bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personalized medicine for allergy treatment: Allergen immunotherapy still a unique and unmatched model
Authors: Incorvaia Cristoforo , Al‐Ahmad Mona , Ansotegui Ignacio J. , Arasi Stefania , Bachert Claus , Bos Catherine , Bousquet Jean , Bozek Andrzéj , Caimmi Davide , Calderón Moises A. , Casale Thomas , Custovic Adnan , De Blay Frédéric , Demoly Pascal , Devillier Philippe , Didier Alain , Fiocchi Alessandro , Fox Adam T. , Gevaert Philippe , Gomez Maximiliano , Heffler Enrico , Ilina Natalia , Irani Carla , Jutel Marek , Karagiannis Efstrathios , Klimek Ludger , Kuna Piotr , O'Hehir Robin , Kurbacheva Oxana , Matricardi Paolo M. , Morais‐Almeida Mario , Mosges Ralph , Novak Natalija , Okamoto Yoshitaka , Panzner Petr , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Park Hae‐Sim , Passalacqua Giovanni , Pawankar Ruby , Pfaar Oliver , Schmid‐Grendelmeier Peter , Scurati Silvia , Tortajada‐Girbés Miguel , Vidal Carmen , Virchow J. Christian , Wahn Ulrich , Worm Margitta , Zieglmayer Petra , Canonica Giorgio W.
Published: September 2020

The introduction of personalized medicine (PM) has been a milestone in the history of medical therapy, because it has revolutionized the previous approach of treating the disease with that of treating the patient. It is known today that diseases can occur in different genetic variants, making specific treatments of proven efficacy necessary for a given endotype. Allergic diseases are particularly suitable for PM, because they meet the therapeutic success requirements, including a known molecular mechanism of the disease, a diagnostic tool for such disease, and a treatment blocking the mechanism. The stakes of PM in allergic patients are molecular diagnostics, to detect specific IgE to single‐allergen molecules and to distinguish the causative molecules from those merely cross‐reactive, pursuit of patient's treatable traits addressing genetic, phenotypic, and psychosocial features, and omics, such as proteomics, epi‐genomics, metabolomics, and breathomics, to forecast patient's responsiveness to therapies, to detect biomarker and mediators, and to verify the disease control. This new approach has already improved the precision of allergy diagnosis and is likely to significantly increase, through the higher performance achieved with the personalized treatment, the effectiveness of allergen immunotherapy by enhancing its already known and unique characteristics of treatment that acts on the causes.
Pancreatic cancer in the Australian population: identifying opportunities for intervention
Authors: Barreto Savio George , D'Onise Katina
Published: September 2020

Pancreatic cancer is a disease associated with a poor overall survival. Advances in surgical techniques have helped improve outcomes of patients who are amenable to surgical resection. Sadly, surgery is amenable in only a small percentage of patients with the disease. Thus, there is a need to direct efforts at reducing the overall risk of pancreatic cancer or facilitating its early detection. The current review focused on collating all the literature published to date on pancreatic cancer in Australia with an aim to identify opportunities for intervention (at a state or national level) that are specific to Australia so as to help improve the outcome of patients with pancreatic cancer.
Mammalian circadian systems: Organization and modern life challenges
Authors: Finger Anna‐Marie , Kramer Achim
Published: September 2020

Humans and other mammalian species possess an endogenous circadian clock system that has evolved in adaptation to periodically reoccurring environmental changes and drives rhythmic biological functions, as well as behavioural outputs with an approximately 24‐hour period. In mammals, body clocks are hierarchically organized, encompassing a so‐called pacemaker clock in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), non‐SCN brain and peripheral clocks, as well as cell‐autonomous oscillators within virtually every cell type. A functional clock machinery on the molecular level, alignment among body clocks, as well as synchronization between endogenous circadian and exogenous environmental cycles has been shown to be crucial for our health and well‐being. Yet, modern life constantly poses widespread challenges to our internal clocks, for example artificial lighting, shift work and trans‐meridian travel, potentially leading to circadian disruption or misalignment and the emergence of associated diseases. For instance many of us experience a mismatch between sleep timing on work and free days (social jetlag) in our everyday lives without being aware of health consequences that may arise from such chronic circadian misalignment, Hence, this review provides an overview of the organization and molecular built‐up of the mammalian circadian system, its interactions with the outside world, as well as pathologies arising from circadian disruption and misalignment.
Ultrastructural and immunocytochemical studies on the olfactory receptor neurons in the Ichthyosaura alpestris
Authors: Różański Józef J. , Capillo Gioele , Lauriano Eugenia R. , Aragona Marialuisa , Kuciel Michał , Zaccone Giacomo , Żuwała Krystyna D.
Published: September 2020

Morphological and immunohistochemical studies were conducted on the alpine newt Ichthyosaura alpestris, which is representative of the family Salamandridae. The aim of the study was to determine the differences in olfactory organs structural properties, especially in the olfactory epithelium (OE) of the main olfactory chamber (MOC) and the vomeronasal organ (VNO) between breeding and non‐breeding seasons in this species. A change in environments occurs for alpine newts in the course of the annual cycle because of its aquatic adaptations for reproduction. The results confirmed the variability in the shape and size of olfactory organs between breeding and non‐breeding seasons. The presence of the ovoid cells with microvilli at its apical part was determined in the OE of males and females during breeding season. Giant ORNs, a subtype of ciliated ORNs, were observed only during the newt's non‐breeding season. The presence of the ovoid cells during the terrestrial phase was not determined. Thus, its role might be associated with reproduction.
The role of gonadotropins in testicular and adrenal androgen biosynthesis pathways—Insights from males with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism on hCG/rFSH and on testosterone replacement
Authors: Rohayem Julia , Zitzmann Michael , Laurentino Sandra , Kliesch Sabine , Nieschlag Eberhard , Holterhus Paul‐Martin , Kulle Alexandra
Published: September 2020

Objective

To delineate the role of gonadotropins in male androgen biosynthesis pathways.

Design

Case‐control study.

Patients and measurements

Twenty five males with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) underwent hCG/rFSH and testosterone treatment sequentially. Serum steroid hormone profiles (testosterone precursors and metabolites) on both replacement regimens were analysed, using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) and compared to those of healthy controls, matched by age, BMI and serum testosterone.

Results

On testosterone replacement, serum concentrations of the classic Δ4 pathway hormones progesterone and 17‐hydroxy‐progesterone (17‐OHP), and the marker steroid of an alternative pathway of testosterone synthesis (androstenediol) were decreased, compared to controls. Androstanediol, a marker of the backdoor pathway of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) synthesis, was increased. 17‐OH‐pregnenolone, androstenedione and DHEAS (Δ5 pathway), three 11‐oxygenated C19 androgens (11‐keto‐A4, 11‐keto‐T and 11‐keto‐DHT) and the testosterone (T) metabolites DHT and 17ß‐oestradiol (E2) were similar to controls. On gonadotropin replacement, 17‐OHP, 17‐OH‐pregnenolone, DHEAS and androstenedione, as well as DHT, androstenediol, and all 11‐oxygenated C19 androgens were normal. Progesterone (Δ4 pathway) was slightly decreased, and androstanediol (backdoor DHT pathway) and E2 (T metabolite) were increased.

Conclusions

In males with CHH, serum steroid hormone profiles resemble those of healthy men, if hCG/rFSH is used for substitution. Gonadotropins contribute to steroid hormone production along the classic Δ4 pathway and co‐activate an alternative pathway of testosterone biosynthesis via androstenediol. Backdoor DHT biosynthesis, Δ5 17‐OH‐pregnenolone, DHEA(S) and androstenedione synthesis and 11‐oxygenated C19 androgen production are activated independently of gonadotropins. The androgen replacement modality used for treatment of hypogonadal males with absent or reduced endogenous LH/FSH secretion may impact on long‐term health and quality of life.
Early and mature biofilm on four different dental implant materials: An in vivo human study
Authors: Herrmann Henrike , Kern Jaana‐Sophia , Kern Thomas , Lautensack Julia , Conrads Georg , Wolfart Stefan
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the microbial composition of early (after 3 days, D3) and mature biofilms (after 31 days, D31) on materials typically used in implant/abutment buildups. Implant/abutment materials with different surface roughness values (Ra) were compared to detect differences in the quantity and quality of bacterial composition.

Material and Methods

Four different materials were investigated: rough implant surface (sand‐blasted acid‐etched titanium, Ti‐p), implant collar (machined titanium, Ti‐m), titanium abutment (Ti6Al4V), and zirconium dioxide abutment (ZrO2). Fourteen periodontally healthy subjects received mandibular acrylic devices with four disks (one for each material) facing the anterior lingual area. The total bacterial count was analyzed using RT‐qPCR. Both presence and proliferation of 20 selected bacterial species were assessed with microarrays.

Results

The highest mean total cell counts (x108 ± standard deviation) were detected at D3 on ZrO2 (5.63 ± 4.83; Ra = 0.74 µm), followed by Ti‐p (4.53 ± 5.00; Ra = 1.87), Ti–m (4.43 ± 9.38; Ra = 0.18 µm), and Ti6Al4V (3.83 ± 3.13; Ra = 0.16 µm). ZrO2 showed significantly higher total bacterial cell counts than Ti‐p and Ti‐m (p < .05) for both time intervals. The microarrays detected 16 (D3) and 17 (D31) bacterial species; those associated with healthy oral microbiotas, but also bacteria of the red complex (Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola), were found on all materials.

Conclusions

Biofilms on ZrO2 harbored a higher total number of bacterial cells compared with those formed on titanium surfaces with much lower roughness values. Putative periodontopathogens were detected on all materials after both time intervals. Implant/abutment materials with a low surface roughness showed less biofilm accumulation.
HPV genotype is a prognosticator for recurrence of respiratory papillomatosis in children
Authors: Nogueira Rodrigo L. , Küpper Daniel S. , do Bonfim Caroline M. , Aragon Davi C. , Damico Thiago A. , Miura Carolina S. , Passos Ivna M. , Nogueira Maurício L. , Rahal Paula , Valera Fabiana C. P.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the prognosis according to age, genotype or human papillomavirus (HPV) variant in patients with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP).

Design

Non‐concurrent cohort.

Participants

Forty one patients with RRP.

Setting

Tertiary referral hospital.

Main Outcome Measures

Disease severity was defined by the number of surgeries performed, and Derkay score at surgeries, obtained from medical records. HPV was detected and genotyped, and HPV‐6 variants were also assessed.

Results

Fifteen (36.58%) individuals belonged to the juvenile RRP group (JoRRP, less than 18 years), while 26 patients (63.41%) were allocated at the adult group (AoRRP, equal or more than 18 years). JoRRP patients needed, in average, a higher number of surgeries to control the disease than AoRRP patients (mean difference: 3.36). Also, JoRRP patients showed a higher Derkay score at each surgery (mean difference: 3.76). There was no significant difference in the number of surgeries when we compared patients infected with HPV‐6 or HPV‐11, neither in accordance to HPV‐6 variants. Patients with HPV‐11 presented a higher mean Derkay score at surgery than those with HPV‐6 (mean difference: 4.39); when co‐variated by age, we observed that this difference occurred only among JoRRP patients (mean difference: 6.15).

Conclusions

Age of onset of RRP has an important impact on number of surgeries to control disease. Patients with JoRRP and HPV‐11 tend to present worse Derkay score at each surgery. HPV genotype among adults and HPV‐6 variants had no impact on the outcome of the disease.
An improved vertical fragmentation, allocation and replication for enhancing e‐learning in distributed database environment
Authors: Sathishkumar P. , Gunasekaran M.
Published: September 2020

E‐learning is the indispensable technique to educate huge number of people and students in short period of time with optimized usage of different kind of required resources. It is employed as a crucial teaching approach by almost all kind of educational institutions all around the world. Since e‐learning involves significant amount of resource utilization and cost, it requires some essential methodology to enhance the current system of e‐learning more efficient. The mere publication of the educational content in websites is not enough. It is very clear that, without applying suitable strategic models and concepts and establishing appropriate communication channels between contributors of e‐learning system, the educational goals cannot be achieved as we desired. Distributed database involves greater contribution in the field of cloud based e‐learning process. Basically, data replication is crucial decision of companies as database distribution can be achieved effectively by the method of database replication which generates the same copies of information called replicas. In this article, we analyze the supremacy of synergetic learning and concentrates on data replication's significance in cloud based learning system. Here we propose an excellent mechanism for data replication and enhancing the performance in terms optimized access and update of data by the determination of exact location of data through dynamic programming. The efficiency of proposed mechanism is clearly illustrated by experimental results.
[art]ifact: Where History Meets Art, A Case Study in Shared Authority
Authors: Beaujot Ariel
Published: September 2020

This article is a case study of the concept of shared authority based on an exhibit titled “[art]ifact: where history meets art.” Opportunities to explore in‐depth forms of shared authority begin with the partnership of three institutions – a university, a historical society and an art gallery – and their varied moments and levels of involvement with the exhibit. A deep sharing of historical authority was also present between those interpreting exhibit objects – historians and artists. And finally, lighter, but nonetheless significant, forms of shared authority took place between K‐12 students and curators, and between the audience members and curators. The article ends with a discussion of lessons learned and common pitfalls for those interested in creating a co‐curated co‐produced exhibit involving undergraduate students and multiple community partners.
Development and evaluation of an interprofessional teaching concept for modern wound management
Authors: Bergendahl Lukas , Werner Felix , Schmidt Anita , Ronicke Moritz , Renner Regina , Erfurt‐Berge Cornelia
Published: September 2020

Background and objectives

The aim of the present study was to establish and evaluate a new interprofessional teaching concept on the topic of wound management.

Methods

After determining the status quo using a survey among medical students, we developed a new teaching concept that included a 150‐minute course aimed at providing students with the opportunity to gain hands‐on wound management skills. This interprofessional course was offered at the existing ‘SkillsLab’ teaching facility. The participants’ subjective level of knowledge was assessed by questionnaire before and after the course.

Results

Our survey among 190 medical students showed them to be very interested in gaining practical experience in the field of wound management. To date, 120 participants (54.8 % medical students; 45.2 % nursing students) have attended this new interprofessional course, which has been equally well received by both medical and nursing students. For all specific topics (diagnosis, treatment, use of wound dressings, debridement), course participation was associated with a significant increase in knowledge.

Conclusion

Given its relevance in clinical practice, it is important for medical students to learn about the various aspects associated with the care of patients with chronic wounds. By offering new teaching concepts, dermatology in particular is well suited to help students gain a better understanding of the challenges related to wound management and to improve their practical skills. Wound management is an ideal topic for interprofessional learning.
Short‐term intestinal lipase inhibition in normal‐weight individuals does not affect postprandial peptide YY3‐36 and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 levels, hunger or satiety
Authors: Nguyen Nga N. , Kolobova Irina , Wolfe Bruce M. , Purnell Jonathan Q.
Published: September 2020

Fat malabsorption associated with Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) may contribute to elevated postprandial glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and peptide YY (PYY) after the procedure, leading to sustained weight loss and appetite reduction. This study investigated whether fat malabsorption via orlistat increases GLP‐1 and PYY and if these increases would be proportional to changes in hunger and satiety. Five healthy participants received standardized meals with 120 mg orlistat or placebo in a randomized, double‐blinded, crossover design for 3 days. On the final day, glucose, insulin, GLP‐1, PYY3‐36 and visual analogue scores for hunger and satiety were measured over a 14‐hour period that included three meals. Fasting, 14‐hour area under the curve (AUC) and meal‐related AUC for glucose and insulin were similar, although postprandial increases in peak insulin and glucose were greater with orlistat. PYY3‐36, GLP‐1, hunger and satiety were not different. In conclusion, short‐term orlistat administration does not enhance postprandial GLP‐1 or PYY3‐36 or affect hunger or satiety in normal‐weight individuals. Furthermore, fat malabsorption from RYGB is unlikely to mediate subsequent postprandial increases in GLP‐1 and PYY.
How Gaps between Target and Midcourse Grades Impact Undergraduates’ Studying Intentions and Grade Improvements*
Authors: MacKenzie H.F. (Herb) , Armstrong Michael J.
Published: September 2020

We examine how gaps between students’ chosen target grades and actual midcourse grades relate to their exam studying intentions and subsequent grade improvements. We further investigate whether those relationships are moderated by students’ academic ability (as measured by high school averages) and implicit theory of intelligence or mindset (as measured by questionnaire scores). Our study involved 250 undergraduate students in a first‐year business course. The study used linear regression to analyze survey responses at the course's beginning, survey responses near the course's end, and actual course grades. The analysis showed students had greater studying intentions and grade improvements when midcourse grades were farther below initial target grades. Mindset moderated the relationship between grade gaps and studying intentions, whereas academic ability moderated the relationship between grade gaps and grade improvements. These results enhance our knowledge of how students respond to grade feedback and could help instructors assist students to make better decisions about their studying.
Cerebral collaterals in acute ischaemia: Implications for acute ischaemic stroke patients receiving reperfusion therapy
Authors: Ravindran Abina Vishni , Killingsworth Murray C. , Bhaskar Sonu
Published: September 2020

The cerebral collaterals play an important role in penumbral tissue sustenance after an acute ischaemic stroke. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential role of collaterals in the selection of acute ischaemic stroke patients eligible for reperfusion therapy. However, the understanding of the significance and evidence around the role of collateral status in predicting outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke patients treated with reperfusion therapy is still unclear. Moreover, the use of pre‐treatment collaterals in patient selection and prognosis is relatively underappreciated in clinical settings. A focused review of the literature was performed on the various methods of collateral evaluation and the role of collateral status in acute ischaemic stroke patients receiving reperfusion therapy. We discuss the methods of evaluating pre‐treatment collaterals in clinical settings. The patient selection based on collateral status as well as the prognostic and therapeutic value of collaterals in acute ischaemic stroke, in settings of intravenous thrombolysis or endovascular therapy alone, and bridge therapy, are summarized. Recommendations for future research and possible pharmacological intervention strategies aimed at collateral enhancement are also discussed. Collaterals may play an important role in identifying acute ischaemic stroke patients who are likely to benefit from endovascular treatment in an extended time window. Future neuroscientific efforts to better improve our understanding of the role of collaterals in acute ischaemia as well as clinical studies to delineate its role in patient selection and acute stroke prognosis are warranted.
Algorithms in clinical epilepsy practice: Can they really help us predict epilepsy outcomes?
Authors: Jehi Lara
Published: September 2020

Significant technological advances have improved our ability to localize epilepsy and investigate the electrophysiology in patients undergoing preparation for epilepsy surgery. Conversely, our process of decision‐making and outcome prediction has remained essentially restricted to subjective clinical judgment. This may have hindered our ability to improve outcomes. In this review, we highlight the cognitive biases that interfere with medical decision‐making and present data on the use of algorithms and statistical models in general health care, before pivoting to discuss applications in the context of epilepsy.
Transmembrane collagens—Unexplored mediators of epidermal‐dermal communication and tissue homeostasis
Authors: Nyström Alexander , Kiritsi Dimitra
Published: September 2020

Tissue homeostasis is maintained through constant, dynamic and heterogeneous communication between cells and their microenvironment. Proteins that are at the same time active at the intracellular, cell periphery and deeper extracellular levels possess the ability to, on the individual molecular level, influence the cells and their microenvironment in a bidirectional manner. The transmembrane collagens are a family of such proteins, which are of notable interest for tissue development and homeostasis. In skin, expression of all transmembrane collagens has been reported and deficiency of transmembrane collagen XVII manifests with distinct skin phenotypes. Nevertheless, transmembrane collagens in skin remain understudied despite the association of them with epidermal wound healing and dermal fibrotic processes. Here, we present an overview of transmembrane collagens and put a spotlight on them as regulators of epidermal‐dermal communication and as potential players in fibrinogenesis.
Linking hyperosmotic stress and apoptotic sensitivity
Authors: Stöhr Daniela , Rehm Markus
Published: September 2020

Cellular responses to hypertonic stress and how these are linked to the induction of or sensitisation to cell death signals are incompletely understood and rarely studied in cancer. Using cell lines derived from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), Heimer et al. demonstrate that hypertonic environments neutralise the antiapoptotic Bcl‐2 family member Mcl‐1 by upregulating its antagonist Noxa. Consequently, hypertonically stressed HNSCC cells rely solely on Bcl‐xL for survival and succumb to apoptosis when challenged by pharmacological Bcl‐xL inhibition. Similar findings were reported in colorectal cancer cells in related manuscripts, suggesting that a common and conserved mechanistic link might exist between hyperosmotic stress and cellular sensitisation to apoptosis.
Experimental investigation on the influence of welding residual stresses on fatigue for two different weld geometries
Authors: Friedrich Nils
Published: September 2020

Fatigue tests on welded small‐scale specimens often do not show a distinct residual stress influence. An exception is longitudinal stiffeners, which are therefore frequently used to study the influence of welding residual stresses on fatigue. The results are not directly transferable to other weld geometries because the residual stress distribution depends on the weld geometries. In the presented investigation, fatigue tests on multilayer K‐butt weld and longitudinal stiffener specimens were performed. The tests were carried out in the as‐welded and stress‐relieved conditions at different load ratios. Initiation of macroscopic cracks was detected using digital image correlation. This allowed determining the influence of welding residual stresses on the initiation of macroscopic cracks, crack propagation and total fatigue life for both investigated weld geometries.
¡Profesores Adelante! Recruiting teachers in the target language
Authors: Back Michele , Dean Joseph
Published: September 2020

Recruiting qualified world language (WL) educators is a continuing challenge in the United States. Limited research has been conducted on attracting potential teacher candidates. Furthermore, recruitment materials are unavailable in target languages, making it difficult for existing WL teachers, as critical advocates for the profession, to incorporate recruitment into their instruction. This study discusses the findings from the implementation of an adapted teacher recruitment curriculum created for secondary students in Early College Experience (ECE) Spanish courses. Using data from pre‐ and post‐intervention surveys, responses to writing prompts, and post‐intervention focus groups, we found that the curriculum contributed to a slight increase in student interest in becoming WL educators, as well as interest in continuing language study beyond high school. However, several teaching‐related student concerns also surfaced, most notably salary and target language ability. We discuss implications for general and WL teacher recruitment, including the importance of targeting potential WL educators in their language classrooms.
Future winters present a complex energetic landscape of decreased costs and reduced risk for a freeze‐tolerant amphibian, the Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus)
Authors: Fitzpatrick Megan J. , Porter Warren P. , Pauli Jonathan N. , Kearney Michael R. , Notaro Michael , Zuckerberg Benjamin
Published: September 2020

Winter climate warming is rapidly leading to changes in snow depth and soil temperatures across mid‐ and high‐latitude ecosystems, with important implications for survival and distribution of species that overwinter beneath the snow. Amphibians are a particularly vulnerable group to winter climate change because of the tight coupling between their body temperature and metabolic rate. Here, we used a mechanistic microclimate model coupled to an animal biophysics model to predict the spatially explicit effects of future climate change on the wintering energetics of a freeze‐tolerant amphibian, the Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus), across its distributional range in the eastern United States. Our below‐the‐snow microclimate simulations were driven by dynamically downscaled climate projections from a regional climate model coupled to a one‐dimensional model of the Laurentian Great Lakes. We found that warming soil temperatures and decreasing winter length have opposing effects on Wood Frog winter energy requirements, leading to geographically heterogeneous implications for Wood Frogs. While energy expenditures and peak body ice content were predicted to decline in Wood Frogs across most of our study region, we identified an area of heightened energetic risk in the northwestern part of the Great Lakes region where energy requirements were predicted to increase. Because Wood Frogs rely on body stores acquired in fall to fuel winter survival and spring breeding, increased winter energy requirements have the potential to impact local survival and reproduction. Given the geographically variable and intertwined drivers of future under‐snow conditions (e.g., declining snow depths, rising air temperatures, shortening winters), spatially explicit assessments of species energetics and risk will be important to understanding the vulnerability of subnivium‐adapted species.
Accelerated rate of vegetation green‐up related to warming at northern high latitudes
Authors: Park Hoonyoung , Jeong Sujong , Peñuelas Josep
Published: September 2020

Mid‐ to high‐latitude vegetation are experiencing changes in their seasonal cycles as a result of climate change. Although the rates of seasonal growth from winter dormancy to summer maturity have accelerated because of changes in environmental conditions, less attention has been paid to the rate of vegetation green‐up (RVG) and its dynamics, which could advance vegetation maturity. We analyzed the long‐term changes in RVG and the drivers at high northern latitudes for 35 years (1982–2016) using satellite‐retrieved leaf area index data based on partial correlation analyses and multivariable linear regression. The rates tended to increase significantly with time, particularly at high latitudes above 60°N in North America (1.8% mon−1 decade−1, p < .01) and Eurasia (1.0% mon−1 decade−1, p < .01). The increasing trend in North America was mostly because of increased heat accumulation in spring (1.2% mon−1 decade−1), that is, more rapid green‐up owing to warming, with an increased carbon dioxide concentration (0.6 mon−1 decade−1). The trend in Eurasia, however, was induced by warming, increased carbon dioxide concentration, and stronger radiation, 1.0%, 0.7%, and 0.5% mon−1 decade−1, respectively, but was partly counteracted by earlier pregreen‐up dates of −1.2% mon−1 decade−1, that is, earlier initiation of growth which counteracted green‐up rate acceleration. The results suggested that warming was the predominant factor influencing the accelerated RVG at high latitudes; however, Eurasian vegetation exhibited different green‐up dynamics, mitigating the influence of warming with the earlier pregreen‐up. Our findings imply that high‐latitude warming will drive vegetation seasonality toward rapid green‐up and early maturity, leading to the reinforcement of climate–vegetation interactions; however, the consequences will be more distinct in North America owing to the absence of alleviation by earlier pregreen‐up.
A skills network approach to physicians’ competence in shared decision making
Authors: Kriston Levente , Hahlweg Pola , Härter Martin , Scholl Isabelle
Published: September 2020

Background

Measurement of physicians’ competence in shared decision making (SDM) remains challenging with frequent disagreement between assessment methods.

Objective

To conceptualize and measure physicians’ SDM competence as an organized network of behavioural skills and to determine whether processing patient‐reported data according to this model can be used to predict observer‐rated competence.

Design

Secondary analysis of an observational study.

Setting and participants

Primary and specialty outpatient care physicians and consecutively recruited adult patients with a chronic condition who faced a treatment decision with multiple acceptable choices.

Measures

Network parameters constructed from patients’ assessment of physicians’ SDM skills as measured by the 9‐item Shared Decision Making Questionnaire (SDM‐Q‐9) and observer‐rated SDM competence of physicians measured by three widely used observer‐rated instruments.

Results

29 physicians (12 female, 17 male; mean age 50.3 years) recruited 310 patients (59.4% female, 40.6% male; mean age 54.0 years) facing a decision mainly regarding type 2 diabetes (36.4%), chronic back pain (32.8%) or depressive disorder (26.8%). Although most investigated skills were interrelated, elicitation of the patient's treatment preferences showed the strongest associations with the other skills. Network parameters of this skill were also decisive in predicting observer‐rated competence. Correlation between predicted competence scores and observer‐rated measurements ranged from 0.710 to 0.785.

Conclusions

Conceptualizing physicians’ SDM competence as a network of interacting skills enables the measurement of observer‐rated competence using patient‐reported data. In addition to theoretical implications for defining and training medical competences, the findings open a new way to measure physicians’ SDM competence under routine conditions.
Quantitative and qualitative alterations of circulating myeloid cells and plasmacytoid DC in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Peruzzi Benedetta , Bencini Sara , Capone Manuela , Mazzoni Alessio , Maggi Laura , Salvati Lorenzo , Vanni Anna , Orazzini Chiara , Nozzoli Carlo , Morettini Alessandro , Poggesi Loredana , Pieralli Filippo , Peris Adriano , Bartoloni Alessandro , Vannucchi Alessandro Maria , Liotta Francesco , Caporale Roberto , Cosmi Lorenzo , Annunziato Francesco
Published: September 2020

SARS‐CoV‐2 is responsible for a new infectious disease (COVID‐19) in which individuals can either remain asymptomatic or progress from mild to severe clinical conditions including acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure. The immune mechanisms that potentially orchestrate the pathology in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection are complex and only partially understood. There is still paucity of data on the features of myeloid cells involved in this viral infection. For this reason, we investigated the different activation status profiles and the subset distribution of myeloid cells and their correlation with disease progression in 40 COVID‐19 patients at different stages of disease. COVID‐19 patients showed a decrease in the absolute number of plasmacytoid and myeloid dendritic cells, different subset distribution of monocytes and different activation patterns of both monocytes and neutrophils, coupled to a significant reduction of HLA‐DR monocyte levels. We found that some of these alterations are typical of all COVID‐19 patients, while some others vary at different stages of the disease and correlate with biochemical parameters of inflammation. Collectively, these data suggest that not only the lymphoid, but also the myeloid compartment, is severely affected by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
The Global Leadership Mentoring Community: building capacity across seven global regions
Authors: Rosser E. , Buckner E. , Avedissian T. , Cheung D.S.K. , Eviza K. , Hafsteinsdóttir T. B. , Hsu M.Y. , Kirshbaum M. N. , Lai C. , Ng Y.C. , Ramsbotham J. , Waweru S.
Published: September 2020

Aim

The purpose of this paper is to report on the evaluation of the online Global Leadership Mentoring Community, a programme designed to build relationships across seven global regions and promote leadership development for emerging nurse leaders.

Background

There is a pressing need and opportunity for sustainable global leadership mentoring programmes. This programme of Sigma Theta Tau International (Sigma) brought mentors and mentees together from across the world to build leadership capacity, understand global leadership issues and build networks. Community coordinators purposively selected mentors from each of Sigma’s seven Global Regions, and mentees were chosen through a process of snowball sampling. Mentors and mentees met monthly with quarterly group calls.

Methods

The study followed a programme evaluation, outcomes‐focused approach. All eleven pairs of mentors‐mentees were invited to complete online surveys at the outset and end of programme capturing both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and for qualitative data, a thematic analysis.

Findings

Quantitative data confirmed that all 22 participants gained from the experience. From qualitative analysis, themes emerged illustrating the scope of achievements: 1. facilitation of successful outcomes for both mentors and mentees, 2. challenges of global mentoring and 3. strategies for successful global mentoring.

Discussion/Conclusion

Participants reported that creating global leadership is a longitudinal process that needs sustained attention to effect change. This evaluation identified many strengths of the programme and recommended its continuation to help further development of global leaders, particularly through focusing more purposefully on policy issues.

Implications for Nursing Policy

Empowerment of nurses globally through a Global Leadership Mentoring Community can improve leadership at all levels, thus emboldening their voices to influence nursing and health policy and ultimately improve patient care.
Synergy between surface mechanochemistry and subsurface dissolution on wear of soda lime silica glass in basic solution
Authors: He Hongtu , Qiao Qian , Yu Jiaxin , Kim Seong H.
Published: September 2020

The polishing of oxide glass in aqueous solution is sensitive to not only the mechanical conditions applied by abrasives but also the chemistry of solution. This study elucidates the synergistic interactions of mechanical and chemical effects—especially, the synergetic effects of surface mechanochemical wear and subsurface dissolution are studied by measuring the material removal rate of soda lime silica (SLS) glass upon rubbing with a Pyrex glass ball in noncorrosive (neutral pH) in corrosive solutions (pH 10 and 13 NaOH) as a function of sliding speed. Based on the synergetic model of surface wear and subsurface dissolution, it is found that the mechanochemical surface reaction dominates the wear behavior of SLS glass in neutral and pH 10 solution conditions; the wear of SLS glass in pH 10 is enhanced, compared to the neutral pH case, due to the presence of OH‐ ions at the sliding interface. In the case of pH 13, the dissolution of the densified subsurface region, which is formed due to interfacial friction during the surface wear, becomes significant, further enhancing the material removal yield. The finding provides an insight for designing an efficient polishing process in manufacturing of oxide glass materials with a good surface finish.
Effects of Al:Si and (Al + Na):Si ratios on the properties of the international simple glass, part I: Physical properties
Authors: Reiser Joelle T. , Lu Xiaonan , Parruzot Benjamin , Liu Hongshen , Subramani Tamilarasan , Kaya Huseyin , Kissinger Ryan M. , Crum Jarrod V. , Ryan Joseph V. , Navrotsky Alexandra , Kim Seong H. , Vienna John D.
Published: September 2020

Understanding composition‐structure‐property relationships of high‐alumina nuclear waste glasses are important for vitrification of nuclear waste at the Hanford Site. Two series of glasses were designed, one with varying Al:Si ratios and the other with (Al + Na):Si ratios based on the international simple glass (ISG, a simplified nuclear waste model glass), with Al2O3 ranging from 0 to 23 mol% (0 to 32 wt%). The glasses were synthesized and characterized using electron probe microanalysis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, small angle X‐ray scattering, high‐temperature oxide melt solution calorimetry, and infrared spectroscopy. Glasses were crystal free, and the lowest Na2O and Al2O3 glass formed an immiscible glass phase. Evolution of various properties—glass‐transition temperature, percentage of 4‐coordinated B, enthalpy of glass formation—and infrared spectroscopy results indicate that structural effects differ based on the glass series.
Frequency of consumption of balanced meals, bodyweight gain and incident risk of glucose intolerance in Japanese men and women: A cohort study
Authors: Sakurai Masaru , Ishizaki Masao , Morikawa Yuko , Kido Teruhiko , Naruse Yuchi , Nakashima Yuki , Okamoto Chiaki , Nogawa Kazuhiro , Watanabe Yuuka , Suwazono Yasushi , Hozawa Atsushi , Yoshita Katsushi , Nakagawa Hideaki
Published: September 2020

Aims/Introduction

This cohort study assessed the risk for bodyweight gain and development of glucose intolerance based on the frequency of consumption of balanced meals including grain, fish or meat and vegetables.

Materials and Methods

The participants (8,573 men, 3,327 women) were employees of a company in Japan. A self‐administered questionnaire was used to evaluate the frequency of balanced meal consumption. Bodyweight changes and the incidence of glucose intolerance (glycated hemoglobin >6.0%) during the 3‐year follow‐up period were determined through annual health examinations.

Results

The mean bodyweight change over a period of 3 years was 0.78 kg for men and 0.84 kg for women. A lower frequency of balanced meals was associated with a higher bodyweight gain for men (P for trend = 0.004), but not for women. During the study, 464 men and 115 women developed glucose intolerance. Overall, the frequency of balanced meals was not associated with the risk of glucose intolerance in either sex. However, the interaction between the frequency of balanced meals and degree of obesity had a significant effect on the incidence of glucose intolerance in men (P = 0.005), with less frequent consumption of balanced meals being associated with a higher risk for glucose intolerance among men with a BMI ≥25.0 kg/m2 (P for trend = 0.007).

Conclusions

A higher frequency of balanced meals, including grain, fish or meat and vegetable dishes – important components of healthy Japanese food – was associated with a lower risk of glucose intolerance in obese men, but not in non‐obese men and women.
In‐depth prospection of Avène Thermal Spring Water reveals an uncommon and stable microbial community
Authors: Bourrain M. , Suzuki M.T. , Calvez A. , West N.J. , Lions J. , Lebaron P.
Published: September 2020

Background

Avène Thermal Spring Water (TSW) exhibits therapeutic properties in the treatment of skin pathologies. Arising from a dolomitic aquifer system, its physico‐chemical properties are well‐established and its bacteriological quality regularly monitored. The microbiota of this aquifer have been characterized.

Objectives

We aimed to describe the structure of the bacterial community inhabiting the deep aquifer and to examine its dynamics over time.

Methods

The Avène TSW was collected at the catchment point and filtered through 0.1 µm pore size filters. The sampling was carried out every 3 months to generate a 4‐year time series. The DNA extracted from filters was analysed using high‐throughput 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, and the microorganisms and their contribution were characterized by the taxonomic assignment of sequence variants generated from each sample.

Results

Bacteria were distributed into 39 phyla. Nitrospirae and Proteobacteria were the most prevalent, accounting for 38% and 23% of the total community on average, respectively. A stable pattern was observed throughout the study. A few bacterial species were always detected, forming a core community of likely chemolithoautotrophic organisms which might use energy sources and nutrients produced from water–bedrock interactions. Most of the species were distantly related to organisms described to date.

Conclusions

Avène TSW provided by the deep aquifer system harbours a unique microbial community, shaped by the physico‐chemical characteristics of the deep environment. Its remarkable stability over time has revealed a high level of confinement of the water resource.
Advancing breeding in stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) to produce two reproductive cycles per year
Authors: Sattler Jessica L. , Boughman Janette W.
Published: September 2020

The effects of photoperiod and temperature manipulation on reproductive cycles in threespine sticklebackGasterosteus aculeatuswere examined. The experimental “advanced group” conditions were adjusted to simulate two reproductive seasons within a calendar year by adjusting light and temperature cycles.G. aculeatussubject to advanced conditions had two reproductive cycles per year, grew at normal rates and suffered little additional mortality. The research of many stickleback scientists would benefit from faster generation times and our methods could potentially shorten the time required to produce fish for genetic, behavioural and morphological work.
Diabetes management experience of middle‐aged persons with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Seo Hyung‐Eun , Kim Miyoung , Choi Sujin
Published: September 2020

Aim

For middle‐aged persons with type 1 diabetes, diabetes management is essential due to the natural effects of middle age. However, studies investigating how such individuals manage their diabetes are lacking. This study aimed to explore diabetes management experiences of middle‐aged individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Data were collected through in‐depth interviews with six middle‐aged persons with diabetes. An interpretative phenomenological analysis was used for the analysis of the data.

Results

The following four themes emerged: “familiarity with but no control over type 1 diabetes”, “embodiment of one's unique management of type 1 diabetes”, “control of one's mindset regarding diabetes management despite a limited scope of activity”, and “accepting ownership of self‐management and continued management to the best of one's ability.” A core theme was “living silently like robots dreaming of true freedom from type 1 diabetes.”

Conclusions

The findings indicate that nurses should provide education, embracing the experience in diabetes management through trial and error among persons with type 1 diabetes.
Vanilla scent reduces frequency of urination in urethane‐anesthetized rats
Authors: Sugaya Kimio , Nishijima Saori , Kadekawa Katsumi , Noguchi Katsuhiko , Woo Je T. , Yamamoto Hideyuki , Matsumoto Seiji
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The scent of vanilla has a relaxing effect and is used to treat sleep disorders. Sleep disorders can both cause and be caused by nocturia. Therefore, we examined whether vanilla inhalation would reduce the frequency of urination in rats under light urethane anesthesia.

Methods

Twenty‐four rats were anesthetized with 0.6 g/kg urethane subcutaneously (half the usual dose) to induce a sleep‐like state. In 12 rats, continuous cystometry was performed via a transurethral catheter before, during and after inhalation of vanilla (n = 7) or the citrus fruit shiikuwasa (n = 5) for 60 minutes. The remaining 12 rats did not undergo cystometry but underwent vanilla inhalation treatment for 60 minutes (n = 6), or no inhalation treatment (n = 6); blood was then collected from these two groups and serum monoamine levels were compared.

Results

Intervals between bladder contractions were significantly longer after vanilla inhalation than before. However, baseline bladder pressure, maximum bladder contraction pressure, and residual volume remained unchanged. During shiikuwasa inhalation, the body movement of each rat increased but cystometric parameters did not change. Serum concentrations of adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine, but not serotonin, were significantly lower in rats that had inhaled vanilla than in those that had not.

Conclusions

Vanilla scent decreased serum catecholamine levels and urination frequency in rats under light urethane anesthesia. These results suggest that the scent of vanilla may reduce nocturia.