bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of visual inputs on neural dynamics for coding of location and running speed in medial entorhinal cortex
Authors: Dannenberg Holger , Lazaro Hallie , Nambiar Pranav , Hoyland Alec , Hasselmo Michael E.
Published: April 2020

Neuronal representations of spatial location and movement speed in the medial entorhinal cortex during the “active” theta state of the brain are important for memory-guided navigation and rely on visual inputs. However, little is known about how visual inputs change neural dynamics as a function of running speed and time. By manipulating visual inputs in mice, we demonstrate that changes in spatial stability of grid cell firing as a function of time correlate with changes in a proposed speed signal by local field potential theta frequency. In contrast, visual inputs do not affect the speed modulation of firing rates. Moreover, we provide evidence that sensory inputs other than visual inputs can support grid cell firing, though less accurately, in complete darkness. Finally, changes in spatial accuracy of grid cell firing on a 10-s time scale suggest that grid cell firing is a function of velocity signals integrated over past time.
Effect of the use of dry breadcrumb in meatball production on the formation of heterocyclic aromatic amines
Authors: Korkmaz Ahmet , Oz Fatih
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Heterocyclic aromatic amines are mutagenic and/or carcinogenic compounds formed during cooking of meat. Therefore, the formation levels of them should be reduced. For this aim, the purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of dry breadcrumb in meatball production on the formation of heterocyclic aromatic amines. In addition, the effect of dry breadcrumb on some quality parameters of the meatballs was also investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Meatball dough with 15 percent fat was divided into four parts, where one group was selected as the control group (without dry breadcrumb). In the other three groups, dry breadcrumb was added in various ratios of 5 percent, 10 percent and 15 percent (w/w). Then, meatball dough was stored at 4 °C for 3 h and shaped into meatballs with a metal shaping device (7 × 1 cm). For some of the quality parameters, water, pH, cooking loss and TBARS analyses were done in the samples. Heterocyclic aromatic amine analysis was done in only cooked samples according to solid phase extraction.

Findings

The use of dry breadcrumb in meatball production decreased water content and cooking loss. As cooking temperature increased, water contents and cooking loss of meatball decreased. PhIP, AαC and MeAαC were not detected in any of the samples analyzed. As cooking temperature increased, total amount of HCAs increased and ranged between 0.05 and 0.51 ng/g. While the use of dry breadcrumb in the meatball production increased IQ content of the meatballs, the use of 5 percent dry breadcrumb caused a decrease in the total HAA content (28.57–66.67 percent) for all cooking temperatures.

Originality/value

Many research studies including our study in the literature were conducted on formation and reduction of HAAs in meat and meat products. However, although dry breadcrumb is frequently used both in domestic and commercial meatball formulations; to the best of our knowledge, effect of using dry breadcrumb in meatball production on HAAs formation has not been investigated in the literature. Therefore, in the present study, the effects of the use of dry breadcrumb in meatball production on some quality parameters and formation of HAAs in meatballs cooked at 150 °C, 200 °C and 250 °C were determined.
Economic sustainability of wine tourism services and direct sales performance – emergent profiles from Italy
Authors: Smyczek Sławomir , Festa Giuseppe , Rossi Matteo , Monge Filippo
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Direct sales at the winery constitute one of the most used indicators for evaluating the success of a wine tourism experience. In this respect, service performance at the winery can have some influence on sales, which assumes that there is a direct link between the service level intensity of the wine tourism offer and the intensity level of direct sales at the winery; thus proposing that the global sustainability of the economic performance of the winery would increase if the wine tourism experience was supported by intense wine tourism services.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive statistical investigation was conducted on a sample of 35 Italian wineries, giving evidence on the adoption of different service categories as part of the wineries' wine tourism offers. From these results, an inferential statistical analysis was conducted to detect the existence of a direct link between wine tourism services and direct sales at the winery.

Findings

Based on the current investigation, even though it was of an exploratory nature, the evidence does not in general support a direct link between the service level intensity of the wine tourism offer and the level of intensity of direct sales at the winery. Instead, some evidence points to a potential direct link between logistics services and direct sales. Unfortunately, some evidence emerged regarding the lack of availability of wine tourism services for disabled persons.

Originality/value

Wine tourism is a relevant success factor for the wine business. Its influence affects not only the wineries' reputation through word-of-mouth, most of all on the social networks but also their image and most importantly their direct sales. Frequently, in fact, wine tourism performance can be evaluated by direct sales performance. As a result of the current investigation, however, it is likely that the intensity level of direct sales at the winery is not the most correct indicator for evaluating the success of a wine tourism experience with high levels of service, especially when considering overall sustainability.
Stress-seepage-damage coupling modelling method for tunnel in rich water region
Authors: Jiang Annan , Zheng Shuai , Wang Shanyong
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper aims at the problem of surrounding rock excavation damage zone of tunneling in the rich water region, this paper aims to propose a new seepage-stress-damage coupling model and studied the numerical algorithm. This reflects the characteristics of rock damage evolution, accompanied by plastic flow deformation and multi-field interaction.

Design/methodology/approach

First of all, rock elastoplastic damage constitutive model based on the Drucker–Prager criterion is established, the fully implicit return mapping algorithm is adopted to realize the numerical solution. Second, based on the relation between damage variation and permeability coefficient, the rock stress-seepage-damage model and multi-field coupling solving iterative method are presented. Finally, using the C++ language compiled the corresponding programs and simulated tunnel engineering in the rich water region.

Findings

Results show that difference evolution-based back analysis inversed damage parameters well, at the same time the established coupling model and calculating program have more advantages than general conventional methods. Multiple field coupling effects should be more considered for the design of tunnel support.

Originality/value

The proposed method provides an effective numerical simulation method for the construction of the tunnel and other geotechnical engineering involved underground water problems.
Driving employee engagement: how personality trait and leadership style impact the process
Authors: Meskelis Simone , Whittington J. Lee
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to contribute to the understanding of how personality traits and leadership styles impact employee engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

A field study involving a total of 100 participants was conducted to investigate the relationship between honesty–humility, authentic leadership and employee engagement. Hypotheses were tested using correlation and regression analyses.

Findings

The results show that honesty–humility impacts employee engagement and that authentic leadership functions as a substitute for honesty–humility.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies are necessary to examine how honesty–humility interacts with other leadership styles. Further studies can also expand the understanding of this relationship across different cultures.

Practical implications

Employees bring engagement to work through their individual traits but organizations can help create an environment that fosters engagement through positive leadership behavior such as authentic leadership.

Originality/value

This study extends the understanding of the role of individual differences beyond the established Big Five model, by adding the honesty–humility dimension. In addition, the authors examine the moderating effects of authentic leadership on the relationship between honesty–humility and engagement.
Porous polystyrene nanoparticles as nanocontainers of inhibitors for corrosion protection of low-alloy steel
Authors: Dong Yuhua , Geng Chundong , Wang Xiang , Zhou Qiong
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate effect of porous polystyrene microspheres encapsulated inhibitor on the protection performance of epoxy resin coating.

Design/methodology/approach

Porous polystyrene (PS) microspheres were synthesized by soap-free emulsion polymerization. The morphology of microspheres was observed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Corrosion inhibitor benzotriazole was encapsulated into porous PS microspheres. The protection performance of epoxy resin coating with different contents of PS microspheres was tested by polarization curve.

Findings

The findings of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and scanning vibrating electrode technique showed that addition of corrosion inhibitor to porous PS microspheres further improved the protection performance of the coatings.

Practical implications

Porous PS microspheres could be used as nanocontainer to encapsulate corrosion inhibitor.

Originality/value

Addition of porous PS microspheres with corrosion inhibitor improved the protection performance of the coatings.
Germination responses to light of four Neotropical forest tree species along an elevational gradient in the southern Central Andes
Authors: Carón Maria Mercedes , De Frenne Pieter , Verheyen Kris , Quinteros Andrea , Ortega‐Baes Pablo
Published: April 2020

Seed germination is a key part of plants' life cycle and is mostly affected by the genetic background, the environmental conditions experienced by the mother plant and the seedbed conditions. The germination response to light is essential to optimize germination and seedling establishment in space and time. In addition, the germination response to light is a trait often related to the response of the seeds to their position in the soil (uncovered/buried). Here, we studied the germination response to light of four key tree species of the Yungas forest (Anadenanthera colubrina, Enterolobium contortisiliquum, Jacaranda mimosifolia and Handroanthus impetiginosus) sampled along an elevational and environmental gradient with contrasting vegetation cover and disturbance. Relative light germination (RLG) and mean germination time (MGT) were determined. Final germination was tested under cycles of light (8 h) and darkness (16 h) versus complete darkness (24 h) and elevation, and MGT was tested as a function of elevation of the provenance. The RLG increased from smaller to larger‐seeded species. The MGT of three of the studied species was affected by the elevation of the provenance. Complete darkness negatively affected final germination, while two species exhibited a significant interaction between the provenance and light. The variable germination responses to light along the elevational gradient highlights the influence of the environment on germination as a key factor that should be considered for forest management, conservation and restoration projects.
Responses of physiological groups of tropical heterotrophic bacteria to temperature and dissolved organic matter additions: food matters more than warming
Authors: Morán Xosé Anxelu G. , Baltar Federico , Carreira Cátia , Lønborg Christian
Published: April 2020

Compared to higher latitudes, tropical heterotrophic bacteria may be less responsive to warming because of strong bottom‐up control. In order to separate both drivers, we determined the growth responses of bacterial physiological groups to temperature after adding dissolved organic matter (DOM) from mangroves, seagrasses and glucose to natural seawater from the Great Barrier Reef. Low (LNA) and high (HNA) nucleic acid content, membrane‐intact (Live) and membrane‐damaged (Dead) plus actively respiring (CTC+) cells were monitored for 4 days. Specific growth rates of the whole community were significantly higher (1.9 day‐1) in the mangrove treatment relative to the rest (0.2–0.4 day‐1) at in situ temperature and their temperature dependence, estimated as activation energy, was also consistently higher. Strong bottom‐up control was suggested in the other treatments. Cell size depended more on DOM than temperature. Mangrove DOM resulted in significantly higher contributions of Live, HNA and CTC+ cells to total abundance, while the seagrass leachate reduced Live cells below 50%. Warming significantly decreased Live and CTC+ cells contributions in most treatments. Our results suggest that only in the presence of highly labile compounds, such as mangroves DOM, can we anticipate increases in heterotrophic bacteria biomass in response to warming in tropical regions.
An exploration of community partnerships, safety‐net hospitals, and readmission rates
Authors: Cheon Ohbet , Baek Juha , Kash Bita A. , Jones Stephen L.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To compare hospital‐community partnerships among safety‐net hospitals relative to non–safety‐net hospitals, and explore whether hospital‐community partnerships are associated with reductions in readmission rates.

Data Sources

Data from four nationwide hospital‐level datasets for 2015‐2016, including American Hospital Association (AHA) annual survey, Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) data, CMS Hospital Compare, and County Health Rankings National (CHRN) data.

Study Design

We first examined how safety‐net hospitals partner with nine different community providers, and how the overall and individual partnership patterns differ from those in non–safety‐net hospitals. We then explored their association with 30‐day readmission rates by diagnosis and hospital wide.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We included 1979 hospitals across 50 US states.

Principal Findings

Safety‐net hospitals were more engaged in hospital‐community partnerships, especially with local public health, local governments, social services, nonprofits, and insurance companies, relative to their non–safety‐net peers. However, we found that such partnerships were not significantly related to reductions in readmission rates. The findings indicated that merely partnering with various community organizations may not be associated with readmission rate reduction.

Conclusions

Before promoting partnerships with various community organizations for its own sake, further prospective, longitudinal, and evidence‐based guidance derived from the study of hospital‐community partnerships is needed to make meaningful recommendations aimed at readmission rate reduction in safety‐net hospitals.
Food safety in global supply chains: A literature review
Authors: Machado Nardi Vinicius Antonio , Auler Daniel Pedro , Teixeira Rafael
Published: April 2020

This paper aimed to revisit the literature on food safety in global supply chains and analyze the evolution and contemporary challenges in this research field. It conducted a systematic literature review in two steps based on a selection of 178 articles. It analyzed safety in food supply chains using the Six T's Framework to evaluate food safety management. In the supply chain literature, traceability was the most studied element of the original framework. The research identified studies that have incorporated the topics of “tactics” and “targets” in their analysis of safety in supply chains. This article presented an expanded framework, a tool for categorizing research, and areas for advancement in the identification of quality indicators in global food chains for the current research agenda. The paper contributed theoretically to the discussion of safety elements in food supply chains and incorporated new elements into the originally conceived framework. Thus, it helped to delineate the research field and opened up an agenda for future research.
Spore inactivation on solid surfaces by vaporized hydrogen peroxide—Influence of carrier material surface properties
Authors: Eschlbeck Elisabeth , Seeburger Christina , Kulozik Ulrich
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of surface hydrophobicity and roughness of carrier materials on the inactivation of bacterial spores with gaseous hydrogen peroxide whereas condensate formation is prevented. Spores of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus atrophaeus were applied either as single spore culture or as a mixed spore population to simulate natural contamination with microorganisms of different characteristics. Inactivation with gaseous hydrogen peroxide was carried out at 5200 ppm hydrogen peroxide without condensate formation. The inactivation results of B. subtilis and B. atrophaeus spores on carrier materials with varying surface hydrophobicity differed significantly. However, inactivation of the mixed spore populations resulted in similar resistance compared to the single spore batches.

The results of this study indicate that surface hydrophobicity most probably has an impact on the inactivation with gaseous hydrogen peroxide whereas surface roughness only plays a minor role.
Preference mapping of different water‐to‐rice ratios in cooked aromatic white jasmine rice
Authors: Maleki Clinton , Oliver Penelope , Lewin Simone , Liem Gie , Keast Russell
Published: April 2020

The volume of water is a key variable affecting texture and flavor attributes of cooked rice with a significant influence on consumer preference. The aim of this study was to determine the attributes driving consumer preference for rice cooked with different water‐to‐rice ratios. Descriptive analysis (DA) methodology was employed to profile aromatic white Jasmine rice and a consumer study was run to determine preference for water‐to‐rice ratios. A DA panel (n = 12) evaluated ten aroma, four taste and flavor, three texture, and six appearance attributes for aromatic white Jasmine rice cooked with four water‐to‐rice ratios (1.125:1, 1.5:1, 1.875:1, and 2.25:1). Rice consumers (n = 117) evaluated preferences of the same aromatic white Jasmine rice cooked with the aforementioned water‐to‐rice ratios. DA results revealed floral aroma, firmness, chewiness, coarseness, stickiness/cohesiveness, and fluffiness were significantly influenced by an increasing water‐to‐rice ratio. There was no significant effect of water‐to‐rice ratios on consumer preferences (χ2 (3, 117) = 1.17; P = 0.76). Consumers were grouped into three clusters with similar preference patterns using agglomerative hierarchical clustering. External preference mapping techniques run on each consumer cluster determined the water‐to‐rice ratios 1.125:1 and 1.875:1 as having the largest appeal to heavy consumers of rice, split by preferences for fluffy or sticky cooked rice. The water‐to‐rice ratio 1.5:1 was not dominated by any single attribute or group of attributes, appealing to less frequent rice consumers. Therefore, the water‐to‐rice ratios 1.125:1, 1.5:1, and 1.875:1 should satisfy the broadest groups of Australian rice consumers.

Practical Application

Rice, a high volume commodity can be cooked using a variety of methods and volumes of water. The findings of this research will help manufacturers market water‐to‐rice ratios, assisting consumers in identifying cooked rice for which they have a preference.
Effect of chlorine dioxide and phosphates on the quality of tiger frog (Rana tigrina) meat during 4 °C storage
Authors: Chen Xueying , Hu Linyan , Chen Ronghui , Chen Dong
Published: April 2020

Tiger frog (Rana tigrina) meat is extremely perishable. This study investigated the antimicrobial efficacy of chlorine dioxide (ClO2) on frog meat, optimized the formulation of a phosphate‐based enhancement solution by response surface methodology (RSM), and determined the quality parameters (i.e., total aerobic counts [TAC], pH, drip loss, cooking loss, color measurements, shear force, total volatile basic nitrogen [TVB‐N], and thiobarbituric acid–reactive substances [TBARS]) of refrigerated frog meat pretreated with ClO2 and the optimized blend of phosphates. Treatments of frog meat with 35 and 70 ppm ClO2 for 3, 5, and 10 min achieved a 0.7‐, 0.9‐ and 0.9‐, and 0.8‐, 1.4‐ and 1.6‐log CFU/g reduction of TAC, respectively, indicating the antimicrobial efficacy of ClO2 was concentration‐ and time‐dependent with such that higher concentrations and/or longer exposure time achieved greater bacterial reductions. The concentrations of the phosphates, including sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP), sodium pyrophosphate (SPP), and sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP), were optimized as the formula of 0.3% STPP and 0.45% SPP obtaining the highest water retention of the frog meat. After washed with 70 ppm ClO2 for 10 min and subsequently soaked with 0.3% STPP and 0.45% SPP for 30 min, the frog meat stored at 4 °C shown significantly (P < 0.05) lower TAC (<4.4 log CFU/g) and higher water holding capacity during the whole storage of 12 days, compared to the control. Results indicated that the two‐step process may be applicable to slow down deterioration and maintain quality frog meat during refrigeration.

Practical Application

This research provides a means to slow down deterioration, maintain quality frog meat, and improve stability during refrigeration. Refrigerated frog meat products, which are preferred by consumers with juicier and more tender texture compared to the frozen‐thawed meat, could be developed by the frog industry based on the data from this study.
Simple method for distinguishing the intersegmental plane in thoracoscopic lung segmentectomy
Authors: Jiao Peng , Sun Yaoguang , Tian Wenxin , Wu Qingjun , Tong Hongfeng
Published: April 2020

Here, we introduce a simple method for delineating the intersegmental border in thoracoscopic pulmonary segmentectomy which can be widely reproduced because it is less time‐consuming, fault‐tolerant, and does not require any special chemical reagents or equipment. This method provides clear and accurate demarcation lines between the inflated and deflated lung parenchyma.

Key points

A method with an effective and simple application which can be popularized. This modified targeted bronchus inflation method provides a clear and accurate intersegmental plane.
Fine‐scale genetic structuring in a group‐living lizard, the gidgee skink (Egernia stokesii)
Authors: Pearson Sarah K. , Johnston Gregory R. , Bull C. Michael , Fenner Aaron L. , Gardner Michael G.
Published: April 2020

By constraining gene flow, group living and natal philopatry can result in fine‐scale genetic structure. Although the genetic structure of some group‐living lizards has been characterised, studies are few compared with those for group‐living bird and mammal species. The Egerniinae group of lizards exhibits a high diversity of social structures, making it a useful group for comparative studies of genetic structure across a broader range of social taxa. A well‐studied member of Egerniinae is Egernia stokesii, a lizard that forms long‐term pair bonds and stable social groups and exhibits natal philopatry and limited dispersal. Evidence exists for consistent E. stokesii social structure across seven close but disconnected rocky outcrops within a 40 × 10 km area. We used summary statistics, analysis of molecular variance, Bayesian clustering, and discriminant analysis of principal components to assess if E. stokesii exhibit a consistent pattern of fine‐scale genetic structure across the same seven outcrops. Due to E. stokesii social structure and constrained dispersal, we predicted significant genetic structuring – based on microsatellite markers – among outcrops. We found significant fine‐scale genetic structuring and evidence for two genetic clusters. We discuss features of E. stokesii biology and ecology that may explain our findings. Some rocky outcrops, and some social groups, contained lizards from both genetic clusters. An examination of the composition of mixed cluster social groups did not detect any notable patterns. Therefore, further work is necessary to identify how the observed patterns may have arisen. Future investigations in E. stokesii and other group‐living lizard species are likely to contribute greatly to our understanding of the genetic consequences of group living.
Association of Mood and Anxiety Disorders and Opioid Prescription Patterns Among Postpartum Women
Authors: Nidey Nichole , Carnahan Ryan , Carter Knute D. , Strathearn Lane , Bao Wei , Greiner Andrea , Jelliffee‐Pawlowski Laura , Tabb Karen M. , Ryckman Kelli
Published: April 2020

Background and Objectives

Postpartum women represent a large population with opioid exposure who also have an increased risk of experiencing mood and anxiety disorders. However, the effect that mood and anxiety disorders have on opioid use postpartum has received little attention in the literature. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the association of mood and anxiety disorders with filling opioid prescriptions within the first 3 months postpartum.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study (n = 25 279) was completed using claims data for a sample of privately insured women who gave birth in the state of Iowa. The interactive effects of mood and anxiety disorders and delivery mode on filling at least one and two or more opioid prescriptions were examined in logistic regression models.

Results

The presence of mood and anxiety disorders among women who delivered vaginally increased their odds of filling at least one opioid fill by nearly 50% (odds ratio [OR]: 1.48, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.35‐1.63) and by 20% (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.00‐1.43) among women with cesarean delivery.

Discussion and Conclusion

Postpartum women with mood and anxiety disorders were more likely to fill opioid prescriptions postpartum compared to women without these conditions.

Scientific Significance

This study extends prior research by examining the intersection of risk of mood and anxiety disorders and opioid use postpartum. Findings from this study support the need for future research to identify the drivers of increased opioid use among postpartum women with mood and anxiety disorders. (Am J Addict 2020;29:463–470)
Past, present, and future of anti‐IgE biologics
Authors: Guntern Pascal , Eggel Alexander
Published: April 2020

About 20 years after the identification of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and its key role in allergic hypersensitivity reactions against normally harmless substances, scientists have started inventing strategies to block its pathophysiological activity in 1986. The initial concept of specific IgE targeting through the use of anti‐IgE antibodies has gained a lot of momentum and within a few years independent research groups have reported successful generation of first murine monoclonal anti‐IgE antibodies. Subsequent generation of optimized chimeric and humanized versions of these antibodies has paved the way for the development of therapeutic anti‐IgE biologicals as we know them today. With omalizumab, there is currently still only one therapeutic anti‐IgE antibody approved for the treatment of allergic conditions. Since its application is limited to the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe persistent asthma and chronic spontaneous urticaria, major efforts have been undertaken to develop alternative anti‐IgE biologicals that could potentially be used in a broader spectrum of allergic diseases. Several new drug candidates have been generated and are currently assessed in pre‐clinical studies or clinical trials. In this review, we highlight the molecular properties of past and present anti‐IgE biologicals and suggest concepts that might improve treatment efficacy of future drug candidates.
Discussion on “Predictively consistent prior effective sample sizes,” by Beat Neuenschwander, Sebastian Weber, Heinz Schmidli, and Anthony O'Hagan
Authors: Rosner Gary L. , Müller Peter
Published: April 2020

Neuenschwander et al. address a seemingly easy but often complicated problem in applied Bayesian methodology. We discuss some issues that relate to the question of why one might care about the effective sample size () in a Bayesian model and the motivation for reporting the .
Virtual reality simulation‐based learning of teaching with alternative perspectives taking
Authors: Ke Fengfeng , Xu Xinhao
Published: April 2020

This study examined participatory simulation‐based learning of teaching in a virtual reality (VR) supported learning environment and its affordance for alternative perspectives taking. This VR‐supported, embodiment‐integrated learning environment is designed to enable collaborative and contextualized microteaching practicing by university teaching assistants. A total of 42 chemistry teaching assistants participated in a 3‐hour teaching training session, during which they were randomly assigned to a VR‐supported simulation group and a live simulation group. The study found teaching knowledge development for all participants after simulation‐based training. The live simulation participants better performed in the post‐session knowledge test than the VR simulation participants. Qualitative data indicated a multitude of challenges and opportunities in VR simulation‐based learning, including a concurrent, yet, inequivalent experience of the “diving‐in” and “stepping‐out” learning perspectives during virtual collaborative role‐playing in a hybrid learning space.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Participatory simulation is implemented and found effective in diverse academic fields.

The design and research of alternative perspectives for simulation‐based learning is lacking.

The training of current and future instructors on effective teaching practices is a critical issue.

What this paper adds

Participatory simulation‐based teaching training is feasible and effective.

Live simulation outperforms the virtual reality simulation in a physically collocated learning setting.

Pros and cons of a hybrid learning space for participatory simulation and alterative perspectives taking are discussed.

Implications for practice and/or policy

We should design a consecutive and intelligible experience of alternative learning perspectives in simulation‐based learning.

It is important to prepare and scaffold learners for virtual participatory simulation‐based learning.
The present and future scope of real‐world evidence research in diabetes: What questions can and cannot be answered and what might be possible in the future?
Authors: Zaccardi Francesco , Davies Melanie J. , Khunti Kamlesh
Published: April 2020

The last decade has witnessed an exponential growth in the opportunities to collect and link health‐related data from multiple resources, including primary care, administrative, and device data. The availability of these “real‐world,” “big data” has fuelled also an intense methodological research into methods to handle them and extract actionable information. In medicine, the evidence generated from “real‐world data” (RWD), which are not purposely collected to answer biomedical questions, is commonly termed “real‐world evidence” (RWE). In this review, we focus on RWD and RWE in the area of diabetes research, highlighting their contributions in the last decade; and give some suggestions for future RWE diabetes research, by applying well‐established and less‐known tools to direct RWE diabetes research towards better personalized approaches to diabetes care. We underline the essential aspects to consider when using RWD and the key features limiting the translational potential of RWD in generating high‐quality and applicable RWE. Only if viewed in the context of other study designs and statistical methods, with its pros and cons carefully considered, RWE will exploit its full potential as a complementary or even, in some cases, substitutive source of evidence compared to the expensive evidence obtained from randomized controlled trials.
Safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of repeat subcutaneous dosing of avexitide (exendin 9‐39) for treatment of post‐bariatric hypoglycaemia
Authors: Tan Marilyn , Lamendola Cynthia , Luong Roger , McLaughlin Tracey , Craig Colleen
Published: April 2020

Aim

To evaluate the safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of repeat dosing of two formulations of subcutaneous (SC) avexitide (exendin 9‐39) in patients with post‐bariatric hypoglycaemia (PBH).

Methods

In this phase 2, multiple‐ascending‐dose study conducted at Stanford University, 19 women with PBH underwent a baseline oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), with metabolic and symptomatic assessments. Fourteen were then sequentially assigned to receive one of four ascending‐dose levels of twice‐daily lyophilized (Lyo) avexitide by SC injection for 3 days. On the basis of safety, efficacy and tolerability, five additional participants then received a novel liquid formulation (Liq) of avexitide by SC injection at a fixed dose of 30 mg twice daily for 3 days. All 19 participants underwent a repeat OGTT on day 3 of dosing to quantify metabolic, symptomatic and pharmacokinetic responses.

Results

Treatment with Lyo avexitide reduced the magnitude of symptomatic hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia at all dose levels, with dose‐dependent improvements in glucose nadir, insulin peak and symptom score; doses ≥20 mg twice daily did not require glycaemic rescue (administered at glucose <2.8 mmol/L). Participants receiving Liq avexitide 30 mg twice daily did not require any glycaemic rescue, and on average achieved a 47% increase in glucose nadir, a 67% reduction in peak insulin, and a 47% reduction in overall symptom score. Equivalent doses of Liq versus Lyo avexitide yielded higher and more sustained plasma concentrations. Both formulations were well tolerated.

Conclusions

In patients with PBH, twice‐daily administration of SC avexitide effectively raised the glucose nadir and prevented severe hypoglycaemia requiring rescue intervention. Avexitide may represent a viable therapy for PBH.
Seed size predicts global effects of small mammal seed predation on plant recruitment
Authors: Dylewski Łukasz , Ortega Yvette K. , Bogdziewicz Michał , Pearson Dean E.
Published: April 2020

Recent studies demonstrate that by focusing on traits linked to fundamental plant life‐history trade‐offs, ecologists can begin to predict plant community structure at global scales. Yet, consumers can strongly affect plant communities, and means for linking consumer effects to key plant traits and community assembly processes are lacking. We conducted a global literature review and meta‐analysis to evaluate whether seed size, a trait representing fundamental life‐history trade‐offs in plant offspring investment, could predict post‐dispersal seed predator effects on seed removal and plant recruitment. Seed size predicted small mammal seed removal rates and their impacts on plant recruitment consistent with optimal foraging theory, with intermediate seed sizes most strongly impacted globally – for both native and exotic plants. However, differences in seed size distributions among ecosystems conditioned seed predation patterns, with relatively large‐seeded species most strongly affected in grasslands (smallest seeds), and relatively small‐seeded species most strongly affected in tropical forests (largest seeds). Such size‐dependent seed predation has profound implications for coexistence among plants because it may enhance or weaken opposing life‐history trade‐offs in an ecosystem‐specific manner. Our results suggest that seed size may serve as a key life‐history trait that can integrate consumer effects to improve understandings of plant coexistence.
Computed‐tomography‐guided transforaminal intrathecal nusinersen injection in adults with spinal muscular atrophy type 2 and severe spinal deformity. Feasibility, safety and radiation exposure considerations
Authors: Spiliopoulos S. , Reppas L. , Zompola C. , Palaiodimou L. , Papadopoulou M. , Filippiadis D. , Palialexis K. , Ploussi A. , Efstathopoulos E. , Tsivgoulis G. , Brountzos E.
Published: April 2020

Background and purpose

The purpose was to investigate our centre’s experience on computed‐tomography‐guided (CT‐guided), transforaminal, intrathecal administration of nusinersen in adult subjects with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 2 and severe spinal deformity.

Method

This is a retrospective, single‐centre study investigating the feasibility and safety of CT‐guided, transforaminal, lumbar puncture for the intrathecal administration of nusinersen (Spinranza®; Biogen; Cambridge, MA, USA) in a cohort of adult subjects with SMA type 2, severe neuromuscular scoliosis and previous spinal surgery. Between January 2019 and October 2019, five male, adult, SMA type 2 subjects were eligible to be treated in our centre with nusinersen. The mean age of the patients was 31 ± 9 years (range 19–43 years). The study’s outcome measures were technical success, adverse events and radiation exposure.

Results

In total, four patients completed the four loading doses, whilst the fifth patient received only one loading dose; two patients also received their first maintenance doses. Overall, 20 consecutive transforaminal, intrathecal treatments were analysed. Technical success was 100% (20/20 intrathecal infusions). No adverse events were documented following the procedures. Mean dose–length product (DLP) value per injection was 665.4 ± 715.5 mGy*cm. Estimated mean effective dose per injection was 12.7 ± 12.9 mSv. Subgroup analysis between the chronologically first 10 versus subsequent 10 procedures demonstrated a clear trend towards less radiation exposure in the latter, although this difference did not reach statistical significance (DLP: 984.7 ± 903.3 vs. 436.7 ± 321.5 mGy*cm, P = 0.165; respectively).

Conclusions

In this retrospective series, CT‐guided transforaminal access for intrathecal injection of nusinersen was proven feasible and safe. A decrease in radiation dose over time was noted. Protocols to minimize radiation exposure are essential.
Pressure tolerance of deep‐sea enzymes can be evolved through increasing volume changes in protein transitions: a study with lactate dehydrogenases from abyssal and hadal fishes
Authors: Gerringer Mackenzie E. , Yancey Paul H. , Tikhonova Olga V. , Vavilov Nikita E. , Zgoda Victor G. , Davydov Dmitri R.
Published: April 2020

We explore the principles of pressure tolerance in enzymes of deep‐sea fishes using lactate dehydrogenases (LDH) as a case study. We compared the effects of pressure on the activities of LDH from hadal snailfishes Notoliparis kermadecensis and Pseudoliparis swirei with those from a shallow‐adapted Liparis florae and an abyssal grenadier Coryphaenoides armatus. We then quantified the LDH content in muscle homogenates using mass‐spectrometric determination of the LDH‐specific conserved peptide LNLVQR. Existing theory suggests that adaptation to high pressure requires a decrease in volume changes in enzymatic catalysis. Accordingly, evolved pressure tolerance must be accompanied with an important reduction in the volume change associated with pressure‐promoted alteration of enzymatic activity (

). Our results suggest an important revision to this paradigm. Here, we describe an opposite effect of pressure adaptation—a substantial increase in the absolute value of

in deep‐living species compared to shallow‐water counterparts. With this change, the enzyme activities in abyssal and hadal species do not substantially decrease their activity with pressure increasing up to 1–2 kbar, well beyond full‐ocean depth pressures. In contrast, the activity of the enzyme from the tidepool snailfish, L. florae, decreases nearly linearly from 1 to 2500 bar. The increased tolerance of LDH activity to pressure comes at the expense of decreased catalytic efficiency, which is compensated with increased enzyme contents in high‐pressure‐adapted species. The newly discovered strategy is presumably used when the enzyme mechanism involves the formation of potentially unstable excited transient states associated with substantial changes in enzyme–solvent interactions.
The effect of platelet‐rich plasma as a scaffold in regeneration/revitalization endodontics of immature permanent teeth assessed using 2‐dimensional radiographs and cone beam computed tomography: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: ElSheshtawy A. S. , Nazzal H. , El Shahawy O. I. , El Baz A. A. , Ismail S. M. , Kang J. , Ezzat K. M.
Published: April 2020

Aim

To assess the outcomes of platelet‐rich plasma as a scaffold in regenerative/revitalization endodontics (RET) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and 2‐dimensional radiographs.

Methodology

Twenty‐six healthy patients with mean age of 12.66 ± 4.47, and immature permanent anterior teeth with necrotic pulps, were randomly allocated to two groups, whereby RET was performed using platelet‐rich plasma (PRP, test group) and blood clot (BLC, control group). Changes in root length (RL), root dentinal thickness (RDT), apical foramen width (AFW) and radiographic root area (RRA), were assessed using both radiographic methods, whilst changes in periapical area diameter (PAD) were assessed using CBCT, over a period of 12 months.T‐test and chi‐square/Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare continuous and categorical data between BLC and PRP groups, respectively. Changes in RL, RDT, AFW, RRA and PAD were examined by comparing the two groups (PRP versus BLC) using multilevel modelling, considering the clustering effect of repeated measures of several teeth originating from the same participant.

Results

Changes in RL, RDT, AFW, RRA and PAD, over time, were found to be significant for both groups. There was, however, no difference between the RET techniques (PRP versus BLC), using both radiographic and CBCT methods. The results of both assessment techniques (CBCT and 2‐dimensional radiographic methods) were highly consistent (overall ICC ranged between 0.80 and 0.94). In addition, a significant effect of baseline PAD was found on RL, RRA and AD at 12 months (RL effect = −0.68,P < 0.001; RRA effect = −1.91,P = 0.025; AD effect = 0.08,P = 0.024).

Conclusion

The current study highlights successful and comparable clinical and radiographic outcomes of RET techniques using PRP and BLC. Standardized and calibrated 2‐dimensional radiographic assessment was as effective as CBCT in assessing RET outcomes; therefore, the routine use of CBCT in RET is not recommended. Although an effect of baseline periapical lesion diameter on root development outcomes, at 12 months, were observed, more studies are recommended in order to assess such an effect.
Peyronie’s disease: Contemporary evaluation and management
Authors: Ziegelmann Matthew J , Bajic Petar , Levine Laurence A
Published: April 2020

Peyronie’s disease is a common yet poorly understood condition characterized by penile pain, curvature, sexual dysfunction and psychological bother. Peyronie’s disease represents a penile wound healing disorder, and is thought to arise from exuberant scarring in response to penile trauma in genetically predisposed men. In the absence of active treatment, the majority of men experience stable or worsening symptoms, with few reporting spontaneous resolution in penile curvature or other deformity. In contrast, penile pain improves or resolves in the majority of men. Treatment options vary based on symptom severity and stability. Several oral therapies are commonly prescribed, although to date there are no strong data to support any oral agents as monotherapy for Peyronie’s disease. Other options including penile traction therapy and intralesional injections result in modest improvements for many patients, particularly when used early after symptom onset. Penile straightening through approaches, such as penile plication and plaque incision or partial excision and grafting, represent the most rapid and reliable approach to correct penile curvature once the symptoms have stabilized. Side‐effects vary based on the type of surgery carried out, and include penile shortening, sensation changes and erectile dysfunction in the minority of men. In patients with drug refractory erectile dysfunction and Peyronie’s disease, placement of a penile prosthesis will address both issues, and is associated with high levels of patient satisfaction. The current review provides a practical approach to the modern evaluation and management of patients presenting with Peyronie’s disease.
Hypochlorous acid-generating electrochemical scaffold eliminates Candida albicans biofilms
Authors: Zmuda H.M. , Mohamed A. , Raval Y.S. , Call D.R. , Schuetz A.N. , Patel R. , Beyenal H.
Published: April 2020

Aims

Wound infections involving Candida albicans can be challenging to treat because of the fungus’ ability to penetrate wound tissue and form biofilms. The goal of this study was to assess the activity of a hypochlorous acid (HOCl)-generating electrochemical scaffold (e-scaffold) against C. albicans biofilms in vitro and on porcine dermal explants (ex vivo).

Methods and Results

C. albicans biofilms were grown either on acrylic-bottom six-well plates (in vitro) or on skin tissue excised from porcine ears (ex vivo), and the polarized e-scaffold was used to generate a continuous supply of low concentration HOCl near biofilm surfaces. C. albicans biofilms grown in vitro were reduced to undetectable amounts within 24 h of e-scaffold exposure, unlike control biofilms (5·28 ± 0·034 log10 (CFU cm-2); P < 0·0001). C. albicans biofilms grown on porcine dermal explants were also reduced to undetectable amounts in 24 h, unlike control explant biofilms (4·29 ± 0·057 log10 (CFU cm-2); P < 0·0001). There was a decrease in the number of viable mammalian cells (35·6 ± 6·4%) in uninfected porcine dermal explants exposed to continuous HOCl-generating e-scaffolds for 24 h compared to explants exposed to nonpolarized e-scaffolds (not generating HOCl) (P < 0·05).

Conclusions

Our HOCl-generating e-scaffold is a potential antifungal-free strategy to treat C. albicans biofilms in chronic wounds.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Wound infections caused by C. albicans are difficult to treat due to presence of biofilms in wound beds. Our HOCl producing e-scaffold provides a promising novel approach to treat wound infections caused by C. albicans.