bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A randomized, placebo‐controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of sitagliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control on ipragliflozin
Authors: Seino Yutaka , Kaku Kohei , Kadowaki Takashi , Okamoto Taro , Sato Asako , Shirakawa Masayoshi , O'Neill Edward A. , Engel Samuel S. , Kaufman Keith D.
Published: February 2021

Aims

To investigate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of sitagliptin 50 mg once daily added to ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily monotherapy in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and Methods

Japanese patients with T2D and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.0% to 10.0% while treated with ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily were randomized 1:1 to additional treatment with sitagliptin 50 mg once daily (N = 70) or matching placebo (N = 71) for 24 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was change in HbA1c at Week 24. Secondary efficacy endpoints were changes in 2‐hour post‐meal glucose (PMG), total PMG 0‐ to 2‐hour area under the curve (AUC0‐2h), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG).

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups (mean age 55.5 years, mean baseline HbA1c 8.0%). After 24 weeks, the addition of sitagliptin provided significantly greater reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo (least squares [LS] mean difference −0.83% [95% confidence interval −1.05, −0.62]; P <0.001). Significant reductions were also observed in all secondary endpoints: LS mean differences from placebo in changes in 2‐hour PMG, total PMG AUC0‐2h, and FPG were −42.5 mg/dL, −67.0 mg·h/dL and −11.2 mg/dL, respectively (all P <0.001). The incidence of adverse events (AEs) overall and incidence of predefined AEs of clinical interest (symptomatic hypoglycaemia, urinary tract infection, genital infection, hypovolaemia and polyuria/pollakiuria) were similar in the two groups.

Conclusions

In Japanese patients with T2D, sitagliptin 50 mg once daily added to ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily monotherapy provided significant improvement in glycaemic control and was generally well tolerated. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02577016.
Retrospective analysis of oblique and straight distal sesamoidean ligament desmitis in 52 horses
Authors: Hawkins Alex , O’Leary Lauren , Bolt David , Fiske‐Jackson Andrew , Berner Dagmar , Smith Roger
Published: February 2021

Background

Injuries to the oblique (ODSL) or straight (SDSL) distal sesamoidean ligaments are a recognised cause of distal limb lameness in the horse. However, there are only limited publications addressing common diagnostic features and prognosis.

Objectives

(a) Report findings on ultrasonography and standing low‐field magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) in horses with ODSL or SDSL injury; (b) Identify clinical variables associated with lesion type and (c) Identify factors associated with return to soundness in horses with ODSL or SDSL injury.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Horses with a primary diagnosis of ODSL or SDSL injury confirmed with a combination of diagnostic analgesia and detection of a lesion on imaging (ultrasonographic ± advanced imaging) were included. Return to soundness and performance follow‐up data were obtained.

Results

Fifty‐one horses were included. SDSL injuries were more common in the forelimb (13/21, 62%), while ODSL injuries had equal frequency in fore‐ (15/30, 50%) and hindlimbs (15/30, 50%). ODSL injuries were more likely than SDSL injuries to affect the proximal third of the ligament (OR =13; 95% CI 2.3‐74.3; p = 0.004) and often presented with periligamentar swelling (20/30;67%) and focal pain (22/28;79%). Lesions were frequently detected using ultrasonography (35/42;83%) and sMRI examination (18/25;72%). Only 27/49 cases (55%) returned to soundness, with only 15/49 (31%) returning to intended use. There were no significant associations between outcome and clinical features or treatment.

Main limitations

There was no comparative “gold standard” to validate lesions such as high‐field MRI or histopathology.

Conclusions

In contrast to previous studies, ODSL and SDSL injuries were readily identified ultrasonographically using appropriate views, and with sMRI. Given the limited availability, cost and general anaesthetic risks associated with high‐field MRI, more focus should be placed on optimising the ultrasonographic examination. Owners of affected horses should be informed of the guarded prognosis for return to full use.
Foodwork and foodcare in hard times: Mothering, value, and values
Authors: Parsons Elizabeth , Harman Vicki , Cappellini Benedetta
Published: February 2021

In this article, we analyze the foodwork of mothers when feeding their families on low and reduced incomes. By exploring their accounts of food shopping and household budgeting, we argue that foodwork is intrinsically linked to other areas of social life and dominant values associated with “good mothering.” Through a careful consideration of the contexts and relations in which foodwork is valued, embedded, and made meaningful, we draw two key conclusions. First, we find that mothers' foodwork is oriented towards avoiding devaluation and maintaining a level of respectability as opposed to accumulating cultural capital. Second, we introduce the concept of foodcare arguing that it potentially offers low income mothers an alternative to the logic of capital for their demonstration of self‐worth.
Effective reduction of post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation with the tyrosinase inhibitor isobutylamido‐thiazolyl‐resorcinol (Thiamidol)
Authors: Roggenkamp Dennis , Dlova Ncoza , Mann Tobias , Batzer Jan , Riedel Julia , Kausch Martina , Zoric Ivica , Kolbe Ludger
Published: February 2021

Objective

Post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a major cosmetic concern especially in individuals with darker skin complexion. Unfortunately, treatment with anti‐inflammatory ingredients alone does not prevent the development of hyperpigmented spots. Recently, isobutylamido‐thiazolyl‐resorcinol (Thiamidol) was described as a very potent inhibitor of human tyrosinase. The objective of this research was to investigate the potential of this compound to prevent PIH induced by epidermal wounding (suction blister) and related to acne.

Methods

Suction blister‐induced PIH was treated with a formulation containing Thiamidol or a vehicle for 3 months, and the changes in hyperpigmentation were monitored by spectroscopic measurements. The effect of skin care formulations containing Thiamidol on acne‐related PIH was investigated in two studies, a vehicle‐controlled, double‐blinded, randomized clinical study and a clinical observational study. Both studies had a duration of 3 months and included assessments such as clinical photography, clinical grading and melanin index measurements.

Results

Already after 2 weeks of treatment, suction blister sites treated with Thiamidol were significantly lighter than control sites and improved throughout the treatment period. Subjects´ self‐grading demonstrated that Thiamidol significantly improved the visibility of acne‐induced hyperpigmentation compared to the vehicle treatment. A skin care regimen with Thiamidol significantly improved acne‐related PIH over 12 weeks shown by Mexameter measurements, expert grading, self‐grading and clinical photography.

Conclusion

Thiamidol represents a safe and effective ingredient for cosmetic products against post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Water‐in‐oil microemulsions composed of monoolein enhanced the transdermal delivery of nicotinamide
Authors: Kitaoka Momoko , Nguyen Trung Cong , Goto Masahiro
Published: February 2021

Objective

Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a water‐soluble vitamin that is used to prevent and treat acne and pellagra. It is often found in water‐based skin care cosmetics because of its high water solubility. Nicotinamide is a small molecule with a molar mass of 122.1 g/mol. However, it has a hydrophilic nature that becomes an obstacle when it penetrates through the skin. The topmost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, acts as a strong hydrophobic barrier for such hydrophilic molecules. The oil‐based formulations are expected to enhance the transdermal delivery efficiency of nicotinamide.

Methods

We have developed oil‐based microemulsion formulations composed of a squalane vehicle. Monoolein was used as an emulsifier that has a potential to enhance the nicotinamide delivery through the stratum corneum.

Results

Because the mean size of the emulsions measured by dynamic light scattering was 20.9 ± 0.4 nm, the microemulsion formulation was stable under the long‐term storage. Monoolein acted as a skin penetration enhancer, and it effectively enabled the penetration of nicotinamide through human abdominal skin, compared with nicotinamide in a phosphate‐buffered saline solution. The flux was increased 25‐fold. Microscopic imaging revealed that the hydrophilic bioactive compounds penetrated through the intercellular spaces in the epidermis.

Conclusion

The monoolein‐based microemulsion was transparent and stable, suggesting that it is a promising formulation for a transdermal nicotinamide delivery.
Adhesion to E‐selectin primes macrophages for activation through AKT and mTOR
Authors: Davies Julie M , Radford Kristen J , Begun Jakob , Levesque Jean‐Pierre , Winkler Ingrid G
Published: February 2021

The endothelial adhesion protein E‐selectin/CD62E is not required for leukocyte homing, unlike closely related family member P‐selectin/CD62P. As transmigration through the endothelium is one of the first steps in generating a local immune response, we hypothesized that E‐selectin may play additional roles in the early stages of immune activation. We found contact with E‐selectin, but not P‐selectin or vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (CD106), induced phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT) and nuclear factor‐κB in mouse bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDMs) in vitro. This occurred within 15 min of E‐selectin contact and was dependent on phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase activity. Binding to E‐selectin activated downstream proteins including mammalian target of rapamycin, p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E‐binding protein 1. Functionally, adhesion to E‐selectin induced upregulation of CD86 expression and CCL2 secretion. We next asked whether contact with E‐selectin impacts further BMDM stimulation. We found enhanced secretion of both interleukin (IL)‐10 and CCL2, but not tumor necrosis factor or IL‐6 in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation after adhesion to E‐selectin. Importantly, adhesion to E‐selectin did not polarize BMDMs to one type of response but enhanced both arginase activity and nitric oxide production following IL‐4 or LPS stimulation, respectively. In cultured human monocytes, adhesion to E‐selectin similarly induced phosphorylation of AKT. Finally, when E‐selectin was blocked in vivo in mice, thioglycollate‐elicited macrophages showed reduced CD86 expression, validating our in vitro studies. Our results imply functions for E‐selectin beyond homing and suggest that E‐selectin plays an early role in priming and amplifying innate immune responses.
Human antiviral B cell responses: Emerging lessons from hepatitis B and COVID‐19
Authors: Burton Alice R. , Maini Mala K.
Published: February 2021

Humoral immunity is a critical component of the coordinated response required to resolve viral infections and mediate protection following pathogen clearance or vaccination. A better understanding of factors shaping the memory B cell response will allow tailored development of efficient preventative vaccines against emerging acute viral infections, therapeutic vaccines, and immunotherapies for chronic viral infections. Here, we use recent data obtained by profiling antigen‐specific B cell responses in hepatitis B as a framework to explore lessons that can be learnt from different viral infections about the diverse influences on humoral immunity. Hepatitis B provides a paradigm where successful B cell responses in resolved or vaccinated individuals can be contrasted to the failed response in chronic infection, while also exemplifying the degree to which B cell responses within infected individuals can differ to two antigens from the same virus. Drawing on studies in other human and murine infections, including emerging data from COVID‐19, we consider the influence of antigen quantity and structure on the quality of the B cell response, the role of differential CD4 help, the importance of germinal center vs extrafollicular responses and the emerging concept that responses residing in non‐lymphoid organs can participate in B cell memory.
Multiagent systems for modeling the information game in a financial market
Authors: Ben Abdelaziz Fouad , Mrad Fatma
Published: February 2021

This paper aims to examine the information game in an artificial financial market. The main objective of this work is to implement an agent‐based model that simulates complex stock markets. Similar existing simulation models address the buying and selling of assets but do not investigate the information exchange process. We extend the previous model by investigating the information exchange process during the transaction process. In this research, we simulate an asynchronous marketplace where interacting and heterogeneous agents exchange information and assets simultaneously. We study the effect of heterogeneous and cumulative information setup on the volume of transactions and the price dynamics during market sessions. We argue that the right interpretation of relevant information is conducive to rational decision‐making by the simulated agents. Our simulation shows that stock market results are sensitive to the type of information about agents. Our model will enhance the exchange decisions in the markets, which will lead to more efficiency.
The expression and receipt of compassion through touch in a health setting; a qualitative study
Authors: Durkin Joanne , Jackson Debra , Usher Kim
Published: February 2021

Aim

To investigate and understand how compassion is expressed by nurses and received by patients in a hospital setting.

Background

Concerns regarding the absence of compassion in a healthcare setting has necessitated further research in the field. To define and measure compassion is difficult and problematic. Compassion is subjective and in the contemporary literature the views of patients are under‐represented. Touch is an important component of nursing practice and can also be considered problematic.

Design

Secondary analysis of narrative interviews.

Methods

Secondary analysis of 12 participant interviews with nurses (n‐4) and patients (n‐8). Data were collected between August 2018 and August 2019.

Findings

Compassion was expressed and received through touch for nurses and patients. Patients receive compassion through the touch of the nurse and this touch conveyed comfort and safety. Touch allowed for the establishment of an authentic connection between nurse and patient. Nurses used touch to express compassion and patients received compassion when they were comforted with touch. Compassion was present in incidental touch and deliberate comforting touch. Nurses were respectful of the meanings of touch. Patients describe nurses knowing when to touch and using touch appropriately.

Conclusions

Nurses in our study were respectful of the meaning of touch for their patients and described using touch to convey compassion. Patients in our study perceived compassion through the touch by the nurse. Through these narratives, touch is revealed as an essential part of compassionate practice conveying safety, authenticity and connection.

Impact

Patients in this study describe receiving compassion through the use of touch which made them feel safe. Nurses in this study used touch to create an authentic connection with patients and were aware of the different meanings of touch. Avoiding touch, being wary of touch, or considering touch taboo robs patients of compassion moments.
Nursing students’ academic self‐efficacy: A longitudinal analysis of academic self‐efficacy changes and predictive variables over time
Authors: Bulfone Giampiera , Badolamenti Sondra , Biagioli Valentina , Maurici Massimo , Macale Loreana , Sili Alessandro , Vellone Ercole , Alvaro Rosaria
Published: February 2021

Aim

To analyse any changes seen in the academic self‐efficacy of nursing students during the three years of their academic education as well as the associated predictive factors.

Design

A longitudinal study design was applied.

Methods

The sample included 220 students who attended a large university in central Italy. The students’ academic self‐efficacy was measured using the Academic Nurses’ Self‐Efficacy Scale. Data were collected annually from 2014/2015 to 2017/2018 at the beginning of the first year (T0), at the end of the first year (T1), at the end of the second year (T2) and at the end of the third year (T3). A repeated measure univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to detect any possible changes in the students’ academic self‐efficacy scores over the four measurement points. To identify the factors that are predictive of academic self‐efficacy, a linear regression model was used.

Results

Overall, the students’ academic self‐efficacy did not change significantly over the three‐year period of their education. Both sex (female) and age (24–50 years) during T0–T2 significantly predicted changes in the students’ academic self‐efficacy over time. Moreover female students started with lower academic self‐efficacy scores than male students, although their academic self‐efficacy increased over time, while the male students’ academic self‐efficacy actually decreased over time. In addition, students with a scientific background reported higher academic self‐efficacy than other students.

Conclusions

Although the students’ academic self‐efficacy did not change over time, from a theoretical perspective, academic self‐efficacy can be developed using a number of strategies such as a well‐organised tutorial during the clinical learning phase and feedback or encouragement.

Impact

Academic staff should monitor nursing students’ academic self‐efficacy over time, particularly in the case of male and younger students, students with a partner and students with a humanities background during the first 2 years of the course.
Increased incidence of electrical abnormalities in a pacemaker lead family
Authors: Adelstein Evan , Zhang Lane , Nazeer Haider , Loka Alfred , Steckman David
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Several recent studies have raised concern about noise detections on Tendril pacemaker leads, which may represent insulation failure or algorithm‐driven overreporting of physiologic signals.

Methods

We identified all pacemaker leads actively followed at Albany Medical Center, of which 1111 leads (262 Abbott Tendril, 576 Medtronic CapSure, 30 Fineline, 195 Ingevity, 48 Dextrus) in 703 patients were included in this observational study. Electrical abnormalities, comprising low‐impedance measurements <200 Ω and repeated noise detections, were catalogued, as was initial management and subsequent need for surgical intervention.

Results

During 54 months median follow‐up (interquartile range 24–105), 63 leads (5.7%) demonstrated electrical abnormalities, including low impedances in 21 and noise in 59. Tendril leads manifested abnormalities most frequently (n = 50; 19.1%) compared with CapSure (n = 9; 1.6%), Fineline (n = 0), Ingevity (n = 0), and Dextrus (n = 4; 8.3%) leads. The risk of abnormalities was significantly higher in Tendril leads (HR 9.6, 95% CI 5.2–17.6; p < .001). Low impedances were measured on 19 Tendril leads, a significantly higher risk than on other leads (HR 23.8, 95% CI 5.5–102.1; p < .001). Although observation and reprogramming sensitivity were the initial management strategy for 45 and 7 leads, respectively, 18 ultimately required surgical intervention, including 15 Tendrils. No electrical abnormalities were observed in 12 non‐Tendril leads attached to Abbott devices compared with 48 of 252 Tendrils attached to Abbott devices (log‐rank p = .035).

Conclusion

Tendril leads demonstrate significantly higher risk of repeated low impedances and noise compared to other manufacturers' models, raising concern that these findings reflect early insulation failure. Increased scrutiny is warranted.
Miliary fibromas in tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Cartron A.M. , Buccine D. , Treichel A.M. , Lee C.R. , Moss J. , Darling T.N.
Published: February 2021

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a hamartoma syndrome characterized by multiple skin lesions, such as angiofibromas, shagreen patch and miliary fibromas (MiF).

Objective

To determine the clinical and histological features of MiF.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 133 adults with TSC. Photography was used to characterize the appearance and location of MiF. Histological features in five skin samples from four individuals were evaluated by a board‐certified dermatopathologist.

Results

MiF were observed in 19 of 133 (14%) individuals with TSC. MiF were 1‐ to 3‐mm skin‐coloured, sessile papules scattered on the back and rarely buttocks or thighs. Most were scattered in a bilaterally symmetric distribution, but others were asymmetric or associated with a shagreen patch. Histological features of MiF included expansion of the papillary and periadnexal dermis with variable hamartomatous abnormalities involving adjacent epithelial components.

Conclusions

MiF are distinct from other cutaneous lesions in TSC such as shagreen patches and angiofibromas. Recognition of this entity is important in defining the spectrum of TSC disease and reassuring individuals with TSC that these lesions are benign.
A qualitative transcriptional signature of recurrence risk for stages II–III gastric cancer patients after surgical resection
Authors: Zhang Huarong , Li Xiangyu , Wu Junling , Zhang Jiahui , Huang Haiyan , Li Yawei , Li Meifeng , Wang Shanshan , Xia Jie , Qi Lishuang , Chen Ting , Ao Lu
Published: February 2021

Background and Aim

Metastasis is the leading cause of recurrence in gastric cancer. However, the imaging techniques and pathological examinations for tumor metastasis have a high false‐positive rate or a high false‐negative rate, and many proposed that metastasis‐related molecular biomarkers can hardly be validated in independent datasets.

Methods

We propose to use significantly stable gene pairs with reversal relative expression orderings (REOs) between non‐metastasis and metastasis gastric cancer samples as the metastasis‐related gene pairs. Based on the REOs of these gene pairs, we developed a qualitative transcriptional signature for predicting the recurrence risk of stages II–III gastric cancer patients after surgical resection.

Results

A REOs‐based signature, consisting of 19 gene pairs (19‐GPS), was selected from 77 stages II–III gastric cancer patients and validated in two independent datasets. Samples in the high‐risk group had shorter disease‐free survival time and overall survival time than those in the low‐risk group. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the high‐ and low‐risk groups classified by 19‐GPS were highly reproducible comparing with those between lymph node metastasis and lymph node non‐metastasis groups. Functional enrichment analysis showed that these DEGs were significantly enriched in metastasis‐related pathways, such as PI3K‐Akt and Rap1 signaling pathways. The multi‐omics analyses suggested that the epigenetic and genomic features might cause transcriptional differences between two subgroups, which help to characterize the mechanism of gastric cancer metastasis.

Conclusions

The signature could robustly identify patients at high recurrence risk after resection surgery, and the multi‐omics analyses might aid in revealing the metastasis‐related characteristics of gastric cancer.
Assessment of the DTI‐ALPS Parameter Along the Perivascular Space in Older Adults at Risk of Dementia
Authors: Steward Christopher E. , Venkatraman Vijay K. , Lui Elaine , Malpas Charles B. , Ellis Kathryn A. , Cyarto Elizabeth V. , Vivash Lucy , O'Brien Terence J. , Velakoulis Dennis , Ames David , Masters Colin L. , Lautenschlager Nicola T. , Bammer Roland , Desmond Patricia M.
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Recently, there has been growing interest in the glymphatic system (the functional waste clearance pathway for the central nervous system and its role in flushing solutes (such as amyloid ß and tau), metabolic, and other cellular waste products in the brain. Herein, we investigate a recent potential biomarker for glymphatic activity (the diffusion tensor imaging along the perivascular space [DTI‐ALPS] parameter) using diffusion MRI imaging in an elderly cohort comprising 10 cognitively normal, 10 mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 16 Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

All 36 participants imaged on a Siemens 3.0T Tim Trio. Single‐SE diffusion weighted Echo‐planar imaging scans were acquired as well as T1 magnetization prepared rapid gradient echo, T2 axial, and susceptibility weighted imaging. Three millimeter regions of interest were drawn in the projection and association fibers adjacent to the medullary veins at the level of the lateral ventricle. The DTI‐ALPS parameter was calculated in these regions and correlated with cognitive status, Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), and ADASCog11 measures.

RESULTS

Significant correlations were found between DTI‐ALPS and MMSE and ADASCog11 in the right hemisphere adjusting for age, sex, and APoE ε4 status. Significant differences were also found in the right DTI‐ALPS indices between cognitively normal and AD groups (P < .026) and MCI groups (P < .025) in a univariate general linear model corrected for age, sex, and APoE ε4. Significant differences in apparent diffusion coefficient between cognitively normal and AD groups were found in the right projection fibers (P = .028).

CONCLUSION

Further work is needed to determine the utility of DTI‐ALPS index in larger elderly cohorts and whether it measures glymphatic activity.
Male‐biased sex allocation in late‐blooming flowers driven by resource limitation in the clonal perennial Aconitum kusnezoffii (Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Ge Xing‐Yue M. , Lu Han‐Shu , Tian Hao , Wu Yue , Zhang Da‐Yong , Liao Wan‐Jin
Published: February 2021

Flowering phenology and clonal growth are known to affect resource and pollen availability, and therefore select for adaptive or constrained sex allocation strategies to some degree. However, the consequences of temporal sex allocation patterns for reproductive fitness across the flower, inflorescence, and genet levels have rarely been examined. Moreover, experimental tests of the underlying regulatory mechanisms are scarce. We examined the association of flowering phenology and inflorescence position with temporal sex allocation and reproductive success in the protandrous perennial clonal herb, Aconitum kusnezoffii, over four consecutive growing seasons by examining more than 39 000 flowers. We also conducted controlled experiments to test the effects of resource and pollen limitation on the female reproductive success of lateral inflorescences. We found that some male functions were positively correlated with flowering phenology, whereas female reproductive success was negatively correlated with flowering phenology and inflorescence position. Lateral inflorescences invested more in male function than terminal inflorescences and therefore yielded fewer and smaller seeds. Resource limitation may serve as the key mechanism underlying this differentiated pattern. Decreased female reproductive success was consistently observed at the flower and inflorescence levels as flowering occurred later in the growth season. Late‐blooming lateral inflorescences specialized in the male function, and their female reproductive success was constrained by early‐blooming terminal inflorescences. This might be the first attempt to systematically demonstrate sex allocation strategy differentiation in a protandrous plant species at the inflorescence level. In addition, our study provides empirical evidence of dichogamy selecting for specialized sex allocation strategies among inflorescences.
A LysR‐type transcriptional regulator controls the expression of numerous small RNAs in Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Authors: Eisfeld Jessica , Kraus Alexander , Ronge Christian , Jagst Michelle , Brandenburg Vivian B. , Narberhaus Franz
Published: February 2021

Small RNAs (sRNAs) are universal posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression and hundreds of sRNAs are frequently found in each and every bacterium. In order to coordinate cellular processes in response to ambient conditions, many sRNAs are differentially expressed. Here, we asked how these small regulators are regulated using Agrobacterium tumefaciens as a model system. Among the best‐studied sRNAs in this plant pathogen are AbcR1 regulating numerous ABC transporters and PmaR, a regulator of peptidoglycan biosynthesis, motility, and ampicillin resistance. We report that the LysR‐type regulator VtlR (also known as LsrB) controls expression of AbcR1 and PmaR. A vtlR/lsrB deletion strain showed growth defects, was sensitive to antibiotics and severely compromised in plant tumor formation. Transcriptome profiling by RNA‐sequencing revealed more than 1,200 genes with altered expression in the mutant. Consistent with the function of VtlR/LsrB as regulator of AbcR1, many ABC transporter genes were affected. Interestingly, the transcription factor did not only control the expression of AbcR1 and PmaR. In the mutant, 102 sRNA genes were significantly up‐ or downregulated. Thus, our study uncovered VtlR/LsrB as the master regulator of numerous sRNAs. Thereby, the transcriptional regulator harnesses the regulatory power of sRNAs to orchestrate the expression of distinct sub‐regulons.
Insights on affection exchange dynamics in interpersonal interaction
Authors: Graves Clint G.
Published: February 2021

Affection Exchange Theory (AET) is a framework for understanding how affection functions in interpersonal relationships. Although AET has contributed to explanations of relational and health outcomes, the theory lacks a robust interactional account of affection. This study developed an interaction‐specific scale of affection exchange to explore how frameworks of emotion, behavioral motivation, and relational message processing can enhance AET's explanatory power. Participants (N = 473) reported on a recalled interaction with a close other. Results indicated that affectionate interaction was positively associated with positive affective response, behavioral activation system sensitivity, and affiliation–disaffiliation message processing. Generating implications across its incorporated frameworks, this study builds a foundation for future exploration of the emergence of affection exchange dynamics in interpersonal interaction.
Perils & pearls of purchasing sun protection over the internet: A google project
Authors: Tong Elissa , Phan Kevin , Smith Saxon D.
Published: February 2021

Background/Purpose

Sunscreen use has been shown to reduce the incidence of skin cancers. Internet purchasing allows access to internationally sourced sunscreens, despite varying accepted active ingredients and regulations around the world.

Aims/Objectives

To determine the compliance of international sunscreen products advertised on the internet with the current Australian sunscreen standard (AS/NZS 2604:2012).

Materials and Methods

Six sunscreen‐related search queries were executed on Google between January‐November 2018. Qualitative analysis of the search results to determine compliance with the current Australian sunscreen standard (AS/NZS 2604:2012) was performed by collecting descriptive data, including listed active ingredients of each advertised product. These were compared against the AS/NZS 2604:2012 list of permitted active ingredients. The compliance status of each product, and reasons for non‐compliance were annotated. A multiple regression contingency table test was performed to determine whether compliance was associated with the products' country of origin, and a post hoc analysis was performed to identify countries with significant differences in discrepancy in compliance rate.

Results

Execution of the sunscreen‐related search queries on Google generated 1350 results. Only 613 of the 1291 (47.5%) included products were compliant with the AS/NZS 2604:2012 permitted sunscreen active ingredients. 552 of 1291 products were non‐compliant due to insufficient information advertised. Australia, India and South Korea had significantly lower than expected compliance rates.

Conclusions

Online marketing of sunscreen products from other countries has a significantly lower than expected compliance rate with the AS/NZS 2604:2012 permitted sunscreen active ingredients, with many lacking the disclosure of the active ingredients. Advertising regulations for online suppliers need to be tightened to ensure that online consumers purchasing sunscreen products can make informed decisions, as the international E‐commerce market rapidly expands.
Identification of the anthracnose fungus of walnut (Juglans spp.) and resistance evaluation through physiological responses of resistant vs. susceptible hosts
Authors: Yang Hanbo , Cao Guangli , Jiang Shijiao , Han Shan , Yang Chunlin , Wan Xueqin , Zhang Fan , Chen Lianghua , Xiao Jiujin , Zhu Peng , Zhang Danju , He Fang , Xing Wenxi
Published: February 2021

Walnut anthracnose is one of the most serious diseases of walnut globally. In this study, the pathogen was identified as Colletotrichum gloeosporioides by morphological and molecular approaches. Then, the resistance of 18 walnut genotypes was evaluated by field investigation as well as field and detached leaflet inoculation. A field inoculation assay was used as a benchmark for comparing field evaluation and the detached leaflet inoculation assay. Seven genotypes, Panhe1 and clones 71 and 200 of Juglans sigillata, Yanyuanzao and Qingxiang of J. regia, and Shujiang1 and Chuanzao1 of J. regia × J. sigillata, displayed high resistance in all assays, suggesting that they may be good candidates for further evaluation. Subsequently, two genotypes (Panhe1 with high resistance, and clone 199 with high susceptibility) were selected to analyse the different physiological responses between highly resistant and susceptible genotypes after inoculation. C. gloeosporioides infection induced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and chitinase; they were all significantly increased in both Panhe1 and clone 199. However, the POD activity and its change rate in Panhe1 were significantly higher than those in clone 199. The change rates of PPO activity, and total phenol and proline content in Panhe1 were significantly higher than those in clone 199. Moreover, the change rates of SOD activity, malondialdehyde, and soluble sugar content in clone 199 were significantly higher than those in Panhe1. These findings not only enhance our understanding of the resistance of walnut to anthracnose, but also lay the foundation for breeding anthracnose‐resistant walnuts in the future.
A role of the lateral prefrontal cortex in the congruency sequence effect revealed by transcranial direct current stimulation
Authors: Li Nan , Wang Ying , Jing Fang , Zha Rujing , Wei Zhengde , Yang Li‐Zhuang , Geng Xiujuan , Tanaka Keiji , Zhang Xiaochu
Published: February 2021

Congruency effect is the increase in response time when relevant and irrelevant cues indicate incongruent rather than congruent responses. The congruency effect is smaller in the trial after an incongruent trial than after a congruent trial: this difference is known as the congruency sequence effect (CSE). Psychophysical and neural studies have suggested that the lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC) and the medial prefrontal cortex are associated with the CSE. In the present study, we applied anodal and cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation, which is thought to result in excitation and inhibition, respectively, on the LPFC, while human participants were performing a flanker task. We found that the CSE was increased under cathodal stimulation (inhibition) of the LPFC. Moreover, the LPFC stimulation modulated the congruency effect after a congruent trial. Further analyses suggested that the results cannot be explained by any of the currently prevailing hypotheses of the CSE, including the conflict monitoring hypothesis, feature integration hypothesis, and temporal learning account. Based on our findings, we propose that a new distinct mechanism might be involved in the CSE. Specifically, the LPFC might contribute to the CSE by maintaining the attention to the task‐relevant information, which is an endogenous goal‐oriented function and reduces the carry‐over of the task‐irrelevant information after a congruent trial.
The effects of luteinizing hormone as a suppression factor for apoptosis in bovine luteal cells in vitro
Authors: Bowolaksono Anom , Fauzi Muhammad , Sundari Ayu Mulia , Pustimbara Anantya , Lestari Retno , Abinawanto  , Dwiranti Astari , Fadhillah
Published: February 2021

The fate of the corpus luteum, a transient endocrine gland formed and degraded during an oestrous cycle, is decided by various physiological factors, such as luteinizing hormone (LH). As a stimulator of progesterone, LH is known to maintain corpus luteum functional and structural integrity by inhibiting apoptosis, a programmed cell death. Therefore, we aim to investigate its action during the mid‐luteal phase hypothesized that LH suppresses the death mechanism of bovine luteal steroidogenic cells (LSC) by analysing the expression of proteins involved. Cultured bovine LSC obtained from corpus luteum were treated for 24 hr with recombinant TNF and IFNG in the presence or absence of LH. The result showed that LH proved to have a protective effect by increased cell viability (p < .05) and prevented DNA fragmentation (p < .05), as demonstrated by the WST‐1 colorimetric assay and TUNEL assay. Expression analysis of mRNA and protein levels showed that LH altered the expression of BCL2 (p < .05), CASP3 (p < .05), FAS (p < .05), and BAX (p < .05) to support cell survival. In conclusion, our study suggests that LH prolongs the corpus luteum life span through the anti‐apoptotic mechanism by increasing cell viability and suppressing apoptosis‐related genes and protein expression.
Injuries in youth football and the relationship to player maturation: An analysis of time‐loss injuries during four seasons in an English elite male football academy
Authors: Light Neil , Johnson Adam , Williams Stuart , Smith Neal , Hale Beverley , Thorborg Kristian
Published: February 2021

A better insight into injuries in elite‐youth football may inform prevention strategies. The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the frequency, incidence, and pattern of time‐loss injuries in an elite male football academy, exploring injuries in relation to age and maturation status. Across four consecutive playing seasons, playing exposure and injuries to all academy players (U’9 to U’21) were recorded by club medical staff. Maturation status at the time of injury was also calculated for players competing in U’13 to U’16 aged squads. Time‐loss injury occurrence and maturation status at time of injury were the main outcome measures. A total of 603 time‐loss injuries were recorded, from 190 different players. Playing exposure was 229 317 hours resulting in an overall injury rate of 2.4 p/1000 h, ranging from 0.7 p/1000 h (U’11) to 4.8 p/1000 h (U’21). Most injuries were traumatic in mechanism (73%). The most common injury location was the thigh (23%), and the most common injury type was muscle injury (29%) combining to provide the most common injury diagnosis; thigh muscle injury (17%). In U’13‐U’16 players, a higher number of injuries to early‐maturing players were observed in U’13‐U’14 players, while more injuries to U’15‐U’16 players occurred when classed as “on‐time” in maturity status. Maturation status did not statistically relate to injury pattern; however, knee bone (not‐fracture) injuries peaked in U’13 players while hip/groin muscle injuries peaked in U’15 players.
Parental psychological control perceived in adolescence predicts jealousy toward romantic partners in emerging adulthood via insecure attachment
Authors: Choe So Young , Lee Jungeun Olivia , Read Stephen J.
Published: February 2021

Parental psychological control (PPC)'s association with romantic relationships and the mechanisms through which PPC impairs relationship qualities remain crucial questions to understanding PPC. To this end, we examine if insecure attachment at age 18 mediated the association between PPC perceived at age 16 and jealousy at age 22. Our results showed that PPC perceived at age 16 predicted attachment anxiety at age 18, which then predicted jealousy at age 22. Both mothers' and fathers' models show significant mediational paths, although only mothers' mediational paths remain significant when entered together with fathering in the model. The paths were significant regardless of the gender of the adolescents. The results suggest that adolescents of psychologically controlling parents may experience compromised attachment security during early emerging adulthood and carry that insecure attachment into their romantic relationships later in emerging adulthood. We discuss the implications for interventions and policy‐making.
The Dividing Line Methodology: Model Theory Motivating Set Theory
Authors: Baldwin John T.
Published: February 2021

We explore Shelah's model‐theoretic dividing line methodology. In particular, we discuss how problems in model theory motivated new techniques in model theory, for example classifying theories by their potential (consistently with Zermelo–Fraenkel set theory with the axiom of choice (ZFC)) spectrum of cardinals in which there is a universal model. Two other examples are the study (with Malliaris) of the Keisler order leading to a new ZFC result on cardinal invariants and attempts to clarify the “main gap” by reducing the dependence of certain versions on (highly independent) cardinal arithmetic.
The effect of COVID‐19 on blood donation habits
Authors: Gammon Richard R. , Prichard Alicia Bellido , Gannett Michael Sel , Yordanov Boyan
Published: February 2021

Background

Blood centers (BCs) rely on schools and businesses. Shelter‐in‐place orders closed them. This study determined how COVID‐19 affected donation habits.

Study Design and Methods

Two periods were reviewed (May 1 through June 30, 2018 vs 2019 [control] and 2019 vs 2020 [study–COVID period]). These donations were reviewed: first‐time, repeat (donation ≤ 2 years), and lapsed (no donation > 2 years); sex; age; ethnicity; and ABO blood groups at high school and college drives. Testing all donors for SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies started May 18, 2020.

Results

In the study period donations significantly increased (control P = .683, study P ≤ .0001) and comparing sex (control male P = .716, female P = .657; study male P = .004, female P ≤ .0001). In the study period there was a significant decrease in Hispanic (P = .001) and African American (P < .0001) donations also seen among high school and college drives and an increase in Caucasian (P < .0001) donations. There was a significant increase in first‐time (P < .0001) and lapsed donors (P < .0001) in the study period vs control (first‐time P = .087, lapsed P = .308) and a significant decrease in donors not more than 30 years (study 16‐20 P < .0001, 21‐30 P < .0001). There was a significant increase in all blood types in the study period (P < .0001) and in donations after implementation of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody testing (P = .001).

Conclusions

Significant changes occurred in donation habits in the study vs the control periods. These included increased total donations, comparing sexes, first‐time and lapsed donors, all blood types, and Caucasian donations. Significant decreases were seen in Hispanic and African American donations and those not more than 30 years old.
Global implications of a US‐led currency war
Authors: Triggs Adam John , McKibbin Warwick James
Published: February 2021

Many US policymakers on both sides of the aisle, including President Trump, have called on the US Federal Reserve to cut interest rates to depreciate the US dollar. This paper uses an intertemporal general equilibrium model to explore what would likely happen if this policy was pursued. It shows that the general equilibrium effects of a depreciated real effective exchange rate brought about by lower US interest rates can result in a wide variety of unintended consequences. The paper explores what would happen if US trading partners were to retaliate by devaluing their currencies.
Universal two-parameter 𝒲∞-algebra and vertex algebras of type 𝒲(2, 3, …,N)
Authors: Linshaw Andrew R.
Published: February 2021

We prove the longstanding physics conjecture that there exists a unique two-parameter${\mathcal {W}}_{\infty }$-algebra which is freely generated of type${\mathcal {W}}(2,3,\ldots )$, and generated by the weights$2$and$3$fields. Subject to some mild constraints, all vertex algebras of type${\mathcal {W}}(2,3,\ldots , N)$for some$N$can be obtained as quotients of this universal algebra. As an application, we show that for$n\geq 3$, the structure constants for the principal${\mathcal {W}}$-algebras${\mathcal {W}}^k({\mathfrak s}{\mathfrak l}_n, f_{\text {prin}})$are rational functions of$k$and$n$, and we classify all coincidences among the simple quotients${\mathcal {W}}_k({\mathfrak s}{\mathfrak l}_n, f_{\text {prin}})$for$n\geq 2$. We also obtain many new coincidences between${\mathcal {W}}_k({\mathfrak s}{\mathfrak l}_n, f_{\text {prin}})$and other vertex algebras of type${\mathcal {W}}(2,3,\ldots , N)$which arise as cosets of affine vertex algebras or nonprincipal${\mathcal {W}}$-algebras.
Lactate in contemporary biology: a phoenix risen
Authors: Brooks George A. , Arevalo Jose A. , Osmond Adam D. , Leija Robert G. , Curl Casey C. , Tovar Ashley P.
Published: February 2021

After a century, it's time to turn the page on understanding of lactate metabolism and appreciate that lactate shuttling is an important component of intermediary metabolism in vivo. Cell‐cell and intracellular lactate shuttles fulfil purposes of energy substrate production and distribution, as well as cell signalling under fully aerobic conditions. Recognition of lactate shuttling came first in studies of physical exercise where the roles of driver (producer) and recipient (consumer) cells and tissues were obvious. Moreover, the presence of lactate shuttling as part of postprandial glucose disposal and satiety signalling has been recognized. Mitochondrial respiration creates the physiological sink for lactate disposal in vivo. Repeated lactate exposure from regular exercise results in adaptive processes such as mitochondrial biogenesis and other healthful circulatory and neurological characteristics such as improved physical work capacity, metabolic flexibility, learning, and memory. The importance of lactate and lactate shuttling in healthful living is further emphasized when lactate signalling and shuttling are dysregulated as occurs in particular illnesses and injuries. Like a phoenix, lactate has risen to major importance in 21st century biology.

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