bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parasites as conservation tools
Authors: Gagne Roderick B. , Crooks Kevin R. , Craft Meggan E. , Chiu Elliott S. , Fountain‐Jones Nicholas M. , Malmberg Jennifer L. , Carver Scott , Funk W. Chris , VandeWoude Sue
Published: February 2021

Parasite success typically depends on a close relationship with one or more hosts; therefore, attributes of parasitic infection have the potential to provide indirect details of host natural history and are biologically relevant to animal conservation. Characterization of parasite infections has been useful in delineating host populations and has served as a proxy for assessment of environmental quality. In other cases, the utility of parasites is just being explored, for example, as indicators of host connectivity. Innovative studies of parasite biology can provide information to manage major conservation threats by using parasite assemblage, prevalence, or genetic data to provide insights into the host. Overexploitation, habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive species, and climate change are major threats to animal conservation, and all of these can be informed by parasites.
An experimental study on dyeing of needle‐punched polyethylene‐terephthalate non‐wovens
Authors: Khawar Muhammad Tauseef , Tausif Muhammad , Ashraf Munir , Ahmad Faheem , Ahmad Sheraz , Azam Farooq , Khattak Mehran
Published: February 2021

The dyeing of non‐wovens in fabric form is of interest for a range of applications especially aesthetics. In this work, needle‐punched non‐woven fabrics were prepared by employing polyethylene‐terephthalate (PET) fibres of two different linear density and same mean fibre length in four different fibre linear density ratios and three different fabric mass areal densities, while keeping all other process and material variables constant. The objectives of the study were to find out the saturation point in the dyeing profile of needle‐punched non‐wovens by varying aforementioned process variables and, for the first time, compare different industrially relevant conventional fabric dyeing methods (Jet, Package and Jigger dyeing) in terms of physical, mechanical and colour fastness properties. In case of Jet and Package dyeing, non‐woven fabric was successfully dyed without any structural reorientation while fabric sample deformation is reported in Jigger dyeing process. Furthermore, tensile strength (in newtons) of samples was increased, while air permeability (in mm/s) was decreased due to the slight compactness of structure after the dyeing process.
Dermal melanocytic tumor with CRTC1‐TRIM11 fusion: Report of two additional cases with review of the literature of an emerging entity
Authors: Parra Ourania , Bridge Julia A. , Busam Klaus J. , Shalin Sara C. , Linos Konstantinos
Published: February 2021

“Cutaneous melanocytic tumor with CRTC1‐TRIM11 fusion” (CMTCT) is a newly described, potentially novel entity that typically presents as a dermal nodule on the head and neck, extremities, and trunk of adults. Histopathologically, it is reported as a nodular or multinodular tumor composed of epithelioid and spindle cells that are variably immunoreactive for S100‐protein, SOX10, and MITF along with more specific melanocytic markers such as MelanA and HMB45. With only 11 cases reported in the English literature so far, the neoplasm appears to behave in a relatively indolent fashion. Nevertheless, in one case, local recurrence and synchronous distant metastasis were evident after 13 years. Additional cases with longer follow‐up are essential to determine the neoplasm's biologic behavior with more accuracy. Herein, two cases of CMTCT, one arising on the lower back of a 65‐year‐old female and the other on the arm of a 33‐year‐old female in addition to a comprehensive literature review are reported.
Fine‐scale chemostratigraphy of cross‐sectioned hydrogenous ferromanganese nodules from the western North Pacific
Authors: Machida Shiki , Nakamura Kentaro , Kogiso Tetsu , Shimomura Ryo , Horinouchi Koichi , Okino Kyoko , Kato Yasuhiro
Published: February 2021

A broad area densely covered by ferromanganese nodules was recently discovered around Minamitorishima (Marcus) Island, representing a high‐potential metal resource, particularly for Co, Ni, Mo, and W. We studied 16 nodule samples from nodule fields around Minamitorishima Island. To define the fine‐scale chemostratigraphy of the nodules, polished cross‐sections of the samples were analyzed by microfocus X‐ray fluorescence. Our results show that a general pattern of compositional variation was common throughout the growth history of the nodules in all the regions we studied. Chemical mapping clarified changes in the chemical signature and proportion of five lithological components throughout the growth history: Mn represented columnar δ‐MnO2; Fe represented layered amorphous FeOOH*xH2O; Ti represented TiO2*2H2O intergrown with an amorphous FeOOH phase; P, Ca and Y represented particles of biogenic calcium phosphate; and Si, Al, K, Cu, and Ni represented pelagic sediment infills. We proposed a method for a creating a multi‐dimensional compositional map of the fine‐scale chemostratigraphy observed in the ferromanganese oxide layers on the basis of merging the mapped Mn, Fe, Ti, P, Si and Cu intensities. Multi‐dimensional compositional mapping of the sampled nodules from the western North Pacific revealed two fundamental findings: (1) previously recognized first‐order Fe–Mn layers, L0, L1, and L2, were further divided into two, three, and four sublayers, respectively, and (2) a delayed supply of material to be nuclei of nodule or a growth hiatus of Fe–Mn layer(s), leading to missing sublayers in the layers L0 and L2, regulated the nodule size. In contrast, layer L1, which does not have any missing sublayers, was commonly observed in the samples for this study and has been reported in studies of other regions in the western Pacific. We propose, therefore, that the layer L1 is a key facies for examining chemostratigraphic correlations with other areas of seafloor.
Profiles of volatile compounds and sensory characteristics of Robusta coffee beans roasted by hot air and superheated steam
Authors: Chindapan Nathamol , Puangngoen Chanakan , Devahastin Sakamon
Published: February 2021

Although superheated steam (SHS) roasting has proved to be capable of improving selected quality of roasted Robusta coffee beans, impact of SHS roasting on aroma characteristics of the beans is not well understood. This study therefore aimed to investigate the effect of SHS roasting on aroma profiles and sensory characteristics of Robusta beans undergone SHS roasting at 190–250 °C; results were compared with those of beans roasted by hot air (HA). Sensory characteristics of selected samples were also compared with HA‐roasted Arabica beans. Forty five aroma compounds were identified; most were fully developed in beans roasted at 230 °C and tended to degrade in beans roasted at 250 °C. SHS roasting led to more extensive formation of aroma compounds contributing to caramel note, while helped reduce formation of major contributors to spicy, roasty and burnt notes. SHS‐roasted Robusta beans exhibited more resemblance to Arabica beans than their HA‐roasted counterpart.
Fortification using grape extract polyphenols – a review on functional food regulations
Authors: Sridhar Kandi , Charles Albert Linton
Published: February 2021

Grapes are rich sources of polyphenols and widely used in food fortification due to their health‐promoting properties. Previous studies have provided systematic strategies on foods fortified with grape polyphenols; however, until now, very little is known about grape polyphenol market, fortification and their health food regulations. It is, therefore, necessary to make a comprehensive overview of grape extract polyphenols and their fortification in functional foods. Hence, we reviewed the grape polyphenol market, fortification, health food market scenario and functional food regulations. The global grape polyphenol market is expected to rise 946.90 million USD by 2023 with its own trademark as polyphenol‐fortified functional foods. This is ultimately due to acceptability, extensive use, marketing of polyphenol‐fortified functional foods and their favourable food regulations. The future perspective on grape polyphenols research should be focused on extraction of polyphenols from grape waste and their fortification in functional foods.
Quality attributes and rheological properties of novel high milk protein‐based extrudates made by supercritical fluid extrusion
Authors: Zhou Ran , Mitra Pranabendu , Melnychenko Andrew , Rizvi Syed S.H.
Published: February 2021

Supercritical fluid extrusion (SCFX) process has opened up a new way of extruding heat‐sensitive materials such as milk protein concentrate (MPC) into novel nutritional porous extrudates. Three formulations (30%:66.5%, 60%:36.5% and 90%:6.5% of MPC: rice flour, w/w) with 1% Dimodan, 1% lecithin and 1.5% salt were extruded by using SCFX. The physical, rheological and thermal properties of the extrudates were evaluated. The results showed that the increased MPC contents decreased gelatinisation enthalpy and increased the viscosity of the extrudates, which contributed to develop stable porous extrudates; and the increased MPC contents also helped to form a stronger gel network existed in dispersion of the extrudate samples, which resulted in a higher stress to break the gel and flow. The radial and overall expansions, crispness, porosity, rehydration ratio, moisture content and water activity increased while the axial expansion, hardness, piece density, apparent density, bulk density, decreased with higher amounts of MPC contents in extrudates. The overall results indicated that 90% MPC‐containing extrudate was very suitable for developing highly nutritional and healthy cereals/snacks.
Comparison between discrete and continuous analysis of facial expressions, elicited by bitter‐tasting beverages in overweight and healthy‐weight individuals
Authors: Rocha‐Parra Diego , León Bianchi Luciana , Gentico Fernando , Garcia‐Burgos David , Zamora María C.
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present study was to compare the information provided by a discrete and continuous data analysis of two emotions (disgust and joy), elicited by bitter‐tasting beverages (coffee, yerba mate infusion and grapefruit juice) in two groups with different body mass index (BMI): overweight group (25 < BMI < 30), and healthy‐weight control group (18.5 < BMI ≤ 25). Participants (n = 66; 34 females, 32 males) evaluated a total of three consecutive sips of the same beverage (taking one sip every 20 s and registering a continuous video for 60 s). The Wilcoxon test (continuous analysis) showed some changes generated as the drinks were being consumed. The biggest difference was the expression of disgust for coffee in the high BMI group, at the first sip (0–10 s). It represented 27% compared to 2% in normal BMI. The continuous analysis allowed to observe the periods where the differences were greater (0–10 and 40–50 s).
Evolutionary insights into the genomic organization of major ribosomal DNA in ant chromosomes
Authors: Teixeira G. A. , de Aguiar H. J. A. C. , Petitclerc F. , Orivel J. , Lopes D. M. , Barros L. A. C.
Published: February 2021

The major rDNA genes are composed of tandem repeats and are part of the nucleolus organizing regions (NORs). They are highly conserved and therefore useful in understanding the evolutionary patterns of chromosomal locations. The evolutionary dynamics of the karyotype may affect the organization of rDNA genes within chromosomes. In this study, we physically mapped 18S rDNA genes in 13 Neotropical ant species from four subfamilies using fluorescence in situ hybridization. Furthermore, a survey of published rDNA cytogenetic data for 50 additional species was performed, which allowed us to detect the evolutionary patterns of these genes in ant chromosomes. Species from the Neotropical, Palearctic, and Australian regions, comprising a total of 63 species from 19 genera within six subfamilies, were analysed. Most of the species (48 out of 63) had rDNA genes restricted to a single chromosome pair in their intrachromosomal regions. The position of rDNA genes within the chromosomes appears to hinder their dispersal throughout the genome, as translocations and ectopic recombination are uncommon in intrachromosomal regions because they can generate meiotic abnormalities. Therefore, rDNA genes restricted to a single chromosome pair seem to be a plesiomorphic feature in ants, while multiple rDNA sites, observed in distinct subfamilies, may have independent origins in different genera.
Independent director attention and the cost of equity capital
Authors: Huang Henry He , Wang Chong , Xie Hong , Zhou Jian
Published: February 2021

We study the relation between independent director attention and the cost of equity capital. Masulis and Mobbs find that a director with multiple directorships distributes her time and effort (i.e., attention) unequally according to the relative prestige of each directorship. We investigate whether a firm's cost of equity capital reflects such unequal distribution of attention by its directors. We find that firms receiving more director attention are associated with a lower cost of equity capital. These firms also have higher accounting information quality. Moreover, the attention from audit committee directors matters more than that from other directors in reducing the cost of equity capital. Robustness checks show that the results are not driven by firm size. Overall, our evidence is consistent with director attention reducing the cost of equity capital through effective monitoring that increases accounting information quality.
Unusual cause for loss of left ventricular capture in patient with cardiac resynchronization due to tuberculous pericarditis
Authors: Tse Yiu‐Hei , Tse Hung‐Fat
Published: February 2021

We report a case of 37‐year‐old man implanted with cardiac resynchronization therapy‐defibrillator presented with persistent low‐grade fever and sudden loss of left ventricular (LV) capture from coronary sinus lead after generator replacement. 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography scan showed increased uptake at posterolateral region of the pericardium adjacent to the LV lead, suggestive of possible lead‐related infection. Combined percutaneous and surgical lead extraction revealed purulent pericarditis and polymerase chain reaction testing confirmed tuberculous (TB) pericarditis. TB pericarditis is an unusual cause of loss of LV capture, but should be considered in countries where TB is still endemic.
A literature review on function and regulation mechanism of DKK4
Authors: Lou Xiaoli , Meng Yuchen , Hou Yanqiang
Published: February 2021

Dickkopf‐related protein 4 (DKK4) is a member of the dickkopf family and an inhibitor of the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. This review surveyed the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), copy number variations (CNVs), hypermethylation, regulation mechanism, correlation with clinicopathological parameters and chemotherapeutic resistance of DKK4. The signal pathways involved in DKK4 mainly include Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and Wnt‐JNK pathway independent β‐catenin. DKK4 expression was upregulated in Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC), Colorectal Cancer, Gastric Cancer (GC), Non‐small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC), while downregulated in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). DKK4 is not only involved in tumour growth, invasion, migration and chemotherapy resistance, but also in osteoblastogenesis and secondary hair or meibomian gland formation. DKK4 has also been linked to schizophrenia.
Prevalence of swallowing difficulties in older people without neurological disorders: Swallowing profile of older people in the city of Santos, Brazil
Authors: Diaz Juliana Gonzalez , Lombardi Império
Published: February 2021

Several studies report that 40% to 60% of older people have some difficulty chewing and/or swallowing, which can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, weight loss, a lack of eating desire, etc. Identify older adults with swallowing difficulties in the city of Santos, Brazil, among users of the public healthcare system. A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 100 individuals aged 60 to 90 years with no neurological disorders. Patient histories were taken, and stomatognathic evaluations were performed. The Mini Mental Health Examination (MMHE) and swallowing‐related quality‐of‐life questionnaire (SWAL‐QOL) were administered. The clinical swallowing assessment was performed with liquid, pasty and solid foods using two assessment protocols (Dysphagia Risk Evaluation Protocol and the Protocol for the Introduction and Transition of Foods)’. We found complaints of poorly adapted dentures among 49.3% of denture wearers and a high prevalence of hypofunction of oro‐facial muscles. Sixty‐five per cent of the respondents had facial muscle hypofunction, 51% exhibited lip hypofunction, and 49% exhibited tongue hypofunction. Moreover, 54% reported difficulty swallowing. On the SWAL‐QOL questionnaire, 37% reported choking when eating food, 44% reported choking when drinking liquids, 29% reported coughing during meals, and 77% reported difficulty chewing. The present study revealed an important prevalence of complaints related to swallowing difficulties among older people in the city of Santos with structural and physiological changes characteristic of presbyphagia. The most prevalent conditions were poorly adapted dentures and hypofunction of oro‐facial muscles, underscoring the importance of stomatognathic interventions in primary care.
COVID‐19 and how the wearing of face coverings can affect those with an experience of trauma
Authors: Welfare‐Wilson Alison , Adley Lenna , Bell Zoe , Luby Rachel
Published: February 2021

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

With the ongoing and possible evolving use of face coverings as a public health protection measure against the transmission of COVID‐19, this is likely to be an ongoing challenge for those who find their use challenging.

The wearing of face coverings following trauma is likely to be of ongoing relevance, making this an area that would benefit from further research.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

The authors present their personal and professional experiences as a means of highlighting the difficulties that can be faced as a result of the use of face coverings.

The window of tolerance helps to understand the difficulties that can be caused by wearing face coverings and provides a visual means of conceptualizing the cognitive, behavioural, physiological and emotional reactions that can occur as a result of their use.

What are the implications for practice?

This paper provides an awareness of the link between trauma and the wearing of face coverings, and how their use could be re‐traumatizing for those accessing services.

This topic is relevant across all sectors where it is only just beginning to be acknowledged that for many, particularly those with experiences of interpersonal trauma, difficulties can arise due to the use of face coverings.

The sharing of grounding techniques and an introduction to the window of tolerance provides a means of collaboratively developing skills and developing a shared understanding of the difficulties associated with the use of face coverings.
Thermal Tolerance May Slow, But Not Prevent, the Spread of Sargassumhorneri (Phaeophyceae) along the California, USA and Baja California, MEX Coastline
Authors: Small Sadie L. , Edwards Matthew S.
Published: February 2021

Biological invasions have become increasingly prevalent in marine ecosystems, modifying biodiversity and altering the way ecosystems function. Understanding how variation in environmental factors influences the success of non‐native species, especially their early life stages, can be a crucial step in identifying habitats that are under threat of invasion, and in predicting how rapidly and far these species may spread once they arrive in novel habitats. The invasive marine macroalga Sargassum horneri was first observed in Long Beach Harbor, CA, USA in 2003, and has since spread throughout the Southern California Bight and along the Baja California Peninsula, MEX where it now forms dense stands on subtidal rocky reefs and displaces native habitat‐forming macroalgae. We examined how variation in temperature, nutrients, and irradiance affect survival, growth, and development in S. horneri early life stages over a three‐week period. Our experimental treatments consisted of orthogonally crossed temperatures (10, 15, 20, and 25°C), nutrient concentrations (ambient and nutrient‐enriched seawater), and irradiances (50 and 500 µmol photons · m−2 · s−1). Overall, temperature exerted the greatest influence on S. horneri’s germling and juvenile life stages, with moderate temperatures facilitating their greatest survival, growth, and development. In contrast, fewer germlings developed fully under the lowest or highest temperatures, and juvenile survival and growth were reduced, especially when combined with low irradiances. Together, our data suggest that ocean temperatures of or below 10˚C and of or above 25°C may slow, but likely not stop, S. horneri’s northward and southward expansion along the California and Baja California coasts.
A multimedia multilanguage web‐based platform can assess and increase the awareness on HCV infection of Pakistani people living in Italy
Authors: Frazzoni Leonardo , Sikandar Usama , Mazzella Giuseppe , Fuccio Lorenzo , Bazzoli Franco , Brillanti Stefano , Azzaroli Francesco
Published: February 2021

Global eradication of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is hindered by infection persistence among high‐prevalence ethnic groups with insufficient access to care. Educational interventions to raise awareness on HCV have led to identification of submerged HCV cases. Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a web‐based platform to assess and raise the awareness of HCV among Pakistani people living in northern Italy. We created a website in Italian and Urdu language (https://survey‐hcv6.webnode.it), and shared it to Pakistani people in Emilia‐Romagna through Facebook groups. Participants had to fill a 15‐item questionnaire on HCV infection, then watch a video on HCV, and respond to the questionnaire again. McNemar's chi‐square and negative binomial multivariable regression analysis yielding incidence rate ratio (IRR) were applied. 339 subjects from 600 (57%) participated and filled the baseline questionnaire. The knowledge on HCV infection was scanty. For instance, 32% were not aware of HCV, 42% only knew that HCV infection may be long term, and only 14% knew the access to DAA treatment is provided by the Health Service. Independent predictors of worse knowledge on HCV were male gender (IRR 1.19), low instruction level (IRR 1.26), Urdu language preference (IRR 1.22), past use of intravenous drugs (1.2) and no previous HCV testing (IRR 1.36). The educational video significantly improved the knowledge on HCV among 67 subjects who refilled the questionnaire, as 97% were later aware of HCV, 99% of the long‐term duration of HCV infection and 93% of the access to DAAs provided by Italian Health Service. We found a modest level of knowledge on HCV infection among Pakistani people in northern Italy, identifying predictors of worse awareness. We provided a multimedia platform which significantly improved the knowledge on HCV infection. Consequently, this approach might translate into an improved linkage to care.
Asymmetric contributions of seed and pollen to gene dispersal in the marsh orchidDactylorhiza umbrosain Asia Minor
Authors: Hedrén Mikael , Birkedal Sven , de Boer Hugo , Ghorbani Abdolbaset , Gravendeel Barbara , Hansson Sven , Svensson Åke , Zarre Shahin
Published: February 2021

Orchids differ from other plants in their extremely small and partly air‐filled seeds that can be transported long distances by wind. Seed dispersal in orchids is expected to contribute strongly to overall gene flow, and orchids generally express low levels of genetic differentiation between populations and low pollen to seed flow ratios. However, studies in orchids distributed in northern Europe have often found a poor geographic structuring of genetic variation. Here, we studied geographic differentiation in the marsh orchidDactylorhiza umbrosa, which is widely distributed in upland regions from Asia Minor to Central Asia. These areas were less affected by Pleistocene ice ages than northern Europe and the orchid should have been able to survive the last ice age in local refugia. In the plastid genome, which is dispersed by seeds, populations at close distance were clearly divergent, but the differentiation still increased with geographic distance, and a significant phylogeographic structure had developed. In the nuclear genome, which is dispersed by both seeds and pollen, populations showed an even stronger correlation between genetic and geographic distance, but average levels of differentiation were lower than in the plastid genome, and no phylogeographic structure was evident. Combining plastid and nuclear data, we found that the ratio of pollen to seed dispersal (mp/ms) decreases with physical distance. Comparison with orchids that grow in parts of Europe that were glaciated during the last ice suggests that a balanced structure of genetic diversity develops only slowly in many terrestrial orchids, despite efficient seed dispersal.
Beyond the Critique of Soteriological Individualism: Relationality and Social Cognition
Authors: Zahl Simeon
Published: February 2021

This article examines an influential conceptual trope in theology and biblical studies: the distinction between ‘individualistic’ and ‘communal’ orientations as a typology for distinguishing soteriological frameworks. This distinction has been widely deployed in Paul studies, in particular, where for decades it has been invoked in order to illuminate problems with traditional Protestant soteriologies. The present article clarifies and extends recent critiques of the ‘individualism vs. communalism’ trope by drawing on conceptual tools from the fields of social cognition and social emotion. It argues that in appealing to the ‘individualism vs. communalism’ trope Paul scholars have often been operating with unarticulated assumptions about the shaping effects of soteriological frameworks on Christian experience that are subject to analysis and critique. After identifying four such assumptions, conceptual tools psychologists have developed for understanding the experience of social relation between human and human‐like agents are explicated. It is argued that these psychological resources can augment and extend recent suggestions by Susan Eastman, Volker Rabens, and others that individuality and relationality are mutually entangled rather than opposed in Paul. Finally, it is suggested that analyzing Paul’s soteriology through the lens of relational experience and social emotion can open up new hermeneutical vistas for both theologians and biblical scholars.
ANNEXIN1 mediates calcium‐dependent systemic defense in Arabidopsis plants upon herbivory and wounding
Authors: Malabarba Jaiana , Meents Anja K. , Reichelt Michael , Scholz Sandra S. , Peiter Edgar , Rachowka Julia , Konopka‐Postupolska Dorota , Wilkins Katie A. , Davies Julia M. , Oelmüller Ralf , Mithöfer Axel
Published: February 2021

Cellular calcium (Ca) transients are endogenous signals involved in local and systemic signaling and defense activation upon environmental stress, including wounding and herbivory. Still, not all Ca2+ channels contributing to the signaling have been identified, nor are their modes of action fully known. Plant annexins are proteins capable of binding to anionic phospholipids and can exhibit Ca channel‐like activity. Arabidopsis ANNEXIN1 (ANN1) is suggested to contribute to Ca transport.

Here, we report that wounding and simulated‐herbivory‐induced cytosolic free Ca elevation was impaired in systemic leaves in ann1 loss‐of‐function plants. We provide evidence for a role of ANN1 in local and systemic defense of plants attacked by herbivorous Spodoptera littoralis larvae.

Bioassays identified ANN1 as a positive defense regulator. Spodoptera littoralis feeding on ann1 gained significantly more weight than larvae feeding on wild‐type, whereas those feeding on ANN1‐overexpressing lines gained less weight. Herbivory and wounding both induced defense‐related responses on treated leaves, such as jasmonate accumulation and defense gene expression. These responses remained local and were strongly reduced in systemic leaves in ann1 plants.

Our results indicate that ANN1 plays an important role in activation of systemic rather than local defense in plants attacked by herbivorous insects.
The effects of state facial surgery mandates on timeliness of primary cleft repair surgery in the United States
Authors: Lyu Wei , Wanchek Tanya , Wehby George L.
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study examines the effects of state facial surgery mandates on the timeliness of primary cleft repair surgery for privately insured children with oral clefts in the United States.

Materials and Methods

Using IBM Health MarketScan® Database from 2001 to 2017, we estimate regression models separately for age at cleft lip repair and cleft palate repair by having a mandate while considering child‐level factors and other state differences. The sample includes 1,451 children who had primary cleft lip repair by age 12 months, and 1,402 children who had primary cleft palate repair by age 18 months.

Results

A mandate was associated with earlier cleft lip repair by 13 days (95% CI, −21.5 to −4.7 days) when controlling for state differences, regardless if the child had other birth defects. For children needing cleft palate repair, a mandate was associated with earlier surgery by 87 days (95% CI, −136.1 to −38.4 days) only when no other birth defects were present.

Conclusions

State facial surgery mandates were associated with earlier cleft lip repair for children with or without other birth defects, and earlier cleft palate repair for children without other birth defects (besides oral clefts). Findings suggest benefits to privately insured children with oral clefts from state mandates to cover needed services.
Agro‐ecology, resource endowment and indigenous knowledge interactions modulate soil fertility in mixed farming systems in Central and Western Ethiopia
Authors: Agumas Birhanu , Balume Isaac , Musyoki Mary K. , Benz Martin , Nziguheba Generose , Marohn Carsten , Vanlauwe Bernard , Cadisch Georg , Rasche Frank
Published: February 2021

Site‐specific soil fertility management requires a fundamental understanding of factors that modulate soil fertility variability in the local context. To verify this assumption, this study hypothesized that soil fertility variability across two regions in Central and Western Ethiopia is determined by inter‐related effects of agro‐ecological zones and farmers’ resource endowment (‘wealthy’ versus ‘poor’ farmers). Mid‐infrared spectroscopy coupled to partial least squares regression (midDRIFTS‐PLSR) and wet‐laboratory analyses were used to assess the soil fertility (soil pH, total soil carbon [TC] and nitrogen [TN], plant‐available phosphorous [Pav] and potassium [Kav]) across four agro‐ecological zones: ‘High‐Dega’ (HD), ‘Dega’ (D), ‘Weina‐Dega’ (WD) and ‘Kola’ (K). MidDRIFTS peak area analysis of spectral frequencies (2,930 [aliphatic C‐H], 1,620 [aromatic C = C], 1,159 [C‐O poly‐alcoholic and ether groups] cm‐1) was applied to characterize soil organic carbon (SOC) quality and to calculate the SOC stability index (1,620:2,930). Higher TC in HD, as well as higher TN and Kav contents in K were found in fields of wealthy compared with poor farmers. Resource endowment dependent soil fertility management options revealed SOC of higher quality in wealthy compared with poor farms in D. Agro‐ecological zones distinctions contributed to these soil fertility differences. Farmers distinguished visually fertile and less fertile fields based on soil colour. Higher pH in K and WD as well as Pav in K and HD were found in fertile (brown/black) than less fertile (red) soils. To conclude, tailor‐made soil fertility management in the local context must consider agro‐ecological zones and resource endowment interactions along with farmers’ indigenous knowledge.
Alleviating Cd translocation and accumulation in soil–rice systems: Combination of foliar spraying of nano‐Si or nano‐Se and soil application of nano‐humus
Authors: Deng Siwei , Li Peirou , Li Yunzhen , Ran Zongxin , Peng Yunxiao , Yang Shili , He Huan , Zhou Kuan , Yu Jiang
Published: February 2021

Cadmium (Cd) contamination in farmland is extensive in China. Thus, exploring a cost‐effective and practical approach to control Cd contamination and ensure the sustainable use of soil is essential. Agronomic management practices, such as foliar spraying of nano‐silicon (nano‐Si) or nano‐selenium (nano‐Se), and soil amendments are very effective in soil contamination control and ensuring agricultural security. In this study, foliar application of nano‐Si (or Se) and soil application of nano‐humus were combined and applied to Cd‐contaminated soil (1.9 mg kg‐1) sown with rice. The application of nano‐humus in soil mainly reduced the proportion of oxidizable Cd and inhibited Cd migration from soil to rice. Cd translocation to the grain in rice was prevented by foliar application of nano‐Si or nano‐Se. Importantly, foliar application of 0.025 mM nano‐Se decreased Cd in rice grain to around 72% of that in the control, leading to a Cd content lower than the Cd standard limit in rice (0.2 mg kg‐1). These findings indicate that foliar spraying and soil treatment can improve the tolerance of rice to Cd and prevent Cd migration into the grain.
Quality improvement interventions for Bedside Transfusion safety: An experience from a tertiary healthcare centre of Western India
Authors: Nair Revathy , Anne Puneeth Babu , Mishra Praveen Kumar , Goel Akhil Dhanesh , Archana Bajpayee
Published: February 2021

Background

Quality indicators in Transfusion Medicine are critically important aspects that can be measured and utilized to design interventions for continuous quality improvement. Interventions for improvement in bedside transfusion practices are required to check the adherence to standard protocol for safe transfusion.

Study design and methods

A prospective study was conducted with a structured checklist survey of 4 key elements, to collect data for baseline assessment phase I survey, subsequently phase II survey repeated after introduction of Transfusion Monitoring Form and Telephonic reminders from blood bank. Pre‐ and Post‐intervention data collected, tabulated and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23).

Results

Identification of Patient, Transfusion initiation within 30 min of issue, Vitals monitoring during transfusion and completion of transfusion within time limit are the four key elements of quality indicators were checked pre‐ and post‐intervention. Mean composite score of quality indicators before intervention was 2·3 ± 1·3 and increased to 3·2 ± 1·3 (P value < 0·001) after implementation of the Transfusion Monitoring form and Reminder calls from Blood Bank.

Conclusion

Manufacturing good quality blood components alone does not ensure good transfusion services. Active interventions by Transfusion specialist ensure good bedside transfusion practices. Introduction of blood transfusion monitoring form and Telephonic reminders from the blood centre brought in significant changes in the existing bedside transfusion practices and safer transfusion at our centre.
Exploring the role of healthy dogs as hosts of enterohepatic Helicobacter species using cultivation‐dependent and ‐independent approaches
Authors: Ochoa Sofía , Ojeda Javier , Martínez Oscar A. , Vidal‐Veuthey Boris , Collado Luis
Published: February 2021

Enterohepatic Helicobacter (EHH) species have been increasingly associated with acute gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease and hepatobiliary diseases in humans. However, their host range and transmission routes are poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the presence of EHH in healthy dogs using both cultivation‐dependent and ‐independent methods. Three hundred and ninety faecal samples from domestic dogs without gastrointestinal symptoms were analysed between June 2018 and July 2019 in Valdivia (South of Chile). Samples were inoculated on selective medium and in parallel were filtrated over an antibiotic‐free blood agar. Both media were incubated in a microaerobic atmosphere at 37°C for 7 days. Colonies were identified by PCR and phylogenetic analysis. A subset of 50 samples (half of them positive for EHH by cultivation and the remaining half negative) was analysed by PCR‐Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (PCR‐DGGE) for direct detection. Cultivation method detected EHH in 15.4% (60/390) of the samples, being the most prevalent species H. canis (5.8%, 23/390) and H. canicola (5.1%, 20/390), followed by H. bilis (3.6%, 14/390) and ‘H. winghamensis’ (1.3%, 5/390). In contrast, PCR‐DGGE method detected Helicobacter DNA in almost all (96%, 48/50) tested samples. On the other hand, the method used also allowed to isolate other Campylobacterales, in fact 44.3% (173/390) of the samples were positive for Campylobacter upsaliensis (43.3%, 169/390) followed by C. jejuni (2.0%, 8/390). Moreover, two strains that presented Campylobacter‐like morphology were finally identified as Anaerobiospirillum succiniciproducens. Our results indicate that healthy domestic dogs commonly carry EHH and other Campylobacter species. However, further studies are needed to determine whether and how these Helicobacter and Campylobacter species can be transmitted to humans.
A Selection Strategy for Kriging Based Design of Experiments by Spectral Clustering and Learning Function
Authors: Li Rui , Liang Xihui , Peng Qingjin
Published: February 2021

Reliability analysis evaluates the failure probability of structures considering random variables of a system. Existing methods such as first-order reliability method (FORM) and second-order reliability method (SORM) are difficult to predict the failure probability of implicit functions in mechanical structures. Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) can predict the failure probability with high accuracy, but it is time-consuming. Agent-based methods such as the Kriging model have the approved performance to predict the failure probability in both efficiency and accuracy. An active method is proposed in this paper to improve the efficiency of predicting the probability of failures by combining the Kriging model and MCS, using a new learning function and its stopping condition. A representative selection strategy is developed based on spectral clustering to decide sample points in the design of experiments (DoEs). The new learning function integrates uncertainty and similarity of predicted Kriging values to search the next best sample point for updating the initial DoE. The learning process is terminated based on the stopping condition for a given accuracy of predicted probability of failures. Four case studies are conducted to validate the proposed method. Results show that the proposed method can predict the probability of failures with improved accuracy and reduced time.
Effects of Size and Surface Treatment on Fatigue Life of Fused Filament Fabrication Manufactured Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Parts
Authors: Huang Jianchi , Miscles Eduardo , Mellor Tara , Ma Chao , Kuttolamadom Mathew , Wang Jyhwen
Published: February 2021

An experimental study was conducted to study the effects of geometric size and surface treatment on the fatigue life of fused filament fabrication (FFF) manufactured acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) parts. Moore rotating-beam fatigue tests were conducted with four different levels of loadings to obtain the S–N curves. Two different sizes (control size and large size) and three different surface treatment methods (as-printed, acetone-treated, and sandpaper polished) were studied. The larger specimens had significantly decreased fatigue life because of a larger volume, and hence a greater probability of defects for crack initiation and propagation, as compared with the control specimen. The acetone-treated specimen had a smooth surface. Its fatigue life, however, decreased significantly because the acetone treatment caused internal damage that weakened the specimen and was reported for the first time. The sandpaper polished specimen also had a smooth surface, but its effect on the fatigue life was insignificant because the extruded filament direction on the specimen surface was parallel to the loading direction. The present results lead to a better understanding of the effects of geometric size and surface treatment on the fatigue performance of FFF specimens. The study also provides important insights for the design of part size and surface treatment of three-dimensional (3D) printed plastic components for fatigue loading end-use applications.
An Experimental and Numerical Study on Coaxial Extrusion of a Non-Newtonian Hydrogel Material
Authors: Yu Ilhan , Chen Roland
Published: February 2021

Coaxial extrusion is a commonly used process to manufacture tubular structures to mimic vascular systems in 3D bioprinting. In this study, the stability of coaxial extrusion of a non-Newtonian material, Pluronic F127, is investigated. The extrusion process is considered stable when the extrudate form a core-annular structure. When it is unstable, dripping or jetting of the inner fluid is observed. In this study, the effects of the viscosity ratio, flowrate ratio, and the non-Newtonian behaviors on the stability of the coaxial extrusion process are investigated experimentally and numerically. The results show that all three factors can affect the stability of the process. When the ratio of viscosities increases, the process becomes unstable. The extrusion process tends to be stable when the flowrate of the outer fluid is much higher than that of the inner fluid. When the overall flowrate decreases, due to the non-Newtonian fluid behavior, the extrusion process can become unstable. This study shows the interconnected relationship between viscosity, flowrate, and non-Newtonian fluid behaviors and their effects on the stability of the coaxial extrusion process. The non-Newtonian flow behavior needs to be considered when studying or using coaxial extrusion. This study also provides a guiding principle on how to alter extrusion parameters in order to achieve the desired flow pattern.
Analysis of the Effect of Tool Posture on Stability Considering the Nonlinear Dynamic Cutting Force Coefficient
Authors: Li Zepeng , Yan Rong , Tang Xiaowei , Peng Fangyu , Xin Shihao , Wu Jiawei
Published: February 2021

In aviation and navigation, complicated parts are milled with high-speed low-feed-per-tooth milling to decrease tool vibration for high quality. Because the nonlinearity of the cutting force coefficient (CFC) is more evident with the relatively smaller instantaneous uncut chip thickness, the stable critical cutting depth and its distribution against different tool postures are affected. Considering the nonlinearity, a nonlinear dynamic CFC model that reveals the effect of the dynamic instantaneous uncut chip thickness on the dynamic cutting force is derived based on the Taylor expansion. A five-axis bull-nose end milling dynamics model is established with the nonlinear dynamic CFC model. The stable critical cutting depth distribution with respect to tool posture is analyzed. The stability results predicted with the dynamic CFC model are compared with those from the static CFC model and the constant CFC model. The effects of tool posture and feed per tooth on stable critical cutting depth were also analyzed, and the proposed model was validated by cutting experiments. The maximal stable critical cutting depths that can be achieved under different tool postures by feed per tooth adjustment were calculated, and corresponding distribution diagrams are proposed for milling parameter optimization.
Design for Manufacturing: Geometric Manufacturability Evaluation for Five-Axis Milling
Authors: Chen Niechen , Frank Matthew C.
Published: February 2021

The geometric manufacturability of a part design is an important decision factor for various manufacturing applications and is especially critical for the machining process. In machining, the geometric manufacturability is primarily determined by geometric accessibility, which has a direct impact on decisions such as setup planning, tool selection, tool orientation selection/adjustment, and the tool path strategies. These planning decisions can have a significant impact on cycle time and cost. Thus, it can be justified that geometric manufacturability is one of the essential product design aspects that must be evaluated for machining processes. Being able to evaluate the geometric manufacturability will not only provide a part design metric but also offer a new approach for manufacturing process planning and optimization. This research proposes a new method for determining the geometric manufacturability of a part designed for five-axis milling. In this work, the part design is input as polygon mesh boundary represented models, the 3D tool geometry is sampled to line segments, the 3D geometric accessibility of the part design is calculated, and a new metric for five-axis milling manufacturability evaluation is developed. Case studies on complex mechanical component design examples are conducted to validate the method.
Analysis of a New Process of Forging a 2017A Aluminum Alloy Connecting Rod
Authors: Winiarski Grzegorz , Dziubińska Anna
Published: February 2021

The paper presents the results of a theoretical analysis of a new process of hammer forging of a connecting rod and the technology currently used. In the industry at present connecting rods are forged from extruded rods. The new forging technology assumes the use of a workpiece in the form of a cast preform. For the calculations, it has been assumed that the billet material will be a Ø30 × 148 mm rod and a cast preform. Two variants of preforms have been modeled, from which products of the assumed geometry with different degree of strain are obtained. Calculations were made using the finite element method (FEM) in the Deform 3D program. The input material was 2017A aluminum alloy in the form of rods and sand cast preforms. On the basis of the conducted research, it was found that the use of cast preforms reduces material waste by about 80% in relation to the technology of forging from the bar and reduces the energy consumption of the process by about 75%. Both geometrical variants of the forging preforms ensure obtaining a forging with the assumed shape and dimensions, although forging from the forging preform with a smaller degree of strain seems to be a safer variant in terms of the possibility of cracking of the material. This is supported by the lower strain and normalized Cockcroft–Latham integral values.