bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidating the source–sink relationships of zinc biofortification in wheat grains: A review
Authors: Xia Haiyong , Wang Lan , Qiao Yuetong , Kong Weilin , Xue Yanhui , Wang Zongshuai , Kong Lingan , Xue Yanfang , Sizmur Tom
Published: August 2020

Zinc (Zn) concentration in wheat grains is generally low, with an average value of around 28–30 mg/kg. Therefore, increasing wheat grain Zn concentration for better human health is the focus of HarvestPlus global initiatives. Source–sink interactions have been intensively studied for decades to enhance crop yield potential, but less on grain nutritional quality. This review applies concepts of source, sink, and their interactions to the study of wheat grain Zn nutrition and biofortification. Increasing Zn sources to wheat (via soil and foliar application) could directly enlarge available Zn in vegetative tissues and grain Zn sink. Rational nitrogen (N) supply increases grain Zn accumulation (N‐Zn synergism), but phosphorus (P) input generally decreases (P‐Zn antagonism), and the potassium (K) effect is unclear. Conventional and genetic breeding have potential to stimulate Zn flow from source to sink (uptake from soil, root‐to‐shoot translocation, and remobilization). However, a rational manipulation to establish a well‐coordinated source–sink relationship is required to finally realize the grain Zn target (40–50 mg/kg) and increase on‐farm crop yield. Future studies should focus more on fertilization modes adopted by farmers (uses of compound, slow/controlled release, and organic and microbial fertilizers) and develop integrated agronomic and genetic strategies for Zn biofortification. A highly systematic and mechanistic model includes (a) migration paths of Zn (particularly from leaves to different grain parts) using isotopic labeling methods, (b) cross‐talks between Zn and carbon, N, P, K, or other divalent cations, (c) inherent physiological and biochemical processes of enzymes and signaling phytohormones, and (d) complex genetic systems governing Zn homeostasis and their relationships with other nutrients, signaling molecules, and increase or dilution/penalty of yield under different environmental conditions (soil, water, and future climatic changes) and managements (breeding and fertilization). These aspects require further elucidation to fully unravel the “black box” of Zn flow from source to sink.
Novel strategy for food safety risk management and communication: Risk identification for benzoic acid residues in pickled vegetables
Authors: Lin Ding‐Yan , Tsai Cheng‐Han , Huang Ying , Ye Siou‐Bang , Lin Che‐Hsuan , Lee Ku‐Yuan , Wu Min‐Hua
Published: August 2020

Benzoic acid (BA) is widely used as an antimicrobial preservative to prolong the shelf‐life of pickled vegetables. A method for rapidly determining the BA content in forty pickled vegetable samples was developed by coupling ultrasonic extraction with surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and an adaptive iteratively reweighted penalized least‐squares (AirPLS) algorithm. The results obtained with this method were compared and correlated with those from high‐performance liquid chromatography measurements. Amplification of the Raman scattering via the SERS effect was induced by gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) when BA was irradiated with a 785 nm laser. The AirPLS algorithm was used to reduce the background interference signal, which was also amplified. The amplified Raman scattering effect of BA in the pickled vegetables displayed a positive and significant correlation with the HPLC concentration of BA, with high reproducibility. For HPLC determination of the concentration of BA in the range of 0–820 ppm, the BA monomer's intensity of the 944–1,005 cm−1 and 1,366–1,373 cm−1 peaks, and BA dimer's intensity of the 1,025 cm−1 and 1,465–1,482 cm−1 peaks in the SERS spectrum were respectively converted to the Z‐ratio BA monomer and Z‐ratio BA dimer standard scores by Z‐Score conversion. The sum's (Z‐ratio BA monomer + Z‐ratio BA dimer) sensitivity was 100%, and specificity was 90.9% by receiver operating characteristic curve. This study found that a Raman spectroscopy‐based monitoring method can be one of the fastest screening inspection options that can complete an analysis within a short period of time and produce reliable results. This approach is particularly cost‐effective, which makes it suitable for the initial screening of raw materials and provides an effective management strategy easy to communicate with food safety officials.
Net‐Zero Carbon Liquid and Gaseous Fuels: Impact on the Electric and Natural Gas Subsectors
Authors: Zeitler Elizabeth
Published: August 2020

Many forces are driving regulatory policies toward the complete decarbonization of the US energy system. Industrial heat, aviation, heavy‐duty freight transport, and high‐renewable system load balancing will all be challenging to decarbonize, or in the case of load balancing, to implement over long time and distance spans. Net‐zero carbon fuels (NZCFs), gases, and liquids that function like a fossil fuel in the energy system but have net‐zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) to the atmosphere can replace fossil fuels in difficult‐to‐decarbonize applications. Existing systems, however, are not commercially viable at large scale. Many fuel targets are being pursued, such as alcohols, hydrocarbons, and ammonia. Research, demonstration, and deployment efforts are active by researchers in academia and industry. Use of net‐zero carbon fuels at large scale are likely to increase demand for electricity to manufacture such fuels, and could replace fossil natural gas with renewable natural gas, and offer a solution for energy storage. Net‐zero carbon fuels are also likely to be used in transportation applications, where they will compete with battery storage, hydrogen converted in fuel cells, and fossil fuels paired with offsetting negative emissions technologies. The impact of these fuels on future energy systems and their large‐scale use will depend on their costs and capabilities, requirements for decarbonization, and the ability of other technologies to meet what seem today like impossible challenges in energy system decarbonization.
Rethinking Energy Generation, Siting, and Equity
Authors: Cartwright Echo D.
Published: August 2020

Siting of fossil‐fueled electricity generation, even having received all of the necessary air, land use, and water permits, at a disproportionate rate in low‐income or disadvantaged communities has been a long‐standing issue. Most frequently located in urban and high‐density, low‐income areas already saddled with poor air quality, these power generation sources further exacerbate underlying health issues, such as asthma, lung disease, and heart disease, among others. As communities across the globe continue to deal with the impacts of COVID‐19, suffering disproportionately, these issues have been brought to the forefront of policy and health debates. Coupled with the recent levels of civil unrest, one question policymakers are now grappling with is how collectively society addresses the issue of equity, particularly in the energy sector. The intersection of climate, energy, and equity has never been more pronounced or loudly voiced. The industry simply must find a better to way to source energy, and do so in a way that is more protective of communities, our environment, and the public health.
Supervariants identification for breast cancer
Authors: Hu Jianchang , Li Ting , Wang Shiying , Zhang Heping
Published: August 2020

In genome‐wide association studies, signals associated with rare variants and interactions between genes are hard to detect even when the sample size is in tens of thousands. To overcome these problems, we examine the concept of supervariant. Like the classic concept of the gene, a supervariant is a combination of alleles in multiple loci, but the contributing loci can be anywhere in the genome. We hypothesize that supervariants are easy to detect and the aggregated signals are more stable in their associations with the disease than that from a single nucleoid polymorphism. Using the UK Biobank databases, we develop a ranking and aggregation method for identifying supervariants. Specifically, we examine 9,377 breast cancer cases with 46,861 controls matched by sex and age. In our simulations, the use of supervariants outperforms single‐nucleotide polymorphism‐based association method in detecting rare variants and signals with interactive structure. In real data analysis, we identify supervariants on Chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16, and 22 which cover previously reported loci that have associations with breast or other cancers, and several novel loci on Chromosomes 2, 5, 9, and 12. These findings demonstrate the validity of supervariants and its potential of discovering replicable and novel results for complex disease.
Deep structure and prospecting significance of the Cuonadong dome, Tethys Himalaya, China: Geophysical constraints
Authors: Jiao Yanjie , Huang Xuri , Liang Shengxian , Zhang Zhi , Li Guangming
Published: August 2020

The Cuonadong dome located at the eastern part of Tethyan Himalaya consists of three lithologic‐tectonic units from the inside to the outside: the lower, middle, and upper units. The large‐scale Cuonadong Be‐W‐Sn deposits are hosted in the strong shear zone of the middle unit of the dome. In this study, multi‐scale gravity and magnetotelluric data were used to generate two‐dimensional electrical resistivity models and three‐dimensional density models for the deep structure of the Cuonadong dome. The results show that interpretation of geophysical data on the deep structure is largely consistent with the three lithologic‐tectonic units in the dome. The lower unit consists of gneiss and leucogranites that are characterized by high electrical resistivity. Schist, skarn, and marble in the middle unit exhibit moderate electrical resistivity, and Be‐W‐Sn rare metal bodies are hosted in skarn and marble. The sedimentary rocks of the upper unit are characterized by low electrical resistivity. Therefore, we proposed a geophysical model that the deep leucogranites and the host rocks of the Be‐W‐Sn ore bodies can be well identified. Their morphologies and locations play a significant role for rare metal prospecting.
Carotid occlusion: Impact of cerebral hemodynamic impairment on cognitive performances
Authors: Viticchi Giovanna , Falsetti Lorenzo , Buratti Laura , Acciarri Maria C. , Emiliani Andrea , Bartolini Marco , Silvestrini Mauro
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the presence of carotid artery occlusion (CO) may be associated with different cognitive performances in relation to the side of the occlusion and its hemodynamic consequences.

Methods

During a 12‐month period, 61 asymptomatic patients, 32 with right and 29 with left CO, were enrolled. Each patient underwent an assessment of cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) to hypercapnia with transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography using the breath‐holding index (BHI). Neuropsychological assessment evaluating performances of the hemisphere ipsilateral to CO were administered at entry (T0) and then repeated after 2 years (T1).

Results

Scores obtained at colored progressive matrices (CPM) and Rey Complex Figure Copy Test were significantly lower at T0 in patients with reduced BHI values ipsilateral to CO. Multivariate models showed that reduced BHI values were also associated to a significant decrease from T0 to T1 in scores obtained for CPM and Categorical Verbal Fluency tests, respectively, in patients with right (P = 0.002) or left CO (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that hemodynamic alterations could be involved in the reduction in cognitive function regulated by the hemisphere ipsilateral to CO. The assessment of CVR with TCD ultrasonography may be a reliable approach for the individuation of asymptomatic patients with CO at increased risk of cognitive deterioration.
Working memory training restores aberrant brain activity in adult attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Salmi Juha , Soveri Anna , Salmela Viljami , Alho Kimmo , Leppämäki Sami , Tani Pekka , Koski Anniina , Jaeggi Susanne M. , Laine Matti
Published: August 2020

The development of treatments for attention impairments is hampered by limited knowledge about the malleability of underlying neural functions. We conducted the first randomized controlled trial to determine the modulations of brain activity associated with working memory (WM) training in adults with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). At baseline, we assessed the aberrant functional brain activity in the n‐back WM task by comparing 44 adults with ADHD with 18 healthy controls using fMRI. Participants with ADHD were then randomized to train on an adaptive dual n‐back task or an active control task. We tested whether WM training elicits redistribution of brain activity as observed in healthy controls, and whether it might further restore aberrant activity related to ADHD. As expected, activity in areas of the default‐mode (DMN), salience (SN), sensory‐motor (SMN), frontoparietal (FPN), and subcortical (SCN) networks was decreased in participants with ADHD at pretest as compared with healthy controls, especially when the cognitive load was high. WM training modulated widespread FPN and SN areas, restoring some of the aberrant activity. Training effects were mainly observed as decreased brain activity during the trained task and increased activity during the untrained task, suggesting different neural mechanisms for trained and transfer tasks.
Whole‐brain functional connectivity correlates of obesity phenotypes
Authors: Park Bo‐yong , Byeon Kyoungseob , Lee Mi Ji , Chung Chin‐Sang , Kim Se‐Hong , Morys Filip , Bernhardt Boris , Dagher Alain , Park Hyunjin
Published: August 2020

Dysregulated neural mechanisms in reward and somatosensory circuits result in an increased appetitive drive for and reduced inhibitory control of eating, which in turn causes obesity. Despite many studies investigating the brain mechanisms of obesity, the role of macroscale whole‐brain functional connectivity remains poorly understood. Here, we identified a neuroimaging‐based functional connectivity pattern associated with obesity phenotypes by using functional connectivity analysis combined with machine learning in a large‐scale (n ~ 2,400) dataset spanning four independent cohorts. We found that brain regions containing the reward circuit positively associated with obesity phenotypes, while brain regions for sensory processing showed negative associations. Our study introduces a novel perspective for understanding how the whole‐brain functional connectivity correlates with obesity phenotypes. Furthermore, we demonstrated the generalizability of our findings by correlating the functional connectivity pattern with obesity phenotypes in three independent datasets containing subjects of multiple ages and ethnicities. Our findings suggest that obesity phenotypes can be understood in terms of macroscale whole‐brain functional connectivity and have important implications for the obesity neuroimaging community.
Assessment of operative competency for thyroidectomy: Comparison of resident self‐assessment vs attending surgeon assessment
Authors: Kim Alexandrea H. , Vaughn Cory A. , King Deanne L. , Maizels Max , Meade Patrick , Stack Brendan C.
Published: August 2020

Background

Self‐awareness of skill, essential for progression as a surgeon, has direct bearing on postresidency practice; however, studies have supported that residents achieve self‐perceived competence later than believed by program directors. This study compares residents' self‐perception of operative competency to attending surgeon's evaluation using Computer Enhanced Visual Learning, a validated online hemithyroidectomy‐specific assessment tool.

Methods

Eleven otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery (HNS) residents completed a preoperative module and postoperative survey, later reviewed by an attending surgeon. Eighty‐three performances were assessed for inter‐rater reliabilities of key surgical steps.

Results

Almost perfect agreement (Kappa = 0.81‐1.00) was shown in 11 of 18 parameters. Substantial agreement (Kappa = 0.61‐0.80) was demonstrated in the remaining seven parameters.

Conclusions

Otolaryngology‐HNS trainees have high self‐awareness of their performance at each step in a hemithyroidectomy. Standardized assessment tools can allow for documentation of procedural performance and serve as guides for improvement. This is the only study to examine otolaryngology‐HNS trainees' self‐perceived skill compared to an attending surgeon's assessment for hemithyroidectomy.
A new synthetic metamodel methodology for liquid‐propellant engine's cooling system optimization
Authors: Alimohammadi Hamid Reza , Naseh Hassan , Ommi Fathollah
Published: August 2020

The present paper strives for optimization of the cooling system of a liquid‐propellant engine (LPE). To this end, the new synthetic metamodel methodology utilizing the design of experiment method and the response surface method was developed and implemented as two effective means of designing, analyzing, and optimizing. The input variables, constraints, objective functions, and their surfaces were identified. Hence, the design and development strategy of combustion chamber and nozzle was clarified, and 64 different experiments were carried out on the RD‐161 propulsion system, of which 47 experiments were approved and compatible with the problem constraints. This engine used all three modes of cooling: the radiation cooling, the regenerative cooling, and the film cooling. The response surface curves were drawn and the related objective function equations were obtained. The analysis of variance results indicate that the developed synthetic model is capable to predict the responses adequately within the limits of input parameters. The three‐dimensional response surface curves and contour plots have been developed to find out the combined effects of input parameters on responses. In addition, the precision of the models was assessed and the output was interpreted and analyzed, which showed high accuracy. Therefore, the desirability function analysis has been applied to LPE's cooling system for multiobjective optimization to maximize the total heat transfer and minimize the cooling system pressure loss simultaneously. Finally, confirmatory tests have been conducted with the optimum parametric conditions to validate the optimization techniques. In conclusion, this methodology optimizes the LPE's cooling system, a 2% increase in the total heat transfer, and a 38% decrease in the pressure loss of the cooling system. These values are considerably large for the LPE design.
Disease progression patterns and risk factors associated with mortality in deceased patients with COVID‐19 in Hubei Province, China
Authors: Chen Liang , Liu Song , Tian Juncai , Pan Haisong , Liu Yu , Hu Jun , Wang Maoren , Hou Xuewen
Published: August 2020

Background

Detailed descriptions of the patterns of disease progression of deceased coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients have not been well explored.

Objectives

This study sought to explore disease progression patterns and risk factors associated with mortality of deceased patients with COVID‐19.

Materials and Methods

Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, and imaging data (from 15 January to 26 March 2020) of laboratory‐confirmed COVID‐19 patients were collected retrospectively from two hospitals, Hubei province, China. Disease progression patterns of patients were analyzed based on laboratory data, radiological findings, and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score. Risk factors associated with death were analyzed.

Results

A total of 792 patients were enrolled in this study, of whom 68 died and 724 survived. Complications during hospitalization, such as sepsis, severe acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute cardiac injury, and acute kidney injury, were markedly more frequent in deceased patients than in surviving patients. Deceased patients presented progressive deterioration pattern in laboratory variables, chest computed tomography evaluation, and SOFA score, while surviving patients presented initial deterioration to peak level involvement followed by improvement pattern over time. Days 10 to 14 after illness onset was a critical stage of disease course. Older age, number of preexisting comorbidities ≥2, and SOFA score were independently associated with death for COVID‐19.

Conclusions

Multiorgan dysfunction was common in deceased COVID‐19 patients. Deceased patients presented progressive deterioration pattern, while surviving patients presented a relatively stable pattern during disease progression. Older age, number of preexisting comorbidities ≥2, and SOFA score were independent risk factors for death for COVID‐19.
Mid‐term trends and recent birth‐cohort‐dependent changes in incidence rates of cutaneous malignant melanoma in Italy
Authors: Bucchi Lauro , Mancini Silvia , Crocetti Emanuele , Dal Maso Luigino , Baldacchini Flavia , Vattiato Rosa , Giuliani Orietta , Ravaioli Alessandra , Caldarella Adele , Carrozzi Giuliano , Ferretti Stefano , Filiberti Rosa Angela , Fusco Mario , Gatti Luciana , Gili Alessio , Magoni Michele , Mangone Lucia , Mazzoleni Guido , Michiara Maria , Panato Chiara , Piffer Silvano , Piras Daniela , Rosso Stefano , Rugge Massimo , Scala Umberto , Tagliabue Giovanna , Tumino Rosario , Stanganelli Ignazio , Falcini Fabio
Published: August 2020

In Oceania, North America and north‐western Europe, after decades of increase, cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) rates began to stabilise or decline before 2000. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the reversal of the incidence trend is extending to southern Europe. To obtain a formal confirmation, this nationwide study from Italy investigated the incidence trends by birth cohort. Twenty‐one local cancer registries covering a population of 15 814 455 provided incidence data for primary CMM registered between 1994 and 2013. Trends in age‐standardised rates were analysed using joinpoint regression models and age‐period‐cohort models. Age‐standardised incidence showed a consistent increase throughout the period (estimated annual percent change, 3.6 [95% confidence interval, 3.2‐4.0] among men and 2.5 [2.0‐3.1] among women). This pattern was confirmed by a sensitivity analysis with removal of low‐risk populations of southern Italy. The rates, however, showed a stabilisation or a decrease in men and women aged below 35. Using the cohort of 1949—the median cohort with respect to the number of cases for both genders—as a reference, the incidence rate ratio increased for successive cohorts born until 1973 (women) and 1975 (men), and subsequently tended to decline. For the most recent cohorts in both genders, the risk of disease returned to the level of the cohort of 1949. The changes observed in the latest generations can be interpreted as the earliest manifestations of a birth‐cohort‐dependent incidence decrease. Our study adds to previous data indicating that the reversal of the long‐term upward incidence trend of CMM is extending to southern Europe.
Terms of trade and real domestic income: New evidence from South and Southeast Asia
Authors: Basnet Hem C. , Devkota Satis C. , Upadhyay Mukti P.
Published: August 2020

Studies that examine the long‐run impact of terms of trade on economic growth mostly indicate that an increase in the terms of trade (TOT) results in higher economic growth and a decrease in TOT results in lower growth. We examine this assertion in the context of eight South and Southeast Asian emerging economies. Economic growth over the last three decades has been impressive in the region though TOT has shown an overall declining trend. Using panel cointegration and pooled mean group estimation techniques, we establish a long‐run relationship between TOT and income, and TOT and investment. Our Fully Modified OLS results provide adequate evidence of the long‐run relationship of TOT with income and investment in South and Southeast Asia. Despite a positive relationship, TOT movements do not exert a significantly large impact on income in the short run.
Smart abnormal emotion analysis from English sentences
Authors: Xu Jiao , Chen Cheng
Published: August 2020

Smart abnormal emotion analysis refers to identifying abnormal sentiments, opinions, or attitudes from massive patterns automatically. The abnormal emotion may be hidden in a paragraph of text to reflect the sentiment suddenly changes. The suddenly changed emotion should be identified in time to avoid severe consequence. For instance, a customer would not buy a product any more if he or she has a negative emotion to this product. With the popularization of social media, more and more information is available. For example, feedbacks, comments, or opinions widely exist on Twitter. Identifying abnormal emotion by analyzing texts in social media becomes a hot topic, which enables companies or government organizations to take prevention strategies in time if needing. In this paper, we propose a multivariate Gaussian model based abnormal emotion detection method. In multivariate Gaussian model, whether a user has abnormal emotion is determined by the joint probability density. The distribution test shows that the negative, positive, and neutral emotions of a user follow a normal distribution, while the surprise and anger emotions do not follow. The emotions of texts from social media posted by a group follow a “power law distribution”, while the individual users do not. The abnormal emotion can be detected by multivariate Gaussian about 84.60%.
DFT, DLPNO‐CCSD(T), and NEVPT2 benchmark study of the reaction between ferrocenium and trimethylphosphine
Authors: Chamkin Aleksandr A. , Serkova Elena S.
Published: August 2020

The reaction between ferrocenium and trimethylphosphine was studied using density functional theory (DFT), domain‐based local pair natural orbital coupled cluster theory with single‐, double‐, and perturbative triple excitations (DLPNO‐CCSD(T)), and N‐electron valence state perturbation theory (NEVPT2). The accuracy of the DFT functionals decreases compared to the DLPNO‐CCSD(T) level in the following order: M06‐L > TPSS > M06, BLYP > PBE, PBE0, B3LYP > > PWPB95 > > DSD‐BLYP. The roles of thermochemical, continuum solvation (SMD), and counterpoise corrections were evaluated. Grimme's D3 empirical dispersion correction is essential for all functionals studied except M06 and M06‐L. The reliability of the frequency calculations performed directly within the SMD was confirmed. The systems showed no significant multireference character according to T1 and T2 diagnostics and the fractional occupation number (FOD) weighted electron density analysis. The multireference NEVPT2 calculations gave qualitatively valid conclusions about the reaction mechanism. However, a multireference approach is generally not recommended because it requires arbitrary chosen active spaces.
A novel CD2 staining–based flow cytometric assay for assessment of natural killer cell cytotoxicity
Authors: Zhang Dan , Teng Rui , Lv Nan , Lei Lei , Wang Yanmeng , Williamson Ramone A. , Chen Ping , Gao Peigen , O'Dwyer Michael , Li Ang , Hu Jinsong
Published: August 2020

Background

Assessing cytotoxicity is fundamental to studying natural killer (NK) cell function. Various radioactive and non‐radioactive cytotoxicity assays measuring target cell death have been developed. Among these methods, the most commonly used 51Chromium‐release assay (CRA) and flow cytometry–based cytotoxicity assays (FCCs) are the major representatives. Nonetheless, several drawbacks, including dye leakage and the potential effects of prior labeling on cells, curb the broad applicability of the FCCs.

Methods

Here, we report a rapid FCC for quantifying target cell death after co‐incubation with NK cells. In this assay, after 4 hours of NK cell‐target cell co‐incubation, fluorochrome‐conjugated CD2 antibody was used to identify NK cells, and SYTOX Green and Annexin V‐FITC were further used to detect target cell death in CD2‐negative population. In parallel, both CRA and FCC assay using CFSE/ 7‐AAD were performed to validate the reproducibility and replicability.

Results

We observed that CD2 is exclusively positive on NK cells other than the most common hematological target tumor cells, such as K562, HL60, MOLM13, Raji, NCI‐H929, rpmi8226, MM.1S, and KMS11. Assessment of target cell death using the CD2‐based FCC shows a significantly higher percent specific lysis of the target cells compared to the standard CRA and the FCC assay using CFSE and 7‐AAD.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that this CD2‐based FCC is a fast, simple, and reliable method for evaluating NK cell cytotoxicity.
Engineering mindsets and learning outcomes in elementary school
Authors: Lottero‐Perdue Pamela S. , Lachapelle Cathy P.
Published: August 2020

Background

Students may exhibit growth mindsets, where intelligence is seen as malleable and failures prompt more effort and new approaches, or fixed mindsets, where intelligence is seen as immutable and failures indicate lack of intelligence. One's mindset in general may be different from that for a particular domain such as engineering. Having a growth mindset predicts more positive learning outcomes.

Purpose

We described the general and engineering mindsets of students in fifth‐grade U.S. classrooms (ages 10 and 11) who received engineering instruction. We explored how general mindsets may predict engineering learning outcomes and how engineering mindsets may be predicted by general mindset and other variables.

Design/Method

We collected General Mindset (GM) and Engineering Mindset (EM) surveys from 2,086 fifth graders. We analyzed and correlated their GM and EM scores and survey item responses. Using hierarchical linear modeling, we measured the contribution of GM to models predicting EM and engineering learning outcomes and identified factors that predicted EM.

Results

Almost three quarters of students who submitted EM surveys agreed with a growth mindset. Students with higher GM scores had higher engineering postassessment scores. Those who had a higher socioeconomic status did not receive special education services, experienced more whole‐class discussion and activity, or had a higher GM score were more likely to have a more growth‐minded EM score.

Conclusions

Engineering education should help students see that they can grow in their capacities to engineer. Instructional interventions may positively impact mindset, which could be particularly important for some students. Engineering design may encourage an especially growth‐minded approach to failure experiences.
The clinical impact and risk factors of latent pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Ohgi Katsuhisa , Yamamoto Yusuke , Sugiura Teiichi , Okamura Yukiyasu , Ito Takaaki , Ashida Ryo , Uesaka Katsuhiko
Published: August 2020

Background

Latent pancreatic fistula (LPF) is difficult to diagnose during the early postoperative phase because of initially normal drain fluid amylase (DFA) levels. The present study investigated the clinical significance and risk factors of LPF after pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

A total of 662 patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy between 2010 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. LPF was defined as pancreatic fistula that developed later regardless of initially low DFA levels.

Results

Among the 372 patients with DFA ≤375 U/L (three times the upper limit for serum) on postoperative day (POD) 3, LPF occurred in 37 (10%). The rates of postoperative hemorrhaging (11% vs 1.5%), intraabdominal abscess (57% vs 7.2%) and reintervention (46% vs 2.7%) were significantly higher in the patients with LPF than in those without LPF. A multivariate analysis revealed that a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2, a non‐combined portal vein resection, a DFA on POD 1 ≥650 U/L and a C‐reactive protein level on POD 3 ≥11 mg/dL were independent risk factors for LPF.

Conclusions

Latent pancreatic fistula was significantly associated with severe complications and worse outcomes after pancreatoduodenectomy. Early drain removal may be unfavorable for patients with some of these risk factors.
Successful treatment of lathosterolosis: A rare defect in cholesterol biosynthesis—A case report and review of literature
Authors: Yaplito‐Lee Joy , Pai Gautham , Hardikar Winita , Hong Kai M. , Pitt James , Marum Justine , Amor David J.
Published: August 2020

Lathosterolosis is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of cholesterol biosynthesis. It is caused by defects in the SC5D (sterol C5‐desaturase) gene which encodes for the 3‐beta‐hydroxysteroid‐delta‐5‐desaturase (also called sterol‐C5‐desaturase or lathosterol dehydrogenase). Only six cases have been described in the literature, but it is possible that a number of patients with milder forms of the condition might have been missed. Lathosterolosis manifests as microcephaly, bilateral cataracts, dysmorphism, limb anomalies, and developmental delay/intellectual disability. Liver involvement is variable and can range from normal liver function tests to portal fibrosis and cirrhosis. Diagnosis is made by demonstration of specific mutations in the SC5D gene and by plasma sterol analysis to confirm elevated lathosterol levels. In this report, we describe a girl with transaminitis in association with developmental delay/intellectual disability, facial dysmorphism, limb anomalies, and bilateral cataracts. Fibroscan showed severe liver fibrosis. Plasma sterol analysis and exome sequencing confirmed the diagnosis of lathosterolosis. Simvastatin treatment resulted in lowering of plasma lathosterol levels, improvement in transaminitis, and liver fibrosis grade, suggesting that children with this condition should be actively treated in order to prevent progression of liver disease.
Differentiation of COVID‐19 from seasonal influenza: A multicenter comparative study
Authors: Zhang Jianguo , Ding Daoyin , Huang Xing , Zhang Jinhui , Chen Deyu , Fu Peiwen , Shi Yinghong , Xu Wenrong , Tao Zhimin
Published: August 2020

As coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) crashed into the influenza season, clinical characteristics of both infectious diseases were compared to make a difference. We reported 211 COVID‐19 patients and 115 influenza patients as two separate cohorts at different locations. Demographic data, medical history, laboratory findings, and radiological characters were summarized and compared between two cohorts, as well as between patients at the intensive care unit (ICU) andnon‐ICU within the COVID‐19 cohort. For all 326 patients, the median age was 57.0 (interquartile range: 45.0–69.0) and 48.2% was male, while 43.9% had comorbidities that included hypertension, diabetes, bronchitis, and heart diseases. Patients had cough (75.5%), fever (69.3%), expectoration (41.1%), dyspnea (19.3%), chest pain (18.7%), and fatigue (16.0%), etc. Both viral infections caused substantial blood abnormality, whereas the COVID‐19 cohort showed a lower frequency of leukocytosis, neutrophilia, or lymphocytopenia, but a higher chance of creatine kinase elevation. A total of 7.7% of all patients possessed no abnormal sign in chest computed tomography (CT) scans. For both infections, pulmonary lesions in radiological findings did not show any difference in their location or distribution. Nevertheless, compared to the influenza cohort, the COVID‐19 cohort presented more diversity in CT features, where certain specific CT patterns showed significantly more frequency, including consolidation, crazy paving pattern, rounded opacities, air bronchogram, tree‐in‐bud sign, interlobular septal thickening, and bronchiolar wall thickening. Differentiable clinical manifestations and CT patterns may help diagnose COVID‐19 from influenza and gain a better understanding of both contagious respiratory illnesses.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors in children, adolescents, and young adults: Treatment results of five Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS) trials and one registry
Authors: Meister Michael T. , Scheer Monika , Hallmen Erika , Stegmaier Sabine , Vokuhl Christian , von Kalle Thekla , Fuchs Jörg , Münter Marc , Niggli Felix , Ladenstein Ruth , Kazanowska Bernarda , Ljungman Gustaf , Bielack Stefan , Koscielniak Ewa , Klingebiel Thomas ,   Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe [CWS]
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) are aggressive soft tissue sarcomas that present as large, invasive tumors. Our aim was to assess outcomes, identify prognostic factors, and analyze treatment strategies in a prospectively collected pediatric cohort.

Methods

Patients less than 21 years with MPNST treated in the consecutive prospective European Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS)‐trials (1981‐2009) and the CWS‐SoTiSaR registry (2009‐2015) were analyzed.

Results

A total of 159 patients were analyzed. Neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) was reported in thirty‐eight patients (24%). Most were adolescents (67%) with large (>10 cm, 65%) tumors located at extremities (42%). Nodal involvement was documented in 15 (9%) and distant metastases in 15 (9%) upon diagnosis. Overall, event‐free survival (EFS) was 40.5% at 5 and 36.3% at 10 years, and overall survival (OS) was 54.6% at 5 and 47.1% at 10 years. Age, NF1 status, tumor site, tumor size, Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study (IRS) group, metastatic disease, and achieving first complete remission (CR1) were identified as prognostic factors for EFS and/or OS in the univariate analysis.

Conclusions

Prognostic factors were identified and research questions for future clinical trials were addressed.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy predicts systemic recurrence in digital papillary adenocarcinoma
Authors: Bartelstein Meredith K. , Schwarzkopf Eugenia , Busam Klaus J. , Brady Mary Sue , Athanasian Edward A.
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives

Digital papillary adenocarcinoma (DPA) is a rare, aggressive neoplasm of sweat gland origin. It can recur at local, regional, or distant sites. There is limited knowledge about the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in predicting recurrence in these patients. We present our experience with this uncommon tumor to evaluate the role of SLNB in predicting outcome.

Methods

Medical records of all patients who underwent surgical treatment for biopsy‐proven upper extremity DPA at the study institution were reviewed. Descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test were used to analyze data.

Results

Twenty‐one patients were identified. Most patients were male (71%), and the median age was 51 years. SLNB was performed in 18 patients; three were positive for nodal metastatic disease (17%). At a median follow‐up of 53 months, there were no local recurrences and two cases of systemic recurrence. No patient with a negative sentinel lymph node has evidence of metastasis or recurrence. Fisher's exact test demonstrated a significant association between a positive SLNB and recurrence (P = .02).

Conclusion

SLNB revealed metastatic disease in 17% of patients with DPA and appears to predict systemic recurrence in this small series.
Relationship between initial management strategy and survival in patients with gastric outlet obstruction due to gastric cancer
Authors: Blumenthaler Alisa N. , Ikoma Naruhiko , Blum Mariela , Das Prajnan , Minsky Bruce D. , Mansfield Paul F. , Ajani Jaffer A. , Badgwell Brian D.
Published: August 2020

Background

The optimal management of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) due to gastric cancer (GC) is unclear. We examined the relationships between clinical and management variables and outcomes in patients with GC having GOO.

Methods

The GOO management and clinical course were reviewed in patients with GC and GOO. Cox regression and Kaplan‐Meier analyses were used to identify variables predictive of overall survival (OS).

Results

The study included 59 patients. Eleven had imaging evidence of metastasis and 35 had pathologically confirmed peritoneal disease. Initial management included resection in 23 patients, feeding jejunostomy ± decompressive gastrostomy (JT/GT) in 25, surgical gastrojejunostomy in five, and endoscopic intervention in six. Seven patients with initial JT/GT underwent resection after neoadjuvant therapy. Median OS (95% confidence interval [CI]) was 21.4 (0.0‐45.1) months in the upfront resection group (median follow‐up, 14.7 months) and not reached in those with initial JT/GT, neoadjuvant therapy, and later resection (median follow‐up, 26.5 months) (P = .18). On multivariable analysis, clinically positive nodes (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.76; 95% CI, 1.17‐12.12; P = .03), metastasis on CT (HR: 3.97; 95% CI: 1.53‐10.26;P = .01), and resection (HR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.17‐0.79;P = .01) independently predicted OS.

Conclusion

In GOO due to GC, OS is similar after treatment with upfront resection compared with JT/GT, neoadjuvant therapy, and later resection. Upfront JT/GT may allow patients to tolerate chemotherapy and improve selection for gastrectomy.
Added Value of the Vascular Index on Superb Microvascular Imaging for the Evaluation of Breast Masses
Authors: Chae Eun Young , Yoon Ga Young , Cha Joo Hee , Shin Hee Jung , Choi Woo Jung , Kim Hak Hee
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the value of the vascular index (VI) on Superb Microvascular Imaging (SMI; Canon Medical Systems Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) in comparison with grayscale ultrasound (US) alone for assessing breast masses.

Methods

We evaluated a total of 70 breast masses (36 malignant and 34 benign lesions) in 70 consecutive patients using grayscale US and SMI. Two breast radiologists analyzed grayscale US alone and the combination of grayscale US and SMI. They also measured the VI based on SMI. The diagnostic performance of grayscale US alone and the combination of grayscale US and SMI was compared. The VI was compared between benign and malignant masses, and the optimal cutoff value was determined. In addition, the interobserver agreement in imaging analyses and the VI was assessed.

Results

The interobserver agreements in imaging analyses and the VI were almost perfect. The VI of malignant breast masses was significantly higher than that of benign lesions (P < .001). The optimal cutoff value of the VI for differentiating between malignant and benign breast masses was 2.95, with sensitivity of 86.1% and specificity of 91.2%. The diagnostic performance values of grayscale US alone and the combination of grayscale US and SMI were 0.824 and 0.912, respectively, for reader 1 (P = .028) and 0.795 and 0.853 for reader 2 (P = .101).

Conclusions

The VI on SMI was significantly higher for malignant breast masses than for benign lesions, with high interobserver agreement. Our study suggests that the combination of grayscale US and SMI with the VI could improve the characterization of breast masses.
Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol/High‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio and Carotid Intima‐Media Thickness: A Cohort Study in China
Authors: Qin Pei , Shi Jing , Cao Liming , Li Xue , Lou Yanmei , Wang Changyi , Ma Jianping , Wang Li , Peng Xiaolin , Chen Hongen , Xu Shan , Zhao Ping , Hu Dongsheng , Hu Fulan
Published: August 2020

Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C/HDL‐C) ratio may carry additional information and has been suggested as a better predictor for atherosclerosis progression and cardiovascular disease (CVD) than LDL‐C and HDL‐C alone. Therefore, we aim to explore the association between LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and high carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) risk in a large Cohort in Beijing, China. This cohort study included 13,612 adults without high CIMT at first entry and who attended the baseline examination and at least one follow‐up annual examination between 2009 and 2016. We used multivariable Cox regression to estimate hazard ratios (HR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and risk of high CIMT. During 37,912 person‐years of follow‐up, 1996 (1268 men and 728 women) developed high CIMT. Compared with the first quartile of LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio, the risk of high CIMT was significantly increased for the fourth quartile of LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio (HR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.29–1.78). We observed a significant association between LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and high CIMT risk comparing LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio >2.78 with LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio ≤2.78 and significant dose–response relationship between LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and risk of high CIMT. The restricted cubic spline showed a significant nonlinear association between LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and the risk of high CIMT (pnon‐linearity = 0.009). We identify a significant association between LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio and the risk of high CIMT in the Chinese Cohort study. Future studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of reducing LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio treatment on the development of high CIMT.
How online trust evolves over time: The role of social perception
Authors: Ye Christine , Hofacker Charles F. , Peloza John , Allen Alexis
Published: August 2020

Using customer service scenarios in an online retail context, the current study examines how cognitive and affective trust develop over time and how service failure negatively impacts trust, along with the trust restoration opportunities provided by recovery. Study 1 findings reveal that the relationship between Web site social perception and affective trust is stronger for repeat visitors than for first‐time visitors. Study 2 findings indicate that failure timing and recovery duration play important roles in service failure situations. Overall, the results demonstrate that consumer cognitive and affective trust develop through the number of interactions with a retail Web site over time and that increased Web site social perceptions facilitate the trust‐building process.
A Facile Synthesis of Poly(3‐octyl thiophene):Ni0.4Sr0.6TiO3 Hybrid Nanocomposites for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Adimule Vinayak , Suryavanshi Anusha , BC Yallur , Nandi Santosh S.
Published: August 2020

The solar cell properties of poly(3‐octyl thiophene) (P3OT) doped with Ni0.4Sr0.6TiO3 nanocomposite (NCs) as a function of P3OT in different concentrations are studied for photovoltaic characteristics using Hg probe instrumental technique without any fabrication. Nickel nanoparticles (Ni+) loaded with SrTiO3 nanoparticles are attempted to be synthesized by co‐precipitation method, cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide is used as capping agent and is successfully converted into Ni‐SrTiO3 hybrid nanoparticles. The thin films are made by using different solvent systems in spin coating method, for low concentration (20–30%) of P3OT the device performance is poor compared to pure Ni‐SrTiO3. Significant improvements are obtained with the increased doping (50%) of P3OT. The maximum absorbance in the thin film of UV spectrum lies between 600 and 800 nm spectral region. Increased addition of P3OT results UV band shifts in visible spectral region while power conversion efficiency increases approximately ten times than the existing. The increased solar cell efficiency is strongly dependent not only on the doping of P3OT concentration but also on the solvent used, changes in the film morphology. The optimal fabrication the external quantum efficiency of 10% and power conversion efficiency of 17.12% were obtained.