bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic activity of dye‐sensitized and non‐sensitized GO‐TiO2 nanocomposites under simulated and direct sunlight
Authors: Ilhan Hatice , Durmaz Cayci Gamze Belkis , Aksoy Erkan , Diker Halide , Varlikli Canan
Published: October 2021

Graphene oxide (GO), amine‐modified graphene oxide (mGO), and N‐TiO2 composites were synthesized by low‐temperature hydrothermal method and characterized by using X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, FTIR, and BET analysis techniques. The films of synthesized TiO2, mGO:TiO2, N‐TiO2, GO:TiO2, GO:N‐TiO2, and commercially available P25 were prepared by doctor blade method. These films and their perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxy tetrabutylester (PTE)‐sensitized forms were employed as photocatalysts for the photodegradation of rhodamine‐B (RhB) under Xe lamp and direct sunlight irradiations. Independent from the irradiation source, the photocatalytic order of the non‐sensitized films were GO:N‐TiO2 > GO:TiO2 > N‐TiO2 > mGO:TiO2 > TiO2 > P25, but seven and 15 folds of increments were detected under direct sunlight irradiation. PTE‐sensitized catalyst films exhibited more than two folds of increase in the photocatalytic rate constants compared to their non‐sensitized counterparts under Xe lamp irradiation. Under direct sunlight irradiation no matter which photocatalyst was used, the photocatalytic activity of these films was enhanced seven folds. Reusability tests revealed no significant changes in the photocatalytic rate constants obtained with both the non‐sensitized and sensitized films.
The treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis – a systematic review
Authors: Chudry Hannah
Published: October 2021

Background

Primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PH) can have a significantly negative impact on an individual's quality of life. Currently, there appears to be no review of the effectiveness of the different interventions for its management.

Methods

A systematic review was performed using PRISMA guidelines, the Cochrane Database, and MEDLINE (OVID) to identify relevant studies published from 1997 to 2017.

Results

Of the 574 references yielded, six met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed for this review. Two studies evaluated the use of oral oxybutynin as an anticholinergic treatment for PH; this demonstrated high efficacy with over 80% of patients reporting symptom improvement; dry mouth was the most common adverse effect reported. One study looking at the use of iontophoresis reported 81% improvement in patients' symptoms. One randomized, double‐blind, trial looked at the use of botulinum toxin A injections for the treatment of PH; it reported 90% of patients experienced an improvement in PH. The remaining two studies evaluated the use of endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) in PH, and both reported over 95% patient symptom improvement.

Conclusion

There are few good quality studies evaluating the treatment of primary PH. Based on the little available evidence, the interventions reviewed significantly improve the symptoms of PH. Anticholinergic medications are considered effective and safe. Both iontophoresis and botulinum toxin provided patients with symptom relief when administered regularly. ETS was reported as successful in the reduction of PH, however, it carries significant adverse effects such as compensatory sweating and the potential of complications associated with surgery.
Current status of organoid culture in urological malignancy
Authors: Tse Ryan Tsz‐Hei , Zhao Hongda , Wong Christine Yim‐Ping , Chiu Peter Ka‐Fung , Teoh Jeremy Yuen‐Chun , Ng Chi‐Fai
Published: October 2021

Urological cancers are common malignancies worldwide. Several conventional models, for example, two‐dimensional cell culture and animal models have been used for decades to study tumor genetics. Nonetheless, these methods have limitations in reflecting the real tumor microenvironment in vivo, thereby hindering the development of anti‐cancer therapeutic agents. Recently, three‐dimensional culture models have gained attention because they can overcome the drawbacks of traditional methods. Above all, three‐dimensional organoid models are able to mimic the tumor microenvironment in human bodies more closely as they are able to demonstrate the interactions between cells and extracellular matrix. This type of model has therefore extended our understanding of urological cancers. Tumor cells in organoid models can also be co‐cultured with other cellular components, such as peripheral blood lymphocytes, and allow further understanding of the effect of tumor microenvironments on tumor growth. Furthermore, organoid models allow a prolonged culturing period, therefore, tumor evolution, progression and maintenance can also be assessed. Organoid models can be derived from each specific patient, and this facilitates investigation of individual cancer‐specific mutations and their subtypes. As a result, the development of personalized medication targeting the signaling pathways or biomolecules of interest will be possible. In the present review, we summarize the development and applications of three‐dimensional organoid cultures in urological cancers, mainly focusing on prostate, urinary bladder and kidney cancers, and assess the future prospects of this model.
Counter moves. Destabilizing the grand narrative of onward migration and secondary movements in Europe
Authors: Schapendonk Joris
Published: October 2021

European migration scholars are increasingly interested in people's onward migrations and secondary movements. This paper takes a critical look at the conceptual underpinnings of this subfield by indicating how the lexicon of onward migration frames migratory processes as a staged process, involving a South–North directionality and hinting at a gradual progress for the migrants in question. This “grand narrative” of onward migration is anchored and reproduced by EU’s overarching policy frameworks. Based on an ethnographic project that followed African trajectories inside Europe, I present some dynamic im/mobility trajectories that can be considered counter narratives of onward migration. The detailed outlining of these trajectories show how mobility itself is a shifting ground without one major vector directing the movements. These counter narratives result in a discussion on the migranticization of mobility. More specifically, I plea for research approaches that free migratory movements from prepossessed directions.
Chronicling moral distress among healthcare providers during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A longitudinal analysis of mental health strain, burnout, and maladaptive coping behaviours
Authors: Wilson Chloe A. , Metwally Hannah , Heavner Smith , Kennedy Ann Blair , Britt Thomas W.
Published: October 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has presented many novel situations that have amplified the presence of moral distress in healthcare. With limited resources to protect themselves against the virus and strict safety regulations that alter the way they work, healthcare providers have felt forced to engage in work behaviours that conflicted with their professional and personal sense of right and wrong. Although many providers have experienced moral distress while being physically in the workplace, others suffered while at home. Some healthcare providers worked in facilities that were unable to open during the pandemic due to restrictions, which could contribute to a sense of powerlessness and guilt. The current study assessed whether the ability to see patients each week impacted the relationship between an employee's moral distress and their mental health strain, burnout, and maladaptive coping. A total of 378 healthcare providers responded to weekly surveys over the course of 7 months (April 2020–December 2020). Hierarchical linear modeling techniques were used to examine the study variables over time. Results showed that moral distress predicted an individual's mental health strain and burnout, even after controlling for the prior week. However, moral distress was not a significant predictor of maladaptive coping. Interestingly, there was not a significant difference between the average ratings of moral distress between those who were able, and those who were not able to see patients, meaning that both groups experienced symptoms of moral distress. However, cross‐level moderation results indicated that the ability to see patients magnified the relationships between moral distress and mental health strain and burnout over time. Implications of the results and recommendations for how moral distress should be addressed among healthcare providers are discussed.
The structural evolution and superconductivity under pressure for superconductor AFe2As2 (A = Ba, Sr)
Authors: Li Li , Wang Jiajun , Cai Juan , Liang Yao , Cui Yan , Tao Hualong , Liu Shimin , He Ming , Song Bo , Zhang Zhihua
Published: October 2021

In collinear antiferromagnetic (AFM) order, the structural evolution and electronic structure of AFe2As2 (A = Ba, Sr) under hydrostatic and uniaxial pressures have been studied. The Fe‐Fe distance is closely related to the AFM suppression as well as the Fe‐As bond. Through analysis of Fermi surface and band diagram, the uniaxial pressure along c‐axis can make the band near the Γ point to produce Lifshitz transition under the condition of lower pressure, and it is easier to suppress Fe magnetic moment. If the pressure component along c‐axis is larger in the experiment, it is easier to cause the superconducting. The superconductivity of BaFe2As2 and SrFe2As2 under pressure may be due to the increasing of Fe 3d‐ and As 4p‐hybridized bands width near the Fermi level.
Characterizing Li in partially lithiated layer materials using atomic‐resolution imaging, modeling, and simulation
Authors: Ghosh Chanchal , Singh Manish Kumar , Parida Shayani , Dobley Arthur , Dongare Avinash M. , Carter C. Barry
Published: October 2021

Understanding of phase‐stability and nanoscale structural modulation during lithiation of layer materials demand comprehensive analysis of the Li‐containing phases in the solid‐state reaction products. Conventional chemical analysis methods in the transmission electron microscope (TEM) are not ideal to detect Li in partially intercalated nanodomains because Li atoms do not remain stationary under the focused electron beam. An alternate approach combining density functional theory (DFT) modeling and multislice image simulation has been explored in the present study to analyze the intercalated structures and to detect and quantify Li from the recorded high‐resolution TEM (HRTEM) micrographs of partially intercalated phases. HRTEM micrographs from partially lithiated graphite and MoS2 show variations in the interlayer spacings, but are not usually directly interpretable. Hypothetical intercalated microstructures of graphite and MoS2 supercells have been generated using atomic‐scale simulations with systematically varying Li concentrations. The measured interplanar spacings are compared with those of experimentally recorded HRTEM micrographs from lithiated graphite and MoS2. The results confirm the coexistence of different lithiated phases at localized domains. This understanding of phase transformation and the lithium quantification provides a basis for understanding the structural accommodation of layered materials during intercalation.
Patient empowerment and self‐management behaviour of chronic disease patients: A moderated mediation model of self‐efficacy and health locus of control
Authors: Wang Run , Zhou Chunlan , Wu Yanni , Sun Meihua , Yang Lixiao , Ye Xiaoling , Zhang Mi
Published: October 2021

Aims

To explore the role of self‐efficacy (SE) in the effect of patient empowerment on self‐management behaviours among patients with chronic illness and to investigate the moderating effect of three types of health locus of control (HLC) in this moderated mediation model.

Design

Cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Data were collected in a general tertiary hospital, and a sample of 254 patients was recruited between August and October 2020. The effect of moderation and mediation was tested by the PROCESS macro (Model 4 and Model 8) for SPSS 25.0 by Hayes using 5000 bootstrap samples.

Results

Self‐efficacy significantly mediated the relationship between patient empowerment and self‐management behaviour with a 95% confidence interval excluding zero. The chance HLC demonstrated a moderating effect, and the interaction effect on SE and self‐management behaviour was significant.

Conclusion

Patient empowerment may improve confidence and adherence to self‐management among people with chronic illness, and such benefits were conditional on the HLC of patients.

Impact

This study addresses the relationship between patient empowerment and self‐management behaviour in patients with different personality characteristics. This result indicated that classifying the type of HLC may enable the identification of subgroups of patients who may subsequently benefit from patient empowerment. In a patient‐centred programme, nurses and other healthcare professionals correctly identifying patients’ HLC type and understanding the implications and then providing appropriate health care plans for patients with different health beliefs may be useful to tailor the decision‐making process.
Mucin 20 modulates proteasome capacity through c‐Met signalling to increase carfilzomib sensitivity in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Wang Xiaobin , Shirazi Fazal , Yan Wei , Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Hua , Orlowski Robert Z. , Wang Huihan
Published: October 2021

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a haematologic malignancy. The proteasome inhibitor (PI) bortezomib has been approved to treat MCL, but resistance has emerged through mechanisms that remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of PI resistance in MCL and identify new targets for this patient subgroup. Carfilzomib‐resistant (CR) MCL cell lines and primary samples were used for both in vitro and in vivo experiments to identify gene expression and explore their related signalling pathways. We first identified mucin 20 (MUC20) suppression in carfilzomib‐resistant MCL models. MUC20 overexpression sensitized cells to carfilzomib in vitro and in vivo. MUC20 expression was inversely related to activation of c‐Met and the downstream p44/42 MAPK pathway. c‐Met activation with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) induced PI resistance, while c‐Met inhibition restored PI sensitivity. Carfilzomib resistance and depressed MUC20 expression were associated with enhanced proteasome activity and higher expression of proteassemblin (POMP), a chaperone for catalytically active proteasome assembly. c‐Met and POMP were associated through binding and induction of MAPK‐regulated ELK1 to the POMP promoter. Our data reveal that c‐Met signalling activation enhanced proteasome capacity as a mechanism of PI resistance, and MUC20 expression may be a useful biomarker for PI therapy.
Complex and divergent histories gave rise to genome‐wide divergence patterns amongst European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus)
Authors: Crotti Marco , Bean Colin W. , Gowans Andy R. D. , Winfield Ian J. , Butowska Magdalena , Wanzenböck Josef , Bondarencko Galina , Præbel Kim , Adams Colin E. , Elmer Kathryn R.
Published: October 2021

Pleistocene glaciations dramatically affected species distribution in regions that were impacted by ice cover and subsequent postglacial range expansion impacted contemporary biodiversity in complex ways. The European whitefish, Coregonus lavaretus, is a widely distributed salmonid fish species on mainland Europe, but in Britain it has only seven native populations, all of which are found on the western extremes of the island. The origins and colonization routes of the species into Britain are unknown but likely contributed to contemporary genetic patterns and regional uniqueness. Here, we used up to 25,751 genome‐wide polymorphic loci to reconstruct the history and to discern the demographic and evolutionary forces underpinning divergence between British populations. Overall, we found lower genetic diversity in Scottish populations but high differentiation (FST = 0.433–0.712) from the English/Welsh and other European populations. Differentiation was elevated genome‐wide rather than in particular genomic regions. Demographic modelling supported a postglacial colonization into western Scotland from northern refugia and a separate colonization route for the English/Welsh populations from southern refugia, with these two groups having been separated for more than ca. 50 Ky. We found cyto‐nuclear discordance at a European scale, with the Scottish populations clustering closely with Baltic population in the mtDNA analysis but not in the nuclear data, and with the Norwegian and Alpine populations displaying the same mtDNA haplotype but being distantly related in the nuclear tree. These findings suggest that neutral processes, primarily drift and regionally distinct pre‐glacial evolutionary histories, are important drivers of genomic divergence in British populations of European whitefish. This sheds new light on the establishment of the native British freshwater fauna after the last glacial maximum.
Dried yacon with high fructooligosaccharide content
Authors: Corrêa Jefferson Luiz Gomes , Lopes Francemir José , de Mello Junior Ronaldo Elias , de Jesus Junqueira João Renato , de Angelis Pereira Michel Cardoso , Salvio Luís Gustavo Amaral
Published: October 2021

The convective drying of yacon was investigated (40–70°C). Pulsed vacuum osmotic dehydration (PVOD) (sorbitol 38 °Brix, 35°C, 681 mmHg in the first 10 min) as pretreatment was tested. Drying behavior, energy consumption, diffusivity, fructooligosaccharide (FOS) retention, shrinkage, water activity, shrinkage, and color were measured. Fick's model was adequate for drying kinetics adjustment, mainly for untreated samples with shrinkage consideration. PVOD pretreated dried yacon was a less shrunken product in a shorter drying time with up to 60% FOS retention. Nevertheless, the best tested condition for FOS retention (88%) was the convective drying at 60°C without PVOD application.

Practical Applications

The yacon is a seasonal plant that presents high concentrations of functional compounds. Like most vegetables, its shelf life is short and storage difficult. Therefore, improved techniques for conservation are required. The present paper evaluates the effects of drying temperature on the production of fresh and osmodehydrated yacon slices during convective drying. This study could offer an interesting response to the changes promoted by these processes, relating to the modifications to the physicochemical properties of osmodehydrated yacon.
Per‐oral endoscopic myotomy in patients with antithrombotic agents: A large‐scale multicenter study in Japan
Authors: Shimamura Yuto , Sato Hiroki , Onimaru Manabu , Tanaka Shinwa , Shiwaku Hironari , Shiota Junya , Sato Chiaki , Ogawa Ryo , Yokomichi Hiroshi , Inoue Haruhiro
Published: October 2021

Background and Aim

The perioperative management and clinical course of per‐oral endoscopic myotomy for patients receiving antithrombotic therapy remains unknown. This study aimed to clarify the status of antithrombotic therapy in per‐oral endoscopic myotomy and to determine its safety and efficacy.

Methods

Patients treated with per‐oral endoscopic myotomy from 2010 to 2019 in seven high‐volume centers in Japan were retrospectively investigated. The patients' characteristics and antithrombotic agent management were analyzed; clinical outcomes were compared with those without antithrombotic agents.

Results

Of 2752 patients who underwent per‐oral endoscopic myotomy, 120 patients on antithrombotic therapy (mean age 71.0 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists class II–IV [67.5%]) were identified. Antiplatelet, anticoagulant, and a combination of antithrombotic agents were used in 82, 30, and 8 patients, respectively. The perioperative management adhered to the therapeutic endoscopy guidelines published by the Japanese Society of Gastroenterological Endoscopy in most patients (88.3%). A poorer clinical baseline status (American Society of Anesthesiologists class II–IV; 67.0% vs 24.3%) and the sigmoid type (40.7% vs 22.3%) were more frequently observed in patients with achalasia on antithrombotic therapy. However, the clinical success (Eckardt score ≤ 3; 97.6% vs 94.6) and adverse event rates, such as bleeding and thromboembolic events (5.5% vs 4.7%), did not show inferiority.

Conclusions

Per‐oral endoscopic myotomy on antithrombotic therapy is safe and effective. However, caution is required as patients on antithrombotic therapy tend to have poorer baseline health and achalasia statuses. Our experience should help establish perioperative management with antithrombotic therapy.
Besifovir therapy improves hepatic histology and reduces covalently closed circular DNA in chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Yim Hyung Joon , Kim Won , Ahn Sang Hoon , Jung Young Kul , Um Soon Ho , Sohn Joo Hyun , Jang Jae Young , Kim Dong Joon , Park Eun‐Sook , Jin So‐Young , Kim Kyun‐Hwan
Published: October 2021

Background and Aim

Besifovir dipivoxil maleate (BSV) was reported to have comparable antiviral efficacy and superior renal and bone safety to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. The present study aims to evaluate changes of liver histology and intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) levels by BSV treatment in comparison with TDF therapy.

Methods

This is a subset study of the phase 3 trial comparing BSV with TDF. Among them, only CHB patients willing to participate in a histologic evaluation study were enrolled. Liver histologic examination and intrahepatic cccDNA quantification were performed.

Results

A total of 46 CHB patients received liver biopsies (BSV, n = 29; TDF, n = 17). After 48 weeks of treatment, virological response rate was comparable between the groups (P = 0.707). Follow‐up liver biopsies showed that necroinflammation was significantly improved in the both groups. However, the histological response rate defined as the proportion of subjects whose modified histologic activity index score decreased by ≥ 2 without deterioration in fibrosis was higher in the BSV group than in the TDF group (77.8% vs 36.4%, P = 0.048). The proportion of subjects with Ishak fibrosis score 3 or more decreased from 77.7% to 55.5% in the BSV and that decreased from 72.7% to 45.4% in the TDF group. The intrahepatic cccDNA significantly decreased from baseline after 48 weeks of BSV or TDF treatment (P < 0.001) without intergroup differences (P = 0.349).

Conclusions

The BSV therapy improves hepatic histology and decreases intrahepatic cccDNA in CHB patients.
Newborn‐oriented and environmental factors for newborns' skin barrier functions
Authors: Murakami Mei , Yonezawa Kaori , Shimizu Satsuki , Haruna Megumi , Sasagawa Emi , Usui Yuriko
Published: October 2021

Aim

This study aimed to examine newborn‐oriented and environmental factors of newborn skin barrier functions.

Methods

This was a retrospective secondary analysis of 227 newborns from a previous study. Newborn skin barrier functions were measured on the fourth day after birth via the following parameters: stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss, skin pH, and sebum secretion. Skin barrier functions were measured at four body sites; their averaged values were used for the analysis. The associations among skin barrier functions, newborn‐oriented factors, and environmental factors were evaluated. Multiple regression analysis was performed using a forced entry method, and independent variables for which p‐values were <.05 in Student's t test, analysis of variance, and Pearson's correlation analysis were included.

Results

A total of 211 participants were analyzed. The mean ± standard deviation values of stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss, skin pH, and sebum secretion were 28.58 ± 8.40 and 7.28 ± 2.02 g/m2/h, 5.77 ± 0.53, and 23.59 ± 15.89 μg/cm2, respectively. Newborn‐oriented factors (gestational days, weight, amount of vernix, and parity) and environmental factors (birth season) were significantly associated with one or more skin barrier functions.

Conclusions

Newborn‐oriented (including labor‐ and delivery‐related) and environmental factors were associated with the skin barrier functions. The newborn maturity level, newborn sex, environmental temperature, and humidity may affect skin barrier functions in newborns. Further studies should focus on the effects of these factors on newborn skin barrier assessments, and develop tailored skincare strategies based on their characteristics.
How to build single‐celled cnidarians with worm‐like motility: Lessons from Myxozoa
Authors: Adriano Edson A. , Zatti Suellen A. , Okamura Beth
Published: October 2021

Metazoans with worm‐like morphologies across diverse and disparate groups typically demonstrate motility generated by hydrostatic skeletons involving tissue layers (muscles and epithelia). Here we present representative morphological, behavioural and molecular data for parasitic cnidarians (myxozoans) that demonstrate unprecedented variation in form and function, developing as cellular hydrostats. Motile elongate plasmodia characterise a remarkable radiation of species in the genusCeratomyxa. The vermiform plasmodia inhabit gall bladders of a range of South American freshwater fish and exhibit undulatory motility reminiscent of nematodes but achieved at the cellular level. Collective insights from ultrastructure, confocal and light microscopy along with videos depicting movements highlight key features that we propose explain the unique motility of the plasmodia. These features include cytoskeletal elements (net forming microfilaments and microtubules), a large internal vacuole, a relatively rigid outer glycocalyx and peripherally arranged mitochondria. These constituents provide collective evidence for repurposing of the cnidarian epitheliomuscular cell to support worm‐like motility at the cellular level. The apparent restriction of vermiform ceratomyxids to South American freshwaters suggests an origination via Cretaceous or Miocene marine transgressions and subsequent radiation.
Neoclassical influences in agent‐based literature: A systematic review
Authors: Brancaccio Emiliano , Gallegati Mauro , Giammetti Raffaele
Published: October 2021

Several studies highlight that the method and the object of analysis of Agent‐Based models are in various respects in stark contrast to the prevailing neoclassical paradigm and therefore should be included in the traditions of alternative economic thought. In this paper, however, we show that distinctive features of the neoclassical theory can be found in most of the AB literature. Through a systematic review of most cited academic papers published in the period 1996–2019 and dedicated to Agent‐Based models, we show that a “neoclassical influence” can be detected in 61% of papers, while only 39% do not have links with the mainstream neoclassical approach. We also note that after the “great recession” started in 2008 the neoclassical influences on AB literature decline to a significant extent.
Screening, Monitoring, and Referral to Treatment for Young Adolescents at an Urban School‐Based Health Center
Authors: Burke Robert E. , Hoffman Neal D. , Guy Laura , Bailey Jodi , Silver Ellen Johnson
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

This study describes the experience of implementing a screening, monitoring, and referral to treatment (SMARTT) initiative at an urban middle school school‐based health center.

METHODS

Retrospective data were collected for adolescents screened with the Pediatric Symptom Checklist‐17‐Y. At‐risk adolescents having unmet health needs were offered a mental health referral, and those that declined a mental health referral were offered a primary care monitoring (PCM) visit with the medical provider. Chi‐square analyses were used to evaluate differences in screening and outcomes by age, sex, and race/ethnicity.

RESULTS

One out of four adolescents had a positive PSC‐17‐Y or negative screen with other identified concerns. Approximately half of these at‐risk adolescents accepted a mental health referral, and 86% of those who declined agreed to the PCM visit. More than two‐thirds of the PCM group did not need continued monitoring and support at follow‐up, and 85.4% of youth who had a mental health assessment accepted mental health services.

CONCLUSIONS

The SMARTT initiative successfully demonstrated that co‐located and integrated mental health services can enhance access and connection to mental health services for at‐risk youth. In addition, PCM visits were found to be an effective option for youth who declined mental health referrals.
COVID‐19 in children: I. Epidemiology, prevention and indirect impacts
Authors: Howard‐Jones Annaleise R , Bowen Asha C , Danchin Margie , Koirala Archana , Sharma Ketaki , Yeoh Daniel K , Burgner David P , Crawford Nigel W , Goeman Emma , Gray Paul E , Hsu Peter , Kuek Stephanie , McMullan Brendan J , Tosif Shidan , Wurzel Danielle , Britton Philip N
Published: October 2021

Children globally have been profoundly impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. This review explores the direct and indirect public health impacts of COVID‐19 on children. We discuss in detail the transmission dynamics, vaccination strategies and, importantly, the ‘shadow pandemic’, encompassing underappreciated indirect impacts of the pandemic on children. The indirect effects of COVID‐19 will have a long‐term impact beyond the immediate pandemic period. These include the mental health and wellbeing risks, disruption to family income and attendant stressors including increased family violence, delayed medical attention and the critical issue of prolonged loss of face‐to‐face learning in a normal school environment. Amplification of existing inequities and creation of new disadvantage are likely additional sequelae, with children from vulnerable families disproportionately affected. We emphasise the responsibility of paediatricians to advocate on behalf of this vulnerable group to ensure the longer‐term effects of COVID‐19 public health responses on the health and wellbeing of children are fully considered.
Color–Word Stroop Interference Among Japanese Preschoolers1
Authors: Tanaka Daisuke , Komatsu Mayuko
Published: October 2021

Stroop–reverse‐Stroop interference is a phenomenon based on word‐reading skill acquisition, especially the original color–word interference task. Few studies have examined preschool children, probably because early childhood school education is a requirement for the occurrence of Stroop–reverse‐Stroop interference and because of difficulties in application to young children. However, many Japanese students have begun to acquire word‐reading skills in preschool. To estimate the age at which Stroop interference occurs, standardized Stroop–reverse‐Stroop interference tests were conducted of 58 kindergarten children using a blinker board to facilitate attentional stability. Results revealed the presence of Stroop interference among participants in the 4–5‐year and 5–6‐year age groups, although no reverse‐Stroop interference was found. Developmental perspectives related to an older age group for Stroop–reverse‐Stroop interference are discussed.
Urethro‐venous intravasation during retrograde urethrography in a dog
Authors: Daza González M. A. , Suárez‐Redondo M. , Ruíz‐Fernández M. J. , González‐Soriano J. , García‐Real M. I.
Published: October 2021

A 9‐year‐old 6‐kg male castrated mixed‐breed dog was admitted to the hospital as a second opinion for left‐sided nephrectomy. Plain radiographs, ultrasound, excretory urography and retrograde urethrography revealed left‐sided hydronephrosis and calculi in the bladder and urethra. The urethral calculi were hydropropulsed into the bladder and nephrectomy and cystotomy were performed. Three days after surgery, the patient showed preputial inflammation, pain and pollakiuria. Retrograde urethrography was repeated and extra‐urethral leakage of contrast medium into the penile tissue was identified, followed by filling of the draining veins, reaching the caudal vena cava, with subsequent opacification of the right renal pelvis and ureter and opacification of a lymph node. The dog improved during hospitalisation and a retrograde urography performed 6 months after the initial surgery confirmed full recovery.
Pharmacokinetics of paracetamol in the Thoroughbred horse following an oral multi‐dose administration
Authors: Pesko Bogumila , Habershon‐Butcher Jocelyn , Muir Tessa , Gray Bob , Taylor Polly , Fenwick Susanna , Hincks Pamela , Scarth James , Paine Stuart
Published: October 2021

Paracetamol is a widely used, non‐opioid analgesic and antipyretic drug. Scientific evidence suggests that it is an effective pain treatment in equine medicine. However, there is very little published information about the pharmacokinetics of the drug in the horse. The aim of the research was to determine the pharmacokinetics of paracetamol in equine plasma and urine to inform treatment of Thoroughbred racehorses. In this multi‐dose study, paracetamol was administered orally at 20 mg/kg to six Thoroughbred horses. Pre‐ and post‐administration urine and plasma samples were collected and analysed using a quantitative liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method. Pharmacokinetic analysis of urine and plasma paracetamol clearance profiles was carried out, which enabled the calculation of possible screening limits (SL) that can regulate for a detection time of 120 h. Additionally, an estimation of orthocetamol concentration levels in urine was carried out to investigate any underlying relationship between the para‐ and ortho‐isomers as both were suspected to contribute to basal levels, possibly due to environmental feed sources.
In memoriam: Mark H. A. Davis and his contributions to mathematical finance
Authors: Obłój Jan , Zariphopoulou Thaleia
Published: October 2021

This Special Issue of Mathematical Finance celebrates the memory of Mark H. A. Davis, one of the founding editors of the journal, and his numerous contributions to mathematical finance.
Ancient volcanos as species pumps: A case study of freshwater amphipods in Northeast Asia
Authors: Hu Yueyao , Li Shuqiang , Liu Hongguang , Kim Seung‐Tae , Kurenshchikov Dmitry K. , Hou Zhonge
Published: October 2021

Volcano‐tectonic processes have been viewed as primary drivers in the formation of present‐day diversity. Volcanos associated with mountain uplifts drive allopatric speciation through vicariance and may impact the surrounding areas like species pump or species attractor. However, the application of these hypotheses to aquatic fauna has rarely been tested explicitly. We tested these hypotheses in the Changbai Mountains (Mts), which are one of the most typical, active volcanic ranges in Northeast (NE) Asia with a long and turbulent geological history. TheGammarus nekkensisspecies complex of amphipod crustaceans, widely distributed throughout NE Asia with poor dispersal abilities and a long evolutionary history, is a suitable model for testing hypotheses of species pump or species attractor. Phylogenetic and ancestral range reconstructions demonstrated that the studied amphipod originated from the Changbai Mts ~27 Ma and diverged into eastern (Clade I) and western (Clade II) clades, which corresponds well with the initial volcanic eruption of the Changbai Mts in the Late Oligocene. The subsequent diversifications of subclades CI‐3, CII‐1a and CII‐2a were probably driven by second and third eruptions of the Changbai Mts during the Miocene. In particular, the Changbai lineages had spread to the Russian Far East multiple times since the Early Miocene, and widely colonized the region during the Pleistocene. Our discoveries suggest that the ancient volcanos of the Changbai Mts act as species pumps in NE Asia, resulted in burst of diversification around the Changbai Mts and subsequent dispersals into adjacent regions.
Feasibility of energy harvesting from vertical pedestrian‐induced vibrations of footbridges for smart monitoring applications
Authors: Demartino Cristoforo , Quaranta Giuseppe , Maruccio Claudio , Pakrashi Vikram
Published: October 2021

The present work is meant at contributing to the innovation of the current methodologies for pedestrian bridge monitoring. Specifically, the use of vibrational energy harvesters for self‐powered wireless structural monitoring of footbridges is here advanced for the first time, and a novel sensorless strategy is also proposed to survey remotely their serviceability conditions. In this perspective, comprehensive computer‐aided numerical investigations are initially conducted to obtain statistical estimates of the electrical energy generated from a composite piezoelectric cantilever beam subjected to the vertical footbridge response under the passage of walkers. In doing so, randomness related to the pedestrians' dynamics and footbridges with different modal features are taken into account. An investigation based on experimental data is finally presented. In detail, one case study is concerned with a footbridge prone to large vibrations due to quasi pedestrian–structure resonance condition while the second one deals with a stiffer footbridge experiencing low excitation levels. Ultimately, this study indicates that energy harvesting from vertical pedestrian‐induced vibrations can be a promising strategy for footbridges monitoring, and it provides useful design guidelines in this regard.
Modified Pitt bacteremia score for predicting mortality in patients with candidaemia: A multicentre seven‐year retrospective study conducted in Japan
Authors: Nakada‐Motokawa Nana , Miyazaki Taiga , Ueda Takashi , Yamagishi Yuka , Yamada Koichi , Kawamura Hideki , Kakeya Hiroshi , Mukae Hiroshi , Mikamo Hiroshige , Takesue Yoshio , Kohno Shigeru
Published: October 2021

Background

Several severity indexes have been reported for critically ill patients. The Pitt bacteremia score (PBS) is commonly used to predict the risk of mortality in patients with bacteraemia.

Objectives

To develop a scoring system for predicting mortality in candidaemia patients.

Methods

Medical records at five Japanese tertiary hospitals were reviewed. Factors associated with mortality were analysed using logistic regression modelling. The discriminatory power of scoring models was evaluated by assessing the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI).

Results

In total, 422 candidaemia patients were included. Higher PBS, dialysis and retainment of central venous catheter were independent risk factors for all‐cause 30‐day mortality. However, among the five PBS components, fever was not associated with mortality; therefore, we developed a modified version of the PBS (mPBS) by replacing fever with dialysis. AUC for PBS and mPBS were 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68–0.80) and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.71–0.82), respectively. The increase in predictive ability of mPBS for 30‐day mortality was statistically significant as assessed by NRI (0.24, 95% CI: 0.01–0.46, p = .04) and IRI (0.04, 95% CI: 0.02–0.06, p = .0008). When patients were stratified by mPBS into low (scores 0–3), moderate (4–7) and high risk (≥8), there were significant differences among the survival curves (p < .0001, log‐rank test), and 30‐day mortality rates were 13.8% (40/290), 36.8% (28/76) and 69.4% (34/49), respectively.

Conclusions

mPBS can be a useful tool for predicting mortality in candidaemia patients.
Rhinosporidiosis—Factors predicting disease recurrence
Authors: Varghese Lalee , Kurien Regi , Susheel Sherin , Cherian Lisa M. , Rebekah Grace , Rupa Vedantam
Published: October 2021

Background

Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic granulomatous disease of the nose caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi. The disease is largely non‐amenable to medical therapy and shows high recurrence rates requiring patients to undergo multiple surgeries often resulting in increased morbidity.

Objective

To analyse the epidemiological, clinical, histopathological characteristics, treatment and outcome in rhinosporidiosis and to identify factors which predispose to recurrence of the disease.

Patients/methods

Retrospective analysis of data of all patients with a diagnosis of rhinosporidiosis confirmed by histopathology at a tertiary care hospital from 2015 to 2019.

Results

There were 42 patients, 40 males and two females, with a mean age of 37.37 years. Disease showed bilateral involvement in 17 (40.48%) patients. Nineteen (45.24%) patients had more than two sites involved at initial presentation. Most patients had nasal cavity involvement followed by nasopharynx. Among the 28 patients who had a follow‐up, 12 showed recurrent disease. However, 21 patients were disease free following a revision excision. Involvement of more than two sites was an independent significant factor for recurrence. On univariate analysis, other factors which showed statistically significant odds of developing recurrence were previous surgery (p = .054), involvement of nasal septum (p = .022), middle turbinate (p = .024), nasopharynx (p = .049) and posterior pharyngeal wall (p = .05). Factors which showed significantly less likelihood of developing a recurrence included patients who had less than 12 months duration from first symptom to intervention (p = .016), involvement of less than two sites (p = .0003) and unilateral disease (p = .019).

Conclusion

Early intervention in rhinosporidiosis especially when the disease is unilateral and involves less than two sites improves the outcome.
Tylopilus glutinosus, a new species of Boletaceae from Bangladesh
Authors: Hosen Md. Iqbal
Published: October 2021

Tylopilus glutinosus sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Bangladesh based on morphology and molecular data. This species is characterized by its caespitose habit, a purple pileus that becomes very viscid when wet, unchanging context, an ixotrichodermial pileipellis with the outer layer consisting of 3–4 cylindrical cells and the inner layer composed of filamentous hyphae, broadly fusoid to fusoid basidiospores and putative association with Shorea robusta. Morphologically, this species resembles T. plumbeoviolaceoides and T. plumbeoviolaceus. However, some distinctive macro‐ and microscopic features along with geographical distribution and host preference can be used to separate them from each other. Furthermore, analysis of DNA sequences of the nuclear ribosomal large subunit (nrLSU) undoubtedly placed them in different lineages or clades within Tylopilus. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, a phylogenetic reconstruction and comparison with related taxa of Tylopilus are also provided.
A CLE–BAM–CIK signalling module controls root protophloem differentiation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hu Chong , Zhu Yafen , Cui Yanwei , Zeng Li , Li Sunjingnan , Meng Fanhui , Huang Shuting , Wang Wenping , Kui Hong , Yi Jing , Li Jia , Wan Dongshi , Gou Xiaoping
Published: October 2021

Exogenous application of CLAVATA3 (CLV3)/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION (CLE) peptides suppresses protophloem differentiation and leads to the consumption of the proximal root meristem. However, the exact CLE peptides and the corresponding receptor complex regulating protophloem differentiation have not yet been clarified.

Through expression pattern and phylogenetic analyses, CLE25/26/45 were identified as candidate peptides. Further genetic analyses, physiological assays and specific protophloem marker observations indicated that CLE25/26/45, BARELY ANY MERISTEM1/3 (BAM1/3) and CLV3 INSENSITIVE KINASEs (CIKs) are involved in regulating protophloem differentiation.

The cle25 26 45 and cik2 3 4 5 6 mutation can greatly rescue the root defects of brevis radix (brx) and octopus (ops) mutants. The protophloem differentiation and proximal root meristem consumption of clv1 bam1 3 and cik2 3 4 5 6 were insensitive to CLE25/26/45 treatments. cle25 26 45, clv1 bam1 3 and cik2 3 4 5 6 displayed similar premature protophloem. In addition, CLE25/26/45 induced the interactions between BAMs and CIKs in vivo. Furthermore, CLE25/26/45 enhanced the phosphorylation levels of CIKs, which were greatly impaired in clv1 bam1 3 mutant.

Our work clarifies that the CLE25/26/45–BAM1/3–CIK2/3/4/5/6 signalling module genetically acts downstream of BRX and OPS to suppress protophloem differentiation.
A meta‐analysis of responses of C3 plants to atmospheric CO2: dose–response curves for 85 traits ranging from the molecular to the whole‐plant level
Authors: Poorter Hendrik , Knopf Oliver , Wright Ian J. , Temme Andries A. , Hogewoning Sander W. , Graf Alexander , Cernusak Lucas A. , Pons Thijs L.
Published: October 2021

Generalised dose–response curves are essential to understand how plants acclimate to atmospheric CO2. We carried out a meta‐analysis of 630 experiments in which C3 plants were experimentally grown at different [CO2] under relatively benign conditions, and derived dose–response curves for 85 phenotypic traits. These curves were characterised by form, plasticity, consistency and reliability. Considered over a range of 200–1200 µmol mol−1 CO2, some traits more than doubled (e.g. area‐based photosynthesis; intrinsic water‐use efficiency), whereas others more than halved (area‐based transpiration). At current atmospheric [CO2], 64% of the total stimulation in biomass over the 200–1200 µmol mol−1 range has already been realised. We also mapped the trait responses of plants to [CO2] against those we have quantified before for light intensity. For most traits, CO2 and light responses were of similar direction. However, some traits (such as reproductive effort) only responded to light, others (such as plant height) only to [CO2], and some traits (such as area‐based transpiration) responded in opposite directions. This synthesis provides a comprehensive picture of plant responses to [CO2] at different integration levels and offers the quantitative dose–response curves that can be used to improve global change simulation models.
Phenotypic plasticity guidesMoricandia arvensisdivergence and convergence across the Brassicaceae floral morphospace
Authors: Gómez José M. , González‐Megías Adela , Narbona Eduardo , Navarro Luis , Perfectti Francisco , Armas Cristina
Published: October 2021

Many flowers exhibit phenotypic plasticity. By inducing the production of several phenotypes, plasticity may favour the rapid exploration of different regions of the floral morphospace. We investigated how plasticity drivesMoricandia arvensis, a species displaying within‐individual floral polyphenism, across the floral morphospace of the entire Brassicaceae family.

We compiled the multidimensional floral phenotype, the phylogenetic relationships, and the pollination niche of over 3000 species to construct a family‐wide floral morphospace. We assessed the disparity between the twoM. arvensisfloral morphs (as the distance between the phenotypic spaces occupied by each morph) and compared it with the family‐wide disparity. We measured floral divergence by comparing disparity with the most common ancestor, and estimated the convergence of each floral morph with other species belonging to the same pollination niches.

Moricandia arvensisexhibits a plasticity‐mediated floral disparity greater than that found between species, genera and tribes. The novel phenotype ofM. arvensismoves outside the region occupied by its ancestors and relatives, crosses into a new region where it encounters a different pollination niche, and converges with distant Brassicaceae lineages.

Our study suggests that phenotypic plasticity favours floral divergence and rapid appearance of convergent flowers, a process which facilitates the evolution of generalist pollination systems.