bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflections and Directions
Authors: Anno Mariko
Published: May 2021

This chapter reviews the strict separation that exists in Japan between professional and amateur Noh performers and how this boundary translates overseas through the collaborative works of Theatre Nohgaku and professional Noh performers. It demonstrates how the traditions of musical style and usage reign over contemporary Noh composition and performance practice. It also talks about Nohkan music in contemporary Noh dramas that does not deviate from traditional forms, content, and usage in any remarkable way. The chapter exhibits the Nohkan music performer's imagination and inspiration within the confines of prescribed patterns, which indicates that the Noh structure still affords a degree of artistic license and innovation. It reviews contemporary Noh plays, both in Japanese and in other languages, that cover varied subject matters.
Older age and diclofenac are associated with increased risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in gout patients
Authors: Wan Ghazali Wan Syamimee , Wan Zainudin Wan Mohd Khairul Bin , Yahya Nurul Khaiza , Mohamed Ismail Asmahan , Wong Kah Keng
Published: May 2021

Background

Gouty arthritis is a disease of global burden in which defective metabolism of uric acid causes arthritis. Gouty arthritis or medications used for its treatment may lead to uric acid-associated complications such as upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) and renal impairment.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study with retrospective record review, 403 established gouty arthritis patients were recruited to determine the incidence of UGIB and associated factors among gout patients who were on regular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Results

The mean age of the 403 gouty arthritis patients was 55.7 years old and the majority (n = 359/403; 89.1%) were male. The incidence of UGIB among gouty arthritis patients who were on NSAIDs was 7.2% (n = 29/403). Older age (p < 0.001), diclofenac medication (p = 0.003), pantoprazole medication (p = 0.003), end-stage renal failure (ESRF) (p = 0.007), smoking (p = 0.035), hypertension (p = 0.042) and creatinine (p = 0.045) were significant risk factors for UGIB among the gouty arthritis patients in univariable analysis. Older age (p = 0.001) and diclofenac medication (p < 0.001) remained significant risk factors for UGIB among the gouty arthritis patients in multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

Age and diclofenac were significantly associated with UGIB among patients with gouty arthritis on regular NSAIDs, indicating that these factors increased the risks of developing UGIB in gout patients. Hence, these high-risk groups of gouty arthritis patients should be routinely monitored to avoid the potential onset of UGIB. Our data also suggest that diclofenac should be prescribed for the shortest duration possible to minimize the risk of developing UGIB in gout patients.
Problems, Prospects and Policy Recommendations of Crop Insurance Schemes
Authors: Punia Meenu , Nimbrayan Parveen Kumar , Yadav K. K.
Published: May 2021

This paper discusses the findings of the study in the area of crop insurance. Firstly it studied the problems faced under PMFBY, secondly examines prospects of given scheme. The study was conducted in six districts of Haryana namely, Kaithal, Bhiwani, Karnal, Hisar, Panipat and Fatehabad. The study showed the results of a survey of 240 farmers being carried in June 2018 to September, 2018. Constraints generally faced by the borrower farmers like delay in claim settlement (21.66%), inaccurate yield estimation (20.83%), inadequate implementation (20.00%), lack of awareness about the scheme and exclusion of a malicious damage, theft and grazed and destroyed by domestic animals etc. as 3.33 per cent as major constraints. Majority of non-borrower farmers faced constraints like claim paid for loss assessment (20.83%) as highest per cent, lack of faith in insurance system (19.17%) and inadequate implementation (16.67%).
Modelling Dynamic Micro and Macro Panel Data with Autocorrelated Error Terms
Authors: Uthman Kafayat T. , Oyenuga Iyabode F. , Adegoke Taiwo M. , Onatunji Adewale P. , Oni Olanrewaju V.
Published: May 2021

Aims: The aim of this study is to determine the best estimator for estimating dynamic panel data model with serially uncorrelated disturbances and exogenous regressors.

Methodology: In this study, properties of some Dynamic Panel Data estimators are investigated. These are Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), the Anderson-Hsiao(AH(d), Arellano-Bond Generalized Method of Moment (ABGMM) one-step, Blundell- Bond System (BBS) one-step, M- estimator,  MM estimators and proposed estimator, Modified Anderson-Hsiao with Arellano-Bond(MAHAB) estimator in the presence of autocorrelation. Also, this new estimator was proposed by modifying the existing estimators.

Results: Monte-Carlo simulations were carried out at varying sample size (n) ranges from 10-200 and time period (T) ranges from 5-20 when autocorrelation ( ) is fixed at 0.3, 0.5 and 0.7. The estimators considered performed well except OLS and BBS for all time periods.

Conclusion: AH estimator performed relatively well when the time period is small while ABGMM estimator outperformed all other estimators when sample size (n) is large for all the time periods considered. ABGMM shows the largest improvement as sample size (n) and time periods (T) increase. The MAHAB estimator outperformed all other estimators in small and large sample size irrespective of time period in the presence of autocorrelation.
The Role of Media in Presidential Electoral Outcome in Nigeria between 2009 to 2019
Authors: Omali Ushie Rita
Published: May 2021

This paper examines the role of the media in electoral outcomes in Nigeria. The methodology used was the examination of secondary data. The paper established that the Nigerian media had come a long way from its colonial past the media was also buffeted by other negative factors that affected its professionalism like the military dictatorships which tried but were unsuccessful in muzzling the media. The media in Nigeria though vibrant is limited in its professional and ethical reportage and broadcast due to issues considered primordial like ethnicity, religion, ownership among others. While it can be said that the media does indeed affect the electoral outcomes because of political advertisement, coverage etc they are not the sole determinants of electoral outcomes in Nigeria.
Integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of microplasts derived from macrophage‐conditioned medium‐treated MCF‐7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Melwani Pooja Kamal , Balla Murali Mohan Sagar , S. Nishad , Padwal Mahesh , Chaurasia Rajesh Kumar , Basu Bhakti , Ghosh Anu , Pandey Badri Narain
Published: May 2021

Microplasts are large extracellular vesicles originating from migratory, invasive, and metastatic cancer cells. Here, to gain insight into the role of microplasts in cancer progression, we performed a proteomic and transcriptomic characterization of microplasts isolated from MCF‐7 breast cancer cells treated with macrophage‐conditioned medium. These cells were found to be viable, highly migratory, and metabolically active, indicating that microplasts derived from these cells are not apoptotic bodies. Transcriptomic/proteomic analyses identified 10273 mRNAs and 821 proteins in microplasts. Interestingly, 377 microplast mRNAs coded for corresponding microplast proteins. Microplast mRNAs and proteins were mainly associated with binding and catalytic activities. Microplasts showed enrichment of mRNAs involved in transcription regulation and proteins involved in processes such as cell–cell adhesion and translation. Pathway analysis showed enrichment of ribosomes and carbon metabolism. These results suggest a close resemblance between microplasts and parent cells, with mRNA and protein cargo relevant in intercellular signaling.
Working memory and fluid intelligence predict reading comprehension in school‐age children: A one‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Vernucci Santiago , Aydmune Yesica , Andrés María Laura , Burin Débora Inés , Canet‐Juric Lorena
Published: May 2021

The present study analyzed the joint predictive role of verbal working memory (WM), verbal short‐term memory (STM), fluid intelligence, and intelligence mindset in reading comprehension, controlling for prior reading comprehension performance, in typically developing Spanish‐speaking school‐aged children. A sample of 83 children aged 9–10 years old were evaluated at fourth grade of primary school, with measures of verbal WM, verbal STM, fluid intelligence, intelligence mindset and reading comprehension; then with the measure of reading comprehension after 1 year, during fifth grade. Results showed that controlling for prior performance, verbal WM and fluid intelligence significantly predicted reading comprehension after 1 year, whereas verbal STM and intelligence mindset did not make a significant contribution. These results indicate that when jointly considered, a higher level of verbal WM and fluid intelligence in fourth grade is related to a better performance in reading comprehension in fifth grade. Possible explanations and implications of these results are discussed.
Direct Rolling of TiCp/Ti–6Al–4V Composite for Improved Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and High‐Temperature Oxidation Resistance
Authors: Jia Yi , Zhang Changjiang , Zhang Shuzhi , Feng Hong , Han Fuyin , Han Jianchao , Cong Yan , Chen Yuyong
Published: May 2021

Herein, the 5 vol% TiCp/Ti–6Al–4V composite is prepared by induction skull melting (ISM) and direct rolling in near‐β phase region. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and high‐temperature oxidation behavior of the as‐cast and as‐rolled composites are systematically investigated. The investigations of microstructure reveal that the as‐cast coarse α/β lamellar matrix microstructure is translated to refined bimodal microstructure after direct rolling. And the coarse and segregated TiC particles tend to be refined and uniformly distributed in the matrix. Tensile test results exhibit that a well‐matched strength and elongation is obtained after direct rolling. The tensile strength at room temperature (RT) and high temperature (650 °C) increases to 1291.9 and 472.5 MPa, respectively, while the as‐rolled composite maintains a good elongation of 6.7% and 26.8%, respectively. The strengthening mechanism can be attributed to grain boundary strengthening and the load‐bearing capability of TiC. Isothermal oxidation test indicates that as‐rolled composite exhibits better oxidation resistance than as‐cast composite both at 550 and 650 °C. The improved oxidation resistance is mainly a result of the significant refinement of oxides and consequently retarding the diffusion process.
The Role of Titania Surface Coating by Atomic Layer Deposition in Improving Osteogenic Differentiation and Hard Tissue Formation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Chuang Ya-Chen , Wang Likun , Feng Kuan-Che , Subramanian Ashwanth , Chang Chung-Chueh , Simon Marcia , Nam Chang-Yong , Rafailovich Miriam
Published: May 2021

Recent studies have focused on modifying implant surface properties to improve bone regeneration and osseointegration. Herein, the role of titania surface coating in enabling dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) differentiation and hard tissue formation is studied. Atomic layer deposition is applied at lower temperature to coat a nanolayer of titania onto hard and soft polybutadiene substrates without altering their moduli, to probe the effects of surface chemistry and substrate modulus. In the absence of titania, DPSCs prefer to attach and proliferate on the hard substrate, where particle‐like biomineralization is present after 28 days in culture, whereas no biomineralization is observed on the soft substrate. Applying titania surface coating results in the improvement of adhesion and proliferation, regardless of substrate modulus, whereas cell and substrate moduli remain the same as control without titania coating. Furthermore, templated biomineralization is observed given the bone‐like tissue composition by Raman analysis, in consistent with real time‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) results showing upregulation of osteopontin (OPN) and bone sialoprotein (BSP), representing osteogenic differentiation. The results indicate that titania surface coating improved the ability to nucleate banded collagen fibers which in turn templated mineral deposits, and further induced the osteogenesis of DPSCs, regardless of its substrate modulus.
New Insights into the Intermartensitic Transformation and Over 11% Magnetic Field‐Induced Strain in 14 m Ni−Mn−Ga Martensite
Authors: Chulist Robert , Pagounis Emmanouel , Czaja Paweł , Schell Norbert , Brokmeier Heinz-Günter
Published: May 2021

Stress‐induced intermartensitic phase transformation from 10 m to 14 m modulated martensite structure is characterized in Ni50.5−Mn28.9−Ga20.6 at% single crystals, with particular focus on periodic atomic shuffling by in situ synchrotron radiation diffraction. Under compression, along the [001] direction, at 6 MPa, the self‐accommodated 10 m single crystal is found to transform to a nearly single‐variant state. Further stress increase up to 20 MPa triggers intermartensitic transformation to an intermediate, mixed martensite state. Intermartensitic transformation is hereby invoked at a considerably lower stress than previously reported for Ni−Mn−Ga alloys. However, the stress level applied along the [001] direction does not promote the complete 10 m→14 m martensite transformation. The 14 m structure is then fully achievable, when a consecutive compression along the [100] direction is applied. Such mechanically promoted 14 m single crystals are stable at room temperature and yield about 11.4% magnetic‐field induced strain—being the highest noted up to date for the Ni−Mn−Ga system.
Using Radio‐Frequency Fields for Local Heating and Curing of Adhesive for Bonding Metals
Authors: Vashisth Aniruddh , Auvil Tyler J. , Sophiea Daniel , Mastroianni Sarah E. , Green Micah J.
Published: May 2021

Lightweighting of metal structures can be achieved by replacing metallic fasteners with thermosetting adhesives. However, thermal curing of adhesives to bond metals in an oven can lead to distortions due to mismatched coefficients of thermal expansion, thereby compromising the structural integrity. Targeted heating of the adhesive can be utilized to minimize distortions and residual stresses in metal‐composite assembly. Herein, it is shown that rapid heating of carbon nanoparticles in the presence of radio‐frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields can be used to cure nanocomposite adhesives for bonding metal substrates selectively. Using the metal components of a structure as a part of an RF circuit, electric fields are generated through a carbon‐nanofiller loaded adhesive, which then volumetrically heats and cures. Comparable lap‐shear strengths and adhesive peel resistance are measured for RF‐ and oven‐cured composites. RF‐cured multimaterial bonding specimens (aluminum‐to‐steel) show minimal distortion, resulting in ≈590% higher fracture energies in peel mode as compared with oven‐cured specimens.
Mechanical Characterization of Compact Rolled‐up Microtubes Using In Situ Scanning Electron Microscopy Nanoindentation and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Moradi Somayeh , Jöhrmann Nathanael , Karnaushenko Dmitriy D. , Zschenderlein Uwe , Karnaushenko Daniil , Wunderle Bernhard , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: May 2021

Self‐assembled Swiss‐roll microstructures (SRMs) are widely explored to build up microelectronic devices such as capacitors, transistors, or inductors as well as sensors and lab‐in‐a‐tube systems. These devices often need to be transferred to a special position on a microchip or printed circuit board for the final application. Such a device transfer is typically conducted by a pick‐and‐place process exerting enormous mechanical loads onto the 3D components that may cause catastrophic failure of the device. Herein, the mechanical deformation behavior of SRMs using experiments and simulations is investigated. SRMs using in situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with nanoindentation are characterized. This allows us to mimic and characterize mechanical loads as they occur in a pick‐and‐place process. The deformation response of SRMs depends on three geometrical factors, i.e., the number of windings, compactness of consecutive windings, and inner diameter of the microtube. Nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) showing good agreement with experiments is performed. It is believed that the insights into the mechanical loading of 3D self‐assembled architectures will lead to novel techniques suitable for a new generation of pick‐and‐place machines operating at the microscale.
The Summer Match: A qualitative study exploring a two‐stage residency match option
Authors: Dacre Michael , Hopson Laura R. , Branzetti Jeremy , Regan Linda , Sebok‐Syer Stefanie S. , Gisondi Michael A.
Published: May 2021

Background

The number of residency applications submitted by medical students rises annually, resulting in increased work and costs for residency programs and applicants, particularly in emergency medicine. We propose a solution to this problem: an optional, two‐stage Match with a “summer match” stage, in which applicants can submit a limited number of applications early. This would be conducted similarly to the early decision process for college admissions. The study objectives were to explore stakeholder opinions on the feasibility of a summer match and to identify the ideal logistic parameters to operationalize this proposal.

Methods

We used exploratory qualitative methodology following a constructivist paradigm to develop an understanding of the potential impact of a summer match. We interviewed 34 key stakeholders in the U.S. residency application process identified through purposive sampling including educational administrators (program directors, designated institutional officials, medical school deans) and trainees (students, residents). We coded and thematically analyzed interview data in two stages using an inductive approach.

Results

We identified six themes from the participant interviews that broadly reflected issues of the residency application process, value, and equity. These themes included disrupting the status quo, logistic concerns, match strategy, differential benefits, unintended consequences, and return on investment. Most study participants supported the summer match concept, with medical students and residents most in favor. We developed a theoretical summer match protocol based on these findings.

Conclusions

A summer match may reduce the burdens of increasing residency applications and associated costs. Pilot testing is necessary to confirm this hypothesis and determine the impact of the proposed summer match protocol. Unintended consequences must be considered carefully during implementation.
Age affects the strain‐rate dependence of mechanical properties of kelp tissues
Authors: Burnett Nicholas P. , Koehl M.A.R.
Published: May 2021

PREMISE

The resistance of macroalgae to hydrodynamic forces imposed by ambient water motion depends in part on the mechanical properties of their tissues. In wave‐swept habitats, tissues are stretched (strained) at different rates as hydrodynamic forces change. Previous studies of mechanical properties of macroalgal tissues have used either a single strain rate or a small range of strain rates. Therefore, our knowledge of the mechanical properties of macroalgae is limited to a narrow fraction of the strain rates that can occur in nature. In addition, although mechanical properties of macroalgal tissues change with age, the effect of age on the strain‐rate dependence of their mechanical behavior has not been documented.

METHODS

Using the kelp Egregia menziesii, we measured how high strain rate (simulating wave impingement) and low strain rate (simulating wave surge) affected mechanical properties of frond tissues of various ages.

RESULTS

Stiffness of tissues of all ages increased with strain rate, whereas extensibility was unaffected. Strength and toughness increased with strain rate for young tissue but were unaffected by strain rate for old tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Young tissue is weaker than old tissue and, therefore, the most susceptible to breakage from hydrodynamic forces. The increased strength of young tissue at high strain rates can help the frond resist breaking when pulled rapidly during wave impingement, when hydrodynamic forces are largest. Because breakage of young tissue can remove a frond’s meristem and negatively impact the survival of the whole kelp, strain‐rate dependence of the young tissue’s strength can enhance kelp’s survival.
Teaching receptive money identification skills using matrix training: A preliminary investigation
Authors: Curiel Emily S. L. , Curiel Hugo
Published: May 2021

We taught receptive money identification skills to preschool‐age children. A 4 × 4 dollar‐coin matrix was assembled to create 16 dollar‐coin combinations. We used a penny, nickel, dime, quarter, and a 1‐, 5‐, 10‐, and 20‐dollar bill. We explicitly taught six dollar‐coin auditory conditional discriminations via a six‐phase training protocol. We then assessed the remaining 10 untrained combinations for emergent responding, four of which were assessed for responding by exclusion. One participant demonstrated emergent responding for all 10 untaught combinations, and another demonstrated emergent responding for six combinations. The findings, limitations, and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Rapid decline in visceral adipose tissue over 1 month is associated with poor prognosis in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Nakano Oki , Kawai Hirokazu , Kobayashi Takamasa , Kohisa Junji , Ikarashi Satoshi , Hayashi Kazunao , Yokoyama Junji , Terai Shuji
Published: May 2021

Background

Involuntary weight loss related to cachexia is common in patients with advanced cancer, but the association between body composition changes and survival is still unclear in pancreatic cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical outcomes of 55 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer undergoing palliative therapy or best supportive care (BSC). The skeletal muscle index (SMI), visceral adipose tissue index (VATI), subcutaneous adipose tissue index (SATI), and visceral to subcutaneous adipose tissue area ratio (VSR) were calculated based on the cross‐sectional area on two sets of computed tomography images obtained at cancer diagnosis and 1 month later before treatment. The prognostic value of body composition indexes at diagnosis and the changes in those indexes over 1 month was then evaluated.

Results

In total, 45 patients (81.8%) received chemotherapy, chemoradiation, or radiation therapy, whereas the remaining patients underwent BSC. There were 27 patients (49.1%) who had low SMI at cancer diagnosis. Univariate analysis showed no significant associations between the baseline body composition indexes including SMI, VATI, SATI, and VSR and survival. Meanwhile, male sex (HR, 2.79; 95% CI, 1.16–6.71, p = 0.022) and higher decrease in VATI over 1 month (HR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.13–5.13, p = 0.023) were identified as independent risk factors for mortality in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Rapid decline in VAT over 1 month is closely associated with poorer survival in unresectable advanced pancreatic cancer. A short‐term assessment of body composition changes may be a rational approach to predict prognosis in these patients.
Self‐optimization for smelting process of fused magnesium furnace based on operation status assessment
Authors: Niu Dapeng , Zhang Guojin , Jia Mingxing
Published: May 2021

Based on operation status assessment and self‐optimizing regulation, an optimization strategy for the smelting process of a fused magnesium furnace is proposed to improve the benefits of smelting magnesia. In the online evaluation stage, according to the qualitative information, the data is divided by the fuzzy model recognition method, and then the posterior probability of online data in different Gaussian mixture models is calculated to obtain the evaluation results. When the evaluation results are not optimal, the non‐optimal variables are obtained by calculating the contribution rate, and then the self‐optimizing adjustment is carried out by case search. In order to improve the recovery rate of self‐optimizing regulation, a time series prediction method is used to predict the operation status, and the corresponding operation schemes for different prediction results are proposed. Experimental results show that the proposed method is accurate and effective.
Natural alkaloid as a non‐toxic, environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitor
Authors: Ng Jun H. , Almubarak Tariq , Nasr‐El‐Din Hisham
Published: May 2021

Acid treatments are commonly used in various oilfield treatments in order to remove inorganic scale or to stimulate formations. When applied in high temperature wells, these acids become very corrosive and can cause severe damage to tubulars as well as downhole equipment. Therefore, corrosion inhibitors are a necessary additive in these stimulation treatments. Commercial corrosion inhibitors used in the oil and gas industry are damaging to the environment and harmful to human health. Therefore, it is necessary to find a corrosion inhibitor that is both environmentally friendly and non‐toxic. An alkaloid was tested with N‐80 and S13Cr coupons and exposed to HCl solutions ranging from 15–28 wt.% at temperatures between 25–121°C for 6 h. In addition, a control solution containing no corrosion inhibitor was used to establish a corrosion rate for a base case at each temperature. For both N‐80 and S13Cr metals, the alkaloid performed well, with corrosion rates significantly lower than the industry standards. The concentration of alkaloid used was at 2 wt.% for most tests and was shown to be effective even at concentrations as low as 0.2 wt.%. Furthermore, the corrosion inhibitor was found to be stable in the presence of emulsified acid and was able to provide sufficient corrosion resistance. This shows that this naturally occurring, non‐toxic alkaloid is a suitable corrosion inhibitor for oilfield steels as an alternative to existing commercial corrosion inhibitors.
Three‐Component Synthesis of 2‐Heteroaryl‐3‐hydroxybenzo[b]‐thiophenes under Transition‐Metal‐Free Conditions
Authors: Wang Dahan , Xiao Fuhong , Zhang Feng , Deng Guo‐Jun
Published: May 2021

Main observation and conclusion

A convenient synthetic route to 2‐heteroaryl‐3‐hydroxybenzo[b]thiophene derivatives via K2CO3‐promoted multicomponent cyclization between o‐halogenated benzaldehyde, 2‐methylquinolines and sulfur powder has been demonstrated. This reaction is performed smoothly under simple conditions to give the corresponding products in moderate to good yields. The resultant 3‐hydroxybenzo[b]thiophenes have been proved to be versatile building blocks in a range of transition‐metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions.
Ethoxylation of Phenols Catalyzed by Metal‐Free Lewis Pairs: Living/Controlled Polymerization in a Slow‐Initiation Mode†
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhou Yubo , Chen Ye , Zhao Junpeng
Published: May 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Phenols, instead of conventional alcoholic compounds, are used to initiate ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide in bulk at room temperature in cooperation with the recently prevailing bicomponent metal‐free catalyst comprising an organobase and triethylborane. Experimental and DFT calculation results both point out that due to the lower nucleophilicity of the initiating (phenolate) species than the propagating (alcoholate) species, chain initiation is distinctly slower than propagation and the difference becomes even larger as the acidity of the phenolic initiator increases. Nevertheless, well‐defined polyethers with expected molar mass, low dispersity, and high end‐group fidelity are afforded substantiating that the ROP is living/controlled in spite of the slow initiation. Evolution of product composition indicates that the reaction on alcoholates (i.e., propagation) is effectively inhibited by the unreacted phenols during the initiation step because of the adequately large acidity difference, which is key to the success of the slow‐initiation living/controlled polymerization. The acidity difference between phenol and alcohol also facilitates the fulfillment of highly selective phenolysis of epoxides, a “1 + 1” type addition reaction between phenol and epoxide (in excess) rather than the “1 + n” type ROP reaction, by use of a milder organobase and decreased Lewis acid/base ratio.
PROTOCOL: The effects of small class sizes on students’ academic achievement, socioemotional development, and well‐being in special education
Authors: Bondebjerg Anja , Dalgaard Nina T. , Filges Trine , Thomsen Morten K. , Viinholt Bjørn C. A.
Published: May 2021

This is the protocol for a Campbell review. The objective of this systematic review is to uncover and synthesise data from studies to assess the impact of small class sizes on the academic achievement, socioemotional development, and well‐being of students with special educational needs. Where possible, we will also investigate the extent to which the effects differ among subgroups of students. Furthermore, we will perform a qualitative exploration of the experiences of children, teachers, and parents with special education class sizes.
Vimentin intermediate filaments modulate cell traction force but not cell sensitivity to substrate stiffness
Authors: Ho Thanh Minh‐Tri , Grella Alexandra , Kole Denis , Ambady Sakthikumar , Wen Qi
Published: May 2021

The ability of cells to sense and respond to the mechanical stiffness of the surrounding matrix is important to support normal cell function, wound healing, and development. Central to the process of durosensing is the cytoskeleton composed of three classes of filaments: F‐actin, microtubules, and intermediate filaments (IFs). Vimentin is an IF protein that contributes significantly to cell mechanics and cell traction force, which is required to probe extracellular matrix. The role of vimentin in how cells sense and respond to the mechanical rigidity of extracellular matrix is largely unclear. To investigate the role of vimentin in durosensing, we knocked down the vimentin expression level in 3T3 fibroblasts using shRNA transfection and measured cellular responses as functions of substrate stiffness. We quantified durosensitivity by the rates at which cell area and traction force change with substrate stiffness. Our results show that that vimentin plays a role in durosensing by modulating traction force and knocking out vimentin did not significantly affect durosensitivity. These results indicate that vimentin may be a redundant component of the machinery that cells use to sense substrate stiffness.
A review and analysis of the clinical literature on Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease caused by mutations in neurofilament protein L
Authors: Stone Elizabeth J. , Kolb Stephen J. , Brown Anthony
Published: May 2021

Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT) is one of the most common inherited neurological disorders and can be caused by mutations in over 100 different genes. One of the causative genes is NEFL on chromosome 8 which encodes neurofilament light protein (NEFL), one of five proteins that co‐assemble to form neurofilaments. At least 34 different CMT‐causing mutations in NEFL have been reported which span the head, rod, and tail domains of the protein. The majority of these mutations are inherited dominantly, but some are inherited recessively. The resulting disease is classified variably in clinical reports based on electrodiagnostic studies as either axonal (type 2; CMT2E), demyelinating (type 1; CMT1F), or a form intermediate between the two (dominant intermediate; DI‐CMTG). In this article, we first present a brief introduction to CMT and neurofilaments. We then collate and analyze the data from the clinical literature on the disease classification, age of onset and electrodiagnostic test results for the various mutations. We find that mutations in the head, rod, and tail domains can all cause disease with early onset and profound neurological impairment, with a trend toward greater severity for head domain mutations. We also find that the disease classification does not correlate with specific mutation or domain. In fact, different individuals with the same mutation can be classified as having axonal, demyelinating, or dominant intermediate forms of the disease. This suggests that the classification of the disease as CMT2E, CMT1F or DI‐CMTG has more to do with variable disease presentation than to differences in the underlying disease mechanism, which is most likely primarily axonal in all cases.
Coordination of iron homeostasis by bone morphogenetic proteins: Current understanding and unanswered questions
Authors: Fisher Allison L. , Babitt Jodie L.
Published: May 2021

Iron homeostasis is tightly regulated to balance the iron requirement for erythropoiesis and other vital cellular functions, while preventing cellular injury from iron excess. The liver hormone hepcidin is the master regulator of systemic iron balance by controlling the degradation and function of the sole known mammalian iron exporter ferroportin. Liver hepcidin expression is coordinately regulated by several signals that indicate the need for more or less iron, including plasma and tissue iron levels, inflammation, and erythropoietic drive. Most of these signals regulate hepcidin expression by modulating the activity of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐SMAD pathway, which controls hepcidin transcription. Genetic disorders of iron overload and iron deficiency have identified several hepatocyte membrane proteins that play a critical role in mediating the BMP‐SMAD and hepcidin regulatory response to iron. However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which serum and tissue iron levels are sensed to regulate BMP ligand production and promote the physical and/or functional interaction of these proteins to modulate SMAD signaling and hepcidin expression remain uncertain. This critical commentary will focus on the current understanding and key unanswered questions regarding how the liver senses iron levels to regulate BMP‐SMAD signaling and thereby hepcidin expression to control systemic iron homeostasis.
Plant defense against a pathogen drives nonlinear transmission dynamics through both vector preference and acquisition
Authors: Zeilinger Adam R. , Wallis Christopher M. , Beal Dylan , Sicard Anne , Walker M. Andrew , Almeida Rodrigo P. P.
Published: May 2021

Host defense against vector‐borne plant pathogens is a critical component of integrated disease management. However, theory predicts that traits that confer tolerance or partial resistance can, under certain ecological conditions, enhance the spread of pathogens and spillover to more susceptible populations or cultivars. A key component driving such epidemic risk appears to be variation in host‐selection behavior of vectors based on infection status of the host. While recent theory has further emphasized the importance of infection‐induced host‐selection behavior by insect vectors for plant disease epidemiology, experimental tests on the relationship between vector host‐selection preference and transmission are lacking. We test how host plant defense—conferred by thePdR1gene complex—mediates vector host‐selection preference and transmission of the pathogenic bacteriumXylella fastidiosaamong grapevine cultivars. We confirmed thatPdR1confers resistance againstX. fastidiosaby reducing both pathogen population size and disease severity. We found that vector transmission rates to new hosts exhibited unimodal dynamics over the course of infection when both susceptible and resistant were infected and acted as sources of the pathogen. Transmission from susceptible plants initially increased and then declined as insect vectors avoided severely diseased plants. While transmission fromPdR1‐resistant plants also initially increased and then declined as well, this was not due to avoidance by vectors, although the exact mechanism remains unclear. We show that (1) vector preference changes over the course of disease progression, (2) vector preference is clearly important but a poor predictor of transmission, and (3) the post‐latent incubation period—in which plant hosts are infectious but asymptomatic—is likely a key period for vector transmission ofX. fastidiosa. Our results suggest that, consistent with theory, defensive traits lengthen the duration of the incubation period, increasingX. fastidiosatransmission. However, defensive traits may over the long‐term ultimately reduce spread possibly through induced resistance. Vector host‐selection preference, host resistance, and transmission are clearly dynamic, changing over the course of disease progression. Understanding these dynamics is critical for broader insights into the epidemiology of vector‐borne plant pathogens, theory development, and deploying disease‐resistant cultivars in an effective and sustainable manner.
An indicator species highlights continuous deadwood supply is a key ecological attribute of boreal old‐growth forests
Authors: Martin Maxence , Tremblay Junior A. , Ibarzabal Jacques , Morin Hubert
Published: May 2021

Old‐growth forests are optimal habitats for many woodpeckers, which are often themselves excellent indicators of deadwood‐associated biodiversity. Old‐growth forests are, however, heterogeneous ecosystems in terms of structure, composition, and deadwood characteristics, thus implying a varied use of these forests by woodpeckers. In boreal landscapes, old‐growth stands are threatened by forest harvesting; however, there is little information in regard to the consequences for biodiversity with the loss of specific types of old‐growth forests. This study aimed to assess how the black‐backed woodpecker (Picoides arcticus), a biodiversity indicator species associated with old‐growth forest attributes, uses different types of old‐growth forests for its foraging needs. We identified woodpecker foraging marks in 24 boreal old‐growth forest stands in eastern Canada that were dominated by black spruce (Picea mariana), located within the home range of eight black‐backed woodpeckers. We identified the various old‐growth forest types using a typology based on the structural attributes of old‐growth stands. We classified the sampled stands into four old‐growth forest types, corresponding to different successional stages (recent or old, relative to the onset of the old‐growth stage), composition (pure black spruce or mixed black spruce–balsam fir [Abies balsamea]), and productivity (ongoing paludification or not). The black‐backed woodpecker foraged in all types of old‐growth forests, but favored dense old‐growth forests that were not paludified and that showed a high temporal continuity (i.e., old‐growth dynamics probably started more than a century ago). The temporal continuity of the old‐growth state allows for the continuous supply of large, slightly decayed snags, the preferred foraging substrates of the black‐backed woodpecker. The old‐growth forest type most favored by this woodpecker is, however, also the forest type most often targeted first by logging operations. Protecting the biodiversity associated with recent deadwood in managed areas thus requires maintaining a sufficient area and density of dense, old‐growth black spruce‐dominated forests in managed areas.
A U.S.‐China EcoPartnership study of disturbed wetland vegetation in West Dongting Lake, China
Authors: Lei Ting , Middleton Beth
Published: May 2021

West Dongting Lake in China is important for human livelihoods and habitat of migratory waterfowl and other wildlife. The waterway re‐engineering and agriculture intensification have contributed to changes in hydrology, sediment, and vegetation on the floodplain. This paper describes an EcoPartnership program conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, and Beijing Forestry University. It focused on the development of a wetland ecosystem network in West Dongting Lake with technical support from the U.S. partner using a number of related studies to examine wetland vegetation dynamics from upstream to downstream along the tributaries. The results of U.S. studies showed that the regeneration potential of species might be altered by changes in climate and local environment, and seed bank depletion by germination may be a major conservation threat in a future with recurring droughts in swamps of the southeastern United States. In the monsoonal wetlands of West Dongting Lake, the soil seed bank could be used as a seed source for revegetation after hydrologic restoration with the introduction of certain foundational species and the removal of poplar plantations. Also, West Dongting Lake is at high ecological risk of mercury pollution. Wetland ecosystem monitoring may allow managers to use the information to predict effects of climate change, water level and flow changes on sedimentation, and to manage for desired vegetation to support waterfowl and ecosystem services. The cooperation of two countries through the EcoPartnership program is now well established and poised for extensive research projects in the future.
Epilepsy in the Sanaga‐Mbam valley, an onchocerciasis‐endemic region in Cameroon: electroclinical and neuropsychological findings
Authors: Morin Alexandre , Guillaume Maxime , Ngarka Leonard , Tatah Godwin Y. , Siewe Fodjo Joseph Nelson , Wyart Guillaume , Nokam Ghislain , Tchoumi Thierry , Nkinin Mary Bello , Njamnshi Wepnyu Y. , Chokote Eric‐Samuel , Boussinesq Michel , Colebunders Robert , Chesnais Cédric B. , Gargala Gilles , Parain Dominique , Njamnshi Alfred K.
Published: May 2021

Objective

Epilepsy is highly prevalent in onchocerciasis‐endemic African regions. Various types of epilepsy have been described in such regions based essentially on clinical characteristics.

Methods

We conducted a clinical, neurophysiological and neuropsychological study of epilepsy in the onchocerciasis‐endemic region of Ntui, Sanaga‐Mbam area, Cameroon.

Results

One hundred and eighty‐seven persons with presumed epilepsy were recruited in an epilepsy clinic in Ntui. Epilepsy was clinically confirmed in 144 (79%) subjects, 69 (46.0%) of them met the onchocerciasis‐associated epilepsy (OAE) criteria, and 51 of 106 tested (48.1%) presented Ov16 antibodies. Electroencephalograms (EEG) were recorded in 91 participants, of which 36 (33%) were considered abnormal and 27 of 36 (75%) revealed bifrontotemporal spike and slow waves. Concerning the neuropsychological evaluation, 29% showed severe global cognitive impairment, 28% severe episodic memory impairment, and 66% severe frontal cognitive impairment. Half of the persons with epilepsy (PWE) suffered from a mental disorder.

Significance

In PWE in the Sanaga‐Mbam area in Cameroon, we observed EEG patterns similar to those described among persons with OAE, including nodding syndrome in other onchocerciasis‐endemic areas. Most PWE presented with severe cognitive impairment. We hypothesize that onchocerciasis may induce neurocognitive disorders and epilepsy via a mechanism that involves mainly the frontal and temporal regions of the brain.
Dementia wellbeing and COVID‐19: Review and expert consensus on current research and knowledge gaps
Authors: Liu Kathy Y. , Howard Robert , Banerjee Sube , Comas‐Herrera Adelina , Goddard Joanne , Knapp Martin , Livingston Gill , Manthorpe Jill , O'Brien John T. , Paterson Ross W. , Robinson Louise , Rossor Martin , Rowe James B. , Sharp David J. , Sommerlad Andrew , Suárez‐González Aida , Burns Alistair
Published: May 2021

Objectives

In response to a commissioned research update on dementia during the COVID‐19 pandemic, a UK‐based working group, comprising dementia researchers from a range of fields and disciplines, aimed to describe the impact of the pandemic on dementia wellbeing and identify priorities for future research.

Methods

We supplemented a rapid literature search (including unpublished, non‐peer reviewed and ongoing studies/reports) on dementia wellbeing in the context of COVID‐19 with expert group members' consensus about future research needs. From this we generated potential research questions the group judged to be relevant that were not covered by the existing literature.

Results

Themes emerged from 141 studies within the six domains of the NHS England COVID‐19 Dementia Wellbeing Pathway: Preventing Well, Diagnosing Well, Treating Well, Supporting Well, Living Well and Dying Well. We describe current research findings and knowledge gaps relating to the impact on people affected by dementia (individuals with a diagnosis, their carers and social contacts, health and social care practitioners and volunteers), services, research activities and organisations. Broad themes included the potential benefits and risks of new models of working including remote healthcare, the need for population‐representative longitudinal studies to monitor longer‐term impacts, and the importance of reporting dementia‐related findings within broader health and care studies.

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had a disproportionately negative impact on people affected by dementia. Researchers and funding organisations have responded rapidly to try to understand the impacts. Future research should highlight and resolve outstanding questions to develop evidence‐based measures to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia.
The relationship between body mass index and income: Using genetic variants from HUNT as instrumental variables
Authors: Edwards Christina Hansen , Bjørngaard Johan Håkon , Minet Kinge Jonas
Published: May 2021

Several studies have estimated effects of body mass index (BMI) on labour market outcomes, and these studies have mixed findings. A significant challenge has been to adequately control for omitted variables, selection, reverse causality, and measurement error. We examine the impact of BMI on income using genetic variants as instrumental variables for BMI. Individual‐level pre‐tax income from tax records was merged with health survey data containing measured height and weight, and data on genetic variants. The analyses were stratified by sex and a variety of methods were used to explore the sensitivity and validity of the instrumental variable (IV) strategy. For females we found that BMI had a negative effect on the logarithm of income. The effect estimated from the IV models (−0.02) was larger than the effect estimated from naïve ordinary least squares regressions (−0.01). For males, the coefficients for the effect of BMI on income were imprecise, and both positive and negative coefficients were estimated depending on the estimation method. Our results suggest that females are susceptible to reduced income levels following increased BMI.
Successful extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for a puerpera with amniotic fluid embolism
Authors: Jia Mingwang , Gan Zhaohui , Luo Xitu , Xie Han , Wang Yichun , Chen Dunjin
Published: May 2021

Synopsis

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a useful therapy for postpartum cardiac arrest resulting from amniotic fluid embolism, and detecting coagulation function by thromboelastography is a good method for coagulation disorders.