bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in structural and functional properties of globulin–polyphenol complexes in mung beans: exploration under different interaction ratios and heat treatment conditions
Authors: Zhang Shu , Sheng Ya‐Nan , Feng Yu‐Chao , Diao Jing‐Jing , Wang Chang‐Yuan , Zhang Dong‐Jie
Published: May 2021

In this study, mung bean was used as raw material to reveal the interaction mechanism between mung bean protein and polyphenols in the water solution system of heat treatment and to speculate the binding form of the two. Structural and functional changes of globulin–polyphenol complexes in mung bean under different interaction ratios and heat treatment conditions (70, 85 and 100 °C) were analysed using 2D and 3D fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, particle size and ζ potential. The results showed that mung bean globulin–polyphenol binding was a static quenching mechanism, with mainly hydrophobic interactions. Heat treatment had little effect on binding sites and may induce partial covalent binding. Antioxidant activity of the interaction improved; however, heat treatment reduced the antioxidant capacity of the complexes. Before and after heat treatment, globulin–polyphenol complexes had poor solubility, but its emulsification and foaming ability are significantly improved. Polyphenol addition improved mung bean globulin secondary structure, and the thermal stability of the complex was greater than that of mung bean globulin. This study provides a theoretical reference for clarifying the binding mechanism of mung bean protein and polyphenols, which is significant for mung bean food processing and production.
Comparison of RNA‐ and DNA‐based methods for measurable residual disease analysis in NPM1‐mutated acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Pettersson Louise , Johansson Alm Sofie , Almstedt Alvar , Chen Yilun , Orrsjö Gustav , Shah‐Barkhordar Giti , Zhou Li , Kotarsky Heike , Vidovic Karina , Asp Julia , Lazarevic Vladimir , Saal Lao H. , Fogelstrand Linda , Ehinger Mats
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) is considered the method of choice for measurable residual disease (MRD) assessment in NPM1‐mutated acute myeloid leukemia (AML). MRD can also be determined with DNA‐based methods offering certain advantages. We here compared the DNA‐based methods quantitative PCR (qPCR), droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), and targeted deep sequencing (deep seq) with RT‐qPCR.

Methods

Of 110 follow‐up samples from 30 patients with NPM1‐mutated AML were analyzed by qPCR, ddPCR, deep seq, and RT‐qPCR. To select DNA MRD cutoffs for bone marrow, we performed receiver operating characteristic analyses for each DNA method using prognostically relevant RT‐qPCR cutoffs.

Results

The DNA‐based methods showed strong intermethod correlation, but were less sensitive than RT‐qPCR. A bone marrow cutoff at 0.1% leukemic DNA for qPCR or 0.05% variant allele frequency for ddPCR and deep seq offered optimal sensitivity and specificity with respect to 3 log10 reduction of NPM1 transcripts and/or 2% mutant NPM1/ABL. With these cutoffs, MRD results agreed in 95% (191/201) of the analyses. Although more sensitive, RT‐qPCR failed to detect leukemic signals in 10% of samples with detectable leukemic DNA.

Conclusion

DNA‐based MRD techniques may complement RT‐qPCR for assessment of residual leukemia. DNA‐based methods offer high positive and negative predictive values with respect to residual leukemic NPM1 transcripts at levels of importance for response to treatment. However, moving to DNA‐based MRD methods will miss a proportion of patients with residual leukemic RNA, but on the other hand some MRD samples with detectable leukemic DNA can be devoid of measurable leukemic RNA.
The association of a low glycaemic index diet in pregnancy with child body composition at 5 years of age: A secondary analysis of theROLOstudy
Authors: Callanan Sophie , Yelverton Cara A. , Geraghty Aisling A. , O'Brien Eileen C. , Donnelly Jean M. , Larkin Elizabeth , Horan Mary K. , Mehegan John , McAuliffe Fionnuala M.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Childhood obesity remains a significant global health concern. Early intervention through maternal diet during pregnancy represents a possible mode of improving childhood adiposity.

Aim

To examine the impact of a low glycaemic index diet during pregnancy on offspring anthropometry at 5 years of age.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of 387 children from the ROLO pregnancy study 5 years' post‐intervention. At the follow‐up, BMI, circumferences and skinfold thickness were obtained. A subgroup of 103 children had a DXA scan completed. Statistical analyses included Independent samplettests, Mann Whitney‐Utests and chi‐square tests to compare the intervention and control groups. Adjusted analysis using linear regression controlled for significant confounders between participants who returned at follow‐up and those that did not.

Results

There were no significant differences in BMI (16.05 kg/m2vs 16.16 kg/m2,P = 0.403), general adiposity (36.60 mm vs 36.00 mm,P = 0.920), central adiposity (0.61 mm vs 0.60 mm,P = 0.540), total fat mass (4.91 kg vs 4.71 kg,P = 0.377) or total lean mass (14.29 kg vs 14.56 kg,P = 0.386) between the intervention and control groups, respectively. No associations were observed in 5‐year outcomes in adjusted analyses when controlling for maternal age at delivery, maternal early pregnancy BMI, maternal education and gestational age.

Conclusion

Our study found no evidence that a low glycaemic index diet in pregnancy impacts offspring anthropometry 5 years' post‐intervention. Therefore, modulating maternal carbohydrate quality in pregnancy may not be an appropriate approach to improving weight status in childhood. Future research should investigate the impact of other dietary practices in pregnancy on child health.
Safety and mid‐term surgical results of anterior urethroplasty with the tissue‐engineered oral mucosa graft MukoCell®: A single‐center experience
Authors: Karapanos Leonidas , Akbarov Ilgar , Zugor Vahudin , Kokx Ruud , Hagemeier Anna , Heidenreich Axel
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess the mid‐term efficacy and safety of anterior urethroplasty using an autologous tissue‐engineered oral mucosa graft (MukoCell®).

Methods

The data of 77 patients with anterior urethral strictures undergoing treatment with MukoCell® at a tertiary center from June 2016 to May 2019 were analyzed. Patients’ characteristics, pre‐ and postoperative diagnostics, perioperative complications, and follow‐up data were obtained. The overall stricture‐free survival, outcomes of the different surgical techniques, stricture localizations, stricture length, early complications of the procedure and risk factors of recurrence were assessed.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 38 months (interquartile range 31–46). The overall recurrence‐free rate of anterior urethroplasty using MukoCell® was 68.8%, 24 patients (31.2%) developed a recurrence of the stricture. The stricture recurrences were observed at a median of 7 months (interquartile range 3–13) only in patients with at least one previous surgery or repeated dilatations in their medical history. No oral‐urethral adverse events related to the use of MukoCell® were observed, except for a urethrocutaneous fistula (1.3%) requiring reoperation.

Conclusions

Anterior one‐stage urethroplasty using MukoCell® showed in our hands a mid‐term success rate of up to 68.8% without significant adverse events after a median follow‐up period of 38 months. This procedure might be an alternative option for long‐segment urethral reconstruction.
Nursing strategies for COVID‐19 prevention and control in a selected dental clinic
Authors: Zheng Jiali , Ni Xiaojun , Yuan Weijun , Hou Lili
Published: May 2021

Aim

To comprehensively introduce the prevention and control measures that we can take in dental clinics during the pandemic period of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and provide some practical experience for the development of nursing and health policies applicable to COVID‐19.

Background

The outbreak of COVID‐19 has placed the global health system under threat, which seriously influences the normal operations of human society. Safe and effective nursing measures should be taken to ensure the normal operation of dental clinics.

Sources of evidence

We searched and referenced many references on the PubMed database. Through the combination of related literatures and our experience, we describe various strategies, including personnel management, personal protection, disinfection and isolation, adopted in the dental clinic of our Chinese hospital during the pandemic of COVID‐19.

Discussion/Conclusions

We introduced strategies for the nursing staff in dental clinics to assist them with the prevention and control of COVID‐19. The successful implementation of the protective measures could ensure the safety of medical staff and patients, and contributed to the normal operation of dental clinics during the pandemic period.

Conclusions for nursing and health policy

During the pandemic, frontline nurses are under physical and mental pressure facing the threat of infection while at work. In addition to pandemic prevention, we should also pay attention to the needs of nursing staff. More reasonable and effective nursing and health policies should be formulated to ensure their safety and protect their rights and interests. This is the only way that the prevention and control of COVID‐19 can be achieved, and we can prepare for future public health events.
The International Council of Nurses in the time of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kennedy Annette
Published: May 2021

International Council of Nurses President Annette Kennedy reviews the organization's contribution to nursing during the COVID‐19 pandemic. She describes the Council’s efforts to support nurses around the world and bring its National Nursing Associations together to share their experiences and best practices, and the lessons learned with other nations who are at different stages of the pandemic.
World Health Organization Chief Nursing Officer Elizabeth Iro in interview: the COVID‐19 pandemic, and nursing and midwifery challenges and qualities
Authors: Parish Colin
Published: May 2021

In an interview, World Health Organization Chief Nursing Officer Elizabeth Iro reflected on nursing during the COVID‐19 pandemic and how nurses have risen to the challenges they have faced. Despite the cancellation of virtually all the activities planned to mark 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife, she believes that nurses’ leadership, courage, compassion, commitment and expertise have been revealed to the world like never before. However, it is critical to nurture and support the next generation of nurses so that they can help to bring about the necessary reforms for health systems around the world.
A qualitative systematic review on nurses’ experiences of workplace bullying and implications for nursing practice
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Wong Phyllis Zhi En
Published: June 2021

Aims

To explore nurses’ experiences of workplace bullying and ways to prevent such occurrences.

Design

A qualitative systematic review was conducted.

Data sources

Five electronic databases were searched from each database's inception to December 2020.

Review methods

Meta‐summary and meta‐synthesis were conducted using Sandelowski and Barroso's approach.

Results

Twenty‐seven studies were included in this review. The overarching theme, ‘The Vicious Cycle of Bullying in Nursing’, and four themes were synthesized: (a) different ‘faces’ of bullying, (b) the hidden drivers of bullying, (c) impact of being bullied and (d) responses to bullying.

Conclusion

The nursing code of ethics and anti‐bullying policies should be consistently enforced by each organization's upper management. Nurses should be provided a safe space to voice their concerns on bullying within the organization.
Evaluating species origins within tropical sky‐islands arthropod communities
Authors: Uscanga Adriana , López Heriberto , Piñero Daniel , Emerson Brent C. , Mastretta‐Yanes Alicia
Published: May 2021

Aim

To (a) evaluate whether colonization of newly emerged high‐elevation habitats occurred from neighbouring highlands (allopatric divergence and niche conservatism) or from within the same mountain (peripatric or parapatric divergence and niche shift) and (b) test for the effect of past landscape configurations in geographically structuring biodiversity (a West–East structure spanning the central part of the Transmexican Volcanic Belt).

Location

Transmexican Volcanic Belt, Mexico.

Taxa

Coleoptera and Araneae.

Methods

Coleoptera and Araneae communities were collected in a comparative sampling framework. Seven sky‐islands were sampled within two high‐elevation habitats separated by altitude. Samples were individually sequenced for a region of the mtDNA COI gene to delimit Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) and haplotypes within them. Richness was estimated at the community level, as well as genetic diversity within and among mountains and habitats. The West–East structure was tested with a null model and an analysis of variance with permutations.

Results

Few OTUs were shared between the Abies forests and alpine grasslands. High beta diversity was found across mountains. Beta diversity between the West and East grouping is higher than expected by chance.

Main conclusions

Our results indicate that colonization from other mountains followed by allopatric divergence dominates as a source of OTU formation, and that despite some probable connectivity during glacial periods existed, ancient communities and genetic structures persist.
Morphology of the digestive system in carnivorous freshwater dourado Salminus brasiliensis
Authors: Alves Angélica P. C. , Pereira Raquel T. , Rosa Priscila V.
Published: June 2021

The digestive system of teleost shows remarkable functional and morphological diversity. In this study, the digestive tract and accessory organs of dourado Salminus brasiliensis are characterized using anatomical, histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical analyses. The existence of taste buds bordered by microridges in the oesophagus of dourado was recorded for the first time, thus showing that the species drives food intake by either swallowing or rejecting the food item. The Y‐shaped stomach of dourado consisted of cardiac, cecal and pyloric regions with tubular gastric glands registered solely in the cardiac and cecal segments. The intestine is a short N‐shaped tube with two loops, an intestinal coefficient of 0.73. The structure of pyloric caeca is similar to that of the intestine wall, comprising tunica mucosa, tela submucosa, tunica muscularis and tunica serosa layers. Histochemical analyses revealed an increased incidence of goblet cells from the midgut to the hindgut segment. A well‐developed enteric plexus of scattered nerve cell and fibres are found along the digestive tract, and the calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) immunoreactive neurons and fibres were identified in the myenteric plexus from the oesophagus to the hindgut. The exocrine pancreas appears diffuse in the mesentery around the stomach, intestine and also reaches the liver, and the endocrine pancreas is organized as a few islets of Langerhans. The liver comprises three distinct, asymmetric lobes, and the portal triad arrangement was registered in this tissue.
Protein energy wasting and long‐term outcomes in nondialysis dependent chronic kidney disease
Authors: Franco Bryan B. , Hopman Wilma M. , Lamarche Michelle C. , Holden Rachel M.
Published: May 2021

Background

Nutritional status and protein energy wasting (PEW) is prevalent in patients with nondialysis‐dependent chronic kidney disease (CKD). The relationship between PEW and long‐term development of clinically important outcomes remains to be examined.

Objectives

To investigate the relationships between PEW, as measured by Subjective Global Assessment (SGA 1‐7), and progression to important clinical outcomes: mortality and/or kidney failure.

Design

Prospective cohort design.

Participants

One hundred and thirty‐nine participants were well‐nourished and 37 moderately malnourished patients with CKD 3‐5.

Measurements

The outcomes were 2, 5, and 10‐year progression to kidney failure (dialysis or transplant) or mortality, kidney failure alone, and mortality alone. SGA was determined by a registered renal dietitian. Food frequency questionnaires were used to assess dietary intake. Clinical and laboratory baseline characteristics were collected. Multivariable regression models and Cox models were created to examine the relationship between SGA and outcomes.

Results

PEW was associated with the combined outcome of kidney failure or mortality at 2 (p = 0.003), 5 (p = 0.004), but not at 10 (p = 0.73) years. This relationship was primarily driven by the relationship between PEW and kidney failure. In Cox models, the relationship between PEW and kidney failure remained after adjusting for Kidney Failure Risk Equation scores. The multivariable modeling revealed that PEW remained a statistically significant predictor of the combined outcome and ESKD after adjustment for age, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), sex, albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio, diabetes, albumin, and protein intake.

Conclusions

PEW, determined by the SGA 1‐7, is an important prognostic tool. Further research looking at clinically important outcomes are needed to implement nutritional interventions for nondialysis‐dependent CKD patients.
Comparison of treatment effects from total arch distalization using modified C‐palatal plates versus maxillary premolar extraction in Class II patients with severe overjet
Authors: Alfawaz Fawaz , Park Jae Hyun , Lee Nam‐Ki , Bayome Mohamed , Tai Kiyoshi , Ku Ja Hyeong , Kim Yoonji , Kook Yoon‐Ah
Published: June 2021

Introduction

This study aimed to compare the skeletodental and soft tissue changes with total arch distalization using a modified C‐palatal plate (MCPP) and maxillary first premolar extraction treatment in Class II malocclusion patients with severe overjet.

Setting and sample population

The sample consisted of 46 adult patients who had Class II Division 1 malocclusion with severe overjet; 25 of them received non‐extraction treatment with MCPPs (age, 22.5 ± 7.2 years), and 21 received maxillary first premolar extraction treatment (age 23.4 ± 6.5 years).

Method

A total of 26 variables were measured on pre‐ and post‐treatment lateral cephalograms. To evaluate the differences between pretreatment and post‐treatment in each group, t tests and Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests were used. To compare the amount of change between the two groups, MANOVA test was used.

Results

The overjet was significantly reduced in the MCPP and extraction groups by 4.8 mm and 5.4 mm, respectively. However, the two groups had no significant difference in the sagittal, vertical and angular changes of the maxillary incisors. In addition, regarding soft tissue changes, the MCPP and extraction groups showed an increased nasolabial angle of 7.5° and 9.4°, decreased upper lip to the true vertical line of 1.8 mm and 2.2 mm, respectively (P < .001).

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in the skeletal changes between the MCPP and extraction groups, and the reduction in overjet was similar in the groups. These results suggest that MCPP might be a viable treatment option for total arch distalization in Class II malocclusion patients with severe overjet.
The phenylpropanoid pathway inhibitor piperonylic acid induces broad‐spectrum pest and disease resistance in plants
Authors: Desmedt Willem , Jonckheere Wim , Nguyen Viet Ha , Ameye Maarten , De Zutter Noémie , De Kock Karen , Debode Jane , Van Leeuwen Thomas , Audenaert Kris , Vanholme Bartel , Kyndt Tina
Published: May 2021

Although many phenylpropanoid pathway‐derived molecules act as physical and chemical barriers to pests and pathogens, comparatively little is known about their role in regulating plant immunity. To explore this research field, we transiently perturbed the phenylpropanoid pathway through application of the CINNAMIC ACID‐4‐HYDROXYLASE (C4H) inhibitor piperonylic acid (PA). Using bioassays involving diverse pests and pathogens, we show that transient C4H inhibition triggers systemic, broad‐spectrum resistance in higher plants without affecting growth. PA treatment enhances tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) resistance in field and laboratory conditions, thereby illustrating the potential of phenylpropanoid pathway perturbation in crop protection. At the molecular level, transcriptome and metabolome analyses reveal that transient C4H inhibition in tomato reprograms phenylpropanoid and flavonoid metabolism, systemically induces immune signalling and pathogenesis‐related genes, and locally affects reactive oxygen species metabolism. Furthermore, C4H inhibition primes cell wall modification and phenolic compound accumulation in response to root‐knot nematode infection. Although PA treatment induces local accumulation of the phytohormone salicylic acid, the PA resistance phenotype is preserved in tomato plants expressing the salicylic acid‐degrading NahG construct. Together, our results demonstrate that transient phenylpropanoid pathway perturbation is a conserved inducer of plant resistance and thus highlight the crucial regulatory role of this pathway in plant immunity.
From Patagonia to Río de la Plata: Multistep long‐distance littoral transport of Andean volcaniclastic sand along the Argentine passive margin
Authors: Garzanti Eduardo , Limonta Mara , Vezzoli Giovanni , Sosa Numa
Published: May 2021

Large sediment masses are transferred over many hundreds of kilometres along the coast of passive continental margins worldwide. The relevance of such a phenomenon for source‐to‐sink studies, environmental issues, and coastal management remains largely unperceived. This study traces the paths of volcaniclastic sand along ca 2170 km of the Argentine coast and documents a 760 km long cell of littoral transport extending from the formerly larger Río Colorado delta to the edge of the Río de la Plata mouth. During deglaciation stages and humid periods of the Pleistocene, a much greater sediment volume than today was transferred by the Desaguadero and Colorado rivers from the highest‐relief tract of the Andean Cordillera to the Atlantic Ocean. Amphibole‐rich sand originally supplied by the Río Desaguadero is being recycled today from Pampean lowlands to feed the beaches along Río de la Plata southern shores, whereas pure quartzose sand of Río Paraná is found only adjacent to its prograding delta. Augite‐rich sand supplied by the Río Colorado is dominant along the coast of the Buenos Aires Province, where it mixes locally with coarser‐grained quartz‐rich detritus recycled in the urbanized Mar del Plata area. Hypersthene‐rich sand of the Río Negro is dispersed both north and south of the mouth, where heavy‐mineral‐rich lag deposits are formed in areas of accelerated erosion and retreating sea cliffs. Changes of mineralogical signatures during long‐distance littoral transport are largely ascribed to local supply from coastal erosion or hydrodynamic effects rather than to selective breakdown of labile grains. Whereas the relative abundance of amphibole and pyroxene is largely independent of transport distance, olivine is depleted both in the northern part of the Colorado littoral cell and south of the Río Negro mouth, which is chiefly ascribed to dilution by recycling of Neogene sediments that have undergone early intrastratal dissolution rather than to mechanical loss.
Application of a novel finger temperature device in the assessment of subjects with Raynaud's phenomenon
Authors: Aleksiev Teodor , Ivanova Zlatina , Dobrev Hristo , Atanasov Nikolay
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Finger skin thermometry is one of the most commonly used methods for evaluating the response of the digital vessels to cold stimulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of a novel finger skin temperature device for performing cold‐stimulation test (CST) in subjects with primary and secondary Raynaud's phenomenon (RP).

Methodology

A total of 155 consecutive subjects were studied. They were divided into three groups: 73 patients with primary RP (8 males, 65 females, mean age 38.5 ± 16.2), 42 patients with secondary RP (4 males, 38 females, mean age 49.6 ± 13.1, connected with lupus erythematosus and systemic scleroderma), and 40 healthy controls (5 males, 35 females, mean age 38.8 ± 16.6). Standardized CST consisting of exposure of both hands to water with a temperature of 10℃ for 5 minutes was performed. Changes in skin temperature of both wrists and 2‐5 fingers were measured using a novel finger temperature device (Courage & Khazaka). Measurements were made before and 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 minutes after cold stimulation. The time of recovery for baseline temperature of all fingers below 15 minutes was considered normal.

Results

The CST was normal in 6 (8.2%) of the patients with primary RP, in 7 (16.6%) of the patients with secondary RP, and in 28 (70%) of the healthy control subjects. The time of complete recovery of baseline temperature with respect to the first finger and for all 2‐5 fingers in the three groups was as follows: 24.8 and 28.5 minutes (primary RP), 21.7 and 26.8 minutes (secondary RP), and 11.1 and 15.2 minutes (healthy subjects). Furthermore, the microcirculation was seriously disturbed (rewarming time >31 minutes of all 2‐5 digits of both hands) in 54.1% (n = 79), 34.5% (n = 29) and 5% (n = 4) in the same study groups.

Discussion

Our results suggested that skin microcirculation is more disturbed in patients with primary RP than in patients with secondary RP. In support of this unexpected finding were the results reported by Ruaro B. et al (2019). They investigated the blood perfusion (BP) by laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA) at different skin areas of hands and found that it was significantly lower in primary RP than in secondary RP related to systemic sclerosis.

Conclusion

The new finger temperature device used could be considered useful for performing cold‐stimulation test in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon.
Evaluation of organic carbon stocks in mineral and organic soils in Lithuania
Authors: Armolaitis Kęstutis , Varnagirytė‐Kabašinskienė Iveta , Žemaitis Povilas , Stakėnas Vidas , Beniušis Ričardas , Kulbokas Gintaras , Urbaitis Gintautas
Published: May 2021

Soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks at national level were estimated to provide more accurate estimates on SOC for the Lithuanian GHG inventory. The SOC stocks in the forest floor, grassland litter, and in mineral or organic topsoil (0–30 cm) of forest land, grasslands, and croplands were estimated. The assessment was based on forest floor and peat topsoil mass, mineral topsoil bulk density, and carbon concentration in 754 permanent observation plots on 9 × 9 km grid of the National Forest Inventory in Lithuania. The SOC stocks were obtained for eight WRB Reference Soil Groups to provide the estimates for land use, land‐use change, and forestry reporting. The SOC stocks in the forest floor, topsoil of mineral, and peat layers were identified for soils under different land uses. The mean SOC concentrations in the 0–10 and 10–30 cm topsoil of most soil groups, especially fertile forest soils (Cambisols, Luvisols +Retisols) were higher for forest land and grasslands, and lower for croplands. The total averaged SOC stock in the forest floor in mineral and organic soils was 6.97 t ha−1, whereas in the litter of grasslands it was 0.54 t ha−1. The averaged SOC stock in topsoil varied from 56 t ha−1 (Arenosols) to 118 t ha−1 (Cambisols) in mineral forest soils and was 150 t ha−1 (Histosols) in organic forest soils. The total averaged SOC stock in mineral topsoil of forest land, grassland, and cropland was 80, 74, and 72 t ha−1, respectively.
Detection of the HLA‐DRB1*14:22 allele in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: May 2021

DNA recombination between DRB1*14:25:01 and DRB1*14:54:01:01 produced the novel DRB1*14:22 allele.
Intensive cycling of nickel in a New Caledonian forest dominated by hyperaccumulator trees
Authors: Paul Adrian L. D. , Isnard Sandrine , Wawryk Christine M. , Erskine Peter D. , Echevarria Guillaume , Baker Alan J. M. , Kirby Jason K. , van der Ent Antony
Published: May 2021

The hyperaccumulator Pycnandra acuminata is a New Caledonian rainforest tree known to have the highest concentration of nickel in any living organism, with 25 wt% nickel in its latex. All trees (with a diameter of >10 cm) and soil profiles in a 0.25‐hectare permanent plot were sampled to assess the biogeochemical compartmentalisation of nickel in a dense stand of P. acuminata trees. Nickel stable isotope analysis permitted insights into the cycling of nickel in this ecosystem. The total tree biomass of the plot was calculated to be 281 tonnes ha−1, which contained 0.44 kg of cobalt, 49.1 kg of manganese, 257 kg of nickel and 6.76 kg of zinc. Nickel stable isotope analysis identified the biotic origin of the nickel in the soil upper layers, with P. acuminata shoots enriched in lighter nickel isotopes. The δ60Ni latex signature suggests that long‐distance transport, radial xylem and phloem loading are at play in P. acuminata.
Proteoglycan synthesis in conserved oligomeric Golgi subunit deficient HEK293T cells is affected differently, depending on the lacking subunit
Authors: Adusumalli Ravi , Åsheim Hans‐Christian , Lupashin Vladimir , Blackburn Jessica B. , Prydz Kristian
Published: May 2021

The Conserved Oligomeric Golgi (COG) complex is an eight subunit protein complex associated with Golgi membranes. Genetic defects affecting individual COG subunits cause congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDGs), due to mislocalization of Golgi proteins involved in glycosylation mechanisms. While the resulting defects in N‐and O‐glycosylation have been extensively studied, no corresponding study of proteoglycan (PG) synthesis has been undertaken. We here show that glycosaminoglycan (GAG) modification of PGs is significantly reduced, regardless which COG subunit that is missing in HEK293T cells. Least reduction was observed for cells lacking COG1 and COG8 subunits, that bridge the A and B lobes of the complex. Lack of these subunits did not reduce GAG chain lengths of secreted PGs, which was reduced in cells lacking any other subunit (COG2‐7). COG3 knock out (KO) cells had particularly reduced ability to polymerize GAG chains. For cell‐associated GAGs, the mutant cell lines, except COG4 and COG7 KO, displayed longer GAG chains than wild‐type cells, indicating that COG subunits play a role in cellular turnover of PGs. In light of the important roles PGs play in animal development, the effects KO of individual COG subunits have on GAG synthesis could explain the variable severity of COG associated CDGs.
Rights in education: outlines for a decolonial, childist reimagination of the future – commentary to Ansell and colleagues
Authors: Abebe Tatek , Biswas Tanu
Published: June 2021

In this piece, we reflect upon a recent article published in Fennia by Ansell and colleagues. We identify and discuss aspects of learning that educational research, policies and institutions can consider, addressing the needs and subjectivities of learners and activating a politics around rights in education. Rights in education foreground the intrinsic value of learning,inviting us to realign the purpose of education with the overall purpose of life on this planet. It pursues a ‘bottom-up’ strategy for rethinking education as community formation to incorporate complex sources of knowledge and modes of knowing and becoming for children. In order to think about rights in education, we uphold an analytical distinction between schooling and education. The distinction enables us to raise some questions, reflect on them and suggest preliminary ideas for decolonial, childist strategies to envisage education, highlighting how education and the ‘future’ areintimately woven and exploring what they mean for each other and for childhood. We do so particularly by critiquing ‘western schooling’ as a mode of learning which is a conspirator of capitalism deeply rooted in philosophical racism and contributing to a global epistemological loss. Finally, we outline four strategies of moving forward with a decolonial,childist lens of reimagining education as community formation and welcome further discussions on rights in education.
Effect of Surface Condition on Creep of Some Commercial Metals
Authors: Sweetland E. D. , Parker E. R.
Published: June 2021

The relative creep rate of specimens of 2S aluminum and commercial drawn copper were investigated with the oxide surface layers removed and then, under the same conditions, after the oxide was permitted to form. The oxide was removed mechanically by stripping the test specimens in an inert atmosphere furnace so equipped that an axial stress could be applied and the creep rate determined without disturbing the atmosphere. After the oxide-free specimen was observed to be creeping essentially linearly with time (i.e., the quasiviscous, secondary creep range was established), air was admitted to the furnace. The extension versus time plot was continued after admission of air and the temperature held constant. Since all of the known parameters affecting creep rate (temperature, grain size, degree of work hardening, stress, and so on) except the gaseous environment were the same before and after admitting air, the effect of this change could be isolated. A decrease in creep rate was observed after air had been admitted to the furnace. These experimental results indicate that the presence of an oxide surface layer on the commercial grades of pure copper and aluminum increases the creep strength of these metals. The manner in which this relatively thin surface layer contributes to the strength of the parent metal is not clear, but the phenomenon is consistent with the theory of dislocations as presented by G. I. Taylor if it is assumed that the oxide inhibits the generation and/or migration of dislocations.
The Stress Distributions Induced by Concentrated Loads Acting in Isotropic and Orthotropic Half Planes
Authors: Conway H. D.
Published: June 2021

Using a Fourier integral method, the solution is obtained to an isotropic half plane subjected to a concentrated load acting at some distance from the straight edge. This problem was discussed previously by Melan, using a complex variable method of solution. The Fourier integral method is then extended to solve the corresponding problems of the orthotropic half plane.
Forced Lateral Vibration of Beams on Damped Flexible End Supports
Authors: Miller D. F.
Published: June 2021

The steady-state forced-vibration problem, for a beam or rotating shaft on damped, flexible end supports, is completely solved by the procedure described. The analysis is an extension of a Holzer-type iteration method applied to beams by Myklestad and others. Resonant frequencies of any mode, forced amplitudes, shears, and moments at any point on the beam, and phase effects introduced by the damping, are all evaluated. The damped problem is handled conveniently using complex notation with its vector interpretation. Vector diagrams, which give a physical idea of the vibration, are shown for the two numerical examples of the paper.
The Origin of Damping in High-Strength Ferromagnetic Alloys
Authors: Cochardt A. W.
Published: June 2021

A theoretical analysis and test data are presented which explain the damping capacity of standard high-strength alloys in terms of the magnetostrictive effect. Conditions for obtaining maximum damping are described and the results of experiments are reported which provide a firm basis for the development of high-strength high-damping alloys.
Calculation of Elastic Displacements From Photoelastic Curves
Authors: Poritsky H. , Jerrard R. P.
Published: June 2021

A method of utilizing photoelastic fringe patterns for purposes of calculating elastic displacements of stressed members is developed. This method utilizes only the lines of constant principal stress difference and does not require knowledge of the directions of the principal stresses. The method developed should prove useful in many cases where measurements of elastic displacements cannot be carried out conveniently but photoelastic fringe patterns are readily available. As an example, the two-dimensional case of a beam in bending with a change in thickness is treated. The correction that must be applied to simple beam theory is determined.
An Experimental Study of the Propagation of Transient Longitudinal Deformations in Elastoplastic Media
Authors: Sternglass E. J. , Stuart D. A.
Published: June 2021

The propagation process of longitudinal plastic pulses in prestrained bars has been studied to test the validity of the Donnell-Taylor-von Kármán theory of plastic waves. The results obtained for the propagation velocity and wave-shape changes indicate that the theory fails to describe the dynamic process by its neglect of strain-rate and creep effects.
Flexural Vibrations in Uniform Beams According to the Timoshenko Theory
Authors: Anderson R. A.
Published: June 2021

The general series solution is given for the flexural vibrations in a uniform beam according to the Timoshenko equations, which include the secondary effects of shear and rotatory inertia. In addition, the series solution is presented for the case of a pin-ended beam. For the special case of a concentrated transient force at the mid-point of a pin-ended beam, the bending-moment and shear-force solutions according to the Timoshenko and elementary equations are compared.
Flexural Wave Solutions of Coupled Equations Representing the More Exact Theory of Bending
Authors: Miklowitz Julius
Published: June 2021

Presented here is a new method for deriving flexural wave solutions for the Timoshenko bending theory. The method is based on a breakdown of the total deflection into its bending and shear components. Instead of treating the full Timoshenko equation (1) an equivalent set of coupled equations, representing the rotational and translatory motions of the beam element, is solved. The advantages of this method stem from (a) the simplicity of the associated expressions for the moment and shear force, which are the elementary bending theory relations, and (b) the well-defined nature of the related boundary conditions. The latter is particularly important since it is difficult to define the proper boundary conditions associated with the full Timoshenko equation. This is evidenced in the works of Uflyand (2) and Dengler and Goland (3), both of which are concerned with wave solutions for the infinite beam under the action of a concentrated transverse load. The quoted work (3) points out the erroneous boundary conditions used in the Uflyand work (2). The present method is applied to the same case treated in the works (2, 3). Agreement is shown with the Dengler and Goland solution. The Uflyand solution is shown to have meaning when interpreted properly. The derivation of transforms for other beam cases, both finite and infinite, by the present method has also been included in this work.
Boundary-Value Problems of the Thin-Walled Circular Cylinder
Authors: Hoff N. J.
Published: June 2021

The homogeneous differential equations of Donnell’s theory of thin cylindrical shells are integrated. Expressions are obtained in closed form for the displacements, membrane stresses, moments, and shear forces.
Wave Groups in the Flexural Motion of Beams Predicted by the Timoshenko Theory
Authors: Anderson R. A.
Published: June 2021

Solutions are obtained for the wave-length distribution of the bending-moment and shear-force responses in an infinite beam to ① a concentrated transverse-force impulse; ② a concentrated bending-moment impulse. These solutions are determined with the aid of a recent classical solution (1) for the flexural behavior of beams according to the Timoshenko theory. The results are used to predict the number and nature of the bending-moment and shear-force discontinuities propagating from disturbances of the type of 1 and 2.
Synthesis of the Surfaces of Friction Skew Gears
Authors: Beggs Joseph Stiles
Published: June 2021

The general problem of transmitting motion between two shafts with uniform velocity is discussed in this paper. The methods used to synthesize the teeth of spur gears have been extended to three dimensions. While the present paper is limited to a discussion of friction gears the groundwork is laid for attacking the problem of toothed skew gears. Skew friction gears are shown to slip even under no load and therefore would appear to have a very limited usefulness.
An Approximate Theory of Lateral Impact on Beams
Authors: Boley B. A.
Published: June 2021

The approximate theory derived in this paper describes, by means of a “traveling-wave” approach, the behavior of beams under transverse impact. Lateral impact is considered in detail, namely, one in which a section of the beam undergoes a sudden change in velocity or shear force. The theory considers the effects of shear deformations and of rotatory inertia according to Timoshenko’s model, and that of lateral contraction as suggested by Love. The governing equations and the boundary conditions are developed with the aid of an energy-variation technique. Numerical examples are given in which the behavior of the boundary layer near the point of impact is examined. For one of these the exact solution is available and is in agreement with the present approximate results. Some general considerations concerning the velocity of propagation also are discussed.
Stress Distributions in Orthotropic Strips
Authors: Conway H. D.
Published: June 2021

The distribution of stress in orthotropic strips stretched by equal and opposite concentrated loads acting centrally and parallel to the longer sides is discussed. Numerical results are given for oak, the grain being, respectively, perpendicular and parallel to the longer sides of the strip.
Bending Vibrations of Variable Section Beams
Authors: Cranch E. T. , Adler Alfred A.
Published: June 2021

Using simple beam theory, solutions are given for the vibration of beams having rectangular cross section with (a) linear depth and any power width variation, (b) quadratic depth and any power width variation, (c) cubic depth and any power width variation, and (d) constant depth and exponential width variation. Beams of elliptical and circular cross section are also investigated. Several cases of cantilever beams are given in detail. The vibration of compound beams is investigated. Several cases of free double wedges with various width variations are discussed.
Symmetric Flexural Vibrations of a Clamped Circular Disk
Authors: Deresiewicz H.
Published: June 2021

The frequency spectrum is computed for the case of free, axially symmetric vibrations of a circular disk with clamped edges, using a theory which includes the effects of rotatory inertia and transverse shear deformation.
First trimester sonographic diagnosis of limb-body wall defect associating both cephalic and thoraco-abdominal defects – a case report and literature update
Authors: Boitor-Borza Dan , Staicu Adelina , Constantin Roxana , Muresan Daniel
Published: May 2021

We present the first trimester prenatal ultrasonography and pathological assessment of a case diagnosed with limb-body wall complex (LBWC) presenting both exenchephaly and a complex thoraco-abdominal wall defect. Ectopia cordis is demonstrated with a movie showing the heart beating outside the body of the fetus after its expulsion. Also, we discuss the pathogenesis and possible etiology of LBWC and associated malformations and we provide an update of the literature of this very rare anomaly.
Inter- and intraobserver reproducibility of Strain and 2D Shear Wave Elastography – a phantom study
Authors: Dudea-Simon Marina , Dudea Sorin Marian , Schiau Călin , Ciortea Răzvan , Măluțan Andrei , Simon Vasile , Burde Alexandru , Ciurea Anca , Mihu Dan
Published: May 2021

Aims: To analyse the intra- and interobserver variability of two elastographic methods of quantification available on the same machine, the technical factors that may influence variability as well as the intra- and interobserver variability for the same indices between two different ultrasound machines in an in vitro experimental setting.Material and methods: Three different types of silicone experimental devices (ED) were conceived for the purpose of this study. Two observers performed repeated measurements on two ultrasound machines. Strain elastography, with strain ratio determination between the ED was performed on both machines. Shear wave ratio was also assessed. The data obtained were used to calculate intra- and interobservervariability. Reproducibility was assessed in relation to the size of the elastographic region of interest (ROI) and to the difference in stiffness between the ED, through the value of the ICCs (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient).Results: Strain ratio had high inter- and intraobserver reproducibility, regardless of the machine used, on a large number of determinations.The choice of a small ROI diameter (5 mm) over a large ROI diameter (15mm) increased reproducibility (ICC = 0.87 vs 0.78, p=0.000). It is observed that, by Shear Wave Elastography, only when analysing structures with a large difference in hardness, significance is obtained in terms of interobserver reproducibility (ICC = 0.75, p=0.000).Conclusions: On a large number of determinations, both techniques are inter- and intraobserver reproducible. It is preferable to opt for a smaller ROI diameter in order to increase interobserver reproducibility. SWE Ratio provides significant reproducibility only when analysing structureswith large difference in hardness.
Natural climate solutions for Canada
Authors: Drever C. Ronnie , Cook-Patton Susan C. , Akhter Fardausi , Badiou Pascal H. , Chmura Gail L. , Davidson Scott J. , Desjardins Raymond L. , Dyk Andrew , Fargione Joseph E. , Fellows Max , Filewod Ben , Hessing-Lewis Margot , Jayasundara Susantha , Keeton William S. , Kroeger Timm , Lark Tyler J. , Le Edward , Leavitt Sara M. , LeClerc Marie-Eve , Lemprière Tony C. , Metsaranta Juha , McConkey Brian , Neilson Eric , St-Laurent Guillaume Peterson , Puric-Mladenovic Danijela , Rodrigue Sebastien , Soolanayakanahally Raju Y. , Spawn Seth A. , Strack Maria , Smyth Carolyn , Thevathasan Naresh , Voicu Mihai , Williams Christopher A. , Woodbury Peter B. , Worth Devon E. , Xu Zhen , Yeo Samantha , Kurz Werner A.
Published: June 2021

Canada has natural solutions to support its efforts to tackle climate change: forests, wetlands, grasslands, and agriculture.
Magnetic soft micromachines made of linked microactuator networks
Authors: Hu Xinghao , Yasa Immihan C. , Ren Ziyu , Goudu Sandhya R. , Ceylan Hakan , Hu Wenqi , Sitti Metin
Published: June 2021

The proposed fabrication strategy can enable magnetic soft machines with 2D/3D shape transformations at the cellular scales.
Structural basis for activation and allosteric modulation of full-length calcium-sensing receptor
Authors: Wen Tianlei , Wang Ziyu , Chen Xiaozhe , Ren Yue , Lu Xuhang , Xing Yangfei , Lu Jing , Chang Shenghai , Zhang Xing , Shen Yuequan , Yang Xue
Published: June 2021

Multiple structures of full-length calcium-sensing receptors reveal the mechanism of activation and allosteric modulation.
Anti-body antibodies in COVID-19
Authors: Lichtman Andrew H.
Published: June 2021

A new high-throughput screening technique detected autoantibodies in COVID-19 patients specific for many different immunomodulatory extracellular and cell surface proteins, several of which were associated with disease severity and clinical outcomes.