bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of the online mindset intervention ‘The Growth Factory’ for adolescents with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Verberg Fenneke , Helmond Petra , Otten Roy , Overbeek Geertjan
Published: October 2021

Background

This study examines participant satisfaction and effectiveness of the online mindset intervention ‘The Growth Factory’ (TGF) for youth with intellectual disabilities using a randomised controlled trial design.

Method

Youth with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities (N = 119; 12–23 years) were randomly assigned to TGF (n = 60) or control group (n = 59). Primary outcome measures were mindsets and perseverance. Secondary outcomes were empowerment, mental health problems, self‐esteem, treatment motivation, therapeutic alliance and challenge seeking. Measurements were conducted at pre‐test, post‐test and at 3 and 6 months follow‐up.

Results

TGF had positive effects on perseverance, mental health problems, self‐esteem and therapeutic alliance at post‐test. TGF had follow‐up effects on mental health problems (3 months), mindset of intelligence (3 and 6 months) and mindset of emotion and behaviour (6 months).

Conclusions

TGF offers a promising add‐on intervention complementing usual care programmes accelerating improvements in mindsets and mental health in youth with intellectual disabilities.
TQFL12, a novel synthetic derivative of TQ, inhibits triple‐negative breast cancer metastasis and invasion through activating AMPK/ACC pathway
Authors: Wei Chunli , Zou Hui , Xiao Ting , Liu Xiaoyan , Wang Qianqian , Cheng Jingliang , Fu Shangyi , Peng Jiangzhou , Xie Xin , Fu Junjiang
Published: October 2021

Thymoquinone (TQ) has been reported as an anti‐tumour drug widely studied in various tumours, and its mechanism and effect of which has become a focus of current research. However, previous studies from our laboratory and other groups found that TQ showed weak anti‐tumour effects in many cancer cell lines and animal models. Therefore, it is necessary to modify and optimize the structure of TQ to obtain new chemical entities with high efficiency and low toxicity as candidates for development of new drugs in treating cancer. Therefore, we designed and synthesized several TQ derivatives. Systematic analysis, including in vitro and in vivo, was conducted on a panel of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and mouse model to demonstrate whether TQFL12, a new TQ derivative, is more efficient than TQ. We found that the anti‐proliferative effect of TQFL12 against TNBC cells is significantly stronger than TQ. We also demonstrated TQFL12 affects different aspects in breast cancer development including cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. Moreover, TQFL12 inhibited tumour growth and metastasis in cancer cell–derived xenograft mouse model, with less toxicity compared with TQ. Finally, mechanism research indicated that TQFL12 increased AMPK/ACC activity by stabilizing AMPKα, while molecular docking supported the direct interaction between TQFL12 and AMPKα. Taken together, our findings suggest that TQFL12, as a novel chemical entity, possesses a better inhibitory effect on TNBC cells and less toxicity in both in vitro and in vivo studies. As such, TQFL12 could serve as a potential therapeutic agent for breast cancer.
Hypoxia blocks ferroptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma via suppression of METTL14 triggered YTHDF2‐dependent silencing of SLC7A11
Authors: Fan Zhuoyang , Yang Guowei , Zhang Wei , Liu Qian , Liu Guangqin , Liu Pingping , Xu Ligang , Wang Jianhua , Yan Zhiping , Han Hong , Liu Rong , Shu Minfeng
Published: October 2021

Residue hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells enduring hypoxic environment triggered by interventional embolization obtain more malignant potential with little clarified mechanism. The N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) biological activity plays essential roles in diverse physiological processes. However, its role under hypoxic condition remains largely unexplored. RT‐qPCR and Western blot were used to evaluate METTL14 expression in hypoxic HCC cells. MDA assay and electronic microscopy photography were used to evaluate ferroptosis. The correlation between SLC7A11 and METTL14 was conducted by bioinformatical analysis. Flow cytometry was used to verify the effect of SLC7A11 on ROS production. Cell counting kit‐8 assay was performed to detect cells proliferation ability. Hypoxia triggered suppression of METTL14 in a HIF‐1α–dependent manner potently abrogated ferroptosis of HCC cells. Mechanistic investigation identified SLC7A11 was a direct target of METTL14. Both in vitro and in vivo assay demonstrated that METTL14 induced m6A modification at 5’UTR of SLC7A11 mRNA, which in turn underwent degradation relied on the YTHDF2‐dependent pathway. Importantly, ectopic expression of SLC7A11 strongly blocked METTL14‐induced tumour‐suppressive effect in hypoxic HCC. Our investigations lay the emphasis on the hypoxia‐regulated ferroptosis in HCC cells and identify the HIF‐1α /METTL14/YTHDF2/SLC7A11 axis as a potential therapeutic target for the HCC interventional embolization treatment.
Effectiveness and safety of ertugliflozin for type 2 diabetes: A meta‐analysis of data from randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhang Fudan , Wang Wenting , Hou Xu
Published: October 2021

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the novel sodium–glucose cotransporter inhibitor, ertugliflozin, compared with a placebo or other antihyperglycemic agents for type 2 diabetes patients.

Materials and Methods

We carried out a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess the benefits and harms of ertugliflozin. Online database searches were carried out in PubMed, EMBASE, WEB OF SCIENCE and Cochrane from inception up to 11 March 2021. Our end‐points were glycated hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose and bodyweight. We analyzed the results using a random effects model, computed weighted mean differences and risk ratios.

Result

A total of 10 randomized controlled trials with 13,223 patients met the inclusion criteria. Compared with a placebo, the weighted mean differences in glycated hemoglobin were −0.77% (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.86 to −0.68%) for ertugliflozin 5 mg, and −0.82% (95% CI −1.01 to −0.63%) for ertugliflozin 15 mg. Ertugliflozin 5 mg daily was also associated with bodyweight loss (weighted mean difference −1.87 kg, 95% CI −2.12 to −1.6). When compared with a placebo, ertugliflozin significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose by −1.62 mmol/L (weighted mean difference, 95% CI −1.82 to −1.42 for 5 mg ertugliflozin). Yet, we observed a rising risk for genital mycotic infections (risk ratio 4.34, 95% CI 2.78–6.76). The results were similar for the 15 mg ertugliflozin group.

Conclusion

Ertugliflozin effectively reduces glycated hemoglobin levels and provides extra clinical benefits including bodyweight and fasting plasma glucose. Common adverse effects, including genital mycotic infections and so on, were reviewed.
Air pollution and CEO compensation: Evidence from China
Authors: Chan Kam C. , Chen Tao , Liu Baohua , Wu Junfeng
Published: October 2021

This paper complements the literature on green finance by probing whether air pollution matters for CEO compensation. Using a sample covering 240 cities in 31 provinces in China from 2005 to 2017, we document a positive association between air pollution and CEO compensation. These findings indicate that firms headquartered in areas with unhealthy air compensate their CEOs with higher pay than those headquartered in areas with better air quality. Moreover, two potential channels are validated to interpret the positive pollution‐pay linkage: income comparison and executive shortage. Finally, we show that air pollution attenuates the pay‐performance sensitivity, indirectly confirming an essential role of the living environment in determining CEO compensation.
Triboelectric charging of 3‐in‐1 coffee mixes: Formulation and fouling
Authors: Lim Teng Shuen Ernest , Lim Eileen , Tay Wei Quan , Cruz Denise Alison , Wong Shin Yee
Published: October 2021

In powder processing, fouling is a serious and common issue. This is caused by powder adhesion on processing surfaces, leading to clogging and disruption. Most of the time, powder adhesion is due to triboelectric charging. Electrostatically charged powder adheres to surfaces, accumulating and eventually leading to blockage of channels (e.g., transfer pipes, etc.). This production problem is usually discovered during manufacturing scale‐up. The characteristics of the powder correlate with the extent of triboelectric charging, and thus it is possible to predict this production problem during the product formulation/development stage. A case study to predict and prevent fouling for 3‐in‐1 coffee powder and its components (sugar, coffee, and creamer) was investigated. First, the electrostatic charge of the commercial 3‐in‐1 coffee mixes and their individual ingredients were measured. Analytical tests were also conducted to correlate the electrostatic charge to the components in each ingredient. For sugar, higher mineral levels lead to less negative charge. For coffee, powders with higher caffeine levels lead to more negative charge. For creamer, a polynomial correlation was observed from 1 to 35% fat, with negative charge at 1–8% fat content, zero charge at 8–10%, and positive charge at 10–25% fat. Beyond 25% fat, charge is reduced significantly along with undesirable aggregate formation. This relation between fat percentage and charge holds even after the creamer is mixed with sugar and coffee to form 3‐in‐1 mixes. Hence to reduce charge and therefore reduce fouling, sugar with high mineral content, coffee powder with low caffeine content, and creamers with low fat content (<10%) are recommended.

Practical Applications

Powder adhesion to surfaces due to electrostatic charge causes fouling and clogging that disrupts the packaging process of 3‐in‐1 instant coffee mix. We have investigated the ingredients (sugar, coffee, and creamer) of the mix and have determined how each ingredient affects the charging behavior of the final blend. The results demonstrated that electrostatic charge should be taken into account during formulation, to avoid potential fouling issues during scale‐up or processing.
Human interventions in a bifurcating river system: Numerical investigation and uncertainty assessment
Authors: Gensen Matthijs R. A. , Warmink Jord J. , Huthoff Fredrik , Hulscher Suzanne J. M. H.
Published: October 2021

In bifurcating rivers, an intervention aimed at flood risk reduction may trigger a change in discharge distribution and thus influence water levels throughout the entire river system. This article aims at assessing the impact of interventions on system‐wide water levels, explicitly accounting for a range of discharges and model parameter uncertainty. An idealized 1D model with dimensions of the bifurcating Dutch Rhine River is used. The results show that an unwanted increase in water levels downstream of the intervention occurs due to an increased discharge if a single intervention is implemented in a distributary. This effect can be counteracted by implementing a second intervention that balances the hydraulic effect of the first intervention at the bifurcation. However, unwanted water level increases still occur at other discharges. Furthermore, while interventions may reduce local water‐level‐uncertainty, it appears that uncertainty in discharge distribution is not reduced. This implies that flooding probabilities cannot be reduced throughout the entire river system by the implementation of interventions in upstream reaches. Concluding, for intervention design in a bifurcating river, it is important to consider the entire river system and explicitly account for a range of discharge conditions to avoid unwanted water level increases throughout the river system.
Petrochronology of high‐pressure granulite facies rocks from Southern Brasília Orogen, SE Brazil: Combining quantitative compositional mapping, single‐element thermometry and geochronology
Authors: Fumes Regiane Andrade , Luvizotto George Luiz , Moraes Renato , Lanari Pierre , Valeriano Claudio de Morisson , Zack Thomas , Caddick Mark J. , Simões Luiz Sergio Amarante
Published: October 2021

We use a combination of several in situ techniques to assess the P‐T‐t path of high‐pressure granulites from the Passos Nappe in the Southern Brasília Orogen (SE Brazil). Quantitative element mapping and single‐element thermometers (Zr‐in‐rutile and Ti‐in‐quartz) are coupled with P‐T pseudosections and monazite and rutile dating. Compositional and temperature maps, based on cathodoluminescence mapping and in situ analyses of Ti‐in‐quartz, are presented as a novel approach to evaluate crystallization temperature. The studied rocks have a pelitic protolith and record a peak pressure assemblage of garnet + kyanite + rutile + K‐feldspar + quartz + melt ± plagioclase that formed at ~830°C and 1.2 GPa. Retrograde conditions of ~560°C and 0.6 GPa are determined based on the grossular content of garnet and the crystallization of biotite and ilmenite. Metamorphic peak conditions occurred ca. 635 Ma, according to monazite dating, with a younger date of ca. 615 Ma associated with later kyanite crystallization. Rutile ages of ca. 590 Ma are linked to the late retrograde stage (at ~600°C). Results show that the distribution of Ti‐in‐quartz is heterogeneous, decreasing in abundance towards the rim of crystals, though the higher temperatures constrained with Ti‐in‐quartz thermometry are broadly consistent with peak conditions. The peak pressure conditions are consistent with continental collision setting in the Southern Brasília Orogen and were followed by an early cooling/decompression stage and then by a slow cooling during exhumation and transport to shallower crustal levels.
Hospital work environment, nurse staffing and missed care in Chile: A cross‐sectional observational study
Authors: Simonetti Marta , Cerón Consuelo , Galiano Alejandra , Lake Eileen T. , Aiken Linda H.
Published: October 2021

Aims and Objectives

To characterise the problem of missed nursing care in Chilean hospitals and to test associations with hospital organisational variables.

Background

Missed nursing care is a common problem in different countries, but it has not been studied in Chile.

Design

Multihospital cross‐sectional study (Supplementary file 1: STROBE guideline).

Methods

Study population of 45 adult high‐complexity hospitals and 1853 registered nurses (RN) working on medical‐surgical units. Primary data were collected through a nurse survey. Nurses reported, out of a list of nursing care activities, the ones left undone during their last shift. The main independent variables were the work environment, measured through the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index, patient‐to‐nurse ratios and RN skillmix. Adjusted logistic regression analyses were used to test associations, accounting for clustering of nurses working in the same hospital.

Results

The hospital response rate was 88.9% and, for nurses, 88.1%. The mean patient‐to‐nurse ratio was 14.5 (range 6–23). The average skillmix was 31% RN. Eighty‐six percent of nurses missed at least one activity. The activities most frequently missed included patient education, comforting patients and surveillance. The adjusted model showed a significant association between the work environment, staffing ratios and missed care. The RN skillmix was not associated.

Conclusions

Missed care is highly prevalent problem in Chilean hospitals. Clinical activities were the least missed. It is necessary to improve work environments and reduce the number of patients per nurse to improve the safety and quality of care.

Relevance for clinical practice

The study results are relevant since they provide new data to Chile. Better work environments and adequate human resources are modifiable factors that can be addressed from a managerial perspective, with low‐cost strategies to effectively reduce missed care and improve safety and quality.
Macrotyloma axillare ‘Java’ and Crotalaria spp. combined with biocontrol agents for the management of Meloidogyne javanica in soybean
Authors: Miamoto Angélica , Calandrelli Angélica , Rinaldi Luanna Karoline , Silva Monique Thiara Rodrigues e , Mioranza Thaísa Muriel , Santana‐Gomes Simone de Melo , Dias‐Arieira Cláudia Regina
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of crop rotation with Macrotyloma axillare ‘Java’, Crotalaria spectabilis and Crotalaria ochroleuca combined with green manure application or biological treatment, on the control of Meloidogyne javanica in soybean. An initial greenhouse study was conducted in a 4 × 2 factorial design, with four rotation crops (M. axillare ‘Java’, C. spectabilis, C. ochroleuca and soybean) in the presence and absence of green manure. A second greenhouse study was carried out using a 4 × 5 factorial design, with four rotation crops and five biocontrol treatments (Pochonia chlamydosporia, Purpureocillium lilacinum + Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus methylotrophicus, Bacillus subtilis + Bacillus licheniformis and untreated control). Both experiments consisted of two independent trials (Trials 1 and 2) conducted at different times of the year. The experimental field soil was infested by growing soybean infected with M. javanica for 50 days prior to the assays. Then, seeds of rotation crops were sown and biocontrols applied. Rotation crops were removed 70 days after sowing, and soybean seeds were sown immediately afterwards. Total nematodes, nematode per gram of root and soil biological activity were assessed 60 days after soybean sowing. In the first study, all rotation systems and green manure treatments reduced M. javanica population. In the second study, all biological treatments were effective, except B. methylotrophicus and M. axillare ‘Java’ combined with P. chlamydosporia in Trial 1 and C. spectabilis combined with P. lilacinum +T. harzianum in Trial 2. Macrotyloma axillare ‘Java’ combined with B. methylotrophicus and C. spectabilis combined with B. subtilis +B. licheniformis resulted in higher soil metabolic activity. The association of biological control agents with crop rotation generally did not present additive effects in the reduction in M. javanica populations, except for one combination of M. axillare ‘Java’ with B. subtilis +B. lichneniformis.
Computed tomographic staging of dogs with anal sac adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sutton D. R. , Hernon T. , Hezzell M. J. , Meakin L. B. , Gould S. M. , Bradley K. J. , Major A. C.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To describe the CT appearance of anal sac adenocarcinoma lesions in a population of dogs including the relations between primary tumour, and locoregional and distant metastasis.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of dogs with confirmed anal sac adenocarcinoma and available CT images of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis.

Results

A population of 70 dogs were included in the study. No association was found between anal sac mass size and presence or absence of iliosacral lymph node enlargement. The prevalence of local metastatic disease characterised by iliosacral lymphadenomegaly in this study was 71%, with pulmonary metastases identified in 11% of cases. There were no cases of distant pulmonary metastasis without concurrent locoregional lymphadenomegaly.

Clinical Significance

In our population of dogs local metastatic spread of anal sac adenocarcinoma was common, with a relatively low prevalence of pulmonary metastasis. The study demonstrates the importance of thorough rectal examination and/or imaging to assess the iliosacral lymph centre in this disease irrespective of the size of the anal sac mass.
Automated fact‐checking: A survey
Authors: Zeng Xia , Abumansour Amani S. , Zubiaga Arkaitz
Published: October 2021

As online false information continues to grow, automated fact‐checking has gained an increasing amount of attention in recent years. Researchers in the field of Natural Language Processing (NLP) have contributed to the task by building fact‐checking datasets, devising automated fact‐checking pipelines and proposing NLP methods to further research in the development of different components. This article reviews relevant research on automated fact‐checking covering both the claim detection and claim validation components.
Dietary availability determines metabolic conversion of long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in spiders: a dual compound‐specific stable isotope approach
Authors: Mathieu‐Resuge Margaux , Pilecky Matthias , Twining Cornelia W. , Martin‐Creuzburg Dominik , Parmar Tarn Preet , Vitecek Simon , Kainz Martin J.
Published: October 2021

Consumers feeding at the aquatic–terrestrial ecosystem interface may obtain a mixture of aquatic and terrestrial diet resources that vary in nutritional composition. However, in lake riparian spiders, the relative significance of aquatic versus terrestrial diet sources remains to be explored. We investigated the trophic transfer of lipids and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) from emergent aquatic and terrestrial insects to spiders at varying distances from the shoreline of a subalpine lake in Austria, using differences in fatty acid profiles and compound‐specific stable carbon (δ13C) and hydrogen (δ2H) isotopes. The omega‐3 PUFA content of emergent aquatic insects was higher than that of terrestrial insects. Emergent aquatic insects contained on average 6.6 times more eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 1.2 times more α‐linolenic acid (ALA) than terrestrial insects, whereas terrestrial insects contained on average 2.6 times more linoleic acid (LIN) than emergent aquatic insects. Spiders sampled directly on the lake and in upland habitats had similar EPA contents, but this EPA was derived from different diet sources, depending on the habitat. The δ13CEPA and δ2HEPA values of ‘lake spiders' revealed an aquatic diet pathway (i.e. EPA of aquatic origin). In contrast, EPA of spiders collected in terrestrial habitats was depleted in both 13C and 2H compared to any potential food sources, and their ALA isotopic values, suggesting that EPA was partly bioconverted from its dietary precursor ALA (i.e. internal pathway). The δ2H values of fatty acids clearly indicated that diet sources differed depending on the spider's habitat, which was less evident from the δ13C values of the fatty acids. Our data highlight that spiders can use two distinct pathways (trophic versus metabolic) to satisfy their physiological EPA demand, depending on habitat use and dietary availability.
Is myopia prevalence related to outdoor green space?
Authors: Peng Brian An , Naduvilath Thomas John , Flitcroft Daniel Ian , Jong Monica
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Rapid urbanisation and lifestyle changes have been associated with a huge increase in myopia across many parts of the world. There is strong evidence that environmental factors including time outdoors and urbanisation can influence the development of myopia, particularly in school‐aged children. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a relationship between the prevalence of myopia and the amount of vegetation/green spaces across different regions of the world, as a risk factor for myopia development.

Methods

The prevalence of myopia in the 15 to 19‐year age group in Australia, Brazil, China, Finland, India, Iran, Japan, Oman, Singapore, South Africa and the UK was obtained from a meta‐analysis by Holdenet al. Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was used to quantify green space exposure based on Landsat 7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) satellite data. Green space was measured in locations specific to 15 studies that reported myopia prevalence. Simple linear regression was used to analyse yearly data, and a mixed effects model was applied to assess the significance of green space when study was a random effect.

Results

Myopia prevalence increases significantly when green space was <−0.2, but the effect was less apparent for values >−0.1. When a mixed effects model was used, the effect of green space was found to be significantly associated with myopia prevalence (p = 0.05).

Conclusions

There was evidence of a weak but significant non‐linear relationship between myopia and green space, with the effect most apparent at low levels of green space. A larger data sample, along with further investigations into the utilisation of green spaces, are required to understand whether increasing the amount of green space can reduce myopia incidence and progression impact.
Mining of quantitative trait loci and candidate genes for seed size and shape across multiple environments in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Sun Yaqian , Tian Rui , Shao Zhenqi , Chen Shiliang , Zhang Hua , Jin Yuan , Li Wenlong , Kong Youbin , Du Hui , Li Xihuan , Zhang Caiying
Published: October 2021

Seed size and shape are important characteristics in soybean breeding, whereas the genetic basis are still unknown, which constrains the improvement of related traits. In view of this, one recombinant inbred line population was assessed for six related traits under four environments. In total, 10 QTLs controlling the related traits were identified, and five were detected across at least two environments, which located on chromosomes 2, 4, 6, 13, and 16 with phenotypic variation explained (PVE) 3.6% to 9.4%. Among them, qSS‐02 and qSS‐16 were identified to control four and five related traits with pleiotropic effects on chromosomes 2 and 16 across three and two environments, respectively. Meanwhile, qSS‐04 was detected to control all of the six related traits on chromosome 4 under four environments with PVEs 4.5% to 9.4%. Furthermore, the candidate genes, that is, Glyma.04G055100 (big grain protein) and Glyma.13G068500 (cytochrome P450), were screened out for their different expressions between population parents at different seed growth and developmental stages. Thus, these results could provide novel insights for the genetic basis of seed size and shape in soybean.
A grape breeding programme using different Vitis species
Authors: Atak Arif , Şen Abdulbaki
Published: October 2021

Intensive breeding programmes have been carried out to obtain high‐quality seedless grape cultivars. Seedless grape cultivars were used as pollinizer parents, but the number of hybrid seeds and the viability of the seed obtained could differ greatly. In this study, carried out over 3 years, the results obtained from crossing with some pollinizer cultivars belonging to different Vitis species were compared. Maternal cultivars that do not need emasculation (male sterile) and emasculated cultivars were also compared. Evaluations were based on the total number of hybrid seeds and the proportion of viable seeds. In addition, the effects of various treatments on the rates of germination of the hybrid seed were compared. Although the female parents (with female flower structure) produced more seed than did hermaphrodite mothers in 2019, different results were obtained in cross‐breeding studies in 2018 and 2020. Cold stratification was very effective in increasing germination by breaking dormancy of the hybrid seed. In addition, after treatment of cold moist storage (cold stratification), keeping the seed in distilled water overnight before planting increased germination. Although large numbers of seeds were produced by the genotype 86/1 and the cultivar ‘Beyaz Çavuş’, both of which do not require emasculation, many of these seeds did not germinate. Crosses with the cultivar ‘Red Globe’ as the maternal parent produced large numbers of viable seeds and high germination rates.
Comparison of chlorhexidine impregnated dressing and standard dressing for the prevention of central‐line associated blood stream infection and colonization in critically ill pediatric patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Duyu Muhterem , Karakaya Zeynep , Yazici Pinar , Yavuz Senanur , Yersel Nihal Meryem , Tascilar Melike Orkide , Firat Nazim , Bozkurt Ozlem , Caglar Mocan Yasemin
Published: October 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to compare chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)‐impregnated dressing and standard dressing with respect to the frequency of central‐line‐associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), catheter‐related bloodstream infection, primary bloodstream infection, and catheter colonization in critically ill pediatric patients with short‐term central venous catheters.

Methods

Children who were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit of a tertiary institution between May 2018 and December 2019 and received placement of a short‐term central venous catheter were included in this single‐center randomized controlled trial. Patients were grouped according to the type of catheter fixation applied.

Results

A total of 307 patients (151 CHG‐impregnated dressing, 156 standard dressing), with 307 catheters (amounting to a collective total of 4,993 catheter days), were included in the study. The CHG‐impregnated dressing did not significantly decrease the incidence of CLABSI (6.36 vs 7.59 per 1,000 catheter days; hazard ratio (HR): 0.93, P = 0.76), catheter related bloodstream infection (3.82 vs 4.18 per 1,000 catheter days; HR: 0.98; P = 0.98), and primary bloodstream infection (2.54 vs 3.42 catheter days; HR: 0.79; P = 0.67). The CHG‐impregnated dressing significantly decreased the incidence of catheter colonization (3.82 vs 7.59 per 1,000 catheter days; HR: 0.40; P = 0.04). In both groups, the most frequent microorganisms isolated in CLABSI or catheter colonization were Gram‐positive bacteria (the majority were coagulase‐negative staphylococci).

Conclusions

The use of CHG‐impregnated dressing does not decrease CLABSI incidence in critically ill pediatric patients but it significantly reduced catheter colonization. Coagulase‐negative staphylococci were the most common microorganisms causing CLABSI or catheter colonization.
Knowledge by constraint
Authors: Holguín Ben
Published: October 2021

This paper considers some puzzling knowledge ascriptions and argues that they present prima facie counterexamples to credence, belief, and justification conditions on knowledge, as well as to many of the standard meta‐semantic assumptions about the context‐sensitivity of ‘know’. It argues that these ascriptions provide new evidence in favor of contextualist theories of knowledge—in particular those that take the interpretation of ‘know’ to be sensitive to the mechanisms of constraint.
1‐Aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid stimulates tomato pollen tube growth independently of ethylene receptors
Authors: Althiab‐Almasaud Rasha , Sallanon Huguette , Chang Caren , Chervin Christian
Published: October 2021

The plant hormone ethylene plays vital roles in plant development, including pollen tube (PT) growth. Many studies have used the ethylene precursor, 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC), as a tool to trigger ethylene signaling. Several studies have suggested that ACC can act as a signal molecule independently of ethylene, inducing responses that are distinct from those induced by ethylene. In this study, we confirmed that ethylene receptor function is essential for promoting PT growth in tomato, but interestingly, we discovered that ACC itself can act as a signal that also promotes PT growth. Exogenous ACC stimulated PT growth even when ethylene perception was inhibited either chemically by treating with 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) or genetically by using the ethylene‐insensitive Never Ripe (NR) mutant. Treatment with aminoethoxyvinylglycine, which reduces endogenous ACC levels, led to a reduction of PT growth, even in the NR mutants. Furthermore, GUS activity driven by an EIN3 Binding Site promoter (EBS:GUS transgene) was triggered by ACC in the presence of 1‐MCP. Taken together, these results suggest that ACC signaling can bypass the ethylene receptor step to stimulate PT growth and EBS driven gene expression.
Re‐meander, rewet, rewild! Overwhelming public support for restoration of small rivers in the three Baltic Sea basin countries
Authors: Giergiczny Marek , Valasiuk Sviataslau , Kotowski Wiktor , Galera Halina , Jacobsen Jette B. , Sagebiel Julian , Wichtmann Wendelin , Jabłońska Ewa
Published: October 2021

Baltic Sea is one of the World's most oxygen‐depletes seas, so the region requires urgent mitigation measures to significantly reduce nitrogen and phosphorus inputs from land through rivers, which cannot be achieved without large‐scale restoration of wetland buffer zones. The manuscript summarizes the findings of the discrete choice experiment aimed at assessment of the preferences of Danish, German, and Polish citizens toward ecosystem services of lowland small rivers of the Baltic Sea basin. Our results suggest that respondents in all the studied countries are willing to pay substantial amounts to improve water quality in rivers and the Baltic Sea, as well as to restore naturally meandering rivers and natural riparian vegetation. Wild marshes and Wetland agriculture were equally valued as the most desirable options. Respondents systematically cared about the appearance of small rivers in their neighborhood. We conclude that re‐meandering, rewetting of floodplains, and restoration of wild marshes (i.e. natural wetland vegetation) or development of wetland agriculture could gain a lot of public support in Europe.
Understanding poverty dynamics and vulnerability in Tanzania: 2012–2018
Authors: Aikaeli Jehovaness , Garcés‐Urzainqui David , Mdadila Kenneth
Published: October 2021

We study poverty dynamics and vulnerability in Tanzania between 2012 and 2018 using synthetic panel methods. Under the surface of apparent stability in aggregate poverty rates, and despite robust economic growth, households experienced strong fluctuations in consumption levels during this period: 12.5% of the population remained in persistent poverty, a further 30% experienced transient poverty, and one of five Tanzanians above the poverty line in 2012 was poor 6 years later. Education and employment in the nonfarm sector are particularly effective at shielding households from poverty, while rural and large households with many children are most likely to slip into poverty. Considerable differences exist between less‐deprived areas such as Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro and regions in the northwest, where persistent poverty is especially high. Looking ahead to the impact of COVID‐19, those households least prepared to take preventive measures against the virus suffer from more adverse poverty dynamics, while those involved in the sectors taking the hardest economic hit from the pandemic start from a better pre‐pandemic situation. This suggests that novel policies that specifically support this ‘new vulnerable’ need to be combined with redoubled efforts to address the structural causes of poverty and vulnerability.
The Policy of Evidence
Authors: Tuzet Giovanni
Published: October 2021

Epistemic and practical interests are often in conflict. This also occurs in institutional settings such as the legal one. Rule 407 of the U.S. Federal Rules of Evidence is an example of that because it sacrifices some epistemic interests in favour of practical ones. It is the rule on subsequent remedial measures (SRM), which is mainly designed to answer a practical concern (reducing accidents) instead of the epistemic one of getting some evidence to find out whether the defendant was negligent or whether there was a defect in a product. Some commentators and courts think that the rationale of the rule is more complex and deserves a more careful discussion, as this paper shows. Additionally, this paper discusses a modification proposal (from categorical ban of SRM evidence to case‐by‐case decision) and develops some theoretical considerations, in the spirit of philosophical pragmatism, on the best way to conceptualize the problem addressed. The idea is to see such conflicts as conflicts of goals and to explain them in terms of the incompatible desires that we happen to have.
CCR‐NB‐LRR proteins MdRNL2 and MdRNL6 interact physically to confer broad‐spectrum fungal resistance in apple (Malus × domestica)
Authors: Zhang Qiulei , Wang Yuanhua , Wei Haiyang , Fan Wenqi , Xu Chaoran , Li Tianzhong
Published: October 2021

Apple leaf spot, a disease caused by Alternaria alternata f. sp. mali and other fungal species, leads to severe defoliation and results in tremendous losses to the apple (Malus × domestica) industry in China. We previously identified three RPW8, nucleotide‐binding, and leucine‐rich repeat domain CCR‐NB‐LRR proteins (RNLs), named MdRNL1, MdRNL2, and MdRNL3, that contribute to Alternaria leaf spot (ALT1) resistance in apple. However, the role of NB‐LRR proteins in resistance to fungal diseases in apple remains poorly understood. We therefore used MdRNL1/2/3 as baits to screen ALT1‐inoculated leaves for interacting proteins and identified only MdRNL6 (another RNL) as an interactor of MdRNL2. Protein interaction assays demonstrated that MdRNL2 and MdRNL6 interact through their NB‐ARC domains. Transient expression assays in apple indicated that complexes containing both MdRNL2 and MdRNL6 are necessary for resistance to Alternaria leaf spot. Intriguingly, the same complexes were also required to confer resistance to Glomerella leaf spot and Marssonina leaf spot in transient expression assays. Furthermore, stable transgenic apple plants with suppressed expression of MdRNL6 showed hypersensitivity to Alternaria leaf spot, Glomerella leaf spot, and Marssonina leaf spot; these effects were similar to the effects of suppressing MdRNL2 expression in transgenic apple plantlets. The identification of these novel broad‐spectrum fungal resistance genes will facilitate breeding for fungal disease resistance in apple.
Effects of exchange rates and invoiced currencies on trade: Evidence from South Korea
Authors: Shimizu Makoto , Song Joon‐Heon
Published: October 2021

This study examines the relationship between exchange rates and South Korea's trade flows considering invoicing currencies in line with the dominant currency paradigm. We use the trade weight data of South Korea's total and bilateral trade with its major trading partners. Our analysis of the elasticities of South Korea's trade with respect to bilateral exchange rates shows that a strong US dollar—the dominant invoiced currency—is associated with a decline in South Korea's imports, regardless of the country of origin. We also show that the Japanese yen, as the other dominant invoicing currency in bilateral trade between South Korea and Japan, has a similar effect to that of the US dollar. In addition, fluctuations in the invoicing share of dominant currencies improve the statistical significance of the effect of exchange rate changes. We also report the results at the sectoral level. Overall, our results are consistent with the dominant currency paradigm. Finally, according to the South Korea pass‐through results, which show that US dollar rate fluctuations affect both import and consumer prices immediately, South Korean importers seem to react quickly by changing trade quantities and domestic sales prices.
Retrospective evaluation of the relationship between admission variables and brain herniation in dogs (2010–2019): 54 cases
Authors: Her Jiwoong , Yanke Amy B. , Gerken Katherine , Yoon Jin , Peters Ashley Antonia , Hofmeister Erik , Bacek Lenore M. , Kuo Kendon W.
Published: October 2021

Objective

To document the admission systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR), and modified Glasgow coma scale (MGCS) score in dogs with and without brain herniation and to determine their relationship with brain herniation.

Design

Retrospective study between 2010 and 2019.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Fifty‐four client‐owned dogs with brain herniation and 40 client‐owned dogs as a control group, as determined on magnetic resonance imaging.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

SBP, HR, MGCS score, and outcome were extracted from medical records. MGCS score was retrospectively calculated based on initial neurological examination in dogs with adequate available information. Dogs with brain herniation had a significantly higher SBP (P = 0.0078), greater SBP–HR difference (P = 0.0006), and lower MGCS score (P < 0.0001) compared to control dogs. A cutoff value of an SBP ≥ 178 mm Hg, SBP–HR ≥ 60, and MGCS score ≤ 14 each provides a specificity of 90%–98%. A combination of an SBP > 140 mm Hg and HR < 80/min provided 24% sensitivity and 100% specificity to diagnose dogs with brain herniation (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

A high SBP, a greater difference between SBP and HR, a combination of higher SBP and lower HR, and a low MGCS score were associated with brain herniation in dogs presenting with neurological signs upon admission. Early recognition of these abnormalities may help veterinarians to suspect brain herniation and determine timely treatment.
Period sheaves via derived de Rham cohomology
Authors: Guo Haoyang , Li Shizhang
Published: October 2021

In this paper we give an interpretation, in terms of derived de Rham complexes, of Scholze's de Rham period sheaf and Tan and Tong's crystalline period sheaf.
A changepoint prefilter for sound event detection in long-term bioacoustic recordings
Authors: Juodakis Julius , Marsland Stephen , Priyadarshani Nirosha
Published: October 2021

Long-term soundscape recordings are useful for a variety of applications, most notably in bioacoustics. However, the processing of such data is currently limited by the ability to efficiently and reliably detect the target sounds, which are often sparse and overshadowed by environmental noise. This paper proposes a sound detector based on changepoint theory applied to a wavelet representation of the sound. In contrast to existing methods, in this framework, theoretical analysis of the detector's performance and optimality for downstream applications can be made. The relevant statistical and algorithmic developments to support these claims are presented. The method is then tested on a real task of detecting two bird species in acoustic surveys. Compared to commonly used alternatives, the proposed method consistently produced a lower false alarm rate and improved the survey efficiency as measured by the precision of the inferred population size. Finally, it is demonstrated how the method can be combined with a simple classifier to detect cat sounds in domestic recordings, which is an example from the Detection and Classification of Acoustic Scenes and Events (DCASE) 2018 workshop. The resulting performance is comparable to the state-of-the-art deep learning models and requires much less training data.
Binaural rendering from microphone array signals of arbitrary geometry
Authors: Iijima Naoto , Koyama Shoichi , Saruwatari Hiroshi
Published: October 2021

A method of binaural rendering from microphone array signals of arbitrary geometry is proposed. To reproduce binaural signals from microphone array recordings at a remote location, a spherical microphone array is generally used for capturing a soundfield. However, owing to the lack of flexibility in the microphone arrangement, the single spherical array is sometimes impractical for estimating a large region of a soundfield. We propose a method based on harmonic analysis of infinite order, which allows the use of arbitrarily placed microphones. In the synthesis of the estimated soundfield, a spherical-wave-decomposition–based binaural rendering is also formulated to take into consideration the distance in measuring head-related transfer functions. We develop and evaluate a composite microphone array consisting of multiple small arrays. Experimental results including those of listening tests indicate that our proposed method is robust against change in listening position in the recording area.
The summating potential in human electrocochleography: Gaussian models and Fourier analysis
Authors: Hancock Kenneth E. , O'Brien Bennett , Santarelli Rosamaria , Liberman M. Charles , Maison Stéphane F.
Published: October 2021

In recent electrocochleographic studies, the amplitude of the summating potential (SP) was an important predictor of performance on word-recognition in difficult listening environments among normal-hearing listeners; paradoxically the SP was largest in those with the worst scores. SP has traditionally been extracted by visual inspection, a technique prone to subjectivity and error. Here, we assess the utility of a fitting algorithm [Kamerer, Neely, and Rasetshwane (2020). J Acoust Soc Am. 147, 25–31] using a summed-Gaussian model to objectify and improve SP identification. Results show that SPs extracted by visual inspection correlate better with word scores than those from the model fits. We also use fast Fourier transform to decompose these evoked responses into their spectral components to gain insight into the cellular generators of SP. We find a component at 310 Hz associated with word-identification tasks that correlates with SP amplitude. This component is absent in patients with genetic mutations affecting synaptic transmission and may reflect a contribution from excitatory post-synaptic potentials in auditory nerve fibers.
Porous Semiconductor Chalcogenide Aerogels
Authors: Mohanan Jaya L. , Arachchige Indika U. , Brock Stephanie L.
Published: October 2021

Chalcogenide aerogels based entirely on semiconducting II-VI or IV-VI frameworks have been prepared from a general strategy that involves oxidative aggregation of metal chalcogenide nanoparticle building blocks followed by supercritical solvent removal. The resultant materials are mesoporous, exhibit high surface areas, can be prepared as monoliths, and demonstrate the characteristic quantum-confined optical properties of their nanoparticle components. These materials can be synthesized from a variety of building blocks by chemical or photochemical oxidation, and the properties can be further tuned by heat treatment. Aerogel formation represents a powerful yet facile method for metal chalcogenide nanoparticle assembly and the creation of mesoporous semiconductors.
Response
: Magnetic Damping of Rotation of the Vanguard I Satellite
Authors: Wilson Raymond H.
Published: October 2021

Continued numerical improvement of all parts of my previous report, based on later accumulation and rediscussion of data, has revealed several small random adjustments, including the arithmetical correction discussed by LaPaz. The consequent result remains a satisfactory agreement of the ground-observed geomagnetic dipole field with that deduced from rotational retardation of the Vanguard I satellite.
Control of a Mucosal Challenge and Prevention of AIDS by a Multiprotein DNA/MVA Vaccine
Authors: Amara Rama Rao , Villinger Francois , Altman John D. , Lydy Shari L. , O'Neil Shawn P. , Staprans Silvija I. , Montefiori David C. , Xu Yan , Herndon James G. , Wyatt Linda S. , Candido Maria Angelito , Kozyr Natalia L. , Earl Patricia L. , Smith James M. , Ma Hak-Ling , Grimm Bennett D. , Hulsey Michael L. , Miller Joseph , McClure Harold M. , McNicholl Janet M. , Moss Bernard , Robinson Harriet L.
Published: October 2021

Heterologous prime/boost regimens have the potential for raising high levels of immune responses. Here we report that DNA priming followed by a recombinant modified vaccinia Ankara (rMVA) booster controlled a highly pathogenic immunodeficiency virus challenge in a rhesus macaque model. Both the DNA and rMVA components of the vaccine expressed multiple immunodeficiency virus proteins. Two DNA inoculations at 0 and 8 weeks and a single rMVA booster at 24 weeks effectively controlled an intrarectal challenge administered 7 months after the booster. These findings provide hope that a relatively simple multiprotein DNA/MVA vaccine can help to control the acquired immune deficiency syndrome epidemic.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Lytic Bacteriophage Phab24, Which Infects Clinical Strains of the Nosocomial Pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Loh Belinda , Wang Xiaoqing , Hua Xiaoting , Chook Hou Wei , Ma Long , Zhang Liwei , Manohar Prasanth , Jin Yijie , Leptihn Sebastian
Published: October 2021

Phab24 was isolated from river water in Zhejiang Province, China, and exhibits lytic activity against clinical isolates of the nosocomial pathogen
Acinetobacter baumannii
(X. Wang, B. Loh, Y. Yu, X. Hua, S. Leptihn, bioRxiv, 2021,
https://doi.org/10.1101/2021.07.23.453473
). The bacteriophage belongs to the
Myoviridae
family and has a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genome sequence that is 93,604 bp long, containing 172 open reading frames (ORFs).