bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LncRNA MALAT1 potentiates inflammation disorder in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Yang Huimin
Published: July 2021

With this investigation, we investigated on the contribution of lncRNA MALAT1 to inflammation disorder in Parkinson's Disease (PD). Serum samples were gathered from sporadic PD patients and healthy controls, and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of MALAT1, including rs11227209, rs3200401, rs4102217, rs591291, rs619586 and rs664589, were identified. Serum level of MALAT1 was quantified using RT‐PCR, and IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α and IFN‐γ levels in serum were measured with ELISA kits. Inflammation cell models were established by treating PC12 cells with LPS, and cytokine production of pcDNA3.1‐MALAT1/si‐MALAT1‐transfected PC12 cells was evaluated. The results showed that PD patients with high serum level of MALAT1 were associated with lower MMSE score and higher serum levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α and IFN‐γ than patients carrying low serum level of MALAT1 (p < .05). Mutant alleles of SNPs in MALAT1, including rs3200401 (C>T) and rs4102217 (G>C), tended to elevate PD susceptibility and facilitate cytokine production, as compared with their wild alleles (p < .05). And LPS‐exposed PC12 cells secreted larger amounts of inflammation cytokines in the pcDNA3.1‐MALAT1 group than in the Mock group (p < .05). In conclusion, MALAT1 participated in modifying inflammation disorder underlying PD aetiology, suggesting that it might be a promising therapeutic target for PD.
White blood cell evaluation in haematological malignancies using a web‐based digital microscopy platform
Authors: Makhija Karan , Lincz Lisa F , Attalla Khaled , Scorgie Fiona E , Enjeti Anoop K , Prasad Ritam
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Digital microscopy systems are beginning to replace traditional light microscopes for morphologic analysis of blood films, but these are geographically restricted to individual computers and technically limited by manufacturer's constraints. We explored the use of a scanner‐agnostic web‐based artificial intelligence (AI) system to assess the accuracy of white blood cell (WBC) differentials and blast identification in haematological malignancies.

Methods

Digitized images of 20 normal and 124 abnormal peripheral blood films were uploaded to the web‐based platform (Techcyte©) and WBC differentials performed using the online AI software. Digital images were viewed for accuracy and manual cell reassignment was performed where necessary. Results were correlated to the ‘gold standard’ of manual microscopy for each WBC class, and sensitivity and specificity of blast identification were calculated.

Results

The AI digital differential was very strongly correlated to microscopy (r > .8) for most normal cell types and did not require any manual reassignment. The AI digital differential was less reliable for abnormal blood films (r = .50‐.87), but could be greatly improved by manual assessment of digital images for most cell types (r > .95) with the exception of immature granulocytes (r = .62). For blast identification, initial AI digital differentials showed 96% sensitivity and 25% specificity, which was improved to 99% and 84%, respectively, after manual digital review.

Conclusions

The Techcyte platform allowed remote viewing and manual analysis of digitized slides that was comparable to microscopy. The AI software produced adequate WBC differentials for normal films and had high sensitivity for blast identification in malignant films.
Evaluation of Sigma metric approach for monitoring the performance of automated analyzers in hematology unit of Alexandria Main University Hospital
Authors: Ahmed El‐Neanaey Wafaa , Mahmoud AbdEllatif Nihal , Abdel Haleem Abo Elwafa Reham
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Sigma metric offers a quantitative framework for evaluating process performance in clinical laboratories. This study aimed to evaluate the analytical performance of automated analyzers in hematology unit of Alexandria Main University Hospital using the sigma metric approach.

Materials and Methods

Quality control data were collected for 6 months, and sigma value was calculated from hematology analyzers SYSMEX (XN 1000, XT 1800i), ADVIA (2120i, 2120), and coagulation analyzers SYSMEX CA 1500 (3610, 6336).

Results

For the normal control level, satisfactory mean sigma value ≥3 was observed for all of the studied parameters by all analyzers. For the high control level, red blood cell count by ADVIA 2120, and hematocrit by ADVIA (2120i and 2120) performed poorly with a mean sigma value <3. For the low control level, red blood cell count by ADVIA (2120i and 2120), hemoglobin by ADVIA 2120, hematocrit by ADVIA (2120i and 2120) and SYSMEX XN 1000, platelet count by the SYSMEX XT 1800i also performed poorly with a mean sigma value <3. Satisfactory mean sigma value of ≥3 was observed for prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time for both normal and pathological control levels and analyzers.

Conclusion

Sigma metrics can be used as a guide to make QC strategy and plan QC frequency and can facilitate the comparison of the same assay performance across multiple systems. Harmonization for TEa source is recommended to standardize sigma value calculation.
Surveillance of urachal abscess in the Kyushu–Okinawa area of Japan
Authors: Tobu Shohei , Udo Kazuma , Nishihara Kiyoaki , Miyajima Shigero , Ando Tadasuke , Onizuka Chie , Itesako Toshihiko , Ashikari Asuka , Hakariya Tomoaki , Igawa Tsukasa , Tanaka Masatoshi , Shin Toshitaka , Kamoto Toshiyuki , Nakagawa Masayuki , Saito Seiichi , Sakai Hideki , Eto Masatoshi , Kamba Tomomi , Fujimoto Naohiro , Noguchi Mitsuru
Published: July 2021

Objective

To report a multicenter experience with the management of urachal abscess treatment in Japan.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 263 cases of urachal abscess managed at 12 university hospitals in the Kyushu–Okinawa region over a 10‐year period. Age, sex, abscess size, clinical symptoms, type of urachal remnants, and treatment were collected and analyzed.

Results

The average age was 29.8 ± 18.1 years, with males accounting for approximately two‐thirds of the study population. The average abscess size was 1.7 cm (range 0–11 cm). The most common presenting symptom was umbilical secretion (66%), followed by abdominal pain (46%). A total of 127 patients (48.3%) were treated with antibiotics alone, whereas 136 patients (51.7%) received surgical treatment. The surgical approach was laparotomy in 75 patients (61.0%) and laparoscopic surgery in 48 patients (39.0%). Regarding the type of urachal remnant, the urachus sinus (180 patients) accounted for 68.4% of the total.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this study represents the first report on urachal abscess treatment in Japan. Our data show that the clinical symptoms might vary depending on the type of urachus remnant. It should be noted that gross hematuria, a characteristic symptom of urachal cancer, is rare in patients with urachal abscess.
Family Separation and Remigration Intentions to the USA among Mexican Deportees
Authors: Vargas Valle Eunice D. , Hamilton Erin R. , Orraca Romano Pedro P.
Published: July 2021

Increasingly stringent immigration enforcement in the US interior has led to the deportation of large numbers of long‐term Mexican immigrants with families in the USA. We analyse the statistical association between the intent to return to the USA and leaving minor children with spouses or other people in the USA among Mexican immigrants deported from the US interior in 2014–2018, and explore if this association varies by sex and year of deportation. We employ the deportees’ section of the Survey on Migration on Mexico's Northern Border. The results indicate that having left children in the USA considerably increases the likelihood of a plan to return to the USA, especially in the short term and when deportees left minor children with a spouse. Remigration plans were higher among women and slightly decreased over time among parents, suggesting a continued failure of policy to account for the family circumstances of immigrants.
Contagion of fear: Is the impact of COVID‐19 on sovereign risk really indiscriminate?
Authors: Cevik Serhan , Öztürkkal Belma
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the impact of infectious diseases on the evolution of sovereign credit default swap (CDS) spreads for a panel of 77 countries. Using annual data over 2004–2020, we find that infectious‐disease outbreaks have no discernible effect on CDS spreads, after controlling for macroeconomic and institutional factors. However, a granular analysis using high‐frequency data indicates that the COVID‐19 pandemic has had a significant impact on CDS spreads. This adverse effect appears to be more pronounced in advanced economies, which may reflect the greater severity of the pandemic and depth of the economic crisis in these countries, at least during the initial stage of the outbreak, as well as underreporting in developing countries due to differences in testing availability and institutional capacity. While more stringent containment measures help lower sovereign CDS spreads, the fiscal burden of these efforts could undermine credit worthiness and eventually push the cost of borrowing higher.
Generating 3D digital material twins for woven ceramic‐matrix composites from μCT images
Authors: Chen Yihui , Chen Yanfei , Wang Dawei , Ai Shigang
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a novel method for generating 3D digital material twins (DMTs) from μCT images for woven ceramic‐matrix composites. The key points to generating DMTs are the efficient and high‐precision identification and segmentation of fiber yarns, matrix, and defects in μCT images. Due to the low gray contrast among fiber yarns, traditional threshold segmentation methods cannot effectively obtain the corresponding woven structures. Therefore, a novel deep convolution neural network (DCNN) model with the U‐Net architecture is developed to overcome these difficulties. Based on this approach, cross sections and centerlines of fiber yarns are identified and used to reconstruct their 3D architectures. Defects are introduced through the spatial mapping between their locations in μCT images and the 3D meshes of the matrix. The DMTs of a C/SiC woven composite with quantitative matrix porosity defects are established, and a simulation of the composite under tension is presented. The DMTs approach provides new insights into damage and failure analyses of ceramic‐matrix composites.
Grain size engineered 0.95MgTiO3–0.05CaTiO3 ceramics with excellent microwave dielectric properties and prominent mechanical performance
Authors: Yu Yan , Wang Yingjin , Guo Weijia , Zhu Chaoqiong , Ji An , Wu Hao , Liang Shujian , Xiong Shan , Wang Xiaohui
Published: July 2021

Microwave communication systems are being developed with the goal to achieve miniaturization and high reliability. There are urgent requirements for microwave dielectric materials to exhibit low sintering temperatures, excellent microwave dielectric properties, and prominent mechanical performance. However, simultaneously achieving these requirements is a significant challenge. These concerns have been addressed in the uniform ultrafine‐grained 0.95MgTiO3–0.05CaTiO3 ceramics with an average grain size of ~0.6 µm via a grain size engineering strategy. Interestingly, the sintering temperature in the unique two‐step sintering method of 1250℃/1 min and 1130℃/10 h is much lower (200–300℃) than that obtained in the conventional sintering method reported previously (1400–1450℃). Excellent dielectric properties are achieved, with relative permittivity εr = 20.11, quality factor Q × f = 68 613 GHz, and temperature coefficient of resonant frequency τf = 1.81 ppm/℃. The bending strength , Vickers hardness Hv, and elastic modulus E reach up to 212.4 MPa, 10.1 GPa, and 200.7 GPa, respectively. These values are significantly enhanced over those of samples obtained via the conventional sintering method with an average grain size of ~2.5 µm. For the first time, uniform ultrafine‐grained microwave dielectric materials with excellent microwave dielectric properties and prominent mechanical performance were synthesized. This work provides a guideline for developing other high‐performance microwave dielectric materials and makes a significant contribution to the miniaturization and high reliability of microwave dielectric devices.
Introduction: Nonparadigmatic Punishments
Authors: Coverdale Helen Brown , Wringe Bill
Published: July 2021

This is an introduction to the Symposium on Nonparadigmatic Forms of Punishment. We explain what we mean by calling certain instances of punishment 'nonparadigmatic' and explain why nonparadigmatic punishments are of philosophical interest. We then introduce the contributions to the Special Issue and conclude by outlining directions that future research on nonparadigmatic punishment might take. We focus on three particular ways in which punishment might be nonparadigmatic: cases involving nonstandard punishing agents, those involving nonstandard subjects of punishment, and those involving nonstandard means of punishment.
Low fasting glucose‐to‐estimated average glucose ratio was associated with superior response to insulin degludec/aspart compared with basal insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Jang Han Na , Yang Ye Seul , Oh Tae Jung , Koo Bo Kyung , Lee Seong Ok , Park Kyong Soo , Jang Hak Chul , Jung Hye Seung
Published: July 2021

Aims/Introduction

The benefits of once‐daily insulin degludec/aspart (IDegAsp) compared with basal insulin in type 2 diabetes patients have not been established.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective observational study. From a basal insulin cohort from three referral hospitals, patients were enrolled who initiated once‐daily IDegAsp. A control group maintaining basal insulin was selected by propensity score matching. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) changes over a period of 6 months and associated clinical factors were evaluated.

Results

The IDegAsp group and the control group comprised of 87 patients, respectively. Baseline HbA1c was comparable between the two groups (8.7 ± 0.9 vs 8.6 ± 0.9%, mean and standard deviation). After 6 months with matched insulin doses, HbA1c in the IDegAsp group was lower than that in the control group (8.1 ± 1.0 vs 8.4 ± 1.1%, P = 0.029). Among baseline variables, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and fasting C‐peptide in the IDegAsp were lower than that in the control (FPG 124.2 ± 38.4 vs 148.0 ± 50.6 mg/dL, P < 0.001). Considering that the lower FPG despite the comparable HbA1c could be related with the efficacy of IDegAsp, subgroup analysis was carried out according to a ratio of FPG‐to‐estimated average glucose, which is calculated from HbA1c. When compared with each control group, the superiority of IDegAsp in the reduction of HbA1c was significant only in the patients with a lower FPG‐to‐estimated average glucose ratio (0.49 ± 0.09), but not in those with a higher FPG‐to‐estimated average glucose ratio (0.79 ± 0.20).

Conclusions

We observed that IDegAsp was more effective than basal insulin in patients with an FPG lower than predicted by HbA1c, which might be related with insulin deficiency and postprandial hyperglycemia in patients on basal insulin therapy.
Comparative safety of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors and sulfonylureas among frail older adults
Authors: Zullo Andrew R. , Smith Robert J. , Gutman Roee , Kohler Bianca , Duprey Matthew S. , Berry Sarah D. , Munshi Medha N. , Dore David D.
Published: July 2021

Background

Studies comparing dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP4Is) to sulfonylureas (SUs) are unavailable for frail older adults, especially nursing home (NH) residents. We examined the effects of DPP4Is versus SUs on severe adverse glycemic events, cardiovascular events, and death among NH residents.

Methods

We conducted a national retrospective cohort study of long‐stay NH residents aged ≥65 years using 2008–2010 national US Minimum Data Set clinical assessment data and linked Medicare claims. Exposure was new DPP4I versus new SU use assessed via Medicare Part D drug claims. One‐year outcomes were severe hypoglycemia, severe hyperglycemia, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure (HF), major adverse cardiovascular events plus HF (MACE+HF), and death. We compared outcomes after propensity score matching using Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

The cohort (N = 2016) had a mean (SD) age of 81 (8.1) years and was 72% female. Compared with SU users, DPP4I users had a lower 1‐year rate of severe hypoglycemic events (HR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.34–0.94), but statistically similar rates of severe hyperglycemic events (HR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.52–1.72), AMI (HR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.44–1.30), HF (HR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.79–1.30), MACE+HF (HR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.72–1.12), and death (HR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.86–1.10).

Conclusions

DPP4Is should be a preferred treatment option over SUs for NH residents and other frail older adults given the importance of avoiding hypoglycemia.
Marine biomass for a circular blue‐green bioeconomy? A life cycle perspective on closing nitrogen and phosphorus land‐marine loops
Authors: Thomas Jean‐Baptiste E. , Sinha Rajib , Strand Åsa , Söderqvist Tore , Stadmark Johanna , Franzén Frida , Ingmansson Ida , Gröndahl Fredrik , Hasselström Linus
Published: July 2021

A blue‐green bioeconomy revolution is underway in Europe, with particular attention being paid to the development of new or underutilized marine biomass resources. The wild harvest and mariculture of low‐trophic non‐fed species of marine biomass may be contributing to circular economies, the mitigation of environmental problems such as eutrophication and climate change through the uptake of nutrients and carbon, while also recovering finite phosphorus from marine coastal environments, thus contributing to food security. The present study provides a cradle‐to‐gate life cycle perspective on seven established or innovative/emerging marine biomass utilization cases in Sweden: mariculture of sugar kelp, blue mussels, and ascidians and the harvest of invasive Pacific oysters along the Skagerrak coast, the mariculture of blue mussels in the Baltic sea, the harvest of common reed in the Stockholm archipelago, and the harvest of beach‐cast seaweed in Gotland. Results showed that the mariculture cases were found to contribute to eutrophication and climate impact mitigation (at gate). All cases were found to contribute to closing the loop on phosphorus by enabling recovery from marine or coastal environments, bridging marine–land flows, all while performing well from an environmental perspective with a relatively low cumulative energy demand and low carbon and nutrient footprints. This highlights the potential of low‐trophic biomass to contribute to phosphorus security in the future, and demonstrates the value of industrial ecology tools such as LCA in support of this imminent Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
Cytosine methylation of the FWA promoter promotes direct in vitro shoot regeneration in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Dai Xuehuan , Wang Jing , Song Yuguang , Liu Zhenhua , Xue Tao , Qiao Meng , Yu Yanchong , Xin Wei , Xiang Fengning
Published: July 2021

Epigenetic modifications within promoter sequences can act as regulators of gene expression. Shoot regeneration is influenced by both DNA methylation and histone methylation, but the mechanistic basis of this regulation is obscure. Here, we identified 218 genes related to the regeneration capacity of callus that were differentially transcribed between regenerable calli (RC) and non‐regenerable calli (NRC) in Arabidopsis thaliana. An analysis of the promoters of five of the differentially expressed genes (FWA, ACC1, TFL1, MAX3, and GRP3) pointed to an inverse relationship between cytosine methylation and transcription. The FWA promoter was demethylated and highly expressed in NRC, whereas it was methylated and expressed at low levels in RC. Explants of the hypomethylation mutants fwa‐1 and fwa‐2 showed strong levels of FWA expression and regenerated less readily than the wild type, suggesting that FWA inhibits direct in vitro shoot regeneration. WUSCHEL‐RELATED HOMEOBOX 9 (WOX9), which is required for shoot apical meristem formation, was directly repressed by FWA. Overexpressing WOX9 partly rescued the shoot regeneration defect of fwa‐2 plants. These findings suggest that cytosine methylation of the FWA promoter forms part of the regulatory system governing callus regenerability and direct in vitro shoot regeneration.
Kainate receptor modulation of glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the CA2 region of the hippocampus
Authors: Falcón‐Moya Rafael , Martínez‐Gallego Irene , Rodríguez‐Moreno Antonio
Published: July 2021

Kainate (KA) receptors (KARs) are important modulators of synaptic transmission. We studied here the role of KARs on glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the CA2 region of the hippocampus where the actions of these receptors are unknown. We observed that KA depresses glutamatergic synaptic transmission at Schaffer collateral‐CA2 synapses; an effect that was antagonized by NBQX (a KA/AMPA receptors antagonist) under condition where AMPA receptors were previously blocked. The study of paired‐pulse facilitation ratio, miniature responses, and fluctuation analysis indicated a presynaptic locus of action for KAR. Additionally, we determined the action mechanism for this depression of glutamate release mediated by the activation of KARs. We found that inhibition of protein kinase A suppressed the effect of KAR activation on evoked excitatory post‐synaptic current, an effect that was not suppressed by protein kinase C inhibitors. Furthermore, in the presence of Pertussis toxin, the depression of glutamate release mediated by KAR activation was not present, invoking the participation of a Gi/o protein in this modulation. Finally, the KAR‐mediated depression of glutamate release was not suppressed by treatments that affect calcium entry trough voltage‐dependent calcium channels or calcium release from intracellular stores. We conclude that KARs present at these synapses mediate a depression of glutamate release through a mechanism that involves the activation of G protein and protein kinase A.

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The finance‐growth nexus enigma: Bringing in institutional context and the productiveness debate
Authors: Itaman Richard E.
Published: July 2021

This paper surveys the literature on the relationship between finance and growth, from the initial simple correlation through debates on causality and channels of impact to the more recent threshold analysis. The gaps in the revisionism regarding the relationship between finance and growth are critically teased out, not least neglect of the effects of speculative finance in developing countries where a positive nexus continues to hold sway in the threshold analysis. The paper argues that the literature has focused on pursuit of a positive nexus, with inadequate attention to institutional context, which is prerequisite for enhancing a positive relationship. It has also narrowed drastically the complexity of cause and effect and ignored broader analytical approaches to the relationship between finance and growth. The classical political economy debate on finance productiveness is drawn upon, in which positive contribution is based on real output, as a critical point of departure for why greater emphasis ought to be placed on institutional context to enhance the contribution of finance to growth.
Double Trouble: Containing Public Disapproval Arising from an Interplay of Stigmatized Categories
Authors: Tsui‐Auch Lai Si , Huang Dongdong , Yang Jun Jie , Koh Si Zheng
Published: July 2021

This study addresses the question of how interplays of stigmatized categories might trigger public disapproval and stigma response strategies. We develop two categories: possession of network ties with home‐country governments and market entry into salient industries in target nations. Based on a comparative study of four Chinese firms’ acquisitions in the United States and Australia, we show that (1) firms face different levels of disapproval amid differing interplays of the stigmatized categories and that (2) each firm adopts a distinctive response strategy. Our study contributes to the organizational stigma literature by theorizing about the relationships of categories’ interplays, disapproval levels, and stigma responses. It also adds to the embeddedness perspective by providing an argument for the socio‐political liabilities of strong ties, and it contributes to international business studies on exploring a theme of geopolitics and stigmatization of firms. Finally, it offers research directions relating to these fields of inquiry.
Barriers and facilitators to implementing and sustaining peer support in kidney care
Authors: Wood Eleri , Trasolini Andrew , Thomas Nicola
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Peer support offers informational, appraisal and emotional support for people with kidney disease, is recommended in national policy, yet has low engagement levels. This paper reports results of a national survey and qualitative interviews in the UK with the aim of increasing understanding of peer support availability and its barriers and facilitators.

Literature Review

A recent narrative review highlighted the barriers and facilitators to peer support uptake among people with kidney disease however called on further studies to be conducted.

Material and Methods

The survey, adapted from a 2012 version, was sent to all 83 UK kidney units. Semistructured interviews were conducted with staff, recipients and supporters from two units.

Results

Forty‐four units completed the survey, and 10 staff, 7 patients and 2 peer supporters were interviewed. The most common facilitators were promotion with staff and having peer support champions. Barriers included lack of staff time, guidance/information, other projects taking priority and too few supporters.

Discussion

Little progress has been made since 2012; a proportion of units without peer support remains significant, with similar barriers identified in 2020. Services could be designed to limit the time needed for their creation and maintenance through having simpler referrals and designating staff liaisons.

Implications for Clinical Practice

Peer support programmes should have passionate staff and volunteers, involve recipients in the design, recruit an array of supporters and establish evaluations to determine the progress/outcomes. A resource toolkit was developed in response to this project.

Conclusion

Findings from the national survey and qualitative interviews showed that more peer support optimisation and prioritisation is needed to ensure benefits are maximised.
Selective symmetrical necrotizing encephalopathy secondary to primary mitochondrial disorder in a cat
Authors: Dell'Era Elena , Polidori Margherita , Bernardini Marco , Capomaccio Stefano , Cappelli Katia , Balducci Federica , Mandara Maria T.
Published: July 2021

A 2‐year‐old female cat was referred for progressive neurological signs indicative of involvement of the prosencephalon, cerebellum, and brainstem. Magnetic resonance imaging identified multifocal, bilateral, symmetrical lesions with strong contrast enhancement, affecting multiple areas of the brain. Neuropathology at necropsy showed demyelination, necrotic lesions, spongiosis, and neuropil edema with reactive astrogliosis and neovascularization. Ultrastructural study indicated mitochondrial polymorphism. Genetic investigations outlined 2 polymorphisms within the tRNA‐Leu(UUR) gene of mitochondrial DNA. Imaging and neuropathological findings were consistent with selective symmetrical necrotizing encephalopathy, for which genetic investigations support mitochondrial pathogenesis.
Structural diversity and tree density drives variation in the biodiversity–ecosystem function relationship of woodlands and savannas
Authors: Godlee John L. , Ryan Casey M. , Bauman David , Bowers Samuel J. , Carreiras Joao M. B. , Chisingui Antonio Valter , Cromsigt Joris P. G. M. , Druce Dave J. , Finckh Manfred , Gonçalves Francisco Maiato , Holdo Ricardo M. , Makungwa Steve , McNicol Iain M. , Mitchard Edward T. A. , Muchawona Anderson , Revermann Rasmus , Ribeiro Natasha Sofia , Siampale Abel , Syampungani Stephen , Tchamba José João , Tripathi Hemant G. , Wallenfang Johannes , te Beest Mariska , Williams Mathew , Dexter Kyle G.
Published: July 2021

Positive biodiversity–ecosystem function relationships (BEFRs) have been widely documented, but it is unclear if BEFRs should be expected in disturbance‐driven systems. Disturbance may limit competition and niche differentiation, which are frequently posited to underlie BEFRs. We provide the first exploration of the relationship between tree species diversity and biomass, one measure of ecosystem function, across southern African woodlands and savannas, an ecological system rife with disturbance from fire, herbivores and humans.

We used > 1000 vegetation plots distributed across 10 southern African countries and structural equation modelling to determine the relationship between tree species diversity and above‐ground woody biomass, accounting for interacting effects of resource availability, disturbance by fire, tree stem density and vegetation type.

We found positive effects of tree species diversity on above‐ground biomass, operating via increased structural diversity. The observed BEFR was highly dependent on organismal density, with a minimum threshold of c. 180 mature stems ha−1. We found that water availability mainly affects biomass indirectly, via increasing species diversity.

The study underlines the close association between tree diversity, ecosystem structure, environment and function in highly disturbed savannas and woodlands. We suggest that tree diversity is an under‐appreciated determinant of wooded ecosystem structure and function.
Magical realism is the language of the emergent Post‐Truth world
Authors: Hart Stephen Malcolm , Hart Jordan
Published: July 2021

Drawing on a number of new readings of ‘Post‐Truth’, defined as ‘Relating to or denoting circumstances in which objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief’, our essay interrogates the extent to which magical realism may be understood as the paradigmatic and quintessential discourse of the Post‐Truth era. We paraphrase Homi Bhabha’s famous statement, made in the 1990s, that ‘magical realism is the language of the emergent postcolonial world’, and propose that, in the twenty‐first century, magical realism is the language of the emergent Post‐Truth world. In this essay we analyze and compare the Post‐Truth techniques used in novels such as García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children, Mo Yan’s Big Breasts and Wide Hips and Murakami’s 1Q84. We combine Matthew d’Ancona’s robust call that we should fight against the follies of political Post‐Truth with Anne Hegerfeldt’s argument that magical realism is designed to teach the general public how to read between the lines of politicians’ speeches in order to become a mature defender of truth, and therefore propose that the magical‐realist novelist, in effect, ends up telling ‘lies that tell the truth’.
An alternative approach for lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection—Far lateral approach
Authors: Liu Jui‐Hsuan , Soo Cheng‐Wei , Lin Ying‐Chun , Lin Chia‐Shiang
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) is one of the nonoperative interventions for lower back pain. In this study, we presented an alternative approach for TFESI, far lateral lateral recess TFESI (FLLR TFESI), which is targeted on lateral recess and anterior epidural space in patients with degenerative lumbar spondylosis‐related radiculopathy.

Technique

Under fluoroscopy, needle entry site and pathway are drawn according to the spinal anatomy. The needle is advanced toward the lateral recess and the needle tip is placed medially to the medial border of the pedicle under anteroposterior view and posteriorly to the posterior border of the upper endplate under lateral view. After checking optimal contrast spread, steroids and local anesthetics are injected.

Case Illustration

An 86‐year‐old woman who suffered from lower back pain with radiculopathy received interventional treatment. Comparing the “traditional” supraneural approach with the FLLR approach, the difference in contrast enhancement to lateral recess is clearly shown.

Discussion

Compared to the pre‐existing approaches, the FLLR approach may provide better ventral epidural and lateral recess enhancement. Furthermore, with the advanced needle tip, the injectate may enhance not only the at‐level nerve root but also the nerve root of adjacent level during their existence in a single injection. With blunt needle usage, no nerve root injury or dura puncture was noted so far.

Conclusion

FLLR TFESI is a modified fluoroscopic technique targeted on lateral recess and anterior epidural space. However, subsequent trials are needed to confirm its efficacy in pain reduction and the rate of complications.
A restatement of expected comparative utility theory: A new theory of rational choice under risk
Authors: Robert David
Published: July 2021

In this paper, I argue for a new normative theory of rational choice under risk, namely expected comparative utility (ECU) theory. I first show that for any choice option, a, and for any state of the world, G, the measure of the choiceworthiness of a in G is the comparative utility (CU) of a in G—that is, the difference in utility, in G, between a and whichever alternative to a carries the greatest utility in G. On the basis of this principle, I then argue that for any agent, S, faced with any decision under risk, S should rank his or her decision options (in terms of how choiceworthy they are) according to their comparative expected comparative utility (CECU) and should choose whichever option carries the greatest CECU. For any option, a, a’s CECU is the difference between its ECU and that of whichever alternative to a carries the greatest ECU, where a’s ECU is a probability‐weighted sum of a’s CUs across the various possible states of the world. I lastly demonstrate that in some ordinary decisions under risk, ECU theory delivers different verdicts from those of standard decision theory.
An overview of jellyfish aquaculture: for food, feed, pharma and fun
Authors: Duarte Inês Matos , Marques Sónia Cotrim , Leandro Sérgio Miguel , Calado Ricardo
Published: July 2021

Interest on jellyfish research has significantly increased over the last two decades, mostly driven by the potential benefits of their high‐end uses. Recent efforts have been put forward towards the commercial use of scyphozoan jellyfish, although the pipeline leading to their full exploitation is still at an early stage of development. Indeed, further research and several technical advances are still required to expand the use of these bioresources to a larger and more sustainable scale. Here, we describe the state of the art of culture systems already available to farm these organisms throughout the different stages of their life cycle and provide an overview of the potential applications of jellyfish aquaculture for food, feed, as source of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical and other biotechnological applications, as well as to supply the marine aquarium trade. Overall, this work aims to raise awareness on the relevance that jellyfish will likely play on the development of sustainable blue bioeconomy frameworks fostering a sustainable valorisation of marine living resources.
Parotid saliva 1H‐NMR analysis for colon cancer metabolomics: A case report
Authors: Rovera Angela , Hector Mark , Anderson Paul
Published: July 2021

Background

A key priority in colon cancer research is the identification of molecular biomarkers to improve early diagnosis, guide prognosis, and the design of new therapeutic approaches. Saliva is a powerful diagnostic biofluid that can be used to detect systemic alterations. This study aimed to investigate the parotid saliva (PS) metabolic Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H‐NMR) profile of a patient diagnosed with colon cancer, and the subsequent changes 1 year after the end of chemotherapy.

Case report

We describe the 1H‐NMR PS spectrum of a 65‐year‐old woman diagnosed with colon cancer (G3 pT3 pN1c) (T0), and the changes in the spectrum from PS collected 1 year after the end of chemotherapy (XELOX: capecitabine plus oxaliplatin) (T1). The data was co‐analyzed with blood test cancer antigens (S‐CEA; S‐CA19‐9) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) measurements obtained simultaneously in order to identify peaks and interpret the spectra. The blood cancer antigens (S‐CEA; S‐CA19‐9) and the PS 1H‐NMR peaks for fatty acids, lactate, acetate, N‐acetyl sugars, citrate, tyrosine, saccharides, and formate decreased at T1 compared to T0. Whereas, the thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) blood values increased at T1 compared to T0 reflecting the changes in the 1H‐NMR spectral window of 1–3.5 ppm.

Conclusion

PS 1H‐NMR profiling identified modified metabolites that revealed cancer cells metabolism disturbances that subsequently decreased with time throughout treatment. These altered metabolites are potential biomarkers, providing a molecular diagnostic approach for clinical diagnosis, and prognosis of human colon cancer.
Engagement in purposeful activities and social interactions amongst persons with dementia in special care units compared to traditional nursing homes: An observational study
Authors: Adlbrecht Laura , Nemeth Tamara , Frommlet Florian , Bartholomeyczik Sabine , Mayer Hanna
Published: July 2021

Background

Persons with dementia spend most time of their day not engaging in activities or social interactions. A care concept of a dementia special care unit that promotes activities and social interaction through a household‐like design and individualised stimuli is studied.

Aim

To evaluate the main outcomes of the care concept of a dementia special care unit, namely, engagement in activities and social interactions.

Methods

We conducted an observational study as part of a theory‐driven evaluation. The Maastricht Daily Life Observation Tool was used to collect momentary assessments multiple times per participant, including engagement in activity, type of activity, engagement in social interaction, interaction partners, location, agitation and mood. Thirty‐three residents of the dementia special care units that implemented the care concept and 54 residents with dementia of two traditional nursing homes participated in the study, resulting in 2989 momentary assessments.

Results

Residents of both settings did not engage in activities or social interaction in approximately half of the observations. Compared to residents of traditional nursing homes, residents of special care units had a significantly higher chance for engagement in activities and social interaction in the afternoon but not in the morning or evening.

Conclusion

The care concept of the special care unit facilitated engagement but had its limitations. Further research is needed to develop and evaluate appropriate interventions to enhance engagement of persons with dementia.
Maturity alters drop vertical jump landing force‐time profiles but not performance outcomes in adolescent females
Authors: Pedley Jason S. , DiCesare Christopher A. , Lloyd Rhodri S. , Oliver Jon L. , Ford Kevin R. , Hewett Tim E. , Myer Gregory D.
Published: July 2021

The stretch‐shortening cycle (SSC) assists in effective force attenuation upon landing and augments force generation at take‐off during a drop vertical jump (DVJ). General performance outcomes such as jump height or peak measures have been used to assess SSC function in youth populations; however, these discrete metrics fail to provide insight into temporal jump‐landing characteristics. This study assessed DVJ force‐time profiles in 1013 middle and high‐school female athletes (n = 279 prepubertal, n = 401 pubertal, and n = 333 postpubertal). Maturity status was determined using the Pubertal Maturation Observation Scale. Ground reaction force data were analyzed to extract a range of variables to characterize force‐time profiles. SSC function was categorized as poor, moderate, or good dependent on the presence of an impact peak and spring‐like behavior. No differences in jump height or ground contact time were observed between maturity groups (p > 0.05). Significant differences in absolute peak landing and take‐off force were evident between all maturational statuses (p < 0.05). Relative to bodyweight normalized forces, only peak take‐off force was significantly different between prepubertal and postpubertal groups (p < 0.05; d = 0.22). Spring‐like behavior showed small improvements from pubertal to postpubertal (p < 0.05; d = 0.25). Most females displayed poor SSC function at prepubertal (79.6%), pubertal (77.3%), and postpubertal (65.5%) stages of maturity. Large increases in absolute forces occur throughout maturation in female athletes; however, only small maturational differences were found in relative force or spring‐like behavior. Consequently, most girls display poor SSC function irrespective of maturity.
Recognition of the HLA‐A*24:141 allele in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Li Chi‐Cheng , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: July 2021

One nucleotide substitution in codon 178 of HLA‐A*24:02:01:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐A*24:141.
Mechanistic understanding of interspecific interaction between a C4 grass and a C3 legume via arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, as influenced by soil phosphorus availability using a 13C and 15N dual‐labelled organic patch
Authors: Liu Hongfei , Wu Yang , Xu Hongwei , Ai Zemin , Zhang Jiaoyang , Liu Guobin , Xue Sha
Published: July 2021

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can improve plant nutrient acquisition, either by directly supplying nutrients to plants or by promoting soil organic matter mineralization, thereby affecting interspecific plant relationships in natural communities. We examined the mechanism by which the addition of P affects interspecific interactions between a C4 grass (Bothriochloa ischaemum, a dominant species in natural grasslands) and a C3 legume (Lespedeza davurica, a subordinate species in natural grasslands) via AMF and plant growth, by continuous 13C and 15N labelling, combined with soil enzyme analyses. The results of 15N labelling revealed that P addition affected the shoot uptake of N via AMF by B. ischaemum and L. davurica differently. Specifically, the addition of P significantly increased the shoot uptake of N via AMF by B. ischaemum but significantly decreased that by L. davurica. Interspecific plant interactions via AMF significantly facilitated the plant N uptake via AMF by B. ischaemum but significantly inhibited that by L. davurica under P‐limited soil conditions, whereas the opposite effect was observed in the case of excess P. This was consistent with the impact of interspecific plant interaction via AMF on arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) benefit for plant growth. Our data indicate that the capability of plant N uptake via AMF is an important mechanism that influences interspecific relationships between C4 grasses and C3 legumes. Moreover, the effect of AMF on the activities of the soil enzymes responsible for N and P mineralization substantially contributed to the consequence of interspecific plant interaction via AMF for plant growth.
A prognostic model for the preoperative identification of patients at risk for receiving transfusion of packed red blood cells in cardiac surgery
Authors: de Boer Wiebe J. , Visser Cornelis , van Kuijk Sander M. J. , de Jong Kim
Published: July 2021

Background

Patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery are at substantial risk for blood transfusion. Increased awareness and patient blood management have resulted in a significant reduction over the past years. The next step is preoperative treatment of patients at high risk for packed red blood cells (RBC) transfusion, with the ultimate goal to eventually prevent RBC transfusion. A prediction model was developed to select patients at high risk for RBC transfusion.

Materials and methods

Data of all patients that underwent cardiac surgery in our center between 2008 and 2013 (n = 2951) were used for model development, and between 2014 and 2016 for validation (n = 1136). Only preoperative characteristics were included in a multinomial regression model with three outcome categories (no, RBC, other transfusion). The accuracy of the estimated risks and discriminative ability of the model were assessed. Clinical usefulness was explored.

Results

Risk factors included are sex, type of surgery, redo surgery, age, height, body mass index, preoperative hemoglobin level, and preoperative platelet count. The model has excellent discriminative ability for predicting RBC transfusion versus no transfusion (area under the curve [AUC] = 94%) and good discriminative ability for RBC transfusion versus other transfusion (AUC = 84%). With a cut‐off value of RBC risk of 16.8% and higher, the model is well able to identify a high proportion of patients at risk for RBC transfusion (sensitivity = 87.1%, specificity = 82.3%).

Conclusion

In the current study, a prediction tool was developed to be used for risk stratification of patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery at risk for blood transfusions.
Admission Braden Scale Score as an Early Independent Predictor of In‐Hospital Mortality Among Inpatients With COVID‐19: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lovicu Elena , Faraone Antonio , Fortini Alberto
Published: July 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has put a strain on health systems. Predictors of adverse outcomes need to be investigated to properly manage COVID‐19 patients. The Braden Scale (BS), commonly used for the assessment of pressure ulcer risk, has recently been proposed to identify frailty.

Objective

To investigate the predictive utility of the BS for prediction of in‐hospital mortality in a cohort of COVID‐19 patients admitted to non‐ICU wards.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective single‐center cohort study evaluating all patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection consecutively admitted over a 2‐month period (from March 6 to May 7, 2020) to the COVID‐19 general wards of our institution. Demographic, clinical, and nursing assessment data, including admission BS, were extracted from electronic medical records. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to explore the association between the BS score and in‐hospital death.

Results

Braden Scale was assessed in 146 patients (mean age 74.7 years; 52% males). On admission, 46 had a BS ≤ 15, and 100 patients had a BS > 15. Mortality among patients with BS ≤ 15 was significantly higher than in patients with BS > 15 (45.7% vs. 16%; p < .001). On multivariable regression analysis, adjusting for potentials confounders (age, Barthel scale, chronic kidney disease, atrial fibrillation, and hypertension), the admission BS remained inversely associated with the risk of in‐hospital mortality (OR = 0.76; 95% CI [0.60, 0.96]; p = .020).

Linking Evidence to Action

Admission BS could be used as a simple bedside predictive tool able to early identify non‐ICU COVID‐19 patients with poor prognosis who might benefit from specific and timely interventions.