bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of the interaction between microglial adenosine 2A receptor and NLRP3 inflammasome attenuates neuroinflammation posttraumatic brain injury
Authors: Du Hao , Li Chang‐Hong , Gao Ruo‐Bing , Tan Yan , Wang Bo , Peng Yan , Yang Nan , Ning Ya‐Lei , Li Ping , Zhao Yan , Zhou Yuan‐Guo
Published: August 2023

Aims

Adenosine 2A receptor (A2AR) is widely expressed in the brain and plays important roles in neuroinflammation, and the nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain, leucine‐rich repeat, and pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a crucial component of the innate immune system while the regulation of A2AR on it in the central nervous system (CNS) has not been clarified.

Methods

The effects of microglial A2AR on NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation were investigated in wild‐type, A2AR‐ or NLRP3‐knockout primary microglia with pharmacological treatment. Microglial A2AR or NLRP3 conditional knockout mice were used to interrogate the effects of this regulation on neuroinflammation posttraumatic brain injury (TBI).

Results

We found that A2AR directly interacted with NLRP3 and facilitated NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation in primary microglia while having no effects on mRNA levels of inflammasome components. Inhibition of the interaction via A2AR agonist or knockout attenuated inflammasome assembly and activation in vitro. In the TBI model, microglial A2AR and NLRP3 were co‐expressed at high levels in microglia next to the peri‐injured cortex, and abrogating of this interaction by microglial NLRP3 or A2AR conditional knockout attenuated the neurological deficits and neuropathology post‐TBI via reducing the NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that inhibition of the interaction between A2AR and NLRP3 in microglia could mitigate the NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation and ameliorate the neuroinflammation post‐TBI. It provides new insights into the effects of A2AR on neuroinflammation regulation post‐TBI and offers a potential target for the treatment of NLRP3 inflammasome‐related CNS diseases.
Extinction risk of the world's freshwater mammals
Authors: Sanders Emmalie , Wassens Skye , Michael Damian R. , Nimmo Dale G. , Turner James M.
Published: August 2023

The continued loss of freshwater habitats poses a significant threat to global biodiversity. We reviewed the extinction risk of 166 freshwater aquatic and semiaquatic mammals—a group rarely documented as a collective. We used the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species categories as of December 2021 to determine extinction risk. Extinction risk was then compared among taxonomic groups, geographic areas, and biological traits. Thirty percent of all freshwater mammals were listed as threatened. Decreasing population trends were common (44.0%), including a greater rate of decline (3.6% in 20 years) than for mammals or freshwater species as a whole. Aquatic freshwater mammals were at a greater risk of extinction than semiaquatic freshwater mammals (95% CI –7.20 to –1.11). Twenty‐nine species were data deficient or not evaluated. Large species (95% CI 0.01 to 0.03) with large dispersal distances (95% CI 0.03 to 0.15) had a higher risk of extinction than small species with small dispersal distances. The number of threatening processes associated with a species compounded their risk of extinction (95% CI 0.28 to 0.77). Hunting, land clearing for logging and agriculture, pollution, residential development, and habitat modification or destruction from dams and water management posed the greatest threats to these species. The basic life‐history traits of many species were poorly known, highlighting the need for more research. Conservation of freshwater mammals requires a host of management actions centered around increased protection of riparian areas and more conscientious water management to aid the recovery of threatened species.
Cystic fibrosis survival outcomes following second lung transplant: The north American experience
Authors: Alshehri Moayad , Ramos Kathleen J. , Sykes Jenna , Ma Xiayi , Stanojevic Sanja , Quon Bradley S. , Marshall Bruce C. , Cromwell Elizabeth , Ostrenga Joshua S. , Faro Albert , Elbert Alexander , Todd Jonathan , Chaparro Cecilia , Goss Christopher H. , Stephenson Anne L.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Re‐transplant is an option for those who develop end‐stage lung disease due to rejection; however, little data exist following re‐transplantation in cystic fibrosis (CF).

Methods

Data from the Canadian CF Registry and US CF Foundation Patient Registry supplemented with data from United Network for Organ Sharing were used. Individuals who underwent a 2nd lung transplant between 2005 and 2019 were included. The Kaplan‐Meier method was used to estimate the probability of survival post‐second transplant at 1, 3, and 5‐years.

Results

Of those people who were waitlisted for a second transplant (N = 818), a total of 254 (31%) died waiting, 395 (48%) were transplanted and 169 (21%) people were alive on the waitlist. Median survival time after 2nd lung transplant was 3.3 years (95% CI: 2.8‐4.1). The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year survival rates were 77.4% (95% CI: 73.1‐82%), 52% (95% CI: 46.7‐58%) and 39.4% (95% CI: 34.1‐45.6%).

Conclusions

Survival following second lung transplant in CF patients is lower than estimates following the first transplant. Over half of subjects who are potentially eligible for a second transplant die without receiving a second organ. This warrants further investigation.
Utility of sequencing for ATP6AP1 and ATP6AP2 to distinguish between atypical granular cell tumor with junctional component and melanoma
Authors: Warren Simon J. , Alomari Ahmed K.
Published: August 2023

Background

Granular cell tumor (GCT) is a S100+ neoplasm with atypical and malignant variants. Similar to melanocytic neoplasms, the tumors make nests and can have junctional components raising a differential diagnosis of melanoma. Nevi and melanomas may also have granular cell cytoplasm. MelanA is useful in distinguishing melanocytic from granular cell lineage, but increasingly MelanA/SOX10 negative melanomas have been recognized by correlation with molecular methods.

Methods

We encountered several cases with morphologic overlap between melanoma and atypical GCT necessitating additional molecular workup. We sequenced two cases and searched our archive for similar cases of GCT with overlapping features of melanocytic lineage.

Results

In our two index cases, we excluded melanoma driver mutations and identified frameshift or premature stop codons in ATP6AP1/2 pathognomonic of granular cell lineage. Data retrieved from Cosmic identified 24 melanomas with missense single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in ATP6AP1 but no frameshift or premature stop codons. Twenty‐one melanomas had missense SNVs in ATP6AP2. One melanoma had a premature stop codon in ATP6AP2, but this lesion also had a melanoma‐associated driver mutation NRASQ61K. We found 1 of 23 additional cases of GCT in our archives with a junctional component and no additional cases with maturation.

Conclusions

Atypical and malignant GCT can have histopathologic overlap with melanoma. Frameshift and premature stop codons in ATP6AP1/2 are specific for granular cell lineage, and capable of excluding melanoma, in the absence of known melanoma‐associated driver mutations.
Myocarditis as a trigger for the expression of biventricular arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy in desmosomal gene mutation
Authors: Johnson Nicholas , Ginks Matthew , Ferreira Vanessa M. , Kardos Attila
Published: August 2023

Arrhythmogenic‐cardiomyopathy (ACM) is an inherited heart disease with right, left, or biventricular (BVACM) involvement based on EKG, imaging, family history, and genetic testing. We present a 64‐year‐old woman with prior myocarditis and diagnosis of BVACM 29 years later. We propose myocarditis as a promoter of gene expression of plakophilin‐2 mutation.
Multimodal imaging and surgical repair of a dorsal‐oblique plane, proximal third metacarpal fracture and the diagnostic challenge of radiographic visualisation
Authors: Fletcher Owen , Osborne Craig , Dixon Jonathon
Published: August 2023

A 10‐year‐old Connemara mare presented with persistent 3/5 (AAEP) right forelimb lameness following a traumatic incident whilst hunting, which was localised to the proximal metacarpal and distal carpal regions with diagnostic anaesthesia. Radiography revealed non‐specific moderately increased mineral opacity at the proximomedial margin of the third metacarpus, dorsal to the enthesis of the proximal suspensory ligament. However, subsequent computed tomography (CT) performed under general anaesthesia, identified an incomplete, dorsal ‐ obliquely orientated third metacarpal fracture arising from the interosseous space between the third and second metacarpi, also involving the carpometacarpal joint. Using CT guidance, internal surgical fixation was performed under the same anaesthetic episode and resulted in a shortened post‐operative recovery period with a successful return to previous athletic function. Surgical fixation can be performed using cross‐sectional imaging guidance to optimise recovery and facilitate a positive outcome.
Prioritizing bull trout recovery actions using a novel cumulative effects modelling framework
Authors: MacPherson Laura M. , Reilly Jessica R. , Neufeld Kenton R. , Sullivan Michael G. , Paul Andrew J. , Johnston Fiona D.
Published: August 2023

Complexity of addressing cumulative effects that vary in space and time, especially for species occupying large ranges, makes conservation and recovery of populations difficult. In Alberta, declines of all three native stream trout species led to them being listed as species at risk. We developed a novel, semi‐quantitative cumulative effects modelling process to quantify threats using stressor‐response curves with a single common response scale, wherein inputs were determined for each population, and outputs were used to create population‐specific recovery action hypotheses to inform management. Using a case study of bull trout recovery in Rocky Creek, Alberta, we tested these hypotheses using a before–after control‐impacted design. Recovery actions positively affected bull trout, and the modelling approach provided insight into threats (sedimentation and angling effort) that most likely limited the population.
Estimating lentic recreational fisheries catch and effort across the United States
Authors: Robertson Matthew D. , Midway Stephen R. , Embke Holly S. , Kaz Anna L. , Lang Mitchel , Paukert Craig , Sievert Nicholas A. , Wszola Lyndsie , Lynch Abigail J.
Published: August 2023

Recreational fisheries represent a socially, ecologically, and economically significant component of global fisheries. The U.S. Inland Creel and Angler Survey Catalog (CreelCat) database includes inland recreational fisheries survey data across the United States to facilitate large‐scale analyses. However, because survey methods differ, a statistical method capable of integrating these surveys is necessary to assess patterns and relationships across regions. Here, we developed a hierarchical generalized linear mixed modeling approach to estimate the relationship between daily recreational fisheries catch and effort based on waterbody, socio‐economic, and ecological covariates. We applied this approach to CreelCat data on lentic waterbodies and found that recreational fisheries catch and effort were non‐linearly related (i.e., catch per unit of effort declined as effort increased), where effort varied regionally and by waterbody area, median county age, and distance to nearest primary road. This modeling approach could be used to inform data‐poor regions or waterbodies, make comparisons across spatial scales, and, with the inclusion of socio‐economic and ecological factors, inform management techniques in an era of shifting demographics and landscapes.
Tocopherols and associated derivatives track the phytoplanktonic response to evolving pelagic redox conditions spanning Oceanic Anoxic Event 2
Authors: Connock Gregory T. , Liu Xiao‐Lei
Published: August 2023

Tocopherols serve a critical role as antioxidants inhibiting lipid peroxidation in photosynthetic organisms, yet are seldom used in geobiological investigations. The ubiquity of tocopherols in all photosynthetic lifeforms is often cited as an impediment to any diagnostic paleoenvironmental potential, while the inability to readily analyze these compounds via conventional methods, such as gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, further diminishes the capacity to serve as useful ‘biomarkers’. Here, we analyzed an exceptionally preserved black shale sequence from the Demerara Rise that spans Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE‐2) to reexamine the significance of tocopherols and associated derivatives (i.e. tocol derivatives) in ancient sediments. Tocol derivatives were analyzed via liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight–mass spectrometry and included tocopherols, a methyltrimethyltridecylchroman, and the first reported detection of tocopherol quinones and methylphytylbenzoquinones in the geologic record. Strong correlations between tocol derivatives were observed over the studied interval. Tocol derivative concentrations and ratios, which normalized tocopherols to potential derivatives, revealed absolute and relative increases in tocopherols as exclusive features of OAE‐2 that can be explained by two possible mechanisms related to tocopherol production and preservation. The development of photic zone euxinia during OAE‐2 likely forced an upward migration of oxygenic photoautotrophs, increasing oxidative stress that elicited heightened tocopherol biosynthesis. However, shoaling euxinic conditions may have simultaneously acted to enhance tocopherol preservation given the relatively high lability of tocopherols in the water column. Both scenarios could produce the observed stratigraphic distribution of tocol derivatives in this study, although the elevated tocopherol concentrations that define OAE‐2 at the Demerara Rise are primarily attributed to enhanced tocopherol production by shoaling phytoplanktonic communities. Thus, the occurrence of tocopherols and associated derivatives in sediments and rocks of marine origin is likely indicative of shallow‐water anoxia, tracking the phytoplanktonic response to the abiotic stresses associated with vertical fluctuations in pelagic redox.
Human footprints in the Global South accelerate biomass carbon loss in ecologically sensitive regions
Authors: Geng Mengqing , Li Xuecao , Mu Haowei , Yu Guojiang , Chai Li , Yang Zhongwen , Liu Haimeng , Huang Jianxi , Liu Han , Ju Zhengshan
Published: August 2023

Human activities have placed significant pressure on the terrestrial biosphere, leading to ecosystem degradation and carbon losses. However, the full impact of these activities on terrestrial biomass carbon remains unexplored. In this study, we examined changes in global human footprint (HFP) and human‐induced aboveground biomass carbon (AGBC) losses from 2000 to 2018. Our findings show an increasing trend in HFP globally, resulting in the conversion of wilderness areas to highly modified regions. These changes have altered global biomes' habitats, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. We also found accelerated AGBC loss driven by HFP expansion, with a total loss of 19.99 ± 0.196 PgC from 2000 to 2018, especially in tropical regions. Additionally, AGBC is more vulnerable in the Global South than in the Global North. Human activities threaten natural habitats, resulting in increasing AGBC loss even in strictly protected areas. Therefore, scientifically guided planning of future human activities is crucial to protect half of Earth through mitigation and adaptation under future risks of climate change and global urbanization.
Recolonization following past persecution questions the importance of persistent snow cover as a range limiting factor for wolverines
Authors: Persson Jens , Ordiz Andrés , Ladle Andrew , Andrén Henrik , Aronsson Malin
Published: August 2023

Globally, climate is changing rapidly, which causes shifts in many species' distributions, stressing the need to understand their response to changing environmental conditions to inform conservation and management. Northern latitudes are expected to experience strongest changes in climate, with milder winters and decreasing snow cover. The wolverine (Gulo gulo) is a circumpolar, threatened carnivore distributed in northern tundra, boreal, and subboreal habitats. Previous studies have suggested that wolverine distribution and reproduction are constrained by a strong association with persistent spring snow cover. We assess this hypothesis by relating spatial distribution of 1589 reproductive events, a fitness‐related proxy for female reproduction and survival, to snow cover over two decades. Wolverine distribution has increased and number of reproductive events increased 20 times in areas lacking spring snow cover during our study period, despite low monitoring effort where snow is sparse. Thus, the relationship between reproductive events and persistent spring snow cover weakened during this period. These findings show that wolverine reproductive success and hence distribution are less dependent on spring snow cover than expected. This has important implications for projections of future habitat availability, and thus distribution, of this threatened species. Our study also illustrates how past persecution, or other factors, that have restricted species distribution to remote areas can mask actual effects of environmental parameters, whose importance reveals when populations expand beyond previously restricted ranges. Overwhelming evidence shows that climate change is affecting many species and ecological processes, but forecasting potential consequences on a given species requires longitudinal data to revisit hypotheses and reassess the direction and magnitude of climate effects with new data. This is especially important for conservation‐oriented management of species inhabiting dynamic systems where environmental factors and human activities interact, a common scenario for many species in different ecosystems around the globe.
Fractionation of mixed grass and clover stands using a leaf stripper
Authors: Micke Brooke , Bergqvist Sanna , Adler Steffen , Morel Julien , Parsons David
Published: August 2023

Leys are an important part of northern European livestock production, particularly for ruminants since monogastric animals are limited in their ability to digest the fibres of the forage. Crop fractionation methods are a promising option to make forages more beneficial for monogastric animals and decrease the amount of imported protein feed. A leaf stripping harvesting technique was evaluated at Röbäcksdalen in northern Sweden in mixed grass‐clover leys over 2 years. The PremAlfa Mini leaf stripper (Trust'ing‐Alf'ing, Nantes, France) worked well in mixed stands, harvesting on average a third of the available forage biomass, primarily in the form of leaves and soft stems from the clover plants. It proved successful in producing a forage fraction that had a significantly higher crude protein (CP) concentration (+39.1%) and lower neutral detergent fibre (aNDFom) concentration (−21.4%) than the pre‐harvest mixed sward (all significant at p < .05 level). Due to the remaining high level of aNDFom in the leaf stripper fraction, it is more suited for use as an energy source for monogastrics rather than as a protein supplement. Alternatively, the leaf stripper fraction could be used to increase digestibility and CP content in the feed rations of high producing dairy cows.
Technological trends in Swedish medical libraries
Authors: Ekstrand Malin , Strandberg Love
Published: August 2023

Medical libraries in Sweden are digitised to a large extent, technically advanced and developing rapidly. This paper investigates technological trends among Swedish medical libraries in the near and distant future and their application within different areas of library activities. The authors also present a roadmap to increase technological developments within medical libraries in Sweden. Current technological trends include digital collaboration tools, mobile technologies and visualisation. Artificial intelligence, big data and smart technologies are upcoming trends. Technologies are applied within all areas of library activities, but preconditions for academic and hospital libraries differ. To remain a relevant provider of information services, libraries must be able to monitor, test and adopt new technologies.
The experiences of dental hygienists providing restorative patient care
Authors: Ray Melissa , Lane Crystal Kanderis , Rogo Ellen J.
Published: August 2023

Objective

The intent of this inquiry was to explore the lived experiences of dental hygienists who provide restorative patient care.

Methods

Phenomenology was the qualitative approach used. Purposive sampling ensured participants had relevant experiences. An interview guide was emailed 1 week prior to the interview to help participants prepare responses. Informed consent included selecting a pseudonym, which was used throughout the interview and on the written transcript to protect the participants' identities. One‐hour semi‐structured interviews were conducted and recorded on Zoom. Data collection and analysis occurred simultaneously. Verbatim transcription accuracy was verified. Data were initially coded and then focused coding created themes. Demographic data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

After eight interviews, data saturation was achieved. Seven females and one male participated. All participants experienced a restorative curriculum in their entry‐level program and most felt well‐prepared. The motivation for becoming a restorative dental hygienist included having positive restorative experiences during the entry‐level program, wanting to keep restorative skills current after graduation, and having an opportunity to provide restorative care. Challenges experienced included the dentists' negative attitudes, hygienists' not valuing restorative abilities and not having a qualified dental assistant. Personal benefits were related to career fulfilment. Benefits to patients involved improving access, efficiency, and convenience. The benefit to the office was increased production. Differences between restorative and preventive care involved demands of care and patient care flow.

Conclusion

The findings provide insight into the unique experiences of dental hygienists who provided restorative patient care and a foundation for future research.
The effect of substrate bias voltage on the mechanical and electrochemical corrosion properties of multilayered CrN/CrAlN coatings produced by cathodic arc evaporation
Authors: Baseri Niloofar Arab , Mohammadi Majid , Ghatee Mojtaba , Yousefieh Mohammad , Abassi‐Firouzjah Marzieh
Published: August 2023

The multilayered CrN/CrAlN film was deposited on the SS420 substrate by cathodic arc evaporation technique. The effect of substrate bias voltage was investigated on the microstructure, surface morphology, and mechanical and electrochemical corrosion properties of the deposited film. The deposited CrN/CrAlN coatings were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscope techniques. Mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and surface morphology of the coated samples were studied by nano‐indentation, polarization test, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy, respectively. Adhesive and dense nanostructure CrN and CrAlN phases were successfully deposited on the substrate. The refinement of the coating crystallite was observed from 31.2 to 24.3 nm by increasing the substrate bias voltage, this improved the mechanical properties of the coating. The number of macroparticles, pinholes and porosities, and the surface roughness of coatings significantly decreased by increasing the substrate bias voltage. The CrN/CrAlN coating reduced the corrosion current density in contrast to the SS420 substrate. Better corrosion resistance was obtained for the coating deposited at 150 V of bias voltage due to lower defects in the film structure.
Application and stability of fungal pigments using jelly sweets as a food model system
Authors: Molelekoa Tumisi Beiri Jeremiah , da Silva Laura Suzanne , Regnier Thierry , Augustyn Wilma
Published: August 2023

Natural pigments have seen an increase in usage over the past decades due to their acclaimed safety and active biological properties. This is in line with the shift in consumer market preferences requiring a source replacement for synthetic colourants. Filamentous fungi are amongst the natural sources currently explored for pigment production. In this study, the heat, pH and UV light stability of fungal pigments produced by Penicillium multicolour (dark brown), P. canescens (green) and P. herquie (yellow). Talaromyces verruculosus (red) and Fusarium solani (orange) were evaluated. The antioxidant properties of the pigments as influenced by these conditions were ascertained using the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The pigments were also applied in a jelly sweet formulation and incubated at ambient temperature for 4 weeks. It was demonstrated that the pigment extracts of P. multicolour and T. verruculosus were significantly affected by higher pH (7.0 and 9.0), where the decline in antioxidant activity was observed. As far as high temperature and UV light exposure are concerned, all the pigment extracts, with exception of P. herquie, maintained an antioxidant activity above 35%. On the other hand, the L*a*b* values showed no overall significant change for heat and UV light exposure with the exception of P. canescens across the four pH levels (3.0, 4.0, 7.0 and 9.0), where an increase in the ‐a (green index) coupled with a decline in brightness (L* index) and b* (blue index) was observed. Finally, there was no significant change in colour over the 4 weeks of incubation. In conclusion, fungal pigments are generally stable at normal storage conditions (ambient temperature and normal light) and can be suitably applied in jelly sweets.
Enhanced physicochemical, phytonutritional, and sensory profile of pumpkin‐based functional toffee by replacing refined sugar with natural cane sugar derivative
Authors: Kaur Gagandeep , Kaur Sukhpreet , Aggarwal Poonam , Kaur Navjot
Published: August 2023

Jaggery, a natural unrefined sweetener, is considered as a nutraceutical due to richness in minerals and phytochemicals. The present study intended to utilise liquid jaggery at 0–100% levels in place of refined sugar (sucrose) to develop a pumpkin‐based functional toffee. Five different formulations were prepared and impact of sugar replacement was assessed by evaluating quality characteristics of prepared toffees. Compared to control, jaggery incorporation significantly (P < 0.05) increased the physicochemical parameters, except total sugars while enhancing bioactive constituents (ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and total phenols) and mineral elements which was also confirmed using Fourier transform infrared analysis and ICP‐AES analysis. Jaggery‐based formulations presented a significantly (P < 0.05) lower hardness and darker appearance compared to control. Among the various formulations, toffee containing intermediate replacement percentage (50%) showed the highest overall acceptability (8.09 on a 9‐point hedonic scale) which suggested that sugar replacement up to 50% with liquid jaggery was highly desirable.
Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis) pomace: exploring its sustainable application as a functional ingredient with nutritional, technofunctional, rheological and in‐vitro antioxidant properties
Authors: Muzaffar Khalid , Rafiq Shafiya , Sofi Sajad Ahmad , Rather Jahangir Ahmad , Allai Farhana , Makroo Hilal Ahmad , Majid Darakshan , Dar B. N.
Published: August 2023

Amla pomace (APO) is a valuable by‐product obtained during juice extraction from Amla. To facilitate its application in food systems, comprehensive knowledge regarding its nutritional, physicochemical and techno‐functional properties is essential. The present study aimed to investigate the potential of APO as a functional ingredient. The results revealed that APO powder contains a good content of total dietary fibre and insoluble fibre equal to 35.81/100 g and 28.00/100 g, respectively. An in vitro antioxidant assay depicted APO as a potential bioactive ingredient. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that both amla pulp (AP) and pomace have higher thermal stability. Scanning electron micrographs were unstructured without exhibiting a well‐defined cellular structure. Reconstituted suspensions of AP and APO exhibited non‐Newtonian pseudoplastic behaviour with more elastic behaviour than viscous behaviour and weak gel‐forming ability. The study would provide a comprehensive overview of various properties of APO and will allow drawing conclusions regarding its applicability in complex food systems. APO represents an important source of dietary fibre and bioactive components to enhance the nutritional and technological properties, and therapeutic potential of foods.
Effect of alkaline ionised water on grass carp fillets: insight into physicochemical, microbial composition and miofibrillar proteins
Authors: Lin Yilin , Liang Siwei , Liu Weifeng , Jiao Wenjuan , Zhang Yehui , Yu Yigang
Published: August 2023

The alkaline ionised water (AIW) could inactivate food‐borne microorganisms, ensuring the vegetables and fruits security. However, the application of AIW in preserving fish is still unknown. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the effects of AIW on grass carp fillets during storage at 4 °C for 12 days. The results of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), colour and the sensory attributes showed that the AIW‐treated grass carp fillets exhibited better shelf life. As for the microbial composition, AIW treatment for 5 min significantly inhibited the growth of the predominant bacteria, such as Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas. According to the result from microstructure, the neat and even structure of myofibrillar proteins (MPs) was conducive maintained the fish quality. Overall, the results demonstrated that AIW treatment exerted a protective effect of inactivating spoilage microorganisms and preserving the quality of grass carp fillets.
Tunable ultra‐wideband NIR emission and irradiation resistance in novel Er3+/Tm3+/Pr3+ tri‐doped La2O3‐ Ga2O3‐Ta2O5 glasses synthesized using aerodynamic levitation method
Authors: Xie Jiansheng , Zhang Minghui , Shi Ying , Chen Kun , Sun Shiyu , Deng Weijie , Liu Xuechao
Published: August 2023

Glasses with ultra‐wideband near‐infrared emission and superior irradiation resistance are important for the potential applications in optical communications under harsh environments. Here, transparent 35La2O3‐(65‐x)Ga2O3‐xTa2O5 (LGT) and Er3+/Tm3+/Pr3+ tri‐doped LGT glasses are fabricated using the levitation method. LGT glasses exhibit a wide glass‐formation region, low largest vibration energy, high refractive indices, and excellent mechanical properties. Additionally, Er3+/Tm3+/Pr3+ tri‐doped LGT samples with varying Pr3+ contents are characterized by possessing good thermal stability (Tg>849°C), wide transparent optical window, strong radiation resistance, excellent compatibility between low wavelength dispersion (vd>31.2), and large refractive index (nd>2.048). By optimizing the doping content of Er3+, Tm3+, and Pr3+ in an appropriate ratio, the ultra‐wideband near‐infrared luminescence ranging from 1250 to 1640 nm (FWHM = 251 nm) has been acquired under 808 nm pumping. Furthermore, decay curves are measured to reveal the fluorescence dynamics, and then the related emission mechanism is elaborated systematically. Meanwhile, the effects of gamma irradiation doses on microstructure, transmittance spectra, and fluorescence characteristics are studied. This work may offer a valuable reference for doping optimization and new design strategy of multifunctional materials.
Role of scanning speed on the microstructure and mechanical properties of additively manufactured Al2O3‒ZrO2
Authors: Xiong Zhiwei , Zhang Kai , Liu Tingting , Zhu Zhiguang , Wei Huiliang , Zou Zhiyong , Liao Wenhe
Published: August 2023

Melt‐grown Al2O3–ZrO2 eutectic (AZ eutectic) ceramics have attracted extensive attention for harsh environment applications. In this work, AZ eutectic ceramic is additively manufactured via one‐step laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The role of scanning speed on phase formation, crystallographic characteristics, microstructure evolution, and mechanical properties were systematically investigated. The as‐fabricated specimens are mainly composed of α‐Al2O3 and t‐ZrO2. Lower scanning speeds induced the formation of cellular structures consisting of randomly oriented ZrO2. In contrast, nanometer eutectic lamellar structure with well‐defined multiple crystallographic orientation relationships, for example, {100} Al2O3 || {100} ZrO2 and {0001} Al2O3 || {001} ZrO2, occurred at higher scanning speeds. Both the cell size and lamellar spacing decreased with increasing scanning speed. With the microstructure refinement, the crack propagation mode changes from intergranular to transgranular fracture, leading to progressively enhanced fracture toughness with a maximum value of 7.76 MPa·m1/2. The present work could shed light on tailoring the microstructure of LPBF AZ eutectic ceramic via varying processing parameters.
Effects of an annotation‐supported Socratic questioning approach on students' argumentative writing performance and critical thinking skills in flipped language classrooms
Authors: Chang Jo‐Ling , Hung Hsiu‐Ting , Yang Ya‐Ting C.
Published: August 2023

Background

Critical thinking and argumentative writing are considered complex but essential skills for learners. However, few studies have examined how instructions can be designed to optimize the development of such skills simultaneously. Contextualized in flipped language classrooms, this study aimed to develop an instructional innovation for English as a foreign language (EFL) learners.

Objectives

This study investigated the effects of an annotation‐supported Socratic questioning (ASSQ) approach as a flipped classroom enhancement on students' argumentative writing and critical thinking in an EFL writing course.

Methods

Fifty students from two classes participated in the study, and they were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a comparison group. Following an 8‐week flipped learning curriculum, the experimental group learned with the proposed ASSQ approach in the enhanced flipped classroom, while the comparison group was exposed to the traditional flipped classroom. Students' argumentative writing performance was evaluated with their argumentative essays using a researcher‐developed writing rubric, and their critical thinking skills were assessed using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test.

Results

Both groups significantly improved their argumentative writing, and the experimental group also significantly outperformed the comparison group after learning through the proposed approach. While the two groups had no significant difference in critical thinking skills, the within‐group comparison results revealed that the experimental group made significant improvements due to the instructional intervention.

Implications

The ASSQ approach could enhance the flipped classroom in regard to the teaching of argumentative writing, whereas it bears only limited impact on critical thinking. Overall, the positive effect of the proposed approach on enhancing English learners' argumentative writing performance was mainly attributed to the combined affordances of Socratic questioning and a social annotation tool to scaffold the students' thinking through verbal articulation, and to visualize their thinking with social annotations throughout the flipped learning process.
Development and characterization of antibacterial packaging film based on poly (vinyl alcohol)/agarose enriched with cinnamon oil
Authors: Nguyen Thuong Thi , Pham Bao‐Tran Tran , Nguyen Dai Van , Phung Thanh Khoa
Published: August 2023

The antibacterial packaging films were produced from poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVOH), agarose, and cinnamon (Cinnamon cassia) oil (CO). The mechanical, antibacterial, water‐ and UV‐barrier properties of the resulting films were fully characterized. Our findings revealed that increasing amount of CO slightly affected the color of resulting film, while the dispersion of CO in polymeric matrix was influenced by CO concentration. UV‐barrier property of PVOH/agarose was enhanced by adding a small amount of CO. Tensile strength of the resulting films insignificantly changed (8.94–10.23 MPa) with raising CO content while the flexibility remarkably dropped from 92.63% to 75.49%. Remarkably, the PVOH/agarose containing 1.5% (v/v) CO presented strong inhibition against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus due to the presence of cinnamaldehyde in CO and this inhibitory efficiency was maintained for up to 7 days. Furthermore, the PVOH/agarose film enriched with 1% (v/v) CO was applied for enhancing the storability of bread slices during 50‐day storage at room temperature.
Variation in care for patients presenting with hip fracture in six high‐income countries: A cross‐sectional cohort study
Authors: Burrack Nitzan , Hatfield Laura A. , Bakx Pieter , Banerjee Amitava , Chen Yu‐Chin , Fu Christina , Godoy Junior Carlos , Gordon Michal , Heine Renaud , Huang Nicole , Ko Dennis T. , Lix Lisa M. , Novack Victor , Pasea Laura , Qiu Feng , Stukel Therese A. , Uyl‐de Groot Carin , Ravi Bheeshma , Al‐Azazi Saeed , Weinreb Gabe , Cram Peter , Landon Bruce E.
Published: August 2023

Background

Hip fractures are costly and common in older adults, but there is limited understanding of how treatment patterns and outcomes might differ between countries.

Methods

We performed a retrospective serial cross‐sectional cohort study of adults aged ≥66 years hospitalized with hip fracture between 2011 and 2018 in the US, Canada, England, the Netherlands, Taiwan, and Israel using population‐representative administrative data. We examined mortality, hip fracture treatment approaches (total hip arthroplasty [THA], hemiarthroplasty [HA], internal fixation [IF], and nonoperative), and health system performance measures, including hospital length of stay (LOS), 30‐day readmission rates, and time‐to‐surgery.

Results

The total number of hip fracture admissions between 2011 and 2018 ranged from 23,941 in Israel to 1,219,696 in the US. In 2018, 30‐day mortality varied from 3% (16% at 1 year) in Taiwan to 10% (27%) in the Netherlands. With regards to processes of care, the proportion of hip fractures treated with HA (range 23%–45%) and THA (0.2%–10%) differed widely across countries. For example, in 2018, THA was used to treat approximately 9% of patients in England and Israel but less than 1% in Taiwan. Overall, IF was the most common surgery performed in all countries (40%–60% of patients). IF was used in approximately 60% of patients in the US and Israel, but only 40% in England. In 2018, rates of nonoperative management ranged from 5% of patients in Taiwan to nearly 10% in England. Mean hospital LOS in 2018 ranged from 6.4 days (US) to 18.7 days (England). The 30‐day readmission rate in 2018 ranged from 8% (in Canada and the Netherlands) to nearly 18% in England. The mean days to surgery in 2018 ranged from 0.5 days (Israel) to 1.6 days (Canada).

Conclusions

We observed substantial between‐country variation in mortality, surgical approaches, and health system performance measures. These findings underscore the need for further research to inform evidence‐based surgical approaches.
Value‐based bricolage: Resource mobilization in the circular economy
Authors: Klein Sascha P. , Liszt‐Rohlf Verena , Spieth Patrick
Published: August 2023

Circular‐born firms face resource constraints first, as they emphasize the use and reuse of materials as an opposite to the linear production system of taking, making, and disposing of resources, and second, due to systemic challenges like lack of scale and information on resources. Given these challenges, entrepreneurs need to find novel solutions for resource mobilization in the circular economy (CE). This study aims to identify how entrepreneurs mobilize resources to accomplish these challenges. With qualitative, multiple‐case study research in circular‐born firms developing a CE business model (CEBM), we identify four patterns of resource mobilization serving different purposes in the development of a CEBM. While three patterns—resource seeking, material bricolage, and ideational bricolage—are established concepts in entrepreneurship, we identify and conceptualize a fourth unique pattern in the CE: value‐based bricolage. By conceptualizing the activity domains of value‐based bricolage and examining the motivation and outcomes of each pattern in designing CEBMs, we provide new insights into how solutions to challenges concerning the use of resources in the CE enable circularity.
HCN1 epilepsy: From genetics and mechanisms to precision therapies
Authors: Bleakley Lauren E. , Reid Christopher A.
Published: August 2023

Pathogenic variation in HCN1 is now an established cause of epilepsy and intellectual disability. Variation in HCN1 causes a spectrum of disease with a genotype–phenotype relationship emerging. De novo pathogenic variants that occur in the transmembrane domains of the channel typically cause a cation ‘leak’ that associates with severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE). Genotype–phenotype associations for variants that fall outside of the transmembrane domains are less well established but do include milder forms of epilepsy that can be either de novo or inherited. HCN1 DEE mouse models have been generated which recapitulate the seizures and learning difficulties seen in human patients. These mice have also acted as powerful preclinical models which share pharmacoresponsiveness with human HCN1 DEE patients. Data from these mouse models support the conclusion that anti‐seizure medications with sodium channel block as their primary mechanism of action should be used with caution in HCN1 DEE. Other comorbidities of HCN1 DEE including retinal dysfunction have also been modelled in HCN1 DEE mice, suggesting HCN1 variants can cause a dramatically reduced sensitivity to light with limited ability to process temporal information. Our understanding of the genetics and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying HCN1 epilepsy has progressed significantly and is already influencing therapy. However, more research effort is needed to fully understand the natural histories of HCN1 epilepsies and to develop precision therapeutic approaches.

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Selling Fast and Buying Slow: Heuristics and Trading Performance of Institutional Investors
Authors: AKEPANIDTAWORN KLAKOW , MASCIO RICK DI , IMAS ALEX , SCHMIDT LAWRENCE D.W.
Published: August 2023

Are market experts prone to heuristics, and do these heuristics transfer across buying and selling domains? We investigate this question using a unique data set of institutional investors with portfolios averaging $573 million. A striking finding emerges: While there is evidence of skill in buying, selling decisions underperform substantially, even relative to random‐selling strategies. This holds despite the similarity between the two decisions in frequency, substance, and consequences for performance. Evidence suggests an asymmetric allocation of cognitive resources such as attention can explain the discrepancy: We document a systematic, costly heuristic process for selling but not for buying.
A reciprocal perspective on the differential associations between personality traits and multiple indicators of academic achievement
Authors: Miyamoto Ai , Werner Katharina , Schmidt Fabian T. C.
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study aims to explore the reciprocal associations between personality traits (conscientiousness and openness to experience) and academic achievement in adolescents, using the Personality Achievement Saturation Hypothesis (PASH).

Background

Personality traits, especially conscientiousness, and openness, have been identified as strong predictors of academic achievement. The PASH provides a framework for understanding these relationships but has mainly been studied from a unidirectional perspective. This study extends the PASH to examine reciprocal associations and how they vary with different achievement indicators.

Methods

Using large‐scale panel data (N = 6482) of secondary school students in Germany, we applied cross‐lagged panel models and latent change score models to examine the differential reciprocal associations between personality traits (conscientiousness/openness) and academic achievement (school grades/achievement test scores) in language and math over two years from grades 7 to 9.

Results

In line with the PASH, initial levels of conscientiousness were more strongly associated with school grades than with achievement test scores over two years. Simultaneously, prior school grades were more strongly associated with conscientiousness over two years. However, initial levels of openness did not show differential associations with either school grades or achievement test scores over two years. Similarly, prior school grades and achievement test scores were also not differentially associated with openness over two years.

Conclusions

Our findings introduce an innovative lens through which we observe how the PASH can be leveraged to explain the differential reciprocal associations between conscientiousness and academic achievement. Further research is needed to examine if PASH could be similarly extended to disentangle the associations between openness and academic achievement.
Lights out: The economic impacts of Covid‐19 on cities globally
Authors: Khan Amjad Muhammad , Park Hogeun , Roberts Mark , Wibisana Putu Sanjiwacika
Published: August 2023

This paper uses high‐frequency nighttime lights data and a variety of empirical methods to analyze the impacts of the Covid‐19 crisis on economic activity during the period January 2020–March 2021 for a global sample of 2841 cities. Particular attention is paid to the role of a city's population density in shaping these impacts. While economic activity in cities is found to be negatively affected by both the spread of the virus and the imposition of nonpharmaceutical interventions, population density is found to amplify the negative impacts of the spread of the virus and attenuate those of nonpharmaceutical interventions. These results are driven by cities in low‐ and middle‐income countries, where overall economic activity is found to have been more strongly hit by the pandemic and the strength of those impacts was stronger for less densely populated cities. The role of population density in shaping the economic impacts of the Covid‐19 crisis across cities is confirmed by an event‐study analysis. Taken together, the findings suggest that the Covid‐19 crisis gave rise to divergent urban economic trajectories, both between high‐ and lower‐income countries and between cities with different population densities in lower‐income countries.