bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracted: miR‐365 secreted from M2 Macrophage‐derived extracellular vesicles promotes pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression through the BTG2/FAK/AKT axis
Authors: Li Xin , Xu Hao , Yi Jianfeng , Dong Chunlu , Zhang Hui , Wang Zhengfeng , Miao Long , Zhou Wence
Published: April 2021

Clinical and experimental evidence indicates that tumour‐associated macrophages support cancer progression. Moreover, macrophage‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in pathogenesis of multiple cancers, yet the functions of molecular determinants in which have not been fully understood. Herein, we aim to understand whether macrophage modulates pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression in an EV‐dependent manner and the underlying mechanisms. microRNA (miR)‐365 was experimentally determined to be enriched in the EVs from M2 macrophages (M2‐EVs), which could be transferred into PDAC cells. Using a co‐culture system, M2‐EVs could enhance the proliferating, migrating and invading potentials of PDAC cells, while inhibition of miR‐365 in M2‐EVs could repress these malignant functions. B‐cell translocation gene 2 (BTG2) was identified to be a direct target of miR‐365, while the focal adhesion kinase (F/ATP)‐dependent tyrosine kinase (AKT) pathway was activated by miR‐365. We further demonstrated that overexpression of BTG2 could delay the progression of PDAC in vitro, whereas by impairing BTG2‐mediated anti‐tumour effect, M2‐EV‐miR‐365 promoted PDAC progression. For validation, a nude mouse model of tumorigenesis was established, in which we found that targeting M2‐EV‐miR‐365 contributed to suppression of tumour growth. Collectively, M2‐EVs carry miR‐365 to suppress BTG2 expression, which activated FAK/AKT pathway, thus promoting PDAC development.
Potential role of FoxO3a in the regulation of trophoblast development and pregnancy complications
Authors: Chen Hao , Tang Xin , Han Ting‐Li , Zhu Jia‐Nan , Zhou Wei , Baker Philip N. , Chen Chang , Zhang Hua
Published: April 2021

The forkhead box O3a protein (FoxO3a) has been reported to regulate tumour invasion and migration, but little is known about the molecular mechanism or its role in trophoblast invasion and migration into the uterus. In this study, we aim to explore its role in trophoblast development and placenta‐related pregnancy complications and the potential mechanism. Levels of FoxO3a and its phosphorylated form (p‐FoxO3a) in placental tissue from healthy pregnant women and pre‐eclampsia patients were first compared. Then, HTR‐8/SVneo cells were transfected with lentiviral vectors to deplete and overexpress FoxO3a. Western blot, immunohistochemistry, Cell Counting Kit‐8, wound‐healing assay, Matrigel invasion assay, cell apoptosis, cell cycle assay, RNA sequencing, qRT‐PCR and ChIP‐qPCR were performed on the cells to study the potential role of FoxO3a and the underlying mechanism. We found the expression of FoxO3a was decreased, whereas p‐FoxO3a was increased in pre‐eclampsia placentae. FoxO3a depletion significantly reduced transcription of the promoter region of intercellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM1) gene in ChIP assays and led to reduced invasion and migration of trophoblast cells, arrested cell cycle in G1 phase and increased apoptosis under oxidative stress. Our results suggested that FoxO3a may play a role in the regulation of trophoblast invasion and migration during placental development, which may be because of its affinity to the ICAM1 promotor.
Scymnodon plunketi (Waite, 1910): a junior synonym of Scymnodon macracanthus (Regan, 1906) (Somniosidae: Elasmobranchii)
Authors: B. Vaz Diego F.
Published: April 2021

The taxonomic status and validity of Scymnodon macracanthus (Regan, 1906) and Scymnodon plunketi (Waite, 1910) are revised in light of new material from the Southern Pacific and Indian Oceans. Despite being historically accepted as distinct taxa, recent studies suggested the possibility that these species could represent a single taxon. Morphometrics, meristics and morphology of dermal denticles show that S. plunketi is indeed a junior synonym of S. macracanthus. Previous distinctive characters proved to be the result of intraspecific variation. S. macracanthus is therefore redescribed including an updated comparative diagnosis for the genus Scymnodon in the family Somniosidae.
Deep genetic and morphological divergence in the Hippopotamyrus ansorgii species complex (Teleostei: Mormyridae) in southern Africa
Authors: Mutizwa Tadiwa I. , Kadye Wilbert T. , Chakona Albert
Published: April 2021

The present study used molecular and morphological approaches to investigate hidden diversity within the Hippopotamyrus ansorgii species complex in southern Africa. Phylogenetic reconstructions and three species delimitation methods based on two mitochondrial markers (cytochrome b and cytochrome oxidase I) and one nuclear marker (S7) revealed 12 Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs), with two of them representing two recently described species, Hippopotamyrus longilateralis and Hippopotamyrus szaboi. The highest diversity occurred in the Kwanza River system, which contained five MOTUs, and the Upper Zambezi River system that had two MOTUs. Five other river systems contained a single MOTU each. A major impediment to the review of this complex has been the uncertainty surrounding the type locality of the specimens that were used for the description of H. ansorgii. The present study has, through a careful examination of published literature and synthesis of information on the travel activities of Dr. William Ansorge who collected the specimens, identified the Kwanza River system as the most plausible source of the syntypes. The resolution of the type locality of H. ansorgii facilitates future work on the review of this complex which is critical for providing reliable biodiversity estimates, identifying effective conservation management strategies and understanding the evolutionary history and biogeographic patterns of the fishes of this region.
Effect of anticoagulants on farmed giant kokopu, Galaxias argenteus (Gmelin 1789) haematological parameters and erythrocyte fragility
Authors: Lulijwa Ronald , Alfaro Andrea C. , Young Tim , Venter Leonie , Decker Paul , Merien Fabrice , Meyer Jill
Published: April 2021

We sought to determine a compatible anticoagulant for routine haematological and physiological assessments with giant kokopu (Galaxias argenteus), an endemic New Zealand fish. We observed that blood treated with lithium heparin (LH) rapidly coagulated and haemolysed, making it unsuitable for G. argenteus. Dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (K2EDTA) and trisodium citrate (citrate) effectively prevented blood coagulation. K2EDTA‐treated erythrocytes exhibited the least mean haemolysis and mean corpuscular fragility. Further studies into prolonged storage effects of citrate and K2EDTA are recommended to find a compatible anticoagulant for use with G. argenteus blood.
A prospective randomized tandem gastroscopy pilot study of linked color imaging versus white light imaging for detection of upper gastrointestinal lesions
Authors: Wu Clement Chun Ho , Namasivayam Vikneswaran , Li James Weiquan , Khor Chris JL , Fock Kwong Ming , Law Ngai Moh , Wang Lai Mun , Ang Tiing Leong
Published: April 2021

Background and Aim

Gastrointestinal (GI) lesions may have subtle morphological changes. Linked color imaging (LCI) combines narrow‐band wavelength light and white light imaging (WLI) in appropriate balance to enhance lesion detection. We compared the detection rates of upper GI lesions using LCI and WLI.

Method

Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive tandem gastroscopy with WLI inspection followed by LCI, or vice versa. Endoscopic examination was performed using the EG‐L590ZW gastroscope and the LASEREO endoscope system (Fujifilm Co., Tokyo, Japan). Histology was reported by a specialist GI pathologist blinded to the technique of lesion detection and was used as the gold standard for diagnosis.

Results

Ninety patients (mean age 66.8 years, 51.5% male patients) were randomized to either LCI examination first followed by WLI (LCI‐WLI), or vice versa (WLI‐LCI). An 18.9% of gastroscopies in the study were for surveillance of previously known gastric cancer precursors. Ten patients (11.1%) had a history of Helicobacter pylori infection. There was no significant difference in the time taken for examination under LCI (311 ± 96 s) and WLI (342 ± 86 s) (P = 0.700). LCI detection rates were higher than WLI detection rates for gastric cancer precursors such as atrophic gastritis (2.19% vs 0.55%) (P < 0.01) and intestinal metaplasia (19.73% vs 7.67%) (P < 0.01). Both sensitivity (82.74% vs 50.96%) and specificity (98.71% vs 96.10%) of LCI were higher than WLI for detection of upper GI lesions.

Conclusions

Linked color imaging had better detection rates, sensitivity, and specificity for detection of upper GI lesions compared with WLI.
Eating habits of children and adolescents during the COVID‐19 pandemic: The impact of social isolation
Authors: Teixeira Michelle Teixeira , Vitorino Raquel Santiago , da Silva Julia Holandino , Raposo Letícia Martins , Aquino Luana Azevedo de , Ribas Simone Augusta
Published: April 2021

Background

The social isolation enforced as a result of the new coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic may impact families’ lifestyle and eating habits. The present study aimed to assess the behaviour and dietary patterns of Brazilian children and adolescents during the social isolation imposed by the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

The present study was conducted using an online, anonymous cross‐sectional survey with 589 children and 720 adolescents from Brazil during a nationwide social isolation policy. The Mann–Whitney U‐test or the Kruskal–Wallis with the Dunn post‐hoc method and a radar chart were used to compare the weekly consumption of each food by age group and isolation status. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Analyses were conducted using R statistical software, version 4.0.2 (R Foundation for Statisitical Computing).

Results

We found that isolated families showed breakfast eating habits and the consumption of raw salad, vegetables, beans and soft drinks. Lower‐class isolated families and those from the Northeast region consumed fruits, juices, vegetables and beans less frequently. Compared to children, adolescents were less isolated (p = 0.016), less active (p < 0.001), exposed to longer screen time (p < 0.001), showed an inadequate sleeping pattern (p = 0.002) and were from lower‐class families (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Social isolation affected the eating habits of children and adolescents. Non‐isolated families presented a lower consumption of healthy food, especially those among the lower class, from Northeast Brazil, as well as adolescents.
TMK4 receptor kinase negatively modulates ABA signaling by phosphorylating ABI2 and enhancing its activity
Authors: Li Lan , Li Bin , Zhu Sirui , Wang Long , Song Limei , Chen Jia , Ming Zhenhua , Liu Xuanming , Li Xiushan , Yu Feng
Published: April 2021

In plants, clade A type 2C protein phosphatases (PP2CAs) have emerged as major players in abscisic acid (ABA)‐regulated stress responses by inhibiting protein kinase activity. However, how different internal and external environmental signals modulate the activity of PP2CAs are not well known. The transmembrane kinase (TMK) protein 4 (TMK4), one member of a previously identified receptor kinase subfamily on the plasma membrane that plays vital roles in plant cell growth, directly interacts with PP2CAs member (ABA‐Insensitive 2, ABI2). tmk4 mutant is hypersensitive to ABA in both ABA‐inhibited seed germination and primary root growth, indicating that TMK4 is a negative regulator in ABA signaling pathway. Further analyses indicate that TMK4 phosphorylates ABI2 at three conserved Ser residues, thus enhancing the activity of ABI2. The phosphorylation‐mimic ABI2S139DS140DS266D can complement but non‐phosphorylated form ABI2S139AS140AS266A cannot complement ABA hypersensitive phenotype of the loss‐of‐function mutant abi1‐2abi2‐2. This study provides a previously unidentified mechanism for positively regulating ABI2 by a plasma membrane protein kinase.
A Knowledge Graph to Understand Nursing Big Data: Case Example for Guidance
Authors: Hussey Pamela , Das Subhashis , Farrell Sharon , Ledger Lorraine , Spencer Anne
Published: April 2021

Purpose

To provide a summary of research on ontology development in the Centre of eIntegrated Care at Dublin City University, Ireland.

Design

Design science methods using Open Innovation 2.0.

Methods

This was a co‐participatory study focusing on adoption of health informatics standards and translation of nursing knowledge to advance nursing theory through a nursing knowledge graph (NKG). In this article we outline groundwork research conducted through a focused analysis to advance structural interoperability and to inform integrated care in Ireland. We provide illustrated details on a simple example of initial research available through open access.

Findings

For this phase of development, the initial completed research is presented and discussed.

Conclusions

We conclude by promoting the use of knowledge graphs for visualization of diverse knowledge translation, which can be used as a primer to gain valuable insights into nursing interventions to inform big data science in the future.

Clinical Relevance

In line with stated global policy, the uptake and use of health informatics standards in design science within the profession of nursing is a priority. Nursing leaders should initially focus on health informatics standards relating to structural interoperability to inform development of NKGs. This will provide a robust foundation to gain valuable insights into articulating the nursing contribution in relation to the design of digital health and progress the nursing contribution to targeted data sources for the advancement of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Three.
A randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness and safety of adsorbent lotion containing tapioca starch, spent grain wax, Butyrospermum parkii extract, argania spinosa kernel oil, aloe barbadensis, rosehip oil, and allantoin with a low‐potency topical corticosteroid in the treatment of intertrigo
Authors: Leeyaphan Charussri , Varothai Supenya , Trakanwittayarak Suphattra , Suphatsathienkul Pranittra , Pattaravadee Suthasinee , Matthapan Lalita , Prasong Waranyoo , Lertrujiwanit Kamonpan , Supcharoenkul Salisa , Kulthanan Kanokvalai
Published: April 2021

Background

Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin‐fold condition. Candida infections may occur concurrently or afterward. Topical corticosteroids may reduce inflammation but exacerbate Candida infections. The treatment is contentious.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacies and safety of adsorbent lotion containing tapioca starch, spent grain wax, Butyrospermum parkii extract, argania spinosa kernel oil, aloe barbadensis, rosehip oil, and allantoin for the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate intertrigo, relative to 1% hydrocortisone cream.

Methods

This randomized, double‐blinded study enrolled 40 intertrigo patients. Twice daily, 20 patients applied adsorbent lotion while the remainder used 1% hydrocortisone cream. Efficacy evaluation, skin biophysical measurements, skin tolerability, safety, and visual analog scale (VAS) patient‐satisfaction scores were evaluated at baseline and Week 2.

Results

The adsorbent lotion showed higher complete cure rates for color, partial epidermal loss, papules/pustules/vesicles/patches, dryness, and scaling than the corticosteroid without statistical significance. Adsorbent lotion demonstrated significantly higher reduction in pruritus than the corticosteroid treatment. Reduction of erythema level using Mexameter and VAS patient‐satisfaction scores were not statistically different between adsorbent lotion and hydrocortisone cream. No adverse effects or superimposed infections were reported.

Conclusions

The anti‐inflammatory efficacies of adsorbent lotion and low‐potency steroid were equivalent. The lotion was safe and produced excellent pruritus reduction. Patient satisfaction was high.
Impact of polyphenols extracted from Tricholoma matsutake on UVB‐induced photoaging in mouse skin
Authors: Deng Minggao , Wang Jing , Li Yong‐Liang , Chen Hui‐Xiong , Tai Meiling , Deng Lili , Che Biao , Du Zhi‐Yun , Dong Chang‐Zhi , Lin Li
Published: April 2021

Background

Despite Tricholoma matsutake has been used as natural health products with multiple medicinal properties, detailed information about its polyphenolic composition as sources of anti‐photoaging agents remains to be determined.

Objective

To investigate the impact of polyphenols extracted from Tricholoma matsutake (TME) on Ultraviolet B (UVB)‐induced skin photoaging.

Materials and Methods

Various factors of oxidative stress and inflammation as well as histological and immunohistochemical analysis in the mouse dorsal skin were determined after UVB radiation.

Results

Topical administration with TME suppressed the UVB‐induced skin thickness, wrinkles and erythema, and increased skin collagen content. Furthermore, TME decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, upregulated glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activities and inhibited the expression of IL‐1, IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α in mice irradiated with UVB. TME could reduce UVB‐induced p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) phosphorylation and effectively inhibited the activity of the transcriptional factor nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB), thereby reducing the cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression, which is an important mediator of inflammatory cascade leading to the inflammatory response.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that TME had various beneficial effects on UVB‐induced skin photoaging due to its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities, and it might be exploited as a promising natural product in skin care, anti‐photoaging and the therapeutic intervention of skin disorders related to both oxidative stress and inflammation.
Staying in touch, yet expected to be? A diary study on the relationship between personal smartphone use at work and work–nonwork interaction
Authors: Patterer Ada Sil , Yanagida Takuya , Kühnel Jana , Korunka Christian
Published: April 2021

The present study challenges the prevalent negative view of personal smartphone use at work and advances our understanding of its effects on the work–nonwork interface. Drawing on border theory, we focus on the social and instrumental feature of smartphones that allows employees to be connected with their private contacts (e.g. friends and family members) while at work and, thereby, test the influence of day‐level personal smartphone use at work on positive and negative work–nonwork interaction (WNI). In considering social experiences of smartphone‐enabled communication, we propose underlying explanatory mechanisms, namely, the social benefits (i.e. feeling in touch with private contacts) and social costs (i.e. feeling expected to respond to private contacts) of communication. One hundred and twenty‐seven employees participated in a diary study. They completed online questionnaires three times a day over ten working days, resulting in a total of 1,066 days of data. Multilevel structural equation modelling indicated that on the day‐level of analysis, personal smartphone use at work promoted positive WNI through the perceived social benefits of communication and increased negative WNI through the perceived social costs of communication. We discuss our findings and extend current research on personal smartphone use at work by acknowledging this widespread workplace behaviour as both beneficial and detrimental for successfully managing the daily interplay of the work and nonwork domains.

Practitioner points

Personal smartphone use at work should not be classified as exclusively detrimental workplace behaviour, as it can help employees attend to personal responsibilities more easily.

For a more comprehensive evaluation of the consequences of personal smartphone use at work, social experiences of communication should be considered when compiling workplace guidelines.

Educating employees on how to make the most of personal smartphone use at work and understanding the underlying social mechanisms may help them to better manage work and nonwork responsibilities.
Bayesian spatiotemporal forecasting and mapping of COVID‐19 risk with application to West Java Province, Indonesia
Authors: Jaya I. Gede Nyoman M. , Folmer Henk
Published: April 2021

The coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) has spread rapidly to multiple countries including Indonesia. Mapping its spatiotemporal pattern and forecasting (small area) outbreaks are crucial for containment and mitigation strategies. Hence, we introduce a parsimonious space–time model of new infections that yields accurate forecasts but only requires information regarding the number of incidences and population size per geographical unit and time period. Model parsimony is important because of limited knowledge regarding the causes of COVID‐19 and the need for rapid action to control outbreaks. We outline the basics of Bayesian estimation, forecasting, and mapping, in particular for the identification of hotspots. The methodology is applied to county‐level data of West Java Province, Indonesia.
Periodontal status in children with primary immunodeficiencies
Authors: Nibali Luigi , Bayliss‐Chapman Josephine , Halai Hiten , Somani Cheryl , Davies Janet , Ancliff Philip , Donos Nikolaos
Published: April 2021

Objective

This study aimed to assess associations between neutrophil‐related primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) and the presence of periodontal disease and other oral diseases and response to periodontal treatment.

Background

Presence of neutrophil‐related PIDs is thought to be a major risk factor for development of periodontitis.

Methods

This study had both a cross‐sectional and cohort design. Twenty‐four children (age 4–16) with PIDs and 24 age‐matched systemically healthy subjects received a dental clinical examination, including measures of probing pocket depths (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL) and bleeding on probing (BOP). Those found to be affected by periodontal disease were offered periodontal treatment and reassessed 6 months later.

Results

Diagnosis of PIDs was associated with increased odds of presence of periodontal disease (p = .008 adjusted for age, gender, plaque, OR = 10.0, 95% CI = 1.83–54.38) and with continuous measures of periodontal disease such as number of PPDs >4 mm, mean PPD and mean CAL (all p < .001) and BOP (p = .001). However, only 7 out of 24 children were diagnosed with periodontitis. PIDs were also associated with a history of oral ulcers (p = .001, OR 12.47, 95% CI 2.71–57.29). An improvement in periodontal parameters (PPD and CAL) was detected following oral hygiene instructions and non‐surgical periodontal therapy.

Conclusion

Although children affected by neutrophil‐associated PIDs exhibited a higher prevalence of periodontal disease compared with systemically healthy children, severe periodontitis was rarely seen. This suggests that good systemic control of the PIDs may reduce their impact on the periodontium.
Plastid phylogenomics and biogeography of the genus Monochoria (Pontederiaceae)
Authors: Li Zhi‐Zhong , Gichira Andrew W. , Muchuku John K. , Li Wei , Wang Guang‐Xi , Chen Jin‐Ming
Published: April 2021

Monochoria C. Presl is a genus of Pontederiaceae and confined to the Old World, with species mainly distributed in tropical and subtropical Africa, Asia, and Australia. However, phylogenetic relationships and biogeography within Monochoria are yet to be fully resolved. Here, we sequenced 14 Monochoria plastomes, representing around eight of the ~10 species of Monochoria, and two plastomes from related genera. We undertook comparative analyses and phylogenetic reconstructions of Monochoria using these and other available sequences. We found the plastomes of Pontederiaceae to be highly conserved in structure, and identified six regions as mutational hotspots among species of Monochoria. Our data strongly support the monophyly of Monochoria and two main clades within the genus. We confirm that Monochoria australasica Ridl. is sister to the rest of the genus and that Monochoria korsakowii (Regel & Maack) defines the second split within Monochoria. In addition, we inferred the African endemic species Monochoria africana (Solms) N. E. Br. to be closely related to Monochoria plantaginea (Roxb.) Kunth and an undetermined specimen from Australia (Monochoria sp. AU63). Estimation of divergence times and biogeography implied that the African species M. africana originated in Asia, and the most recent common ancestor of Monochoria was distributed in Australasia/Asia at approximately 15 Ma, followed by diversification in Asia during the late Miocene and Pliocene. Long‐distance dispersal, likely mediated by migratory birds, to Africa and Australia during the Pliocene and Pleistocene, might have contributed to the extant transoceanic distribution of the genus. Additionally, based on our phylogenetic results, we revised the description of Monochoria valida G. X. Wang & Nagam here.
Floral morphogenesis of the Maddenia and Pygeum groups of Prunus (Rosaceae), with an emphasis on the perianth
Authors: Wang Xi , Wang Jun‐Ru , Xie Si‐Yu , Zhang Xiao‐Hui , Chang Zhao‐Yang , Zhao Liang , Ronse De Craene Louis , Wen Jun
Published: April 2021

Although the vast majority of Prunus L. (Rosaceae) species have clearly differentiated sepals and petals, two former genera Maddenia and Pygeum have been described as having an undifferentiated perianth. However, floral morphological and morphogenetic data are scarce, and a renewed investigation is essential to understand the evolution of the perianth differentiation. Here, floral morphogenesis in Prunus hypoleuca (Koehne) J.Wen (=Maddenia hypoleuca Koehne) and Prunus topengii (Merr.) J. Wen & L. Zhao (=Pygeum topengii Merr.) were examined with scanning electron microscopy. The floral development demonstrates that the ten perianth parts can be distinguished as five sepals in an external whorl and five petals in an internal whorl. The sepal primordia are broad, crescent‐shaped, and truncate. The petal primordia are rounded and initially resemble the androecium. However, at maturity petals and sepals look much the same in the two species, differing from other Prunus species. The ovule is anatropous and unitegmic, but there is a basal appendage near the ovule of P. hypoleuca which is absent in P. topengii. The direction of development of floral nectaries in the hypanthium is basipetal in P. hypoleuca but acropetal in P. topengii. Perianth segments are differentiated in the two groups and the similarity of the perianth parts is secondarily acquired. Our results support the separation of the Maddenia and Pygeum groups as well as their inclusion in a broader monophyletic Prunus based on molecular phylogenetic studies. We herein provide a new nomenclatural change: Prunus topengii (Merr.) J. Wen & L. Zhao, comb. nov.
Medical complexity and concurrent hospice care: A national study of Medicaid children from 2011 to 2013
Authors: Keim‐Malpass Jessica , Cozad Melanie J. , Svynarenko Radion , Mack Jennifer W. , Lindley Lisa C.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Pediatric hospice is a comprehensive model of care for medically complex children at end of life. The Affordable Care Act changed regulatory requirements for pediatric Medicaid enrollees to allow for enrollment into hospice services while still receiving life‐prolonging therapy. There are gaps in understanding factors associated with pediatric concurrent hospice care use. The objectives were to examine the prevalence of concurrent hospice care overtime and investigated the relationship between medical complexity and concurrent hospice care among Medicaid children.

Design and Methods

We used national Medicaid data and included children less than 21 years with an admission to hospice care. Medical complexity was defined with four criteria (i.e., chronic conditions, functional limitations, high health care use and substantial needs). Using multivariate logistic regression, we evaluated the influence of medical complexity on concurrent hospice care use, while controlling for demographic, hospice, and community characteristics.

Results

Thirty‐four percent of the study sample used concurrent hospice care. Medical complexity was unrelated to concurrent hospice care. However, the four individual criteria were associated. A complex chronic condition was negatively related to concurrent hospice care, whereas technology dependence, multiple complex chronic conditions, and mental/behavioral disorders were positively associated to concurrent care use.

Practice Implications

These findings suggest that concurrent hospice care may be important for a subset of medically complex children with functional limitations, high health utilization, and substantial needs at end of life.
Evaluation of bronchial narrowing in coughing dogs with heart murmurs using computed tomography
Authors: Lebastard Matthieu , Le Boedec Kevin , Howes Mark , Joslyn Stephen , Matheson Jodi S. , O'Brien Robert T.
Published: April 2021

Background

The origin of cough in dogs with heart murmurs is controversial, because the cough could be primary cardiac (eg, pulmonary edema, bronchi compression by left‐sided cardiomegaly) or respiratory (eg, bronchomalacia, other bronchial or bronchiolar disease, interstitial lung disease) in origin.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To study the association between left atrium (LA) dilatation and cardiomegaly and bronchial narrowing in coughing dogs with heart murmurs using computed tomography (CT).

Animals

Twenty‐one client‐owned coughing dogs with heart murmurs and 14 historical control dogs.

Methods

Dogs with cough and murmur were prospectively recruited over 4 months. Cervical and thoracic radiography, echocardiography, and thoracic CT were performed in enrolled dogs. Control dogs, with no disease on thoracic CT and no records of heart murmur and coughing, were gathered from the institution's computerized database. Degree of bronchial narrowing was assessed using the bronchial‐to‐aorta (Ao) ratio, measured by 3 radiologists blinded to the clinical findings. After identifying bronchi that were significantly narrowed in dogs with murmur compared to controls, the relationship between degree of narrowing and LA/Ao ratio (measured echocardiographically) and vertebral heart scale (VHS) measured radiographically was studied in dogs with murmur using mixed‐effects regression.

Result

Significant narrowing was identified for all left‐sided bronchi and the right principal, middle, and caudal bronchi in the coughing dogs, compared with controls. Increasing LA size and VHS were significantly inversely associated with diameter for all left‐sided and right‐sided bronchi indicated above.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Results indicate an association between LA enlargement and cardiomegaly and bronchial narrowing and support heart size‐associated exacerbation of cough in dogs with murmurs.
Effect of social structure and introduction history on genetic diversity and differentiation
Authors: Flucher Sylvia M. , Krapf Patrick , Arthofer Wolfgang , Suarez Andrew V. , Crozier Ross H. , Steiner Florian M. , Schlick‐Steiner Birgit C.
Published: April 2021

Invasive species are a global threat to biodiversity, and understanding their history and biology is a major goal of invasion biology. Population‐genetic approaches allow insights into these features, as population structure is shaped by factors such as invasion history (number, origin and age of introductions) and life‐history traits (e.g., mating system, dispersal capability). We compared the relative importance of these factors by investigating two closely related ants,Tetramorium immigransandTetramoriumtsushimae, that differ in their social structure and invasion history in North America. We used mitochondrial DNA sequences and microsatellite alleles to estimate the source and number of introduction events of the two species, and compared genetic structure among native and introduced populations. Genetic diversity of both species was strongly reduced in introduced populations, which also differed genetically from native populations. Genetic differentiation between ranges and the reduction in microsatellite diversity were more severe in the more recently introduced and supercolonialT. tsushimae. However, the loss of mitochondrial haplotype diversity was more pronounced inT. immigrans, which has single‐queen colonies and was introduced earlier.Tetramoriumimmigranswas introduced at least twice from Western Europe to North America and once independently to South America. Its monogyny might have limited genetic diversity per introduction, but new mutations and successive introductions over a long time may have added to the gene pool in the introduced range. Polygyny inT. tsushimaeprobably facilitated the simultaneous introduction of several queens from a Japanese population to St. Louis, USA. In addition to identifying introduction pathways, our results reveal how social structure can influence the population‐genetic consequences of founder events.
Molecular identification and antifungal susceptibility profiles of Candida dubliniensis and Candida africana isolated from vulvovaginal candidiasis: A single‐centre experience in Iran
Authors: Shokoohi Gholamreza , Javidnia Javad , Mirhendi Hossein , Rasekh‐Jahromi Athar , Rezaei‐Matehkolaei Ali , Ansari Saham , Maryami Faeze , Goodarzi Sahand , Romeo Orazio
Published: April 2021

Background

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common and debilitating long‐term illness affecting million women worldwide. This disease is caused mainly by Candida albicans and a lesser extent by other species, including the two phylogenetically closely related pathogens Candida africana and Candida dubliniensis.

Objectives

In this study, we report detailed molecular epidemiological data about the occurrence of these two pathogenic yeasts in Iranian patients affected by VVC, or its chronic recurrent form (RVVC), and provide, for the first time, data on the antifungal activity of two new drugs, efinaconazole (EFN) and luliconazole (LUL).

Methods

A total of 133 vaginal yeast isolates, presumptively identified as C albicans by phenotypic and restriction analysis of rDNA, were further analysed by using a specific molecular method targeting the HWP1 gene. All C africana and C dubliniensis isolates were also tested for their in vitro susceptibility to a panel of modern and classical antifungal drugs.

Results and Conclusions

Based on the molecular results, among 133 germ‐tube positive isolates, we identify 119 C albicans (89.47%), 11 C africana (8.27%) and 3 C dubliniensis (2.26%) isolates. C africana and C dubliniensis showed low MIC values for most of the antifungal drugs tested, especially for EFN and LUL, which exhibited a remarkable antifungal activity. High MIC values were observed only for nystatin and terbinafine. Although C albicans remains the most common Candida species recovered from Iranian VVC/RVVC patients, our data show that its prevalence may be slightly overestimated due to the presence of difficult‐to‐identify closely related yeast, especially C africana.
It's Not Just Academic: The Importance of Program Development in Applied Anthropology Education
Authors: Brunson Emily K. , Vacanti Brondo Keri , Copeland Toni J. , Henry Doug
Published: April 2021

In this article we consider applied anthropology as it exists at the program level. While individual faculty can promote applied training, sustainability in applied education is only possible when entire faculties—and the college and university administrations that provide the necessary financial, structural, and social support—are committed to this approach. While many options for program development exist, we argue that being aware of what other programs are doing, and what is and is not working for them, is both time‐saving and transformative. This article provides overviews of common applied anthropology training approaches, discusses the importance of support for applied programs, and introduces the rest of the articles in this series, which focus more specifically on particular approaches, programs, and training needs.
MiR‐1297 attenuates high glucose‐induced injury in HK‐2 cells via targeting COL1A2
Authors: Wang Shujuan , Sun Kun , Hu Honglei , Jin Xingqian , Wang Zhenzhen , Zhang Hongmei , Zhao Xiaodong
Published: April 2021

Background

In this study, we aimed to explore whether COL1A2 and miR‐1297 participated in the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in vitro and classified the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

d‐Glucose (30 mM; high glucose, HG)‐stimulated HK‐2 cells were used to mimic DN condition. RNA and non‐coding RNA profiles were from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The interaction between miR‐1297 and COL1A2 was measured by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) method was conducted to analyse COL1A2‐associated signalling pathways. The role of miR‐1297/COL1A2 in biological behaviours of HG‐induced HK‐2 cells were analysed by cell counting kit‐8 and apoptosis assays.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis revealed that COL1A2 was up‐regulated in DN tissues. We predicted and verified miR‐1297 as the regulatory miRNA of COL1A2, and the expression of miR‐1297 was decreased in DN tissues and HG‐stimulated HK‐2 cells. Overexpression of miR‐1297 could promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis to protect HK‐2 cells from HG‐induced damage. And knockdown of COL1A2 enhanced the protective effects of miR‐1297 on HG‐stimulated HK‐2 cells. GSEA results revealed that several inflammatory pathways were enriched in COL1A2 high‐expression group. Meanwhile, transfection of miR‐1297 reduced the phosphorylation of NFκB and expression of three important pro‐inflammatory genes including cytokine CCL5, adhesion molecules ICAM1 and VCAM1 via targeting COL1A2. These results suggested that miR‐1297 protected HG‐treated HK‐2 cells probably through suppressing inflammation via targeting COL1A2.

Conclusion

This study sheds a light on the role miR‐1297/COL1A2 in DN progression and provides a novel promising therapy strategy for suppressing DN progression.
A hundred years after: endodormancy and the chilling requirement in subtropical trees
Authors: Jewaria Pawan Kumar , Hänninen Heikki , Li Xiaojuan , Bhalerao Rishikesh P. , Zhang Rui
Published: April 2021

Endodormancy and the related chilling requirement synchronize the seasonal development of trees from the boreal and temperate regions under the climatic conditions prevailing at their native growing sites. The phenomenon of endodormancy has been known at the whole‐plant level for 100 years, and in the last couple of decades, insights into the physiological and molecular basis of endodormancy and its release have also been obtained. Intriguingly, recent studies have shown experimentally that subtropical trees also show endodormancy and a chilling requirement. Motivated by the climatic differences between the subtropical and more northern zones, here we address the similarities and differences in endodormancy between trees growing in the subtropical zone and those growing in more northern zones.
Pulp inflammation induces Kv1.1 K+channel down‐regulation in rat thalamus
Authors: Murano Hiroki , Kaneko Tomoatsu , Zaw Su Yee Myo , Sone Phyo Pyai , Zaw Zar Chi Thein , Okada Yamato , Sunakawa Mitsuhiro , Katsube Ken‐ichi , Okiji Takashi
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Signals from inflamed tooth pulp activate thalamic neurons to evoke central sensitization. We aimed to gain insights into the mechanisms mediating the early phase of pulpal inflammation‐induced thalamic neural and glial activation.

Materials and Methods

Pulpal inflammation was induced via the application of mustard oil (MO) to the upper first molar of Wistar rats with local anesthesia (LA) or saline injection. After 0.5, 1, 2, and 24 hr, contralateral thalami were subjected to microarrays, a real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry to identify differentially expressed genes and assess potassium voltage‐gated channel subfamily A member 1 (Kv1.1)‐expressing axons and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)‐expressing astrocytes.

Results

The Kv1.1 gene (Kcna1) was down‐regulated and the density of Kv1.1‐expressing axons decreased in non‐anesthetized rats, but not in anesthetized rats 1 hr after the MO treatment. The density of GFAP‐expressing astrocytes increased in both groups until 24 hr after the MO treatment, with a greater increase being observed in the saline‐injection group than in the LA group.

Conclusions

MO induced the transient down‐regulation ofKcna1, transiently reduced the density of Kv1.1‐expressing axons, and increased astrocytes in thalami within 1 hr of pulpal application. These results suggest central sensitization represented by neuronal hyperexcitability and astrocyte activation.
A Problem with the Traveller’s Dilemma
Authors: Daniels Paul R.
Published: April 2021

In the traveller’s dilemma, a compelling argument seems to prescribe an intuitively irrational course of action. However, I argue all is not as it appears in the traveller’s dilemma; standard game‐theoretic agents have a way out. To show this, I detail the key characteristics of the traveller’s dilemma, its underlying assumptions, and explain why we have an apparent conflict with what an idealized agent would intuitively do. I then argue that the backwards induction argument fails here because of the unique structure of the game. I conclude that we ought not focus our attention on the traveller’s dilemma.
Characterization of Triphenylamine and Ferrocenyl Donor‐π‐Donor Vinyl BODIPY Derivatives as Photoacoustic Contrast Agents†
Authors: Hatamimoslehabadi Maryam , Frenette Mathieu , Bag Seema , Gilligan Gerald E. , La Jeffrey , Yelleswarapu Chandra , Rochford Jonathan
Published: April 2021

The photophysical and electrochemical properties for a series of BODIPY dyes with incremental 3‐ and 3,5‐vinyl conjugation, as well as incremental electron‐donating groups (anisole < triphenylamine < ferrocenyl), are presented. Insight into the influence of each vinyl‐conjugated electron‐donating group on both vis‐NIR absorption and fluorescence emission properties is provided. These trends are further corroborated by density functional theory computational analysis. Two of this series containing the 3,5‐bis(vinyltriphenylamine) and 3,5‐bis(vinylferrocenyl) substituents exhibit significant absorption cross sections in the biological transparency window justifying further investigation of their photoacoustic emission properties via both optical photoacoustic z‐scan and photoacoustic tomography experiments. Both the 3,5‐bis(vinyltriphenylamine) and 3,5‐bis(vinylferrocenyl) substituted BODIPY dyes exhibit quantitative photoacoustic quantum yields. Relative to the commercially available methylene blue and indocyanine green molecular photoacoustic contrast agents, the 3,5‐bis(vinyltriphenylamine)‐derived BODIPY exhibits the greatest photoacoustic emission and contrast upon excited‐state absorption at 685 nm excitation at a low power laser fluence (<20 mJ cm‐2).
Building the Momentum: Information Disclosure and Herding in Online Crowdfunding
Authors: Xiao Shengsheng , Ho Yi‐Chun (Chad) , Che Hai
Published: April 2021

In online crowdfunding markets, backers face high uncertainty about the quality of a campaign. To mitigate such uncertainty, crowdfunding platforms often allow campaign creators to post communicative messages—that is, campaign updates and creator comments—to dynamically disclose further information about the campaigns. In addition, previous funding transactions of ongoing campaigns are made publicly available, giving rise to herding among backers. In this research, we aim to understand how communicative messages and herding interactively shape the behavior of backers contributing to crowdfunding campaigns. Our results show that the frequency of communicative messages has a positive effect on backer contributions; however, it attenuates successors' herding momentum toward predecessors, perhaps because the information disclosed in those messages lowers the informational value of previous funding transactions. To investigate the role of message contents, we extract topics addressed in update and comment messages using a Latent Dirichlet allocation model. The results reveal that distinct messages have different impacts on backers' contribution and herding behavior, and such discrepancies are found to be topic specific. This study not only contributes to operations management literature on crowdfunding but also offers implications for campaign creators and platform managers.
Suicidal behavior in individuals accused or convicted of child sex abuse or indecent image offenses: Systematic review of prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Key Rebecca , Underwood Alan , Farnham Frank , Marzano Lisa , Hawton Keith
Published: April 2021

Objective

An emerging body of research indicates that child sex abuse (CSA) offenders are at high risk of suicide when their offenses come to light and that those accused of accessing indecent images of children (IIOC) are at particular risk.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and narrative synthesis on suicide rates and risk factors in this population of offenders. A keyword search of bibliographic databases (PsycINFO, Ovid, MEDLINE, Embase, PILOTS, SCIE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials [CENTRAL] and CINAHL) was conducted.

Results

Eighteen articles were included in the review, with eleven studies meeting criteria for quality assessment. The risk of suicide in perpetrators of CSA and IIOC might be over 100 times that of the general population, although estimates vary widely between studies. Several complex, interlinking factors were identified as associated with risk, including shame, unique demographic characteristics of the offenders, absence of prior criminal contact, and the impact of a criminal investigation.

Conclusions

The review identified factors that may have practical, clinical, and operational implications in the prevention of suicide in CSA and IIOC perpetrators. Exploring the impact of the investigation itself on suicide risk, including potential operational strategies and clinical input to reduce risk, should be a priority.
Psychological autopsy study comparing suicide decedents with and without a history of suicide attempts in a nationwide sample of South Korea
Authors: Yook Vidal , Kim Hyewon , Kim Eun Ji , Kim Yuwon , Lee Gusang , Choi Jin Hwa , Shin Myung‐Hee , Jeon Hong Jin
Published: April 2021

The majority of suicide decedents die on their initial attempt. To bring attention to suicide decedents without a suicide attempt history, the current study explored their demographic, clinical, and suicide‐related characteristics. The data were derived from the Korea National Investigation of Suicide Victims Study, which assessed all suicide cases from 2013 to 2017 recorded in police investigation reports. We compared suicide decedents with and without a history of nonfatal attempts using the Korea Psychological Autopsy Checklist for Police Records (K‐PAC). Out of 5228 cases included in our study, 3147 (60.2%) died on their first suicide attempt. Demographically, those who were male, older than 65, employed, and married/widowed were more likely to die on their initial attempt. Clinically, those who died on their initial attempt were more likely to have never been diagnosed with psychiatric disorders, whereas those who died on a repeated attempt were more likely to have been diagnosed with mood disorders. In terms of suicide‐related factors, experiencing relationship problems and complaining about physical discomfort were associated with dying on an initial attempt. Depressed affect, self‐harming behaviors, and talking about suicide or death were associated with repeated attempts.