bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of enamel matrix derivative on alveolar ridge preservation in the posterior maxilla: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Lee Jae‐Hong , Jeong Seong‐Nyum
Published: September 2020

Background

EMD has been considered to exert positive effects on wound healing, postoperative discomfort, and bone regeneration.

Purpose

The aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to investigate and compare (a) horizontal and vertical bone dimensional changes, (b) early postoperative discomfort and soft tissue wound healing outcomes, and (c) treatment modalities for implant placement, following posterior maxillary alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) with and without adjunctive use of EMD.

Methods

Twenty‐eight participants were randomly assigned to three groups: extraction sockets filled with bovine bone mineral and membrane with EMD (test group 1, n = 10) and without EMD (test group 2, n = 10) and spontaneous healing (control group, n = 8). Alveolar bone dimensional changes were measured using cone‐beam computed tomography 5 months after ARP, and postoperative pain and wound healing outcomes were also evaluated.

Results

There were no significant differences in horizontal or vertical bone dimensional changes between test groups 1 (horizontal width changes at 1 mm apically below the alveolar ridge crest [HW]: −1.44 ± 0.54 mm) and 2 (HW: −1.42 ± 0.26 mm), but the changes at HW (−2.36 ± 1.03 mm) in the control group were significantly greater than those in test groups 1 and 2 (P < .05). Early postoperative discomfort and soft tissue wound healing outcomes were not significantly different between the two test groups. Furthermore, unlike the control group, both the test groups 1 and 2 were implanted without sinus floor elevation using the lateral approach.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, EMD failed to provide additional benefits in ARP in the posterior maxilla.
The effects of adolescent laparoscopic adjustable gastric band and sleeve gastrectomy on markers of bone health and bone turnover
Authors: Weiner Alyson , Cowell Amanda , McMahon Donald J. , Tao Rachel , Zitsman Jeffrey , Oberfield Sharon E. , Fennoy Ilene
Published: September 2020

25‐hydroxy vitamin D (25 OHD) deficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism have been seen after metabolic and bariatric surgery, but data are lacking on the bone health outcomes of adolescent sleeve gastrectomy (SG). The purpose of this study was to examine bone‐related nutrition after SG, compared to laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB), and trend bone turnover markers following SG. This is an observational study of 197 adolescents who underwent LAGB (n = 98) or SG (n = 99). Bone health labs were collected at baseline and 6 and/or 12 months after LAGB or SG, with additional analysis of bone turnover markers in the SG group. Calcium and 25 OHD levels increased at 6 and 12 months after LAGB and SG, with no difference between the surgeries. Parathyroid hormone levels decreased only in the SG group. SG patients had increased osteocalcin and carboxy‐terminal cross‐linking telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX) at 6 and 12 months post‐SG, although CTX decreased between 6 and 12 months. Excess weight loss at 6 months predicted the rise in CTX, but the changes in osteocalcin and CTX could not be attributed to 25 OHD deficiency, hypocalcemia or hyperparathyroidism. Patients had improved 25 OHD levels post‐surgery, which may be secondary to stringent vitamin supplementation guidelines. However, there were marked increases in bone turnover markers following SG. More studies are needed to evaluate the effects of SG on adolescent bone health and to correlate the early changes in bone turnover with bone mineral density and fracture risk.
Continuous positive airway pressure therapy in obstructive sleep apnoea patients with erectile dysfunction—A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Zhihao , Du Guodong , Ma Lei , Lv Yunhui , Zhao Yang , Yau Tung On
Published: September 2020

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a relatively common issue for men. A number of clinical studies have demonstrated that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy may effectively alleviate ED symptoms from patients with OSA.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases were utilised and searched for the relevant studies up to September 2, 2019. The International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF‐5) scoring system from the patients before and after receiving their CPAP therapy were collected according to the strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. REVMEN 5.3 software was applied for the meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of seven publications consisted of 206 ED patients with OSA were included in the study. ED patients with OSA received CPAP treatment were significantly improved based on the IIEF‐5 scores [Weighted Mean Difference (WMD) = 1.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.89‐1.38, z = 9.09, p < 0.0001].Our research found that the high heterogeneity is mainly due to Zhang’s data, with a higher apnoea‐hypopnea index (AHI) compared to the other included studies. A moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 54%, P = 0.05) was found after removal of Zhang's data.

Conclusion

The results suggest that continuous positive airway pressure therapy relive erectile dysfunction symptoms in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. However, further evidence is needed due to the insufficient number of included patients and high heterogeneity.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration of pancreatic mass
Authors: Najmi Maleka , Manivannan Meenakshi , Hakim Nawar , Gilani Syed M. , Manglik Niti
Published: September 2020

The majority of pancreatic tumours are epithelial and primary in origin, although occasionally secondary tumours from kidney, lung, breast and gastrointestinal tract can involve the pancreas. Discussed here, is fine needle aspiration cytology of a pancreatic mass in a 59‐year‐old male.
Myoepithelial sialadenitis with metachromatic matrix: A diagnostic pitfall. A case of salivary gland swelling in a paediatric patient evaluated by fine needle aspiration cytology
Authors: Ronchi Andrea , Montella Marco , Marra Paola Martina , Colella Giuseppe , Franco Renato , Cozzolino Immacolata
Published: September 2020

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is generally characterized by a high diagnostic accuracy in differentiating non‐neoplastic/inflammatory lesions from neoplastic lesions of the salivary glands. Lymphoepithelial sialadenitis/myoepithelial sialadenitis is exceedingly rare in paediatric patients and is characterized by a diffuse, often bilateral, salivary gland enlargement and the differential diagnosis may sometimes be difficult. We report the case of a 10‐year‐old boy who presented with a swelling of the left parotid gland investigated by ultrasound salivary gland FNAC.
Why Don't You Join In? A Typology of Information System Certification Adopters
Authors: Lins Sebastian , Kromat Theresa , Löbbers Julian , Benlian Alexander , Sunyaev Ali
Published: September 2020

While the importance of information system (IS) certifications to demonstrate compliance with security and personal data protection requirements is constantly increasing, competing (theoretical) viewpoints exist that outline the rationales for organizations to adopt certifications. The results of these competing perspectives are inconclusive research findings in the certification adoption literature. While organizations may use certifications to signal quality to consumers, others mainly adopt certifications to improve internal processes or create institutional legitimacy. To enhance our understanding of the motivation for online vendors to adopt IS certifications, we conduct a literature review and a ranking‐type Delphi study with two unique panels comprising certified online vendors (N = 15) and certification authorities (N = 24). As a result, we provide a rank‐order list of 24 motivators and 17 demotivators impacting online vendors’ intentions to adopt IS certifications. We reveal that certain motives are context‐independent, whereas other motives are specific for electronic markets (e.g., “signal data protection”). We also provide rich descriptions of potential demotivators, thereby increasing our understanding of the boundary conditions for IS certification adoption. Comparing our findings to three competing theoretical perspectives enabled us to derive a typology of distinctive certification adopters: functionalists, institutionalists, and signalers. In developing this typology, our findings constitute a first step toward alleviating the inconclusive findings in the academic literature as well as highlighting differences in motivating and inhibiting factors that impact vendors’ adoption intentions.
Meta‐analysis in congenital heart disease: a question of sampling and interpretation
Authors: Ilardi Dawn , Kelly R Wolfe  , Sanz Jacqueline H , Cassidy Adam R
Published: September 2020

This commentary is on the systematic review by Huisenga et al. on pages 29–46 of this issue.
The neurodevelopmental spectrum of congenital Zika infection: a scoping review
Authors: Carvalho Alessandra , Sales Henrique F , Ventura Paloma , Gnoatto‐Medeiros Marina , Brites Carlos , Lucena Rita
Published: September 2020

Aim

To describe the standardized neurodevelopmental outcomes after the first year of life in children with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) and those exposed to Zika virus (ZIKV) during fetal life, but without microcephaly at birth.

Method

This scoping review included observational studies about the standardized neurodevelopmental outcome in children with CZS or exposed to ZIKV, but without microcephaly, assessed after 12 months of age. The databases searched were MEDLINE/Pubmed, LILACS, Scielo, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Embase. Risk of bias was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklists.

Results

Seventeen papers were included: 12 focused on children with CZS, four on children born without microcephaly, and one described both. Only one of the studies about CZS reported a child with microcephaly and typical development; the remainder described a severe pattern of global developmental delay and cerebral palsy. The prevalence of epilepsy was 74.6%. In the reports about children born without microcephaly, 6.9% to 8.7% had some domain with a score below −2 SD, and three children developed autism spectrum disorder.

Interpretation

CZS is associated with severe global developmental delay and cerebral palsy after 1 year of age. In children born without microcephaly, although most have typical development, some may be at risk for impairments.

What this paper adds

Congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) is mostly associated with severe global developmental delay and cerebral palsy.

Epilepsy in CZS is present in more than two‐thirds of cases.

Most children without microcephaly at birth develop typically, but some may be at risk for language impairment.
Chemical convergence between a guild of facultative myrmecophilous caterpillars and host plants
Authors: Lima Luan Dias , Trigo José Roberto , Kaminski Lucas Augusto
Published: September 2020

Ants exert strong selective pressure on herbivorous insects, although some caterpillars can live in symbiosis with them using chemical defensive strategies.

We investigated the adaptive resemblance of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) in multitrophic systems involving a guild of facultative myrmecophilous caterpillar species (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae), tending ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), and host plants from three families. We hypothesised that the CHCs of the caterpillars would resemble those of their host plants (chemical camouflage).

We analysed CHCs using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Morisita's similarity index (SI) was used to compare CHC profiles of caterpillar species with different types of ant associations (commensal or mutualistic), ants, and host plants.

We found strong convergence between caterpillars' CHCs and plants, especially for commensal species that do not provide secretion rewards for ants. Moreover, we found unexpected chemical convergence among mutualistic (trophobiotic) caterpillar species that offer caloric reward secretions to ants.

These results show that the studied caterpillars acquire CHCs through their diet and that they vary according to host plant species and type of ant association (commensalism or mutualism). This ‘chemical camouflage’ of myrmecophilous caterpillars may have arisen as a defensive strategy allowing coexistence with ants on plants, whereas ‘chemical conspicuousness’ may have evolved in the context of honest signalling between mutualistic partners.

We suggest the existence of chemical mimicry among myrmecophilous species, especially between mutualistic caterpillars. Cuticular chemical mixtures can play a key adaptive role in decreasing ant attacks and increasing caterpillar survival in multimodal sensory systems.
Using trapped drones to assess the density of honey bee colonies: a simulation and empirical study to evaluate the accuracy of the method
Authors: Utaipanon Patsavee , Schaerf Timothy M. , Chapman Nadine C. , Holmes Michael J. , Oldroyd Benjamin P.
Published: September 2020

It is often necessary to assess the density of honey bee colonies in an environment. In theory, a random sample of males obtained at a mating lek (Drone Congregation Area) can be used to infer the number of queens that contributed sons to the sample, and thereby estimate colony density based on the area from which drones are drawn to a DCA. Because of its utility and efficiency, the technique is being increasingly used. However, the accuracy of the method has never been evaluated, and there are no recommendations for sample size.

Here, we infer the genotypes of 322 mother queens from the genotypes of 2329 drones caught at a single DCA using the program COLONY. We then use this realistic pool of queen genotypes to generate multiple simulated data sets of drone genotypes, varying the number of queens and sons that each queen contributed to the sample.

We find that the technique provides an accurate estimate (<10% error) of the total number of families present in a drone sample, provided that queens contribute at least six drones to the sample on average. This threshold can be reduced when colony density is low. Non‐sampling error only becomes significant when queens contribute fewer than three sons on average across simulated samples.

We conclude that the technique is robust and can be used with confidence provided that the sample size is adequate.
Phenological asynchrony: a ticking time‐bomb for seemingly stable populations?
Authors: Simmonds Emily G. , Cole Ella F. , Sheldon Ben C. , Coulson Tim
Published: September 2020

Climate change has been shown to induce shifts in the timing of life‐history events. As a result, interactions between species can become disrupted, with potentially detrimental effects. Predicting these consequences has proven challenging. We apply structured population models to a well‐characterised great tit‐caterpillar model system and identify thresholds of temporal asynchrony, beyond which the predator population will rapidly go extinct. Our model suggests that phenotypic plasticity in predator breeding timing initially maintains temporal synchrony in the face of environmental change. However, under projections of climate change, predator plasticity was insufficient to keep pace with prey phenology. Directional evolution then accelerated, but could not prevent mismatch. Once predator phenology lagged behind prey by more than 24 days, rapid extinction was inevitable, despite previously stable population dynamics. Our projections suggest that current population stability could be masking a route to population collapse, if high greenhouse gas emissions continue.
Is it Really a Universal Phenomenon? ‐ Preferential Attachment in Alliance Networks
Authors: Rossmannek Oliver , Rank Olaf N.
Published: September 2020

We study preferential attachment (i.e., a rich‐get‐richer effect) in alliance networks. Thereby, we argue that various levels (firm, firm group, country) influence the strength of preferential attachment. To test our hypotheses, we take a sample of 117 airlines from 74 countries in the period 2001 to 2011. For the estimation, we use stochastic actor‐oriented models, a method for analyzing longitudinal network data. As a result, we find that preferential attachment is stronger for firms that have fewer resources and are located in a less‐developed country. Consequently, we show how different competitive positions affect alliance strategies.
Prior residence effect determines success of male–male territorial competition in a color polymorphic poison frog
Authors: Yang Yusan , Prémel Vincent , Richards‐Zawacki Corinne L.
Published: September 2020

Male–male competition shapes resource distributions and reproductive success among individuals, and can drive trait evolution when phenotypes differ in competitive abilities and/or strategies. Divergence of populations, regardless of the cause, is often accompanied by divergence in male competitive ability, and such asymmetries can play an important role in mediating the interactions and evolutionary trajectory of the nascent lineages. Here, we designed a field experiment to examine the importance of color, a divergent trait, in determining territorial contest outcomes in the poison frog Oophaga pumilio. Males of different O. pumilio color morphs differ in aggression level, suggesting a potential dominance hierarchy between these divergent phenotypes. In a contact zone between red and blue‐color morphs, we first removed territorial males from their calling sites, and examined whether certain color morph(s) were better at establishing in these now‐vacant territories. We then staged a territorial contest by simultaneously releasing the original and the new occupant to their point of capture. Surprisingly, we found no significant effect of color on acquiring territories or winning staged contests. However, the original occupants won against the new occupant in 84% of the staged contests, revealing a strong prior residence effect. This suggests that asymmetries that stem from prior residency override coloration in predicting contest outcomes of male–male territorial contests in wild O. pumilio. Thus, contradicting our hypothesis, male–male territorial competition alone seems unlikely to exert selection on coloration in this contact zone.
Stocks and losses of soil organic carbon from Chinese vegetated coastal habitats
Authors: Fu Chuancheng , Li Yuan , Zeng Lin , Zhang Haibo , Tu Chen , Zhou Qian , Xiong Kuanxu , Wu Jiaping , Duarte Carlos M. , Christie Peter , Luo Yongming
Published: September 2020

Global vegetated coastal habitats (VCHs) represent a large sink for organic carbon (OC) stored within their soils. The regional patterns and causes of spatial variation, however, remain uncertain. The sparsity and regional bias of studies on soil OC stocks from Chinese VCHs have limited the reliable estimation of their capacity as regional and global OC sinks. Here, we use field and published data from 262 sampled soil cores and 181 surface soils to report estimates of soil OC stocks, burial rates and losses of VCHs in China. We find that Chinese mangrove, salt marsh and seagrass habitats have relatively low OC stocks, storing 6.3 ± 0.6, 7.5 ± 0.6, and 1.6 ± 0.6 Tg C (±95% confidence interval) in the top meter of the soil profile with burial rates of 44 ± 17, 159 ± 57, and 6 ± 45 Gg C/year, respectively. The variability in the soil OC stocks is linked to biogeographic factors but is mostly impacted by sedimentary processes and anthropic activities. All habitats have experienced significant losses, resulting in estimated emissions of 94.2–395.4 Tg CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) over the past 70 years. Reversing this trend through conservation and restoration measures has, therefore, great potential in contributing to the mitigation of climate change while providing additional benefits. This assessment, on a national scale from highly sedimentary environments under intensive anthropogenic pressures, provides important insights into blue carbon sink mechanism and sequestration capacities, thus contributing to the synchronous progression of global blue carbon management.
Functional and phylogenetic diversity promote litter decomposition across terrestrial ecosystems
Authors: Xiao Wenya , Chen Chen , Chen Xinli , Huang Zhiqun , Chen Han Y. H.
Published: September 2020

Aim

Litter decomposition is a vital process of carbon and nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. Despite rapid declines in plant diversity worldwide, the effects of plant diversity on litter decomposition, along with the factors driving their directions and magnitudes, remain uncertain.

Location

Global.

Time period

1985–2018.

Major taxa studied

Plants.

Methods

By synthesizing 492 paired observations of leaf litter mixtures and monocultures from 110 studies, we conducted a global meta‐analysis of the effects of litter mixtures on litter decomposition rates, which were calculated askcoefficients frommt/m0 = e−kt, wheremtwas the remaining mass of leaf litter at yeartandm0was the initial litter mass at the beginning of experiments.

Results

Litter mixtures on average increased litter decomposition rates by 5.6% (95% confidence intervals, 3.0–8.1%), and the effects of litter mixtures increased with litter species richness, the functional diversity of chemical traits (leaf C, N, P contents and C : N ratio) and phylogenetic diversity consistently across terrestrial ecosystems. The decomposer abundance and function, including soil fauna abundance, microbial biomass, and extracellular enzyme activities, were positively associated with litter mixture effects on decomposition rates. The structural equation models accounted for 48.6% of the global variation in litter decomposition rates and revealed that the positive effects of litter functional diversity on decomposer abundance and function led to increased litter decomposition rates, while litter phylogenetic diversity had a positive direct effect on litter decomposition rates.

Main conclusions

As indicators for complementarity effects, functional diversity of the chemical traits and phylogenetic diversity lead to more positive litter mixture effects on decomposition. The positive litter diversity effects on decomposition rates are mechanistically linked with soil fauna abundance, microbial biomass, and extracellular enzyme activities. Our results suggest that plant diversity, especially functional and phylogenetic diversity, increases decomposer abundance and function, and thus plays a key role in carbon and nutrient cycling across terrestrial ecosystems.
Bricks in the wall: A review of the issues that affect children of in‐country seasonal migrant workers in the brick kilns of Nepal
Authors: Daly Angela , Hillis Alice , Shrestha Shubhendra Man , Shrestha Babu Kaji
Published: September 2020

This paper explores experiences of Nepalese children of seasonal migrant workers in brick kilns and the particular vulnerabilities they face, as child labourers, as unpaid workers engaging informally in brick production or household work to the support family economy, or as children left behind in poor communities with varying support. The review provides a thematic analysis from child labour and migration literature from Nepal and South Asia from 2010–2020 to explore issues that affect children of families who internally migrate within Nepal to work in brick kilns. Two key themes and eight subthemes consistently emerged across the papers: Seasonal in‐country migration to brick kilns and impacts on children (reasons for children to enter into migrant work; left‐behind children; remittances; the role of gender on work and education) and the situation of children working in Nepalese brick kilns (living conditions; working conditions and occupational ill‐health; psychosocial distress; child protection). The review found that literature on Nepalese children from brick kiln working families is subsumed into wider studies on migration with impacts on children's lives often reported as outcomes of findings rather than a main focus of studies. Furthermore, there is minimal recent empirical research with such families and children. This may be due to ethical dilemmas of doing research with children and difficulties in maintaining contact with families that move frequently.
COVID‐19 in older adults: Retrospective cohort study in a tertiary hospital in Japan
Authors: Sano Tomoya , Kimizuka Yoshifumi , Fujikura Yuji , Hisada Tetsuya , Watanabe Chie , Suematsu Ryohei , Izumi Kaori , Sugiura Hiroaki , Miyata Jun , Shinmoto Hiroshi , Nagata Masayoshi , Kawana Akihiko
Published: September 2020

Aim

We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes of patients with COVID‐19 pneumonia, in particular older patients, admitted to tertiary and partner hospitals in Saitama, Japan.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with COVID‐19 pneumonia admitted to tertiary and partner hospitals in Saitama, Japan. Twenty‐six patients with COVID‐19 were categorized into two groups, i.e., older (≥75 years) and younger adults (≤74 years). We evaluated the clinical characteristics, comorbidities, symptoms, laboratory test results, treatments and outcomes of the patients.

Results

The majority of the older patients had comorbidities, such as dementia, cardiovascular disease and bone fractures. Comorbidities were significantly more frequent in older patients than younger patients. No association was found between age and body temperature or the incidence of respiratory failure. White blood cell count was significantly lower in older patients (P = 0.018) and the decrease in lymphocytes was greater in younger patients (P = 0.009). Computed tomography (CT) of all patients showed non‐segmental, peripherally dominant ground‐glass opacities consistent with COVID‐19 pneumonia. In older patients, antiviral drugs, anticoagulants and anti‐inflammatory drugs were administered on a compassionate use basis. The difference in mortality between the older and the younger patients was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

In older patients, typical clinical symptoms and blood test changes were often absent; however, CT always contained typical findings of COVID‐19, suggesting that CT may be a useful diagnostic tool. Our report illustrates that appropriate treatment, taking patient background into consideration, may improve their condition regardless of age. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 1044–1049.
Maneuvering within postfeminism: A study of gender equality practitioners in Danish academia
Authors: Utoft Ea Høg
Published: September 2020

In Denmark, gender equality in academia has seen limited progress during the past 30 years. To improve our understanding of this persistent problem, this article examines gender equality practitioners in relation to the wider discursive context of Danish society. Theorizing Denmark as a “postfeminist gender regime,” I analyze how practitioners negotiate a space for action in a context which generally opposes gender equality initiatives. I introduce the notion of “maneuvering” as a way to understand this negotiation between hegemonic, postfeminist discourses, on the one hand, and marginal and potentially subversive discourses on the other. Practitioners may maneuver in how they understand inequality and potential solutions, and in the meetings between them, their work and the postfeminist gender regime. Successful maneuvering enables the use of more radical change strategies than postfeminism otherwise allows. Practitioners' ability to maneuver rests on their critical reflexivity, which in turn is conditioned by their knowledge of gender and power dynamics. The study thus points to the centrality of selecting highly qualified individuals as gender equality practitioners.
Assessment of mechanical and microstructural properties of geopolymers produced from metakaolin, silica fume, and red mud
Authors: Mendes Beatryz , Andrade Igor Klaus , de Carvalho José Maria , Pedroti Leonardo , de Oliveira Júnior André
Published: September 2020

Geopolymers have been studied as viable alternative to traditional Portland cement‐based products, given the use of industrial by‐products as raw materials. This work evaluated the mechanical and microstructural properties of geopolymeric mortars produced with sodium hydroxide solution, metakaolin, silica fume, and red mud. The mixtures were produced by means of dosages with different molar ratios and curing conditions. The raw materials were characterized by granulometry, chemical, mineralogical, and thermal analysis. The characterization of mortars was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and axial compressive strength tests. The precalcination at 850°C of the red mud was sufficient to make it more reactive and suitable for use in geopolymers. Noteworthy, the best mechanical strengths of metakaolin mortars for curing at 50°C, and with the lowest SiO2/Al2O3 ratios. In the mortars with incorporated red mud, there was a decrease of strength at thermal curing conditions and with the increase of residue content, whose microstructure indicates the formation of more pores in the geopolymer matrix. The thermal curing promoted the formation of sodalite crystals, and the significant presence of Na particles on the surface suggests that part of the added NaOH did not react with the precursors.
“I Know There's Something Like That in Spanish”: Heritage Language Learners' Multifaceted Interactions with Linguistically Diverse Peers
Authors: Martin‐Beltrán Melinda , García Andrés A. , Montoya‐Ávila Angélica
Published: September 2020

This study contributes to research on heritage language learners (HLLs) and peer interaction by exploring the nature of the interactions between HLLs and their linguistically diverse peers, who may defy traditionally discrete language learner categories. Grounded in sociocultural theory, we analyzed video‐recorded peer interactions during Spanish/English literacy activities in an extracurricular, bilingual secondary program. We found that students' interaction patterns and perceived expertise may shift with different interlocutors and language‐related episodes (LREs). Our findings call for future research to refine the conceptual framing and theorizing of peer interactions, especially involving HLLs across an array of peer groupings. We offer implications for educators mediating peer collaboration and incorporating HLLs' multifaceted linguistic expertise to enhance learning opportunities for diverse learners.
Kernel partial least squares model for pectin content in peach using near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Bao Yao , Liu Jianliang , Zhong Yuming , Chen Yumin , Zhai Dequan , Wang Qing , Brennan Charles Stephen , Liu Huifan
Published: September 2020

Pectin is a class of complex galacturonic acid‐rich polysaccharides that are related to the texture of fruit and vegetables. The objective of this study was to develop, using near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, the best model for the determination of pectin content in peach fruit. A total of 100 samples divided into lossy and lossless samples were used to collect NIR raw spectra in the range of 1000–2500 nm. NIR absorption spectra were then obtained after pre‐processing. Finally, four methods were used to establish lossy and lossless spectral models. The 10‐fold cross‐validation coefficient of determination R2 of the lossy model was between 0.364 and 0.628, whereas that of the lossless model was between 0.187 and 0.288, indicating that the lossy model was better than the lossless model. Among all samples, the kernel partial least squares (KPLS) lossy model was better, with coefficient of determination R2 = 0.628, root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.069 and mean absolute error (MAE) = 0.061. This is the first study to evaluate the prediction of peach pectin content using NIR spectroscopy, and the model can be used for rough screening.
Understanding the Followers of Toxic Leaders: Toxic Illusio and Personal Uncertainty
Authors: Mergen Aybike , Ozbilgin Mustafa F.
Published: September 2020

Toxic leaders are one of the main threats to the wellbeing of people in the workplace and in society in general, and followers play a critical role in constructing and maintaining toxic leaders. In this narrative review, we draw on Bourdieu's concept of illusio and incorporate it with the social and cognitive psychology approaches in an attempt to frame the dynamic system that sustains toxic leadership through continued support of the followers. More specifically, as we introduce the illusio perspective in a process‐relational context to the toxic leadership discussion, we (i) address the allure of toxic leaders as an incentive for followers to join the toxic illusio as a way to cope with their high personal uncertainty and (ii) illustrate the mechanisms and processes that motivate followers of toxic leaders to remain in the toxic illusio once they join. In this context, we also briefly discuss and differentiate between the ethical and moral dimensions of toxic leadership.
Association between socioeconomic status and joint replacement of the hip and knee: a population‐based cohort study of older adults in Tasmania
Authors: Munugoda Ishanka P. , Brennan‐Olsen Sharon L. , Wills Karen , Cai Guoqi , Graves Stephen E. , Lorimer Michelle , Cicuttini Flavia M. , Callisaya Michele L. , Aitken Dawn , Jones Graeme
Published: September 2020

Background

A socioeconomic gradient exists in the utilisation of total hip replacements (THR) and total knee replacements (TKR) for osteoarthritis. However, the relations between socioeconomic status (SES) and time to THR or TKR is unknown.

Aim

To describe the association between SES and time to THR and TKR.

Methods

One thousand and seventy‐two older adults residing in Tasmania, Australia, were studied. Incident primary THR and TKR were determined by data linkage to the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry. At baseline, each participant's area‐level SES was determined using the Index of Relative Socioeconomic Advantage and Disadvantage (IRSAD) from the Australian Bureau of Statistics' 2001 census data. The IRSAD was analysed in two ways: (i) categorised into quartiles, whereby quartile 1 represented the most socioeconomically disadvantaged group; and (ii) the cohort dichotomised at the quartile 1 cut‐point.

Results

The mean age was 63.0 (±7.5) years and 51% were women. Over the median follow up of 12.9 (interquartile range: 12.2–13.9) years, 56 (5%) participants had a THR and 79 (7%) had a TKR. Compared with the most disadvantaged quartile, less disadvantaged participants were less likely to have a THR (i.e. less disadvantaged participants had a longer time to THR; hazard ratio (HR): 0.56; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.32, 1.00) but not TKR (HR: 0.90; 95% CI 0.53, 1.54). However, the former became non‐significant after adjustment for pain and radiographic osteoarthritis, suggesting that the associations may be mediated by these factors.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that time to joint replacement was determined according to the symptoms/need of the participants rather than their SES.
No effect of sleeved arms on the accuracy of blood pressure measurement
Authors: Li Ya , Li Yi , Li Fang , Liu Demin , Zhang Yanan , Cui Xiaoran , Cui Wei
Published: September 2020

Background

It is recommended that blood pressure should be measured on a bare upper arm with an appropriately sized cuff. However, in practice, it is more convenient to measure blood pressure on sleeved arms.

Aims

We aim to examine the effect of sleeved arms on the accuracy of blood pressure measurement.

Methods

Patients aged 18 years or older were enrolled. Participants underwent three blood pressure measurements in each of the following sleeve conditions in random order (bare arm; arm covered with a single‐layer cotton shirt sleeve,1 mm; arm covered with two layers sleeve containing a cotton shirt and a polar fabric sweater, 3 mm; arm covered with two layers sleeve containing a cotton shirt and a thick cardigan, 4 mm).

Results

Of the 300 participants, 155 (52%) were men. The mean age was 62.9 (10.7) years, and 226 (75%) had hypertension. There were no significant differences in either systolic blood pressure or diastolic blood pressure among the four kinds of sleeve conditions in all the participants (P > 0.5), and the mean blood pressure differences between measurements made on the sleeved arms and bare arm were within 1.0 mmHg. Blood pressure of sleeved arms was positively correlated with that of the bare arm (P < 0.001; r > 0.95), and showed good consistency.

Conclusions

In the present study, we concluded that there was no significant effect of sleeved arms on the accuracy of blood pressure measurement by using an electronic oscillometric sphygmomanometer equipped with a conventional cuff.
Ways of coping mediate the relationship between self‐efficacy for managing HIV and acceptance of illness among people living with HIV
Authors: Xiao Xueling , Chen Chen , Gao Chang , Wang Honghong , Reynolds Nancy R.
Published: September 2020

Aim

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self‐efficacy for managing HIV and acceptance of illness and to identify the potential mediation effect of active coping and passive coping on this relationship.

Design

The study used a cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A sample of 555 people living with HIV were recruited from September–December 2018 in the HIV clinic of a tertiary general hospital in Changsha, China. Survey data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews that included measures of sociodemographic and HIV‐related clinical characteristics, Acceptance of Illness Scale, the Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire and the Self‐efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease Scale. Step‐by‐step linear regression models combined with bootstrap testing were used to test the relationships when controlling for gender and HIV diagnosis duration.

Results

Self‐efficacy was positively related to acceptance of illness and this relationship was partially mediated by both active coping and passive coping. Acceptance of illness increased by 0.175 for every point increase in self‐efficacy indirectly through active coping, while acceptance of illness decreased by 0.034 for every point increase in self‐efficacy via passive coping.

Conclusion

The findings highlighted the importance of self‐efficacy for managing HIV and ways of coping, especially active coping, for illness acceptance.

Impact

The findings suggested that interventions that improve confidence in managing HIV and active coping may enhance the illness acceptance of people living with HIV.
Registered Nurses' experiences of using a clinical decision support system for triage of emergency calls: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Holmström Inger K. , Kaminsky Elenor , Lindberg Ylva , Spangler Douglas , Winblad Ulrika
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To describe how Registered Nurses make use of a Clinical Decision Support System to triage calls to emergency medical dispatch centres, from the perspective of professional autonomy.

Design

The study had a descriptive design with a qualitative inductive approach.

Methods

Interviews were done with 24 Registered Nurses during 2018–2019. Thematic analysis was conducted.

Results

Five themes and 16 subthemes were established: (a) Using the CDSS as a general support to professional competence in emergency calls, including subthemes: Support for professional competence, an aid to reflection, a compulsory support; (b) A specific support useful in difficult situations and calls, with subthemes: RN being tired or stressed out; vague and unclear symptoms, rare situations, aggressive and agitated callers; (c) Using the CDSS but changing triage recommendations/priority, including subthemes: Recommending a higher priority than the CDSS and recommending a lower priority than the CDSS; (d) Development areas for better use of the CDSS in collaboration with other services, with subthemes: Request for common documentation system with ambulances and closer collaboration with the national telephone nursing helpline; and (e) Possible technical development areas in the CDSS for optimal use, including subthemes: image transfer, medical records, development of certain areas in the CDSS, update of maps, a need for more knowledge.

Conclusion

The CDSS was not perceived as a restriction on professional autonomy. It was particularly useful in rare situations. Technical improvements as well as education and training should be done in close collaboration with registered nurses.

Impact

The study contributes with knowledge about how registered nurses triaging emergency calls use a decision support system. The system was a support for professional competence and did not seem to restrict them. The findings could be useful for clinicians and researchers in development of telephone triage and decision support systems.
Innate and adaptive immune proteins in the preen gland secretions of male house sparrows
Authors: Carneiro Diana , Czirják Gábor Árpád , Rowe Melissah
Published: September 2020

Recent studies have demonstrated that preen oil acts to reduce or eliminate feather‐associated bacteria. The mechanisms underlying this antibacterial activity, however, are incompletely understood. In addition to the activity of alcohols (i.e. 3,7‐dimethyloctan‐1‐ol), recent research has suggested that antimicrobial peptides may underlie the antibacterial activity of preen oil. Here, we document the presence of innate and adaptive immune proteins, lysozyme and immunoglobulin Y (IgY), in the preen oil of house sparrowsPasser domesticus. We suggest lysozyme functions as an antimicrobial agent, with potentially important impacts against Gram‐positive feather degrading bacteria. Furthermore, both lysozyme and IgY likely act in local immune defence of the preen gland, and may also play a role in regulating the local microbiome, with potentially important consequences for chemical communication and signalling. Our findings suggest that the preen gland and its secretions should be considered an integral part of the body's first line of defence against invading infections.
Cold‐induced beigeing of stem cell‐derived adipocytes is not fully reversible after return to normothermia
Authors: Lugo Leija Hilda Anaid , Velickovic Ksenija , Bloor Ian , Sacks Harold , Symonds Michael E. , Sottile Virginie
Published: September 2020

Beige adipocytes possess the morphological and biochemical characteristics of brown adipocytes, including the mitochondrial uncoupling protein (UCP)1. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are somatic multipotent progenitors which differentiate into lipid‐laden adipocytes. Induction of MSC adipogenesis under hypothermic culture conditions (ie 32°C) promotes the appearance of a beige adipogenic phenotype, but the stability of this phenotypic switch after cells are returned to normothermic conditions of 37°C has not been fully examined. Here, cells transferred from 32°C to 37°C retained their multilocular beige‐like morphology and exhibited an intermediate gene expression profile, with both beige‐like and white adipocyte characteristics while maintaining UCP1 protein expression. Metabolic profile analysis indicated that the bioenergetic status of cells initially differentiated at 32°C adapted post‐transfer to 37°C, showing an increase in mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis. The ability of the transferred cells to respond under stress conditions (eg carbonyl cyanide‐4‐phenylhydrazone (FCCP) treatment) demonstrated higher functional capacity of enzymes involved in the electron transport chain and capability to supply substrate to the mitochondria. Overall, MSC‐derived adipocytes incubated at 32°C were able to remain metabolically active and retain brown‐like features after 3 weeks of acclimatization at 37°C, indicating these phenotypic characteristics acquired in response to environmental conditions are not fully reversible.
Altered frequency of peripheral B‐cell subsets and their correlation with disease activity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A comprehensive analysis
Authors: Peng Yanxia , Guo Fengbiao , Liao Shuzhen , Liao Huanjin , Xiao Haiyan , Yang Lawei , Liu Hua‐feng , Pan Qingjun
Published: September 2020

Alternations of peripheral B‐cell subsets are closely related to disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may also predict the relapse of SLE. In this study, we aimed to comprehensively analyse the frequency of peripheral B‐cell subsets, and their correlation with disease activity in patients with SLE. The results showed that for B‐cell subsets in the antigen‐independent differentiation stage, the frequency of the peripheral hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) subset in all patients with SLE was significantly higher than that of control patients. Surprisingly, several significant correlations were noted in newly diagnosed patients with SLE including a positive correlation in the frequency of the common lymphoid progenitor cell (CLP) with cholesterol serum levels. For B‐cell subsets in the antigen‐dependent differentiation stage, the frequency of naïve B‐cell (N‐B) subsets in all patients with SLE was significantly higher than that in the control patients. Moreover, the frequency of plasmablasts positively correlated with the SLEDAI score in the newly diagnosed patients. For memory B‐cell (M‐B) subtypes in the antigen‐dependent differentiation stage, the frequency of the class‐switched memory B‐cell (CSM‐B) subsets was positively correlated with the serum levels of complement C3. Notably, the frequency of the CSM‐B subset also negatively correlated with the SLEDAI score, whereas the non–class‐switched memory B‐cell (NSM‐B) subset was positively correlated with the serum levels of haemoglobin. Collectively, these findings may contribute to a better understanding of the role played by different B‐cell subsets in the pathogenesis of SLE.
Social and psychosocial effects on atopic eczema symptom severity – a scoping review of observational studies published from 1989 to 2019
Authors: Zeiser K. , Hammel G. , Kirchberger I. , Traidl‐Hoffmann C.
Published: September 2020

Social and psychosocial factors are thought to have an effect on the course of atopic eczema. The aim of this scoping review was to search for and summarize observational studies that investigated the effects of (psycho‐)social factors on symptoms in atopic eczema and to identify research gaps. We searched PubMed and PsycINFO for literature published between 1 January 1989 and 31 December 2019 using a systematic search strategy. We included observational studies that analysed the effect of (psycho‐)social factors on symptom severity in atopic eczema patients. Reviews and non‐observational studies, articles with research on animals, and articles with languages other than English or German were excluded. We identified 17 observational studies that met the inclusion criteria. Several studies found significant results for an exacerbating effect of stress on atopic eczema severity. Although coping and social support does not seem to moderate the effect of stress, coping strategies might mediate the impact that stress has on symptoms. Depression is associated with atopic eczema severity. The effect of depression as a consequence of atopic eczema severity is stronger than the effect as an exacerbating factor. Illness identity, anger, frustration and psychosomatic states have been found to affect atopic eczema symptoms. For attachment security, anxiety and social status, contradictory results were found. Statistically non‐significant results were reported for personality, being in a partnership, satisfaction with the partnership, childhood experiences and body consciousness. Only the association between psychosocial stress and atopic eczema symptom severity seems robust. To date, other (psycho‐)social factors, especially protective and health‐promoting factors, were analysed only in a few studies, mostly with low sample sizes and cross‐sectional design. Biopsychosocial interactions between stress, protective factors and the course of atopic eczema as well as the psycho‐neuroimmunological mechanisms underlying those interactions are considered fields for future research contributions.