bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurological features in infants with congenital heart disease
Authors: Butler Samantha C. , Sadhwani Anjali , Rofeberg Valerie , Cassidy Adam R. , Singer Jayne , Calderon Johanna , Wypij David , Newburger Jane W. , Rollins Caitlin K. ,   Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program at Boston Children’s Hospital Group
Published: December 2021

Aim

To report neurological examination findings at 5 to 12 months of age in infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) and to identify predictors of abnormal neurological examination.

Method

This retrospective observational study included infants who required cardiac surgery at less than 3 months of age and underwent a standard neurological examination from a neurologist in the cardiac neurodevelopmental outpatient clinic between age 5 months and 12 months. Predictors for abnormal neurological examination (concerns on structured developmental history, demographic factors, medical history, and newborn neurodevelopmental assessment) were considered for multivariate regression.

Results

The sample included 127 infants (mean age 7mo 2wks), who underwent first cardiac surgery at 7 days (4–49 interquartile range [IQR]) of age and were seen for a neurological examination in the cardiac neurodevelopmental clinic. Neurological abnormalities were common; 88% of infants had an abnormal neurological examination in at least one domain assessed. The most common abnormalities were abnormal axial (48%) and extremity (44%) tone, mostly hypotonia. Abnormal neurological examination was associated with concerns on the concurrent structured developmental history, genetic condition, extracardiac anomaly, longer length of stay, more than one cardiac surgery, ongoing early intervention services, and abnormalities on newborn neurodevelopmental assessment.

Interpretation

Neurological examination abnormalities are common in infants with CHD after infant heart surgery, supporting the need for early and ongoing therapeutic developmental services and adherence to American Heart Association recommendations for developmental follow‐up for children with CHD.

What this paper adds

Neurological examination abnormalities are common in infants who undergo open‐heart surgery.

Medical complications in infancy increase risk for neurological abnormalities.

Family‐reported concerns on structured developmental history may predict abnormal neurological examination at 5 to 12 months of age.

Abnormal newborn neurodevelopmental assessment may predict abnormal neurological examination at 5 to 12 months of age.
Students’ perception of three‐dimensionally printed teeth in endodontic training
Authors: Kolling Markus , Backhaus Joy , Hofmann Norbert , Keß Stefan , Krastl Gabriel , Soliman Sebastian , König Sarah
Published: December 2021

Introduction

In endodontic education, there is a need for thorough training prior to students embarking on clinical treatment. The aim of this study was to use three‐dimensional printing technology to create a new model and to compare its suitability for training purposes with resin blocks and extracted teeth.

Materials and Methods

Multi‐jet‐modelling (MJM) produced the 3D model replicating a common difficulty in root‐canal morphology. An evaluation study comprising 88 students was run in the sixth semester (summer 2018 and winter 2018/2019). A new questionnaire assessed students’ perception of training models and educational environment. Welch's t‐test analysed significant differences.

Results

The most pronounced differences between models were noted when rating material hardness, radiopacity, root‐canal configuration and suitability for practising. Students estimated their learning outcome as greater with 3D‐printed teeth compared to resin blocks. Three‐dimensionally printed teeth received significantly lower ratings with regard to enthusiasm, the learning of fine motor skills and spatial awareness, when compared to human teeth (p ≤ .001). However, 3D‐printed teeth were appreciated for additional benefits, such as their cleanliness, availability and standardisation of training opportunities with complex root‐canal configurations.

Conclusion

Students preferred extracted human teeth to 3D‐printed teeth with respect to their physical characteristics and training experience. However, educational advantages may compensate for the shortcomings. The new questionnaire proved both adequate and accurate to assess the models and educational environment in endodontic training. The new 3D‐printed teeth enhanced the learning opportunities.
Evaluation of soluble fibrin monomer complex in patients in SARS‐CoV‐2 COVID‐19 infection‐associated coagulopathy
Authors: Sridharan Meera , D. Navitskas Serena , M. Kock Elizabeth , E. Houghton Damon , M. Heikal Nahla , Chen Dong , K. Pruthi Rajiv
Published: December 2021

Hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 infection frequently have coagulopathy resembling disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). An elevation of D‐dimer level is associated with a poor prognosis; however, the role of other fibrin degradation products, such as soluble fibrin monomers (SFMC), is not known.

The objective of the study was to investigate the frequency and prognostic role of elevated SFMC in patients with COVID‐19. In this retrospective cohort study, patients hospitalized between April 1, 2020 and December 14, 2020 at Mayo Clinic with COVID‐19 infection who underwent DIC panel testing were identified. Results of laboratory tests and outcomes (thrombosis and death) within 40 days of testing were obtained via medical record review.

Of 108 patients, D‐dimer was elevated in 82 (75.9%) patients. Of those with elevated D‐dimer, SFMC was elevated in 19/82 (23%) patients. There were 16 thrombotic events and 16 deaths during the 40‐day follow‐up. The incidence of overt‐DIC was 4.6%. In univariate analysis, D‐dimer ≥5 x highest upper limit normal (ULN) and elevated SFMC were each associated with higher 40‐day mortality. However, when used in combination with D‐dimer ≥5 x highest ULN, an elevated SFMC provided no further mortality predictive value.

Compared to 75.9% of patients with elevated D‐dimers, of those tested, only 23% had elevated SFMC. These results support the hypothesis that elevated D‐dimer in COVID‐19 infection is a direct consequence of endothelial damage and not overt‐DIC.
Recruitment and demographic structure of floodplain tree species in the Queensland Murray‐Darling basin, Australia
Authors: Ngugi Michael R. , Neldner Victor J. , Dowling Ralph M. , Li Jiaorong
Published: December 2021

Globally, floodplain and riparian forests are rapidly declining ecosystems due to anthropogenic influences coupled with a changing climate. In the Murray‐Darling Basin, Australia, little is known about the demographic structural status and recruitment of floodplain and riparian tree species. The aim of this study is to provide a baseline assessment of the current demographic structure of the ecosystem‐defining tree species: River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Coolibah (Eucalyptus coolabah), Black Box (Eucalyptus largiflorens) and River Cooba (Acacia stenophylla) within the basin in Queensland. Tree size data were collected from 131 plots of 0.25 ha located along major waterways and the abundance of individuals at the seedling, young tree, mature and senescent life cycle stages was determined. The diameter size distribution for the four species approximated a negative exponential distribution (reverse J‐curve). Low tree abundance in the < 10‐cm diameter class in all the species relative to the reverse J‐curve suggested low recruitment and possible early evidence of a decline in the sustainability of the populations according to the Law of de Liocourt. This low abundance of young trees was more pronounced in Black Box and extended to the < 20‐cm diameter class, but this species was not well replicated, and more data are required. In addition, the low abundance of recruitment trees occurred concurrently with the observed below average rainfall and erratic rainfall distribution in the last two decades relative to long‐term totals. These results suggest a need for management interventions to foster seedling recruitment such as grazing management and tree planting programmes to ensure species establishment and survival along basin waterways.
Lessons learned from small‐scale coral outplanting intervention at a restoration site on the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Cook Nathan , Smith Adam , Songcuan Al , Cassidy Daniel , Sartori Greta , McLeod Ian
Published: December 2021

Scientific, tourism and non‐government organisations collaborated to design and undertake a small‐scale coral outplanting intervention at Fitzroy Island, the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), Cairns, Australia. Activities were implemented to assist recovery of a reef showing signs of reduced coral cover after recent coral bleaching and to trial potential for implementation of work of this kind by community members. In December 2017, 240 coral fragments were collected and deployed on mid‐water coral nursery infrastructure. Ten months later, 96 corals (˜15 cm) were outplanted onto bare sections of the surrounding reef rock at depths of 2–8 m. Monitoring was undertaken to measure changes in coral cover at treatment and control locations to determine the potential of using coral outplanting intervention to assist the recovery of degraded reefs. We found no significant difference in live coral cover between controls and treatment over a 12‐month period. Although statistically insignificant, we observed an increase in live coral cover in treatment plots (9.8%) and control plots (2.2%), indicating natural recovery processes occurring across the reef. Total number of fish species and abundance increased significantly over time. Although the outplanting may not have been needed in this case, as a pilot project and the first coral nursery and active reef restoration project in the GBR Marine Park, the research provided valuable lessons associated with project collaboration and planning, site selection, monitoring and natural recovery vs restoration.
Relative importance of clinical outcomes and safety risks of antiseizure medication monotherapy for patients and physicians: Discrete choice experiment eliciting preferences in real‐world study "VOTE"
Authors: Rosenow Felix , Winter Yaroslav , Leunikava Iryna , Brunnert Marcus , Joeres Lars , Sutphin Jessie , Boeri Marco , Smith Jasmine , Villani Flavio , Brandt Christian
Published: December 2021

Objective

This study was undertaken to elicit patients' preferences for attributes characterizing antiseizure medication (ASM) monotherapy options before treatment consultation, and to explore the trade‐offs patients consider between treatment efficacy and risks of side effects. Further objectives were to explore how treatment consultation may affect patient preferences, to elicit physicians' preferences in selecting treatment, and to compare patient and physician preferences for treatment.

Methods

This prospective, observational study (EP0076; VOTE) included adults with focal seizures requiring a change in their ASM monotherapy. Patients completed a discrete choice experiment (DCE) survey before and after treatment consultation. Physicians completed a similar survey after the consultation. The DCE comprised 12 choices between two hypothetical treatments defined by seven attributes. The conditional relative importance of each attribute was calculated.

Results

Three hundred ten patients (mean [SD] age = 46.8 [18.3] years, 52.3% female) were enrolled from eight European countries, of whom 305 completed the survey before consultation and 273 completed the survey before and after consultation. Overall, this preference study in patients who intended to receive a new ASM monotherapy suggests that patient preferences were ordered as expected, with better outcomes being preferred to worse outcomes; patients preferred a higher chance of seizure freedom, lower risk of developing clinical depression, and fewer severe adverse events; avoiding moderate‐to‐severe “trouble thinking clearly” was more important than avoiding any other side effect. There were qualitative differences in what patients and physicians considered to be the most important aspects of treatment for patients; compared with patients, physicians had a qualitatively stronger preference for greater chance of seizure freedom and avoiding personality changes. Patients' preference weights were qualitatively similar before and after treatment consultation.

Significance

For patients, seizure freedom and avoiding trouble thinking clearly were the most important treatment attributes. Physicians and patients may differ in the emphasis they place on specific attributes.
Family and Consumer Sciences Graduate Research Productivity in 2020
Authors: Wilmarth Melissa J. , Milstead Sarah Morgan
Published: December 2021

The annual collection of graduate student degree completion and research was initiated with an e‐mail to 165 universities and colleges in the United States in June 2021. This invitation requested information on family and consumer sciences graduate programs, specifically degrees and research completed in 2020. Twenty‐five institutions responded reporting a total of 137 master’s theses, 174 doctoral dissertations, and 578 non‐thesis master’s degrees completed in family and consumer sciences in 2020. This article reviews the degree completion as well as trends in topics of theses and dissertations completed within family and consumer sciences programs.
Panic Buying: Modeling What Drives it and How it Deteriorates Emotional Well‐being
Authors: Huan Christine , Park Soona , Kang Jiyun
Published: December 2021

This study develops a panic buying model that explains its driving forces and adverse consequences. The data were collected from 415 U.S. nationwide consumers during the outbreak of the current pandemic and analyzed through structural equation modeling. Results indicated that although social learning through traditional media did not significantly affect consumers’ fearfulness toward product shortage or panic buying, social learning through social media exerts significant effects on both. The results also provide empirical evidence that consumers’ panic buying can trigger them to experience more negative emotions, which proves why such abnormal buying behaviors are an essential matter to be addressed.
Cryo‐EM structure of MsbA in saposin‐lipid nanoparticles (Salipro) provides insights into nucleotide coordination
Authors: Kehlenbeck Dominique‐Maurice , Traore Daouda A.K. , Josts Inokentijs , Sander Simon , Moulin Martine , Haertlein Michael , Prevost Sylvain , Forsyth V. Trevor , Tidow Henning
Published: December 2021

The ATP‐binding cassette transporter MsbA is a lipid flippase, translocating lipid A, glycolipids, and lipopolysaccharides from the inner to the outer leaflet of the inner membrane of Gram‐negative bacteria. It has been used as a model system for time‐resolved structural studies as several MsbA structures in different states and reconstitution systems (detergent/nanodiscs/peptidiscs) are available. However, due to the limited resolution of the available structures, detailed structural information on the bound nucleotides has remained elusive. Here, we have reconstituted MsbA in saposin A–lipoprotein nanoparticles (Salipro) and determined the structure of ADP‐vanadate‐bound MsbA by single‐particle cryo‐electron microscopy to 3.5 Å resolution. This procedure has resulted in significantly improved resolution and enabled us to model all side chains and visualise detailed ADP‐vanadate interactions in the nucleotide‐binding domains. The approach may be applicable to other dynamic membrane proteins.
Factors determining selective predation of the common carp on quagga versus zebra mussels
Authors: Balogh Csilla , Serfőző Zoltán , Kobak Jarosław
Published: December 2021

Selective predation may affect interspecific competition between coexisting prey species. Ponto‐Caspian zebra (Dreissena polymorpha) and quagga mussels (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) have become common components of benthic communities in invaded ecosystems in Europe and North America, where they are exposed to predation by molluscivorous fish.

In a pairwise food selection experiment, we examined whether an efficient predator of dreissenids, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), selects between the two mussel species and, if so, which mussel traits (attachment, shell strength, nutritional value) are responsible for the discrimination. The fish were offered simultaneously the two mussel species in three separate treatments: (1) attached individuals; (2) unattached individuals; and (3) freshly removed soft tissue, as well as in three mussel size classes.

The fish consistently selected quagga over zebra mussels, irrespective of mussel size and attachment status, including even soft tissues of both species. The success rate of fish attacks did not differ between the prey species. Smaller mussels were easier to crush and swallow, but more difficult to detach from the substratum.

Thus, although interspecific differences in attachment and shell strength existed (small and medium zebra mussels had stronger shells and were more strongly attached than corresponding quagga mussels), these traits did not affect fish preferences. However, the differences in chemical composition of the body—the glycogen content (higher in large quagga vs. zebra mussels) and the caloric content (higher in small and medium quagga vs. zebra mussels)—were responsible for fish selection.

The higher predatory pressure on the quagga versus zebra mussel suggests that differential predation is not a likely reason for the displacement of zebra by quagga mussels, currently occurring in many European and North American ecosystems. Thus, this phenomenon must be driven by other traits making the quagga mussel more competitive.
Reduced ecosystem resilience quantifies fine‐scale heterogeneity in tropical forest mortality responses to drought
Authors: Wu Donghai , Vargas G. German , Powers Jennifer S. , McDowell Nate G. , Becknell Justin M. , Pérez‐Aviles Daniel , Medvigy David , Liu Yanlan , Katul Gabriel G. , Calvo‐Alvarado Julio César , Calvo‐Obando Ana , Sanchez‐Azofeifa Arturo , Xu Xiangtao
Published: December 2021

Sensitivity of forest mortality to drought in carbon‐dense tropical forests remains fraught with uncertainty, while extreme droughts are predicted to be more frequent and intense. Here, the potential of temporal autocorrelation of high‐frequency variability in Landsat Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), an indicator of ecosystem resilience, to predict spatial and temporal variations of forest biomass mortality is evaluated against in situ census observations for 64 site‐year combinations in Costa Rican tropical dry forests during the 2015 ENSO drought. Temporal autocorrelation, within the optimal moving window of 24 months, demonstrated robust predictive power for in situ mortality (leave‐one‐out cross‐validation R2 = 0.54), which allows for estimates of annual biomass mortality patterns at 30 m resolution. Subsequent spatial analysis showed substantial fine‐scale heterogeneity of forest mortality patterns, largely driven by drought intensity and ecosystem properties related to plant water use such as forest deciduousness and topography. Highly deciduous forest patches demonstrated much lower mortality sensitivity to drought stress than less deciduous forest patches after elevation was controlled. Our results highlight the potential of high‐resolution remote sensing to “fingerprint” forest mortality and the significant role of ecosystem heterogeneity in forest biomass resistance to drought.
Systemic innate immune response induces death of olfactory receptor neurons in Drosophila
Authors: Takeuchi Ken‐ichi , Honda Daichi , Okumura Misako , Miura Masayuki , Chihara Takahiro
Published: December 2021

Neural functions are known to decline during normal aging and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the mechanisms of functional impairment owing to the normal aging of the brain are poorly understood. Previously, we reported that caspase‐3‐like protease, the protease responsible for inducing apoptosis, is activated in a subset of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs), especially in Drosophila Or42b neurons, during normal aging. Herein, we investigated the molecular mechanism underlying age‐related caspase‐3‐like protease activation and cell death in Or42b neurons. Gene expression profiling of young and aged fly antenna showed that the expression of antimicrobial peptides was significantly upregulated, suggesting an activated innate immune response. Consistent with this observation, inhibition or activation of the innate immune pathway caused delayed or precocious cell death, respectively, in Or42b neurons. Accordingly, autonomous cell activation of the innate immune pathway in Or42b neurons is not likely required for their age‐related death, whereas the systemic innate immune response induces caspase‐3‐like protease activation in Or42b neurons; this indicated that the death of these neurons is regulated non‐cell autonomously. We propose a possible link between the innate immune response and the death of olfactory neurons during normal aging.
A feasible strategy for tailoring stable spray‐coated electrolyte layer in micro‐tubular solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Abarzua Gonzalo , Udayabhaskar Rednam , Mangalaraja Ramalinga Viswanathan , Durango‐Petro Jorge , Usuba Jonathan , Flies Host
Published: December 2021

By this work, the viability of the spray coating as a cost‐effective and reliable technique for the coating of Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95 (GDC) electrolyte layer on the mini‐tubular NiO–GDC anodes based a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) fabrication was assessed. The compatibility of the anode and electrolyte was analyzed by using XRD. The variation in thickness and morphology of the electrolyte film as a function of the coating cycles was discussed with optical and scanning electron microscopes. By similar formulation, the coating of La0.6Sr0.4Fe0.8Co0.2O3 –Ce0.9Gd0.1O2–δ (LSCF–GDC) was performed to achieve porous cathode. An individual micro‐tubular anode supported cell with configuration NiO–GDC/GDC/LSCF–GDC as anode/electrolyte/cathode was tested in the SOFC mode with humidified hydrogen as fuel and stationary air as oxidant. The fabricated mini‐SOFC prototype that generated a maximum power density of 0.510 W/cm2 at 600°C signifies the potential of this industrially scalable low‐cost coating technique.
Effect of nonthermal plasma treatment on surface roughness and bond strength between veneer ceramic and zirconia core
Authors: Yılmaz Savaş Tuba , Akın Ceyda
Published: December 2021

This in vitro study evaluated the effect of nonthermal plasma (NTP) treatment on the surface roughness (Ra) of the zirconia and the shear bond strength (SBS) between the veneer ceramic and the zirconia. Ninety zirconia specimens were divided into six groups according to the surface treatments applied: control with no treatment; sandblasting with 50‐μm Al2O3 particles; oxygen plasma treated for 5 min; oxygen plasma treated for 10 min; argon plasma treated for 5 min; and argon plasma treated for 10 min. Ra values were measured using a profilometer. Specimens (n = 12) were then veneered with a nano‐fluorapatite ceramic, and the SBS test was performed. Scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction analyses were performed. The sandblasting procedure significantly increased the surface roughness; however, the plasma groups showed similar Ra values compared to the control group. NTP and sandblasting treatment significantly increased the bond strength and led to higher SBS values than the control. Plasma application did not induce phase transformation; however, sandblasting caused monoclinic phase transformation of the zirconia. NTP application (either oxygen or argon) can enhance the bond strength between the veneer ceramic and the zirconia core without altering the surface morphology or causing zirconia phase transformation.
The distributed practice effects of speaking task repetition
Authors: Kobayashi Manami
Published: December 2021

This study examined the distributed practice effects on L2 speaking task repetition (TR). Previous research indicated that speaking TR has beneficial effects on learners’ later speech. To examine the distributed practice effects on learners’ second repetition and post‐repetition speech, 38 university students were engaged in cartoon narrations. The procedure included: a pre‐test, two repetition tasks with a 1‐week intersession interval (spaced practice group) or without an interval (massed practice group), and a post‐test. The grammatical complexity, grammatical accuracy, fluency, and lexical variety of learners’ performances were examined using ANCOVA. The lexical variety scores increased more in the spaced practice group than the massed practice group in the pre‐ and post‐test comparisons, indicating that spaced TR may induce lexical variety in post‐repetition speech.
Effects of extracellular proteases and its inhibitors on the gel characteristics of soy protein induced by lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Ren Yiming , Li Liang
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to analyse the relationship between extracellular protease activity and gel characteristics of soybean protein gel induced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB), the influence of protease inhibition on the gel characteristics was discussed through SDS‐PAGE, rheological properties and microstructure. The results showed that the pH value of Lactobacillus casei decreased slowly, but the gel could be formed at 2 h, maybe its higher extracellular protease activity improved the gel characteristics. The addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (10 mmol L−1) reduced the gel quality, when the protease activity was inhibited, the gel quality would decrease, even if there were macromolecular crosslinkers in the system. This study showed that extracellular protease had an important influence on gel characteristics and provided a theoretical basis for the application of protease producing LAB in fermentation‐induced soybean gel foods.
Gelation behaviour of fish skin gelatin in the presence of methanol‐water and ethanol‐water solvent system
Authors: Lu Jinpei , Fang Qi , Ma Nao , Yang Wenge , Zhang Lingyue , Huang Tao
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the different concentrations of methanol and ethanol (5%‐40%, v/v) on the gel, rheological and structural properties of fish skin gelatin (FG). The results showed that lower contents of both methanol and ethanol (5%‐15%, v/v) increased gel strength, hardness and chewiness of FG gels. Rheological results showed that the viscosity of methanol‐water‐induced FG increased from 0.32 to 5.20 Pa·s with increased concentration of methanol, whereas an opposite trend was found for the ethanol‐water‐induced ones. Compared with ethanol‐water‐indued FG gels, methanol‐water‐induced gels present lower gelation times, and higher gel properties, because of the formation of more hydrogen bonds during gelation. Lower contents of methanol significantly unfold gelatin with the increase in β‐sheets. Finally, the mechanism of methanol‐ and ethanol‐induced FG gelation was updated. This research can serve as a guide for semi‐solid food which contains alcohol and medicinal products.
The influence of the fortification of red pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) powder on the in vitro digestion, physical parameters, nutritional profile, polyphenols and antioxidant activity in the oat‐wheat bread
Authors: Huang Yanyi , He Mengya , Kasapis Stefan , Brennan Margaret , Brennan Charles
Published: December 2021

This study evaluated the physical parameters, polyphenol profile and antioxidant activity before and after the in vitro digestion of red pitaya powder‐enriched oat‐wheat bread compared to plain wheat bread, oat‐wheat bread and red pitaya powder. The enrichment of red pitaya powder significantly increased the polyphenol, mineral contents, insoluble dietary fibre, firmness and moisture content of oat‐wheat bread compared to wheat bread, while contributed to a minor reduction in bread volume and dough extensibility due to gluten dilution. The oat‐wheat bread was found to have the lowest predicted glycaemic response, but 5%, 10% and 15% red pitaya powder formulated oat‐wheat bread showed a significantly lower glycaemic response than plain wheat bread as well as red pitaya powder.
Experiences of nurses diagnosed with COVID‐19 in Turkey: A qualitative study
Authors: Aydin Ruveyde , Bulut Enes
Published: December 2021

Aims

This study examined the experiences of nurses diagnosed with COVID‐19 under the guidance of Meleis’ Transitions Theory.

Background

Nurses, who make up the majority of healthcare professionals, are struggling with COVID‐19, a silent war, on the front lines at the cost of their lives. The pandemic has deeply affected nurses’ lives, and hundreds of nurses around the world have been diagnosed with COVID‐19 and died.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative approach was used in this study. Data were collected from 18 nurses who experienced COVID‐19 symptoms, with a semistructured interview form prepared based on Meleis’ Transitions Theory concepts. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a thematic analysis technique. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used in the study.

Results

The six themes that emerged in the data analysis were emotions experienced when nurses tested positive for COVID‐19, emotions experienced during the quarantine process, posttraumatic growth, methods of coping with COVID‐19, nursing care after COVID‐19 treatment, and metaphors about COVID‐19.

Conclusion

This study showed that being diagnosed with COVID‐19 caused nurses to have both positive (posttraumatic growth, empathic and psychosocial nursing care) and negative experiences (fear of death, stigma, etc.). They tried to cope with adverse situations due to COVID‐19 by obtaining social support, thinking positively, and engaging in domestic activities.

Implications for nursing and health policy

To reduce COVID‐19‐related physical and psychological symptoms, appropriate policies should be developed for effective and rapid nursing workforce planning, extending the time allocated for postdiagnosis treatment, updating infection control and prevention guides, training nurses, and providing ongoing psychosocial counseling services that nurses can access.
Customer concentration of targets in mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Cheng Mei , Jaggi Jacob , Young Spencer
Published: December 2021

We study how the customer concentration of targets impacts the occurrence and structure of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). We hypothesize and find that acquirers respond to customer concentration‐related risk by placing fewer bids for targets with greater customer concentration and by using more stock payment in their offers. These relations vary predictably with major customer‐related uncertainty. Our findings extend the literature by documenting an important risk factor in M&A and by quantifying the economic consequences of customer concentration.
Zero‐fluoroscopy ablation in patients with cardiac electronic implantable devices
Authors: Shimamoto Keiko , Yamagata Kenichiro , Wakamiya Akinori , Ueda Nobuhiko , Kamakura Tsukasa , Wada Mitsuru , Inoue‐Yamada Yuko , Miyamoto Koji , Nagase Satoshi , Kusano Kengo F.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Utilizing a three‐dimensional (3‐D) mapping system and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has allowed ablation procedures with less or without fluoroscopy; however, there is limited data for patients with cardiac electronic implantable device (CIED) leads regarding the suspected risk of lead injury. Therefore, we sought to explore technics to perform safe trans‐septal approach and catheter manipulation technique in patients with CIED leads.

Methods and Results

This study comprised 49 consecutive patients (59% males, median 73 years old) with CIED who underwent catheter ablation for supraventricular tachycardia requiring the trans‐septal approach, 15 without fluoroscopy (zero‐fluoro group), and 34 with fluoroscopy (conventional‐fluoro group), between July 2019 and April 2021. All procedures were performed under a 3‐D mapping system and ICE guidance. We compared the differences in treatment and development of complications between the two groups. The procedures were for atrial fibrillation (82%) and atrial tachycardia (76%). Coronary sinus catheter insertion and the trans‐septal procedure were successfully performed in all patients. The median time from venipuncture to trans‐septal procedure (zero‐fluoro vs. conventional‐fluoro group: 28 [18–37] min vs. 24 [21–31] min, p = .70), total procedure time (231 [142–274] min vs. 175 [163–225] min, p = .63), and the acute procedural success rate (100% vs. 97%, p = 1.00) did not differ between both groups. No patient showed lead‐related complications in both groups.

Conclusion

This is the first study to show zero‐fluoro ablation for supraventricular arrhythmia using 3‐D mapping and ICE in patients with CIED leads was feasible under careful catheter manipulation.
Axis deviation in nonischemic cardiomyopathy with left bundle branch block: Insights from left bundle branch pacing
Authors: Ponnusamy Shunmuga Sundaram , Vijayaraman Pugazhendhi
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Biventricular pacing has shown excellent results in patients with heart failure and left bundle branch block (LBBB). Studies have shown that the patients with abnormal axis deviation may benefit less from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) as compared to those with the normal axis. The exact reason for left axis deviation (LAD) in LBBB is not known but could be due to diseased left anterior fascicle, left ventricular enlargement, or due to advanced electrical remodeling.

Methods

The aim of the study was to analyze the incidence of LAD in nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) with LBBB and the clinical outcomes following left bundle branch pacing (LBBP).

Results

We have included 64 consecutive patients with NICM and LBBB, who underwent successful LBBP. Patients were divided into two groups—Group I with baseline normal axis (n = 40; 63%) and Group II with LAD (n = 24; 37%). The mean axis changed from +23.6 ± 28.8° at baseline to +16.5 ± 35.1° and from −40.4 ± 10.3° at baseline to 7.08 ± 41.1° after LBBP in Group I and Group II, respectively. LBBP retained the normal axis in 93% of Group I patients and normalized the axis in 75% of Group II patients. The percentage changes in QRS duration, left ventricular ejection fraction, and left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter were similar in both the groups (+40% vs. +32%; p = .52, +64% vs. +50%; p = 0.34, −8% vs. −6%; p = .76, respectively). Capturing the proximal LBB would correct the LAD by recruitment of left anterior fascicles and pacing proximal to the site of the septal breakthrough of the right bundle branch activation wavefront during LBBB.

Conclusion

LBBP as an alternative strategy for CRT could result in similar improvement in LBBB patients with LAD as in those with the normal axis.
Local impedance for the optimization of radiofrequency lesion delivery: A review of bench and clinical data
Authors: Chu Gavin S. , Calvert Peter , Futyma Piotr , Ding Wern Yew , Snowdon Richard , Gupta Dhiraj
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Radiofrequency catheter ablation is a cornerstone of treatment for many cardiac arrhythmias. Progression in three‐dimensional mapping and contact‐force sensing technologies have improved our capability to achieve success, but challenges still remain.

Methods

In this article, we discuss the importance of overall circuit impedance in radiofrequency lesion formation. This is followed by a review of the literature regarding recently developed “local impedance” technology and its current and future potential applications and limitations, in the context of established surrogate markers currently used to infer effective ablation.

Results

We discuss the role of local impedance in assessing myocardial substrate, as well as its role in clinical studies of ablation. We also discuss safety considerations, limitations and ongoing research.

Conclusion

Local impedance is a novel tool which has the potential to tailor ablation in a manner distinct from other established metrics.
Brazilian invasion and dispersion routes of the cotton boll weevil
Authors: Marquesini Cristina Jensen Vasconcelos , Maggio Daniela Hipólito , Guedes Raul Narciso Carvalho , Correa Alberto Soares
Published: December 2021

The cotton boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is the major insect pest of cotton in the Americas. Although the demographic and dispersion patterns of the cotton boll weevil in the USA and Mexico were well characterized, in Brazil the information is scarce and does not include the main cotton‐producing regions of the country. Thus, our objective was to apply a phylogeographic approach sequencing a gene fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) to estimate the genetic diversity, identify the genetic strains, and describe the dispersion routes of the cotton boll weevil in the Brazilian territory. The COI marker revealed a low genetic diversity of the cotton boll weevil with only two haplotypes in Brazil. The haplotypes are genetically related to individuals from the eastern region of the USA and Mexico, which suggests a recent invasion event in Brazil. The genetic structure of COI haplotypes indicates a low dispersion of boll weevils between north/northeast and midwest/southeast regions of Brazil. The genetic drift and low gene flow during the insect expansion explain the COI haplotype distribution. The genetic structure of the cotton boll weevil in Brazil is novel information and provides valuable insight for the design of suitable pest management practices against this key pest species in the country.
Dietary habits in Australian, New Zealand and Malaysian patients with end stage kidney failure: A pre‐specified cross‐sectional study of the FAVOURED trial participants
Authors: Conley Marguerite , Barden Anne , Viecelli Andrea K. , Irish Ashley B. , Cass Alan , Hawley Carmel M. , Voss David , Pascoe Elaine M. , Lenhoff Katie , Polkinghorne Kevan R. , Hooi Lai‐Seong , Ong Loke‐Meng , Paul‐Brent Peta‐Anne , Kerr Peter G. , Mori Trevor A. ,   the FAVOURED Trial Investigator Team
Published: December 2021

Background

Dietary management plays an important role in patients with kidney failure. Current dietary habits of Australians and New Zealanders (ANZ) and Malaysians with chronic kidney disease (CKD Stage 4–5) have not been adequately investigated. We report the dietary habits of people with advanced CKD and their adherence to country‐specific dietary guidelines.

Methods

Participants with CKD Stage 4–5, enrolled in the Omega‐3 Fatty Acids (Fish oils) and Aspirin in Vascular access Outcomes in Renal Disease (FAVOURED) trial, completed a lifestyle questionnaire at baseline on their dietary intake.

Results

Of 567 participants, 538 (ANZ, n = 386; Malaysian, n = 152; mean ± SD age 54.8 ± 14.3 years, 64% male) completed the questionnaire. Dietary fruit and vegetable intakes were higher in ANZ participants; 49% (n = 189) consumed ≥2 serves day–1 of fruit and 61% (n = 235) ate ≥2 serves day–1 of vegetables compared to 24% (n = 36) and 34% (n = 52) of Malaysians, respectively (p < 0.0001). Only 4% (n = 15) of ANZ participants met Australian Dietary recommendations of two fruit and five vegetable serves day–1. Fish consumption was higher in Malaysians with 83% (n = 126) consuming ≥2 serves week–1 compared to 21% (n = 81) of ANZ participants (p < 0.001). Red meat intake was higher in ANZ participants; however, chicken consumption was similar; 48% (n = 185) consumed >2 chicken serves week–1 and 65% (n = 251) ate >2 serves week–1 of red meat compared to 43% (n = 65) and 15% (n = 23) of Malaysians, respectively.

Conclusions

Significant regional variation in dietary intake for fruit, vegetables and animal protein is described that likely reflects cultural and economic differences. Barriers to meeting recommended dietary intakes require further investigation.
Assessment of the self‐healing capacity of cementitious materials through active thin sections
Authors: Rossi Emanuele , Romero Rodriguez Claudia , Jonkers Henk , Çopuroğlu Oğuzhan
Published: December 2021

Since self‐healing of cementitious materials can theoretically improve the service‐life of concrete structures, it has gathered significant attention from both researchers and industry during the last two decades. Many researchers have proposed different methods to assess and quantify the self‐healing capacity (i.e. the ability of cementitious materials to heal cracks) that is generated in concrete autogenously as well as autonomously. Even though many methodologies can be found in the literature, a way to accurately quantify the healing products produced by any self‐healing mechanism has not been yet achieved. In this study, a methodology is proposed to observe and to quantify in‐time formation of healing products based on active thin sections. Thin sections of Portland cement paste have been prepared with no epoxy impregnation to facilitate reactions between the cement matrix and the surrounding environment. Artificial cracks (260 μm wide) were induced at 28 days of age and the crystal growth was continuously monitored up to 28 days of self‐healing. Through image analysis of the micrographs, it was calculated that the autogenous self‐healing capacity of paste (triggered by portlandite carbonation in uncontrolled indoor conditions) was around 55% after 28 days of self‐healing. Healing products were further characterised through Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope analysis. Based on the results obtained in this study, the proposed methodology seems to be promising to compare the self‐healing mechanisms triggered by different healing agents.
Fragmented habitats and Pleistocene climate shaped diversification of the hoary bamboo rat (Rhizomys pruinosus) in the mountainous plateau of SW China
Authors: Gao Yong , Yan Yue‐Hui , Yin Si , Yu Long , Zhu Lei , Ding Xue‐Mei , Zhang Ya‐Nan , Chen Huan‐Huan , Tang Li‐Jun , Li Zhu‐Mei , Chu Hong‐Long , Shi Xiao‐Dong , Zou Zheng‐Rong , Tang Li‐Zhou
Published: December 2021

The southwest mountainous region of China has been characterized as one of the worldwide biodiversity hotspots, but mechanisms underlying diversification of organisms in this region are still not clear. We assessed whether fragmented mountainous habitats and Pleistocene climate changes impacted the genetic diversity and diversification patterns of the hoary bamboo rat (Rhizomys pruinosus Blyth), a widely distributed species of rodent in SW China. Genetic diversity analyses were undertaken based on four mitochondrial DNA regions and 12 nuclear microsatellite loci (simple sequence repeats), representing 153 individuals from 24 populations across SW China. Moreover, we investigated correlations between genotype and geographical components, and predicted species distribution models for R. pruinosus under the historical and present climate conditions. Both mitochondrial DNA and simple sequence repeat markers revealed substantial genetic diversity and strong differentiation between populations. Phylogeographical analyses revealed two phylogenetic clades that were consistent with their geographical distributions (eastern and western clades). We inferred that the divergence of R. pruinosus was largely driven by Quaternary climatic oscillations and regionally fragmented mountainous habitats with environmental and geographical heterogeneity. Overall, our study revealed diversification patterns of R. pruinosus—patterns that may be shared by small alpine vertebrates in SW China.
Expiratory activity during sleep in children
Authors: Saini Jasmeen K. , Janes Tara. A. , MacLean Joanna E. , Pagliardini Silvia
Published: December 2021

Sleep irregularities and respiratory events (apnea, O2 desaturation or a combination thereof) are often present in the infant population. While inspiration is the main active process in the act of breathing, expiration is generally thought to occur passively. Although commonly considered as quiet during sleep, expiratory abdominal muscles have been proposed to be recruited to promote ventilation, facilitate gas exchange, and reduce the work of breathing during conditions of increased respiratory drive, exercise, or airway obstruction. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of expiratory abdominal muscle activity in polysomnographic studies of subjects (aged 0–2 years) suspected of sleep disordered breathing. Our results indicate that abdominal muscle activation occurs during sleep, most frequently during non‐rapid eye movement and rapid‐eye movement states compared to slow‐wave sleep. Furthermore, abdominal muscle activity was present during regular breathing or associated with respiratory events (apneas or O2 desaturation). In the latter case, abdominal muscle recruitment more frequently followed the onset of respiratory events and terminated with recovery from blood O2 desaturation events. We conclude that expiratory abdominal muscle activity contributes to the pattern of respiratory muscle recruitment during sleep in infants and given its temporal relationship with respiratory events, we propose that its recruitment could facilitate proper ventilation by counteracting airway resistance and O2 desaturation in infancy across different stages of sleep.
The plasma membrane H+‐ATPase FgPMA1 regulates the development, pathogenicity, and phenamacril sensitivity of Fusarium graminearum by interacting with FgMyo‐5 and FgBmh2
Authors: Wu Luoyu , Yuan Zhili , Wang Pengwei , Mao Xuewei , Zhou Mingguo , Hou Yiping
Published: December 2021

Fusarium graminearum, as the causal agent of Fusarium head blight (FHB), not only causes yield loss, but also contaminates the quality of wheat by producing mycotoxins, such as deoxynivalenol (DON). The plasma membrane H+‐ATPases play important roles in many growth stages in plants and yeasts, but their functions and regulation in phytopathogenic fungi remain largely unknown. Here we characterized two plasma membrane H+‐ATPases: FgPMA1 and FgPMA2 in F. graminearum. The FgPMA1 deletion mutant (∆FgPMA1), but not FgPMA2 deletion mutant (∆FgPMA2), was impaired in vegetative growth, pathogenicity, and sexual and asexual development. FgPMA1 was localized to the plasma membrane, and ∆FgPMA1 displayed reduced integrity of plasma membrane. ∆FgPMA1 not only impaired the formation of the toxisome, which is a compartment where DON is produced, but also suppressed the expression level of DON biosynthetic enzymes, decreased DON production, and decreased the amount of mycelial invasion, leading to impaired pathogenicity by exclusively developing disease on inoculation sites of wheat ears and coleoptiles. ∆FgPMA1 exhibited decreased sensitivity to some osmotic stresses, a cell wall‐damaging agent (Congo red), a cell membrane‐damaging agent (sodium dodecyl sulphate), and heat shock stress. FgMyo‐5 is the target of phenamacril used for controlling FHB. We found FgPMA1 interacted with FgMyo‐5, and ∆FgPMA1 showed an increased expression level of FgMyo‐5, resulting in increased sensitivity to phenamacril, but not to other fungicides. Furthermore, co‐immunoprecipitation confirmed that FgPMA1, FgMyo‐5, and FgBmh2 (a 14‐3‐3 protein) form a complex to regulate the sensitivity to phenamacril and biological functions. Collectively, this study identified a novel regulating mechanism of FgPMA1 in pathogenicity and phenamacril sensitivity of F. graminearum.