bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal variation in the diet of the sandy beach gastropod Olivella minuta
Authors: Corte Guilherme N. , Yokoyama Leonardo Q. , Checon Helio H. , Turra Alexander
Published: November 2019

Marine gastropods exert a strong influence on the structure of marine ecosystems through their foraging activities, yet little is known about how environmental differences in space and time may affect their feeding behavior. To enhance the knowledge about the trophic ecology of coastal benthic species, we investigated temporal and spatial variations in the diet of the sandy beach gastropod Olivella minuta. We collected individuals of O. minuta seasonally, over 1 year, at two sandy beaches with different morphodynamic characteristics (Araçá Bay, an ultra‐dissipative tidal flat, and Barequeçaba Beach, a dissipative beach) and analyzed the stomach contents of specimens of O. minuta. We identified approximately 15,000 food items, which we grouped into 14 categories. Thirteen food categories were found at each area, but significant differences in diet were observed between sites and sampling periods. Individuals from Araçá consumed an overall larger quantity and diversity of food items, which consisted mainly of foraminiferans, polychaetes, and crustaceans. At Barequeçaba, diatoms were the most important item, followed by crustaceans and polychaetes. Temporal variation depended on sites: the number of food items in the stomachs of individuals of O. minuta and dietary composition was roughly constant over time at Araçá, whereas larger variations were observed at Barequeçaba. Although O. minuta has been previously characterized as a carnivore/scavenger, our results show that the diet of this species varies in space and time and comprises a large variety of food resources. The species thus plays a role in the cycling of both vegetal and animal organic matter. This generalist behavior may allow individuals to shift their diet according to habitat alterations and food availability, thereby enhancing the persistence and resilience of O. minuta in different environments or future climate change scenarios.
Dakin's solution in the treatment of severe diabetic foot infections
Authors: Duarte Bruno , Formiga Ana , Neves José
Published: November 2019

Acute necrotising diabetic foot (DF) infections are common, costly, and do not infrequently result in debilitating major lower‐extremity amputations. Dakin's solution is a long‐standing topical antiseptic that has shown benefit in this clinical setting, but its use is undermined by a presumed risk of cytotoxicity. In this single‐centre case series, we retrospectively evaluated 24 patients with severe necrotising DF infections treated with a cyclical instillation of Dakin's solution at a referral multidisciplinary DF unit. Most patients achieved favourable outcomes in infection control and limb salvage, with only one patient (4.2%) requiring a major (at or above‐the‐ankle) amputation. The mean time to complete or near‐complete wound granulation was 5.4 weeks. Of the 12 patients who completed 12 or more months of longitudinal follow up, only 2 (12.2%) had a wound recurrence. In this severe DF infection patient cohort, Dakin's solution led to a clinically meaningful improvement. No remarkable impairment in the wound‐healing process was observed.
Correlation between B value deviation and sintering temperature of perovskite solid solution materials
Authors: Sang Xu , Zhang Huimin , Chang Aiming , Zhou Junyi , Li Haibing , Li Xiaohui
Published: November 2019

The effects of different sintering temperatures on the system of Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3–La0.8Ca0.2MnO3 (BST‐LCM) material were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray, resistance‐temperature measurements, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirm that BST‐LCM is completely miscible and BST is the main phase, which under the premise of following the theory of small polaron conduction, titanium ions interact with manganese ions, which affects the electrical properties of the system of BST‐LCM material. For the electrical properties of related, the LCM content is inversely proportional to the activation energy. Through the linear fitting of the experimental data, the empirical formula between the sintering temperature B value and the content of solid solution is obtained, and the approximate B value within a certain range can be preliminarily calculated.
Rethinking Same‐Sex Sex in Natural Law Theory
Authors: Blankschaen Kurt
Published: November 2019

Many prominent proponents of Old and New Natural Law morally condemn sexual acts between people of the same sex because those acts are incapable of reproduction; they each offer a distinct set of supporting reasons. While some New Natural Law philosophers have begun to distance themselves from this moral condemnation, there are not many similarly ameliorative efforts within Old Natural Law. I argue for the bold conclusion that Old Natural Law philosophers can accept the basic premises of Old Natural Law without also being committed to morally condemning sexual activity between people of the same sex. I develop an argument from analogy that shows how we can draw metaphysically distinct sub‐categories based on someone's capacity to experience the unitive goods of sex. This unitive capacity constitutes the sub‐category and provides a distinct principle for evaluating how members of that sub‐category (X) act as members of that sub‐category, rather than as acting as defective members of another category (Y). Even though my argument is ‘internal’ to Old Natural Law, I conclude by showing how these conclusions can also address some of the objections to same‐sex sex in New Natural Law.
Clinical criteria and sensitivity – what should be preferred when we tackle highly conflicting issues Response to ‘Metabolic syndrome and atopic dermatitis: reconsidering the definition criteria’
Authors: Shalom G. , Kridin K. , Cohen A.D.
Published: November 2019

Linked article: K.I. Alexandraki et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34: e130–e131. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.16075.
Safety and efficacy of topical, fixed‐dose combination calcipotriene (0.005%) and betamethasone (0.064% as dipropionate) gel in adolescent patients with scalp and body psoriasis: a phase II trial
Authors: Eichenfield L.F. , Marcoux D. , Kurvits M. , Liljedahl M.
Published: November 2019

Background

Psoriasis is a disease that commonly manifests in adolescence. Up to half of adults with psoriasis develop it before the age of 20. Topical formulations containing corticosteroids and/or vitamin D3 analogs are recommended for treatment.

Objective

This phase II study aimed to evaluate the safety, including any potential effect on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and calcium metabolism, and efficacy of fixed‐dose combination calcipotriene (0.005%) and betamethasone (0.064% as dipropionate) (Cal/BD) gel in adolescents with psoriasis.

Methods

Patients aged 12 to <17 years, with at least mild psoriasis on the body and scalp, received topical Cal/BD gel once daily for ≤8 weeks. Safety response criteria included adverse drug reactions [ADRs; any adverse event (AE) possibly or probably related to treatment as determined by the investigator; a primary response criterion] and AEs (a secondary response criterion). Only treatment‐emergent AEs (events that occurred after the first application of Cal/BD gel or events which started before this and increased in intensity after the first application of Cal/BD gel) are presented here. Efficacy response criteria included controlled disease, by physician's global assessment of disease severity (PGA), following Cal/BD gel treatment.

Results

A total of 107 patients (median age 14 years; range 12–16) were enrolled and treated. Eight ADRs were observed in 7 (7%) patients and 38 (36%) patients experienced ≥1 AE. The most common AEs were headache [6 (6%) patients], nasopharyngitis [6 (6%) patients] and blood parathyroid hormone increased [4 (4%) patients]. One severe AE was reported (attempted suicide) but was considered unrelated to treatment. At the end of treatment, 58% of patients had controlled disease on the body and 69% on the scalp according to PGA.

Conclusion

In this uncontrolled phase II study, Cal/BD gel was well tolerated and effective for treating scalp and body psoriasis in adolescents.
Baseline characteristics, disease severity and treatment history of patients with atopic dermatitis included in the German AD Registry TREATgermany
Authors: Heratizadeh A. , Haufe E. , Stölzl D. , Abraham S. , Heinrich L. , Kleinheinz A. , Wollenberg A. , Weisshaar E. , Augustin M. , Wiemers F. , Zink A. , von Kiedrowski R. , Hilgers M. , Worm M. , Pawlak M. , Sticherling M. , Fell I. , Handrick C. , Schäkel K. , Staubach‐Renz P. , Asmussen A. , Schwarz B. , Bell M. , Effendy I. , Bieber T. , Homey B. , Gerlach B. , Tchitcherina E. , Stahl M. , Schwichtenberg U. , Rossbacher J. , Buck P. , Mempel M. , Beissert S. , Biedermann T. , Weidinger S. , Schmitt J. , Werfel T. ,   The TREATgermany Study Group
Published: November 2019

Background

The Atopic Dermatitis (AD) TREATgermany registry was initiated by the German Society for Dermatology (DDG) in 2011 to evaluate the ‘real‐life’ situation of health care for patients with AD.

Objectives

Interim data analysis on baseline characteristics as well as current and prescribed systemic treatments of the TREATgermany registry patients.

Methods

Patients (≥18 years) with moderate‐to‐severe AD [objective (o)SCORAD > 20], or with current or previous anti‐inflammatory systemic treatment for AD within 24 months, were included and are followed up over at least 24 months. To assess clinical signs, the eczema area severity index (EASI, 0–72), the oSCORAD (0–83) and the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA; 6‐point scale) were used. The disease severity was globally scored by the patients [Patient Global Assessment (PGA); six‐step Likert scale]. Disease symptoms were assessed by the patient‐oriented eczema measure (POEM, 0–28) and numeric rating scales (NRS, 0–10). Health‐related quality of life was measured using the dermatological life quality index (DLQI, 0–30).

Results

A total of 612 patients were recruited across 32 sites between 06/2016 and 01/2019 (mean age: 42.6 ± 14.2 years; mean oSCORAD: 40.8 ± 16.3). The mean POEM score was 16.3 ± 7.5. Pruritus was rated highest among subjective symptoms (NRS: 5.4 ± 2.7). The mean DLQI value was 11.3 ± 7.5. The frequency of arterial hypertension was lower (20.8%) compared with the general population, whilst this was higher for depression (10%). More than 60% of the patients had received systemic glucocorticosteroids, and 36.8% had received cyclosporine A prior to inclusion. Dupilumab was the leading substance documented as either ‘current’ (12.1%) or ‘prescribed’ (31.4%) at baseline.

Conclusions

These ‘real‐life’ data clearly demonstrate the substantial disease burden. Most of TREATgermany patients were already treated with or prescribed dupilumab at baseline. Moreover, current findings indicate the urgent need for further alternative agents in order to achieve a perceptible improvement of quality of life of patients with moderate‐to‐severe AD.
Parameters optimization and quality evaluation of mechanical properties of infrared radiation thin layer drying of pumpkin samples
Authors: Sadeghi Ebrahim , Movagharnejad Kamyar , Haghighi Asl Ali
Published: November 2019

This work aims to estimate quality characteristics of dried pumpkin samples in an infrared dryer under natural and forced drying air convection systems. Drying time, rehydration ratio, and shrinkage as a function of infrared intensity, sample thickness, sample distance from the infrared lamps, and air velocity were optimized using response surface methodology. Maximum rehydration ratio and minimum drying time and shrinkage were assumed as criteria for optimizing drying conditions of the samples. The optimum values of process variables were 1 m/s air velocity, a sample thickness of 2 mm, 2,000 W of infrared intensity, and sample to infrared lamps distance of 550 mm. Based on the significant effect, sample thickness was the most prominent factor. The optimal values of drying times, rehydration ratios, and shrinkages of the dried samples under natural and forced convection were 1.068 hr and 1.017 hr, 10.375 and 9.141 (g rehydrated sample/g dried sample), and 69.38 and 73.17 (%), respectively.

Practical Applications

Pumpkin as one of the tasty, valuable and healthy nutrition vegetables containing a lot of biologically active substances is rich in phenolics, polysaccharides, flavonoids, vitamins, mineral salts, and a good source of carotene and water‐soluble vitamins. Because of the high initial moisture content, it is very sensitive to microbial spoilage. Thus, the drying can be greatly minimized microbial activities and deterioration chemical reaction by the removal of moisture up to a certain level. In addition, choosing the right type of dryer, design, simulation, and optimization of the drying process are largely dependent on the knowledge of the drying characteristics. It is worth mentioning, the developed statistical multivariate model equations accompanied by the optimal process conditions can be very useful for the design and operation of IR dryer when there is no certain multidimensional infrared drying model for high‐value foodstuffs such pumpkin.
The Use of Communication Technology in the Context of Adolescent and Family Development: An Integration of Family and Media Theories
Authors: Dworkin Jodi , Hessel Heather , LeBouef Samantha
Published: November 2019

Scholars across many academic fields have studied adolescence, family development, and technology use. As such, existing research has reflected the theoretical orientations of several different disciplines—disciplines that have generally operated in silos and without integration. To begin to make meaningful connections among these theoretical ideas, we apply and integrate theories that can help elucidate how parent–child dynamics influence adolescent development in a media‐saturated family environment. First, we present some of the paradoxes that have emerged as a result of innovation and the adoption of mobile technology. Then, we provide a brief overview of the theories that have been applied to adolescence and technology in the family context. Finally, we consider opportunities to integrate and apply theoretical ideas from outside adolescent development that can enrich future research.
Evidence for UHP anatexis in the Shuanghe UHP paragneiss from inclusions in clinozoisite, garnet, and zircon
Authors: Liu Qiang , Hermann Jörg , Zheng Shu , Zhang Junfeng
Published: November 2019

The Shuanghe garnet‐bearing paragneiss from the Dabie ultra‐high–pressure (UHP) orogen occurs as an interlayer within partially retrogressed eclogite. A first UHP metamorphic stage at 680°C, 3.8–4.1 GPa is documented by Zr‐in‐rutile temperatures coupled with phengite inclusions (Si = 3.55) in clinozoisite and grossular‐rich garnet. Relic matrix phengite and phengite inclusions in zircon rims display lower Si of 3.42. Combined with garnet compositions and Ti‐in‐zircon temperatures, they provide evidence for a second UHP metamorphic stage at 800–850°C, ~3.8 GPa. Such isobaric heating at UHP conditions has not been documented so far from the adjacent eclogites and other rock types in the Dabie orogen and indicates proximity to the hot, convecting mantle wedge. The dominant mineral assemblage consisting of plagioclase, epidote, biotite, and amphibole provides evidence for widespread retrogression during the exhumation of the UHP paragneiss. Several types of polyphase mineral inclusions were identified. Phengite inclusions hosted by clinozoisite are partially replaced by kyanite and K‐feldspar, whereas inclusions in host garnet consist of relic phengite, K‐feldspar, and garnet, indicating limited sub‐solidus dehydration of phengite by the reaction Ph→Kfs+Ky±Grt+fluid. Tightly intergrown K‐feldspar and quartz are preserved as inclusions with sharp boundaries and radial cracks in garnet. Analyses of whole inclusions also show small enrichments in light rare earth elements. These inclusions are interpreted to be derived from melting of an inclusion assemblage consisting of Ph+Coe±Czo. A third type of polyphase inclusion consists of typical nanogranite (Ab+Kfs+Qz±Ep) inclusions in recrystallized metamorphic zircon. Ti‐in‐zircon thermometry and the Si content of phengite included in these zircon domains indicate that melting occurred at 800–850°C and 3.8–4.0 GPa during isobaric heating at UHP conditions. The partial melting event led to an equilibration of trace elements in garnet, phengite, and apatite. Using published partition coefficients between these minerals and hydrous granitic melt, the trace element composition of the UHP anatectic melt can be constrained. The melts are characterized by high LILE contents and pronounced relative enrichments of U over Th and Ta over Nb. The REE are below primitive mantle values, likely due to the presence of residual clinozoisite and garnet during partial melting. So far, no major granitic bodies have been found that share the same trace element pattern as the partial melts from the UHP anatexis of the Shuanghe paragneiss.
Tongue thickness is associated with masticatory performance of perioral muscles: Ultrasonographic study of perioral muscle characteristics in healthy young subjects
Authors: Yamaguchi Kohei , Tohara Haruka , Hara Koji , Chantaramanee Ariya , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Yoshimi Kanako , Nakane Ayako , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: November 2019

Background

Mastication is a complicated task that involves the teeth and perioral muscles, such as the tongue and lip. Previous studies have shown correlations between masticatory performance and perioral muscle strength (eg tongue pressure) and between masticatory performance and occlusal forces.

Objective

To investigate the relationships between masticatory performance and perioral muscle characteristics.

Methods

Forty‐nine healthy young subjects (men: 24 and women: 25) with Eichner classification group A were included in this cross‐sectional study. Age, body weight, masticatory performance, masseter muscle thickness, masseter muscle echo intensity, cross‐sectional area of geniohyoid muscle, geniohyoid muscle echo intensity, tongue thickness (TT) and tongue echo intensity were assessed. Masticatory performance was evaluated using a colour‐changeable chewing gum. The thickness and echo intensity of the masseter muscle, geniohyoid muscle and tongue were observed using an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine relationships between perioral muscle characteristics and masticatory performance.

Results

Tongue thickness (P < .01) was the sole significant explanatory variable for masticatory performance. The standard partial regression coefficient was 0.47. The multiple correlation coefficient (R) was .47, and the adjusted R2 was .20; the variance inflation factor was 1.0. This study showed that TT was related to masticatory performance, whereas perioral muscle quality was not. Moreover, perioral muscle quantity was highly correlated with perioral muscle quality.

Conclusions

Tongue thickness is a predictor of masticatory performance in healthy young subjects. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is useful in the evaluation of perioral muscle characteristics.
Spatio‐temporal factors impacting encounter occurrences between leopards and other large African predators
Authors: Rafiq K. , Jordan N. R. , Wilson A. M. , McNutt J. W. , Hayward M. W. , Meloro C. , Wich S. A. , Golabek K. A.
Published: November 2019

Encounters between individuals can have implications for a range of processes, including disease transmission, information transfer and competition. For large carnivores, difficulties in directly observing individuals and historical hardware limitations of GPS collars mean that relatively little is known of the spatio‐temporal factors contributing to encounters. The African large predator guild represents one of the few remaining functionally intact guilds of large carnivores on the globe and so represents a unique study system for understanding competitor interactions. We explored the drivers of male leopard (Panthera pardus) encounters with lions (Panthera leo), African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) and cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) in the context of habitat characteristics and temporal activity overlaps. Using high‐resolution (five minute GPS fixes) data from 48 large African carnivores from 2012 to 2018, we quantified encounter occurrences between male leopards and other guild species and related these to habitat type (open vs closed), activity overlaps and moonlight levels. Leopards met wild dogs 4.56 ± 1.15 (standard error), lions 3.11 ± 0.56 and cheetahs 2.27 ± 0.73 times per month. All species instigated encounters, but leopard instigated encounters with dominant competitors appeared to reflect imperfect information on risk, primarily occurring within habitats with limited visibility. Moreover, encounters peaked during periods of high temporal overlap, suggesting that, although previous research indicates temporal activity patterns may not be driven by predator avoidance, temporal overlap has implications for competitor dynamics. Our results show how habitat characteristics and niche overlaps contribute to encounters between competitors and provide an example of how niche shifts within competitor assemblages can impact competition between species.
Quantitation of large, middle and small hepatitis B surface proteins in HBeAg‐positive patients treated with peginterferon alfa‐2a
Authors: Rinker Franziska , Bremer Corinna M. , Schröder Kathrin , Wiegand Steffen B. , Bremer Birgit , Manns Michael P. , Kraft Anke R. , Wedemeyer Heiner , Yang Lei , Pavlovic Vedran , Wat Cynthia , Gerlich Wolfram H. , Glebe Dieter , Cornberg Markus
Published: November 2019

Background & Aims

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) contains three viral surface proteins, large, middle and small hepatitis B surface protein (LHBs, MHBs, SHBs). Proportions of LHBs and MHBs are lower in patients with inactive vs active chronic infection. Interferon alfa may convert hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) to an inactive carrier state, but prediction of sustained response is unsatisfactory. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that quantification of MHBs and LHBs may allow for a better prognosis of therapeutic response than total hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) concentration.

Methods

Hepatitis B surface proteins were measured before and during peginterferon alfa‐2a therapy in serum from 127 Asian patients with HBeAg‐positive CHB. Sustained response was defined as HBeAg seroconversion 24 weeks post‐treatment.

Results

Mean total HBs levels were significantly lower in responders vs nonresponders at all time points (P < .05) and decreased steadily during the initial 24 weeks treatment (by 1.16 vs 0.86 ng/mL in responders/nonresponders respectively) with unchanged relative proportions. Genotype B had a two‐fold higher proportion of LHBs than genotype C (13% vs 6%). HBV DNA, HBeAg, HBsAg and HBs protein levels predicted response equally well but not optimally (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values >0.70).

Conclusions

Hepatitis B surface protein levels differ by HBV genotype. However, quantification of HBs proteins has no advantage over the already established HBsAg assays to predict response to peginterferon alfa‐2a therapy in HBeAg‐positive patients.
Climate‐dependent variation in cold tolerance of weedy rice and rice mediated by OsICE1 promoter methylation
Authors: Xie Hongjie , Han Yihao , Li Xinyue , Dai Weimin , Song Xiaoling , Olsen Kenneth M. , Qiang Sheng
Published: November 2019

The mechanisms by which weedy rice (Oryza sativa f. spontanea) has adapted to endure low‐temperature stress in northern latitudes remain unresolved. In this study, we assessed cold tolerance of 100 rice varieties and 100 co‐occurring weedy rice populations, which were sampled across a broad range of climates in China. A parallel pattern of latitude‐dependent variation in cold tolerance was detected in cultivated rice and weedy rice. At the molecular level, differential cold tolerance was strongly correlated with relative expression levels of CBF cold response pathway genes and with methylation levels in the promoter region of OsICE1, a regulator of this pathway. Among all methylated cytosine sites of the OsICE1 promoter, levels of CHG and CHH methylation were found to be significantly correlated with cold tolerance among accessions. Furthermore, within many of the collection locales, weedy rice shared identical or near‐identical OsICE1 methylation patterns with co‐occurring cultivated rice. These findings provide new insights on the possible roles that methylation variation in the OsICE1 promoter may play in cold tolerance, and they suggest that weedy rice can rapidly acquire cold tolerance via methylation patterns that are shared with co‐occurring rice cultivars.
Machine learning based novelty detection using modal analysis
Authors: Ozdagli Ali I. , Koutsoukos Xenofon
Published: November 2019

Among many structural assessment methods, the change of modal characteristics is considered a well‐accepted damage detection method. However, the presence of environmental or operational variations may pollute the baseline and prevent a dependable assessment of the change. In recent years, the use of machine learning algorithms gained interest within structural health community, especially due to their ability and success in the elimination of ambient uncertainty. This paper proposes an end‐to‐end architecture to detect damage reliably by employing machine learning algorithms. The proposed approach streamlines (a) collection of structural response data, (b) modal analysis using system identification, (c) learning model, and (d) novelty detection. The proposed system aims to extract latent features of accessible modal parameters such as natural frequencies and mode shapes measured at undamaged target structure under temperature uncertainty and to reconstruct a new representation of these features that is similar to the original using well‐established machine learning methods for damage detection. The deviation between measured and reconstructed parameters, also known as novelty index, is the essential information for detecting critical changes in the system. The approach is evaluated by analyzing the structural response data obtained from finite element models and experimental structures. For the machine learning component of the approach, both principal component analysis (PCA) and autoencoder (AE) are examined. While mode shapes are known to be a well‐researched damage indicator in the literature, to our best knowledge, this research is the first time that unsupervised machine learning is applied using PCA and AE to utilize mode shapes in addition to natural frequencies for effective damage detection. The detection performance of this pipeline is compared to a similar approach where its learning model does not utilize mode shapes. The results demonstrate that the effectiveness of the damage detection under temperature variability improves significantly when mode shapes are used in the training of learning algorithm. Especially for small damages, the proposed algorithm performs better in discriminating system changes.
Expression and function of umami receptors T1R1/T1R3 in gastric smooth muscle
Authors: Crowe Molly S. , Wang Hongxia , Blakeney Bryan A. , Mahavadi Sunila , Singh Kulpreet , Murthy Karnam S. , Grider John R.
Published: November 2019

Background

l‐amino acids, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), activate the umami receptor T1R1/T1R3. We previously showed increased peristalsis in response to activation of T1R1/T1R3 by MSG in mouse colon. However, the expression and function of these receptors in the different regions of the stomach are not clear.

Methods

Mouse gastric smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were isolated and cultured in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium. Expression of T1R1 and T1R3 was measured by RT‐PCR and Western blot. The effect of MSG with and without inosine monophosphate (IMP, an allosteric activator of T1R1/T1R3) on acetylcholine (ACh)‐induced contraction was measured in muscle strips and isolated SMCs by scanning micrometry. The effect of MSG with or without IMP on activation of G proteins and ACh‐induced Ca2+ release was measured in SMCs.

Key Results

Monosodium glutamate inhibited ACh‐induced contractions in muscle strips from both antrum and fundus and the effect of MSG was augmented by IMP; the effects were concentration‐dependent and not affected by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L‐NNA, or tetrodotoxin suggesting a direct effect on SMCs. In isolated gastric SMCs, T1R1 and T1R3 transcripts and protein were identified. Addition of MSG with or without IMP inhibited ACh‐induced Ca2+ release and muscle contraction; the effect on contraction was blocked by pertussis toxin suggesting activation of Gαi proteins. MSG in the presence of IMP selectively activated Gαi2.

Conclusions and Inferences

Umami receptors (T1R1/T1R3) are present on SMCs of the stomach, and activation of these receptors induces muscle relaxation by decreasing [Ca2+]i via Gαi2.
Obesity and dental caries in early childhood: A systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Manohar Narendar , Hayen Andrew , Fahey Paul , Arora Amit
Published: November 2019

Obesity and dental caries in children are significant health problems. The aims of this review are to identify whether children aged 6 years and younger with overweight and/or obesity have higher dental caries experience compared with children with normal weight and, secondly, to identify the common risk factors associated with both conditions. Medline, Embase, and seven other databases were systematically searched followed by lateral searches from reference lists, grey literature, theses, conference proceedings, and contacting field experts. Longitudinal observational studies addressing overweight and/or obesity and dental caries in children aged 6 years and younger were included. A random effects model meta‐analyses were applied. Nine studies were included in this review. Children with overweight and obesity had a significantly higher dental caries experience compared with children with normal weight (n = 6). The pooled estimates showed that difference in caries experience between the two groups was statistically significant. Low levels of parental income and education were identified to be associated with both conditions in the sample population. Children with overweight and obesity are more vulnerable to dental caries. Low levels of parental income and education influence the relationship between the two conditions. However, the quality of evidence varied considerably; therefore, findings should be interpreted cautiously.
Surgical Outcomes and Prognostic Factors of Myxoid Liposarcoma in Extremities: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zheng Kai , Yu Xiu‐chun , Xu Ming , Yang Yang
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To evaluate treatments and prognostic factors for the myxoid liposarcoma in extremities.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 34 patients histologically diagnosed with myxoid liposarcoma arising in the extremities, treated in our hospital from 2010 to 2017. We recorded tumor locations, max diameter, operations, complications, radiation, chemotherapy, survival, recrudescence, and metastases. Overall survival, treatments, and prognostic factors were subsequently analyzed.

Results

The mean age of 34 patients with myxoid liposarcoma in extremities was 49.1 years, and the mean follow‐up period was 65.1 months. The median survival time was 190 months. Five of 14 patients accepted recrudescence resection and two patients of 20 patients who underwent primary tumor resection or unplanned operation died of tumor progression. Although no statistical difference was found (X
2 = 3.331, P = 0.068), the lower mortality was confirmed in the patients who accepted primary tumor resection or unplanned operation. Eleven patients with a tumor diameter of 8.6 ± 4.7 cm accepted wide resection, while 23 patients with 17.2 ± 8.8 cm tumors accepted marginal resection. Statistical difference was found between the size of tumors with relatively wide resection and those with relatively marginal resection (F = 9.130, P = 0.005). No recurrence or metastasis occurred in patients who accepted wide resection, while 14 patients presented with local recurrence and 8 patients developed distant metastases among the 23 patients with marginal resection. Seven patients died of metastases, while one patient lived with metastases. No significant difference in survival was found between different surgical methods (X
2 = 0.9460, P = 0.3307). The average diameter of eight patients with distant metastases was 21.7 cm, which was considerable larger than the 12.1 cm of patients without metastasis. This difference was proven significant upon the statistical analysis (F = 9.412, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Wide resection achieved good local control but was not unambiguously superior in long‐term survival. Myxoid liposarcoma tumors with larger diameters were more difficult to be submitted to wide resection and were more likely to present with distant metastasis.
Invasive legume management strategies differentially impact mutualist abundance and benefit to native and invasive hosts
Authors: Komatsu Kimberly J. , Simms Ellen L.
Published: November 2019

Determining the best management practices for plant invasions is a critical, but often elusive goal. Invasive removals frequently involve complex and poorly understood biotic interactions. For example, invasive species can leave potent legacies that influence the success of native species restoration efforts, and positive plant‐microbial feedbacks may promote continued reinvasion by an exotic species following restoration. Removal methods can vary in their effects on plant–soil feedbacks, with consequences for restoration of native species. We determined the effects of invasion by a leguminous shrub (French broom; Genista monspessulana) on the density and community composition of, and benefit conferred by, its microbial mutualists in its invading range. Densities of soil‐dwelling rhizobia were much higher in areas invaded by G. monspessulana relative to uninvaded areas, and this increased density of rhizobia fed back to increase seedling growth of both the invader and native legumes. We further compared how three techniques for removing G. monspessulana affected the densities of rhizobia relative to areas where G. monspessulana was still present. Removal by hand‐pulling reduced soil rhizobial densities, and reduced growth of one native legume, while having no effect on the growth of the invader. Overall, our results show that the consequences of restoration techniques, both above‐ and belowground, could be critical for the successful removal of an invasive legume and restoration of native species.
Predicting the Probability that a Chemical Causes Steatosis Using Adverse Outcome Pathway Bayesian Networks (AOPBNs)
Authors: Burgoon Lyle D. , Angrish Michelle , Garcia‐Reyero Natalia , Pollesch Nathan , Zupanic Anze , Perkins Edward
Published: November 2019

Adverse outcome pathway Bayesian networks (AOPBNs) are a promising avenue for developing predictive toxicology and risk assessment tools based on adverse outcome pathways (AOPs). Here, we describe a process for developing AOPBNs. AOPBNs use causal networks and Bayesian statistics to integrate evidence across key events. In this article, we use our AOPBN to predict the occurrence of steatosis under different chemical exposures. Since it is an expert‐driven model, we use external data (i.e., data not used for modeling) from the literature to validate predictions of the AOPBN model. The AOPBN accurately predicts steatosis for the chemicals from our external data. In addition, we demonstrate how end users can utilize the model to simulate the confidence (based on posterior probability) associated with predicting steatosis. We demonstrate how the network topology impacts predictions across the AOPBN, and how the AOPBN helps us identify the most informative key events that should be monitored for predicting steatosis. We close with a discussion of how the model can be used to predict potential effects of mixtures and how to model susceptible populations (e.g., where a mutation or stressor may change the conditional probability tables in the AOPBN). Using this approach for developing expert AOPBNs will facilitate the prediction of chemical toxicity, facilitate the identification of assay batteries, and greatly improve chemical hazard screening strategies.
“Multiplicity, Race, and Resilience: Transgender and Non‐Binary People Building Community”
Authors: Stone Amy L. , Nimmons Elizabeth A. , Salcido Robert , Schnarrs Phillip W.
Published: November 2019

Scholars theorize that the development of community is an important part of resilience. In this mixed‐methods study, we argue that race informs the experiences that transgender and non‐binary (TNB) people have in seeking community. Using the Strengthening Colors of Pride Phase I and Phase II research, we argue that in a Latino‐majority city, Latinx and Anglo TNB people connected with the transgender and broader lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community, although Anglo TNB people reported more transphobia in the LGBTQ+ community. Black and American Indian TNB people connected with LGBTQ+ communities of color specifically and struggled more to find in‐person community. Anglo TNB people used their own White racial networks to connect with supportive hobby and interest groups. In general, TNB people connected more with communities that resonated with the multiplicities of their own lives, such as commonalities of economic precarity and immigration status. This research is an important contribution to understanding the development of community for resilience, and the way race and gender identity inform community experiences for TNB people.
Patients and students co‐develop a resource database
Authors: Adamjee Lamiah , Kline Cathy , Godolphin William , Towle Angela
Published: November 2019

Background

Health professional students are provided with a wealth of online learning resources recommended by curriculum developers or instructors, the majority of which focus on biological and clinical science. Our goal was to develop a database of learning resources to help students and faculty members understand chronic health conditions from a patient's perspective. Resources were recommended by patients and evaluated by students.

Our goal was to develop a database of learning resources … recommended by patients and evaluated by students

Methods

Patients and caregivers who recommend resources to their students in an interprofessional health mentors programme, and participants in a Disability Learning Resource planning session, provided 68 different resources, ranging from community organisation websites to personal biographies. Resources were organised into eight categories and rated by 10 senior health professional students.

Patients … provided 68 different resources, ranging from community organisation websites to personal biographies

Results

Patients recommended resources so that students could learn what it is like to live with a particular condition, and also learn about useful patient information resources and community‐based advocacy organisations. Students identified 40% of the rated resources as useful or exceptionally useful, and identified the characteristics of useful and not useful resources.

Students identified 40% of the rated resources as useful or exceptionally useful …

Conclusions

Students want resources that are easy to navigate and are well organised. They want a ‘one‐stop shop’ to access information about a particular condition or disease, and value resources that they can recommend to their patients as well as use to expand their own knowledge. Students value information about local organisations for specific conditions that they can connect their patients to, and from which they may learn more about existing support initiatives in their communities. Clinical educators could better prepare students for practice by making available patient‐recommended resources.

Students … value resources that they can recommend to their patients as well as use to expand their own knowledge

Students value information about local organisations for specific conditions that they can connect their patients to …

Clinical educators could better prepare students for practice by making available patient‐recommended resources
Beyond the Ethico‐aesthetic: Toward a Re‐valuation of the Sensory Ethnography Lab
Authors: Lee Toby
Published: November 2019

Critical discourse regarding the Sensory Ethnography Lab (SEL) has tended to focus on the ethico‐aesthetics ofSELfilms, assuming a representationalist framework of understanding that has traditionally dominated debates over ethnographic media. This essay shifts focus away from the films to consider how the SEL operates pedagogically and institutionally, within larger professional structures and cultural economies. Bringing together writing by Hito Steyerl, Paola Voci, and Nuccio Ordine, I propose an alternative, more materialist framework for understanding programs like theSELand their position in today's shifting cultural economies of both media production and higher education.
Ex vivo comparison of the effect of storage temperature on canine intestinal leakage pressures
Authors: Duffy Daniel J. , Chang Yi‐Jen , Balko Julie A. , Moore George E.
Published: November 2019

Objective

To determine the effect of storage temperature on cadaveric small intestinal leakage pressures after enterotomy.

Study design

Experimental ex vivo study.

Animals

Grossly normal jejunal segments from four canine cadavers.

Methods

Thirty‐six jejunal segments (n = 12 segments/group) were harvested immediately after euthanasia and assigned to a fresh group (tested within 4 hours), chilled group (stored for 24 hours at 4°C before testing), or freeze–thaw group (frozen at −20°C for 7 days and thawed at 21°C for 6 hours before testing). A 2‐cm antimesenteric enterotomy was performed and repaired with 4‐0 monofilament suture in a simple‐continuous pattern. Initial leakage pressure (ILP), maximal intraluminal pressure (MIP), and leakage location were recorded, with testing performed at room temperature.

Results

Mean ± SD ILP for fresh, chilled, and frozen–thawed specimens was 52.9 ± 8.4, 51.8 ± 11.9 and 29.8 ± 4.4 mm Hg, respectively. There was a difference in ILP among groups (P < .003), with freeze–thaw samples demonstrating lower ILP compared with other groups. There was no difference in MIP between groups (P = .186) There was a difference in leakage location among groups (P = .004), with the majority of chilled and freeze–thaw samples leaking at the suture holes compared with the incisional line in fresh samples.

Conclusion

Freezing and subsequent thawing prior to specimen testing reduced ILP compared with use of fresh and chilled specimens but did not affect MIP among experimental groups.

Clinical significance

Cadaveric canine intestinal specimens tested immediately after collection or after chilling for 24 hours should be recommended for ex vivo burst pressure assessment in dogs. Additional studies to evaluate loss in testing viability of chilled intestinal specimens are warranted to help govern experimental methodologies.
Social Media Use by the Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh: A Uses and Gratification Approach
Authors: Nachrin Tania
Published: November 2019

The refugee crisis is one of the greatest problems in the world right now. Countries from both developed and developing parts of the world have faced this crisis for many years. Usually, refugees lost their home-relatives, income source and all meaningful aspects of life. Living in another country with the help of the foreign government and NGOs, the refugees spend a challenging time under many difficulties. This study concentrates on social media uses of the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh under the light of uses and gratification theory. The purposive sampling technique used to collect the data. This study focuses on what are the main reasons for using social media, attitude toward social media, and lastingness on social media by the Rohingya refugees. Data has been collected from 37 Rohingya refugees ranging in age of 19 to 32 years, gendering both male and female. Results indicate that Facebook is the most preferred social media. The majority of them (37.8%) are using social media for one to two years, (43.2%) of them are most active on social media at 7-8 PM and spend four to five hours each day. 62.2% of the respondents have only one social media account. The majority (32.4%) of the Rohingya refugees are using social media for getting the latest news update, sharing an opinion (29.7%), communicating with family and friends (24.3%). 70.3% of respondents think social media is a positive thing, their favorite topics to see on social media are a personal story (51.4%), and political facts (32.4%).  Finally, findings support that many paradigms of uses and gratifications theory are met by the Rohingya social media users.
A speech-based computational auditory signal processing and perception model
Authors: Relaño-Iborra Helia , Zaar Johannes , Dau Torsten
Published: November 2019

A new speech intelligibility prediction model is presented which is based on the Computational Auditory Signal Processing and Perception model (CASP) of Jepsen, Ewert, and Dau [(2008). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 124(1), 422–438]. The model combines a non-linear auditory-inspired preprocessing with a backend based on the cross-correlation between the clean and the degraded speech representations in the modulation envelope domain. Several speech degradation and speech enhancement algorithms were considered to study the ability of the model to predict data from normal-hearing listeners. Degradations of speech intelligibility due to additive noise, phase-jitter distortion, and single-channel noise reduction as well as improved speech intelligibility due to ideal binary mask processing are shown to be successfully accounted for by the model. Furthermore, the model reflects stimulus-level dependent effects of auditory perception, including audibility limitations at low levels and degraded speech intelligibility at high levels. Given its realistic non-linear auditory processing frontend, the speech-based computational auditory signal processing and perception model may provide a valuable computational framework for studying the effects of sensorineural hearing impairment on speech intelligibility.
REVIEWS OF ACOUSTICAL PATENTS
Authors: Fulop Sean A.
Published: November 2019

The purpose of these acoustical patent reviews is to provide enough information for a Journal reader to decide whether to seek more information from the patent itself. Any opinions expressed here are those of the reviewers as individuals and are not legal opinions. Patents are available via the internet at the USPTO website, and also using Google Patents.