bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence in Oman for Mantle Excavating Hypervelocity Impact at the Cenomanian‐Turonian Boundary?
Authors: OLDS Peter
Published: November 2020

Speculation that elliptical to circular segments of surface exposed lithospheric mantle belts might mark rims of large terrestrial impact basins suggests that the ophiolite rimmed Sulu Sea, Loyalty and Yucatan basins may have resulted from middle Miocene, late Eocene and K‐Pg boundary mantle excavating hypervelocity impacts on Earth (Olds, 2019). The Semail ophiolite suggests such a circular rim segment with a ∼250 km radius of curvature implying an originally ∼500 km diameter impact basin before subsequent deformation/destruction at plate boundaries. Presently the Arabian plate is being actively consumed at the Makran subduction zone (Penney et al., 2017) which evidently will result in subduction of the Gulf of Oman and suturing of the adjacent Semail ophiolite in the near geological future. For large impact basins on the rocky planets, O'Keefe and Ahrens (1993) estimate maximum excavation depth to be roughly 5% of final crater diameter. In this case maximum ejecta source depths of ∼25 km are implied, a number roughly comparable with observed thicknesses of crust plus mantle sections for the Semail ophiolite (Aldega et al., 2017) and depths of burial due to over‐thrusting (obduction) implied by the exhumed metamorphic sole (Cowan et al., 2014). Hacker et al. (1996) and Roberts et al. (2016) place peak metamorphism timing of the Semail metamorphic sole within uncertainty of the C‐T Boundary at 94 Ma. Study of possible correlation of peak obduction timing with end‐Cenomanian global extinction plus anoxic events (Wan et al., 2003) and C‐T boundary impact ejecta plus tsunami deposits (Monteiro et al., 2001) may be warranted.
Magma Dynamics of Axial Melt Lens at Fast‐Spreading Mid‐Ocean Ridges
Authors: ZHANG Chao , KOEPKE Juergen
Published: November 2020

Multichannel seismic studies performed at fast‐spreading mid‐ocean ridges revealed the presence of a thin (tens to hundreds of meters high), narrow (< 1–2 km wide) axial melt lens (AML) in the mid‐crust, which is underlain by crystal/melt mush that is in turn laterally surrounded by a transition zone of mostly solidified material. In order to shed light on the complexity of magmatic and metamorphic processes ongoing within and at the roof of axial melt lenses, we have focused on the petrological and geochemical record provided by fossilized AMLs. Of particular significance is Hole 1256D in the equatorial Pacific drilled by the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP), where for the first time, the transition between sheeted dikes and gabbros in intact fast‐spreading crust was penetrated, providing a drill core with a more or less continuous record of the upper part of an AML (Teagle et al., 2006; Koepke et al., 2008). This can be regarded as rosetta stone to answer long‐standing questions on the complex magmatic evolution within an AML, as well as on metamorphic and anatectic processes ongoing at the roof of a dynamic AML, rising upward in the mid‐crust as a consequence of a replenishment event. The plutonic rocks drilled from Hole 1256D consist of quartz‐bearing gabbros, diorites and tonalites, which might represent the upper part of a fossilized AML. The gabbros and diorites are consistent with modeled products of MORB fractional crystallization, composed of mixed melt and cumulate in varying ratios. Modeled trace elements support a model in which the tonalites originated from low‐degree partial melting of the sheeted dikes overlying the AML, rather than extreme fractional crystallization (Erdmann et al., 2015; Zhang et al., 2017a). Therefore, the upper part of AML, largely composed of low density and high‐viscosity felsic magmas, may serve as a barrier to eruptible MORB melts in the lower part of AML. Zoning of apatites from three different lithologies, tonalites, diorites, and gabbros, is common and shows a consistent evolution trend with depletion in Cl and REEs from core to rim. The cores are usually homogenous in composition and interpreted as magmatic origin, whereas zones with lower Cl and REEs are disseminated with heterogeneous concentrations, indicating exchanges with hydrothermal fluids. The high‐Cl apatite core indicates assimilation of high‐Cl brines at a magmatic stage, which is interpreted as immiscibility product from cycling seawater‐derived fluids at a high temperature (Zhang et al., 2017b). The variation of F/Cl and Br/Cl ratios of bull rocks may reflect the mixing between MORB magmas and seawater‐derived fluids, crystallization of apatite and amphibole, and/or extraction of magmatic fluids (Zhang et al., 2017c).
The effects of relaxing Australia’s statutory dividend restrictions
Authors: Wallis Mark
Published: November 2020

This paper investigates the consequences of removing the requirement from Australian corporate law that dividends can only be paid out of retained earnings. Using a difference‐in‐difference design, I find that firms with negative retained earnings and more volatile earnings increased dividends after the law change, consistent with the arguments of proponents of the law change. However, I further find that the law change is associated with a significant increase in cost of debt, decrease in debt maturity and increased reliance on bank debt. These results are consistent with increased agency costs of debt after the relaxation of dividend restrictions.
Status of illegal resource extraction within Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda: Baseline studies near four hydropower projects
Authors: Bulafu Collins Edward , Tumusiime David Mwesigye , Erik Hårklau Svein , Owuor George
Published: November 2020

Illegal resource use in protected areas is a problem for park managers. We investigated status and distribution of illegal activities inside Rwenzori Mountains National Park in areas adjacent to four sites where hydropower projects were being developed outside the park. We used in‐park plot, nonplot‐based methods and community surveys and compared findings from these with ranger patrol records of the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Seventeen kinds of illegal activities were recorded. Collection of medicinal plants and poaching were the most pervasive forms of illegal activities inside the park. Poaching exhibited significant differences (p = 0.03) across sites, and prevalence of poaching signs increased with distance from park boundary at two sites (p = 0.05). The study revealed higher levels of illegal activities than earlier recorded from ranger patrol data. Sixty‐eight per cent (68%) and 44% of the respondents reported participation in collection of medicinal plants and poaching, respectively. Ninety‐eight per cent (98%) of respondents agreed that the park is an important source for natural resources. Ranger patrols should extend further inside the park rather than near the boundaries as has been the case. The findings set a valuable benchmark for assessing the temporal and spatial variation of illegal resource extraction over the hydropower projects’ duration.
Effect of early discharge after planned cesarean section on recovery and parental sense of security. A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kruse Anne R. , Lauszus Finn F. , Forman Axel , Kesmodel Ulrik S. , Rugaard Marie B. , Knudsen Randi K. , Persson Eva‐Kristina , Uldbjerg Niels , Sundtoft Iben B.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

In some European countries, discharge the day after planned cesarean section has become an accepted procedure. However, little is known about the patients’ perception of early discharge. The aim of this study was to compare early discharge with standard care in relation to parental sense of security. Further, we evaluated postoperative pain, mobilization, and readmission.

Material and methods

We performed a randomized clinical trial including parous, singleton pregnant women with a planned cesarean section at term. The women were allocated to either discharge within 28 hours (intervention group) or after 48 hours (standard care group) following the cesarean section. Women discharged within 28 hours after cesarean section were offered a home visit by a midwife the following day. The primary outcome was the postnatal sense of security, which was reported by the woman and her partner in the “Parents’ Postnatal Sense of Security” questionnaire 1 week postpartum. Secondary outcomes were pain score, use of analgesics, mobilization, readmission, and contacts with the healthcare system in the postoperative period.

Results

We included 143 women, of whom 72 were allocated to the intervention group and 71 were allocated to the standard care group. There were no differences in baseline characteristics. The two groups did not differ concerning the postnatal sense of security for the women (P = .98) or the postnatal sense of security for the partners (P = .38). We found no difference in pain scores, step count, use of analgesics, or number of contacts with the health‐care system between the groups.

Conclusions

Parental postnatal sense of security is not compromised by discharge within 28 hours followed by a home visit compared with discharge after 48 hours after planned cesarean section among parous women.
Chemical composition analysis and antioxidant activity of black rice pigment
Authors: Tai Linyu , Huang Shiyu , Zhao Zhengwu , Huang Gangliang
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this research was conducted to determine anthocyanin constituent from the grains of Purple black rice No. 6. Moreover, the in vitro antioxidant activity of black rice pigment (BRP) was evaluated. The crude extract of black rice was isolated and purified by silica gel thin layer chromatography. Anthocyanins were elucidated using ultraviolet visible spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and high‐performance liquid chromatography. Meanwhile, salicylic acid Fenton system, superoxide radical system, H2O2 scavenging system, DPPH‐free radical scavenging system, and Prussian blue method were used to determine the free radical scavenging ability and total reducing ability of BRP. Overall results suggest that the main component of BRP is cyanidin‐3‐glucoside, which is a kind of anthocyanins. It also had significant scavenging capacity to OH, O2‐, H2O2, DPPH, and its scavenging rate and reducing ability increased with the increase in pigment concentration.
Pregnancy outcomes for simultaneous Pancreas–Kidney transplant recipients versus kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Tang Joanne , Gulyani Aarti , Hewawasam Erandi , McDonald Stephen , Clayton Phil , Webster Angela C. , Kanellis John , Jesudason Shilpanjali
Published: November 2020

Data about pregnancy outcomes for simultaneous pancreas–kidney transplant recipients (SPKR) are limited. We compared pregnancy outcomes in SPKR to Kidney Transplant Recipients (KTR) from 2001‐17 using the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant (ANZDATA) Registry and the Australian and New Zealand Pancreas Islet Transplant Registry (ANZPITR). A total of 19 pregnancies to 15 SPKR mothers, and 348 pregnancies to 235 KTR mothers were reported. Maternal ages were similar (SPKR 33.9 ± 3.9 years; KTR 32.1 ± 4.8 years, p = .10); however, SPKR had a shorter transplant to first‐pregnancy interval compared to KTR (SPKR 3.3 years, IQR (1.7, 4.1); KTR 5 years, IQR (2.6, 8.7), p = .02). Median difference in creatinine pre‐ and post‐pregnancy was similar between the groups (KTR −3 µmol/L, IQR (−15, 6), SPKR −3 µmol/L, IQR (−11, 3), p = .86). Maternal, fetal and kidney transplant outcomes were similar despite higher rates of pre‐existing peripheral vascular and coronary artery diseases in SPKR. Live birth rates (>20 weeks) were comparable (SPKR 93.8% vs. KTR 96.8%, p = .06). KTR with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus (24 births) had similar outcomes compared to SPKR. In this national cohort, pregnancy outcomes were similar between SPKR and KTR mothers; however, findings should be interpreted with caution due to small sample sizes.
Photoelastic stress analysis of different types of anterior teeth splints
Authors: Baena Lopes Murilo , Romero Felizardo Klissia , Danil Guiraldo Ricardo , Fancio Sella Karina , Ramos Junior Sérgio , Gonini Junior Alcides , Bittencourt Berger Sandrine
Published: November 2020

Background/Aims

Traumatic dental injuries are highly prevalent and are considered an important health problem. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro stress distribution around simulated traumatized teeth subjected to different types of splints by photoelastic analysis.

Materials and Methods

For each group, five models of maxillary and mandibular arches were made in photoelastic resin using prefabricated teeth models, which were fixed and adjusted in a semi‐adjustable articulator. All splints were bonded with composite resin on the labial surfaces of the maxillary central incisors, the lateral incisors and the canine teeth, simulating trauma to the 11. The groups were divided according to the type of splint: control—without splint; rigid—brackets and 0.021 × 0.025 inch stainless steel wire; semi‐rigid—brackets and 0.016 × 0.016 inch cobalt‐chromium wire; fiber—fiberglass ribbon; and flexible—nylon thread. The groups were submitted to an occlusal force in a special device attached to a universal test machine in balanced, protrusive, and lateral occlusions. Then, the incisal edge of the 11 was ground to simulate infra‐occlusion, and the tests were performed again. Five points were analyzed around tooth 11 with a polariscope, and the data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey tests at a 5% level of significance.

Results

When centric occlusion was analyzed by comparing normal occlusion to infra‐occlusion, all groups showed high stress values in infra‐occlusion with statistical differences—except for the control group. When lateral occlusion was analyzed, the nylon splint showed lower statistical differences compared with the control, fiberglass, and rigid splint groups, which did not differ between each other. The semi‐rigid splint did not differ from any group.

Conclusions

Fiberglass and semi‐rigid splints showed better stress distribution around the traumatized tooth under occlusal loads. The nylon splint showed characteristics of non‐stress distribution.
Effects of different splinting times on surgically extruded teeth with a crown‐root fracture: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mohamed Maii , Moheb Dalia , Waly Nevine , Abdalsamad Ahmad , Elkhadem Ahmed
Published: November 2020

Background/Aim

Clinical studies evaluating the splinting time for surgically extruded teeth with crown‐root fractures are lacking. The aim of this study was to compare 2‐week splinting versus functional splinting times after surgical extrusion.

Material and methods

Children aged 8‐13 years who presented with crown‐root fractures were included. Surgical extrusion was performed, and teeth were splinted either for 2 weeks or until normal Periotest values were achieved (functional splinting time). The outcome measures were tooth mobility, tooth loss, root resorption, marginal bone resorption and ankylosis. Measurements were taken at baseline, weekly after splint removal, and after 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.

Results

Nineteen patients were included in the analysis. Surgically extruded teeth splinted for 2 weeks showed significantly higher mobility directly after splint removal and at 1 month after splinting compared with the functional splinting time group. The mean differences for horizontal Periotest values were 14.96 (95% confidence interval: 8.52, 21.39) and 6.63 (95% confidence interval: 0.25, 13), respectively. The vertical Periotest values were 10.47 (95% confidence interval: 1.95, 18.99) and 4.81 (95% confidence interval: −1.57, 11.18), respectively. At the 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up intervals, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups. One tooth in the 2‐week splinting group was lost. None of the teeth had ankylosis, marginal bone resorption or root resorption.

Conclusions

Although both groups showed neither statistical nor clinically significant differences after 12 months, there was a significant difference immediately after splint removal, with greater tooth mobility in the 2‐week splinting group. Thus, a functional splinting time (4‐6 weeks) can be suggested for better healing and optimal stability to allow placement of the final restoration directly after splint removal.
Carbon‐doped fused silica glass
Authors: Zhang Haitao , Rezikyan Aram , Liu Xinyuan , Cai Ling , Carapella Anthony , Stone Jeffery S. , LeBlond Nicolas , Gu Yunfeng , Li Ming‐Jun
Published: November 2020

Carbon‐doped fused silica glass is fabricated by consolidating zinc stearate‐doped porous silica soot blank. The carbon doping concentration is tunable and a maximum of ~0.3 wt% carbon can be incorporated into densified silica. Carbon dopants assemble into nanorod structures which are uniformly distributed inside glass. Transmission electron microscopy electron energy loss spectroscopy and Raman studies identify that carbon dopants are a mixture of nanosized silicon carbide and multiple layer graphene, which produce strong and flat optical absorption in a wide wavelength range of 400‐2500 nm. The electrical resistivity of silica glass is reduced by about 15 orders of magnitude with 0.28 wt% carbon doping.
Understanding how personhood impacts consumers’ feelings of safety in acute mental health units: a qualitative study
Authors: Cutler Natalie Ann , Sim Jenny , Halcomb Elizabeth , Stephens Moira , Moxham Lorna
Published: November 2020

Being admitted to an acute mental health unit can lead to feelings of shame, and loss of personhood for some consumers. Promoting safety for consumers is a function of acute mental health units. This paper explores how consumers’ personhood influences their perception and experience of safety in acute mental health units. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants who had previously been admitted to an acute mental health unit. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Participants perceived safety as being intrinsically linked to their personhood. When participants’ innate worth was affirmed in their interactions with staff, participants felt safe. Three subthemes were identified: ‘Seen as an equal’, ‘Being respected’, and ‘Able to make choices’. These findings can be used to inform nursing practices that enhance consumers’ sense of personhood and, in so doing, promote consumers’ safety and recovery in acute mental health units.
Atrio‐ventricular synchronous pacing with a single chamber leadless pacemaker: Programming and trouble shooting for common clinical scenarios
Authors: El‐Chami Mikhael F. , Bhatia Neal K. , Merchant Faisal M.
Published: November 2020

Micra leadless pacemaker has progressed from a single chamber pacemaker that can deliver VVIR pacing to a pacing device that can provide atrio‐ventricular (AV) synchrony via a unique pacing algorithm that relies on identifying mechanical atrial contraction. This novel algorithm has its own limitations and intricacies. In this paper, we review this algorithm, suggest steps for troubleshooting and programming these devices and provide clinical examples of Micra AV cases that required changes in programming for adequate tracking of atrial activity.
Long‐Term Effects of Driving Skill Training on Safe Driving in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Ishii Hideaki , Doi Takehiko , Tsutsumimoto Kota , Nakakubo Sho , Kurita Satoshi , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

A driving skill program had positive effects on safe driving performance in older adults, even those with cognitive impairment. However, the long‐term effects of the program remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine whether such effects were maintained at 1 year after the intervention in older adults with cognitive impairment who had low driving skills.

DESIGN

A secondary analysis of single‐blind randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Community setting in Japan.

PARTICIPANTS

Community‐living adults, aged 65 years or older (n = 159), with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

INTERVENTION

The intervention group completed 10 classroom sessions of 1 hour and 10 on‐road sessions of 50 minutes, focusing on common problem areas of older drivers. The control group received one education class about safety driving.

MEASUREMENTS

On‐road driving performance was assessed by certified driving school instructors in a driving school at preintervention and postintervention, and 1‐year follow‐up.

RESULTS

A total of 159 community‐living older drivers participated in this study and were randomized to either an intervention group (n = 71) or a control group (n = 88). One year after the intervention, 104 of 159 community‐living older drivers completed the follow‐up assessment (intervention group, n = 58). Regarding the safe driving skill score, there was a significant group × time interaction (P < .01), indicating benefits of the intervention over time. Although the intervention group showed a significant decline in the safe driving skill score from postintervention (score = 38.9 ± 46.1) to 1‐year follow‐up (score = −0.3 ± 55.2), there was a significant difference between the groups at 1‐year follow‐up (control group score = −148.5 ± 46.4) (P < .05), and between preintervention (score = −132.0 ± 54.6) and 1‐year follow‐up in the intervention group (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

The driving skill program maintained safe driving performance that had been improved by the intervention in older adults with MCI.
The change of causative pathogens in toenail onychomycosis
Authors: Akpinar Kara Yesim
Published: November 2020

Background

Toenail dystrophies are among the most common diseases in adulthood. Onychomycosis is one of the most frequently observed infectious diseases of the nail.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of fungal agents in the etiology of nail dystrophies such as discoloration, thickening, subungual hyperkeratosis, and onycholysis in toenails and to emphasize the importance of diagnosis by other laboratory confirmation tests since various nail diseases may mimic onychomycosis.

Subjects and Methods

Nail samples taken from 53 patients who were admitted to the dermatology clinic with the complaint of toenail disorders were examined by using potassium hydroxide mount, fungal culture, and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry methods. Each nail was photographed, and descriptive analysis of the data was performed.

Results

Of 53 patients included in the study, 39 were female (73.6%) and 14 were male (26.4%). The ages of the patients ranged from 14 to 70 years, and the mean age was 37.8 years. No fungi could be isolated in 17 (32%) patients with nail dystrophy, while fungal pathogens were observed in 36 (68%) patients on potassium hydroxide mount, culture, and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry examinations. Among nondermatophyte molds, Aspergillus species (52.7%) were identified as the most common fungal pathogen causing onychomycosis.

Conclusion

Although fungal pathogenic agents are mostly detected among the diseases causing color changes and deformities in the nails, it should be kept in mind that nail findings of systemic or other skin diseases may mimic onychomycosis and the diagnosis should be confirmed by laboratory tests in addition to clinical manifestations for accurate treatment.

Study Limitations

Other systemic diseases causing nail dystrophy were not questioned in the study.
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: The combination of 0.5% brimonidine tartrate gel and broadband pulse light therapy to reverse its effects
Authors: Rusina Tatiana , Snarskaya Elena
Published: November 2020

Rosacea is a common skin disease that is troublesome for both the patients and the dermatologists. Erythema, telangiectasia, papulopustular changes, and phymatous changes are the main problems faced by the patients and dermatologists in everyday practice. Due to the chronic and relapsing nature of the disease, patients are usually unsatisfied with conventional treatment methods. We report a case of a patient with rosacea, erythematotelangiectatic subtype with an eight‐year history of progressive worsening and experience of combined therapy based on the broadband pulse light and topical 0.5% brimonidine tartrate gel. The effectiveness of the therapy was evaluated using multispectral skin imaging that enables to define morphological patterns of the pathological skin areas in a real‐time mode as well as to create the map of hemoglobin distribution and to measure its concentration in the rosacea foci. In this case report, an efficacy and very good tolerability of the abovementioned treatment have been demonstrated.
Imaging of multiple fluorescent proteins in canopies enables synthetic biology in plants
Authors: Rigoulot Stephen B. , Schimel Tayler M. , Lee Jun Hyung , Sears Robert G. , Brabazon Holly , Layton Jessica S. , Li Li , Meier Kerry A. , Poindexter Magen R. , Schmid Manuel J. , Seaberry Erin M. , Brabazon Jared W. , Madajian Jonathan A. , Finander Michael J. , DiBenedetto John , Occhialini Alessandro , Lenaghan Scott C. , Stewart C. Neal
Published: November 2020

Reverse genetics approaches have revolutionized plant biology and agriculture. Phenomics has the prospect of bridging plant phenotypes with genes, including transgenes, to transform agricultural fields. Genetically encoded fluorescent proteins (FPs) have revolutionized plant biology paradigms in gene expression, protein trafficking and plant physiology. While the first instance of plant canopy imaging of green fluorescent protein (GFP) was performed over 25 years ago, modern phenomics has largely ignored fluorescence as a transgene expression device despite the burgeoning FP colour palette available to plant biologists. Here, we show a new platform for stand‐off imaging of plant canopies expressing a wide variety of FP genes. The platform—the fluorescence‐inducing laser projector (FILP)—uses an ultra‐low‐noise camera to image a scene illuminated by compact diode lasers of various colours, coupled with emission filters to resolve individual FPs, to phenotype transgenic plants expressing FP genes. Each of the 20 FPs screened in plants were imaged at >3 m using FILP in a laboratory‐based laser range. We also show that pairs of co‐expressed fluorescence proteins can be imaged in canopies. The FILP system enabled a rapid synthetic promoter screen: starting from 2000 synthetic promoters transfected into protoplasts to FILP‐imaged agroinfiltrated Nicotiana benthamiana plants in a matter of weeks, which was useful to characterize a water stress‐inducible synthetic promoter. FILP canopy imaging was also accomplished for stably transformed GFP potato and in a split‐GFP assay, which illustrates the flexibility of the instrument for analysing fluorescence signals in plant canopies.
Co‐transplantation of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells with hematopoietic stem cells does not improve transplantation outcome in class III beta‐thalassemia major: A prospective cohort study with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Rostami Tahereh , Maleki Nasrollah , Kasaeian Amir , Nikbakht Mohsen , Kiumarsi Azadeh , Asadollah Mousavi Seyed , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir
Published: November 2020

Bone marrow transplantation is the only curative treatment for beta‐thalassemia major. Data on the co‐transplantation of MSCs with HSCs in beta‐thalassemia major patients are scarce. We aimed to investigate the outcomes of thalassemia major patients who underwent bone marrow‐derived MSC co‐transplantation with HSCs compared with those who only received HSCs. This prospective randomized study included patients with class III thalassemia major undergoing HSCT divided randomly into two groups: Thirty‐three patients underwent co‐transplantation of bone marrow‐derived MSCs with HSCs, and 26 patients only received HSCs. Five‐year OS, TFS, TRM, graft rejection rate, and GVHD were estimated. The 5‐year OS was 66.54% (95% CI, 47.8% to 79.9%) in patients who underwent co‐transplantation of MSCs with HSCs vs 76.92% (95% CI, 55.7% to 88.9%) in patients who only received HSCs (P = .54). No significant difference was observed in the 5‐year TFS between the two groups (59.1% vs 69.2%; P = .49). The 5‐year cumulative incidence of TRM was not statistically significant among patients who underwent co‐transplantation of MSCs with HSCs (27.27%) vs those who only received HSCs (19.23%; P = .61). There was no statistically significant difference in graft rejection, acute GvHD, and chronic GvHD between the two groups. Based on our findings, the co‐transplantation of MSCs and HSCs to class III thalassemia major patients does not alter their transplantation outcomes including OS, TFS, rejection rate, transplant‐related mortality, and GvHD.
Coping with inclement weather conditions due to high temperature and water deficit in rice: An insight from genetic and biochemical perspectives
Authors: Rabara Roel C. , Msanne Joseph , Basu Supratim , Ferrer Marilyn C. , Roychoudhury Aryadeep
Published: November 2020

Climatic fluctuations, temperature extremes, and water scarcity are becoming increasingly unpredictable with the passage of time. Such environmental atrocities have been the scourge of agriculture over the ages, bringing with them poor harvests and threat of famine. Rice production, owing to its high‐water requirement for cultivation, is highly vulnerable to the threat of changing climate, particularly prolonged drought and high temperature, individually or in combination. Amidst all the abiotic stresses, heat and drought are considered as the most important concurrent stressors, largely affecting rice yield and productivity under the current scenario. Such threats heighten the need for new breeding and cultivation strategies in generating abiotic stress‐resilient rice varieties with better yield potential. Responses of rice to these stresses can be categorized at the morphological, physiological and biochemical levels. This review examines the physiological and molecular mechanism, in the form of up regulation of several defense machineries of rice varieties to cope with drought stress (DS), high temperature stress (HTS), and their combination (DS‐HTS). Genotypic differences among rice varieties in their tolerance ability have also been addressed. The review also appraises research studies conducted in rice regarding various phenotypic traits, genetic loci and response mechanisms to stress conditions to help craft new breeding strategies for improved tolerance to DS and HTS, singly or in combination. The review also encompasses the gene regulatory networks and transcription factors, and their cross‐talks in mediating tolerance to such stresses. Understanding the epigenetic regulation, involving DNA methylation and histone modification during such hostile situations, will also play a crucial role in our comprehensive understanding of combinatorial stress responses. Taken together, this review consolidates current research and available information on promising rice cultivars with desirable traits as well as advocates synergistic and complementary approaches in molecular and systems biology to develop new rice breeds that favorably respond to DS‐HTS‐induced abiotic stress.
Exploring the new dimensions of selenium research to understand the underlying mechanism of its uptake, translocation, and accumulation
Authors: Raina Meenakshi , Sharma Akanksha , Nazir Muslima , Kumari Punam , Rustagi Anjana , Hami Ammarah , Bhau Brijmohan Singh , Zargar Sajad Majeed , Kumar Deepak
Published: November 2020

Selenium (Se) is a vital mineral for both plants and animals. It is widely distributed on the earth's crust and is taken up by the plants as selenite or selenate. Plants substantially vary in their physiological response to Se. The amount of Se in edible plants is genetically controlled. Its availability can be determined by measuring its phytoavailability in soil. The low concentration of Se in plants can help them in combating stress, whereas higher concentrations can be detrimental to plant health and in most cases it is toxic. Thus, solving the double‐edged sword problem of nutritional Se deficiency and its elevated concentrations in environment requires a better understanding of Se uptake and metabolism in plants. The studies on Se uptake and metabolism can help in genetic biofortification of Se in plants and also assist in phytoremediation. Moreover, Se uptake and transport, especially biochemical pathways of assimilation and incorporation into proteins, offers striking mechanisms of toxicity and tolerance. These developments have led to a revival of Se research in higher plants with significant break throughs being made in the previous years. This review explores the new dimensions of Se research with major emphasis on key research events related to Se undertaken in last few years. Further, we also discussed future possibilities in Se research for crop improvement.
Prednisolone and tacrolimus versus prednisolone and cyclosporin A to treat polymyositis/dermatomyositis‐associated ILD: A randomized, open‐label trial
Authors: Fujisawa Tomoyuki , Hozumi Hironao , Kamiya Yosuke , Kaida Yusuke , Akamatsu Taisuke , Kusagaya Hideki , Satake Yasuomi , Mori Kazutaka , Mikamo Masashi , Matsuda Hiroyuki , Yokomura Koshi , Koshimizu Naoki , Toyoshima Mikio , Imokawa Shiro , Yasui Hideki , Suzuki Yuzo , Karayama Masato , Furuhashi Kazuki , Enomoto Noriyuki , Nakamura Yutaro , Inui Naoki , Suda Takafumi
Published: November 2020

Background and objective

The efficacy of combination therapy with corticosteroids and CNI, TAC and CsA, for PM/DM‐ILD has been described retrospectively. However, it remains unknown which CNI treatment regimens, TAC or CsA regimens, are more effective as initial treatments for patients with PM/DM‐ILD.

Methods

We conducted a prospective multicentre, open‐label, randomized, 52‐week phase 2 trial. Patients with PM/DM‐ILD were randomly allocated to receive PSL plus TAC (TAC group) or PSL plus CsA (CsA group). The primary endpoint was PFS rate in the intention‐to‐treat population at 52 weeks. The secondary endpoints were OS rate at 52 weeks, changes in pulmonary function tests from baseline to 52 weeks and AE.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients were randomly assigned to the TAC group (n = 30) and the CsA group (n = 28). The PFS rates at 52 weeks were 87% in the TAC group and 71% in the CsA group (P = 0.16). The OS rates at 52 weeks were 97% in the TAC group and 93% in the CsA group (P = 0.50). The %FVC at 52 weeks in the per‐protocol populations significantly increased in both groups. None of the patients discontinued the treatment due to AE.

Conclusion

PSL plus TAC treatment may achieve a better short‐term PFS rate compared with PSL plus CsA treatment. Further studies must be conducted to evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of such treatment.
Specification and Testing of Hierarchical Ordered Response Models with Anchoring Vignettes
Authors: Greene William H. , Harris Mark N. , Knott Rachel J. , Rice Nigel
Published: November 2020

Collection and analysis of self-reported information on an ordered Likert scale is ubiquitous across the social sciences. Inference from such analyses is valid where the response scale employed means the same thing to all individuals. That is, if there is no differential item functioning (DIF) present in the data. A priori this is unlikely to hold across all individuals and cohorts in any sample of data. For this reason, anchoring vignettes have been proposed as a way to correct for DIF when individuals self-assess their health (or well-being, or satisfaction levels, or disability levels, etc.) on an ordered categorical scale. Using an example of self-assessed pain, we illustrate the use of vignettes to adjust for DIF using the compound hierarchical ordered probit model (CHOPIT). The validity of this approach relies on the two underlying assumptions of response consistency (RC) and vignette equivalence (VE). Using a minor amendment to the specification of the standard CHOPIT model, we develop easy-to-implement score tests of the null hypothesis of RC and VE both separately and jointly. Monte Carlo simulations show that the tests have good size and power properties in finite samples. We illustrate the use of the tests by applying them to our empirical example. The tests should aid more robust analyses of self-reported survey outcomes collected alongside anchoring vignettes.
Fathers' lived experiences of caring for their preterm infant at the neonatal unit and in neonatal home care after the introduction of a parental support programme: A phenomenological study
Authors: Hemle Jerntorp Sofia , Sivberg Bengt , Lundqvist Pia
Published: November 2020

Aim

To describe fathers’ lived experiences of caring for their preterm infant at the neonatal unit and in hospital‐based neonatal home care after the introduction of an individualised parental support programme.

Method

Seven fathers from a larger study were included due to their rich narrative interviews about the phenomenon under study. The interviews took place after discharge from neonatal home care. The theoretical perspective was descriptive phenomenology. Giorgi’s outlines for phenomenological analysis were used. Findings The general structure of the phenomenon was described by the following four themes: The partner was constantly present in the fathers’ minds; The fathers’ were occupied by worries and concerns; The fathers felt that they were an active partner to the professionals and Getting the opportunity to take responsibility. The fathers were satisfied with the support and treatment during their infant’s hospitalisation. However, there were times when they felt excluded and not fully responsible for their infant. The fathers prioritised the mother, thus ignoring their own needs. Furthermore, they worried about their infant’s health and the alteration of their parental role. Neonatal home care was experienced as a possibility to regain control over family life.

Conclusion

The general structure of fathers’ experiences highlights the importance of professionals becoming more responsive to fathers’ needs and to tailoring support to fathers by focusing on their individual experiences and needs.
Reduced sensitivity of PLASMIC and French scores for the diagnosis of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in older individuals
Authors: Liu Angela , Dhaliwal Noor , Upreti Harshvardhan , Kasmani Jamil , Dane Kathryn , Moliterno Alison , Braunstein Evan , Brodsky Robert , Chaturvedi Shruti
Published: November 2020

Background

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a life‐threatening disorder characterized by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolysis, and ischemic organ failure. The PLASMIC and French TTP scores can help guide clinical decisions when ADAMTS13 testing is not immediately available. Older individuals often present atypically, but the impact of age on these tools is not known.

Study Design and Methods

We calculated the sensitivity and specificity of the PLASMIC and French TTP scores in patients enrolled in the Johns Hopkins thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) registry.

Results

Of 257 patients with TMA enrolled in the registry, we excluded patients less than 18 years of age (n = 19), with prior TMA (n = 81) or who initially presented at another hospital (n = 25). The remaining 132 patients (75 with TTP and 57 with other TMA) were analyzed. Sensitivity of a French score of 2 decreased with age and was 72.2%, 61.5%, and 46.2% for ages 18 to 39, 40 to 59, and ≥ 60 years old, respectively. A PLASMIC score ≥ 5 had higher sensitivity than the French score but this also decreased with age; sensitivity was 91.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 76.9‐98.2), 78.3% (95% CI, 56.3‐92.5), and 76.9% (95% CI, 46.2‐95.0) for patients 18 to 39, 40 to 59, and ≥ 60 years old, respectively. Older patients had higher platelet counts and serum creatinine than the youngest group, contributing to the loss in sensitivity.

Conclusion

The PLASMIC and French TTP scores have reduced sensitivity at age ≥ 60 years and are less reliable in identifying TTP in older patients. A high index of suspicion and availability of rapid ADAMTS13 assays is required to correctly diagnose all patients with TTP.
Concatenated data and dense taxon sampling clarify phylogeny and ecological transitions within Hypotricha
Authors: Xu Jiahui , Wilkinson Mark , Chen Miaoying , Zhang Qi , Yang Ran , Yi Zhenzhen
Published: November 2020

Ciliates are single‐cell eukaryotes playing important roles in various ecosystems. Phylogenetic relationships within Hypotricha, one of the most polymorphic and highly derived ciliate groups, remain uncertain. Previous studies suggested that low genetic divergence might be the reason for poorly supported SSU rDNA tree topologies, despite the high morphological diversity of this group. In this study, we substantially increase the number of available hypotrich LSU rDNA gene sequences by the addition of 857 environmental sequences, and we investigate whether a more divergent gene and dense taxon sampling could better resolve the phylogeny of Hypotricha and shed light on the patterns of ecological transitions in the evolutionary history of the group. Pairwise distances of LSU rDNA sequences are generally higher than those for SSU rDNA within each order of Hypotricha, and both concatenated rDNA and LSU rDNA trees provide more resolution for hypotrich phylogenetics. Three traditional (morphology based) hypotrich orders, Stichotrichida, Sporadotrichida and Urostylida, are polyphyletic, but a monophyletic core Urostylida are found in our trees. A brackish/marine environment is inferred as ancestral within Hypotricha, with subsequent ecological diversification into freshwater, soil environments before the origin of major clades and some transitions back to the marine. However, inferred ecological transitions in Hypotricha are influenced by genes, methods and taxa.
Chitosan/silica composite membrane: Performance on water permeability and rejection of lead(II) ion from aqueous solution
Authors: Rosdi Nurshahida , Mohd Sokri Mohd Nazri , Hairul Anuar Muhammad Ikmal Fitri , Awang Nor Asikin , Mohamed Rashid Norhana
Published: November 2020

Heavy metal such as lead can be classified as non-biodegradable inorganic pollutants which can contaminate the soils, ground water, sediments and surface water. It cannot be broken down or decomposed by living organism and can continue to exist over a prolonged period, generating harmful effects to the living things. Thus, lead removal is necessary in order to reduce the amount of heavy metals contaminated in water. The purpose of this study was to fabricate chitosan/silica based composite membrane for removal of Pb(II) metal ions from aqueous solution by membrane filtration technique. The composite membranes were characterized in terms of morphological studies and functional group analysis by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared-Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR) analysis, respectively. The membrane permeation performance, in terms of water permeability and rejection of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solution, was conducted by using membrane permeation system. SEM images illustrated that the presence of macrovoids on the cross-section of the chitosan/silica composite membrane has improved the morphology of pure chitosan membrane and assisted in the rejection of Pb(II) ions. Meanwhile, FTIR-ATR spectra showed the presence of new adsorption peaks, contributed by silica interaction with hydroxyl group of chitosan. The addition of silica to chitosan membrane has significantly enhanced the pure water permeability from 37.36 L/m2h to 42.43 L/m2h. Furthermore, the rejection of Pb(II) metal ions by chitosan/silica composite membrane was slightly higher compared to pure chitosan membrane with the removal efficiency of 13.78% at 0.5 bar applied pressure. These findings indicates the potential use of silica to improve chitosan membrane properties and reduce heavy metal pollution in water.
Properties of clays reinforced PLA nanocomposites by melt extrusion technique
Authors: Paramitha Tika , Wonoputri Vita , D Sitompul Daniel Steven , Woo Lee Hyung , P Sitompul Johnner
Published: November 2020

Nanocomposites were prepared by melt extrusion technique using single screw extruder and subsequent hot compression. In this work, poly lactic acid-clay nanocomposites were obtained using two types of clays, namely commercial montmorillonite (Cloisite 30B) and commercial bentonite. Nanocomposites were prepared at low clay composition of 0.5, 1, 3, and 5 wt.% of clays. From XRD spectra, the partially exfoliation of nanoclay layers were occurred during melting extrusion. It resulted in improvement of mechanical properties, such as Young’s modulus, tensile strength, and elongation at break. The highest tensile strength was obtained by the addition of 0.5 wt.% commercial bentonite increasing about 23.25% compared to the neat PLA. The increasing composition of clays revealed a decrease in mechanical properties due to filler-filler interaction. Furthermore, water absorption of nanocomposites up to `1 wt.% of clays better than the neat PLA. Biodegradability was enhanced in the presence of higher clay composition due to high hydrophilicity of clay, high water uptake, and high interactions. The results show that the weight loss of the neat PLA and the nanocomposite with the addition of 5 wt.% of Cloisite 30B are 4.0% and 10.8%, respectively.
Ordered discrete and continuous Z-numbers
Authors: Abdullahi Mujahid , Ahmad Tahir , Ramachandran Vinod
Published: November 2020

Both discrete and continuous Z-numbers are pairs of discrete and continuous fuzzy numbers.  Even though the later are ordered, this do not simply imply the discrete and continuous Z-numbers are ordered as well. This paper proposed the idea of ordered discrete and continuous Z-numbers, which are necessary properties for constructing temporal Z-numbers.  Linear ordering relation, , is applied between set of discrete or continuous Z-numbers and any arbitrary ordered subset of   to obtain the properties.
Symptoms, adverse events, and outcomes in the use of medicinal cannabis in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Fletcher Sarah , Pawliuk Colleen , Ip Angie , Oberlander Tim , Siden Harold
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The objective of this scoping review is to map and identify the symptoms, adverse events, and outcomes in the use of medicinal cannabis in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.

Introduction:

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts social communication and social interaction, and is associated with restrictive and repetitive behaviors and interests. Medicinal cannabis has become a potential area of interest for parents for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder symptoms in their children. There is some evidence that cannabinoids may be involved in autism spectrum disorder, laying a potential foundation for medicinal cannabis utility; however, previous reviews did not identify any clinical research on this topic.

Inclusion criteria:

This scoping review will consider all published and unpublished studies that investigate the use of medicinal cannabis in autism spectrum disorder, where at least 50% of the participants have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and at least 50% of the study population is 0 to 18 years of age, or where pediatric data are reported separately. Studies undertaken in any context (hospital or community) and in any geographic location will be included.

Methods:

We will search MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, and the gray literature sources for studies. Two independent team members will screen titles and abstracts, review full texts for potential inclusion, and extract data for all studies. The results will be presented as a narrative synthesis and in tabular form.