bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of solvent casting for designing engineered microstructures for biomedical and functional applications
Authors: Gupta Surojit , Javaid Sabah , Dey Maharshi , Matzke Caleb , Eades Erica , Ji Yun
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we report the synthesis and characterization of composites of bioplastics (Poly‐lactic Acid (PLA), Polyhydroxyalkaonate (PHA), and PLA‐PHA blends) filled with dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and hydroxyapatite (HAP) by using a solvent casting process. Detailed microstructural, thermal, and mechanical characterization is presented in the text. At low concentrations of HAP (5–10 vol%) and DDGS (5–31 vol%) additions, the bioplastic films had mechanical integrity, but the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) decreased after the addition of DDGS and HAP reinforcements due to poor adhesion between the bioplastics and fillers. In the intermediate concentration, pre‐pregnated chips of DDGS (31–51 vol%)‐bioplastics and HAP (30–50 vol%)‐bioplastics with dichloromethane (DCM) were partially dried and then hot‐pressed to produce bulk samples (HPC‐process). The addition of bioplastics improved the plasticity of DDGS‐bioplastics composites. The HAP‐bioplastics composites showed polymer dependent response, for example the ultimate compressive strength (UCS) of 50%HAP‐PLA, and 30%HAP‐PLA were 77.6 ± 10.2 and 97.7 ± 5.9 MPa, respectively which are comparable to bone. The DDGS additions increased the hydrophilicity of PLA, PHA, and PLA‐PHA blend. For comparison, HAP increased the hydrophilicity of PHA and PLA‐PHA blends. At higher concentration (bioplastics with 70 vol% HAP additions), the films converted into microencapsulated HAP particles with bioplastics by a simple milling process thus eliminating the need for emulsions and/or surfactants during the microencapsulation process.
Do directors have style? Board interlock and accounting properties
Authors: Karim Khondkar E. , Li Jiayan , Lin Karen Jingrong , Robin Ashok
Published: September 2021

We use the setting of board interlock (i.e., firms sharing directors) to examine whether director style influences accounting properties. We find that board interlock is associated with greater similarity in accounting properties such as accounting conservatism and reporting timeliness. Building on this result, we find a stronger similarity when the board member creating the board interlock holds a key position or when a greater number of board members create the board interlock. This evidence provides construct validity to the result that directors influence accounting policy as reflected in accounting properties (i.e., accounting conservatism and reporting timeliness). As further evidence, we find that the convergence in accounting properties is attributable to the director‐destination firm and that the director‐source firms’ characteristics affect interlocking directors’ influence over the director‐destination firms. Overall, our evidence affirms that directors have style in the sense that their distinct influence or imprint is evident in data on accounting properties. Moreover, our study indicates an actual process through which individual directors put their stamp on accounting policy.
Changes in activity and content of messages of an Estonian Facebook group during transition to distance learning at the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Luik Piret , Lepp Marina
Published: September 2021

Background

The coronavirus pandemic has affected education worldwide. Estonian schools moved to distance learning on March 16.

Objectives

This paper outlines the stages of unexpected and temporary changes affecting different stakeholders based on activity and content of the messages in the Facebook group ‘Homeschooling with technology’. Also the applicability of the concerns‐based adoption model was explored to explain these changes.

Methods

The investigated timespan includes the week before the emergency situation and the weeks of the school term and school holidays during the emergency situation, with 52 days in total, divided into seven periods. The 872 messages were coded by two researchers and changes were examined.

Results and Conclusions

Four stages were identified, from low exposure and involvement with the change to focusing on collaboration and skipping the consequence stage. Furthermore, the new changes in the educational system might focus people again on personal concerns.

Implications

The results help capture the changes in teaching and learning situation caused by the coronavirus pandemic in order to learn from these changes and be prepared for such situations in the future.
Exosomal transfer of miR‐106a‐5p contributes to cisplatin resistance and tumorigenesis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Li Jiaxing , Hu Chaoquan , Chao Hui , Zhang Yu , Li Yong , Hou Jing , Huang Limin
Published: September 2021

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a subclass of cancers of the neck and head, is a predominant cause of cancer‐associated death worldwide. Hence, there is a critical need for research into NPC‐related treatment strategies. Cisplatin is a promising therapy option for NPCs and other cancers that is frequently utilized. Some patients acquire resistance to cisplatin therapy, which complicates the successful use of cisplatin treatment in NPCs. Although exosomal transfer of oncogenic miRNAs has been shown to improve recipient cell proliferation, metastasis and chemoresistance, the molecular mechanism behind this effect on NPC has yet to be fully understood. Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) from cisplatin‐resistant cells were identified as significant mediators of chemoresistance in NPC cells in this investigation. Initially, we found that exosomal miR‐106a‐5p levels in the serum of chemoresistant and last‐cycle patients were greater than in that of non‐resistant and first‐cycle patients. Also, exosomal miR‐106a‐5p enhanced the proliferative ability of NPC cells. Mechanistically, exosomal miR‐106a‐5p targets ARNT2, which further activates AKT phosphorylation, and thus promotes NPC cell proliferation, decreases apoptosis and in turn regulates tumorigenesis. We found similar results using in vivo NPC models, where exosomal miR‐106a‐5p through regulation of ARNT2 (aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator 2) promoted tumorigenesis. Taken together, these findings indicate that exosomal miR‐106a‐5p could be a promising diagnostic biomarker and drug target for patients with NPC.
Cytokine profile and cytoskeletal changes after herpes simplex virus type 1 infection in human trabecular meshwork cells
Authors: Choi Jin A. , Ju Hyun‐hee , Kim Ju‐Eun , Lee Jiyoung , Jee Donghyun , Park Chan Kee , Paik Soon‐young
Published: September 2021

Uveitis caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV)‐1 is characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) in the presence of anterior chamber inflammation. Despite their clinical significance, the pathogenic changes associated with HSV‐1 infection in trabecular meshwork (TM) cells, the key cell type regulating IOP, have not been completely elucidated. In this study, cytokine array analyses showed a significant stepwise increase in monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1 expression upon HSV‐1 infection in TM cells (p < 0.05). HSV‐1 infection led to downregulation of fibrogenic molecules (fibronectin, α‐smooth muscle actin, connective tissue growth factor and TGF‐β1). Notably, HSV‐1 infection caused a significant increase in actin stress fibres, with a twofold increase in active RhoA, which was enhanced by treatment with TGF‐β1 and inhibited by treatment with the Rho‐kinase inhibitor, Y‐27632. TM cells treated with MCP‐1 exhibited a dose‐dependent increase in actin stress fibres compared to untreated TM cells. Our study suggests that HSV‐1 infection in TM cells increases cell contractile activity rather than fibrotic changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Taken together, these observations demonstrate the enhanced expression of MCP‐1 and TM cell contractile activity upon HSV‐1 infection and events with potential implications for the pathobiology of abrupt IOP elevation in HSV‐1 anterior uveitis.
Freeze–thawing damage evaluation of vegetables with two cutting orientations
Authors: Silva Laurita , Ramirez Karla , Gavidia Francisco , Miano Alberto Claudio
Published: September 2021

This work aimed to evaluate how cut orientation of squash, eggplant, and turnip affects the damage of tissues due to freeze/thawing process. For that, cylinders of 2 cm diameter and 0.5 cm height were cut in two orientations according to vascular tissues: longitudinal and transversal. Then, they were frozen at −20°C for 53 hr and thawed at 6.1°C for 12 hr. After that, two indirect methods to measure tissue damage were analyzed: by electrical conductivity of drip loss and by mass transfer during drying of samples before and after freeze/thawing process. As results, cut orientation showed significant effect on eggplant damage, finding approximately 143% more drip loss using transversal cut, than longitudinal cut. Regarding, turnip and squash, they did not show damage differences by freeze/thawing process using different cut orientations. In addition, measuring drip loss electrical conductivity demonstrated to be a more suitable method to assess freeze damage than mass transfer evaluation. This work concludes that cut orientation is an approach that cannot be ignored during freeze/thawing processes evaluation.

Practical Applications

This work demonstrated that the orientation how vegetables are cut can affect the freeze–thawing process. This simple consideration should be considered to avoid obtaining low quality vegetables after thawed them. Despite this could not be observed during industrial process, consumers, who are not used to apply controlled conditions, can note food damages after product thawing.
Synaptophysin‐dependent synaptobrevin‐2 trafficking at the presynapse‐Mechanism and function
Authors: Cousin Michael A.
Published: September 2021

Synaptobrevin‐2 (Syb2) is a soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) that is essential for neurotransmitter release. It is the most numerous protein on a synaptic vesicle (SV) and drives SV fusion via interactions with its cognate SNARE partners on the presynaptic plasma membrane. Synaptophysin (Syp) is the second most abundant protein on SVs; however, in contrast to Syb2, it has no obligatory role in neurotransmission. Syp interacts with Syb2 on SVs, and the molecular nature of its interaction with Syb2 and its physiological role has been debated for decades. However, recent studies have revealed that the sole physiological role of Syp at the presynapse is to ensure the efficient retrieval of Syb2 during SV endocytosis. In this review, current theories surrounding the role of Syp in Syb2 trafficking will be discussed, in addition to the debate regarding the molecular nature of their interaction. A unifying model is presented that describes how Syp controls Syb2 function as part of an integrated mechanism involving key molecular players such as intersectin‐1 and AP180/CALM. Finally, key future questions surrounding the role of Syp‐dependent Syb2 trafficking will be posed, with respect to brain function in health and disease.

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‘From Expert to Novice’, Perceptions of General Ward Nurses on Deployment to Outbreak Intensive Care Units during the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Tang Charmaine Jinxiu , Lin Yongxing Patrick , Chan Ee‐Yuee
Published: September 2021

Aims and objectives

This study aimed to explore the perceived preparedness and psychosocial well‐being of general ward nurses prior to their deployment into the outbreak intensive care units (ICUs) during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Background

With the surge in COVID‐19 cases requiring ICU care, non‐ICU nurses maybe deployed into the ICUs. Having experienced through SARS, hospitals in Singapore instituted upskilling programs to secure general ward nurses’ competency in providing critical care nursing. However, no studies have explored the perceptions of general ward nurses on deployment into the ICUs during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

Qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

The study was conducted at Singapore’s epicentre of COVID‐19 management. Five focus groups were conducted following purposive sampling of 30 general ward nurses identified for outbreak ICU deployment. Focus groups were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and data thematically analysed. This study was conducted and reported in accordance with the COREQ checklist.

Results

Three salient themes arose, exemplifying the transition from clinical experts in the general wards to practising novices in the outbreak ICUs. Firstly, ‘Into the deep end of the pool’ described general ward nurses’ feelings of anxiety and stress associated with higher exposure risk and expanded responsibilities to nurse critically ill patients. Secondly, ‘Preparing for “war”’ illustrated deployed nurses’ need for clear communication and essential critical care nursing training. Lastly, ‘Call of duty’ affirmed the nurses’ personal and professional commitment to embrace this transition into the ICUs, and their desire for greater psychosocial support.

Conclusion

The study findings highlight that though general ward nurses perceived their impending ICU deployment positively, they require ongoing support to facilitate a smoother transition.

Relevance to clinical practice

Findings provided an evidence base to improve the preparedness of general ward nurses deployed into the ICUs during the COVID‐19 pandemic within key areas of training, information dissemination and psychosocial resilience.
Use of electronic health records to manage tobacco screening and treatment in rural primary care
Authors: Talbot Jean A. , Ziller Erika C. , Milkowski Carly M.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate primary care providers’ (PCPs) use of best practices in addressing tobacco dependence. It is unknown whether rural PCPs reap the same benefits as their urban counterparts when employing EHRs for this purpose. Our study examines this issue.

Methods

This cross‐sectional investigation based on the 2012–2015 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey used chi‐square tests and adjusted logistic regression models to explore how rurality and use of tobacco‐related EHR functions were related to smoking status documentation (SSD) and cessation treatment at adult primary care visits.

Findings

SSD rates were similar in visits to rural‐ and urban‐based PCPs (88.2% rural‐based vs 81.1% urban‐based, P = .5819). Use of EHRs for SSD was associated with higher SSD odds at visits to both rural‐ and urban‐based PCPs, but this increase was greater for visits to rural‐based PCPs (428% vs 220% urban‐based, P = .0443). Rates of cessation treatment at smokers’ visits were low in rural and urban contexts (19.3% rural vs 19.6% urban, P = .9430). Odds of cessation treatment were 68% higher where EHRs were used to remind PCPs of treatment guidelines (P = .001), with no rural‐urban difference in the size of the increase. Access to EHRs with tobacco‐related functions was similar across rural and urban practices.

Conclusions

Rural‐based PCPs were at least as successful as urban‐based PCPs in leveraging EHRs to enhance tobacco‐related services. Even where EHRs are used, opportunities exist to expand cessation treatment in rural primary care.
Barriers and facilitators associated with establishment of emergency department‐initiated buprenorphine for opioid use disorder in rural Maine
Authors: Rosenberg Noah K. , Hill Alexander B. , Johnsky Lily , Wiegn David , Merchant Roland C.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The opioid epidemic in the United States continues to grow, particularly impacting rural communities served by critical access hospitals (CAHs) in Maine. Buprenorphine is an effective medication for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) that can be successfully initiated in the emergency department (ED). However, many EDs have not implemented programs to initiate buprenorphine. This study sought to identify barriers and facilitators to successful implementation of buprenorphine programs inCAH EDs.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with ED directors of Maine CAHs regarding barriers and facilitators to developing programs for ED‐initiated buprenorphine. Seventeen Maine CAH EDs exist and 11 of their directors agreed to participate and completed interviews, which were audio‐recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a thematic approach.

Results

Four themes and 11 subthemes were identified, including (1) compelled to act—directors’ personal experiences with patients facilitated the development of buprenorphine programs in their EDs; (2) leadership and mentorship—peer mentorship from other CAH ED directors facilitated, and senior hospital administrators facilitated, or created a barrier in some cases; (3) stigma—fear that EDs would be overcrowded by drug‐seeking patients was a common barrier; and (4) follow‐up—finding appropriate outpatient follow‐up for OUD patients created the greatest logistical barrier.

Discussion

ED directors’ clinical experience with OUD patients, supportive hospital leadership, and peer mentorship facilitated ED‐initiated buprenorphine programs in rural Maine CAH EDs. Overcoming stigma, developing community outreach, and appropriate follow‐up were the greatest barriers. Future research should focus on enhancing peer mentorship, administrative support, community outreach, and staff education.
Solitary osseous plasmacytomas in dogs: 13 cases (2004–2019)
Authors: Reising A. J. , Donnelly L. L. , Flesner B. K. , Maitz C. A. , Bryan J. N.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To further characterise solitary osseous plasmacytoma in dogs, an extremely rare disease. To describe diagnosis, disease progression and treatment outcomes in dogs with solitary osseous plasmacytoma.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of dogs with solitary osseous plasmacytomas that were diagnosed and treated at a single institution from 2005 to 2019. Kaplan–Meier single group survival analysis was used to estimate median survival time and progression‐free interval.

Results

Thirteen dogs met the inclusion criteria for the study, and of those, 11 were treated. The median age at diagnosis was 8 years (range 4 to 11). Most solitary osseous plasmacytomas occurred in the vertebrae (n=8). Other sites included the maxilla (n=2), the mandible (n=1), the tibia (n=1) and the carpus (n=1). The median survival time for all dogs with solitary osseous plasmacytoma was 912 days (range 5 to 2179), and the progression‐free interval for treated dogs was 310 days (range 22 to 2179). Most dogs were treated with radiation therapy (n=10) with nine of 10 receiving a definitive, daily fractionated protocol and with five of ten having had neoadjuvant surgery. Seven dogs received chemotherapy, which was initiated after progressive disease in five dogs. The median survival time for dogs that completed radiation therapy (n=9) was 1166 days (range 545 to 2179). While five dogs developed lesions at other sites, no dogs progressed to multiple myeloma.

Clinical Significance

Canine solitary osseous plasmacytomas can be managed long term with appropriate local therapy. This observation reflects the biologic behaviour observed in humans.
Tree invasion in secondary grasslands diminishes herbaceous biomass and diversity: A study of mechanisms behind the process
Authors: Ferraina Antonella , Molina Cecilia D. , Mazía Noemí , Piñeiro Gervasio , Miranda Isabel , Chaneton Enrique José
Published: September 2021

Questions

How is plant biomass, composition and diversity in secondary grasslands affected by tree invasion? How do light conditions generated by invasive trees and soil legacy affect grassland's structure and functioning? Which mechanism is more important?

Location

Inland Pampa, Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Methods

We established a long‐term manipulative reciprocal transplant experiment by transplanting soil monoliths coming from two origins: grasslands (G) and invaded woody patches (W) into three different habitats: open grasslands (OG), woody patches (WP), and artificially shaded grasslands (SG).

Results

Seven years after the beginning of the experiment, litter, above‐ and below‐ground herbaceous biomass decreased from OG to WP habitats, with SG habitats showing intermediate values. However, differences between OG and WP habitats disappeared when tree (coarse) roots, and tree litter biomass were considered. No significant differences between the origin of the soil monoliths (G or W) were detected (p > 0.10), except for herbaceous roots biomass that, contrary to expectations, was higher in all habitats when the transplanted soil monoliths came from a W origin. Additionally, biomass of C3 grasses was higher in WP habitats and biomass of C4 grasses was higher in OG habitats, while biomass of forbs had the highest biomass in SG habitats. The inverse Simpson's index decreased from OG (2.08), through SG (1.73) to WP habitats (1.14), suggesting higher dominance in WP.

Conclusions

Our study helps to glimpse the main mechanism driving community changes after tree invasions in temperate grassland communities. We demonstrated that light reduction beneath the tree canopies has a more important role than soil legacy in determining structure and functioning of grasslands, even though invasion of Gleditsia triacanthos also affected soil properties such as water content and organic carbon.
Canopy and understorey tree guilds respond differently to the environment in an Indian rain forest
Authors: Schmitt Sylvain , Raevel Valérie , Réjou‐Méchain Maxime , Ayyappan Narayanan , Balachandran Natesan , Barathan Narayanan , Rajashekar Gopalakrishnan , Munoz François
Published: September 2021

Questions

Changes in the functional composition of tree communities along resource availability gradients have received attention, but it is unclear whether understorey and canopy guilds respond similarly to different light, biomechanical, and hydraulic constraints.

Location

An anthropically undisturbed, old‐growth wet evergreen dipterocarp forest plot located in Karnataka State, India.

Methods

We measured leaf and wood traits of 89 tree species representing 99% of all individuals in a 10‐ha permanent plot with varying topographic and canopy conditions inferred from Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) data. We assigned tree species to guilds of canopy and understorey species and assessed the variation of the guild‐weighted means of functional‐trait values with canopy height and topography.

Results

The functional‐trait space did not differ between canopy and understorey tree species. However, environmental filtering led to significantly different functional composition of canopy and understorey guild assemblages. Furthermore, they responded differently along environmental gradients related to water, nutrients, light, and wind exposure. For example, the canopy guild responded to wind exposure while the understorey guild did not.

Conclusions

The pools of understorey and canopy species are functionally similar. However, fine‐scale environmental heterogeneity impacts differently on these two guilds, generating striking differences in functional composition between understorey and canopy guild assemblages. Accounting for vertical guilds improves our understanding of forest communities’ assembly processes.
Asymmetric input contracts under price leadership
Authors: Escrihuela‐Villar Marc , Ferrarese Walter
Published: September 2021

This paper considers a vertically related industry where an upstream supplier simultaneously and independently negotiates linear tariffs with two asymmetrically capacity constrained downstream retailers endowed with (possibly) asymmetric bargaining powers over the purchase of an input. We introduce price leadership as the type of downstream competition. An increase in the upstream supplier’s bargaining power toward the large firm induces a positive externality on the small firm’s tariff. We also obtain that, a priori the small firm may end up (i) demanding a larger stock of the input and (ii) paying less for it. Our model also proves useful to show that the well‐known countervailing buyer power hypothesis could not hold because an integrated downstream firm might negotiate a better input price without any pass‐through to the final consumers. We mainly relate our analysis to the UK grocery market and to the recent empirical evidence regarding its functioning.
Prolonged mechanical ventilation increases diaphragm arteriole circumferential stretch without changes in stress/stretch: Implications for the pathogenesis of ventilator‐induced diaphragm dysfunction
Authors: Horn Andrew G. , Kunkel Olivia N. , Baumfalk Dryden R. , Simon Mikaela E. , Schulze Kiana M. , Hsu Wei‐Wen , Muller‐Delp Judy , Poole David C. , Behnke Bradley J.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Prolonged mechanical ventilation (MV; ≥6 h) results in large, time‐dependent reductions in diaphragmatic blood flow and shear stress. We tested the hypothesis that MV would impair the structural and material properties (ie, increased stress/stretch relation and/or circumferential stretch) of first‐order arterioles (1A) from the medial costal diaphragm.

Methods

Shear stress was estimated from isolated arterioles and prior blood flow data from the diaphragm during spontaneous breathing (SB) and prolonged MV (6 h MV). Thereafter, female Sprague‐Dawley rats (~5 months) were randomly divided into two groups, SB (n = 6) and 6 h MV (n = 6). Following SB and 6 h MV, 1A medial costal diaphragm arterioles were isolated, cannulated, and subjected to stepwise (0–140 cmH2O) increases in intraluminal pressure in calcium‐free Ringer's solution. Inner diameter and wall thickness were measured at each pressure step and used to calculate wall:lumen ratio, Cauchy‐stress, and circumferential stretch.

Results

Compared to SB, there was a ~90% reduction in arteriolar shear stress with prolonged MV (9 ± 2 vs 78 ± 20 dynes/cm2; p ≤ .05). In the unloaded condition (0 cmH2O), the arteriolar intraluminal diameter was reduced (37 ± 8 vs 79 ± 13 μm) and wall:lumen ratio was increased (120 ± 18 vs 46 ± 10%) compared to SB (p ≤ .05). There were no differences in the passive diameter responses or the circumferential stress/stretch relationship between groups (p > .05), but at each pressure step, circumferential stretch was increased with 6 h MV vs SB (p ≤ .05).

Conclusion

During prolonged MV, medial costal diaphragm arteriolar shear stress is severely diminished. Despite no change in the material behavior (stress/stretch), prolonged MV resulted in altered structural and mechanical properties (ie, elevated circumferential stretch) of medial costal diaphragm arterioles. This provides important novel mechanistic insights into the impaired diaphragm blood flow capacity and vascular dysfunction following prolonged MV.
Hybrids between Rubus idaeus and Rubus sect. Corylifolii and their relation to R. pruinosus and R. rosanthus
Authors: Ryde Ulf , Montes Melanie S. , Zhou Mingyue , Mattsson Tore , Burén Tomas , Hedrén Mikael
Published: September 2021

We have studied hybrids between Rubus idaeus and various members of R. sect. Corylifolii, primarily in Sweden. With the help of DNA‐ploidy level determinations using flow cytometry and microsatellite DNA analysis of over 500 samples, we show that the material can be divided into four stable apomictic species (belonging to subsect. Subidaei) and a large number of primary hybrids. Stable species can be recognised by a distribution that is distinct from the Corylifolii parent, a uniform morphology and an almost invariant genetic pattern. We confirm that R. cordatiformis has arisen from the hybrid R. eluxatus × idaeus. Moreover, our study shows that R. lagerbergii has arisen from the hybrid R. dissimulans × idaeus. For R. onsalaënsis, we unexpectedly identify the Corylifolii ancestor as a previously unidentified species with a very restricted distribution in the northern part of the province of Halland, which is here described as R. antecedens. Furthermore, we show that R. pruinosus s. str. has arisen from the hybrid R. aureolus × idaeus and that it is known only from a rather restricted area in the provinces of Småland, Östergötland and Södermanland in eastern Sweden. On the other hand, the great majority of what has been called R. pruinosus is a diverse collection of primary hybrids between R. idaeus and various R. sect. Corylifolii species, which show a large variation both genetically and morphologically. The same applies to R. rosanthus, which represents R. norvegicus × idaeus hybrids: The microsatellite analysis shows that they have arisen independently and therefore should be considered as primary hybrids. We also identified primary hybrids between R. idaeus and R. gothicus (by far the most common hybrid in Sweden), R. aureolus, R. camptostachys, R. decurrentispinus, R. eluxatus, R. friesianus, R. hallandicus, R. lidforssii and R. norvegicus.
Comparative efficacy of the bone‐anchored maxillary protraction protocols for orthopaedic treatment in skeletal Class III malocclusion: A Bayesian network meta‐analysis
Authors: Hu Shoushan , An Ke , Peng Yiran
Published: September 2021

Objective

To compare the treatment effects of five bone‐anchored maxillary protraction protocols (BAC3E, BAMP, BARME‐FM, BARME‐ME, SAFM) for skeletal Class III malocclusion.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search through CENTRAL, EBSCO, PubMed and Web of Science and included the randomized controlled trials and clinical controlled trials, which met the criteria. A Bayesian network meta‐analysis (NMA) for SNA, SNB, ANB, SN‐MP and Wits appraisal was performed in R software using a random consistency model. The additional analyses included node‐splitting analysis, statistical heterogeneity analysis, sensitivity analysis and ranking probability by SUCRA.

Results

A total of 598 articles were initially obtained; 13 articles involving 482 individuals were eventually included. Among the five bone‐anchored maxillary protraction protocols, the largest increment in SNA and Wits appraisal was observed in the BAMP group and BAC3E group, respectively; the SAFM, BAC3E and BAMP groups showed similar capability in terms of changes of ANB; least clockwise rotation of the mandible was found in the BARME‐ME group, followed by the BAMP group; dental compensation appears to be most pronounced in the BAC3E group; and intermaxillary traction seems to reduce the lingual inclination of lower incisors and even cause labial inclination.

Conclusions

The SAFM, BAMP and BAC3E groups seem to be advantageous in the improvement of the maxillo‐mandibular relationship, followed by the BARME‐FM and BARME‐ME groups. The findings of this study should be interpreted with caution as only short‐term effects were compared and the quality of evidence ranged from very low to moderate. More RCTs with high‐quality and long‐term investigation are needed.
Fiscal easing in local governments facing potential merger: Visible in budgets or hidden in overruns?
Authors: Askim Jostein , Houlberg Kurt , Klausen Jan Erling
Published: September 2021

Mergers incentivize local governments to ease their fiscal policies before the merger is implemented. This incentive is powerful: it is known that local governments start easing fiscal policies even before they know for sure that a merger will occur and even if merging is what they want. Based on a study of Norwegian municipalities, this article shows that irrespective of whether local governments face certain or potential mergers, their fiscal easing is manifested primarily in budget overruns rather than candidly documented in budgets. Among local governments facing a potential merger, unwilling governments ease their fiscal policies more than willing ones do and to a larger extent apply a concealment strategy.
Measuring the impact of clinical practice guidelines on infantile hemangioma referrals
Authors: Barton Michael T. , Latour Emile , Small Alison , Leitenberger Sabra , Funk Tracy
Published: September 2021

High‐risk infantile hemangiomas may be associated with significant patient comorbidity. The American Academy of Pediatrics published clinical practice guidelines with recommendations to refer high‐risk hemangiomas early. The results of this study suggest that these guidelines may have resulted in an earlier referral age of patients with high‐risk IH to hemangioma specialists.
Constraints on the preservation of proxy data in carbonate archives – lessons from a marine limestone to marble transect, Latemar, Italy
Authors: Mueller Mathias , Jacquemyn Carl , Walter Benjamin F. , Pederson Chelsea L. , Schurr Simon L. , Igbokwe Onyedika A. , Jöns Niels , Riechelmann Sylvia , Dietzel Martin , Strauss Harald , Immenhauser Adrian
Published: September 2021

This work evaluates an exceptionally complex natural laboratory, the Middle Triassic Latemar isolated platform in the northern Italian Dolomite Mountains and explores spatial and temporal gradients in processes and products related to contact metamorphism, dolomitization and dedolomitization of marine limestones. The relation between petrographic change and re‐equilibration of geochemical proxy data is evaluated from the perspective of carbonate‐archive research. Hydrothermal dolomitization of the limestone units is triggered by dykes and associated hydrothermal fluids radiating from the nearby Predazzo Intrusion. Detailed petrography, fluid inclusion analysis, δ13C and δ18O data and 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios shed light on the extreme textural and geochemical complexity. Metamorphic and diagenetic patterns include: (i) peak‐metamorphic and retrograde‐metamorphic phases including three dolomite marbles, two dedolomite marbles, brucite, magnesium silicates and late‐stage meteoric/vadose cement at the contact aureole; (ii) four spatially defined episodes of dolomitization, authigenic quartz, low magnesium calcite and late‐stage meteoric cement at the Latemar isolated platform; and (iii) kilometre‐scale gradients in δ13C values from the contact aureole towards the platform interior. Results shown here are relevant for two reasons: first, the spatial analysis of alteration products ranging from high‐grade metamorphic overprint of marbles at temperatures of 700°C in the contact aureole to moderately altered limestones in the platform interior at temperatures <100°C, allows the observation of processes that commonly occur along vertical (prograde) gradients from shallow burial to metamorphism at depths >20 km. Second, under rock‐buffered conditions, and irrespective of metamorphic to diagenetic fluid−rock interactions, both marbles, and low‐temperature hydrothermal dolomites have conservative marine δ13C and δ18O values. The fact that metamorphism and hydrothermal dolomitization of precursor limestones and early diagenetic dolostones did not per se reset environmental proxy data is of interest for those concerned with carbonate archive research in Earth’s deep time.
Hospital transfusion service operations during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic: Lessons learned from the AABB hospital survey in preparation for the next infectious disease outbreak
Authors: Rajbhandary Srijana , Shmookler Aaron , Cohn Claudia S. , Nunes Eduardo , Karafin Matthew S. , Stubbs James , Pagano Monica B.
Published: September 2021

Background

The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic disrupted hospital operations, affected the blood supply, and challenged the health care system to develop new therapeutic options, including convalescent plasma (CCP). The aim of this study is to describe and analyze blood supply fluctuations and the use of convalescent plasma in 2020.

Methods

AABB distributed a weekly and biweekly questionnaire through email to hospital‐based members (HBM).

Results

The survey was sent to 887 HBM with 479 unique respondents, most of the hospitals served pediatric and adult patients, and all states of the country participated, except Idaho and Vermont. Fifty four percent of HBM reported increased wastage in the early phase of the pandemic (May), which decreased to 4% by the end of June and throughout the rest of the year. The majority of HBM reported receiving alerts from their blood suppliers reporting blood shortages throughout the year. During March and April, only 12% of HBM were performing elective surgical procedures. The top reasons to delay procedures were: bed availability (28%); COVID‐19 caseload (23%; and blood availability (19%). By mid‐April, 42% HBM had transfused CCP and reported >24 h delay in getting the units; the vast majority obtained CCP using the Expanded Access Protocol, and later, the Emergency Use Authorization. HBM consistently prioritized the most severe patients to receive CCP, but the proportion of severely ill recipients fell from 52% to 37% between May and October, with an increase from 5% to 21% of HBM providing CCP transfusion early in the course of the disease.

Discussion

Blood utilization and availability fluctuated during the pandemic. The fluctuations appeared to be related to the number of COVID‐19 in the community. The use and regulatory landscape of CCP rapidly evolved over the first 8 months of the pandemic.
The effects of pulmonary hypertension on skeletal muscle oxygen pressures in contracting rat spinotrapezius muscle
Authors: Schulze Kiana M. , Weber Ramona E. , Colburn Trenton D. , Horn Andrew G. , Ade Carl J. , Hsu Wei‐Wen , Poole David C. , Musch Timothy I.
Published: September 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does impairment in the dynamics of O2 transport in skeletal muscle during a series of contractions constitute a potential mechanism underlying reduced exercise capacity in pulmonary hypertension?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Pulmonary hypertension compromises the dynamic matching of skeletal muscle O2 delivery‐to‐utilization following contraction onset in the rat spinotrapezius muscle. These results implicate a role for vascular dysfunction in the slow kinetics and exercise intolerance present in pulmonary hypertension.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by pulmonary vascular dysfunction and exercise intolerance due, in part, to compromised pulmonary and cardiac function. We tested the hypothesis that there are peripheral (i.e., skeletal muscle) aberrations in O2 delivery ()‐to‐O2 utilization () matching and vascular control that might help to explain poor exercise tolerance in PH. Furthermore, we investigated the peripheral effects of nitric oxide (NO) in attenuating these decrements. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 21) were administered monocrotaline (MCT; 50 mg/kg, i.p.) to induce PH. Disease progression was monitored via echocardiography. Phosphorescence quenching determined the O2 partial pressure in the interstitial space () in the spinotrapezius muscle at rest and during contractions under control (SNP−) and NO‐donor (sodium nitroprusside, SNP+) conditions. MCT rats displayed right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy (right ventricle/(left ventricle + septum): 0.44 (0.13) vs. 0.28 (0.05)), pulmonary congestion, increased RV systolic pressure (48 (18) vs. 20 (8) mmHg) and arterial hypoxaemia (: 64 (9) vs. 82 (9) mmHg) compared to healthy controls (HC) (P < 0.05). was significantly lower in MCT rats during the first 30 s of SNP− contractions. SNP superfusion elevated in both groups; however, MCT rats demonstrated a lower throughout SNP+ contractions versus HC (P < 0.05). Thus, for small muscle mass exercise in MCT rats, muscle oxygenation is impaired across the rest‐to‐contractions transition and exogenous NO does not raise the ‐to‐ ratio in contracting muscle to the same levels as HC. These data support muscle ‐to‐ mismatch as a potential contributor to slow kinetics and therefore exercise intolerance in PH and suggest peripheral vascular dysfunction or remodelling as a possible mechanism.
Four-Handed Technique in Dental Education: Integrative Review
Authors: Bendahan Álvarez Zita Carolina , O’Meara Tovar Norma Constanza , Casanova Colina Thais , Cárdenas Lancheros Mónica Liliana , Chavarría Bolaños Nathaly , Garzón Rodríguez Jacqueline , Lemos Torres María Inés , Arrieta González Lai Lani , Campo Soto María Andreina , Escobar Jiménez Diana , Escobar Ocampo Paola
Published: September 2021

Background: Since the 1970s, the World Health Organization has defined four-handed dentistry as a simplified method with defined tasks within the work team. It has been mainly implemented in clinics and universities in Brazil, the United States, Spain, and Chile. The comprehensive adult dental clinic (Sixth semester) and the pediatric dental clinic (Seventh and Eighth semesters) of the pre-doctoral dental program at El Bosque University’ Dental School (Bogotá, Colombia) use this method. However, theory on four-handed dentistry has not been included in the curriculum yet. Purpose: To explore and describe the influence of the four-handed method in the training of general dentists in order to justify its inclusion in the predoctoral curriculum. Methods: A search of articles was carried out until June 2020. Full-text selected articles were analyzed, and findings related to this study’s purpose were included in the review. Results: 13 articles were chosen. Findings are organized in three thematic axes: background and general aspects of the technique, benefits of the technique in the training of general dentists, and description of the four-handed care model as an exercise in the pediatric dental clinics, also called Growth and Development clinics, at El Bosque University. Conclusions: Patient care using a four-handed method can contribute to the development of soft skills, critical thinking, problem solving through collaborative work, and promoting meaningful learning in students.
Design of Low-Cost Endoscope Based on Novel Wire-Driven Rotary Valve and Water-Jet Mechanism
Authors: Ma Guoyu , Zuo Siyang , Liu Jianbin
Published: September 2021

To improve the prevalence of screening for gastric cancer in low-income areas, a low-cost endoscope based on a novel wire-driven rotary valve and water-jet mechanism is proposed. The primary component of this endoscope is a rotary valve whose core is driven by a stepper motor through a flexible wire, which controls the direction of the water jet. This enables it to reach any point in the workspace by controlling the valve core angle and water-jet intensity. The envelope surface of the endoscope tip trajectory is likely a hemisphere. The horizontal diameter of the working space projection is approximately 350 mm, which is sufficient to observe most parts of the greater curvature of the stomach. The image-acquisition performance of the designed endoscope was satisfactory in a phantom experiment. The introduction of the novel rotary valve greatly simplifies the structure and reduces the cost of the proposed endoscope. With low cost and high portability, this endoscope provides a good alternative for early gastric cancer screening in low- and middle-income areas.
Best Practices for Meta-Reviews in Physical Activity and Health Research: Insights From the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Advisory Committee Scientific Report
Authors: Pescatello Linda S. , Hennessy Emily A. , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Kraus William E. , Fish Anne F. , Craft Lynette L. , Johnson Blair T.
Published: September 2021

Background: Systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) have proliferated with a concomitant increase in reviews of SRs/MAs or “meta-reviews” (MRs). As uncovered by the 2018 US Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee (PAGAC), there is a paucity of best practice guidance on MRs on physical activity health-related research. This manuscript aims to fill this gap. Methods: In total, the PAGAC conducted 38 literature searches across 3 electronic databases and triaged 20,838 titles, 4913 abstracts, and 2139 full texts from which 1130 articles qualified for the PAGAC Scientific Report. Results: During the MR process, the following challenges were encountered: (1) if the SR/MA authors had limited experience in synthesis methodology, they likely did not account for risk of bias in the conclusions they reached; (2) many SRs/MAs reviewed the same primary-level studies; (3) many SRs/MAs failed to disclose effect modifier analyses; (4) source populations varied; (5) physical activity exposures were nonstandardized; and (6) dose–response effects or effect modification of the physical activity exposure could not be identified. Conclusions: Using examples from the PAGAC Scientific Report, we provide (1) a high-level introduction to MRs; (2) recommended steps in conducting a MR; (3) challenges that can be encountered; and (4) guidance in addressing these challenges.
A Sodium-Translocating Module Linking Succinate Production to Formation of Membrane Potential in Prevotella bryantii
Authors: Schleicher Lena , Trautmann Andrej , Stegmann Dennis P. , Fritz Günter , Gätgens Jochem , Bott Michael , Hein Sascha , Simon Jörg , Seifert Jana , Steuber Julia
Published: September 2021

Feeding strategies for ruminants are designed to optimize nutrient efficiency for animals and to prevent energy losses like enhanced methane production. Key to this are the fermentative reactions of the rumen microbiota, dominated by
Prevotella
spp.
Routine Antigen Testing Is Not a Substitute for Health Care Worker Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Sexton Mary Elizabeth , Kraft Colleen S.
Published: September 2021

The utility of rapid antigen testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is measured within the context for which it is applied; diagnostic accuracy must be considered in determining if rapid antigen testing is appropriate for the clinical situation. In this issue of the
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
, J.
Skeletal Muscle Is an Early Site of Zika Virus Replication and Injury, Which Impairs Myogenesis
Authors: Gavino-Leopoldino Daniel , Figueiredo Camila Menezes , da Silva Mariana Oliveira Lopes , Barcellos Letícia Gonçalves , Neris Rômulo Leão Silva , Pinto Laryssa Daniele Miranda , Araújo Suzana Maria Bernardino , Ladislau Leandro , Benjamim Claudia Farias , Da Poian Andrea T. , Clarke Julia Rosauro , Figueiredo Claudia Pinto , Assunção-Miranda Iranaia
Published: September 2021

Zika Virus (ZIKV) neurotropism and its deleterious effects on central nervous system have been well characterized. However, investigations of the initial replication sites for the establishment of infection and viral spread to neural tissues remain underexplored.
The Compound SBI-0090799 Inhibits Zika Virus Infection by Blocking
De Novo
Formation of the Membranous Replication Compartment
Authors: Riva Laura , Goellner Sarah , Biering Scott B. , Huang Chun-Teng , Rubanov Andrey N. , Haselmann Uta , Warnes Colin M. , De Jesus Paul D. , Martin-Sancho Laura , Terskikh Alexey V. , Harris Eva , Pinkerton Anthony B. , Bartenschlager Ralf , Chanda Sumit K.
Published: September 2021

This study describes the elucidation of (2E)-N-benzyl-3-(4-butoxyphenyl)prop-2-enamide (SBI-0090799) as a selective and potent inhibitor of Zika virus (ZIKV) replication using a high-throughput screening approach. Mapping and resistance studies, supported by electron microscopy observations, indicate that the small molecule is functioning through inhibition of NS4A-mediated formation of ZIKV replication compartments in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
Nectin-1 Is an Entry Mediator for Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection of Human Neurons
Authors: Rajbhandari Labchan , Shukla Priya , Jagdish Balaji , Mandalla Abby , Li Qingxue , Ali Mir A. , Lee Hojae , Lee Gabsang , Sadaoka Tomohiko , Cohen Jeffrey I. , Venkatesan Arun
Published: September 2021

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox, gains access to neurons during primary infection where it resides lifelong, and can later be reactivated. Reactivation is associated with shingles and postherpetic neuralgia, as well as with severe neurologic complications, including vasculitis and encephalitis.
Repair of APOBEC3G-Mutated Retroviral DNA
In Vivo
Is Facilitated by the Host Enzyme Uracil DNA Glycosylase 2
Authors: Salas-Briceno Karen , Ross Susan R.
Published: September 2021

While APOBEC3-mediated mutation of retroviruses is well-established, what role the host base excision repair enzymes play in correcting these mutations is not clear. This question is especially difficult to address
in vivo
.