bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drawn from life: Cocreating narrative and graphic vignettes of lived experience with people affected by dementia
Authors: Capstick Andrea , Dennison Alison , Oyebode Jan , Healy Lesley , Surr Claire , Parveen Sahdia , Sass Cara , Drury Michelle
Published: August 2021

Background

The growing literature on Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) and dementia identifies specific problems related to the influence that involvement has on research outcomes, over‐reliance on family members as proxies and lack of representation of seldom‐heard groups. Adaptations to the PPIE process are therefore needed to make possible the involvement of a broader spectrum of people living with dementia.

Objective

This study aimed to adapt the PPIE process to make participation in cocreation by people living with dementia accessible and meaningful across a spectrum of cognitive abilities.

Design

Narrative elicitation, informal conversation and observation were used to cocreate three vignettes based on PPIE group members' personal experiences of dementia services. Each vignette was produced in both narrative and graphic formats.

Participants

Nine people living with dementia and five family members participated in this study.

Results

Using enhanced methods and outreach, it was possible to adapt the PPIE process so that not only family members and people with milder cognitive difficulties could participate, but also those with more pronounced cognitive problems whose voices are less often heard.

Conclusions

Making creative adaptations is vital in PPIE involving people living with dementia if we wish to develop inclusive forms of PPIE practice. This may, however, raise new ethical issues, which are briefly discussed.

Patient or Public Contribution

People with dementia and their families were involved in the design and conduct of the study, in the interpretation of data and in the preparation of the manuscript.
The role of body size in nest‐site selection by secondary cavity‐nesting birds in a subtropical Chaco forest
Authors: Di Sallo Facundo G. , Cockle Kristina L.
Published: August 2021

Most bird species that nest in tree cavities globally occur in diverse assemblages in little‐studied tropical and subtropical forests which have high rates of habitat loss. Conservation of these communities will require an understanding of how species traits, such as body size, influence nest‐site selection. We examined patterns of nest‐site selection of secondary cavity‐nesting birds at the nest patch, tree and cavity scale, and investigated how these patterns are influenced by body size. Using conditional logistic regression, we compared characteristics of 155 nest tree cavities paired with 155 unused tree cavities in quebracho Schinopsis balansae forests in Chaco National Park, Argentina (2016–2018). The odds of a cavity being used for nesting increased with its depth and height above ground, decreased with entrance size, and were greater for dead trees than live. Small‐bodied (13–90 g) species used floor diameters in proportion to availability, but medium‐ (150–200 g) and large‐bodied (400–700 g) species selected cavities with larger floors. Model selection indicated that characteristics at the nest patch scale (canopy cover, tree density) had little effect on nest‐site selection when cavity‐scale variables were included. Cavity floor diameter, entrance size, cavity height and tree diameter (but not cavity depth) increased with body mass, and larger bird species more often used live trees. Two tree species proved to be key for the community: large and medium‐sized birds used almost exclusively large live Schinopsis balansae, whereas small birds used live and dead Prosopis spp. in a proportion greater than its availability. Small birds could be differentiated according to species‐specific cavity characteristics, but medium and large species overlapped considerably with one another. Although body mass explained much of the overall variation in tree and cavity characteristics between small and medium/large species, several small‐bodied species consistently used cavities outside of the expected characteristics for their body size, suggesting that other natural history traits may play important roles in nest‐site selection by small‐bodied birds. To retain the full suite of secondary cavity‐nesters in species‐rich tropical and subtropical forests, it is necessary to conserve a diversity of trees and cavities that meet the full range of nesting requirements of these trait‐diverse communities.
Integrated corrosion‐resistant system for AZ31B Mg alloy via plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) and sol‐gel processes
Authors: Merino Emilia , Durán Alicia , Castro Yolanda
Published: August 2021

In this work, an integrated system that combines anodizing process with the deposition of a hybrid SiO2 sol‐gel coating was developed with the aim of improving the corrosion resistance of AZ31B Mg alloy. The optimization of the anodizing conditions using an alkaline electrolyte (NaOH) modified with different concentrations of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate was explored together with the preparation and deposition of a SiO2 sol obtained by hydrolysis and condensation of TEOS (tetraethoxysilane), GPTMS (3‐Glycidyloxypropyl) trimethoxysilane), colloidal SiO2 nanoparticles, and 1‐Methylimidazole (MI). The surface morphology, coating thickness, and composition were evaluated. The anodized coatings thickness was between 1.1 and 1.7 μm with composition corresponding to magnesium oxide and low silicon content. The corrosion performance was tested in 3.5% NaCl solution. The results revealed a good corrosion resistance behavior after the anodizing of the Mg alloys. However, the best corrosion resistance was reached when the porous PEO layer was sealed with a hybrid silica sol‐gel film. A decrease in the corrosion current density of three orders of magnitude is observed between Mg alloy (1.54E‐06 A/cm2) and multilayer system (2.80E‐8 A/cm2). Moreover, the polarization resistance for 8AF+SG samples showed a quite high value (31546.8 Ω cm2) compared to Mg alloy (207.3 Ω cm2).
Determinants and consequences of auditor‐provided tax services: A systematic review of the international literature
Authors: Sun Xuan Sean , Habib Ahsan
Published: August 2021

We review the empirical literature on the determinants and consequences of auditor‐provided tax services (APTS) and provide some directions for future research. We first summarise two theoretical but competing perspectives on APTS provision, namely, the knowledge spillover effect and the impaired independence effect. We then review the evolution of APTS‐related disclosures and regulations in selected jurisdictions. Our review of the determinants of APTS suggests that such decisions are related to the cost–benefit trade‐off. We then review the literature on the consequences of APTS. This strand of the literature in the United States supports the knowledge spillover effect, but the findings in non‐US settings are mixed. The market perceptions of APTS in both the US and non‐US settings suggest that market participants react to APTS negatively during uncertain periods, whereas nonarchival studies suggest that the perceptions of APTS vary between stakeholder groups and with the types of APTS provided.
Internal control material weakness and CEO recruitment
Authors: Khurana Inder K. , Kyung Hoyoun
Published: August 2021

Prior research finds that internal control material weakness (ICMW) reduces the reliability of financial reporting numbers, imposes costs on firms and affects firm performance. Given these effects, we examine two research questions: Does the disclosure of ICMW hamper a firm's ability to hire high‐ability CEOs? Consequentially, does it also impact CEO contracting in terms of the compensation offered to newly hired CEOs? We provide three key findings. First, we find firms that disclose ICMW are more likely to appoint CEOs with lower managerial ability relative to firms that do not disclose ICMW. Second, we find ICMW firms offer lower compensation to new CEOs, suggesting that the pay offered is commensurate with the ability of the CEO recruited. However, the negative relation between ICMW and compensation is attenuated for individual CEOs with relatively higher abilities. Further analyses reveal that some high‐ability CEOs do take positions at ICMW firms, but these ICMW firms pay a premium to hire them, which contributes to greater dispersion and disparity in pay among the top‐five executives. Overall, our results point to ICMW imposing labor market consequences in terms of firm recruitment of high‐ability CEOs.
Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in HFpEF patients—A propensity‐score‐matched analysis
Authors: Rattka Manuel , Kühberger Anna , Pott Alexander , Stephan Tilman , Weinmann Karolina , Baumhardt Michael , Aktolga Deniz , Teumer Yannick , Bothner Carlo , Scharnbeck Dominik , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Dahme Tillman
Published: August 2021

Background

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are both common conditions associated with high morbidity and mortality, especially if they coexist. Catheter ablation (CA) for AF has been shown recently to induce reverse remodeling and improve symptoms in HFpEF patients. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of AF patients with HFpEF, who either underwent CA for AF or received medical therapy only.

Methods and Results

We included all AF patients with HFpEF according to current guidelines treated at our hospital between 2013 and 2018. Out of 6614 AF patients, we identified 127 with confirmed HFpEF. After applying propensity score matching to balance patient groups, 43 patients treated by CA and 43 patients receiving medical treatment were compared. Patients in the CA group underwent a mean of 1.5 ± 0.8 ablation procedures. Arrhythmia recurrence occurred significantly less frequently in the CA group (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.25–0.87; p = .016). The primary endpoint, a composite of heart failure hospitalization and death, was reduced significantly by CA compared to medical therapy (HR: 0.30; 95% CI: 0.13–0.67; p = .003). This was driven by a decrease in heart failure hospitalization. Clinical and echocardiographic parameters of HFpEF improved significantly only after CA. Remarkably, reassessment of diagnostic HFpEF criteria at the end of follow‐up demonstrated HFpEF resolution in 15 out of 43 patients (35%) treated by CA and only 4 out of 43 patients (9%) treated medically (p = .008).

Conclusion

Catheter ablation for AF in HFpEF patients in comparison to medical therapy decreases heart failure hospitalization, heart failure symptoms, and improves diastolic function. AF ablation should be considered in patients with HFpEF and concomitant AF.
Acute and chronic effects of endocardial radiofrequency ablation of septal hypertrophy in HOCM
Authors: Lawrenz Thorsten , Lawin Dennis , Radke Kristin , Stellbrink Christoph
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Endocardial radiofrequency ablation of septal hypertrophy (ERASH) is an alternative to alcohol septal ablation (ASA) or surgical myectomy for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). Several studies have confirmed that septal radiofrequency ablation leads to a significant reduction in the left ventricular outflow tract gradient.

Objectives

We aimed to report the outcomes of 41 patients who underwent ERASH with a focus on severe complications.

Methods

Since 2004, 41 patients with HOCM (age: 58.2 ± 13 years) underwent ERASH at our institution. ERASH was performed, since ASA was ineffective (26 patients) or not possible (15 patients).

Results

The left ventricular outflow tract and the right ventricular septum were ablated in 26 and 15 patients, respectively. ERASH resulted in a significant reduction in acute gradient during the session and the results persisted during the 6‐month follow‐up (67% gradient reduction at rest and 73% after provocation, p = .0002). Pacemaker dependency after ERASH was 29% and pericardial tamponade occurred in two patients. In four patients, ERASH induced a paradoxical increase in obstruction (PIO), beginning suddenly at 30 min after the procedure and leading to lethal shock in one patient. PIO was not observed after ERASH from the right ventricular aspect.

Conclusion

Morbidity and mortality after ERASH were higher than those after ASA. PIO, a life‐threatening complication, was observed in 9% of the patients. Our data indicate that ERASH might be considered in patients who are not candidates for surgical myectomy or ASA.
LncRNA GACAT1 induces tongue squamous cell carcinoma migration and proliferation via miR‐149
Authors: Wang Xueling , Gong Zuode , Ma Long , Wang Qibao
Published: August 2021

Recent studies have observed that lncRNAs (long non‐coding RNAs) are involved in the progression of various tumours including tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). Recently, a new lnRNA, GACAT1, has been firstly identified in gastric cancer. However, its potential role in TSCC remains unknown. In this reference, we observed that GACAT1 was overexpressed in TSCC samples and cell lines. Of 25 TSCC specimens, GACAT1 expression was overexpressed in 18 patients (18/25, 72%) compared to non‐tumour specimens. Ectopic expression of GACAT1 induced cell growth and migration and promoted epithelial to mesenchymal transition in TSCC. In addition, ectopic expression of GACAT1 decreased miR‐149 expression in SCC1 cell. We observed that miR‐149 expression was down‐regulated in TSCC cell lines. Moreover, we observed that GACAT1 expression was negatively correlated with miR‐149 expression. GACAT1 overexpression induced TSCC cell growth and migration via regulating miR‐149 expression. These data provided that GACAT1 played an oncogenic role in the progression of TSCC partly through modulating miR‐149 expression.
Targeting hexokinase 2 increases the sensitivity of oxaliplatin by Twist1 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chan Sze‐Hoi , Liu Xue‐Qi , Shi Yuan‐Yuan , Dong Zhao‐Xia , Shao Xin‐Rong , Zheng Li‐Yuan , Mai Zhi‐Ying , Fang Tian‐Liang , Deng Li‐Zhi , Zhou Di‐Sheng , Chen Shu‐Na , Li Miao , Zhang Xing‐Ding
Published: August 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most malignant tumour worldwide, with high mortality and recurrence. Chemoresistance is one of the main factors leading to metastasis and poor prognosis in advanced CRC patients. By analysing the Gene Expression Omnibus data set, we found higher hexokinase 2 (HK2) expression levels in patients with metastatic CRC than in those with primary CRC. Moreover, we observed higher enrichment in oxaliplatin resistance‐related gene sets in metastatic CRC than in primary CRC. However, the underlying relationship has not yet been elucidated. In our study, HK2 expression was significantly elevated in CRC patients. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed multi‐drug resistance and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathways related to high HK2 expression. Our results showed that knockdown of HK2 significantly inhibited vimentin and Twist1 expression and promoted TJP1 and E‐cadherin expression in CRC cells. Additionally, transcriptional and enzymatic inhibition of HK2 by 3‐bromopyruvate (3‐bp) impaired oxaliplatin resistance in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, HK2 interacts with and stabilized Twist1 by preventing its ubiquitin‐mediated degradation, which is related to oxaliplatin resistance, in CRC cells. Overexpression of Twist1 reduced the apoptosis rate by HK2 knockdown in CRC cells. Collectively, we discovered that HK2 is a crucial regulator that mediates oxaliplatin resistance through Twist1. These findings identify HK2 and Twist1 as promising drug targets for CRC chemoresistance.
Evidence for genetic isolation and local adaptation in the field cricket Gryllus campestris
Authors: Tregenza Tom , Rodríguez‐Muñoz Rolando , Boonekamp Jelle J. , Hopwood Paul E. , Sørensen Jesper Givskov , Bechsgaard Jesper , Settepani Virginia , Hegde Vinayaka , Waldie Callum , May Emma , Peters Caleb , Pennington Zinnia , Leone Paola , Munk Emil M. , Greenrod Samuel T. E. , Gosling Joe , Coles Harry , Gruffydd Rhodri , Capria Loris , Potter Laura , Bilde Trine
Published: August 2021

Understanding how species can thrive in a range of environments is a central challenge for evolutionary ecology. There is strong evidence for local adaptation along large‐scale ecological clines in insects. However, potential adaptation among neighbouring populations differing in their environment has been studied much less. We used RAD sequencing to quantify genetic divergence and clustering of ten populations of the field cricket Gryllus campestris in the Cantabrian Mountains of northern Spain, and an outgroup on the inland plain. Our populations were chosen to represent replicate high and low altitude habitats. We identified genetic clusters that include both high and low altitude populations indicating that the two habitat types do not hold ancestrally distinct lineages. Using common‐garden rearing experiments to remove environmental effects, we found evidence for differences between high and low altitude populations in physiological and life‐history traits. As predicted by the local adaptation hypothesis, crickets with parents from cooler (high altitude) populations recovered from periods of extreme cooling more rapidly than those with parents from warmer (low altitude) populations. Growth rates also differed between offspring from high and low altitude populations. However, contrary to our prediction that crickets from high altitudes would grow faster, the most striking difference was that at high temperatures, growth was fastest in individuals from low altitudes. Our findings reveal that populations a few tens of kilometres apart have independently evolved adaptations to their environment. This suggests that local adaptation in a range of traits may be commonplace even in mobile invertebrates at scales of a small fraction of species' distributions.
Evolution of male genitalia in theDrosophila repletaspecies group (Diptera: Drosophilidae)
Authors: Stefanini Manuel I. , Gottschalk Marco S. , Calvo Natalia S. , Soto Ignacio M.
Published: August 2021

TheDrosophila repletagroup comprises more than one hundred species that inhabit several environments in the Neotropics and use different hosts as rearing and feeding resources. Rather homogeneous in their external morphology, they are generally distinguished by the male genitalia, seemingly their fastest evolving morphological trait, constituting an excellent model to study patterns of genital evolution in the context of a continental adaptive radiation. Although much is known about the evolution of animal genitalia at population level, surveys on macroevolutionary scale of this phenomenon are scarce. This study used a suite of phylogenetic comparative methods to elucidate the macroevolutionary patterns of genital evolution through deep time and large continental scales. Our results indicate that male genital size and some aspects of shape have been evolving by speciational evolution, probably due to the microevolutionary processes involved in species mate recognition. In contrast, several features of the aedeagus shape seemed to have evolved in a gradual fashion, with heterogeneous evolutionary phenotypic rates among clades. In general, the tempo of the evolution of aedeagus morphology was constant from the origin of the group until the Pliocene, when it accelerated in some clades that diversified mainly in this period. The incidence of novel ecological conditions in the tempo of aedeagus evolution and the relationship between species mate recognition and speciation in theDrosophila repletagroup are discussed.
A rapid LAMP‐based colorimetric assay with quick DNA extraction for on‐site identification of Drosophila suzukii Matsumura
Authors: Wang Xiaoxue , Liu Bo , Zhang Yue , Zhai Yifan , Ullah Farman , Li Zhihong
Published: August 2021

The spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae), distributes in most soft‐skinned fruit areas in China, is an economically important pest of fresh cherries during Sino‐European trade and is considered a quarantine pest in A2 list by European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization. Loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is an accurate, quick and convenient molecular identification method, applied to distinguish D. suzukii from other fruit flies. This method can be used for inspection in the field, and at the points of entry (POEs), because its results can be detected with the naked eye due to colour changes. In our study, first, we reported a simple and fast LAMP colorimetric detection method for molecular identification of D. suzukii. We designed primer sets for D. suzukii based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) sequences. The specificity and sensitivity of the primers were tested by using target and non‐target fruit flies in the family Drosophilidae and Tephritidae, usually intercepted during the Sino‐European cherry trade. Second, for detection in the field and at POEs, the adoption of a quick DNA extraction method could save the total time of LAMP identification to about 90 min. Taken together, this accurate, quick and convenient LAMP‐based colorimetric identification assay combined with a quick DNA extraction method could visually detect clearly with just one portable heating device, which will be useful for rapid on‐site identification and inspection for D. suzukii by the quarantine department.
The socket shield technique for immediate implant placement: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Atieh Momen A. , Shah Maanas , Abdulkareem Mohammed , AlQahtani Haif A. , Alsabeeha Nabeel H. M.
Published: August 2021

Background

Immediate implant placement with socket shield technique (SST) may maintain the buccal bone plate and soft tissue levels, however, the potential clinical benefits of SST lack strong scientific evidence. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the effects of SST on dimensional changes of hard tissues, esthetic outcomes, implant stability, complication, and implant failure rates.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared immediate implant placement with and without SST. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias tool. Data were analyzed using a statistical software program.

Results

A total of 982 studies were identified, of which, seven RCTs with 206 immediately placed dental implants in 191 participants were included. Overall meta‐analysis showed significant differences in the changes in buccal bone plate width (mean difference (MD) –0.22; 95% confidence interval (CI) –0.30 to −0.15; p < 0.0001) and height (MD –0.52; 95% CI ‐0.85 to −0.18; p = 0.002) in favor of SST. The use of SST was also associated with significantly less changes in peri‐implant marginal bone levels and better pink esthetic score than immediately placing implants without SST. The differences in implant stability, complication and implant failure rates were not statistically significant between immediate implant placement with or without SST.

Conclusions

The short‐term complication and implant failure rates following immediate implant placement with or without SST were comparable. The SST has short‐term positive effects on the changes in width and height of buccal bone plate, peri‐implant marginal bone levels and esthetic outcomes. Further evidence from long‐term RCTs are still required to substantiate the current findings.

Clinical Significance

SST can reduce changes in buccal plate width and height and improve the soft tissue profile following immediate implant placement in esthetic zone.
Walking speed declines with age in male and female baboons (Papio sp.): Confirmation of findings with sex as a biological variable
Authors: Huber Hillary F. , Gerow Kenneth G. , Li Cun , Nathanielsz Peter W.
Published: August 2021

We measured walking speed in baboons (67 female, 36 male; 5–22 years) to develop regression formulas to predict biological age. The final model strongly predicted age from just speed and sex. Walking speed is a valuable baboon aging biomarker. We present the first male speed data in a nonhuman primate.
“Time is our worst enemy:” Lived experiences and intercultural relations in the making of green aluminum
Authors: Normann Susanne
Published: August 2021

Climate change's burden is double for many Indigenous communities: while changing weather‐patterns threaten their ways of life, greenlabeled extractive industries take hold in their territories. This article advances decolonial psychology's engagement with climate change mitigation as a form of green colonization through a multi‐site study of lived experiences among Indigenous and Tribal communities affected by the production of “green aluminum.” The study follows aluminum's value and supply chains interconnecting the indigenous Southern Saami people's struggle to defend their reindeer pasturing lands to the booming wind power industry in Norway and the Brazilian Amazon communities’ confrontations with bauxite‐mining and alumina refineries. Data material consists of individual interviews (N = 25), 13 group interviews and participatory observation. Despite sociocultural differences, participants narrated lived experiences of loss of lifeworlds and meaning‐systems resulting from wind power and aluminum production, and harmful experiences with companies and bureaucracy thematized as forms of “bad faith.” They discussed different mechanisms of violence and dehumanization in hegemonic green agendas. By highlighting how Green New Deal (GND) proposals in Norway forward aluminum‐smelting as exemplar of just transition and green inclusion, the study's findings suggest that for proliferating GND's to be inclusive and just, their scope must be international and decolonial.
The toolkit of a hunter – functional morphology of larval mouthparts in a dragonfly
Authors: Büsse S. , Tröger H.‐L. , Gorb S. N.
Published: August 2021

The diversity of mouthpart specializations in insects is staggering. As a direct consequence thereof, the knowledge about the mouthpart geometry, muscle attachment and feeding kinematics is incomplete for the vast majority of insect taxa – as it is for dragonflies. The adult dragonflies catch their prey in flight, while the aquatic larvae prey under water – both life stages being key predators in their biotopes. To gain insights into the functional morphology of the biting‐chewing mouthparts of larval Anax imperator, we combined results from micro computed tomography (µCT), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and high‐speed videography. Anax imperator larvae were filmed during the feeding process to describe the movement and coordination of the mouthparts. These results, together with µCT‐data, allowing for a comprehensive visualization of the 3D‐geometry and corresponding musculature of each mouthpart. The material composition of the cuticle strongly influences the strength, mobility and durability of the cuticular components of the mouthparts. With this paper, we elucidate the anatomy, geometry and material composition of A. imperator's larval mouthparts in the light of the feeding process. Furthermore, we try to lay a foundation for functional morphological comparisons of mouthparts (1) between dragonfly species belonging to different eco‐types according to their food preferences and feeding habits or even (2) between different insect groups.
Lake microbial communities are not resistant or resilient to repeated large‐scale natural pulse disturbances
Authors: Brasell Katie A. , Howarth Jamie , Pearman John K. , Fitzsimons Sean J. , Zaiko Anastasija , Pochon Xavier , Vandergoes Marcus J. , Simon Kevin S. , Wood Susanna A.
Published: August 2021

Opportunities to study community‐level responses to extreme natural pulse disturbances in unaltered ecosystems are rare. Lake sediment records that span thousands of years can contain well‐resolved sediment pulses, triggered by earthquakes. These palaeorecords provide a means to study repeated pulse disturbances and processes of resistance (insensitivity to disturbance) and ecological resilience (capacity to regain structure, function and process). In this study, sedimentary DNA was extracted from a sediment core from Lake Paringa (New Zealand) that is situated in a near natural catchment. Metabarcoding and inferred functions were used to assess the lake microbial community over the past 1100 years – a period that included four major earthquakes. Microbial community composition and function differed significantly between highly perturbed (postseismic, ~50 years) phases directly after the earthquakes and more stable (interseismic, ~250 years) phases, indicating a lack of community resistance. Although community structure differed significantly in successive postseismic phases, function did not, suggesting potential functional redundancy. Significant differences in composition and function in successive interseismic phases demonstrate that communities are not resilient to large‐scale natural pulse disturbances. The clear difference in structure and function, and high number of indicator taxa (responsible for driving differences in communities between phases) in the fourth interseismic phase probably represents a regime shift, possibly due to the two‐fold increase in sediment and terrestrial biospheric organic carbon fluxes recorded following the fourth earthquake. Large pulse disturbances that enhance sediment inputs into lake systems may produce an underappreciated mechanism that destabilises lake ecosystem processes.
Diastolic and systolic left ventricular dysfunction and mortality in chronic kidney disease patients on haemodialysis
Authors: De Lima Jose J. G. , Macedo Thiago A. , Gowdak Luis Henrique W. , David‐Neto Elias , Bortolotto Luiz A.
Published: August 2021

Aims

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and LV systolic dysfunction (LVSD) are prevalent in CKD, but their prognostic relevance is debatable.

We intent to verify whether LVDD and LVSD are independently predictive of all‐cause mortality and if they have comparable or different effects on outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of the echocardiographic data of 1285 haemodialysis patients followed up until death or transplantation. LVDD was classified into 4 grades of severity. Endpoint was all‐cause mortality.

Results

During a follow‐up of 30 months, 419/1285 (33%) patients died, 224 (53%) due to CV events. LVDD occurred in 75% of patients, grade 1 DD was the prevalent diastolic abnormality, and pseudonormal pattern was the predominant form of moderate–severe DD. Moderate–severe LVDD (HR 1.379, CI% 1.074–1.770) and LVSD (HR 1.814, CI% 1.265–2.576) independently predicted death; a graded, progressive association was found between LVDD categories and the risk of death; and the impact of isolated severe–moderate LVDD on the risk of death was comparable to that exercised by isolated compromised LV systolic function.

Conclusion

Moderate–severe LVDD and LVSD were independently associated with a higher probability of death and had a similar impact on survival. A progressive association was observed between LVDD grades and mortality.
Neurotensin secretion after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and truncal vagotomy with pyloroplasty
Authors: Svane Maria S. , Øhrstrøm Caroline C. , Plamboeck Astrid , Jørgensen Nils B. , Bojsen‐Møller Kirstine N. , Dirksen Carsten , Martinussen Christoffer , Vilsbøll Tina , Hartmann Bolette , Deacon Carolyn F. , Kristiansen Viggo B. , Knop Filip K. , Svendsen Lars B. , Madsbad Sten , Holst Jens J. , Veedfald Simon
Published: August 2021

Objective

Neurotensin (NT) is released from enteroendocrine cells and lowers food intake in rodents. We evaluated postprandial NT secretion in humans after surgeries associated with accelerated small intestinal nutrient delivery, and after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) when glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) signalling and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP‐4) were inhibited, and during pharmacological treatments influencing entero‐pancreatic functions.

Methods

We measured NT concentrations in plasma from meal studies: (I) after truncal vagotomy with pyloroplasty (TVP), cardia resection +TVP (CTVP), and matched controls (n = 10); (II) after RYGB, sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and in matched controls (n = 12); (III) after RYGB (n = 11) with antagonism of GLP‐1 signalling using exendin(9–39) and DPP‐4 inhibition using sitagliptin; (IV) after RYGB (n = 11) during a run‐in period and subsequent treatment with, sitagliptin, liraglutide (GLP‐1 receptor agonist), verapamil (calcium antagonist), acarbose (alpha glucosidase inhibitor), and pasireotide (somatostatin analogue), respectively.

Results

(I) NT secretion was similar after TVP/CTVP (p = 0.9), but increased vs. controls (p < 0.0001). (II) NT secretion was increased after RYGB vs. SG and controls (p < 0.0001). NT responses were similar in SG and controls (p = 0.3), but early postprandial NT concentrations were higher after SG (p < 0.05). (III) Exendin (9–39) and sitagliptin did not change NT responses vs placebo (p > 0.2), but responses were lower during sitagliptin vs. exendin(9–39) (p = 0.03). (IV) Pasireotide suppressed NT secretion (p = 0.004). Sitagliptin tended to lower NT secretion (p = 0.08). Liraglutide, verapamil, and acarbose had no effect (p > 0.9).

Conclusion

Neurotensin secretion is increased after surgeries associated with accelerated gastric emptying and lowered by pasireotide.
Propagation patterns of jejunal motor activity measured by high‐resolution water‐perfused manometry
Authors: Alcala‐Gonzalez Luis Gerardo , Malagelada Carolina , Galan Carmen , Nieto Adoracion , Accarino Anna , Azpiroz Fernando
Published: August 2021

Background

The manometric diagnosis of severe intestinal dysmotility is performed at most institutions using catheters with 2–8 sensors 5–10 cm apart. The recent application of high‐resolution manometry catheters with closely spaced sensors to other gut segments has been highly successful. The objective of the present study was to determine the feasibility of a jejunal high‐resolution manometry method and to carry out a descriptive analysis of normal jejunal motor function.

Methods

A 36‐channel high‐resolution water‐perfused manometry catheter (MMS‐Laborie, Enschede, The Netherlands) was orally placed in the jejunum of 18 healthy subjects (10 men, eight women; 21–38 age range). Intestinal motility was recorded during 5 h, 3 during fasting, and 2 after a 450 kcal solid‐liquid meal. Analysis of motility patterns was supported by computerized tools.

Key Results

All healthy subjects except one showed at least one complete migrating motor complex during the 3 h fasting period. Phase III activity lasted 5 ± 1 min and migrated aborally at a velocity of 7 ± 3 cm/min. High‐resolution spatial analysis showed that during phase III each individual contraction propagated rapidly (75 ± 37 cm/min) over a 32 ± 10 cm segment of the jejunum. During phase II, most contractile activity corresponded to propagated contractile events which increased in frequency from early to late phase II (0.5 ± 0.9 vs 2.5 ± 1.3 events/10 min, respectively; p < 0.001). After meal ingestion, non‐propagated activity increased, whereas propagated events were less frequent than during late phase II.

Conclusions & Inferences

Jejunal motility analysis with high‐resolution manometry identifies propagated contractile patterns which are not apparent with conventional manometric catheters.
Childhood overweight and obesity in Europe: Changes from 2007 to 2017
Authors: Buoncristiano Marta , Spinelli Angela , Williams Julianne , Nardone Paola , Rito Ana Isabel , García‐Solano Marta , Grøholt Else Karin , Gutiérrez‐González Enrique , Klepp Knut Inge , Starc Gregor , Petrauskienė Aušra , Kunešová Marie , Hassapidou Maria , Pérez‐Farinós Napoleón , Pudule Iveta , Kelleher Cecily C. , Duleva Vesselka , Rakovac Ivo , Chatterjee Saion , Breda João
Published: August 2021

The Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI) routinely measures height and weight of primary school children aged 6–9 years and calculates overweight and obesity prevalence within the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region using a standard methodology. This study examines the trends in the prevalence of overweight and obesity from the first round of COSI carried out in 2007/2008 to the latest of 2015/2017 in 11 European countries in which data were collected for at least three rounds. In total 303,155 children were measured. In general, the prevalence of overweight and obesity among boys and girls decreased in countries with high prevalence (Southern Europe) and remained stable or slightly increased in Northern European and Eastern European countries included in the analysis. Among boys, the highest decrease in overweight (including obesity) was observed in Portugal (from 40.5% in 2007/2008 to 28.4 in 2015/2017) and in Greece for obesity (from 30.5% in 2009/2010 to 21.7% in 2015/2017). Lithuania recorded the strongest increase in the proportion of boys with overweight (from 24.8% to 28.5%) and obesity (from 9.4% to 12.2%). The trends were similar for boys and girls in most countries. Several countries in Europe have successfully implemented policies and interventions to counteract the increase of overweight and obesity, but there is still much to be done.
Higher circulating EGF levels associate with a decreased risk of IgE sensitization in young children
Authors: Reinert‐Hartwall Linnea , Siljander Heli , Härkönen Taina , Vatanen Tommi , Ilonen Jorma , Niemelä Onni , Luopajärvi Kristiina , Dorshakova Natalya , Mokurov Sergei , Peet Aleksandr , Tillmann Vallo , Uibo Raivo , Knip Mikael , Vaarala Outi , Honkanen Jarno ,   DIABIMMUNE study group
Published: August 2021

Background

Decreased exposure to microbial agents in industrialized countries and urban living areas is considered as a risk factor of developing immune‐mediated diseases, such as allergies and asthma. Epithelial surfaces in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts and in the skin constitute the primary areas in contact with the environmental microbial load.

Methods

We analyzed the levels of 30 cytokines and growth factors in serum or plasma as markers of the immune maturation in the participants in the DIABIMMUNE study from Russian Karelia (n = 60), Estonia (n = 83) and Finland (n = 89), three neighboring countries with remarkable differences in the incidences of allergies, asthma and autoimmune diseases.

Results

We observed an upregulation of T helper cell signature cytokines during the first 12 months of life, reflecting natural development of adaptive immune responses. During the first years of life, circulating concentrations of epidermal growth factor (EGF) were significantly higher, especially in Russian children compared with Finnish children. The children who developed IgE sensitization showed lower levels of EGF than those without such responses.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that low circulating EGF levels associate with the risk of allergies possibly via the effects on the epithelial integrity and mucosal homeostasis.
Clinical features of pediatric renal glucosuria cases due to SLC5A2 gene variants
Authors: Dorum Sevil , Erdoğan Hakan , Köksoy Adem Yasin , Topak Ali , Görükmez Özlem
Published: August 2021

Background

Familial renal glycosuria (FRG) is a rare renal tubular disorder characterized by a variable loss of glucose in the urine despite normal blood glucose levels, which is seen in a condition in which other tubular functions are preserved. In this study, the molecular and clinical characteristics of pediatric FRG cases due to SLC5A2 gene variants were defined.

Methods

Demographic features, diagnostic tests, and molecular analyses of patients with a diagnosis of FRG cases due to SLC5A2 gene variants were retrospectively analyzed between 2016 and 2019.

Results

The data of 16 patients who were clinically and genetically diagnosed with FRG in a 4‐year period were analyzed. Seven (44%) of the cases were female and 9 (56%) were male. The median age at diagnosis was 6 years old (2 months old to 17 years old). Neuromotor development was found to be appropriate for the age in each case. Systemic blood pressure was evaluated as normal. A homozygous pathogenic variant in the SLC5A2 gene was detected in 14 patients in the genetic examination. A heterozygous variant was detected in one patient. In the other patient, two different heterozygous pathological variants were found in the SLC5A2 gene.

Conclusions

It was revealed that growth and development were normal in children with glucosuria due to variations in the SCL5A2 gene. Renal function tests and urinary amino acid excretion were also within normal values. In our case series, the most common genetic variation in the SCL5A2 gene was the A219T (c.655G>A) variant.
Body status and blood metabolites profiles during resumption of postpartum ovarian activity in yak (Poephagus grunniens)
Authors: Paul Vijay , Krishnan G. , Deori S. , Bam Joken , Chakravarty P. , Sarkar M.
Published: August 2021

We examined the changes in body weight (BW), back‐fat thickness (BFT) and blood metabolites in relation to postpartum (PP) ovarian activity status in twenty female yaks raised under semi‐intensive system. BFT and ovarian activities, like follicle development, ovulation (OV) and corpus luteum (CL) development, were monitored from 4 to 15 weeks (wk) PP using ultrasonography. Resumption of ovarian activity was confirmed with ovulation of dominant follicle (DF) and subsequent CL development, and >1 ng/ml progesterone concentration in blood plasma sample after 1week of ovulation. Yaks were further classified as cyclic (with CL), acyclic (without CL), and cystic (with >25 mm follicular cyst; FC). Within 20 weeks PP, 60% yaks resumed cyclic ovarian activity, while 25% failed to initiate cycling activity, and 15% developed follicular cysts. In all categories of yak, BW gradually decreased (p < .05) till nadir; however, nadir reached earlier (p < .05) in acyclic yaks. BFT differed (p < .05) among the yak groups, but it tended to be higher in cyclic yaks as compared to acyclic and cystic. No difference (p > .05) in non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA) values was found among the different categories of yaks, whereas, beta‐hydroxy butyrate (BHB) levels were higher in cystic animals as compared to acyclic and cyclic. Blood glucose levels decreased in all yaks during initial 2 weeks after calving. Our findings suggest that yaks with low BW, BFT and glucose levels, and higher BHB values were at risk of delayed resumption of ovarian activity and concomitant development of follicular cysts.
Workforce needs and estimated costs/savings for nutrition care in chronic kidney disease–stage 3 through maintenance dialysis
Authors: Hand Rosa K.
Published: August 2021

The role of nutrition in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is well known. However, controversies, misconceptions, and gaps in the literature exist regarding the workforce required to provide nutrition care in CKD. This paper reviews the existing literature on this topic, focusing primarily on the United States. Topics covered in this review include the qualifications and services of the registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), to which specific patients nutrition care should be provided in CKD and on dialysis, barriers to the utilization of nutrition services, the quantity of nutrition care needed to improve patient outcomes, and the risks of provider burnout. Controversies include whether more staffing is associated with better care and the best measures of staffing. The topics are supported with estimations for the economic impact and practicality of workforce decisions.
Continuous glucose monitoring in an end‐stage renal disease patient with diabetes receiving hemodialysis
Authors: Narasaki Yoko , Park Elisa , You Amy S. , Daza Andrea , Peralta Rene Amel , Guerrero Yalitzi , Novoa Alejandra , Amin Alpesh N. , Nguyen Danh V. , Price David , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kamyar , Rhee Connie M.
Published: August 2021

Diabetes is the leading cause of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) and contributes to heightened morbidity and mortality in dialysis patients. Given that ESRD patients are susceptible to hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia via multiple pathways, adequate glycemic monitoring and control is a cornerstone in diabetic kidney disease management. In ESRD, existing glycemic metrics such as glycated hemoglobin, self‐monitored blood glucose, fructosamine, and glycated albumin have limitations in accuracy, convenience, and accessibility. In contrast, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides automated, less invasive glucose measurements and more comprehensive glycemic data versus conventional metrics. Here, we report a 48‐year‐old male with ESRD due to diabetes receiving thrice‐weekly hemodialysis who experienced decreased patient‐burden, greater glucose monitoring adherence, improved glycemic parameters, and reduction in hypoglycemia after transitioning to CGM. Through this case, we discuss how CGM is a practical, convenient patient‐centered tool that may improve metabolic outcomes and quality of life in ESRD patients with diabetes.
Os Paleóntologos Brasileiros
Authors: Ramos J. R. De Andrade
Published: August 2021

The Author describes, under a personal view, the Brazilian paleontological scenary and its actors. He starts describing very briefly the different contributions to the fossil bibliography, with the Priest Manuel Ayres de Casal, who wrote reference to Brazilian pleistocene mammals, in 1819. Lund and all the pioneer scientists are mentioned, with short explanations. Agassiz, Hartt, Derby, Maury, Euzébio de Oliveira, Mathias Roxo, Price, Camargo Mendes, Kegel, the Petrobrás paleontologists, and several younger scientists are mentioned, with brief references to their work.
Investigation of the Power Generation Performance of a Stack by Reverse Electrodialysis and Its Influencing Factors
Authors: Li Mei , Wang Yiwei , Guo Jiabin , Li Xiaoliang , Guo Pengcheng
Published: August 2021

This paper presents an experimental study on the performance of a reverse electrodialysis (RED) stack for SELEMION, ASTOM, and FUJI membranes with the cell pair number from 3 to 15 and flowrate from 5 to 60 L/h over a wide solution concentration range from 1 to 120 g/L. Direct current and alternate current measurements are employed to identify quantitatively the contribution of ohmic and non-ohmic resistances to the stack total resistance and then, the power output is predicted theoretically. The results show that the ohmic resistance dominates in the stack total resistance and accounts for about 90%. The factors such as the membrane type, cell pair, solution concentration, and flowrate have a considerable impact on the power generation process of RED. Especially, simultaneously increasing the high concentration (HC) and low concentration (LC) solution concentrations is more conducive to suppressing the concentration polarization when compared with increasing HC solution concentration alone. Although the concentration polarization maintains declining with the increase in flowrate, the flowrate should not be too large in order to harvest the highest power output by reason of serious tangential flow at higher flowrates. The optimal performance of RED stack is obtained when SELEMION membranes are used with cell pairs of 5, HC–LC solution concentration of 120-4 g/L and feed flowrate of 20 L/h.