bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liraglutide hospital discharge trial: A randomized controlled trial comparing the safety and efficacy of liraglutide versus insulin glargine for the management of patients with type 2 diabetes after hospital discharge
Authors: Pasquel Francisco J. , Urrutia Maria A. , Cardona Saumeth , Coronado Karla W. Z. , Albury Bonnie , Perez‐Guzman Mireya C. , Galindo Rodolfo J. , Chaudhuri Ajay , Iacobellis Gianluca , Palacios Juan , Farias Javier M. , Gomez Patricia , Anzola Isabel , Vellanki Priyathama , Fayfman Maya , Davis Georgia M. , Migdal Alexandra L. , Peng Limin , Umpierrez Guillermo E.
Published: February 2021

Aim

To compare a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist with basal insulin at hospital discharge in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes in a randomized clinical trial.

Methods

A total of 273 patients with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7%–10% (53–86 mol/mol) were randomized to liraglutide (n = 136) or insulin glargine (n = 137) at hospital discharge. The primary endpoint was difference in HbA1c at 12 and 26 weeks. Secondary endpoints included hypoglycaemia, changes in body weight, and achievement of HbA1c <7% (53 mmol/mol) without hypoglycaemia or weight gain.

Results

The between‐group difference in HbA1c at 12 weeks and 26 weeks was −0.28% (95% CI −0.64, 0.09), and at 26 weeks it was −0.55%, (95% CI −1.01, −0.09) in favour of liraglutide. Liraglutide treatment resulted in a lower frequency of hypoglycaemia <3.9 mmol/L (13% vs 23%; P = 0.04), but there was no difference in the rate of clinically significant hypoglycaemia <3.0 mmol/L. Compared to insulin glargine, liraglutide treatment was associated with greater weight loss at 26 weeks (−4.7 ± 7.7 kg vs −0.6 ± 11.5 kg; P < 0.001), and the proportion of patients with HbA1c <7% (53 mmol/mol) without hypoglycaemia was 48% versus 33% (P = 0.05) at 12 weeks and 45% versus 33% (P = 0.14) at 26 weeks in liraglutide versus insulin glargine. The proportion of patients with HbA1c <7% (53 mmol/mol) without hypoglycaemia and no weight gain was higher with liraglutide at 12 (41% vs 24%, P = 0.005) and 26 weeks (39% vs 22%; P = 0.014). The incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events was higher with liraglutide than with insulin glargine (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Compared to insulin glargine, treatment with liraglutide at hospital discharge resulted in better glycaemic control and greater weight loss, but increased gastrointestinal adverse events.
Climate warming causes mast seeding to break down by reducing sensitivity to weather cues
Authors: Bogdziewicz Michał , Hacket‐Pain Andrew , Kelly Dave , Thomas Peter A. , Lageard Jonathan , Tanentzap Andrew J.
Published: February 2021

Climate change is altering patterns of seed production worldwide with consequences for population recruitment and migration potential. For the many species that regenerate through synchronized, quasiperiodic reproductive events termed masting, these changes include decreases in the synchrony and interannual variation in seed production. This breakdown in the occurrence of masting features harms reproduction by decreasing the efficiency of pollination and increasing seed predation. Changes in masting are often paralleled by warming temperatures, but the underlying proximate mechanisms are unknown. We used a unique 39‐year study of 139 European beech (Fagus sylvatica) trees that experienced masting breakdown to track the seed developmental cycle and pinpoint phases where weather effects on seed production have changed over time. A cold followed by warm summer led to large coordinated flowering efforts among plants. However, trees failed to respond to the weather signal as summers warmed and the frequency of reproductive cues changed fivefold. Less synchronous flowering resulted in less efficient pollination that further decreased the synchrony of seed maturation. As global temperatures are expected to increase this century, perennial plants that fine‐tune their reproductive schedules based on temperature cues may suffer regeneration failures.
Sea ice decline drives biogeographical shifts of key Calanus species in the central Arctic Ocean
Authors: Ershova Elizaveta A. , Kosobokova Ksenia N. , Banas Neil S. , Ellingsen Ingrid , Niehoff Barbara , Hildebrandt Nicole , Hirche Hans‐Juergen
Published: February 2021

In recent decades, the central Arctic Ocean has been experiencing dramatic decline in sea ice coverage, thickness and extent, which is expected to have a tremendous impact on all levels of Arctic marine life. Here, we analyze the regional and temporal changes in pan‐Arctic distribution and population structure of the key zooplankton species Calanus glacialis and C. hyperboreus in relation to recent changes in ice conditions, based on historical (1993–1998) and recent (2007–2016) zooplankton collections and satellite‐based sea ice observations. We found strong correlations between Calanus abundance/population structure and a number of sea ice parameters. These relationships were particularly strong for C. glacialis, with higher numbers being observed at locations with a lower ice concentration, a shorter distance to the ice edge, and more days of open water. Interestingly, early stages of C. hyperboreus followed the same trends, suggesting that these two species substantially overlap in their core distribution area in the Arctic Ocean. Calanus glacialis and C. hyperboreus have been historically classified as shelf versus basin species, yet we conclude that both species can inhabit a wide range of bottom depths and their distribution in the Arctic Ocean is largely shaped by sea ice dynamics. Our data suggest that the core distribution patterns of these key zooplankton are shifting northwards with retreating sea ice and changing climate conditions.
Tropicalization of temperate ecosystems in North America: The northward range expansion of tropical organisms in response to warming winter temperatures
Authors: Osland Michael J. , Stevens Philip W. , Lamont Margaret M. , Brusca Richard C. , Hart Kristen M. , Waddle J. Hardin , Langtimm Catherine A. , Williams Caroline M. , Keim Barry D. , Terando Adam J. , Reyier Eric A. , Marshall Katie E. , Loik Michael E. , Boucek Ross E. , Lewis Amanda B. , Seminoff Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2021

Tropicalization is a term used to describe the transformation of temperate ecosystems by poleward‐moving tropical organisms in response to warming temperatures. In North America, decreases in the frequency and intensity of extreme winter cold events are expected to allow the poleward range expansion of many cold‐sensitive tropical organisms, sometimes at the expense of temperate organisms. Although ecologists have long noted the critical ecological role of winter cold temperature extremes in tropical–temperate transition zones, the ecological effects of extreme cold events have been understudied, and the influence of warming winter temperatures has too often been left out of climate change vulnerability assessments. Here, we examine the influence of extreme cold events on the northward range limits of a diverse group of tropical organisms, including terrestrial plants, coastal wetland plants, coastal fishes, sea turtles, terrestrial reptiles, amphibians, manatees, and insects. For these organisms, extreme cold events can lead to major physiological damage or landscape‐scale mass mortality. Conversely, the absence of extreme cold events can foster population growth, range expansion, and ecological regime shifts. We discuss the effects of warming winters on species and ecosystems in tropical–temperate transition zones. In the 21st century, climate change‐induced decreases in the frequency and intensity of extreme cold events are expected to facilitate the poleward range expansion of many tropical species. Our review highlights critical knowledge gaps for advancing understanding of the ecological implications of the tropicalization of temperate ecosystems in North America.
High‐temperature dielectric and energy storage properties of Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3‐based ceramics modified by Sr0.8Na0.4Nb2O6
Authors: Wan Yuhui , Hou Ningjing , Ren Pengrong , Yan Fuxue , Li Zhenrong , Ma Ming , Song Kexin , Zhao Gaoyang
Published: February 2021

Sr0.8Na0.4Nb2O6with a tungsten bronze structure is introduced into perovskite‐structured 0.94(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3‐0.06BaTiO3composition (abbreviated as BNT‐BT‐xSNN, x = 0‐0.04). The temperature stability of dielectric properties and energy storage performance is found to be effectively enhanced by Sr0.8Na0.4Nb2O6dopant. When x is 0.03, the temperature ranges covering |ε'‐ε'150°C|/ε'150°C≤15% andtanδ≤ 0.02 are 43°C‐404°C and 90°C‐422°C, respectively. More importantly,ε′can be retained as high as 3304 at 150°C. Besides, the variances of energy storage density and its efficiency are 6.4% and 5.3%, respectively, in the temperature range from room temperature (RT) to 180°C. Therefore, this work provides a new method of compositional modification in BNT‐based materials to improve their temperature stability of dielectric and energy storage properties.
Patient experiences of alcohol specialist nurse interventions in a general hospital, and onwards care pathways
Authors: Dorey Lucy , Lathlean Judith , Roderick Paul , Westwood Greta
Published: February 2021

Aims

To provide insight into patient experiences of a general hospital‐based alcohol specialist nurse intervention during alcohol detoxification, experiences of alcohol specialist nurse hospital‐based follow‐up appointments (Pathway A) as well as the experiences of patients who did not have access to this additional help post detoxification (Pathway B).

Design

A longitudinal qualitative study.

Methods

A thematic analysis of semi‐structured interviews (2016–2017) with 24 patient participants (N = 12 in each pathway; purposive selection) 1–4 weeks post‐detoxification and at 3 and 6 months, to identify patient experiences of these interventions.

Results

Participants gave accounts of how ‘empathic’ and ‘straight talking’ interactions with alcohol specialist nurses during detoxification helped them to ‘open up’ and orient towards change. After detoxification follow‐up, outpatient appointments in the hospital setting were seen as supporting change in early recovery and engagement with a wider range of services. Those with no access to nurse follow‐up described experiencing a ‘void’ in available help. Participants in both groups described barriers to engagement with community alcohol services, peer groups and access to help for mild‐moderate mental health problems.

Conclusion

Patient accounts indicate alcohol specialist nurse interventions during and after unplanned detoxification in a hospital setting can help orient patients towards change and support early recovery.

Impact

Providing alcohol specialist nurse interventions in general hospitals offers one route to initiating recovery in alcohol‐dependent patients. This has potential to improve the lives of those affected and to reduce related demands on hospital services, but further research is needed.
Red cell distribution width and erythrocyte osmotic stability in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Knychala Maria Aparecida , Garrote‐Filho Mario da Silva , Batista da Silva Breno , Neves de Oliveira Samantha , Yasminy Luz Sarah , Marques Rodrigues Manuela Ortega , Penha‐Silva Nilson
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between red cell distribution width (RDW) and erythrocyte osmotic stability in non‐diabetic and diabetic individuals in both sexes. The study sample (N = 122) was constituted by 53 type 2 diabetics (DM) and 69 non‐diabetics (ND), being 21 and 22 men in each group, respectively. The osmotic stability of erythrocytes was obtained by the variation in saline concentration (dX) capable of determining hypoosmotic lysis. Higher RDW values and lower serum iron concentrations were found in the diabetic group when compared to the non‐diabetic volunteers. In the group of diabetic women, RDW was positively correlated with the reticulocyte index, and both RDW and dX were negatively correlated with iron, haemoglobin, transferrin saturation index, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration. In all the groups studied, RDW was positively correlated with dX, especially in the diabetic group, where the correlation was the strongest. RDW elevation in both women and men with type 2 diabetes mellitus was associated with decreased serum iron indicators. Furthermore, RDW has a similar meaning to dX, as small erythrocytes have less haemoglobin, resulting in both an increase of RDW and dX.
Effects of sedentary behavior and daily walking steps on body mass index and body composition: Prospective observational study using outpatient clinical data of Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Nakanishi Shuhei , Shimoda Masashi , Tatsumi Fuminori , Kohara Kenji , Obata Atsushi , Katakura Yukino , Sanada Junpei , Fushimi Yoshiro , Iwamoto Yuichiro , Onishi Mana , Isobe Hayato , Kusano Takashi , Dan Kazunori , Wamata Ryo , Iwamoto Hideyuki , Mune Tomoatsu , Kaku Kohei , Kaneto Hideaki
Published: February 2021

Aims/Introduction

This study examined the effect of daily walking steps on glycated hemoglobin, body mass index (BMI) and body composition while taking into consideration sedentary time (ST) in Japanese type 2 diabetes patients over a period of 12 months.

Materials and Methods

Self‐administered ST values and information regarding daily walking steps were obtained and analyzed for 236 patients with type 2 diabetes who regularly visited the outpatient clinic. The patients – divided into three categories of daily walking steps: non‐step counter user, <7,500 daily walking steps and ≥7,500 daily walking steps (HS) – were prospectively observed considering ST through the monitoring of glycated hemoglobin, BMI waist circumference (WC) and visceral fat accumulation (VFA) for 12 months.

Results

After 12 months, the participants categorized as the HS group had significantly reduced BMI and VFA independent of ST, as well as significantly reduced WC with high ST. WC and VFA disparities widened significantly at 12 months between the participants categorized as being in the non‐step counter user group and the HS group with long ST. However, no difference in glycated hemoglobin levels and BMI were found among the three categories independent of ST. Compared with non‐step counter users, the odds ratios with logistic regression models of improvement in BMI and VFA in the <7,500 daily walking steps and HS groups, and WC in the HS group after 12 months were significantly higher only among those with long ST.

Conclusions

These results suggest that consideration of sedentary behavior in combination with daily walking steps might be essential for type 2 diabetes management.
Relationship between urban planning and flooding in Port Harcourt city, Nigeria; insights from planning professionals
Authors: Echendu Adaku Jane
Published: February 2021

Flooding is widely recognised as a global problem which has worsened in recent years due to climate change. In Nigeria, flooding remains the most widespread environmental disaster with the population of 200 million suffering numerous threats from perennial flooding. Port Harcourt in Southern Nigeria experiences annual flooding on a significant scale. While research has linked the flooding in Port Harcourt to poor urban planning, little research has engaged with planning professionals to investigate this relationship. This paper fills this gap. It explores how urban planning is linked to flooding in Port Harcourt and reports on qualitative research undertaken with five urban planners in Port Harcourt. The findings affirm that poor planning and/or lack of compliance with planning regulations are the main factors contributing to the flooding of Port Harcourt. The urban planners gave their expert opinions on how to control the flooding and unanimously agreed that improved planning practices could control the endemic flooding problem in the city. This implies that the government needs to work more closely with urban planners and other stakeholders to effectively control and find a lasting solution to the flooding problem in Port Harcourt city.
Between‐ and within‐person structures of value traits and value states: Four different structures, four different interpretations
Authors: Skimina Ewa , Cieciuch Jan , Revelle William
Published: February 2021

Objective

The circular structure of values has been verified mostly at a between‐person level and on measures of general value preferences. In this manuscript, we argue that it is a simplification that neglected significant aspects of the value structures and distinguish four different types of structures: (a) between‐person structure of value traits, (b) within‐person structure of value traits, (c) between‐person structure of value states, and (d) within‐person structure of value states. We argue that the within‐person structure of value states addresses the circular structure of values most accurately.

Method

To compare all four structures, we collected three partially dependent samples (N1 = 449, N2 = 293, N3 = 218) of adults (age 17–57, M = 24). At three time points, separated by 5–7 weeks, respondents completed a questionnaire measure (Portrait Values Questionnaire‐Revised [PVQ‐RR]) of value preferences (value traits) and reported the importance of values in their everyday actions (value states) for 1 week in an experience sampling study.

Results

The four types of value structures were stable over time. All four were also consistent with Schwartz's value model to some degree, but at the same time, there were some deviations.

Conclusions

It is important to distinguish four types of value structures and be aware of their different interpretations that we outlined in this paper.
On Shared Suffering: Judicial Intimacy in the Rural Northland
Authors: Statz Michele
Published: February 2021

Rural state and tribal court judges in the upper US Midwest offer an embodied alternative to prevailing understandings of “access to justice.” Owing to the high density of social acquaintanceship, coupled with the rise in unrepresented litigants and the impossibility of most proposed state access to justice initiatives, what ultimately makes a rural courtroom accessible to parties without counsel is the judge. I draw on over four years of ethnographic fieldwork and an interdisciplinary theoretical framework to illuminate the lived consequences and global implications of judges' responses, which can be read as grassroots-level creativity, as resistance, or simply as “getting by.”
Interventions supporting medical practitioners in the provision of lactation care: A systematic review and narrative analysis
Authors: Boss Melinda , Saxby Nicole , Pritchard Douglas , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael , Clifford Rhonda
Published: February 2021

Most children globally are not breastfed to recommendations. Medical practitioners are frequently visited in the first 6 months post‐partum, and the interaction at such visits significantly influences subsequent infant feeding decisions. Medical practitioners report that clinical practice in lactation is often disproportionately reliant on personal experience. This systematic review synthesises the literature on lactation health interventions used to support clinical decision making by medical practitioners. MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases were searched for peer‐reviewed empirical studies published after 2000. Two reviewers independently screened and then assessed full‐text articles against inclusion criteria. Quality of reporting and risk of bias were independently assessed using three validated tools. No conclusions can be made regarding the success or failure of implementation strategies used or the outcomes of putting them into effect due to problems with study methodology, intervention reporting and risk of bias. Good‐quality research, which follows proven implementation frameworks, is needed to guide and sustain the incorporation of evidence‐based decision support into medical practitioners' care of breastfeeding mothers and infants.
Variable inbreeding depression may explain associations between the mating system and herbicide resistance in the common morning glory
Authors: Van Etten Megan L. , Soble Anah , Baucom Regina S.
Published: February 2021

Inbreeding depression is a central parameter underlying mating system variation in nature and one that can be altered by environmental stress. Although a variety of systems show that inbreeding depression tends to increase under stressful conditions, we have very little understanding across most organisms how the level of inbreeding depression may change as a result of adaptation to stressors. In this work we examined the potential that inbreeding depression varied among lineages of Ipomoea purpurea artificially evolved to exhibit divergent levels of herbicide resistance. We examined inbreeding depression in a variety of fitness‐related traits in both the growth chamber and in the field, and paired this work with an examination of gene expression changes. We found that, while inbreeding depression was present across many of the traits, lineages artificially selected for increased herbicide resistance often showed no evidence of inbreeding depression in the presence of herbicide, and in fact, showed evidence of outbreeding depression in some traits compared to nonselected control lines and lineages selected for increased herbicide susceptibility. Further, at the transcriptome level, the resistant selection lines had differing patterns of gene expression according to breeding type (inbred vs. outcrossed) compared to the control and susceptible selection lines. Our data together indicate that inbreeding depression may be lessened in populations that are adapting to regimes of strong selection.
Morphometrical characteristics of cryptic invasive and indigenous gene pools of field maple Acer campestre L. in southern Sweden
Authors: Wahlsteen Eric
Published: February 2021

The northernmost population of Acer campestre L. has its distribution in southern Sweden and consists of just 36 individuals. This particular remnant is considered critically endangered (CE) although the species spreads rapidly as potentially invasive gene pools escaped from gardens and urban plantations. The issue to distinguish between indigenous and introduced gene pools is urgent, since individuals or stands worthy of preservation risk being cut down. This article explores the possibility to use geometric morphometrics by landmarks to characterize shapes of leaves and samaras and to distinguish different gene pools. Bayesian clustering based on microsatellite data clearly distinguished between putatively native and introduced gene pools in southern Sweden. A discriminant analysis of Procrustes coordinates of leaf shapes gave 77% correct classification revealing a strongly concave leaf base for the native gene pool and a convex leaf base for the introduced ones. Corresponding analyses of the samara data resulted in 82% correct classification. In general, the discrimination rate for samara shape was higher than for leaf shape, suggesting a stronger influence of differences between individual and populations. However, PCA clearly showed that the variation in the native gene pool represents a subset of the variation seen in the introduced gene pool, both for leaf and samara shape. An easy to apply method to distinguish between native and introduced gene pools are thus not to be expected from shape data.
Herbivores reduce seedling recruitment in alpine plant communities
Authors: Opedal Øystein H. , Nystuen Kristin O. , Hagen Dagmar , Holien Håkon , Sørensen Mia Vedel , Lang Simone I. , Lindmo Sigrid , Strimbeck G. Richard , Graae Bente J.
Published: February 2021

Through changes in climate and other environmental factors, alpine tundra ecosystems are subject to increased cover of erect shrubs, reduced predictability of rodent dynamics and changes in wild and domesticated herbivore densities. To predict the dynamics of these ecosystems, we need to understand how these simultaneous changes affect alpine vegetation. In the long term, vegetation dynamics may depend critically on seedling recruitment. To study drivers of alpine plant seedling recruitment, we set up a field experiment where we manipulated the opportunity for plant–plant interactions through vegetation removal and introduction of willow transplants, the occurrence of herbivory through caging of plots, and then sowed 14 species into the plots. We replicated the experiment in three common alpine vegetation types (heath, meadow andSalixshrubland) and recorded seedling emergence and survival over five years. Strong effects of vegetation removal and substantial differences in recruitment among dominant vegetation types suggested important effects of local vegetation on the recruitment success of vascular‐plant seedlings. Similarly, herbivore exclusion had strong positive effects on recruitment success. This effect arose primarily via reduced seedling mortality in plots from which herbivores had been experimentally excluded and became noticeably stronger over time. In contrast, we detected no consistent effects of experimental willow shrub introduction on seedling recruitment. These results demonstrate that large and small herbivores can affect alpine plant seedling recruitment negatively by trampling and feeding on seedlings. Importantly, the effects became stronger over time, suggesting that effects of herbivory on seedling recruitment accumulates over time and may relate to recruitment phases beyond initial seedling emergence.
Differences in leaf anatomy determines temperature response of leaf hydraulic and mesophyll CO2 conductance in phylogenetically related C4 and C3 grass species
Authors: Sonawane Balasaheb V. , Koteyeva Nuria K. , Johnson Daniel M. , Cousins Asaph B.
Published: February 2021

Leaf hydraulic and mesophyll CO2 conductance are both influenced by leaf anatomical traits, however it is poorly understood how the temperature response of these conductances differs between C4 and C3 species with distinct leaf anatomy.

This study investigated the temperature response of leaf hydraulic conductance (Kleaf), stomatal (gs) and mesophyll (gm) conductance to CO2, and leaf anatomical traits in phylogenetically related Panicum antidotale (C4) and P. bisulcatum (C3) grasses.

The C4 species had lower hydraulic conductance outside xylem (Kox) and Kleaf compared with the C3 species. However, the C4 species had higher gm compared with the C3 species. Traits associated with leaf water movement, Kleaf and Kox, increased with temperature more in the C3 than in the C4 species, whereas traits related to carbon uptake, Anet and gm, increased more with temperature in the C4 than the C3 species.

Our findings demonstrate that, in addition to a CO2 concentrating mechanism, outside‐xylem leaf anatomy in the C4 species P. antidotale favours lower water movement through the leaf and stomata that provides an additional advantage for greater leaf carbon uptake relative to water loss with increasing leaf temperature than in the C3 species P. bisulcatum.
Taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional diversity of root‐associated fungi in bromeliads: effects of host identity, life forms and nutritional modes
Authors: Leroy Céline , Maes Arthur QuyManh , Louisanna Eliane , Schimann Heidy , Séjalon‐Delmas Nathalie
Published: February 2021

Bromeliads represent a major component of neotropical forests and encompass a considerable diversity of life forms and nutritional modes. Bromeliads explore highly stressful habitats and root‐associated fungi may play a crucial role in this, but the driving factors and variations in root‐associated fungi remain largely unknown.

We explored root‐associated fungal communities in 17 bromeliad species and their variations linked to host identity, life forms and nutritional modes by using ITS1 gene‐based high‐throughput sequencing and by characterizing fungal functional guilds.

We found a dual association of mycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal fungi. The different species, life forms and nutritional modes among bromeliad hosts had fungal communities that differ in their taxonomic and functional composition. Specifically, roots of epiphytic bromeliads had more endophytic fungi and dark septate endophytes and fewer mycorrhizal fungi than terrestrial bromeliads and lithophytes.

Our results contribute to a fundamental knowledge base on different fungal groups in previously undescribed Bromeliaceae. The diverse root‐associated fungal communities in bromeliads may enhance plant fitness in both stressful and nutrient‐poor environments and may give more flexibility to the plants to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Illness perceptions and beliefs about medication: impact on health‐related quality of life in adolescent kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Zelikovsky Nataliya , Nelson Elena
Published: February 2021

Adolescents diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who undergo kidney transplantation have to adjust to pervasive effects of chronic illness and life‐long treatment maintenance, alongside normative developmental stressors. The way in which adolescent transplant recipients experience and think about their illness as well as their medication regimen can be a crucial factor impacting psychosocial outcomes. Participants were 26 adolescent kidney transplant recipients (μ = 16.8 years, σ = 1.69 years) who completed self‐report surveys during a clinic visit. Multiple linear regressions were used to investigate whether adolescents’ beliefs about medications and attitudes and perceptions of their illness are associated with their overall quality of life. Adolescents’ negative illness perceptions contributed to lower transplant‐specific health‐related quality of life ratings (ΔR2=.305, p < .01). Additionally, adolescent beliefs about their specific medication regimens (ie, personal medication concerns) (ΔR2=.342, p < .01), and general beliefs about medication use (ie, harm, overuse) (ΔR2=.241, p < .05) also contribute significantly to the variance in their overall quality of life ratings. Adolescent transplant patients in older grades and those in special education endorsed lower quality of life. Cognitive components (eg, beliefs, perceptions) of an adolescent kidney transplant recipient's experience contribute to transplant‐related quality of life outcomes. This highlights a point of intervention where cognitive change interventions may be utilized and efficacious in improving health outcomes.
Abiotic stress‐induced anthocyanins in plants: Their role in tolerance to abiotic stresses
Authors: Naing Aung Htay , Kim Chang Kil
Published: February 2021

Abiotic stresses, such as heat, drought, salinity, low temperature, and heavy metals, inhibit plant growth and reduce crop productivity. Abiotic stresses are becoming increasingly extreme worldwide due to the ongoing deterioration of the global climate and the increase in agrochemical utilization and industrialization. Plants grown in fields are affected by one or more abiotic stresses. The consequent stress response of plants induces reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are then used as signaling molecules to activate stress‐tolerance mechanism. However, under extreme stress conditions, ROS are overproduced and cause oxidative damage to plants. In such conditions, plants produce anthocyanins after ROS signaling via the transcription of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes. These anthocyanins are then utilized in antioxidant activities by scavenging excess ROS for their sustainability. In this review, we discuss the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms underlying abiotic stress‐induced anthocyanins in plants and their role in abiotic stress tolerance. In addition, we highlight the current progress in the development of anthocyanin‐enriched transgenic plants and their ability to increase abiotic stress tolerance. Overall, this review provides valuable information that increases our understanding of the mechanisms by which anthocyanins respond to abiotic stress and protect plants against it. This review also provides practical guidance for plant biologists who are engineering stress‐tolerant crops using anthocyanin biosynthesis or regulatory genes.
Effects of experimental exposure to zearalenone on reproductive system morphometry, plasma oestrogen levels, and oocyte quality of beef heifer
Authors: Silva Lucas de Almeida , de Mello Marco Roberto Bourg , Oliveira Pião Danielle de , Silenciato Lara Nogueira , de Quadros Thays Cristina Oliveira , de Souza Alexandre Henryli , Barbero Rondineli Pavezzi
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of zearalenone (ZEA) on the reproductive system morphometry, oestrogen (E2) levels and oocyte quality of beef heifers. Twenty non‐pregnant purebred Nellore (Bos indicus) heifers [age, ≥18 months; initial body weight, 348 ± 30 kg (mean ± standard deviation)] were used. The animals were randomly divided into experimental group and a control group of 10 animals each. Group experimental was administered 300 ppb ZEA per os for 98 days, and the control group was administered placebo per os for 98 days. The administration of ZEA was carried out daily by adding mycotoxin to the diet. All heifers were evaluated weekly via rectal ultrasound examinations (12 weeks). Diameters of the right and left uterine horns, right and left ovaries, largest antral follicle and corpus luteum were measured. Vulva size was also measured. Blood samples were collected to estimate E2 levels. At the end of 12 weeks, the heifers were slaughtered, and the ovaries were sent to the laboratory for in vitro embryo production. A completely randomized design was adopted, and repeated measures analysis of variance (p < .05) was performed (except for oocyte quality). Vulva size (p = .0985); diameters of uterine horns (p = .0522), ovaries (p = .6955), antral follicles (p = .6355) and corpus luteum (p = .3808); and E2 levels (p = .3379) were not affected by the treatments. ZEA‐contaminated diet significantly reduced (p = .05) the proportion of viable oocytes (49.4%, n = 207) compared with the control diet (59.9%, n = 222); however, the blastocyst rate did not differ between the groups (p = .9418). The results indicate that contamination of beef heifer's diet with 300 ppb ZEA affected neither morphometric parameters nor plasma oestrogen levels; however, ZEA contamination was detrimental to oocyte quality.
Out of the Heart of Darkness, Yet Relegated to the Shadows: Reflections on Janet Abu‐Lughod’s Scholarly Contributions1
Authors: Davis Diane E.
Published: February 2021

This essay is part of a special section entitled “Legacies of Sociology’s Past.” It addresses the contributions of Janet Abu‐Lughod.
Accelerating Large-Format Metal Additive Manufacturing: How Controls R&D Is Driving Speed, Scale, and Efficiency
Authors: Gibson Brian T. , Mhatre Paritosh , Borish Michael C. , West Justin L. , Betters Emma D. , Smith Scott S. , Richardson Bradley S. , Love Lonnie J. , Sundermann Tayler W. , Potter John T. , Vetland Emma J. , Henry William C. , Allison Christopher P.
Published: February 2021

This article highlights work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Manufacturing Demonstration Facility to develop closed-loop, feedback control for laser-wire based Directed Energy Deposition, a form of metal Big Area Additive Manufacturing (m-BAAM), a process being developed in partnership with GKN Aerospace specifically for the production of Ti-6Al-4V pre-forms for aerospace components. A large-scale structural demonstrator component is presented as a case-study in which not just control, but the entire 3D printing workflow for m-BAAM is discussed in detail, including design principles for large-format metal AM, toolpath generation, parameter development, process control, and system operation, as well as post-print net-shape geometric analysis and finish machining. In terms of control, a multi-sensor approach has been utilized to measure both layer height and melt pool size, and multiple modes of closed-loop control have been developed to manipulate process parameters (laser power, print speed, deposition rate) to control these variables. Layer height control and melt pool size control have yielded excellent local (intralayer) and global (component-level) geometry control, and the impact of melt pool size control in particular on thermal gradients and material properties is the subject of continuing research. Further, these modes of control have allowed the process to advance to higher deposition rates (exceeding 7.5 lb/hr), larger parts (1-meter scale), shorter build times, and higher overall efficiency. The control modes are examined individually, highlighting their development, demonstration, and lessons learned, and it is shown how they operate concurrently to enable the printing of a large-scale, near net shape Ti-6Al-4V component.
Mechanical approach to surface tension and capillary phenomena
Authors: Durand Marc
Published: February 2021

Many textbooks dealing with surface tension favor the thermodynamic approach (minimization of some thermodynamic potential such as free energy) over the mechanical approach (balance of forces) to describe capillary phenomena, stating that the latter is flawed and misleading. Yet, a mechanical approach is more intuitive for students than free energy minimization, and does not require any knowledge of thermodynamics. In this paper, we show that capillary phenomena can be correctly described using the mechanical approach, as long as the system on which the forces act is properly defined. After reviewing the microscopic origin of a tangential tensile force at the interface, we derive the Young–Dupré equation, emphasizing that this relation should be interpreted as an interface condition at the contact line, rather than a force balance equation. This correct interpretation avoids misidentification of capillary forces acting on a given system. Moreover, we show that a reliable method to correctly identify the acting forces is to define a control volume that does not embed any contact line on its surface. Finally, as an illustration of this method, we apply the mechanical approach in a variety of ways on a classic example: the derivation of the equilibrium height of capillary rise (Jurin's law).
How much electric surcharge fits on … a “white dwarf” star?
Authors: Hund Parker , Kiessling Michael K.-H.
Published: February 2021

The question of how much surplus of electric charge (“surcharge”) fits on an object is generally very difficult to answer. Here, it is shown that it is easy to answer when the object is a failed white dwarf star (a brown dwarf in its ground state) made of protons and electrons: Given the number of protons, how many electrons can there be? Surprisingly, the answer (in the form: as few as A and as many as B) is independent of the speed of light c and the Planck quantum h, even when the star is stabilized against collapse by relativistic quantum mechanics.
Eddy currents in multilayer coils
Authors: Gorbatyy Igor N. , Zhura Iana P.
Published: February 2021

This article considers an example of eddy current behaviour that has not been described previously in textbooks and physics education journals. This phenomenon involves a sharp rise in the active resistance of a multilayer coil with increasing alternating current frequency. This effect is not explained by the classic skin effect and is not related to losses in a core. The results of measurements of the frequency dependence of the active resistance of multilayer coils obtained by the resonance method and the results of calculating this dependence in the framework of the tape model of a multilayer solenoid are presented. The special case of relatively low frequencies is analysed when the classic skin effect is weak in a solitary wire. However, the active resistance of a multilayer coil is significantly higher than its DC resistance. A schematic model of the observed effect is proposed. The analysed example of eddy currents is easy to realize in an experiment and open to clear physical interpretation. It might be appropriate for students of various specialities to discuss this effect in intermediate or advanced physics laboratories.
Quantum composer: A programmable quantum visualization and simulation tool for education and research
Authors: Zaman Ahmed Shaeema , Jensen Jesper Hasseriis Mohr , Weidner Carrie Ann , Sørensen Jens Jakob , Mudrich Marcel , Sherson Jacob Friis
Published: February 2021

Interactive simulations and visualizations augment the teaching and learning of quantum mechanics by making equations and concepts come to life. However, graphical visualizations are nearly always limited to a set of hard-coded functionalities. Text-based codes can offer a higher degree of flexibility, but only at the expense of steep learning curves or time investments. We introduce Quantum Composer, which allows the user to build, expand, or explore quantum mechanical simulations by interacting with graphically connectable nodes, each corresponding to a physical concept, mathematical operation, or visualization. Quantum Composer eliminates numerical and programming details while retaining accessibility, emphasis on understanding, and rapid feedback mechanisms. We illustrate its open-ended applicability through a series of examples in introductory and advanced quantum mechanics courses, student projects, and research environments.
Power Profiling in U23 Professional Cyclists During a Competitive Season
Authors: Leo Peter , Spragg James , Mujika Iñigo , Menz Verena , Lawley Justin S.
Published: February 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the power profile of U23 professional cyclists during a competitive season based on maximal mean power output (MMP) and derived critical power (CP) and work capacity above CP (W′) obtained during training and racing. Methods: A total of 13 highly trained U23 professional cyclists (age = 21.1 [1.2] y, maximum oxygen consumption = 73.8 [1.9] mL·kg–1·min–1) participated in this study. The cycling season was split into pre-season and in-season. In-season was divided into early-, mid-, and late-season periods. During pre-season, a CP test was completed to derive CPtest and W′test. In addition, 2-, 5-, and 12-minute MMP during in-season were used to derive CPfield and W′field. Results: There were no significant differences in absolute 2-, 5-, and 12-minute MMP, CPfield, and W′field between in-season periods. Due to changes in body mass, relative 12-minute MMP was higher in late-season compared with early-season (P = .025), whereas relative CPfield was higher in mid- and late-season (P = .031 and P = .038, respectively) compared with early-season. There was a strong correlation (r = .77–.83) between CPtest and CPfield in early- and mid-season but not late-season. Bland–Altman plots and standard error of estimates showed good agreement between CPtest and in-season CPfield but not between W′test and W′field. Conclusion: These findings reveal that the power profile remains unchanged throughout the in-season, except for relative 12-minute MMP and CPfield in late-season. One pre-season and one in-season CP test are recommended to evaluate in-season CPfield and W′field.
Performance, Metabolic, and Neuromuscular Consequences of Repeated Wingates in Hypoxia and Normoxia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Takei Naoya , Soo Jacky , Hatta Hideo , Girard Olivier
Published: February 2021

Background: Compared with normoxia, repeated short (5–10 s) sprints (>10 efforts) with incomplete recovery (≤30 s) in hypoxia likely cause substantial performance reduction accompanied by larger metabolic disturbances and magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue. However, the effects of hypoxia on performance of repeated long (30 s) “all-out” efforts with near complete recovery (4.5 min) and resulting metabolic and neuromuscular adjustments remain unclear. Purpose: The intention was to compare acute performance, metabolic, and neuromuscular responses across repeated Wingates between hypoxia and normoxia. Methods: On separate visits, 6 male participants performed 4 × 30-second Wingate efforts with 4.5-minute recovery in either hypoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen: 0.145) or normoxia. Responses to exercise (muscle and arterial oxygenation trends, heart rate, and blood lactate concentration) and the integrity of neuromuscular function in the knee extensors were assessed for each exercise bout. Results: Mean (P = .80) and peak (P = .92) power outputs, muscle oxygenation (P = .88), blood lactate concentration (P = .72), and perceptual responses (all Ps > .05) were not different between conditions. Arterial oxygen saturation was significantly lower, and heart rate higher, in hypoxia versus normoxia (P < .001). Maximal voluntary contraction force and peripheral fatigue indices (peak twitch force and doublets at low and high frequencies) decreased across efforts (all Ps < .001) irrespective of conditions (all Ps > .05). Conclusion: Despite heightened arterial hypoxemia and cardiovascular solicitation, hypoxic exposure during 4 repeated 30-second Wingate efforts had no effect on performance and accompanying metabolic and neuromuscular adjustments.
Model-guided design of mammalian genetic programs
Authors: Muldoon J. J. , Kandula V. , Hong M. , Donahue P. S. , Boucher J. D. , Bagheri N. , Leonard J. N.
Published: February 2021

A suite of genetic components and computational models enables the predictive design of mammalian cellular functions.
France turns to citizens' panel to reduce vaccine skepticism
Authors: Casassus Barbara
Published: February 2021

Panel advice on COVID-19 vaccines could counteract legacy of mistrust from past health scandals.
The genetic underground of antibiotic resistance
Authors: Zampieri Mattia
Published: February 2021

The silent role and clinical relevance of metabolic mutations in antibiotic resistance begin to be unravelled
The Genome Copy Number of the Thermophilic Cyanobacterium Thermosynechococcus elongatus E542 Is Controlled by Growth Phase and Nutrient Availability
Authors: Riaz Sadaf , Xiao Meng , Chen Pengyu , Li Meijin , Cui Yixuan , Daroch Maurycy
Published: February 2021

The present study revealed that the genome copy number (ploidy) status in the thermophilic cyanobacterium
Thermosynechococcus
E542 is regulated by growth phase and various environmental parameters to give us a window into understanding the role of polyploidy. An increased ploidy level is found to be associated with higher metabolic activity and increased vigor by acting as backup genetic information to compensate for damage to the other chromosomal copies.
Kaposiform haemangioendothelioma of duodenum in a neonate
Authors: Khatri Arti , Mahajan Nidhi , Khan Niyaz Ahmed , Dalal Ashok
Published: February 2021

Kaposiform haemangioendothelioma, an endothelial borderline tumour, is typically seen in childhood involving extremities. It has been closely associated with a consumptive coagulopathy state, Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon (KMP). Extracutaneous involvement is uncommon. Intestinal involvement is quite uncommon and can masquerade as an acute abdomen. A 24-day-old neonate presented with bilious vomiting and fever for 5 days. Sections from the resected gangrenous duodenum contained a submucosal tumour composed of infiltrating nodules of slit-like or crescentic CD34-positive spindled-to-flattened endothelial-lined vascular spaces along with zones of fibrosis. No nuclear pleomorphism or necrosis identified. The findings were classic example of kaposiform haemangioendothelioma with an absence of any deranged coagulation profile. The index case raises interest given its congenital incidental presentation at an uncommon site, like duodenum, and absence of coexistent KMP.