bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EMC10 homozygous variant identified in a family with global developmental delay, mild intellectual disability, and speech delay
Authors: Umair Muhammad , Ballow Mariam , Asiri Abdulaziz , Alyafee Yusra , al Tuwaijri Abeer , Alhamoudi Kheloud M. , Aloraini Taghrid , Abdelhakim Marwa , Althagafi Azza Thamer , Kafkas Senay , Alsubaie Lamia , Alrifai Muhammad Talal , Hoehndorf Robert , Alfares Ahmed , Alfadhel Majid
Published: September 2020

In recent years, several genes have been implicated in the variable disease presentation of global developmental delay (GDD) and intellectual disability (ID). The endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex (EMC) family is known to be involved in GDD and ID. Homozygous variants of EMC1 are associated with GDD, scoliosis, and cerebellar atrophy, indicating the relevance of this pathway for neurogenetic disorders. EMC10 is a bone marrow‐derived angiogenic growth factor that plays an important role in infarct vascularization and promoting tissue repair. However, this gene has not been previously associated with human disease. Herein, we describe a Saudi family with two individuals segregating a recessive neurodevelopmental disorder. Both of the affected individuals showed mild ID, speech delay, and GDD. Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing were performed to identify candidate genes. Further, to elucidate the functional effects of the variant, quantitative real‐time PCR (RT‐qPCR)‐based expression analysis was performed. WES revealed a homozygous splice acceptor site variant (c.679‐1G>A) in EMC10 (chromosome 19q13.33) that segregated perfectly within the family. RT‐qPCR showed a substantial decrease in the relative EMC10 gene expression in the patients, indicating the pathogenicity of the identified variant. For the first time in the literature, the EMC10 gene variant was associated with mild ID, speech delay, and GDD. Thus, this gene plays a key role in developmental milestones, with the potential to cause neurodevelopmental disorders in humans.
Children’s perception of social boundaries: The intersectionality of age and social group affiliation in rural Pakistan
Authors: Mughal Muhammad A. Z.
Published: September 2020

This study explores how children perceive social boundaries in rural Pakistan. It discusses that children develop and navigate their social relationships through their perception of social boundaries, which are shaped by kinship and sociospatial organisation in rural areas. Children's perception of social boundaries is also mediated through the intersectionality of their age and social group affiliation. An ethnographic case study of a village in Southern Punjab, Pakistan, is presented here. It uses a quantifiable photo‐elicitation technique and social mapping to analyse children's everyday mobilities and intersectionality in the cultural context of rural Pakistan to illustrate their perception of social boundaries.
Risk for recurrence of disease following surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis—A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Carcuac Olivier , Derks Jan , Abrahamsson Ingemar , Wennström Jan L. , Berglundh Tord
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The aim of the present prospective study was to assess the risk for disease recurrence following surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis.

Material & Methods

73 patients (130 implants) treated surgically for peri‐implantitis were examined at 1 and 5 years after therapy. The primary outcome was recurrence/progression of disease defined as any of the following events: (a) bone loss >1.0 mm, (b) surgical retreatment, (c) implant removal/loss after year 1. Patient‐ and implant‐related parameters as well as 1‐year outcomes were evaluated as potential predictors through multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

57 implants (44%) displayed recurrence/progression of peri‐implantitis during follow‐up. Among these, 27 implants were removed. Residual deep probing pocket depth (≥6 mm; odds ratio 7.4; 95% confidence interval 2.8–19.3) and reduced marginal bone level (OR 1.4; 95%CI 1.1–1.7) at 1 year after surgery constituted risk factors for recurrence/progression of disease. Furthermore, implants with modified surfaces were at higher risk than implants with non‐modified surfaces (OR 5.1; 95%CI 1.6–16.5).

Conclusion

Implants with (a) residual deep probing pocket depth, (b) reduced marginal bone level, or (c) modified surfaces following surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis present with increased risk for recurrence/progression.
Biofilm formation on metal alloys, zirconia and polyetherketoneketone as implant materials in vivo
Authors: Zeller Barbara , Stöckli Simone , Zaugg Lucia K. , Astasov‐Frauenhoffer Monika , Hauser‐Gerspach Irmgard , Waltimo Tuomas , Zitzmann Nicola U.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

This study investigated biofilm formation on discs of metal alloys, zirconia and polyetherketoneketone in vivo.

Material and Methods

Sixteen healthy volunteers conducted two runs of 24 hr each wearing an intraoral splint with 15 discs representing five different materials (gold‐based [EL] and silver‐based [PA] noble metal alloys; zirconia [ZR]; polyetherketoneketone [PEKK]; titanium zirconium alloy [TiZr]). Safranin staining assays and colony‐forming unit (CFU) counts were conducted. Linear mixed‐effects models were used to compare materials, and geometric mean ratios with 95% confidence interval were calculated with the level of significance set at α = 0.05.

Results

Less biofilm mass and lower CFU counts were found on PA and EL, while ZR and PEKK developed similar levels as the reference material TiZr alloy. Compared with PA, biofilm mass was 1.5 times higher for EL (p = .004), 1.7 times higher for PEKK (p < .001), 2.2 times higher for TiZr (p < .001) and 2.4 times higher for ZR (p < .001). The culturing method confirmed these results for EL and PA with lower CFU compared to TiZr. The biomass staining technique and cell culturing correlated for EL and PA.

Conclusion

Silver‐based noble alloy and gold‐based high noble alloy demonstrated the least biofilm formation indicating a potential clinical use as material for implant components in the transmucosal compartment. Zirconia and Polyetherketoneketone revealed similar results as the reference material titanium zirconium alloy used in commercially available titanium dental implant.
Radiologic comparative analysis between saline and platelet‐rich fibrin filling after hydraulic transcrestal sinus lifting without adjunctive bone graft: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cho Yong‐Seok , Hwang Kyung‐Gyun , Jun Sang Ho , Tallarico Marco , Kwon Amy M. , Park Chang‐Joo
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To evaluate implant survival rate, any complications, and changes in residual alveolar bone height (RABH) using saline or platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) filling after hydraulic transcrestal sinus lifting.

Methods

Dental implants were placed after hydraulic transcrestal sinus lifting and the filling of saline (20 patients) or PRF (20 patients). Outcome measurements were implant survival, any complications, and RABH changes. Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were taken and compared preoperatively (T0), immediately postoperatively (T1), at 3 months (T2), 6 months (T3), and 12 months postoperatively (T4), respectively.

Results

In a total of 40 patients, 45 implants with a mean length of 10.4 ± 0.8 mm were placed in posterior maxilla of a mean RABH of 6.8 ± 1.1 mm. The increase in RABH peaked at T1, and continuous drooping of the sinus membrane was observed but stabilized at T3. Meanwhile, the gradual increase in the radiopacities was found below the lifted sinus membrane. The PRF filling induced the radiographic intrasinus bone gain of 2.6 ± 1.1 mm, which was significantly more than 1.7 ± 1.0 mm of saline filling at T4 (p < .05). All the implants were in function with no significant complications over the one‐year follow‐up period.

Conclusions

In this randomized case–control study, the feasibility of hydraulic transcrestal sinus lifting without bone graft was confirmed and PRF might be a better filler to support the elevated sinus membrane. However, adjunctive bone grafting should still be indicated for cases requiring more than 2–3 mm of intrasinus bone gain.
IL2RG‐deficient minipigs generated via CRISPR/Cas9 technology support the growth of human melanoma‐derived tumours
Authors: Ren Jilong , Yu Dawei , Fu Rui , An Peipei , Sun Renren , Wang Zhengzhu , Guo Runfa , Li Haoyun , Zhang Ying , Li Ziyi , Yang Yong‐Guang , Li Wei , Hai Tang , Hu Zheng
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Immunodeficient mice injected with human cancer cell lines have been used for human oncology studies and anti‐cancer drug trials for several decades. However, rodents are not ideal species for modelling human cancer because rodents are physiologically dissimilar to humans. Therefore, anti‐tumour drugs tested effective in rodents have a failure rate of 90% or higher in phase III clinical trials. Pigs are similar to humans in size, anatomy, physiology and drug metabolism rate, rendering them a desirable pre‐clinical animal model for assessing anti‐cancer drugs. However, xenogeneic immune rejection is a major barrier to the use of pigs as hosts for human tumours. Interleukin (IL)‐2 receptor γ (IL2RG), a common signalling subunit for multiple immune cytokines including IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐7, IL‐9, IL‐15 and IL‐21, is required for proper lymphoid development.

Materials and Methods

IL2RG−/Y pigs were generated by CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and examined for immunodeficiency and ability to support human oncogenesis.

Results

Compared to age‐matched wild‐type pigs, IL2RG−/Y pigs exhibited a severely impaired immune system as shown by lymphopenia, lymphoid organ atrophy, poor immunoglobulin function, and T‐ and NK‐cell deficiency. Human melanoma Mel888 cells generated tumours in IL2RG−/Y pigs but not in wild‐type littermates. The human tumours grew faster in IL2RG−/Y pigs than in nude mice.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that these pigs are promising hosts for modelling human cancer in vivo, which may aid in the discovery and development of anti‐cancer drugs.
Topography, more than land cover, explains genetic diversity in a Neotropical savanna tree frog
Authors: Nali Renato C. , Becker C. Guilherme , Zamudio Kelly R. , Prado Cynthia P. A.
Published: September 2020

Abstract

Aim

Effective conservation policies rely on information about population genetic structure and the connectivity of remnants of suitable habitats. The interaction between natural and anthropogenic discontinuities across landscapes can uncover the relative contributions of different barriers to gene flow, with direct consequences for decision‐making in conservation. We aimed to quantify the relative roles of land cover and topographic variables on the population genetic differentiation and diversity of a stream‐breeding savanna tree frog (Bokermannohyla ibitiguara) across its range.

Location

Serra da Canastra mountain range, Cerrado of Minas Gerais State, Brazil.

Methods

We collected samples and extracted DNA samples from 12 populations within and outside a strictly protected park, and used 17 microsatellite markers to assess genetic structure, among‐population differentiation and within‐population diversity measures. We incorporated landscape data derived from digital models and satellite images to create connectivity matrices to correlate with genetic differentiation using Mantel tests. We used generalized linear models and path analyses to assess the roles of each landscape variable in shaping genetic diversity in this species.

Results

Populations within and outside the park boundaries belonged to four genetic clusters. Most populations showed evidence of limited gene flow, with significant genetic differentiation, except for those within the park, which also had higher levels of allelic richness and heterozygosity. However, genetic differentiation among populations in this landscape was primarily explained by topographic complexity. Likewise, within‐population measures of genetic diversity were best explained by models including elevation and topographic complexity, and not the amount of natural habitat or gallery forests.

Main conclusions

Our results underscore that topography may be a strong historical factor shaping genetic structure among amphibian populations. Therefore, effective conservation strategies for endangered amphibians should avoid focusing exclusively on habitat suitability, and incorporate topographic complexity, which seems to be a key factor for the fauna of the extremely threatened Brazilian savanna.
The effect of dopamine agonists on metabolic variables in adults with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review with meta analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Andersen Ida Brandt , Andreassen Mikkel , Krogh Jesper
Published: September 2020

Aim

To assess the metabolic effects of dopamine agonists compared with placebo in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including adults with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods

Eligible trials were identified by searching PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL. The primary outcomes were HbA1c and serious adverse events (SAEs) assessed at longest available follow‐up. Secondary outcomes were fasting plasma glucose, adverse events, body weight, hypoglycaemia and triglycerides. We assessed risk of bias and evaluated the certainty of the evidence with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

Nine RCTs enrolling 3456 participants were included, six of which assessed the effect of bromocriptine, and the other three the effect of cabergoline. Dopamine agonists reduced HbA1c with 0.69 standardized mean difference (95% CI = 0.28 to 1.09; P = .0008; I2 = 80%; GRADE: low) compared with placebo. There was no difference in the effect between bromocriptine and cabergoline. Heterogeneity was partly explained by dosage and study duration, both of which were inversely associated with effect size. Only one large trial reported SAEs and no difference was reported for the risk of an SAE (RR = 0.89; 95% CI = 0.70 to 1.12; P = .32) between active intervention and placebo. Secondary outcomes suggested a decrease in fasting plasma glucose and triglycerides and no effect on the remaining outcomes.

Conclusion

Dopamine agonists reduce HbA1c as well as fasting plasma glucose and triglycerides in patients with type 2 diabetes without causing SAEs. These data are based on moderate to low quality evidence thus our confidence in the effect estimates is limited.
Reduced phenotypic plasticity evolves in less predictable environments
Authors: Leung Christelle , Rescan Marie , Grulois Daphné , Chevin Luis‐Miguel
Published: September 2020

Phenotypic plasticity is a prominent mechanism for coping with variable environments, and a key determinant of extinction risk. Evolutionary theory predicts that phenotypic plasticity should evolve to lower levels in environments that fluctuate less predictably, because they induce mismatches between plastic responses and selective pressures. However, this prediction is difficult to test in nature, where environmental predictability is not controlled. Here, we exposed 32 lines of the halotolerant microalga Dunaliella salina to ecologically realistic, randomly fluctuating salinity, with varying levels of predictability, for 500 generations. We found that morphological plasticity evolved to lower degrees in lines that experienced less predictable environments. Evolution of plasticity mostly concerned phases with slow population growth, rather than the exponential phase where microbes are typically phenotyped. This study underlines that long‐term experiments with complex patterns of environmental change are needed to test theories about population responses to altered environmental predictability, as currently observed under climate change.
Friend or foe? Differential aggression towards neighbors and strangers in the ant Liometopum microcephalum (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Keresztes Kriszta‐Kincső , Csata Enikő , Lunka Tekla A. , Markó Bálint
Published: September 2020

Intra‐ and interspecific aggression is quite common in ants, from occasional conflicts to large‐scale territorial disputes. The “nasty neighbor” phenomenon describes the differential aggressive treatment of neighbors versus foreign intruders. Due to the fact that workers of a given colony meet rival neighbors more often at food resources, they treat them as threats to their colony. The reverse can also happen: the “dear enemy” effect arises when an already known rival is treated less aggressively due to accommodation, than an unknown distant one. In the current study, we analyzed the effect of distance on the aggressiveness of Liometopum microcephalum, a territorial arboricolous ant, towards non‐nestmates in two large populations. Our results show that aggression did not increase with distance, but it was higher among neighbors than among workers coming from distant nests. The results of the study are consistent with the nasty neighbor scenario, and do not support the hypothesis that the studied populations would be polydomous systems of interconnected nests.
Composition of hemidesmosomes in basal keratinocytes of normal buccal mucosa and oral lichen planus
Authors: Schreurs Olav , Balta Maria G. , Karatsaidis Andreas , Schenck Karl
Published: September 2020

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease displaying ultrastructural disturbances in epithelial hemidesmosomes. The expression of several key hemidesmosomal components in OLP as well as in normal buccal mucosa is, however, unknown. The aim of the study was therefore to examine intracellular and extracellular components involved in hemidesmosomal attachment, in OLP (n = 20) and in normal buccal mucosa (n = 10), by immunofluorescence. In normal buccal mucosa, laminin‐α3γ2, integrin‐α6β4, CD151, collagen α‐1(XVII) chain, and dystonin showed linear expression along the basal membrane, indicating the presence of type I hemidesmosomes. Plectin stained most epithelial cell membranes and remained unphosphorylated at S4642. In OLP, most hemidesmosomal molecules examined showed disturbed expression consisting of discontinuous increases, apicolateral location, and/or intracellular accumulation. Plectin showed S4642‐phosphorylation at the basement membrane, and deposits of laminin‐α3 and laminin‐γ2 were found within the connective tissue. The disturbed expression of hemidesmosomal proteins in OLP indicates deficient attachment of the basal cell layer, which can contribute to detachment and cell death of basal keratinocytes seen in the disease.
Fetal morphological features and abnormalities associated with equine early pregnancy loss
Authors: Kahler Anne , McGonnell Imelda M. , Smart Harriette , Kowalski Alycia A. , Smith Ken C. , Wathes D. Claire , de Mestre Amanda M.
Published: September 2020

Background

Early pregnancy loss (EPL) occurs in approximately 8% of equine pregnancies, although the aetiology is mostly unknown and embryonic/fetal morphological abnormalities associated with EPL are not defined.

Objectives

To compare the morphology of EPL to clinically normal embryos/fetuses and previously described embryonic/fetal developmental milestones. To identify morphological abnormalities associated with equine EPL.

Study design

Observational case‐control study.

Methods

Embryos/fetuses were obtained from clinically normal Thoroughbred and pony pregnancies (n = 11) and following EPL from Thoroughbred mares (n = 27). The crown‐rump length (CRL) of embryos/fetuses was measured and macroscopic morphology and developmental age were determined independently by three blinded examiners. Sagittal sections of EPL (n = 13) and control (n = 6) embryos/fetuses were assessed microscopically. Fisher's exact test was used to determine significance (P < .05) and correlations were expressed by Pearson coefficient.

Results

Age and CRL were strongly positively correlated in clinically normal Thoroughbred and reference (n = 15, R = .9 (95% CI: 0.8‐1.0), R2 = .9, P < .0001) but not EPL embryos/fetuses (n = 19, R = .1 (95% CI: −0.4 to 0.5), R2 = .01, P = .75). Relative to controls, the CRL of EPL embryos/fetuses was smaller, with evidence of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) in 3/8 fetuses assessed. In 9/13 EPL embryos/fetuses, nonspecific neural tissue alterations were identified including disruption of developing pros‐, mes‐ and rhombencephalon and the presence of haemosiderin, indicating premortem haemorrhage. Failed neural tube closure was identified in 1/13 EPL embryos/fetuses. Subcutaneous haemorrhage was present in 14/27 EPL embryos/fetuses.

Main limitations

Autolysis significantly affected 15/27 EPL embryos/fetuses, excluding them from complete assessment. The IUGR reference cut‐off values were based on a small number of controls.

Conclusions

Morphological features associated with equine EPL were a mismatch between embryonic/fetal size and age, and alterations of the developing neural tissue and localised subcutaneous haemorrhage. Failed neural tube closure was confirmed as a rare specific abnormality.
Prediction and evaluation of fatigue life for mechanical components considering anelasticity‐based load spectrum
Authors: Wang Shuci , Liu Xintian , Jiang Changjie , Wang Xu , Wang Xiaolan
Published: September 2020

To accurately predict the degraded fatigue life of components under random loads, anelasticity effect of metal on life estimation needs to be explored. Weighting coefficient and dynamic elastic modulus are introduced to modify the calculation process of the model. By establishing an equal‐amplitude fatigue median surface and applying Miner linear fatigue cumulative damage theory, a fatigue life prediction model of the component under random loads is proposed. The model can be used to calculate the degraded fatigue life of components, which provides a theoretical basis for life estimation under random load spectrum. The two‐dimensional load spectrum is compared with the unprocessed two‐dimensional load spectrum and the one‐dimensional program spectrum in life prediction results. With the comparison of the target life and simulation life and the data calculated by the model of the automobile front stabilizer bar, it is concluded that the data obtained by the modified model are more reasonable and accurate.
Long‐term warming destabilizes aquatic ecosystems through weakening biodiversity‐mediated causal networks
Authors: Chang Chun‐Wei , Ye Hao , Miki Takeshi , Deyle Ethan R. , Souissi Sami , Anneville Orlane , Adrian Rita , Chiang Yin‐Ru , Ichise Satoshi , Kumagai Michio , Matsuzaki Shin‐ichiro S. , Shiah Fuh‐Kwo , Wu Jiunn‐Tzong , Hsieh Chih‐hao , Sugihara George
Published: September 2020

Understanding how ecosystems will respond to climate changes requires unravelling the network of functional responses and feedbacks among biodiversity, physicochemical environments, and productivity. These ecosystem components not only change over time but also interact with each other. Therefore, investigation of individual relationships may give limited insights into their interdependencies and limit ability to predict future ecosystem states. We address this problem by analyzing long‐term (16–39 years) time series data from 10 aquatic ecosystems and using convergent cross mapping (CCM) to quantify the causal networks linking phytoplankton species richness, biomass, and physicochemical factors. We determined that individual quantities (e.g., total species richness or nutrients) were not significant predictors of ecosystem stability (quantified as long‐term fluctuation of phytoplankton biomass); rather, the integrated causal pathway in the ecosystem network, composed of the interactions among species richness, nutrient cycling, and phytoplankton biomass, was the best predictor of stability. Furthermore, systems that experienced stronger warming over time had both weakened causal interactions and larger fluctuations. Thus, rather than thinking in terms of separate factors, a more holistic network view, that causally links species richness and the other ecosystem components, is required to understand and predict climate impacts on the temporal stability of aquatic ecosystems.
Clinical procedures and outcome of surgical extrusion, intentional replantation and tooth autotransplantation – a narrative review
Authors: Plotino G. , Abella Sans F. , Duggal M. S. , Grande N. M. , Krastl G. , Nagendrababu V. , Gambarini G.
Published: September 2020

Surgical extrusion is defined as the procedure in which the remaining tooth structure is repositioned at a more coronal/supragingival position in the same socket in which the tooth was located originally. Intentional replantation is defined as the deliberate extraction of a tooth and after evaluation of root surfaces, endodontic manipulation and repair, placement of the tooth back into its original position. Tooth autotransplantation is defined as the transplantation of an unerupted or erupted tooth in the same individual, from one site to another extraction site or a new surgically prepared socket. The advent of titanium implant rehabilitation has reduced the use of these treatments in day‐by‐day clinical practice; however, the re‐emerging trend to conserve and preserve natural sound tissues has led to a rediscovery of these treatments. All three distinct surgical methods are closely related, as they act to treat teeth that cannot be predictably treated using other more conventional procedures in endodontics, periodontics and restorative dentistry. Furthermore, these procedures share the same treatment approach and include the atraumatic extraction of a tooth, visual inspection of the tooth/root and its subsequent replantation. The clinical procedures for surgical extrusion, intentional replantation and tooth autotransplantation treatment have undergone several changes in recent years, and currently, there are no clear clinical treatment protocols/guidelines available. The clinician should be aware of the outcome of these treatments. Hence, the aim of this narrative review is to provide the background, clinical procedures and outcomes of surgical extrusion, intentional replantation and tooth autotransplantation.
Effects of low and high doses of fenofibrate on protein, amino acid, and energy metabolism in rat
Authors: Holeček Milan , Vodeničarovová Melita
Published: September 2020

A feared adverse effect of dyslipidaemia therapy by fibrates is myopathy. We examined the effect of fenofibrate (FF) on protein and amino acid metabolism. Rats received a low (50 mg/kg, LFFD) or high (300 mg/kg, HFFD) dose of FF or vehicle daily by oral gavage. Blood plasma, liver, and soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles were analysed after 10 days. The FF‐treated rats developed hepatomegaly associated with increased hepatic carnitine and ATP and AMP concentrations, decreased protein breakdown, and decreased concentrations of DNA and triglycerides. HFFD increased plasma ALT and AST activities. The weight and protein content of muscles in the HFFD group were lower compared with controls. In muscles of the LFFD group there were increased ATP and decreased AMP concentrations; in the HFFD group AMP was increased. In both FF‐treated groups there were increased glycine, phenylalanine, and citrulline and decreased arginine and branched‐chain keto acids (BCKA) in blood plasma. After HFFD there were decreased levels of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA; valine, leucine and isoleucine), methionine, and lysine and increased homocysteine. Decreased arginine and increased glycine concentrations were found in both muscles in FF‐treated animals; in HFFD‐treated animals lysine, methionine, and BCAA were decreased. We conclude that FF exerts protein‐anabolic effects on the liver and catabolic effects on muscles. HFFD causes signs of hepatotoxicity, impairs energy and protein balance in muscles, and decreases BCAA, methionine, and lysine. It is suggested that increased glycine and decreased lysine and methionine levels are due to activated carnitine synthesis; decreased BCAA and BCKA levels are due to increased BCAA oxidation.
Effect of nano CuO addition on the tribo‐mechanical behavior of alumina ceramics in non‐conformal contact
Authors: Haldar Partha , Bhattacharya Tapas Kumar , Modak Nipu
Published: September 2020

Sintering of alumina from 1500°C to 1650°C and tribo‐mechanical properties at room temperature had been investigated using nano CuO as a sintering aid. Bulk density gradually increases with sintering temperature from 1500°C to 1600°C and is optimized at 1600°C, beyond this, bulk density does not significantly increase at 1650°C. The addition of 2 wt% CuO showed the best result on densification. Densification of about 97.74% was attained at 1600°C with the incorporation of 2 wt% CuO. Nano CuO at grain boundaries forms CuAl2O4 liquid which modifies the morphology of the grain and improves mechanical properties. The formation of self‐lubricating tribo‐film on the wear track results in a low coefficient of friction <0.2 and reduces specific wear rate. 4 wt% CuO addition increases contact tensile stress (σmax) by 51.2% and high Hertzian contact pressure (Pmax≈1.51 GPa) causes plastic deformation of wear track. The re‐solidified strengthening bond phase on the wear track simultaneously increases in friction coefficient and wear resistance with CuO addition. The optimizing effect of CuO addition shows that 2 wt% significantly decreases wear rate, and increases hardness and fracture toughness.
Peripheral blood morphology review and diagnostic proficiency evaluation by a new Spanish EQAS during the period 2011‐2019
Authors: Alcaraz‐Quiles José , Molina Ángel , Laguna Javier , Rodríguez‐García María , Gutiérrez Gabriela , Luis Bedini José , Merino Anna
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The Spanish Haematology and Haemotherapy Society organizes peripheral blood smear review scheme, focused on the evaluation of diagnostic proficiency of participants by blood cell morphology analysis. The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of this scheme as an educational tool to improve the diagnostic proficiency of the participants.

Methods

During 2011‐2019, 54 peripheral blood smears, alongside with patient details such as age, sex, blood cell counts and relevant clinical information, were sent to an average of 125 ± 13 laboratories per year. A number of 44 shipments were selected to analyse whether successive surveys of the same disease may lead to an improvement in the diagnostic success rate proposed by the laboratories. Participants were asked to select the most relevant morphological abnormalities, alongside the diagnostic orientation. Agreement of participant responses with RR was evaluated.

Results

Spanish laboratories showed a diagnostic proficiency greater than 80% in acute myeloid leukaemia, including acute promyelocytic leukaemia, mature B‐cell neoplasms (hairy cell leukaemia and splenic marginal zone lymphoma), chronic myeloid leukaemia, sickle cell disease, Bernard‐Soulier syndrome and infectious mononucleosis. It was important to note the significant improvement over the time in the successive shipments of the same disease, with a 31% and 13% increase in their diagnostic orientation success rate for acute myeloid leukaemia and acute promyelocytic leukaemia cases, respectively, 15% for mantle cell lymphoma and 6% for sickle cell disease.

Conclusions

The present study provides evidence that peripheral blood smear review scheme can be a valid educational tool to improve the clinical pathologist skills in blood morphology and haematological diagnosis.
Parenting andsocial‐ecologicalcorrelates with children's health behaviours: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Fu Emily , Grimm Kevin J. , Berkel Cady , Smith Justin D.
Published: September 2020

Background

Paediatric obesity poses dangers to children's short and long‐term health. Multi‐level ecological models posit how children's health behaviours are influenced by interpersonal relationships.

Objectives

To identify profiles of individual and interpersonal health behaviours and parenting skills among caregivers and their children with elevated BMI.

Methods

Participants were 240 children (63.7% Latino) ages 5 to 12 years with body mass index ≥85th percentile and their caregivers in a paediatric weight management intervention trial. A latent profile analysis was used to identify profiles among caregiver report of parenting skills; child physical activity, eating behaviours, and food and beverage choices; family mealtime, media and sleep routines; and parent health behaviours, and associations with food and housing insecurity.

Results

A three‐class model was chosen based on conceptual interpretation and model fit. Profiles were differentiated by parenting skills, child food choices, child physical activity habits, family mealtime, media, and sleep routines, and parent health behaviours. Food and housing insecurity were associated with class membership while child and caregiver anthropometrics were not.

Conclusions

Distinct profiles existed among this low‐income, racially/ethnically diverse sample of children with elevated BMI. Such findings emphasize the importance of assessing individual and interpersonal influences and contextual factors on childhood obesity.
Does self‐verifying behavior in job interviews help secure job offers, even if it reveals negative information about the self?
Authors: Wilhelmy Annika , Stühlinger Manuel , Kim Kawon , Taphuntsang Dolker , König Cornelius J.
Published: September 2020

Although research demonstrates that self‐verification striving can have positive outcomes in the hiring process, it remains unclear how this drive to present oneself authentically manifests in candidates’ behavior during job interviews. We examine whether self‐verifying behavior, including revelation of negative information about the self, is related to success in job interviews. Study 1 showed that self‐verification striving among 112 MBA students predicted their self‐verifying behavior during mock job interviews, which in turn led to success in converting interviews into actual offers 6 months later. Using a sample of 102 recent job seekers, Study 2 showed that self‐verification striving was associated with the extent to which candidates disclosed negative information about themselves during real job interviews, ultimately predicting their interview success.
Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker and International Mobility Programs: Charting Change and Continuity Among Source Countries
Authors: Chartrand Tyler , Vosko Leah F.
Published: September 2020

This article analyses contemporary developments in top source countries of Canada's temporary migrant worker programmes, the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Mobility Program (IMP). An analysis of administrative data and policy suggests that most temporary migrant workers from key source countries in Latin America and the Caribbean are present in Canada under highly restrictive conditions of the TFWP, largely as agricultural workers. Simultaneously, most temporary migrant workers from key source countries in Europe and Asia migrate to Canada under the growing IMP, comprised of a diverse set of subprogrammes which, in some cases, have the potential to perpetuate conditions associated with exploitation identified historically with the TFWP. At the same time, unprecedented levels of temporary migrant workers from India and China are being granted open work permits in Canada, raising questions about how racialization and colonial pasts intertwine with this fast‐growing and under‐studied side of temporary labour migration.
Effect of TiO2 and 11 minor elements on the reactivity of ground‐granulated blast‐furnace slag in blended cements
Authors: Blotevogel Simon , Steger Laurent , Hart Daniel , Doussang Lola , Kaknics Judit , Poirier Mathilde , Bornhöft Hansjörg , Deubener Joachim , Patapy Cedric , Cyr Martin
Published: September 2020

Ground‐granulated blast‐furnace slags (GGBS) are glasses (>99%) of the CaO‐Al2O3‐SiO2 compositional system and are widely used as supplementary cementitious materials. Differences in reactivity of GGBS were screened by modifying the content of 12 minor elements (namely Ba, Ce, Cs, Cr, K, Mn, P, Sn, Sr, Ti, V, and Zr). Scanning electron microscopy observations showed that most elements entered the silicate glass matrix, only Sn was reduced to its metallic form and P accumulated in minor minerals. Mortar strength tests showed that 2 day compressive strength was reduced by >50% for a TiO2 content of 2.5 wt% in the slag. At 28 days the loss in compressive strength was still >40%. Calorimetric tests on other element additions showed that the content of network modifiers (Ba, Cs, K and Sr) and GGBS reactivity are positively correlated, whereas Ce, Cr, V, and Zr significantly decreased reactivity. Finally, it is shown that these effects can be estimated by the concentration and the weighted field strength of the added element.
Computer‐mediated intervention to foster prosocial ability among children with autism
Authors: Eden Sigal , Oren Atara
Published: September 2020

The study refers to the social aspect of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and focuses on pro‐social behaviour that has a positive effect on social adaptability. The first goal of the study was to determine whether there is a gap in prosocial‐behaviour between children with High‐Functioning ASD (HFASD) and children with typical‐development; and secondly, to foster prosocial‐behaviour with a computer‐mediated intervention versus a non‐computer‐mediated intervention. The study comprises 58 preschool children, divided into three groups: HFASD experiencing a computer‐mediated intervention, HFASD experiencing a non‐computer‐mediated intervention, and typically‐developing children with no intervention. The 2‐month intervention was based on the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy model, and pairs of children learned how to solve social‐problems. Following preliminary screening tests (PPVT; SCQ), observations designed to evaluate prosocial‐ability and Vineland questionnaires measuring prosocial‐behaviour were conducted pre‐ and post‐intervention. Pre‐intervention findings indicated that children with typical‐development exhibited higher prosocial‐behaviour than children with HFASD. This changed however, post‐intervention, as the gap between the two groups decreased. Additionally, the study found that the computer‐mediated intervention group improved in some prosocial measures compared to the non‐computer‐mediated intervention.
Benefits of Avène thermal hydrotherapy in chronic skin diseases and dermatological conditions: an overview
Authors: Nocera T. , Jean‐Decoster C. , Georgescu V. , Guerrero D.
Published: September 2020

The beneficial effects of Avène Thermal Spring Water (TSW), a low mineral content spring water, on chronic skin diseases have been recognized for more than two centuries. This article provides a brief overview of efficacy and tolerance data for Avène TSW from clinical studies conducted at the Avène Hydrotherapy Center in patients with chronic inflammatory skin diseases or temporary skin injuries. Avène TSW hydrotherapy is effective as adjuvant management for chronic skin diseases and dermatological conditions, relieving subjective and physical symptoms with excellent tolerance.
Splicing of the cake can affect the severity of epidermolysis bullosa
Authors: Murrell D.F. , Uitto J.
Published: September 2020

Linked article: R. Mittwollen et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34: 2127–2134. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.16332.
Incentives of low‐quality sellers to disclose negative information
Authors: Shapiro Dmitry , Huh Seung
Published: September 2020

The paper studies incentives of low‐quality sellers to disclose negative information about their products. We develop a model in which one's quality can be communicated via cheap‐talk messages only. This setting limits the ability of high‐quality sellers to separate, as any communication strategy they pursue can be costlessly imitated by low‐quality sellers. We study two factors that can incentivize low‐quality sellers to communicate their quality: buyers' loss aversion and competition. Quality disclosure reduces buyers' risk, thereby increasing their willingness to pay for the product. It also introduces product differentiation, softening the competition.
The Skewness of the Price Change Distribution: A New Touchstone for Sticky Price Models
Authors: LUO SHAOWEN , VILLAR DANIEL
Published: September 2020

We present a new way of empirically evaluating various sticky price models that are used to assess the degree of monetary nonneutrality. While menu cost models uniformly predict that price change skewness and dispersion fall with inflation, in the Calvo model, both rise. However, the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) data from the late 1970s onward show that skewness does not fall with inflation, while dispersion does. We present a random menu cost model that, with a menu cost distribution that has a strong Calvo flavor, can match the empirical patterns. The model exhibits much more monetary nonneutrality than existing menu cost models.
Distinct alpha‐Synuclein species induced by seeding are selectively cleared by the Lysosome or the Proteasome in neuronally differentiated SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Pantazopoulou Marina , Brembati Viviana , Kanellidi Angeliki , Bousset Luc , Melki Ronald , Stefanis Leonidas
Published: September 2020

A major pathological feature of Parkinson's disease (PD) is the aberrant accumulation of misfolded assemblies of alpha‐synuclein (α‐Syn). Protein clearance appears as a regulator of the ‘α‐Syn burden’ underlying PD pathogenesis. The picture emerging is that a combination of pathways with complementary roles, including the Proteasome System and the Autophagy–Lysosome Pathway, contributes to the intracellular degradation of α‐Syn. This study addresses the mechanisms governing the degradation of α‐Syn species seeded by exogenous fibrils in neuronally differentiated SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells with inducible expression of α‐Syn. Using human α‐Syn recombinant fibrils (pre‐formed fibrils, PFFs), seeding and aggregation of endogenous Proteinase K (PK)‐resistant α‐Syn species occurs within a time frame of 6 days, and is still prominent after 12 days of PFF addition. Clearance of α‐Syn assemblies in this inducible model was enhanced after switching off α‐Syn expression with doxycycline. Lysosomal inhibition led to accumulation of SDS‐soluble α‐Syn aggregates 6 days after PFF‐addition or when switching off α‐Syn expression. Additionally, the autophagic enhancer, rapamycin, induced the clearance of α‐Syn aggregates 13 days post‐PFF addition, indicating that autophagy is the major pathway for aggregated α‐Syn clearance. SDS‐soluble phosphorylated α‐Syn at S129 was only apparent at 7 days of incubation with a higher amount of PFFs. Proteasomal inhibition resulted in further accumulation of SDS‐soluble phosphorylated α‐Syn at S129, with limited PK resistance. Our data suggest that in this inducible model autophagy is mainly responsible for the degradation of fibrillar α‐Syn, whereas the proteasome system is responsible, at least in part, for the selective clearance of phosphorylated α‐Syn oligomers.

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Anatomy and histology of the foramen of ovarian bursa opening to the peritoneal cavity and its changes in autoimmune disease‐prone mice
Authors: Hosotani Marina , Ichii Osamu , Nakamura Teppei , Namba Takashi , Islam Md. Rashedul , Elewa Yaser Hosny Ali , Watanabe Takafumi , Ueda Hiromi , Kon Yasuhiro
Published: September 2020

The ovarian bursa is a small peritoneal cavity enclosed by the mesovarium and mesosalpinx, which surrounds the ovaries and oviductal infundibulum in mammals. The ovarian bursa is considered as the structure facilitating the transport of ovulated oocytes into the oviduct. Our previous study revealed reduced oocyte pick‐up function in the oviduct of lupus‐prone MRL/MpJ‐Faslpr/lpr mouse, suggesting the possibility of an escape of ovulated oocytes into the peritoneal cavity, despite the presence of an almost complete ovarian bursa in the mouse. In this study, we revealed anatomical and histological characteristics of the ovarian bursa in C57BL/6 N, MRL/MpJ, and MRL/MpJ‐Faslpr/lpr mice. All strains had the foramen of ovarian bursa (FOB), with a size of approximately 0.04 to 0.12 cm2, surrounded by the ligament of ovarian bursa (LOB), which is part of the mesosalpinx. The LOB was partially lined with the cuboidal mesothelial cells and consisted of a thick smooth muscle layer in all strains. In 6‐month‐old MRL/MpJ‐Faslpr/lpr mice, in which the systemic autoimmune abnormality deteriorated and oocyte pick‐up function was impaired, the size of the FOB tended to be larger than that of other strains. Additionally, in MRL/MpJ‐Faslpr/lpr mice at 6 months of age, there was infiltration by numerous immune cells in the mesosalpinx suspending the isthmus; however, the LOB prevented severe inflammation and showed deposition of collagen fibers. These results not only indicate that the FOB is a common structure within mice, but also imply the physiological function of the LOB and its role in maintaining the microenvironment around the ovary, as well as regulating healthy reproduction.
Is it godly to waste food? How understanding consumers' religion can help reduce consumer food waste
Authors: Minton Elizabeth A. , Johnson Kathryn A. , Vizcaino Maricarmen , Wharton Christopher
Published: September 2020

Food waste is a problem worldwide, but solutions have yet to adequately incorporate consumers' core values—values which are often rooted in religion. Study 1 shows that restrictive religious norms (e.g., rules about food consumption, fasting) lead to greater food waste, whereas supportive religious norms (e.g., sharing food) lead to reduced food waste. Study 2 replicates prior findings and rules out competing explanations. Study 3 manipulates marketing messaging to show that consumers with higher (lower) levels of religiosity are more likely to reduce food waste with a prevention (promotion) framed message partnered with environmental reasoning or a promotion (prevention) framed message partnered with people‐based reasoning. Implications for marketers, consumer advocacy groups, and policy makers desiring to reduce food waste are provided.