bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of performance status on overall survival in patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma: Real‐life outcomes of daratumumab treatment
Authors: Afram Garbriel , Gran Charlotte , Borg Bruchfeld Johanna , Wagner Arnika Kathleen , Hussain Alamdar , Alici Evren , Nahi Hareth
Published: April 2020

Background

Little is reported on the real‐life impact of daratumumab in relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma patients (RRMM). We analyzed a cohort of 156 patients who received daratumumab as a single agent concerning ECOG status, eGFR, cytogenetics, lines of prior treatment, and their impact on survival.

Results

Eighty‐two (53%) patients were triple refractory, 54 (35%) patients were single or double refractory, and 20 (12%) patients were non‐refractory. Following daratumumab treatment, the progression‐free survival (PFS) in these groups was 7.2%, 11.4%, and 53% (P < .001), and overall survival (OS) was 34%, 73%, and 58% (P < .001) at 36 months, respectively. Poor ECOG, three lines of prior treatment, and triple refractoriness were all associated with inferior PFS and OS in a multivariate analysis including ECOG, high‐risk chromosomal aberrations, refractoriness, number of treatment lines, and eGFR.

Conclusion

Daratumumab remains an attractive treatment option, especially in patients with poor performance and increased frailty. Furthermore, our observations suggest that patients with ECOG 2 and 3 status require additional supportive and/or palliative therapies to compensate for a potentially effective but encompassing late‐line therapy. In conclusion, further prospective studies are needed to elucidate the impact of ECOG 2 and 3 status in patients with RRMM.
Reliability of BOLD signals in chronic stroke‐induced aphasia
Authors: Higgins James , Barbieri Elena , Wang Xue , Mack Jennifer , Caplan David , Kiran Swathi , Rapp Brenda , Thompson Cynthia , Zinbarg Richard , Parrish Todd
Published: April 2020

Investigating the neurobiology of language impairment and treatment in chronic stroke aphasia using fMRI requires an understanding of measurement variability within and between participants. In this multicenter study, we evaluated the scan–rescan reliability of an auditory and visual (written) story comprehension paradigm in stroke participants with aphasia (N = 65) and healthy controls (N = 22). The multi‐modal task was conducted twice (~1 week apart) on separate visits upon study enrolment and twice again at completion three months later. A non‐language visuomotor task was studied in the aphasia group only, which was conducted once per time point (3 months apart). While participants were asked to make responses during the comprehension task, these in‐scanner responses were not recorded. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) at both group and individual participant levels. The visual story comprehension condition had higher reliability than the auditory condition in both groups, with participants with aphasia exhibiting lower reliability than controls in both conditions (stroke ICC = .43, healthy ICC = .81). Differences in reliability within the group of participants with aphasia were found to be partially explained by overall language impairment as well as greater head motion. In the participants with aphasia, the visuomotor paradigm was found to have greater reliability than the story comprehension task at equivalent interscan intervals (visuomotor = 0.50, comprehension = 0.34), and its reliability was not associated with language impairment. This work highlights the importance of considering the reliability of fMRI tasks in aphasia research, provides strategies to improve reliability and has potential implications for the field of clinical neuroimaging in general.
Maturation of the microglial population varies across mesolimbic nuclei
Authors: Hope Keenan T. , Hawes Isobel A. , Moca Eric N. , Bonci Antonello , De Biase Lindsay M.
Published: April 2020

Microglia play critical roles during CNS development and undergo dramatic changes in tissue distribution, morphology, and gene expression as they transition from embryonic to neonatal to adult microglial phenotypes. Despite the magnitude of these phenotypic shifts, little is known about the time course and dynamics of these transitions and whether they vary across brain regions. Here, we define the time course of microglial maturation in key regions of the basal ganglia in mice, where significant regional differences in microglial phenotype are present in adults. We found that microglial density peaks in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) during the third postnatal week, driven by a burst of microglial proliferation. Microglial abundance is then refined to adult levels through a combination of tissue expansion and microglial programmed cell death. This overproduction and refinement of microglia was significantly more pronounced in the NAc than in the VTA and was accompanied by a sharp peak in NAc microglial lysosome abundance in the third postnatal week. Collectively, these data identify a key developmental window when elevated microglial density in discrete basal ganglia nuclei may support circuit refinement and could increase susceptibility to inflammatory insults.
Temporal processing in the striatum: Interplay between midbrain dopamine neurons and striatal cholinergic interneurons
Authors: Martel Anne‐Caroline , Apicella Paul
Published: April 2020

There has been considerable progress in recent years toward understanding the neuronal mechanisms mediating time perception. Notably, the striatum and its dopamine (DA) input from the ventral midbrain are considered to be central for timing on the scale of hundreds of milliseconds and seconds. The cholinergic interneurons (ChIs) of the striatum provide an extensive local innervation, which closely interacts with striatal DA afferents. Both neuronal systems have been shown to influence synaptic plasticity to shape the transfer of information through the striatum. Given their cooperative role in regulating striatal output pathways, DA and cholinergic inputs may have distinct but complementary roles in timing processes. Electrophysiological recordings from behaving animals have provided evidence that responses of midbrain DA neurons and striatal tonically active neurons (TANs), presumed ChIs, to motivationally relevant events are sensitive to the predicted time of these events; namely, changes in neuronal activity are reduced or absent at times when events are more expected, indicating that temporal aspects of prediction play an important role in the responsiveness of these two neuronal systems. Recently, new findings have further suggested that DA neurons and cholinergic TANs are both involved in the ability to keep track of the elapsed time. These two systems appear to work in parallel in initiating the timing process at the beginning of an interval to be timed. It therefore appears that DA and ChI signaling could participate in striatal processing that is crucial for the control of timing behavior.
Organic carbon pools and organic matter chemical composition in response to different land uses in southern Brazil
Authors: Briedis Clever , Baldock Jeff , de Moraes Sá João C. , dos Santos Josiane B. , McGowan Janine , Milori Débora M. B. P.
Published: April 2020

The adoption of conservation agriculture (e.g., no‐till system) has been recognized as pivotal to maintaining soil functions, but the potential of this system to enhance organic carbon (OC) quantity and quality and how this OC is stabilized in soils are not well established. In this study, we evaluated the effects of land‐use types (native vegetation (NV) vs. no‐till system (NT)) on OC stocks and on the chemical composition of organic matter (OM), and sought to understand the mechanisms that govern OC protection in the studied highly weathered soils. To achieve these objectives, we used an OC fractionation scheme in a combination of solid‐state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analyses in soils from six farms in southern Brazil. Our results showed smaller OC stocks (whole soil) under NT than under NV in four of the six sites. In addition, the OC stock differences between land‐use types were larger in coarser textured soils and in those where conventional tillage was used before the adoption of NT. Among fractions, particulate organic carbon (POC) represented only 8% of the whole OC stock but was the fraction most affected by land‐use type. In contrast, the humus organic carbon (HOC) fraction contributed 78% of the whole OC stock and was little altered by land‐use type. Resistant organic carbon (ROC) represented 14% of the whole OC stock and it was altered by land‐use type, demonstrating that this fraction is not as inert as previously thought. Overall, OM chemical composition was quite similar between land uses, with O‐alkyl‐C being the predominant C type. This labile component was further highly correlated with OC stock and silt + clay contents, indicating that the accumulation of OC in these highly weathered soils is mainly a response to the association between labile C compounds and minerals.

Highlights

The OC build‐up in no‐till areas and the mechanisms of OC protection in soils are still uncertain.

OC stocks under no‐till are still smaller than under native vegetation.

Soils under no‐till showed untapped potential for OC sequestration.

The association of labile compounds with soil minerals is the driving factor for OC protection.
Increased risk of death associated with the use of proton‐pump inhibitors in patients with dementia and controls – a pharmacoepidemiological claims data analysis
Authors: Cetin H. , Wurm R. , Reichardt B. , Tomschik M. , Silvaieh S. , Parvizi T. , König T. , Erber A. , Schernhammer E. , Stamm T. , Stögmann E.
Published: April 2020

Background and purpose

The use of proton‐pump inhibitors (PPIs) was reported to be associated with increased mortality risk and has been proposed as a potential risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. We aimed to assess the impact of PPI use on survival in patients with dementia as compared with controls.

Methods

This register‐based control‐matched cohort study included 28 428 patients with dementia ascertained by the prescription of antidementia drugs and two control individuals matched by sex, age and area of residence for each patient with dementia during the study period from 1 January 2005 to 30 June 2016. Cumulative defined daily doses (DDDs) of PPIs were extracted from the health insurance prescription registries. A multivariate Cox regression model for non‐proportional hazards was used to analyse mortality risk in dependence of PPI exposure, which was limited to 1 year preceding the date of cohort entry (index date) in order to avoid immortal time bias.

Results

The PPI exposure of 100 DDDs in the year before the index date was associated with an increased mortality risk in patients with dementia (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.07; 95% confidence intervals, 1.03–1.12), but also in controls (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.47; 95% confidence intervals, 1.31–1.64). The mortality risk in relation to PPI use was significantly lower in patients with dementia as compared with controls (P < 0.0001) and highest in the first 2 years after the index date in both cohorts.

Conclusions

Our findings promote more stringent pharmacovigilance strategies to avoid PPI use in cases lacking a clear indication for therapy or where potential risks outweigh the benefits.
Radiopacity of computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing composite resin blocks
Authors: Koizumi Hiroyasu , Okamura Kentaro , Hiraba Haruto , Kodaira Akihisa , Yoneyama Takayuki , Matsumura Hideo
Published: April 2020

This study aimed to clarify the degree of difference in radiopacity between sixteen CAD/CAM composite resin blocks, one ceramic block, and teeth of the same thickness on radiographs. The radiographic density of CAD/CAM composite resin blocks was measured and the results were compared with the corresponding values for enamel and dentin. Additionally, the study analyzed the constituent elements of each type of CAD/CAM composite resin block and conducted an examination to identify those elements exerting an influence on radiopacity. Compared to the enamel, there were five blocks with significantly higher radiopacity, two blocks with the same level in radiopacity, and ten blocks with notably lower radiopacity. Compared to the dentin, there were ten blocks with significantly higher radiopacity, one block with the same level in radiopacity, and six blocks with notably lower radiopacity. All of the CAD/CAM composite resin blocks for molars contained barium and strontium. This result suggests that the addition of heavy metals, for example, barium, strontium, and zirconium, would be effective in providing CAD/CAM composite resin blocks with radiopacity.
Association study between vitiligo and autoimmune‐related genes CYP27B1, REL, TNFAIP3, IL2 and IL21
Authors: Martins Laysa Toschi , Frigeri Henrique Ravanhol , de Castro Caio Cesar Silva , Mira Marcelo Távora
Published: April 2020

The aetiology of vitiligo has not been fully elucidated, and several hypotheses have been investigated; among them, the most explored assumes an autoimmune basis for the disease. Supporting this hypothesis is the frequent co‐occurrence of autoimmune diseases with vitiligo. In addition, various genetic loci associated with vitiligo harbour key immune response genes. Our general hypothesis is that autoimmunity‐associated genes participate in the control of vitiligo susceptibility. To investigate this hypothesis, we tested for association between vitiligo and genes CYP27B1, REL, TNFAIP3 and IL2/IL21, all previously related to autoimmune diseases associated with vitiligo. The study was performed using two independent population samples: a family‐based discovery set (211 trios) and a replication set (131 cases/119 controls). Statistically significant association with vitiligo was detected between markers of the REL and IL2 gene in the family‐based sample. Both association signals were concentrated among patients displaying autoimmune comorbidity and non‐segmental vitiligo. Evidence for validation was detected for IL2 marker. Our findings suggest REL and IL2 as new vitiligo susceptibility genes and reinforce the hypothesis of a shared genetic mechanism controlling vitiligo and other autoimmune diseases.
RUNX1 and TGF‐β signaling cross talk regulates Ca2+ ion channels expression and activity during megakaryocyte development
Authors: Raghuwanshi Sanjeev , Dahariya Swati , Sharma Durga Shankar , Kovuru Narasaiah , Sahu Itishri , Gutti Ravi Kumar
Published: April 2020

Thrombocytopenia is characterized by low platelet count and is typically observed among all preterm and low birthweight neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. Although the underlying cause for this predisposition is unclear, recent studies have proposed that the intrinsic inability of neonatal hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells to produce mature polyploid megakaryocytes (MKs) may result in delayed platelet engraftment. The developmental and molecular differences between neonatal and adult MKs are not yet fully understood. Previously, we had reported that the key MK transcription factor RUNX1, which is crucial for the regulation of MK specification and maturation, is down‐regulated in neonatal MKs when compared with adult MKs. In humans, loss‐of‐function mutations in RUNX1 cause familial platelet disorder, which is characterized by thrombocytopenia, indicating its crucial role in MK development. However, information about its cross talk with developmentally regulated signaling pathways in MKs is lacking. In this study, we performed a differential gene expression analysis in MKs derived from human cord blood (CB) and adult peripheral blood (PB) CD34+ cells. Further, validation and correlation studies between RUNX1 and transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) were performed in a differentiating megakaryocytic cell line model. The analysis revealed that TGF‐β pathway was the main pathway affected between CB‐ and PB‐MKs. RUNX1 is reported to be a modulator of TGF‐β signaling in several studies. The correlation between RUNX1 and TGF‐β pathway was analyzed in the PMA‐induced megakaryocytic differentiating K562 cells, which exhibit mature megakaryocytic features. The RT2 profiler PCR array analysis revealed that TGF‐β pathway components were up‐regulated in the PMA‐induced megakaryocytic differentiating cells. Furthermore, our study indicated that human TGF‐β1 promotes cytosolic calcium (Ca2+) activity and MK maturation. We noticed that TGF‐β1 increased intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) via reactive oxygen species‐mediated activation of transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels. Moreover, we observed that decreased cytosolic Ca2+ activity in the siRUNX1‐transfected cells was associated with down‐regulation of TRP ion channel expression. Finally, we demonstrated that TGF‐β/SMAD signaling augments the development of MKs derived from CB‐CD34+. Present data suggest that RUNX1/TGF‐β pathway cross talk is crucial for MK maturation.
Weight function for an external circumferential semielliptical crack in a cylinder
Authors: Nabavi Seyed Mehdi , Montazer Torbati Ehsan , Jamal‐Omidi Majid
Published: April 2020

In this paper, the weight function was extracted at the deepest point of a semielliptical circumferential crack. The crack is assumed to exist on the outer surface of the cylinder. For this purpose, the three‐dimensional finite element method was accomplished to specify two reference loads, which are indispensable for determining the weight function. The verification study confirms the accuracy of the derived weight function under prescribed mechanical loading on the crack surfaces. There is consistency among the solution results compared with those in the literature. The second part describes the application of the weight function for the thermal boundary conditions. Steady‐state thermal stress intensity factors are demonstrated using the weight function and presented as a closed‐form solution. The results were compared with the finite element data on the special case of thermal loading, and good agreement is obtained.
Fatigue life analysis of automotive key parts based on improved peak‐over‐threshold method
Authors: Liu Xintian , Zhang Minghui , Wang Haijie , Luo Jiao , Tong Jiachi , Wang Xiaolan
Published: April 2020

To eliminate the limitations of the peak‐over‐threshold (POT) extrapolation method, the paper proposes an improved POT extrapolation method to reconstruct the load sequence and frequency of the part. A threshold model is established based on a generalized Pareto distribution (GPD). Assuming a road surface's irregularity obeys a normal distribution, the load between the upper and lower thresholds is reconstructed to obtain more dynamic road load data. Rain‐flow counting method is used to calculate the peak‐to‐valley value and frequency of the load signal, and the characteristics of the load mean and amplitude before and after the improvement of the POT extrapolation method were discussed. The effectiveness and conservativeness of the enhanced method are verified by predicting the fatigue life of a swing support rod.
Factors affecting the fate of Pacific lamprey carcasses and resource transport to riparian and stream macrohabitats
Authors: Dunkle Matthew R. , Lampman Ralph T. , Jackson Aaron D. , Caudill Christopher C.
Published: April 2020

Anadromous fish transport marine‐derived nutrients to freshwaters during spawning migrations with potential implications for stream food webs. While many studies have explored the role of marine‐derived nutrients instream ecosystems (particularly via Pacific salmonids [Oncorhynchus spp.]), relatively few have examined the spatial distribution and patchiness of non‐salmonid fish carcasses or rates of transport to the riparian zone.

We radio‐tagged and released 144 mature Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) prior to spawning and tracked the fate of post‐spawn carcasses in two inland Columbia River basin streams to characterise spatial distribution of carcasses and marine‐derived nutrient deposition. We found that 27 and 40% of lamprey that could be assigned a fate were moved into the riparian zone adjacent to stream segments exhibiting higher velocity conditions with larger substrates. Conversely, lamprey with instream fates were associated with depositional microhabitats and woody debris dams. Estimated carcass loading rates varied by more than an order of magnitude among habitats. These patterns probably reflect a combination of processes influencing the likelihood of carcass removal (e.g. by predators or scavengers, or stranding) and factors affecting the distribution of carcasses remaining within the stream.

Our results demonstrate substantial transport of lamprey carcasses across the stream‐riparian ecotone and a non‐random distribution of carcasses within streams, patterns which probably influence how resources enter stream and riparian food webs. More broadly, the results suggest local and landscape‐scale hydrogeomorphic factors, along with species‐specific traits and phenology, affect the distribution and potential roles of fish carrion in stream food webs.
Preference for Lighting Chromaticity in Migraine With Aura
Authors: Vieira Alexandra , van der Linde Ian , Bright Peter , Wilkins Arnold
Published: April 2020

Objective

We studied the color of lighting chosen as comfortable for reading by individuals with migraine and controls. We explored the effects of the chosen color on visual performance.

Background

It has been reported that individuals who experience migraine with aura (MWA) choose, as comfortable for reading, light that is more strongly saturated in color than that chosen by individuals without migraine.

Methods

A convenience sample of 18 individuals who experienced MWA, 18 without aura, and 18 controls without migraine participated in a cross‐sectional laboratory study at Anglia Ruskin University. We used an Intuitive Colorimeter that illuminated text with colored light and permitted the separate control of hue (color) and saturation (strength of color) without a change in luminance. We selected individuals with migraine and healthy controls from the general population. They were headache‐free in the 48 hours prior to testing. We used a routine that permitted the selection of the most comfortable hue from 12 alternatives and then alternately optimized the saturation and hue using small changes, thereby allowing for color adaptation. Visual performance at a word search task was measured under white light and under light of a color chosen as comfortable, using colored lenses.

Results

Healthy individuals chose light with chromaticity close to the Planckian locus, which approximates the chromaticities of daylight and most electric lighting. The distance from the locus averaged 0.029 (SD 0.021). Individuals who experienced MWA chose strongly saturated colors well away from the Planckian locus (average distance 0.056, SD 0.022). Individuals who experienced migraine without aura chose intermediate chromaticities (average distance 0.034, SD 0.022). Overall there was a large statistically significant difference between participant groups that explained 24% variance. Visual search time of individuals with migraine aura decreased from 22.5 to 16.8 s when light of the chosen color was provided using tinted lenses (the average increase in search speed was 45.7%). The lenses had no statistically significant effect on the performance of individuals without migraine aura.

Conclusions

Individuals who experienced MWA selected as comfortable colors that deviated from the lighting typically experienced in everyday life. Possibly, individuals who experience MWA may be more susceptible to photophobia under typical lighting. Visual performance was improved using lenses that provided light of the chosen comfortable color. The spectral power of that choice showed no evident relationship to melanopic energy (energy captured by the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells).
A systematic review of factors associated with side‐effect expectations from medical interventions
Authors: Smith Louise E. , Webster Rebecca K. , Rubin G. James
Published: April 2020

Background

Fear of side‐effects can result in non‐adherence to medical interventions, such as medication and chemotherapy. Side‐effect expectations have been identified as strong predictors of later perception of side‐effects. However, research investigating predictors of side‐effect expectations is disparate.

Objective

To identify factors associated with side‐effect expectations.

Search strategy

We systematically searched Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, Global Health, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Scopus.

Inclusion criteria

Studies were included if they investigated associations between any predictive factor and expectations of side‐effects from any medical intervention.

Data extraction and synthesis

We extracted information about participant characteristics, medication, rates of side‐effects expected and predictors of side‐effect expectations. Data were narratively synthesized.

Main results

We identified sixty‐four citations, reporting on seventy‐two studies. Predictors fell into five categories: personal characteristics, clinical characteristics, psychological traits and state, presentation format of information, and information sources used. Using verbal risk descriptors (eg ‘common’) compared to numerical descriptors (eg percentages), having lower quality of life or well‐being, and currently experiencing symptoms were associated with increased side‐effect expectations.

Discussion and conclusions

Decreasing unrealistic side‐effect expectations may lead to decreased experience of side‐effects and increased adherence to medical interventions. Widespread communications about medical interventions should describe the incidence of side‐effects numerically. Evidence suggests that clinicians should take particular care with patients with lower quality of life, who are currently experiencing symptoms and who have previously experienced symptoms from treatment. Further research should investigate different clinical populations and aim to quantify the impact of the media and social media on side‐effect expectations.
Linear and nonlinear analysis of dental pulp blood flow oscillations in ageing
Authors: Dzeletovic B. , Stratimirovic D. J. , Stojic D. , Djukic L. J.
Published: April 2020

Aim

To investigate the effect of ageing on control mechanisms of pulpal microcirculation using wavelet analysis and to calculate linear and nonlinear parameters of blood flow oscillations, in a healthy general population.

Methodology

Pulpal blood flow (PBF) oscillations were recorded on right maxillary central incisors using laser Doppler Flowmeter (PeriFlux PF 5001, Perimed, Jarfalla, Sweden) on a group of 10 young participants (20–25 years) and a group of 10 older adults (60–70 years). In total, 20 recordings were obtained for at least 20 min (one recording on one tooth per subject). Using wavelet spectral analysis, the amplitude and power were calculated as a linear and Hurst exponent as a nonlinear parameter of PBF oscillations. Differences between the two groups were assessed with the independent Student t‐test.

Results

Mean PBF levels were significantly lower (P = 0.024) in older adults than in young participants. Relative amplitudes and powers corresponding to the myogenic (P = 0.046, P < 0.001, respectively) and neurogenic activity (P = 0.04, P = 0.01, respectively) were significantly higher, whereas values corresponding to the endothelial function (P = 0.04, P = 0.01, respectively) were significantly lower in older adults than in young participants. Hurst exponents of the total spectrum, myogenic and endothelial component (P < 0.001, P = 0.02, P < 0.001, respectively) of PBF oscillations were significantly lower in older adults in comparison to young participants.

Conclusions

At the level of pulpal microcirculation, ageing was associated with altered blood flow levels, the contribution of different control mechanisms to blood flow oscillations as well as the interaction of vascular smooth muscle and endothelium. Described changes of pulpal haemodynamics contribute to a better understanding of physiological behaviour and decreased adaptability of aged dental pulp to pathological stimuli.
Oxide ceramic fibers via dry spinning process—From lab to fab
Authors: Scholz Hermann , Vetter Johannes , Herborn Ralf , Ruedinger Arne
Published: April 2020

Oxide fibers preparation and manufacturing capabilities at Fraunhofer‐Center HTL are introduced, showing the development and preparation of oxide ceramic fibers from lab scale to pilot scale up to near production scale. As a specific example, the development of an aluminosilicate fiber with mullite composition is discussed in more detail. Fiber development started from nonaqueous sol‐gel precursors in the early lab scale. With increasing fiber spinning volume, precursors were switched to water‐soluble systems. Transformation from green fiber to ceramic fiber was monitored by thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The evolution of ceramic phases, microstructure formation, and the effects on tensile strength and Young's modulus were investigated. Weibull statistics and fracture analysis helped to understand the results. Next step will be the transition from large lab scale to pilot scale, demonstrating manufacturing capability.
Research on strain distribution and damage behavior of thermal barrier coatings based on digital image correlation
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Haidou , Di Yuelan , Zhao Yuncai , Wang Le
Published: April 2020

Due to the complicated structure and serving environments, thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) usually encounter failure in the form of surface coating cracking and interface spalling without warning. At present, although many experimental techniques and equipment were developed to predict their service life, the transfer process of stress between different layers and the strain characteristics of ceramic surface are not clearly explained. In this paper, the nondestructive digital image correlation method was used to observe the character of surface strains of supersonic plasma‐sprayed TBCs systems in tensile failure processes. Also, mathematical model was established basing on the principle of minimum function to calculate interface stress and coating strain expressions. The results show the characteristics of strain change in the whole tensile stage can be divided into four stages. At first, strain concentration occurs in the range of 9%‐27% of the effective distance between one end of the tensile specimen, second, a certain number of strain fringes are formed and distributed at a certain distance, and then the first crack appears in the initial strain concentration area; as the load continues, more and more cracks on the coating surface reach saturation and finally fail. In the microlinear elasticity stage, the shear strain in the coating and the interface shear stress are in a linear relationship. As the thickness of the single‐layer coating increasing, the strain value of the surface strain of the coating decreases, the surface strain value of the single‐layer coating is about six times larger than that of the double‐layer coating.
The effect of intensity of consumer education, self‐efficacy, personality traits and social media on consumer empowerment
Authors: Tajurahim Nurul Nadiah Syahida , Abu Bakar Elistina , Md Jusoh Zuroni , Ahmad Sa’odah , Muhammad Arif Afida Mastura
Published: April 2020

This study aimed to develop a consumer empowerment model by adopting the Social Cognitive Theory and the Empowerment Theory in explaining consumer empowerment. Specifically, this study intended to identify the relationships between consumer self‐efficacy, intensity of consumer education, personality traits, social media and consumer empowerment. A total of 400 respondents had participated in this study and were selected using a multi‐stage probability sampling. The data were collected through a self‐administered questionnaire. A multiple linear regression was conducted to predict the correlation between the independent variables and consumer empowerment. The finding revealed that the intensity of consumer education, self‐efficacy, social media and aggressive personality were positively related to consumer empowerment, whereas the assertive personality variable was deleted from the model because it did not have a significant relationship with consumer empowerment. The results can significantly contribute to improving the current consumer policy and developing effective consumer education programmes.
Body weight impact of the sugar‐sweetened beverages tax in Mexican children: A modeling study
Authors: Torres‐Álvarez Rossana , Barrán‐Zubaran Rodrigo , Canto‐Osorio Francisco , Sánchez‐Romero Luz M. , Camacho‐García‐Formentí Dalia , Popkin Barry M. , Rivera Juan A. , Meza Rafael , Barrientos‐Gutiérrez Tonatiuh
Published: April 2020

Background

In Mexico, a 10% tax to sugar‐sweetened beverages was implemented in 2014. Projections of the potential health effect of this tax in children are not available.

Objective

To estimate the 1‐year effect of the tax on the body weight of children 5 to 17 years old, and estimated alternative scenarios with higher tax rates (20%, 30%, and 40%).

Methods

We used a dynamical mathematical model, recalibrated to the Mexican population. Input data were obtained from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey 2006 and 2012. We estimated the expected average weight reduction, stratified by category of sugar‐sweetened beverages consumption.

Results

With a 10% tax, we estimated an overall weight reduction of 0.26 kg for children and 0.61 kg for adolescents; in high consumers, the reduction could reach 0.50 and 0.87 kg, respectively. Higher tax rates would produce larger weight decreases; in high consumers a 40% tax would result in a reduction of 1.99 kg for children and 3.50 kg for adolescents.

Conclusion

The tax represents an effective component of any child or adolescent weight control program, and must be considered as part of any integrated population‐level program for children and adolescent obesity prevention.
CNT‐induced TiC toughened Al2O3/Ti composites: Mechanical, electrical, and room‐temperature crack‐healing behaviors
Authors: Shi Shengfang , Cho Sunghun , Goto Tomoyo , Sekino Tohru
Published: April 2020

This study addressed novel multiphase composite of Al2O3/Ti/TiC that exhibited enhanced fracture toughness and room‐temperature crack‐healing function. Al2O3/Ti/TiC composites were fabricated through hot‐press sintering of CNT, TiH2, and Al2O3 mixed powders, where the TiC was in‐situ formed by reaction of CNT and Ti. The effects of CNT (TiC) content on mechanical and electrical properties were studied. Electrochemical anodization process at room temperature was attempted to these composites to heal cracks introduced in the surface of composites. Results indicated that added CNT was invisible while metal Ti and reaction product TiC coexisted in all samples. The reaction between CNT and Ti[O] representing dissolved active oxygen into Ti was considered as the main formation route of TiC. The toughening mechanism was demonstrated as crack deflection and bridging due to the presence of TiC. In spite of the increase in electrical resistivity because of the higher resistivity of TiC than Ti, the present Al2O3/Ti/TiC composites still remain high enough electrical conductivity (8.0 × 10−3 Ωcm ~1.8 × 10−2 Ωcm for 0‐2 vol% CNT addition) which could be regarded as conductors; it allowed to heal cracks in the composites by electrochemical anodization that formed titanium dioxide phase at room temperature. It was found that crack‐healing ability in 1 vol% CNT added composite exhibited higher strength recovery ratio of 95.6% to the crack‐free sample than that of Al2O3/Ti composite (the recovery ratio of 89.6%). After crack‐healing process, mechanical strength of samples increased by 52.3% compared to cracked composites. It was concluded that the formed TiC could contribute to the appropriate electrical conduction as well as interface strengthening in the Al2O3/Ti composites. Furthermore, it was firstly speculated that the TiC could be electrochemically anodized to form an oxide like Ti metal. These characteristics enable Al2O3/Ti/TiC composites as the crack‐healing materials at room temperature.
Country‐specific differences of age stereotypes towards older hospital staff and their association with self‐efficacy, work ability and mental well‐being
Authors: Weber Jeannette , Tzivian Lilian , Müller Andreas , Angerer Peter
Published: April 2020

Aims

To compare stereotypes towards older workers between hospital staff in Germany and Latvia and to analyse the relationship between those stereotypes and self‐efficacy, subjective work ability and irritation.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

In 2018, hospital staff, including nurses, physicians and other professions, of two German and three Latvian hospitals were asked to complete the standardized study questionnaire on subjective work ability, occupational self‐efficacy, irritation and stereotypes towards older workers. In the latter scale older workers were defined as ≥45 years of age and the scale ranged from 27–135 whereby higher values reflect higher levels of positive stereotypes. To analyse the relationship between stereotypes and those work‐related outcomes, multiple linear regression models, including interaction terms between stereotypes and age, were built and adjusted for occupational group, sex and country.

Results

Data from 300 employees of Latvian and from 113 employees of German hospitals were included in the analyses. Hospital staff in Germany reported higher levels of positive stereotypes (mean = 87.46, SD 10.04) than hospital staff in Latvia (mean = 84.69, SD 10.10; t(411) = −2.496, p = .013). When analysing the entire sample of hospital staff in Germany and Latvia, a more positive view on older workers was associated with higher self‐efficacy (β = 0.136, p = .008) and subjective work ability (β = 0.063, p < .001) and lower levels of irritation (β = −0.191, p = .017). The association with self‐efficacy and subjective work ability increased in strength by participant's age. Country‐stratified analyses yielded similar results.

Conclusion

The results provide first evidence that stereotypes towards older workers of hospital staff may differ between different European countries. Furthermore, they suggest that counteracting negative stereotypes towards older workers may help to improve self‐efficacy and subjective work ability and reduce irritation levels of older employees.

Impact

Those findings emphasize the importance of age stereotypes when examining and promoting older hospital staffs' self‐efficacy, subjective work ability and irritation in a cross‐national context.
Promoting family integrated early child development (during first 1000 days) in urban slums of India (fine child 3‐3‐1000): Study protocol
Authors: Das Manoja K. , Seth Suresh , Mundeja Nutan , Singh Arun K. , Mukherjee Sharmila B. , Juneja Monica , Khuda Priyanka , Fatima Rifat , Bhatnagar Ayushi
Published: April 2020

Aims

This project tests a novel, targeted home visitation programme for child development targeted behaviour change during the first 1,000 days for families in Delhi urban slums.

Background

The first 1,000 days have highest brain development potential and is dependent on the available nutrition, health, social and cognitive stimulus. Over 1.3 million children are born annually in the slums of India and are at risk of limited development potential. The children in urban slums at multiplicity of adversities at family, society and environmental levels. No tools are available for the community health functionaries to support the families to promote child development.

Design

This cohort study targets provision of behaviour change interventions targeted at three groups (pregnant women, infants and children in year 2) to document the impact on child development.

Methods

This implementation project delivers nutrition, health and child stimulation integrated services for the families through existing government community health workers and nurses. These workers shall train the families using audio‐visual messages in tablets and demonstration kits for practice through quarterly home visits. Data on health, nutrition and child development shall be collected at baseline, midterm and after one year. The data from these participants shall be compared with data from recently delivered women, children aged 13 months and 25 months without intervention to document the impact.

Discussion

The successful implementation of the project has potential for future integration of the child development components into the existing programme at scale. The learning from this project shall be useful for India and other developing countries.

Impact

The first 1,000 days are critical period in human brain development and cognitive function acquisition potential, which is dependent on the available nutrition, health, social and cognitive stimulus. The development potential in children born and living in the slums, who are exposed to various adversities, can be mitigated through appropriate family‐level practices with support from the community health workers and Nurses. This study is documenting the feasibility and impact of home visit linked coaching of families for improving child development status during the first 1,000 days in three sums of Delhi, India.
Exploring the concerns and experiences of parents of children scheduled to receive haematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Liu Ying‐Mei , Wen Yu‐Chuan , Weng Pei‐Yin , Jaing Tang‐Her , Chen Shih‐Hsiang
Published: April 2020

Aims

To explore the concerns and experiences of parents of children scheduled to receive allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Design

A qualitative secondary analysis of interview data from an intervention study.

Methods

A total of 28 parents (4 fathers and 24 mothers) were recruited from a children's hospital, which performs approximately one‐third of all paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation cases in Taiwan. Data were collected between September 2015–August 2018 by one researcher with face‐to‐face interviews, which were tape‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed using inductive content analysis to extract the main themes.

Results

Five themes describing parental concerns prior to paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation were identified: the child became their first priority, seeking solutions, an interweaving of hope and uncertainty, grateful for the chance of a cure and the long road to recovery.

Conclusion

Understanding the concerns and experiences of our participants as they navigated the pre‐transplantation period could reduce parents’ uncertainty and improve the care of their child.

Impact

These experiences provide information that could be used by healthcare professionals to develop support interventions and strategies tailored to the individual needs of each parent, which could prepare parents for their child's haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Tree‐to‐tree interactions slow down Himalayan treeline shifts as inferred from tree spatial patterns
Authors: Sigdel Shalik Ram , Liang Eryuan , Wang Yafeng , Dawadi Binod , Camarero Jesús Julio
Published: April 2020

Aim

The spatial patterns of tree populations reflect multiple ecological processes. However, little is known on whether these patterns mediate responses to climate in marginal tree populations such as those forming alpine tree lines. We examined the influence of tree‐to‐tree interactions on the responsiveness of tree lines to climate warming.

Location

Central Himalayas.

Taxon

Betula utilis; Abies spectabilis.

Methods

We analysed a network of 17 tree line sites located across the central Himalayas, encompassing a wide longitudinal gradient characterized by increasing precipitation eastwards. We quantified the changes in density and the spatial patterns of three 50‐year age classes of the two main tree species found at the tree line (Betula utilis and Abies spectabilis), and related them to reconstructed shifts in tree line elevation.

Results

Younger trees showed clustering near the tree line, while older trees tended to show random spatial distribution. Clustering decreased as climate conditions ameliorated, that is, in the wetter eastern sites. Lower rate of tree line elevation change was observed at the sites with higher clustering intensity.

Main Conclusions

Our study indicates that tree aggregation weakens tree line responsiveness to climate warming, and thus warming‐induced drought stress tends to lower tree line shift rates by enhancing clustering. It also highlights the complexity and contingency of site‐dependent tree line responses to climate. Hence, to advance our understanding of tree line processes, we should consider both direct and indirect influences of relevant biotic (tree‐to‐tree interactions) and abiotic (climate) drivers of tree line dynamics.
In silico analysis of the relation between conventional and high‐power short‐duration RF ablation settings and resulting lesion metrics
Authors: Bourier Felix , Vlachos Konstantinos , Frontera Antonio , Martin Claire A. , Lam Anna , Takigawa Masateru , Kitamura Takeshi , Cheniti Ghassen , Duchateau Josselin , Pambrun Thomas , Derval Nicolas , Denis Arnaud , Cochet Hubert , Hocini Mélèze , Sacher Frédéric , Haïssaguerre Michel , Jaïs Pierre
Published: April 2020

Background

Use of lesion metric indices is a proposed strategy to support pulmonary vein isolation procedures and these indices show good correlations with lesion sizes. The aim of this in silico study is to provide a detailed analysis of radiofrequency (RF) settings, including high‐power short‐duration (HPSD) settings, and resulting lesion metric indices.

Methods and Results

A software program was designed which simulated virtual RF ablations. Lesion metric indices (Ablation index: AI, Lesion size index: LSI) were calculated based on underlying RF settings (contact force [CF], power, duration). In series of calculations, the applied settings were varied within defined ranges (CF: 1‐80 g, power: 1‐60 W, duration: 1‐60 seconds). Overall, n = 388 000 virtual ablations were calculated. The resulting lesion metric indices were compared with each other and analyzed in relation to respective RF settings. Increasing contact force from 1 to 10 g resulted in a 4.4‐fold LSI value, whilst increasing contact force from 10 to 20g resulted in a 1.5‐fold value (P < .01). When RF power was increased by 10 W, lesion metric indices increased between 1.3‐ and 1.6‐fold. A prolongation of RF duration by 10 seconds resulted in a 1.2‐to‐1.3‐fold increase of lesion metric indices. HPSD RF applications of 50 W, 11 to 13 seconds, and 60 W, 8 to 10 seconds resulted in equivalent lesion metric indices when compared with 30 W, 30 seconds conventional ablations.

Conclusions

The findings support the clinical use of contact forces within a 10 to 20 g range. AI is more sensitive to RF duration, whereas LSI is more sensitive to contact force. HPSD RF settings can successfully be derived from lesion metric indices.