bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Bioactivity and Efficacy of Benzovindiflupyr Against Corynespora cassiicola, the Causal Agent of Cucumber Corynespora Leaf Spot
Authors: Zhu Jiamei , Li Xiuhuan , Zhang Lingyan , Gao Yangyang , Mu Wei , Liu Feng
Published: February 2021

Corynespora cassiicola, which causes Corynespora leaf spot, results in considerable yield loss of cucumber grown in greenhouses. Frequent reports of reduced efficacy and control failure of fungicides warrant new, efficient alternative chemistries. In this study, the sensitivity of C. cassiicola to benzovindiflupyr was evaluated using a collection of 81 isolates collected from Shandong, China. The mean EC50 values for mycelial growth, spore germination, and germ tube elongation of C. cassiicola were 0.69 ± 0.44, 0.12 ± 0.063, and 0.13 ± 0.076 µg ml−1, respectively. Benzovindiflupyr treatment led to a reduced respiration rate and ATP production of C. cassiicola and decreased spore pathogenicity by 21.9% on average. Additionally, detached cucumber leaves sprayed with fungicides before or after inoculation were used to assess the efficacy of benzovindiflupyr against C. cassiicola. Benzovindiflupyr (150 µg ml−1) exhibited preventive and curative efficacies of 86.9 and 77.1%, respectively. Benzovindiflupyr at 150 g a.i. ha−1 provided over 70% efficacy in field trials performed in 2018 and 2019, which was significantly higher than that of the reference fungicides fluopyram and fluxapyroxad at the same dose. Furthermore, the yield of commercial cucumber increased as disease incidence decreased. Our findings pave the way for the introduction of benzovindiflupyr in the integrated management of Corynespora leaf spot.
Diazepam’s antifungal activity in fluconazole-resistant Candida spp. and biofilm inhibition in C. albicans: evaluation of the relationship with the proteins ALS3 and SAP5
Authors: Juvêncio da Silva Lisandra , Dias Barroso Fátima Daiana , Vieira Lucas Sousa , Carlos Mota Daniel Roberto , da Silva Firmino Bruna Kelly , Rocha da Silva Cecília , de Farias Cabral Vitória Pessoa , Cândido Thiago Mesquita , Sá Lívia Gurgel do Amaral Valente , Barbosa da Silva Wildson Max , Silva Jacilene , Marinho Emmanuel Silva , Cavalcanti Bruno Coelho , de Moraes Manoel Odorico , Júnior Hélio Vitoriano Nobre , de Andrade Neto João Batista
Published: February 2021

The genusCandidaspp. has been highlighted as one of the main etiological agents causing fungal infections, withCandida albicansbeing the most prominent, responsible for most cases of candidemia. Due to its capacity for invasion and tissue adhesion, it is associated with the formation of biofilms, mainly in the environment and hospital devices, decreasing the effectiveness of available treatments. The repositioning of drugs, which is characterized by the use of drugs already on the market for other purposes, together with molecular-docking methods can be used aiming at the faster development of new antifungals to combat micro-organisms. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effect of diazepam on matureC. albicansbiofilmsin vitroand its action on biofilm in formation, as well as its mechanism of action and interaction with structures related to the adhesion ofC. albicans, ALS3 and SAP5. To determine the MIC, the broth microdilution test was used according to protocol M27-A3 (CLSI, 2008).In vitrobiofilm formation tests were performed using 96-well plates, followed by molecular-docking protocols to analyse the binding agent interaction with ALS3 and SAP5 targets. The results indicate that diazepam has antimicrobial activity against planktonic cells ofCandidaspp. andC. albicansbiofilms, interacting with important virulence factors related to biofilm formation (ALS3 and SAP5). In addition, treatment with diazepam triggered a series of events inC. albicanscells, such as loss of membrane integrity, mitochondrial depolarization and increased production of EROs, causing DNA damage and consequent cell apoptosis.
How to decide which COVID-19 patient with myocardial infarction to send to the Cath Lab? - A case series of COVID-19 patients with myocardial infarction
Authors: Simova Iana , Nikolov Denis , Dimitrov Nikolay , Kornovski Vladimir , Tomova Vesela , Vekov Toni , Krasnaliev Yordan
Published: February 2021

INTRODUCTION

The Coronavirus pandemic has hit the world with its vast contagiousness, high morbidity, and mortality. Apart from the direct damage to the lung tissue, the corona virus infection is able to predispose patients to thrombotic disease, thus causing cerebral or coronary incidents.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to find a clinical or laboratory parameter, that would help in distinguishing between COVID-19 patients with myocardial infarction (MI), who have an infarct-related artery (IRA) and therefore, require immediate revascularization, and those, who have no IRA.

METHODS

This was a single-center, observational study of 10 consecutive patients with COVID-19, who were admitted with confirmed MI.

RESULTS

In our study group the mean age was 67.5 ± 8.3 years, half of the patients were female; all of them had arterial hypertension; 8 patients (80%) had dyslipidemy; 4 (40%) had diabetes. 30% of the patients with MI did not have an IRA, and did not require pPCI. Patients with MI and IRA had significantly higher hsTrI values (48.9 ± 43.2 vs 0.6 ± 0.7, p=0.007) and exclusively typical chest pain 100% vs 0%, p=0.007), compared to patients with MI without an IRA. The ECG changes had only marginal statistical significance. Our results suggest that using a higher cut-off value for hsTrI (>7.5 times upper reference range) increases the specificity and positive predictive value for diagnosing a MI with the presence of IRA and need for pPCI, to 100%

CONCLUSION

In our analysis we confirm that a higher cut-off value for hsTrI helps distinguish between COVID patients with MI, who have IRA and therefore, require immediate revascularization, compared to those, who have no IRA.
The protective association between statins use and adverse outcomes among COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chow Ronald , Im James , Chiu Nicholas , Chiu Leonard , Aggarwal Rahul , Lee Jihui , Choi Young-Geun , Prsic Elizabeth Horn , Shin Hyun Joon
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Statins may reduce a cytokine storm, which has been hypothesized as a possible mechanism of severe COVID-19 pneumonia. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to report on adverse outcomes among COVID-19 patients by statin usage.

Methods

Literatures were searched from January 2019 to December 2020 to identify studies that reported the association between statin usage and adverse outcomes, including mortality, ICU admissions, and mechanical ventilation. Studies were meta-analyzed for mortality by the subgroups of ICU status and statin usage before and after COVID-19 hospitalization. Studies reporting an odds ratio (OR) and hazard ratio (HR) were analyzed separately.

Results

Thirteen cohorts, reporting on 110,078 patients, were included in this meta-analysis. Individuals who used statins before their COVID-19 hospitalization showed a similar risk of mortality, compared to those who did not use statins (HR 0.80, 95% CI: 0.50, 1.28; OR 0.62, 95% CI: 0.38, 1.03). Patients who were administered statins after their COVID-19 diagnosis were at a lower risk of mortality (HR 0.53, 95% CI: 0.46, 0.61; OR 0.57, 95% CI: 0.43, 0.75). The use of statins did not reduce the mortality of COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU (OR 0.65; 95% CI: 0.26, 1.64). Among non-ICU patients, statin users were at a lower risk of mortality relative to non-statin users (HR 0.53, 95% CI: 0.46, 0.62; OR 0.64, 95% CI: 0.46, 0.88).

Conclusion

Patients administered statins after COVID-19 diagnosis or non-ICU admitted patients were at lower risk of mortality relative to non-statin users.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 4,5-dibromo-6-methyl-2-phenyl-2,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydro-3a,6-epoxy-1H-isoindol-1-one
Authors: Mertsalov Dmitriy F. , Nadirova Maryana A. , Chervyakova Lala V. , Grigoriev Mikhail S. , Shelukho Evgeniya R. , Çelikesir Sevim Türktekin , Akkurt Mehmet , Mlowe Sixberth
Published: February 2021

In the title compound, C15H15Br2NO2, two bridged tetrahydrofuran rings adopt envelope conformations with the O atom as the flap. The pyrrolidine ring also adopts an envelope conformation with the spiro C atom as the flap. In the crystal, the molecules are linked into dimers by pairs of C—H...O hydrogen bonds, thus generating R
2
2(18) rings. The crystal packing is dominated by H...H, Br...H, H...π and Br...π interactions. One of the Br atoms is disordered over two sites with occupation ratio of 0.833 (8):0.167 (8).
Investigating the effects of consumer characteristics with respect to brand knowledge and product involvement on brand alliance evaluation
Authors: Singh Pankaj , Ahmad Anees , Prakash Gyan , Kushwah Prabhat Kumar Singh
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to take the neglected influencing factors in brand alliance research into account based on consumer characteristics theory and discuss the influencing factors' interactive effects on brand alliance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theory of consumer characteristics and the S&R model of brand alliance, an experimental design was conducted to examine the relationship among the various variables and moderators, which can test the changes of the dependent variables by controlling and manipulating one or more single variables. The sample includes 400 college students.

Findings

The results demonstrate that brand knowledge positively moderates the relationship between brand equity and consumer brand alliance, but not significantly affect the relationship between alliance evaluation and joint fit; in contrast, product involvement individually plays a positive moderating role on the relationship between joint fit, brand equity and consumer brand alliance evaluation.

Originality/value

Two consumer characteristic, brand knowledge and product involvement moderate the relationship between brand equity, joint fit and consumer brand alliance evaluation. Several empirical studies on brand alliance have documented mostly positive effects of brand alliance on consumer brand evaluations. Two important consumer characteristics' effect on brand alliance evaluation, brand knowledge and product involvement, were testified to expand the scope of influential factors of brand alliance evaluation on the basis of consumers' characteristic theory.
Measuring community disaster resilience using Q-methods: a physical resilience perspective
Authors: Tariq Hisham , Pathirage Chaminda , Fernando Terrence
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Decision-makers, practitioners and community members have a need to assess the disaster resilience of their communities and to understand their own capacities in disaster situations. There is a lack of consensus among researchers as to what resilience means and how it can be measured. This paper proposes a novel technique to achieve consensus among stakeholders on definitions, objectives and indicators for measuring a key dimension of community disaster resilience (CDR), physical infrastructure (PI).

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a five-step approach utilizing Q-methods to contextualize a resilience index for PI. Interviews, focus groups and Q-sorting workshops were conducted to develop a tool that ranked measures according to stakeholder preference. A total of 84 participants took part in the workshops across four countries (United Kingdom, Malaysia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka).

Findings

The initial set of 317 measures was reduced to 128 and divided into the three community capacities of anticipatory, absorptive and restorative. The physical infrastructure capacity assessment tool (PI-CAT) was then finalized to have 38 indicators that were also ranked in order of importance by the participants.

Practical implications

The PI-CAT can be useful for local governments and communities to measure their own resilience. The tool allows stakeholders to be confident that the metrics being used are ones that are relevant, important and meet their requirements.

Originality/value

The Q-method approach helps stakeholders to develop and use a community capacity assessment tool that is appropriate for their context. The PI-CAT can be used to identify effective investments that will enhance CDR.
Muddying the waters: when does short selling become market manipulation?
Authors: Durston Gregory
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to consider “spoofing”, “layering” and “short reports” in the context of market manipulation and, in particular, a recent controversy involving a short-selling attack on a major UK listed company that was considered by the High Court.

Design/methodology/approach

The very demanding legal and evidential prerequisites and practical difficulties, involved in bringing both criminal and regulatory actions in such cases are identified and discussed, as is the role of the Financial Conduct Authority.

Findings

These challenges help explain why so few actions of this type are brought.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to consider the implications of Burford Capital Limited v London Stock Exchange Plc [2020] EWHC 1183 (Comm).
Distributed leadership and nurses’ job satisfaction: a survey
Authors: Sammut Roberta , Briffa Benjamin , Curtis Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between perceived distributed leadership and job satisfaction among nurses. Leadership is central to improving quality care. Reports following investigations of poor care standards, identified inadequate leadership as a contributory factor and called for a new kind of leadership. One alternative is distributed leadership. Evidence suggests associations between leadership and job satisfaction but, there is a paucity of research examining associations between distributed leadership and job satisfaction: the purpose of this study was to address this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey design was used and data collected via questionnaires. Using census sampling, 350 nurses in a hospital in Malta were selected. A response rate of 50% (n = 176) was achieved. Data were analysed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient and multiple regression. Ethical approval was obtained from relevant committees/individuals.

Findings

Results indicated a moderate application of perceived distributed leadership and application of all components of distributed leadership could be improved. Nurses were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with their jobs. Correlation analysis showed a positive relationship between distributed leadership and job satisfaction. Multiple regression showed that commitment and participative decision-making were major predictors of job satisfaction while supervision by managers had a negative effect.

Practical implications

Improving distributed leadership is a priority in the nursing profession.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to show that distributed leadership has a positive effect on job satisfaction among nurses. Supervision, a constituent of distributed leadership, was associated with reduced job satisfaction, therefore reducing this is paramount.
Impact of using ARCS model and problem-based leaning on human interaction with robot and motivation
Authors: Hsia Chih-Hsien , Lai Chin-Feng , Su Yu-Sheng
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study, we present a robot used in education. Influenced by the epoch of revolutionary digital technology, the methodology of education has gone boundless. The robot programming sustainability and ability to solve problems is one an important skill that coding students require to learn programming. This educational have been integrated into curriculum instruction in clubs.

Design/methodology/approach

Robotics education has been regarded as a potential approach to enhance students' Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning competencies. The popular platform of robots diversifies educational practices by its advantages of reorganizational and logical forms. In this paper, we focus on the effects of applying blended instructional approaches to robot education on students' programming sustainability and ability.

Findings

The students of department of mechanical engineering at the University in Taipei city, who participate elective educational robot courses, prove through surveys that the problem-based leaning method with robot programming can effectively enhance students' interests and learning motivations in learning new knowledge and promote students' designing skills for a sustainable society.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors focus on the effects of applying blended instructional approaches to robot education on students' programming sustainability and ability.
Obstetric outcomes for twins from different conception methods – A multicenter cross‐sectional study from China
Authors: Jiang Fang , Gao Jinsong , He Jing , Tang Yabing , Cao Yinli , Wang Xietong , Liu Xiaowei , Wang Tianyun , Liu Xinghui , Sun Jingxia , Zhong Mei , Liu Xiaohong , Liao Shixiu , Liu Caixia , Yang Jinying
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The effects of assisted reproductive technology on the outcomes of twin pregnancies are controversial. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the maternal and perinatal outcomes of twin pregnancies conceived spontaneously and those conceived by assisted reproductive technology.

Material and methods

This was a cross‐sectional study performed at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). Data on twin pregnancies (conceived spontaneously and by in vitro fertilization [IVF]/intracytoplasmic sperm injection [ICSI]) were obtained from the National Birth Registry of China for the period between 1 October 2016, and 30 September 2017. The primary obstetric outcomes were compared between twin pregnancies conceived by different methods. Logistic regression analysis with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) was used for the multivariate analysis.

Results

A total of 3270 twin pregnancies (2003 and 1209 conceived spontaneously and by IVF/ICSI, respectively) were identified. The proportion of twin pregnancies among all pregnancies was 3.4% (3332/97 278). Multiple regression analysis indicated that the incidences of gestational diabetes mellitus (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.42, 95% CI 1.10–1.83, p = 0.007), preterm premature rupture of membranes (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.21–2.25, p = 0.002), placenta accreta spectrum (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI 1.42–3.17, p < 0.001) and postpartum hemorrhage (AOR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.02–1.86, p = 0.037) were significantly higher in the IVF/ICSI group than in the natural pregnancy group. Multivariate analysis also revealed that conception mode was not an independent risk factor for neonate outcomes.

Conclusions

In twin pregnancies, IVF/ICSI is independently associated with multiple maternal complications, including gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm premature rupture of membranes and placenta accreta spectrum compared with spontaneous conception, although potential residual confounders due to indications for assisted reproductive technology exist.
Health‐related quality of life maintained over time in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma treated with daratumumab in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone: results from the phase III CASTOR trial
Authors: Hungria Vania , Beksac Meral , Weisel Katja C. , Nooka Ajay K. , Masszi Tamas , Spicka Ivan , Munder Markus , Mateos María‐Victoria , Mark Tomer M. , Qi Ming , Qin Xiang , Fastenau John , Spencer Andrew , Sonneveld Pieter , Garvin Wendy , Renaud Thomas , Gries Katharine S.
Published: February 2021

In the phase III CASTOR trial, daratumumab, bortezomib and dexamethasone (D‐Vd) significantly extended progression‐free survival compared with bortezomib and dexamethasone (Vd) alone in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Here, we present patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) from the CASTOR trial. PROs were assessed using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30‐item (EORTC QLQ‐C30) and the EuroQol 5‐dimensional descriptive system questionnaire. Treatment effects through Cycle 8 were measured by a repeated measures mixed‐effects model. After Cycle 8, PROs were only collected for patients in the D‐Vd group who continued on daratumumab monotherapy. Compliance rates for PRO assessments were high and similar between treatment groups. Mean changes from baseline were generally similar between treatment groups for EORTC QLQ‐C30 global health status (GHS), functioning and symptoms, and did not exceed 10 points for either treatment group. Subgroup analyses were consistent with the results observed in the overall population. There was no change in patients' health‐related quality of life for the first eight cycles of therapy; thereafter, patients treated with daratumumab over the long‐term reported improvements in GHS and pain. These results complement the significant clinical benefits observed with D‐Vd in patients with RRMM and support its use in this patient population.
KV1.3 channels are novel determinants of macrophage‐dependent endothelial dysfunction in angiotensin II‐induced hypertension in mice
Authors: Olivencia Miguel A. , Martínez‐Casales Marta , Peraza Diego A. , García‐Redondo Ana B. , Mondéjar‐Parreño Gema , Hernanz Raquel , Salaices Mercedes , Cogolludo Angel , Pennington Michael W. , Valenzuela Carmen , Briones Ana M.
Published: February 2021

Background and Purpose

KV1.3 channels are expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), where they contribute to proliferation rather than contraction and participate in vascular remodelling. KV1.3 channels are also expressed in macrophages, where they assemble with KV1.5 channels (KV1.3/KV1.5), whose activation generates a KV current. In macrophages, the KV1.3/KV1.5 ratio is increased by classical activation (M1). Whether these channels are involved in angiotensin II (AngII)‐induced vascular remodelling, and whether they can modulate the macrophage phenotype in hypertension, remains unknown. We characterized the role of KV1.3 channels in vascular damage in hypertension.

Experimental Approach

We used AngII‐infused mice treated with two selective KV1.3 channel inhibitors (HsTX[R14A] and [EWSS]ShK). Vascular function and structure were measured using wire and pressure myography, respectively. VSMC and macrophage electrophysiology were studied using the patch‐clamp technique; gene expression was analysed using RT‐PCR.

Key Results

AngII increased KV1.3 channel expression in mice aorta and peritoneal macrophages which was abolished by HsTX[R14A] treatment. KV1.3 inhibition did not prevent hypertension, vascular remodelling, or stiffness but corrected AngII‐induced macrophage infiltration and endothelial dysfunction in the small mesenteric arteries and/or aorta, via a mechanism independent of electrophysiological changes in VSMCs. AngII modified the electrophysiological properties of peritoneal macrophages, indicating an M1‐like activated state, with enhanced expression of proinflammatory cytokines that induced endothelial dysfunction. These effects were prevented by KV1.3 blockade.

Conclusions and Implications

We unravelled a new role for KV1.3 channels in the macrophage‐dependent endothelial dysfunction induced by AngII in mice which might be due to modulation of macrophage phenotype.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of the ant community in a dry forest differ by vertical strata but not by successional stage
Authors: Neves Frederico S. , Antoniazzi Reuber , Camarota Flávio , Pacelhe Fábio T. , Powell Scott
Published: February 2021

Ants are diverse and ecologically important organisms in tropical forests, where their spatiotemporal distribution can be highly complex. This complexity arises mainly from marked differences in microclimatic conditions and resource availability through space and time that is even more evident in highly seasonal environments, such as tropical dry forests. However, it is unclear how seasonality interacts with other factors that might shape temporal variation of ant composition (β‐diversity), like vertical strata and habitat disturbance. Our goal was to examine the potential influence of vertical stratification and the successional stage on the spatiotemporal variation of a tropical dry forest's ant species composition. We assessed whether species turnover or nestedness was the main component determining the spatiotemporal β‐diversity of ant communities across the canopy and litter strata. We sampled canopy and litter ants in ten plots, half in the early and half on the late stage of secondary succession at four times, twice in wet and twice in dry season. A high species turnover defined the spatiotemporal β‐diversity of canopy and litter ant communities across years and seasons in our focal dry forests. Importantly, the temporal ant species composition was much more stable in the canopy than in the litter. Moreover, we found that the ant community's temporal dynamics was consistently high across successional stages, not differing in the temporal β‐diversity between early and late succession. Our results provide valuable insights into the potential underlying causes of community assembly and spatiotemporal dynamics in seasonal habitats, like the highly threatened and diverse tropical dry forests.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Call variation of Crested Francolin (Dendroperdix sephaena) across Africa defies the effects of spatial gradients
Authors: Van Niekerk Johann H. , Megía‐Palma Rodrigo , Forcina Giovanni
Published: February 2021

The study of intraspecific geographical variation of non‐passerine vocalizations remains under‐studied, especially in African species. We explored spatial patterns in call variation of the Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena across its wide sub‐Saharan distribution in Africa. We extracted and compared 152 pair duets from 44 recordings encompassing four D. sephaena subspecies and, in the field, played back each subspecies’ vocalizations to 15 D. s. sephaena and three D. s. zambesiae males to document their behaviour. We recorded strong responses to con‐subspecific calls and weak responses to hetero‐subspecific calls, especially towards D. s. grantii and D. s. rovuma. This indicates that intraspecific vocal variability in D. sephaena is not clinal but spatially discrete, and strictly reflects subspecies affiliation (albeit with more similar vocal features among geographically neighbouring subspecies). Vocal variation in D. sephaena may have evolved under palaeoclimatic events that fragmented its former range and promoted allopatric diversification before a re‐expansion into partial sympatry.
Longitudinal associations of total and trunk fat in childhood and adolescence and risk of hepatic steatosis at 24 years
Authors: Cohen Catherine C. , Sekkarie Ahlia , Figueroa Janet , Gillespie Scott E. , Vos Miriam B. , Welsh Jean A.
Published: February 2021

Background

The importance of body fat distribution in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is unclear.

Objective

To examine whether total and truncal fat deposition patterns in childhood/adolescence are associated with NAFLD risk at 24 years.

Methods

Data were from 1657 participants in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. Transient elastography was used to assess hepatic steatosis (low/moderate/severe) at 24 years and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry was used to assess total body fat percent (TBF%) and trunk fat percent (TrF%) at 9, 13, 15, 17, and/or 24 years. Linear mixed models were constructed with quadratic age to examine trajectories of TBF% and TrF% by steatosis at 24 years, adjusting for confounders.

Results

In both sexes, TBF% trajectories from 9 to 24 years followed a similar pattern based on steatosis group (P = .83 for boys and P = .14 for girls for age2*steatosis fixed effect). However, at all ages TBF% was higher for moderate/severe vs low steatosis at 24 years (P < .05). In contrast, TrF% trajectories diverged based on steatosis group (P = .001 for boys and P = .0002 for girls for age2*steatosis fixed effect), such that, in both sexes, participants with moderate/severe steatosis at 24 yrs exhibited less decline in TrF% from adolescence to adulthood compared to participants with low steatosis at 24 yrs. Similar to TBF%, TrF% was higher at nearly all ages for moderate/severe vs low steatosis. Results were similar after adjusting for BMI category at each age, except in boys some differences for TrF% were attenuated.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that sex‐specific body fat distribution patterns in childhood/adolescence may help to identify those at risk of developing NAFLD in adulthood.
Reliability of the tools used to examine psychological distress, fear of COVID‐19 and coping amongst migrants and non‐migrants in Australia
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Aziz , Salehin Masudus , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Alif Sheikh M. , Sultana Farhana , Sharif Ahmed , Hoque Nazmul , Nazim Nashrin Binte , Cross Wendy M.
Published: February 2021

Study tools examining psychological distress, fear of COVID‐19 and coping amongst migrants and non‐migrants in Australia are very limited. The aim of this research was to assess the psychometric properties and correlation of the English version of Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K‐10), Fear of COVID‐19 Scale (FCSV‐19S), and Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS) tools during the COVID‐19 pandemic situation in Australia. Data from a cross‐sectional survey (n = 516) were utilized to examine reliability; 299 (57.9%) were migrants. High internal consistency, as evidenced by Cronbach’s alpha, was found for the K‐10 (0.92), FCV‐19S (0.87) and BRCS (0.66) tools. The corresponding values for migrants and non‐migrants were (0.92, 0.87, 0.67) and (0.92, 0.86, 0.63), respectively. Item‐total correlations ranged 0.57‐0.78 for K‐10, 0.62–0.69 for FCV‐19S, and 0.39–0.50 for BRCS tools. EFA retained a single factor for each tool with adequate factor loadings. The scoring of K‐10 was significantly predicted by the scoring of FCV‐19S (r = 0.284, P < 0.001) and BRCS tool (r = 0.132, P < 0.01). Therefore, these tools can be used reliably amongst both migrant and non‐migrant population in Australia.
What the habitat amount hypothesis does and does not predict: A reply to Saura
Authors: Fahrig Lenore
Published: February 2021

Saura (2020) used the habitat amount hypothesis (HAH) to predict negative effects of fragmentation per se on mean species density per site over a region. This prediction is valid but incomplete; the HAH can also predict positive effects of fragmentation on mean species density per site over a region. Saura also stated, "the HAH is compatible with a steeper slope of the species–area relationship for fragmented than for continuous habitat, and with higher species richness for a single large patch than for several small patches with the same total area (SLOSS)." Importantly, the HAH does not predict species‐area relationship (SAR) slopes or SLOSS. These require information about how species composition changes over space, while the HAH only predicts species density per site. The HAH is therefore equally compatible with a steeper or shallower SAR slope for fragmented than continuous habitat, and the HAH is equally compatible with either outcome of SLOSS.
Grey matter alterations in restless legs syndrome: A coordinate‐based meta‐analysis
Authors: Sheng LiQin , Zhao PanWen , Ma HaiRong , Qi Liang , Yi ZhongQuan , Shi YuanYuan , Zhong JianGuo , Shi HaiCun , Dai ZhenYu , Pan PingLei
Published: February 2021

Brain structural abnormalities in idiopathic restless legs syndrome have long been debated. Voxel‐based morphometry is an objective structural magnetic resonance imaging technique to investigate regional grey matter volume or density differences between groups. In the last decade, voxel‐based morphometry studies have exhibited inconsistent and conflicting findings regarding the presence and localization of brain grey matter alterations in restless legs syndrome. We therefore conducted a coordinate‐based meta‐analysis to quantitatively examine whether there were consistent grey matter findings in restless legs syndrome using the latest algorithms, seed‐based d mapping with permutation of subject images. We included 12 voxel‐based morphometry studies (13 datasets, 375 patients and 385 healthy controls). Our coordinate‐based meta‐analysis did not identify evidence of consistent grey matter alterations in restless legs syndrome. Grey matter alterations via voxel‐based morphometry analysis are not therefore recommended to be used as a reliable surrogate neuroimaging marker for restless legs syndrome. This lack of consistency may be attributed to differences in sample size, genetics, gender distribution and age at onset, clinical heterogeneity (clinical course, anatomical distribution of symptoms, disease severity, disease duration, abnormal sensory profiles and comorbidity), and variations in imaging acquisition, data processing and statistical strategies. Longitudinal studies with multimodal neuroimaging techniques are needed to determine whether structural changes are dynamic and secondary to functional abnormalities.
Effect of Pause Versus Rebound Techniques on Neuromuscular and Functional Performance After a Prolonged Velocity-Based Training
Authors: Martínez-Cava Alejandro , Hernández-Belmonte Alejandro , Courel-Ibáñez Javier , Conesa-Ros Elena , Morán-Navarro Ricardo , Pallarés Jesús G.
Published: February 2021

Purpose: A variation of the traditional squat (SQ) rebound technique (REBOUND) including a momentary pause ∼2 seconds (PAUSE) between eccentric and concentric phases has been proposed. Although there is a consensus about the lower acute effects on performance of this PAUSE variant compared with traditional REBOUND technique, no information exists about the differences in longitudinal adaptations of these SQ executions. Methods: A total of 26 men were randomly assigned into the PAUSE (n = 13) or REBOUND (n = 13) groups and completed a 10-week velocity-based training using the SQ exercise, only differing in the technique. Neuromuscular adaptations were assessed by the changes in the 1-repetition maximum strength and mean propulsive velocity achieved against the absolute loads (in kilograms) common to pretest and posttest. Functional performance was evaluated by the following tests: countermovement jump, Wingate, and sprint time at 0 to 10, 10 to 20, and 0 to 20 m. Results: Whereas both groups showed significant increases in most of the neuromuscular tests (P < .05), the PAUSE (effect size [ES] = 0.76–1.12) presented greater enhancements than REBOUND (ES = 0.45–0.92). Although not significant, improvements in Wingate and sprint time at 0 to 10 and 0 to 20 m were higher for PAUSE (ES = 0.31–0.46) compared with REBOUND (ES = 0.10–0.29). Conversely, changes on countermovement jump and sprint time at 10 to 20 m were superior for REBOUND (ES = 0.17–0.88) than for PAUSE (ES = 0.09–0.75). Conclusion: Imposing a pause between eccentric and concentric phases in the SQ exercise could be an interesting strategy to increase neuromuscular and functional adaptations in sport actions that mainly depend on concentric contractions. Moreover, sport abilities highly dependent on the stretch-shortening cycle could benefit from the REBOUND or a combination of the 2 techniques.
Fairy circles reveal the resilience of self-organized salt marshes
Authors: Zhao Li-Xia , Zhang Kang , Siteur Koen , Li Xiu-Zhen , Liu Quan-Xing , van de Koppel Johan
Published: February 2021

Self-organized fairy circles reveal the resilience of emerging salt marsh ecosystems.
Nitric oxide prevents aortic valve calcification by S-nitrosylation of USP9X to activate NOTCH signaling
Authors: Majumdar Uddalak , Manivannan Sathiyanarayanan , Basu Madhumita , Ueyama Yukie , Blaser Mark C. , Cameron Emily , McDermott Michael R. , Lincoln Joy , Cole Susan E. , Wood Stephen , Aikawa Elena , Lilly Brenda , Garg Vidu
Published: February 2021

The protective role of nitric oxide in calcific aortic valve disease is mediated by S-nitrosylation of proteins.
Open-Inquiry vs. Broadly Relevant Short-Term Research Experiences for Non-Biology Majors
Authors: Hebert Sadie , Blum Jessamina E. , Wassenberg Deena , Marks David , Barry Kate , Cotner Sehoya
Published: February 2021

Undergraduate student participation in course-based research experiences results in many positive outcomes, but there is a lack of evidence demonstrating which elements of a research experience are necessary, especially for non-biology majors. Broad relevance is one element that can be logistically challenging to incorporate into research experiences in large-enrollment courses.
A Multimedia Active Learning Approach to Introducing Human Parasitic Diseases in an Undergraduate Parasitology Course
†
Authors: Ganong Carissa N.
Published: February 2021

Introducing undergraduate students to major human diseases is a key focus of many parasitology courses. Here I present a multifaceted active learning technique that familiarizes students with major human parasitic diseases while simultaneously exposing students to a range of important medical, biological, and ecological concepts.
Isotropic exact solutions in $$F(R,Y,\phi )$$ gravity via Noether symmetries
Authors: Waheed Saira , Nawazish Iqra , Zubair M.
Published: February 2021

The present article investigates the existence of Noether and Noether gauge symmetries of flat Friedman–Robertson–Walker universe model with perfect fluid matter ingredients in a generalized scalar field formulation namely $$f(R,Y,\phi )$$

f
(
R
,
Y
,
ϕ
)

gravity, where R is the Ricci scalar and Y denotes the curvature invariant term defined by $$Y=R_{\alpha \beta }R^{\alpha \beta }$$

Y
=

R

α
β

R

α
β

, while $$\phi $$
ϕ
represents scalar field. For this purpose, we assume different general cases of generic $$f(R,Y,\phi )$$

f
(
R
,
Y
,
ϕ
)

function and explore its possible forms along with field potential $$V(\phi )$$

V
(
ϕ
)

by taking constant and variable coupling function of scalar field $$\omega (\phi )$$

ω
(
ϕ
)

. In each case, we find non-trivial symmetry generator and its related first integrals of motion (conserved quantities). It is seen that due to complexity of the resulting system of Lagrange dynamical equations, it is difficult to find exact cosmological solutions except for few simple cases. It is found that in each case, the existence of Noether symmetries leads to power law form of scalar field potential and different new types of generic function. For the acquired exact solutions, we discuss the cosmology generated by these solutions graphically and discuss their physical significance which favors the accelerated expanding eras of cosmic evolution.
Cosmological solutions in Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet gravity with static curved extra dimensions
Authors: Chirkov Dmitry , Giacomini Alex , Pavluchenko Sergey A. , Toporensky Alexey
Published: February 2021

In this paper we perform systematic investigation of all possible solutions with static compact extra dimensions and expanding three-dimensional subspace (“our Universe”). Unlike previous papers, we consider extra-dimensional subspace to be constant-curvature manifold with both signs of spatial curvature. We provide a scheme how to build solutions in all possible number of extra dimensions and perform stability analysis for the solutions found. Our study suggests that the solutions with negative spatial curvature of extra dimensions are always stable while those with positive curvature are stable for a narrow range of the parameters and the width of this range shrinks with growth of the number of extra dimensions. This explains why in the previous papers we detected compactification in the case of negative curvature but the case of positive curvature remained undiscovered. Another interesting feature which distinguish cases with positive and negative curvatures is that the latter do not coexist with maximally-symmetric solutions (leading to “geometric frustration” of a sort) while the former could – this difference is noted and discussed.
Developing and Validating Clinical Questionnaires
Authors: Rosellini Anthony J. , Brown Timothy A.
Published: February 2021

Coinciding with the development and revision of conceptual models of psychopathology, there has been a proliferation in the number of self-report clinical questionnaires and studies evaluating their psychometric properties. Unfortunately, many clinical measures are constructed and evaluated using suboptimal methods. This review provides current guidelines for the conceptualization, development, and psychometric validation of clinical questionnaires using latent variable methods. A two-stage exploratory-confirmatory framework is provided. The exploratory stage includes item selection and revision, initial structural evaluation, and preliminary tests of concurrent validity (e.g., convergent and discriminant). The confirmatory stage involves replicating factor structure using a more restrictive model, identifying areas of model strain, conducting additional tests of concurrent and predictive validity, and evaluating measurement invariance. Recommendations are provided for ( a) item generation, ( b) how to use different types of exploratory and confirmatory factor models to determine structure, and ( c) evaluating reliability and validity using a latent variable measurement model approach.
Transcriptional and Metabolic Control of Memory B Cells and Plasma Cells
Authors: Ripperger Tyler J. , Bhattacharya Deepta
Published: February 2021

For many infections and almost all vaccines, neutralizing-antibody-mediated immunity is the primary basis and best functional correlate of immunological protection. Durable long-term humoral immunity is mediated by antibodies secreted by plasma cells that preexist subsequent exposures and by memory B cells that rapidly respond to infections once they have occurred. In the midst of the current pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019, it is important to define our current understanding of the unique roles of memory B cells and plasma cells in immunity and the factors that control the formation and persistence of these cell types. This fundamental knowledge is the basis to interpret findings from natural infections and vaccines. Here, we review transcriptional and metabolic programs that promote and support B cell fates and functions, suggesting points at which these pathways do and do not intersect.
A Highly Efficient Nonenzymatic Hydrogen Peroxide Electrochemical Sensor Using Mesoporous Carbon Doped ZnO Nanocomposite
Authors: Rashed Md. A. , Faisal M. , Harraz Farid A. , Jalalah Mohammed , Alsaiari Mabkhoot , Alsareii S. A.
Published: February 2021

Carbon nanomaterial coupled with inorganic semiconductor based metal oxide is a facile route to develop effective electrochemical sensors. Herein, an electrochemical investigation was carried out for selective and sensitive detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) using 5% mesoporous carbon doped ZnO (Meso-C/ZnO) nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The ZnO nanomaterial was synthesized by a F127 structural template agent in a modified sol-gel procedure. Then, a simple ultra-sonication technique was employed to synthesize Meso-C/ZnO nanocomposite. XRD, TEM, FTIR, Raman, and XPS techniques were successfully applied to characterize the as-fabricated nanocomposite. CV and EIS measurements were used to evaluate the electrocatalytic activity of the modified electrode compared to pure ZnO modified GCE and unmodified GCE. The sensing efficiency of the active modified electrode was examined with square wave voltammetry (SWV) technique and the sensor exhibits excellent performance towards the detection of H2O2 in a wide linear concentration range (from 50 μM to 981 μM), with high sensitivity (0.04648 μMμA−1 cm−2), and low limit of detection (6.25 μM). Additionally, the selectivity test using several common interfering species demonstrated excellent anti-interfering ability. Furthermore, the fabricated electrode showed excellent reproducibility and operational stability as well as suitability for the real sample analysis. Thus, this new sensor is considered as very auspicious candidate in several fields of science and industry.
Charge-Plasma Based Cylindrical Nanowire FET for Low-Noise and High Sensing
Authors: Singh Sarabdeep , Raman Ashish
Published: February 2021

A dopingless Cylindrical Nanowire Field Effect Transistor is proposed by implementing the charge plasma technique. The charge plasma technique helped in the necessary doping of the source/drain regions. The significance of using charge plasma based Nanowire FET for low-noise and higher sensing applications is investigated by analyzing the linearity parameters and compared with the Junctionless Nanowire FET. The proposed device is optimized as per the practical conditions by taking the interface trap charges into account. The interface trap charges are considered at the gate oxide-channel interface. The variation of interface trap charge (ITCs) density varies the device performance depending on the ITC polarity. The presence of ITCs can enhance device performance by tweaking the ITCs amplitude with positive polarity. The work function of the source/drain metal for the charge plasma technique is varied to get an optimized value. The higher value of source/drain metal degrades the device performance. The voltage interception point of the proposed device is greater than 5 times the actual value of the input signal. The drain current decreases drastically with the increase of source/drain work function independent of the gate bias.
Understanding the Role of Concentrated Phosphoric Acid Solutions as High-Temperature Silicon Nitride Etchants
Authors: Joseph Tal , White Daniela
Published: February 2021

The ongoing demands for increased storage capacity flash memory in 2D-NAND structures resulted in their replacement by more advanced 3D-NAND structures, with the memory cells made of multiple, vertically stacked silicon oxide/silicon nitride layers. A critical step is selectively etching the silicon nitride films involving a wet etch technique using concentrated phosphoric acid at high temperatures. Concentrated phosphoric acid solutions demonstrate unique behaviors and have particularly high electrical conductivity, but the etching mechanism remains poorly understood. This study investigates the fundamental role of phosphoric acid in the silicon nitride etching and proposes complex active species for the silicon nitride surface protonation and hydroxylation. Characterization methods include 31P-NMR, XPS, FTIR, conductometry, viscometry and ellipsometry. We conclude that the unique performance of concentrated phosphoric acid as silicon nitride etchant results from an anomalously fast proton transport via the Grotthuss diffusion mechanism based on an intramolecular proton transfer driven by easily polarizable, hydrogen bond rearrangements between dissociated molecules as dimers, trimers and triple ions. By contrast, dilute phosphoric acid solutions and other strong protic acids (methanesulfonic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid), at both high and low concentrations exhibit protonic conductivity based on molecular diffusion of the H3O+/H2O/anions as separate entities (classical vehicle mechanism).