bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traumatic Incidents and Experiences of Racism and Sexism: Examining Associations with Components of Critical Consciousness for System‐Involved Girls of Color
Authors: Singh Sukhmani , Berezin McKenzie N. , Wallach Leila N. , B. Godfrey Erin , Javdani Shabnam
Published: November 2020

Scholarship identifies critical consciousness as a key developmental asset in promoting the well‐being of adolescents experiencing multiple socio‐structural axes of oppression. Girls of color at acute risk for legal system involvement or re‐involvement are absent from this literature. They are a critical population in which to examine this construct given their experiences of oppression and the myriad benefits of critical consciousness. The current study addresses this gap by examining traumatic incidents and experiences of racism and sexism as correlates of critical reflection and action among a sample of girls (N = 220; Mean age = 14.5 years; SD = 1.3 years). Using path analysis and multigroup modeling, we examine direct associations between these three manifestations of structural oppression and critical consciousness and explore the interplay of traumatic incidents, and racism and sexism in girls’ critical consciousness development. Findings suggest that experiences of sexism and racism, uniquely and positively predict critical action, but not critical reflection. Surprisingly, girls’ experiences of traumatic incidents do not predict reflection or action. Finally, multigroup analyses show no evidence that these associations vary by the interplay of traumatic incidents, racism, and sexism. Implications for community psychology values and juvenile legal system practice and policy are discussed.
Metacognitive experiences as information: Processing fluency in consumer judgment and decision making
Authors: Schwarz Norbert , Jalbert Madeline , Noah Tom , Zhang Lynn
Published: November 2020

Thinking is accompanied by metacognitive experiences of ease or difficulty. People draw on these experiences as a source of information that can complement or challenge the implications of declarative information. We conceptualize the operation of metacognitive experiences within the framework of feelings‐as‐information theory and review their implications for judgments relevant to consumer behavior, including popularity, trust, risk, truth, and beauty.
Specialized proresolving mediators in infection and lung injury
Authors: Sandhaus Shayna , Swick Andrew G.
Published: November 2020

Specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs) are endogenous lipid metabolites of long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that are involved in promoting the resolution of inflammation. Many disease conditions characterized by excessive inflammation have impaired or altered SPM biosynthesis, which may lead to chronic, unresolved inflammation. Exogenous administration of SPMs in infectious conditions has been shown to be effective at improving infection clearance and survival in preclinical models. SPMs have also shown tremendous promise in the context of inflammatory lung conditions, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, mostly in preclinical settings. To date, SPMs have not been studied in the context of the novel Coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), however their preclinical efficacy in combatting infections and improving acute respiratory distress suggest they may be a valuable resource in the fight against Coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19). Overall, while the research on SPMs is still evolving, they may offer a novel therapeutic option for inflammatory conditions.
Novel missense mutation in ligand binding domain of AR gene identified in patient with androgen insensitivity syndrome from Ukraine
Authors: Sirokha Dmytro , Gorodna Olexandra , Lozhko Dmytro , Livshyts Ganna , Zelinska Nataliya , Livshits Liudmyla
Published: November 2020

To improve diagnostic informativity of AR gene mutation analysis in patients with AIS, we recommend to include novel identified missense mutation c.2507T>G in the list of AIS‐causing mutations.
Clinical complications and their management in a child with ataxia‐telangiectasia (A‐T): A case report study
Authors: Heidarzadeh Arani Marzieh , ArefNezhad Reza , Fathgharib Javad , Aghamohammadi Asghar , Motedayyen Hossein
Published: November 2020

Ataxia‐telangiectasia (A‐T) is known as an uncommon autosomal recessive disorder associated with recurrent infections and other clinical complications. The management of its complications can improve life quality of patients.
Atomoxetine might be more effective in improving sluggish cognitive tempo symptoms after switching from methylphenidate: A case report
Authors: Tahıllıoğlu Akın , Ercan Eyüp Sabri
Published: November 2020

Although there is no proven evidence regarding pharmacotherapy of Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT), we experienced atomoxetine had more effects in decreasing SCT symptoms after switching from methylphenidate in a case with SCT and subthreshold ADHD.
Review on the structure of random packed‐beds
Authors: von Seckendorff Jennie , Hinrichsen Olaf
Published: November 2020

Independent from their intended purpose, the understanding of structural characteristics of random packings of particles having defined shapes is important to understand and optimize fluid dynamic behaviour, heat, and mass transfer. The packing structure can be described by the coordination number, local porosity profiles, the average porosity, and pore characteristics, which are influenced by the wall and thickness effect; the material, shape, and size distribution of the packing particles; the packing and compaction mode; and the shape and material of the packing's containing walls. Therefore, existing knowledge on the structure of randomly packed mono‐sized particles is reviewed to provide an updated selection of relevant parameters and their derived correlations obtained by experimental, numerical, and analytical means.
Optimization of semi‐pulsatile liquid‐liquid extraction operations in milli‐channels
Authors: Chakravorty Abir , Maitra Abhradeep , Bandopadhyay Aditya
Published: November 2020

The work in this manuscript presents liquid‐liquid extraction augmentation and optimization due to flow pulsations on a continuous flow. The mass transfer is achieved via a transfer species (acetic acid) that diffuses in the aqueous phase (water), which is in a continuous flow, from the organic phase (toluene), exhibiting pulsed flow pattern. It is observed through experiments that the incorporation of pulsation leads to enhanced extraction/mass transfer compared to continuous flows. Also, an increase of the pulsation parameters, such as amplitude and frequency, increases the mass transfer, but when the process is evaluated in terms of economy, it is found that the rate of extraction per unit power is maximum for moderate frequencies and amplitudes. Based on the experiments, a Linton and Sherwood‐like correlation for determining extracted concentration at the exit of the test section in semi‐pulsatile flow conditions is proposed. During the course of experiments, it is found that the flow pattern changes from dispersed‐type flow pattern of the organic phase to slug and then slug dispersed with an increase of superficial velocity of toluene, at a particular superficial velocity of the water. Also, the total power consumed during the extraction process increases with an increase in the product of amplitude and frequency. With the experimental approach presented in this paper, one will be able to optimize semi‐pulsatile liquid‐liquid mass transfer operations.
Robotic Catalysis: A High‐Throughput Method for Miniature Screening of Mesoporous Metal Oxides**
Authors: Potgieter Kariska , Aimon Anthony , Smit Elize , von Delft Frank , Meijboom Reinout
Published: December 2020

We have developed a high‐throughput system to synthesise and explore up to 96 heterogeneous catalysts at the same time. The system was developed as a proof of concept, using a standard glass plate and a 3D printed 96‐well plate. Nano‐droplets of catalyst formulations were transferred to the glass plate using an acoustic liquid handler and upon heat treatments, the miniature mesoporous metal oxide (MMO) catalysts were formed. The 3D printed bottomless 96‐well plate was fixed to the glass plate, to give 96 individual wells, each containing a catalyst. Four catalyst plates were prepared (Co3O4‐, Au/Co3O4‐, Pd/Co3O4‐ and Co/Mn‐MMO) to be screened for their activity in the oxidation of morin, as a model reaction. The observed reaction rates (kobs) for each catalyst were calculated to identify the most active catalyst. The general method described herein requires microscopic amounts of catalysts with derivates of the catalyst's composition.
Haemodynamic optimisation of a dialysis graft design using a global optimisation approach
Authors: Quicken Sjeng , Delhaas Tammo , Mees Barend M. E. , Huberts Wouter
Published: November 2020

Disturbed flow and the resulting non‐physiological wall shear stress (WSS) at the graft‐vein anastomosis play an important role in arteriovenous graft (AVG) patency loss. Modifying graft geometry with helical features is a popular approach to minimise the occurrence of detrimental haemodynamics and to potentially increase graft longevity. Haemodynamic optimisation of AVGs typically requires many computationally expensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to evaluate haemodynamic performance of different graft designs. In this study, we aimed to develop a haemodynamically optimised AVG by using an efficient meta‐modelling approach. A training dataset containing CFD evaluations of 103 graft designs with helical features was used to develop computationally low‐cost meta‐models for haemodynamic metrics related to graft dysfunction. During optimisation, the meta‐models replaced CFD simulations that were otherwise needed to evaluate the haemodynamic performance of possible graft designs. After optimisation, haemodynamic performance of the optimised graft design was verified using a CFD simulation. The obtained optimised graft design contained both a helical graft centreline and helical ridge. Using the optimised design, the magnitude of flow disturbances and the size of the anastomotic areas exposed to non‐physiological WSS was successfully reduced compared to a regular straight graft. Our meta‐modelling approach allowed to reduce the total number of CFD model evaluations required for our design optimisation by approximately a factor 2000. The applied efficient meta‐modelling technique was successful in identifying an optimal, helical graft design at relatively low computational costs. Future studies should evaluate the in vivo benefits of the developed graft design.
Averaging Principle and Shape Theorem for a Growth Model with Memory
Authors: Dembo Amir , Groisman Pablo , Huang Ruojun , Sidoravicius Vladas
Published: November 2020

We present a general approach to study a class of random growth models in n‐dimensional Euclidean space. These models are designed to capture basic growth features that are expected to manifest at the mesoscopic level for several classical self‐interacting processes originally defined at the microscopic scale. It includes once‐reinforced random walk with strong reinforcement, origin‐excited random walk, and a few others, for which the set of visited vertices is expected to form a limiting shape. We prove an averaging principle that leads to such a shape theorem. The limiting shape can be computed in terms of the invariant measure of an associated Markov chain. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Self‐Assembly of Pseudo[1]rotaxanes by Palladium(II)/Platinum(II)‐Directed Integrative Social Self‐Sorting: Is the Metal Required?
Authors: Rama Tamara , Blanco‐Gómez Arturo , Peinador Carlos , García Marcos D.
Published: December 2020

New results are presented on the multicomponent supramolecular synthesis of pseudo[1]rotaxanes, achieved by designing pairs of structurally matching N‐monoalkyl‐4,4’‐bipyridinium/2,7‐diazapyrenium‐based ligands having complementary π‐donor/acceptor features, and intended to self‐assemble into the targeted supramolecules by following integrative self‐sorting processes. In all the studied cases, it was found that the envisioned species, characterized by NMR spectroscopy and MS spectrometry, arise as the main products of the self‐assembly in aqueous media by using palladium(II)/platinum(II) metal centers as the guiding force. Crucially, we have also found that by improving the π‐donor/acceptor properties of the matching pairs of ligands (L4 and L5), the integrative self‐sorting processes prevail even in the absence of metallic ions to afford the heterodimeric species with an association constant being 756±43 M−1.
Early postnatal exposure to a cafeteria diet interferes with recency and spatial memory, but not open field habituation in adolescent rats
Authors: Wait Janina , Burns Catherine , Jones Taylor , Harper Zoe , Allen Emily , Langley‐Evans Simon C. , Voigt Jörg‐Peter
Published: November 2020

The cafeteria diet (CD), an experimental diet that mimics the obesogenic Western diet, can impair memory in adult rats. However, the suckling period is also particularly susceptible to diet‐induced behavioural modification. Here, following exposure to CD feeding during lactation, 24‐ to 26‐day‐old offspring were tested to determine maternal dietary effects on either open field habituation, object location (OL) learning or on recency learning. Whereas no impact on habituation learning could be demonstrated, both OL and recency memory were impaired. In controls (C), OL memory was shown both after a 5 min (p < .05) or 60 min (p < .001) inter‐trial interval (ITI). After the 60 min ITI, the difference between C and CD was significant (p < .05). Learning did not occur in the CD group at any time point and was not observed after the 24hr ITI in in either group. Whereas control rats demonstrated intact recency memory (p < .00001), no learning occurred in the CD group. Both groups differed significantly in their exploration ratios (p < .01). This study suggests a detrimental effect of exposure to an unhealthy Western diet during lactation, on cognitive functions in adolescent rats. These results could have implications for human cognition in the context of obesity epidemic.
eDNA metabarcoding reveals dietary niche overlap among herbivores in an Indian wildlife sanctuary
Authors: ter Schure Anneke T.M. , Pillai Anusree A.S. , Thorbek Lisbeth , Bhavani Shankar Maradani , Puri Rajindra , Ravikanth Gudasalamani , de Boer Hugo J. , Boessenkool Sanne
Published: November 2020

As many ecosystems are under increasing pressure from invasive species, habitat degradation, overgrazing and overharvesting, pollution, and climate change, dietary niche monitoring is gaining importance. The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary (MMH) in southern India is home to several long‐standing ethnic and tribal groups and supports a considerable number of domestic herbivores (cattle, goats and water buffalo) as well as a range of wildlife (including several species of deer, bonnet macaque, and Asian elephant). We reconstructed dietary niche partitioning of the herbivores occurring in MMH using eDNA metabarcoding to quantify diet richness, composition, and overlap. In total, we distinguish 134 diet items (molecular operational taxonomic units), covering 31 plant families. Overall, our results indicate 35% overlap in domestic and wild herbivore diet items. The greatest overlap is found for the dietary niches of cattle and sambar deer (Pianka's niche overlap index: 0.68), and the dietary niche of cattle also overlaps considerably with those of Indian hare (0.65) and Asian elephant (0.46). This suggests that these herbivores may compete for these food plants in the case of limited availability, which could lead to exclusion of some herbivore species. Particular concern should go to bonnet macaque and Asian elephant as their below average dietary richness could make them vulnerable to changes in their environment. With increasing pressures on local wildlife from a range of different factors, DNA metabarcoding of fecal samples is a non‐invasive method for monitoring changes in animal diets, providing valuable information for the management of biodiversity in mosaic natural and anthropogenic landscapes.
A novel possible familial cause of epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizures related to SZT2 gene variant
Authors: El Halabi Tarek , Dirani Maya , Hotait Mostafa , Nasreddine Wassim , Beydoun Ahmad
Published: November 2020

Seizure threshold‐2 (SZT2) gene variants have been associated with a decrease in seizure threshold resulting in variable phenotypic expressions ranging from mild‐moderate intellectual disabilities without seizures, to an early‐onset epileptic encephalopathy with severe cognitive impairment. In addition, hypotonia and distinctive facial dysmorphism, including a high forehead and to a lesser extent ptosis and down‐slanting palpebral fissures, were present in the majority. We herein report a novel SZT2 variant in one of two siblings both diagnosed with epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizures (EIMFS). This report is the fourth to document a possible familial case in EIMFS, a condition that was not previously associated with SZT2 variant. This report expands the phenotypic expression of SZT2, corroborates the importance of genetic counseling in some cases of EIMFS, and highlights the efficacy of potassium bromide in controlling the seizures associated with this condition.
Fungal diversity of “solom” a Ghanaian traditional beverage of millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
Authors: Kortei Nii Korley , Asiedu Prince , Annan Theophilus , Deku John Gameli , Boakye Adjoa Agyemang
Published: November 2020

The association of cereals with fungi cannot be disregarded as their manifestation in our foods poses serious health risks. The aim of this study was to investigate the mycofloral (fungal) and chemical (pH) qualities of the “solom” (beverage of millet) available for consumption from their respective sales points in Ho. “Solom” a cereal beverage of millet was sampled from ten (10) different locations in the Ho Municipality of Ghana and evaluated for their pH, fungal counts, and species diversity. Mycological analyses were done on Oxytetracycline Glucose Yeast Extract (OGYE) and Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol (DRBC) media from three (3) points per location using serial dilution. A total of fourteen (14) fungal species belonging to eight (8) genera were isolated on both media; Aspergillus (A. niger, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, A. parasiticus, A. alutaceaus, A. terreus), Rhizopus (R. stolonifer), Mucor (M. racemosus), Fusarium (F. oxysporum), Penicillium (P. digitatum, P. verucosum), Cladosporium (C. cladosporoides), Curvularia (C. lunata), and Rhodotorula sp. were recorded. Fungal counts on both media ranged between 1.68 ± 0.8 and 4.11 ± 0.9 log10 CFU/ml. There were statistically significant (p < .05) differences observed in the samples from different locations. The values of pH recorded were in the range of 3.03 ± 0.09–4.03 ± 0.23 and showed no significant differences (p > .05) among them. All samples were found to be in the acceptable range of values prescribed by the International Commission for Microbiological Specification of Foods (ICMSF, 1998). Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) should be employed to enhance food safety.
Prognostic Value of B‐Type Natriuretic Peptide in Liver Transplant Patients: Implication in Posttransplant Mortality
Authors: Kwon Hye‐Mee , Moon Young‐Jin , Kim Kyoung‐Sun , Shin Won‐Jung , Huh In‐Young , Jun In‐Gu , Song Jun‐Gol , Hwang Gyu‐Sam
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

Despite frequent cirrhotic cardiomyopathy or subclinical heart failure (HF), the prognostic value of peri–liver transplant (LT) B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been poorly studied in advanced liver disease. We examined the association between BNP and mortality in a large cohort of LT patients and identified risk factors for peri‐LT BNP increase.

Approach and Results

Using prospectively collected data from the Asan LT Registry between 2008 and 2019, 3,811 patients who measured serial pretransplant BNP (preBNP) and peak BNP levels within the first 3 posttransplant days (postBNPPOD3) were analyzed. Thirty‐day all‐cause mortality predicted by adding preBNP and/or postBNPPOD3 to the traditional Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI) was evaluated. PreBNP > 400 pg/mL (known cutoff of acute HF) was found in 298 (7.8%); however, postBNPPOD3 > 400 pg/mL was identified in 961 (25.2%) patients, specifically in 40.4% (531/1,315) of those with a Model for End‐Liver Disease score (MELDs) > 20. Strong predictors of postBNPPOD3 > 400 pg/mL were preBNP, hyponatremia, and MELDs, whereas those of preBNP > 400 pg/mL were MELDs, kidney failure, and respiratory failure. Among 100 (2.6%) post‐LT patients who died within 30 days, patients with postBNPPOD3 ≤ 150 pg/mL (43.1%, reference group), 150‐400 pg/mL (31.7%), 400‐1,000 pg/mL (18.5%), 1,000‐2,000 pg/mL (4.7%), and >2,000 pg/mL (2.0%) had 30‐day mortalities of 0.9%, 2.2%, 4.0%, 7.7%, and 22.4%, respectively. Adding preBNP, postBNPPOD3, and both BNP to RCRI improved net reclassification index to 22.5%, 29.5%, and 33.1% of 30‐day mortality, respectively.

Conclusions

PostBNPPOD3 > 400 pg/mL after LT was markedly prevalent in advanced liver disease and mainly linked to elevated preBNP. Routine monitoring of peri‐LT BNP provides incremental prognostic information; therefore, it could help risk stratification for mortality as a practical and useful biomarker in LT.
Bark beetles as lidar targets and prospects of photonic surveillance
Authors: Li Meng , Jansson Samuel , Runemark Anna , Peterson Jonathan , Kirkeby Carsten Thure , Jönsson Anna Maria , Brydegaard Mikkel
Published: November 2020

Forestry is raising concern about the outbreaks of European spruce bark beetle, Ips typographus, causing extensive damage to the spruce forest and timber values. Precise monitoring of these beetles is a necessary step towards preventing outbreaks. Current commercial monitoring methods are catch‐based and lack in both temporal and spatial resolution. In this work, light scattering from beetles is characterized, and the feasibility of entomological lidar as a tool for long‐term monitoring of bark beetles is explored. Laboratory optical properties, wing thickness, and wingbeat frequency of bark beetles are reported, and these parameters can infer target identity in lidar data. Lidar results from a Swedish forest with controlled bark beetle release event are presented. The capability of lidar to simultaneously monitor both insects and a pheromone plume mixed with chemical smoke governing the dispersal of many insects is demonstrated. In conclusion, entomological lidar is a promising tool for monitoring bark beetles.
Anti‐citrullinated protein antibodies are associated with neutrophil extracellular trap formation in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wu Siyu , Peng Wanchan , Liang Xianghui , Wang Wei
Published: November 2020

Objectives

We evaluated the associations of anti‐citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) and serological and cytological levels of neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

Methods

Serum levels of myeloperoxidase‐DNA and elastase‐DNA complexes (NET remnants) were examined in 51 patients with RA and 40 healthy controls using a modified enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Neutrophils were isolated by density gradient centrifugation. IgG antibodies were purified by affinity chromatography. NET formation in RA and control neutrophils was assessed by microscopy in vitro. NETs were purified and co‐incubated with fibroblast‐like synoviocyte (FLS) cells. Interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐8 mRNA expression and protein levels in FLS cells were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively.

Results

In RA patients, NET remnants in the peripheral circulation were higher in extremely high ACPA titers when compared to in moderate ACPA titers. And IgG antibodies containing ACPA can stimulate neutrophils to form NETs in a concentration‐dependent manner. Furthermore, significantly higher expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐6 and IL‐8 is detected after FLS cells interacted with NETs which derived from neutrophils stimulated with ACPA‐containing IgG antibodies.

Conclusions

Anti‐citrullinated protein antibodies may enhance NET formation and contribute to inflammation development in RA by stimulating NET formation, such as by subsequent activation of FLS cells by NETs.
Relationship between immune status after ATG treatment and PNH clone evolution in patients with severe aplastic anemia
Authors: Wang Honglei , Liu Hui , Wang Ting , Li Lijuan , Liu Chunyan , Li Liyan , Chen Tong , Qi Weiwei , Ding Kai , Fu Rong
Published: November 2020

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between immune status and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) clonal evolution of severe aplastic anemia (SAA) patients who received anti‐human thymocyte globulin (ATG) treatment.

Methods

The clinical data of 102 SAA patients who received ATG were collected and retrospectively analyzed. The remission rate, remission time, response rate, hematopoietic, and immune status were compared. Malignant clones were also observed.

Results

The remission rate of the group with PNH clones appeared after treatment was significantly higher than the group without PNH clones. The response rate at 12 months of the groups with PNH clones was significantly higher than the group without PNH clones. The recovery of Hb and Ret % of patients with PNH clones was earlier than the patients without PNH clones. The reduction of percentage of CD8+HLA‐DR+/CD8+and Th1/Th2 ratio of patients with PNH clones was both earlier than the patients without PNH clones. Six patients developed myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

Conclusion

In SAA patients with PNH clones, the cytotoxic T‐cell function and Th1 cell number recovered more quickly and had better response to IST. A small number of SAA patients with or without PNH clones developed MDS malignant clones.
Immersion and haptic feedback impacts on dental anesthesia technical skills virtual reality training
Authors: Collaço Elen , Kira Elisabeti , Sallaberry Lucas H , Queiroz Anna C. M. , Machado Maria A. A. M. , Crivello Jr Oswaldo , Tori Romero
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Administering anesthesia to the inferior alveolar nerve is 1 of the most stressful processes in dental training. Most studies using virtual reality (VR) for dental training have used non‐immersive technologies. The purpose of this work is to assess the impact of immersive technologies on skills training.

Methods

On May 2019, an experimental study was conducted with 163 clinical dental students, divided into 4 groups across 2 phases (preceptorship and training) with haptic feedback either On or Off. The participants trained on the inferior alveolar dental anesthesia procedure in a haptic VR simulator. Their technical skills were evaluated in terms of needle insertion features which were computed from a haptic device providing kinematic data. Also, the participants reported their subjective experience with syringe handling and simulator sickness. A machine learning method was implemented to automatically evaluate the needle insertion point performance of the student.

Results

Groups receiving immersive preceptorship and/or immersive training showed more accuracy and confidence in administering the anesthesia. Participants perceived a high sense of realism with the haptic feedback when handling the syringe. The machine learning method was validated, with an accuracy of 84%, as a good classifier to assess a student's needle insertion point performance.

Conclusions

The immersive VR simulator allows the practice of the inferior alveolar nerve block under near real conditions and with immediate feedback to the dental student with respect to the needle insertion point. This machine learning based automatic evaluation provides a method to improve technical skills, contributing to dental training.
Overcoming the challenge of COVID‐19: A grounded theory approach to rural nurses' experiences
Authors: Ohta Ryuichi , Matsuzaki Yaeko , Itamochi Satomi
Published: November 2020

Introduction

This study inquires into nurses' changing perceptions with regard to the efforts in preparation for working in a COVID‐19 ward in the rural Japanese context.

Methods

Data were collected using ethnographic methods and semi‐structured interviews among 16 nurses working in the COVID‐19 ward of a rural community hospital in Japan. A grounded theory approach was used for the qualitative analysis.

Results

In total, 70 hours' observation and participation were completed, and 27 pages of field notes were taken and used for the analysis. In addition, 32 interviews were conducted with 16 participants. Four themes emerged from the data: pre–COVID‐work perceptions, overcoming fear, shadow cast by working in the COVID‐19 ward, and an integrated approach to the fear of COVID‐19. The nurses initially felt unpredictable fear. However, the establishment of standard approaches and practices for COVID‐19 gave them confidence in their safety and helped them regain sympathy for patients. Nevertheless, working on COVID‐19 cases negatively affected their activities outside of the ward, and some of them developed an identity crisis as they feared for the future.

Conclusion

Better teamwork, comprehensive understanding of COVID‐19, and continuous provision of proper knowledge in rural hospitals should be driven by appropriate understanding and sympathy for nurses and patients in COVID‐19 wards. The results of this study can be applied to mitigate nurses' fear, improve teamwork, and ensure understanding of COVID‐19 by all medical staff in rural hospitals.
Design and synthesis of novel 1,3,4‐oxadiazole based azaspirocycles catalyzed by NaI under mild condition and evaluated their antidiabetic and antibacterial activities
Authors: Radia Ashish J. , Lalpara Jaydeep N. , Modasiya Ishita J. , Dubal Gaurang G.
Published: November 2020

A modest, efficient, and mild synthetic procedure has been developed for the synthesis of novel series of 1,3,4‐oxadiazole containing azaspirocycles derivatives. The reaction of 1,3,4‐oxadiazole derivative with diverse azaspiro compounds under room temperature condition with helps of sodium iodide catalyst and polar aprotic solvent. Numerous compensations of this strategy embrace less time required, yield increment, consumption of all reactants, and mild condition. All synthesized compounds evaluated for in vitro antidiabetic and antibacterial screening. Among them some compounds show significant biological response.
The assessment and pharmacological management of osteoporosis after admission for minimal‐trauma fracture at a major metropolitan centre
Authors: Hopkins Ria E. , Warner Victoria , Sztal‐Mazer Shoshana , Poole Susan , Page Amy
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Significant evidence‐to‐practice gaps in osteoporosis management have led to national guidelines, the impact of which is unknown. We evaluated osteoporosis assessment and management after hospital admission to a major metropolitan centre with minimal trauma fracture (MTF) in the context of Australian osteoporosis guidelines.

Method

This retrospective analysis included patients over 50 years of age who were admitted to hospital for over 48 h with MTF from 1st January to 31st December 2015. All emergency department (ED) presentations for fracture were identified by diagnosis coding, and 60% were randomly selected for hand‐screening to exclude traumatic, pathological, facial and digit fractures. Data were collected from medical records, and inpatient and discharge osteoporosis management was compared to Australian guideline recommendations.

Results

Of 1355 patients presenting to the ED with fracture in 2015, 805 were screened, with 272 eligible for inclusion. Median age was 83 years (IQR 73–88); 69% were female, 161 participants (59%) presented with a hip or vertebral fracture and 80 (29%) participants had a documented pre‐existing osteoporosis diagnosis. Anti‐resorptive medications were indicated for 189 participants according to guidelines, though were only prescribed for one‐third of these patients (n = 65/189, 34%). Bone mineral density testing was warranted in a further 83 patients, and undertaken in nine (11%). Only 110 participants (40%) had the words “osteoporosis” or “osteopenia” documented in their discharge summary.

Discussion

Health professionals involved in the care of hospitalised patients with MTF are still missing opportunities to prevent future harms by commencing appropriate management to reduce subsequent fracture risk.
The contribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to ecosystem respiration and methane flux in an ephemeral plants‐dominated desert
Authors: Yue Ping , Cui Xiaoqing , Zuo Xiaoan , Li Kaihui , Wang Shaokun , Jia Yangyang , Misselbrook Tom , Liu Xuejun
Published: November 2020

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can significantly influence the soil carbon cycle, however, their impacts on desert soils are still unclear. Here, a field control experiment, using in‐growth mesocosms, was conducted to quantitatively assess the contribution of AMF and ephemeral plants to ecosystem respiration (Re) and methane (CH4) flux in the Gurbantunggut Desert in China, from April to May 2017. Ephemeral plant biomass was significantly increased by AMF infection. Re was significantly positively correlated with AMF infection rate, whereas CH4 flux was significantly negatively correlated. The contribution of AMF to Re was up to 24%, comparable to the contribution of non‐AMF microbial respiration, which accounted for up to 36%, whereas the respiration of ephemeral plants accounted for 40%. Variation in Re was most strongly associated with soil organic carbon and soil available potassium concentrations and soil temperature. Non‐AMF microorganisms accounted for most of the CH4 flux (up to 85%). In contrast, AMF only accounted for 15% of total CH4 flux. The CH4 flux was significantly influenced by soil NO3−‐N content, soil moisture, soil temperature and soil NH4+‐N content. Overall, AMF significantly influenced Re and CH4 flux, and also enhanced the growth of ephemeral plants, which have an important role in the carbon cycle in desert ecosystems.
Catechin‐Rich Green Tea Extract and the Loss‐of‐TLR4 Signaling Differentially Alter the Hepatic Metabolome in Mice with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Sasaki Geoffrey Y. , Li Jinhui , Cichon Morgan J. , Kopec Rachel E. , Bruno Richard S.
Published: November 2020

Scope

Catechin‐rich green tea extract (GTE) limits inflammation in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) consistent with a Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)‐dependent mechanism. It is hypothesized that GTE supplementation during NASH will shift the hepatic metabolome similar to that attributed to the loss‐of‐TLR4 signaling.

Methods and results

Wild‐type (WT) and loss‐of‐function TLR4‐mutant (TLR4mut) mice are fed a high‐fat diet containing 0% or 2% GTE for 8 weeks prior to performing untargeted mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics on liver tissue. The loss‐of‐TLR4 signaling and GTE shift the hepatic metabolome away from that of WT mice. However, relatively few metabolites are altered by GTE in WT mice to the same extent as the loss‐of‐TLR4 signaling in TLR4mut mice. GTE increases acetyl‐coenzyme A precursors and spermidine to a greater extent than the loss‐of‐TLR4 signaling. Select metabolites associated with thiol metabolism are similarly affected by GTE and the loss‐of‐TLR4 signaling. Glycerophospholipid catabolites are decreased by GTE, but are unaffected in TLR4mut mice. Conversely, the loss‐of‐TLR4 signaling but not GTE increases several bile acid metabolites.

Conclusion

GTE limitedly alters the hepatic metabolome consistent with a TLR4‐dependent mechanism. This suggests that the anti‐inflammatory activities of GTE and loss‐of‐TLR4 signaling that regulate hepatic metabolism to abrogate NASH are likely due to distinct mechanisms.
Exploring the Feasibility of Selectively Breeding Farmed Atlantic Surfclams Spisula solidissima for Greater Heat Tolerance
Authors: Acquafredda Michael P. , Guo Ximing , Munroe Daphne
Published: November 2020

Bivalve aquaculture is an important and rapidly expanding sector in global food production, yet climate change presents numerous challenges to its continued expansion. The Atlantic surfclam Spisula solidissima is emerging as an attractive alternate species for aquaculturists across the northeastern United States since it is native, grows rapidly, and complements the region’s established farming framework. However, the species is vulnerable to prolonged high temperature conditions, an issue that will be exacerbated by rising ocean temperatures and is particularly problematic on shallow coastal farms. In this study, we evaluated the response of adult farmed Atlantic surfclams to heat stress after juvenile exposure and the ability for heat tolerance to be passed to subsequent generations. We found that when juvenile Atlantic surfclams were exposed to prolonged lethal temperatures, the adult survivors withstood subsequent heat stress for significantly longer than individuals not exposed to lethal temperatures as juveniles. We also found that selective breeding enhanced heat tolerance in first-generation Atlantic surfclam progeny. Moreover, growth of the heat-selected progeny was not significantly different from that of control Atlantic surfclams. Although more research on this topic is necessary, this work suggests that selective breeding may be a viable strategy for enhancing survival of cultivated bivalves vulnerable to heat stress.
The obstacles to nurses being present with patients
Authors: Atashzadeh‐Shoorideh Foroozan , Monjazabi Fatemeh , Fathollahzadeh Ensieh , Parastoo Oujian
Published: November 2020

Aim

The aim of the present research was to investigate the obstacles, which prevent nurses being present with patients.

Background

It is vital for nurses to be able to spend time with patients for an accurate assessment of patients' needs to take place and to allow patients to express their concerns. The factors, which prevent nurses spending time with patients, are still unclear.

Method

Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews with thirty‐five participants, including the nurses and physicians from educational hospitals of Tehran. The analysis was performed through the conventional content analysis. To achieve accuracy and trustworthiness of the data, the Lincoln and Guba criteria were used.

Result

The results of the study can be summarized as: “conflict between human considerations and bureaucratic structure,” “failure to meet basic needs,” “the personal and interpersonal aspects of caring” and “safety in caring context.”

Conclusion

To ensure high‐quality care, it is important to understand more fully the factors that prevent nurses spending time with patients. Interventions are needed to allow nurses to spend more time with the patients.

Implication for nursing management

Health service managers should consider that the intrinsic motivation of nurses is to care for patients. They can increase the presence of nurses at patients' bedside and improve care quality by creating an attractive working environment, appreciating nurses' values, paying attention to their opinions and establishing professional communication based on mutual respect.
Copper deficiency alters shoot architecture and reduces fertility of both gynoecium and androecium in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rahmati Ishka Maryam , Vatamaniuk Olena K.
Published: November 2020

Copper deficiency reduces plant growth, male fertility, and seed set. The contribution of copper to female fertility and the underlying molecular aspects of copper deficiency‐caused phenotypes are not well known. We show that among copper deficiency‐caused defects in Arabidopsis thaliana were also the increased shoot branching, delayed flowering and senescence, and entirely abolished gynoecium fertility. The increased shoot branching of copper‐deficient plants was rescued by the exogenous application of auxin or copper. The delayed flowering was associated with the decreased expression of the floral activator, FT. Copper deficiency also decreased the expression of senescence‐associated genes, WRKY53 and SAG13, but increased the expression of SAG12. The reduced fertility of copper‐deficient plants stemmed from multiple factors including the abnormal stigma papillae development, the abolished gynoecium fertility, and the failure of anthers to dehisce. The latter defect was associated with reduced lignification, the upregulation of copper microRNAs and the downregulation of their targets, laccases, implicated in lignin synthesis. Copper‐deficient plants accumulated ROS in pollen and had reduced cytochrome c oxidase activity in both leaves and floral buds. This study opens new avenues for the investigation into the relationship between copper homeostasis, hormone‐mediated shoot architecture, gynoecium fertility, and copper deficiency‐derived nutritional signals leading to the delay in flowering and senescence.
Perturbing the energy landscape for improved packing during computational protein design
Authors: Maguire Jack B. , Haddox Hugh K. , Strickland Devin , Halabiya Samer F. , Coventry Brian , Griffin Jermel R. , Pulavarti Surya V. S. R. K , Cummins Matthew , Thieker David F , Klavins Eric , Szyperski Thomas , DiMaio Frank , Baker David , Kuhlman Brian
Published: November 2020

The FastDesign protocol in the molecular modeling program Rosetta iterates between sequence optimization and structure refinement to stabilize de novo designed protein structures and complexes. FastDesign has been used previously to design novel protein folds and assemblies with important applications in research and medicine. To promote sampling of alternative conformations and sequences, FastDesign includes stages where the energy landscape is smoothened by reducing repulsive forces. Here, we discover that this process disfavors larger amino acids in the protein core because the protein compresses in the early stages of refinement. By testing alternative ramping strategies for the repulsive weight, we arrive at a scheme that produces lower energy designs with more native‐like sequence composition in the protein core. We further validate the protocol by designing and experimentally characterizing over 4000 proteins and show that the new protocol produces higher stability proteins.
“It Took Us a Long Time to Go Here”: Creating Space for Young Children’s Transnationalism in an Early Writers’ Workshop
Authors: Machado Emily , Hartman Paul
Published: November 2020

Although growing numbers of children engage in transnational literacy practices in their homes and communities, these practices are rarely invited into the early literacy classroom, where teachers face increasing pressure to standardize instruction. In this qualitative, participatory case study, we examined how one early literacy teacher created space for young children to explore transnationalism within his primary‐level writers’ workshop. Drawing on theories associated with thetrans‐ turn in scholarship and using portraiture in analysis, we document how this teacher modified his published literacy curriculum to center students’ translingual and transnational literacy practices. We also describe how three young children took up invitations to compose poetry that explored their transnational identities and experiences, highlighting how explorations of transnationalism enriched their writing. Ultimately, we suggest that early literacy teachers, including those working within the confines of increasingly standardized curricula, can create spaces for children to explore and express the fullness of their lives, including their transnationalism. We conclude with implications of this work for teaching and future research.
Recentering Purpose and Audience as Part of a Critical, Humanizing Approach to Writing Instruction
Authors: Land Charlotte L.
Published: November 2020

This study addressed tensions faced by teachers in balancing the types of writing valued in today’s schools, the needs of today’s writers beyond school, and the rich cultural and linguistic resources that students bring into today’s classrooms. Drawing from data generated in a larger study of teachers in an inquiry group and their related classroom practice, I focus on one fourth‐grade teacher’s work to explore the following research question: How might teachers translate critical, humanizing pedagogies into their classroom writing instruction? New understandings illuminated in this article highlight how one teacher drew on purpose and audience, as (re)defined tools for writing, to recognize and value her students’ capabilities and to support them as agentive designers of texts. To examine these possibilities for repositioning students and approaching writing instruction from a critical, humanizing perspective, I describe this teacher’s shift from beginning with genre to beginning with purpose and audience and draw attention to the teacher’s and students’ use of these tools for guiding their decision making across multiple writing situations in a school year. Implications from this study add to understandings of critical, humanizing pedagogies by specifically considering how these approaches might be translated into writing instruction across pre‐K–12.
Vacuum‐Deposited Transparent Organic Photovoltaics for Efficiently Harvesting Selective Ultraviolet and Near‐Infrared Solar Energy
Authors: Li Meng‐Zhen , Lee Chih‐Chien , Biring Sajal , Hsu I‐Sheng , Luo Dian , Estrada Richie , Wu Yi‐Shiuan , Yang Chun‐Chen , Liu Shun‐Wei
Published: December 2020

Highly transparent photovoltaics (TPVs) integrated to a battery with small capacity can efficiently drive low‐powered internet of things (IoT) devices such as the receivers, sensors, actuators, etc. Such see‐through solar technology not only provides an opportunity to convert ambient light (sunlight or indoor lighting) to electricity but also demonstrates a concept of self‐sustainable power. In this work, a selective ultraviolet/near‐infrared bulk‐heterojunction active layer, i.e., chloroaluminum phthalocyanine (ClAlPc) as donor and C60 as acceptor with a Cu:Ag/WO3 transparent electrode to visible lights are combined for achieving the vacuum‐deposited TPVs with a power conversion efficiency of 1.34%, average visible transmission of 77.45%, and color rendering index of 91.9. Moreover, a TPV module with a working area of 1.5 cm2 is able to charge a 0.58 mAh LiFePO4(LFP)//Li battery fully within one hour under 100 mW cm‐2 (≈1 sun) illumination. The TPV module can drive an exciplex organic light‐emitting diode with the electroluminescence >180 cd m−2 at low illumination intensity of <5 mW cm‐2. Overall, this work presents a significant step forward in the development of TPV technology towards integrating a display and storage battery, which could be successfully applied in wearable electronics requiring invisible and sustainable solar power.