bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clear‐cutting triggers regeneration of abandoned secondary forests but risks alternative successional trajectories with high deer density
Authors: Suzuki Maki , Karukome Tsutomu , Fujihira Koji , Mitsugi Mitsukazu , Hisamoto Yoko
Published: June 2021

Questions

Does clear‐cutting intended to boost regeneration of abandoned secondary forests lead to an irreversible shift to non‐forest vegetation under high deer density?

Location

Warm‐temperate forests in Boso Peninsula, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.

Methods

We designed a factorial experiment including two levels of forest canopy treatment (clear‐cutting or intact canopy) and two levels of herbivory control (presence or absence of deer) using 24 plots of 10 m × 10 m. Vegetation dynamics occurring under each experimental treatment were tracked for 7.5 years.

Results

Ground vegetation under the closed canopy did not change significantly for 7.5 years both inside and outside the deer fences. However, plots were rapidly covered by early‐seral plants till 1.5 years after the cutting event. The quick growth of ground vegetation after clear‐cutting was supported by plants that are known to have soil seed banks, as suggested by their ubiquity immediately after clear‐cutting. Species richness of ground vegetation was maximized at that time and gradually decreased afterward, suggesting biological filtering. This filtering process worked differently inside and outside the deer fences, resulting in different types of vegetation. The clear‐cut‐and‐fence plots became dominated by tree recruits that will recover secondary forests in the future. Contrastingly, vegetation outside the fences lacked many species (e.g., common tree species) that were found inside the fences and became dominated by shrubs and plants unpalatable to deer. This post‐cutting vegetation outside the fences was not similar to that inside the deer fences at any seral stage. This means that the vegetation outside the fences could be tracking an alternative successional trajectory rather than a case of arrested succession.

Conclusions

Here, abandoned secondary forests still seem to maintain a high regeneration potential that would be triggered by clear‐cutting, but reducing herbivory pressure by deer is necessary to avoid the risk of alternative successional trajectories.
Connections and disconnections between home and kindergarten: A case study of a 4‐year old child's digital practices and experiences in early childhood
Authors: Farrugia Rosienne C. , Busuttil Leonard
Published: June 2021

Various studies outline the ‘digital disconnect’ that exists between the digital experiences that children have with technologies at home and at school. It is however important to document the increasingly multimodal technological world that young children are inhabiting. Framed by socio‐cultural and ecological theoretical perspectives, this case study of a 4‐year old girl investigates how the contexts surrounding the child impact the use of digital technologies and the differences, if any, between the two contexts. Participatory methods are used to gather data from the child participant in relation to her experiences, preferences and interactions with technology, which was triangulated with the views of one parent and her current educator. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Four themes emerged as follows: technological uses and competences, child agency and participation, individual and collective funds of knowledge and bridging of children's lifeworlds. Findings indicated that the differences or digital disconnect between the home and the school are not necessarily perceived as negative or limiting, yet there is also room for fluidity and openness to explore these technological spaces as possibilities or bridges for children's participation, engagement and agency in the two lifeworlds.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about the topic

The notion of digital disconnect between the home and the school characterises children's encounters with technology.

Learning is culturally, historically and socially situated, and a result of participation and immersion in the cultural milieu through the mediation of social and cultural tools.

What this paper adds

Empirical evidence of young children's experiences of their multimodal lifeworlds through case study research.

Understanding of a young child's perceptions on the use of digital technologies in the home and the school from her own lens using participatory methods with children.

Realisation that at age 4, a child may already have developed clear distinctions between formal and informal spaces.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Implications regarding the ways early childhood settings may respond in light of findings related to how young children may regard the existence of a digital disconnect from a positive or neutral lens.

Considerations around the need to give young children a voice before effecting changes to their learning spaces through participatory, child‐friendly methods, in concordance with a rights‐based approach.

Suggestions on the role of the adults (parents and educators) in ensuring that young children are provided with opportunities to experience and use digital technologies for multiple purposes through modelling, scaffolding and creativity.
Interventions to increase personal protective behaviours to limit the spread of respiratory viruses: A rapid evidence review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Perski Olga , Szinay Dorothy , Corker Elizabeth , Shahab Lion , West Robert , Michie Susan
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Increasing personal protective behaviours is critical for stopping the spread of respiratory viruses, including SARS‐CoV‐2: We need evidence to inform how to achieve this. We aimed to synthesize evidence on interventions to increase six personal protective behaviours (e.g., hand hygiene, face mask use, maintaining physical distancing) to limit the spread of respiratory viruses.

Methods

We used best practice for rapid evidence reviews. We searched Ovid MEDLINE and Scopus. Studies conducted in adults or children with active or passive comparators were included. We extracted data on study design, intervention content, mode of delivery, population, setting, mechanism(s) of action, acceptability, practicability, effectiveness, affordability, spill‐over effects, and equity impact. Study quality was assessed with Cochrane’s risk‐of‐bias tool. A narrative synthesis and random‐effects meta‐analyses were conducted.

Results

We identified 39 studies conducted across 15 countries. Interventions targeted hand hygiene (n = 30) and/or face mask use (n = 12) and used two‐ or three‐arm study designs with passive comparators. Interventions were typically delivered face‐to‐face and included a median of three behaviour change techniques. The quality of included studies was low. Interventions to increase hand hygiene (k = 6) had a medium, positive effect (d = .62, 95% CI = 0.43–0.80, p < .001, I2 = 81.2%). Interventions targeting face mask use (k = 4) had mixed results, with an imprecise pooled estimate (OR = 4.14, 95% CI = 1.24–13.79, p < .001, I2 = 89.67%). Between‐study heterogeneity was high.

Conclusions

We found low‐quality evidence for positive effects of interventions targeting hand hygiene, with unclear results for interventions targeting face mask use. There was a lack of evidence for most behaviours of interest within this review.
Outcomes of robot‐assisted urinary sphincter implantation for male neurogenic urinary incontinence
Authors: Chartier‐Kastler Emmanuel , Guillot‐Tantay Cyrille , Ruggiero Marina , Cancrini Fabiana , Vaessen Christophe , Phé Véronique
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To report the functional outcomes of robot‐assisted laparoscopic artificial urinary sphincter implantation (R‐AUS) in men with neurogenic stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Patients and Methods

A monocentric retrospective study included all consecutive adult male neuro‐urological patients who underwent R‐AUS for SUI between January 2011 and August 2018. The AUS was implanted via a transperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic approach. Intraoperative and early postoperative complications were reported (Clavien–Dindo classification). Continence was defined as no pad usage. Revision and explantation rates were also evaluated.

Results

Overall, 19 men with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of 45 (37–54) years were included. No conversion to laparotomy was needed. Three minor (Clavien–Dindo Grade I–II) early postoperative complications occurring in three (15.8%) patients were reported. The median (IQR) follow‐up was 58 (36–70) months. At the end of the follow‐up, the continence rate was 89.5%. The AUS revision and explantation rates were 5.3% and 0%, respectively.

Conclusion

A R‐AUS is a safe and efficient procedure for AUS implantation in adult male neuro‐urological patients, referring to the challenging open technique.
Nitrogen and phosphorus enrichment cause declines in invertebrate populations: a global meta‐analysis
Authors: Nessel Mark P. , Konnovitch Theresa , Romero Gustavo Q. , González Angélica L.
Published: June 2021

Human‐driven changes in nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) inputs are modifying biogeochemical cycles and the trophic state of many habitats worldwide. These alterations are predicted to continue to increase, with the potential for a wide range of impacts on invertebrates, key players in ecosystem‐level processes. Here, we present a meta‐analysis of 1679 cases from 207 studies reporting the effects of N, P, and combined N + P enrichment on the abundance, biomass, and richness of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates. Nitrogen and phosphorus additions decreased invertebrate abundance in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, with stronger impacts under combined N + P additions. Likewise, N and N + P additions had stronger negative impacts on the abundance of tropical than temperate invertebrates. Overall, the effects of nutrient enrichment did not differ significantly among major invertebrate taxonomic groups, suggesting that changes in biogeochemical cycles are a pervasive threat to invertebrate populations across ecosystems. The effects of N and P additions differed significantly among invertebrate trophic groups but N + P addition had a consistent negative effect on invertebrates. Nutrient additions had weaker or inconclusive impacts on invertebrate biomass and richness, possibly due to the low number of case studies for these community responses. Our findings suggest that N and P enrichment affect invertebrate community structure mainly by decreasing invertebrate abundance, and these effects are dependent on the habitat and trophic identity of the invertebrates. These results highlight the important effects of human‐driven nutrient enrichment on ecological systems and suggest a potential driver for the global invertebrate decline documented in recent years.
Alpha‐amylase as molecular target for treatment of diabetes mellitus: A comprehensive review
Authors: Kaur Navjot , Kumar Vanktesh , Nayak Surendra Kumar , Wadhwa Pankaj , Kaur Paranjit , Sahu Sanjeev Kumar
Published: June 2021

The alpha (α)‐amylase is a calcium metalloenzyme that aids digestion by breaking down polysaccharide molecules into smaller ones such as glucose and maltose. In addition, the enzyme causes postprandial hyperglycaemia and blood glucose levels to rise. α‐Amylase is a well‐known therapeutic target for the treatment and maintenance of postprandial blood glucose elevations. Various enzymatic inhibitors, such as acarbose, miglitol and voglibose, have been found to be effective in targeting this enzyme, prompting researchers to express an interest in developing potent alpha‐amylase inhibitor molecules. The review mainly focused on designing different derivatives of drug molecules such as benzofuran hydrazone, indole hydrazone, spiroindolone, benzotriazoles, 1,3‐diaryl‐3‐(arylamino) propan‐1‐one, oxadiazole and flavonoids along with their target–receptor interactions, IC50 values and other biological activities.
Recommendations from parents, administrative staff and clinicians to improve paediatric ambulatory appointment scheduling
Authors: Kallos Alecia , Perez Arnaldo , O'Neill Marcus G. , Holt Nicholas L. , Bruce Aisha , Childs Michelle , Kane Poitras Sarah , Kherani Tamizan , Ladha Tehseen , Majaesic Carina , Ball Geoff D. C.
Published: June 2021

Background

Stakeholders can provide valuable input to improve scheduling paediatric ambulatory clinic appointments, a complex process that requires effective planning and communication between parents, administrative staff and clinicians. The purpose of our study was to characterize recommendations from parents, administrative staff and clinicians to improve paediatric ambulatory appointment scheduling.

Methods

Conducted between February 2018 and January 2019, this qualitative study was guided by qualitative description. Data collection was completed using focus groups with three stakeholder groups: parents, administrative staff and clinicians. Participants provided recommendations to optimize paediatric ambulatory appointment scheduling at the Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Focus group data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using manifest inductive content analysis.

Results

Forty‐six participants (mean age: 42.7; 87% female) participated in 12 focus groups. Parents (n = 11), administrative staff (n = 22) and clinicians (n = 13) made recommendations that were organized into two categories: appointment triaging and arranging. Triaging recommendations were related to appointment availability (e.g. providing alternatives to cancelling clinics with short notice) and waitlist management (e.g. developing clear and consistent policies regarding information flow and communication between clinics and administrative staff). Appointment arranging recommendations referred to booking (e.g. directly involving parents in the booking process), reminders (e.g. using text message reminders) and attendance (e.g. providing parents with a single point of contact who can provide the correct information about late and cancellation policies). Recommendations were similar across stakeholder groups.

Conclusion

Our findings showed congruent recommendations across stakeholder groups to address challenges with scheduling ambulatory appointments, many of which have the potential to be modified. Experimental research and quality improvement initiatives are needed to determine the feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness of stakeholder recommendations to improve triaging and scheduling paediatric ambulatory appointments.
De novo bone formation around implants with a surface based on a monolayer of multi‐phosphonate molecules. An experimental in vivo investigation
Authors: Sanz‐Esporrin Javier , Di Raimondo Riccardo , Vignoletti Fabio , Núñez Javier , Muñoz Fernando , Sanz Mariano
Published: June 2021

Objectives

The purpose of this experimental in vivo investigation was to evaluate the influence of modifying the implant surface by adding a monolayer of multi‐phosphonate molecules on the de novo bone formation and osseointegration.

Material and Methods

The study was designed as an animal preclinical trial with intra‐animal control and two healing periods, 2 and 8 weeks, to compare implants with an identical macro‐design but with two different surfaces. Eight female Beagle dogs participated in the study. Control implants had a moderately rough surface combining sandblasting and acid etching; test implants had an additional monophosphonate layer covalently bonded to titanium. Histologic and radiographic (micro‐CT) outcome variables were evaluated.

Results

The first bone‐to‐implant contact (fBIC) was located more coronally for the test implants at the first (0.065 mm (95% CI = −0.82, 0.60)) and second healing milestones (0.17 mm (95% CI = −0.9, 0.55)). Most coronal BIC of the test implants displayed a higher percentage of osseointegration, +6.33% and +13.38% after 2 and 8 weeks, respectively; however, the differences were not statistically significant. The micro‐CT examination did not show any BIC difference.

Conclusions

The monophosphonate layer coating demonstrated clinical, histological, and radiographic results similar to the control surface.
Increased incidence of unilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss in patients with hematological malignancies requiring hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Bae Seong Hoon , Lee Yujin , Jung Jinsei
Published: June 2021

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may dramatically alter the immunity of a recipient. Transient immunodeficiency that occurs before and after HSCT could be associated with the development of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), which is presumed to be often due to viral aetiology. We found an incidence of SSNHL of 29.4 per 10,000 person‐years in patients receiving HSCT, 12‐fold higher than reported for background population incidence. Development of SSNHL tended to cluster early after diagnosis of haematological malignancies, rather than around date of treatment with HSCT. Increased risk of unilateral SSNHL in patients with haematological malignancy may relate to underlying disease rather than treatment
Histopathologic and immunophenotypic features of cutaneous solid organ transplant‐associated graft‐vs‐host disease: Comparison with acute hematopoietic cell transplant‐associated graft‐vs‐host disease and cutaneous drug eruption
Authors: Russell Aaron J. , Musiek Amy C. , Staser Karl W. , Rosman Ilana S.
Published: June 2021

Background

Although it is relatively common after hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT), graft‐vs‐host disease (GVHD) is a rare complication following solid organ transplantation (SOT).

Methods

This study evaluated skin biopsy specimens from five cases of SOT GVHD, 15 cases of HCT GVHD, and 15 cases of cutaneous drug eruption. Immunohistochemical staining for CD3, CD4, CD8, T‐bet, and GATA‐3 was performed to examine the density and immune phenotype of skin‐infiltrating lymphocytes.

Results

Similar to HCT GVHD, the predominant histopathologic findings in skin biopsy specimens of SOT GVHD were widespread vacuolar interface dermatitis with scattered necrotic keratinocytes. However, the density of dermal inflammation was considerably higher in SOT GVHD. Features that were more predictive of a cutaneous drug eruption over GVHD included spongiosis, confluent parakeratosis, and many eosinophils. Involvement of the hair follicle epithelium was seen in all three disorders. Both forms of cutaneous GVHD showed a predominance of Th1 (CD3+/T‐bet+) lymphocytes within the inflammatory infiltrates. This shift was more pronounced in SOT GVHD, particularly among intraepidermal T‐cells.

Conclusions

SOT GVHD shares many histopathologic features with HCT GVHD. However, SOT GVHD has a greater tendency to develop brisk lichenoid inflammation.
A general theory of avian migratory connectivity
Authors: Somveille Marius , Bay Rachael A. , Smith Thomas B. , Marra Peter P. , Ruegg Kristen C.
Published: June 2021

Birds exhibit a remarkable array of seasonal migrations. Despite much research describing migratory behaviour, the underlying forces driving how a species’ breeding and wintering populations redistribute each year, that is, migratory connectivity, remain largely unknown. Here, we test the hypothesis that birds migrate in a way that minimises energy expenditure while considering intraspecific competition for energy acquisition, by developing a modelling framework that simulates an optimal redistribution of individuals between breeding and wintering areas. Using 25 species across the Americas, we find that the model accurately predicts empirical migration patterns, and thus offers a general explanation for migratory connectivity based on first ecological and energetic principles. Our model provides a strong basis for exploring additional processes underlying the ecology and evolution of migration, but also a framework for predicting how migration impacts local adaptation across seasons and how environmental change may affect population dynamics in migratory species.
Regulation of metabolic homeostasis by the TGF‐β superfamily receptor ALK7
Authors: Ibáñez Carlos F.
Published: June 2021

ALK7 (Activin receptor‐like kinase 7) is a member of the TGF‐β receptor superfamily predominantly expressed by cells and tissues involved in endocrine functions, such as neurons of the hypothalamus and pituitary, pancreatic β‐cells and adipocytes. Recent studies have begun to delineate the processes regulated by ALK7 in these tissues and how these become integrated with the homeostatic regulation of mammalian metabolism. The picture emerging indicates that ALK7’s primary function in metabolic regulation is to limit catabolic activities and preserve energy. Aside of the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus, the function of ALK7 elsewhere in the brain, particularly in the cerebellum, where it is abundantly expressed, remains to be elucidated. Although our understanding of the basic molecular events underlying ALK7 signaling has benefited from the vast knowledge available on TGF‐β receptor mechanisms, how these connect to the physiological functions regulated by ALK7 in different cell types is still incompletely understood. Findings of missense and nonsense variants in the Acvr1c gene, encoding ALK7, of some mouse strains and human subjects indicate a tolerance to ALK7 loss of function. Recent discoveries suggest that specific inhibitors of ALK7 may have therapeutic applications in obesity and metabolic syndrome without overt adverse effects.
The role of the Hippo pathway in heart disease
Authors: Xie Jiahong , Wang Yuxin , Ai Ding , Yao Liu , Jiang Hongfeng
Published: June 2021

Heart disease, including coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure, cardiac hypertrophy, and cardiomyopathies, is the leading causes of death worldwide. The Hippo pathway is a central controller for organ size and tissue growth, which plays a pivotal role in determining cardiomyocytes and nonmyocytes proliferation, regeneration, differentiation, and apoptosis. In this review, we summarize the effects of the Hippo pathway on heart disease and propose potential intervention targets. Especially, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of the Hippo pathway involved in maintaining cardiac homeostasis by regulating cardiomyocytes and nonmyocytes function in the heart. Based on this, we conclude that the Hippo pathway is a promising therapeutic target for cardiovascular therapy, which will bring new perspectives for their treatments.
Soil net nitrogen mineralization and leaching under Miscanthus × giganteus and Zea mays
Authors: Studt Jacob E. , McDaniel Marshall D. , Tejera Mauricio D. , VanLoocke Andrew , Howe Adina , Heaton Emily A.
Published: June 2021

The winter fallow period common in annual cropping systems leaves soils vulnerable to erosion and nutrient loss, especially to nitrogen (N) leaching. This vulnerability can be mitigated with perennial crops that have living roots in the ground year‐round. The mechanisms, magnitude, and consistency with which perennial crops retain N are not clear. We used an experiment to test whether a perennial crop, miscanthus (Miscanthus × giganteus Greef et Deu.), would leach less N than continuous maize (Zea mays L.) and how soil net N mineralization (Nmin) may explain observed leaching under varied environment and management conditions. The experiment included three crossed factors: (1) cropping system (maize, juvenile miscanthus = 1–2 years old, mature miscanthus = 3–4 years old); (2) N fertilization (0 and 224 kg N ha−1); and (3) environment (four site‐years at two locations in Iowa, USA, that differed in climate and soil fertility). We measured N cycling dynamics, including: inorganic soil N (ammonium + nitrate), in situ Nmin, N leaching, crop N uptake, and calculated system N use efficiency. There were many complex interactions among factors. On average, cumulative Nmin under juvenile miscanthus was 111% greater than maize, but as miscanthus matured, there was no difference in Nmin between the perennial crop and maize. There was no difference in N leaching between juvenile miscanthus and maize, but mature miscanthus decreased N leaching by 42% and 88% compared to maize (with and without N fertilization, respectively). Across all treatments, there was no relationship between Nmin and N leaching, suggesting other mechanisms are regulating N leaching. Overall, mature miscanthus shows promise as a tool to reduce N losses in areas dominated by annual row‐crops.
Not necessarily a place: How mobile transnational online workers (digital nomads) construct and experience ‘home’
Authors: de Loryn Bianca
Published: June 2021

This article adds to current research on mobile transnational online workers (digital nomads) who travel the world in search of a holistic lifestyle that balances work and leisure. Using Kannisto's (2014) and D'Andrea's (2007) work on ‘global nomads’ as a theoretical lens and Nowicka's (2007) research on mobile professionals as a guide, I discuss the multiple meanings of ‘home’ for digital nomads who stayed in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 2019. I will show that people feel at home when travelling with a loved one or by surrounding themselves with objects of emotional value. Furthermore, digital nomads create a feeling of being at home by connecting with their family via social media and video calling apps, while at the same time keeping them at a comfortable distance. Finally, some digital nomads envision an idealized ‘home base’ that is defined by social relations and not necessarily by the geography or amenities of a place.
Are the gender gaps in informal caregiving intensity and burden closing due to the COVID‐19 pandemic? Evidence from the Netherlands
Authors: Raiber Klara , Verbakel Ellen
Published: June 2021

This research note presents the findings of changes in the gender gap in informal care provision and caregiver burden during the Spring 2020 COVID‐19 lockdown in the Netherlands. Government measures in response to the pandemic strongly restricted informal caregivers in providing help and care to persons with health‐related needs. At the same time, formal care was scaled back and informal caregivers' urge to help their loved ones was likely higher than before the pandemic. Generally, women pick up a larger share of informal care and experience more caregiver burden. We assessed whether the COVID‐19 pandemic affected the gender gaps in informal caregiving by analyzing unique data on Dutch informal caregivers (N = 1672 caregiving situations in 1196 respondents). Results showed that women, compared to men, were more likely to have stopped and reduced caregiving, but also to have cared more during the pandemic. Moreover, based on longitudinally comparing levels during and before the lockdown, we found that the gender gap in caregiver burden narrowed down, especially because burden decreased for women. This means that the caregiver burden was more equally distributed among women and men during the Spring 2020 COVID‐19 lockdown than before.
Mobile advertising: A systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Jebarajakirthy Charles , Maseeh Haroon Iqbal , Morshed Zakir , Shankar Amit , Arli Denni , Pentecost Robin
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this research is to review the extant literature on mobile advertising systematically and to carry out a comprehensive analysis of research in this emerging field. Accordingly, this paper synthesises the literature on mobile advertising in terms of theories, contexts, characteristics and methodology to analyse the development of mobile advertising research over time. The literature review shows that mobile advertising research has transitioned from text message‐based SMS advertisements into internet‐based smartphone advertising. Furthermore, based on the synthesis, we have developed a conceptual framework that shows the antecedents, mediators and consequences of mobile advertising. Additionally, we have identified some overlooked areas and proposed some insightful research directions to advance this field of research. This review contributes to the mobile marketing literature, specifically to the mobile advertising literature.
La flexibilité du marché du travail dans le secteur manufacturier indien: revue critique de la littérature
Authors: BHATTACHARJEA Aditya
Published: June 2021

L'auteur recense les arguments avancés dans la littérature sur les liens entre un droit du travail indien prétendument «restrictif» et divers indicateurs économiques et sociaux. Il montre que les indicateurs de la législation utilisés dans le passé pour faire des comparaisons entre États sont entachés d'erreurs et ont été interprétés, à tort, comme des mesures de la flexibilité du marché du travail. Ces analyses présentent aussi des faiblesses sur le plan économétrique et semblent difficiles à répliquer au moyen d'indicateurs corrigés et actualisés. L'auteur fournit également des données témoignant de la dégradation de la situation des travailleurs du secteur manufacturier indien.
Santé, cognition et capacité de travail après 50 ans: données internationales sur les marges extensive et intensive du travail
Authors: VANDENBERGHE Vincent
Published: June 2021

L'auteur utilise l'Enquête sur la santé, le vieillissement et la retraite en Europe (SHARE) pour analyser le bien‐fondé des réformes récentes visant à relever l'âge de la retraite. Il constate que la santé physique et les capacités cognitives se dégradent avec l'âge, ce qui abaisse les taux d'emploi des 50‐54 ans. L'effet de la cognition est moins fort que celui de la santé. En outre, ces deux éléments influent plus sur l'emploi que sur les heures travaillées. Cependant, ils expliquent au plus 35 pour cent de la réduction du travail observée. La capacité de travail des seniors européens semble donc largement sous‐utilisée.
Por una negociación colectiva más inclusiva: la extensión de los convenios colectivos
Authors: HAYTER Susan , VISSER Jelle
Published: June 2021

A partir de datos sobre cobertura de la negociación colectiva en 80 países, los autores analizan las ventajas de la extensión de los convenios colectivos como herramienta política para preservar unos mínimos en cuanto a condiciones de trabajo y empleo. Como instrumento regulador, la peculiaridad de un convenio de eficacia general es que se fundamenta en el acuerdo entre organizaciones independientes, autónomas y representativas, pero es emitido por las autoridades públicas, lo que le confiere tanto las ventajas de un contrato como las de un estatuto. La extensión puede así amparar a trabajadores vulnerables que, de otro modo, quedarían desprotegidos, sin menoscabar la adaptabilidad de esta modalidad reglamentadora.
Expectativas y realidad acerca del bienestar de las trabajadoras migrantes en las fábricas de ropa de Myanmar
Authors: NGUYEN Hanh
Published: June 2021

A partir de una encuesta a una muestra transversal de 249 trabajadoras migrantes de fábricas de ropa en Myanmar, se examina cómo entienden y experimentan el bienestar material y no material sobre la base del enfoque de las capacidades de Amartya Sen. Se observa que la falta de empoderamiento individual y colectivo puede socavar su bienestar económico, social y psicológico. Teniendo en cuenta la evolución económica y social del país, su mercado laboral asimétrico y su régimen de seguridad social poco desarrollado, la autora sugiere que las políticas laborales deberían apoyar y empoderar a los grupos de trabajadores más vulnerables.
Salud física y cognitiva y capacidad de trabajo después de los 50 años: evidencia internacional sobre los márgenes extensivo e intensivo
Authors: VANDENBERGHE Vincent
Published: June 2021

Con datos de la Encuesta de Salud, Envejecimiento y Jubilación en Europa (SHARE) se analiza la conveniencia de las recientes reformas para retrasar la edad de jubilación. Los resultados indican que la salud física y el desempeño cognitivo se deterioran con la edad, con efectos negativos en la tasa de empleo del grupo de 50‐54 años. El deterioro cognitivo tiene menor impacto que el de la salud, y ambos tienen mayores efectos sobre el empleo que sobre las horas trabajadas, pero dicho deterioro explica como mucho el 35 por ciento de la reducción del trabajo observada. Ello apunta a una considerable capacidad de trabajo infrautilizada entre los trabajadores europeos de más edad.
Effects of Ta2O5 content on mechanical properties and high‐temperature performance of Zr6Ta2O17 thermal barrier coatings
Authors: Liu Qing , Hu Xiaopeng , Zhu Wang , Guo Jinwei , Tan Zhenyu
Published: June 2021

Zr6Ta2O17/YSZ double ceramic top coat thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) with different Ta2O5 content are prepared by atmospheric plasma spraying (APS). The effects of Ta2O5 content on mechanical properties and high‐temperature performance of Zr6Ta2O17 TBCs are investigated. With the decrease in Ta2O5 content, the hardness and fracture toughness of the Zr6Ta2O17 coating increases from 12.833 to 15.117 GPa and from 3.3592 to 3.7753 MPa m1/2, respectively. The Zr6Ta2O17 coating specimens with different Ta2O5 content do not delaminate from the substrate except the edge peeling after 180 h of oxidation or 2000 thermal cycles at 1150°C. The Zr‐12Ta specimen (the molar ratio of ZrO2/Ta2O5 of 0.88:0.12) presents the more excellent mechanical properties and high‐temperature performance. The reduction in Ta2O5 content will improve the mechanical properties, high‐temperature oxidation, and thermal cycle performance of Zr6Ta2O17/YSZ double ceramic top coat TBCs.
Fabrication of ZrO2/rGO nanocomposites by flash sintering under AC electric fields
Authors: Su Xinghua , Fu Mengying , An Gai , Jiao Zhihua , Tian Qiang , Wei Jumeng
Published: June 2021

Ceramic matrix nanocomposites containing graphene possess superior mechanical properties. However, these nanocomposites are very difficult to be prepared using the conventional methods due to severe grain growth and simultaneous degradation of the graphene at high sintering temperatures and long dwell time. Herein, the dense ZrO2/rGO (reduced graphene oxide) nanocomposites are successfully fabricated by flash sintering of the green compacts consisting of ZrO2 nanoparticles and graphene oxide (GO) at 893–951℃ in merely 5 seconds under the alternating current (AC) electric fields of 130–150 V cm−1. The GO can be in situ thermal reduced during the flash sintering. The as‐prepared ZrO2/rGO nanocomposites exhibit excellent mechanical properties. This study presents a green and simple approach to fabricate the dense ceramic matrix nanocomposites reinforced with graphene at low temperatures in a short time.
Risk factors for the delayed viral clearance in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Hu MT Wenjia , Yang Miao , Ling Jiaxin , Zhang Yongxi , Deng Liping , Li Jinlin , Lundkvist Åke , Lindahl Johanna F , Xiong Yong
Published: June 2021

Comorbidities are important for the disease outcome of COVID‐19, however, which underlying diseases that contribute the most to aggravate the conditions of COVID‐19 patients are still unclear. Viral clearance is the most important laboratory test for defining the recovery of COVID‐19 infections. To better understand which underlying diseases that are risk factors for delaying the viral clearance, we retrospectively analyzed 161 COVID‐19 clinical cases in the Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China between January 5 and March 13, 2020. The demographic, clinical and laboratory data, as well as patient treatment records were collected. Univariable and multivariable analysis were performed to explore the association between delayed viral clearance and other factors by using logistic regression. Survival analyses by Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regression modeling were employed to identify factors negatively influencing the viral clearance negatively. We found that hypertension and intravenous immunoglobulin adversely affected the time of viral RNA shedding. Hypertension was the most important risk factor to delay the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus clearance, however, the use of Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors(ACEI)/Angiotensin Receptor Blockers(ARB) did not shorten the time for virus clearance in these hypertensive patients’ virus clearance. We conclude that patients having hypertension and intravenous immunoglobulin may delay the viral clearance in COVID‐19 patients.
Ajuba transactivates N‐cadherin expression in colorectal cancer cells through interaction with Twist
Authors: Wu Zhaoxia , Zou Xiuqun , Xu Ying , Zhou Fengli , Kuai Rong , Li Ji , Yang Daming , Chu Yimin , Peng Haixia
Published: June 2021

Ajuba is a multiple LIM domain‐containing protein and functions as a transcriptional coregulator to modulate many gene expressions in various cellular processes. Here, we describe that the LIM domain of Ajuba interacts with Twist, and the Twist box is a pivotal motif for the interaction. Biologically, Ajuba enhances transcription of target gene N‐cadherin as an obligate coactivator of Twist. The enhancement is achieved by binding to the E‐box element within N‐cadherin promoter as revealed by luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Mechanistic investigation demonstrates that Ajuba recruits CBP and Twist to form a ternary complex at the Twist target promoter region and concomitantly enhances histone acetylation at these sites. These findings identify that Twist is a new interacting protein of Ajuba and Ajuba/Twist/CBP ternary complex may be a potential treatment strategy for Twist‐related tumour metastasis.
CircPLCE1 facilitates the malignant progression of colorectal cancer by repressing the SRSF2‐dependent PLCE1 pre‐RNA splicing
Authors: Chen Zhilei , Chen Hongyu , Yang Lei , Li Xiangnan , Wang Zhenjun
Published: June 2021

Studies have demonstrated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in various types of cancer; however, the mechanisms of circRNAs located in the nucleus have rarely been explored. Here, we report a novel circular RNA circPLCE1 (hsa_circ_0019230) that facilitates the malignant progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) by repressing serine/arginine‐rich splicing factor 2 (SRSF2)‐dependent phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1) pre‐RNA splicing. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of circPLCE1 in CRC tissues and cells. Cell Counting Kit‐8, Transwell and flow cytometric assays were used to assess the role of circPLE1 in CRC cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis, respectively. An animal study was conducted to test the role of circPLCE1 in vivo. Furthermore, catRAPID and RPISeq were used to predict the possible binding proteins of circPLCE1. RNA fractionation and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were used to confirm the RNA‐protein interaction. In this study, we found that circPLCE1 was more significantly down‐regulated in CRC tissues compared with that in adjacent normal tissues. However, circPLCE1 knockdown suppressed CRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion and increased apoptosis. Nude mouse experiments showed that ectopic expression of circPLCE1 dramatically increased tumour growth in vivo. Mechanistically, circPLCE1 directly bound to the SRSF2 protein, repressing SRSF2‐dependent PLCE1 pre‐RNA splicing, resulting in the progression of CRC. Individually mutating the binding sites of circPLCE1 abolished the inhibition of PLCE1 mRNA production. Our study revealed a novel molecular mechanism in the regulation of PLCE1 and suggested a new function of circular RNA.
Behavioral and biological divergence in monozygotic twin pairs discordant for autism phenotypes: A systematic review
Authors: Myers Lynnea , Pan Pei‐Yin , Remnélius Karl Lundin , Neufeld Janina , Marschik Peter B. , Jonsson Ulf , Bölte Sven
Published: June 2021

Background

Non‐shared environment (NSE) effects account for around one‐third of the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the knowledge of mechanisms and phenotypic profiles associated with NSE in ASD is scarce.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using Embase, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO for studies published in English between 1990 and August 2020 using co‐twin control design to compare behavioral and biological phenotypes among monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs concordant/discordant for ASD, clinical autism symptoms, or autistic traits. Risk of bias was assessed through a modified Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Results

Twenty six articles were included. Differential DNA methylation and gene expression were found among ASD discordant twins; however, genetic results were inconsistent. Neurological disorders and early medical events were associated with ASD and autistic traits, while no within pair differences were found for minor physical anomalies or head circumference. Structural and functional brain imaging studies and research on social and other cognitive/behavioral functions were inconclusive. Risk of bias assessment found that all studies used the same exposure (or outcome) measures to collect data for participants and most used either secure health‐related records or structured interviews for ascertainment of exposure; however, only a handful of studies representative of the population from which they were drawn. Formal assessment of risk of publication bias (i.e., funnel plot) was not possible.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that NSE in ASD could be associated with heterogeneous postzygotic genetic mechanisms and manifest as a range of biological and behavioral phenotypes. Extant findings were limited by relatively few studies, small sample sizes, and methodological diversity. More research is needed on co‐occurring biological and behavioral phenotypes using a consistent format for designing, analyzing, and reporting MZ ASD discordant twin studies in order to further examine the role of NSE in the etiology of ASD.
Telephone follow‐up to reduce unplanned hospital returns for older emergency department patients: A randomized trial
Authors: van Loon‐van Gaalen Merel , van der Linden M. Christien , Gussekloo Jacobijn , van der Mast Roos C.
Published: June 2021

Background/Objectives

Telephone follow‐up calls could optimize the transition from the emergency department (ED) to home for older patients. However, the effects on hospital return rates are not clear. We investigated whether telephone follow‐up reduces unplanned hospitalizations and/or unplanned ED return visits within 30 days of ED discharge.

Design

Pragmatic randomized controlled trial with allocation by month; odd months intervention group, even months control group.

Setting

Two ED locations of a non‐academic teaching hospital in The Netherlands.

Participants

Community‐dwelling adults aged ≥70 years, discharged home from the ED were randomized to the intervention group (N = 4732) or control group (N = 5104).

Intervention

Intervention group patients: semi‐scripted telephone call from an ED nurse within 24 h after discharge to identify post‐discharge problems and review discharge instructions. Control group patients: scripted satisfaction survey telephone call.

Measurements

Primary outcome: total number of unplanned hospitalizations and/or ED return visits within 30 days of ED discharge. Secondary outcomes: separate numbers of unplanned hospitalizations and ED return visits. Subgroup analysis by age, sex, living condition, and degree of crowding in the ED at discharge.

Results

Overall, 42% were males, and median age was 78 years. In the intervention group, 1516 of 4732 patients (32%) consented, and in the control group 1659 of 5104 (33%) patients. Unplanned 30‐day hospitalization and/or ED return visit was found in 16% of intervention group patients and 14% of control group patients (odds ratio 1.16; 95% confidence interval: 0.96–1.42). Also, no statistically significant differences were found in secondary outcome measures. Within the subgroups, the intervention did not have beneficial effects for the intervention group.

Conclusion

Telephone follow‐up after ED discharge in older patients did not result in reduction of unplanned hospital admissions and/or ED return visits within 30 days. These results raise the question of whether other outcomes could be improved by post‐discharge ED telephone follow‐up.
Nesfatin‐1 is an inhibitor of the growth hormone‐insulin‐like growth factor axis in goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Authors: Blanco Ayelén M. , Pemberton Joshua G. , Gonzalez Ronald , Hatef Azadeh , Pham Vi , Chang John P. , Unniappan Suraj
Published: June 2021

Nesfatin‐1, an 82 amino acid peptide cleaved from the N‐terminal of its precursor nucleobindin‐2 (NUCB2), is emerging as a multifunctional peptide in fish. The present study aimed to determine whether nesfatin‐1 plays a role in fish somatic growth by modulating the growth hormone (GH)/insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) axis, using a representative teleost model, the goldfish (Carassius auratus). The results demonstrated that a single i.p. injection of synthetic goldfish nesfatin‐1 significantly decreased the expression of hypothalamic pacap (approximately 90%) and pituitary Gh (approximately 90%) mRNAs at 15 minutes post‐injection. Serum GH levels were also reduced as a result of nesfatin‐1 administration, by approximately 45% and 55% at 15 and 30 minutes post‐injection, respectively. Likewise, in vitro treatment of goldfish dispersed pituitary cells with nesfatin‐1 reduced Gh secretion, suggesting that nesfatin‐1 acts directly on pituitary somatotrophs to inhibit Gh release. Exposure of cultured liver fragments to nesfatin‐1 (0.1, 1 and 10 nmol L‐1) led to a significant reduction in igf‐1 mRNA at 120 minutes and of igf‐II mRNA at 30 and 60 minutes post‐incubation. Collectively, these results indicate a suppressive role for nesfatin‐1 on the goldfish GH/IGF axis. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that NUCB2/nesfatin‐1‐like immunoreactivity, although present in the goldfish pituitary, is not colocalised with GH in goldfish somatotrophs. Thus, nesfatin‐1 does not appear to act in an autocrine manner to regulate GH secretion. Taken together, this research found that the pituitary gland is an important source of endogenous NUCB2/nesfatin‐1 and also that nesfatin‐1 directly suppresses the Gh/IGF axis in goldfish.
Fractional carbon dioxide laser versus carbon‐assisted Q‐switched Nd: YAG laser in the treatment of dilated facial pores
Authors: Eldeeb Fatma , Wahid Reham M. , Alakad Rania
Published: June 2021

Background

The treatment of dilated facial pores is difficult, and the ideal modality is not established yet. Different ablative and nonablative lasers have been used in the treatment of dilated pores with variable outcomes.

Aim

To evaluate and compare the efficacy of fractional CO2 laser versus carbon‐assisted Q‐switched Nd: YAG laser in dilated facial pores.

Methods

The study included 80 patients with dilated pores divided into two groups each containing 40 patients. Group (A) had fractional CO2 laser treatment, and group (B) received Q‐switched Nd: YAG laser treatment after the application of a carbon solution on the face. The treatment was repeated monthly for a total of 3 sessions. Objective and subjective assessments of the clinical outcome were performed.

Results

Both modalities significantly improved the dilated pores; however, the clinical response was statistically higher and the improvement was maintained for a longer duration of time in the factional laser group compared with the carbon‐assisted Q‐switched Nd: YAG laser group (p = 0.01). The downtime was significantly lower in the Q‐switched Nd: YAG laser group, and the patients’ satisfaction rates were comparable in both groups.

Conclusion

The two laser systems appear to be effective, safe, and well‐tolerated in the treatment of dilated pores. The fractional CO2 laser was associated with a significantly higher and more prolonged clinical response.