bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life-history traits and intra-cohort divergence of clearhead icefish (Protosalanx chinensis), indicating cannibalism increased fitness
Authors: Tang Fujiang , Liu Wei , Wang Jilong , Henne James
Published: September 2020

Cannibalism is considered one of the causes of intra-cohort size divergence in fish and is usually believed to result in increased fitness in terms of survival and reproduction, but direct evidence of this is lacking. Population demographics of the clearhead icefish (Protosalanx chinensis) from Lake Xingkai (Khanka) were investigated for one year. Size-frequencies exhibited a bimodal distribution from July through January, where the population diverged into an upper and a lower modal group based on size. Stomach content analysis confirmed the occurrence of cannibalism, where fish belonging to the larger, upper modal group preyed upon those of the smaller, lower modal group. We found P. chinensis does not spawn until all of the oocytes have reached maturity and then a single spawning event occurs although the oocytes may develope asynchronously in the ovary. Upper modal group females matured slightly earlier than those of the lower modal group, and reproductive investment was considerably greater in the upper modal group than the lower modal group. The lower modal males made up the majority of the population after the spawning period, which meant they may have few opportunities to participate in reproduction. Therefore, piscivory and cannibalism of P. chinensis appears to have increased fitness of the fish belonging to the upper modal group and greatly reduced the fitness of those belonging to the lower modal group.
Mesenchymal stem cell exosomes reverse acute lung injury through Nrf-2/ARE and NF-κB signaling pathways
Authors: Li Jun , Deng Xingqi , Ji Xiangling , Shi Xiaojun , Ying Zhiying , Shen Kan , Xu Dongwei , Cheng Zhihui
Published: September 2020

Acute lung injury (ALI) is associated with histopathological diffuse alveolar damage. The potential role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of various clinical disorders have been widely documented, such as those for ALI. Recent evidence has demonstrated that exosomes from endothelial progenitor cells can improve outcomes of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI. However, there has been no research on the potential role of MSC-exosomes in the treatment of sepsis-induced ALI, which is worth further exploration. Thus, the objective of our study was to identify whether the MSC-exosomes could reverse ALI. The ALI model induced by LPS was established in this study. MTT assay was performed to test cell proliferation. Expression of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10) in the LPS-treated type II alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) (MLE-12) was detected by ELISA. After co-culture of MSC-exosomes with LPS-treated MLE-12 cells, we found that the cell proliferation of MLE-12 cells gradually increased. Furthermore, we selected five of the Nrf-2/ARE- and NF-κB signaling pathway-related genes to explore if MSC-exosomes could reverse LPS-induced ALI through Nrf-2/ARE and NF-κB signaling pathways. QRT-PCR and western blot experiment results showed that the expression of these five genes were significantly regulated after stimulation with high-concentration LPS and exosome intervention. Taken together, these findings highlighted the fact that MSC-exosomes could reverse ALI through the Nrf-2/ARE and NF-κB signaling pathways. The MSC-exosome may be the potential future therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ALI.
Фотосинтетически активная радиация на дне северо-западного шельфа Чёрного моря на основе региональных моделей и спутниковых данных и её межгодовая изменчивость, "Фундаментальная и прикладная гидрофизика"
Authors: Суслин В.В. , Чуршова Т. Я. , Латушкин А. А. , Шокурова И. Г. , Шокуров М.В. , Моисеева Н.А. , Ефимова Т.В. , Пряхина С. Ф.
Published: September 2020

Предложен и реализован алгоритм оценки фотосинтетически активной радиации, достигающей дна черноморского шельфа. Двухнедельные, среднемесячные и среднемноголетние карты фотосинтетически активной радиации с сентября 1997 по 2018 г. построены на основе региональных спутниковых продуктов и региональных спектральных особенностей оптически активных веществ с учётом их профилей, которые получены в результате статистического анализа многолетних измерений био-арго буями. Результаты количественной оценки фотосинтетически активной радиации, достигающей дна черноморского шельфа, представлены в виде двухнедельных карт с пространственным разрешением 2.5 2.5 км по долготе и широте за период с января 1998 по декабрь 2018 г. на сайте blackseacolor.com на странице blackseacolor.com/browser3.html. Анализ межгодовой изменчивости фотосинтетически активной радиации на дне шельфа для шести небольших выделенных районов (Филлофорное поле Зернова, Каркинитский залив, в центре на свале глубин, около Одессы, устья р. Дунай и Западного Крыма) показал, что в отдельных районах для летних месяцев наблюдается устойчивый рост фотосинтетически активной радиации на дне шельфа, в то время как для зимних месяцев он отсутствует. Оцениваемая точность восстановления фотосинтетически активной радиации на дне шельфа находится на уровне 50%.
Amino Acid Profile/Score and In-vitro Protein Digestibility of Biscuits Produced from Wheat Flour, African Breadfruit Flour and Moringa Seed Flour Blends
Authors: Wabali V. C. , Giami S. Y. , Kabari D. B. Kiin- , Akusu O. M.
Published: September 2020

The objective of this work was to evaluate the Amino Acid profile/score and In-vitro protein digestibility of composite biscuits produced from blends of Wheat flour (WHF), African breadfruit flour (ABF)and Moringa seed flour(MSF) at the following ratios (Sample A: WHF 100%: ABF 0; MSF 0, B= WHF 77.5%:ABF 20%: MSF 2.5%, C=WHF 75%: ABF 20%: MSF 5.0%, D= WHF 72.5%: ABF 20%: MSF 7.5%. E = WHF 70%: ABF 20%: MSF 10%, F = WHF 90%: ABF 0: MSF 10%, G = WHF 80%: ABF 20%: MSF 0). The most predominant Amino Acid in ABF was glutamic (12.27 g/100 g) followed by Aspartic and lysine, with values of 8.96 g/100 g and 6.55 g/100 g, respectively. Glutamic Acid content of the biscuits ranged from 10.96 g/100 g – 12.96 g/100 g, with sample B giving significantly higher value. Substitution with MSF resulted in decreasing glutamic acid content levels in the formulated biscuits, while lysine, phenylalanine and Isoleucine improved with the addition of 10% Moringa seed flour. Amino acid Scores of the biscuits using Hen egg as standard showed that whole egg had a higher amino acid score except glycine (1.04 – 1.25). Percentage In-vitro protein digestibility ranged from 10.64% - 47.33%, showing that addition of moringa seed flour and African breadfruit flour improved digestibility values from 10.64% to 47.33% for sample E with the control sample (wheat flour biscuit) being significantly lower. Substitution with ABF and MSF improved protein digestibility of the produced biscuits. Also, the Amino acid scores of the formulated biscuits were higher than the FAO recommended daily dietary requirements for Amino acids.
Genetic Architecture of Working Memory Cognitive Function of Twins
Authors: Annu . , Dhanda Bimla
Published: September 2020

The twin research has provided a deep understanding of the influence of genetic and the environment on cognitive functions. The contribution of genetic material accounted for 50-65% in the variations of working memory cognitive functions of twins. To conduct twin study 100 pairs of twins from two districts, namely: Bhiwani (N = 90) and Hisar (N = 110) of Haryana State, were taken. The working memory cognitive functions of twins were measured using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children- Revised (WISC-R). Heritability estimate was used to examine the genes that contributed to shaping the cognitive functions of twins. The result of heritability estimates revealed that the heritability estimates of working memory cognitive functions namely: digit span (62%), maze (58%) and arithmetic (58%) in Bhiwani district and Hisar district, were 57%, 51% and 54% for digit span, maze, and arithmetic respectively. The findings elucidated that the working memory cognitive functions were more influenced by genetic architecture than the environmental factors. The monozygotic twins were more correlated in their general cognitive abilities than the dizygotic twins.
Feto-Maternal Outcome of Pregnancy Complicated with Preeclampsia
Authors: Iqbal Qaiser Javed , Javed Ayesha , Marri Zafar Ali , Sabeen Nadia
Published: September 2020

Pre-eclampsia is the disorder of extensive vascular endothelial malfunctioning and vasospasm. Both pregnant females and her fetus can develop different complications in the presence of preeclampsia. So we conducted this descriptive cross-sectional study to find the frequency of fetal and maternal outcomes in females having pre-eclampsia. After meeting the inclusion criteria 200 females were enrolled. Patients were followed from 32 weeks of gestation till the end of pregnancy. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were strictly followed. The outcome variable was recorded as per operational definitions. All patients were efficiently managed as per standard protocols. All the data was entered and then analyzed in SPSS v. 22. In this study the mean age of the patients was 28.93 ± 6.75 years, the mean BMI of the females was 27.46 ± 1.48 kg/m2. Partial HELLP syndrome noted in 51 (25.5%) females, maternal mortality occurred in 17 (8.5%) females, while eclampsia, prematurity, perinatal mortality and low birth weight were noted in 26 (13%), 106 (53%), 35 (17.5%) and 78 (39%) females respectively. This study concluded that the most common fetomaternal outcome was prematurity, low birth weight babies, partial HELLP syndrome, perinatal mortality, eclampsia and maternal mortality in patients with pre-eclampsia.
NSDUH for 2019 shows marijuana use increasing, SUD treatment gap persisting
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2020

The 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a key report for national indicators of substance use and mental health in the United States, was released Sept. 11 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The annual report is based on surveys of a representative sample of the civilian, noninstitutionalized population age 12 or older, and then extrapolated for total numbers.
Space‐Confined Yolk‐Shell Construction of Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Inside N‐Doped Hollow Mesoporous Carbon Spheres as Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Long‐Term Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Wang Bin , Ye Yuzhen , Xu Li , Quan Yu , Wei Wenxian , Zhu Wenshuai , Li Huaming , Xia Jiexiang
Published: September 2020

Development of efficient, durable and inexpensive oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts with accelerated kinetics and high‐performance remain a grand challenge in the context of reversible metal–air batteries. Herein, the Fe3O4 nanoparticles inside N‐doped hollow mesoporous carbon spheres (N/HCSs) yolk‐shell structure (Fex@N/HCSs) is constructed as an excellent bifunctional electrocatalyst for ORR and OER via an innovative approach. The N/HCSs effectively control and confine in situ growth of Fe3O4 nanoparticles using the melting‐diffusion strategy via capillary force and significantly improve the conductivity and structural stability of the hybrid material. The constructed yolk‐shell structured Fe20@N/HCSs ecosystem with Fe–Nx active sites exhibits excellent ORR and OER activity and stability, which even surpass commercial grade Pt/C, RuO2, IrO2 and many reported catalysts. Moreover, the zinc–air battery assembled with Fe20@N/HCSs as a cathode achieves high open circuit voltage (1.57 V), large power density (140.8 mW cm−2), and excellent long‐term cycling performance (over 300 h), revealing superior performance compared to commercial Pt/C + RuO2. This work provides a new avenue for the design and optimization of other high‐performance yolk‐shell materials with nanoscale confinement structures.
Multisite response of sugarcane to nitrogen rates and split application under Brazilian field conditions
Authors: Otto Rafael , Souza‐Netto Gerson José Marquesi de , Ferraz‐Almeida Risely , Altarugio Lucas Miguel , Favarin José Laércio
Published: September 2020

Brazil is the world's largest sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) producer, with 8.5 million ha and 643 million t of stalks produced annually. Sugarcane production has a significant impact in the Brazilian economy due to the large production of sugar, ethanol, and energy. The low N use efficiency is a challenge for sugarcane production and may be due to a lack of synchrony between fertilizer application and maximum N demand. This study tested the hypothesis that split N application can improve sugarcane yield by matching fertilizer application and crop demand. We conducted 25 green sugarcane field trials in south‐central Brazil (15 in the first ratoon stage [Year 1] and 10 in the second ratoon stage [Year 2]) divided into three harvest periods: autumn, winter, and spring. We adopted a factorial design at the autumn and winter sites, evaluating N rates and methods of application (total or split), and a complete block design in spring, evaluating N rates. Measurements included stalk yield, total recoverable sugars, and sugar yield. Nitrogen responsiveness was higher in sugarcane harvested in autumn compared with winter or spring. Split N application (i.e., applying half of the N soon after harvest and half at the beginning of the rainy season) showed the potential to increase yields by 3–7 Mg ha−1 in autumn but not in winter. Among the seven responsive sites, the yield gain was 9–10.5 Mg ha−1, and the average yield at 0.8 kg N Mg−1 was statistically similar to those at 1.0, 1.2, and 1.4 kg N Mg−1.
Incorporation of norbixin in biodegradable alginate films crosslinked with Ca2+: Pro‐oxidant action
Authors: de Farias Yuri Buratto , Coutinho Anderson Kaiszewski , Tupuna‐Yerovi Diego Santiago , Rios Alessandro de Oliveira
Published: September 2020

Alginate is a biopolymer with film‐forming properties that can be used as food packaging material. Norbixin is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties, commonly used as a natural food coloring. The research objective was to create calcium‐crosslinked alginate films and incorporated with norbixin concentrations (N%) of 0.05%, 0.10%, and 0.50% (g norbixin/g alginate). The polymer matrix helped to retard the thermal degradation of norbixin during the drying process and decreased leaching losses during the crosslinking process. The addition of norbixin influenced film opacity in ultraviolet light (all N%) and visible light (higher N%), causing an increase in red‐yellow coloration. Only the higher N% influenced the water vapor permeability of film. Norbixin thus improved the overall barrier properties of the crosslinked sodium alginate film, with a 0.50 N% showing the most promising results. When used as sunflower oil packaging, films with a N% above 0.10 provided pro‐oxidant activity during storage.
Laboratory investigation of cracking resistance performance of the cold‐mixed epoxy resin
Authors: Yu Xin , Ding Gongying , Dong Fuqiang
Published: September 2020

Cold‐mix epoxy resin (CER) is an excellent binder material but with weak crack resistance and brittle failure risk. Therefore, it is of significance to find a feasible parameter to constrain the failure potential. To this end, the dynamic mechanical test, tensile test, volume shrinkage test, fracture test, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze and evaluate mechanical properties, curing shrinkage, and fracture toughness of the CER. Subsequently, the bivariate correlation analysis was used to feature the relationship among different indicators. The results indicated that the amount of curing agent has a significant influence on the tensile strength, elongation at break, volume shrinkage, fracture toughness, and plastic radius of CER. Meanwhile, there is a close correlation between tensile strength, elongation at break, and fracture toughness. Fracture toughness can be used as an evaluation index to represent the crack resistance of CER, and tensile test can be used as a confirmatory parameter. However, the volume shrinkage of CER cannot be ignored. Small voids distributed on the fracture surface of the CER can increase the toughness and then improve the crack resistance of the CER through SEM analysis.
Reflections on the influence of a synthesis of circle‐hook evidence on the angling community and conservation policy and practice
Authors: Cooke Steven J. , Suski Cory D.
Published: September 2020

Understanding how different forms of environmental evidence inform the actions of different stakeholders is useful to improve how we share knowledge with knowledge users. Reflections on a literature review that we published in 2004 on circle hooks as a tool for fish conservation in the recreational fishing sector identified a number of ways in which that synthesis was influential.

The article has had direct influence on policy and regulations in a number of countries, but there were even more examples of where the article has been used to influence voluntary guidelines. The article also contributed to formally defining circle hooks, which was necessary from a regulatory and enforcement perspective.

The recreational fishing community has also embraced the work, with numerous angling articles based on the literature review appearing in the media and with some angler organizations pushing for the adoption of circle hooks. The fishing tackle industry has also responded with evidence that circle hooks are now more widely available in stores with more hook design options to suit diverse recreational fisheries. In addition, the influence of the article has extended beyond the recreational sector to commercial fishery issues that span several taxa. The research agenda from the article helped to direct research for more than a decade and has since been updated.

Overall, this review was timely in that it provided various knowledge users with credible information synthesized in a thoughtful manner at a time when there was interest and need in exploring circle hooks as a tool to enhance the conservation of angled fish. Although this was not a systematic review, it still served as a form of evidence synthesis that gave diverse knowledge users information to guide them in their decisions.
Conservation of Rapa Nui waters strongly supported by publications in Aquatic Conservation
Authors: Gaymer Carlos F. , Aburto Jaime A.
Published: September 2020

This paper describes how a series of papers published in Aquatic Conservation have had a clear impact on the conservation process run at Rapa Nui by the Chilean Government and the Rapanui community.

Exploratory expeditions set the scientific basis for the creation of Rapa Nui Multiple Use Marine Protected Area.

Past conservation initiatives lacked proper participative processes and were strongly resisted by the local communities.

Science transfer through capacity building was key for a local transformation towards embracing marine conservation objectives.

Publications showed the importance of participation, a good balance between political will and a local wish for protection of the sea, and the incorporation of a local worldview, for a successful conservation process.

Strong differences between the socio‐ecological systems in mainland Chile and that in Rapa Nui were recognized and helped to build a new conservation strategy for Rapa Nui between the Chilean Government and Rapanui community.

International experience exchanges also helped to develop the conservation process in Rapa Nui, and recent ecological studies will help future Marine Protected Area implementation.
Demonstrating the practical impact of publications in Aquatic Conservation – The case of crucian carp Carassius carassius in the East of England
Authors: Copp Gordon H. , Sayer Carl D.
Published: September 2020

The contribution of nearly three decades of research, much of it published in Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems (AQC), to the conservation of the crucian carp Carassius carassius in the East of England, including work coordinated by the Norfolk Crucian Project, is summarized.

Although recent genetic studies indicate that this species was probably introduced to England about the same time as common carp Cyprinus carpio, the crucian carp is considered a cultural heritage species worthy of conservation in eastern England.

This research covers the environmental biology of the species in the East of England, documentation of the species' decline in the county of Norfolk, and the pond management practices implemented in Norfolk to rehabilitate existing and fully terrestrialized pond habitat specifically for crucian carp conservation.

The AQC papers that contributed to this line of research showed that England offers a particularly favourable environment for crucian carp growth and reproduction. These AQC articles provided the evidence base to complement crucian carp conservation initiatives in the London area (mainly the counties of Essex and Hertfordshire), as well as forming the basis for the designation of crucian carp as a Biodiversity Action Priority species in the county of Norfolk.

The broader impact of the work in the East of England was to inspire the recently‐formed English National Crucian Conservation Project, which aims to promote the conservation of crucian carp and its habitat, and to encourage the development of well‐managed crucian fisheries.

These evidence‐based conservation initiatives, perhaps the first throughout Europe, have witnessed a reversal of the species' fortunes in England, which is effectively an ideal geographical region in which to promote the conservation of this species within a wider, European context.
Regulation of Morphology and Electronic Structure of NiSe2 by Fe for High Effective Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Yunxiao , Chen Ru , Yan Dafeng , Wang Shuangyin
Published: September 2020

With the development of hydrogen‐energy economy, it is urgent for researchers to explore high effective non‐noble metal electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Nickel‐based selenides have good conductivity and easy to regulate, which make them to be a promising OER electrocatalysts. Hence, many researchers engineering the structure of Nickel‐based selenides to further improve the OER performance. In this paper, NixFe1‐xSe2 porous‐nano‐microspheres with different ratio were synthesized. Results confirm that Fe not only affects the number of active sites in NiSe2, but also affects the intrinsic activity by forming lattice defects. Besides, introduction of Fe can change the redox ability of Ni cation and Se anion, thus, reducing the average valence state of Ni cation in NiOOH. As a result, the current density of OER is improved remarkably. When the current density reaches 10 mA cm−2, the overpotential is only 285 mV.
Apoaequorin differentially modulates fear memory in adult and aged rats
Authors: Ehlers Vanessa L. , Smies Chad W. , Moyer James R.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Cognitive deficits during aging are pervasive across species and learning paradigms. One of the major mechanisms thought to play a role in age‐related memory decline is dysregulated calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis. Aging is associated with impaired function of several calcium‐regulatory mechanisms, including calcium‐binding proteins that normally support intracellular Ca2+ regulation. This age‐related calcium‐binding protein dysfunction and changes in expression lead to disrupted maintenance of intracellular Ca2+, thus contributing to memory decline. Other work has found that age‐related cognitive deficits can be mitigated by either blocking Ca2+ entry into the cytosol or preventing its release from intracellular Ca2+ stores. However, the effect of calcium‐binding protein administration on cognitive function during aging is not well‐understood. Our laboratory has previously shown that the calcium‐binding protein apoaequorin (AQ) is neuroprotective during oxygen–glucose deprivation, a model of in vitro ischemia characterized by calcium‐induced excitotoxicity. The current experiments assessed the effect of direct dorsal hippocampal AQ infusion on trace and context fear memory in adult and aged rats.

Methods

Adult (3–6 months) and aged (22–26 months) male F344 rats were randomly assigned to different experimental infusion groups before undergoing trace fear conditioning and testing. In experiment 1, rats received bilateral dorsal hippocampal infusions of either vehicle or AQ (4% w/v) 24 hr before trace fear conditioning. In experiment 2, rats received bilateral dorsal hippocampal infusions of either vehicle or 4% AQ 1 hr before trace fear conditioning and 1 hr before testing.

Results

Aged rats displayed impaired trace and context fear memory. While a single AQ infusion 24 hr before trace fear conditioning was insufficient to rescue age‐related trace fear memory deficits, AQ infusion 1 hr before both conditioning and testing abolished age‐related context fear memory deficits.

Conclusions

These results suggest that intrahippocampal infusion of AQ may reverse aging‐related deficits in hippocampus‐dependent context fear memory.
How campus police can support and empower diverse communities
Authors: Rahn Josh
Published: September 2020

Over the last several months, the nation has heard from countless voices asking for meaningful social change, including an acknowledgment of historic and ongoing racial injustices. Several high‐profile incidents — most notably, the killing of George Floyd — have pushed calls for social justice to the forefront of the conversation. And leading this important conversation has been the Black Lives Matter movement, which now has garnered broad support extending beyond communities of color.
Nanospheres encapsulated everolimus delivery into arterial wall–the tissue pharmacokinetics and vascular response experimental study
Authors: Milewski Krzysztof , Bryła‐Wojciechowska Anna , Buszman Piotr P. , Jelonek Katarzyna , Kachel Mateusz , Gąsior Paweł , Krauze Agata , Błachut Aleksandra , Musiał‐Kulik Monika , Tellez Armando , Rousselle Serge D. , Kiesz R. Stefan , Kasperczyk Janusz , Buszman Paweł E.
Published: September 2020

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profile and tissue effects of everolimus delivered into arterial wall using biodegradable nanospheres.

Background

Delivery of everolimus into the arterial wall is challenging due to its low‐lipophilic profile.

Methods

A pharmacokinetic study included 28 porcine coronary arterial segments initially injured with balloon angioplasty followed by the local delivery of everolimus encapsulated in nanospheres (EEN) via injection through a microporous delivery catheter. The animals were sacrificed at 1 hour, 1,7,28, and 90‐day follow‐up. In the tissue effects study 16 coronary bare metal stent (BMS) were implanted following EEN delivery, 15 BMS following nanospheres delivery without the drug (reference group) and 16 implanted BMS served as a control. Angiographic and histology follow‐up was scheduled at 28 and 90‐day.

Results

The study showed high‐everolimus concentrations in arterial tissue early after nanoparticles delivery followed by its gradual decrease to 1.15 ± 0.40 ng/mg at 90 days. Histology analysis showed favorable biocompatibility and healing profile with comparable area stenosis between groups at both time‐points.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates for the first time the safety, biocompatibility, and long‐term retention of everolimus in arterial tissue after single local delivery of biodegradable nanospheres.
Processing and quality aspects of bulgur from Triticum durum
Authors: Stone Andrea K. , Wang Shuyang , Tulbek Mehmet , Koksel Filiz , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: September 2020

Background and objectives

Bulgur is an important food source in many countries around the world. In North America, its consumption is increasing as it can be used as a more nutritious quick cooking substitute to rice. The main processing steps of bulgur from Triticum durum are reviewed including the comparison of different technologies for cooking, drying, debranning, and milling of bulgur and the effects of processing on the nutritional components of the grain.

Findings

Every step of the production process is crucial to final product quality. Cooking methods include parboiling, autoclave, microwave, and steam, with autoclaving being the most used technique but disadvantages include higher losses of water‐soluble vitamins and some reports of color deterioration. Air, forced air, vacuum, microwave, and infrared dryers, as well sun and solar drying, have all been investigated with infrared and microwave drying being promising novel methods for drying bulgur after cooking. Different types of mills can be used for bulgur particle size reduction, and choice of mill will depend on size requirements; however, all bulgur should be larger than 0.5 mm with an ovoid shape and smooth exterior. Nutritional benefits of bulgur include relatively high protein and fiber content, resistant starch, B vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as lutein and ferulic acid.

Conclusions

Color is a much studied quality attribute; however, its importance to non‐traditional consumers is unknown. Research is lacking on whole grain (minimally debranned) bulgur and the optimization of nutritional quality in conjunction with processing parameters. Due to the partial debranning, there is wide variability in the reported fiber content of bulgur; however, overall it would be nutritionally beneficial to include bulgur in one's diet.

Significance and novelty

The production steps of bulgur are clarified and reviewed with consideration to the macro‐ and micronutrient content. This review will allow for future research on bulgur to increase its utilization as a low‐cost value‐added plant‐based food.
Antioxidant properties of free and bound phenolic acids from bran, spent grain, and sorghum seeds
Authors: Miafo Ange‐Patrice Takoudjou , Koubala Benoît Bargui , Kansci Germain , Muralikrishna Gudipati
Published: September 2020

Background and objective

Sorghum by‐products contain important amount of phenolic compounds and may be used as sources of phenolic antioxidants. This study aims to investigate the phenolic contents and the antioxidant activities of free and bound phenolic extracts from sorghum bran, spent grain, and seeds as potential sources of natural antioxidants agents.

Findings

Among the six extracts, the free phenolic acids (PA) mixture from bran with the highest total phenolic contents (291.50 ferulic acid equivalents/g flour) showed the highest antioxidant activity with all three tests (FRAP, ABTS, and DPPH). Syringic (0.06–2.65 mg/100 g of flour), vanilic (0.47–2.63 mg/100 g), and p‐hydroxybenzoic (0.38–1.75 mg/100 g) acids were the major free PAs. Ferulic acid (1.20–6.37 mg/100 g) was the major bound PA. PA content and composition in the mixtures greatly contribute to their antioxidant activity.

Conclusions

Free and bound PA from sorghum by‐products, especially the free PA from bran, have significant antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. These could be potentially used as important sources of natural antioxidants.

Significance and novelty

This finding encourages the exploration of sorghum by‐products (bran and spent grain) in the production of natural phenolic antioxidants for functional food preparations.
Ectopic axillary breast cancer in a male patient
Authors: Peil Nils , Varga Zsuzsanna , Barysch Marjam J. , Brüssow Cornelia , Dedes Konstantin J.
Published: September 2020

Ectopic breast tissue can persist in the axilla due to lack of involution of mammary glands along the mammary lines. It is rare in men, and the malignant transformation to breast cancer has occasionally been described. Differential diagnosis of any axillary tumor should include breast cancer arising at ectopic sites.
Synthesizing High‐Volume Chemicals from CO2 without Direct H2 Input
Authors: Tao Longgang , Choksi Tej S. , Liu Wen , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier
Published: September 2020

Decarbonizing the chemical industry will eventually entail using CO2 as a feedstock for chemical synthesis. However, many chemical syntheses involve CO2 reduction using inputs such as renewable hydrogen. In this review, chemical processes are discussed that use CO2 as an oxidant for upgrading hydrocarbon feedstocks. The captured CO2 is inherently reduced by the hydrocarbon co‐reactants without consuming molecular hydrogen or renewable electricity. This CO2 utilization approach can be potentially applied to synthesize eight emission‐intensive molecules, including olefins and epoxides. Catalytic systems and reactor concepts are discussed that can overcome practical challenges, such as thermodynamic limitations, over‐oxidation, coking, and heat management. Under the best‐case scenario, these hydrogen‐free CO2 reduction processes have a combined CO2 abatement potential of approximately 1 gigatons per year and avoid the consumption of 1.24 PWh renewable electricity, based on current market demand and supply.
Using an aquatic model, Xenopus laevis, to uncover the role of chromodomain 1 in craniofacial disorders
Authors: Wyatt Brent H. , Raymond Thomas O. , Lansdon Lisa A. , Darbro Benjamin W. , Murray Jeffrey C. , Manak John Robert , Dickinson Amanda J. G.
Published: September 2020

The chromodomain family member chromodomain 1 (CHD1) has been shown to have numerous critical molecular functions including transcriptional regulation, splicing, and DNA repair. Complete loss of function of this gene is not compatible with life. On the other hand, missense and copy number variants of CHD1 can result in intellectual disabilities and craniofacial malformations in human patients including cleft palate and Pilarowski–Bjornsson Syndrome. We have used the aquatic developmental model organism Xenopus laevis, to determine a specific role for Chd1 in such cranioafcial disorders. Protein and gene knockdown techniques in Xenopus, including antisense oligos and mosaic Crispr/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis, recapitulated the craniofacial defects observed in humans. Further analysis indicated that embryos deficient in Chd1 had defects in cranial neural crest development and jaw cartilage morphology. Additionally, flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry revealed that decreased Chd1 resulted in increased in apoptosis in the developing head. Together, these experiments demonstrate that Chd1 is critical for fundamental processes and cell survival in craniofacial development. We also presented evidence that Chd1 is regulated by retinoic acid signaling during craniofacial development. Expression levels of chd1 mRNA, specifically in the head, were increased by RAR agonist exposure and decreased upon antagonist treatment. Subphenotypic levels of an RAR antagonist and Chd1 morpholinos synergized to result in orofacial defects. Further, RAR DNA binding sequences (RAREs) were detected in chd1 regulatory regions by bioinformatic analysis. In summary, by combining human genetics and experiments in an aquatic model we now have a better understanding of the role of CHD1 in craniofacial disorders.
The propagule doesn’t fall far from the tree, especially after short‐interval, high‐severity fire
Authors: Gill Nathan S. , Hoecker Tyler J. , Turner Monica G.
Published: September 2020

Subalpine forests that historically burned every 100–300 yr are expected to burn more frequently as climate warms, perhaps before trees reach reproductive maturity or produce a serotinous seedbank. Tree regeneration after short‐interval (<30‐yr) high‐severity fire will increasingly rely on seed dispersal from unburned trees, but how dispersal varies with age and structure of surrounding forest is poorly understood. We studied wind dispersal of three conifers (Picea engelmannii, Abies lasiocarpa, and Pinus contorta var. latifolia, which can be serotinous and nonserotinous) after a stand‐replacing fire that burned young (≤30 yr) and older (>100 yr) P. contorta forest in Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming, USA). We asked how propagule pressure varied with time since last fire, how seed delivery into burned forest varied with age and structure of live forest edges, what variables explained seed delivery into burned forest, and how spatial patterns of delivery across the burned area could vary with alternate patterns of surrounding live forest age. Seeds were collected in traps along 100‐m transects (n = 18) extending from live forest edges of varying age (18, 30, and >100 yr) into areas of recent (2‐yr) high‐severity fire, and along transects in live forests to measure propagule pressure. Propagule pressure was low in 18‐yr‐old stands (~8 seeds/m2) and similarly greater in 30‐ and 100‐yr‐old stands (~32 seeds/m2). Mean dispersal distance was lowest from 18‐yr‐old edges and greatest from >100‐yr‐old edges. Seed delivery into burned forest declined with increasing distance and increased with height of trees at live forest edges, and was consistently higher for P. contorta than for other conifers. Empirical dispersal kernels revealed that seed delivery from 18‐yr‐old edges was very low (≤2.4 seeds/m2) and concentrated within 10 m of the live edge, whereas seed delivery from >100‐yr‐old edges was >4.9 seeds/m2 out to 80 m. When extrapolated throughout the burned landscape, estimated seed delivery was low (<49,400 seeds/ha) in >70% of areas that burned in short‐interval fire (<30 yr). As fire frequency increases, immaturity risk will be compounded in short‐interval fires because seed dispersal from surrounding young trees is limited.
Efficacy of early initiation of ivabradine treatment in patients with acute heart failure: rationale and design of SHIFT‐AHF trial
Authors: Su Yang , Ma Teng , Wang Zeyu , Dong Bin , Tai Chenhui , Wang Hao , Zhang Fenglei , Yan Chunxi , Chen Wei , Xu Yawei , Ye Lei , Tye Gee Jun , Ong Sang‐Bing , Zhang Jian , Xu Dachun
Published: September 2020

Aims

Elevated heart rate (HR) in heart failure (HF) is associated with worse outcomes, particularly in acute HF (AHF). HR reduction with ivabradine reduces cardiovascular events in HF patients with reduced ejection fraction. The present trial aimed to test the hypothesis that the early HR reduction using ivabradine improves clinical outcomes in patients with AHF.

Methods and results

SHIFT‐AHF is a prospective, multi‐centre, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ivabradine when adding to standard therapy in AHF patients (SHIFT‐AHF). The trial will include 674 AHF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction < 45% and New York Heart Association functional classes III–IV. Participants were enrolled from March 2020 and will be followed up until December 2022. Patients are randomized to treatment with ivabradine or placebo (randomization 1:1). After allocation, the dose of ivabradine is titrated according to HR. Six months' follow‐up and three control visits (7, 90, and 180 days after enrolment) are required for every participant. Assessment involves clinical examination, laboratory tests, echocardiography, electrocardiography, heart rhythm, cardiac function, and quality of life. The primary endpoint is a composite of all‐cause mortality or re‐admission due to worsening HF. Secondary endpoints include the assessments of cardiac remodelling, cardiac functional capacity, and quality of life.

Conclusions

The SHIFT‐AHF trial will shed further light on the role of early HR reduction using ivabradine in patients with AHF.
Averting institutional disasters? Drawing lessons from China to inform the Cypriot response to the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Petridou Evangelia , Zahariadis Nikolaos , Ceccoli Stephen
Published: September 2020

Using ‘t Hart's (2014) typology of crises, we explore the Republic of Cyprus's initial response to the COVID‐19 crisis and contend Cypriot leaders indirectly drew lessons from the Chinese experience to prevent a situational crisis from metastasizing into a much broader institutional crisis. The lessons Cyprus drew from China to secure this outcome reinforced the critical nature of transparency and timeliness in sharing epidemiological information, swift intervention efforts to minimize virus transmission, and privileging expert involvement in shaping the response plan. We conclude with implications for public leadership and lesson‐drawing under crisis.
Impacts of Petroleum Fuels on Fertilization and Development of the Antarctic Sea Urchin Sterechinus neumayeri
Authors: Brown Kathryn E. , King Catherine K. , Harrison Peter L.
Published: September 2020

Antarctic marine environments are at risk from petroleum fuel spills as shipping activities in the Southern Ocean increase. Knowledge of the sensitivity of Antarctic species to fuels under environmentally realistic exposure conditions is lacking. We determined the toxicity of 3 fuels, Special Antarctic Blend diesel (SAB), marine gas oil (MGO), and intermediate fuel oil (IFO 180) to a common Antarctic sea urchin, Sterechinus neumayeri. Sensitivity was estimated for early developmental stages from fertilization to the early 4-arm pluteus in toxicity tests of up to 24 d duration. The effects of the water accommodated fractions (WAFs) of fuels were investigated under different exposure scenarios to determine the relative sensitivity of stages and of different exposure regimes. Sensitivity to fuel WAFs increased through development. Both MGO and IFO 180 were more toxic than SAB, with median effect concentration values for the most sensitive pluteus stage of 3.5, 6.5, and 252 µg/L total hydrocarbon content, respectively. Exposure to a single pulse during fertilization and early embryonic development showed toxicity patterns similar to those observed from continuous exposure. The results show that exposure to fuel WAFs during critical early life stages affects the subsequent viability of larvae, with consequent implications for reproductive success. The sensitivity estimates for S. neumayeri that we generated can be utilized in risk assessments for the management of Antarctic marine ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2527–2539. © 2020 SETAC
Assessing the implementation of healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices in the family day care setting: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lum Melanie , Grady Alice , Falkiner Maryann , Jones Jannah , Finch Meghan , Green Sue , Herrmann Vanessa , Hall Alix , Yoong Serene
Published: September 2020

Issue addressed

While the family day care setting provides a unique opportunity to improve child health, few studies have assessed obesity prevention practices of this setting. This study aimed to examine the (a) prevalence of implementation of evidence‐based healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices among schemes (ie overarching governing agency) and educators in the family day care setting in Australia; and (b) associations between educator socio‐demographic characteristics and implementation of healthy eating and physical activity practices.

Methods

Family day care schemes (n = 16) responsible for educators (n = 174) located in the Hunter New England region of NSW participated in a telephone survey in 2018, reporting their implementation of evidence‐based healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices. Linear mixed regression analyses were used to determine whether educator characteristics were associated with higher percentages of implementation.

Results

Few schemes had comprehensive breastfeeding (0%) and screen time (19%) policies. However, the majority of educators (81%) communicated with families when lunchboxes were not consistent with guidelines. Educators implemented an average of 64.3% of practices assessed. Educators located in higher socioeconomic areas implemented a significantly higher percentage of practices than those in lower socioeconomic areas (P < .000). Educator years of experience was positively associated with percentage of implementation (P = .009).

Conclusions

The implementation of obesity prevention policies and practices in the family day care setting is variable and associated with educator socio‐demographic characteristics.

So what?

There is a need to support family day care schemes to improve their obesity prevention environments, particularly those related to policies.
Dimensions analysis of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire in Iran: Psychometric properties
Authors: Rahimi Elnaz , Alizadeh Seyed Shamseddin , Safaeian Abdol‐Rasoul , Abbasgholizadeh Nategh
Published: September 2020

Aim

The present study aimed to investigate the possible alternative factorial structure of the patient safety culture model in Iran.

Methods

This study was performed based on data collected by Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) questionnaire from 420 staff in four hospitals. Internal consistency reliability and construct validity were evaluated by Cronbach's alpha and correlation analysis. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to investigate the possible alternative factorial structure, examine and confirm the obtained structure, alternatively. Kaiser‐Meyer‐Olkin measure and Bartlett test were calculated to determine the factor ability of sample and fit of the factor analysis, alternatively. SPSS and AMOS version 25 were used.

Results

EFA identified 12 dimensions which one dimension has been also created from a new question. Distribution of items in all dimensions differed from the original HSOPSC questionnaire except two dimensions. The obtained structure was a proportional model. The calculation of Cronbach's alpha (∝ = .8) showed that, the internal consistency reliability was appropriate for all items in the questionnaire. Also, construct validity was acceptable for all factors.

Conclusions

The structure of the dimensions obtained in this study was not consistent with the structure of the original HSOPSC model.

Highlights

Provide a model for assessing patient safety culture with relative stability with respect to the native culture of the region.

Good content and construct validity.

Differences in the distribution of items in dimensions.

Formation of new dimensions.

Performing a psychometric analysis of the instrument using EFA, CFA and SEM to examine the disagreement on the validity, reliability and dimensions of patient safety culture in previous studies in Iran.

Numerous discrepancies in item wording comply with the approach advocated by the translation guideline for AHRQ survey on patient safety.