bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental hotspots for antibiotic resistance genes
Authors: Kunhikannan Shalini , Thomas Colleen J. , Franks Ashley E. , Mahadevaiah Sumana , Kumar Sumana , Petrovski Steve
Published: May 2021

Bacterial resistance toward broad‐spectrum antibiotics has become a major concern in recent years. The threat posed by the infectious bacteria and the pace with which resistance determinants are transmitted needs to be deciphered. Soil and water contain unique and diverse microbial communities as well as pools of naturally occurring antibiotics resistant genes. Overuse of antibiotics along with poor sanitary practices expose these indigenous microbial communities to antibiotic resistance genes from other bacteria and accelerate the process of acquisition and dissemination. Clinical settings, where most antibiotics are prescribed, are hypothesized to serve as a major hotspot. The predisposition of the surrounding environments to a pool of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria facilitates rapid antibiotic resistance among the indigenous microbiota in the soil, water, and clinical environments via horizontal gene transfer. This provides favorable conditions for the development of more multidrug‐resistant pathogens. Limitations in detecting gene transfer mechanisms have likely left us underestimating the role played by the surrounding environmental hotspots in the emergence of multidrug‐resistant bacteria. This review aims to identify the major drivers responsible for the spread of antibiotic resistance and hotspots responsible for the acquisition of antibiotic resistance genes.
Thirdhand cigarette smoke leads to age‐dependent and persistent alterations in the cecal microbiome of mice
Authors: He Li , Zhou Yan‐Xia , Zhang Yuqing , Hang Bo , Chang Hang , Schick Suzaynn F. , Celniker Susan E. , Xia Yankai , Snijders Antoine M. , Mao Jian‐Hua
Published: May 2021

The gut microbiome composition is influenced by many factors including environmental exposures. Here, we investigated the effect of thirdhand cigarette smoke (THS) and exposure age on gut microbiome diversity. C57BL/6 mice were exposed to THS at human exposure relevant levels for three weeks during three different life stages: postnatal (0–3 weeks of age), pubescent (4–7 weeks of age), and adult (9–12 weeks of age), respectively. Cecal microbiome profiles were assessed at 17 weeks of age by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found that age at THS exposure strongly influenced the cecal microbiome composition. Although postnatal THS exposure significantly influenced the microbial composition, pubescent and adulthood exposures only had minor effects. The microbiome of postnatally THS‐exposed mice significantly increased several degradation pathways that regulate glycolysis and pyruvate decarboxylation, and significantly decreased coenzyme A biosynthesis and pyrimidine deoxyribonucleoside salvage. Our results indicate that mouse postnatal development is particularly susceptible to persistent THS exposure effects on the gut microbiome.
Development of anExercise‐SpecificParkinson's Disease Questionnaire: ThePDQ‐Exercise
Authors: Morley David , Dummett Sarah , Kelly Laura , Jenkinson Crispin
Published: May 2021

Background

Exercise is now a significant and key component in the management of Parkinson's disease. However, no self‐report, Parkinson's‐specific measure of exercise currently exists.

Objective

To develop a patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM) for use in studies and clinical trials that aim to assess the efficacy of exercise therapy for people with Parkinson's (PwP).

Methods

Participants were recruited via Parkinson's UK. To generate meaningful items, PwP participated in exploratory cognitive interviews. To pretest the items generated, PwP took part in two rounds of cognitive debrief interviews. Items were subsequently tested through an online survey that also included the eight‐item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ‐8) and Oxford Participation and Activities Questionnaire (Ox‐PAQ).

Results

Twenty PwP were interviewed for item generation. Analyses identified issues related to adopting and maintaining exercise, resulting in the generation of 10 items. Fourteen PwP took part in subsequent cognitive debrief interviews. Following the first 10 interviews, one item was removed, and minor adjustments were made to the wording of two items. Four final interviews verified that no further adjustments were required. Consequently, nine items were included in the validation survey, which was fully completed by 398 PwP. Inspection of floor and ceiling effects resulted in the removal of two further items. A principal component analysis identified a single seven‐item factor explaining 61.6% of variance. Further analyses indicated that the measure demonstrates sound reliability and validity.

Conclusions

Results indicate that the PDQ‐Exercise is an acceptable, reliable, and valid PROM. Further assessment of its psychometric properties is in progress. © 2021 The Authors.Movement Disorderspublished by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Lymphatico‐venous anastomosis in chronic ulcer with venous insufficiency: A case report
Authors: Cigna Emanuele , Pierazzi Diletta Maria , Sereni Simone , Marcasciano Marco , Losco Luigi , Bolletta Alberto
Published: May 2021

Patients presenting with chronic wounds in venous insufficiency often represent a challenge, like other conditions, like lymphatic impairment, may complicate the wound healing process. The purpose of this report is to highlight how the treatment of lymphatic impairment may be beneficial in patients affected by chronic ulcers with concomitant venous insufficiency. We present the case of a 78‐year‐old woman affected by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) with long‐lasting ulcers secondary to sclerosing agents treatment for varicose veins. The patient's condition was refractory to both conservative and surgical treatment. Since the patient also presented with severe lymphorrhea, with a significant amount of daily secretion, ICG‐lymphography was performed subcutaneously, to visualize the pathway of lymphatic drainage and leakage. It also allowed marking on the skin the exact location of lymphatic vessels distally to the wound area. Hence, two lymphatico‐venous anastomoses were performed between the two major collecting lymphatic vessels and two subcutaneous veins of adequate size. The postoperative course was uneventful and the procedure allowed for immediate resolution of lymphatic leakage and complete wound healing within 2 weeks with no recurrence in the follow‐up time of 1.5 years. Based on the outcomes of this case, it is possible to consider the use of CVI treatment and lymphedema surgery as a combined approach to complicated cases of long‐standing venous ulcers with lymphorrhea.
Programming by Methyl Donor Deficiency during Pregnancy and Lactation Produces Cardiomyopathy in Adult Rats Subjected to High Fat Diet
Authors: Li Zhen , Kosgei Viola J. , Bison Anais , Alberto Jean‐Marc , Umoret Remi , Maskali Fatiha , Brunaud Laurent , Guéant Jean‐Louis , Guéant‐Rodriguez Rosa‐Maria
Published: May 2021

Scope

Vitamin B12 and folate (methyl donors) deficiency is frequent during pregnancy. Experimental rat models with methyl donor deficit during pregnancy and lactation (Initial methyl donor deficit (iMDD)) produce impaired myocardium fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial energy metabolism at weaning.

Methods and Results

The consequences of iMDD on heart of rat pups under normal diet after weaning and high fat diet (HF) between day (D) 50 and D185 are investigated. iMDD/HF induces increased histological fibrosis and increased B‐type natriuretic peptide blood level. Inflammation is evidenced by increased protein expression of NFkB, Caspase1, and IL1β and fibrosis by increased expression of αSMA, col1a1, and col1a2 in females, but not in males. Fibrosis is related to increased angiotensin at D50 and D185 and increased protein expression of TGFB1 and AT1 angiotensin receptors at D185. The limited fibrosis in males is consistent with increased expression of AT2, the antagonist receptor of AT1. The increased expression of GLUT4 and decreased expression of PGC1α and PPARα reflect a shift from fatty acid oxidation to glycolysis.

Conclusion

Developmental programming by iMDD produces cardiomyopathy in female offspring exposed to HF. The cardiomyopathy is linked to inflammation and fibrosis through angiotensin‐AT2 and TGFB1 pathways and alteration of energy metabolism.
The LEGATOS technique: A new tissue‐validated dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI method for whole‐brain, high‐spatial resolution parametric mapping
Authors: Li Ka‐Loh , Lewis Daniel , Coope David J. , Roncaroli Federico , Agushi Erjon , Pathmanaban Omar N. , King Andrew T. , Zhao Sha , Jackson Alan , Cootes Timothy , Zhu Xiaoping
Published: May 2021

Purpose

A DCE‐MRI technique that can provide both high spatiotemporal resolution and whole‐brain coverage for quantitative microvascular analysis is highly desirable but currently challenging to achieve. In this study, we sought to develop and validate a novel dual‐temporal resolution (DTR) DCE‐MRI‐based methodology for deriving accurate, whole‐brain high‐spatial resolution microvascular parameters.

Methods

Dual injection DTR DCE‐MRI was performed and composite high‐temporal and high‐spatial resolution tissue gadolinium‐based‐contrast agent (GBCA) concentration curves were constructed. The high‐temporal but low‐spatial resolution first‐pass GBCA concentration curves were then reconstructed pixel‐by‐pixel to higher spatial resolution using a process we call LEGATOS. The accuracy of kinetic parameters (Ktrans, vp, and ve) derived using LEGATOS was evaluated through simulations and in vivo studies in 17 patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS) and 13 patients with glioblastoma (GBM). Tissue from 15 tumors (VS) was examined with markers for microvessels (CD31) and cell density (hematoxylin and eosin [H&E]).

Results

LEGATOS derived parameter maps offered superior spatial resolution and improved parameter accuracy compared to the use of high‐temporal resolution data alone, provided superior discrimination of plasma volume and vascular leakage effects compared to other high‐spatial resolution approaches, and correlated with tissue markers of vascularity (P ≤ 0.003) and cell density (P ≤ 0.006).

Conclusion

The LEGATOS method can be used to generate accurate, high‐spatial resolution microvascular parameter estimates from DCE‐MRI.
Temperature evolution, atomistic hot‐spot effects and thermal runaway during microwave heating of polyacrylonitrile: A ReaxFF molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Wang Chenhui , Liu Han , Song Lijian , Tan Jing , Yang Weimin , Cheng Lisheng
Published: May 2021

Microwave is of promising applications in various chemical and material processes, however, the interactions between the microwave and the molecules from atomistic scales are lack of understanding. ReaxFF reactive molecular dynamics simulations were carried out to get insights into the interactions between the microwave and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) during microwave heating. It was found that the temperature evolution of the system was dependent on the electric field strength and frequency of the microwave. The alternate change of the electric field of the microwave leads to the alternate fluctuation of the temperature. We surprisingly predicted the atomistic hot‐spot effect of microwave heating of PAN that the cyano groups were selectively heated. With an electric field intensity of 0.6 V Å‐1 and a frequency of 60 GHz, the temperature of the hot‐spot atoms was 300 and 500 K higher than the carbon and hydrogen atoms in the PAN backbone, respectively. We also analyzed the thermal runaway behavior of the system during microwave irradiations and found that it was attributed to the decomposition of PAN into smaller polar molecules. This work suggests that it is possible to selectively and effectively activate the cyano groups of PAN to improve their reactivity.
Factorization of completely positive matrices using iterative projected gradient steps
Authors: Boţ Radu Ioan , Nguyen Dang‐Khoa
Published: May 2021

We aim to factorize a completely positive matrix by using an optimization approach which consists in the minimization of a nonconvex smooth function over a convex and compact set. To solve this problem we propose a projected gradient algorithm with parameters that take into account the effects of relaxation and inertia. Both projection and gradient steps are simple in the sense that they have explicit formulas and do not require inner loops. Furthermore, no expensive procedure to find an appropriate starting point is needed. The convergence analysis shows that the whole sequence of generated iterates converges to a critical point of the objective function and it makes use of the Łojasiewicz inequality. Its rate of convergence expressed in terms of the Łojasiewicz exponent of a regularization of the objective function is also provided. Numerical experiments demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method, in particular in comparison to other factorization algorithms, and emphasize the role of the relaxation and inertial parameters.
Associations between maternal circulating 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentration and birth outcomes—Mode of delivery and episiotomy rate: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Gómez‐Carrascosa Inmaculada , Sánchez‐Ferrer María L. , Arense‐Gonzalo Julian J. , Prieto‐Sánchez María T. , Alfosea‐Marhuenda Emilia , Iniesta Miguel A. , Mendiola Jaime , Torres‐Cantero Alberto M.
Published: May 2021

Aim

The objective of this study was to evaluate associations between maternal concentrations of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OHD)) and birth outcomes: mode of delivery and episiotomy rate.

Design and Methods

One hundred and seventeen pregnant women were enrolled in an observational, longitudinal, prospective cohort study. Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to assess relationships between maternal 25(OHD) concentrations and mode of delivery. To account for systematic temporal variation in 25(OHD), a cosinor model to the data was fitted.

Results

No significant statistical associations were found between adjusted maternal 25(OHD) concentrations and risk of eutocic vaginal delivery, instrumented delivery (OR 1.05 [95% CI: 0.97–1.13]), primary Caesarean section (OR 0.99 [95% CI: 0.88–1.11]) or Caesarean section for any other causes (OR 1.04 [95% CI: 0.95–1.14]). High 25(OHD) levels tended to show a protective effect on performance of episiotomy, without reaching statistical significance (OR 0.36 [95% CI: 0.09, 1.37]).
Unexpected shift to introductory soil field activity at home: Teacher and student experience
Authors: Wolters Bethany , Lepcha Isaac
Published: May 2021

Introductory soil science courses are an important part of the undergraduate curriculum in agriculture, environmental sciences, and natural resource management and traditionally include an in‐person laboratory where students acquire both hands‐on learning and practice important skills. This all changed when all classes quickly transitioned to completely online because of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The objective of this paper is to document student and instructor experiences transitioning two field‐based labs into asynchronous, online distance labs and evaluate students’ performance in an introductory soil science lab course. Two lab sessions were modified so that students could complete them from home using household equipment and pre‐lab instruction was delivered using online videos. After the course, student performance on learning objectives for each lab, evaluated using rubrics, and student grades were analyzed. Students performed well on soil color and texture but struggled with new concepts like identifying landscape positions. Students were able to practice hands‐on skills and learn more about soils near their homes. The lessons learned from the experience were that students need to submit photos or maps to document their lab exercises and to be used in grading and verification, to ensure that students have equipment and tools they need to complete the labs, and frequent feedback or communication during laboratory exercises is needed.
What Links Maternal Prepregnancy BMI to Early Childhood BMI: A Serial Mediation Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Mei Hong , Xu Ke , Li Chunan , Xia Zhiguo , Tan Yafei , Yang Shaoping , Zhang Jianduan
Published: May 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the potential impact of maternal gestational weight gain (GWG), infant birth weight, and postnatal weight change (ΔWAZ) on the relationship between maternal prepregnancy BMI (ppBMI) and childhood BMI.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed a data set from Wuhan, China. The mediation effect of targeted mediators on the association between maternal BMI and childhood BMI at the age of 2 years was analyzed.

Results

In the mediation model comprising maternal GWG, infant birth weight, and the first‐6‐month ΔWAZ as mediators of the association between ppBMI and children's BMI, the per unit increase in ppBMI resulted in a 0.01‐kg/m2increase in children's BMI, through all three mediators. For the model comprising infant birth weight and the first‐6‐month ΔWAZ as mediators but maternal GWG as a moderator, the indirect effects of the first‐6‐month ΔWAZ on the relationship between ppBMI and childhood BMI was 0.0018 higher when maternal GWG increased from average values to 1 SD above the average values.

Conclusions

Maternal GWG, infant birth weight, and the first‐6‐month ΔWAZ mediated the effects of maternal ppBMI on children's BMI. Interventions targeting these factors can mitigate the risk of childhood obesity.
The challenge of addressing obesity in people with poorly controlled asthma
Authors: Dixon Anne E. , Blake Kathryn V. , DiMango Emily A. , Dransfield Mark T. , Feemster Laura C. , Johnson Olivia , Roy Gem , Hazucha Heather , Harvey Jean , McCormack Meredith C. , Wise Robert A. , Holbrook Janet T.
Published: May 2021

Objective

There is a high prevalence of obesity in people with asthma, and obesity is associated with poorly controlled asthma. Significant weight loss might improve asthma control: the purpose of this study was to investigate patient characteristics and factors that might affect implementation of a weight loss and/or roflumilast intervention, to target both obesity and asthma.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of people with obesity and poorly controlled asthma performed at 13 sites across the United States.

Results

One hundred and two people participated in this study. Median BMI was 37 (IQR 35–42). The majority, 55%, were African American and 76% were female. Fifty two percent had very poorly controlled asthma. Most participants were quite sedentary (70% reported being inactive or participating only in light‐intensity activities according to the Stanford Brief Activity Survey). Participants reported significant impairments related to physical function on the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life‐Lite questionnaire (median score 67 [IQR 41–84]). Thirty‐five percent of participants reported mild, and 2 % moderate, depressive symptoms as assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9.

Conclusions

Poorly controlled asthma and obesity often affect minority populations and are associated with significant impairments in health related to physical function and low levels of physical activity that might complicate efforts to lose weight. Interventions targeted at poorly controlled asthma associated with obesity in the United States need to address factors complicating health in underserved communities, such as increasing opportunities for physical activity, while also managing activity limitations related to the combination of asthma and obesity.
High prevalence of BRAFV600E in patients with cholestasis, sclerosing cholangitis or liver fibrosis secondary to Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Carrere Xiomara , Pinto Nicolas , Gene Olaciregui Nagore , Galluzzo Laura , Rossetti Estefania , Celis Passini Veronica , Salvador Marcos Noelia , Chantada Guillermo , Braier Jorge , Lavarino Cinzia , Felizzia Guido
Published: May 2021

Targeted therapies with MAPK inhibitors have proven to modulate the clinical manifestations of patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). We explored the presence of BRAFV600E mutation in our cohort of patients with LCH and cholestasis, sclerosing cholangitis, or liver fibrosis that presented resistance to chemotherapy. The BRAFV600E mutation was detected either in the diagnosis (skin and bone) or liver biopsy in our cohort of 13 patients. Thus, we observed a high incidence of BRAFV600E mutation in 100% either in diagnostic biopsy (skin and bone) or liver biopsy in patients with progressive liver disease, sequela, or liver transplant requirement.
Evaluation of mechanical properties of novel GLARE laminates filled with nanoclay
Authors: Ponnarengan Hariharasakthisudhan , Kamaraj Logesh , Balachandran Surya Rajan , Kathar Basha Sathickbasha
Published: May 2021

In this research work, we have investigated the effect of nanoclay fillers in the epoxy adhesive on improving the interfacial adhesion and the mechanical properties of glass‐reinforced aluminum laminates. The laminates were prepared with a varying weight percentage of nanoclay fillers (i.e., 3, 4, and 5 wt%) in the epoxy resin using the hand lay‐up method. During the tensile test, the laminate's anisotropic nature was investigated using the samples cut in different orientations to the rolling direction (i.e., 0, 45, and 90°). The flexural, lap shear, and impact tests were conducted as per ASTM standards. After each test, the failure mechanisms of laminates were studied using the scanning electron microscope. The results showed that 3 wt% of nanoclay added in the epoxy enhanced the laminates' overall mechanical properties than other composites. The fiber metal laminates (FML) containing the nano clay more than 3 wt% showed deterioration in the mechanical property due to the improper distribution of nanoclay in the epoxy matrix. The FML's mechanical properties with nano clay filler were compared with other fillers' performance in the previous studies. It was found that the mechanical properties of FML with nano clay filler were more significant than others.
Influence of POSS nanoparticles on the microstructure and mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy hybrid composites
Authors: Kurtulus Cenk , Kuyumcu Mustafa , Ciftci Mustafa , Tasdelen Mehmet Atilla
Published: May 2021

The possibility to design composites with superior properties by incorporation of nanoscale reinforcing material still remains to be fulfilled. In the current study, bisphenol A diglycidyl ether‐based epoxy resin has been successfully modified with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanoparticles to give epoxy/POSS nanocomposites. Carbon fiber reinforced composites with different fiber orientations are processed via vacuum bagging technique using this composite as the matrix. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that POSS nanofillers homogeneously distributed in the matrix. As proved by the tensile, flexural, and interlaminar shear strength tests, the inclusion of POSS nanofillers in the polymer matrix has promoted significant improvements in the mechanical properties of the carbon fiber reinforced POSS/epoxy hybrid composites compared to the analogues with neat epoxy matrix. Thus, hybrid composites with exceptional properties are obtained via a straightforward modification in the matrix and a novel paradigm without using any expensive compound has been added to the library of nanocomposite formulations.
Ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer/Mg–Al‐layered double hydroxide nanocomposite membranes applied in CO2/N2 gas separation
Authors: Huang Nai‐Yi , Wang Cheng‐Chien , Chen Chuh‐Yung
Published: May 2021

Series of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer/layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanocomposite membranes with 40 wt% vinyl acetate content (EVA/12AA–LDH) were prepared by solution blending and casting, and applied in membrane gas separation. The organically modification of LDH nanolayers (12AA–LDH) was manufactured by using 12‐aminododecanoic acid (12AA) as an intercalation agent via co‐precipitation method. The distance between the 12AA–LDH nanolayers was approximately 2.10 nm from calculation of the XRD diffraction pattern, which resulted from the successful intercalation of 12AA within the LDH. The result of CO2 adsorption isotherms shows that 12AA–LDH is much more attractive than the neat LDH, which enhances the performance in membrane separation. Furthermore, the exfoliated/intercalated morphology of 12AA–LDH/LDH structures within EVA matrix was prepared successfully and can be observed clearly by transmission electron microscopy micrographs. The gas permeation performance of the EVA/12AA–LDH nanocomposite membranes was measured, and the results show that the best selectivity of CO2/N2 increased to 20 with a CO2 permeability of 119.21 barrer for the composite membrane containing 1.0 wt% 12AA–LDH. This result not only attributed to the exfoliation of the 12AA–LDH nanolayers within the EVA matrix, but also the amino group of 12AA interacted more with CO2 compared with N2 and O2. This result illustrated that 12AA–LDH shows highly potential for use as an additive in CO2 capture membranes.
Supporting change in novice alternative certification teachers' efficacy
Authors: Wilhelm Anne Garrison , Woods Dawn , Kara Yusuf
Published: May 2021

In this study, we investigated, using multiple modeling techniques, how the teaching self‐efficacy of first‐year alternative certification elementary and secondary teachers changed over the course of their first‐year teaching and relations between that change and teachers' perceptions of formal supports. Using hierarchical linear modeling, we found that teachers' self‐efficacy significantly increased over the course of the school year and that only one of our measures of support was positively and significantly related to change in self‐efficacy. In particular, teachers' perceptions of school leader support covaried with change in their self‐efficacy. Further, a structural equation model suggested that teachers' perceptions of school leader support were positively and significantly related to the magnitude of increase in self‐efficacy. In other words, teachers who perceived greater support from their school leaders, had greater increases in their self‐efficacy. We also analyzed data from interviews with a subset of the teachers to round out our understanding of the types of support from school leaders that first‐year alternative certification teachers perceived as effective. Our full sample included 93 first‐year teachers, 87 of whom completed the survey.
Evaluating the independent group contingency: “Mystery Student” on improving behaviors in head start classrooms
Authors: Pasqua Jamie L. , Dufrene Brad A. , LaBrot Zachary C. , Radley Keith , Dart Evan H. , Lown Elizabeth
Published: May 2021

An increasing number of preschool children exhibit challenging behavior in the classroom. Children enrolled in Head Start are particularly at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders due to numerous risk factors they face. Unfortunately, some preschool teachers are ill‐equipped to manage the challenging behaviors that preschool children exhibit. The current study investigated the effects of an independent group contingency, the Mystery Student Intervention, on improving preschool children's classroom behaviors. An ABAB withdrawal design was employed to determine the Mystery Student Intervention's effectiveness for decreasing disruptive behaviors and increasing appropriate behaviors in three Head Start classrooms. Results indicated that class‐wide aggregate disruptive behavior decreased, and appropriate behavior increased during the intervention phases for all three classrooms. Furthermore, teachers rated the Mystery Student Intervention as socially valid. Results of this study add to the limited research base on group contingencies in preschool settings.
Validation of the Five‐item Learning Climate Questionnaire as a measure of teacher autonomy support in the classroom
Authors: Simon Patricia D. , Salanga Maria Guadalupe C.
Published: May 2021

The Learning Climate Questionnaire (LCQ) measures teacher autonomy support in the classroom. There are various versions of the LCQ available, a 15‐item full‐scale version and a 6‐item shortened version. Recent research suggests that using a 5‐item version of LCQ is a more effective measure of teacher autonomy support. Using data from a sample of Filipino undergraduate students, the single‐factor structure of the Five‐item LCQ (LCQ‐5) was validated through confirmatory factor analysis along with three longer versions of the scale. Results showed that LCQ‐5 outperformed the alternative versions of LCQ in terms of model fit. To demonstrate construct validity, LCQ scores were correlated with measures of parent and peer autonomy support, as well as with the short version of the self‐oriented perfectionism subscale of the Hewitt and Flett Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale. LCQ‐5 also displayed gender invariance and good internal consistency. The findings suggest that the LCQ‐5 can be used as a brief but psychometrically valid measure of teacher autonomy support. Implications for the measurement of teacher autonomy support are discussed.
Shedding light into the black box of infant multiple‐breath washout
Authors: Oestreich Marc‐Alexander , Wyler Florian , Latzin Philipp , Ramsey Kathryn A.
Published: May 2021

Background

Multiple‐breath inert gas washout (MBW) is a sensitive technique to assess lung volumes and ventilation inhomogeneity in infancy. Poor agreement amongst commercially available setups and a lack of transparency in the underlying algorithms for the computation of infant MBW outcomes currently limit the widespread application of MBW as a surveillance tool in early lung disease.

Methods

We determined all computational steps in signal processing and the calculation of MBW outcomes in the current infant WBreath/Exhalyzer D setup (Exhalyzer D device, Eco Medics AG; WBreath software version 3.28.0, ndd Medizintechnik AG; Switzerland). We developed a revised WBreath version based on current consensus guidelines and compared outcomes between the current (3.28.0) and revised (3.52.3) WBreath version. We analyzed 60 visits from 40 infants with cystic fibrosis (CF) and 20 healthy controls at 6 weeks and 1 year of age.

Results

Investigation into the algorithms in WBreath 3.28.0 revealed discrepancies from current consensus guidelines, which resulted in a potential overestimation of functional residual capacity (FRC) and underestimation of lung clearance index (LCI). We developed a revised WBreath version (3.52.3), which overall resulted in 6.7% lower FRC (mean (SD) −1.78 (0.99) mL/kg) and 14.1% higher LCI (1.11 (0.57) TO) than WBreath version 3.28.0.

Conclusion

Comprehensive investigation into the signal processing and algorithms used for analysis of MBW measurements improves the transparency and robustness of infant MBW data. The revised software version calculates outcomes according to consensus guidelines. Future work is needed to validate and compare outcomes between infant MBW setups.
Factors associated with complicated pneumonia in children
Authors: Masarweh Kamal , Gur Michal , Toukan Yazeed , Bar‐Yoseph Ronen , Kassis Imad , Gut Guy , Hakim Fahed , Nir Vered , Bentur Lea
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Community acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a leading cause of morbidity in children, despite advances in health care and anti‐pneumococcal vaccine. Complicated pneumonia accounts for a significant burden with prolonged hospitalization. Finding risk factors for complicated pneumonia may help in tailoring management. We aimed to identify risk factors for developing complicated pneumonia and need for intervention.

Methods

A retrospective single tertiary center study. Children admitted with a diagnosis of CAP and/or complicated pneumonia (parapneumonic effusion, empyema, necrotizing pneumonia, and lung abscess) on January 2001–March 2020 were included. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory parameters were collected using MDclone, a data acquisition tool. Risk factors for complicated pneumonia (on admission or during hospitalization) and risk for intervention were analyzed.

Results

A total of 6778 children with pneumonia were included; 323 arrived at the Emergency Department with complicated pneumonia while 232 developed a complication during hospitalization. Risk factors for complicated pneumonia (on admission or during hospitalization) were Arab ethnicity, cardiac disease, increased age, and CRP and low O2 Sat (OR = 2.236 p < .001, OR = 4.376 p < .001, OR = 1.131 p < .001, OR = 1.065 p < .001 and OR = 0.959 p = .029, respectively). O2 Sat was lower, while fever and CRP were higher in patients with complicated pneumonia requiring intervention.

Conclusions

Identifying children at risk for complicated pneumonia may help in decision‐making in the Emergency Department and during hospitalization. The increased risk of the Arab population for complicated pneumonia requires further understanding. Addressing the underlying socioeconomic and ethnic health inequities may help to decrease the disease burden in this population.
Comparing endocervical mucus proteome of humans and rhesus macaques
Authors: Han Leo , Park Daye , Reddy Ashok , Wilmarth Phillip A. , Jensen Jeffrey T.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Endocervical mucus changes play a key role in regulating fertility throughout the menstrual cycle and in response to hormonal contraceptives. Non‐human primates (NHP) provide the most translational animal model for reproductive tract studies, as they have hormonally‐regulated menstrual cycles and mucus changes, similar to women.

Experimental Design

We used TMT labelling and LC‐LC/MS to compare the proteins found in the mucus of the rhesus macaque to the mucus of the human endocervix. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD021710.

Results

We found 3048 total proteins present in both rhesus mucus and human mucus, and of these, 57% showed a similar expression pattern. An even higher similarity occurred in the top 500 most prevalent proteins, with overlap in 341 (68%) proteins. Mucin MUC5B was the most highly expressed mucin protein (top 10 expressed proteins in both) but other key proteins related to mucus structure were present in both samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

We find that the mucus proteome of the endocervical mucus is highly conserved in NHP and women. This supports use of the NHP model system for studies of the endocervix and trials of novel fertility treatments targeting the cervix.
Energy Release and Fragmentation of Brittle Aluminum Reactive Material Cases
Authors: Kline Jacob C. , Mason Brian P. , Hooper Joseph P.
Published: May 2021

Cylindrical reactive material cases produced by the consolidation of an aluminum powder were tested via explosive launch in a closed chamber. One configuration measured the quasistatic overpressure generated by the case and explosive, and two further tests focused on soft‐catch of fragments before and after striking the chamber walls. On a volumetric basis, the reactive material cases produced two to three times the combustion energy of an aluminum 6061 alloy case or a bare nitromethane explosive that was tested as comparisons. The metal combustion primarily occurs after case fragments impact the walls. Increasing the reactive material case thickness produces a higher pressure but lower combustion efficiency per unit mass, despite producing comparable or slightly more fine fragments on a per gram basis. Though the brittle, pressed aluminum cases have low toughness and tensile strength, recovered fragment patterns show a range of fragment sizes up to 1 mm, with approximately one‐third of the mass below 100 μm.
ATP regulates RNA‐driven cold inducible RNA binding protein phase separation
Authors: Zhou Qishun , Usluer Sinem , Zhang Fangrong , Lenard Aneta J. , Bourgeois Benjamin M. R. , Madl Tobias
Published: May 2021

Intrinsically disordered proteins and proteins containing intrinsically disordered regions are highly abundant in the proteome of eukaryotes and are extensively involved in essential biological functions. More recently, their role in the organization of biomolecular condensates has become evident and along with their misregulation in several neurologic disorders. Currently, most studies involving these proteins are carried out in vitro and using purified proteins. Given that in cells, condensate‐forming proteins are exposed to high, millimolar concentrations of cellular metabolites, we aimed to reveal the interactions of cellular metabolites and a representative condensate‐forming protein. Here, using the arginine–glycine/arginine–glycine–glycine (RG/RGG)‐rich cold inducible RNA binding protein (CIRBP) as paradigm, we studied binding of the cellular metabolome to CIRBP. We found that most of the highly abundant cellular metabolites, except nucleotides, do not directly bind to CIRBP. ATP, ADP, and AMP as well as NAD+, NADH, NADP+, and NADPH directly interact with CIRBP, involving both the folded RNA‐recognition motif and the disordered RG/RGG region. ATP binding inhibited RNA‐driven phase separation of CIRBP. Thus, it might be beneficial to include cellular metabolites in in vitro liquid–liquid phase separation studies of RG/RGG and other condensate‐forming proteins in order to better mimic the cellular environment in the future.
Field‐evolved resistance to beta‐cyfluthrin in the boll weevil: Detection and characterization
Authors: Rolim Guilherme G , Coelho Roberta R , Antonino José D , Arruda Lucas S , Rodrigues Alice S , Barros Eduardo M , Torres Jorge B
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Insecticide resistance in arthropods is an inherited trait that has become a major cause of insect pest control failure. Monitoring the level of susceptibility and characterization of the type of resistance of key pest species aims to determine the risk of resistance selection in time to take action to mitigate control failures. Seven populations of the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis grandis, collected from cotton fields in the Semiarid and Cerrado areas of Brazil, were screened for their resistance to malathion and beta‐cyfluthrin, insecticides widely recommended for control of boll weevil and other pests.

RESULTS

The levels of adult mortality were variable for beta‐cyfluthrin (0–82%) but invariant (100%) for malathion. Bioassays of concentration‐mortality were used to determine lethal concentrations (LCs) for each insecticide. The LC‐values corroborate the lack of resistance to field rates of malathion but high levels of resistance to beta‐cyfluthrin from 62.7‐ to 439.7‐fold. Weevils resistant to beta‐cyfluthrin were found through genome sequencing to possess a kdr mutation through the L1014F substitution in the voltage gated‐sodium channel gene.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found boll weevil resistance to beta‐cyfluthrin to be not mediated by carboxylesterases, but with cross‐resistance to DDT and carbaryl, and kdr mutation as the major mechanism of the resistance in our samples. Caution is recommended in further use of beta‐cyfluthrin against boll weevil due to potential resistance. Monitoring studies using other boll weevil populations are recommended to determine the geographic pattern and extent of pyrethroid resistance. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Improving the efficacy against crop foliage disease by regulating fungicide adhesion on leaves with soft microcapsules
Authors: Pan Shou‐he , Cao Hai‐chao , Li Bei‐xing , Zhang Da‐xia , Mu Wei , Liu Feng
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Increasing pesticide retention on crop leaves is a key approach for guaranteeing efficacy when products are applied to foliage. Evidently, the formulation plays an important role in this process. Microcapsules (MCs) are a promising formulation, but whether and how their adhesion to the leaf surface affects retention and efficacy is not well understood.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that the incorporation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) with different molecular weights into the MC shell affects the release profile of MCs and the contact area of these MCs to leaves by changing their softness. The cumulative release rates of pyraclostrobin (Pyr) MCs fabricated with PEG200, PEG400, PEG800 and PEG1500 were 80.61%, 90.98%, 94.07% and 97.40%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy observations showed that the flexibility of the MCs increased with increasing PEG molecular weight. The median lethal concentration (LC50) of the MCs with different PEG to the zebrafish were 12.10, 8.10, 3.90 and 1.46 mg L−1, respectively, which also indirectly reflected their release rate. Rainwater had less influence on the retention of the MCs prepared with PEG1500 than with the other PEG, which indicates a better adhesion to the target leave surfaces. MCs with the highest residual efficacy had better control efficacy on peanut leaf spot in field trials.

CONCLUSION

Overall, adding PEG with an appropriate molecular weight to the MC shell can regulate the structure of the MC shell to improve the affinity between the MCs and leaves, which further improves the utilization of pesticides and reduces the environmental risks of pesticides. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of the AROME model's ability to represent ice crystal icing using in situ observations from the HAIC 2015 field campaign
Authors: Wurtz Jean , Bouniol Dominique , Vié Benoît , Lac Christine
Published: May 2021

Since pilots generally avoid intense convective areas, ice crystals icing (ICI) is an aeronautical weather incident that mainly occurs in the anvil of tropical deep convective clouds. Samples of favorable conditions for the occurrence of ICI and data from the High Altitude Ice Crystals (HAIC) 2015 field campaign in French Guiana are investigated and compared with simulations of the French operational mesoscale forecast system Application of Research to Operations at Mesoscales (AROME). To this end, a contextualization of convective systems into convective, stratiform, and cirriform regions is employed for both observations and AROME. General features of the microphysics of deep tropical convective systems are identified. The number concentration of crystals larger than 125 μm and total water content (TWC) are strongly correlated at each temperature level, and both decrease with increasing distance from convective cores. AROME can reproduce the general behavior of the observed microphysics, especially TWC, but seems unable to simulate extreme ICI events. Reasons are sought in the assumptions performed in the microphysical scheme ICE3, and guidelines are proposed to enhance its skills in the context of ICI. In particular, the representation of the snow particle size distribution is adjusted across observations using a generalized gamma shape. This shape is found to outperform the usual Marshall–Palmer and gamma shapes. Additionally, a temperature and snow content dependence of generalized gamma parameters is found. These changes are found to significantly improve the snow concentration diagnostic of ICE3, and these modifications open the way for improvements in the ICE3 scheme.
Composited structure of non‐precipitating shallow cumulus clouds
Authors: Gu Jian‐Feng , Plant Robert S. , Holloway Christopher E. , Jones Todd R.
Published: May 2021

The normalized distributions of thermodynamic and dynamical variables both within and outside shallow clouds are investigated through a composite algorithm using large‐eddy simulations of oceanic and continental cases. The normalized magnitude is maximum near the cloud centre and decreases outwards. While relative humidity (RH) and cloud liquid water () decrease smoothly to match the environment, the vertical velocity, virtual potential temperature (), and potential temperature () perturbations have more complicated behaviour towards the cloud boundary. Below the inversion layer, becomes negative before the vertical velocity has turned from an updraft to a subsiding shell outside the cloud, indicating the presence of a transition zone where the updraft is negatively buoyant. Due to the downdraft outside the cloud and enhanced horizontal turbulent mixing across the edge, the normalized turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) and horizontal turbulent kinetic energy (HTKE) decrease more slowly from the cloud centre outwards than the thermodynamic variables. The distributions all present asymmetric structures in response to the vertical wind shear, with more negatively buoyant air, stronger downdrafts, and larger TKE on the downshear side. We discuss several implications of the distributions for theoretical models and parameterizations. Positive buoyancy near the cloud base is mostly due to the virtual effect of water vapour, emphasizing the role of moisture in triggering. The mean vertical velocity is found to be approximately half the maximum vertical velocity within each cloud, providing a constraint to achieve possible power‐law distributions for some models. Finally, the normalized distributions for different variables are used to estimate the vertical heat and moisture fluxes within clouds. The results suggest that distributions near the cloud edge and variability of maximum perturbations need careful treatment. The fluxes are underestimated in the inversion layer because cloud‐top downdrafts cannot be captured well.
Single Photon Avalanche Diode Arrays for Quantum Imaging and Microscopy
Authors: Madonini Francesca , Severini Fabio , Zappa Franco , Villa Federica
Published: May 2021

Quantum imaging and microscopy profit from quantum correlations and entanglement to image objects and samples with resolution and sensitivity that goes far beyond what can be achieved through classical optics. In order to carry out these techniques, suitable detectors with specific features must be employed. This paper aims to highlight the importance of sensors based on single photon avalanche diodes (SPAD) in quantum imaging and microscopy applications, paving the way for the next‐generation ideal quantum imager. After reviewing the main techniques (based on quantum physics principles) for improving the resolution and sensitivity of a sample image, the pros and cons of different sensors, such as avalanche photodiodes (APDs), and the intensified and electron‐multiplying charge coupled devices (ICCDs and EMCCDs), are identified. Then the analysis mainly focuses on SPAD‐based detectors, identified as the best candidates for quantum imaging, critically discussing the requirements and performance, also in relation to already existing SPAD‐based architectures with specific features fitting the application. Eventually, next‐generation quantum imagers should integrate together all the best architectural choices herewith presented, so as to detect photon coincidences and to perform efficient event‐driven readout, also by exploiting a suitable technology and SPAD design to optimize the discussed detection performance.