them all the more critical. When ecology is applied and its insights marshalled to address these problems and guide policy formation, interesting philosophical issues emerge. Justus sets them out in detail, and explores the often ethically charged dimensions of applied ecological science, using accessible language and a wealth of scientifically-informed examples.
Change in Hay-to-Milk Price Responsiveness with Dairy Industry Expansion
Authors: Hatzenbuehler Patrick L. , Tejeda Hernan , Hines Steven , Packham Joel
Published: May 2021

The dairy industries in California, Idaho, and New Mexico expanded rapidly during the early 2000s. This study focuses on the expansion effects on milk-to-hay price responsiveness. Dairy industry expansion makes hay markets tighter, with less available marketable supply in most periods. The empirical models account for the expansion effect as well as those from hay exports and low stocks-to-use ratios that also cause changes in hay market demand characteristics. The results show that hay-to-milk price responsiveness increased after dairy expansion in all analyzed states. Low stocks-to-use and high exports dampened the responsiveness, but were not statistically significant for all analyzed states.
A Nation’s Holy Land: Kazakhstan’s Large-Scale National Project to Map Its Sacred Geography
Authors: Tsyrempilov Nikolay , Bigozhin Ulan , Zhumabayev Batyrkhan
Published: May 2021

This article focuses on the project Sacred Geography of Kazakhstan, launched in 2017 in Kazakhstan as part of the nationwide program Ruqani Zhangyru (Modernization of Spirituality). The officially stated goal of the project is to cultivate a sense of patriotism in the country’s residents related to places and geographic sites that are important for the historical memory of independent Kazakhstan. The authors assume that the real goal of the project is national territorialization, or recoding of the semantics of space, by selecting, codifying, and articulating some symbols and practices, while leveling and “forgetting” others. The analysis, which is based on expert interviews and official documents, shows that this postcolonial process fits into the tendency toward ethnonationalization of Kazakhstan, in which discourse on the civil nation continues to be reproduced at the official level, while real activity is more focused on reinforcing the idea of Kazakhstan as the state of the Kazakh nation. The institutionalization of organizing and recoding the sacred landscape involves a wide variety of groups and actors. These factors may explain the success of the project in comparison to other projects being implemented under the Ruqani Zhangyru program.
Minority Party Capacity in Congress
Authors: BALLARD ANDREW O. , CURRY JAMES M.
Published: May 2021

When, and under what circumstances, are congressional minority parties capable of influencing legislative outcomes? We argue that the capacity of the minority party to exert legislative influence is a function of three factors:constraintson the majority party, which createopportunitiesfor the minority party; minority partycohesionon the issue at hand; and sufficientmotivationfor the minority to engage in legislating rather than electioneering. Drawing on data on every bill considered in the House of Representatives between 1985 and 2006 and case examples of notable lawmaking efforts during the same period, we show that our theory helps predict which bills are considered on the House floor, which bills become law, and the substance of policy-making outcomes. Our findings have important implications for theories of congressional party power and our understanding of minority party influence on Capitol Hill.
Status of nutritional literacy in adolescents in the semi-rural area in Turkey and related factors
Authors: Ayer Çağla , Ergin Ahmet
Published: May 2021

Objective:

To determine the status of nutritional literacy and its affecting factors among the adolescents who are in the 9th grade in Çivril, in Denizli province, in Turkey.

Design:

This is a cross-sectional study that determines the sociodemographic characteristics, nutritional habits, nutritional behaviour, nutritional literacy status of adolescents and affecting factors.

Setting:

Denizli, Turkey.

Participants:

We included 523 adolescents in ninth grade in this study.

Results:

Half (49·7 %) of the participants were female; 47 %, in normal BMI; and 68·1 %, non-smokers. The mean (sd) Adolescent Nutrition Literacy Scale score was 67·6 (sd 7·9). Nutrition literacy status was related to mothers’ education level (P 0·021); health perceptions (P 0·008); positive body perception (P 0·032); unhealthy food consumption status (P 0·017); information barriers (undecided about effort for information gathering (P 0·026), undecided about the difficulty of understanding information (P 0·042) and thinking it is difficult to understand (P 0·003)), trust in nutrition, diet information sources (nutrition and diet expert, dietitian trusting (according to others) (P 0·001), nutrition and diet expert, dietitian neutral to trust (compared with others) (P 0·011) and trust in textbooks (P 0·023)).

Conclusions:

The level of nutrition literacy status of participants was moderate. It is important to carry out interventions to increase the education level of women, positive body perceptions and general health perceptions of adolescents and to remove information barriers related to nutrition.
Links Between Exposure to Sexualized Instagram Images and Body Image	Concerns in Girls and Boys
Authors: Skowronski Marika , Busching Robert , Krahé Barbara
Published: May 2021

Abstract. The current study examined the links between viewing female and male sexualized Instagram images (SII) and body image concerns within the three-step process of self-objectification among adolescents aged 13–18 years from Germany ( N = 300, 61% female). Participants completed measures of SII use, thin- and muscular-ideal internalization, valuing appearance over competence, and body surveillance. Structural equation modeling revealed that SII use was associated with body image concerns for boys and girls via different routes. Specifically, female SII use was indirectly associated with higher body surveillance via thin-ideal internalization and subsequent valuing appearance over competence for girls. For both girls and boys, male SII use was indirectly linked to higher body surveillance via muscular-ideal internalization. Implications for the three-step model of self-objectification by sexualized social media are discussed.
Using Radiocarbon to Assess the Abundance, Distribution, and Nature of Labile Organic Carbon in Marine Sediments
Authors: DeMaster D. J. , Taylor R. S. , Smith C. R. , Isla E. , Thomas C. J.
Published: May 2021

Positive 14C gradients have recently been observed within the surface mixed layer of several continental‐margin sediments. The best explanation for these positive 14C gradients is the occurrence and rapid degradation of labile organic carbon (LOC) in the upper 5–10 cm of the seabed. Based on a two‐component model for sedimentary organic matter (i.e., a planktonic labile component and an older refractory component), bulk 14Corg data were used to determine the abundances of LOC within the surface mixed layers of three cores from the West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) shelf and one core from San Clemente Basin (California Borderland). LOC contents in surface samples from the four stations varied from 0.5 to 1.1 mg/cm3, comprising 20% (San Clemente Basin) to 80% (WAP, Sta. G) of the total organic carbon. By incorporating a steady state diagenetic model and particle‐mixing bioturbation coefficients, the LOC profiles were used to determine LOC turnover times (LOC τ) and LOC e‐folding depths. The LOC τ values for the West Antarctic Peninsula sediments varied from 0.09 to 0.59 years, whereas the LOC τ value from the San Clemente Basin core was 63 years. The LOC e‐folding depths for the WAP stations varied from 0.8 to 3.4 cm, in contrast to the LOC e‐folding depth in San Clemente Basin, which was 4.0 cm. LOC characteristics from the four cores examined in this study were compared to LOC data in the literature as a means of substantiating the overall 14Corg‐based approach and justifying model assumptions.
Current challenges and unmet medical needs in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Platzbecker Uwe , Kubasch Anne Sophie , Homer-Bouthiette Collin , Prebet Thomas
Published: May 2021

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) represent a heterogeneous group of myeloid neoplasms that are characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, variable cytopenias, and a risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Most patients with MDS are affected by anemia and anemia-related symptoms, which negatively impact their quality of life. While many patients with MDS have lower-risk disease and are managed by existing treatments, there currently is no clear standard of care for many patients. For patients with higher-risk disease, the treatment priority is changing the natural history of the disease by delaying disease progression to acute myeloid leukemia and improving overall survival. However, existing treatments for MDS are generally not curative and many patients experience relapse or resistance to first-line treatment. Thus, there remains an unmet need for new, more effective but tolerable strategies to manage MDS. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of MDS, and it is becoming clear that the diverse nature of genetic abnormalities that drive MDS demands a complex and personalized treatment approach. This review will discuss some of the challenges related to the current MDS treatment landscape, as well as new approaches currently in development.
In vivo flow cytometry reveals a circadian rhythm of circulating tumor cells
Authors: Zhu Xi , Suo Yuanzhen , Fu Yuting , Zhang Fuli , Ding Nan , Pang Kai , Xie Chengying , Weng Xiaofu , Tian Meilu , He Hao , Wei Xunbin
Published: May 2021

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) is an established biomarker of cancer metastasis. The circulation dynamics of CTCs are important for understanding the mechanisms underlying tumor cell dissemination. Although studies have revealed that the circadian rhythm may disrupt the growth of tumors, it is generally unclear whether the circadian rhythm controls the release of CTCs. In clinical examinations, the current in vitro methods for detecting CTCs in blood samples are based on a fundamental assumption that CTC counts in the peripheral blood do not change significantly over time, which is being challenged by recent studies. Since it is not practical to draw blood from patients repeatedly, a feasible strategy to investigate the circadian rhythm of CTCs is to monitor them by in vivo detection methods. Fluorescence in vivo flow cytometry (IVFC) is a powerful optical technique that is able to detect fluorescent circulating cells directly in living animals in a noninvasive manner over a long period of time. In this study, we applied fluorescence IVFC to monitor CTCs noninvasively in an orthotopic mouse model of human prostate cancer. We observed that CTCs exhibited stochastic bursts over cancer progression. The probability of the bursting activity was higher at early stages than at late stages. We longitudinally monitored CTCs over a 24-h period, and our results revealed striking daily oscillations in CTC counts that peaked at the onset of the night (active phase for rodents), suggesting that the release of CTCs might be regulated by the circadian rhythm.
Skeletal endocrinology: where evolutionary advantage meets disease
Authors: Jaschke Nikolai , Sipos Wolfgang , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Rachner Tilman D. , Rauner Martina
Published: May 2021

The regulation of whole-body homeostasis by the skeleton is mediated by its capacity to secrete endocrine signaling molecules. Although bone-derived hormones confer several adaptive benefits, their physiological functions also involve trade-offs, thus eventually contributing to disease. In this manuscript, we discuss the origins and functions of two of the best-studied skeletal mediators, fibroblast growth factor 23 and osteocalcin, in an evolutionary context. Moreover, we provide a theoretical framework seeking to explain the broad involvement of these two hormones in amniote physiology as well as their potential to fuel the development and progression of diseases. Vice versa, we outline which perturbations might be amenable to manipulation of these systems and discuss limitations and ongoing challenges in skeletal endocrine research. Finally, we summarize unresolved questions and potential future studies in this thriving field.
A novel BH3-mimetic, AZD0466, targeting BCL-XL and BCL-2 is effective in pre-clinical models of malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Arulananda Surein , O’Brien Megan , Evangelista Marco , Jenkins Laura J. , Poh Ashleigh R. , Walkiewicz Marzena , Leong Trishe , Mariadason John M. , Cebon Jonathan , Balachander Srividya B. , Cidado Justin R. , Lee Erinna F. , John Thomas , Fairlie Walter D.
Published: May 2021

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive cancer with treatment limited to Cisplatin and Pemetrexed chemotherapy. Recently, we showed that drugs targeting the BCL-2-regulated apoptosis pathway could kill MPM cell lines in vitro, and control tumor growth in vivo. These studies showed BCL-XL was the dominant pro-survival BCL-2 family member correlating with its high-level expression in cells and patient tumor samples. In this study we show another inhibitor, AZD4320 that targets BCL-XL (and BCL-2), can also potently kill MPM tumor cells in vitro (EC50 values in the 200 nM range) and this effect is enhanced by co-inhibition of MCL-1 using AZD5991. Moreover, we show that a novel nanoparticle, AZD0466, where AZD4320 is chemically conjugated to a PEGylated poly-lysine dendrimer, was as effective as standard-of-care chemotherapy, Cisplatin, at inhibiting tumor growth in mouse xenograft studies, and this effect was enhanced when both drugs were combined. Critically, the degree of thrombocytopenia, an on-target toxicity associated with BCL-XL inhibition, was significantly reduced throughout the treatment period compared to other BCL-XL-targeting BH3-mimetics. These pre-clinical findings provide a rationale for the future clinical evaluation for novel BH3-mimetic formulations in MPM, and indeed, other solid tumor types dependent on BCL-XL.
hsa_circ_0008234 inhibits the progression of lung adenocarcinoma by sponging miR-574-5p
Authors: Jiang Wei , He Yaozhou , Ma Zijian , Zhang Yu , Zhang Chengpeng , Zheng Nianpeng , Tang Xing
Published: May 2021

circRNAs are a novel type of noncoding RNA (ncRNA) that have been identified as an important regulator of gene expression and play a part in the progression of various diseases. However, the function of circ_0008234 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAC) remains unknown. Through the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database, circ_0008234 was first found to be downregulated in LUAC tissues. It could inhibit cell growth and accelerate apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. In terms of its possible mechanism, circ_0008234 mainly was present in the cytoplasm and competed with miR-574-5p to regulate RND3 (Rho family GTPase 3). Our results revealed that circ_0008234 inhibited the progression of LUAC through a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA)-based mechanism and provided potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for LUAC treatment.
Remodeling of t-system and proteins underlying excitation-contraction coupling in aging versus failing human heart
Authors: Lyu Yankun , Verma Vipin K. , Lee Younjee , Taleb Iosif , Badolia Rachit , Shankar Thirupura S. , Kyriakopoulos Christos P. , Selzman Craig H. , Caine William , Alharethi Rami , Navankasattusas Sutip , Seidel Thomas , Drakos Stavros G. , Sachse Frank B.
Published: May 2021

It is well established that the aging heart progressively remodels towards a senescent phenotype, but alterations of cellular microstructure and their differences to chronic heart failure (HF) associated remodeling remain ill-defined. Here, we show that the transverse tubular system (t-system) and proteins underlying excitation-contraction coupling in cardiomyocytes are characteristically remodeled with age. We shed light on mechanisms of this remodeling and identified similarities and differences to chronic HF. Using left ventricular myocardium from donors and HF patients with ages between 19 and 75 years, we established a library of 3D reconstructions of the t-system as well as ryanodine receptor (RyR) and junctophilin 2 (JPH2) clusters. Aging was characterized by t-system alterations and sarcolemmal dissociation of RyR clusters. This remodeling was less pronounced than in HF and accompanied by major alterations of JPH2 arrangement. Our study indicates that targeting sarcolemmal association of JPH2 might ameliorate age-associated deficiencies of heart function.
FAK inhibition alone or in combination with adjuvant therapies reduces cancer stem cell activity
Authors: Timbrell Simon , Aglan Hosam , Cramer Angela , Foden Phil , Weaver David , Pachter Jonathan , Kilgallon Aoife , Clarke Robert B. , Farnie Gillian , Bundred Nigel J.
Published: May 2021

Cancer stem-like cells (CSC) contribute to therapy resistance and recurrence. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) has a role in CSC regulation. We determined the effect of FAK inhibition on breast CSC activity alone and in combination with adjuvant therapies. FAK inhibition reduced CSC activity and self-renewal across all molecular subtypes in primary human breast cancer samples. Combined FAK and paclitaxel reduced self-renewal in triple negative cell lines. An invasive breast cancer cohort confirmed high FAK expression correlated with increased risk of recurrence and reduced survival. Co-expression of FAK and CSC markers was associated with the poorest prognosis, identifying a high-risk patient population. Combined FAK and paclitaxel treatment reduced tumour size, Ki67, ex-vivo mammospheres and ALDH+ expression in two triple negative patient derived Xenograft (PDX) models. Combined treatment reduced tumour initiation in a limiting dilution re-implantation PDX model. Combined FAK inhibition with adjuvant therapy has the potential to improve breast cancer survival.
Telomere biology disorders
Authors: Kam Michelle L. W. , Nguyen Trang T. T. , Ngeow Joanne Y. Y.
Published: May 2021

Telomere biology disorders (TBD) are a heterogeneous group of diseases arising from germline mutations affecting genes involved in telomere maintenance. Telomeres are DNA-protein structures at chromosome ends that maintain chromosome stability; their length affects cell replicative potential and senescence. A constellation of bone marrow failure, pulmonary fibrosis, liver cirrhosis and premature greying is suggestive, however incomplete penetrance results in highly variable manifestations, with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis as the most common presentation. Currently, the true extent of TBD burden is unknown as there is no established diagnostic criteria and the disorder often is unrecognised and underdiagnosed. There is no gold standard for measuring telomere length and not all TBD-related mutations have been identified. There is no specific cure and the only treatment is organ transplantation, which has poor outcomes. This review summarises the current literature and discusses gaps in understanding and areas of need in managing TBD.
Notch-Wnt signal crosstalk regulates proliferation and differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells during intramembranous bone healing
Authors: Lee S. , Remark L. H. , Josephson A. M. , Leclerc K. , Lopez E. Muiños , Kirby D. J. , Mehta Devan , Litwa H. P. , Wong M. Z. , Shin S. Y. , Leucht P.
Published: May 2021

Adult bone regeneration is orchestrated by the precise actions of osteoprogenitor cells (OPCs). However, the mechanisms by which OPC proliferation and differentiation are linked and thereby regulated are yet to be defined. Here, we present evidence that during intramembranous bone formation OPC proliferation is controlled by Notch signaling, while differentiation is initiated by activation of canonical Wnt signaling. The temporospatial separation of Notch and Wnt signal activation during the early stages of bone regeneration suggests crosstalk between the two pathways. In vitro and in vivo manipulation of the two essential pathways demonstrate that Wnt activation leads to initiation of osteogenic differentiation and at the same time inhibits Notch signaling, which results in termination of the proliferative phase. Here, we establish canonical Wnt signaling as a key regulator that facilitates the crosstalk between OPC proliferation and differentiation during intramembranous, primary bone healing.
Dispositional empathy predicts primary somatosensory cortex activity while receiving touch by a hand
Authors: Schaefer Michael , Kühnel Anja , Rumpel Franziska , Gärtner Matti
Published: May 2021

Previous research revealed an active network of brain areas such as insula and anterior cingulate cortex when witnessing somebody else in pain and feeling empathy. But numerous studies also suggested a role of the somatosensory cortices for state and trait empathy. While recent studies highlight the role of the observer’s primary somatosensory cortex when seeing painful or nonpainful touch, the interaction of somatosensory cortex activity with empathy when receiving touch on the own body is unknown. The current study examines the relationship of touch related somatosensory cortex activity with dispositional empathy by employing an fMRI approach. Participants were touched on the palm of the hand either by the hand of an experimenter or by a rubber hand. We found that the BOLD responses in the primary somatosensory cortex were associated with empathy personality traits personal distress and perspective taking. This relationship was observed when participants were touched both with the experimenter’s real hand or a rubber hand. What is the reason for this link between touch perception and trait empathy? We argue that more empathic individuals may express stronger attention both to other’s human perceptions as well as to the own sensations. In this way, higher dispositional empathy levels might enhance tactile processing by top-down processes. We discuss possible implications of these findings.