bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-language qualitative research studies dilemmas: a research review
Authors: Mohamad Nasri Nurfaradilla , Nasri Nurfarahin , Abd Talib Mohamad Asyraf
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Cross-language qualitative research has gained momentum worldwide; yet, there is still a lack of consensus to guide researchers in ensuring the trustworthiness of the research. Several methodological dilemmas related to language differences between researchers and participants should be carefully addressed. Therefore, this study aims to (1) review qualitative literature addressing cross-language, (2) produce a list of methodological criteria and recommendations from the reviewed literature and (3) evaluate systematically published cross-language qualitative researches using the list.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a summative content analysis of 35 published curriculum and pedagogy researches from 2000–2018 that viewed language differences as methodological issue. A list of 20 criteria or recommendations was constructed and used to evaluate the selected researches.

Findings

The findings revealed that majority of the researches lacked understanding of language differences between researchers and participants causing multiple inconsistencies in reporting methodological issues. Failure to address these methodological issues could risk the trustworthiness of the data and the overall rigor of the research.

Originality/value

This study highlights the importance to minimize methodological issues related to language differences. It is hoped that the list of criteria or recommendations proposed by this study could support other cross-language qualitative researchers in overcoming these methodological dilemmas.
Social media usage in Indian beauty and wellness industry: a qualitative study
Authors: Kaur Kulvinder , Kumar Pawan
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Advancement in technology has increased the use of social media among Internet users. People are on social media all day and brands cannot miss this opportunity to turn these users into potential customers. The purpose of this research paper is to identify the prominent social media platforms in Indian beauty and wellness industry and to establish dimensions of social media activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study in which in-depth interviews were conducted with owners and managers of beauty and wellness centres, who use social media for promotion of their business.

Findings

This study establishes 5M's of social media activities (Motives, Media, Management, Merits and Metrics) that play a major role in social media promotion. It also identifies that Facebook and Instagram are prominent social media platforms for this industry, followed by Snapchat, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Research limitations/implications

Being a qualitative study, it is exploratory in nature and confined to beauty and wellness centres only, thus, findings cannot be generalised. Research implication is that social media still preserves its popularity over traditional media for marketing purposes.

Practical implications

The results of the study are useful for business owners, promoters and marketers, who are struggling to effectively use this low-cost marketing tool.

Social implications

The result of the study are useful in providing awareness and the importance of social media in promoting benefits to the society.

Originality/value

Social media is extensively used for promotion of beauty services but there are very few theoretical studies on the same. This paper provides rich understanding about how to use social media effectively using 5M's.
Prime Mates: The Simian, Maternity and Abjection in Brobdingnag
Authors: Chow Jeremy
Published: June 2020

This article investigates the layered nature of animality, maternity and abjection epitomised by Gulliver’s frightening adventures in Brobdingnag. I focus specifically on the maternal force‐feeding that Gulliver is subjected to by the Brobdingnagian monkey, which he describes as ‘the greatest Danger I ever faced in the Kingdom’. The monkey is killed following the episode, which temporarily restores Gulliver’s stalwart sense of self. I contend that the monkey incident in Brobdingnag decentres Gulliver’s sense of identity and demonstrates the violability of his body by the feminised animal, which ultimately destabilises his sense of masculinity and opens myriad queer potentialities.
The de Winter ECG pattern: Distribution and morphology of ST depression
Authors: Zhan Zhong‐Qun , Li Yang , Han Li‐Hong , Nikus Kjell C. , Birnbaum Yochai , Baranchuk Adrian
Published: June 2020

Background

The reported positive predictive value (PPV) for the “de Winter ECG pattern” to predict an acute left anterior descending artery (LAD) lesion is inconsistent. Besides, the morphology of upsloping or nonupsloping ST depression (STD) may have different significance of severity and prognostication.

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE database using “de Winter” or “junctional ST‐depression with tall symmetrical T‐waves” or “tall T wave” or “STEMI equivalent” as the item up to March 2020. We compared the ECG differences between the different culprit arteries and various morphological STD.

Results

A total of 70 patients with analyzable ECGs were included. In 60 patients (LAD group), the LAD was the culprit artery, while in 10 patients (non‐LAD group), there were other etiologies. Maximal STD in V2 or V3 had a PPV of 89% of all patients and 98% of patients without ST elevation in V2 to detect an acute LAD lesion. The presence of q/Q‐wave or poor R‐wave progression in the precordial leads was significantly more often found in patients with upsloping STD than in patients with nonupsloping STD in the LAD group (84% vs. 27%, p < .01). In 18 patients, the ECG showed a change from upsloping to nonupsloping STD from the leads with maximal STD to the surrounding leads with less STD.

Conclusions

The location of the maximal STD in the precordial leads differs between patients with LAD as the culprit artery and other etiologies of the de Winter ECG pattern. Upsloping STD signifies more severe signs of ischemia than nonupsloping STD.
Decision analysis approach to risk/benefit evaluation in the ethical review of controlled human infection studies
Authors: Yu Michael , Darton Thomas C. , Kimmelman Jonathan
Published: June 2020

Risks and benefit evaluation for controlled human infection studies, where healthy volunteers are deliberately exposed to infectious agents to evaluate vaccine efficacy, should be explicit, systematic, thorough, and non‐arbitrary. Decision analysis promotes these qualities using four steps: (1) determining explicit criteria and measures for evaluation, (2) identifying alternatives to the study, (3) defining the models used to estimate the measures for each alternative, and (4) running the models to produce the estimates and compare the alternatives. In this paper, we describe how decision analysis might be applied by funders and regulators, as well as by others contemplating the use of novel controlled human infection studies for vaccine development and evaluation.
Loading messenger RNAs onto ribosomes in human mitochondria: lessons learned from a bacterial toxin
Authors: Borowski Lukasz S. , Szczesny Roman J.
Published: June 2020

Mitochondria are peculiar organelles because their function depends on genetic information that is present in two genomes: nuclear and mitochondrial. The expression of mitochondrially encoded information requires dedicated machinery. Many efforts have been made to identify this machinery and describe its relevant mechanisms. Recently, Bruni et al. reported a cellular model that they established to investigate the pathway for loading messenger RNAs onto ribosomes in human mitochondria. Their study revealed a role for monosome formation in the stability of mitochondrial mRNAs. Comment on: https://doi.org/10.1111/febs.15342
The competitive release kinetics and synergistic antibacterial characteristics of tea polyphenols/ε‐poly‐l‐lysine hydrochloride core–shell microcapsules against Shewanella putrefaciens
Authors: Yang Hua , Li Qiuying , Yang Lili , Sun Tong , Li Xuepeng , Zhou Bin , Li Jianrong
Published: June 2020

To obtain the antibacterial agents with long‐acting and slow‐release properties, the microcapsules were prepared with tea polyphenols (TP), ε‐poly‐l‐lysine hydrochloride (ε‐PL) and TP/ε‐PL as core materials. Meanwhile, the microcapsules were characterised, their release properties were measured, and their antimicrobial mechanisms against Shewanella putrefaciens were studied. At the initial release phase, TP and ε‐PL are competitively released from the composite microcapsules. The release of TP and ε‐PL is both fitted to the logistic model, indicating that the primary release mechanism is the disintegration and dissolution. The long‐acting antibacterial properties of the microcapsules are better than those of the free antibacterial agent. The microcapsules can destroy the integrity of the cell membrane, and make the permeability improve. Also, the synthesis and expression of bacterial proteins are inhibited. Because of long‐term antibacterial properties, the microcapsules have potential value for application in the preservation of food.
Predictors of use and overall survival for patients undergoing metastasectomy for bladder cancer in a national cohort
Authors: Weiner Adam B , Pham Minh N , Isaacson Dylan S , Ko Oliver S , Breen Kieran J , Nadler Robert B
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To determine the use of surgical resection of metastatic disease in a large national sample and its association with overall survival.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for patients with metastatic bladder cancer (2004–2016). Overall survival was assessed using Kaplan–Meier and multivariable Cox analyses. The associations between covariates and use of metastasectomy were assessed with multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of the 16 382 patients with metastatic bladder cancer included, 6.8% underwent metastasectomy. Its use increased over time (4.7% in 2004 to 6.6% in 2016; per year odds ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval 1.00–1.04, P = 0.019). Median survival was 7.0 months for patients who received metastasectomy and 5.1 months for those who did not (hazard ratio 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.79–0.91, P < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, metastasectomy predicted longer survival in patients with lung (hazard ratio 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.61–0.88, P = 0.001) or brain metastases (hazard ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.35–0.96, P = 0.035) and in patients with variant histology (hazard ratio 0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.69–0.93, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

In a national sample, the use of metastasectomy for bladder cancer is low. Furthermore, metastasectomy is associated with longer survival overall and in multiple subgroups. However, these results should be validated in future studies.
Biochemical control of the combination of cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor and 125I‐brachytherapy for prostate cancer: Post hoc analysis of an open‐label controlled randomized trial
Authors: Nakai Yasushi , Tanaka Nobumichi , Asakawa Isao , Anai Satoshi , Miyake Makito , Morizawa Yosuke , Hori Shunta , Owari Takuya , Fujii Tomomi , Ohbayashi Chiho , Yamaki Kaori , Hasegawa Masatoshi , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the use of cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitors in patients receiving low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy for prostate cancer.

Methods

A total of 310 patients with prostate cancer (cT1c‐3aN0M0) who received low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy between May 2010 and July 2013 were enrolled and allocated to one of the two treatment groups (tamsulosin alone 0.2 mg/day for 6 months vs tamsulosin 0.2 mg/day for 6 months plus celecoxib 200 mg/day for 3 months). The primary end‐point was the chronological change in international prostate symptom score, and the number of patients was assessed for the primary end‐point. Biochemical recurrence‐free, cancer‐specific survival and overall survival rates 5 years after the last patient received low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy were retrospectively examined.

Results

The median follow‐up period after low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy was 72.0 months (range 3–99 months). A total of 12 (3.9%) patients experienced biochemical recurrence. The biochemical recurrence‐free rate in the celecoxib group (5‐year biochemical recurrence‐free rate 98.5%) was significantly better (log–rank test P = 0.023, 95% confidence interval 0.07–0.63, hazard ratio 0.20) than that in the tamsulosin group (5‐year biochemical recurrence‐free rate 93.4%). None of the patients died from prostate cancer. However, 14 (4.5%) patients died of other causes. No significant difference was observed in terms of overall survival between the celecoxib and tamsulosin groups.

Conclusions

The combination of cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor and low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy can contribute to a better biochemical control of prostate cancer.
Viral burden, inflammatory milieu and CD8+ T‐cell responses to influenza virus in a second‐generation thiazolide (RM‐5061) and oseltamivir combination therapy study
Authors: Nüssing Simone , Mifsud Edin , Hensen Luca , Koutsakos Marios , Wang Zhongfang , Kedzierski Lukasz , Mercuri Francesca , Rossignol Jean‐Francois , Hurt Aeron C. , Kedzierska Katherine
Published: June 2020

Background

Influenza viruses cause significant morbidity and mortality, especially in young children, elderly, pregnant women and individuals with co‐morbidities. Patients with severe influenza disease are typically treated with one neuraminidase inhibitor, oseltamivir or zanamivir. These antivirals need to be taken early to be most effective and often lead to the emergence of drug resistance and/or decreased drug susceptibility. Combining oseltamivir with another antiviral with an alternative mode of action has the potential to improve clinical effectiveness and reduce drug resistance.

Methods

In this study, we utilized a host‐targeting molecule RM‐5061, a second‐generation thiazolide, in combination with oseltamivir to determine whether these compounds could reduce viral burden and understand their effects on the immune response to influenza virus infection in mice, compared with either monotherapy or placebo.

Results

The combination of RM‐5061 and OST administered for 5 days after influenza infection reduced viral burden at day 5 post‐infection, when compared to placebo and RM‐5061 monotherapy, but was not significantly different from oseltamivir monotherapy. The inflammatory cytokine milieu was also reduced in animals which received a combination therapy when compared to RM‐5061 and placebo‐treated animals. Antiviral treatment in all groups led to a reduction in CD8+ T‐cell responses in the BAL when compared to placebo.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first time a combination of a host‐targeting compound, RM‐5061, and neuraminidase inhibitor, OST, has been tested in vivo. This antiviral combination was safe in mice and led to reduced inflammatory responses following viral infection when compared to untreated animals.
Antibacterial potential of Forsythia suspensa polysaccharide against resistant Enterobacter cloacae with SHV‐12 extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)
Authors: Liu Jun , Lin Liyao , Jia Zhen , Chen Jing , Zhao Zuguo , Zhao Yi , Xu Zhujin , Guo Zhen
Published: June 2020

In this study, a homogenous polysaccharide (FSP), with an average molecular weight of 9.08 × 104 Da, was isolated from Forsythia suspense and its antibacterial potential against Enterobacter cloacae producing SHV‐12 ESBL was investigated. Growth kinetics, in vitro competition and biofilm formation experiments demonstrated that SHV‐12 ESBL contributed to a fitness benefit to E cloacae strain. The antibacterial activity of FSP (2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 μg/mL) was tested against E cloacae bearing SHV‐12 ESBL gene using bacterial sensitivity, agar bioassay and agar well diffusion assays. It was found that the addition of FSP demonstrated potent antibacterial activities against this bacterial as showed by the decrease of bacterial growth and the increase of the inhibition zone diameter. Furthermore, SHV‐12 ESBL gene expression was decreased in E cloacae strain following different FSP treatment in a concentration‐dependent manner. In conclusion, these data showed that FSP exhibited potent good antibacterial activity against E cloacae producing SHV‐12 ESBL via inhibition of SHV‐12 ESBL gene expression, which may promote the development of novel natural antibacterial agents to treat infections caused by this drug‐resistant bacterial pathogen.
Targeting IL‐11 in the treatment of BK virus‐associated haemorrhagic cystitis—A promising new approach
Authors: Schneidewind Laila , Neumann Thomas , Krüger William , Hakenberg Oliver Walther , Schmidt Christian A.
Published: June 2020

The BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) has pathogenic relevance especially in immunocompromised patients. No causal therapy has been established yet. Therefore, new therapeutic targets need to be identified in experimental studies. A 3D organotypic cell culture model with primary urothelial cells and fibroblasts was used as infection model. The detection of virus replication was performed with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was also used for analysis. Interleukin levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Interestingly, the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway seems to be activated during infection with BKPyV, for example phosphorylated STAT3 is significantly (P < 0.0001) elevated on day 6 following infection. Therefore, we performed ELISAs for involved interleukins in STAT3 pathway. Interleukin 11 (IL‐11) was significantly (P = 0.026) elevated at day 9. Subsequently, 3D cultures were treated with IL‐11 neutralizing antibody. At day 9 following infection, the median virus replication rate is 4.4 × 106 copies/ml. The difference to replication rate without treatment was significantly lower at day 6 (P < 0.0001) and at day 9 (P < 0.0001), respectively. STAT3 pathways seem to be involved during BKPyV infection and need further investigation in experimental studies. A very promising target for treatment might be IL‐11.
Can neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte and monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratios be useful markers for predicting missed abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy?
Authors: Wang Qingjie , Liu Fen , Zhao Ying , Cui Baoxia , Ban Yanli
Published: June 2020

Aim

To explore whether neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (MLR) could predict missed abortion (MA) at 7–13 week's gestation.

Methods

A total of 363 women with a diagnosis of MA and 232 women with normal pregnancy at 7–13 week's gestation, who visited our hospital from June 2012 to May 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. At 7 week's gestation, total and differential leukocyte counts, NLR and MLR were compared between women with MA (n = 69) and normal controls (n = 53). The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to select the optimal indicator and its cut‐off point. The role of the optimal indicator was further assessed at 8–13 week's gestation.

Results

The mean white blood cell counts, the mean neutrophil counts, the median monocyte counts, the mean NLR and the median MLR in women with MA were significantly lower than those in normal controls (P < 0.05, respectively).The neutrophil counts had the highest area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.772 (95% confidence interval 0.675–0.869) with a cut‐off value of 4.870 × 109/L, and the sensitivity was 72.46%, the specificity was 69.81%, positive predictive value was 75.76%, and negative predictive value was 66.07%. In addition, the neutrophil counts were also significantly lower in MA groups than those in normal controls at 8–13 week's gestation, and all had the highest AUC values.

Conclusion

Neutrophil counts may predict MA in the first trimester of pregnancy, which may provide a promising marker to diagnose missed abortion as early as 7 week's gestation.
Challenging male dominance through the substantive representation of women: the case of an online women’s mentoring platform
Authors: Durbin Susan , Lopes Ana , Warren Stella
Published: June 2020

This article analyses the design of an online mentoring platform—for women by women—in a high‐technology, male‐dominated UK industry: aviation and aerospace. Based on interviews with professionals and managers, we analyse the journey of the women involved and contribute to the understanding of the role of women (individually and collectively) in challenging gendered norms in a male‐dominated industry through the theoretical lenses of ‘critical actors’ and ‘critical mass’. We combine these concepts, usually seen as mutually exclusive, to explain the success of the online platform. We show how a small number of self‐selected critical actors represented, listened and responded to the needs of the women in their industry, thus achieving the substantive representation of women. We also argue that while critical actors were key to its inception, the mentoring platform now needs a critical mass of women to ensure its success.
Use of topical rapamycin in acral pseudolymphomatous angiokeratoma of children (APACHE): A report of two cases and review of the literature
Authors: Park Seiwon , Lara‐Corrales Irene , Pope Elena
Published: June 2020

Acral pseudolymphomatous angiokeratoma of children (APACHE) is a rare, benign disease characterized clinically by multiple, asymptomatic, erythematous papules in the acral regions. We report APACHE in a 12‐year‐old girl with erythematous‐violaceous papules on the lateral dorsum of her foot and toes, and a 3‐year‐old girl with erythematous papules on the plantar aspect of her foot. Topical rapamycin ointment improved the lesions and both patients tolerated the medication well. Topical rapamycin appears to be a potentially efficacious, well‐tolerated, non‐invasive therapy in APACHE, although further studies are needed.
Ethylene regulates sulfur acquisition by regulating the expression of sulfate transporter genes in oilseed rape
Authors: Al Murad Musa , Razi Kaukab , Benjamin Lincy Kirubhadharsini , Lee Jeong Hyun , Kim Tae Hwan , Muneer Sowbiya
Published: June 2020

To manage nutrient deficiencies, plants develop both morphological and physiological responses. The studies on the regulation of these responses are limited; however, certain hormones and signaling components have been largely implicated. Several studies depicted ethylene as a regulator of the response of some nutrient deficiencies like iron, phosphorous and potassium. The present study focused on the response of sulfur in the presence and absence of ethylene. The experiments were performed in hydroponic nutrient media, using oilseed rape grown with or without sulfur deficiency and ethylene treatments for 10 days. The ACC oxidase and ACC synthase were observed significantly reduced in sulfur‐deficient plants treated with ethylene compared to control. The biomass and photosynthetic parameters, including the expression of multicomplex thylakoidal proteins showed a significant increase in sulfur deficient plants supplemented with ethylene. The enzymes related to sulfur regulation such as sulfate adenyltransferase, glutamine synthetase and O‐acetylserine (thiol)lyase also showed similar results as shown by the morphological data. The relative expression of the sulfur transporter genes BnSultr1, 1, BnSultr1, 2, BnSultr4,1, BnSultr 4,2, ATP sulfurylase and OASTL increased in sulfur‐deficient plants, whereas their expression decreased when ethylene was given to the plants. Fe and S nutritional correlations are already known; therefore, Fe‐transporters like IRT1 and FRO1 were also evaluated, and similar results as for the sulfur transporter genes were observed. The overall results indicated that ethylene regulates sulfur acquisition by regulating the expression of sulfur transporter genes in oilseed rape (Brassica napus).
Urban‐Rural Polarisation in Times of the Corona Outbreak? The Early Demographic and Geographic Patterns of the SARS‐CoV‐2 Epidemic in the Netherlands
Authors: Boterman Willem R.
Published: June 2020

The global health crisis due to the pandemic of the SARS‐CoV‐2 is associated with processes of urbanisation and globalisation. Globally well‐connected areas with high population densities are hence expected to be disproportionately affected by COVID‐19. This paper investigates the role of population density within the Netherlands, comparing hospitalisation and mortality related to COVID‐19 across municipalities. The paper finds that infections, hospitalisation and mortality related to COVID‐19 are not clearly correlated with the population density or urbanity of the municipality, also when controlling for age and public health factors. The paper concludes that while the public debate stresses the elevated risk of infections in cities, due to transgressive behaviour, the evidence in this paper suggests that the geography of the epidemic in the Netherlands is more complex. It speculates that the variation in urbanisation in most of the country might just be too small to expect significant differences.
Dynamic Characterization and Phenomenological Modeling of Sleeve Pneumatic Artificial Muscles
Authors: Cullinan Michael F. , Bourke Eamonn , Kelly Kevin , McGinn Conor
Published: June 2020

Pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs) are a compelling actuator for physical human–robot interaction (pHRI) due to their low mass, high-force capacity, and muscle-like characteristics. However, their low efficiency and bandwidth have forced mobile robotics researchers to examine alternative actuators for performing dynamic tasks like walking and grasping. Recently, the sleeve PAM, has been proposed and shown to improve the efficiency and force capacity when compared with traditional PAM designs. However, the increase in the dynamic performance of sleeve PAMs has not yet been studied. The aim of this research is to compare the dynamic performance of sleeve and traditional PAMS, and to develop a phenomenological model of their dynamic performance. Testing found that the isometric bandwidth of sleeve muscles can be 100% greater than that of traditional muscles at rest length if pressure response is considered, although this improvement decreases with contraction. If force is instead considered, the increase in bandwidth is even greater (up to 120% greater than that of a traditional PAM). The volume of both PAMs was determined using an experimental method, and a phenomenological model was fitted. When these models were used to simulate the performance of a PAM-actuated system, it was shown that both approximate the behavior of the measured system with good accuracy. Finally, a proposed implementation is given which illustrates how the benefits of the sleeved PAM actuator design could be realized in a practical robotics application.
Finite Element Analysis for Impact Tests on Polycarbonate Safety Guards: Comparison With Experimental Data and Statistical Dispersion of Ballistic Limit
Authors: Stecconi Alessandro , Landi Luca
Published: June 2020

Design and testing of machine guards are provided by international standards in which the inadequacy/suitability of the tested materials for machine guards is obtained by the perforation/nonperforation of the guard in an experimental test at the maximum foreseeable speed of a standardized projectile. Uncertainties and limitations of this standardized test are known by researchers, but a better testing procedure is not already agreed on the standardization level. In this paper, finite element analysis of the impact of three different projectiles of a given mass on polycarbonate guards is presented and compared with experimental tests made using a standardized gas cannon. The good correlation found in terms of ballistic limit, energy absorbed, and residual velocity is presented trying to open the discussion to a “probability of perforation.” Moreover, a statistical analysis of experimental results, based on a nonlinear regression model, is briefly introduced. The penetration behavior is described by the well-known Recht and Ipson equation, and an evaluation of the statistical dispersion of the ballistic limit for each type of projectile is presented through the calculation of confidence intervals.
In situ grown single crystal aluminum as a nonalloyed ohmic contact to n-ZnSe by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Fan Zongjian , Bunk Ryan , Wang Guangying , Woodall Jerry M.
Published: June 2020

Novel ohmic contacts to n-ZnSe are demonstrated using single crystal Al films deposited on epitaxially grown ZnSe (100) by molecular beam epitaxy. Electron backscatter diffraction confirmed the single crystalline structure of the Al films. The (110)-oriented Al layer was rotated 45° relative to the substrate to match the ZnSe (100) lattice constant. The as-grown Al-ZnSe contact exhibited nearly ideal ohmic electrical characteristics over a large doping range of n-ZnSe without any additional treatment. The contact resistances are in a range of 10−3Ωcm2 for even lightly doped ZnSe (∼1017cm−3). Leaky Schottky behavior in lightly doped ZnSe samples suggested that Al-ZnSe formed a low-barrier height, Schottky limit contact. In situ grown Al could act as a simple metal contact to n-ZnSe regardless of carrier concentration with lower resistance compared to other reported contacts in literary studies. The reported novel metallization method could greatly simplify the ZnSe-based device fabrication complexity and lower the cost.
To be a radical or not to be one? The fate of the stable nitroxide radical TEMPO [(2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl] undergoing plasma polymerization into thin-film coatings
Authors: Michl Thomas Danny , Tran Dung Thuy Thi , Böttle Kilian , Kuckling Hannah Frederike , Zhalgasbaikyzy Aigerim , Ivanovská Barbora , Cavallaro Alex Anthony , Araque Toledo Maria Antonia , Sherman Patrick James , Al-Bataineh Sameer A. , Vasilev Krasimir
Published: June 2020

The stable nitroxide radical TEMPO [(2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl] has a multitude of applications in fields ranging from energy storage to biomedical applications and many more. However, to date, the processes of incorporating nitroxide radicals into thin-film coatings are laborious and not cost-effective, which hinders their wider use in many applications. In contrast, the authors have recently demonstrated the facile method of plasma polymerization of TEMPO into thin-film coatings that retain the stable nitroxide radicals. In this work, we are using three types of mass spectroscopic methods (plasma-mass spectrometry, time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) and electron spin resonance to track the fate of the TEMPO molecule from monomer flask through the plasma and inside the resulting coatings. The results of this study demonstrate that TEMPO is a versatile monomer that can be used across different plasma reactors and reliably retain the stable nitroxide radical in the resulting thin-film coatings if certain process conditions are observed, namely, higher process pressures and lower powers.
Effect of Individual Environmental Heat-Stress Variables on Training and Recovery in Professional Team Sport
Authors: O’Connor Fergus K. , Stern Steven E. , Doering Thomas M. , Minett Geoffrey M. , Reaburn Peter R. , Bartlett Jonathan D. , Coffey Vernon G.
Published: June 2020

Context: Exercise in hot environments increases body temperature and thermoregulatory strain. However, little is known regarding the magnitude of effect that ambient temperature (Ta), relative humidity (RH), and solar radiation individually have on team-sport athletes. Purpose: To determine the effect of these individual heat-stress variables on team-sport training performance and recovery. Methods: Professional Australian Rules Football players (N = 45) undertook 8-wk preseason training producing a total of 579 outdoor field-based observations with Ta, RH, and solar radiation recorded at every training session. External load (distance covered, in m/min; percentage high-speed running [%HSR] >14.4 km/h) was collected via a global positioning system. Internal load (ratings of perceived exertion and heart rate) and recovery (subjective ratings of well-being and heart-rate variability [root mean square of the successive differences]) were monitored throughout the training period. Mixed-effects linear models analyzed relationships between variables using standardized regression coefficients. Results: Increased solar-radiation exposure was associated with reduced distance covered (−19.7 m/min, P < .001), %HSR (−10%, P < .001) during training and rMSSD 48 h posttraining (−16.9 ms, P = .019). Greater RH was associated with decreased %HSR (−3.4%, P = .010) but increased percentage duration >85% HRmax (3.9%, P < .001), ratings of perceived exertion (1.8 AU, P < .001), and self-reported stress 24 h posttraining (−0.11 AU, P = .002). In contrast, higher Ta was associated with increased distance covered (19.7 m/min, P < .001) and %HSR (3.5%, P = .005). Conclusions: The authors show the importance of considering the individual factors contributing to thermal load in isolation for team-sport athletes and that solar radiation and RH reduce work capacity during team-sport training and have the potential to slow recovery between sessions.
Quantifying the evaporation amounts of 75 high-elevation large dimictic lakes on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Binbin , Ma Yaoming , Su Zhongbo , Wang Yan , Ma Weiqiang
Published: June 2020

Our reference lake evaporation dataset for high-elevation Tibetan lakes reduces evaporation-induced bias in water budget analysis.
Active DNA demethylation regulates tracheary element differentiation inArabidopsis
Authors: Lin Wei , Sun Linhua , Huang Run-Zhou , Liang Wenjie , Liu Xinyu , He Hang , Fukuda Hiroo , He Xin-Qiang , Qian Weiqiang
Published: June 2020

A novel role of active DNA demethylation in plant development.
Climate impacts of a weakened Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation in a warming climate
Authors: Liu Wei , Fedorov Alexey V. , Xie Shang-Ping , Hu Shineng
Published: June 2020

The global and regional impacts of the AMOC slowdown on climate change in the 21st century are isolated and quantified.
Synoviocyte-targeted therapy synergizes with TNF inhibition in arthritis reversal
Authors: Svensson Mattias N. D. , Zoccheddu Martina , Yang Shen , Nygaard Gyrid , Secchi Christian , Doody Karen M. , Slowikowski Kamil , Mizoguchi Fumitaka , Humby Frances , Hands Rebecca , Santelli Eugenio , Sacchetti Cristiano , Wakabayashi Kuninobu , Wu Dennis J. , Barback Christopher , Ai Rizi , Wang Wei , Sims Gary P. , Mydel Piotr , Kasama Tsuyoshi , Boyle David L. , Galimi Francesco , Vera David , Tremblay Michel L. , Raychaudhuri Soumya , Brenner Michael B. , Firestein Gary S. , Pitzalis Costantino , Ekwall Anna-Karin H. , Stanford Stephanie M. , Bottini Nunzio
Published: June 2020

PTPRS-targeted FLS-directed therapy synergizes with TNF inhibition in therapy of arthritis.
AIEgen-coupled upconversion nanoparticles eradicate solid tumors through dual-mode ROS activation
Authors: Mao Duo , Hu Fang , Yi Zhigao , Kenry  , Xu Shidang , Yan Shuangqian , Luo Zichao , Wu Wenbo , Wang Zhihong , Kong Deling , Liu Xiaogang , Liu Bin
Published: June 2020

Integration of AIEgens with upconversion nanoparticles inhibits tumor recurrence and metastasis.
Molecular atlas of the adult mouse brain
Authors: Ortiz Cantin , Navarro Jose Fernandez , Jurek Aleksandra , Märtin Antje , Lundeberg Joakim , Meletis Konstantinos
Published: June 2020

Whole-brain spatial transcriptomics redefines the neuroanatomical classification of the adult mouse brain.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Target Attainment of Cefepime in Critically Ill Patients and Guidance for Initial Dosing
Authors: Al-Shaer Mohammad H. , Neely Michael N. , Liu Jiajun , Cherabuddi Kartikeya , Venugopalan Veena , Rhodes Nathaniel J. , Klinker Kenneth , Scheetz Marc H. , Peloquin Charles A.
Published: June 2020

Cefepime is commonly used in the intensive care unit (ICU) to treat bacterial infections. The time during which the free cefepime concentration is above the MIC (
f
T
>MIC
) should be optimized to increase the efficacy of the regimen. We aim to optimize the exposure of cefepime in ICU patients by using population pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling and simulations. Two data sets were included in this study. The first was a prospective study of pediatric patients who received cefepime at 50 mg/kg of body weight and had extensive PK sampling.
Discovery of an Inducible Toluene Monooxygenase That Cooxidizes 1,4-Dioxane and 1,1-Dichloroethylene in Propanotrophic
Azoarcus
sp. Strain DD4
Authors: Deng Daiyong , Pham Dung Ngoc , Li Fei , Li Mengyan
Published: June 2020

Toluene MOs have been well recognized given their robust abilities to degrade a variety of environmental pollutants. Built upon previous research efforts, this study ascertained the untapped capability of a toluene MO in DD4 for effective cooxidation of dioxane and 1,1-DCE, two of the most prevailing yet challenging groundwater contaminants. This report also aligns the induction of a toluene MO with nontoxic and commercially accessible chemicals (e.g., propane and 1-propanol), extending its implications in the field of environmental microbiology and beyond.
Escherichia albertiiPathogenesis
Authors: Gomes Tânia A. T. , Ooka Tadasuke , Hernandes Rodrigo T. , Yamamoto Denise , Hayashi Tetsuya
Published: June 2020

Escherichia albertiiis an emerging enteropathogen of humans and many avian species. This bacterium is a close relative ofEscherichia coliand has been frequently misidentified as enteropathogenic or enterohemorrhagicE. colidue to their similarity in phenotypic and genetic features, such as various biochemical properties and the possession of a type III secretion system encoded by the locus of enterocyte effacement. This pathogen causes outbreaks of gastroenteritis, and some strains produce Shiga toxin. Although many genetic and phenotypic studies have been published and the genome sequences of more than 200E. albertiistrains are now available, the clinical significance of this species is not yet fully understood. The apparent zoonotic nature of the disease requires a deeper understanding of the transmission routes and mechanisms ofE. albertiito develop effective measures to control its transmission and infection. Here, we review the current knowledge of the phylogenic relationship ofE. albertiiwith otherEscherichiaspecies and the biochemical and genetic properties ofE. albertii, with particular emphasis on the repertoire of virulence factors and the mechanisms of pathogenicity, and we hope this provides a basis for future studies of this important emerging enteropathogen.
Human Fallopian Tube Epithelial Cell Culture Model To Study Host Responses to Chlamydia trachomatis Infection
Authors: McQueen Bryan E. , Kiatthanapaiboon Amy , Fulcher M. Leslie , Lam Mariam , Patton Kate , Powell Emily , Kollipara Avinash , Madden Victoria , Suchland Robert J. , Wyrick Priscilla , O’Connell Catherine M. , Reidel Boris , Kesimer Mehmet , Randell Scott H. , Darville Toni , Nagarajan Uma M.
Published: June 2020

Chlamydia trachomatisinfection of the human fallopian tubes can lead to damaging inflammation and scarring, ultimately resulting in infertility. To study the human cellular responses to chlamydial infection, researchers have frequently used transformed cell lines that can have limited translational relevance. We developed a primary human fallopian tube epithelial cell model based on a method previously established for culture of primary human bronchial epithelial cells. After protease digestion and physical dissociation of excised fallopian tubes, epithelial cell precursors were expanded in growth factor-containing medium.
Microwave-Generated Steam Decontamination of N95 Respirators Utilizing Universally Accessible Materials
Authors: Zulauf Katelyn E. , Green Alex B. , Nguyen Ba Alex N. , Jagdish Tanush , Reif Dvir , Seeley Robert , Dale Alana , Kirby James E.
Published: June 2020

Due to the rapid spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there is an increasing shortage of protective gear necessary to keep health care providers safe from infection. As of 9 April 2020, the CDC reported 9,282 cumulative cases of COVID-19 among U.S. health care workers (CDC COVID-19 Response Team, MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 69:477–481, 2020,https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6915e6). N95 respirators are recommended by the CDC as the ideal method of protection from COVID-19. Although N95 respirators are traditionally single use, the shortages have necessitated the need for reuse. Effective methods of N95 decontamination that do not affect the fit or filtration ability of N95 respirators are essential. Numerous methods of N95 decontamination exist; however, none are universally accessible. In this study, we describe an effective, standardized, and reproducible means of decontaminating N95 respirators using widely available materials. The N95 decontamination method described in this work will provide a valuable resource for hospitals, health care centers, and outpatient practices that are experiencing increasing shortages of N95 respirators due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Biofilm Structure Promotes Coexistence of Phage-Resistant and Phage-Susceptible Bacteria
Authors: Simmons Emilia L. , Bond Matthew C. , Koskella Britt , Drescher Knut , Bucci Vanni , Nadell Carey D.
Published: June 2020

In the natural environment, bacteria most often live in communities bound to one another by secreted adhesives. These communities, or biofilms, play a central role in biogeochemical cycling, microbiome functioning, wastewater treatment, and disease. Wherever there are bacteria, there are also viruses that attack them, called phages. Interactions between bacteria and phages are likely to occur ubiquitously in biofilms. We show here, using simulations and experiments, that biofilms will in most conditions allow phage-susceptible bacteria to be protected from phage exposure, if they are growing alongside other cells that are phage resistant. This result has implications for the fundamental ecology of phage-bacteria interactions, as well as the development of phage-based antimicrobial therapeutics.
Comparison of widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography with ultra-widefield colour fundus photography and fluorescein angiography for detection of lesions in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Cui Ying , Zhu Ying , Wang Jay C , Lu Yifan , Zeng Rebecca , Katz Raviv , Vingopoulos Filippos , Le Rongrong , Laíns Inês , Wu David M , Eliott Dean , Vavvas Demetrios G , Husain Deeba , Miller Joan W , Kim Leo A , Miller John B
Published: June 2020

Aims

To compare widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (WF SS-OCTA) with ultra-widefield colour fundus photography (UWF CFP) and fluorescein angiography (UWF FA) for detecting diabetic retinopathy (DR) lesions.

Methods

This prospective, observational study was conducted at Massachusetts Eye and Ear from December 2018 to October 2019. Proliferative DR, non-proliferative DR and diabetic patients with no DR were included. All patients were imaged with a WF SS-OCTA using a Montage 15×15 mm scan. UWF CFP and UWF FA were taken by a 200°, single capture retinal imaging system. Images were independently evaluated for the presence or absence of DR lesions including microaneurysms (MAs), intraretinal microvascular abnormalities (IRMAs), neovascularisation elsewhere (NVE), neovascularisation of the optic disc (NVD) and non-perfusion areas (NPAs). All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS V.25.0.

Results

One hundred and fifty-two eyes of 101 participants were included in the study. When compared with UWF CFP, WF SS-OCTA was found to be superior in detecting IRMAs (p<0.001) and NVE/NVD (p=0.007). The detection rates of MAs, IRMAs, NVE/NVD and NPAs in WF SS-OCTA were comparable with UWF FA images (p>0.05). Furthermore, when we compared WF SS-OCTA plus UWF CFP with UWF FA, the detection rates of MAs, IRMAs, NVE/NVD and NPAs were identical (p>0.005). Agreement (κ=0.916) between OCTA and FA in classifying DR was excellent.

Conclusion

WF SS-OCTA is useful for identification of DR lesions. WF SS-OCTA plus UWF CFP may offer a less invasive alternative to FA for DR diagnosis.
Cardiovascular outcomes of type 2 diabetic patients treated with SGLT-2 inhibitors versus GLP-1 receptor agonists in real-life
Authors: Longato Enrico , Di Camillo Barbara , Sparacino Giovanni , Gubian Lorenzo , Avogaro Angelo , Fadini Gian Paolo
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) protect type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients from cardiovascular events, but no trial has directly compared their cardiovascular effects. We aimed to address this gap using real-world data.

Research design and methods

We performed a retrospective real-world study on a population of ~5 million inhabitants from North-East Italy. We identified T2D patients who received new prescription of SGLT2i or GLP-1RA from 2014 to 2018. SGLT2i and GLP-1RA initiators were matched 1:1 by propensity scores. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and stroke (three-point major adverse cardiovascular events (3P-MACE)). Secondary endpoints were each component of the primary endpoint, hospitalization for heart failure (HF), revascularization, hospitalization for cardiovascular causes, and adverse events.

Results

From a population of 330 193 diabetic patients, we followed 8596 SGLT2i and GLP-1RA matched initiators for a median of 13 months. Patients in both groups were on average 63 years old, 63% men, and 18% had pre-existing cardiovascular disease. T2D patients treated with SGLT2i versus GLP-1RA, experienced a lower rate of 3P-MACE (HR 0.68; 95% CI 0.61 to 0.99; p=0.043), myocardial infarction (HR 0.72; 95% CI 0.53 to 0.98; p=0.035), hospitalization for HF (HR 0.59; 95% CI 0.35 to 0.99; p=0.048), and hospitalization for cardiovascular causes (HR 0.82; 95% CI 0.69 to 0.99; p=0.037). Adverse events were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusions

In the absence of dedicated trials, this observational study suggests that SGLT2i may be more effective than GLP-1RA in improving cardiovascular outcomes of T2D.

Trial registration number

NCT04184947.
Economic modelling of immediately sequential bilateral cataract surgery (ISBCS) in the National Health Service based on possible improvements in surgical efficiency
Authors: O'Brart David P , Roberts Harry , Naderi Khayam , Gormley Jack
Published: June 2020

Objective

To test a hypothesis that operating room (OR) productivity in the National Health Service (NHS) can be improved with the introduction of immediately sequential bilateral cataract surgery (ISBCS).

Methods and analysis

Previously published time and motion data of 140 unilateral cataract surgeries conducted at five different NHS locations were reanalysed to construct a hypothetical model where only ISBCS (±one unilateral case) were conducted while maintaining time durations of all key tasks previously studied. Possible time efficiency savings were calculated for the ISBCS model and percentage increases in numbers of eyes operated per 4-hour theatre session calculated. Gains in efficiency were correlated with factors from the baseline data to predict which settings could improve efficiency most by undertaking ISBCS.

Results

Based on remodelling our time and motion study (TMS) data as hypothetical ISBCS cases, we could expect a mean 16% reduction (range 9.8%–17.8%) in the time taken for two cataract operations, translating into a mean 54% improvement (range 38%–67%) in number of cases currently performed per list and an 18% improvement (range 9%–28%) even if the number of unilateral cases per list had been fully maximised. An average number of four ISBCS cases per list (range 3–6) were required to achieve sufficient time savings to allow an extra unilateral surgery to be conducted.

Conclusion

The introduction of routine ISBCS has the potential to improve the productivity of cataract surgery within the NHS, with efficiencies being possible in both high-volume and low-volume surgical models.