bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the syntactic bootstrapping effect in verb learning: A meta‐analytic synthesis
Authors: Cao Anjie , Lewis Molly
Published: September 2021

How do children infer the meaning of a novel verb? One prominent proposal is that children rely on syntactic information in the linguistic context, a phenomenon known as “syntactic bootstrapping”. For example, given the sentence “The bunny is gorping the duck,” a child could use knowledge of English syntactic roles to infer that “gorping” refers to an action where the bunny is acting in some way on a duck. Here, we examine the strength of the syntactic bootstrapping effect, its developmental trajectory and generalizability using meta‐analytic methods. Across 60 experiments in the literature (N = 849 participants), we find a reliable syntactic bootstrapping effect (d = 0.24). Yet, despite its theoretical prominence, the syntactic bootstrapping effect is relatively small, comparable in size to cross‐situational learning and sound symbolism, but smaller than mutual‐exclusivity and gaze‐following. Further, we find that the effect does not strengthen over development, and is present only for studies that use transitive sentences. An examination of a range of methodological factors suggests that the effect is not strongly influenced by methodological implementation. In the General Discussion, we consider implications of our findings for theories of verb learning and make recommendations for future research.
Morphogenesis of digitate structures in hot spring silica sinters of the El Tatio geothermal field, Chile
Authors: Gong Jian , Munoz‐Saez Carolina , Wilmeth Dylan T. , Myers Kimberly D. , Homann Martin , Arp Gernot , Skok John R. , van Zuilen Mark A.
Published: September 2021

In silica‐rich hot spring environments, internally laminated, digitate sinter deposits are often interpreted as bio‐mediated structures. The organic components of microbial communities (cell surfaces, sheaths and extracellular polymeric substances) can act as templates for silica precipitation, therefore influencing digitate sinter morphogenesis. In addition to biologic surface‐templating effects, various microenvironmental factors (hydrodynamics, local pH and fluctuating wind patterns) can also influence silica precipitation, and therefore the morphology of resulting digitate sinters. Digitate sinter morphology thus depends on the dynamic interplay between microenvironmentally driven silica precipitation and microbial growth, but the relative contributions of both factors are a topic of continuing research. Here we present a detailed study of digitate silica sinters in distal, low‐temperature regimes of the El Tatio geothermal field, Chile. This high‐altitude geothermal field is extremely arid and windy, and has one of the highest silica precipitation rates found in the world. We find that digitate silica sinters at El Tatio always accrete into the prevailing eastward wind direction and exhibit laminar growth patterns coinciding with day–night cycles of wind‐ and thermally driven evaporation and rewetting. Subaerial parts of digitate sinters lack preserved organics and sinter textures that would indicate past microbial colonization, while filamentous cyanobacteria with resistant, silicified sheaths only inhabit subaqueous cavities that crosscut the primary laminations. We conclude that, although fragile biofilms of extremophile micro‐organisms may have initially been present and templated silica precipitation at the tips of these digitate sinters, the saltation of sand grains and precipitation of silica by recurrent wind‐ and thermally driven environmental forcing at El Tatio are important, if not dominant factors shaping the morphology of these digitate structures. Our study sheds light on the relative contributions of biogenic and abiogenic factors in sinter formation in geothermal systems, with geobiological implications for the cautious interpretation of stromatolite‐like features in ancient silica deposits on Earth and Mars.
Will borealization of Arctic tundra herbivore communities be driven by climate warming or vegetation change?
Authors: Speed James D. M. , Chimal‐Ballesteros J. Adrian , Martin Michael D. , Barrio Isabel C. , Vuorinen Katariina E. M. , Soininen Eeva M.
Published: September 2021

Poleward shifts in species distributions are expected and frequently observed with a warming climate. In Arctic ecosystems, the strong warming trends are associated with increasing greenness and shrubification. Vertebrate herbivores have the potential to limit greening and shrub advance and expansion on the tundra, posing the question of whether changes in herbivore communities could partly mediate the impacts of climate warming on Arctic tundra. Therefore, future changes in the herbivore community in the Arctic tundra will depend on whether the community tracks the changing climates directly (i.e. occurs in response to temperature) or indirectly, in response to vegetation changes (which can be modified by trophic interactions). In this study, we used biogeographic and remotely sensed data to quantify spatial variation in vertebrate herbivore communities across the boreal forest and Arctic tundra biomes. We then tested whether present‐day herbivore community structure is determined primarily by temperature or vegetation. We demonstrate that vertebrate herbivore communities are significantly more diverse in the boreal forest than in the Arctic tundra in terms of species richness, phylogenetic diversity and functional diversity. A clear shift in community structure was observed at the biome boundary, with stronger northward declines in diversity in the Arctic tundra. Interestingly, important functional traits characterizing the role of herbivores in limiting tundra vegetation change, such as body mass and woody plant feeding, did not show threshold changes across the biome boundary. Temperature was a more important determinant of herbivore community structure across these biomes than vegetation productivity or woody plant cover. Thus, our study does not support the premise that herbivore‐driven limitation of Arctic tundra shrubification or greening would limit herbivore community change in the tundra. Instead, borealization of tundra herbivore communities is likely to result from the direct effect of climate warming.
Microencapsulation of roasted coffee oil Pickering emulsions using spray‐ and freeze‐drying: physical, structural and in vitro bioaccessibility studies
Authors: Franco Ribeiro Elisa , Carregari Polachini Tiago , Dutra Alvim Izabela , Quiles Amparo , Hernando Isabel , Nicoletti Vania Regina
Published: September 2021

Microcapsules produced from well‐defined emulsion templates are an interesting alternative for lipid encapsulation. This work aimed to produce microcapsules by the freeze‐drying (FD) and spray‐drying (SD) of Pickering emulsions of roasted coffee oil (RCO) stabilised with chitosan nanoparticles produced by self‐aggregation or by crosslinking with tripolyphosphate. The dried microcapsules were characterised in terms of particle size, oil retention and structure; furthermore, the in vitro bioaccessibility of polyphenols from microencapsulated RCO was investigated. The use of chitosan nanoparticles to stabilise the emulsions increased oil retention in the microcapsules giving values between 83.04% and 95.36%. SD produced spherical microcapsules with small particle sizes (˜11 μm), whereas FD microcapsules showed an irregular shape and porous structure. Although FD had the lowest impact on the bioactive compounds, SD promoted better protection for phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity during in vitro digestion.
Sex ratio effects on reproductive success of male and female Daphnia
Authors: Galimov Yan R. , Tukhbatullin Andrey R. , Haag Christoph R. , Tchabovsky Andrey V.
Published: September 2021

The intensity of mating competition and the opportunity for sexual selection are thought to depend on the operational sex ratio, the ratio of sexually active males to fertilizable females. Cyclic parthenogens, organisms that alternate between sexual reproduction and female‐only parthenogenesis, show particularly high variation in sex ratios in natural populations but the effects of this variation on mating competition and reproductive success of each sex are poorly understood. In a series of experiments with Daphnia magna, we experimentally imposed five sex ratio categories, varying from one male per 81 females to an even sex ratio. We found that, in males, reproductive success strongly and monotonically decreased with decreasing number of females per male. In females, in contrast, mating success and reproductive success were reduced only at the most female‐biased sex ratio (1:81), when many females remained unmated and unfertilized, and then again at equal sex ratios, probably due to negative effects of high density or stress induced by numerous males. Our results suggest that females experienced male limitation at heavily female‐biased sex ratios below one male to about 50 females. As this is well within the sex ratio variation observed in natural Daphnia populations, we conclude that mating competition and the opportunity for sexual selection may exist not only in males but, at least periodically, also in females.
Computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing indirect versus direct composite restorations: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Rocha Gomes Torres Carlos , Caroline Moreira Andrade Adrielle , Valente Pinho Mafetano Ana Paula , Stabile de Abreu Fabrícia , de Souza Andrade Danilo , Cintra Mailart Mariane , Aun de Barros Lima Rocha Campello de Souza Maria Luíza , Guimarães Alarça Nunes Lilian , Ariel Rodrigues de Araújo Carlos , Di Nicoló Rebeca , Bühler Borges Alessandra
Published: September 2021

Objective

This study compared the clinical performance of large indirect restorations (IRs) versus direct restorations (DRs) in posterior teeth.

Methods

Thirty subjects received two class II restorations (n = 60), one fabricated from a precured composite block (Grandio Blocs, VOCO) for the indirect technique (IT) and the other with light‐cured composite (GrandioSO, VOCO) for the direct technique (DT). For IT, the restoration was created using the computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturer (CAD/CAM) system. For DT, the material was applied light‐cured by using a layering technique. All restorations were evaluated by using the World Dental Federation criteria.

Results

Twenty‐three subjects attended the 2‐year recall, and 46 restorations were evaluated. No significant differences were detected between the techniques for most parameters analyzed (p > 0.05). For “color match” at 7 days and 6 months, better results were observed for the DT. In relation to the overall scores, all restorations were esthetically acceptable after 2 years, while 93.3% of DT and 90% of IT showed acceptable function. For biological scores, 96.67% of DRs and 100% of IRs was acceptable after 24 months. Considering all properties, the success rates were 93.3% for DRs and 90% for IRs.

Conclusions

After 2 years, both restorations presented similar and good clinical behavior for all the properties analyzed.

Clinical significance

Light‐cured direct posterior composite restorations may perform similarly to indirect composite restorations made with precured CAD/CAM composite blocks up to 2 years.
Large host anemones can be shelters of a diverse assemblage of fish species, not just anemonefish
Authors: Hayashi Kina , Kuwamura Tetsuo , Tachihara Katsunori , Reimer James Davis
Published: September 2021

The mutualistic relationships between anemonefish (Amphiprion; Pomacentridae) and host sea anemones are well known, but host anemones are also used as shelter by damselfish (Pomacentridae), wrasses (Labridae) and cardinalfish (Apogonidae). The threespot dascyllus Dascyllus trimaculatus (Pomacentridae) is known to live on or near host anemones in their immature phase. Nonetheless, detailed studies on the use of host anemones by other fish species have not yet been conducted. To understand the factors that influence the use of host anemones by other fish species, this study investigated the fish biota around host anemones in the Ryukyu Archipelago. Other than Amphiprion spp. and D. trimaculatus, 10 additional species of fish (9 species of damselfish and 1 species of cardinalfish) were confirmed to temporarily use host anemones as shelter, and five species of wrasse including Labroides dimidiatus came to clean anemonefish. Logistic regression analyses (independent variable: presence or absence of other species of fish; dependent variables: anemonefish aggressiveness, size of host anemone, number of D. trimaculatus) indicated that the size of host anemones is important for the presence of fish, both in species using the anemone as temporary shelter and in cleaner species. Large host anemones can provide shelter and food resources for other species of coral reef fish as well as for anemonefish.
Conceptual planning approach of low impact developments for combined water quality‐quantity control at an urban scale: A case study in Southern China
Authors: Zhou Qianqian , Luo Jinhua , Qin Zhao , Su Jiongheng , Ren Yi
Published: September 2021

Managing urban water in many cities becomes more challenging under impacts of climate change and urbanization. Low impact development (LID) measures have been increasingly recognized and applied thanks to their capability of tackling multi‐dimensional water problems associated with both quantity and quality issues. Yet, in China limited attention has been paid to guide the planning strategy of LIDs in the preliminary stage, which often suffers from inadequate and imprecise data and information. In this study, an approach integrating a GIS‐based spatial evaluation model, a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation module and a multi‐objective optimization algorithm, is proposed to prioritize the spatial distribution of LIDs (i.e., type, placement, and extent) at the subcatchment scale in a case study in Southern China. By evaluating the trade‐offs among runoff reduction, pollution control, and economic investment, the synergies, and combination strategies of four types of LIDs are explored. Knowledge gained from this study is necessary and beneficial for water planners and practitioners to improve LID planning efficiency under constrained conditions.
Firearm access and dementia: A qualitative study of reported behavioral disturbances and responses
Authors: Polzer Evan R. , Nearing Kathryn A. , Knoepke Christopher E. , Matlock Daniel D. , Betz Marian E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Cognitive impairment and behavioral changes associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRDs) can impair safe firearm handling ability, an issue that can be challenging for ADRD caregivers to address. In this qualitative analysis, we sought to explore behavioral disruptions that raise concerns about firearm access in dementia and how caregivers react and respond.

Methods

Secondary qualitative analysis using data from semi‐structured, one‐on‐one interviews originally conducted as part of a study to develop firearm safety educational materials for ADRD caregivers. Interviewees were English‐speaking adults (≥18 years) from three stakeholder groups: ADRD caregivers (professional or informal), medical professionals (geriatricians, neurologists), and firearm professionals (retailers, range employees, instructors). For secondary analysis, transcripts of interviews were recoded and analyzed after an inductive‐deductive thematic analysis process.

Results

Among 24 participants, 17 (70%) were female and 20 (83%) white; 13 (54%) had personal or professional experience with ADRD caregiving; and 5 (21%) had a firearm affiliation. Major themes were: (1) behavioral disturbances that make caregivers concerned about firearm access; (2) caregiver emotional responses to and difficulties associated with these disturbances; and (3) caregiver actions (planned or actual) to limit firearms access.

Conclusion

Various behavioral disturbances and emotional burdens can trigger ADRD caregiver concern about firearms access, but strategies exist for restricting or safeguarding firearms in the home. Study findings suggest a need for caregiver support on this topic, including counseling by healthcare providers, advance planning for older firearm owners, and development of community resources.
Corporate Social Responsibility Research in the Journal of Management Studies: A Shift from a Business‐Centric to a Society‐Centric Focus
Authors: Wickert Christopher
Published: September 2021

This introduction to the Thematic Collection on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) tracks the evolution of CSR research published in the Journal of Management Studies from 2006 until 2021. Alongside the mainstreaming of CSR within management studies, CSR research in JMS has progressed from a business‐centric to a society‐centric focus. The business‐centric focus centres on the financial implications of CSR on business firms, and advocates CSR to the extent that it leads to improved financial performance or some other competitive advantage for the firm. The society‐centric focus asks broader questions about the appropriate role and location of business in society and its political and institutional contexts, and it reflects a wider set of variables of interest beyond firm financial performance. Understanding this evolution is crucial because it helps to elucidate where CSR research is headed and how the role of business in society is conceptualised. Based on these developments, I outline three emergent avenues for future research: the reintegration of governments as important actors shaping CSR, the need to reorient the dependent variables used in CSR research toward tangible social and ecological outcomes, and the importance of CSR research tackling interrelated societal crises such as the COVID‐19 pandemic and the climate crisis.
A review of the antimicrobial activity of thermodynamically stable microemulsions
Authors: Al-Adham I.S.I. , Jaber N. , Al-Remawi M. , Al-Akayleh F. , Al-Kaissi E. , Ali Agha A.S.A. , Fitzsimmons L.B. , Collier P.J.
Published: September 2021

Microemulsions are thermodynamically stable, transparent, isotropic mixtures of oil, water and surfactant (and sometimes a co-surfactant), which have shown potential for widespread application in disinfection and self-preservation. This is thought to be due to an innate antimicrobial effect. It is suggested that the antimicrobial nature of microemulsions is the result of a combination of their inherent kinetic energy and their containing surfactants, which are known to aid the disruption of bacterial membranes. This review examines the contemporary evidence in support of this theory.
Autophagic vacuolar myopathy: Danon disease and related myopathies
Authors: Sugie Kazuma
Published: September 2021

Autophagic vacuolar myopathy is a subgroup of muscle diseases defined as a condition in which autophagic vacuoles are present as a muscle pathological feature and is caused by abnormality of autophagy in skeletal muscles. There is an autophagic vacuolar myopathy characterized by the presence of specific autophagic vacuoles known as autophagic vacuoles with sarcolemmal features (AVSF). It is referred to as AVSF myopathy and includes Danon disease and related myopathies. Danon disease is an X‐linked dominant disease associated with a primary deficiency of lysosomal‐associated membrane protein 2 in which severe hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and myopathy develop. Cardiomyopathy is a determinant prognostic factor of this disease, and heart transplantation is still the sole radical treatment. The pathomechanism of AVSF myopathy is considered to be caused by abnormality of autophagy resulting from primary lysosomal dysfunction.
Medium‐Term Follow‐Up Outcomes of One‐Stage Posterior Lumbosacral or Lumbopelvic Fixation in the Management of Lumbosacral Junction Tuberculosis in Adults
Authors: Xu Zhenchao , Zhang Zhen , Wang Xiyang , Zhang Yilu , Wu Yunqi
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate the medium‐term outcomes of one‐stage posterior lumbosacral or lumbopelvic fixation treatment of lumbosacral junction tuberculosis in adults.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled a total of 38 adult patients (24 males and 14 females) with an average age of 48.0 ± 13.0 years (range, 25–75 years) during the period from February 2008 to July 2015. All patients were treated by one‐stage posterior debridement, interbody fusion, lumbosacral or lumbopelvic fixation, and postural drainage. After pedicle screw or iliac screw fixation, a hemi‐laminectomy or laminectomy was performed on the severely damaged side of the lesion segment. Intervertebral bone grafting and intertransverse bone grafting were performed after clearing the focus of tuberculosis. All cases were followed up for at least 5 years. Intraoperative blood loss, operative time, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), pain intensity was assessed by visual analog scale (VAS) score; neurological function was assessed by Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score; quality of life was assessed by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI); functional outcome, lumbosacral angle, and fusion time were gathered and analyzed. All data expressed as mean ± standard deviation.

Results

During the 66.2 ± 4.4 months (range, 60–78 months) follow‐up, all patients achieved clinical cure without severe complications. The intraoperative blood loss was 726.3 ± 151.9 mL (range, 400–1100 mL) and the operative time was 137.6 ± 22.5 min (range, 110–200 min). The ESR decreased to normal levels within (11.8 ± 2.6 mm/h) 3 months postoperatively. The VAS score significantly decreased from 6.8 ± 1.1 preoperatively to 0.8 ± 0.7 at the final follow‐up (P < 0.01). The mean JOA improved from preoperative 18.5 ± 2.9 to 26.9 ± 1.1 at the last visit (P < 0.01). The mean ODI was 44.3 ± 6.7 and significantly decreased to 9.3 ± 1.9 at the final observation (P < 0.01). Patient‐reported outcomes as measured by Kirkaldy‐Willis criteria were excellent in 21 cases, good in 16 cases, and fair in one case; there were no poor outcomes. Lumbosacral angle increased from the preoperative values of 21.7° ± 1.8° to the postoperative values of 26.4° ± 1.4° (P < 0.01), with an angle loss of 1.2° ± 0.7° at the last follow‐up. Bone fusion occurred on average 12.8 ± 1.9 months (range, 9–15 months) after surgery. No nonunion, pseudarthrosis, loosening or fracture of instruments occurred at the last follow‐up.

Conclusion

One‐stage posterior debridement, interbody fusion, lumbosacral or lumbopelvic fixation, and postural drainage according to the severity of sacral destruction is an effective and highly safe procedure to treat lumbosacral junction tuberculosis in adults.
Scientific realism and underdetermination in quantum theory
Authors: Egg Matthias , Saatsi Juha
Published: September 2021

This paper surveys the status of scientific realism in relation to quantum physics, focusing on the problem of underdetermination.
Endogenous indole‐3‐acetic acid and nitric oxide are required for calcium‐mediated alleviation of copper oxide nanoparticles toxicity in wheat seedlings
Authors: Yadav Vaishali , Gill Rafaqat Ali , Arif Namira , Gill Skhawat Ali , Singh Vijay Pratap , Ramawat Naleeni , Zhou Weijun , Tripathi Durgesh Kumar , Chauhan Devendra K.
Published: September 2021

The action of nanoparticles is increasingly being studied in recent years to minimize their toxic impacts. Besides this, efforts are also being made to minimize their toxicity in crop plants by using various chemicals, i.e. nutrients, donors of signaling molecules, plant hormones, and so on. However, associated alleviatory mechanisms are still not well known. Therefore, in the present study, we have investigated the toxicity of CuONPs and its mitigation by exogenously applied calcium (Ca). The focus was on whether indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) or endogenous nitric oxide (NO) has any role in accomplishing this task. CuONPs declined wheat growth due to increased accumulation of Cu and oxidative stress markers such as superoxide radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) and it was also accompanied by a decline in endogenous NO. CuONPs also altered the redox status of ascorbate and glutathione by inhibiting the activity of their regenerating enzymes. This collectively leads to cell death in wheat seedlings. However, exogenous supplementation of Ca mitigated toxic effects of CuONPs by reducing the excess accumulation of Cu, which caused remarkable enhancement in growth, protein contents, photosynthetic pigments, and endogenous NO; altogether protecting wheat roots from cell death. Interestingly, addition of 2,3,5‐triiodobenzoic acid (TIBA) further increased CuONPs toxicity even in the presence of Ca, but the addition of IAA rescued this effect of TIBA. These results clearly show that Ca mitigates CuONPs toxicity in wheat seedlings by involving IAA. Further, the results also showed that endogenous NO has a positive and indispensable role in Ca‐mediated mitigation of CuONPs toxicity in wheat seedlings.
The role of forskolin as a lipolytic stimulator during in vitro oocyte maturation and the in vitro embryo production of livestock
Authors: Raza Sayed Haidar Abbas , Abd El‐Aziz Ayman H. , Abdelnour Sameh A. , Easa Ahmed A. , Alagawany Mahmoud , Farag Mayada R. , Al‐Mutary Mohsen G. , Elfadadny Ahmed , Khan Rajwali , Quan Guobo , Cheng Gong , Zan Linsen
Published: September 2021

Cryopreservation is a modern technique which assists in the preservation of genetic material from oocytes and embryos for a long time. However, elevated vulnerability to cryopreservation due to the large accumulation of intracellular lipids within oocytes or embryos avoids success of this method. These lipids remain the main crucial factor limiting survival rates of oocytes and embryos after thawing. Lipid ingathering in the oocyte cytoplasm augments lipid peroxidation (LPO) and oxidative stress increases the apoptosis process, declines the viability after thawing, declines cytoskeleton actin filament injuries, lowers the blastocyst rates and reduces cryotolerance in the early stages of embryo development. There have been several attempts to reduce the ingathering of intracellular lipids in oocytes or embryos during the cryopreservation process, in that way enhancing the competence of cryopreserved oocytes or embryos and increasing their viability. One of the most applied agents for chemical delipidation is forskolin. Forskolin exhibited a possible part in improving the oocytes cryopreservation through stimulating cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production. The main purpose of cAMP modulation is to provide energy to sustain the mammalian oocytes´ meiotic arrest. The purpose of the existing article is to assess and offer more evidence concerning the forskolin utilization as a modulator of cAMP during the cryopreservation of oocytes and its influence on meiosis completion and the reorganization of cytoplasm, which are prerequisites for the development of oocytes in addition to the contribution to fertilization and subsequently, the development of embryos.
Mapping the literature on child marriage: A critical engagement
Authors: O'Quinn Jamie
Published: September 2021

U.S. “child marriage”—marriage including at least one person under the age of 18—is legal and practiced in 44 states. In this article, I map the existing literature on child marriage and offer insights on how child marriage can expand our sociological understandings of marriage, gender inequality, and youth sexualities. Social scientists have almost exclusively focused on child marriage in the Global South at the expense of understanding child marriage in the Global North, which I argue reinforces racist and xenophobic narratives that cast child marriage as a non‐Western social problem. The research on U.S. child marriage that does exist focuses on the consequences, rather than the causes, of child marriage, which may shift focus away from a structural understanding of how intersecting inequalities shape girls' likelihood of getting married as minors. I position a sociology of U.S. child marriage at the intersection of sociological understandings of marriage and gender inequality and critical research on youth sexualities. I conclude by calling for intersectional research on U.S. child marriage that builds on these literatures, examining how girls' sexualities are racialized, gendered, and classed within the institution of marriage.
Nitric oxide synthase inhibition in healthy adults reduces regional and total cerebral macrovascular blood flow and microvascular perfusion
Authors: Carter Katrina J. , Ward Aaron T. , Kellawan J. Mikhail , Eldridge Marlowe W. , Al‐Subu Awni , Walker Benjamin J. , Lee Jeffrey W. , Wieben Oliver , Schrage William G.
Published: September 2021

The importance of nitric oxide (NO) in regulating cerebral blood flow (CBF) remains unresolved, due in part to methodological approaches, which lack a comprehensive assessment of both global and regional effects. Importantly, NO synthase (NOS) expression and activity appear greater in some anterior brain regions, suggesting region‐specific NOS influence on CBF. We hypothesized that NO contributes to basal CBF in healthy adults, in a regionally distinct pattern that predominates in the anterior circulation. Fourteen healthy adults (7 females; 24 ± 5 years) underwent two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study visits with saline (placebo) or the NOS inhibitor, L‐NMMA, administered in a randomized, single‐blind approach. 4D flow MRI quantified total and regional macrovascular CBF, whereas arterial spin labelling (ASL) MRI quantified total and regional microvascular perfusion. L‐NMMA (or volume‐matched saline) was infused intravenously for 5 min prior to imaging. L‐NMMA reduced CBF (L‐NMMA: 722 ± 100vs. placebo: 771 ± 121 ml/min,P= 0.01) with similar relative reductions (5–7%) in anterior and posterior cerebral circulations, due in part to the reduced cross‐sectional area of 9 of 11 large cerebral arteries. Global microvascular perfusion (ASL) was reduced by L‐NMMA (L‐NMMA: 42 ± 7vs. placebo: 47 ± 8 ml/100g/min,P= 0.02), with 7–11% reductions in both hemispheres of the frontal, parietal and temporal lobes, and in the left occipital lobe. We conclude that NO contributes to macrovascular and microvascular regulation including larger artery resting diameter. Contrary to our hypothesis, the influence of NO on cerebral perfusion appears regionally uniform in healthy young adults.

Key points

Cerebral blood flow (CBF) is vital for brain health, but the signals that are key to regulating CBF remain unclear.

Nitric oxide (NO) is produced in the brain, but its importance in regulating CBF remains controversial since prior studies have not studied all regions of the brain simultaneously.

Using modern MRI approaches, a drug that inhibits the enzymes that make NO (L‐NMMA) reduced CBF by up to 11% in different brain regions.

NO helps maintain proper CBF in healthy adults. These data will help us understand whether the reductions in CBF that occur during ageing or cardiovascular disease are related to shifts in NO signalling.
Numerical and Orthogonal Study on Optimization Analysis of Structure Parameters of Bubble Breaker for Electrical Submersible Pump System
Authors: Xie Chuan , Liu Yonghui , Li Xiaoping , Wang Guangbiao , Wang Qinghua , Zeng Fanhua
Published: September 2021

Under slug flow conditions, electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) show a low efficiency due to Taylor bubbles, which cause pressure surging and gas pockets and the further deterioration of pressure boosting ability. In this study, a novel downhole bubble breaker is designed for mitigating the impact in ESP under slug flow conditions. The computational fluid dynamics-population balance model (CFD-PBM) coupled approach was used to calculate the bubble breaker's average bubble diameter to evaluate its efficiency. Meanwhile, experimental studies were conducted and compared with numerical results. Also, matlab and DIP-image technology was used to calculate the bubble diameter. Compared with experimental results, the simulation results agree well. Furthermore, the novel bubble breaker's performance was studied by orthogonal approach. The best result of range analysis is A2B3C4D1E4 (α = 30 deg, L = 300 mm, R = 2:1, vsg = 0.2 m/s, and vsl = 0.08 m/s), and sensitively analysis results present that the range of impact intensity are A (inlet angle) > E (superficial gas velocity) > B (total length) > D (superficial liquid velocity) > C (ratio of the gas–liquid channel). The optimal structure's bubble diameters are all less than that of the original structure, with a superficial gas velocity range of 0.2–0.6 m/s. The downstream bubble diameter of the optimal bubble is about 31.6% lower than the original structure at the maximum value point.
Systematic compositional analysis of sputter-deposited boron-containing thin films
Authors: Bakhit Babak , Primetzhofer Daniel , Pitthan Eduardo , Sortica Mauricio A. , Ntemou Eleni , Rosen Johanna , Hultman Lars , Petrov Ivan , Greczynski Grzegorz
Published: September 2021

Boron-containing materials exhibit a unique combination of ceramic and metallic properties that are sensitively dependent on their given chemical bonding and elemental compositions. However, determining the composition, let alone bonding, with sufficient accuracy is cumbersome with respect to boron, being a light element that bonds in various coordinations. Here, we report on the comprehensive compositional analysis of transition-metal diboride (TMBx) thin films (TM = Ti, Zr, and Hf) by energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), time-of-flight elastic recoil detection analysis (ToF-ERDA), Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), and nuclear reaction analysis (NRA). The films are grown on Si and C substrates by dc magnetron sputtering from stoichiometric TMB2 targets and have hexagonal AlB2-type columnar structures. EDX considerably overestimates B/TM ratios, x, compared to the other techniques, particularly for ZrBx. The B concentrations obtained by XPS strongly depend on the energy of Ar+ ions used for removing surface oxides and contaminants prior to analyses and are more reliable for 0.5 keV Ar+. ToF-ERDA, RBS, and NRA yield consistent compositions in TiBx. They also prove TiBx and ZrBx films to be homogeneous with comparable B/TM ratios for each film. However, ToF-ERDA, employing a 36-MeV 127I8+ beam, exhibits challenges in depth resolution and quantification of HfBx due to plural and multiple scattering and associated energy loss straggling effects. Compared to ToF-ERDA, RBS (for the film grown on C substrates) and NRA provide more reliable B/Hf ratios. Overall, a combination of methods is recommended for accurately pinpointing the compositions of borides that contain heavy transition metals.
Status and future of modeling of musical instruments: Introduction to the JASA special issue
Authors: Giordano Nicholas , Chatziioannou Vasileios
Published: September 2021

Over the last decades, physics-based modeling of musical instruments has seen increased attention. In 2020 and 2021, the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America accepted submissions for a special issue on the modeling of musical instruments. This article is intended as an introduction to the special issue. Our purpose is to discuss the role that modeling plays in the study of musical instruments, the kinds of things one hopes to learn from modeling studies, and how that work informs traditional experimental and theoretical studies of specific instruments. We also describe recent trends in modeling and make some observations about where we think the field is heading. Overall, our goal is to place the articles in the special issue into a context that helps the reader to better understand and appreciate the field.
Combined Physical Activity and Sitting Time Association on Older Adults’ Body Mass Index: Cross-Sectional Findings From the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Amorim Juleimar S.C. , Torres Juliana L. , Peixoto Sérgio V.
Published: September 2021

This study examined isolated and combined associations of physical activity (PA) and sitting time (ST) with body mass index (BMI) among older Brazilian adults. We have analyzed baseline data of 8,177 participants aged 50 years and older from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging. Respondents were categorized into sufficient PA/low ST, sufficient PA/high ST, insufficient PA/low ST, or insufficient PA/high ST using the Short Version of International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression analysis examined the associations of being underweight (BMI, <18 kg/m2), overweight (BMI, 25–29.9 kg/m2), and obese (BMI, ≥30 kg/m2) with PA and ST categories. High ST (≥165 min/day) was associated with overweight (odds ratio, 1.26; 95% confidence interval [1.11, 1.44]) and obesity (odds ratio, 1.43; 95% confidence interval [1.21, 1.70]). However, no association was observed between PA and BMI. Participants in the insufficient and sufficient PA/high ST categories were more likely to be obese after adjusting for sociodemographic and health condition. Our findings call for public health initiatives that consider reducing ST in older adults.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Clinical Isolate of Acinetobacter baumannii Harboring 11 Plasmids
Authors: Sakiyama Arata , Matsumoto Yuki , Tsubouchi Taishi , Suzuki Masato , Niki Makoto , Niki Mamiko , Oinuma Ken-Ich , Kakeya Hiroshi , Kaneko Yukihiro
Published: September 2021

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of an
Acinetobacter baumannii
isolate harboring 11 plasmids, obtained at a hospital in Japan in 2016. The complete 4.07-Mbp genome sequence (1 chromosome and 11 plasmids) was analyzed by a combination of long-read (Flongle) and short-read (NovaSeq 6000) sequencing.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Methanobacterium electrotrophus
Strain YSL, Isolated from Coastal Riverine Sediments
Authors: Zheng Shiling , Liu Fanghua
Published: September 2021

Methanobacterium electrotrophus
strain YSL was isolated from enriched microbial aggregates from a coastal riverine sediment sample from Shandong Province, China. The genome of YSL was sequenced with the PacBio Sequel platform and contained three plasmids in addition to the chromosome. A total of 2,521 protein-coding genes and 58 RNA genes were predicted.
Three Draft Single-Cell Genome Sequences of Novel SAR324 Strains Isolated from the Abyssopelagic Southern Ocean
Authors: Castillo Diego J. , Van Goethem Marc W. , Makhalanyane Thulani P.
Published: September 2021

SAR324 is a ubiquitous and phylogenetically distinct clade of
Deltaproteobacteria
in marine environments. Here, we present three single-cell amplified genome sequences from the SAR324 lineage, obtained from the abyssopelagic zone of the Indian sector of the Southern Ocean.
Improving transparent team communication with the ‘Glass Door’ decal communication tool: a mixed methods analysis of family and staff perspectives
Authors: Zavalkoff Samara , Mazaniello-Chezol Maud , O'Donnell Shauna , Cunningham Kadine , Almazyad Mohammed , O'Reilly Ashley , Macedo Kimberley , Lammeree Kimberly , Mitchell Ellen , Roussianos Chrysanthi , Antonacci Marie , Cunnigham Gabrielle , Park Matthew , Gottesman Ronald
Published: September 2021

Objective

To determine the value and perspectives of intensive care unit (ICU) healthcare professionals (HCPs) and families about the Glass Door (GD) decal team communication tool.

Design

Quality improvement methodology was used to design, test and implement the GD. Uptake was measured through audit. Impact was assessed through mixed methodology (survey of ICU HCPs (n=96) and semi-structured interviews of HCPs (n=10) and families (n=7)).

Setting

Eighteen bed, closed, mixed medical–surgical–cardiac ICU in a tertiary care, university-affiliated, paediatric hospital.

Population

Interdisciplinary ICU HCPs and families of children admitted to the ICU.

Intervention

A transparent template (the GD) applied to the outside of ICU patients’ doors with sections for HCPs names, physiological goals and planned tests and treatments for the day. Medical staff completed the GD in rounds (AM and PM) and any HCP caring for the patient updated it throughout the day.

Measurements and main results

After 3 months, 96% of 613 doors were employed of which 99% respected confidentiality. ICU HCPs reported improved understanding of the patient’s plan (84% today vs 59% pre-GD, p<0.001) and sense that families were up-to-date (79% today vs 46% pre-GD, p<0.001). Based on semi-structured interviews, the GD promoted a shared understanding of the plan contributing to care continuity. The GD reassured families the team is working together and fostered family engagement in the care. Routine family experience surveys showed no change in families’ sense of privacy during admission; families denied the GD’s anticipated compromise of confidentiality.

Conclusions

The GD decal communication tool, visible on the patient’s door, improved ICU HCPs’ perceived knowledge of their patient’s plan. The GD improved the shared mental model, facilitated teaching and information transfer and fostered family engagement. Challenges included knowing the rules for use and consistent application. Concerns initially raised by HCPs about confidentiality were denied by families.
Evaluating the effect of driving distance to the nearest higher level trauma centre on undertriage: a cohort study
Authors: Waalwijk Job F , Lokerman Robin D , van der Sluijs Rogier , Fiddelers Audrey A A , Leenen Luke P H , Poeze Martijn , van Heijl Mark
Published: September 2021

Background

It is of great importance that emergency medical services professionals transport trauma patients in need of specialised care to higher level trauma centres to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Possibly, undertriage is more likely to occur in patients with a longer distance to the nearest higher level trauma centre. This study aims to determine the association between driving distance and undertriage.

Method

This prospective cohort study was conducted from January 2015 to December 2017. All trauma patients in need of specialised care that were transported to a trauma centre by emergency medical services professionals from eight ambulance regions in the Netherlands were included. Patients with critical resource use or an Injury Severity Score ≥16 were defined as in need of specialised care. Driving distance was calculated between the scene of injury and the nearest higher level trauma centre. Undertriage was defined as transporting a patient in need of specialised care to a lower level trauma centre. Generalised linear models adjusting for confounders were constructed to determine the association between driving distance to the nearest higher level trauma centre per 1 and 10 km and undertriage. A sensitivity analysis was conducted with a generalised linear model including inverse probability weights.

Results

6101 patients, of which 4404 patients with critical resource use and 3760 patients with an Injury Severity Score ≥16, were included. The adjusted generalised linear model demonstrated a significant association between a 1 km (OR 1.04; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.05) and 10 kilometre (OR 1.50; 95% CI 1.42 to 1.58) increase in driving distance and undertriage in patients with critical resource use. Also in patients with an Injury Severity Score ≥16, a significant association between driving distance (1 km (OR 1.06; 95% CI 1.06 to 1.07), 10 km (OR 1.83; 95% CI 1.71 to 1.95)) and undertriage was observed.

Conclusion

Patients in need of specialised care are less likely to be transported to the appropriate trauma centre with increasing driving distance. Our results suggest that emergency medical services professionals incorporate driving distance into their decision making regarding transport destinations, although distance is not included in the triage protocol.
Community emergency medicine throughout the UK and Ireland: a comparison of current national activity
Authors: Hanks Anthony , Ramage Lisa , Leech Caroline
Published: September 2021

Background

Community emergency medicine (CEM) aims to bring highly skilled, expert medical care to the patient outside of the traditional ED setting. Currently, there are several different CEM models in existence within the UK and Ireland which confer multiple benefits including provision of a senior clinical decision-maker early in the patient’s journey, frontloading of time-critical interventions, easing pressure on busy EDs and reducing inpatient bed days. This is achieved through increased community-based management supplemented by utilisation of alternative care pathways. This study aimed to undertake a national comparison of CEM services currently in operation.

Method

A data collection tool was distributed to CEM services by the Pre-Hospital trainee Operated Research Network in October 2020 which aimed to establish current practice among services in the UK and Ireland. It focused on six key sections: service aims; staffing and training; job tasking and patient selection; funding and vehicles used; equipment and medication; data collection, governance and research activity.

Results

Seven services responded from across England, Wales and Ireland. Similarities were found with the aims of each service, staffing structures and operational times. There were large differences in equipment carried, categories of patient targeted and with governance and research activity.

Conclusion

While some national variations in services are explained by funding and geographical location, this review process revealed several differences in practice under the umbrella term of CEM. A national definition of CEM and its aim, with guidance on scope of practice and measurable outcomes, should be generated to ensure high standard and cost-effective emergency care is delivered in the community.
Lipoprotein(a) has no major impact on calcification activity in patients with mild to moderate aortic valve stenosis
Authors: Kaiser Yannick , Nurmohamed Nick S , Kroon Jeffrey , Verberne Hein J , Tzolos Evangelos , Dweck Marc R , Somsen Aernout G , Arsenault Benoit J , Stroes Erik S G , Zheng Kang H , Boekholdt S Matthijs
Published: September 2021

Objective

To assess whether patients with aortic valve stenosis (AS) with elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) are characterised by increased valvular calcification activity compared with those with low Lp(a).

Methods

We performed 18F-sodium fluoride (18F-NaF) positron emission tomography/CT in patients with mild to moderate AS (peak aortic jet velocity between 2 and 4 m/s) and high versus low Lp(a) (>50 mg/dL vs <50 mg/dL, respectively). Subjects were matched according to age, gender, peak aortic jet velocity and valve morphology. We used a target to background ratio with the most diseased segment approach to compare 18F-NaF uptake.

Results

52 individuals (26 matched pairs) were included in the analysis. The mean age was 66.4±5.5 years, 44 (84.6%) were men, and the mean aortic valve velocity was 2.80±0.49 m/s. The median Lp(a) was 79 (64–117) mg/dL and 7 (5–11) mg/dL in the high and low Lp(a) groups, respectively. Systolic blood pressure and low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (corrected for Lp(a)) were significantly higher in the low Lp(a) group (141±12 mm Hg vs 128±12 mm Hg, 2.5±1.1 mmol/L vs 1.9±0.8 mmol/L). We found no difference in valvular 18F-NaF uptake between the high and low Lp(a) groups (3.02±1.26 vs 3.05±0.96, p=0.902). Linear regression analysis showed valvular calcium score to be the only significant determinant of valvular 18F-NaF uptake (β=0.63; 95% CI 0.38 to 0.88 per 1000 Agatston unit increase, p<0.001). Lp(a) was not associated with 18F-NaF uptake (β=0.17; 95% CI −0.44 to 0.88, p=0.305 for the high Lp(a) group).

Conclusion

Among patients with mild to moderate AS, calcification activity is predominantly determined by established calcium burden. The results do not support our hypothesis that Lp(a) is associated with valvular 18F-NaF uptake.