bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Information on Body Donation Promotion at Official Websites of Turkish Anatomy Departments
Authors: Ok Fatma , Gürses İlke Ali
Published: September 2020

Raising public awareness of body donation is crucial for countries like Turkey that have struggling donation programs. The official websites of anatomy departments may contribute to achieving this goal. Nevertheless, previous studies reported institutional or individual reluctance of departments or anatomists, respectively, due to an expectation of adverse publicity. This study aimed to investigate whether the official websites of Turkish anatomy departments provided information on body donation and analyzed the content of these websites. Websites of anatomy departments at 100 medical faculties were evaluated. Only 12 departments (12%) provided information on body donation with varying content. A thematic analysis of the information provided revealed five main themes. These were (1) legal aspects, (2) significance, (3) acceptance/rejection criteria, (4) availability, and (5) redirection. All departments (n = 12, 100%) outlined the legal aspects of body donation, seven departments (58%) highlighted the significance of body donation, seven departments (58%) provided contact information for potential donors, five departments (41%) covered acceptance/rejection criteria, and three departments (25%) provided a link to the official website of the Turkish Society of Anatomy and Clinical Anatomy. Thus, Turkish anatomy departments were reluctant to provide information on body donation, and the content of provided information varied greatly among departments. This lack of information, coordination, and participation in existing awareness activities for body donation in anatomy department websites may be contributing to the low numbers of body donations and donor registrations seen nationally.
Engineered TALE Repeats for Enhanced Imaging‐Based Analysis of Cellular 5‐Methylcytosine
Authors: Muñoz‐López Álvaro , Jung Anne , Buchmuller Benjamin , Wolffgramm Jan , Maurer Sara , Witte Anna , Summerer Daniel
Published: September 2020

Transcription‐activator‐like effectors (TALEs) are repeat‐based, programmable DNA‐binding proteins that can be engineered to recognize sequences of canonical and epigenetically modified nucleobases. Fluorescent TALEs can be used for the imaging‐based analysis of cellular 5‐methylcytosine (5 mC) in repetitive DNA sequences. This is based on recording fluorescence ratios from cell co‐stains with two TALEs: an analytical TALE targeting the cytosine (C) position of interest through a C‐selective repeat that is blocked by 5 mC, and a control TALE targeting the position with a universal repeat that binds both C and 5 mC. To enhance this approach, we report herein the development of novel 5 mC‐selective repeats and their integration into TALEs that can replace universal TALEs in imaging‐based 5 mC analysis, resulting in a methylation‐dependent response of both TALEs. We screened a library of size‐reduced repeats and identified several 5 mC binders. Compared to the 5 mC‐binding repeat of natural TALEs and to the universal repeat, two repeats containing aromatic residues showed enhancement of 5 mC binding and selectivity in cellular transcription activation and electromobility shift assays, respectively. In co‐stains of cellular SATIII DNA with a corresponding C‐selective TALE, this selectivity results in a positive methylation response of the new TALE, offering perspectives for studying 5 mC functions in chromatin regulation by in situ imaging with increased dynamic range.
The possible double‐edged sword effects of vitamin D on COVID‐19: A hypothesis
Authors: Shojaeefar Ehsan , Malih Narges , Rezaei Nima
Published: September 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) gains access to host cells by attaching to angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Vitamin D (VitD) can upregulate ACE2 and has an antagonistic effect on Renin, which exerts a vasodilatation and anti‐inflammatory effect against coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). However, it may also facilitate viral entry by increasing ACE2 as the main SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor and mediates ROS production through NADPH oxidase, as a double‐edged sword effect. Lung function and the immune system are also influenced by VitD through several mechanisms, including increased natural antibiotics (Defensin and Cathelicidin) and upregulated transforming growth factor‐β. A higher IgA, Th2/Th1 ratio, and T‐regulatory cells are attributable to VitD effects on the immune cells, while these changes may also be a double‐edged sword in COVID‐19. Although VitD supplementation might be highly recommended in COVID‐19, the administration's dosage and route could be challenging. Furthermore, this issue has not been mentioned in various studies so far. So, the report aimed to explain the current challenges with the application of VitD in COVID‐19.
The Effects of Platinum Dispersion and Pt State on Catalytic Properties of Pt/Al2O3 in NH3 Oxidation
Authors: Slavinskaya Elena M. , Kibis Lidiya S. , Stonkus Olga A. , Svintsitskiy Dmitry A. , Stadnichenko Andrei I. , Fedorova Elizaveta A. , Romanenko Anatolii V. , Marchuk Vasyl , Doronkin Dmitry E. , Boronin Andrei I.
Published: September 2020

Dependence of NH3 oxidation on the state and dispersion of Pt species in Pt/γ‐Al2O3 catalysts was investigated. Prereduced Pt/γ‐Al2O3 catalysts containing Pt0 nanoparticles exhibited significantly higher activity than preoxidized ones with the same Pt dispersion. The most significant improvement of the catalytic activity (TOF increased by 30 times) was observed when the size of Pt0 particles increased from ∼1 to ∼8 nm. N2 selectivity was found to be mainly determined by the reaction temperature, with a minor influence of Pt particle size. Preoxidized catalysts containing ionic Pt were activated by the reaction medium, while partial deactivation was observed for the prereduced ones. The activity improvement was associated with the presence of Pt4+/Pt2+ species on the surface of preoxidized catalysts. The activity decrease of the prereduced catalysts was due to the partial oxidation and subsequent redispersion of Pt particles. Introduction of H2O and CO2 to the reaction mixture only moderately influenced NH3 oxidation activity shifting NH3 conversion curves by about +15 °C.
The Synthesis and Bioactivity of the Marine Macrolide Callyspongiolide
Authors: Ko Kwang‐Yoon , Wilson Zoe E. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: September 2020

Callyspongiolide, a macrolide natural product with a conjugated diene‐ynic side chain, has garnered significant attention from the synthetic community since its isolation from a sea sponge in 2013. Herein, the approaches that have been applied to this bioactive natural product to date are reviewed. These synthetic endeavors have established the absolute stereochemistry of this molecule and allowed further investigation into its promising caspase‐independent bioactivity, while also contributing to the wider field of macrolide synthesis.
Tuning the Thermal Stability and Photoisomerization of Azoheteroarenes through Macrocycle Strain**
Authors: Vela Sergi , Scheidegger Alan , Fabregat Raimon , Corminboeuf Clémence
Published: September 2020

Azobenzene and its derivatives are one of the most widespread molecular scaffolds used in a range of modern applications, as well as in fundamental research. After photoexcitation, azo‐based photoswitches revert back to the most stable isomer on a timescale (
) that determines the range of potential applications. Attempts to bring
to extreme values prompted the development of azobenzene and azoheteroarene derivatives that either rebalance the E‐ and Z‐isomer stabilities, or exploit unconventional thermal isomerization mechanisms. In the former case, one successful strategy has been the creation of macrocycle strain, which tends to impact the E/Z stability asymmetrically, and thus significantly modify
. On the bright side, bridged derivatives have shown an improved optical switching owing to the higher quantum yields and absence of degradation. However, in most (if not all) cases, bridged derivatives display a reversed thermal stability (more stable Z‐isomer), and smaller
than the acyclic counterparts, which restricts their potential interest to applications requiring a fast forward and backwards switch. In this paper, the impact of alkyl bridges on the thermal stability of phenyl‐azoheteroarenes is investigated by using computational methods, and it is revealed that it is indeed possible to combine such improved photoswitching characteristics while preserving the regular thermal stability (more stable E‐isomer), and increased
values under the appropriate connectivity and bridge length.
Relationship between device‐detected subclinical atrial fibrillation and heart failure in patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator
Authors: Arai Shuhei , Kawamura Mitsuharu , Gokan Toshihiko , Yoshikawa Kosuke , Ogawa Ko , Ochi Akinori , Munetsugu Yumi , Ito Hiroyuki , Shinke Toshiro
Published: September 2020

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a leading preventable cause of heart failure (HF) for which early detection and treatment is critical. Subclinical‐AF is likely to go untreated in the routine care of patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT‐D).

Hypothesis

The hypothesis of our study is that subclinical‐AF is associated with HF hospitalization and increasing an inappropriate therapy.

Methods

We investigated 153 patients with an ejection fraction less than 35%. We divided into three groups, subclinical‐AF (n = 30), clinical‐AF (n = 45) and no‐AF (n = 78). We compared the baseline characteristics, HF hospitalization, and device therapy among three groups. The follow‐up period was 50 months after classification of the groups.

Results

The average age was 66 ± 15 years and the average ejection fraction was 26 ± 8%. Inappropriate therapy and biventricular pacing were significantly different between subclinical‐AF and other groups (inappropriate therapy: subclinical‐AF 13% vs clinical‐AF 8.9% vs no‐AF 7.7%: P = .04, biventricular pacing: subclinical‐AF 81% vs clinical‐AF 85% vs no‐AF 94%, P = .001). Using Kaplan‐Meier method, subclinical‐AF group had a significantly higher HF hospitalization rate as compared with other groups. (subclinical‐AF 70% vs clinical‐AF 49% vs no‐AF 38%, log‐rank: P = .03). In multivariable analysis, subclinical‐AF was a predictor of HF hospitalization.

Conclusions

Subclinical‐AF after CRT‐D implantation was associated with a significantly increased risk of HF hospitalization. The loss of the biventricular pacing and increasing an inappropriate therapy might affect the risk of HF hospitalization.
A Theoretical Analysis on the Oxidation and Water Dissociation Resistance on Group‐IV Phosphide Monolayers
Authors: Wu Jie , Li Jia‐Hui , Yu Yang‐Xin
Published: September 2020

Group‐IV phosphide monolayers (MP, M=C, Si, Ge and Sn) provide a versatile platform for photocatalysts, as well as optoelectronic and nanoelectronic devices. Herein, comprehensive first‐principles calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations were performed to explore their stabilities in the air. We identified that the MP monolayers have excellent mechanical properties and their carrier mobilities are higher than that of phosphorene. The MP monolayers were predicted to possess superior oxidation resistance than the boron phosphide (BP) monolayer based on the proposed donation–backdonation theory. It was observed that the dissociation and chemisorption of a water molecule on the monolayers are kinetically difficult both in the water and in oxygen–water environments involving energy barriers of 1.28–3.48 eV. We also performed AIMD simulations at 300, 1000, 1200 and 1500 K. It is noteworthy that only the carbon phosphide (CP) monolayer can retain an intact structure at 1500 K, while the other three monolayers can just sustain to 1200 K. These results provide a guidance for their practical application and experimental fabrication.
Homogeneous Catalysts Based on First‐Row Transition‐Metals for Electrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Zhang Lu‐Hua , Mathew Simon , Hessels Joeri , Reek Joost N. H. , Yu Fengshou
Published: September 2020

Strategies that enable the renewable production of storable fuels (i. e. hydrogen or hydrocarbons) through electrocatalysis continue to generate interest in the scientific community. Of central importance to this pursuit is obtaining the requisite chemical (H+) and electronic (e−) inputs for fuel‐forming reduction reactions, which can be met sustainably by water oxidation catalysis. Further possibility exists to couple these redox transformations to renewable energy sources (i. e. solar), thus creating a carbon neutral solution for long‐term energy storage. Nature uses a Mn−Ca cluster for water oxidation catalysis via multiple proton‐coupled electron‐transfers (PCETs) with a photogenerated bias to perform this process with TOF 100∼300 s−1. Synthetic molecular catalysts that efficiently perform this conversion commonly utilize rare metals (e. g., Ru, Ir), whose low abundance are associated to higher costs and scalability limitations. Inspired by nature‘s use of 1st row transition metal (TM) complexes for water oxidation catalysts (WOCs), attempts to use these abundant metals have been intensively explored but met with limited success. The smaller atomic size of 1st row TM ions lowers its ability to accommodate the oxidative equivalents required in the 4e−/4H+ water oxidation catalysis process, unlike noble metal catalysts that perform single‐site electrocatalysis at lower overpotentials (η). Overcoming the limitations of 1st row TMs requires developing molecular catalysts that exploit biomimetic phenomena – multiple‐metal redox‐cooperativity, PCET and second‐sphere interactions – to lower the overpotential, preorganize substrates and maintain stability. Thus, the ultimate goal of developing efficient, robust and scalable WOCs remains a challenge. This Review provides a summary of previous research works highlighting 1st row TM‐based homogeneous WOCs, catalytic mechanisms, followed by strategies for catalytic activity improvements, before closing with a future outlook for this field.
A new generalized cascade multilevel converter topology and its improved modulation technique
Authors: Shalchi Alishah Rasoul , Bertilsson Kent , Hosseini Seyyed Hossein , Babaei Ebrahim , Aalami Mohammadamin , Mohed Ali Jagabar Sathik , Gharehpetian Gevork B.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, a basic unit for the nine‐level converter is firstly presented. Then, a new developed basic unit topology for the multilevel converter is proposed. This topology comprises several bidirectional and unidirectional switches along with dc voltage sources. In order to increase the number of generated levels, a cascade topology based on the series connection of developed basic units is studied. Due to the extensive nature of the presented cascade multilevel converter, the optimization analysis is presented for generating the maximum number of levels with minimum numbers of IGBTs, drivers, dc voltage sources, and voltage on switches. All required mathematical analysis consisting of switching losses, conduction losses, and voltage on switches is illustrated. In order to indicate the merits of the proposed multilevel converter, comparison results are provided. It is shown that the presented topology uses the least numbers of power electronic components. Also, the voltage on the switches in the presented cascade topology is low. For controlling the switches, a modified triangular carrier signal for dual pulse generation is proposed. The performance of the proposed multilevel converter is proven with experimental results of a typical 25‐level converter.
An evaluation of systematized phonics on reading proficiency in Swedish second grade poor readers: Effects on pseudoword and sight word reading skills
Authors: Levlin Maria , Nakeva von Mentzer Cecilia
Published: September 2020

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of systematized phonics on word reading in Swedish second grade poor readers. Forty‐nine children who performed at or below the 25th percentile on pseudoword reading and/or sight word reading at the beginning of second grade participated in the study. The study had a cross‐over design exploring within‐and between‐group effects of two different conditions: systematized phonics and classroom instruction. Overall, systematized phonics proved more effective than classroom instruction. At pre‐intervention, no child performed above the 30th percentile in pseudoword reading or sight word reading. At post‐intervention, corresponding numbers were 69% for pseudoword reading and 35% for sight word reading. Implications for a policy change in Sweden towards mandatory systematized phonics in primary school are discussed.
Functional shifts in estuarine zooplankton in response to climate variability
Authors: Jansson Anna , Klais‐Peets Riina , Grinienė Evelina , Rubene Gunta , Semenova Anna , Lewandowska Aleksandra , Engström‐Öst Jonna
Published: September 2020

Functional traits are becoming more common in the analysis of marine zooplankton community dynamics associated with environmental change. We used zooplankton groups with common functional properties to assess long‐term trends in the zooplankton caused by certain environmental conditions in a highly eutrophicated gulf.

Time series of zooplankton traits have been collected since the 1960s in the Gulf of Riga, Baltic Sea, and were analyzed using a combination of multivariate methods (principal coordinate analysis) and generalized additive models.

One of the most significant changes was the considerable increase in the amount of the zooplankton functional groups (FGR) in coastal springtime communities, and dominance shifts from more complex to simpler organism groups—cladocerans and rotifers.

The results also show that functional trait organism complexity (body size) decreased considerably due to cladoceran and rotifer increase following elevated water temperature. Salinity and oxygen had negligible effects on the zooplankton community.
Changes in soil carbon fractions and enzyme activities under different vegetation types of the northern Loess Plateau
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Wu Jiangqi , Li Guang , Yan Lijuan
Published: September 2020

Knowledge of the soil organic carbon components and enzyme activities during long‐term natural vegetation restoration is essential for managing the restoration of vegetation. In this study, the variations of soil organic carbon components (i.e., soil organic carbon (SOC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), easily oxidized carbon (EOC), particulate organic carbon (POC)) and enzyme activities (i.e., amylase, catalase, urease, and sucrase) were measured in four vegetation types: control (grasslands, GL), forest (Xanthoceras sorbifolia, XS), and shrublands (Hippophae rhamnoides, HR; Caragana korshinskii, CK). We found that vegetation types significantly affect soil organic carbon components and enzyme activities. The SOC content of the XS plot is higher than HR, CK, and GL by 88.43%, 117.09%, and 37.53% at the 0–20 cm layer; the soil SOC content of the XS plot is higher than HR and CK by 27.04% and 26.87%, and lower than GL 12.90% at the 20–40 cm layer. The highest POC and urease were observed in the XS plot at a depth of 0–20 cm, that is, 1.32 g/kg and 98.51 mg/kg, respectively. The highest EOC, amylase, and sucrase were observed in GL at a depth of 0–20 cm, that is, 5.44 g/kg, 39.23, and 607.62 mg/g. On the vertical section of the soil, the SOC fractions and the enzyme activities were greater in the upper layer than in the lower layer for each vegetation type except for MBC and catalase activity. Correlation analysis demonstrated that the SOC and POC content significantly influenced urease and sucrase activities and that MBC significantly influenced catalase activity. These results provide important information about SOC fractions and enzyme activities resulting from vegetation types in the Loess Plateau and also supplement our understanding of soil C sequestration in vegetation restoration.
Reframing tropical savannization: linking changes in canopy structure to energy balance alterations that impact climate
Authors: Stark Scott C. , Breshears David D. , Aragón Susan , Villegas Juan Camilo , Law Darin J. , Smith Marielle N. , Minor David M. , de Assis Rafael Leandro , de Almeida Danilo Roberti Alves , de Oliveira Gabriel , Saleska Scott R. , Swann Abigail L. S. , Moura José Mauro S. , Camargo José Luis , da Silva Rodrigo , Aragão Luiz E. O. C. , Oliveira R. Cosme
Published: September 2020

Tropical ecosystems are undergoing unprecedented rates of degradation from deforestation, fire, and drought disturbances. The collective effects of these disturbances threaten to shift large portions of tropical ecosystems such as Amazon forests into savanna‐like structure via tree loss, functional changes, and the emergence of fire (savannization). Changes from forest states to a more open savanna‐like structure can affect local microclimates, surface energy fluxes, and biosphere–atmosphere interactions. A predominant type of ecosystem state change is the loss of tree cover and structural complexity in disturbed forest. Although important advances have been made contrasting energy fluxes between historically distinct old‐growth forest and savanna systems, the emergence of secondary forests and savanna‐like ecosystems necessitates a reframing to consider gradients of tree structure that span forest to savanna‐like states at multiple scales. In this Innovative Viewpoint, we draw from the literature on forest–grassland continua to develop a framework to assess the consequences of tropical forest degradation on surface energy fluxes and canopy structure. We illustrate this framework for forest sites with contrasting canopy structure that ranges from simple, open, and savanna‐like to complex and closed, representative of tropical wet forest, within two climatically distinct regions in the Amazon. Using a recently developed rapid field assessment approach, we quantify differences in cover, leaf area vertical profiles, surface roughness, albedo, and energy balance partitioning between adjacent sites and compare canopy structure with adjacent old‐growth forest; more structurally simple forests displayed lower net radiation. To address forest–atmosphere feedback, we also consider the effects of canopy structure change on susceptibility to additional future disturbance. We illustrate a converse transition—recovery in structure following disturbance—measuring forest canopy structure 10 yr after the imposition of a 5‐yr drought in the ground‐breaking Seca Floresta experiment. Our approach strategically enables rapid characterization of surface properties relevant to vegetation models following degradation, and advances links between surface properties and canopy structure variables, increasingly available from remote sensing. Concluding, we hypothesize that understanding surface energy balance and microclimate change across degraded tropical forest states not only reveals critical atmospheric forcing, but also critical local‐scale feedbacks from forest sensitivity to additional climate‐linked disturbance.
Environmental DNA shedding and decay rates from diverse animal forms and thermal regimes
Authors: Andruszkiewicz Allan Elizabeth , Zhang Weifeng Gordon , C. Lavery Andone , F. Govindarajan Annette
Published: September 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis from water samples is a promising new method to identify both targeted species and whole communities of aquatic organisms. However, the current literature regarding eDNA shedding rates primarily focuses on fish and most decay rate constants are reported for warm sunlit waters. Here, we conducted experiments to investigate how eDNA shedding differs between animal forms and how long eDNA can persist in waters of varying temperature and light conditions. We designed quantitative PCR assays for one fish (mummichog, Fundulus heteroclitus), one crustacean (grass shrimp, Palaemon spp.), and two scyphomedusae (moon jelly, Aurelia aurita and nettle, Chrysaora spp.) to estimate eDNA shedding and decay rates. We found that shedding rates were highly variable for all organisms, but grass shrimp had the lowest shedding rate. We quantified eDNA decay rate constants at 6, 15, and 23°C and found that decay rate constants of mummichog and grass shrimp were larger at higher temperatures, while those of scyphomedusae did not show clear temperature dependence. We also found that higher‐order decay models with tails fit the data better than first‐order log‐linear models, suggesting temporal variability in eDNA decay rates. Results indicate that different animal forms shed different types of eDNA, impacting both shedding and decay rates. These findings fill critical knowledge gaps regarding variation in eDNA shedding and decay across animal forms under a range of realistic marine temperature conditions. These data will be useful for interpreting field studies that utilize eDNA to investigate ocean habitats that are otherwise difficult to access.
Effects of different pretreatment methods on the drying characteristics and quality of potatoes
Authors: Sun Xiangfeng , Jin Xin , Fu Nan , Chen Xiaodong
Published: September 2020

The effects of different pretreatments on the vitamin C content of peeled fresh potato, the drying characteristics, and several quality attributes of dehydrated potatoes were investigated. Citric acid pretreatment (0.1%–0.3%, 10–30 min), steam blanching (100ºC, 1–2 min), and water blanching (95°C, 1–2 min) were found to have no obvious effect on the drying rate of potatoes, whereas temperature was the main influencing factor. In terms of quality of dehydrated diced potato, 20 min of citric acid pretreatment resulted in the highest vitamin C retention and better color. Furthermore, dehydrated potato pretreated with citric acid all showed similar dynamic moisture adsorption curves, namely type II sorption isotherm. The moisture adsorption curves can be well fitted using the Guggenheim–Anderson–deBoer model withR2higher than .97.
Descriptive and normative ethical behavior appear to be functionally distinct
Authors: Cox David J.
Published: September 2020

Many philosophers and scientists have described a scientific approach to ethical behavior. Historically, ethical behavior has been categorized as descriptive (i.e., what is right) or normative (i.e., why it is right). Whether this topographical distinction is functionally relevant is unknown. In 2 experiments, participants chose what behavior was correct and why. In Experiment 1, participants did not agree on either of these measures. Normative ethical behaviors were also well described by common Western theories of bioethics (i.e., consequentialism, deontology, and virtue theory). In Experiment 2, manipulating the ethical context led to within‐subject changes in responses to what, why, or both. Importantly, change in what rarely coincided with change in why, suggesting descriptive and normative ethical behaviors are functionally distinct. A visual‐descriptive model describing a functional approach to descriptive and normative ethical behavior is provided. Behavior analysts interested in observing, measuring, and changing ethical decision‐making should consider collecting data on descriptive and normative ethical behaviors.
A replication of preference displacement research in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Sipila‐Thomas Emma S. , Foote Alexa J. , White Allison N. , Melanson Isaac J. , Brodhead Matthew T.
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this paper was to replicate previous research on preference displacement with edible and leisure stimuli. In the present study, the experimenters evaluated preference displacement in 25 children with autism spectrum disorder using combined multiple stimulus without replacement preference assessments that consisted of highly preferred edible and leisure stimuli. In addition, the experimenters used a block randomization procedure to evaluate if assessment order influenced displacement outcomes. The experimenters observed patterns of complete displacement by edible stimuli for four participants and complete displacement by leisure stimuli for two participants; assessment order did not influence outcomes. The results and implications are discussed.
Safe to sleep: Community‐based caregiver training
Authors: Vladescu Jason C. , Day‐Watkins Jessica , Schnell Lauren K. , Carrow Jacqueline N.
Published: September 2020

Annually, thousands of infant deaths are classified as sudden unexpected infant deaths (SUIDs). In an effort to reduce the risk of SUIDs, the American Academy of Pediatrics has made a number of recommendations to educate caregivers, childcare providers, and healthcare professionals on safe infant sleep practices. The purpose of the current study was to extend the literature on safe infant sleep practices by teaching caregivers to arrange safe infant sleep environments using a mannequin and common infant items. We partnered with community‐based agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of behavioral skills training delivered in a single training session as part of the ongoing pre‐ or postnatal care these agencies provided. Following training, all participants demonstrated a substantial change in responding and returned favorable social validity ratings. We discuss these outcomes in light of previous studies, limitations, and future directions.
A randomized clinical trial of a virtual‐training program for teaching applied‐behavior‐analysis skills to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Fisher Wayne W. , Luczynski Kevin C. , Blowers Andrew P. , Vosters Megan E. , Pisman Maegan D. , Craig Andy R. , Hood Stephanie A. , Machado Mychal A. , Lesser Aaron D. , Piazza Cathleen C.
Published: September 2020

Parents play an important role in the treatment of their children's symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD); thus, developing effective, efficient, socially acceptable, and accessible procedures for training parents to implement applied‐behavior‐analysis (ABA) interventions is critically important. One potential approach involves delivering training via a virtual private network (VPN) over the internet (Fisher et al., 2014). In this study, we conducted a randomized clinical trial to evaluate a virtual parent‐training program with e‐learning modules and scripted role‐play via a VPN. We evaluated parent implementation of ABA skills using direct‐observation measures in structured‐work and play‐based training contexts. Parents in the treatment group showed large, statistically significant improvements on all dependent measures; those in the waitlist‐control group did not. Parents rated the training as highly socially acceptable. Results add to the growing literature on the efficacy and acceptability of virtually delivered training in ABA.
A Baseline Measurement of Quality of Life in 322 Adults With Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Gooijer Koert , Harsevoort Arjan G J , van Dijk Fleur S , Withaar Hendrikje (Rik) , Janus Guus J M , Franken Anton A M
Published: September 2020

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is characterized by bone fragility and secondary features such as blue sclerae, dentinogenesis imperfecta, hearing loss, ligamentous laxity, and short stature. It was thought that health‐related quality of life (QoL) in patients with OI mainly depends on the severity of the skeletal deformities. However, it has become clear that additional factors can affect the QoL in all patients with OI. In this study, we compare dimensions of QoL in adults with OI with a control population. The SF‐36 questionnaire was distributed among 330 adult patients with different OI types. Results were compared with two control populations from the Netherlands. Age‐matched comparisons were made with one of the two control populations. The results were summarized in eight domains: general and mental health, physical and social function, bodily pain, vitality, and physical and emotional role. General health and physical function in all types of OI are low compared with controls, except patients with OI type 4 aged 55+ years. Bodily pain in patients with OI appeared significantly worse than in the control population. There was no significant difference between OI types regarding pain and vitality. Vitality was only in the OI type 1 group significantly lower compared with controls. Patients with OI type 1 had a significantly reduced mental health. Social functioning appeared most effective in type 3 around 20 years of age. QoL in adult patients with OI should be an important outcome measure in every OI clinic, but the amount of baseline data on this subject is sparse. This baseline measurement study is the largest study to date investigating QoL in adult patients with OI. The mean scores indicate that people with OI generally have a significantly lower QoL than the control population. Further qualitative evaluation of QoL and its influences is important for future management. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Highly efficient separation membrane based on cellulose acetate/chitosan fibrous composite substrate with activated carbon functional adsorption layer
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyan , Wu Qian , Huang Chen , Wei Huidan , Wang Ruichen , Wang Chenyi
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

For improving the permeability and selectivity of adsorption separation membranes, membrane materials, structural morphology and separation technology must continue to be investigated. Development of a membrane that is environmentally friendly, cost‐effective and with high filter precision is an important direction in current research.

RESULTS

The air pressure spraying method was used to prepare an activated carbon (AC)–cellulose acetate/chitosan (CA/CS) composite membrane. The CA/CS fiber composite membrane was prepared as substrate layer, and AC was loaded on the surface of the CA/CS composite membrane as a functional adsorption layer. When the spraying pressure was 0.01 MPa and the mass ratio of AC/CS was 2:1, a composite membrane with even and compact morphology could be obtained. Both the compact AC functional layer and complete CA/CS substrate layer endowed the AC–CA/CS composite membrane with an excellent water filtration property. At low feeding pressure, the permeate flux and rejection rate of bisphenol A (BPA) could reach 9.27 × 103 L m−2 h−1 and 98.31%, respectively. Meanwhile, the adsorption capacities of the membrane were investigated. It tended to equilibrate quickly in 2 min for dyes and BPA. The equilibrium adsorption capacities of the membrane for acid blue, acid yellow and BPA were 175.80, 164.0815 and 79.58 mg g−1, respectively. The adsorption process conformed to pseudo‐second‐order kinetics and the Langmuir monolayer adsorption model.

CONCLUSIONS

This work could provide a practical and effective feasibility for membrane separation technology. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Using schema training to facilitate students' understanding of challenging engineering concepts in heat transfer and thermodynamics
Authors: Yang Dazhi , Streveler Ruth , Miller Ronald L. , Senocak Inanc , Slotta Jim
Published: September 2020

Background

Chi and colleagues have argued that some of the most challenging engineering concepts exhibit properties of emergent systems. However, students often lack a mental framework, or schema, for understanding emergence. Slotta and Chi posited that helping students develop a schema for emergent systems, referred to as schema training, would increase the understanding of challenging concepts exhibiting emergent properties.

Purpose

We tested the effectiveness of schema training and explored the nature of challenging concepts from thermodynamics and heat transfer. We investigated if schema training could (a) repair misconceptions in advanced engineering students and (b) prevent them in beginning engineering students.

Method

We adapted Slotta and Chi's schema training modules and tested their impact in two studies that employed an experimental design. Items from the Thermal and Transport Concept Inventory and expert‐developed multiple‐choice questions were used to evaluate conceptual understanding of the participants. The language used by students in their open‐ended explanations of multiple‐choice questions was also coded.

Results

In both studies, students in the experimental groups showed larger gains in their understanding of some concepts—specifically in dye diffusion and microfluidics in Study One, and in the final test for thermodynamics in Study Two. But in neither study did students exhibit any gain in conceptual questions about heat transfer.

Conclusion

Our studies suggest the importance of examining the nature of the phenomena underlying the concepts being taught because the language used in instruction has implications for how students understand them. Therefore, we suggest that instructors reflect on their own understanding of the concepts.
Mechanisms and microstructures of 2A97 Al‐Li alloy under the hot forming with synchronous quenching process
Authors: Zhang Peng , Chen Ming‐He , Chen Wei , Zhang Shi‐Hong , Xu Yong
Published: September 2020

Aluminum‐lithium alloy is regarded as the most promising light material in the aircraft and aerospace industries. For the production of complex and high‐precision parts, the hot forming with synchronous quenching (HFSQ) process has become an effective and attractive forming method. In order to achieve the performance and microstructure evolution of the 2A97 Al‐Li alloy under the HFSQ process, the specimens were subjected to solution treatment at 520°C and held at 90 min in the Gleeble 3,500 thermal simulator. Then the hot tensile test with simultaneous quenching was conducted directly at a temperature of 300–500°C and a strain rate of 0.1–0.001 s−1 with the same equipment. Through analyzing the macroscopic stress–strain curves and microscopic fractures, it was concluded that the optimal forming temperature was 450°C with the strain rate being 0.1 s−1 and its forming mechanism under the process was presented. To obtain the microstructure evolution of 2A97 Al‐Li alloy under the HFSQ process, the material was subjected to constant strain tensile test with synchronous quenching and then treated with two‐stage artificial aging 200°C and 6 hr + 165°C and 6 hr. The microstructure of the alloy was observed by means of electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD). And its evolution process and the influence of temperature, strain rate, and strain on the microstructure under the process were attained.
Determination of total iron‐binding capacity of transferrin using metal organic framework‐based surface‐enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy
Authors: Das Anupam , Choi Namhyun , Moon Joung‐Il , Choo Jaebum
Published: September 2020

We report the rapid and sensitive determination of the total iron‐binding capacity of transferrin (Tf) in human serum using surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy. Herein, metal organic framework (MOF)–gold nanoparticle (AuNP) complexes were used as the SERS substrate. The highly porous MOF preconcentrates the reporter molecules and accelerates the approach of the reporter molecules to the vicinity of the AuNPs on the surface of the MOF. As a result, a significant number of reporter molecules are trapped close to SERS‐active “hot spots,” and their Raman signals are greatly enhanced. Additionally, Tf acts as an anchor to form a three‐dimensional assembly of MOF–AuNP units via specific binding to the Fe(III) ions of adjacent MOF units when MOF–AuNP complexes are added to human serum. This leads to further enhancement of the Raman signals of Raman reporter molecules with increasing Tf concentration. Quantitative estimation of Tf is possible by monitoring the variations in the intensity of the Raman signal of Raman reporter molecules adsorbed on MOF–AuNP complexes as a function of the Tf concentration. In this work, SERS‐based analysis using the MOF–AuNP complexes was performed to determine the concentration of Tf in the human serum for diagnosing iron deficiency. The limit of detection of Tf was determined to be 0.51 μM in spiked human serum. This SERS‐based analysis of Tf using MOF–AuNPs provides new insight for the rapid and sensitive diagnosis of iron deficiency in human serum.
LC/MS study of the diversity and distribution of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Crotalaria species growing in Colombia
Authors: Prada Fausto , Stashenko Elena E. , Martínez Jairo René
Published: September 2020

Hepatotoxic and genotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been involved in the acute poisoning of animals and humans. Crotalaria (Fabaceae) species contain these alkaloids. In this work, the diversity and distribution of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in roots, leaves, flowers, and seeds of Crotalaria pallida, Crotalaria maypurensis, Crotalaria retusa, Crotalaria spectabilis, Crotalaria incana, and Crotalaria nitens were studied. Matrix solid‐phase dispersion and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with Orbitrap mass spectrometry were successfully employed in pyrrolizidine alkaloids extraction and analysis, respectively. Forty‐five pyrrolizidine alkaloids were detected and their identification was based on the mass spectrometry accurate mass measurement and fragmentation pattern analysis. The cyclic retronecine‐type diesters monocrotaline, crotaleschenine, integerrimine, usaramine, and their N‐oxides were predominantly present. Five novel alkaloids were identified for the first time in Crotalaria species, namely 14‐hydroxymonocrotaline, 12‐acetylcrotaleschenine, 12‐acetylmonocrotaline, 12‐acetylintegerrimine, and dihydrointegerrimine. Due to a lack of commercially available standards, the response factor of monocrotaline was used for quantification of pyrrolizidine alkaloids and their N‐oxides. Seeds and flowers possessed higher pyrrolizidine alkaloids amounts than roots and leaves. Due to their 1,2‐unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloids content, the ingestion of Crotalaria plant seeds or other parts through herbal products, infusions, or natural remedies is a serious health threat to humans and livestock.
Polymicrobial Skull Base Osteomyelitis Related to Chronic Sphenoiditis and Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Shellman Zachary , Coates Matthew , Kara Naveed
Published: September 2020

Skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) secondary to endoscopic surgery for chronic sinusitis and post‐operative sphenopalatine artery electrocautery has not been previously reported. This case report details an instance of Central SBO with an unusual microbiology profile and highlights the need to readily consider SBO should patients present with persistent headache and cranial nerve palsies following sinus surgery. Laryngoscope, 131:E1086–E1087, 2021
Utilization and Influence of Online Support Communities in Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis Patients
Authors: Verma Sunil P. , Goshtasbi Khodayar , Berry Lynne D. , Anderson Catherine , Francis David O. , Gelbard Alexander
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To determine the factors that shape utilization of social media‐based online support communities (OSCs) and study the influence of these communities on medical decision‐making in patients with Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis (iSGS).

Study design

Survey study.

Methods

A survey investigating OSC use was sent to the 1,056 members of the North American Airway Collaborative (NoAAC) iSGS1000 cohort in January 2018. Responses were merged with the existing NoAAC data set containing extensive demographic data, disease‐specific history, and responses to validated patient‐reported outcome measures.

Results

A total of 755 individuals with iSGS and mean age of 51.8 ± 11.6 years were included (99% female, 98% white, 63% college educated) and 58% were OSC users. Younger age, female gender, and college education were each associated with OSC use (P < .05). Users spent 2.5 ± 3.3 hours per week on the platforms. Time spent on OSC was not associated with total number of prior treatments. Higher disease anxiety (FoP‐Q, R = 0.26, P < .001), lower social support (MOS, R = −0.12, P = .037), and lower level of shared‐decision‐making with the treating physician (SDM‐Q9, R = −0.16, P = .007) were weakly associated with more hours spent engaging an OSC. OSC use influenced treatment and physician choice in 35% and 26% of users, respectively. Increased time spent on OSC use was associated with increased influence on patient medical decisions regarding treatment, surgery, and physician choice (P < .05).

Conclusion

OSC engagement is common in patients with iSGS. Disease anxiety, social support, and relationship with the physician may influence OSC utilization. More OSC engagement weakly associated with greater OSC influence on patient medical decision‐making.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 131:1821–1827, 2021
Heterogeneity and hierarchy of the tissue stem cells in the human newborn vocal fold mucosa
Authors: Sato Kiminori , Chitose Shun‐ichi , Sato Fumihiko , Sato Kiminobu , Ono Takeharu , Umeno Hirohito
Published: September 2020

Objectives

There is growing evidence that the cells in the maculae flavae (MFe) are tissue stem cells and the MFe are a stem cell niche of the human vocal fold mucosa. Heterogeneity and hierarchy of tissue stem cells in the MFe of newborn vocal fold were investigated in vivo.

Study design

Histologic analysis of the human vocal folds.

Methods

Five normal human newborn vocal folds were investigated under transmission electron microscopy and light microscopy.

Results

Cobblestone‐like polygonal cells, vocal fold stellate cell‐like cells, and fibroblast‐like spindle cells were intermingled in the newborn MFe in vivo, indicating that the cells in the MFe had heterogeneity. However, cobblestone‐like polygonal cells were predominant. Free ribosomes were well developed in the cytoplasm. The cells in some cases formed gap junctions with each other. The cells in some cases were attached to other cells and formed cell junctions with each other. These findings indicated cells in the newborn maculae flavae possessed features of mesenchymal cells (cells in mesenchyme). Colony‐forming‐unit‐like cell aggregate was observed, indicating the cells in the newborn MFe had stemness. The cobblestone‐like polygonal cells expressed SSEA‐3 (a human pluripotent stem cell marker), indicating they were at the top of a cellular hierarchy in the stem cell system.

Conclusions

The cells in the MFe of the human newborn vocal fold mucosa had heterogeneity and hierarchy in the stem cell system in vivo. At birth, newborn maculae flavae are ready to start the growth of the vocal fold mucosa as a vibrating tissue.
Dietary PlsEtn Ameliorates Colon Mucosa Inflammatory Stress and ACF in DMH‐Induced Colon Carcinogenesis Mice: Protective Role of Vinyl Ether Linkage
Authors: Nguma Ephantus , Tominaga Yuki , Yamashita Shinji , Otoki Yurika , Yamamoto Ayaka , Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Miyazawa Teruo , Kinoshita Mikio
Published: September 2020

Ethanolamine plasmalogen (PlsEtn), a sub‐class of ethanolamine glycerophospholipids (EtnGpl), is a universal phospholipid in mammalian membranes. Several researchers are interested in the relationship between colon carcinogenesis and colon PlsEtn levels. Here, we evaluated the functional role of dietary purified EtnGpl from the ascidian muscle (87.3 mol% PlsEtn in EtnGpl) and porcine liver (7.2 mol% PlsEtn in EtnGpl) in 1,2‐dimethylhydrazine (DMH)‐induced aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in vivo, and elucidated the possible underlying mechanisms behind it. Dietary EtnGpl‐suppressed DMH‐induced aberrant crypt with one foci (AC1) and total ACF formation (P < 0.05). ACF suppression by dietary ascidian muscle EtnGpl was higher compared with dietary porcine liver EtnGpl. Additionally, dietary EtnGpl decreased DMH‐induced oxidative damage, overproduction of TNF‐α, and expression of apoptosis‐related proteins in the colon mucosa. The effect of dietary ascidian muscle EtnGpl showed superiority compared with dietary porcine liver EtnGpl. Our results demonstrate the mechanisms by which dietary PlsEtn suppress ACF formation and apoptosis. Dietary PlsEtn attained this suppression by reducing colon inflammation and oxidative stress hence a reduction in DMH‐induced intestinal impairment. These findings provide new insights about the functional role of dietary PlsEtn during colon carcinogenesis.