bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Killer whale predatory scarring on mysticetes: A comparison of rake marks among blue, humpback, and gray whales in the eastern North Pacific
Authors: Corsi Enrico , Calambokidis John , Flynn Kiirsten R. , Steiger Gretchen H.
Published: August 2021

We investigated the predator–prey relationship between baleen whales and killer whales by observing predatory scarring (rake marks) on the tail flukes of three mysticete species from the eastern North Pacific Ocean: humpback, blue, and gray whales. We integrated both qualitative scores and new quantitative measures to compare predatory scarring left by killer whales on the three species. We found statistically significant interspecies differences in incidence, location, and accumulation rates of scarring. Gray whales showed a higher incidence of predatory scarring compared to the other two species. Humpback and gray whales bore most of their rake marks on the trailing edge of the tail fluke, while blue whales showed more evidence of predatory scarring on the leading edge of the fluke, potentially consistent with previously hypothesized theories of flee versus fight responses to killer whales for different mysticete species. Of whales with scarring, blue whales were twice as likely to suffer from fluke mutilation compared to humpback and gray whales. Humpback and gray whales were also significantly more likely to accumulate new rake marks over the years compared to blue whales. We examine how these differences provide insight into the prey‐specific hunting behavior of killer whales.
Global patterns of leaf construction traits and their covariation along climate and soil environmental gradients
Authors: Xing Kaixiong , Niinemets Ülo , Rengel Zed , Onoda Yusuke , Xia Jiangzhou , Chen Han Y. H. , Zhao Mingfei , Han Wenxuan , Li Hongbo
Published: August 2021

Leaf functional traits and their covariation underlie plant ecological adaptations along environmental gradients, but there is limited information on the global covariation patterns of key leaf construction traits.

To explore how leaf construction traits co‐vary across diverse climate and soil environmental conditions, we compiled a global dataset including cell wall mass per unit leaf mass (CWmass), leaf carbon (C) and calcium (Ca) concentrations, and specific leaf area (SLA) for 2348 angiosperm species from 340 sites world‐wide.

Our results demonstrated negative correlations between leaf C and Ca concentrations and between leaf C and SLA across diverse nongraminoid angiosperms. Leaf C concentration increased with increasing mean annual temperature (MAT) and mean annual precipitation (MAP) and with decreasing soil pH and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) concentration, whereas leaf Ca concentration and SLA exhibited the opposite responses to these environmental variables. The covariations of leaf Ca–C and of leaf SLA–C were stronger in habitats with lower MAT and MAP, and/or higher soil CaCO3 content.

This global‐scale analysis demonstrates that the leaf C and Ca concentrations and SLA together govern the C and biomass investment strategies in leaves of nongraminoids. We conclude that environmental conditions strongly shape leaf construction traits and their covariation patterns.
Osmotic stress represses root growth by modulating the transcriptional regulation of PIN‐FORMED3
Authors: Yuan Ting‐Ting , Xiang Zhi‐Xin , Li Wen , Gao Xiang , Lu Ying‐Tang
Published: August 2021

Osmotic stress influences root system architecture, and polar auxin transport (PAT) is well established to regulate root growth and development. However, how PAT responds to osmotic stress at the molecular level remains poorly understood. In this study, we explored whether and how the auxin efflux carrier PIN‐FORMED3 (PIN3) participates in osmotic stress‐induced root growth inhibition in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana).

We observed that osmotic stress induces a HD‐ZIP II transcription factor‐encoding gene HOMEODOMAIN ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA2 (HAT2) expression in roots. The hat2 loss‐of‐function mutant is less sensitive to osmotic stress in terms of root meristem growth. Consistent with this phenotype, whereas the auxin response is downregulated in wild‐type roots under osmotic stress, the inhibition of auxin response by osmotic stress was alleviated in hat2 roots. Conversely, transgenic lines overexpressing HAT2 (Pro35S::HAT2) had shorter roots and reduced auxin accumulation compared with wild‐type plants.

PIN3 expression was significantly reduced in the Pro35S::HAT2 lines. We determined that osmotic stress‐mediated repression of PIN3 was alleviated in the hat2 mutant because HAT2 normally binds to the promoter of PIN3 and inhibits its expression.

Taken together, our data revealed that osmotic stress inhibits root growth via HAT2, which regulates auxin activity by directly repressing PIN3 transcription.
The experiences and needs of frail older people receiving home health care: A qualitative study
Authors: Dostálová Vladimíra , Bártová Alžběta , Bláhová Hana , Holmerová Iva
Published: August 2021

Background

Due to the rapid ageing of the population, there is increasing demand for long‐term care in the people's home environment. Such care aims to allow the people to stay at home and avoid hospitalisation or other institutional care. In home health care, care must be provided at the highest possible quality, with the focus on the people's needs and experiences.

Objectives

This study explores the experiences and needs of frail older people receiving home health care.

Design and methods

An exploratory descriptive qualitative approach was chosen. Audio‐taped semi‐structured interviews were conducted with fifteen older people receiving home health care. A content analysis was used to analyse the data collected.

Results

The content analysis identified one main theme, three categories and seven subcategories related to frail older people's needs and experiences of home health care. The main theme was quality of care. The first category, Safe and Secure Care, consisted of three subcategories: Education and Experience of Nurses, Information, and Continuity of Care in terms of personnel continuity and regular care. The second category, Autonomy, contained two subcategories: Decision‐making and Self‐sufficiency. The last category, Relationship with Professionals, consisted of two subcategories: Personality of Nurse and Partnerships.

Conclusion

Older people are able to express their satisfaction or dissatisfaction with home health care. The results of this study revealed that the quality of care is crucial for frail older people.

Implication for practice

The provision of home health care is inherently highly specific; home care nurses should work to provide the highest possible quality of care. In particular, nurses should focus on ensuring that the care they provide is safe, effective, timely, efficient and person‐centred.
Comparing the CamBlobs2 contrast sensitivity test to the near Pelli‐Robson contrast sensitivity test in normally‐sighted young adults
Authors: Rijal Sujata , Cheng Han , Marsack Jason D
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Contrast sensitivity (CS) has been proposed as a potential method for patients to assess their vision at home. The CamBlobs2 contrast sensitivity test is meant to be performed easily in the clinic or at home. The purpose of this study was to determine the intra‐visit coefficient of repeatability of the CamBlobs2 compared with the near Pelli‐Robson test, and the limits of agreement between these two tests on normally‐sighted subjects.

Methods

Twenty‐two normally‐sighted subjects (mean age 28 ± 4 years) completed two trials of the near Pelli‐Robson and CamBlobs2 contrast sensitivity tests within a single visit. Tests were performed monocularly on each eye in random order. Pelli‐Robson tests were scored as 0.05 logCS for each letter read correctly after deducting the first triplet. CamBlob2 tests were scored as the highest line where two or fewer blobs were marked correctly. The coefficient of repeatability was determined as 1.96 times the standard deviation of the difference between the two measurements using the same type of chart on the same eye. The limits of agreement between the two tests were evaluated using Bland‐Altman analysis.

Results

The mean difference between intra‐visit measurements for both the near Pelli‐Robson and CamBlobs2 was less than 0.05 logCS and the coefficient of repeatability was within ±0.20 log CS for both left and right eyes. The mean ± standard deviation differences between near Pelli‐Robson and CamBlobs2 scores was −0.08 ± 0.08 (limits of agreement: −0.24 to 0.09) for right eyes and −0.05 ± 0.10 (limits of agreement: −0.23 to 0.14) logCS for left eyes based on average measurements.

Conclusions

The intra‐visit repeatability of CamBlobs2 was consistent with the near Pelli‐Robson contrast sensitivity test (±0.20 logCS). With a 0.05 correction, the CamBlobs2 scores showed excellent agreement with the near Pelli‐Robson contrast sensitivity test.
The effect of canopy architecture on the patterning of “windflecks” within a wheat canopy
Authors: Burgess Alexandra J. , Durand Maxime , Gibbs Jonathon A. , Retkute Renata , Robson T. Matthew , Murchie Erik H.
Published: August 2021

Under field conditions, plants are subject to wind‐induced movement which creates fluctuations of light intensity and spectral quality reaching the leaves, defined here as windflecks. Within this study, irradiance within two contrasting wheat (Triticum aestivum) canopies during full sun conditions was measured using a spectroradiometer to determine the frequency, duration and magnitude of low‐ to high‐light events plus the spectral composition during wind‐induced movement. Similarly, a static canopy was modelled using three‐dimensional reconstruction and ray tracing to determine fleck characteristics without the presence of wind. Corresponding architectural traits were measured manually and in silico including plant height, leaf area and angle plus biomechanical properties. Light intensity can differ up to 40% during a windfleck, with changes occurring on a sub‐second scale compared to ~5 min in canopies not subject to wind. Features such as a shorter height, more erect leaf stature and having an open structure led to an increased frequency and reduced time interval of light flecks in the CMH79A canopy compared to Paragon. This finding illustrates the potential for architectural traits to be selected to improve the canopy light environment and provides the foundation to further explore the links between plant form and function in crop canopies.
Dermatologic conditions in Down syndrome
Authors: Ryan Chenin , Vellody Kishore , Belazarian Leah , Rork Jillian F.
Published: August 2021

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal condition and affects many organs including the skin. Dermatologists are an integral part of the DS care team. This is a review of both common and rare dermatologic conditions in DS. We provide practical strategies for a successful dermatology interview and examination. We explore the downstream effects of trisomy of chromosome 21, in particular on the immune system, and how these insights may enhance our pathophysiologic understanding of their cutaneous conditions.
Photographic representation of skin tones in three dermatology journals
Authors: Hereford Brittainy , Kim Yesul , Zaenglein Andrea L. , Hollins Lauren Claire
Published: August 2021

Although ethnic diversity is rising in the United States, educational resources continue to lag behind, as evidenced by prior studies highlighting limited skin of color representation in dermatology resources. The objective of this study was to evaluate the representation of skin tones in three dermatology journals commonly used in resident education and journal clubs. Overall, 5.6% (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology), 4.1% (JAMA Dermatology), and 8.3% (Pediatric Dermatology) of images in the journals were depicted on “Dark” skin (Fitzpatrick V‐VI). Disparities in skin of color representation exist in three dermatology journals used in medical education in the United States.
Severe allergic contact dermatitis to two different continuous glucose monitoring devices in a patient with glycogen storage disease type 9b
Authors: Teufel‐Schäfer Ulrike , Huhn Christian , Müller Sabine , Müller Christoph , Grünert Sarah Catharina
Published: August 2021

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems are of great value for patients with disorders of impaired glucose homeostasis, including glycogen storage diseases. We report on an 8‐year‐old girl with glycogen storage disease type 9b who developed severe allergic contact dermatitis to two different continuous glucose monitoring systems, FreeStyle® Libre and Dexcom® G6. Our case highlights the impact of sensitization for pediatric patients, the urgent need for open labeling of components by pharmaceutical and device manufacturers, and the need for avoidance of skin sensitizers in medical devices.
Localized eruptive porokeratosis in pediatric patients following treatment of acute leukemia
Authors: Kang Bianca Y. , Jacobsen Jeffrey , Price Harper N. , Andrews Israel D.
Published: August 2021

Porokeratosis is a rare diagnosis in the pediatric population, and eruptive disease has been documented prior in patients with history of stem cell transplantation. Comparing various porokeratosis eruptions between patients can be difficult due to limitations in current classification and nomenclature. Here, we discuss a single‐institution case series of three children who developed porokeratosis following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for acute leukemia, and we propose that this presentation be termed localized eruptive porokeratosis (LEP). We present the distinguishing features of this variant by discussing the shortcomings in current nomenclature and also examine the association between porokeratosis and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the pediatric population.
Use of Rituximab for persistent EBV DNAemia, and Its effect on donor‐specific antibody development in pediatric renal transplant recipients: A case series
Authors: Puliyanda Dechu P , Jordan Stanley C , Kim Irene K. , Patel Mitasha , Murthy Anand , Huang Edmund , Zhang Xiaohai , Reinsmoen Nancy , Kamil Elaine S , Toyoda Mieko
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Persistent EBV DNAemia (PEBV) is associated with late‐onset PTLD. The efficacy of rituximab in PEBV is not conclusive. We monitored PEBV and DSA in pediatric kidney transplant patients with or without rituximab.

Methods

13 PEBV patients received standard treatment with immunosuppression reduction and valganciclovir, with or without IVIG; 5/13 were further treated with rituximab.

Results

All Rituximab‐treated and 6/7 No‐Rituximab patients were EBV seronegative at transplant and seroconverted post‐transplant. Peak EBV PCR levels were lower in No‐Rituximab than Rituximab patients and all No‐Rituximab patients cleared PEBV after standard treatment. Additional 1‐2 doses of rituximab reduced EBV PCR levels in all 5 Rituximab patients, 3 cleared PEBV. One No‐Rituximab patient developed localized PLTD. None of Rituximab patients developed de novo DSA, while 4/8 No‐Rituximab patients did: 2/4 had ABMR. 1/5 Rituximab and 5/8 No‐Rituximab patients had acute rejection. There was no change in eGFR between pre‐EBV DNAemia and follow‐up in Rituximab patients, while reduction in No‐Rituximab patients was found. There was no difference in graft and patient survival.

Conclusions

While early intervention with rituximab in pediatric patients with PEBV may reduce viral load and PTLD, we observed a slower development of de novo DSA, and rejection and maintenance of eGFR.
PbWRKY75 promotes anthocyanin synthesis by activating PbDFR, PbUFGT, and PbMYB10b in pear
Authors: Cong Liu , Qu Yingying , Sha Guangya , Zhang Shichao , Ma Youfu , Chen Min , Zhai Rui , Yang Chengquan , Xu Lingfei , Wang Zhigang
Published: August 2021

Anthocyanins are common secondary metabolites in plants that impart red coloration to fruits and flowers. The important WRKY transcription factor family plays multifaceted roles in plant growth and development. In this study, we found a WRKY family gene, Pyrus bretschneideri WRKY75, that may be involved in anthocyanin synthesis in pear. Unlike Arabidopsis thaliana WRKY75, PbWRKY75 may be a positive regulator of anthocyanin synthesis. A transient expression assay indicated that PbWRKY75 promoted pear anthocyanin synthesis. The structural genes (PbANS, PbDFR, and PbUFGT) and positive regulators (PbMYB10 and PbMYB10b) of anthocyanin synthesis were significantly upregulated in the fruitlet skins of PbWRKY75‐overexpressing “Zaosu” pears. Subsequently, yeast one‐hybrid and dual‐luciferase assays indicated that PbWRKY75 promoted PbDFR, PbUFGT, and PbMYB10b expression by activating their promoters. These results revealed that PbWRKY75 may promote the expression of both PbMYB10b and anthocyanin late biosynthetic genes (PbDFR and PbUFGT) by activating their promoters, thereby inducing anthocyanin synthesis in pear. This study enhanced our understanding of the mechanism of pear anthocyanin synthesis, which will be beneficial in the improvement of pear peel color.
Recent advances in donkey sperm vitrification
Authors: Hidalgo Manuel
Published: August 2021

Artificial insemination (AI) with cryopreserved semen is an important tool to preserve endangered species, including European donkey breeds. Sperm vitrification is an alternative method to conventional freezing using high cooling rates and non‐permeable cryoprotectant agents (CPAs). In donkeys, sperm vitrification was firstly developed in spheres by directly dropping the sperm (30 µl) into the liquid nitrogen. The vitrification media contained a combination of sucrose and bovine serum albumin as non‐permeable CPAs and resulted in better sperm parameters after warming than extenders containing glycerol. Thereafter, sperm vitrification was optimized using an aseptic protocol, which consists of volumes up to 160 µl vitrified at 300 million sperm/ml using 0.25‐ml straws with outer covers, obtaining similar sperm parameters as conventional freezing for total motility (52.7 ± 15.6% versus. 58.2 ± 16.1%), progressive motility (44.3 ± 15.0% versus. 44.7 ± 18.2%) and plasma membrane integrity (49.2 ± 11.2% versus. 55.4 ± 9.0%), respectively. In order to vitrify larger volumes of sperm, a procedure using 0.5‐ml straws was evaluated; however, this methodology failed when compared to conventional freezing or other vitrification protocols, obtaining poor sperm quality after warming. Recently, a new methodology was developed for warming 0.25‐ml straws in a water bath and after AI using the vitrified sperm, the uterine inflammatory response solved faster, and pregnancy rates were greater (22%) than frozen semen (10%) but not statistically different. In conclusion, all these findings confirm that sperm vitrification can be performed in donkeys as an alternative to conventional freezing for AI in jennies.
The intervention continuum in restoration ecology: rethinking the active–passive dichotomy
Authors: Chazdon Robin L. , Falk Donald A. , Banin Lindsay F. , Wagner Markus , J. Wilson Sarah , Grabowski Robert C. , Suding Katherine N.
Published: August 2021

The distinction often made between active and passive restoration approaches is a false dichotomy that persists in much research, policy, and financial structures today. We explore the contradictions imposed by this terminology and the merits of replacing this dichotomy with a continuum‐based intervention framework. In practice, the main distinction between “passive” and “active” restoration lies primarily in the timing and extent of human interventions. We apply the intervention continuum framework to forest, grassland, stream, and peatland ecosystems, emphasizing that a range of restoration approaches within the scope of ecological or ecosystem restoration are typically employed in most projects, and all can contribute to the recovery of native ecosystems and prevention of further degradation. As restoration is fundamentally about the recovery of ecosystems, eliminating human sources of degradation is essential to enable ecosystem recovery processes, regardless of subsequent interventions that may be needed to assist recovery. Our review of restoration practices involving different levels of intervention highlights the benefits of recognizing a broader suite of restoration interventions in the financial and policy frameworks that currently underpin restoration activity. Effective restoration interventions emerge from an understanding of nature's intrinsic recovery potential and overcoming specific obstacles that limit this potential.
Student Debt and Geographic Disadvantage: Disparities by Rural, Suburban, and Urban Background*
Authors: Rhodes Alec P.
Published: August 2021

American youth from rural backgrounds have made great strides to overcome challenges in college enrollment and completion since the 2000s. Yet little is known about how rural youth are financing these attainment increases—a pressing question in light of high college costs, rising student debt, and spatial inequality in the resources that students have to pay for college. This paper examines disparities in young adults' student debt by geographic background using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 Cohort. Regression analyses reveal that college‐goers from rural backgrounds accumulate more debt than those from suburban and urban backgrounds, adjusting for differences in sociodemographic characteristics. Rural college‐goers' higher debt can be partially attributed to differences in socioeconomic backgrounds and rates of inter‐county migration during college, and there is evidence that the additive influences of geographic background and gender contribute to particularly high debt among rural women. The findings suggest that longstanding spatial inequalities contribute to disparities in student debt and raise questions about the experiences of rural youth and communities in a debt‐based society.
Unravelling the grief of involuntary pregnancy loss: A meta‐ethnography of midwives’ and nurses’ emotional experiences
Authors: Fernández‐Basanta Sara , Coronado Carmen , Bondas Terese , Llorente‐García Haizea , Movilla‐Fernández María‐Jesús
Published: August 2021

Background

Parents who experience involuntary pregnancy loss encounter nurses and midwives when requiring care. But the environment in which this attention is provided turns it into a stressful and challenging event that favours the concealment of emotions. Literature supports the development of compassion in nurses and midwives who tend to parents who experience pregnancy losses.

Aim

To synthesise the emotional experiences of midwives and nurses when caring for parents who have suffered an involuntary pregnancy loss.

Method

This is a synthesis of qualitative studies following Noblit and Hare's interpretive meta‐ethnography. Eleven studies met the research objective and inclusion criteria.

Results

An overarching metaphor, ‘Unravelling the grief of loss’, accompanied by four major themes provided interpretive explanations to the experiences of midwives and nurses in caring for involuntary pregnancy losses: ‘Pulling the thread’ – looking for the meaning of loss; ‘Yarn entanglement degree’ – determinants for grief expression; ‘Detangling tools’ – focusing on the loss; and ‘Fraying the thread’ – moving away from the loss.

Discussion

The provision of whole care to these parents requires midwifery and nursing training and continued education. Furthermore, the organisational culture should prioritise the health and well‐being of midwives and nurses.

Conclusion

Midwives and nurses encounter the parents’ loss in care and personally in various ways and give meaning to the loss conditioned by personal and professional determinants. They unravel the grief of loss by looking for the meaning, expressing their grief, focusing and moving away from the loss.
How do thrombolites form? Multiphase construction of lacustrine microbialites, Purbeck Limestone Group, (Jurassic), Dorset, UK
Authors: Bosence Dan , Gallois Arnaud
Published: August 2021

This paper examines how non‐marine thrombolites are formed through a complex, multiphase process of microbial framework construction, erosion, cementation, recrystallization and episodes of internal sedimentation. Recognition of such phases of thrombolite construction provides a framework for the interpretation of the fluctuating environmental conditions leading to their formation. Microbialite frameworks are examined in detail from the Purbeck Limestone Group and their affinities and palaeo‐environmental significance assessed. Three types of thrombolite, one stromatolite and a leolite are described and interpreted. The thrombolite frameworks include: a peloidal mesoclotted type, a thrombolite constructed by the filamentous alga Cladophorites and a type with concentrically laminated micritic mesoclots. Physical and chemical erosion led to extensive early cavity formation within the frameworks. Early calcite rim cements with associated spherulites then developed over the microbial frameworks and these were reworked into cavities. Frameworks were also replaced by chalcedonic quartz and calcite spherulites. Internal sediments comprise peloids, intraclasts and brackish‐water molluscs and ostracods, together with their debris. The thrombolites grew in moderate‐energy to high‐energy shallow, lacustrine, microbial mounds whereas stromatolites occurred in deeper‐water settings. A brackish‐water, lacustrine setting is indicated by the preserved macro‐biota, microbes, absence of charophytes and syndepositional evaporites, and negative stable carbon and oxygen isotope ratios. Strontium isotopes suggest that the carbonate‐rich waters were fed from erosion of Mid–Lower Jurassic limestones on the western basin margin with possible mixing with waters from nearby uplifted Upper Jurassic limestones and with Late Jurassic seawater. The research indicates that non‐marine thrombolites have a complex, multiphase origin resulting in a diverse succession of textures and structures relating to microbially induced and influenced construction, dissolution, cementation, recrystallization and mineral replacement which have not been previously recorded and indicate the major differences between marine and non‐marine thrombolites.
Cotton versus medical face mask influence on skin characteristics during COVID‐19 pandemic: A short‐term study
Authors: Tasic‐Kostov Marija , Martinović Milica , Ilic Dusan , Cvetkovic Maja
Published: August 2021

Background

In the still ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic, one of the main prevention strategy remain to be the use of protective face masks. Changes in skin characteristics and dermatological problems related to wearing different types of masks have been observed. The aim of this study was to compare the short‐term effects of cotton versus medical masks on skin biophysical parameters in general population.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐eight human volunteers were enrolled and divided in cotton mask and medical mask wearing groups. We measured four skin biophysical parameters: trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), skin pH, and erythema index (EI) before and 3 h after wearing masks on both uncovered and mask‐wearing face area.

Results

TEWL increased after 3 h on exposed skin in cotton mask group and slightly decreased in medical mask group There was an increase in SCH after 3 h of wearing protective face masks in both groups. pH of the covered skin slightly decreased while EI increased after 3 h in both groups; changes were not statistically significant. Parameters did not change significantly on uncovered skin.

Conclusion

There were no differences between the influence of cotton versus medical protective masks on the skin of healthy volunteers in our study. Both types of masks could be recommended for short‐time protection in individuals with healthy skin during COVID‐19 pandemic.
Skin barrier response to active chlorine hand disinfectant—An experimental study comparing skin barrier response to active chlorine hand disinfectant and alcohol‐based hand rub on healthy skin and eczematous skin
Authors: Yüksel Yasemin Topal , Sonne Mie , Nørreslet Line Brok , Gundersen Glenn , Fazli Magnus Mustafa , Agner Tove
Published: August 2021

Background

Alcohol‐based hand rub (ABHR) is widely used for hand disinfection in the health care sector. ABHR is, however, known to cause discomfort when applied on damaged skin emphasizing the unmet need for alternative and better tolerated types of disinfectants. Active chlorine hand disinfectants (ACHDs) are potential new candidates; however, the effect on the skin barrier function compared to ABHR remains to be assessed.

Materials and methods

In Study A, the forearm skin of healthy adults was repeatedly exposed to ACHD and ABHR. Skin barrier function was assessed by measurement of transepidermal water loss, electrical conductance, pH, and erythema at baseline and at follow‐up after 2 days, and subjective discomfort was likewise assessed. Study B was performed in the same way; however, in order to induce an experimental irritant contact dermatitis, sodium lauryl sulfate patch tests were applied to forearms before exposure to ACHD and ABHR.

Results

In both studies, the skin barrier function was unaffected after repetitive exposure to ACHD and ABHR, and with no significant differences between the products. Subjective discomfort was reported as sporadic or very mild in relation to both products.

Conclusion

Our results illustrate that use of ACHD does not affect the skin barrier function negatively, neither in intact skin nor in skin with experimentally induced contact dermatitis. Future studies should include real‐life evaluation of skin barrier function and subjective discomfort following ACHD use in individuals with and without hand eczema.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*57:02:01:03 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Alghamdi Mohammed , Aldosari Manar A. , Alkhaibari Abdulrhman , Matyuri Abdullah S. , Hajeer Ali H.
Published: August 2021

Two‐nucleotide changes in the 3′ UTR of HLA‐B*57:02:01:01 result in the novel HLA‐B*57:02:01:03 allele.
The novel HLA‐DQB1*05:240 allele was likely generated by recombination between DQB1*05:01 and DQB1*03:02
Authors: Stelet Vinícius N. , Cita Rafael F. , Mendes Maristela F. , Romero Matilde , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: August 2021

Identification of the novel HLA‐DQB1*05:240 allele that differs from HLA‐DQB1*05:01:09 at three positions in exon 2.
Trade policy review of Australia
Authors: Pomfret Richard
Published: August 2021

The WTO Trade Policy Review Body met virtually on 11 and 13 March 2020 to review Australia’s trade policies. The meeting took place as Australia was completing three decades of uninterrupted economic growth and as the run was being ended by COVID‐19 and associated lockdowns. This paper provides a commentary on the Review. It begins by examining the evolution of Australia’s trade policies, with emphasis on the period covered by the TPR, 2015‐19. The second section evaluates the discussion at the TPR meeting, when WTO members raised questions about the policies described in the Review and the Australian delegation responded. The third section considers developments in the year after the meeting. The paper concludes that, despite its stellar economic performance in the three decades before COVID and strong record on trade liberalisation within and beyond the WTO, Australia faces a difficult post‐COVID policy environment. The final section focuses on two challenges: rapidly deteriorating relations with China, Australia’s largest trade partner, and the impact of climate change policies.
The role of human capital in structural change and growth in an open economy: Innovative and absorptive capacity effects
Authors: Bye Brita , Fæhn Taran
Published: August 2021

Since the financial crisis in 2008, slow growth has riddled Europe and the COVID‐19 pandemic is amplifying the challenge. Promoting economic growth and transforming to a more knowledge‐based industrial structure will be high on the agenda for the coming decades. We study how more and better human capital can contribute to knowledge accumulation and structural change by means of a dynamic endogenous growth model, with Norway as a numerical case. Human capital has two main roles in productivity growth: to increase the innovative capacity by participating in research and development (R&D), and to increase the absorptive capacity in sectors that trade and can learn from abroad. We find that in a small, open economy, sectors where human capital, R&D and trade interact and enable absorption, tend to grow fastest.
Expression of human CD47 in pig glomeruli prevents proteinuria and prolongs graft survival following pig‐to‐baboon xenotransplantation
Authors: Takeuchi Kazuhiro , Ariyoshi Yuichi , Shimizu Akira , Okumura Yuichiro , Cara‐Fuentes Gabriel , Garcia Gabriela E. , Pomposelli Thomas , Watanabe Hironosuke , Boyd Lennan , Ekanayake‐Alper Dilrukshi K. , Amarnath Dasari , Sykes Megan , Sachs David H. , Johnson Richard J. , Yamada Kazuhiko
Published: August 2021

Background

Nephrotic syndrome is a common complication of pig‐to‐baboon kidney xenotransplantation (KXTx) that adversely affects outcomes. We have reported that upregulation of CD80 and down‐regulation of SMPDL‐3b in glomeruli have an important role in the development of proteinuria following pig‐to‐baboon KXTx. Recently we found induced expression of human CD47 (hCD47) on endothelial cells and podocytes isolated from hCD47 transgenic (Tg) swine markedly reduced phagocytosis by baboon and human macrophages. These observations led us to hypothesize that transplanting hCD47 Tg porcine kidneys could overcome the incompatibility of the porcine CD47‐baboon SIRPα interspecies ligand‐receptor interaction and prevent the development of proteinuria following KXTx.

Methods

Ten baboons received pig kidneys with vascularized thymic grafts (n = 8) or intra‐bone bone marrow transplants (n = 2). Baboons were divided into three groups (A, B, and C) based on the transgenic expression of hCD47 in GalT‐KO pigs. Baboons in Group A received kidney grafts with expression of hCD47 restricted to glomerular cells (n = 2). Baboons in Group B received kidney grafts with high expression of hCD47 on both glomerular and tubular cells of the kidneys (n = 4). Baboons in Group C received kidney grafts with low/no glomerular expression of hCD47, and high expression of hCD47 on renal tubular cells (n = 4).

Results

Consistent with this hypothesis, GalT‐KO/hCD47 kidney grafts with high expression of hCD47 on glomerular cells developed minimal proteinuria. However, high hCD47 expression in all renal cells including renal tubular cells induced an apparent destructive inflammatory response associated with upregulated thrombospondin‐1. This response could be avoided by a short course of weekly anti‐IL6R antibody administration, resulting in prolonged survival without proteinuria (mean 170.5 days from 47.8 days).

Conclusion

Data showed that transgenic expression of hCD47 on glomerular cells in the GalT‐KO donor kidneys can prevent xenograft nephropathy, a significant barrier for therapeutic applications of xenotransplantation. The ability to prevent nephrotic syndrome following KXTx overcomes a critical barrier for future clinical applications of KXTx.
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activity of the Products of Addition of Thiophenol to Sesquiterpene Lactones
Authors: Semakov A. V. , Anikina L. V. , Klochkov S. G.
Published: August 2021

Abstract—

Derivatives of sesquiterpene lactones modified at the lactone ring with a thiophenol residue have been synthesized. The resulting conjugates with thiophenol have capacity for the oxidation–elimination reaction by the action of ROS of a tumor cell with the release of initial cytotoxic lactones. It has been proposed to use the resulting sulfur-containing conjugates as ROS-activated prodrugs of sesquiterpene lactones. The antiproliferative properties of the conjugates have been examined on tumor and pseudonormal cell lines. The cytotoxicity of the conjugates is lower than that of parent lactones; however, in some cases, as with the conjugates of alantolactone with artemisiten, it remains moderate in all tumor cell lines tested.
Preparing Modified Hyaluronic Acid with Tunable Content of Vinyl Groups for Use in Fabrication of Scaffolds by Photoinduced Crosslinking
Authors: Sochilina A. V. , Savelyev A. G. , Akasov R. A. , Zubov V. P. , Khaydukov E. V. , Generalova A. N.
Published: August 2021

Materials based on hyaluronic acid (HA) are extensively used in tissue engineering as scaffolds. Photoinduced crosslinking is one way to prepare them, and, for this, HA must be modified with vinyl groups, which are capable of participating in free-radical reactions upon exposure to light. The quantity of grafted vinyl groups, represented as the degree of substitution (DS), is an important parameter of modified HA (mHA) that is related to the mechanical, chemical, and biological properties of scaffolds. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of tuning DS by varying the reaction parameters (composition and concentration of reaction components and reaction conditions) and investigate the effect of DS on the viscosity of mHA solutions. As example, we consider the photoinduced reaction of mHA in the presence of flavin mononucleotide as the initiator, which can be used in fabrication of noncytotoxic scaffolds by 3D printing. The growth behavior of fibroblasts on the scaffold surface is studied.
Gauged inverse seesaw from dark matter
Authors: Abada Asmaa , Bernal Nicolás , Hernández Antonio E. Cárcamo , Marcano Xabier , Piazza Gioacchino
Published: August 2021

We propose an economical model addressing the generation of the Inverse Seesaw mechanism from the spontaneous breaking of a local $$U(1)_{B-L}$$

U

(
1
)

B
-
L

, with the Majorana masses of the sterile neutrinos radiatively generated from the dark sector. The field content of the Standard Model is extended by neutral scalars and fermionic singlets, and the gauge group is extended with a $$U(1)_{B-L}$$

U

(
1
)

B
-
L

and a discrete $${\mathbb {Z}}_4$$

Z
4

symmetries. Besides dynamically generating the Inverse Seesaw and thus small masses to the active neutrinos, our model offers two possible dark matter candidates, one scalar and one fermionic, stable thanks to a remnant $${\mathbb {Z}}_2$$

Z
2

symmetry. Our model complies with bounds and constraints form dark matter direct detection, invisible Higgs decays and $$Z'$$

Z
′

collider searches for masses of the dark sector at the TeV scale.
Higher-order generalized uncertainty principle corrections to the Jeans mass
Authors: Feng Zhong-Wen , He Guansheng , Zhou Xia , Mu Xue-Ling , Zhou Shi-Qi
Published: August 2021

The Jeans instability is regarded as an important tool for analyzing the dynamics of a self-gravitating system. However, this theory is challenging since astronomical observation data show some Bok globules, whose masses are less than the Jeans mass and still have stars or at least undergo the star formation process. To explain this problem, we investigate the effects of the higher-order generalized uncertainty principle on the Jeans mass of the collapsing molecular cloud. The results in this paper show that the higher order generalized uncertainty principle has a very significant effect on the canonical energy and gravitational potential of idea gas, and finally leads to a modified Jeans mass lower than the original case, which is conducive to the generation of stars in small mass Bok globules. Furthermore, we estimate the new generalized uncertainty principle parameter $$\gamma _0$$

γ
0

by applying various data of Bok globules, and find that the range of magnitude of $$\gamma _0$$

γ
0

is $${10^{11}} {-} {10^{12}}$$

10
11

-

10
12

.
Impacts of hub nodes on the spread of Name-Your-Own-Price auction
Authors: Huang He , Chen Yahong , Zhou Li , Hu Yusheng
Published: August 2021

In the Name-Your-Own-Price (NYOP) auction, the spread of bidding information among buyers is incredibly important for both buyers and sellers. However, the impact of hub nodes on the spread of bidding information is less investigated. In this research, we proposed a directed distance index, and used it to explore the roles of hub nodes during an NYOP auction. The results showed significant impacts of hub nodes on buyers’ behaviors and seller profits, but the impacts highly depend on the fading speed of information. When information fades fast, the hub nodes should be more valued to increase buyers’ bidding intention and make them bid more wisely. Seller’s profits will also be increased. While information fades slow, the hub nodes and the regular nodes should be approximately valued. Moreover, we explored the case of sharing failed bids, and found that the roles of hub nodes become more salient when buyers are more willing to share the failed bids.
Preface
Authors: Shen Bin , Dong Ciwei , Ng Chi To
Published: August 2021

In industrial 4.0 era, many advanced technologies, such as blockchain, advanced robotics, additive manufacturing, the Internet of Things, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, have received considerable attention in industry and academia. In real practice, such technologies have been implemented by firms, and they play an important role in increasing the operational efficiency of the firms as well as the whole supply chain through Operational Research (OR) methods. Thus, it is critical to consider the impacts of advanced technologies on supply chain management with OR applications. This special issue explores new practices and applications of technology-driven supply chain management in Industry 4.0. This editorial note summarizes the discussions on applications of different technologies in supply chains. Moreover, we list important future research directions based on contributed papers.
Tunable Smith–Purcell radiation from MoS2-based grating
Authors: Han Xiaojun , Qi Limei , Uqaili Junaid Ahmed
Published: August 2021

Different from the traditional tunable Smith–Purcell (SP) radiation in the graphene-based gratings in the terahertz band, we propose a tunable SP radiation generated from an electron beam passing through a single-layer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) based grating in the visible band. The comparison between the simulation and the theoretical results shows good agreement. By varying the Fermi energy of MoS2 from 0.025 eV to 0.125 eV for the MoS2-based grating, we can not only control the radiation frequency but also can change the radiation magnitude. The radiation frequency, angle, and magnitude varying with the Fermi energy are also discussed, respectively. These properties would have potential applications in developing tunable visible SP radiation.
INVESTIGATION ON DRY SLIDING WEAR BEHAVIOR OF TITANIUM DIOXIDE-REINFORCED MAGNESIUM MATRIX COMPOSITE
Authors: ELUMALAI P. C. , GANESH R.
Published: August 2021

In this work, the dry sliding wear behaviors of pure monolithic magnesium and magnesium–titanium dioxide (Mg–TiO2) composites were studied using pin-on-disc tribometer against an oil-hardened nonshrinking die steel (OHNS) counter-disc with a normal load of 0.5–2[Formula: see text]kg and a sliding velocity of 1.5–2.5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] with the sliding distance and wear track diameter of 1500[Formula: see text]m and 90[Formula: see text]mm, respectively. The pin samples were characterized for their microstructural, nanomechanical and tribological properties such as wear rate, coefficient of friction and wear fractographs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the worn-out surfaces of each pin sample in order to identify the different types of wear and wear mechanisms and the chemical constituents of each element were quantified by energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The influence of TiO2 reinforcements on the nanomechanical behavior was studied by nanoindentation technique. As compared with pure Mg, the nanoindentation strengths of Mg–1.5TiO2, Mg–2.5TiO2 and Mg–5TiO2 composites were found to increase by 11.9%, 22.2% and 35.8%, respectively, which was due to the addition of TiO2 particles and also due to the good bonding at the interface of TiO2 and magnesium particles. From the wear test results, a significant change in wear rate was observed with the change in normal load than that of sliding speed, whereas a significant change in coefficient of friction was noticed with the changes in both normal load and sliding velocity. The dominant wear mechanisms involved under the testing conditions were identified through plotting the contour maps and SEM fractographs. Also, from the fractographs it was noticed that delamination and plowing effect have been the significant wear mechanisms observed during low wear rate of samples, whereas melting, delamination and oxidation wear have been observed during high wear rate of pure Mg and its composites.
Comparison of Digital Image Correlation (DIC) Technique with Nanomaterial-Based Sensor for the Analysis of Strain Measurements
Authors: Deepak A. , Jenkins D. F. L.
Published: August 2021

Digital Image Correlation (DIC) techniques can be used to visually map and measure strain in materials such as metals and metallic alloys. The strain induced in an American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTMs) standard specimen can be measured using a DIC technique. Image patterns indicating the localized strain variations as a function of time for the constant load applied were also obtained. Results obtained using the DIC technique were more accurate compared to conventional strain sensors. DIC results were also compared with nanomaterial-based strain sensor output. Localized strain induced in the material can be visualized and quantified analytically using DIC.
Product-form monogamy relations of entanglement in multiqubit systems
Authors: Zhang Jia-Bin , Li Tao , Wang Zhi-Xi
Published: August 2021

Monogamy relations of entanglement play an important role in quantum systems, however, most of them are given in summation form. In this paper, we investigate the product-form monogamy relations of multipartite entanglement in terms of the [Formula: see text]th power of concurrence and negativity. Compared with the existing monogamy relations, the product-form monogamy relations of multi-body quantum entanglement have a stricter lower bound.
Examining the Development of China’s Low-Carbon Pilots: A Perspective of Non-Technological Innovation
Authors: SUN Huilin , JIANG Wei
Published: August 2021

This paper explores the non-technological innovation system for building low-carbon cities in China. It establishes a comprehensive evaluation index system and grading standards for low-carbon cities, concerning both technological innovation and non-technological innovation factors. Defining non-technological innovation factors as independent variables, GDP per capita as the main control variable, and low-carbon development and carbon productivity as dependent variables, this paper examines the contribution of non-technological innovation to the building of low-carbon cities. The result shows that non-technological innovation manifested a significant trajectory of progress. It demonstrates that the continuous improvement to non-technological innovation system should effectively promote the further development of low-carbon cities.