bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micronutrients enhance macronutrient effects in a meta‐analysis of grassland arthropod abundance
Authors: Prather Rebecca M. , Castillioni Karen , Kaspari Michael , Souza Lara , Prather Chelse M. , Reihart Ryan W. , Welti Ellen A. R.
Published: October 2020

Aim

Ongoing alterations to Earth’s biogeochemical cycles (e.g., via fertilization, burning of fossil fuels, and pollution) are expected to impact plants, plant consumers and all subsequent trophic levels. While fertilization experiments often reveal arthropod nutrient limitation by nitrogen and phosphorus via effects on plant nutrient density and biomass, these macronutrients are only two of many nutrients important to arthropod fitness. Micronutrients are key to osmoregulation and enzyme function and can interact synergistically with macronutrients to shape the geography of arthropod abundance. We examine arthropod response to macro‐ and micronutrient fertilization as a function of nutrient type, application amount, duration, frequency, and plant responses to fertilization with the goal of addressing how ongoing alterations to biogeochemical cycles will shape future grassland food webs.

Location

Global.

Time period

1987–2018.

Major taxa studied

Invertebrates.

Methods

We compiled a database of 62 studies to test the response of six arthropod trophic groups to multiple fertilizer types (compositions of varying macro‐ and micronutrients), quantities, application frequencies, and application durations. Additionally, we examined the role of plant nutrient content and biomass in mediating arthropod responses to fertilization.

Results

Micronutrients applied alone had no effects on plant biomass or arthropod abundance. However, when added with macronutrients, micronutrients amplified the effect of N, P and K in promoting arthropod abundance, a synergy that did not affect plant biomass. Micronutrients thus catalysed the ability of macronutrients to promote arthropod abundance across all guilds studied.

Main conclusions

In grasslands, the rules governing the abundance of autotrophs and their consumers appear to differ fundamentally in their response to Earth’s changing biogeochemistry. By revealing the importance of micronutrients for arthropods using a global dataset, we highlight a stoichiometric mismatch between limits of plants and arthropods for metal cations whose biogeochemistry, along with N and P, are being actively rearranged in the Anthropocene.
Simulating forest resilience: A review
Authors: Albrich Katharina , Rammer Werner , Turner Monica G. , Ratajczak Zak , Braziunas Kristin H. , Hansen Winslow D. , Seidl Rupert
Published: October 2020

Aim

Simulation models are important tools for quantifying the resilience (i.e., persistence under changed environmental conditions) of forest ecosystems to global change. We synthesized the modelling literature on forest resilience, summarizing common models and applications in resilience research, and scrutinizing the implementation of important resilience mechanisms in these models. Models applied to assess resilience are highly diverse, and our goal was to assess how well they account for important resilience mechanisms identified in experimental and empirical research.

Location

Global.

Time period

1994 to 2019.

Major taxa studied

Trees.

Methods

We reviewed the forest resilience literature using online databases, selecting 119 simulation modelling studies for further analysis. We identified a set of resilience mechanisms from the general resilience literature and analysed models for their representation of these mechanisms. Analyses were grouped by investigated drivers (resilience to what) and responses (resilience of what), as well as by the type of model being used.

Results

Models used to study forest resilience varied widely, from analytical approaches to complex landscape simulators. The most commonly addressed questions were associated with resilience of forest cover to fire. Important resilience mechanisms pertaining to regeneration, soil processes, and disturbance legacies were explicitly simulated in only 34 to 46% of the model applications.

Main conclusions

We found a large gap between processes identified as underpinning forest resilience in the theoretical and empirical literature, and those represented in models used to assess forest resilience. Contemporary forest models developed for other goals may be poorly suited for studying forest resilience during an era of accelerating change. Our results highlight the need for a new wave of model development to enhance understanding of and management for resilient forests.
Comparative evaluation of efficacy of enzymatic toothpaste over standard fluoridated toothpaste in reduction of plaque and gingivitis
Authors: Subramanya Ashwin Parakkaje , Prabhuji Varun , Vardhan Karthikeyan Bangalore , MLV Prabhuji
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To compare and evaluate the efficacy of enzymatic toothpaste v/s standard fluoridated toothpaste in reduction of plaque and gingivitis during maintenance phase after non‐surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).

Materials and Methods

A total of 52 participants belonging to age 20–50 years eligible for inclusion were randomly chosen from the outpatient department. Computer‐generated randomization was followed to recruit the subjects into two groups. 26 subjects were assigned to control group who were given with control toothpaste (standard fluoridated toothpaste), while 26 subjects were assigned to test group (enzymatic toothpaste) and given with test toothpaste. The amount of dental plaque and gingivitis were assessed baseline visit and at 6‐week follow‐up visit using Turesky‐Gilmore‐Glickman modification of the Quigley‐Hein plaque index (TQHPI) 1970, Gingival Index (GI) – (Löe and Sillness 1963) and Full Mouth Bleeding Score (FMBS), respectively. Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS® version 22.

Results

Intergroup comparison of TQHPI, GI and FMBS among test and control group has shown that test group had statistically significant lower values than the control group at the follow‐up visit. (p = 0.006*, p = 0.001*, p = 0.001*, respectively).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of our study, it can be concluded that test toothpaste has shown to be efficient than the previously set standard control fluoridated toothpaste in terms of reduction of plaque and gingivitis during maintenance phase after non‐surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).
Screening method for congenital dysfibrinogenemia using clot waveform analysis with the Clauss method
Authors: Arai Shinpei , Kamijo Tomu , Hayashi Fumiaki , Shinohara Sho , Arai Nobuo , Sugano Mitsutoshi , Uehara Takeshi , Honda Takayuki , Okumura Nobuo
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Congenital fibrinogen disorders (CFDs) are classified as afibrinogenemia or hypofibrinogenemia (Hypo), dysfibrinogenemia (Dys), or hypodysfibrinogenemia (Hypodys), according to functional and antigenic fibrinogen concentrations. However, in routine laboratory tests, plasma fibrinogen levels are mostly measured using the functional Clauss method and not as an antigenic level. Therefore, it is difficult to discriminate CFD from acquired hypofibrinogenemia (aHypo). To establish a screening method for CFD, we investigated the parameters of clot waveform analysis (CWA) from the Clauss method.

Methods

We compared fibrinogen concentrations determined using Clauss and prothrombin time (PT)‐derived methods for 67 aHypo and CFD cases (19 Dys, 4 Hypodys, and 1 Hypo determined using antigen levels and DNA sequence analysis) with a CS‐2400 instrument, and the CWA parameters, dH and Min1, were analyzed automatically with an on‐board algorithm. dH and Min1 are the maximum change in transmittance at the end of coagulation and the maximum velocity of transmittance change during coagulation, respectively.

Results

Clauss/PT‐derived ratios detected 18 cases of Dys and Hypodys but no Hypo cases, whereas Clauss/dH plus Clauss/Min1 ratios were calculated from fibrinogen concentration using the Clauss method and CWA parameters detected 21 cases of Dys and Hypodys and one Hypo case. Moreover, the Clauss/PT‐derived ratio and Clauss/dH plus Clauss/Min1 ratio detected 22 cases of Dys and Hypodys cases and one Hypo case.

Conclusion

This report demonstrates that CWA parameters of the Clauss method, Clauss/dH plus Clauss/Min1 ratio, screened Dys patients with a higher rate, whereas Clauss/PT‐derived ratios did not.
The kinetid structure of two oscarellid sponges (Class Homoscleromorpha) unveils plesiomorphies in kinetids of Homoscleromorpha–Calcarea lineage
Authors: Pozdnyakov Igor R. , Sokolova Agniya M. , Ereskovsky Alexander V. , Karpov Sergey A.
Published: October 2020

The structure of the kinetid (flagellar or ciliary apparatus) is known to be of phylogenetic significance in sponges (Phylum Porifera) and can provide information about evolutionary relationships. Here, we report on the larval kinetid structure of two closely related species, Oscarella lobularis and O. tuberculata (Homoscleromorpha, Oscarellidae). Cells belonging to the four previously recognized morphological regions (anterior pole, lateral zone, paracrystalline belt, and posterior pole) were studied. The cells of the paracrystalline belt have pear‐shaped nuclei with a paracrystalline inclusion connected to the roots of the kinetid. In the cells of other zones, the nucleus is separated from the kinetid, and the roots adjoined the Golgi apparatus only. In kinetids of the studied larval cells, we observed the accessory centriole arranged immediately under the kinetosome, and two unequal fibrillar roots. These features are unique for sponge larvae. Comparing kinetids of the Homoscleromorpha with those in its sister group, the Calcarea, we propose an ancestral composition for the kinetid in the lineage Calcarea + Homoscleromorpha. This proposed kinetid structure includes a kinetosome–nucleus link, striated roots, simple basal foot, orthogonal centriole, and a long transition zone of the flagellum. The position of the centriole under the kinetosome in homoscleromorph larvae and the stout fibrillar or microtubular bundle on the kinetosome in calcarean larvae might be the apomorphies of these groups.
Association between serum albumin and peripheral arterial disease in hypertensive patients
Authors: Ding Congcong , Wang Hua , Huang Xiao , Hu Lihua , Shi Yumeng , Li Minghui , Yu Yu , Zhou Wei , Wang Tao , Zhu Lingjuan , Bao Huihui , Cheng Xiaoshu
Published: October 2020

The authors aimed to evaluate the relationship of serum albumin with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and investigate any possible effect modifiers in hypertensive patients. In the cross‐sectional study, a total of 10,900 Chinese hypertensive patients aged ≥18 years were enrolled. The outcome was PAD, defined as an ankle‐brachial index (ABI) <0.90 in either leg. The overall mean (SD) serum albumin was 46.8 (4.2) g/L. There were significant inverse associations of serum albumin with PAD (per SD increment; OR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.72, 0.94). Compared with the lowest tertile (<45.1 g/L), the multivariate‐adjusted ORs (95% CI) for participants in the middle tertile (45.1‐48.2 g/L) and highest tertile (≥48.2 g/L) of serum albumin were 0.89 (95% CI: 0.67, 1.16) and 0.65 (95% CI: 0.47, 0.90), respectively. Conversely, lower albumin (<48.2 g/L) concentrations were associated with increased odds of PAD (OR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.08‐1.96) compared with higher concentrations. Furthermore, the albumin–PAD association was significantly stronger in males (OR: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.31, 3.30) than in females (OR: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.70, 1.58; p interaction = .024). In conclusion, among Chinese hypertensive adults, lower serum albumin was associated with the prevalence of PAD only in males but not in females.
High urinary glucose is associated with improved renal prognosis in patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Itano Yuya , Sobajima Hiroshi , Ohashi Norimi , Shibata Taiga , Fujiya Atsushi , Nagata Takanobu , Ando Masahiko , Imaizumi Takahiro , Kubo Yoko , Ozeki Takaya , Katsuno Takayuki , Kato Sawako , Yasuda Yoshinari , Maruyama Shoichi
Published: October 2020

Aims/Introduction

The relationship between renal function and urinary glucose is poorly understood in diabetes patients who are not using sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. This study aimed to investigate the association of urinary glucose excretion with renal function prognosis in such patients.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 1,172 patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients were recruited and data were collected between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2011; follow‐up data were collected until 30 June 2015. The primary outcome was set as a 30% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate relative to baseline. The relationship between this outcome and urinary glucose was investigated using Cox proportional hazards model. For analysis, patients were categorized into two groups: urinary glucose <5 g/day or ≥5 g/day. Interaction terms were analyzed.

Results

Multivariate analysis showed that the prognosis of renal function was significantly better in patients with high urinary glucose (≥5 g/day; adjusted hazard ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.35–0.96; P = 0.034). Significant interactions were observed between high urinary glucose and male sex (hazard ratio 0.33, 95% confidence interval 0.14–0.74; P = 0.007), and between high urinary glucose and longer duration of diabetes (≥10 years; hazard ratio 0.25, 95% confidence interval 0.11–0.58; P = 0.001).

Conclusions

The present study suggests that high urinary glucose is associated with prognosis in diabetes patients not taking sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. Measurement of 24‐h urinary glucose excretion might have clinical utility for predicting renal prognosis.
Distribution patterns and habitat associations ofSandelia bainsii(Teleostei:Anabantidae), a highly threatened narrow‐range endemic freshwater fish
Authors: Sifundza Delsy S. , Chakona Albert , Kadye Wilbert T.
Published: October 2020

Sandelia bainsiiis a range‐restricted and highly threatened freshwater fish endemic to South Africa. Recent genetic evidence suggests that this species comprises three allopatrically distributed lineages that have been informally designated asSandeliasp. “Kowie,”Sandeliasp. “Keiskamma” andSandeliasp. “Buffalo.” As these lineages have only been recently identified and are likely to face a high risk of extinction because of restricted distributions, there is a critical need for generating ecological information to guide conservation prioritisation. The present study compared the historical and current distribution patterns, together with the habitat associations ofSandeliasp. “Kowie” in the Koonap and Kat rivers, tributaries of the Great Fish River. This study indicated that this lineage has been extirpated from one of the three localities in the Koonap River where it was historically abundant. In the Kat River, the current distribution ofSandeliasp. “Kowie” was comparable to its historical range, but its future persistence is threatened by the presence of non‐native piscivores, instream physical barriers and potential future exploration for shale gas and infrastructure development in the Karoo Basin. A generalised hurdle negative binomial model revealed that although this lineage's probability of occurrence was high in habitats with boulder and sand substrates, and low conductivity, habitat characteristics were poor predictors of its abundance. Thus, it was postulated that the current range of this lineage probably represents the only available habitats for the persistence of different life stages for this taxon. Alternatively, the observed patterns may suggest the possibility of a shift in habitat associations, possibly for optimum utilisation of the remaining refugia within this river system. Immediate conservation measures should focus on preventing the spread on non‐native invasive fishes, whereas future studies should evaluate the impacts of population fragmentation and identify appropriate intervention measures to maintain this lineage's long‐term adaptive potential.
Nurses’ experiences of compassionate care in the palliative pathway
Authors: Skorpen Tarberg Anett , Landstad Bodil J. , Hole Torstein , Thronæs Morten , Kvangarsnes Marit
Published: October 2020

Aims and objectives

The aim was to explore how nurses experience compassionate care for patients with cancer and family caregivers in different phases of the palliative pathway.

Background

Compassion is fundamental to palliative care and viewed as a cornerstone of high‐quality care provision. Healthcare authorities emphasize that patients should have the opportunity to stay at home for as long as possible. There are, however, care deficiencies in the palliative pathway.

Design

This study employed a qualitative design using focus groups and a hermeneutic approach.

Methods

Four focus groups with three to seven female nurses in each group were conducted in Mid‐Norway in 2018. Nurses’ ages ranged from 28–60 years (mean age = 45 years), and they were recruited through purposive sampling (N = 21). Compassionate care was chosen as the theoretical framework. Reporting followed the COREQ guidelines.

Results

Three themes expressing compassionate care related to different phases of the pathway were identified: (a) information and dialogue, (b) creating a space for dying and (c) family caregivers’ acceptance of death.

Conclusions

This study showed that it was crucial to create a space for dying, characterized by trust, collaboration, good relationships, empathy, attention, silence, caution, slowness, symptom relief and the absence of noise and conflict.

Relevance to clinical practice

The quality of compassion possessed by individual practitioners, as well as the overall design of the healthcare system, must be considered when creating compassionate care for patients and their family caregivers. Nursing educators and health authorities should pay attention to the development of compassion in education and practice. Further research should highlight patients’ and family caregivers’ experiences of compassionate care and determine how healthcare systems can support compassionate care.
Association between dietary inflammatory index and inflammatory biomarkers with outcomes of in vitro fertilization treatment
Authors: Diba‐Bagtash Fatemeh , Shahnazi Mahnaz , Ghasemzadeh Alieh , Jahanjoo Fatemeh , Dolatkhah Neda , Farshbaf‐Khalili Azizeh
Published: October 2020

Aim

To investigate associations between dietary inflammatory index (DII), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) with outcomes of in vitro fertilization treatment.

Methods

This observational prospective study included 144 women undergoing fresh in vitro fertilization cycles who attended infertility center of Al‐Zahra Hospital in Tabriz, Iran. DII was computed based on dietary intake assessed using a 3‐day 24‐h food record diary. Outcomes of in vitro fertilization in this study were considered fertilization rate, embryo quality and positive pregnancy test. Inflammatory biomarkers were measured on the day of embryo transfer.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between pregnant and nonpregnant women in terms of infertility and demographic characteristics, quantity of retrieved and fertilized oocytes, fertilization rate and number of transferred embryos (P > 0.05). The mean quality scores of resultant embryos (P < 0.001) and transferred embryos (P = 0.019) were significantly lower in the group of pregnant women, indicating the better quality among them. Median (percentile 25–75th) DII in the pregnant women was 1.8 (0.5–2.7) and in the nonpregnant women was 1.6 (0.3–2.6). DII was significantly related to hs‐CRP (r = 0.198, P = 0.017) but not to IL‐6. There were no significant relationships between DII, serum hs‐CRP, IL‐6 and in vitro fertilization outcomes (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that serum hs‐CRP and IL‐6 concentration and DII are not predictive markers of in vitro fertilization cycle outcomes in women undergoing in vitro fertilization.
Development of a Portuguese smell test: A novel hospital compounding formulation to improve diagnosis of olfactory dysfunction
Authors: Chaves Carolina , Marto Joana , Santos Mário , Duarte‐Ramos Filipa , Alcobia Armando , Antunes Luís , Bronze M. Rosário , Ribeiro Helena
Published: October 2020

About half of the population aged over 60 years mention they have an olfactory dysfunction. However, the diagnosis is challenging since the identification of odors is personal and cultural, conditioning the selection of effective olfactory tests. This study aimed to identify typical odors recognized by the Portuguese population in order to develop and characterize a smell test kit adapted to this specific population to be used to diagnose olfactory dysfunctions. For this, a national cross‐sectional survey with 348 healthy participants, allowed the identification of 22 characteristic odors for Portuguese population. The orange odor was chosen by 56% of the individuals that answered the survey and this fragrance was selected for pre‐formulation studies. Then, polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐based formulations were developed and characterized. It was observed that the type and amount of PEG and fragrances influenced the rheology, morphology, texture and crystalline structures of the formulations. Based on the results obtained, structure characterization and sensorial analysis responses, compounding and processing, a formulation was selected. Then, the kit was assembled with 22 fragrance PEG‐based formulations and one odorless (control).

Practical application

This study aimed to identify 22 odors among different categories recognizable by the Portuguese population in order to develop a suitable smell test kit to diagnose olfactory dysfunctions of this specific population. This Portuguese smell test, for containing formulations with rheological and sensory characteristics adapted to the Portuguese population, allows the physician to use it as a method of diagnosis in patients with suspected impaired olfactory perception, such as anosmia total or partial. Nowadays, this kit is being used in otorhinolaryngology medical consultation of the hospital involved in the study to diagnose olfactory disorders.
Resolution of diffuse facial verruca plana following nonavalent human papillomavirus immunization
Authors: Johnson Nathan M. , Pickard Clay M.
Published: October 2020

Treatment of verruca plana is often challenging, and multiple treatment modalities, both pharmacologic and destructive, are frequently necessary to clear lesions. We report a case of a 16‐year‐old girl with a 2‐year history of extensive verruca plana of the forehead, temples, and upper periorbital skin, recalcitrant to monotherapy with topical tretinoin cream, that completely resolved following first dose of nonavalent human papillomavirus (HPV) immunization.
The chloride channels: Silently serving the plants
Authors: Subba Ashish , Tomar Surabhi , Pareek Ashwani , Singla‐Pareek Sneh L.
Published: October 2020

Chloride channels (CLCs), member of anion transporting proteins, are present ubiquitously in all life forms. Diverging from its name, the CLC family includes both channel and exchanger (proton‐coupled) proteins; nevertheless, they share conserved structural organization. They are engaged in diverse indispensable functions such as acid and fluoride tolerance in prokaryotes to muscle stabilization, transepithelial transport, and neuronal development in mammals. Mutations in genes encoding CLCs lead to several physiological disorders in different organisms, including severe diseases in humans. Even in plants, loss of CLC protein function severely impairs various cellular processes critical for normal growth and development. These proteins sequester Cl− into the vacuole, thus, making them an attractive target for improving salinity tolerance in plants caused by high abundance of salts, primarily NaCl. Besides, some CLCs are involved in NO3− transport and storage function in plants, thus, influencing their nitrogen use efficiency. However, despite their high significance, not many studies have been carried out in plants. Here, we have attempted to concisely highlight the basic structure of CLC proteins and critical residues essential for their function and classification. We also present the diverse functions of CLCs in plants from their first cloning back in 1996 to the knowledge acquired as of now. We stress the need for carrying out more in‐depth studies on CLCs in plants, for they may have future applications towards crop improvement.
Getting to the root of restoration: considering root traits for improved restoration outcomes under drought and competition
Authors: Garbowski Magda , Avera Bethany , Bertram Jonathan H , Courkamp Jacob S , Gray Jesse , Hein Kirsten M , Lawrence Ryan , McIntosh Mariah , McClelland Shelby , Post Alison K , Slette Ingrid J , Winkler Daniel E , Brown Cynthia S
Published: October 2020

A foundational goal of trait‐based ecology, including trait‐based restoration, is to link specific traits to community assembly, biodiversity, and ecosystem function. Despite a growing awareness of the importance of belowground traits for ecological processes, a synthesis of how root traits can inform restoration of terrestrial plant communities is lacking. We reviewed and summarized existing literature focused on root traits in relation to plant performance measures (i.e. survival, establishment, productivity) in the contexts of drought and competition (including invasion). Root traits related to belowground resource acquisition (e.g. high specific root length, deep roots) are frequently related to drought avoidance (i.e. a plant strategy based on optimizing water uptake to maintain function), whereas studies relating root traits to drought tolerance (i.e. a plant strategy that allows plants to withstand low hydration) remain limited. More studies have linked root traits to plant competitive effects (i.e. the influence a plant has on neighbors) than to competitive responses (i.e. a plant's ability to resist the effects of neighbors). Because plants with acquisitive traits decrease resources to the detriment of neighbors, root traits associated with rapid resource acquisition (e.g. high specific root length) may be important for understanding competitive effects. Albeit more limited, research suggests root traits associated with resource conservation or stress tolerance (e.g. high root tissue density, high root diameter) may elucidate mechanisms related to competitive responses. Re‐vegetation outcomes may be improved by considering root traits, but only if clear links are made between traits and plant performance in varied contexts.
Income Inequality across the Rural‐Urban Continuum in the United States, 1970–2016*
Authors: Thiede Brian C. , Butler Jaclyn L. W. , Brown David L. , Jensen Leif
Published: October 2020

The growth in macro‐level income inequality in the United States is well established, but less is known about patterns of inequality at subnational scales and how they vary between and within rural and urban localities. Using data from the Decennial Census and American Community Survey, we produce estimates of within‐county income inequality from 1970 to 2016 and analyze differences in inequality levels, the persistence of high (low) inequality, and populations' exposure to high (low) inequality across the rural‐urban continuum. We find that income inequality has historically been higher in non‐metropolitan than metropolitan counties, but inequality levels converged by 2016 due to growing inequality in metropolitan counties. Additionally, levels of inequality were generally persistent within counties over time, except that counties characterized by low inequality in 1970 were unlikely to remain as such in 2016. Third, non‐trivial shares of the metropolitan population resided in low‐inequality contexts in 1970, but virtually none of the U.S. population resided in such places by 2016. Residence in high‐inequality counties is normative in rural and urban America. This statistical analysis provides an updated portrait of income inequality across the rural‐urban continuum, and should spur additional research on stratification in rural America during an era of growing inequality.
Tackling Educational Inequalities with Social Psychology: Identities, Contexts, and Interventions
Authors: Easterbrook Matthew J. , Hadden Ian R.
Published: October 2020

Some groups of students—typically those who have suffered because of historical inequality in society—disproportionately experience psychological barriers to educational success. These psychological barriers—feelings of threat to their social identity and the sense that their identity is incompatible with educational success—make substantial contributions to inequalities in educational outcomes between groups, even beyond economic, historical, and structural inequalities. A range of wise psychological interventions can help remove these barriers by targeting students’ subjective interpretation of their local educational context. In this review, we outline the Identities in Context model of educational inequalities, which proposes that interactions between students’ social identities and features of the local educational context—expectations about a group's academic performance, a group's representation in positions associated with academic success, and a group's orientation towards education—can trigger social identity threat and identity incompatibility in ways that vary considerably across contexts. We present an implementation process, based on the Identities in Context model, that academic researchers, policymakers, and practitioners can follow to help them choose and tailor wise interventions that are effective in reducing educational inequalities in their local context. Throughout the review, we make policy recommendations regarding how educational practices can be altered to help remove psychological barriers for underperforming groups of students and so reduce educational inequalities.
Identification of the novel HLA‐A*01:01:01:53 allele generated by recombination in intron 1
Authors: Stelet Vinícius N. , Cita Rafael F. , Mendes Maristela F. , Romero Matilde , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: October 2020

Identification of the novel HLA‐A*01:01:01:53 allele that differs from HLA‐A*01:01:01:01 at four positions in intron 1.
Corneo‐limbo‐conjunctival transposition to treat deep and perforating corneal ulcers in dogs: A review of 418 eyes and corneal clarity scoring in 111 eyes
Authors: Cebrian Prado , Escanilla Natalia , Lowe Robert C. , Dawson Charlotte , Sanchez Rick F.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To report surgical and corneal clarity scores (CCSs) of corneo‐limbo‐conjunctival transpositions (CLCTs) in a large number of canine cases.

Methods

Retrospective review of records that underwent CLCT to repair deep ulcers or perforations between 2002 and 2018. Signalment, concurrent eye disease, additional procedures, pathogenesis, medication, graft orientation, follow‐up, and CCSs were recorded.

Results

418 eyes of 399 dogs were included. Brachycephalics were most commonly affected, comprising 325/418 (77.75%) of the eyes. The most commonly affected breeds were Pugs, Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and French Bulldogs, with 116/418 (27.75%), 64/418 (15.31%), 34/418 (8.13%), and 34/418 (8.13%) ulcerated eyes, respectively. Mean age at surgery was 5.5 years (range 59 days‐17.7 years), and median follow‐up time was 100 days (range 3 days‐7.64 years). The most common etiopathogenesis was spontaneous ulceration in 205/418 eyes (49.04%) of which 191 (93.17%) occurred in brachycephalics. Primary keratoconjunctivitis sicca affected 122/418 eyes (29.19%) and injury 39/418 eyes (9.33%). Mean ulcer width was 3.5 mm (0.5‐10 mm). Success rate was 97.13% (406/418 eyes). Failure end points recorded included no menace response, secondary glaucoma, and endophthalmitis. Pre‐existing perforation was found in 101/418 (24.16%) of the eyes and significantly increased failure rate (P < .001). The median CCS was G3 (G0‐G4), which was lower for Pugs (G2). Graft orientation affected CCS, but did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

The high success rate and CCS for CLCT in dogs make it a good technique to treat deep ulcers but a less desirable outcome is anticipated when treating perforations and Pugs.
Numerical Solution of Nonlinear Space–Time Fractional-Order Advection–Reaction–Diffusion Equation
Authors: Dwivedi Kushal Dhar , Rajeev  , Das Subir , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: October 2020

In this article, a new algorithm is proposed to solve the nonlinear fractional-order one-dimensional solute transport system. The spectral collocation technique is considered with the Fibonacci polynomial as a basis function for the approximation. The Fibonacci polynomial is used to obtain derivative in terms of an operational matrix. The proposed algorithm is actually based on the fact that the terms of the considered problem are approximated through a series expansion of double Fibonacci polynomials and then collocated those on specific points, which provide a system of nonlinear algebraic equations which are solved by using Newton's method. To validate the precision of the proposed method, it is applied to solve three different problems having analytical solutions. The comparison of the results through error analysis is depicted through tables which clearly show the higher accuracy of order of convergence of the proposed method in less central processing unit (CPU) time. The salient feature of the article is the graphical exhibition of the movement of solute concentration for different particular cases due to the presence and absence of reaction term when the proposed scheme is applied to the considered nonlinear fractional-order space–time advection–reaction–diffusion model.
Combustion Characteristics of Ultrafine Coal Particles-Light Diesel Oil Mixtures in a Cylindrical Horizontal Furnace
Authors: ELSihy ELSaeed Saad , Salama M. M. , Shahein M. A. , Moneib H. A. , Abd EL-Rahman M. K.
Published: October 2020

This work presents an experimental study that aims at investigating the effect of the loading ratio of coal in a coal-diesel fuel mixture on the combustion characteristics and exhaust emissions. Sub-bituminous coal from the El-Maghara coal mine is utilized. It is washed, dried, and grounded to particle sizing of ≤ 30 μm. The experiments are conducted inside a horizontal, segmented water-cooled cylindrical furnace fitted with a coaxial burner having a central air-assisted atomizer for oil-coal mixture admittance. All experiments are executed at constant input heat of 350 kW and air-to-fuel ratio of 15:1 while varying the percentage (mass basis: 5% and 10%) of coal in the fuel mixture. The measurements within the flame zone include mean gas temperatures, dry volumetric analyses of species (CO2, NOx, and O2) concentrations, and the accumulative heat transfer to the cooling jacket along the combustor. All measurements are compared regarding the pure oil flame. The results indicate that increasing the coal-loading ratio up to 5 wt% leads to a progressive increase in the accumulated heat transferred and the combustor overall efficiency from 40% to 58% within a percentage increase around 45%. In addition, there is a slight reduction in mean gas temperature within the flame zone when compared with the pure oil flame. The reduced flame temperature due to increasing the coal-loading ratio caused a decline in the volumetric concentrations of NOx from 100 ppm to 20 ppm as expected.
Improving Precision in Aluminum Alloy Machining Due to the Application of Diamond-Like Carbon Thin Film
Authors: de Melo Silva William , Martins Paulo Sérgio , de Carvalho Vagner Eustáquio , da Cruz Nilson Cristino , Claudino Enzo , Carneiro José Rubens Gonçalves
Published: October 2020

Cutting precision is extremely affected by a phenomenon known as built up edge (BUE) that occurs on tungsten carbide tools during low cutting speed of aluminum alloy. BUE is responsible for early tool breakage due to excessive material build up from the machined part on the cutting face, leading to problems of shape irregularity and tool-tip breakage. Thus, diamond-like carbon (DLC) was deposited and tested to verify cutting precision in aluminum alloy by using tungsten carbide tools. The characterizations of the film were morphology analysis through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), structural atomic analyze of chemical bond from Raman backscatter spectroscopy, the distribution of carbon atoms on the film surface by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and the evaluation of Young’s modulus and hardness using the Oliver–Pharr method. To analyze the cutting precision, drilling tests were performed on coated/uncoated drills at two cutting speeds (340 and 430 m/min). As an evaluation parameter in the aluminum alloy, the hole diameter deviation was measured after pre determined numbers of drilling operations. Statistical comparisons between the diameter deviation as a function of the number of drilling test indicated better cutting accuracy for the DLC-coated tool. The factors identified in this work, such as the reduction of the friction coefficient, and the hardness and Young’s modulus of the DLC helped in the performance of the tool, mainly in the lower cutting speed.
A Cartilage Dicing Tool for Rapid Preparation of Rhinoplasty Grafts
Authors: Stephanian Brooke A. , Karki Sabin , Sharma Paarth , Leo Kirby T. , Di Meo Marc A. , Ota Mitsuki , Patel Millan , Byrne Patrick J. , Durr Nicholas J.
Published: October 2020

Over 220,000 rhinoplasties are performed in the U.S. annually, with approximately 90% of all procedures requiring the use of cartilage autografts or allografts to augment nasal structure or contour. Prior to implantation, graft cartilage is shaped into the desired form by facial plastic surgeons through carving, crushing, or dicing, and molding of the tissue. The use of diced cartilage has been shown in literature to be the optimal technique for creating contour grafts, permitting increased graft moldability, and resulting in the fewest postoperative complications. Despite superior clinical outcomes, adoption of diced techniques is challenged by the laborious, time-intensive process of dicing tissue, which requires up to 2 h in the operating room and is currently performed manually with a blade. Manual dicing can result in inconsistently sized pieces, which can increase risk of graft breakage. Existing cartilage processing tools are primarily intended for crushing tissue and are unsuitable for dicing. This work describes the design and validation of an easy-to-use, effective device for rapid, consistent cartilage dicing. Cartilage sizing analysis demonstrated that the device produced approximately five times more diced cartilage within 5 min compared to manual dicing. The rapid dicer (RD) device consistently dices cartilage to a size suitable for grafting while significantly decreasing processing time and cartilage loss compared to current methods. Future development will focus on performing further user testing of the device to design a more ergonomic instrument casing.
A universal scaling law of mammalian touch
Authors: Andrews J. W. , Adams M. J. , Montenegro-Johnson T. D.
Published: October 2020

Across mammals, vibration mechanoreceptors are located at a universally scaled depth.
3D printed self-supporting elastomeric structures for multifunctional microfluidics
Authors: Su Ruitao , Wen Jiaxuan , Su Qun , Wiederoder Michael S. , Koester Steven J. , Uzarski Joshua R. , McAlpine Michael C.
Published: October 2020

3D printed self-supporting microfluidics can be directly integrated with sensors and implemented on curvilinear surfaces.
Emergence of a Novel
tet
(L) Variant in
Campylobacter
spp. of Chicken Origin in China
Authors: Yao Hong , Jiao Dian , Zhao Wenbo , Li Aijuan , Li Ruichao , Du Xiang-Dang
Published: October 2020

Tetracyclines are widely used in veterinary medicine and food animal production.
Campylobacter
members are major foodborne pathogens, and their resistance to tetracycline has been widely reported in different countries. To date, Tet(O), a ribosomal protection protein, is the only confirmed Tet resistance determinant in
Campylobacter
spp. Here, we reported the detection and characterization of a novel Tet resistance element in
Campylobacter
spp. of chicken origin.
Spatial–temporal trends in forced migrant mortality, 2014–2018
Authors: Poole Danielle N , Hedt-Gauthier Bethany , Bärnighausen Till , Verguet Stéphane , Castro Marcia C
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The identification of spatial–temporal clusters of forced migrant mortality is urgently needed to inform preventative policies and humanitarian response. As a first step towards understanding the geography of forced migrant mortality, this study investigates spatial–temporal patterns in death at a global scale.

Methods

We used information on the location and dates of forced migrant deaths reported in the International Organization for Migration’sMissing Migrant Projectfrom 2014 to 2018. Kulldorff’s spatial–temporal and seasonal scans were used to detect spatial–temporal and temporal heterogeneity in mortality.

Results

A total of 16 314 deaths were reported during the study period. A preponderance of deaths occurred at sea each year (range 26%–54% across 5 years). Twelve spatial–temporal clusters of forced migrant mortality were detected by maximum likelihood testing. Annually, the period of August–October was associated with a 40-percentage-point increase in the risk of mortality, relative to other time periods.

Conclusions

Death during forced migration occurs close to national borders and during periods of intense conflict. This evidence may inform the design of policies and targeting of interventions to prevent forced migration-related deaths.
Predictors for diabetic retinopathy progression—findings from nominal group technique and Evidence review
Authors: Haider Sajjad , Sadiq Salman Naveed , Lufumpa Eniya , Sihre Harpreet , Tallouzi Mohammad , Moore David J , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Price Malcolm James
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Risk stratification is needed for patients referred to hospital eye services by Diabetic Eye Screening Programme UK. This requires a set of candidate predictors. The literature contains a large number of predictors. The objective of this research was to arrive at a small set of clinically important predictors for the outcome of the progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR). They need to be evidence based and readily available during the clinical consultation.

Methods and analysis

Initial list of predictors was obtained from a systematic review of prediction models. We sought the clinical expert opinion using a formal qualitative study design. A series of nominal group technique meetings to shorten the list and to rank the predictors for importance by voting were held with National Health Service hospital-based clinicians involved in caring for patients with DR in the UK. We then evaluated the evidence base for the selected predictors by critically appraising the evidence.

Results

The source list was presented at nominal group meetings (n=4), attended by 44 clinicians. Twenty-five predictors from the original list were ranked as important predictors and eight new predictors were proposed. Two additional predictors were retained after evidence check. Of these 35, 21 had robust supporting evidence in the literature condensed into a set of 19 predictors by categorising DR.

Conclusion

We identified a set of 19 clinically meaningful predictors of DR progression that can help stratify higher-risk patients referred to hospital eye services and should be considered in the development of an individual risk stratification model.

Study design

A qualitative study and evidence review.

Setting

Secondary eye care centres in North East, Midlands and South of England.
Practical reflections on a collaboration with healthcare consumers on the development of a simulation
Authors: Symon Benjamin , Edwards Rachel , Twigg Sonia Jean , Ardila Sarmiento Martha Carolina , Barwick Stephanie
Published: October 2020

Background

Healthcare simulations generate moments of ‘cultural compression’ through which we transmit core values about our professional identities and the families we care for. The engagement of healthcare consumers in this process is useful to evaluate the values we transmit and ensure authenticity in the narratives we share.

Methods

A simulation package on febrile neutropenia and port access was written by healthcare staff in consultation with the parent of a child with leukaemia. Healthcare consumer review was focused on the representation of the simulated parent within the simulation scripts. The child and his mother assisted in the development of supportive video resources on family perspectives on port access and demonstration of the procedure.

Results

The involvement of healthcare consumers in the development of the scenario had positive impact on the design and the supportive resources, both of which created opportunities for patient advocacy and reinforced the centrality of healthcare consumers within the healthcare team.

Conclusions

Healthcare consumer collaboration in scenario design was achievable and impactful without significant increased cost. We hope to promote the benefits of healthcare consumer consultation in simulation design to improve the pursuit of educational and cultural learning objectives.
Nanoemulsion adjuvantation strategy of tumor-associated antigen therapy rephrases mucosal and immunotherapeutic signatures following intranasal vaccination
Authors: Huang Chung-Hsiung , Huang Chiung-Yi , Ho Hui-Min , Lee Ching-Hung , Lai Pang-Ti , Wu Suh-Chin , Liu Shih-Jen , Huang Ming-Hsi
Published: October 2020

Background

Emulsion adjuvants are a potent tool for effective vaccination; however, the size matters on mucosal signatures and the mechanism of action following intranasal vaccination remains unclear. Here, we launch a mechanistic study to address how mucosal membrane interacts with nanoemulsion of a well-defined size at cellular level and to elucidate the impact of size on tumor-associated antigen therapy.

Methods

The squalene-based emulsified particles at the submicron/nanoscale could be elaborated by homogenization/extrusion. The mucosal signatures following intranasal delivery in mice were evaluated by combining whole-mouse genome microarray and immunohistochemical analysis. The immunological signatures were tested by assessing their ability to influence the transportation of a model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) across nasal mucosal membranes and drive cellular immunity in vivo. Finally, the cancer immunotherapeutic efficacy is monitored by assessing tumor-associated antigen models consisting of OVA protein and tumor cells expressing OVA epitope.

Results

Uniform structures with ~200 nm in size induce the emergence of membranous epithelial cells and natural killer cells in nasal mucosal tissues, facilitate the delivery of protein antigen across the nasal mucosal membrane and drive broad-spectrum antigen-specific T-cell immunity in nasal mucosal tissues as well as in the spleen. Further, intranasal vaccination of the nanoemulsion could assist the antigen to generate potent antigen-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response. When combined with immunotherapeutic models, such an effective antigen-specific cytotoxic activity allowed the tumor-bearing mice to reach up to 50% survival 40 days after tumor inoculation; moreover, the optimal formulation significantly attenuated lung metastasis.

Conclusions

In the absence of any immunostimulator, only 0.1% content of squalene-based nanoemulsion could rephrase the mucosal signatures following intranasal vaccination and induce broad-spectrum antigen-specific cellular immunity, thereby improving the efficacy of tumor-associated antigen therapy against in situ and metastatic tumors. These results provide critical mechanistic insights into the adjuvant activity of nanoemulsion and give directions for the design and optimization of mucosal delivery for vaccine and immunotherapy.