bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numbers, neighbors, and hungry predators: What makes chemically defended aposematic prey susceptible to predation?
Authors: Kaczmarek Jan M. , Kaczmarski Mikołaj , Mazurkiewicz Jan , Kloskowski Janusz
Published: November 2020

Many chemically defended aposematic species are characterized by relatively low toxin levels, which enables predators to include them in their diets under certain circumstances. Knowledge of the conditions governing the survival of such prey animals—especially in the context of the co‐occurrence of similar but undefended prey, which may result in mimicry‐like interactions—is crucial for understanding the initial evolution of aposematism. In a one‐month outdoor experiment using fish (the common carp Cyprinus carpio) as predators, we examined the survival of moderately defended aposematic tadpole prey (the European common toad Bufo bufo) with varying absolute densities in single‐species prey systems or varying relative densities in two‐species prey systems containing morphologically similar but undefended prey (the European common frog Rana temporaria). The density effects were investigated in conjunction with the hunger levels of the predator, which were manipulated by means of the addition of alternative (nontadpole) food. The survival of the B. bufo tadpoles was promoted by increasing their absolute density in the single‐species prey systems, increasing their relative density in the two‐species prey systems, and providing ample alternative food for the predator. Hungry predators eliminated all R. temporaria individuals regardless of their proportion in the prey community; in treatments with ample alternative food, high relative B. bufo density supported R. temporaria survival. The results demonstrated that moderately defended prey did benefit from high population densities (both absolute and relative), even under long‐term predation pressure. However, the physiological state of the predator was a crucial factor in the survival of moderately defended prey. While the availability of alternative prey in general should promote the spread and maintenance of aposematism, the results indicated that the resemblance between the co‐occurring defended and undefended prey may impose mortality costs on the defended model species, even in the absence of actual mimicry.
Locomotor responses to salt stress in native and invasive mud‐tidal gastropod populations (Batillaria)
Authors: Ho Phuong‐Thao , Nguyen Hoa Quynh , Kern Elizabeth M. A. , Won Yong‐Jin
Published: November 2020

Plasticity in salt tolerance can be crucial for successful biological invasions of novel habitats by marine gastropods. The intertidal snailBatillaria attramentaria, which is native to East Asia but invaded the western shores of North America from Japan 80 years ago, provides an opportunity to examine how environmental salinity may shape behavioral and morphological traits. In this study, we compared the movement distance of fourB. attramentariapopulations from native (Korea and Japan) and introduced (United States) habitats under various salinity levels (13, 23, 33, and 43 PSU) during 30 days of exposure in the lab. We sequenced a partial mitochondrialCO1gene to infer phylogenetic relationships among populations and confirmed two divergent mitochondrial lineages constituting our sample sets. Using a statistical model‐selection approach, we investigated the effects of geographic distribution and genetic composition on locomotor performance in response to salt stress. Snails exposed to acute low salinity (13 PSU) reduced their locomotion and were unable to perform at their normal level (the moving pace of snails exposed to 33 PSU). We did not detect any meaningful differences in locomotor response to salt stress between the two genetic lineages or between the native snails (Japan vs. Korea populations), but we found significant locomotor differences between the native and introduced groups (Japan or Korea vs. the United States). We suggest that the greater magnitude of tidal salinity fluctuation at the US location may have influenced locomotor responses to salt stress in introduced snails.
Transient Versus Two‐Dimensional Shear‐Wave Elastography in a Multistep Strategy to Detect Advanced Fibrosis in NAFLD
Authors: Cassinotto Christophe , Boursier Jérome , Paisant Anita , Guiu Boris , Irles‐Depe Marie , Canivet Clémence , Aube Christophe , de Ledinghen Victor
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

The combination of laboratory and elastography tests allows the accurate diagnosis of advanced liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD. In this study, we compared the diagnostic performances of a two‐step strategy (laboratory tests and vibration‐controlled transient elastography [VCTE] or two‐dimensional shear‐wave elastography with SuperSonic Imagine [2D‐SWE‐SSI]) and the added value of a three‐step strategy (laboratory tests and two elastography methods).

Approach and Results

From a prospective registry, we retrospectively selected 577 consecutive patients with suspicion of NAFLD who underwent laboratory tests to calculate the Fibrosis‐4 (FIB‐4) score, liver stiffness evaluation by VCTE (M and XL probes) and 2D‐SWE‐SSI, and liver biopsy. The diagnostic performances and need for liver biopsy in unclassified patients for the diagnosis of advanced fibrosis (F ≥ 3) in multistep strategies were compared. The area under the curve of FIB‐4, VCTE, and 2D‐SWE‐SSI was 0.74, 0.82, and 0.88, respectively. Using the same thresholds, the FIB‐4/2D‐SWE‐SSI and FIB‐4/VCTE diagnostic performances were comparable (sensitivity, 71.4% and 66%; specificity, 91.4% and 91.5%; and accuracy, 83.7% and 81.4%; all P = not significant). Conversely, more patients required liver biopsy after 2D‐SWE‐SSI (24.6% versus 15.3%, P < 0.001). Performing a second elastography technique in patients with unreliable or gray zone (between 8 and 10 kPa) results greatly decreased the need for liver biopsy (42/577, 7.3%). The diagnostic performances (accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity) of FIB‐4/2D‐SWE‐SSI/VCTE and FIB‐4/VCTE/2D‐SWE‐SSI were comparable (81.1%, 71.5%, and 87.9% versus 81.3%, 69.7%, and 89.5%, respectively; all P = not significant).

Conclusions

Using the same cutoff values, 2D‐SWE‐SSI is as accurate as VCTE for advanced liver fibrosis diagnosis in NAFLD. The three‐step strategy in selected patients strongly decreased the need for liver biopsy while maintaining excellent accuracy.
Adhesion barriers in laparoscopic myomectomy: Evidence from randomized clinical trials
Authors: Borghese Giulia , Raffone Antonio , Raimondo Diego , Saccone Gabriele , Travaglino Antonio , Degli Esposti Eugenia , Mastronardi Manuela , Salucci Paolo , Zullo Fulvio , Seracchioli Renato
Published: November 2020

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of different adhesion barriers in the prevention of de novo adhesion development after laparoscopic myomectomy.

Methods

A systematic review was performed by searching seven electronic databases for all randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the use of any absorbable adhesion barrier (i.e. intervention group) with either no treatment or placebo (i.e. control group) in the prevention of adhesion development after laparoscopic myomectomy.

Results

Eight RCTs with a total of 748 participants (392 in the intervention group and 356 in the control group) were included. The assessed adhesion barrier methods were: oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) in two studies, auto‐crosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) gel in two studies, 4% icodextrin solution in one study, modified HA and carboxy‐methylcellulose in one study, polyethylene glycol ester trilysine amine solution plus a borate buffer solution in one study, and polyethylene glycol amine plus dextran aldehyde polymers in another study.

Conclusion

Adhesion barrier methods showing the most promising results were: ORC, auto‐crosslinked HA gel, and polyethylene glycol amine plus dextran aldehyde polymers.
Quaternary complex Hadamard matrices of order 18
Authors: Östergård Patric R. J. , Paavola William T.
Published: November 2020

A technique for classifying Butson‐type Hadamard matrices over the complex 4th roots of unity is developed. The technique resembles the approach used by Kharaghani and Tayfeh‐Rezaie in their classification of the (real) Hadamard matrices, where the search is split into parts according to matrix types. A classification of the Butson‐type Hadamard matrices over the complex 4th roots of unity is carried out; the number of such objects up to Hadamard equivalence is 1 955 625.
Overall survival with oral selinexor plus low‐dose dexamethasone versus real‐world therapy in triple‐class‐refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Richardson Paul G. , Jagannath Sundar , Chari Ajai , Vogl Dan T. , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Moreau Philippe , Dingli David , Wei Lee‐Jen , Richter Joshua , Biran Noa , Siegel David , Reichmann William , Li Lingling , Tang Shijie , Saint‐Martin Jean‐Richard , Joshi Anita , Kauffman Michael , Shah Jatin , Shacham Sharon , Lonial Sagar
Published: November 2020

Triple‐class‐refractory multiple myeloma (MM) describes MM refractory to proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory agents, and anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibodies. In the Phase IIb STORM study (NCT02336815), oral selinexor plus low‐dose dexamethasone (Sel‐dex) demonstrated a 26.2% overall response rate in triple‐class‐refractory MM. Here, we compare overall survival (OS) of 122 patients with triple‐class‐refractory MM who received Sel‐dex in STORM Part 2 with that of 64 similar patients treated with other available therapies in a Flatiron Health Analytic Database (FHAD) cohort. OS from the date that the patients’ MM became triple‐class‐refractory was longer in STORM versus FHAD, with an unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 0.43 (P =  .0002; adjusted HR 0.35 [P  =  .011]). In a subset analysis of highly resistant patients receiving further therapies after their MM first became at least triple‐class‐refractory (i.e., who received Sel‐dex in STORM,n = 64, and non‐Sel‐dex in FHAD,n = 36), the OS was significantly longer in STORM with an unadjusted HR of 0.52 (P = .0331; adjusted HR 0.33 [P = .041]). Within the limits of this analysis, the OS of patients with at least triple‐class‐refractory MM was significantly better with Sel‐dex versus available therapies, suggesting that Sel‐dex may be associated with a meaningful OS benefit in these patients.
Medical and cytotoxicity effects of green synthesized silver nanoparticles using Achillea millefolium extract on MOLT‐4 lymphoblastic leukemia cell line
Authors: Karimi Sorour , Mahdavi Shahri Mahnaz
Published: November 2020

Green chemistry, which aims at the development of efficient methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles, is a relatively new emerging field of nanotechnology, which has economic and environment‐friendly benefits over chemical and physical processes. The present work was carried out to develop silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) using the plant (Achillea millefolium or yarrow) aqueous extract as both a reducing and capping agent under the green synthesis method. Characterization of synthesized Ag‐NPs was done using IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis). The UV–vis spectrum showed the maximum absorbance at around 440–470 nm, which suggested the formation of green synthesized Ag‐NPs. The morphological study demonstrated that the Ag‐NPs were spherical in shape with an average size of 22.4 ± 7.4 nm. The antimicrobial activities of Ag‐NPs against Fusarium and Aspergillus niger species of fungal and Escherichia coli species of bacteria were investigated through the disc diffusion and well‐diffusion method using their zone of inhibition. The cytotoxicity effect of Ag‐NPs on cell lines MOLT‐4 was evaluated by using MTT assay. These nanoparticles showed remarkable antimicrobial activity against bacterias and fungus in low concentration. The cytotoxicity studies showed that IC50 of green synthesized Ag‐NPs was 0.011 µm in comparison to 1.8 for Cisplatin which more active than anticancer drug for MOLT‐4 cell line. The results showed that the green synthesized Ag‐NPs are expected to have notable applications and can be potentially useful in pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
Revisiting the relationship between Indo‐Pacific heat content and South China Sea summer monsoon onset during 1980–2020
Authors: Feng Junqiao , Wang Fujun , Yu Lejiang , Wang Qingye , Hu Dunxin
Published: November 2020

The relationship of the tropical Indo‐Pacific upper ocean heat content (HC) and the South China Sea (SCS) summer monsoon (SCSSM) onset during 1980–2020 was investigated. It was found that when HC anomalies in the preceding winter–spring are positive (negative) in the eastern Indian–western Pacific Ocean or negative (positive) in the southwestern Indian Ocean and eastern Pacific Ocean, SCSSM onset is usually early (late). Empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis suggested that the primary EOF modes of HC anomaly in both tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans are associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). It is through modulating the westerly over the north Indian Ocean–SCS and the western north Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH) via the Walker circulation over the Indo‐Pacific basin, monsoon circulation in the Indian Ocean that the ENSO related Indo‐Pacific HC variation connects with the SCSSM onset. Both the second EOF modes for the tropical Pacific and Indian Ocean also show significant correlations with the SCSSM onset. The former related vertical motion over the SCS–far northwestern Pacific can influence the WNPSH and convection, thus occurrence of the SCSSM. The latter represents the intrinsic Indian Ocean HC variability; the air temperature variation associated with it can modulate the atmospheric circulation in the Indian Ocean–SCS through thermal wind balance, and thus the SCSSM onset by acting on the westerly over the SCS and the WNPSH. A western Pacific index and an Indian Ocean dipole index were defined to represent the leading HC modes in the tropical Pacific and Indian Ocean, respectively. A binary linear regression model was constructed using these two indices to improve SCSSM onset prediction.
Preconditioning improves muscle regeneration after ischemia–reperfusion injury
Authors: Zhang He , Liu Mengyao , Kim Hubert T. , Feeley Brian T. , Liu Xuhui
Published: November 2020

Ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) is a critical condition associated with serious clinical manifestations. Extensive research has focused on the strategies increasing organ tolerance to IRI. Preconditioning (PC) has been shown to provide protection to various organs toward IRI. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the role of PC on muscle regeneration after IRI and the potential underlying mechanisms. Three‐month‐old male UCP‐1 reporter mice underwent unilateral hindlimb IRI with or without PC, the tissue viability and injury index were measured at 24 h after IRI. Hindlimb gait, muscle contractility, muscle histology were analyzed at 2 weeks after IRI. In another group of animals, β3 adrenergic receptor (β3AR) agonist amibegron and β3AR antagonist SR‐59230A were administrated before PC/IRI, the hindlimb function and muscle regeneration were evaluated at 2 weeks after IRI. Our results showed that PC has little effect on improving the tissue viability at the acute phase of IRI, but it showed a long‐term beneficial role of improving hindlimb function and muscle regeneration as evidenced by increased central nuclei regenerating myofibers. The effects of PC are related to inducing muscle fibro–adipogenic progenitor (FAP) brown/beige‐like adipocyte (BAT) differentiation. Amibegron treatment displayed a similar role of PC while SR‐59230A abolished the effect of PC. This study suggests PC has a beneficial role in promoting muscle regeneration after IRI through β3AR signaling pathway‐stimulated FAP–BAT differentiation.
Trends and Novel Research in Hospital Nutrition Care: A Narrative Review of Leading Clinical Nutrition Journals
Authors: Keller Heather H. , Laur Celia , Dhaliwal Rupinder , Allard Johane P. , Clermont‐Dejean Nayima , Duerksen Donald R. , Elias Evan , Gramlich Leah , Lakananurak Narisorn , Laporte Manon
Published: November 2020

Hospital malnutrition is a longstanding problem that continues to be underrecognized and undertreated. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize novel, solution‐focused, recent research or commentary to update providers on the prevention of iatrogenic malnutrition as well as the detection and treatment of hospital malnutrition. A narrative review was completed using the top 11 clinically relevant nutrition journals. Of the 13,850 articles and editorials published in these journals between 2013 and 2019, 511 were related to hospital malnutrition. A duplicate review was used to select (n = 108) and extract key findings from articles and editorials. Key criteria for selection were population of interest (adult hospital patients, no specific diagnostic group), solution‐focused, and novel perspectives. Articles were categorized (6 classified in >1 category) as Screening and Assessment (n = 17), Standard (n = 25), Advanced (n = 12) and Specialized Nutrition Care (n = 8), Transitions (n = 15), Multicomponent (n = 21), Education and Empowerment (n = 9), Economic Impact (n = 3), and Guidelines (n = 4) for summarizing. Research advances in screening implementation, standard nutrition care, transitions, and multicomponent interventions provide new strategies to consider for malnutrition prevention (iatrogenic), detection, and care. However, several areas requiring further research were identified. Specifically, larger and more rigorous studies that examine health outcomes and economic analyses are urgently needed.
Structural and Raman study of the thermoelectric solid solution Sr1.9La0.1Nb2O7
Authors: Ojeda‐Galván Hiram Joazet , Rodríguez‐Aranda Ma. del Carmen , Rodríguez Ángel Gabriel , Alanis Javier , Íñiguez Jorge , Mendoza María Eugenia , Navarro‐Contreras Hugo Ricardo
Published: November 2020

Ceramic powder samples of the perovskite‐slab‐layered polycrystalline Sr1.9La0.1Nb2O7 (SLNO1) thermoelectric solid solution were prepared via solid‐state reaction. The Raman effect was studied as a function of temperature between 27°C and 400°C (at ambient pressure) and pressures up to 11.6 GPa (at room temperature). The atomic disorder introduced by the La atoms produced phonon lines that were broader than those of Sr2Nb2O7 (SNO). We detected a temperature‐induced phase transition at Ti−c = 247 ± 5°C (ambient pressure) and a pressure‐induced phase transition at Pi−c = 6.74 ± 0.25 GPa (room temperature), which correspond to the reported SNO incommensurate‐to‐commensurate phase transitions at 215°C (atmospheric pressure) and Pi−c = 6.54 ± 0.25 GPa (27°C), respectively. In this paper, the phenomenological and structural differences between SNO and SLNO1 are discussed based on density functional theory calculations of Sr2−xLaxNb2O7 (x = 0.0625 and 0.125) supercells.
Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) score has the major impact on outcome prediction in elderly surgical patients with colorectal cancer: The FRAGIS study
Authors: Pata Giacomo , Bianchetti Luca , Rota Matteo , Marengoni Alessandra , Chiesa Deborah , Cassinotti Elisa , Palmisano Silvia , Colombi Marta , Del Zotto Giulio , Romanelli Giuseppe , Calza Stefano , Boni Luigi , De Manzini Nicolò , Fumagalli Romario Uberto
Published: November 2020

Background

This study aims (I) to evaluate whether the Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) score is associated with postoperative outcomes and (II) to develop a prognostic model for individual complication‐risk prediction following colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery.

Method

This is a prospective multicentric cohort study. Consecutive ≥75‐year‐old candidates for elective CRC surgery were enrolled from October 2017 to August 2019. Patients underwent standardized preoperative geriatric assessment including the MPI. Patients with MPI score > 0.33 were classified as frail. Logistic regression models were employed to evaluate variables associated with major postoperative complications and mortality, using 10‐fold cross‐validated LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) for model selection.

Results

In all, 104 patients were included, 34 (33%) had MPI score > 0.33. Major postoperative complications occurred in 52% of frail versus 16% of fit (MPI score ≤ 0.33) patients (p < .01). Both 30‐day (9% vs. 0%;p = .033) and 90‐day mortality (18% vs. 1%;p < .01) were higher among frail patients. In multivariate analysis, MPI score was associated with adverse outcomes. A final postoperative complication predictive model was created, including MPI score, gait‐speed test, ASA (American Society of Anesthesiology) score, surgical approach, and stoma creation.

Conclusion

MPI score is strongly associated with postoperative major complications in CRC elderly patients and it is a primary component of an individual prediction model.
New Consideration of Herlyn‐Werner‐Wunderlich Syndrome Diagnosed by Ultrasound
Authors: Liu Meijuan , Zhang Li , Xia Yu , Huang Xuepei , Ye Tiantian , Zhang Yixiu , Qi Zhenhong , Wang Liang , Lai Xingjian , Dai Qing , Jiang Yuxin
Published: November 2020

Objectives

As a rare malformation of the female reproductive system, Herlyn‐Werner‐Wunderlich syndrome (HWWS) was categorized into 3 classifications. It was recommended recently that, on the basis of the past classification, cervicovaginal atresia without communicating uteri should be newly added as classification 4. The surgical intervention will differ by type. To better optimize patient counseling as well as the preoperative evaluation and planning, our objective was to describe the ultrasound characteristics of each type of HWWS, including the new type.

Methods

From January 1995 to November 2015, 37 cases of HWWS in with complete ultrasound information confirmed by surgery in the Peking Union Medical College Hospital were reviewed. We analyzed their ultrasound features, including hematometra, hematocervix, hematocolpos, and an ovarian chocolate cyst.

Results

All of the ultrasound images of the 37 patients showed uterus didelphys with ipsilateral renal agenesis. Compared with the other 3 types, classification 4 showed distinctive ultrasound characteristics. Most cases of classification 4 showed hematometra (5 of 7 [71.4%]) and an ipsilateral ovarian chocolate cyst (6 of 7 [85.7%]), which was significantly higher than in the other 3. A rudimentary uterine horn was also a distinctive characteristic in this type. Meanwhile none of the classification 4 cases showed hematocervix or hydrocolpos, which were common signs of the other 3.

Conclusions

According to this new classification criteria for HWWS, ultrasound characteristics of the new classification 4 differ from the others. As classification 4 was suggested to have a different surgical option, we should pay attention to its ultrasound characteristics, which might help in providing more information about the treatment and prognosis to the gynecologist.
Formononetin exhibits anticancer activity in gastric carcinoma cell and regulatingmiR‐542‐5p
Authors: Wang Wei‐Song , Zhao Can‐Song
Published: November 2020

Formononetin exhibits anti‐neoplastic activities in specific types of cancers, such as colon carcinoma and breast cancer. Nevertheless, its role in suppressing gastric carcinoma (GC) growth and metastatic‐associated phenotypes has not been fully understood. Here, we demonstrated that formononetin decreased the viability of GC cell line SGC‐7901 and MGC‐803. Furthermore, formononetin suppressed the migration and invasion abilities of GC cells. Consistent with the results in vitro, the anticancer effect of formononetin was verified using xenograft model. The expression of microRNA‐542‐5p (miR‐542‐5p), acted as an oncogene in many cancers, was identified to be upregulated in GC. Importantly, miR‐542‐5p might involve in formononetin exhibits anticancer activity in GC cells. Taken together, these results indicate that formononetin inhibits the growth and aggressiveness of GC cells in vitro and in vivo.
Treatment of Pain in Keloids Using Only a Long‐Pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG Laser
Authors: Patel Payal M. , Bakus Abnoeal D. , Garden Benjamin C. , Lai Olivia , Jones Virginia A. , Garden Jerome M.
Published: November 2020

Background and Objective

Keloids are benign lesions arising from overproduction of the extracellular matrix and abnormal collagen deposition by dermal fibroblasts. This altered wound healing typically occurs in response to dermal trauma. Keloid treatment poses a challenge due to the variable nature of treatment response, which can be affected by the size, appearance, and associated symptoms of erythema, pruritus, and pain. Recently, successful treatment of keloids has been reported using the Nd:YAG laser in conjunction with 5‐fluorouracil and intralesional corticosteroids. We present a series of patients with symptomatic keloids, who we treated with only a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Eight patients of Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI presented for treatment of keloids with associated symptoms of pain. The keloids were most commonly located on the trunk, and seven patients had intralesional steroid injections prior to presentation with persistence of symptoms. Patient treatment consisted of two passes under a long‐pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser with a 10 mm spot size, a fluence of 18–19 J/cm2, and 60 ms pulse duration every 3–8 weeks. Patient‐reported pain scores were collected before and after treatment.

Results

Following treatment, transient erythema and mild edema were noted at the treatment site. All patients reported improvement in the symptoms of pain, with an average of a 5‐point reduction using a 10‐point scale (R: 2–10). Five out of eight patients had total resolution of their pain. An average of 3.25 treatments (R:1–5) were needed for patients to first notice an improvement in the pain. A Wilcoxon signed‐rank test showed that treatment with a 1064 nm laser elicited a statistically significant improvement in pain in individuals with keloids (Z = 2.46, P = 0.01). No patients in our study suffered any scarring or pigment changes as a result of these treatments.

Conclusion

Keloids are a common condition with variable rates of treatment satisfaction. Lasers have been used in an attempt to improve clinical appearance and associated symptoms. We report a significant reduction in pain for patients treated exclusively with a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Hypothermic Oxygenated Perfusion Improves Extended Criteria Donor Liver Graft Function and Reduces Duration of Hospitalization Without Extra Cost: The PERPHO Study
Authors: Rayar Michel , Beaurepaire Jean‐Marie , Bajeux Emma , Hamonic Stéphanie , Renard Thomas , Locher Clara , Desfourneaux Véronique , Merdrignac Aude , Bergeat Damien , Lakehal Mohamed , Sulpice Laurent , Houssel‐Debry Pauline , Jezequel Caroline , Camus Christophe , Bardou‐Jacquet Edouard , Meunier Bernard
Published: November 2020

Few studies have evaluated the efficacy or the cost of hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE) in the conservation of extended criteria donor (ECD) grafts from donation after brain death (DBD) donors during liver transplantation (LT). We performed a prospective, monocentric study (NCT03376074) designed to evaluate the interest of HOPE for ECD‐DBD grafts. For comparison, a control group was selected after propensity score matching among patients who received transplants between 2010 and 2017. Between February and November 2018, the HOPE procedure was used in 25 LTs. Immediately after LT, the median aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level was significantly lower in the HOPE group (724UI versus 1284UI; P = 0.046) as were the alanine aminotransferase (ALT; 392UI versus 720UI; P = 0.01), lactate (2.2 versus 2.7; P = 0.01) There was a significant reduction in intensive care unit stay (3 versus 5 days; P = 0.01) and hospitalization (15 versus 20 days; P = 0.01). The incidence of early allograft dysfunction (EAD; 28% versus 42%; P = 0.22) was similar . A level of AST or ALT in perfusate >800UI was found to be highly predictive of EAD occurrence (areas under the curve, 0.92 and 0.91, respectively). The 12‐month graft (88% versus 89.5%; P = 1.00) and patient survival rates (91% versus 91.3%; P = 1.00) were similar. The additional cost of HOPE was estimated at € 5298 per patient. The difference between costs and revenues, from the hospital's perspective, was not different between the HOPE and control groups (respectively, € 3023 versus € 4059]; IC, –€ 5470 and € 8652). HOPE may improve ECD graft function and reduce hospitalization stay without extra cost. These results must be confirmed in a randomized trial.
Hermite–Hadamard–Fejér inequalities for generalized conformable fractional integrals
Authors: Mehmood Sikander , Zafar Fiza , Yasmin Nusrat
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we study generalized definitions of left and right conformable fractional derivative and integrals. Some applications of the generalized definition are also given for the nonlinear fractional differential equations. We also establish identities associated with the left‐ and right‐hand side of Hermite–Hadamard–Fejér inequality for preinvex functions. We, then, give some new bounds for the Hermite–Hadamard–Fejér inequalities for preinvex functions using the generalized conformable fractional integrals.
Sources of get information and related factors during pregnancy among Afghan migrant women in Iran
Authors: Sharifi Mahnaz , Amiri‐Farahani Leila , Kariman Nourossadat , Hasanpoor‐Azghady Syedeh Batool , Amiri‐Farahani Mina
Published: November 2020

Aim

The present study aims to investigate the sources of information and its related factors among pregnant Afghan migrant women who reside in southeast Tehran Province, Iran.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 280 pregnant Afghan women who received care at the prenatal clinics of selected healthcare centres in southeast Tehran Province (Iran) in 2018 enrolled in this study. Data were collected by continuous sampling by a questionnaire that asked about demographic, obstetric and sources of information used during pregnancy.

Results

The most important sources of information accessed by pregnant Afghan women were healthcare providers (65.1%), family and friends (47.55%), the Internet (32.1%) and media (18.9%). There was statistically a significant relationship between sources of information and education level, number of children, length of residence in Iran, place of birth and insurance status.
A fuzzy solution of wave equation by FFS‐transform
Authors: Allahviranloo Tofigh , Ghobadi Mostafa , Matinfar Mashallah
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we introduce a fuzzy Fourier sine transform decomposition as an analytical solution of a fuzzy wave equation under generalized Hukuhara partial differentiability. Since the fuzzy transforms have already been proven to solve several problems in different fields, they propel us to utilize them as a practical and appropriate way to solve the wave equation. The theorems and properties are demonstrated in detail, then the efficiency of the proposed approach is confirmed through solving several examples.
A panel data examination of income inequality in 24 African countries
Authors: Yadav Shruti , Antil Neha , Gupta Deepa , Kandpal Vinay
Published: November 2020

Income inequality measures the highlighted gaps between the household disposable income between individuals, groups, etc. Rising concern for financial access to all has greatly influenced this macroeconomic indicator. Africa has majority of countries with worse equality conditions. Though African countries are recipients of external aids from different entities, a high level of corruption directs the benefits to private wealth. The gain of economic growth is disproportionately shared and is skewed. The purpose of the study is to determine the factors responsible for income inequality. We have used unbalanced panel data of 24 African countries for the period 1990–2015 (5‐year averages) of several macroeconomic indicators such as GINI index, literacy, control of corruption, gross domestic product (GDP) growth, household consumption, inflation, etc. We estimated four regression models (OLS fixed effects and random effects) with an increasing number of independent variables. Further, we chose the best model according to Hausman test and conducted a restricted F‐test to check for non‐spurious variables. We concluded one of the models as statistically significant and robust to explain Income Inequality in Africa. Also, we tested for multicollinearity in variables via the correlation matrix and variance inflation index (VIF) and eliminated the population variable, which was significant. We concluded that six factors are non‐spurious and explain the income inequality variable in a statistically significant manner. Implications of this report can be used for making policies and schemes with respect to the underline variables so that the nations will be able to reduce the inequality gap.
Examining the effects of the personal matrix activity with diverse students
Authors: Muldrew Alexandria C. , Miller Faith G.
Published: November 2020

Tier 1 implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) focuses on developing, teaching, and reinforcing school‐wide behavioral expectations. Yet, it is unclear whether expectations align with the cultural experiences of students from diverse backgrounds. The Personal Matrix Activity (PMA) provides students with an opportunity to describe behavioral expectations across settings and is intended to help bridge cultural gaps that may exist between school and other contexts. The purpose of this study was to examine the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of the PMA with culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students in a school already implementing PBIS. Participating classrooms (N = 4) consisted of students (N = 74) who all identified as nonwhite and the majority of whom (81%) were non‐native English speakers. A multiple baseline design across classrooms was implemented with Direct Behavior Rating – Single Item Scales targeting class‐wide respectful and disruptive behavior as primary outcomes. Both visual and quantitative analyses illustrated the class‐wide behaviors of CLD students improved after implementation of the PMA. The PMA appeared feasible to implement and preliminary evidence of effects indicate promise. Future research evaluating the PMA and other culturally responsive PBIS practices is warranted.
Proteomics in the COVID‐19 Battlefield: First Semester Check‐Up
Authors: Grenga Lucia , Armengaud Jean
Published: November 2020

Proteomics offers a wide collection of methodologies to study biological systems at the finest granularity. Faced with COVID‐19, the most worrying pandemic in a century, proteomics researchers have made significant progress in understanding how the causative virus hijacks the host's cellular machinery and multiplies exponentially, how the disease can be diagnosed, and how it develops, as well as its severity predicted. Numerous cellular targets of potential interest for the development of new antiviral drugs have been documented. Here, the most striking results obtained in the proteomics field over this first semester of the pandemic are presented. The molecular machinery of SARS‐CoV‐2 is much more complex than initially believed, as many post‐translational modifications can occur, leading to a myriad of proteoforms and a broad heterogeneity of viral particles. The interplay of protein–protein interactions, protein abundances, and post‐translational modifications has yet to be fully documented to provide a full picture of this intriguing but lethal biological threat. Proteomics has the potential to provide rapid detection of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus by mass spectrometry proteotyping, and to further increase the knowledge of severe respiratory syndrome COVID‐19 and its long‐term health consequences.
Interprofessional Practitioners' Opinions on Features and Services for an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Brain‐Computer Interface Device
Authors: Hill Katya , Huggins Jane , Woodworth Chelsea
Published: November 2020

Background

Brain‐computer interface (BCI) technology is an emerging access method to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.

Objectives

To identify, in the early stages of research and development, the perceptions and considerations of interprofessional practice (IPP) team members regarding features and functions for an AAC‐BCI device.

Design

Qualitative research methodology applying a grounded theory approach using focus groups with a follow‐up survey of participants using NVivo analysis software supporting inductive coding of transcription data.

Setting

Focus groups held at university, clinic, and industry conference rooms. Discussion was stimulated by a 14‐minute video on an AAC‐BCI device prototype. The prototype hardware and electroencephalography (EEG) gel and dry electrode headgear were on display.

Participants

Convenience sample of practitioners providing rehabilitation or clinical services to individuals with severe communication disorders and movement impairments who use AAC and/or other assistive technology.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Descriptive statistics using thematic analysis of participants' opinions, input, and feedback on the ideal design for a noninvasive, EEG‐based P300 AAC‐BCI device.

Results

Interrater and interjudge reliability were at 98% and 100%, respectively, for transcription and researcher coding. Triangulation of multiple data sources supported theme and subtheme identification that included design features, set‐up and calibration, services, and effectiveness. An AAC device with BCI access was unanimously confirmed (100%) as a desirable commercial product. Participants felt that the AAC‐BCI prototype appeared effective for meeting daily communication needs (75%). Results showed that participants' preference on headgear types would change based on accuracy (91%) and rate (83%) of performance. A data‐logging feature was considered beneficial by 100% of participants.

Conclusions

IPP teams provided critical impressions on design, services, and features for a commercial AAC‐BCI device. Expressed feature and function preferences showed dependence on communication accuracy, rate, and effectiveness. This provides vital guidance for successful clinical deployment.
Unmet needs from the first diagnosis of cancer until the end of medical treatment: A longitudinal study
Authors: Gao Yuhan , Zhu Lei , Xie Juan , Liu Ailan , Ding Yanni , Yao Juntao
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study aimed to examine (1) The courses of Chinese cancer patients' unmet supportive care needs (psychological, physical and daily living, health system and information, patient care and support, and sexual) from the first cancer diagnosis until the end of medical treatment; (2) The predictive role of socio‐demographic and medical characteristics (i.e., age, gender, and cancer stage) in the courses of unmet needs; and (3) The associations of courses of unmet needs with courses of depressive and anxiety symptoms.

Methods

A longitudinal study was performed at Shaanxi Provincial Tumour Hospital in Xi'an, China. A total of 153 heterogeneous cancer patients were assessed after the first diagnosis (T1), at the beginning (T2) and the end (T3) of the receipt of medical treatment. Latent growth curve models were used to examine the research questions.

Results

Psychological needs and health system and information needs showed a decrease over time, whereas physical needs, patient care needs and sexual needs remained stable. Younger and female patients tended to report higher levels of unmet psychological needs at T1 and experienced slower decreases from T1 to T3. Only the courses of unmet psychological needs were associated with the courses of depressive and anxiety symptoms from T1 to T3.

Conclusions

More attention can be given to young and female cancer patients, as they were more likely to suffer from high unmet psychological needs over the disease trajectory. Future research may focus more on addressing unmet needs reported by Chinese cancer patients.
An Experimental Comparison of Selected Blue Flame Pyrotechnics
Authors: Juknelevicius Dominykas , Hahma Arno , Webb Rutger , Klapötke Thomas M. , Ramanavicius Arunas
Published: November 2020

In this research, 10 different pyrotechnic blue flame compositions were designed and compared. Chromaticity and luminosity parameters of the flame were measured using Ocean Optics JAZ‐ULM VIS‐Spectrometer equipped with a cosine corrector. Color saturation, luminous intensity, specific luminous intensity, oxygen balance, burn rate, actual and theoretical maximum density, color coordinates (X, Y) are presented and discussed.
Crystal structure of PYCH_01220 from Pyrococcus yayanosii potentially involved in binding nucleic acid
Authors: Noh Haemin , Jeon Jae‐Hyun , Kim Yeon‐Gil , Oh Byung‐Ha
Published: November 2020

We report the crystal structure of PYCH_01220, a hypothetical protein in Pyrococcus yayanosii CH1. This protein is composed of two domains, named Domain A and Domain B. While Domain B is not significantly homologous to known protein structures, Domain A is structurally analogous to the C‐terminal ribonuclease domain of Escherichia coli colicin D. Domain A has a positively charged surface patch rendered by 13 basic residues, eight arginine or lysine residues of which are evolutionarily conserved. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed that PYCH_01220 binds to DNA, and charge‐inversion mutations on this patch negatively affect the DNA binding, suggesting that the function of PYCH_01220 might involve nucleic acid‐binding via the positively charged patch.
A comprehensive view of trust in education: Conclusions from a systematic literature review
Authors: Niedlich Sebastian , Kallfaß Annika , Pohle Silvana , Bormann Inka
Published: November 2020

Trust is considered to be a crucial element of social cohesion. At the same time, as research has shown, education can be understood as an important precondition of trust. Furthermore, contextual conditions are important for the development of trust. In spite of this, the role of trust in the multi‐level education system has been scarcely investigated. This paper introduces a comprehensive model of trust in the education system, based on a systematic literature review of 183 recent peer‐reviewed articles following a thematic and interpretive review approach. The suggested model consists of four interconnected elements (generalised trust, educational governance, educational settings, educational attainment). By introducing a comprehensive model of trust in multi‐level education systems the paper aims at opening up perspectives for future theoretically driven, interdisciplinary comparative research that may shed further light on the role of trust in education systems. The paper proceeds as follows. First, trust is discussed as a complex subject in research, policy and practice in multi‐level education systems, and key research questions are derived from this. Second, the methodology of the systematic literature review is explained. Third, results from the literature review are presented, focusing on three domains of trust and their interrelations. Fourth, the comprehensive model of trust in multi‐level education systems is introduced. The fifth section discusses the findings and explores how future research could advance a comprehensive understanding of trust in education.
Modification of the glass surface with hydrophobic silica thin layers using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS) precursors
Authors: Darmawan Adi , Rasyid Sabila Akhbar , Astuti Yayuk
Published: November 2020

The synthesis of the hydrophobic silica layer was conducted using the sol–gel method by reacting silica precursor trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS) and tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) with variations in the precursor composition ratio (TMCS:TEOS) of 10:90, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, and 90:10 and then calcined at various temperatures. The TMCS‐TEOS silica thin layer has a significant influence on the surface hydrophobicity of the glass. The higher the number of TMCS precursors, the greater the contact angle produced. The highest contact angle produced was 98° at a TMCS‐TEOS ratio of 75:25 and without calcination. The TMCS‐TEOS silica thin layer contact angle decreased with increasing calcination temperature. The hydrophobicity of the TMCS‐TEOS silica thin layer could withstand temperatures up to 300°C. Quantitative analysis of FTIR spectra's peak area shows that with the increasing TMCS, the ratio of silanol/siloxane decreases. Gas sorption analysis shows that the TMCS‐TEOS thin layers' pore sizes are in the mesoporous region, and the pore shapes are cylindrical at all TMCS:TEOS ratios and calcination temperatures.
Extending the footprint record of Pareiasauromorpha to the Cisuralian: earlier appearance and wider palaeobiogeography of the group
Authors: Marchetti Lorenzo , Voigt Sebastian , Mujal Eudald , Lucas Spencer G. , Francischini Heitor , Fortuny Josep , Santucci Vincent L.
Published: November 2020

Pareiasauromorpha is one of the most important tetrapod groups of the Permian. Skeletal evidence suggests a late Kungurian origin in North America, whereas the majority of occurrences come from the Guadalupian and Lopingian of South Africa and Russia. However, Pareiasauromorpha footprints include the ichnogenus Pachypes, which is unknown from strata older than late Guadalupian. A revision of several Pachypes‐like footprints from the Cisuralian–Guadalupian of Europe and North America confirm the occurrence of this ichnogenus and of the ichnospecies Pachypes ollieri comb. nov. beginning in the Artinskian. This is the earliest known occurrence of Pachypes and it coincides with the Artinskian reptile radiation. Based on a synapomorphy‐based track–trackmaker correlation, P. ollieri can be attributed to nycteroleter pareiasauromorphs such as Macroleter. Therefore, the earliest occurrences of pareiasauromorph footprints precede by at least 10 myr the earliest occurrence of this group in the skeletal record. Moreover, the palaeobiogeography of the group is extended to the Cisuralian and Guadalupian of western Europe.
Statistical significance calculations for scenarios in visual inference
Authors: VanderPlas Susan , Röttger Christian , Cook Dianne , Hofmann Heike
Published: November 2020

Statistical inference provides the protocols for conducting rigorous science, but data plots provide the opportunity to discover the unexpected. These disparate endeavours are bridged by visual inference, where a lineup protocol can be employed for statistical testing. Human observers are needed to assess the lineups, typically using a crowd‐sourcing service. This paper describes a new approach for computing statistical significance associated with the results from applying a lineup protocol. It utilizes a Dirichlet distribution to accommodate different levels of visual interest in individual null panels. The suggested procedures facilitate statistical inference for a broader range of data problems.