bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superheating nature coupled with Mg‐doping effect of high thermal stable NdBa2Cu3O7‐δ film
Authors: Yin Yiqian , Wan Yan , Huang Simin , Zhu Yanhan , Chen Ran , Tao Bowan , Rao Qunli , Zhou Difan , Yao Xin
Published: June 2020

NdBa2Cu3O7‐δ thin film deposited on a MgO substrate has been verified to remain solid above its peritectic melting temperature (Tp). Such a superheating nature is attributed to its low energy surface and epitaxial interface with substrate. Here, combining superheating nature with doping effect, we report a novel structure, Mg‐doped NdBa2Cu3O7‐δ film with YBa2Cu3O7‐δ buffer layer for the first time. Remarkably, this film presents a higher thermal stability level than heretofore possible when acting as a seed for preparing SmBa2Cu3O7‐δ bulks by melt growth, enduring a temperature of 1128°C, 43 K above its Tp for 1 hour. The utilization of such a high Tmax in melt growth is beneficial to the fabrication of large‐sized and high‐performance bulk in terms of effectively broadening the growth window and suppressing the heterogeneous nucleation. More importantly, some high thermal stability required technological applications, such as batch growth and failed bulk recycling, are likely to be realized by this novel Mg‐doped NdBa2Cu3O7‐δ film seed. Finally, we show how the observed metastable phase is linked to the distinctive film architecture.
The sound absorption performance of the highly porous silica ceramics prepared using freeze casting method
Authors: Du Zhongpei , Yao Dongxu , Xia Yongfeng , Zuo Kaihui , Yin Jinwei , Liang Hanqin , Zeng Yu‐Ping
Published: June 2020

Highly porous silica ceramics with unidirectional pores were prepared using the freeze casting method. By adjusting the solid content and freezing temperature, the porosity of the ceramics was tailored in the range of 78.20%‐84.59% and pore size in the range of 8.4‐71.4 μm, respectively. Sound absorption properties of porous silica ceramics was studied and the effect of structural factors was systematically investigated. The results showed that higher porosity and smaller pores of the porous ceramics favored the sound absorption in the entire sound wave frequency. By backing the sample with small pore size porous ceramics, the sound absorption property was enhanced, particularly in the low and medium frequency range, thus the sound absorption peak shifted towards lower frequency. The presence of air gap in the back would also favor sound absorption in low and medium frequency range. The as‐fabricated porous silica ceramics owed excellent sound absorption properties due to their unidirectional pores and low flow resistances.
Dielectric properties of polymer‐derived ceramic reinforced with boron nitride nanotubes
Authors: Jia Yujun , Ajayi Tosin D. , Xu Chengying
Published: June 2020

The electrical and dielectric properties of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) reinforced ceramic composites using the polymer‐derived ceramic (PDC) processing route were investigated in this work. The electrical resistivity of the pristine PDC increases from 106 to 108 Ω m after the addition of BNNTs. When the BNNT loading was increased to 5 wt%, the average real relative permittivity of the PDC decreased from 2.94 to 2.80, while the quality factor (Q) of the PDC increased from 134.40 to 176.77. The BNNTs can increase the Q factor of the PDC due to the reduction in the porosity cause by the introduction of the BNNTs. Further increasing the BNNT content decreases the real relative permittivity of the nanocomposites and increases the Q factor at high frequency. The average real relative permittivity decreases to 2.29, while the average Q factor increases to 208.60 when the BNNT content is increased to 30 wt%. The dielectric loss after the addition of high fraction of BNNTs can be explained by the Lorentz resonance relaxation process. Results of this work showed that PDC‐BNNT nanocomposites are satisfactory electromagnetic transparent materials when the BNNT fraction is less than 10 wt%.
Direct ink writing of hierarchical porous alumina‐stabilized emulsions: Rheology and printability
Authors: Chan Shareen S. L. , Sesso Mitchell L. , Franks George V.
Published: June 2020

Bio‐inspired multi‐scaled (hierarchical) porous structures have remarkable strength and stiffness‐to‐density properties. Direct ink writing (DIW) or robocasting, an additive manufacturing (or also commonly known as 3D printing) material extrusion technique is able to create near‐net‐shaped complex geometries. A new approach of combining DIW, colloidal particle‐stabilized emulsion paste inks and partial densification to create tailored architectures of hierarchical porosity on three scales has been demonstrated. The printed and sintered ceramic lattice structures possess relatively high overall porosity of 78.7% (on average), comprising mainly (64.7%) open porosity. The effects of formulation (surfactant and oil concentrations, solids particle size, and mixing speed) on rheology and pore size and morphology have been investigated. The rheological properties (storage modulus, yield stress, and recovery of storage modulus) of the emulsions have been found to delineate the samples with good shape retention from those that slump. Additionally, the internal features of the sintered structures have been analyzed via X‐ray tomography and scanning electron microscope. The role of emulsion stability on printability and the internal structure of the prints has been investigated.
The mediating role of locus of control between social resource stability and psychological well‐being
Authors: Strong Shelby L. , Gore Jonathan S.
Published: June 2020

Past research has shown that social resources and locus of control are strongly linked to well‐being, but most research has focused on the amount rather than the stability of those resources. The goal of this study was to investigate the mediating role that locus of control had on the relationship between social resource stability and psychological well‐being. All three studies measured social resources and well‐being through online surveys (Studies 1 and 2 through SONA, and Study 3 through Mechanical Turk). Study 1 (n = 298 college students) demonstrated that social resource stability predicted lower psychological distress, while controlling for social resource amount. Study 2 (n = 300 college students) revealed that social resource stability predicted higher subjective well‐being, while controlling for social resource amount, and that locus of control mediated the association. Study 3 (n = 346 working adults) replicated the findings of Studies 1 and 2 using a nonacademic sample and alternative measures of well‐being.
Opioid training development: Cultivating nurse competence through education
Authors: Seney Valerie , Insana Jacqueline , Alberto Allison , Hay Jessica
Published: June 2020

Topic

Mental illness and substance use have become areas of concern throughout society. One of the greatest concerns affecting the United States is the increased prevalence of opioid use and accidental overdose. The opioid epidemic not only impacts adults, it also affects the nation's most vulnerable youth. Children and adolescents are at high risk for substance abuse due to multiple risk factors including negative life events, family dysfunction, and parental substance abuse.

Purpose

Pediatric nurses must be prepared to care for children and families who experience opioid addiction and overdose. The aim of the quality improvement project was to improve the skill set of nurses working with children and adolescents with substance use disorders (SUDs) in a pediatric psychiatric hospital.

Sources Used

Nurses attended a 2‐hr workshop focused on nursing interventions related to SUD utilizing Orlando's Nursing Theory and Brief Intervention Therapy. Following the workshop, nurses reported their perceived competence in caring for individuals at risk for or identified with SUD increased.

Conclusion

The workshop appeared to be effective in increasing nurses' competence and confidence if working with youth and their families dealing with substance use issues.
Conduction gap mapping of linear ablation lesions with high‐density mapping
Authors: Nakai Kentaro , Kashiwa Asami , Kunitomi Akira , Matsuoka Shunzo
Published: June 2020

Introduction

When performing linear ablation, creating contiguous and transmural lesions are technically challenging due to the difficulty in finding electrical conduction gaps. We hypothesized that high‐density mapping could identify the gaps.

Methods and Results

This study included consecutive patients who underwent conduction gap mapping of de novo lesions (41 patients, 55 lines) and previous lesions (25 patients, 34 lines). We analyzed the utility of bipolar and unipolar conduction gap mapping and retrospectively assessed the voltage and morphology of the bipolar electrograms at the gap sites. Bipolar and unipolar propagation maps were classified into three types: the propagation wavefront traveled through the linear ablation lesions (direct leak), the wavefront jumped to an opposite site across the line and returned to the line (jump and return leak), and others (indefinite leak). In the jump and return leak maps, the site where it returned suggested a conduction gap site. Bipolar propagation maps identified 30 (54.5%) conduction gaps and unipolar maps identified 40 (72.7%) gaps at de novo linear ablation lesions (P = .01), and 32 (94.1%) gaps and 33 (97.1%) gaps, respectively, at previous lesions (P = .56). Bipolar voltage mapping did not add any further efficacy in detecting conduction gaps, and the morphology of the electrograms recorded at the gap sites was not related to the types of propagation maps.

Conclusion

Conduction gaps of linear ablation lesions can be visualized by high‐density mapping with a high probability. Unipolar propagation, when used with bipolar mapping, may help detect conduction gap sites.
Validity of anthropometric indices in predicting high blood pressure risk factors in Iranian children and adolescents: CASPIAN‐V study
Authors: Yazdi Mayram , Assadi Farahnak , Qorbani Mostafa , Daniali Seyede Shahbanoo , Heshmat Ramin , Esmaeil Motlagh Mohammad , Kelishadi Roya
Published: June 2020

Anthropometric indices have been used as indicators for predicting hypertension (HTN) in children and adolescents but it is not clear which anthropometric measures are a better index for identifying elevated blood pressure (EBP) risk factors in pediatric population. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), weight‐height ratio (WHR), a body shape index (ABSI) and blood pressure were measured in 14 008 children and adolescents aged 7‐18 years in a national school‐aged survey CASPIN V. Hypertension (HTN) was defined according to the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, using the 95th percentile. The predictive power of anthropometric indices for HTN risk factors was examined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to compare areas under ROC curves (AUCs) among the four anthropometric indices. BMI, WC, WHR, and ABSI were significantly higher in adolescents than in children. EBP was more prevalent in boys (7.2%) than girls (5.5%), whereas the prevalence of HTN was higher in girls (11.3%) than boys 10.4%. Prevalence odds ratio was around 2 for BMI, WC, and WHR with AUCs scores of nearly 0.6 to predict EBP in both children and adolescents of both sexes. Thus, the ability of BMI z‐score, WC, WHR or ASBI to identify Iranian children and adolescents at higher risk of EBP was week. WC, WHR or ASBI in combination with BMI did not improve predictive power to identify subjects at higher risk of EBP.
Food intake and dietary patterns that affect urinary sodium excretion in young women
Authors: Yasutake Kenichiro , Imai Katsumi , Abe Shimako , Iwamoto Masako , Kawate Hisaya , Moriguchi Ririko , Ono Misaki , Ueno Hiromi , Miya Mana , Tsuda Hiroko , Nakano Shuji
Published: June 2020

We aimed to clarify food intake and dietary patterns that affect urinary sodium excretion (urinary salt excretion) among young women. We used 2012 to 2018 data from the health and nutrition testing on admission, which is a part of ongoing epidemiological studies, for students enrolling in the Faculty of Nutrition Science, Nakamura Gakuen University. Fasting urine samples were collected from the participants, and their estimated daily salt excretion was calculated using the Tanaka equation. The dietary assessment used was the semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire, and we confirmed its validity. The participants included 2218 women aged 18 to 20 years who were classified into four groups according to urinary salt excretion (g/d) from their spot urine: Q1, <5.56; Q2, 5.56≤, <6.79; Q3, 6.79≤, <8.12; and Q4, 8.12<. The high urinary salt group had a significantly higher consumption of oil and fat, fish, meat, eggs, soybean, green and yellow vegetables, white vegetables, seaweeds, and pickled vegetables compared with the low urinary salt groups. When we compared the differences of the quartiles for urinary sodium excretion and the factor loadings for three dietary patterns by factor analysis with varimax rotation, the high urinary salt group showed a higher tendency for Japanese dietary patterns of factor 1 compared with the low urinary salt group. In conclusion, the various foods, including foods containing proteins and vegetables and Japanese dietary pattern centering on fish, vegetables, soybeans, and seaweed, affected the urinary sodium excretion in young women.
Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol : high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is associated with incident diabetes in Chinese adults: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wei Limin , Wei Meng , Chen Lei , Liang Shanshan , Gao Fanfan , Cheng Xin , Jiang Hongli
Published: June 2020

Aims/Introduction

Dyslipidemia plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Evidence has increasingly shown that the ratio of low‐ to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C/HDL‐C) is a novel marker for increased risk of insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. However, the correlation between the LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and diabetes risk is rarely reported. This is the first study to investigate the association between the LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and new‐onset diabetes in a large community‐based cohort.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 116,661 adults without baseline diabetes were enrolled. Participants were stratified into four groups based on LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio quartiles. The outcome of interest was new‐onset diabetes.

Results

During a median follow‐up period of 2.98 years, 2,681 (2.3%) new diabetes cases were recorded. The total cumulative incidence of diabetes progressively increased alongside LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio quartiles (0.31, 0.43, 0.68 and 0.88%, respectively, P‐value for trend <0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders, using the lowest quartile of the LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio as the reference, the risk of diabetes increased with LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio quartiles (P‐value for trend <0.001); in particular, from the second to fourth quartile, hazard ratios were 1.18 (95% confidence interval 0.87–1.59), 1.42 (95% confidence interval 1.07–1.90) and 1.92 (95% confidence interval 1.43–2.59), respectively. The results were also robust to challenges in multiple sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Among the Chinese population, elevated LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio might be an independent risk factor for new‐onset diabetes.
Risk factors for new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xia Mancheng , Yang Haosen , Tong Xunan , Xie Hongjie , Cui Fan , Shuang Weibing
Published: June 2020

Aims/Introduction

To systematically review the risk factors for new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation, and to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and management of new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation.

Materials and Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Library databases and other databases for case–control studies related to risk factors for new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation published between January 2005 and July 2019. A meta‐analysis of data on risk factors for new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation from the included studies was carried out. A narrative review of risk factors for new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation was also carried out.

Results

A total of 24 case–control studies were included in the meta‐analysis, with a total of 7,140 patients. There were 1,598 patients with new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation, and 5,542 patients without new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation. The meta‐analysis results showed that age, polycystic kidney disease, family history of diabetes, body mass index, acute rejection, tacrolimus use, hepatitis B virus infection, hepatitis C virus infection and hypertension were associated with new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation, whereas sex, sirolimus use, cyclosporin A use, steroid use and cytomegalovirus infection were not associated with new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation.

Conclusions

Older age, body mass index, family history of diabetes, tacrolimus use, history of hypertension, polycystic kidney disease, acute rejection, hepatitis B virus infection and hepatitis C virus infection are risk factors for new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation. Therefore, the clinical implications of these factors warrant attention.
Blood pressure after treatment with sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors influences renal composite outcome: Analysis using propensity score‐matched models
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuo , Toyoda Masao , Hatori Nobuo , Furuki Takayuki , Sakai Hiroyuki , Umezono Tomoya , Ito Shun , Suzuki Daisuke , Takeda Hiroshi , Minagawa Fuyuki , Degawa Hisakazu , Yamamoto Hareaki , Machimura Hideo , Chin Keiichi , Hishiki Toshimasa , Takihata Masahiro , Aoyama Kouta , Umezawa Shinichi , Minamisawa Kohsuke , Aoyama Togo , Hamada Yoshiro , Suzuki Yoshiro , Hayashi Masahiro , Hatori Yutaka , Sato Kazuyoshi , Miyakawa Masaaki , Tamura Kouichi , Kanamori Akira
Published: June 2020

Aims/Introduction

Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) improve renal outcome in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, but the mechanism is not fully understood. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the association of achieved blood pressure with renal outcomes in Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with chronic kidney disease.

Materials and Methods

We assessed 624 Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with chronic kidney disease taking SGLT2i for >1 year. The patients were classified as those with post‐treatment mean arterial pressure (MAP) of ≥92 mmHg (n = 344) and those with MAP of <92 mmHg (n = 280) for propensity score matching (1:1 nearest neighbor match with 0.04 of caliper value and no replacement). The end‐point was a composite of progression of albuminuria or a decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate by ≥15% per year.

Results

By propensity score matching, a matched cohort model was constructed, including 201 patients in each group. The incidence of renal composite outcome was significantly lower among patients with MAP of <92 mmHg than among patients with MAP of ≥92 mmHg (n = 11 [6%] vs n = 26 [13%], respectively, P = 0.001). The change in estimated glomerular filtration rate was similar in the two groups; however, the change in the albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio was significantly larger in patients with MAP of <92 mmHg.

Conclusions

In Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with chronic kidney disease, blood pressure after SGLT2i administration influences the renal composite outcome. Blood pressure management is important, even during treatment with SGLT2i.
When an advantageous reproductive trait turns bad: Eggs of the threatened fish Genidens barbus as a natural bait in recreational fisheries
Authors: Machado Rodrigo , Gentil Eduardo , Rodrigues‐Filho Jorge L.
Published: June 2020

This study describes a recreational fishing method focused on marine catfish, Genidens barbus (Endangered‐EN), through the adoption of its eggs as a natural bait during its reproductive period in southern Brazilian ecosystems. Male G. barbus perform parental care, collecting eggs released by females after the fertilization process. Owing to this male behavioural pattern during the reproductive period, these individuals are easily caught in recreational fisheries that use eggs of the same species as a natural bait. The current adoption of G. barbus eggs as bait may intensify the fishing pressure on its populations.
Use of metabolic syndrome severity to assess treatment with vitamin E and pioglitazone for non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Gurka Matthew J , Mack Jasmine A , Chi Xiaofei , DeBoer Mark D
Published: June 2020

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to liver failure, requires liver biopsies to follow and is difficult to treat. Our goal was to assess metabolic syndrome (MetS) severity as a predictor of treatment success and a marker of response.

Methods

We assessed data from the Pioglitazone, Vitamin E, or Placebo for NASH Study, in which individuals with biopsy‐confirmed NASH were randomized to receive pioglitazone, vitamin E, or placebo for 96 weeks. We assessed associations of a sex‐specific and race/ethnicity‐specific MetS severity Z‐score (MetS‐Z) at baseline and 48 weeks with biopsy‐determined endpoint of NASH resolution at 96 weeks.

Results

Baseline MetS‐Z was inversely associated with odds of NASH resolution (odds ratio [OR] per 1 SD of MetS‐Z: 0.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.28, 0.79). Decrease in MetS‐Z during initial 48‐week intervention was greatest for pioglitazone treatment (effect size: −0.31, 95% CI −0.15, −0.48) and for vitamin E tended toward being greater for those with versus without NASH resolution (−0.18 vs −0.05). Overall, 48‐week change in MetS‐Z was associated with NASH resolution (OR per 1‐SD change: 0.53, 95% CI 0.33, 0.85), although this was attenuated in models that included transaminases, which remained linked to treatment success (OR by change‐in‐aspartate aminotransferase Z‐score: 0.38, 95% CI 0.19, 0.76).

Conclusions

Individuals with more severe metabolic derangement at baseline were less likely to exhibit NASH resolution, suggesting that individuals may have a threshold of MetS severity beyond which successful treatment is unlikely. As an integrated marker of metabolic abnormalities, MetS‐Z was correlated with successful treatment, although transaminases were a more consistent marker of NASH resolution.
Quantitative mapping of high modulus materials at the nanoscale: comparative study between atomic force microscopy and nanoindentation
Authors: COQ GERMANICUS R. , MERCIER D. , AGREBI F. , FÈBVRE M. , MARIOLLE D. , DESCAMPS Ph. , LECLÈRE Ph.
Published: June 2020

Local mechanical properties of submicron features are of particular interest due to their influence on macroscopic material performance and behaviour. This study is focused on local nanomechanical measurements, based on the latest Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) mode, where the peak force set point is finely controlled at each pixel. After probe calibration, we evaluate the impact of spring constant of two AFM hand‐crafted natural full diamond tips with steel cantilevers, used for mapping. Based on the fast capture of the cantilever deflection at each pixel and real time force curve analysis in the elastic region, AFM local measured contact moduli mappings of the silica beads (>50 GPa) incorporated in an epoxy resin matrix, are compared with those determined using classical instrumented nanoindentation tests. Our analyses show that with the two AFM probes, without local residual deformation, the high moduli of the silica beads measured with this advanced AFM mode are within the standard deviation of the values determined by classical nanoindentation.

Lay Description

The knowledge of material properties at the nanometer scale is a key parameter for well understanding and determining the behavior of material at macroscopic scale. In this paper, we compare two methods (an advanced mode and a classical one) based on the analysis of probes in interaction with the surface of studied material. We focus on a latest developed mode for determining local mechanical properties with a very high spatial resolution. For the advanced mode, we also consider two different hand‐crafted probes. Our analyses show that with the high spatial resolution advanced mode, local mechanical properties are well determined. We also highlight the impact of the properties of the used probes for this advanced mode. In a final step, the power of the presented investigation lies in the fact that it does not modify the topography of the surface.
What retailers need to understand about website inaccessibility and disabled consumers: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Cohen Alex H. , Fresneda Jorge E. , Anderson Rolph E.
Published: June 2020

This research uniquely contributes to the marketing policy literature by illuminating the widespread yet seldom studied problem of online inaccessibility of retail websites affecting approximately 30 million disabled Americans. When a website is not designed to be navigated easily or is not compatible with assistive technology such as a screen‐reader, these potential customers are not able to independently search for information and conduct transactions. Blind and low vision participants in an empirical study provide their opinions regarding accessibility policy issues and reveal that their frustrations with inaccessible retail websites may result, not only in avoidance of the retailer in its different sales channels but also in antifirm behaviors driven by negative attitudes toward perceived retailer accessibility/disability policy that spur feelings of online marketplace discrimination. Using two different evaluation tools, the top 100 retailers in the United States were evaluated on the accessibility of their websites over the past 4 years (2015–2018). Results show that most websites contain many design errors making navigation very difficult or even impossible for vision impaired consumers. The argument is made that online retailers who proactively address these inaccessibility issues on their websites may significantly increase their customer base and profitability.
Consumer well‐being and social responsibility of subsistence entrepreneurs in subsistence marketplace
Authors: Azmat Fara , Samaratunge Ramanie , Ferdous Ahmed
Published: June 2020

Business malpractices, such as the sale of overpriced, underweight and adulterated foodstuffs and essential commodities, can pose serious threats to subsistence consumers' wellbeing, given they are more vulnerable than their affluent counterparts. Drawing on 40 interviews with subsistence entrepreneurs in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, our findings provide insights into the interplay between religiosity and social responsibility of entrepreneurs. We further explore how socio‐economic conditions and local embeddedness—two important characteristics of individuals in subsistence marketplaces—moderate the relationship between religiosity and social responsibility of entrepreneurs, providing implications for consumer welfare at the macro‐level. Our research makes a distinctive contribution to three streams of literature relating to social responsibility, subsistence marketplaces, and consumer affairs, with specific policy implications.
Writing Impactful Review Articles
Authors: Patriotta Gerardo
Published: June 2020

Literature reviews lie at the core of the theorizing process: they provide a reference point for mapping a field of study and form the baseline for developing theoretical contributions. The two Point‐Counterpoint articles presented here seek to reflect on the purpose of literature reviews, and offer alternative strategies for writing impactful review articles.
Low‐temperature steaming improves eating quality of whitefish
Authors: Wang Kexin , Lin Xiaoyu , Zhao Wenyu , Fan Xinru , Yu Wanying , Ma Zhuang , Yu Chenxu , Dong Xiuping
Published: June 2020

In this study, effects of different steaming conditions (temperature–time scales) on quality characteristics of cooked whitefish (Coregonus peled) were characterized to guide product development. Investigation of three cooking conditions, including 60°C (3–20 min) 80°C (1–12 min) and 100°C (1–6 min) indicated that properties including textural properties, cooking loss, color change, water holding capacity (WHC), and protein content were all significantly correlated to the cooking condition. It was observed that the color changes of fish meat, especially the brightness L* were strongly correlated to the relative extraction rate (RER) of myofibrillar proteins (MFPs), which could be considered as a marker for the doneness of the cooked whitefish. Our results indicated that during the steaming process, the water holding capacity of the fish continued to decline, and the cooking loss continued to increase. However, a sudden jump in cooking loss occurred when the fish sample became overcooked. To minimize cooking loss, a good control of the doneness hence is needed to avoid overcooking. Moreover, results of this study demonstrated that low‐temperature steaming could better maintain the springiness and cohesiveness of the fish as the myofibrillar proteins experienced less sudden swelling and shrinkage. Hence, low temperature steaming should be the preferred method for whitefish processing to minimize the negative impact on fish sensory qualities.
L2 Spanish Listening Comprehension: The Role of Speech Rate, Utterance Length, and L2 Oral Proficiency
Authors: MEDINA ALMITRA , SOCARRÁS GILDA , KRISHNAMURTI SRIDHAR
Published: June 2020

This study explored the influence of speech rate (normal vs. fast), sentence length (short vs. long), and second language (L2) oral proficiency on listening comprehension in L2 Spanish. Thirty‐one native English‐speaking learners enrolled in upper‐level Spanish courses were aurally exposed to 8 sentences of each type of speed–length matrix, for a total of 32 sentences in Spanish. Listeners’ comprehension was measured through native language recall following each sentence. Generalized estimating equations revealed that sentence length and oral proficiency were both significant predictors of listening comprehension in L2 Spanish, as were speed × oral proficiency and length × oral proficiency interactions. While lengthier utterances decreased comprehension, the extent of their influence was impacted by L2 oral proficiency, as measured by a standardized test. High oral proficiency helped to combat the negative effect of lengthier utterances. Moreover, accelerated speech degraded listening comprehension for higher proficiency participants only—not for their lower proficiency counterparts due to the latter's low comprehension scores at both normal and fast rates of sentence delivery. The results are discussed in light of previous empirical studies on listening ability. The current study contributes to the recent exploration of the variables involved in the complex process of L2 listening comprehension, discusses implications for pedagogy and the creation of listening materials, and suggests avenues for future research.
Methylene blue vs methyl aminolevulinate photodynamic therapy in combination with oral terbinafine in the treatment of severe dermatophytic toenail onychomycosis: Short‐ and long‐term effects
Authors: Alberdi Enrique , Gómez Clara
Published: June 2020

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) kills target microorganisms via reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. PDT seems to be a good alternative treatment option for onychomycosis.

Objective

To compare the efficacy of combined therapies based on oral terbinafine (TN) plus adjunctive PDT mediated by methylene blue (MB) (TN + MB/PDT) or methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) (TN + MAL/PDT) in the treatment of onychomycosis.

Methods

Twenty patients affected by severe dermatophyte onychomycosis in the nails of the big toe (>60% disease involvement of target nail) received oral TN for 12 weeks and concomitantly were randomly allocated to receive nine sessions, separated by 2‐week intervals, of urea (40%) plus a PDT protocol mediated by MB (TN + MB/PDT: group I) or mediated by MAL (TN + MAL/PDT: group II). Clinical and mycological efficacy was evaluated at 16‐, 40‐ and 52‐week follow‐up.

Results

Both protocols showed a significant decrease in Onychomycosis Severity Index (OSI) scores (P < .05), from 24.2 ± 4.6 to 0.7 ± 0.6 (group I)) and from 18.5 ± 10.1 to 2.1 ± 2.0 (group II). No side effects or complications were reported in any of the combinations used. Mycological cure rates were significantly higher during the last third of the evaluated period of time, reaching 100% and 90% in group I and group II, respectively, at the 52‐week follow‐up. In both modalities, complete cure was achieved in 70% of the patients at the 52‐week follow‐up.

Conclusions

TN + MB/PDT and TN + MAL/PDT show similar outcomes in the treatment of toenails with severe onychomycosis. PDT is an effective method to accelerate the TN‐mediated healing process.
Collagen Ⅵ‐related myopathy with subacute presentation of hypercapnic respiratory failure following pneumonia
Authors: Kinboshi Masato , Nakaoka Hiroshi , Morimoto Yuko , Yoshida Takeshi , Kuzume Daisuke , Shiraga Minoru , Ishida Masayuki , Yamasaki Masahiro , Saito Yoshihiko , Nishino Ichizo
Published: June 2020

Bethlem myopathy, the mild form of collagen Ⅵ‐related myopathy, gradually affects pulmonary function without causing symptoms. We report a case of a 38‐year‐old woman presenting with subacute deterioration of hypercapnic respiratory failure following pneumonia. She had posterior instrumentation and fusion for scoliosis during adolescence. Mild muscle weakness of trunk and proximal lower limbs, representing atrophic changes in imaging, and flexion contractures were present. The muscle pathology showed moderate variation in fiber size with mild endomysial fibrosis. The heterozygous COL6A1 mutation was identified. We made the diagnosis of collagen Ⅵ‐related myopathy. Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation improved the respiratory failure.
Growing pains: addressing the pitfalls of plant extracellular vesicle research
Authors: Rutter Brian D. , Innes Roger W.
Published: June 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small, membrane‐enclosed compartments that mediate the intercellular transport of proteins and small RNAs. In plants, EVs are thought to play a prominent role in immune responses and are being championed as the long‐sought‐after mechanism for host‐induced gene silencing. However, parallel research on mammalian EVs is raising concerns about potential pitfalls faced by all EV researchers that will need to be addressed in order to convincingly establish that EVs are the primary mediators of small RNA transfer between organisms. Here we discuss these pitfalls in the context of plant EV research, with a focus on experimental approaches required to distinguish bona fide EV cargo from merely co‐purifying contaminants.
Bladderworts, the smallest known suction feeders, generate inertia‐dominated flows to capture prey
Authors: Müller Ulrike K. , Berg Otto , Schwaner Janneke M. , Brown Matthew D. , Li Gen , Voesenek Cees J. , van Leeuwen Johan L.
Published: June 2020

Aquatic bladderworts (Utricularia gibba and U. australis) capture zooplankton in mechanically triggered underwater traps. With characteristic dimensions less than 1 mm, the trapping structures are among the smallest known to capture prey by suction, a mechanism that is not effective in the creeping‐flow regime where viscous forces prevent the generation of fast and energy‐efficient suction flows.

To understand what makes suction feeding possible on the small scale of bladderwort traps, we characterised their suction flows experimentally (using particle image velocimetry) and mathematically (using computational fluid dynamics and analytical mathematical models).

We show that bladderwort traps avoid the adverse effects of creeping flow by generating strong, fast‐onset suction pressures. Our findings suggest that traps use three morphological adaptations: the trap walls' fast release of elastic energy ensures strong and constant suction pressure; the trap door's fast opening ensures effectively instantaneous onset of suction; the short channel leading into the trap ensures undeveloped flow, which maintains a wide effective channel diameter.

Bladderwort traps generate much stronger suction flows than larval fish with similar gape sizes because of the traps' considerably stronger suction pressures. However, bladderworts' ability to generate strong suction flows comes at considerable energetic expense.
Arborescent lycopsid periderm production was limited
Authors: D'Antonio Michael P. , Boyce C. Kevin
Published: June 2020

Late Paleozoic arborescent lycopsids have been thought to have grown from sporelings into large trees through the production of a periderm cylinder, particularly massive in the proximal portion of the trunk and tapering distally, with this rind of bark providing most of their structural support.

Here, we argue that physiological limitations would have prohibited the production of thick periderm and test this hypothesis using multiple independent lines of evidence derived from anatomical permineralization and surface impression fossils that allow both direct and indirect measurement of periderm radial thickness.

Across all six genera of Pennsylvanian arborescent lycopsids that were investigated, all evidence indicates limited periderm production: typically < 5 cm, always < 15 cm, even in trunks that would have reached 1 m or more in diameter.

The large amount of arborescent lycopsid periderm in Middle Pennsylvanian coals represents taphonomic enrichment rather than a true anatomical signal, complicating interpretation of their biology including biomechanics and early ontogeny.
SNHG12/miR‐326/E2F1 feedback loop facilitates the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yin Yue , Tan Yingyun , Yao Yuan , Lu Na , Zhang Fugui
Published: June 2020

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a kind of common malignant tumor worldwide. An increasing number of researches have validated that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are closely associated with the occurrence and development of multiple diseases, including cancers. However, the role of lncRNA SNHG12 in OSCC was largely unknown. In present study, qRT‐PCR manifested the upregulation of SNHG12 expression in OSCC tissues and cells. Suppression of SNHG12 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT process in OSCC. Additionally, SNHG12 depletion also attenuated OSCC tumor growth in vivo. Thereafter, E2F1 was found to be a transcription factor of SNHG12 to stimulate its expression. More interestingly, SNHG12 deficiency reduced E2F1 expression in turn. MiR‐326 was found to be shared between SNHG12 and E2F1. Besides, SNHG12 augmented E2F1 in OSCC through miR‐326 sequestration. Finally, rescue assays demonstrated that overexpressed E2F1 restored the inhibitory effect resulted from SNHG12 silence, indicating that SNHG12 promoted the progression of OSCC by E2F1‐dependent way. This research unveiled that SNHG12/miR‐326/E2F1 feedback loop facilitated OSCC progression, which shed new light on therapeutic methods in OSCC.
Facial protection in the era of COVID‐19: A narrative review
Authors: Li Dion T. S. , Samaranayake Lakshman Perera , Leung Yiu Yan , Neelakantan Prasanna
Published: June 2020

We live in extraordinary times, where COVID‐19 pandemic has brought the whole world to a screeching halt. Tensions and contradictions that surround the pandemic ridden world include the availability, and the lack thereof, various facial protection measures to mitigate the viral spread. Here, we comprehensively explore the different types of facial protection measures, including masks, needed both for the public and the healthcare workers (HCW). We discuss the anatomy, the critical issues of disinfection and reusability of masks, the alternative equipment available for the protection of the facial region from airborne diseases, such as face shields and powered air‐purifying respirators (PAPR), and the skin health impact of prolonged wearing of facial protection by HCW. Clearly, facial protection, either in the form of masks or alternates, appears to have mitigated the pandemic as seen from the minimal COVID‐19 spread in countries where public mask wearing is strictly enforced. On the contrary, the healthcare systems, that appear to have been unprepared for emergencies of this nature, should be appropriately geared to handle the imbalance of supply and demand of personal protective equipment including face masks. These are two crucial lessons we can learn from this tragic experience.
A retrospective cohort study of adverse event assessment during anesthesia‐related procedures for cochlear implant candidacy assessment and cochlear implantation in infants and toddlers
Authors: Bruijnzeel Hanneke , Wammes Emily , Stokroos Robert J. , Topsakal Vedat , de Graaff Jurgen C.
Published: June 2020

Background

Cochlear implantation in children with sensorineural hearing loss is preferably performed at youngest age because early auditory input is essential to prevent neural plasticity decline. In contrast, the rate of anesthetic adverse events is increased during infancy. Therefore, to provide recommendations regarding an optimal pediatric implantation age, these possible anesthetic risks in infants need to be taken into account.

Aims

This study aimed at assessing the relation between the age at cochlear implant surgery and anesthetic and surgical adverse events. Secondary aims were to evaluate anesthetic and surgical adverse events in relation to (a) the number of preoperative anesthesia‐related procedures for cochlear implant candidacy assessment and (b) the anesthetic maintenance agent (total intravenous anesthesia versus inhalation anesthesia) during implantation.

Methods

We executed a retrospective cohort study to evaluate cochlear implantation performed in infants and toddlers between January 2008 and July 2015 in a tertiary pediatric center. We compared anesthetic and surgical adverse events between age‐at‐implantation (0‐12 and 12‐24 months of age) groups. Furthermore, we assessed whether anesthetic adverse events occurred during preoperative anesthesia‐related procedures for cochlear implant candidacy assessment.

Results

Forty‐six cochlear implantations were performed in 43 patients requiring 42 preoperative anesthesia‐related procedures. Nineteen cochlear implantations (41.3%) were performed during infancy. During implantation, the maintenance agent was either sevoflurane (n = 22) or propofol (n = 24). None of the patients encountered major anesthetic adverse events, whereas minor adverse events occurred during 34 cochlear implantations. Those attributed to surgery occurred following six implantations. Neither the age at implantation nor the anesthetic maintenance agent was significantly related to the occurrence of both types of adverse events.

Conclusions

Adverse events occur independent of the age at implantation, the number of anesthetic preoperative procedures, and the type of anesthetic maintenance agent in patients who received a cochlear implant before 24 months of age.
Characteristics of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) semen analysed with flow cytometry combined with fertility results
Authors: Kowalczyk Artur , Łukaszewicz Ewa , Strzała Tomasz , Partyka Agnieszka , Rosenberger Joanna
Published: June 2020

In order to increase the reproductive indices of capercaillie kept in closed breeding facilities, it is necessary to constantly expand the methods of better understanding the characteristics of sperm and their fertilizing potency. The aim of the study was to analyse selected features of capercaillie sperm using flow cytometry and their connection with fertility results. The study included five males, three of which were kept in a family group with eight females and two were kept alone. For sperm viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial potential and DNA defragmentation were assessed. Paternity analyses were performed in order to confirm the paternity of the individual and to link the evaluated semen traits with reproductive success. Analyses carried out in the flow cytometer showed any significant differences between males in sperm characteristics. In the semen of male No. 101, the father of all chicks from the analysed family group, 91.3% of live sperm, 91.5% with intact acrosome, 83.6% with active mitochondria and 2.0% with DNA defragmentation were observed. The average fertility rate was 71.0%, and chick hatchability was 100%. Using flow cytometry in the analysis of capercaillie semen and its connection with the results of natural mating, we were able to obtain deeper knowledge about new sperm characteristics that were not examined before and which in the future may be helpful in selecting males for the reproductive flocks and developing assisted reproduction techniques.
Effectiveness and costs of invasive species control using different techniques to restore cerrado grasslands
Authors: Assis Geissianny B. , Pilon Natashi A. L. , Siqueira Marinez F. , Durigan Giselda
Published: June 2020

Invasion by exotic grasses is a severe threat to neotropical grasslands conservation and a major challenge for their restoration. To restore fire‐prone cerrado grasslands in southeastern Brazil, which have been massively invaded by the African grass Urochloa decumbens, we tested prescribed fire, herbicides, and hoeing, by themselves or in different combinations. Techniques were compared using ecological indicators (decreasing invasive and increasing native vegetation cover and richness) and cost‐effectiveness. All treatments, except fire alone, were similarly effective in controlling the invasive grass, which was reduced to less than 5% cover after 2 years. However, only hoeing was effective in recovering both ground cover and richness of the native vegetation, which was the restoration goal. Despite not changing ground cover by native vegetation or alien grasses, fire was successful as a complementary technique, by depleting the seed bank of the invasive grass by 40%. Hoeing preceded by fire and followed by a grass‐selective herbicide was the most cost‐effective, requiring US$40 per hectare to increase native ground cover by one percentage point compared to US$93 per hectare if only hoeing. Despite the low cost and efficacy of glyphosate application for controlling the invasive grass, it must be followed by reintroducing the native ground cover through active restoration. If the restoration target is to recover both structure and richness of the native vegetation without planting, hoeing is the best solution to control alien grasses.