bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restoration of multiphase salt tectonic deformation using passive strain markers
Authors: Kirkham Chris , Cartwright Joe
Published: April 2021

Several salt basins globally have been subject to multiphase deformation. The geometry of structures formed within a salt sheet during an early phase of deformation can be concealed by overprinting during later deformation phases, impeding an informed investigation into the early drivers for salt flow. The layered Messinian Evaporites in the deep basins of the Eastern Mediterranean have undergone a Late Messinian phase of deformation, punctuated by truncation of the top of the deformation structures, followed by a Late Pliocene‐Recent phase of deformation. Seismic reflection data show that the Messinian Evaporites are internally dominated by contraction structures that verge basinward in the Late Pliocene‐Recent flow direction, with several apparent detachments. Planform linear trails of fluid escape pipes, documented in the North Levant Basin, that cross‐cut the Messinian Evaporites present natural passive markers for the internal flow kinematics of the salt sheet throughout the Late Pliocene‐Recent phase of deformation. Using the Couette (simple shear) strain profile implied by the fluid escape pipes, we remove the effects of the Late Pliocene‐Recent deformation through cross section and map restorations. The subsequent geometries are far simpler, with upright folds that are now vertically aligned. Once apparently detached structures are demonstrably connected through the Messinian Evaporites. The vergence of the present day intrasalt folds can be taken as an indicator for the Late Pliocene‐Recent flow direction and distinct deformation geometries that connect at various levels through the salt sequence once retro‐deformed can assist when interpreting the salt flow profile. The retro‐deformation is essential for how intra‐Messinian deformation and its drivers are interpreted going forward. Furthermore, simple shear deformation results in erroneous apparent percentage shortening calculations as line length is not conserved, obscuring the strain from the pre‐Pliocene deformational phase. The methodology employed here has important implications for all salt basins that have undergone multiphase deformation.
Impact of submacular fluid volume on visual outcome in macula‐off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment using automated optical coherence tomography volumetric quantification
Authors: Angermann Reinhard , Mosböck Stefan , Palme Christoph , Ulmer Hanno , Rauchegger Teresa , Nowosielski Yvonne , Bechrakis Nikolaos E. , Zehetner Claus
Published: April 2021

Background

We investigated effects of submacular fluid volume (SMFV) on visual outcomes following surgery for macula‐off primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) using automated fluid volumetric quantification with optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

We analysed 127 eyes that were surgically treated for macula‐off RRDs. We obtained preoperative images following the spectral domain (SD)‐OCT dense volume protocol, applied automated retinal segmentation and used an automated algorithm to quantify each eye's SMFV. We used multivariate models to identify various risk factors for impaired visual outcome.

Results

Linear regression showed that preoperative SMFV (ß = 0.013; P = .005) was significantly associated with a reduced visual outcome 12 months after the treatment of macula‐off RRDs. SMFV was negatively correlated with 12‐month postoperative (r = .311; P = .001) visual acuity (VA). The group with low preoperative SMFV (≤9.0 mm3) showed an increasing VA up to 12 months postoperatively (P < .001), while the VA did not increase in the group with high SMFV (>9.0 mm3) beyond 3 months of follow‐up. Patients with a high SMFV were 8.0 times more likely to have worse visual outcomes after 12 months of follow‐up (P = .018).

Conclusions

SMFV was negatively correlated with visual outcomes after the surgical treatment of macula‐off RRDs. Patients with SMFV <9.0 mm3 12 months after surgery had an 8.0 times greater chance for better visual recovery than patients with high preoperative SMFV. Our findings highlight the efficacy of automated SMFV quantification in predicting surgical outcomes in patients with RRDs, which could be useful in future clinical practice and the development of research models.
Rule of law and purpose of the corporation
Authors: Bhagat Sanjai , Hubbard Glenn
Published: April 2021

Research Question/Issue

What is the purpose of the modern corporation? How is the rule of law related to the purpose of the modern corporation?

Research Findings/Insights

We study the role of rule of law in enabling corporations to enhance economic prosperity and diminish income inequality across the globe.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

First, we provide empirical evidence on the role of rule of law in enhancing economic prosperity and diminishing income inequality across the globe. Next, we draw on the law and finance literature and the finance and growth literature to highlight the role of rule of law in enabling corporations to be the major driver of a country's economic growth. Specifically, rule of law is necessary for a citizenry's belief in secure private property rights, which gives the citizenry confidence to invest in physical capital, human capital, and innovation—the three catalysts of economic growth. Also, the rule of law allows for an effective judiciary that can enforce legal contracts. Shareholder reliance on limited liability and debtholder rights originate from the legal contracts among shareholders, debtholders, and other stakeholders. This highlights the importance of rule of law in enabling companies to raise equity and debt financing, leading to financial development. Given this background on the role of the rule of law in the issuance of equity capital to provide financial resources to corporations, we analyze the current debate among policymakers, corporate leaders, institutional investors, and social activists on the purpose of the modern corporation. We conclude that the modern corporation should maximize long‐term shareholder value, while conforming to the law of the land.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

At the national and international level, policymakers should focus on improving rule of law—this enhances economic prosperity and diminishes income inequality. At the individual country level, we suggest steps to align shareholder wealth maximization with stakeholder interests: first, antitrust public policies should be vigorously enforced to maintain and enhance competition in product markets and labor markets. Second, management and board compensation should be reformed to focus on creating and sustaining long‐term shareholder value. Finally, for many of society's more serious problems, corporations do not represent the appropriate level of action. Climate change, for example, poses significant challenges for societies and businesses. But significant changes to combat climate change require public policy changes in the United States and abroad. Turning more to corporations because the political process seems broken will not do.
Barriers and facilitators of physical activity participation for people with disabilities: a parent’s perspective
Authors: Frisina Cynthia
Published: April 2021

This commentary is on the systematic review by McKenzie et al. on pages 914–924 of this issue.
Hours, Employment and Earnings of American Manufacturing Workers from the 19th Century to the 21st Century
Authors: Pencavel John H.
Published: April 2021

For a century, two labour market empirical regularities characterized the movements of the hours of work, employment and hourly compensation of American manufacturing production workers. They resembled conditional labour supply functions. Increases in employment substituted for reductions in hours per worker. The implied elasticities of hours and employment with respect to hourly earnings declined in absolute value over time. The activities of trade unions and the effects of statutory legislation contribute to the explanations for what is observed. Recently, changes in real hourly earnings contribute little to understanding movements in hours of work and in employment of these workers.
The effects of reducing the root length by apicoectomy on dental pulp revascularization following tooth replantation in mice
Authors: Nakakura‐Ohshima Kuniko , Quispe‐Salcedo Angela , Sano Hiroto , Hayasaki Haruaki , Ohshima Hayato
Published: April 2021

Background/Aim

Root length is a critical factor for dental pulp regeneration following tooth replantation. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of reducing the root length by apicoectomy on the pulp healing process using a model for tooth replantation.

Material and Methods

After extraction of the upper first molars (M1) of 3‐week‐old mice, the roots from the experimental group (EG) were shortened to half to two‐thirds of their length before replantation, whereas in the control group (CG) the extracted teeth were immediately repositioned into their alveolar sockets. To determine the effects of root resection on the survival of inherent pulp cells, this study included tooth transplantation with root resection using wild‐type (WT) and green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic mice. The M1 of GFP transgenic mice were transplanted into the alveolar socket of the M1 of WT mice. The roots of the right M1 were shortened (EG), whereas the left M1 remained untreated (CG).

Results

Apoptotic cells in the EG significantly decreased in number compared with the CG at day 3. Cell proliferative activity in the EG was significantly higher than that in the CG in the root pulp during days 3–5, and nestin‐positive odontoblast‐like cells began to arrange themselves along the pulp‐dentin border in the cusp area at day 5 in the EG but not in the CG. At week 2, tertiary dentin had formed throughout the pulp in the EG, whereas the combined tissue of dentin and bone occupied the pulp space in 60% of the CG. Root resection also positively affected the survival of inherent pulp cells to differentiate into odontoblast‐like cells as demonstrated by transplantation using GFP transgenic mice.

Conclusions

Reducing the root length accelerated pulp regeneration following tooth replantation due to the better environment for revascularization.
Importance of sources of variability, scales and experimental design: A case study about the effects of biochar and slurry application on soil properties in agricultural silty loam soils
Authors: Ludwig Bernard , Song Xiaona , Gunina Anna , Greenberg Isabel , Dippold Michaela A. , Piepho Hans‐Peter
Published: April 2021

In designed experiments, different sources of variability and an adequate scale of measurement need to be considered, but not all approaches in common usage are equally valid. In order to elucidate the importance of sources of variability and choice of scale, we conducted an experiment where the effects of biochar and slurry applications on soil properties related to soil fertility were studied for different designs: (a) for a field‐scale sampling design with either a model soil (without natural variability) as an internal control or with composited soils, (b) for a design with a focus on amendment variabilities, and (c) for three individual field‐scale designs with true field replication and a combined analysis representative of the population of loess‐derived soils. Three silty loam sites in Germany were sampled and the soil macroaggregates were crushed. For each design, six treatments (0, 0.15 and 0.30 g slurry‐N kg−1 with and without 30 g biochar kg−1) were applied before incubating the units under constant soil moisture conditions for 78 days. CO2 fluxes were monitored and soils were analysed for macroaggregate yields and associated organic carbon (C). Mixed‐effects models were used to describe the effects. For all soil properties, results for the loess sites differed with respect to significant contributions of fixed effects for at least one site, suggesting the need for a general inclusion of different sites. Analysis using a multilevel model allowed generalizations for loess soils to be made and showed that site:slurry:biochar and site:slurry interactions were not negligible for macroaggregate yields. The use of a model soil as an internal control enabled observation of variabilities other than those related to soils or amendments. Experiments incorporating natural variability in soils or amendments resulted in partially different outcomes, indicating the need to include all important sources of variability.

Highlights

Effects of biochar and slurry applications were studied for different designs and mixed‐effects models were used to describe the effects.

Including an internal control allowed observation of, e.g., methodological and analytical variabilities.

The results suggested the need for a general inclusion of different sites.

Analysis using a multilevel model allowed generalizations for loess soils.

The results indicated the need to include all important sources of variability.
Biosecurity risks related to recycling of mollusc shell waste for shellfish reef restoration in Australia
Authors: Diggles Ben K.
Published: April 2021

A risk analysis was undertaken to assess the biosecurity risks involved with recycling mollusc shell waste for restoration of shellfish reefs in Australia. The hazard identification stage identified 20 diseases and 14 groups of marine pests upon which detailed risk assessment was undertaken. The qualitative risk assessment process involved release, exposure and consequence assessment, to arrive at an unmitigated risk estimation as well as risk estimates for several shell treatments, including 3, 4 or 6 months desiccation in sunlight, exposure to hot water at 55°C for 10 min or 80°C for 5 min, bathing in freshwater for > 24 h or in vinegar (4% acetic acid) for 30 min. The effectiveness of these treatments as risk management options were then compared to inform development of protocols for biosecure treatment of mollusc shells. The appropriate level of protection (ALOP) was expressed in qualitative terms as ‘very low’, representing an annual probability between 1 in 20 and 1 in 100 years. The outcomes from the risk analysis indicated that heating recycled mollusc shells in water at 80°C for > 5 min would meet the ALOP for all pests and diseases of concern. This method has limited throughput, however, and thus may be useful only for pilot scale restoration projects. Desiccation of mollusc shells in sunlight for 4 months at > 20°C was also within the ALOP for all hazards examined. However, if ambient weather conditions at the recycling facility prevent the shell pile drying out or exceeding 20°C for several months of the year, extending the desiccation period to 6 months with at least one shell turnover is recommended to provide sufficient safety margin to ensure the ALOP is met. Desiccation of mollusc shells can be undertaken at vast scales at minimal cost, and thus appears suitable for shellfish restoration at environmentally meaningful scales.
Instrumentally assessed gait quality is more relevant than gait endurance and velocity to explain patient‐reported walking ability in early‐stage multiple sclerosis
Authors: Carpinella Ilaria , Gervasoni Elisa , Anastasi Denise , Di Giovanni Rachele , Tacchino Andrea , Brichetto Giampaolo , Confalonieri Paolo , Rovaris Marco , Solaro Claudio , Ferrarin Maurizio , Cattaneo Davide
Published: April 2021

Background and purpose

People with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) often report walking limitations even when the gold standard Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) indicates normal walking endurance/autonomy. The present multicenter study on early‐stage PwMS aims at analyzing which aspects are associated with patient‐reported walking limitations measured with the 12‐item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS‐12).

Methods

Eighty‐two PwMS (EDSS ≤ 2.5) were assessed using the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale—short (FAB‐s), the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the 6‐min Walk Test (6MWT), the latter administered also to 21 healthy subjects. Participants performed the 6MWT wearing three inertial sensors on ankles and trunk. Instrumented metrics describing gait velocity (stride length and frequency) and quality (regularity, symmetry, instability) were computed from sensor data. Fatigue (FSS), balance (FAB‐s), walking endurance (6MWT) and instrumented metrics were entered in a multiple regression model with MSWS‐12 as dependent variable.

Results

Gait symmetry, gait instability, fatigue and balance were significantly associated with self‐rated walking ability, whilst walking endurance and velocity were not. Fatigue, balance, gait symmetry and instability were more impaired in participants reporting mild‐to‐moderate (MSMM‐PWL, 25 ≤ MSWS‐12 < 75) compared to those reporting none‐to‐minimal (MSnm‐PWL, 0 ≤ MSWS‐12 ≤ 25) perceived walking limitations. Compared to healthy subjects, gait symmetry and stability were reduced in MSnm‐PWL and MSMM‐PWL, even in those participants with EDSS ≤ 1.5.

Conclusion

Instrumentally assessed gait quality aspects (symmetry and instability) are associated with patient‐reported walking ability in early‐stage PwMS and seem sensitive biomarkers to detect subtle impairments even in the earliest stages of the disease (EDSS ≤ 1.5). Future studies should assess their ability to follow walking change due to MS progression or pharmacological/rehabilitation interventions.
Assessment of the genetic contribution to brain magnetic resonance imaging lesion load and atrophy measures in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Clarelli Ferdinando , Rocca Maria Assunta , Santoro Silvia , De Meo Ermelinda , Ferrè Laura , Sorosina Melissa , Martinelli Boneschi Filippo , Esposito Federica , Filippi Massimo
Published: April 2021

Background and purpose

Multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility is influenced by genetics; however, little is known about genetic determinants of disease expression. We aimed at assessing genetic factors influencing quantitative neuroimaging measures in two cohorts of progressive MS (PMS) and relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients.

Methods

Ninety‐nine PMS and 214 RRMS patients underwent a 3‐T brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, with the measurement of five MRI metrics including T2 lesion volumes and measures of white matter, grey matter, deep grey matter, and hippocampal volumes. A candidate pathway strategy was adopted; gene set analysis was carried out to estimate cumulative contribution of genes to MRI phenotypes, adjusting for relevant confounders, followed by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) regression analysis.

Results

Seventeen Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways and 42 Gene Ontology (GO) terms were tested. We additionally included in the analysis genes with enriched expression in brain cells. Gene set analysis revealed a differential pattern of association across the two cohorts, with processes related to sodium homeostasis being associated with grey matter volume in PMS (p = 0.002), whereas inflammatory‐related GO terms such as adaptive immune response and regulation of inflammatory response appeared to be associated with T2 lesion volume in RRMS (p = 0.004 and p = 0.008, respectively). As for SNPs, the rs7104613T mapping to SPON1 gene was associated with reduced deep grey matter volume (β = −0.731, p = 3.2*10−7) in PMS, whereas we found evidence of association between white matter volume and rs740948A mapping to SEMA3A gene (β = 22.04, p = 5.5*10−6) in RRMS.

Conclusions

Our data suggest a different pattern of associations between MRI metrics and functional processes across MS disease courses, suggesting different phenomena implicated in MS.
Movement asymmetries in horses presented for prepurchase or lameness examination
Authors: Hardeman Aagje M. , Egenvall Agneta , Serra Bragança Filipe M. , Koene Marc H. W. , Swagemakers Jan‐Hein , Roepstorff Lars , van Weeren Rene , Byström Anna
Published: April 2021

Background

The increasing popularity of objective gait analysis makes application in prepurchase examinations (PPE) a logical next step. Therefore, there is a need to have more understanding of asymmetry during a PPE in horses described on clinical evaluation as subtly lame.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to objectively compare asymmetry in horses raising minor vet concerns in a PPE and in horses raising major vet concerns with that found in horses presented with subtle single‐limb lameness, and to investigate the effect of age/discipline on the clinicians' interpretation of asymmetry on the classification of minor vet concerns in a PPE.

Study Design

Clinical case‐series.

Methods

Horses presented for PPE (n = 98) or subjectively evaluated as single limb low‐grade (1–2/5) lame (n = 24, 13 forelimb lame, 11 hindlimb lame), from the patient population of a single clinic, were enrolled in the study provided that owners were willing to participate. Horses undergoing PPE were assigned a classification of having minor vet concerns (n = 84) or major vet concerns (n = 14) based on findings during the dynamic‐orthopaedic part of the PPE. Lame horses were only included if pain‐related lameness was confirmed by an objective improvement after diagnostic analgesia exceeding daily variation determined for equine symmetry parameters using optical motion capture. Clinical evaluation was performed by six different clinicians, each with ≥8 years of equine orthopaedic experience. Vertical movement symmetry was measured using optical motion capture, simultaneously with the orthopaedic examination. Data were analysed using previously described parameters and mixed model analysis and least squares means were used to calculate differences between groups.

Results

There was no effect of age or discipline on the levels of asymmetry within PPE horses raising minor vet concerns. MinDiff and RUD of the head discriminated between forelimb lame and PPE horses raising minor vet concerns; MinDiff, MaxDiff, RUD of the Pelvis, HHDswing and HHDstance did so for hindlimb lameness. Two lameness patterns differentiated both forelimb and hindlimb lame from PPE horses with minor vet concerns: RUD Poll + MinDiff Withers – RUD Pelvis and RUD Pelvis + RUD Poll − MinDiff Withers. Correcting for vertical range of motion enabled differentiation of PPE horses with minor vet concerns from PPE horses with major vet concerns.

Main Limitations

Objective data only based on trot on soft surface, limited number of PPE horses with major vet concerns.

Conclusions

Combinations of kinematic parameters discriminate between PPE horses with minor vet concerns and subtly lame horses, though overlap exists.
Human pluripotent stem cells: An alternative for 3D in vitro modelling of skin disease
Authors: Khurana Preeti , Kolundzic Nikola , Flohr Carsten , Ilic Dusko
Published: April 2021

To effectively study the skin and its pathology, various platforms have been used to date, with in vitro 3D skin models being considered the future gold standard. These models have generally been engineered from primary cell lines. However, their short life span leading to the use of various donors, imposes issues with genetic variation. Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)‐technology holds great prospects as an alternative to the use of primary cell lines to study the pathophysiology of human skin diseases. This is due to their potential to generate an unlimited number of genetically identical skin models that closely mimic the complexity of in vivo human skin. During the past decade, researchers have therefore started to use human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (hESC/iPSC) to derive skin resident‐like cells and components. These have subsequently been used to engineer hPSC‐derived 3D skin models. In this review, we focus on the advantages, recent developments, and future perspectives in using hPSCs as an alternative cell source for modelling human skin diseases in vitro.
The impact of credit rating information on disclosure quality
Authors: Chi Yung‐Ling , Flynn Sean
Published: April 2021

Do credit ratings affect the information content of corporate disclosure? Using novel data on rating analysts to obtain exogenous variation in rating information, we find that greater uncertainty in credit ratings increases the quality of information disclosed by the firm. This is consistent with the firm attempting to reduce overall uncertainty about value by improving the quality of its own disclosure. We further show that improved disclosure is beneficial to firms. Our results are consistent with theories in which improvements in one type of information can crowd out other types, and they suggest that policies aimed at improving rating accuracy may, in fact, reduce the quality of corporate disclosure.
Global patterns and drivers of rainfall partitioning by trees and shrubs
Authors: Yue Kai , De Frenne Pieter , Fornara Dario A. , Van Meerbeek Koenraad , Li Wang , Peng Xin , Ni Xiangyin , Peng Yan , Wu Fuzhong , Yang Yusheng , Peñuelas Josep
Published: April 2021

Spatiotemporal redistribution of incident rainfall in vegetated ecosystems results from the partitioning by plants into intercepted, stemflow, and throughfall fractions. However, variation in patterns and drivers of rainfall partitioning across global biomes remains poorly understood, which limited the ability of climate models to improve the predictions of biome hydrological cycle under global climate change scenario. Here, we synthesized and analyzed the partitioning of incident rainfall into interception, stemflow, and throughfall by trees and shrubs at the global scale using 2430 observations from 236 independent publications. We found that (1) globally, median levels of relative interception, stemflow, and throughfall accounted for 21.8%, 3.2%, and 73.0% of total incident rainfall, respectively; (2) rainfall partitioning varied among different biomes, due to variation in plant composition, canopy structure, and macroclimate; (3) relative stemflow tended to be driven by plant traits, such as crown height:width ratio, basal area, and height, while relative interception and throughfall tended to be driven by plant traits as well as meteorological variables. Our global assessment of patterns and drivers of rainfall partitioning underpins the role of meteorological factors and plant traits in biome‐specific ecohydrological cycles. We suggest to include these factors in climate models to improve the predictions of local hydrological cycles and associated biodiversity and function responses to changing climate conditions.
Multiple diversity facets of crucial microbial groups in biological soil crusts promote soil multifunctionality
Authors: Li Hua , Chen Youxin , Yu Gongliang , Rossi Federico , Huo Da , De Philippis Roberto , Cheng Xiaoli , Wang Weibo , Li Renhui
Published: April 2021

Aim

Microbial diversity is one of the most important factors for maintaining the performance of multiple functions in soils (multifunctionality). However, existing studies typically consider the taxonomic richness or Shannon diversity of the entire community. We know little about the connection network of taxonomic and phylogenetic facets of diversity and their collective impact on multifunctionality. In this study, the linkages of effects of diversity within functional groups were disentangled in drylands.

Location

The central Tibetan Plateau.

Time period

Present.

Major taxa studied

Phototrophs and diazotrophs (mainly cyanobacteria).

Methods

Given the carbon‐ and nitrogen‐limited nature of drylands, we conducted a high‐throughput sequencing of C/N‐fixing functional groups from biocrusts and evaluated multiple facets of diversity (i.e., richness, evenness and phylogeny‐related trait dissimilarity), together with seven crucial variables of soil functioning to calculate multifunctionality. The relationships between multifaceted diversity and abundance with individual functions and multifunctionality were validated by a set of solid statistical analyses.

Results

We found that the integrated biodiversity index was a stronger predictor of multifunctionality than richness. The divergent performance of different facets of diversity determined the idiosyncratic effect of each functional group on soil multifunctionality. Moreover, the evaluation of functional significance at the species level gave important clues on the trade‐offs and redundancy in each functional group, explaining the distinct patterns of effects of diversity. Richness was the dominant factor for diazotrophs to maximize multifunctionality, whereas phylogenetic dissimilarity was the essential one for phototrophs.

Main conclusions

Our study demonstrated that multiple facets of diversity should be considered when assessing the effects of biodiversity. In contrast to the community level, within‐functional group measures might adequately capture the features of diversity that are most correlated with soil multifunctionality. Our results provide a perspective to bridge the gap between taxonomic and trait‐based approaches for elucidating the biodiversity–ecosystem function relationship.
Social factors predicting improvement of frailty in community‐dwelling older adults: Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study
Authors: Jang Ah Ram , Won Chang Won , Sagong Hae , Bae Eunjung , Park Hyena , Yoon Ju Young
Published: April 2021

Aim

The study aimed to identify social factors predicting improvement of frailty in community‐dwelling older adults after 2 years using a population‐based cohort study.

Methods

We analyzed data from the 2016 and 2018 Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study. The participants of this study were 1428 community‐dwelling older adults aged 70–84 years who were recruited from 10 medical centers across different regions. Frailty was measured using the five‐item FRAIL scale, which evaluates fatigue, resistance, ambulation, illness and weight loss. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was used to examine baseline social factors that predict frailty improvement after 2 years by frailty status.

Results

In frail older adults, higher participation in social activities (odds ratio [OR] 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.34) was significantly associated with frailty improvement. In pre‐frail older adults, there were no significant social factors predicting the improvement of frailty status; however, other modifiable factors such as high and moderate levels of physical activity (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.07–1.28, OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.03–1.25, respectively) and low depressive symptoms (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.84–0.91) were associated with pre‐frail improvements. High levels of physical activity (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.02–1.33) were also associated with improvements of frailty.

Conclusions

Different strategies depending on the level of frailty are necessary to improve frailty status. Timely and appropriate interventions can promote frailty improvement and prevent negative health outcomes in community‐dwelling older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 465–471.
Formulation of topical acidic products and acidification of the skin – Contribution of glycolic acid
Authors: Lukic Milica , Filipovic Mila , Pajic Nevena , Lunter Dominique , Bozic Dragana , Savic Snezana
Published: April 2021

Objective

The acidic skin pH is one of the regulating factors of skin barrier homeostasis. Topical products as extrinsic factors which influence skin pH could be used for acidification of the skin and consequent beneficial effect. To formulate stabile and safe topical emulsion product with low pH is on‐going challenge and areas interesting to explore are related to the effect of acidic products on the skin pH together with development of protocols for these studies. Aim of our work was to investigate formulations of acidic topical products with glycolic acid (GA) stabilized with long chain alkyl polyglucoside emulsifier, in regard to the specific colloidal structure of the vehicle, together with effect of products with different concentration of acidic active on skin pH.

Methods

Investigated formulations were basic vehicle and two creams with glycolic acid (concentration 2 and 10 wt%). Microstructure was investigated by polarization microscopy, Raman spectral imaging, thermal analysis and rheological measurements. Effects on the skin were assessed by measurement of biophysical skin parameters in vivo studies (5‐hour, 24‐hour and 7‐days). In vitro screening of antimicrobial activity was performed against bacteria Staphylococcus epidermidis.

Results

Polarization micrographs and Raman images have shown that GA does not disturb the specific colloidal structure. Together with rheological and thermal analysis obtained results have shown that GA in higher concentrations contributes to vehicles’ lamellar structure. In 5‐hour study the mean values of skin pH ranged from 3.98‐4.25 and 3.89‐4.10 after application of products with smaller and higher GA concentration. GA samples lowered skin surface pH to 5 and less in 24‐hour and 7‐day study, with stronger effect of sample with more GA. Sample with 10% of GA had significant inhibitory effect on growth of S. epidermidis in 1:1 concentration.

Conclusions

Investigated APG emulsifier could be used as a stabilizer for acidic topical products with GA which are characterized by satisfactory safety profile. Topical products induce acidification of the skin after short‐ and long‐term application without barrier impairment or sign of irritation. Acidification of the skin depends on presence of ingredients which are proton donors and their concentrations.
Evolution of magnetic order in multiferroic Pb(Fe2/3W1/3)O3‐BiFeO3 solid solution
Authors: Li Haijuan , Zhuang Jian , Bokov Alexei A. , Zhang Nan , Zhang Jie , Ren Wei , Ye Zuo‐Guang
Published: April 2021

Multiferroic materials have attracted much interest in the last decade due to both the intriguing fundamental science and the potential applications in spintronics and magnetoelectric data storage devices. In this work, we have investigated and discussed the evolution of the magnetic properties of the multiferroic (1‐x)Pb(Fe2/3 W1/3)O3‐xBiFeO3 solid solution ((1‐x)PFW‐xBFO, x = 0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, 0.1 and 0.15). The magnetic phase diagram is established based on the magnetic measurement results, which reveals six magnetically ordered states on the PFW‐rich side of the solid solution. The origins of the complex evolution of magnetic order in the PFW‐BFO solid solution are discussed from the point view of the variations in both the –Fe–O–Fe– and –Fe–O–W–O–Fe– superexchange routes, which are intimately related to the ratio of magnetic Fe3+ ion concentration on the B‐site and the changes in the local structural order/disorder and chemical homogeneities. Combining the magnetic phase diagram with the relaxor characteristic phase diagram of the (1‐x)PFW‐xBFO system, a striking feature is found that the ergodic relaxor (ER) state and the weakly ferromagnetic phase coexist in the composition range of 0.025 ≤ x ≤ 0.1 between the freezing temperature Tf and the Burns temperature TB.
Mechanical properties study of VO2micro‐beam according to metal‐insulator transition
Authors: Kim Youngho , Cho Hyeon Ho , Bae Ji Kwon , Lee Jaeyeong , Lee Sang Hoon , Dong Xue , Asghar Ghulam , Choi Jae‐Young , Yu Hak Ki
Published: April 2021

Many attempts have been made to develop applications using the metal‐insulator transition (MIT) phenomenon of VO2. However, the difference in the densities of the two phases poses serious obstacle for those applications, as it can destroy or disable during the phase transformations. For microsized or nanosized devices, this aspect can be critical. We attempted to measure the mechanical properties when the two phases co‐exist, as well as for an individual phase, via in‐situ control of the temperature of plate‐shaped VO2. The lamella structure is formed during MIT. At this time, the stress is applied by the gradient of density, and the residual strain can easily occur at the interface of each phase. Therefore, the co‐exist state was judged to be the most vulnerable during the MIT. The change in mechanical properties of VO2during phase transition was also simulated by finite element method.
Cognitive‐behavioral therapy training for multidisciplinary inpatient psychiatric teams: A novel curriculum using animated simulations
Authors: Cardona Laurie , Barreto Monica , Grodberg David , Martin Andrés
Published: April 2021

Problem

Nurses assume primary responsibility teaching children self‐management skills, yet few of them have formal training in evidence‐based treatments such as cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT).

Methods

We developed a novel CBT training curriculum specifically tailored for nurses and other child psychiatric inpatient team members. The curriculum was anchored in three components: (1) a structured manual; (2) instructional videos of common clinical scenarios using animated simulations; and (3) interactive role‐play exercises. The CBT curriculum was implemented through small group training sessions. We then conducted focus group sessions with the 20 participants to assess change in self‐reported knowledge of, and utilization of CBT skills in clinical practice.

Findings

The curriculum was well received by staff members, who found its content relevant and applicable to their daily inpatient work. Staff reported four main themes: (1) routine clinical care (feelings, challenges, and approaches); (2) CBT utility in practice; (3) CBT training components that facilitated learning of the discrete skills; and (4) professional development needs.

Conclusions

We were able to implement the curriculum within the time and staffing constraints of a clinically active inpatient setting. Future refinements of the model will include videotaped interactions between expert clinicians and simulated patients in high acuity situations.
An autofluorescence‐based survey of late follicular atresia in ovaries of a teleost fish (Thunnus thynnus)
Authors: Medina Antonio , Magro Ana , Paullada‐Salmerón José Antonio , Varela José Luis
Published: April 2021

In this study, the authors examined late atretic follicles in the ovaries of Atlantic bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus (Linnæus 1758), at different times of the year using transmitted light and epifluorescence microscopy. Atresia (degeneration and resorption of developing ovarian follicles) is a natural process involved in fecundity downregulation in teleosts and is substantially enhanced in stressful conditions. Early (α and β) atretic stages of yolked oocytes have a relatively short duration in seasonally reproducing species, whereas later (γ and δ) atretic follicles (LAF) persist for longer time in the ovary, serving as a sign of previous vitellogenic activity. LAF can thus be used as reliable markers of maturity during non‐reproductive periods. Lipofuscin granules accumulate in the cytoplasm of LAF cells as a result of lysosomal digestion of oocyte components. Taking advantage of the well‐known autofluorescent properties of lipofuscins, LAF may be identified in unstained histological sections under fluorescence microscopy using appropriate excitation and emission wavelengths. The authors explore in this study the applicability of fluorescence microscopy to provide a fast and effective method to assess late atresia in fishes. This method may be particularly useful to determine sexual maturity in individuals sampled long after the spawning season, where LAF are difficult to detect in standard histological sections. Furthermore, LAF autofluorescence provides a rapid way to quantify late atresia in fishes using image analysis.
Proportion of SARS‐CoV‐2 positive tests and vaccination in Veterans Affairs Community Living Centers
Authors: Rudolph James L. , Hartronft Scotte , McConeghy Kevin , Kennedy Michael , Intrator Orna , Minor Lisa , Hubert Terrence L. , Goldstein Mary K.
Published: April 2021

Background/Objectives

COVID‐19 has caused significant morbidity and mortality in nursing homes. Vaccination against SARS‐COV‐2 holds promise for reduction in COVID‐19. This operational analysis describes the proportion of SARS‐COV‐2 positive tests before, during, and after vaccination.

Design

Retrospective longitudinal cohort analysis from October 1, 2020 until February 14, 2021.

Setting

A total of 130 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Living Centers (CLC), analogous to nursing homes.

Intervention

Vaccination for SARS‐CoV‐2.

Measurements

The primary measure is the proportion of SARS‐CoV‐2 positive tests among CLC residents. In a pooled analysis of weekly testing and vaccine data, the proportion of positive tests was compared for the unvaccinated, first dose, and second dose. For each CLC, we identified the week in which 50% of CLC residents were vaccinated (index week). The analysis aligned the index week for CLCs and examined the proportion of SARS‐CoV‐2 positive tests at the CLC level before and after. As a reference, we plotted the proportion of positive tests in nursing homes in the same county as the CLC using publicly reported data.

Results

Within the pooled VA CLCs, the first SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine dose was delivered to 50% of CLC residents within 1 week of availability and second dose within 5 weeks. Relative to the index week, the risk ratio of SARS‐CoV‐2 positive tests in the vaccinated relative to unvaccinated was significantly lower in Week 4 (relative risk 0.37, 95% confidence interval 0.20–0.68). Throughout the study period, the proportion of SARS‐CoV‐2 positive tests in community nursing homes was higher compared to VA CLC and also declined after vaccine availability.

Conclusion

The proportion of SARS‐CoV‐2 positive tests significantly declined in VA CLCs 4 weeks after vaccine delivery and continued to decline in vaccinated and unvaccinated residents. The results describe the importance of SARS‐CoV‐2 surveillance and vaccination in VA nursing home residents.
Determination of the refractive index and wavelength‐dependent optical properties of few‐layer CrCl within the Fresnel formalism
Authors: Kazim Shafaq , Gunnella Roberto , Zannotti Marco , Giovannetti Rita , Klimczuk Tomasz , Ottaviano Luca
Published: April 2021

Based on previous reports on the optical microscopy contrast of mechanically exfoliated few layer CrCl transferred on 285 nm and 270 nm SiO on Si(100), we focus on the experimental determination of an effective mean complex refractive index via a fitting analysis based on the Fresnel equations formalism. Accordingly, the layer and wavelength‐dependent absorbance and reflectance are calculated. Layer and wavelength‐dependent optical contrast curves are then evaluated demonstrating that the contrast is significantly high only around well‐defined wavelength bands. This is validated a posteriori, by experimental UV‐Vis absorbance data. The present study aims to show the way towards the most reliable determination of thickness of the 2D material flakes during exfoliation.
Complications of Botulinum toxin A: An update review
Authors: Kroumpouzos George , Kassir Martin , Gupta Mrinal , Patil Anant , Goldust Mohamad
Published: April 2021

Cosmetic surgery procedures have increased manifolds all over the world owing to the ever‐increasing demand of people to look beautiful and young. Injectable treatments like botulinum toxin are becoming more popular owing to their rapid, well‐defined, and lasting results for the reduction of facial fine lines, wrinkles, and facial rejuvenation. These emerging treatments are quite safe but can have certain adverse effects. In this article, we have highlighted the complications and side effects of botulinum toxin based on the anatomical location. The possible causes and precautions to prevent these complications are also discussed. The search of literature included peer‐reviewed articles including clinical trials and scientific reviews. Literature was identified from electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed) through January 2021 and references of respective articles and only the articles published in English language were included.
Scrutiny, legal socialization, and defiance: Understanding how procedural justice and bounded‐authority concerns shape Muslims’ defiance toward police
Authors: Murphy Kristina
Published: April 2021

Police rely on citizens to report crime and victimization. Yet for many people low levels of trust in police and concerns about unjust police treatment impact their willingness to engage proactively with police. For some, defying police authority is common. This can be particularly so for ethnic, racial, and religious minority groups. The personal and vicarious experiences these groups have with police play an important role in the legal socialization process, shaping how they perceive and behave toward police. As a religious minority group Muslims have experienced intense scrutiny from police. As such, the current study examines how and why Muslims defy police authority. Using survey data from 398 Australian Muslims, this study tests whether Muslims’ concerns about procedural justice and bounded‐authority violations (i.e., the belief that police overstep the boundaries of acceptable authority) have differential effects on two types of defiance: resistance and disengagement. Findings show that Muslims’ concerns about procedural justice are most important for understanding resistance, while disengagement is dominated by concerns about perceived boundary violations. Further, procedural justice moderates the association between bounded‐authority concerns and resistance, but not disengagement. The implications of these findings for the legal socialization process, theory, and police practice are discussed.
Potential use of naturally colored antioxidants in the food industry—A study of consumers' perception and acceptance
Authors: Bordim Jéssica , Lise Carla Cristina , Marques Caroline , Oldoni Tatiane Cadorin , Varela Paula , Mitterer‐Daltoé Marina Leite
Published: April 2021

In the present study, the influences of color and awareness of the presence of three different naturally colored antioxidants, were studied using the projective consumer method Word Association. Moringa, propolis, and red grape pomace extracts were added to three different food products categories (bread, yogurt, and pate) as case studies. To explore the influence of the presence of natural antioxidants in the colored products, two conditions were applied: blind condition (unawareness) and informed condition (awareness). Hedonic scores were concurrently collected using a facial scale with seven points. Results exposed that an unfamiliar color, in food products with added naturally colored antioxidants, did not have a strong impact on consumers' perception of the appearance. The awareness of the presence of natural antioxidants, positively influenced consumers' perception and acceptance. Results also demonstrated that a naturally colored antioxidant from propolis could not be used in all food categories. The problem highlighted by consumers was not attributed to the color, but to the off‐flavor presented by the propolis extract.

Practical applications

To increase natural antioxidant use by the food industry, consumers' perception emerge as important tools. The addition of a natural antioxidant in the color of the final product is important information for consumers and for future industrial applications, especially if they provide unfamiliar colors to the products.