bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of V2 18S rDNA barcode marker and assessment of sample collection and DNA extraction methods for metabarcoding of autotrophic euglenids
Authors: Gumińska Natalia , Łukomska‐Kowalczyk Maja , Chaber Katarzyna , Zakryś Bożena , Milanowski Rafał
Published: April 2021

Even though the interest in metabarcoding in environmental studies is growing, euglenids are still underrepresented in both sea and freshwater bodies researches. The reason for this situation could be the unsuitability of universal eukaryotic DNA barcodes and primers as well as the lack of a verified protocol, suitable to assess euglenid diversity. In this study, using specific primers for the V2 hypervariable region of 18S rDNA for metabarcoding resulted in obtaining a high fraction (85%) of euglenid reads and species‐level identification of almost 90% of them. Fifty species were detected by the metabarcoding method, including almost all species observed using a light microscope. We investigated three biomass harvesting methods (filtering, centrifugation and scraping the side of a collection vessel) and determined that centrifugation and filtration outperformed scrapes, but the choice between them is not crucial for the reliability of the analysis. In addition, eight DNA extraction methods were evaluated. We compared five commercially available DNA isolation kits, two CTAB‐based protocols and a chelating resin. For this purpose, the efficiency of extraction, quality of obtained DNA, preparation time and generated costs were taken into consideration. After examination of the aforementioned criteria, we chose the GeneMATRIX Soil DNA Purification Kit as the most suitable for DNA isolation.
Temperature regulation of membrane composition in the Firmicute, Enterococcus faecalis, parallels that of Escherichia coli
Authors: Dong Huijuan , Cronan John E.
Published: April 2021

Both Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli can undergo abrupt temperature transitions in nature. E. coli changes the composition of its phospholipid acyl chains in response to shifts growth temperature. This is mediated by a naturally temperature sensitive enzyme, FabF (3‐ketoacyl‐acyl carrier protein synthase II), that elongates the 16 carbon unsaturated acyl chain palmitoleate to the 18 carbon unsaturated acyl chain, cis‐vaccenate. FabF is more active at low temperatures resulting in increased incorporation of cis‐vaccenoyl acyl chains into the membrane phospholipids. This response to temperature is an intrinsic property of FabF and does not require increased synthesis of the enzyme. We report that the FabF of the very divergent bacterium, E. faecalis, has properties very similar to E. coli FabF and is responsible for changing E. faecalis membrane phospholipid acyl chain composition in response to temperature. Moreover, expression E. faecalis FabF in an E. coli ∆fabF strain restores temperature regulation to the E. coli strain.
Employment protection, production flexibility and corporate capital spending
Authors: Tian Geran , Wu Weixing
Published: April 2021

Previous literature argues that labour employment protection influences corporate investment through three mechanisms. Using the Labour Contract Law (LCL) in China as an exogeneous shock, we analyse publicly listed companies with regression discontinuity design, and we find that production flexibility plays a mediating role among these mechanisms. On one hand, LCL increases the labour cost of labour‐intensive firms (LIFs); on the other hand, LCL increases capital spending of non‐labour‐intensive firms (NLIFs). These findings are not ascribed to industry differences, are not driven by the boom of the housing market or other contemporary shocks, and are robust to alternative measures and placebo tests. We conjecture that NLIFs can flexibly replace labour with physical capital. As for LIFs, labour and capital must be maintained at a fixed ratio and thus neither labour nor capital can be readily adjusted. Cross‐sectional analyses confirm our conjecture.
Impact of Board Composition on Pension De‐risking Strategies
Authors: Li Zezeng , Al‐Najjar Basil
Published: April 2021

Pension de‐risking strategies have been widely adopted by firms with defined‐benefit (DB) pension plans to reduce pension risk. This paper investigates the influence of board composition on pension de‐risking strategies within the UK, focusing particularly on three strategies: changes to pension asset allocations, switches from DB to defined‐contribution (DC) pension plans and pension buy‐ins and buy‐outs. Our findings suggest that firms with larger boards and more independent directors are less likely to invest their pension assets in equities. Survival analysis shows that firms with larger boards are slower to switch from DB to DC pension plans. This is consistent with stakeholder theory, in that firms with large boards or more independent directors are more likely to protect employees’ benefits when de‐risking their DB pension plans. However, firms with more female directors are faster to switch fully from DB to DC pension plans and slower to engage in pension buy‐in and buy‐out transactions. This suggests that female directors encourage fully switching DB pension plans, while they are concerned with the significant costs of pension buy‐in or buy‐out. This research provides clear evidence that pension de‐risking strategies are influenced by board composition. UK pension trustees play a key role in determining switches from DB to DC pension plans, mitigating the impact of independent directors.
State Capitalism and the New Global D/development Regime
Authors: Alami Ilias , Dixon Adam D. , Mawdsley Emma
Published: April 2021

Official discourses of Development are being redefined. If the key geopolitical contexts shaping the post‐war Development project were decolonisation and the Cold War, the defining world‐historical transformations shaping the emerging vision of Development are the expansion of state capitalism and the rise of China. The IMF, the World Bank, the OECD, the G20, other multilaterals, and bilateral partners are increasingly taking stock of the rise of state capitalism, and acting as ideational vectors of this emerging regime. However, this new “state capitalist normal” is also portrayed as carrying risks. There is anxiety regarding the direction the political form of global capital accumulation is heading: with the unchecked proliferation of state capitalism possibly blunting competition, politicising economic relations, and intensifying geoeconomic tensions. This anxiety underwrites the current re‐articulation of Development, one which embraces the state as promoter, supervisor, and owner of capital; even as it critiques China’s use of similar instruments.
Indian residential schools: Height and body mass post‐1930
Authors: Feir Donna L. , Auld M. Christopher
Published: April 2021

We study the effects of Canadian Indian residential schooling on two anthropometric measures of health during childhood: adult height and body weight. We use repeated cross‐sectional data from the 1991 and 2001 Aboriginal Peoples Survey and leverage detailed historical data on school closures and location to make causal inferences. We find evidence that, on average, residential schooling increases adult height and the likelihood of a healthy adult body weight for those who attended. These effects are concentrated after the 1950s, when the schools were subject to tighter health regulations and students were selected to attend residential school based partly on their need for medical care that was otherwise unavailable. Residential schooling is only one policy in Canada that had an impact on the health of status First Nations peoples, so our results must be understood in the broader social context. Taken in context, our results suggest that health interventions in later childhood can have significant impacts on adult health. We also document significant increases in height and body weight for status peoples born after the 1960s, suggesting substantial changes in diet and living conditions during this period.
Debate: Putting psychiatric hospitalization for children and adolescents in its place: it is time to create a system of care that works
Authors: McClellan Jon
Published: April 2021

Inpatient psychiatric care is the most expensive resource within the pediatric mental health system and is too often justified based on the lack of more appropriate and effective services. Rates of readmission are high, and data regarding long‐term benefits are lacking. The continuum of care needs to be realigned to meet the needs of children and families, with investments in intensive community‐based services and evidence‐based training while limiting the use of acute inpatient care to those patients whose clinical presentations require and benefit from that level of service.
Prevalence of toothache in Chinese adults aged 65 years and above
Authors: Wan Shiyu , Tao Liyuan , Liu Min , Liu Jue
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of toothache and its risk indicators in the older Chinese population.

Methods

National cross‐sectional survey data on 25 048 Chinese people ≥65 years in 2011, 2014 and 2018 survey year were analysed and then pooled. Chi‐square test was used to examine the differences in prevalence among specific subgroups. Multivariate modified Poisson regression analyses with robust error variances were used to detect related factors and prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated.

Results

The prevalence of toothache was 16.3% (95% CI: 15.5%‐17.1%), 12.8% (95% CI: 12.0%‐13.7%) and 16.0% (95% CI: 15.3%‐16.7%) in years 2011, 2014 and 2018. In the pooled multivariate Poisson regression model, factors associated with toothache were female (PR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.18‐1.37), younger age (PR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.63‐2.09), currently married and living with spouse (PR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.01‐1.15), current living in urban area (PR:1.12, 95% CI: 1.06‐1.20), enough financial support (PR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.65‐0.74), having chronic disease (PR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.35, 1.57), higher sugar intake (PR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.03‐1.17), salty flavour (PR:1.15, 95% CI: 1.07‐1.23), smoking (PR: 1.14, 95% CI:1.06‐1.23) or drinking (PR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.09‐1.25), with denture (PR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.08‐1.22) and higher toothbrushing frequency (PR: 1.25‐1.50).

Conclusions

More than one in ten older Chinese population had toothache, and it was related to age, gender, socioeconomic status, behaviour and oral health status. Lifestyle interventions should be taken to avoid the occurrence of the toothache.
Temporomandibular disorder subtypes, emotional distress, impaired sleep, and oral health‐related quality of life in Asian patients
Authors: Lei Jie , Yap Adrian Ujin , Zhang Minjuan , Fu Kai‐Yuan
Published: April 2021

Objectives

This study determined the differences in emotional states, sleep and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) between patients with pain‐related and intra‐articular Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), and associated emotional symptoms with sleep and OHRQoL.

Methods

Participants were recruited from a tertiary TMDs referral centre. The Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales‐21 (DASS‐21), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Oral Health Impact Profile‐TMDs (OHIP‐TMDs) were used to assess emotional states, sleep and Oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL), respectively. TMD‐related and sociodemographic data were also gathered. Patients were divided into pain‐related (PT), intra‐articular (IT) and combined TMDs (CT) groups based on the Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs. Data were analysed using one‐way ANOVA, Chi‐square test, Pearson's correlation and logistic regression analysis with the significance level set at P < .05.

Results

Data from 1079 participants with a mean age of 29.6 ± 14.2 years were appraised (93.3% response rate). The severity/prevalence of emotional distress, impaired sleep and OHRQoL of the PT/CT groups were higher than the IT group. Moderate‐to‐strong inter‐relationships between emotional, sleep and OHRQoL variables were more explicit for participants with painful TMDs. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that painful TMDs were associated with higher stress and poorer OHRQoL with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.482 (95% CI 1.039‐2.114) and 6.502 (95% CI 3.201‐13.210), respectively.

Conclusions

Painful TMDs are associated with higher levels of emotional distress, sleep and OHRQoL impairments. Routine evaluation of the biopsychosocial distress, especially stress and life quality, is necessary for patients with painful TMDs.
Meta‐analysis of direct‐to‐surgery lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for rectal cancer
Authors: Cribb Benjamin , Kong Joseph , McCormick Jacob , Warrier Satish , Heriot Alexander
Published: April 2021

Aim

Direct‐to‐surgery rectal resection with lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LPLND) is a treatment strategy commonly employed in Japan to improve oncological outcomes for rectal cancer. The aim of this study was to assess oncological outcomes in the literature for patients with low rectal cancer who underwent direct‐to‐surgery resection and LPLND compared with those who underwent total mesorectal excision (TME) alone.

Method

A literature search of Medline, Embase and PubMed databases was performed to identify relevant studies published between 1989 and 2020. The primary outcomes were 5‐year overall survival (OS) and 5‐year disease‐free survival (DFS). The secondary outcomes were cancer recurrence (local, distant and total) and operative burden (operative time and blood loss). Pooled relative risk (RR) of oncological outcomes was performed using the DerSimonian–Laird method random‐effect model.

Results

Twenty‐one studies fulfilled inclusion criteria, including 19 nonrandomized studies of interventions and two studies from one randomized controlled trial. No differences were observed in 5‐year OS or 5‐year DFS. Local recurrence in nonrandomized studies was worse in patients who underwent LPLND [RR 1.41 (95% CI 1.21–1.64, p < 0.001)], as was total recurrence [RR 1.44 (95% CI 1.25–1.67, p < 0.001)]. No differences were observed for distant recurrence.

Conclusion

In the published literature, direct‐to‐surgery resection with LPLND was associated with worse local and total recurrence. These predominantly nonrandomized data suggest that a nonselective approach to LPLND does not provide optimal management in radiotherapy‐naïve patients with low rectal cancer. Further prospective randomized studies with a focus on patient selection are required.
Approval success rates of drug candidates based on target, action, modality, application, and their combinations
Authors: Yamaguchi Shingo , Kaneko Masayuki , Narukawa Mamoru
Published: April 2021

The current success rate of a drug candidate, from the beginning of the clinical trial to receiving marketing approval, is about 10%–20%, and it has not changed during the past few decades. Therefore, pharmaceutical companies are under pressure to select one compound, among many others, with a high probability of success. The differences in drug features affect their probabilities of approval success. In this study, we examined the approval success rates of drug candidates, developed in the United States, the European Union, or Japan, by focusing on four parameters (“drug target,” “drug action,” “drug modality,” and “drug application”) and their combinations, and identified factors that conditioned the outcome of the drug development process. We obtained a total success rate of 12.8%, after evaluating 3999 compounds. Moreover, after analyzing the combinations of these parameters, the approval success rates of drugs that corresponded to the following categories—a stimulant in drug action or an enzyme in drug target and biologics (excluding monoclonal antibody) in drug modality—were high (34.1% and 31.3%, respectively). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that stimulant in drug action, and “B” (blood and blood forming organs), “G” (genito‐urinary system and sex), and “J” (anti‐infectives for systemic use) in drug application were statistically associated with high approval success rates. We found several parameters and their combinations that affected drug approval success rates. Our results could assist pharmaceutical companies in evaluating the probability of success of their drug candidates and, thus, in efficiently conducting the clinical development process.
Quo vadis OSCM? An analysis of past and future trends in operations and supply chain management research
Authors: Seyedghorban Zahra , Samson Danny , Swink Morgan
Published: April 2021

Over the years, Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM) researchers have continued to examine foundational topics, while also expanding and adding new ones. Given that the field has changed a great deal, it seems valuable to examine the evolution of OSCM's intellectual structure over its 70 years of academic communications. Using bibliometrics methods, we analyze 96,125 articles containing 1,047,468 references from 31 representative OSCM journals. Our study defines primary topic areas represented in the most co‐cited documents, while tracing past and current research trends. We include analyses of recent bursts in research attention and comparisons of trends in academic and practitioner literatures. The results from an inclusive analysis suggest that OSCM researchers have been responsive to methodological advances and to some of the dynamics in the operating environments of businesses. However, a product/manufacturing focus seems to persist, and inconsistencies between researchers’ and practitioners’ interests suggest that relevance of OSCM could be further improved. Current hot topics are quite different from those of the past. Trend data suggest that studies of supply chain management and data analytics issues will continue to figure largely in shaping the future research agenda. Our analysis quantifies trends and identifies subtopics that are growing in prominence. In addition, the findings provide a benchmark for evaluating the progress of the OSCM field, while highlighting opportunities for shaping its development and directions.
Effect of universal adhesive and silane pretreatment on bond durability of metal brackets to dental glass ceramics
Authors: Yu Jian , Zhang Zhongni , Yang Hongye , Wang Yake , Muhetaer Aihemaiti , Lei Jinmei , Huang Cui
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effect of universal adhesive and silane pretreatment on the bond durability of metal brackets to dental glass ceramics. Eighty lithium disilicate glass ceramic specimens were randomly assigned to one of four groups (n = 20) defined by the pretreatment and adhesive used: (i) Adper Single Bond 2; (ii) silane + Adper Single Bond 2; (iii) Single Bond Universal; and (iv) silane +Single Bond Universal. Maxillary central incisor metal brackets were bonded on the ceramic surfaces with resin composite. A shear bond strength test was conducted after 24 h of water storage and after 10,000 thermocycles. Adhesive remnant index scoring and field‐emission scanning electron microscopy were performed to determine adhesives remaining on the ceramic surfaces and the ceramic ultrastructure following bracket debonding, respectively. After 10,000 thermocycles, specimens treated with Single Bond Universal preserved an appropriate bond strength between brackets and glass ceramics and showed minimum ceramic surface damage following bracket debonding, which was not the case in the other three groups. The application of a silane‐containing universal adhesive without silane pretreatment achieves adequate durability of the bond of metal brackets to dental glass ceramics and allows safe debonding, which may aid in optimizing the effectiveness for orthodontic treatment.
The sustainability shift: The role of calculative practices in strategy implementation
Authors: Brorström Sara
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates the role of calculative practices in the phase of implementing strategies for enhanced sustainability in a city organization. Sustainability as a concept is arguably difficult to handle at the organizational level, becoming a challenge for public organizations in practice. This paper builds on the notion of performativity and follows a strategy implementation process over time in a city, allowing us to see how the sustainability ambitions altered over the observed period. This led to the conclusion that when sustainability is to be implemented, there is a shift towards financial control and calculative practices assume various roles.
The HIV reverse transcriptase Inhibitor Tenofovir suppressed DMH/HFD‐induced colorectal cancer in Wistar rats
Authors: Sherif Dana A. , Makled Mirhan N. , Suddek Ghada M.
Published: April 2021

Colon rectal cancer (CRC) is the second commonest malignancy in developed countries and a significant cause of mortality. Tenofovir reportedly reduces the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and interferes with cell cycle and cell proliferation. The current study investigated the potential antitumor effect of tenofovir against experimentally induced CRC. CRC was induced by 1,2‐dimethylhydrazine (DMH, 20 mg/kg, once a week) and high‐fat diet (HFD) in Wistar rats. Rats received tenofovir at a dose of 25 or 50 mg/kg (i.p.) for 24 weeks. Tenofovir‐25 failed to significantly decrease the total number of dysplasia, adenoma and adenocarcinoma and to improve histopathological changes; however, tenofovir‐50 resulted in no tumors seen in the colon lumen and a significant decrease in the total number of dysplasia and no adenoma or adenocarcinoma observed compared to DMH/HFD group. Tenofovir‐25 failed to attenuate DMH/HFD‐induced cell proliferation, whereas tenofovir‐50 significantly decreased cell proliferation revealed by the decreased PCNA expression. Tenofovir‐25 also failed to attenuate DMH/HFD‐induced oxidative stress, whereas tenofovir‐50 significantly attenuated oxidative stress as indicated by the decreased MDA concentration and SOD activity along with the increased GSH concentrations. Moreover, tenofovir‐50 decreased Bcl‐2 and cyclin D1 expressions in colon tissues compared with DMH/HFD group. Tenofovir‐50 also significantly decreased INF‐ɤ concentration in colon tissues. These findings suggest that the high dose of tenofovir (50 mg/kg) has antitumor potential against DMH/HFD‐induced CRC, which might be mediated through the inhibition of cell proliferation, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
Adenomyoepithelioma of the breast: a proposal for classification
Authors: Rakha Emad , Tan Puay Hoon , Ellis Ian , Quinn Cecily
Published: April 2021

Breast lesions with a prominent myoepithelial cell component constitute a heterogeneous group of benign and malignant neoplastic proliferations. These lesions are often dual epithelial–myoepithelial, but may be purely myoepithelial cell in nature. Benign epithelial–myoepithelial lesions typically maintain the morphology and immunophenotype of the normal bilayer epithelial myoepithelial structures. However, the distinction between the two cell components is not always clear‐cut in malignant lesions in which the histogenesis of myoepithelial cells remains uncertain. Neoplastic biphasic epithelial–myoepithelial lesions of the breast include adenomyoepithelioma (AME), pleomorphic adenoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma. Four histological patterns of classical AME have been described: tubular, lobulated, spindle‐cell and adenosis variants. Overlapping patterns occur and some AMEs display an intraductal papillary pattern that may represent a fifth variant. AME can be benign or malignant. Classical AME may show atypical features, which are not sufficient for the diagnosis of malignancy (atypical AME). Atypical AME is recognised as a lesion of uncertain malignant potential with limited metastatic capability. Based on the histological features, we propose a classification of malignant AME (M‐AME) into three variants: M‐AME in situ, M‐AME invasive and AME with invasive carcinoma. In this review, we provide an overview of myoepithelial lesions of the breast focusing on the classification of AME to improve not only the consistency of reporting but also help to guide further management decision‐making.
Experimental evaluation and theoretical prediction of elastic properties and failure of C/C‐SiC composite
Authors: Shi Yuan , Li Shuguang , Sitnikova Elena , Cepli Daniel , Koch Dietmar
Published: April 2021

The paper presents experimental characterization and theoretical predictions of elastic and failure properties of continuous carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide (C/C‐SiC) composite fabricated by Liquid Silicon Infiltration (LSI). Its mechanical properties were determined under uniaxial tensile, compression, and pure shear loads in two sets of principal coordinate systems, 0°–90° and ±45°, respectively. The properties measured in the 0°–90° coordinate system were employed as the input data to predict their counterparts in the ±45° coordinate system. Through coordinate transformations of stress and strain tensors, the elastic constants and stress‐strain behaviors were predicted and found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. In the same way, three different failure criteria, maximum stress, Tsai‐Wu, and maximum strain, have been selected for the evaluation of the failure of C/C‐SiC as a type of genuinely orthotropic material. Based on the comparisons with experimental results, supported by necessary practical justifications, the Tsai‐Wu criterion was found to offer a reasonable prediction of the strengths, which can be assisted by the maximum stress criterion to obtain an indicative prediction of the respective failure modes.
Synthesis of monophase two‐dimensional α‐Si3N4 nanoplatelets via an ionothermal route
Authors: Wang Sen , Liang Feng , Li Saisai , Tian Liang , Zhang Shaowei , Jia Quanli , Chang Shuai , Yan Sheng , Zhang Haijun
Published: April 2021

Monophase α‐Si3N4 was prepared by a salt melt strategy using Si as a starting material. The results showed that molten salt enhanced the conversion of Si to monophase α‐Si3N4, and some as‐synthesized α‐Si3N4 nanoparticles had a hexagonal platelet morphology. The α‐Si3N4 hexagonal nanoplatelets had an average lateral dimension of about 170 nm and a thickness of about 5.2 nm. The nitridation of Si in molten salt was investigated by a thermal quenching method, and the silicon halide intermediate products were detected by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Silicon halides possessing higher reactive activity facilitated the nitridation of Si and nucleation of α‐Si3N4. Furthermore, the lattice mismatch between α‐Si3N4 and the salts was calculated, suggesting that the lateral growth of α‐Si3N4 nanoplatelets had been guided by the salt crystal structure. Based on the results, the relevant formation mechanism of α‐Si3N4 nanoplatelets was proposed.
Risk factors for teen suicide and bullying: An international integrative review
Authors: Cuesta Inka , Montesó‐Curto Pilar , Metzler Sawin Erika , Jiménez‐Herrera Maria , Puig‐Llobet Montserrat , Seabra Paulo , Toussaint Loren
Published: April 2021

Aim

This study aimed to analyse risk and protective factors for teen suicide and bullying.

Background

Research shows that high percentages of bully‐victims report suicidal thinking or suicide attempts.

Design

This was an international integrative review.

Data sources

Five databases including CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar and Cuiden were searched between January 2010 and December 2020.

Review methods

Review methods included problem identification; search, evaluation and analysis of literature; and presentation of results.

Results

Eighteen studies were included. We grouped the selected articles into seven thematic categories. The most significant risk factors were being male, having a previous personal and/or family suicide attempt, mental health problems, substance abuse, previous physical and/or sexual abuse, low socio‐economic level, belonging to a single‐parent family, underachievement, family dysfunction and violent environment. The most common protective factors for both suicide and bullying were being female, having good mental health, belonging to a two‐parent family, safe school environment, good family relationships and having an involved teacher.

Conclusion

Suicide resulting from bullying is a social and public health problem, so nurse practitioners and paediatric primary care nurses have a responsibility to educate teachers and parents in order to promote early detection and the development of more effective prevention and action plans.
Transmission of Respiratory Syncytial Virus genotypes in Cali, Colombia
Authors: Londono‐Avendano Maria Aurora , Peláez‐Moreno Melissa , López Medina Eduardo , Moreno Turriago Mabel Soraya , Parra Patiño Beatriz
Published: April 2021

Background

Colombia's climatological variety, added to pathogen diversity, creates local niches for infectious diseases. In Bogotá, respiratory syncytial virus causes 30%‐52% of the cases of respiratory infections. In coastal or inter‐Andean cities with higher temperature and longer dry seasons, frequency of this virus is 7%‐13%. By 2017, increased hospitalizations due to airway infections occurred in regions whose weather is differently influenced by “El Niño Southern Oscillation” than in Bogotá, although microbial diversity might have also been involved.

Methods

For Cali, an inter‐Andean city with warm tropical weather, records of respiratory syncytial virus from 2014 to 2018, in children two years old or younger, were analyzed, and genotypes transmitted during 2016‐2017 were identified based on partial sequences of glycoprotein G.

Results

Most cases of respiratory syncytial virus in Cali occur in the first semesters, with peaks expressed around March‐April, without a clear association with pluviosity. Unlike the biannual rotating pattern of Bogotá, co‐circulation of types A and B was detected. As years pass, transmission seasons are becoming longer and frequencies of the virus augment. The viral genotypes identified follow international trends with dominance of Ontario and Buenos Aires clades. Similar to other isolates in these clades, viruses from Cali exhibit glycosylation variability that may account for their fitness.

Conclusions

The pattern of respiratory syncytial virus transmission in Cali differs from that in Bogotá. Its epidemiology is shifting and will remain so with the advent of novel respiratory diseases. This may impact the introduction of vaccination schemes for these or other respiratory viruses.
Dual role of activated carbon as fuel and template for solution combustion synthesis of porous zinc oxide powders
Authors: Lutukurthi D. N. V. V. Konda , Dutta Suman , Behara Dilip Kumar
Published: April 2021

In this work, nanosized zinc oxide (ZnO) powders were fabricated by urea–nitrate solution combustion synthesis using activated carbon as a structure‐directing template and secondary fuel at different fuel–oxidant ratios. The as‐synthesized powders were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption–desorption measurements, UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and photoluminescence. The effect of fuel amount on photocatalytic activity of ZnO powders was evaluated by the degradation of an azo dye Orange G. It was observed that combustion synthesis with activated carbon as a secondary fuel had a profound effect on reducing crystallite size and enhancement of specific surface area. The crystallite size of the as‐synthesized powders varied from 46 to 26 nm. The ZnO powder prepared at a fuel–oxidant ratio of 1.8 possessed the small crystallite size and high specific surface area of 69 m2/g. It correspondingly resulted in the highest dye removal percentage of 99% with a rate constant of 0.027 min−1. The improvement in dye degradation can be due to the synergistic interaction and interplay of enhanced surface area and catalytic ability of the photocatalyst. This study provides a simple single‐step synthesis methodology to produce metal oxide nanopowders with tunable surface properties for high potential applications in catalysis, optoelectronics, and gas sensors.
KDM5B promotes self‐renewal of hepatocellular carcinoma cells through the microRNA‐448–mediated YTHDF3/ITGA6 axis
Authors: Guo Jun‐Cheng , Liu Zhuo , Yang Yi‐Jun , Guo Min , Zhang Jian‐Quan , Zheng Jin‐Fang
Published: April 2021

Histone methylation plays important roles in mediating the onset and progression of various cancers, and lysine‐specific demethylase 5B (KDM5B), as a histone demethylase, is reported to be an oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the mechanism underlying its tumorigenesis remains undefined. Hence, we explored the regulatory role of KDM5B in HCC cells, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets for HCC. Gene Expression Omnibus database and StarBase were used to predict important regulatory pathways related to HCC. Then, the expression of KDM5B and microRNA‐448 (miR‐448) in HCC tissues was detected by RT‐qPCR and Western blot analysis. The correlation between KDM5B and miR‐448 expression was analysed by Pearson's correlation coefficient and ChIP experiments, and the targeting of YTH N6‐methyladenosine RNA binding protein 3 (YTHDF3) by miR‐448 was examined by luciferase assay. Additionally, the effect of KDM5B on the proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis as well as tumorigenicity of transfected cells was assessed using ectopic expression and depletion experiments. KDM5B was highly expressed in HCC cells and was inversely related to miR‐448 expression. KDM5B demethylated H3K4me3 on the miR‐448 promoter and thereby inhibited the expression of miR‐448, which in turn targeted YTHDF3 and integrin subunit alpha 6 (ITGA6) to promote the malignant phenotype of HCC. Moreover, KDM5B accelerated HCC progression in nude mice via the miR‐448/YTHDF3/ITGA6 axis. Our study uncovered that KDM5B regulates the YTHDF3/ITGA6 axis by inhibiting the expression of miR‐448 to promote the occurrence of HCC.
Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells induced PAX8 promotes ovarian cancer cell growth by stabilizing TAZ protein
Authors: Chu Yijing , Zhu Chengzhan , Wang Qianqian , Liu Meixin , Wan Wei , Zhou Jun , Han Rendong , Yang Jing , Luo Wenqiang , Liu Chong , Zhou Huansheng , Li Min , Yu Fengsheng , Ye Yuanhua
Published: April 2021

Our previous studies have shown that the Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) can regulate metastasis and development of ovarian cancer. However, its specific mechanism has yet to be fully revealed. In this study, an RNA‐seq approach was adopted to compare the differences in mRNA levels in ovarian cancer cells being given or not given ADSCs. The mRNA level of paired box 8 (PAX8) changed significantly and was confirmed as an important factor in tumour‐inducing effect of ADSCs. In comparison with the ovarian cancer cells cultured in the common growth medium, those cultured in the medium supplemented with ADSCs showed a significant increase of the PAX8 level. Moreover, the cancer cell growth could be restricted, even in the ADSC‐treated group (P < .05), by inhibiting PAX8. In addition, an overexpression of PAX8 could elevate the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, Co‐IP assays in ovarian cancer cells revealed that an interaction existed between endogenous PAX8 and TAZ. And the PAX8 levels regulated the degradation of TAZ. The bioluminescence images captured in vivo manifested that the proliferation and the PAX8 expression level in ovarian cancers increased in the ADMSC‐treated group, and the effect of ADSCs in promoting tumours was weakened through inhibiting PAX8. Our findings indicate that the PAX8 expression increment could contribute a role in promoting the ADSC‐induced ovarian cancer cell proliferation through TAZ stability regulation.
Online‐delivered parenting intervention for young children with disruptive behavior problems: a noninferiority trial focused on child and parent outcomes
Authors: Prinz Ronald J. , Metzler Carol W. , Sanders Matthew R. , Rusby Julie C. , Cai Chao
Published: April 2021

Background

This study evaluated whether an evidence‐based parenting intervention, when delivered online, could effectively address disruptive behavior problems in young children and yield outcomes comparable to in‐person delivery of the same intervention.

Methods

Families (n = 334) of children (3–7 years; 63% White, 22% African American, 15% other races; 63% male) with disruptive behavior problems were randomized to online‐delivered intervention (ODI) or staff‐delivered intervention (SDI), resulting in baseline and demographic equivalence. Primary outcome measures for child disruptive behavior (independent observation, parent report) and secondary outcome measures of parenting and family impact were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and follow‐up. Conducted using intent‐to‐treat (ITT) as well as per‐protocol (PP) methods, noninferiority analyses, which drew on an HLM framework with repeat measures across three timepoints and on REML to provide unbiased estimates of model parameters, tested whether the outcome‐difference CI did not exceed the a priori noninferiority margin.

Results

For ITT and PP analyses, the ODI was found to be noninferior to the SDI on the primary outcome: independently observed child disruptive behavior and parent‐reported child behavior problems. The pattern for secondary outcomes was more varied: (a) noninferiority for observed positive and aversive parenting; (b) noninferiority for observed quality of parent–child relationship at post but not follow‐up assessment; (c) noninferiority for parent‐reported inappropriate/inconsistent discipline for PP but not ITT analyses; and (d) noninferiority not confirmed for parenting daily hassles and adverse family quality of life, despite large effect sizes for the ODI (Cohen's d .75–1.07). Finally, ODI noninferiority was found for teacher‐reported child disruptive behavior.

Conclusions

The tested online‐delivered parenting intervention demonstrated clear noninferiority with the corresponding staff‐delivered parenting intervention on the primary outcome, child disruptive behavior problems, and reflected substantial though nonuniform noninferiority and meaningful effect sizes for secondary outcomes related to parenting and family. Future research will guide optimization of online interventions.
A vertical oligopoly in which entry increases every firm's profit
Authors: Nariu Tatsuhiko , Flath David , Okamura Makoto
Published: April 2021

We develop a model in which each of m manufacturers forms a differentiated final product by assembling n components that are provided by its own n independent suppliers. Each supplier produces a unique component and sells to only one of the manufacturers. The manufacturers engage in product‐differentiated Cournot competition. We show that if initially the number of manufacturers is sufficiently small, and if the number of components is large enough, then, as the number of manufacturers increases, every firm—including downstream manufacturers and their upstream component suppliers—earns more profit. Entry can increase every firm's profit. The package‐tour industry of Japan is an example of such an industry. Drip coffee supplied by competing convenience stores in Japan is another.
Preseptal cellulitis associated with cosmetic eyelash lifting procedure
Authors: Mangan Mehmet Serhat , Imamoglu Serhat
Published: April 2021

Background

The increased popularity of periocular cosmetic applications in recent years has resulted in the appearance of various complications. The cosmetic eyelash lifting is one of these new techniques and is gradually becoming more popular. There are no previous reports of any complications of this procedure in the literature.

Aims

In this study, we present a clinical case of preseptal cellulitis following cosmetic eyelash lifting procedure.

Patient/Methods

A 55‐year‐old woman presented with bilateral eyelid swelling and redness. The history revealed that she had undergone cosmetic eyelash lifting procedure 2 days ago. There was no ocular movement limitation or pain. The biomicroscopic examination revealed bilateral eyelid edema and hyperemia, conjunctival hyperemia, chemosis, and mucopurulent secretion. The diagnosis was preseptal cellulitis when the clinical examination was evaluated together with the results of the laboratory tests and radiological imaging.

Results

Systemic and topical antibiotics were started, and the signs recovered in the first week.

Conclusions

Cosmetic eyelash lifting can rarely be one of the causes of preseptal cellulitis. It is important to detect and treat any blepharitis or meibomitis before the procedure. Eyelid hygiene and the proper sterilization conditions during the procedure must also be ensured.
Association between subthreshold depression and self‐care behaviours in adults with type 2 diabetes: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shrestha Monika , Ng Ashley , Paudel Rajan , Gray Richard
Published: April 2021

Aims and objectives

The aim of the study was to test the association between subthreshold depression and self‐care behaviours in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) attending a tertiary healthcare service.

Background

Suboptimal adherence to self‐care behaviours is associated with poor glycaemic control. The estimated point prevalence of subthreshold depression in people with T2D is 17%. Two previous studies have examined the association between subthreshold depression and self‐care behaviours in T2D, reported observations were inconsistent.

Design

A cross‐sectional observational study.

Methods

We surveyed adults with T2D attending a tertiary healthcare facility in Nepal. Self‐care behaviours and subthreshold depression were assessed using the Summary of Diabetes Self‐care Activities and the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9, respectively. We used linear and logistic regression to test the association of subthreshold depression with total and individual self‐care behaviours. Our reporting complies with STROBE reporting guideline for observational research.

Results

Just over a third (37%) of the participants had subthreshold depression. People with subthreshold depression had slightly lower total diabetes self‐care score compared to those with no depression. More than half of participants with subthreshold depression had suboptimal adherence to diet, physical activity and foot care. Subthreshold depression was associated with total self‐care score (B = −0.27, 95% CI: −0.54, −0.01). In addition, association between subthreshold depression and diet adherence was observed (AOR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.44).

Conclusions

Subthreshold depression is associated with decreased adherence to self‐care behaviour in people with T2D. Identification and treatment of subthreshold depression in T2D may lead to better adherence to diabetes self‐care behaviours.

Relevance to clinical practice

The recognition and treatment of subthreshold depression warrants further investigation as a strategy to improve the adherence to self‐care behaviours.
Factors associated with diabetes distress among adolescents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Luo Jiaxin , Wang Hongjuan , Li Xia , Zhou Zhiguang , Valimaki Maritta , Whittemore Robin , Grey Margaret , Guo Jia
Published: April 2021

Aims

To describe the specific domains of diabetes distress and factors associated with these domains.

Background

Diabetes distress is a common problem but not well recognised in adolescents by healthcare providers or adolescents themselves. There is insufficient evidence on how specific domains of diabetes distress exist in adolescents, making it challenging to select precise components to alleviate diabetes stress.

Design

A quantitative, descriptive and cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Data were collected on socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics, diabetes distress, perceived stress, self‐efficacy and diabetes self‐management using established questionnaires. Multivariate linear regression was conducted to examine the associations between specific factors and four domains in diabetes distress. STROBE checklist was used as the guideline for this study.

Results

A total of 100 adolescents with type 1 diabetes aged 12 to 18 years participated in this study. Adolescents experienced the highest levels of distress in the regimen‐related distress [2.41 (SD =0.82)] and physician‐related distress [2.40 (SD =0.80)] domains. Older age, female gender, more diabetes problem‐solving and higher levels of perceived stress were associated with higher regimen‐related distress (β = 0.21 ~ 0.45, p < 0.05). Older age, female gender, a lower degree of endorsement of relevant diabetes‐related goals and higher levels of perceived stress were associated with higher physician‐related distress (β = −0.29 ~ 0.34, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Diabetes distress was reported more on regimen‐related and physician‐related domains among adolescents with type 1 diabetes in China, associating with older age, female, increased perceived stress and poor diabetes‐related problem‐solving.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses need to screen the specific domains of diabetes distress among adolescents with type 1 diabetes, especially for the older adolescents and girls. This study highlighted the importance of incorporating diabetes‐related problem‐solving support and stress management strategies into diabetes management for adolescents with type 1 diabetes, which could help relieve diabetes distress.
Clinical instruments for bedside functional assessment: Convergent validity among the AM‐PAC ‘6‐Clicks’ and BMAT
Authors: Lininger Monica Rae , Warren Meghan , Knecht Jeff , Verheijde Joseph , Tyler Brenda , Tompkins James
Published: April 2021

Aims and Objectives

To determine the level of convergent validity of the ‘6‐Clicks’ Basic Mobility and Daily Activity with the Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool (BMAT) in patients admitted to a tertiary care academic hospital.

Background

Accurately measuring a patient's ability to mobilise during hospitalisation is necessary but can be challenging. Two instruments, the Activity Measure for Post‐Acute Care short‐form ‘6‐Clicks’ and the BMAT, are commonly used to determine patients’ mobility levels; however, these instruments have not been psychometrically evaluated together. Understanding the characteristics between these tools can support the process of shared decision making amongst healthcare providers.

Design

Retrospective Cohort adhering to the STROBE statement.

Methods

Using 13,498 individual patient admissions from an electronic health record, the BMAT score measured closest in time to the ‘6‐Clicks’ Basic Mobility and Daily Activity evaluation was collected. Spearman rank correlations with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to determine the level of convergent validity between the ‘6‐Clicks’ Basic Mobility and Daily Activity with the BMAT. Pairwise correlations were also calculated and stratified by admitting medical service.

Results

All correlations for the ‘6‐Clicks’ Basic Mobility or Daily Activity summative scores and the BMAT mobility levels were statistically significant and moderately correlated. The weakest correlations were seen within the Orthopaedic admitting service group. Most correlations stratified by admitting service [CVD/Pulmonary, Medicine/Hospitalist, Other Surgery and Solid Organ Transplant] were moderate. The strongest correlations were seen within the Neuro/Stroke admitting service.

Conclusion

Moderate levels of convergent validity exist between the ‘6‐Clicks’ and the BMAT in this sample. These findings demonstrate that the construct of patient mobility is not being assessed similarly between the two instruments.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

These findings suggest the continued use of both instruments to allow interdisciplinary assessment of patient mobility status during a hospital stay.