bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute and fatal cephalosporin‐induced autoimmune haemolytic anaemia
Authors: Boilève Alice , Gavaud Ariane , Grignano Eric , Franck Nathalie , Carlotti Agnès , Mira Jean‐Paul , Bouscary Didier , Jozwiak Mathieu
Published: October 2020

We report the case of an 82‐year old male patient admitted in our medical intensive care unit for diffuse skin lesions, 3 days after the onset of ceftriaxone for bilateral pneumonia without microbiological documentation. The patient concomitantly exhibited diffuse skin lesions compatible with livedo and neurological and haemodynamic failure. Biological analysis revealed acute haemolytic anaemia. Warming of patient, red blood‐cells transfusion and high‐doses corticosteroids were initiated and ceftriaxone was stopped. Despite these therapeutics, the patient exhibited multiple organ failure and died. The main suspected triggering factor of this acute and fatal haemolytic anaemia was ceftriaxone administration considering: (i) the delay between cephalosporin administration and symptoms; (ii) the worsening of livedo and acrocyanosis a few hours after meningeal ceftriaxone doses; and (iii) fatal evolution. Cephalosporin‐induced autoimmune haemolytic anaemia is a rare and serious cause of livedo that should be suspected in patients exhibiting livedo and acute haemolytic anaemia within hours/days following cephalosporin administration.
Foraging in nature: Contrasting responses to resource heterogeneity at small‐ and large‐spatial scales
Authors: Jambhekar Ravi , Isvaran Kavita
Published: October 2020

A key problem faced by foragers is how to forage when resources are distributed heterogeneously in space. This heterogeneity and associated trade‐offs may change with spatial scale. Furthermore, foragers may also have to optimize acquiring multiple resources. Such complexity of decision‐making while foraging is poorly understood. We studied the butterfly Ypthima huebneri to examine how foraging decisions of adults are influenced by spatial scale and multiple resources. We predicted that, at a small‐spatial scale, the time spent foraging in a patch should be proportional to resources in the patch, but at large‐spatial scales, due to limitations arising from large travel costs, this relationship should turn negative. We also predicted that both adult and larval resources should jointly affect foraging butterflies. To test these predictions, we laid eleven plots and sub‐divided them into patches. We mapped nectar and larval resources and measured butterfly behavior in these patches and plots. We found that adult foraging behavior showed contrasting relationships with adult resource density at small versus large‐spatial scales. At the smaller‐spatial scale, butterflies spent more time feeding in resource‐rich patches, whereas at the large‐scale, butterflies spent more time feeding in resource‐poor plots. Furthermore, both adult and larval resources appeared to affect foraging decisions, suggesting that individuals may optimize search costs for different resources. Overall, our findings suggest that the variation in foraging behavior seen in foragers might result from animals responding to complex ecological conditions, such as resource heterogeneity at multiple spatial scales and the challenges of tracking multiple resources.
Leaf damage by herbivore feeding guilds along gradients of elevation and plant species richness
Authors: Martini Francesco , Goodale Uromi Manage
Published: October 2020

The proportion of leaves damaged by specialist guilds such as miners and sap‐feeders decreased at locations with higher species richness and at higher elevation in four subtropical forest seedling communities in south China. The effect of elevation was stronger in winter. Patterns of the generalist guild chewers were weaker.

Abstract in Chinese is available with online material.
Phase I, multicenter, dose‐escalation study of avadomide in adult Japanese patients with advanced malignancies
Authors: Hatake Kiyohiko , Chou Takaaki , Doi Toshihiko , Terui Yasuhito , Kato Harumi , Hirose Takayuki , Seo Sachiko , Pourdehnad Michael , Ogaki Yumi , Fujimoto Hiroshi , Hagner Patrick R. , Yamamoto Kazuhito
Published: October 2020

Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) treated with chemoimmunotherapy has limited efficacy in some patients, resulting in relapsed or refractory disease. Avadomide (CC‐122) is a novel cereblon‐binding agent that exhibits antilymphoma and immune‐modulation activities with a biological profile distinct from similar agents, such as lenalidomide. This phase I multicenter study evaluated avadomide in Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors or NHL. Fourteen patients with NHL and one with a solid tumor (esophageal carcinoma), were enrolled in four dose‐escalation cohorts using a 3 + 3 design. Primary endpoints included safety, dose‐limiting toxicities (DLT), maximum‐tolerated dose and/or recommended phase II dose (RP2D), and pharmacokinetics. Secondary endpoints included overall response rate (ORR) and duration of response. One patient with NHL experienced DLT, which included face edema, pharyngeal edema, and tumor flare (all grade 1) that led to a dose reduction. Eleven patients had grade ≥3 treatment‐emergent adverse events, most frequently decreased neutrophil count (33%) and decreased lymphocyte count (20%). The ORR in patients with NHL (n = 13) was 54%, including four complete and three partial responses. The best response for the solid tumor patient was progressive disease. Avadomide dose intensity was consistent across cohorts, and the 3‐mg dose given five consecutive days/week was established as the RP2D. This phase I study identified a tolerable dose of avadomide, with an acceptable toxicity profile and clinically meaningful efficacy in Japanese patients with previously treated NHL.
The limits of colorimetry in cultural heritage applications
Authors: Plutino Alice , Simone Gabriele
Published: October 2020

Colours in cultural heritage are not only means of expression, but also materials with physical and chemical properties. Since the beginning of the current century, colorimetry has become a fundamental field aiming at restoring, preserving and valorising the art works. There are different colorimetric applications in cultural heritage (eg, from light design to digitisation and modelling), and the variety of cultural material is extremely wide, from statues and frescoes, to old book and films. In this heterogeneous context, the development of instruments, measurements and tools faithful to the original objects are fundamental to correctly reproducing and representing materials, contrast and colours of the works under analysis. In this work, we will analyse the main limits of colorimetry applied in cultural heritage domain considering a variety of applications on physical colour representation and on digital colour reproduction. We will focus on main state‐of‐the‐art studies, regulations and guidelines for objects illumination, colour analysis and digitisation workflow showing some practical example of issues encountered by standard pointwise colorimetry.
Detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 in saliva and characterization of oral symptoms in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Chen Lili , Zhao Jiajia , Peng Jinfeng , Li Xiaoshuang , Deng Xuliang , Geng Zhi , Shen Zhenyu , Guo Fengyuan , Zhang Qianwen , Jin Yang , Wang Lin , Wang Songlin
Published: October 2020

Objectives

In order to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 on oral health and possible saliva transmission, we performed RNA‐seq profiles analysis from public databases and also a questionnaire survey on oral‐related symptoms of COVID‐19 patients.

Materials and methods

To analyse ACE2 expression in salivary glands, bulk RNA‐seq profiles from four public datasets including 31 COVID‐19 patients were recruited. Saliva and oropharyngeal swabs were collected. SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acids in saliva were detected by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Additionally, a questionnaire survey on various oral symptoms such as dry mouth and amblygeustia was also carried out on COVID‐19 patients.

Results

ACE2 expression was present at detectable levels in the salivary glands. In addition, of four cases with positive detection of salivary SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acids, three (75%) were critically ill on ventilator support. Furthermore, we observed the two major oral‐related symptoms, dry mouth (46.3%) and amblygeustia (47.2%), were manifested by a relatively high proportion of 108 COVID‐19 patients who accepted the questionnaire survey.

Conclusions

This study confirms the expression of ACE2 in the salivary glands and demonstrates the possibility of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection of salivary glands. Saliva may be a new source of diagnostic specimens for critically ill patients, since it can be easily collected without any invasive procedures. In addition, dry mouth and amblygeustia can be considered as initial symptoms of COVID‐19 infection.
Status of single‐balloon enteroscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with surgically altered anatomy: Systematic review and meta‐analysis on biliary interventions
Authors: Tanisaka Yuki , Ryozawa Shomei , Mizuide Masafumi , Araki Ryuichiro , Fujita Akashi , Ogawa Tomoya , Tashima Tomoaki , Noguchi Tatsuya , Suzuki Masahiro , Katsuda Hiromune
Published: October 2020

Background and Aims

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with surgically altered anatomy is still challenging. Usefulness of single‐balloon enteroscopy (SBE)‐assisted ERCP has been increasingly reported. Short SBE is considered beneficial with a 152‐cm working length and a 3.2‐mm working channel. This has increased the variety of devices that can be used during ERCP procedures. The aim of this pooled analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of SBE‐assisted ERCP in patients with surgically altered anatomy and elucidate the current status.

Methods

This systematic review only involved biliary interventions which excluded pancreatic cases. Studies involving SBE‐assisted ERCP in patients with Roux‐en‐Y gastrectomy, hepaticojejunostomy with Roux‐en‐Y, pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple or Child procedure), or Billroth II gastrectomy were analyzed. Enteroscopy, biliary cannulation, and procedural success were assessed by pooling data in a random‐effect model, according to the degree of heterogeneity, to obtain a proportion with 95% confidence interval (CI). The outcomes observed for conventional and short SBE cases were also reported.

Results

Overall, 1227 SBE‐assisted ERCP procedures from 21 studies were included. The pooled enteroscopy, biliary cannulation, and procedural success rates were 86.6% (95% CI, 82.4–90.3%), 90% (95% CI, 87.1–92.5%), and 75.8% (95% CI, 71.0–80.3%), respectively. Adverse events occurred in 6.6% (95% CI, 5.3–8.2%) of the procedures. Although good outcomes were reported for short SBE‐assisted ERCP, these should not be directly compared to the outcomes observed for conventional SBE, as they assume different backgrounds and include confounding variables.

Conclusions

Single‐balloon enteroscopy‐assisted ERCP in patients with surgically altered anatomy on biliary interventions is effective.
Efficacy and safety of linagliptin as add‐on therapy to insulin in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Yang Wenying , Xu Xiangjin , Lei Tao , Ma Jianhua , Li Ling , Shen Jie , Ye Binqi , Zhu Sandy , Meinicke Thomas
Published: October 2020

This 24‐week, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase III trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of linagliptin in 206 Chinese patients with inadequately controlled (glycated haemoglobin [HbA1c] 7.5%–10.0%) type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) receiving insulin (basal or premixed) ± metformin. Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive linagliptin 5 mg/d or placebo. The decrease from baseline in HbA1c (primary endpoint) was greater with linagliptin than with placebo (−0.61% vs. −0.20%, adjusted mean difference −0.40%; P = 0.0016). Linagliptin demonstrated significantly greater improvement in 2‐hour postprandial glucose (−1.77 mmol/L [−31.95 mg/dL]; P < 0.001), and a numerical reduction in fasting plasma glucose (−0.34 mmol/L [−6.2 mg/dL]; P = 0.2241) versus placebo. Proportionally more patients on linagliptin achieved a HbA1c reduction of ≥0.5% versus those on placebo (odds ratio 2.293, P < 0.01). Adverse events in both groups were similar, with no new safety findings or clinically relevant changes in body weight. Among investigator‐defined hypoglycaemic events (linagliptin: 17.3%; placebo: 12.7%; odds ratio 1.48, P = 0.337), none were severe. In Chinese patients with T2DM, linagliptin add‐on to insulin improved glycaemic control and was well tolerated, without increased risk of hypoglycaemia or weight gain.
Cerebrospinal fluid protein in Guillain–Barré syndrome: Need for age‐dependent interpretation
Authors: Hegen Harald , Ladstätter Felix , Bsteh Gabriel , Auer Michael , Berek Klaus , Di Pauli Franziska , Walde Janette , Wanschitz Julia , Zinganell Anne , Deisenhammer Florian
Published: October 2020

Background and purpose

Elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total protein in patients with acute ascending paresis is indicative of Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). Recent studies showed that the outdated, but still widely used upper reference limit (URL) for CSF total protein of 0.45 g/L leads to false‐positive results, mainly as a result of lack of age‐adjustment. The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of increased CSF total protein in adult GBS patients according to a new age‐dependent URL.

Methods

Patients with GBS treated at the Medical University of Innsbruck between 2000 and 2018 were included in this study. Demographic, clinical, electrophysiological and CSF data were obtained from patients' medical charts. Frequency of increased CSF total protein depending on disease duration was compared using the conventional URL of 0.45 g/L and the age‐dependent URL.

Results

Ninety‐seven patients with GBS aged 57 ± 18 years, comprising 38% women, underwent CSF sampling within a median of 6 days after symptom onset. The median CSF total protein concentration was 0.65 g/L and correlated with disease duration. Overall, 74% of patients had elevated CSF total protein levels using the conventional URL, as opposed to 52% applying the age‐dependent URL. At 0–3, 4–7, 8–14 and >14 days after disease onset, elevated CSF total protein was found in 46%, 84%, 78% and 100% of patients using the conventional URL, and in 32%, 53%, 65% and 64% of patients using the age‐dependent URL. In multivariate analysis, significant predictors of elevated CSF total protein were disease duration and the demyelinating GBS variant. Similar results were obtained for CSF/serum albumin quotient (Qalb).

Conclusion

Fewer true‐positives for CSF total protein and Qalb must be considered in suspected GBS, especially in the early disease course.
Males mate indiscriminately in the tropical jumping spider Hasarius adansoni (Audouin, 1826)
Authors: Castilho Leonardo B. , Andrade Maydianne C. B. , Macedo Regina H.
Published: October 2020

Traditionally, sexual selection has been seen as a process in which choosy females select non‐choosy males. Recent studies, however, have challenged this view by showing that males can also be choosy in many species. We assessed the sexual preferences in males of the tropical jumping spider Hasarius adansoni (Audouin, 1826). We measured mating effort in males and determined how female quality influences offspring quality, quantity, and survival. We also estimated total sperm load and how much sperm was invested in a mating with a particular female. We found no evidence of male mating effort in terms of mating frequency nor sperm investment. Similarly, there was no relationship between female quality (i.e., size and condition) and offspring quality (i.e., survival and feeding performance) or quantity. We found strong evidence that the sperm invested in a particular female is a function of the amount of sperm the male had available for usage at that particular mating. The fact that males probably find females sequentially, along with the lack of relationship between female quality and offspring quality/quantity, likely explains the lack of differences in mating effort by males.
“Two‐Eyed Seeing”: An Indigenous framework to transform fisheries research and management
Authors: Reid Andrea J. , Eckert Lauren E. , Lane John‐Francis , Young Nathan , Hinch Scott G. , Darimont Chris T. , Cooke Steven J. , Ban Natalie C. , Marshall Albert
Published: October 2020

Increasingly, fisheries researchers and managers seek or are compelled to “bridge” Indigenous knowledge systems with Western scientific approaches to understanding and governing fisheries. Here, we move beyond the all‐too‐common narrative about integrating or incorporating (too often used as euphemisms for assimilating) other knowledge systems into Western science, instead of building an ethic of knowledge coexistence and complementarity in knowledge generation using Two‐Eyed Seeing as a guiding framework. Two‐Eyed Seeing (Etuaptmumkin Mi’kmaw) embraces “learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing, and from the other eye with the strengths of mainstream knowledges and ways of knowing, and to use both these eyes together, for the benefit of all,” as envisaged by Elder Dr. Albert Marshall. In this paper, we examine the notion of knowledge dichotomies and imperatives for knowledge coexistence and draw parallels between Two‐Eyed Seeing and other analogous Indigenous frameworks from around the world. It is set apart from other Indigenous frameworks in its explicit action imperative—central to Two‐Eyed Seeing is the notion that knowledge transforms the holder and that the holder bears a responsibility to act on that knowledge. We explore its operationalization through three Canadian aquatic and fisheries case‐studies that co‐develop questions, document and mobilize knowledge, and co‐produce insights and decisions. We argue that Two‐Eyed Seeing provides a pathway to a plural coexistence, where time‐tested Indigenous knowledge systems can be paired with, not subsumed by, Western scientific insights for an equitable and sustainable future.
Elevated atmospheric CO2 reduces yield‐scaled N2O fluxes from subtropical rice systems: Six site‐years field experiments
Authors: Yao Zhisheng , Wang Rui , Zheng Xunhua , Mei Baoling , Zhou Zaixing , Xie Baohua , Dong Haibo , Liu Chunyan , Han Shenghui , Xu Zhongjun , Butterbach‐Bahl Klaus , Zhu Jianguo
Published: October 2020

Increasing levels of atmospheric CO2 are expected to enhance crop yields and alter soil greenhouse gas fluxes from rice paddies. While elevated CO2 () effects on CH4 emissions from rice paddies have been studied in some detail, little is known how might affect N2O fluxes or yield‐scaled emissions. Here, we report on a multi‐site, multi‐year in‐situ FACE (free‐air CO2 enrichment) study, aiming to determine N2O fluxes and crop yields from Chinese subtropical rice systems as affected by . In this study, we tested various N fertilization and residue addition treatments, with rice being grown under either (+200 μmol/mol) or ambient control. Across the six site‐years, rice straw and grain yields under were increased by 9%–40% for treatments fertilized with ≥150 kg N/ha, while seasonal N2O emissions were decreased by 23%–73%. Consequently, yield‐scaled N2O emissions were significantly lower under . For treatments receiving insufficient fertilization (≤125 kg N/ha), however, no significant effects on N2O emissions were observed. The mitigating effect of upon N2O emissions is closely associated with plant N uptake and a reduction of soil N availability. Nevertheless, increases in yield‐scaled N2O emissions with increasing N surplus suggests that N surplus is a useful indicator for assessing N2O emissions from rice paddies. Our findings indicate that with rising atmospheric CO2 soil N2O emissions from rice paddies will decrease, given that the farmers’ N fertilization is usually sufficient for crop growth. The expected decrease in N2O emissions was calculated to compensate 24% of the simultaneously observed increase in CH4 emissions under . This shows that for an agronomic and environmental assessment of effects on rice systems, not only CH4 emissions, but also N2O fluxes and yield‐scaled emissions need to be considered for identifying most climate‐friendly and economically viable options for future rice production.
Towards a feminist parental ethics
Authors: Kelly Simon , Senior Adele
Published: October 2020

Drawing on our experiences of parenting during the global COVID‐19 pandemic of 2020, we explore the potential for a feminist parental ethics through which parenting can be rethought, reclaimed, and so brought forth as a vital and valuable assemblage of collective articulation work, shared “motherings,” and embodied interconnectivities of caring for and caring with the other. A feminist parental ethics is particularly important in the neoliberal academic context, where the responsibilities of caregiving that lockdown has thrust upon many workers in higher education have been largely downplayed, dismissed, or even ignored across the sector in the interest of maintaining “business as usual.” In response, we ask: “who is caring for the parents?” and we call for an extended idea of parenting beyond the familial as a means of differently organizing our societies, workplaces, and institutions around a shared locus of care.
Rationalizing the postfeminist paradox: The case of UK women veterinary professionals
Authors: Treanor Lorna , Marlow Susan , Swail Janine
Published: October 2020

This article critically evaluates how highly qualified women veterinary surgeons make sense of their constrained professional career progression in a context of postfeminism. Postfeminism posits that agentic individualism, combined with professional accreditation, generates a meritocratic pathway for career attainment. A dilemma emerges in the form of a postfeminist paradox however, as this rhetoric of opportunity is not translated into a reality of achievement. To make sense of this dilemma, women can either assume blame for their lack of career progression or accept the presence of discriminatory bias, contrary to postfeminist assumptions of individual opportunities premised upon agency. To illustrate these arguments, we explore how these professional women rationalize their constrained career progression and in the process, illustrate the impact of postfeminism upon the psychic lives of individual women.
Perspectives of the public on the consumption of unregistered health products in Malaysia
Authors: Ong Siew Chin , Vasan Thakumar Annushiah , Ooi Guat See , Shafie Asrul Akmal , Ahmad Hassali Mohamed Azmi
Published: October 2020

Objective

Unregistered medications which are lacking regulation in terms of safety, efficacy and quality may cause unpredictable adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in consumers. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the public knowledge, attitude and practice of consuming and purchasing unregistered health products in Malaysia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving members of the Malaysian public was carried out using the convenience sampling method. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents. Associations between knowledge items/scores and other items were assessed using Spearman’s rank correlations and Cramer’s V. Regression analyses were carried out to determine whether the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents influenced knowledge and practice relating to unregistered medications.

Key findings

A total of 649 respondents completed the questionnaire with the majority being female (66.1%), unmarried (66.5%), Malay (52.5%) and possessing a bachelor’s degree (53.5%). The knowledge of the public surveyed regarding unregistered (unlicensed) medications was lacking, especially in being able to identify a registered health product in Malaysia and formally complaining if necessary. The respondents agreed that currently, there are insufficient laws and educational programmes to tackle the issue. The respondents exhibited good practice habits by purchasing their medications from healthcare professionals. Mean knowledge score was positively correlated to practice scores at rs = 0.423 (P-value < 0.001). Ethnicity and education level were significant predictors of knowledge scores, while ethnicity, age and income group influenced practice-related items.

Conclusion

While respondents generally had good medication purchasing practices, their knowledge about and attitude to unregistered medications indicated the need for more educational awareness of the issues.
A multivariate Poisson model based on comonotonic shocks
Authors: Schulz Juliana , Genest Christian , Mesfioui Mhamed
Published: October 2020

Multivariate count data arise naturally in practice. In analysing such data, it is critical to define a model that can accurately capture the underlying dependence structure between the counts. To this end, this paper develops a multivariate model wherein correlated Poisson margins are generated by a comonotonic shock vector. The proposed model allows for greater flexibility in the dependence structure than that of the classical construction, which relies on the convolution of vectors of common Poisson shock variables. Several probabilistic properties of the multivariate comonotonic shock Poisson model are established, and various estimation strategies are discussed in detail. The model is further studied through simulations, and its utility is highlighted using a real data application.
Burden of influenza during the first year of life
Authors: Mattila Janna‐Maija , Thomas Emilia , Lehtinen Pasi , Vuorinen Tytti , Waris Matti , Heikkinen Terho
Published: October 2020

Background

Every year, influenza viruses infect millions of children and cause an enormous burden of disease. Young children are at the highest risk for influenza‐attributable hospitalizations. Nevertheless, most young children are treated as outpatients, and limited data are available on the burden of influenza in these children.

Methods

We carried out a prospective cohort study and followed 431 infants born in June‐August 2017 for 10 months from September 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018. The parents filled out daily symptom diaries and were instructed to bring their child for clinical examination at our study clinic each time the child had fever or any signs or symptoms of respiratory tract infection. During each visit, we obtained nasopharyngeal swab specimens for determination of the viral etiology of the illness.

Results

A total of 55 episodes of laboratory‐confirmed influenza were diagnosed among the 408 actively participating children, which corresponds to an annual incidence rate of 135/1000 children (95% Cl, 102‐175). Excluding five children with double viral infection, acute otitis media developed as a complication of influenza in 23 (46%) children. One (2%) child with influenza was hospitalized because of febrile convulsion. The effectiveness of influenza vaccination was 48% (95% CI, −29%‐80%).

Conclusions

The burden of influenza during the first year of life is heavy in the outpatient setting where most infants with influenza are managed. Effective strategies for the prevention of influenza particularly in infants under 6 months of age are needed to diminish the burden of disease in this age group.
Role of grain constraint on the martensitic transformation in ceria‐doped zirconia
Authors: Pang Edward L. , Olson Gregory B. , Schuh Christopher A.
Published: October 2020

Zirconia polycrystals have historically suffered from catastrophic cracking during the tetragonal‐monoclinic martensitic transformation. Recently, transformation‐induced cracking has been avoided by doping to achieve crystallographic compatibility between the transforming phases. However, these materials showed depressed transformation temperatures and incomplete transformation, the causes for which are yet unknown. In this work, we probe these phenomena by performing a comparative study of sintered pellets and powders. We characterize the thermally induced transformation in a series of ZrO2‐CeO2 compositions by in situ diffraction and calorimetry and develop a thermodynamic model of the system. In compositions exhibiting reduced cracking, we find that transformation temperatures are depressed in pellets but not in powders. Correspondingly, we measure significant compressive strains in pellets consistent with thermodynamically expected transformation temperature depression, demonstrating the influence of grain constraint and the resultant pressure build‐up. However, we find that both pellets and powders exhibit incomplete transformation. In pellets, this is attributed to early exhaustion of autocatalysis caused by grain constraint, whereas in powders, this is attributed to insufficient driving force for distributed heterogeneous nucleation.
A sandwich structure assisted by defect engineering for higher thermoelectric performance in ZnO‐based films
Authors: Zhou Zhifang , Xu Yushuai , Zou Mingchu , Liu Chan , Lan Jinle , Lin Yuan‐Hua , Nan Cewen
Published: October 2020

Gallium (Ga) doping together with low dimensionality has been a promising approach to improve thermoelectric performance of zinc oxide (ZnO) materials, due to the increase of carrier concentration and suppression of phonon transport. So far, the highest power factor of Ga‐doped ZnO (GZO) thin films has reached 280 μW m−1 K−2, which is still limited for practical applications. In this work, we have simultaneously optimized the electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient of GZO thin films using the combination of oxygen defects and sandwich structure (GZO‐ZnO‐GZO). Benefiting from energy filtering effect at the interface between GZO and ZnO layers and high oxygen vacancy concentration, the density of states (DOS) effective mass has been increased together with a relatively high carrier concentration. As a result, an improved power factor value of 434 μW m−1 K−2 at 623 K has been achieved, which is comparable to the best values reported for ZnO‐based films. This method of combining defect engineering and sandwich structure design shows great potential in enhancing the thermoelectric performance of ZnO‐based thin films or other oxide materials.
Improving energy density of crystalline–amorphous multilayer films deposited on Ti foils by structural modulation
Authors: Liu Hui , Yao Manwen , Yao Xi
Published: October 2020

Dielectric capacitors are one of the most important energy‐storage components specifically used for various high‐power pulse applications. However, the low energy‐storage density (Ue) of dielectrics used today limits their application. In this study, crystalline–amorphous multilayer films of crystalline Sr0.85Bi0.1TiO3 (SBT)/amorphous SBT/amorphous Al2O3 (Sc–(8−n)Sa–nAa) were fabricated on flexible Ti foils using the sol–gel method. An enhancement in energy density was achieved by adjusting the thicknesses of the amorphous SBT and Al2O3 (AO) layers. The crystalline SBT layer contributes to an increase in the dielectric constant and the amorphous AO layer to an increase in the breakdown strength. Moreover, the AO layers that are inserted are capable of suppressing the leakage current by eliminating the space charge limited conductance mechanism and thereby effectively decreasing the probability of breakdown of the SBT layers. A lower leakage current and higher breakdown strength can be further achieved using an Al electrode instead of the Au electrode. A large energy density of 27.2 J cm−3 can be realized via the crystalline–amorphous multilayer films with the Al electrode, which represents an enhancement of ~234% over that of the amorphous SBT film (8.14 J cm−3). In addition to the high energy‐storage enhancement, this study also presents a promising method that can be used to fabricate flexible multilayer films for lightweight and high energy density applications and for devices used to service high‐temperature conditions.
Measurement tools used to assess unfinished nursing care: A systematic review of psychometric properties
Authors: Palese Alvisa , Navone Elena , Danielis Matteo , Vryonides Stavros , Sermeus Walter , Papastavrou Evridiki
Published: October 2020

Background

Different tools have been developed and validated to measure unfinished nursing care. However, no systematic review of the psychometric properties has been performed describing the quality of the methods used to estimate their validity.

Aims

(a) To identify tools measuring unfinished nursing care that have undergone validation processes; (b) to evaluate critically the quality of the methods used in ascertaining their psychometric properties; and (c) to compare the estimated psychometric properties of these tools.

Design

A systematic review of the psychometric properties also evaluating their methodological quality was performed by following the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) guideline for systematic reviews.

Data sources

The databases Medline, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PubMed, Google and Google Scholar were searched up to 30 June 2018.

Review methods

Data extraction was performed following the predetermined eligibility criteria. Eight properties and their methodological quality were assessed using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments criteria.

Results

A total of 20 studies reported validation data regarding three family of tools: the Missed Care Survey (MISSCARE), the Basal Extent of Rationing of Nursing Care (BERNCA) and the Task Undone scale (TU‐7). The most estimated psychometric properties across studies were internal consistency, followed by structural validity, content validity, and cross‐cultural validity. The less evaluated psychometric properties were reliability, hypothesis testing and convergent and criterion validity.

Conclusion

The psychometric properties of the investigated tools showed a more than acceptable quality, as did the methodologies used to estimate these properties.

Impact

The MISSCARE survey is the most widely used tool validated across countries to date. Evaluating the concurrent reliability of the tools available is strongly recommended to assess their effectiveness in measuring the same phenomenon.
The phylogenetic diversity and structure of the seasonally dry forests in the Neotropics
Authors: Arango Axel , Villalobos Fabricio , Prieto‐Torres David A. , Guevara Roger
Published: October 2020

Aim

Exceptions to the quasi‐ubiquitous latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG) have been poorly studied. A reverse LDG, when species richness (SR) increases away from the Equator, has been suggested for several taxa and entire biomes. The Neotropical seasonally dry tropical forests (SDTF) are a well‐known example of a reverse LDG that could be caused by the climatic stability of Pleistocene Refugia and dispersion from distinct source areas. Here, we test these predictions under a spatial and phylogenetic framework.

Location

Neotropics.

Taxon

Woody plants.

Methods

We used a recent species‐level seed plant phylogeny and the DRYFLOR dataset to evaluate the geographic patterns of phylogenetic diversity (PD) and structure of woody plant assemblages associated with the Neotropical SDTFs. We conducted spatial regressions to test the effect of climatic instability since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) on assemblages’ residual PD (controlling for SR) and null model analysis to evaluate their phylogenetic structure using the Net Relatedness Index.

Results

Phylogenetic diversity of the Neotropical SDTFs increased away from the Equator, likely driven by SR. This pattern was not related to climatic instability since the LGM. Phylogenetic structure of SDTF assemblages showed considerable spatial patterning, with significant phylogenetic clustering in the Mesoamerica and Caatinga regions.

Main conclusion

The reverse latitudinal SR gradient of the Neotropical SDTF assemblages is mirrored by their PD. Phylogenetic history seems to have influenced such patterns differently across the Neotropics with no relationship to climatic stability since the LGM, where particular SDTF nuclei previously suggested as Pleistocene refugia served as cradles and source areas for the current diversity pattern of the biome.
Characterization of the prognostic and oncologic values of ITGB superfamily members in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Zhuang Hongkai , Zhou Zixuan , Ma Zuyi , Li Zhenchong , Liu Chunsheng , Huang Shanzhou , Zhang Chuanzhao , Hou Baohua
Published: October 2020

Integrin β (ITGB) superfamily members have been reported to play important roles in multiple biological functions in various cancers. However, the prognostic and oncologic values of ITGB superfamily members have not been systematically investigated in pancreatic cancer (PC). In this study, the mRNA expression and biological functions of ITGB superfamily members in PC were evaluated by bioinformatic analysis. Our results demonstrated that ITGB1, ITGB4, ITGB5 and ITGB6 overexpressions were significantly associated with advanced AJCC stage and histologic grade, and worse prognosis in PC. A prognostic signature based on ITGB1, ITGB4, ITGB5 and ITGB6 showed a reliable predictive performance. Furthermore, one CpGs (cg20545410) in promoter region of ITGB1, four (cg18709893, cg15700850, cg20667796 and cg18326022) of ITGB4, two (cg10977398 and cg03518058) of ITGB5 and one (cg23008083) of ITGB6 were negatively associated with their corresponding mRNA expression, and positively associated with prognosis in PC. We also identified TFAP2A as the potential transcription factor for ITGB4, SP1 for ITGB1 and ITGB6, and FHL2 for ITGB5 and ITGB6. ITGB1, ITGB4, ITGB5 and ITGB6 overexpressions were all significantly involved in focal adhesion signalling pathway. ITGB1 and ITGB5 overexpressions also associated with up‐regulation of TGF‐β and WNT signalling pathway, whereas ITGB4 and ITGB6 overexpressions associated with up‐regulation of Notch signalling pathway. Besides, ITGB1, ITGB5 and ITGB6 overexpressions significantly correlated with immunosuppression in PC. In summary, our study investigated the multilevel prognostic and biological values of ITGB superfamily members in PC.
When does parasitism maintain sex in the absence of Red Queen Dynamics?
Authors: Ashby Ben
Published: October 2020

Parasites can select for sexual reproduction in host populations, preventing replacement by faster‐growing asexual genotypes. This is usually attributed to so‐called 'Red Queen dynamics' (RQD), where antagonistic coevolution causes fluctuating selection in allele frequencies, which provides sex with an advantage over asex. However, parasitism may also maintain sex in the absence of RQD when sexual populations are more genetically diverse—and hence more resistant, on average—than clonal populations, allowing sex and asex to coexist at a stable equilibrium. Although the maintenance of sex due to RQD has been studied extensively, the conditions that allow sex and asex to stably coexist have yet to be explored in detail. In particular, we lack an understanding of how host demography and parasite epidemiology affect the maintenance of sex in the absence of RQD. Here, I use an eco‐evolutionary model to show that both population density and the type and strength of virulence are important for maintaining sex, which can be understood in terms of their effects on disease prevalence and severity. In addition, I show that even in the absence of heterozygote advantage, asexual heterozygosity affects coexistence with sex due to variation in niche overlap. These results reveal which host and parasite characteristics are most important for the maintenance of sex in the absence of RQD, and provide empirically testable predictions for how demography and epidemiology mediate competition between sex and asex.
Vivid techniques of pretreatment showing promising results in biofuel production and food processing
Authors: Prakesh Anand , Dave Vivek , Sur Srija , Sharma Prashansa
Published: October 2020

Different pretreatment techniques help to overcome many barriers in achieving desirable bioproducts at low cost as well as at lower energy requirement. This review predominantly aims to summarize all the pretreatment methods for the production of biofuel from biomass. The massive use of fossil fuel led to several huge problems Predominantly, Bioenergy has attained great importance due to rapid depletion in fossil fuel because biofuels are considered to be one of the promising alternatives of nonrenewable sources. The main objective of pretreatment methods is enhancement of sugar production by hydrolyzing the biomass and help in achieving maximum yield. Pretreatment is a significant tool for the conversion of cellulose as well as it is also very important to change the structure of cellulosic biomass. All the major pretreatment techniques are broadly classified into physical, chemical, physicochemical and biological methodologies which includes techniques like Mechanical Comminution, Acid hydrolysis, steam explosion, microwave pretreatment etc. The motive of these pretreatments is to make cellulose more available to the enzymes that assist in the conversion of carbohydrate polymers into fermentable sugars. Biological pretreatments have been analyzed to have immense advantages over physical and chemical pretreatments. Presently, Biomass almost produce about more than 13% of the world's energy. There are many high‐throughput testing ideas and processing technologies which can add up additional values for a better biomass processing in future. Thus, a systemic and computational approach can combine multistage formulation with multistage problem solving so that novel technology can be encouraged for the biorefinery production. This review has done extensive literature study of the various pretreatment technologies which will assist us to produce bioethanols and other biofuels that can be helpful in reducing the adverse effect on the environment.

Practical Applications

Predominantly, Bioenergy has attained great importance due to rapid depletion in fossil fuel because biofuels are considered to be one of the promising alternatives of nonrenewable sources. Biofuel Production and Food Processing of various pretreatment technologies produce environmentally friendly methods. All methods of pretreatment help to overcome many barriers and achieving desirable products at low cost as well as lower energy requirement with efficient yield. This article assists us to produce bioethanols and other biofuels that can be helpful in reducing the adverse effect on the environment and on the diminishing amount of fossil fuel.
A unique snake venom neuritogenesis mechanism: A cornerstone in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases?
Authors: Hernández‐Kelly Luisa C. , Ortega Arturo
Published: October 2020

Neurodegenerative diseases are a worldwide health problem and are a major cause of death and disability. A progressive loss of defined neuronal populations is triggered by a diverse array of stimuli that converge in deficient neurotrophic signaling. Therefore, much effort has been placed in recent years in the characterization of the molecular mechanisms associated with the structure and function of neurotrophins, its receptors, signaling strategies, and their target genes. This Editorial highlights an impressive study by the group of Prof. Ashis K. Mukherjee, a renowned specialist in snake venoms, in which a component of the Indian Cobra N.naja venom with no significant similarity to nerve growth factor, is shown to induce sustained neuritogenesis. An elegant transcriptomic and functional analysis of this component, named Nn‐α‐elapitoxin, mapped novel domains in mammalian neurotrophic receptors that trigger both conventional and novel signal cascades that support neurite extension in the PC‐12 neuronal model system. The authors discuss their findings in the context of the paradoxical neurite outgrowth properties of this toxin which originate in their unique receptor binding site. This study takes an important step towards a better understanding of the complexity of neuronal development and maintenance of the nervous system and provides a potential target to improve neurotrophic signaling, independent of endogenous growth factors, in the diseased brain.

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Clinical value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound for the differential diagnosis of specific subtypes of uterine leiomyomas
Authors: Li Zemin , Zhang Peili , Shen Huiming , Ding Bo , Wang Haili , Li Jia , Shen Yang
Published: October 2020

Objective

To improve the accuracy of clinical diagnosis by analyzing different contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imagines of specific subtypes of uterine leiomyomas.

Methods

A total of 147 female patients received preoperative CEUS examination. The scanning plane of the biggest tumors for CEUS was found by common B‐mode ultrasonographic scanning on pelvic cavity, then 1.5 mL SonoVue were injected into the median cubital vein. According to the CEUS images, the lesion enhanced time, enhanced level and enhanced morphology were recorded. The time‐intensity curve was acquired and analyzed, meanwhile, the relevant parameters were calculated, including rise time (RT), peak intensity (PI), time to peak (TTP) and mean transit time (MTT).

Results

In cellular uterine leiomyoma group, the percentage of high enhancement, early enhancement was higher, equal enhancement and synchronic enhancement were lower than those in the common uterine leiomyomas group. In hysteromyoma with hyaline degeneration group, the percentage of high enhancement, early enhancement was lower, while low enhancement and delayed enhancement were higher than those in the common uterine leiomyomas group. The ratio of PI in cellular uterine leiomyoma group was the highest, but the ratios of RT, TTP and MTT were the lowest of the three benign groups. The ratio of PI in hysteromyoma with hyaline degeneration group was the lowest, while the ratios of RT and TTP was the highest among the three benign groups.

Conclusion

Different pathological types of uterine leiomyomas have their own signal performance on CEUS. CEUS can be used to infer their pathological types and help differential diagnosis.
Successful detection of rectal injury during laparoscopic surgery using a rectal probe in a patient with deep endometriosis
Authors: Yoriki Kaori , Kusuki Izumi , Kawamata Mari , Tarumi Yosuke , Mori Taisuke , Kitawaki Jo
Published: October 2020

Laparoscopic surgery has become the gold standard treatment for endometriosis. Surgical treatment of deep endometriosis with colorectal involvement is challenging. It requires complete surgical excision of lesions despite a high risk of complications that include rectal injury, rectovaginal fistula and pelvic abscess. An intraoperative air leak test allows detection of rectal injury and reduces postoperative complications. We report a case of successful management of rectal injury during laparoscopic surgery using a rectal probe even though air leak tests were negative. A 45‐year‐old woman with severe endometriosis and rectal involvement underwent total laparoscopic hysterectomy combined with rectal shaving. A pinhole injury that reached the rectal muscularis layer without breaching the mucosal layer was identified using a rectal probe after negative air leak tests. The injury was repaired uneventfully. Our experience suggests that using a rectal probe could be helpful for early detection and safe repair of rectal injury during surgery.