bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Procedure‐related bleeding risk in patients with cirrhosis and severe thrombocytopenia
Authors: Alvaro Domenico , Caporaso Nicola , Giannini Edoardo Giovanni , Iacobellis Angelo , Morelli Mariacristina , Toniutto Pierluigi , Violi Francesco ,   The PReBRiC (Procedure‐Related Bleeding Risk in Cirrhosis) group
Published: February 2021

Background

Gaps of knowledge still exist about the potential association between severe thrombocytopenia and increased risk of procedure‐associated bleeding in patients with liver disease.

Methods

In this narrative review, we aimed at examining the association between procedure‐related bleeding risk and platelet count in patients with cirrhosis and severe thrombocytopenia in various settings. We updated to 2020 a previously conducted literature search using MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE. The search string included clinical studies, adult patients with chronic liver disease and thrombocytopenia undergoing invasive procedures, any interventions and comparators, and haemorrhagic events of any severity as outcome.

Results

The literature search identified 1276 unique publications, and 15 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed together with those identified by the previous search. Most of the new studies included in our analysis did not assess the association between post‐procedural bleeding risk and platelet count alone in patients with chronic liver disease. Furthermore, some results could have been biased by prophylactic platelet transfusions. A few studies found that severe thrombocytopenia may be predictive of bleeding following percutaneous liver biopsy, dental extractions, percutaneous ablation of liver tumours and endoscopic polypectomy.

Conclusions

Currently available literature cannot support definitive conclusions about the appropriate target platelet counts to improve the risk of bleeding in cirrhotic patients who underwent invasive procedures; moreover, it showed enormous variability in the use of prophylactic platelet transfusions.
Evolvability and evolutionary rescue
Authors: Feiner Nathalie , Brun‐Usan Miguel , Uller Tobias
Published: February 2021

The survival prospects of threatened species or populations can sometimes be improved by adaptive change. Such evolutionary rescue is particularly relevant when the threat comes from changing environments, or when long‐term population persistence requires range expansion into new habitats. Conservation biologists are therefore often interested in whether or not populations or lineages show a disposition for adaptive evolution, that is, if they are evolvable. Here, we discuss four alternative perspectives that target different causes of evolvability and outline some of the key challenges those perspectives are designed to address. Standing genetic variation provides one familiar estimate of evolvability. Yet, the mere presence of genetic variation is often insufficient to predict if a population will adapt, or how it will adapt. The reason is that adaptive change not only depends on genetic variation, but also on the extent to which this genetic variation can be realized as adaptive phenotypic variation. This requires attention to developmental systems and how plasticity influences evolutionary potential. Finally, we discuss how a better understanding of the different factors that contribute to evolvability can be exploited in conservation practice.
Factors affecting seasonal habitat use of native brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) in urban headwater streams
Authors: Blair Scott G. , Gutowsky Lee F.G. , Fox Michael G.
Published: February 2021

To better understand the ecology of coldwater fishes in urban‐dominated landscapes, factors influencing seasonal brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) habitat use were assessed using backpack electrofishing surveys in three urban groundwater‐fed streams in central Ontario. Generalised additive models revealed that yearling brook trout (<100 mm TL) were primarily influenced by water quality (stream temperature, conductivity), while older brook trout (≥100 mm TL) were primarily influenced by stream morphology (water depth, undercut bank volume). Colder stream temperatures were preferred by yearlings in summer, whereas they occupied the warmest temperatures available in winter and spring. Yearlings were never found in sites with high stream conductivity (≥ 900 µs/cm), regardless of season, which may be attributed to poor water quality in stream sections with stormwater influence. Older brook trout were found mainly at intermediate pool depths in spring and summer, while there was a greater range of depths used during the spawning season. Undercut banks were important for older brook trout occupancy at all times of year. The protection of groundwater aquifers in urban watersheds is recommended to maintain optimal temperature regimes for the persistence and successful recruitment of native brook trout.
Contemporary predoctoral paediatric behaviour guidance education in the United States and Canada
Authors: Weishuhn David , Scully Allison , Amini Homa , Salzmann Larry , Boynton James R.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To determine the contemporary educational experiences of predoctoral dental students in the United States and Canada regarding behaviour guidance (BG) of the child patient and assess trends from a previous study in 2004.

Methods

Data were collected from 32 predoctoral paediatric dentistry programme directors in the United States and Canada via a web‐based survey.

Results

The didactic curriculum hours devoted to the teaching of BG techniques in 2019 are similar to 2004. A majority (60.7%) of programmes do not have a formal assessment of competency with BG techniques. Lectures (n = 28), clinical experience (n = 28) and observation (n = 26) were the most common techniques implemented to teach BG techniques, and tell‐show‐do (100%), non‐verbal communication (82.1%), positive reinforcement (89.3%) and distraction (82.1%) were the techniques that more than 75% of dental students most commonly have hands‐on experience with during their dental education. In 2019, students tended to have more hands‐on experience with nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation and less hands‐on experience with aversive techniques and sedation.

Conclusions

The majority of dental schools do not have a formal competency in BG of the child patient. Compared with 2004, nitrous oxide/oxygen is used more by dental students and there is less predoctoral education in aversive BG techniques.
Brazilian dental students and COVID‐19: A survey on knowledge and perceptions
Authors: Aragão Maria Gerusa Brito , Gomes Francisco Isaac Fernandes , Pinho Maia Paixão‐de‐Melo Letícia , Corona Silmara Aparecida Milori
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study evaluated the knowledge and perceptions of Brazilian dental students about COVID‐19 and the undergraduate clinical practice during the COVID‐19 outbreak by a self‐administered Web‐based questionnaire.

Methods

A social network campaign on Instagram was raised to approach the target population. The survey covered demographic and academic profile, general knowledge, preventive measures and perception about COVID‐19. Descriptive statistics were used to identify frequencies and distributions of variables, which were compared by type of institution and current year of enrolment using the Chi‐square or Fisher's exact tests (α = 0.05).

Results

A total of 833 valid responses were received over 10 days. Students were able to identify the incubation period, main symptoms and contagious routes of the disease but struggled in recognising the name of the virus responsible for the pandemic. Hand washing before and after a dental appointment with a patient (97.7%) followed by the use of barriers to protect mucosa (97.2%) were the more frequently recognised measures to prevent COVID‐19 spread in the dental office. As for the perception of COVID‐19, 73.2% of the dental students perceived the disease as severe, whilst only 11.1% of them thought that COVID‐19 is severe only for people presenting risk factors. Dental student's knowledge and perception were associated with the type of institution and year of enrolment.

Conclusion

In summary, the dental students demonstrated an acceptable general knowledge about COVID‐19, but dental schools will need to address gaps in knowledge, preventive measures, and perceptions to ensure a safer return to in person activities.
Perfectionism and dignity
Authors: Gilabert Pablo
Published: February 2021

Perfectionism about well‐being is, at a minimum, the view that people's lives go well when, and because, they realize their capacities. It is common to link perfectionism with an idea of human essence or nature, to view well‐being as the unfolding of characteristically human capacities. This article argues that perfectionism would be more plausible if it abandons reliance on the idea of human nature and focuses instead on the unfolding of some valuable capacities that need not be unique to, or shared by all human beings. The article develops this revised perfectionism through the dignitarian approach—the view that we have reason to organize our personal and social life in such a way that we respond appropriately to the valuable features of individuals that give rise to their dignity. According to the resulting proposal—Dignitarian Perfectionism—human individuals' well‐being consists, at least in part, in developing and exercising the capacities at the basis of their dignity. Dignitarian Perfectionism is evaluative all the way down, pragmatic but not unprincipled, and holistic. Furthermore, it can make sense of the role of some generalizations that animated some of the plausibility of traditional perfectionism—and this without the pitfalls of reliance on an idea of human nature.
Hospital admissions for dental disorders in patients with severe mental illness in Southeast London: A register‐based cohort study
Authors: Chaturvedi Jaya , Sabbah Wael , Gallagher Jennifer E. , Turner Jonathan , Curl Charlotte , Stewart Robert
Published: February 2021

In people with mental disorders, adverse general health is well recognized but dental diseases remain underinvestigated. The objective of this study was to investigate risk factors for hospital admissions for dental disorders in patients with severe mental illness (SMI) and/or depressive disorder. De‐identified electronic mental health records from the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) were linked to national Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data for analysis. Data were extracted for adults with a diagnosis of SMI (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder) and/or depression, who had received care at SLaM between 1 January 2010 and 31 March 2017. In the cohort of 18,999 patients thus obtained, the following factors were independently associated with hospital admission for dental disorders: female gender [odds ratio (OR) = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.31–1.68)], Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS) problem drinking/drug taking (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.05–1.19), HoNOS physical illness/disability (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.12–.25), diabetes (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.06–1.43), recorded current/past smoking (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.06–1.43), treatment with antidepressant medication (OR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.31–1.68), and depressive disorder (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.11–1.68). Building on previous research in this population, which indicated a relatively high risk of acute care hospitalizations with dental disorders as discharge diagnoses, a number of demographic and clinical characteristics were found to be independent predictors over a 7‐yr period. Further research into these predictors would facilitate a better understanding of how adverse dental outcomes might be prevented.
Robust design of a robot gripper mechanism using new hybrid grasshopper optimization algorithm
Authors: Yildiz Betül Sultan , Pholdee Nantiwat , Bureerat Sujin , Yildiz Ali Riza , Sait Sadiq M.
Published: February 2021

Structural design and optimization are important topics for the control and design of industrial robots. The motivation behind this research is to design a robot gripper mechanism. To explore robust design of the robot gripper mechanism, a new optimization approach based on a grasshopper optimization algorithm and Nelder–Mead algorithm is developed for requiring a fast and accurate solution. Additionally, a vehicle side crash design problem, a multi‐clutch disc problem, and a manufacturing optimization problem are solved with the developed method to show the advantages of the new technique (HGOANM). Both engineering comparisons and production problem results in which HGOANM is applied are compared with the latest optimization techniques in the literature. The results of the problems resolved in this article reveal that the developed HGOANM is an essential optimization approach by solving real‐world engineering problems quickly and accurately.
The Effectiveness of Family Constellation Therapy in Improving Mental Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Konkolÿ Thege Barna , Petroll Carla , Rivas Carlos , Scholtens Salome
Published: February 2021

Family/systemic constellation therapy is a short‐term group intervention aiming to help clients better understand and then change their conflictive experiences within a social system (e.g., family). The aim of the present systematic review was to synthetize the empirical evidence on the tolerability and effectiveness of this intervention in improving mental health. The PsycINFO, Embase, MEDLINE, ISI Web of Science, Psyndex, PsycEXTRA, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, The Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and an intervention‐specific organization’s databases were searched for quantitative, prospective studies published in English, German, Spanish, French, Dutch or Hungarian up until April 2020. Out of 4,197 identified records, 67 were assessed for eligibility, with 12 studies fulfilling inclusion criteria (10 independent samples; altogether 568 participants). Outcome variables were diverse ranging from positive self‐image through psychopathology to perceived quality of family relationships. Out of the 12 studies, nine showed statistically significant improvement postintervention. The studies showing no significant treatment benefit were of lower methodological quality. The random‐effect meta‐analysis—conducted on five studies in relation to general psychopathology—indicated a moderate effect (Hedges’ g of 0.531, CI: 0.387–0.676). Authors of seven studies also investigated potential iatrogenic effects and four studies reported minor or moderate negative effects in a small proportion (5–8%) of participants that potentially could have been linked to the intervention. The data accumulated to date point into the direction that family constellation therapy is an effective intervention with significant mental health benefits in the general population; however, the quantity and overall quality of the evidence is low.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy associated E22K mutation in myosin regulatory light chain decreases calcium‐activated tension and stiffness and reduces myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Wang Li , Kazmierczak Katarzyna , Yun Hang , Szczesna‐Cordary Danuta , Kawai Masataka
Published: February 2021

We investigated the mechanisms associated with E22K mutation in myosin regulatory light chain (RLC), found to cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in humans and mice. Specifically, we characterized the mechanical profiles of papillary muscle fibers from transgenic mice expressing human ventricular RLC wild‐type (Tg‐WT) or E22K mutation (Tg‐E22K). Because the two mouse models expressed different amounts of transgene, the B6SJL mouse line (NTg) was used as an additional control. Mechanical experiments were carried out on Ca2+‐ and ATP‐activated fibers and in rigor. Sinusoidal analysis was performed to elucidate the effect of E22K on tension and stiffness during activation/rigor, tension‐pCa, and myosin cross‐bridge (CB) kinetics. We found significant reductions in active tension (by 54%) and stiffness (active by 40% and rigor by 54%). A decrease in the Ca2+ sensitivity of tension (by ∆pCa ~ 0.1) was observed in Tg‐E22K compared with Tg‐WT fibers. The apparent (=measured) rate constant of exponential process B (2πb: force generation step) was not affected by E22K, but the apparent rate constant of exponential process C (2πc: CB detachment step) was faster in Tg‐E22K compared with Tg‐WT fibers. Both 2πb and 2πc were smaller in NTg than in Tg‐WT fibers, suggesting a kinetic difference between the human and mouse RLC. Our results of E22K‐induced reduction in myofilament stiffness and tension suggest that the main effect of this mutation was to disturb the interaction of RLC with the myosin heavy chain and impose structural abnormalities in the lever arm of myosin CB. When placed in vivo, the E22K mutation is expected to result in reduced contractility and decreased cardiac output whereby leading to HCM.

Sub‐Discipline

Bioenergetics.

Database

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding authors upon reasonable request.

Animal protocol

BK20150353 (Soochow University).

Research governance

School of Nursing: Hua‐Gang Hu: seuboyh@163.com; Soochow University: Chen Ge chge@suda.edu.cn.
Could spatial heterogeneity in flow disturbance drive temporal stability of native–invasive species co‐occurrence in riverscapes?
Authors: Boddy Nixie C. , McIntosh Angus R.
Published: February 2021

Spatial heterogeneity of abiotic influences like disturbance in riverscapes could play an important role in dispersal‐aided community stability. We tested if higher spatial variability in conditions around river confluences caused by different flood disturbance regimes in branches could possibly influence the stability of a fish assemblage dominated by strong negative interactions between non‐native trout and native galaxiid fishes.

We used field surveys to evaluate the effects of disturbance‐driven differences between river branches on fish densities and temporal variation in the relative abundance of galaxiids. Three repeated electrofishing surveys were conducted in two reaches of all branches of eight confluences in Canterbury, New Zealand.

We found the differences in flood disturbance regimes between the two stream branches joining at a confluence were associated with higher mean fish abundance and more temporal stability in the relative abundance of native fish. Conversely, when flood disturbance conditions in the two streams joining were similar, resulting in a homogeneous confluence, fish abundance was lower and temporal variability was higher.

For homogeneous confluences, strong interactions between native galaxiids and invasive trout probably produced lower fish densities where rivers with low flow disturbance met, whereas when two highly flow‐disturbed rivers met, environmental harshness probably lowered fish densities. By comparison, enhanced galaxiid temporal stability at confluences containing both disturbed and stable river branches probably reflected the combined effects of refugia from trout predation in disturbed branches and refugia from flooding in stable branches.

Overall, these results are likely to reflect the combined effects of population‐specific responses to physical heterogeneity and spatially variable interspecific interactions. They may mean that river network configuration, and confluences especially, could influence community stability through ahabitat portfolioeffect. Furthermore, it will be worth investigating further whether preservation or restoration of differences in flow disturbance conditions in riverscapes encourages higher ecosystem resilience in the face of global change.
Beyond denitrification: The role of microbial diversity in controlling nitrous oxide reduction and soil nitrous oxide emissions
Authors: Shan Jun , Sanford Robert A. , Chee‐Sanford Joanne , Ooi Sean K. , Löffler Frank E. , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T. , Yang Wendy H.
Published: February 2021

Many biotic and abiotic processes contribute to nitrous oxide (N2O) production in the biosphere, but N2O consumption in the environment has heretofore been attributed primarily to canonical denitrifying microorganisms. The nosZ genes encoding the N2O reductase enzyme, NosZ, responsible for N2O reduction to dinitrogen are now known to include two distinct groups: the well‐studied Clade I which denitrifiers typically possess, and the novel Clade II possessed by diverse groups of microorganisms, most of which are non‐denitrifiers. Clade II N2O reducers could play an important, previously unrecognized role in controlling N2O emissions for several reasons, including: (1) the consumption of N2O produced by processes other than denitrification, (2) hypothesized non‐respiratory functions of NosZ as an electron sink or for N2O detoxification, (3) possible differing enzyme kinetics of Clade II NosZ compared to Clade I NosZ, and (4) greater nosZ gene abundance for Clade II compared to Clade I in soils of many ecosystems. Despite the potential ecological significance of Clade II NosZ, a census of 800 peer‐reviewed original research articles discussing nosZ and published from 2013 to 2019 showed that the percentage of articles evaluating or mentioning Clade II nosZ increased from 5% in 2013 to only 22% in 2019. The census revealed that the slowly spreading awareness of Clade II nosZ may result in part from disciplinary silos, with the percentage of nosZ articles mentioning Clade II nosZ ranging from 0% in Agriculture and Agronomy journals to 32% in Multidisciplinary Sciences journals. In addition, inconsistent nomenclature for Clade I nosZ and Clade II nosZ, with 17 different terminologies used in the literature, may have created confusion about the two distinct groups of N2O reducers. We provide recommendations to accelerate advances in understanding the role of the diversity of N2O reducers in regulating soil N2O emissions.
Prevalence and predictors of mortality for older adults referred to hospital avoidance program
Authors: Gul Shahzad , Freund Megan , Sanson‐Fisher Robert W , Clapham Matthew , Webster Penelope J
Published: February 2021

Aim

Following discharge from a hospital avoidance program, to examine the prevalence of patient mortality, demographic characteristics associated with risk of mortality up to 33 months, patient demographic and health characteristics associated with mortality within 1 year.

Methods

A retrospective data linkage study of older adults with mean age of 80.5 years discharged from a hospital avoidance program between January 2017 and January 2018. The prevalence of death at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 33 months was calculated. Patient demographic and health characteristics associated with participant mortality within 12 (n = 195) and 33 (n = 185) months of discharge was examined using Cox multivariable regression for patients with complete health characteristic data.

Results

The mortality prevalence was 17% at 6 months and cumulative prevalence at 1 year, 18 months and 33 months post‐discharge were 24%, 29% and 36% respectively. Characteristics associated with mortality within 12 months of discharge were lower cognition, increased burden of comorbidity, decreased physical function, weight <55 kg and male sex. The same variables were associated with death up to 33 months as well as age, interaction between household arrangement and time, and albumin.

Conclusions

The establishment of potential risk indicators allows greater specificity for identifying older people at risk of dying in the next 12 months and an opportunity to discuss their advanced care planning. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; ••: ••–••.
Knowledge diffusion channels in Brazil: The effect of inventor mobility and inventive collaboration on regional invention
Authors: de Matos Cirlene Maria , Gonçalves Eduardo , Freguglia Ricardo da Silva
Published: February 2021

The main goal of this paper is to evaluate the role of inventor mobility and inventive collaboration in Brazilian regional innovation. We take into account the regional knowledge production function (RKPF) to incorporate the regional interactions promoted by these two important knowledge diffusion channels. Using a dynamic panel with data from a unique combination of the Intellectual Property Database for Statistical Purposes (BADEPI v1.0) and the Annual Social Information Report of the Labor Ministry (RAIS), we estimate the interregional inventor mobility and co‐invention using a Poisson‐Pseudo Maximum Likelihood estimator, and the RKPF using a system Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimator. Our results show that: (a) space exerts a relevant influence on an inventor’s decision to migrate and to collaborate to innovate; (b) inventor mobility among Brazilian regions promotes regional innovation; (c) regional collaboration significantly contributes to regional innovation.
Cementless total hip arthroplasty in haemophilia patients through direct anterior approach
Authors: Kaseb Mohammad Hasan , Shafiee Seyyed Hossein , Shamabadi Ahmad , Aminjavaheri Seyyed Alireza , Mortazavi Seyed Mohammad Javad
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become the treatment of choice for patients with severe haemophilic arthropathy of the hip. However, the intraoperative and postoperative complications, including blood loss and infection, are significant concerns. Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) might be beneficial in THA of patients with haemophilia.

Aim

The present study was conducted to assess outcomes of THA using DAA in patients with haemophilia.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our joint replacement database. From January 2010 to December 2015, we had 12 patients with haemophilia who underwent 14 THAs by DAA and followed for an average of 69 months.

Results

All patients were male with a mean age of 36 ± 7 years at the time of THA. The mean Harris Hip Score improved from 46 preoperatively to 89 at the final follow‐up visit. One dislocation and one infection occurred. Only one patient with simultaneous bilateral THA needed a transfusion. All components were radiologically well fixed at the final follow‐up visit except one acetabular loosening that needed revision. All patients were satisfied with the outcome of the surgery at the final follow‐up visit.

Conclusion

In this study, it was observed that complications of cementless THA using DAA in haemophilia patients with hip arthropathy are comparable to other surgical approaches. However, the complication of bleeding in this approach might be less.
Efficacy of rifaximin, a poorly absorbed rifamycin antimicrobial agent, for hepatic encephalopathy in Japanese patients
Authors: Hiramine Yasunari , Uto Hirofumi , Mawatari Seiichi , Kanmura Shuji , Imamura Yasushi , Hiwaki Takuya , Saishoji Akiko , Kakihara Atsuko , Maenohara Shigeho , Tokushige Koichi , Ido Akio
Published: February 2021

Aim

Rifaximin is recommended as treatment for hepatic encephalopathy (HE) that targets intestinal bacterial flora. Although combined use with synthetic disaccharides is the standard of care worldwide, the therapeutic effects of rifaximin for overt encephalopathy (OHE) in Japanese patients have not been examined sufficiently. We examined the therapeutic effects of rifaximin for OHE in Japanese patients.

Methods

A total of 76 patients who developed OHE of West Haven grade II or higher at least once within the 12 months before starting rifaximin were included. Blood ammonia levels and the incidence of OHE during the 12 months before and after starting rifaximin therapy were compared in a before‐and‐after study. Rifaximin efficacy and predictors of efficacy were also examined.

Results

Post‐treatment blood ammonia levels were significantly lower than pretreatment levels. The mean annual number of OHE incidents and intravenous branched‐chain amino acid preparations used per patient were significantly lower after starting rifaximin therapy (2.51 vs. 0.76 times/year, p < 0.001; and 71.9 vs. 20.7 preparations/year, p = 0.003, respectively). The cumulative incidence of hospitalizations associated with HE significantly decreased after rifaximin therapy (hazard ratio 0.187; p < 0.001). The efficacy rate, defined as the proportion of patients without OHE during the administration of rifaximin for 1 year after starting rifaximin therapy, was 65.8%. Serum albumin ≥2.7 g/dl was an independent predictor of efficacy.

Conclusion

Rifaximin was associated with decreased blood ammonia levels, lower incidence of OHE, and fewer hospitalizations in Japanese patients with HE. In addition, serum albumin level was an important predictor on efficacy of rifaximin.
Influence of the haemosporidian Leucocytozoon spp. over reproductive output in a wild Neotropical passerine, the Thorn‐tailed Rayadito (Aphrastura spinicauda)
Authors: Cuevas Elfego , Orellana‐Peñailillo Carolina , Botero‐Delgadillo Esteban , Espíndola‐Hernández Pamela , Vásquez Rodrigo A. , Quirici Verónica
Published: February 2021

Life‐history theory predicts that hosts may adjust the costs of parasites by altering their reproductive effort. Haemosporidian parasites can affect the reproductive output of wild birds in multiple ways. Thorn‐tailed Rayaditos Aphrastura spinicauda breeding in Navarino Island, southern Chile (55°–40°S), experience a high prevalence of the haemosporidian Leucocytozoon spp., which opens the possibility of exploring how these parasites may affect reproductive output in a Neotropical bird species. We compared several variables describing reproductive output (laying date, clutch size, incubation period, brood size, nestling body condition and early‐life telomere length) of infected and non‐infected parents (individually and as breeding pairs). We found that infected females and breeding pairs with both parents infected showed significantly shorter incubation periods than un‐infected Thorn‐tailed Rayaditos. Furthermore, breeding pairs where both parents were infected raised nestlings with higher body condition than nestlings for which infection was present in only one or in neither of the parents. Our results suggest that the higher the parental investment, the higher the risk of relapse of chronic infection by Leucocytozoon spp. Thorn‐tailed Rayaditos that decrease their incubation period pay the cost of infection to take advantage of early breeding through a greater availability of resources, producing nestlings with higher body condition.
Relationship between lip skin biophysical and biochemical characteristics with corneocyte unevenness ratio as a new parameter to assess the severity of lip scaling
Authors: Kim Jongwook , Yeo Hyerin , Kim Taeyoon , Jeong Eui‐taek , Lim Jun M. , Park Sun‐Gyoo
Published: February 2021

Objective

Lip skin dryness and chapping are major concerns related to lip skin care in many populations. The distinctive features of lip skin, such as the low water‐holding capacity and weak skin barrier, are strongly associated with these problems; however, few studies have examined lip skin characteristics and the mechanisms underlying these issues. This study was conducted to identify the biophysical properties of dry lip skin and molecular targets affecting lip skin physiology.

Methods

Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss and lip skin scaling were evaluated in 40 female subjects. Skin scaling was assessed as a percentage area divided into five categories (G0, G1, G2, G3 and G4) according to the thickness level of tape‐stripped corneocytes. The activities and amounts of proteases, cathepsin D and bleomycin hydrolase were measured as markers for the desquamation process and skin hydration, respectively.

Results

Skin hydration showed a significantly positive correlation with the percentage area of evenly thin corneocytes (G0) and negative correlations with the percentage areas of slightly thick to severely thick corneocytes (G1‐G4). The corneocyte unevenness ratio (CUR) was calculated by dividing the sum of the G1, G2, G3 and G4 values with the G0 value. The CUR was significantly negatively correlated with skin hydration, suggesting that CUR is a new parameter representing the severity of lip scaling. Subjects with lower hydration and higher CUR had higher bleomycin hydrolase activity and lower cathepsin D activity, respectively, than subjects with higher hydration and lower CUR.

Conclusion

Our study revealed a correlation between lip skin hydration and severity of lip scaling and verified the association of protease activity with the hydration and chapping state of lip skin. These observations provide a basis for further studies of the persistent problem of lip skin dryness and chapping.
Arc erosion characteristics evolution of Ag/Ti3SiC2 composites during repetitive arc breakdowns in SF6 gaseous medium
Authors: Zhou Zijue , Zhao Ting , Feng Yi , Zhao Hao , Qian Gang
Published: February 2021

To disclose the impact of SF6 gaseous medium on Ag/Ti3SiC2 contact materials, arc discharges on the Ag/Ti3SiC2 cathodes were performed 100 times in SF6 gas at 10 kV. After 1, 50, and 100 times of arc discharges, the morphologies of arc‐eroded surfaces were characterized. The changes in breakdown strength with the number of tests were recorded. After 100 times of arc erosion, the composition of the surface was characterized, and the morphologies and compositions of the cross section were measured. In the process of multiple arc breakdowns, the arc erosion position randomly changes. In the later stage of tests, the breakdown strength of Ag/Ti3SiC2 increased. The protrusion on the arc‐eroded surface is the ignition point for the arc, the down of protrusion height and the smooth of protrusion tip were observed after multiple arc discharges, which may result in the increase in breakdown strength. After multiple arc erosion tests, Ag2S was detected on the surface by XPS, and part of silicon elements were dissociated outward from Ti3SiC2. The composition change is inferred to be one of the reasons for the rise of breakdown strength.
Skin manifestations in COVID‐19 patients, state of the art. A systematic review
Authors: Perna Andrea , Passiatore Marco , Massaro Antonio , Terrinoni Alessandro , Bianchi Luca , Cilli Vitale , D’Orio Marco , Proietti Luca , Taccardo Giuseppe , De Vitis Rocco
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Since COVID‐19 has become a pandemic, extensive literature has been produced. The commonest symptoms of COVID‐19 disease are fever, cough, anosmia, and lymphocytopenia. However, other apparently less common clinical symptoms have been described, including skin lesions. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate skin involvement in COVID‐19.

Methods

The authors performed a systematic review of literature, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). The search was reiterated until May 06, 2020.

Results

Overall, 1593 patients (M/F ratio: 1 : 9) with suspect of COVID‐19 were examined. The mean age was 37.8 (range 0–91) years. Among the analyzed patients, 84 (5.3%) were pediatrics (<18 years). Chilblains are very common among skin lesions and represent almost half of all skin lesions reported (46%); in 75% of patients with cutaneous manifestation, the latter presented before other typical clinical manifestation of COVID‐19. Vasculitis or thrombosis was identified in almost 70% of patients who suffered from skin manifestations.

Conclusion

The present study highlights the importance of skin involvement in COVID‐19. Limbs should be examined to eventually foresee the onset of further typical symptoms. Chilblains can be considered typical features. Studies with higher scientific evidence are required.
Impact of chemical profile on sensory evaluation of tropical red wines
Authors: Veríssimo Caio Monteiro , Alcântara Rafael Lopes , Lima Luciana Leite de Andrade , Pereira Giuliano Elias , Maciel Maria Inês Sucupira
Published: February 2021

This study evaluated the correlation between the chemical composition of red wines and the sensory perception of the products. The visual, gustatory and flavour attributes of eight samples of tropical red wines were characterised by semi‐trained panellists using the check‐all‐that‐apply methodology. Titratable and volatile acidity, pH, contents of ethanol, total polyphenols and anthocyanins, and the chromatic parameters of the red wine samples were determined. The analysis of the correlations between visual attributes and sensory perception indicated that the evaluation of the wine colour attributes can predict other sensory characteristics related to aromas and flavours. This enabled the wine tasters to distinguish subtle variations in the visual attributes of the product. The results of this study indicated that panellists who underwent short‐term training can sensorially perceive the influence of physicochemical variables on wine quality. Additionally, the correlation analysis enabled the identification of production adjustments and the understanding of the consumer perception of a complex product.
Bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity and sensory properties of Tarhana, a traditional fermented food, enriched with pickling herb (Echinophora tenuifolia L.)
Authors: Ghafoor Kashif , Al‐Juhaimi Fahad , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Babiker Elfadıl E. , Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Alsawmahi Omer N.
Published: February 2021

The addition of pickling herb (Echinophora tenuifolia L.; PHET) resulted in increase in the total phenolic and flavonoid contents in Tarhana in both free and bound fractions' extracts. The antioxidant activity of Tarhana containing 2%, 6% and 18% PHET was 81.45–81.72% in bound fraction whereas in free fraction it was up to 88.27% (6% PHET). The gallic acid contents of Tarhana with PHET in free fraction were between 0.49 mg L−1 (10%) and 2.75% (14%) and that in bound fraction varied between 0.36 mg L−1 (10%) and 3.61 mg L−1 (18%). Statistically significant differences (with control) were observed among the contents of individual phenolic compounds in free and bound fractions of Tarhana depending on PHET concentrations. The addition of higher PHET contents in Tarhana showed negative effects hence, a low concentration (2%) of PHET is recommendable for Tarhana with enhanced nutritional properties.
Pneumatic tube transport of blood samples affects global hemostasis and platelet function assays
Authors: Lorenzen Henriette , Frøstrup Ann‐Britt , Larsen Anja S. , Fenger Michelle S. , Dahdouh Sanne , Zoel‐Ghina Randa , Nielsen Leif K.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Pneumatic tube systems (PTS) are frequently used for rapid and cost‐effective transportation of blood samples to the clinical laboratory. The impact of PTS transport on platelet function measured by the Multiplate system and global hemostasis measured by the TEG 5000 was evaluated.

Methods

Paired samples from healthy adult individuals were obtained at two study sites: Rigshospitalet (RH) and Nordsjællands Hospital (NOH). One sample was transported by PTS and one manually (non‐PTS). Platelet function was assessed by platelet aggregation (Multiplate) and global hemostasis was assessed by a variety of thrombelastography (TEG) assays. Multiplate (n = 39) and TEG (n = 32) analysis was performed at site RH, and Multiplate (n = 28) analysis was performed at site NOH.

Results

A significant higher agonist‐induced platelet aggregation was found for PTS samples compared to manual transport at site NOH (P < .02, all agonists). No significant difference was found at site RH (P > .05, all agonists).

For Kaolin TEG, samples transported by PTS showed a significant lower R‐time and higher Angle (P < .001). No significant differences in MA and LY30 was found (P > .05). ACT of RapidTEG was significantly reduced (P = .001) and MA of Functional Fibrinogen TEG was significantly increased (P < .001) after PTS transport. No significant impact of PTS was observed for TEG assays with heparinase (P > .05).

Conclusions

Depending on the type of PTS, transportation by PTS affected platelet aggregation measured by Multiplate. Furthermore, PTS alters TEG parameters possibly reflecting coagulation factors. Clinical laboratories should evaluate the effect of the local PTS on Multiplate and TEG results.
Exploring the relationship between appetitive behaviours, executive function, and weight status among preschool children
Authors: Rhee Kyung E. , Manzano Michael , Goffin Stanny , Strong David , Boutelle Kerri N.
Published: February 2021

Objective

The goal was to conduct exploratory analysis to determine if executive functions (EFs) and food responsiveness/satiety responsiveness (appetitive behaviours that describe one's tendency to eat in the presence of food or food cues) interact to influence weight status among preschool children participating in a trial promoting self‐regulation around energy‐dense foods.

Methods

At baseline, parents completed the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function‐Preschool and the Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire. Children completed anthropometric measurements at the preschool. Spearman's correlation, linear regression, and tests of interaction were conducted. The relationship between weight status and EFs among those who were high vs low in food responsiveness and satiety responsiveness was examined.

Results

Children (n = 92) had a mean age of 5.1 years and body mass index (BMI) percentile of 57.6; half (54%) were male. There were significant correlations between food responsiveness and several EFs (emotional control, inhibitory control, working memory, and plan/organize). In the stratified analysis, children with high food responsiveness or low satiety responsiveness had higher BMI percentiles as emotional control skills worsened. BMI percentiles were not elevated among children with low food responsiveness and poor emotional control.

Conclusion

These results suggest that EFs may be more relevant to weight status if preschool children had high levels of food responsiveness or low levels of satiety responsiveness (ie, increased tendency to be influenced by environmental food cues). This analysis should be replicated with direct measures of executive function and appetitive behaviours in larger samples of young children to examine longitudinal impact on weight status.
CD5 levels reveal distinct basal T‐cell receptor signals in T cells from non‐obese diabetic mice
Authors: Dong Mengqi , Audiger Cindy , Adegoke Adeolu , Lebel Marie‐Ève , Valbon Stefanie F , Anderson Colin C , Melichar Heather J , Lesage Sylvie
Published: February 2021

Type 1 diabetes in non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice occurs when autoreactive T cells eliminate insulin producing pancreatic β cells. While extensively studied in T‐cell receptor (TCR) transgenic mice, the contribution of alterations in thymic selection to the polyclonal T‐cell pool in NOD mice is not yet resolved. The magnitude of signals downstream of TCR engagement with self‐peptide directs the development of a functional T‐cell pool, in part by ensuring tolerance to self. TCR interactions with self‐peptide are also necessary for T‐cell homeostasis in the peripheral lymphoid organs. To identify differences in TCR signal strength that accompany thymic selection and peripheral T‐cell maintenance, we compared CD5 levels, a marker of basal TCR signal strength, on immature and mature T cells from autoimmune diabetes‐prone NOD and ‐resistant B6 mice. The data suggest that there is no preferential selection of NOD thymocytes that perceive stronger TCR signals from self‐peptide engagement. Instead, NOD mice have an MHC‐dependent increase in CD4+ thymocytes and mature T cells that express lower levels of CD5. In contrast, T cell‐intrinsic mechanisms lead to higher levels of CD5 on peripheral CD8+ T cells from NOD relative to B6 mice, suggesting that peripheral CD8+ T cells with higher basal TCR signals may have survival advantages in NOD mice. These differences in the T‐cell pool in NOD mice may contribute to the development or progression of autoimmune diabetes.
Social identity change as an integration strategy of international students in China
Authors: Raja Rameez , Zhou Wei , Li Xi Yuan , Ullah Asad , Ma Jianfu
Published: February 2021

This study investigates the role of social identities in the context of international students’ transition to China. Sojourners usually confront perceived threats, including adjustment to life‐changes in a new society. The transition has a general capacity to disrupt the patterned behaviour of individuals that undermine their health and well‐being. Previous studies informed by the Social Identity Model of Identity Change demonstrate that group membership and associated social identities can buffer the adverse effects of transition. However, China's story concerning international students’ social identity change is not yet researched. To address this issue, in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with sixty‐three international students. The results revealed that being disconnected from old social networks due to internet restriction leads to potential identity threats during early transition. However, new group memberships with co‐national and multinational peers, communication technologies and host‐culture adaptation enhanced sojourners’ well‐being and help to adapt to life‐changes in Chinese society.
On some extended mixed integer optimization models of the Eisenberg–Noe model in systemic risk management
Authors: Dong Zhi‐Long , Peng Jiming , Xu Fengmin , Dai Yu‐Hong
Published: February 2021

The Eisenberg and Noe (EN) model has been widely adopted in the systemic risk management for financial networks. In this paper, we propose a unified EN (U‐EN) model, which incorporates both liquidation and bankruptcy costs. We show that the U‐EN model is polynomial‐time solvable and develop an efficient greedy algorithm to solve it. Then we consider identifying the optimal bailout strategy based on stress testing background and propose a binary EN model with bailout budget constraint (B‐EN‐B). The B‐EN‐B model is shown to be NP‐hard. We present analysis on the parameter selection and design some preprocessing procedures correspondingly. A sequential coefficient strengthening algorithm is designed to solve the B‐EN‐B model. Global convergence of the algorithm is established. Moreover, we show that the systemic risk level obtained from the B‐EN‐B model can be used as a precaution for the social planner. Experiments based on both simulated data and data from the Chinese listed banks' network are reported to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed algorithms.
Modeling the nanoindentation response of silicate glasses by peridynamic simulations
Authors: Cao Yuzhe , Kazembeyki Maryam , Tang Longwen , Krishnan N. M. Anoop , Smedskjaer Morten M. , Hoover Christian G. , Bauchy Mathieu
Published: February 2021

Nanoindentation is a widely used method to probe the mechanical properties of glasses. However, interpreting glasses’ response to nanoindentation can be challenging due to the complex nature of the stress field under the indenter tip and the lack of in situ characterization techniques. Here, we present a numerical model describing the nanoindentation of an archetypical soda‐lime silicate window glass by means of peridynamic simulations. We show that, although it does not capture shear flow and permanent densification, peridynamics exhibits a good agreement with experimental nanoindentation data and offers a direct access to the stress field forming under the indenter tip.