bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proliferation‐associated long noncoding RNA,TMPO‐AS1, is a potential therapeutic target for triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Mitobe Yuichi , Ikeda Kazuhiro , Sato Wataru , Kodama Yukinobu , Naito Mitsuru , Gotoh Noriko , Miyata Kanjiro , Kataoka Kazunori , Sasaki Hitoshi , Horie‐Inoue Kuniko , Inoue Satoshi
Published: May 2020

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer compared with luminal or epidermal growth factor receptor 2 subtypes, thus effective therapeutic options for TNBC are yet to be developed. Nowadays, oncogenic long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are applied to cancer management as a new class of therapeutic targets. We previously showed that thymopoietin antisense transcript 1 (TMPO‐AS1) is a proliferation‐associated lncRNA that contributes to hormone‐dependent breast cancer progression by stabilizing estrogen receptor‐α mRNA. We here showed thatTMPO‐AS1is abundantly expressed in basal‐like breast cancer subtype based on the transcriptomic data in The Cancer Genome Atlas as well as in TNBC cell lines and patient‐derived cells. Small interfering RNA‐based loss‐of‐function analyses showed thatTMPO‐AS1knockdown substantially represses the proliferation and migration of TNBC cells. Expression microarray analysis showed thatTMPO‐AS1alters gene signatures related to transforming growth factor‐β signaling in addition to proliferative E2F signaling pathways.TMPO‐AS1‐targeted siRNA treatment through engineered drug delivery systems using cancer‐targeted polyion complex micelle or nanoball technology significantly impaired the in vivo growth of primary and metastatic TNBC xenograft tumors. Our findings suggest thatTMPO‐AS1plays a key role in TNBC pathophysiology and could be a potential therapeutic target for TNBC.
Peptidoglycan-treated tumor antigen-pulsed dendritic cells impart complete resistance against tumor rechallenge
Authors: Patidar A , Selvaraj S , Chauhan P , Guzman C A , Ebensen T , Sarkar A , Chattopadhyay D , Saha B
Published: May 2020

Solid tumors elicit suppressive T cell responses which impair antigen-presenting cell (APC) functions. Such immune suppression results in uncontrolled tumor growth and mortality. Addressing APC dysfunction, dendritic cell (DC)-mediated anti-tumor vaccination was extensively investigated in both mice and humans. These studies never achieved full resistance to tumor relapse. Herein, we describe a repetitive RM-1 murine tumor rechallenge model for recurrence in humans. Using this newly developed model, we show that priming with tumor antigen-pulsed, Toll-like receptor (TLR)2 ligand-activated DCs elicits a host-protective anti-tumor immune response in C57BL/6 mice. Upon stimulation with the TLR2 ligand peptidoglycan (PGN), the tumor antigen-pulsed DCs induce complete resistance to repetitive tumor challenges. Intra-tumoral injection of PGN reduces tumor growth. The tumor resistance is accompanied by increased expression of interleukin (IL)-27, T-box transcription factor TBX21 (T-bet), IL-12, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ, along with heightened cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) functions. Mice primed four times with PGN-stimulated tumor antigen-pulsed DCs remain entirely resistant to repeat challenges with RM-1 tumor cells, suggesting complete prevention of relapse and recurrence of tumor. Adoptive transfer of T cells from these mice, which were fully protected from RM-1 rechallenge, confers anti-tumor immunity to syngeneic naive recipient mice upon RM-1 challenge. These observations indicate that PGN-activated DCs induce robust host-protective anti-tumor T cells that completely resist tumor growth and recurrence.
Quantum Coin Method for Numerical Integration
Authors: Shimada N. H. , Hachisuka T.
Published: May 2020

Light transport simulation in rendering is formulated as a numerical integration problem in each pixel, which is commonly estimated by Monte Carlo integration. Monte Carlo integration approximates an integral of a black‐box function by taking the average of many evaluations (i.e. samples) of the function (integrand). For N queries of the integrand, Monte Carlo integration achieves the estimation error of . Recently, Johnston [Joh16] introduced quantum super‐sampling (QSS) into rendering as a numerical integration method that can run on quantum computers. QSS breaks the fundamental limitation of the convergence rate of Monte Carlo integration and achieves the faster convergence rate of approximately which is the best possible bound of any quantum algorithms we know today [NW99]. We introduce yet another quantum numerical integration algorithm, quantum coin (QCoin) [AW99], and provide numerical experiments that are unprecedented in the fields of both quantum computing and rendering. We show that QCoin's convergence rate is equivalent to QSS's. We additionally show that QCoin is fundamentally more robust under the presence of noise in actual quantum computers due to its simpler quantum circuit and the use of fewer qubits. Considering various aspects of quantum computers, we discuss how QCoin can be a more practical alternative to QSS if we were to run light transport simulation in quantum computers in the future.
Outcomes of the Treatment with Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir following heart transplantation utilizing hepatitis C viremic donors
Authors: Reyentovich Alex , Gidea Claudia G. , Smith Deane , Lonze Bonnie , Kon Zachary , Fargnoli Anthony , Pavone Jennifer , Rao Shaline , Saraon Tajinderpal , Lewis Tyler , Qian Yingzhi , Jacobson Ira , Moazami Nader
Published: May 2020

Background

The use of direct‐acting antivirals (DAA) has expanded transplantation from hepatitis C viremic donors (HCV‐VIR). Our team has conducted an open‐label, prospective trial to assess outcomes transplanting HCV viremic hearts. Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) was our sole DAA.

Methods

Serial quantitative hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA PCR was obtained to assess HCV viral titers. Between January 2018 and June 2019, a total of 50 recipients were transplanted. Of these, 22/50 (44%) were from HCV‐VIR, the remaining 28 from non‐viremic (HCV NON‐VIR) donors. An 8‐week course of GLE/PIB was initiated at 1 week post‐transplant.

Results

There was no difference in demographic or clinical parameters between groups. All 22 recipients of HCV‐VIR transplants became viremic. GLE/PIB was effective in decreasing viremia to undetectable levels by 6 weeks post‐transplant in all patients. The median time to first undetectable HCV quantitative PCR was (4.3 weeks, IQR: 4‐5.7 weeks). All patients demonstrated sustained undetectable viral load through 1‐year follow‐up. There was no difference in survival at one year between HCV NON‐VIR 28/28: (100%) vs HCV‐VIR 21/22 (95%) recipients.

Conclusions

Our center reports excellent outcomes in transplanting utilizing hearts from HCV‐VIR donors. No effect on survival or co‐morbidity was found. An 8‐week GLE/PIB course was safe and effective when initiated approximately 1 week post‐transplant.
Prediction: Coveted, Yet Forsaken? Introducing a Cross‐Validated Predictive Ability Test in Partial Least Squares Path Modeling
Authors: Liengaard Benjamin Dybro , Sharma Pratyush Nidhi , Hult G. Tomas M. , Jensen Morten Berg , Sarstedt Marko , Hair Joseph F. , Ringle Christian M.
Published: May 2020

Management researchers often develop theories and policies that are forward‐looking. The prospective outlook of predictive modeling, where a model predicts unseen or new data, can complement the retrospective nature of causal‐explanatory modeling that dominates the field. Partial least squares (PLS) path modeling is an excellent tool for building theories that offer both explanation and prediction. A limitation of PLS, however, is the lack of a statistical test to assess whether a proposed or alternative theoretical model offers significantly better out‐of‐sample predictive power than a benchmark or an established model. Such an assessment of predictive power is essential for theory development and validation, and for selecting a model on which to base managerial and policy decisions. We introduce the cross‐validated predictive ability test (CVPAT) to conduct a pairwise comparison of predictive power of competing models, and substantiate its performance via multiple Monte Carlo studies. We propose a stepwise predictive model comparison procedure to guide researchers, and demonstrate CVPAT's practical utility using the well‐known American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) model.
The functional roles of species in metacommunities, as revealed by metanetwork analyses of bird–plant frugivory networks
Authors: Li Hai‐Dong , Tang Linfang , Jia Chenxi , Holyoak Marcel , Fründ Jochen , Huang Xiaoqun , Xiao Zhishu
Published: May 2020

Understanding how biodiversity and interaction networks change across environmental gradients is a major challenge in ecology. We integrated metacommunity and metanetwork perspectives to test species’ functional roles in bird–plant frugivory interactions in a fragmented forest landscape in Southwest China, with consequences for seed dispersal. Availability of fruit resources both on and under trees created vertical feeding stratification for frugivorous birds. Bird–plant interactions involving birds feeding only on‐the‐tree or both on and under‐the‐tree (shared) had a higher centrality and contributed more to metanetwork organisation than interactions involving birds feeding only under‐the‐tree. Moreover, bird–plant interactions associated with large‐seeded plants disproportionately contributed to metanetwork organisation and centrality. Consequently, on‐the‐tree and shared birds contributed more to metanetwork organisation whereas under‐the‐tree birds were more involved in local processes. We would expect that species’ roles in the metanetwork will translate into different conservation values for maintaining functioning of seed‐dispersal networks.
Food web transfer of plastics to an apex riverine predator
Authors: D’Souza Joseph M. , Windsor Fredric M. , Santillo David , Ormerod Stephen J.
Published: May 2020

As a rapidly accelerating expression of global change, plastics now occur extensively in freshwater ecosystems, yet there is barely any evidence of their transfer through food webs. Following previous observations that plastics occur widely in their prey, we used a field study of free‐living Eurasian dippers (Cinclus cinclus), to test the hypotheses that (1) plastics are transferred from prey to predators in rivers, (2) plastics contained in prey are transferred by adults to altricial offspring during provisioning and (3) plastic concentrations in faecal and regurgitated pellets from dippers increase with urbanization. Plastic occurred in 50% of regurgitates (n = 74) and 45% of faecal samples (n = 92) collected non‐invasively from adult and nestling dippers at 15 sites across South Wales (UK). Over 95% of particles were fibres, and concentrations in samples increased with urban land cover. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy identified multiple polymers, including polyester, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and vinyl chloride copolymers. Although characterized by uncertainty, steady‐state models using energetic data along with plastic concentration in prey and excreta suggest that around 200 plastic particles are ingested daily by dippers, but also excreted at rates that suggest transitory throughput. As some of the first evidence revealing that plastic is now being transferred through freshwater food webs, and between adult passerines and their offspring, these data emphasize the need to appraise the potential ecotoxicological consequences of increasing plastic pollution.
Nanoscale Isotopic Dating of Monazite
Authors: Fougerouse Denis , Kirkland Christopher L. , Saxey David W. , Seydoux‐Guillaume Anne‐Magali , Rowles Matthew R. , Rickard William D. A. , Reddy Steven M.
Published: May 2020

Monazite U‐Th‐Pb geochronology is widely used for dating geological processes, but current analytical techniques are limited to grains greater than 5 μm in diameter. This limitation precludes the analysis of both micrometre‐scale discrete monazite grains and fine textures within monazite crystals that are commonly found in geological specimens. Here, we analyse reference materials by atom probe tomography and develop a protocol for 208Pb/232Th dating of nanoscale domains of monazite (0.0007 μm3 analytical volume). The results indicate that the 208Pb2+/232ThO2+ ratios are higher than the true values. Such fractionation can be corrected using a linear regression between 208Pb2+/232ThO2+ and the M/ΔM10 peak shape parameter, where M is the position of the peak and ΔM10 the full‐width‐at‐tenth‐maximum for the same peak. This correction results in 15–20% analytical uncertainty on the corrected 208Pb/232Th age. Nonetheless, this approach opens the possibility of obtaining 208Pb/232Th ages with sufficient precision to address geological questions on an unprecedented small scale. To illustrate the approach, atom probe geochronology of a small monazite grain from the contact aureole of the Fanad pluton (Ireland) yielded a 208Pb/232Th atom probe age of 420 ± 60 Ma (2s) and is consistent with the known metamorphism in the region.
Refinement of dynamic equilibrium using small random perturbations
Authors: Araujo Aloisio , Maldonado Wilfredo L. , Pinheiro Diogo , Pinto Alberto A. , Choubdar Soltanahmadi Mohammad
Published: May 2020

We propose a refinement process of dynamic equilibria based on small random perturbations (SRPs) of the backward perfect foresight (bpf) equilibrium map in a class of one‐step, forward‐looking dynamic models. An equilibrium is selected if its stationary measure is the limit of the stationary measures associated with the processes generated by the SRPs of the bpf maps, as the perturbation size approaches 0. We show that, for full measure sets of parameter values of a large class of one‐parameter families of unimodal bpf maps, only determinate cycles or the chaotic sunspot equilibrium defined by Araujo and Maldonado (2000) is selected. Two examples are provided illustrating such refinement process.
Colour change with longitudinal compression supports hypothesis of multilayer interference as cause for meat iridescence
Authors: Ruedt Chiara , Gibis Monika , Barbut Shai , Weiss Jochen
Published: May 2020

The mechanism of iridescence in meat and meat products is still not fully understood but a widely accepted hypothesis is that it originates from a multilayer interference from sarcomere discs. In multilayer interference, the reflected wavelength is affected by the refraction angles, the thicknesses and refractive indices of the intermittent layers. A variation of these factors should therefore cause a disappearance or shift of iridescent colours. To test this hypothesis, we progressively compressed iridescent rolled fillets of ham longitudinal to the long axes of the muscle fibres and measured the interference colours by reflection spectrophotometry. We observed an interference colour shift from longer to shorter wavelengths and reflection intensity decreased with increasing compression pressure. Our data indicate that the compression decreased the layer thickness, so that constructive interference occurred at shorter wavelengths. The results thus provide support for multilayer interference being a primary cause and mechanism for meat iridescence.
Dividends and management promotion—Evidence from internal labor market in an emerging economy
Authors: Yang Dan , Cheng Linyin , Wang Guojun , Wang Yuetang
Published: May 2020

Top management in state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) works in a typical internal labor market and seeks political promotion after the tenure. By using a sample of Chinese listed SOEs for 2003–2013, this paper documents that top management in SOEs has motivations to trade‐off its own promotion through increasing dividend payout, and the evidence becomes more significant when SOEs report better financial performance than their industry averages.
Tough, strong, hard, and chemically durable enstatite‐zirconia glass‐ceramic
Authors: Montazerian Maziar , Zanotto Edgar D.
Published: May 2020

Strong glass‐ceramics (GCs) have been envisaged and widely researched for various applications, including large architectural panels, ballistic impact protection, bioactive medical implants, and odontological prostheses. Here, we report on the development and characterization of a novel hard, strong and tough enstatite‐zirconia (MgSiO3‐ZrO2) glass‐ceramic derived from a 51SiO2–35MgO–6Na2O–4ZrO2–4TiO2 (mol%) glass. The best GC was developed by treating glass samples for nucleation at 700°C for 12 hours, followed by crystal growth at 1090°C for 3 minutes. It was characterized by X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), and contained plate‐like enstatite, zirconia, and Ti‐containing crystals. We investigated the nucleating ability of ZrO2 and TiO2 in inducing internal nucleation. In the early stage of crystallization, enstatite spherulites were observed, which were precipitated by heterogeneous nucleation on previously nucleated ZrO2 nano‐crystals. At more advanced stages, at high temperatures, they transformed into plate‐like crystals. The ball‐on‐three‐balls strength, elastic modulus, and Vickers micro‐hardness of the GC are 323 ± 26 MPa, 146 ± 13 GPa, and 6.9 ± 0.1 GPa (load = 5N), respectively. The indentation (KC), single‐edge notched beam bending (KIC), and crack tip (Ktip) fracture toughness are 2.8 ± 0.6 MP.m0.5, 2.2 ± 0.3 MP.m0.5, 1.9 ± 0.3 MP.m0.5, respectively. The crack propagation profile after a controlled Vickers indentation was quite intricate. The enstatite and zirconia crystals enhanced crack deflection, bridging and branching, hindering crack propagation. According to the ISO 6872 for dental materials, the chemical solubility of our GC is 80 ± 5 μg/cm2. Due to this positive combination of high strength, toughness, hardness, and chemical durability, this new glass‐ceramic is envisioned as a candidate for several applications and could be further developed for memory disc substrates, architectural cladding and tiles, ceramic glazes, and dental materials.
Evaluation of the associations of body height with blood pressure and early‐stage atherosclerosis in Chinese adults
Authors: Qiu Qinqin , Meng Xiangyu , Li Yanjun , Liu Xuekui , Teng Fei , Wang Yu , Zang Xiu , Wang Yun , Liang Jun
Published: May 2020

Body height has been recently related to the risk of coronary heart disease and metabolic risk factors. However, data are scarce regarding the relationship between body height and early‐stage atherosclerotic changes, especially in Chinese individuals. In this study, we aimed to comprehensively examine the associations of body height with early‐stage atherosclerosis and blood pressure in Chinese adults. Carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), carotid‐radial pulse wave velocity (crPWV), carotid artery‐dorsalis pedis pulse wave velocity (cdPWV), and body height were measured in 5098 men and women. All samples were obtained from a community‐based health examination survey in central China. After adjusting for sex, age, weight, fasting glucose level, lipid level, creatinine, and heart rate, low body heights were significantly associated with higher cfPWV, crPWV, and blood pressure (all P for trend <.01), whereas no significant association was found between body height and cdPWV. In addition, we found a significant interaction between prehypertension status and body height in relation to cfPWV, after adjusting for covariates (P for interaction = .0024). The associations were stronger in participants with prehypertension than in those with normal blood pressure. Compared to the group with the tallest stature and normal blood pressure, individuals in the group with the shortest stature and prehypertension had nearly a 2.5 m/s higher cfPWV. These results indicate that short body height was associated with an increased risk of early‐stage atherosclerosis in Chinese adults, independent of traditional cardiometabolic risk factors. Prehypertension might modify the association between body height and cfPWV.
Epidermal growth factor regulates the development of stem and progenitor Leydig cells in rats
Authors: Li Xiaoheng , Wang Yiyan , Zhu Qiqi , Yuan Kaiming , Su Zhijian , Ge Fei , Ge Ren‐Shan , Huang Yadong
Published: May 2020

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) has many physiological roles. However, its effects on stem and progenitor Leydig cell development remain unclear. Rat stem and progenitor Leydig cells were cultured with different concentrations of EGF alone or in combination with EGF antagonist, erlotinib or cetuximab. EGF (1 and 10 ng/mL) stimulated the proliferation of stem Leydig cells on the surface of seminiferous tubules and isolated CD90+ stem Leydig cells and progenitor Leydig cells but it blocked their differentiation. EGF also exerted anti‐apoptotic effects of progenitor Leydig cells. Erlotinib and cetuximab are able to reverse EGF‐mediated action. Gene microarray and qPCR of EGF‐treated progenitor Leydig cells revealed that the down‐regulation of steroidogenesis‐related proteins (Star and Hsd3b1) and antioxidative genes. It was found that EGF acted as a proliferative agent via increasing phosphorylation of AKT1. In conclusion, EGF stimulates the proliferation of rat stem and progenitor Leydig cells but blocks their differentiation.
Down‐regulation of long non‐coding RNA MEG3 promotes Schwann cell proliferation and migration and repairs sciatic nerve injury in rats
Authors: Ma Yongbin , Zhai Dongwang , Zhang Wenzhe , Zhang Huanyan , Dong Liyang , Zhou Yuepeng , Feng Dingqi , Zheng Yu , Wang Ting , Mao Chaoming , Wang Xuefeng
Published: May 2020

Peripheral nerve injury and regeneration are complex processes and involve multiple molecular and signalling components. However, the involvement of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) in this process is not fully clarified. In this study, we evaluated the expression of the lncRNA maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) in rats after sciatic nerve transection and explored its potential mechanisms. The expression of lncRNA MEG3 was up‐regulated following sciatic nerve injury and observed in Schwann cells (SCs). The down‐regulation of lncRNA MEG3 in SCs enhanced the proliferation and migration of SCs via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway. The silencing of lncRNA MEG3 promoted the migration of SCs and axon outgrowth in rats after sciatic nerve transection and facilitated rat nerve regeneration and functional recovery. Our findings indicated that lncRNA MEG3 may be involved in nerve injury and injured nerve regeneration in rats with sciatic nerve defects by regulating the proliferation and migration of SCs. This gene may provide a potential therapeutic target for improving peripheral nerve injury.
Retracted: Lestaurtinib potentiates TRAIL‐induced apoptosis in glioma via CHOP‐dependent DR5 induction
Authors: Cao Yingxiao , Kong Shiqi , Xin Yuling , Meng Yan , Shang Shuling , Qi Yanhui
Published: May 2020

Lestaurtinib, also called CEP‐701, is an inhibitor of tyrosine kinase, causes haematological remission in patients with AML possessing FLT3‐ITD (FLT3 gene) internal tandem duplication and strongly inhibits tyrosine kinase FLT3. Treatment with lestaurtinib modulates various signalling pathways and leads to cell growth arrest and programmed cell death in several tumour types. However, the effect of lestaurtinib on glioma remains unclear. In this study, we examined lestaurtinib and TRAIL interactions in glioma cells and observed their synergistic activity on glioma cell apoptosis. While U87 and U251 cells showed resistance to TRAIL single treatment, they were sensitized to apoptosis induced by TRAIL in the presence of lestaurtinib because of increased death receptor 5 (DR5) levels through CHOP‐dependent manner. We also demonstrated using a xenograft model of mouse that the tumour growth was absolutely suppressed because of the combined treatment compared to TRAIL or lestaurtinib treatment carried out singly. Our findings reveal a potential new strategy to improve antitumour activity induced by TRAIL in glioma cells using lestaurtinib through a mechanism dependent on CHOP.
Obesity as a risk factor for psoriasis
Authors: Zachariae C. , Skov L.
Published: May 2020

Linked article: M. Kim, et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34: 1019–1025. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.16099.
Subsidizing Liquidity with Wider Ticks: Evidence from the Tick Size Pilot Study
Authors: Bartlett Robert P. , McCrary Justin
Published: May 2020

Using data from the 2016–2018 Tick Size Pilot Study, we examine the efficacy of using wider tick sizes to subsidize market‐making in small capitalization stocks. We demonstrate that realized spreads decay quickly within the initial microseconds of a trade. The effect reduces the subsidy offered by wider tick sizes, particularly for non‐HFT market makers. The profit subsidy from wider tick sizes is also compromised by a significant shift in trading to “taker/maker” exchanges and to midpoint trading in non‐exchange venues. The pilot's exception for midpoint trades also accounts for the fact that nearly a third of trading remains in non‐exchange venues despite the inclusion of a trade‐at rule. Overall, these findings point to considerable inefficiencies in the pilot study's goal of using wider tick sizes to subsidize liquidity provision in small capitalization stocks.
The Problem of Data Bias in the Pool of Published U.S. Appellate Court Opinions
Authors: Carlson Keith , Livermore Michael A. , Rockmore Daniel N.
Published: May 2020

For decades, researchers have studied the relationship between the political leanings of judges and the outcomes of appellate litigation in the United States. The primary source of data for this research has been published judicial opinions that describe cases and their outcomes. However, only a relatively small number of cases result in published opinions, and this sample of cases may be subject to serious biases. Based on computational text analysis of over 150,000 published opinions issued by federal appellate courts in the years 1970–2010, we find strong evidence of data bias based on relationships between the party affiliations of judges on appellate court panels and the characteristics of cases that result in published opinions. These relationships imply that the inferential model that underlies much of the judicial politics literature can lead to biased or spurious findings concerning the causal influence of judicial attributes on case outcomes.
What do warming waters mean for fish physiology and fisheries?
Authors: Little Alexander G. , Loughland Isabella , Seebacher Frank
Published: May 2020

Environmental signals act primarily on physiological systems, which then influence higher‐level functions such as movement patterns and population dynamics. Increases in average temperature and temperature variability associated with global climate change are likely to have strong effects on fish physiology and thereby on populations and fisheries. Here we review the principal mechanisms that transduce temperature signals and the physiological responses to those signals in fish. Temperature has a direct, thermodynamic effect on biochemical reaction rates. Nonetheless, plastic responses to longer‐term thermal signals mean that fishes can modulate their acute thermal responses to compensate at least partially for thermodynamic effects. Energetics are particularly relevant for growth and movement, and therefore for fisheries, and temperature can have pronounced effects on energy metabolism. All energy (ATP) production is ultimately linked to mitochondria, and temperature has pronounced effects on mitochondrial efficiency and maximal capacities. Mitochondria are dependent on oxygen as the ultimate electron acceptor so that cardiovascular function and oxygen delivery link environmental inputs with energy metabolism. Growth efficiency, that is the conversion of food into tissue, changes with temperature, and there are indications that warmer water leads to decreased conversion efficiencies. Moreover, movement and migration of fish relies on muscle function, which is partially dependent on ATP production but also on intracellular calcium cycling within the myocyte. Neuroendocrine processes link environmental signals to regulated responses at the level of different tissues, including muscle. These physiological processes within individuals can scale up to population responses to climate change. A mechanistic understanding of thermal responses is essential to predict the vulnerability of species and populations to climate change.
Correction of temporal wasting using calcium hydroxylapatite with integral lidocaine: An underused procedure for enhancing overall facial appearance
Authors: Barbarino Sheila C.
Published: May 2020

Background

Hollowing of the temple area is an early sign of aging that is often overlooked, but when corrected, can lead to significant subject and physician satisfaction.

Aims

To assess physician and subject awareness of the impact of temporal hollowing on appearance and to evaluate treatment satisfaction following injection of calcium hydroxylapatite with integral lidocaine (CaHA(+)).

Patients/Methods

Subjects with temporal depression grade ≥2 on a validated Temple Hollowing Scale were recruited. CaHA(+) was injected supraperiosteally using a bolus technique. Photographs were taken prior to treatment and 30 days, and graded by three evaluating physicians using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and Temple Hollowing Scale. The same physicians estimated subjects' age before and after treatment. Photographs were graded by patients as part of a satisfaction questionnaire.

Results

The study enrolled 10 subjects aged 32‐68 years old. Physician GAIS scores of subject appearance at 1 month were rated as “very much improved” in 80% and “much improved” in 20% of subjects. Temple hollows were graded as 1 after treatment in 90% of subjects. Following blinded review of patients' true ages, estimates for subjects' perceived age were on average 4 years younger than their actual age. Most subjects had not been aware of temple hollowing prior to treatment, but nine out of 10 were very to extremely satisfied with results, and all were willing to repeat treatment. No treatment complications were observed.

Conclusion

Treatment of the temple area can have a dramatic aesthetic effect and should not be neglected when addressing facial rejuvenation. CaHA(+) is an effective and well‐tolerated product for use in the temple area and is associated with a high degree of subject and physician satisfaction.
Barriers and facilitators to implementation of a multifaceted nurse‐led intervention in acute care hospitals aimed at reducing indwelling urinary catheter use: A qualitative study
Authors: Parker Vicki , Giles Michelle , King Jennie , Bantawa Kamana
Published: May 2020

Background

It is essential to evaluate the ways in which practice changes are implemented and received in and across contexts, identifying barriers and enablers, and mechanisms for enhancing success.

Aim

To provide insights into the experiences of clinicians in implementing a multifaceted bundled urinary catheter care intervention in four acute care hospitals in New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

The catheter care bundle was implemented using a pre‐ and postintervention study design. The intervention was implemented in all adult inpatient wards, emergency departments and operating theatres of four hospitals. The bundle consisted of an integrated set of evidence‐based practices to assist clinicians in making better informed decisions related to catheter insertion, care and removal practices. Focus groups at each participating hospital evaluated the implementation processes from the clinicians’ perspective, identifying barriers and enablers to successful implementation.

Results

Eight focus groups were held with 35 participants. Four key inter‐related themes were identified: early and sustained engagement with key stakeholders; good planning but remaining flexible; managing the burden of practice change; and adopting and sustaining practice change. These themes capture and highlight the complexity and the challenges associated with implementation of the practice change across contexts and the project timeline.

Conclusion

It is imperative to understand the challenges associated with complex practice change and ways in which implementation can be optimised. This study identified barriers and enablers experienced by staff implementing the bundled intervention. The themes encapsulate factors central to success of practice change within the complex, multilayered healthcare environment.

Relevance to clinical practice

Key challenges highlight the need for forward planning, strategic engagement of key players, continuing monitoring and feedback together with adequate resourcing tailored to result in sustainable normalisation of the intervention over time. The COREQ checklist for qualitative studies has been used in reporting this study.
Identifying the experiences of new graduate nurses during the transition period to practice as a professional nurse
Authors: Salem Alghamdi Musaad , Ghazi Baker Omar
Published: May 2020

Aims and Objectives

To assess the impact of orientation programmes on new graduate nurses’ transition periods.

Background

The transition of graduate nurses from students to the practising professional nurse is often found to be stressful.

Design

The study has employed a descriptive correlational design.

Methods

The data were collected from 95 participants who were working as registered nurses in public hospitals in Al‐Bahah region. Questionnaire was used for collecting data which was based on the Casey‐Fink graduate nurse experience survey. SPSS software was used to analyse the results. The methods of this study are in line with the STROBE checklist.

Results

The findings indicated statistically significant relationship between preceptor's support and communication leadership, professional satisfaction and job satisfaction, whereas an insignificant relationship was observed between preceptor's support and organising patient safety. The results also indicated that new graduate nurses were uncomfortable while performing different procedures/skills independently.

Conclusion

The study implied instigation of the structured orientation programme to overcome the challenges faced by the new graduate nurses in their transition period.

Relevance to clinical practice

The upsurge in the nurses’ demand across Saudi Arabia makes this study highly relevant. It helps in optimising the transition experience of the nurses who are required to provide service in the acute sector.
Longitudinal Disconnection Tractograms to Investigate the Functional Consequences of White Matter Damage: An Automated Pipeline
Authors: Jordan Kesshi M. , Keshavan Anisha , Caverzasi Eduardo , Osorio Joseph , Papinutto Nico , Amirbekian Bagrat , Berger Mitchel S. , Henry Roland G.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Neurosurgical resection is one of the few opportunities researchers have to image the human brain pre‐ and postfocal damage. A major challenge associated with brains undergoing surgical resection is that they often do not fit brain templates most image‐processing methodologies are based on. Manual intervention is required to reconcile the pathology, requiring time investment and introducing reproducibility concerns, and extreme cases must be excluded.

METHODS

We propose an automatic longitudinal pipeline based on High Angular Resolution Diffusion Imaging acquisitions to facilitate a Pathway Lesion Symptom Mapping analysis relating focal white matter injury to functional deficits. This two‐part approach includes (i) automatic segmentation of focal white matter injury from anisotropic power differences, and (ii) modeling disconnection using tractography on the single‐subject level, which specifically identifies the disconnections associated with focal white matter damage.

RESULTS

The advantages of this approach stem from (1) objective and automatic lesion segmentation and tractogram generation, (2) objective and precise segmentation of affected tissue likely to be associated with damage to long‐range white matter pathways (defined by anisotropic power), (3) good performance even in the cases of anatomical distortions by use of nonlinear tensor‐based registration, which aligns images using an approach sensitive to white matter microstructure.

CONCLUSIONS

Mapping a system as variable and complex as the human brain requires sample sizes much larger than the current technology can support. This pipeline can be used to execute large‐scale, sufficiently powered analyses by meeting the need for an automatic approach to objectively quantify white matter disconnection.
Public knowledge about dosage forms, routes of drug administration and medication proper storage conditions in Riyadh District, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hailat Mohammad , Al-Shdefat Ramadan I , Muflih Suhaib M , Ahmed Nehad , Attarabeen Omar , Alkhateeb Fadi M , Al Meanazel Osaid , Gassar Ezeddin Salem
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess public knowledge on the safety, efficacy, proper storage conditions and other physiochemical properties of different dosage forms.

Methods

This study was based on a cross-sectional design. A structured quantitative survey, which included five sections, was used as an instrument for data collection. The first section addressed the demographic characteristics of the sample, whereas the second section assessed public knowledge on medications. The third section inquired about participants’ preferred dosage forms. The fourth section was related to the perceived effects of physiochemical properties of medicines on their safety and efficacy. The fifth section addressed participants’ thoughts on appropriate ways for medications usage and storage. A total of 752 participants completed the questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS (20.0) software.

Key findings

Although our study findings pointed out some knowledge gaps based on participants’ answers, most of the participants (87%) reported that physicians or pharmacists were the main sources of their medicine-related information. There was a great variation in participants’ responses regarding perceived onset of action, proper storage conditions and other properties of different dosage forms.

Conclusion

The study findings demonstrated the need to educate the public about basic information related to different dosage forms of medications.
Infant feeding beliefs and practices: Effects of maternal personal characteristics
Authors: Bushaw Andrea , Lutenbacher Melanie , Karp Sharon , Dietrich Mary , Graf Michelle
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Information is limited about how mothers make food decisions on behalf of their children. Eating practices are established early in life and are difficult to change, so it is imperative to focus on the caregiver who influences a young child's food preferences and eating behaviors. The purpose of this secondary data analysis was to examine the relationship between maternal characteristics and infant feeding beliefs and practices in a sample of multiparous mothers with a history of a prior preterm infant birth.

Design and Methods

Secondary analysis of a subset of data (n = 112) collected from women who participated in a randomized clinical trial (RCT) assessing the efficacy of a home‐based intervention to improve maternal and child outcomes. Inclusion criteria for the RCT: women ≥18 years of age at enrollment with a prior preterm live birth >20 and <37 weeks gestation, <24 weeks gestation at enrollment, spoke/read English, and received prenatal care at a regional medical center. Criteria for the subset included: completed the Infant Feeding Questionnaire at 5 months postpartum and had reported a prenatal body mass index (BMI). Univariate correlations and multiple linear regression analyses were used to assess the associations between maternal personal characteristics and infant feeding practices.

Results

Median age of the mothers was 27 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 23–32) with median education of 12 years (IQR: 12–16). More than two‐thirds (68%) of the women breastfed their last baby. These women were less likely to be concerned about their infant's hunger (r = −.20; p = .035). After controlling for education, maternal BMI, breastfed last baby, self‐esteem, locus of control, and depressive symptoms, decreased maternal age (β = −.35; p < .001) and higher levels of stress (β = .19; p = .042) were associated with greater concern about their infant's hunger. Maternal demographic and psychosocial variables were not found to be statistically significantly associated with either concern about infant overeating and becoming overweight or an awareness of infant's hunger and satiety cues.

Practice Implications

Differences in maternal psychosocial variables and attitudes toward infant feeding may contribute to long term eating habits and weight outcomes in children. A better understanding of maternal variables that influence infant feeding attitudes and practices could improve the design of future intervention studies aimed at mothers at risk for having poor infant feeding practices.
Natural food mastication capability in preschool children according to their oral condition: A preliminary study
Authors: Linas Natacha , Peyron Marie‐Agnès , Eschevins Caroline , Hennequin Martine , Nicolas Emmanuel , Collado Valérie
Published: May 2020

This study investigated, for the first time, the masticatory capability of preschool children using natural foods, and the impact of an early oral health alteration (early childhood caries: ECC) on the granulometry of ready‐to‐swallow food boluses. Thirteen children with ECC were compared to 13 preschool children with a healthy oral condition. Oral health criteria and NOT‐S scores (Nordic Orofacial dysfunction Test‐Screening) were recorded. For each child, number of masticatory cycles (Nc), chewing time (Ti), and frequency (Fq = Nc/Ti) were recorded during mastication of raw carrot (CAR), cheese (CHS) and breakfast cereals (CER) samples. Food boluses were collected by stopping children at their food‐dependent individual swallowing threshold (Nc), and the median food bolus particle size value (D50) was calculated. Correlations were sought between oral health and masticatory criteria. In the ECC group, mean Fq values were significantly decreased for all three foods (p ≤ .001) and mean D50 values were significantly increased (p ≤ .001) compared to the control group (i.e., D50 CAR = 4,384 μm ± 929 vs. 2,960 μm ± 627). These alterations were related to the extent of ECC. The NOT‐S mean global score was significantly increased in children with ECC (2.62 ± 1.37 vs. 1 ± 0.91 in the control group, p ≤ .01), due to “Mastication and swallowing” domain impairment. This study gives granulometric normative values for three foods in preschool children and shows the impact of ECC on D50 values. The progression of children's masticatory capability after dental treatment, and the impact of such modifications of sensory input on future eating habits should be explored.
Pharmacokinetics of multivesicular liposomal encapsulated cytarabine when administered subcutaneously in dogs
Authors: Vazquez Fuster Irene B. , Taylor Amanda R. , Smith Annette N. , Duran Sue H. , Ravis William R. , Jasper Shanese L. , Arnold Robert D.
Published: May 2020

Background

Prolonged cytotoxic concentrations of cytarabine (CA) are required for maximum cytotoxicity. DepoCyt is a human liposomal cytarabine (LC) product that lasts longer in plasma and CSF compared with free CA (FC). The use of LC has not been evaluated in dogs.

Objectives

To perform a LC pharmacokinetic (PK) study when administered SC in dogs.

Animals

Five healthy female beagles.

Methods

Three‐period, 3‐treatment, nonblinded, randomized, and crossover design, including a pilot study. LC was administered at 50 mg/m2 SC and FC was administered at 25 and 50 mg/m2 SC and IV. Plasma CA concentrations were measured until 240, 72, and 8 hours after SC LC, SC FC, and IV FC administration, respectively. CA plasma concentrations were quantitated by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (MS/MS) detection and concentration‐time profiles were evaluated by noncompartmental analysis.

Results

Subcutaneous LC administration resulted in a maximum plasma concentration of 26.3 to 59.78 ng/mL, time to reach maximum plasma concentration of 2 hours, area under the concentration‐time curve to last measurable concentration of 669.3 to 1126 h × ng/mL, and plasma bioavailability (%F) of 19.6% to 31.3%. The PK profiles of FC after SC and IV administration differed when compared with LC.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

In healthy dogs, SC LC administration at 50 mg/m2 results in measurable plasma CA concentrations, is apparently safe and well tolerated, but does not result in prolonged cytotoxic plasma concentrations. Poor absorption of LC prevented establishment of a complete LC PK profile.
New measurement technique for characterizing small extraterrestrial materials by X‐ray diffraction using the Gandolfi attachment
Authors: Imae Naoya , Kimura Makoto
Published: May 2020

Identification and characterization of small extraterrestrial samples, such as small Antarctic meteorites <~1 cm, require the development of convenient laboratory‐based nondestructive analytical techniques using X‐ray diffraction (XRD). We explore the characterization criteria using an X‐ray diffractometer with a Gandolfi attachment using sub‐mm small fragments and powder aggregates for various kinds of stony meteorites and develop a new analytical technique. We primarily focus on olivine and pyroxene because they are the most abundant and important minerals for stony meteorite classification. A new calibration is performed to estimate the FeO content of the olivine in unequilibrated ordinary chondrites, which is useful for determining the meteorite chemical group irrespective of powder aggregate diameter but dependent on fragment grain diameter. This is because X‐ray intensity absorption is more effective for grains than for powders. Clinoenstatite (Cen) and orthoenstatite (Oen) were distinguished using the presence or absence of the isolated Oen 511 index peak. The method is also applied to other stony meteorites including carbonaceous chondrites and achondrites. The XRD results are consistent with studies based on polished sections involving textural observations by scanning microscope and chemical compositions of the constituent minerals. The new measurement technique presented here is convenient because of its use in air by the laboratory‐based X‐ray diffractometer, which makes it useful for the initial analyses of restricted extraterrestrial sample characterization.
The gender ideology of ‘Wise Mother and Good Wife’ and Korean immigrant women’s adjustment in the United States
Authors: Seo You Jung , Cheah Charissa S. L. , Cho Hyun Su
Published: May 2020

The notion of ‘wise mother and good wife (WMGW)’ (Hyonmo Yangcho) is the traditional idealized image of Korean womanhood as one who serves her country and others through her roles as a mother and wife. This ideology may continue to have some significance in the lives of many first‐generation Korean immigrant women, but its potential role in the adjustment challenges these women may face while acculturating to the immigrant context in the United States has received little attention. In this paper, we briefly review the historical background of the WMGW ideology and discussed the significance of focusing research attention on the role of this notion in contemporary first‐generation Korean immigrant women in the United States. We focus on the intersecting influences of gender, ethnicity, and immigrants’ generation status, which may further marginalize some first‐generation Korean immigrant mothers. We then outline possible unique challenges faced by some of these mothers due to the WMGW gender ideology, highlighting potential immigration‐related difficulties including changes in their social support networks, parenting burden, mental health, and language issues. Finally, we provide suggestions for researchers and practitioners working with U.S. Korean immigrant women.
The radiocarbon age of mycoheterotrophic plants
Authors: Hatté Christine , Zazzo Antoine , Selosse Marc‐André
Published: May 2020

This article is a Commentary on Suetsugu et al. (2020), 227: 1519–1529.