bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability improvement incentive strategies in the manufacturing industry
Authors: Wang Suyuan , Song Huaming , Gong Canran
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Companies face the critical reliability problem of products due to the development of outsourcing. This study intends to provide some feasible solutions for a company to improve the reliability level of products.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers the reward and reliability decisions regarding a product made with two complementary components from two different suppliers: high-capable and low-capable. Two kinds of reliability improvement incentives (normal incentive and cost-sharing incentive) through which a manufacturer provides a reward and shares the reliability improvement cost with a supplier are discussed. As the Stackelberg leader, the manufacturer determines the strategy, while the suppliers are responsible for determining its reliability. Using a game-theoretic framework, four different contract scenarios are addressed. We develop analytical methods to better understand how the manufacturer decides the incentive mechanism to be used for the suppliers.

Findings

The results show that cost-sharing contracts do not always lead to a higher reliability level and more enormous profits. Setting a target reliability level is better for the manufacturer. The cost-sharing contract is beneficial for a high-capable supplier even though it does not directly participate in that kind of mechanism. A low-capable supplier gains more profit when the manufacturer provides incentive mechanisms that do not specify a target reliability level.

Originality/value

This paper investigates the reliability improvement mechanism used for complementary products and focuses on identifying the optimal decisions when demand is influenced by the gap between the product's failure rate and the standard failure rate.
Evaluation of the integration level of quality and environmental management systems in a tire manufacturer
Authors: Silva Thais Coutinho Gonçalves , Anholon Rosley , Rampasso Izabela Simon , Quelhas Osvaldo Luiz Gonçalves , Leal Filho Walter , Santa-Eulalia Luis Antonio , Lima Junior Francisco Rodrigues
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This article aims to evaluate the integration level of a quality management system (QMS) and an environmental management system (EMS) in a tire manufacturer and propose a guide to evaluate the integration of these systems in companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological strategies used in this research were literature review; and case study, with interviews to verify professionals' perception about benefits from integration. Data from interviews were analyzed through Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS).

Findings

The results showed that the studied company has a simple level of integration, observing only some low intensity benefits. Thus, it was recommended that the company partially integrate its management systems (MSs) before evolving into something more complex. The literature and the findings of case study were used as basis for proposing a guide to evaluate MS integration.

Originality/value

Lessons learned throughout the study and the suggested guide can support other companies to assess the integration level of their QMS and EMS. Thus, the findings presented here can be useful for researchers and managers.
Forensic analysis on bursting accident of buffer tank in liquefied natural gas bus
Authors: Chai Jun‐Hui , Lv Zhong‐Jie , Shen Zheng‐Xiang , Huan Huang‐Dong , Zhang Xiao‐Long , Zhang Zi‐Jiang , Xu Bo
Published: April 2021

In December 2019, a buffer tank burst accident occurred in the maintenance of liquefied natural gas (LNG) bus in China. Failure analysis revealed the bus‐mounted buffer tank had been subjected to an excessive internal pressurization, although the tank material met the specifications for engineering practice. The physical evidence related to the failed tank showed that a chemical explosion was impossible. As water was used to pouring the frozen pipeline prior to the accident, according to the consequences observed, the rapid phase transition (RPT) explosion of the residual LNG due to external heat from water was regarded as the main causation of incident. The explosion energy was inversely estimated by the TNT equivalent method, and the rapid expansion of natural gas produced excessive pressure, thus causing the buffer tank to explode.
Effect of high‐intensity ultrasound soymilk pretreatment on the physicochemical properties of microbial transglutaminase‐catalyzed tofu gel
Authors: Gao Hailing , Xu Jingjing , Tan Mengna , Mu Dongdong , Li Xingjiang , Zhao Yanyan , Zheng Zhi
Published: April 2021

Tofu prepared by conventional methods often has a bitter taste and poor water‐holding capacity (WHC). To improve the quality of the product, alternative processes must be developed. Herein, the effect of ultrasound pretreatment on the properties of soymilk and tofu gel derived thereof were investigated. Treatment of soymilk with ultrasound gave rise to a reduction in the particle size and an enhancement in the surface hydrophobicity, whereby optimum values were obtained after 15 min treatment. Subsequently, microbial transglutaminase (MTG) was added to ultrasound‐treated soymilk to promote the soy protein crosslinking. The gel strength, WHC, and nonfreezable water content of MTG‐catalyzed tofu gel obtained from treated soymilk increased with the extension of the ultrasound pretreatment time, whereas the free sulfhydryl content decreased because of the formation of disulfide bonds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy demonstrated variations in the secondary structure of MTG‐catalyzed tofu gel. Furthermore, soymilk's exposure to high‐intensity ultrasound pretreatment led to a tofu gel with a dense, homogenous, and stable network structure, as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy. Therefore, this study answers for the theoretical support of the industrial production of MTG‐catalyzed tofu gel from ultrasound‐treated soymilk.

Practical Application

High‐intensity ultrasound pretreatment improved the texture properties of MTG‐catalyzed tofu gel. The resulting MTG‐catalyzed tofu gel has potential application in industrial production.
Survival analysis for older patients with epidermal growth factor receptor mutation‐positive advanced non‐small cell lung cancer after progression of first‐line gefitinib
Authors: Nie Xin , Zhang Ping , Cheng Gang , Wu Xiao‐Nan , Li Lin
Published: April 2021

Aim

Currently, little studies focus on treatment strategies and survival after progression of gefitinib in older patients with epidermal growth factor receptor )EGFR( mutant advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different treatment modalities on survival after progression of gefitinib in older patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis included 62 consecutively recruited EGFR‐mutant advanced NSCLC patients aged over 70 years who failed first‐line gefitinib between 2008 and 2018. Kaplan‐Meier method was used to estimate curves for overall survival (OS). Multivariate analysis identified independent prognostic risk factors of OS.

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 75 years (range, 70‐88 years). The median progression‐free survival of gefitinib was 11.0 months. Forty‐four (69.4%) patients continued gefitinib beyond progressive disease (PD), and median gefitinib treatment duration was 18.0 months. Only 67.7% patients received anticancer treatments after discontinuation of gefitinib. The median OS was 24.5 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 19.7‐29.3 months). After failure of gefitinib, the osimertinib only group had significantly improved OS compared with chemotherapy or palliative care only groups (37.5 versus 17.5 and 15.3 months, respectively; P = .017). Multivariate analysis showed that continuous gefitinib after Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor‐defined PD (hazards ratio [HR] 0.273, 95% CI: 0.132‐0.564, P < .001), osimertinib treatment (HR 0.244, 95% CI: 0.122‐0.487, P < .001), and better performance status (HR 0.360, 95% CI: 0.163‐0.796, P = .012) were significantly and independently correlated with better survival.

Conclusion

For older patients with EGFR‐mutant advanced NSCLC, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors are the most important treatment. Survival benefit of chemotherapy after failure of gefitinib seems limited.
Noninvasive biomarkers identify eosinophilic esophagitis: A prospective longitudinal study in children
Authors: Wechsler Joshua B. , Ackerman Steven J. , Chehade Mirna , Amsden Katie , Riffle Mary E. , Wang Ming‐Yu , Du Jian , Kleinjan Matt L. , Alumkal Preeth , Gray Elizabeth , Kim Kwang‐Youn A. , Wershil Barry K. , Kagalwalla Amir F.
Published: April 2021

Background

Esophageal histology is critical for diagnosis and surveillance of disease activity in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). A validated noninvasive biomarker has not been identified. We aimed to determine the utility of blood and urine eosinophil‐associated proteins to diagnose EoE and predict esophageal eosinophilia.

Methods

Blood and urine were collected from children undergoing endoscopy with biopsy. Absolute eosinophil count (AEC), plasma eosinophil‐derived neurotoxin (EDN), eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), major basic protein‐1 (MBP‐1), galectin‐10 (CLC/GAL‐10), Eotaxin‐2 and Eotaxin‐3, and urine osteopontin (OPN) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) were determined. Differences were assessed between EoE and control, and with treatment response. The capacity to predict EoE diagnosis and esophageal eosinophil counts was assessed.

Results

Of 183 specimens were collected from 56 EoE patients and 15 non‐EoE controls with symptoms of esophageal dysfunction; 33 EoE patients had paired pre‐ and post‐treatment specimens. Plasma (CLC/GAL‐10, ECP, EDN, Eotaxin‐3, MBP‐1) and urine (OPN) biomarkers were increased in EoE compared to control. A panel comprising CLC/GAL‐10, Eotaxin‐3, ECP, EDN, MBP‐1, and AEC was superior to AEC alone in distinguishing EoE from control. AEC, CLC/GAL‐10, ECP, and MBP‐1 were significantly decreased in patients with esophageal eosinophil counts <15/hpf in response to treatment. AEC, CLC/GAL‐10, ECP, EDN, OPN, and MBP‐1 each predicted esophageal eosinophil counts utilizing mixed models controlled for age, gender, treatment, and atopy; AEC combined with MBP‐1 best predicted the counts.

Conclusions

We identified novel panels of eosinophil‐associated proteins that along with AEC are superior to AEC alone in distinguishing EoE from controls and predicting esophageal eosinophil counts.
Beware of the bicycle! An increase in paediatric bicycle related injuries during the COVID‐19 period in Western Australia
Authors: van Oudtshoorn Sarah , Chiu Kei Y. C. , Khosa Japinder
Published: April 2021

Background

In Western Australia, the media has reported on an increase in the purchasing, repairs and use of bicycles during the COVID‐19 period. The study aimed to investigate for a relationship in bicycle related injuries in the paediatric population during the time of COVID‐19 restrictions.

Methods

A retrospective study of the incident of motorized and non‐motorized bicycle related injuries and trauma presentations during the COVID‐19 ‘shutdown’ period from March to June 2020. Data were collected from the Emergency Department Information System, discharge summaries, operation and radiology reports. The data presented is from Perth Children's Hospital, the only tertiary paediatric hospital and the only referral centre for childhood trauma in the state of Western Australia. Participants were children aged 15 years and younger attending the emergency department (ED) at Perth Children's Hospital during the designated time period. The primary outcomes included total ED presentations, bicycle related presentations and bicycle related admissions during the COVID‐19 period.

Results

Bicycle related presentations to the ED increased by 42.7% over the COVID‐19 period from 1.4% to 3.0% of all children attending the ED. Children admitted to the hospital with bicycle related injuries or trauma increased by 48.7% from 76 to 113 children in comparison to the same period in 2019.

Conclusion

During the period of COVID‐19 restrictions, paediatric ED presentations decreased dramatically, but bicycle related injuries and trauma increased substantially. Safety equipment including helmets and protective gear should be worn for all children riding bicycles, and social distancing should be maintained.
Development and validation of the parenting and child tooth brushing assessment questionnaire
Authors: Tadakamadla Santosh K. , Mitchell Amy E. , Johnson Newell W. , Morawska Alina
Published: April 2021

Objective

We report the development and validation of a comprehensive Parenting and Child Tooth brushing Assessment (PACTA) questionnaire.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted with community‐recruited Australian parents (N = 450) of children aged 2‐8 years. Parents completed an online survey including the newly developed PACTA (comprising four scales assessing children's tooth brushing behaviours, parenting strategies, attitudes and knowledge) and established scales assessing parenting behaviours, attitudes and self‐efficacy.

Results

Exploratory factor analyses revealed two‐factor structures for scales assessing child behaviour (‘noncompliance’ and ‘avoidance behaviour’), parenting strategies (‘effective strategies’ and ‘ineffective strategies’) and attitudes (‘emotional reactions’ and ‘lack of concern’), whereas the knowledge scale was unidimensional. Internal consistencies were satisfactory (>0.7) for all except the knowledge scale. There was good evidence of convergent and predictive validity. All subscales predicted children's parent‐reported tooth brushing frequency; children were more likely to brush at least twice per day when parents reported fewer tooth brushing behavioural problems, using effective parenting strategies, and having better attitudes and knowledge. Poorer scores on the ‘lack of concern’ subscale of the attitudes scale were the strongest unique predictor of twice‐daily brushing (OR, 95% CI: 1.51, 1.36‐1.67).

Conclusions

PACTA demonstrates satisfactory validity and reliability. Further research assessing sensitivity to change following intervention is warranted.
High‐frequency ultrasound as a scientific tool for skin imaging analysis
Authors: Vergilio Mariane Massufero , Monteiro e Silva Silas Arandas , Jales Rodrigo Menezes , Leonardi Gislaine Ricci
Published: April 2021

Ultrasonic imaging is one of the most important diagnostic tools in clinical medicine due to its cost, availability and good correlation with pathological results. High‐frequency ultrasound (HFUS) is a technique used in skin science that has been little explored, especially in comparison with other sites and imaging techniques. HFUS shows real‐time images of the skin layers, appendages and skin lesions in vivo and can significantly contribute to advances in skin science. This review summarizes the potential applications of HFUS in dermatology and cosmetology, with a focus on quantitative tools that can be used to assess various skin conditions. Our findings showed that HFUS imaging is a reproducible and powerful tool for the diagnosis, clinical management and therapy monitoring of skin conditions. It is also a helpful tool for assessing the performance of dermatological products. This technique may eventually become essential for evaluating the performance of dermatological and cosmetic products.
Pathways from bullying victimization to suicidal thoughts among urban African American adolescents: Implications for nurse practitioners
Authors: Lee Jeoung Min , Hong Jun Sung , Resko Stella M. , Gonzalez‐Prendes A. Antonio , Voisin Dexter R.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Children and adolescents who are victimized by their peers are at an elevated risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Bullying and suicide are major public health concerns; however, studies have not fully addressed the link between peer victimization and suicidal behavior among urban African American youth. The current study proposed and explored the pathways from peer victimization to suicidal thoughts via internalizing behaviors (i.e., low self‐esteem, depression, and hopelessness).

Design and Methods

The sample consisted of 638 African American adolescents (aged 12–22) from low‐income communities in Chicago's Southside. A path model using the structural equation model was employed, controlling for biological sex, age, and government assistance.

Results

The study found that victims of bullying are likely to develop low self‐esteem and depression, and depression can contribute to feelings of hopelessness, thereby increasing suicidal risks.

Conclusions

Understanding the pathways from bullying victimization to suicidal thoughts is beneficial for nurse practitioners who assess and provide services and treatment to adolescents.

Practice Implications

Because of limited resources in urban schools, anti‐bullying programs need to be cost‐effective.
Ambient fine particulate matter exposure and incident mild cognitive impairment and dementia
Authors: Sullivan Kevin J. , Ran Xinhui , Wu Fan , Chang Chung‐Chou H. , Sharma Ravi , Jacobsen Erin , Berman Sarah , Snitz Beth E. , Sekikawa Akira , Talbott Evelyn O. , Ganguli Mary
Published: April 2021

Background/Objective

Poor air quality is implicated as a risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia. Few studies have examined these associations longitudinally in well‐characterized population‐based cohorts with standardized annual assessment of both mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. We investigated the association between estimated ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and risk of incident MCI and dementia in a post‐industrial region known for historically poor air quality.

Setting/Participants

Adults aged 65+ years in a population‐based cohort (n = 1572).

Measurements

Census tract level PM2.5 from Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) air quality monitors; Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR)®.

Design

We estimated ambient PM2.5 exposure (μg/m3, single‐year and 5‐year averages) by geocoding participants' residential addresses to census tracts with daily EPA PM2.5 measurements from 2002 to 2014. Using Bayesian spatial regression modeling adjusted for age, sex, education, smoking history, and household income, we examined the association between estimated PM2.5 exposure and risk of incident MCI (CDR = 0.5) and incident dementia (CDR ≥ 1.0).

Results

Modeling estimated single‐year exposure, each 1 μg/m3 higher ambient PM2.5 was associated with 67% higher adjusted risk of incident dementia (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.669, 95% credible interval [CI]: 1.298, 2.136) and 75% higher adjusted risk of incident MCI (HR = 1.746, 95% CI: 1.518, 2.032). Estimates were higher when modeling 5‐year ambient PM2.5 exposure for incident dementia (HR = 2.082, 95% CI: 1.528, 3.015) and incident MCI (HR = 3.419, 95% CI: 2.806, 4.164).

Conclusions

Higher estimated ambient PM2.5 was associated with higher risk of incident MCI and dementia, particularly when considering longer‐term exposure, and independent of demographic characteristics and smoking history. Targeting poor air quality may be a reasonable population‐wide intervention to reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in older adults, particularly in regions exceeding current recommendations for safe exposure to PM2.5.
The human brain acetylome reveals that decreased acetylation of mitochondrial proteins associates with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Sun Lidan , Bhawal Ruchika , Xu Hui , Chen Huanlian , Anderson Elizabeth T. , Haroutunian Vahrum , Cross Abigail C. , Zhang Sheng , Gibson Gary E.
Published: April 2021

Metabolic changes that correlate to cognitive changes are well‐known in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Metabolism is often linked to functional changes in proteins by post‐translational modifications. The importance of the regulation of transcription by acetylation is well documented. Advanced mass spectrometry reveals hundreds of acetylated proteins in multiple tissues, but the acetylome of human brain, its functional significance, and the changes with disease are unknown. Filling this gap is critical for understanding the pathophysiology and development of therapies. To fill this gap, we assessed the human brain acetylome in human brain and its changes with AD. More than 5% of the 4,442 proteins from the human brain global proteome were acetylated. Acetylated proteins were primarily found in the cytosol (148), mitochondria (100), nucleus (91), and plasma membrane (58). The comparison of the brain acetylome in controls to that of patients with AD revealed striking and selective differences in terms of its abundances of acetylated peptides/sites. Acetylation of 18 mitochondrial proteins decreased, while acetylation of two cytosolic proteins, tau and GFAP, increased. Our experiments demonstrate that acetylation at some specific lysine sites alters enzyme function. The results indicate that general activation of de‐acetylases (i.e., sirtuins) is not an appropriate therapeutic approach for AD.

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Effect of dietary coated granules containing garlic oil diallyl disulphide and diallyl trisulphide on performance, in vitro digestibility and gastrointestinal functionality in laying hens
Authors: Rodjan Prawit , Wattanasit Sutha , Thongprajukaew Karun , Faroongsarng Damrongsak
Published: April 2021

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with coated granules (CG) on performance, in vitro digestibility and the gastrointestinal functionality in laying hens. A total of 40 Hisex Brown laying hens (36 weeks of age) were randomly divided into five equal groups; one served as a control and the other four were actual experimental groups supplemented with 0.75, 1.5, 3 or 6 g CG per day. All the hens were fed restrictively with target feed intake of 100 g basal diet/hen per day. There were no differences in egg production or egg weight among the groups, but feed conversion ratio was significantly improved (linearly, p < 0.05) with the dose level of CG in diet. Dietary CG increased the jejunal weight (linear and quadratic terms, p < 0.05) but decreased the ileal weight (linearly, p < 0.05). There was mostly statistical interaction between dietary CG and specific activity of intestinal digestive enzymes with similar patterns for dietary CG treatments (p < 0.05). A positive linear correlation was observed with in vitro protein digestibility by using the crude enzyme extract from dietary CG supplementation. Dietary CG decreased the caecal Escherichia coli population while the Lactobacillus spp.: E. coli ratio increased (quadratic fit, p < 0.05). CG supplementation, on the other hand, significantly altered intestinal morphology by increasing the height of duodenal and ileal villi (linearly, p < 0.05). Also, duodenal antioxidant capacity observed via remaining reducing power improved linearly (p < 0.05). This suggests that CG, unlike garlic oils without encapsulation, may be a good candidate for feed supplementation in commercial egg production. It could be included up to 6 g CG per day without any adverse effects on performance, which may relate to improving nutrient digestibility and better utilization of limited feed intake when using a low amount of diet or other observations in this study.
Targeted sympathy in “whore court”: Criminal justice actors' perceptions of prostitution diversion programs
Authors: Leon Chrysanthi S. , Shdaimah Corey S.
Published: April 2021

Using interview and focus group data (N = 44) from three study sites, we locate prostitution diversion program (PDP) professionals within logics of punishment and governance. While critical research on problem‐solving justice emphasizes professionals' performative and quasi‐therapeutic roles, inadequate attention has been paid to the contradictory logics of their roles. Involvement in a diversion program reinforces underlying assumptions about whom they are working with and what those people need, in ways that we argue require critical distance. Professionals exploit the paradox of assistance through coercion, and exhibit what we identify as “targeted sympathy.” Targeted sympathy enhances the ability of these professionals to use their discretion to help their clients, but it also elevates a narrow set of acceptable problems and interventions. Created with an understanding of street‐based sex workers as victims, PDPs also rely on hyper‐responsibilization, expecting defendants to bootstrap themselves over systemic hurdles with virtually no resources. Thus, while targeted sympathy may indicate a movement away from the “othering” that pervades contemporary penality, it continues to decontextualize individuals and assign blame and accountability.
Longitudinal assessments of therapeutic alliance predict work performance in vocational rehabilitation for persons with schizophrenia
Authors: de Jong Steven , Hasson‐Ohayon Ilanit , Lavi‐Rotenberg Adi , Carter Sarah A. , Castelein Stynke , Lysaker Paul H.
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To promote functional recovery in persons diagnosed with a psychotic disorder, vocational interventions have emerged over the last few decades which range from sheltered employment to supported employment in the community.

Design

Using data from a 6‐month vocational rehabilitation programme, we examined whether assessments of the therapeutic alliance were related to the quality of work performed in this work placement. Our first hypothesis was that stronger alliances would be related to better work performance. Second, we expected that client assessments of the TA would better predict outcomes than therapist assessments. Third, we expected that the discrepancy between assessment scores from the client and therapist (client rating minus therapist rating) would be a better predictor for outcome than individual assessments by the therapists or clients.

Results

Clients systematically rated the alliance higher than therapists. Modelling the data longitudinally, we found both therapist and client ratings predictive of outcome, though client assessments over time were inversely related to work performance.

Conclusions

Discrepancy in scores was also shown to be predictive of work performance during the program. Clinicians are advised to routinely assess the therapeutic alliance from both client and therapist perspectives and calculate the discrepancy between them as they may indicate ruptures are occurring and thus hamper the intervention.

Practitioner points

Clinicians are advised to regularly assess the therapeutic alliance from both their own and the client’s perspective.

Growing discrepancy in scores may impede intervention effectiveness.

Therapeutic alliance may help buffer against work stresses experienced by participants in a vocational programme.

Be aware that therapists tend to rate the alliance lower than their clients.
Stomatal conductance of tomato leaves is regulated by both abscisic acid and leaf water potential under combined water and salt stress
Authors: Xue Fulan , Liu Weilu , Cao Heli , Song Lijin , Ji Shasha , Tong Ling , Ding Risheng
Published: April 2021

Stomatal conductance (gs) affects water use efficiency (WUE) through coordinating photosynthesis and transpiration and is regulated by chemical and/or hydraulic signals. However, the regulation mechanism of gs of tomato leaves has not been fully explored under combined water and salt stress. Here, we set up four salt treatments and two water treatments in a climate greenhouse and measured stomatal morphologies and conductance and other photosynthesis parameters. Water and salt stress reduced stomatal length (SL), width, perimeter, area (amax), density (SD), and the maximum stomatal conductance (gsmax). Water and salt stress had a separate weakening effect on net photosynthetic rate (A) and transpiration rate but interactively reduced gs. The contents of abscisic acid (ABA) and Na+ in tomato leaves increased with the NaCl concentration, while leaf water potential (Ψl) and chlorophyll content decreased. Under full irrigation, gsmax was coordinated by SD and amax, and gs by ABA content under salt stress. Under water and salt combined stress, gsmax was affected by amax, and gs was coordinated with ABA and Ψl. The decrease of A was caused by both a reduction of chlorophyll content and gs under water and salt stress. Intrinsic WUE did not reduce under full irrigation or mild to moderate salt stress but decreased under a combination of water and severe salt stress, indicating that the leaves of the tested tomato cultivar performed better under moderate salt stress. Collectively, these results can provide useful insights for the efficient management of water and salt to adapt to drought and high salt environments.
El uso de redes sociales en migrantes Colombianos en Chile
Authors: Pavez Andonaegui Isabel , Claro Montes Cecilia , Burgos Suárez Julián Andrés
Published: April 2021

Este artículo explora la forma en que las redes sociales permiten a los migrantes y sus familias transnacionales controlar cuándo y cómo comunicarse, tanto para estar en contacto en tiempo real con sus comunidades de origen, como para mantener prácticas y tradiciones, logrando una co-presencia (Baldassar, 2016). Se emplea una metodología cualitativa que incluye entrevistas diádicas a 20 participantes de familias colombianas que experimentaron la migración de uno de sus miembros a Chile. Entre los resultados, se destaca que WhatsApp es la red social más utilizada debido a la variedad de posibilidades para conectarse de forma síncrona y asíncrona. Además, los participantes reportaron que un aumento en la sensación de separación y distancia a pesar de la cercanía digital. La evidencia también indica el esfuerzo por parte de los migrantes de prolongar sus roles de madre, hermano o hijo a través del uso de redes sociales.
Paradigmas: significados y propuestas para la investigación en comunicación
Authors: Gómez Diago Gloria
Published: April 2021

Los paradigmas son fundamentales en la investigación y aún más cuando se ignoran, pues se dan por supuestos. Con el objetivo de obtener perspectivas acerca de los  significados y de las implicaciones de los paradigmas en el campo de la comunicación; en una línea de trabajo de metainvestigación en comunicación con perspectiva histórica, orientada a identificar el andamiaje intelectual que ha venido definiendo y que define la investigación en comunicación; se ha realizado un análisis de contenido cualitativo de tres publicaciones referentes especializadas en metainvestigación en comunicación, los dos volúmenes del Journal of Communication "Ferment in the field" (1983) y "The future of the field" (1983) y el volumen I de Rethinking Communication, "Paradigm issues" (1989). A partir del análisis de estos volúmenes, se han obtenido perspectivas respecto de la existencia o no de paradigmas en el campo de la comunicación.
Possible Implementation of Ex-Core Measurement in TEPLATOR Graphite Reflector
Authors: Vilímová Eva , Peltan Tomáš , Jiřičková Jana
Published: April 2021

An ex-core neutron flux measurement is a crucial system for all common power reactors. It is necessary to monitor the neutron flux and control the chain reaction, therefore, the ex-core neutron flux measurement is one of the main safety and control systems. The main advantage of this arrangement of detectors is a fast response to neutron flux change, which determines the reactor power change. Regarding to the new reactor concepts, it is important to deal with improved detection systems suitable for these reactors. Many of the modern reactor concepts are based on a graphite moderator or reflector, which is also the case of the TEPLATOR. The TEPLATOR is a solution of a district heating system based on heavy water as a moderator and graphite as a reflector. The TEPLATOR is designed to use irradiated fuel from the commercial pressurized water reactor or boiling water reactor, which has low to intermediate burnup. This work is focused on the verification of the possible use of the special neutron measuring system placed in the graphite reflector. The Monte Carlo code serpent was used for the calculations performed in this work.
New findings of the subgenus Bischeloribates of Scheloribates (Acari, Oribatida, Scheloribatidae) from China

Authors: Liu Cheng-lin , Wan Zi-xuan , Liu Kai , Lan Heng-jing , Zhou Chenggang , Yi Yan , Xie Lixia
Published: April 2021

Two new species of the subgenus Scheloribates (Bischeloribates) from China are described and illustrated. Scheloribates (Bischeloribates) liangshanensis sp. nov. differs from S. (Bischeloribates) dаlawaeus Corpuz-Raros,1980 by longer bothridial setae with unilaterally dilated, apically pointed, barbed head. Scheloribates (Bischeloribates) sanmingensis sp. nov. differs from other known species of this genus by the presence of U-shaped furrow underneath the Notogaster. The subgenus Scheloribates (Bischeloribates) is recorded in mainland China for the first time. Scheloribates (Bischeloribates) mahunkai Subías, 2010 is recorded in China for the first time. An identification key to world species of Scheloribates (Bischeloribates) is given.
Pinpointing cysteine oxidation sites by high-resolution proteomics reveals a mechanism of redox-dependent inhibition of human STING
Authors: Zamorano Cuervo Natalia , Fortin Audray , Caron Elise , Chartier Stéfany , Grandvaux Nathalie
Published: April 2021

Ligand-dependent and -independent oxidation of cysteine residues in the adaptor protein STING regulates its conformation and activity.
Rapid and Accurate Detection of Aminoglycoside-Modifying Enzymes and 16S rRNA Methyltransferases by Targeted Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Foudraine Dimard E. , Strepis Nikolaos , Klaassen Corné H. W. , Raaphorst Merel N. , Verbon Annelies , Luider Theo M. , Goessens Wil H. F. , Dekker Lennard J. M.
Published: April 2021

New and rapid diagnostic methods are needed for the detection of antimicrobial resistance to aid in curbing drug-resistant infections. Targeted liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is a method that could serve this purpose, as it can detect specific peptides of antimicrobial resistance mechanisms with high accuracy.
‘Hybrid’ oncocytoma: collecting duct (Bellini) carcinoma—the peril from this extremely rare intratumoural coexistence
Authors: Tsikopoulos Ioannis , Papadopoulos Dimitrios Ioannis , Charitopoulos Konstantinos , Gkekas Chrysovalantis
Published: April 2021

We presented an extremely rare entity of ‘hybrid’ oncocytoma and collecting duct (Bellini) carcinoma. The intratumoural coexistence of benign and malignant cells may lead to false diagnosis and suboptimal treatment of an aggressive tumour. Diagnosis may be challenging if only based on imaging modalities. Even the established value of targeted renal biopsy may be questioned in such scarce cases. Consequently, active surveillance for small renal tumours shall not considered a widely safe management.
Severe scombroid poisoning and life-threatening hypotension
Authors: Katugaha Shalika Basnayake , Carter Andrea Christine , Desai Shashank , Soto Pelayia
Published: April 2021

Scombroid fish poisoning (SFP), the most common fish-related illness worldwide, is a histamine response caused by the heat stable toxin histamine. A healthy 48-year-old woman and co-author of this paper developed palpitations, tachycardia and hypotension 10 min after a tuna steak dinner. She subsequently developed numbness of her face, flushing, conjunctival erythema, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache and chest pain. Her ECG revealed tachycardia with ST depression. Her hypotension did not respond to fluid resuscitation, and she required phenylephrine. Based on exposure history, clinical syndrome, exclusion of other diseases and consultation with poison control, a diagnosis of scombroid poisoning was established. The state health department was notified. The patient was weaned off vasopressors, dosed famotidine and discharged 43 hours after fish ingestion with no symptoms and normal ECG. SFP is an often misdiagnosed and underreported illness with the potential to cause life-threatening hypotension.
Diffuse alveolar haemorrhage in the setting of eosinophilic pneumonia
Authors: Ladzinski Adam T , Mehta Aditya , Dykstra Brian J , Sharghi Sarah M
Published: April 2021

A 65-year-old woman who presented with a constellation of symptoms, including cough with haemoptysis, fever, chills and hypoxia along with weight loss, was found to have diffuse alveolar haemorrhage. After a myriad of investigations returned normal, an open lung biopsy was performed, which revealed the diagnosis to be subacute eosinophilic pneumonia. This is one of its kind of rare presentations where eosinophilic pneumonia presents as diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and has been reported only five times prior to this.
Association between varying cut-points of intermediate hyperglycemia and risk of mortality, cardiovascular events and chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gujral Unjali P , Jagannathan Ram , He Siran , Huang Minxuan , Staimez Lisa R , Wei Jingkai , Singh Nanki , Narayan K M Venkat
Published: April 2021

Introduction

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the updated evidence regarding prediabetes for predicting mortality, macrovascular and microvascular outcomes.

Research design and methods

We identified English language studies from MEDLINE, PubMed, OVID and Cochrane database indexed from inception to January 31, 2020. Paired reviewers independently identified 106 prospective studies, comprising nearly 1.85 million people, from 27 countries. Primary outcomes were all-cause mortality (ACM), cardiovascular mortality (CVDM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke. Secondary outcomes were heart failure, chronic kidney disease (CKD) and retinopathy.

Results

Impaired glucose tolerance was associated with ACM; HR 1.19, 95% CI (1.15 to 1.24), CVDM; HR 1.21, 95% CI (1.10 to 1.32), CVD; HR 1.18, 95% CI (1.11 to 1.26), CHD; HR; 1.13, 95% CI (1.05 to 1.21) and stroke; HR 1.24, 95% CI (1.06 to 1.45). Impaired fasting glucose (IFG) 110–125 mg/dL was associated with ACM; HR 1.17, 95% CI (1.13 to 1.22), CVDM; HR 1.20, 95% CI (1.09 to 1.33), CVD; HR 1.21, 95% CI (1.09 to 1.33), CHD; HR; 1.14, 95% CI (1.06 to 1.22) and stroke; HR 1.22, 95% CI (1.07 to 1.40). IFG 100–125 mg/dL was associated with ACM; HR 1.11, 95% CI (1.04 to 1.19), CVDM; HR 1.14, 95% CI (1.03 to 1.25), CVD; HR 1.15, 95% CI (1.05 to 1.25), CHD HR; 1.10, 95% CI (1.02 to 1.19) and CKD; HR; 1.09, 95% CI (1.01 to 1.18). Glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) 6.0%–6.4% was associated with ACM; HR 1.30, 95% CI (1.03 to 1.66), CVD; HR 1.32, 95% CI (1.00 to 1.73) and CKD; HR 1.50, 95% CI (1.32 to 1.70). HbA1c 5.7%–6.4% was associated with CVD HR 1.15, 95% CI (1.02 to 1.30), CHD; HR 1.28, 95% CI (1.13 to 1.46), stroke; HR 1.23, 95% CI (1.04 to 1.46) and CKD; HR 1.32, 95% CI (1.16 to 1.50).

Conclusion

Prediabetes is an elevated risk state for macrovascular and microvascular outcomes. The prevention and management of prediabetes should be considered.
Effect of a home-based health, nutrition and responsive stimulation intervention and conditional cash transfers on child development and growth: a cluster-randomised controlled trial in Tanzania
Authors: Sudfeld Christopher R , Bliznashka Lilia , Ashery Geofrey , Yousafzai Aisha K , Masanja Honorati
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Evidence on the effects of community health worker (CHW) interventions and conditional cash transfers (CCTs) on child growth and development in sub-Saharan Africa remains sparse.

Methods

We conducted a single-blind, cluster-randomised controlled trial of an integrated home-visiting health, nutrition and responsive stimulation intervention alone and in combination with CCTs to promote antenatal and child clinic attendance from 2017 to 2019 in rural Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Pregnant women and caregivers with a child <1 year of age were enrolled. Twelve villages were randomised to either (1) CHW (n=200 participants), (2) CHW+CCT (n=200) or (3) control (n=193). An intention-to-treat analysis was conducted for the primary trial outcomes of child cognitive, language and motor development assessed with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development and child length/height-for-age z-scores (HAZ) at 18 months of follow-up.

Results

The CHW and CHW+CCT interventions had beneficial effects on child cognitive development as compared with control (standardised mean difference (SMD): 0.15, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.24, and SMD: 0.18, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.28, respectively). The CHW+CCT intervention also had positive effects on language (SMD: 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.15) and motor (SMD: 0.16, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.28) development. Both CHW and CHW+CCT interventions had no effect on HAZ in the primary analysis; however, there were statistically significant positive effects in multivariable analyses. The CHW+CCT group (mean difference: 3.0 visits, 95% CI 2.1 to 4.0) and the CHW group (mean difference: 1.5 visits, 95% CI 0.6 to 2.5) attended greater number of child health and growth monitoring clinic visits as compared to the control group.

Conclusion

Integrated CHW home-visiting interventions can improve child cognitive development and may have positive effects on linear growth. Combining CHW with CCT may provide additional benefits on clinic visit attendance and selected child development outcomes.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN10323949.
Gender differences in barriers to mental healthcare for UK military veterans: a preliminary investigation
Authors: Godier-McBard Lauren Rose , Cable G , Wood A D , Fossey M
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Limited UK research focuses on female military veterans’ gender-related experiences and issues when accessing civilian mental healthcare support. This study sought to illuminate a preliminary understanding of any gender differences in barriers that may discourage them accessing mental healthcare support.

Methods

A total of 100 participants completed an open online survey of UK triservice veterans who identified as having experienced postmilitary mental health problems. They completed a 30-item Barriers to Access to Care Evaluation scale and were asked to elaborate using free-text questions. Resulting quantitative data were analysed for gender-related differences, while the qualitative text was thematically explored.

Results

While stigma, previous poor experience of mental healthcare and a lack of trust in civilian providers were found to act as barriers to postmilitary support for both men and women, significantly more women reported that their gender had also impacted on their intention to seek help. Women also commented on the impact of gender-related discrimination during service on their help-seeking experiences.

Conclusions

While efforts are being made by the UK Ministry of Defence to reduce barriers to mental healthcare for those still serving in the Armed Forces, it has been more difficult to provide a similar level of support to the veteran population. With little veteran research focusing on the specific experiences of women, this study suggests that female veterans encounter specific access barriers and issues related to their gender. Further research is therefore needed to ensure these findings are addressed.
Paediatric dilated cardiomyopathy in Khartoum state, Sudan: a prospective study
Authors: Elshazali Osama Hafiz , Abdalla Ekhlas
Published: April 2021

Background

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of the heart muscle that affects ventricular function; it is a debilitating disease that can lead to heart failure and death in children. There is a lack of good epidemiological data about paediatric DCM in Sudan or in sub-Saharan Africa.

Objective

To study the incidence, causes and outcome of DCM among children in Sudan.

Methods

A prospective cross-sectional study that was conducted in three paediatric hospitals in Khartoum state, Sudan over the period of 6 months.

Results

During the study period, 55 children were seen with the diagnosis of DCM; The female: male ratio was 1.9:1. The incidence of DCM in Khartoum state was found to be 1.4 cases per 100 000 children per year, 10 children (18 %) were diagnosed in the first year of their life. Twenty-seven children (49 %) showed evidence of failure to thrive, being below the fifth percentile for weight. The most common cause of DCM was found to be postviral in 27 children (49%), followed by Idiopathic in 25 children (45%). The most common presentation was the shortness of breath in 53 children (97%), on echocardiography 26 children (47 %) showed evidence of severe left ventricular impairment and 23 children (42%) showed moderate ventricular impairment. Regarding the outcome, 8 children (15%) recovered, the condition of 11 children (20%) remained static and there were 36 deaths (65%).

Conclusion

The incidence of DCM in Sudanese children was found to high with a higher mortality compared with middle-income and high-income countries; Improvement in the entire health system is needed to tackle this condition.
Precision branching-ratio measurements in $$^{18}$$O
Authors: Pirrie S. , Wheldon C. , Kokalova Tz. , Bishop J. , Faestermann Th. , Hertenberger R. , Wirth H. F. , Bailey S. , Curtis N. , Dell’Aquila D. , Mengoni D. , Smith R. , Torresi D. , Turner A.
Published: April 2021

An experiment has been performed utilising the $$^{12}$$

12

C($$^{7}$$

7

Li,p)$$^{18}$$

18

O reaction to populate high-energy states in $$^{18}$$

18

O. Using the Munich Q3D magnetic spectrograph in conjunction with the Birmingham large-angular-coverage DSSD array, branching ratios have been measured for over fifty states in $$^{18}$$

18

O, investigating the $$\alpha $$
α
-decay, n-decay, 2n-decay and $$\gamma $$
γ
-decay branches. In tandem, Monte-Carlo techniques have been used to identify and separate features.
Probing quadratic gravity with binary inspirals
Authors: Kim Yunho , Kobakhidze Archil , Picker Zachary S. C.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we study gravitational waves generated by binary systems within an extension of General Relativity which is described by the addition of quadratic in curvature tensor terms to the Einstein–Hilbert action. Treating quadratic gravity as an effective theory valid in the low energy/curvature regime, we argue that reliable calculations can be performed in the early inspiral phase, and furthermore, no flux of additional massive waves can be detected. We then compute the Yukawa suppressed dipole-like corrections to the post-Newtonian (PN) expansion of the standard waveform. By confronting these theoretical calculations with available experimental data, we constrain both unknown parameters of quadratic gravity to be $$0 \le \gamma \, \lesssim 5.9\times 10^{76}$$

0
≤
γ

≲
5.9
×

10
76

, and $$-\frac{\gamma }{4} \le \beta \, \lesssim 9.8\times 10^{75} - \frac{\gamma }{4}$$

-

γ
4

≤
β

≲
9.8
×

10
75

-

γ
4

.