bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation of the parent readiness for hospital discharge scale with mothers of preterm infants discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Salmani Naiire , Zare Marvast Marzieh , Kahdouei Somayeh , Weiss Marianne E.
Published: September 2020

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the psychometric properties of a new Persian translation of the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale.

Background

Globally, one in 10 newborns are born preterm and many require care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A primary role of NICU nurses is to assure parents are well prepared to take their newborns home from the hospital. Assessment of parent perception of discharge readiness provides important input into discharge decisions. The availability of reliable and valid instruments tested within the geographical and cultural context is needed for a comprehensive assessment of predischarge readiness, so that parent needs can be identified and the necessary interventions designed and implemented.

Design

This psychometrics study included a convenience sample of 200 mothers with preterm infants being discharged from the NICU of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Yazd, Iran. The original 29‐item version of the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale—Parent questionnaire was translated into Persian using the standard forward–backward method. Face, content and construct validity (principal components analysis), and reliability (internal consistency—Cronbach's alpha) were assessed. Methods followed STROBE criteria as applicable (see Appendix S1).

Results

The content validity index and content validity ratio were both 0.93. Construct validity testing identified 6 factors (mother and infant physical–psychological readiness, expected support, knowledge of future events and care, knowledge of infant personal care, pain and therapeutic interventions). Using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, the reliability of the whole instrument was estimated to be 0.87.

Conclusion

The Persian Readiness for Hospital Discharge—Parental Form for use with mothers of preterm infants being discharged from an Iranian NICU has acceptable validity and reliability.

Relevance to Practice

This tool can be used before discharge to determine the needs of mothers and design the necessary measures to improve quality of discharge care.
The effect of probiotic supplementation during pregnancy on the interaction network of vaginal microbiome
Authors: Liang Xinyuan , Li Zhe , Tye Kian Deng , Chen Yuyi , Luo Huijuan , Xiao Xiaomin
Published: September 2020

Aim

To evaluate the effect of probiotic supplementation on the vaginal microbiome and provide the effective evidences for clinical management of pregnant women.

Methods

A total of 28 healthy pregnant women at 32 weeks of gestation were enrolled. The women were divided randomly to the probiotic group where they were prescribed with 2 g combined probiotics daily (13 cases) during the third trimester of pregnancy or to the control group (15 cases) on a voluntary basis. Their vaginal samples were taken for analyzing microbiome with the 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing of V4 region.

Results

There was no significant difference on the clinical characteristics between the probiotic and control groups. The complexity of vaginal microbial network increased from 32 weeks of gestation to antepartum. Lactobacillus was the dominant microbiota. The probiotic supplementation had no obvious influence on the structure of the vaginal microbiome, whereas the relationships of some pivotal vaginal microbiota at the genus level changed in the probiotic group.

Conclusion

The vaginal microbiome varied during the third trimester of pregnancy. The features of the vaginal microbiota after probiotic supplementation had shifted and the interaction network had the tendency to be loose. The probiotic supplementation may be useful in regulating the interaction network of vaginal microbiome.
Long‐Distance Mothering in Urban Kenya
Authors: Cotton Cassandra , Beguy Donatien
Published: September 2020

Objective

To explore the long‐distance mothering strategies of migrant women living in urban slums in Nairobi, Kenya.

Background

Throughout sub‐Saharan Africa, migration has had a profound influence on family life. As women's migration increases, particularly to urban slums, mothers may choose to live apart from children, fostering them to kin. Though fostering is common in many African countries, the unique characteristics of separation due to maternal migration may result in development of long‐distance mothering strategies to maintain mother–child relationships over time and space.

Method

Forty‐seven in‐depth interviews with mothers living in two Nairobi slums were analyzed to explore key strategies women use to maintain relationships with children who live elsewhere, examining the importance women place on sustaining relationships through financial and emotional support, and whether long‐distance mothering is sufficient.

Results

Efforts to maintain mother–child relationships over time and space are integral to many migrant women's understanding of themselves as mothers. Commitments to provide financially, as well as frequent communication and visits to ensure emotional well‐being of children, are described as key strategies to sustain relationships, whether separations are short term or permanent. For many mothers, however, these long‐distance efforts are viewed as insufficient forms of mothering, even in a context where child fostering is relatively normalized.

Conclusion

These long‐distance strategies may reflect a more nuanced approach to fostering or greater flexibility in fostering arrangements when mothers migrate, where frequent contact and financial support play an important role in maintaining mother–child relationships rather than shifting emotional and financial care to foster parents.
Expanding Research on Working Women More Globally: Identifying and Remediating Current Blindspots
Authors: Traylor Allison M. , Ng Linnea C. , Corrington Abby , Skorinko Jeanine L. M. , Hebl Michelle R.
Published: September 2020

Despite numerous calls for more culturally diverse research on women and work, research continues to predominantly study Western and developed countries. In this article, we summarize 10 critical blindspots in existing research. These 10 blind spots are (1) a narrow conceptualization of what work means, (2) limited access to educational and training opportunities, (3) underexamined barriers to employment, (4) pay inequities and unpaid work, (5) disparate views of sexual harassment and its acceptability in the workplace, (6) gender‐based discrimination in the work environment, (7) an absence in addressing menstrual‐related issues that impede women's success, (8) unaddressed issues with a work‐life interface, (9) a lack of support for working parents, and (10) a lack of legal protection for working women. We define what these issues are, what research exists, and why these blind spots are necessary to address in order to understand women at work across global contexts. We discuss how the research published in this issue of the Journal of Social Issues addresses some of these topics, and suggest how research can continue to advance our knowledge.
Multidisciplinary approach to paediatric aerodigestive disorders: A single‐centre longitudinal observational study
Authors: Fuladi Amol , Suresh Sadasivam , Thomas Rahul , Wong Matthew , Schilling Sandra , Ee Looi , Choo Kelvin , Bourke Christopher , McBride Craig , Masters Brent I , Kapur Nitin
Published: September 2020

Aim

Aerodigestive clinics (ADCs) are multidisciplinary programmes for the care of children with complex congenital or acquired conditions affecting breathing, swallowing and growth. Our objective was to describe the demographic, clinical, etiological and investigational profile of children attending the inaugural ADC at a tertiary paediatric centre in Queensland.

Methods

Children referred to the ADC at Queensland Children's Hospital from August 2018 to December 2019 were included. Data on clinical, growth and lung function parameters, bronchoscopy and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy findings, thoracic imaging and comorbidities were retrospectively analysed.

Results

Fifty‐six children (median (range) age 4 years (3 months–15 years); 18 female) attended the ADC during this 17‐month period. Forty‐six (82%) children had previous oesophageal atresia with tracheo‐oesophageal fistula; 43 of these were type C. Previous isolated oesophageal atresia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia and congenital pulmonary malformation were the underlying disorder in three (5%) children each, with one child having a repaired laryngeal cleft. Vertebral Anal Tracheo Esophageal Renal Limb anomalies (VACTERL)/Vertebral Anal Tracheo Esophageal renal anomalies (VATER) association was seen in 21 (38%) children. Growth was adequate (median weight and body mass index z‐score −0.63 and −0.48, respectively). Thirty‐four (61%) children reported ongoing wet cough, with 12 (21%) requiring previous hospital admission for lower respiratory tract infection. Fourteen (25%) had bronchiectasis on computed tomography chest and 33 (59%) had clinical tracheomalacia, apparent on bronchoscopic examination in 21 patients. Dysphagia was reported in 15 (27%) children, 11 (20%) were gastrostomy feed‐dependent and 5 (9%) had biopsy‐proven eosinophilic oesophagitis.

Conclusion

High proportion of children attending the ADC have ongoing respiratory symptoms resulting in chronic pulmonary suppuration and bronchiectasis. Potential benefits of this model of care need to be studied prospectively to better understand the outcomes.
Association between consumption of edible seaweeds and newly diagnosed non‐alcohol fatty liver disease: The TCLSIH Cohort Study
Authors: Li Huiping , Gu Yeqing , Wu Xiaohui , Rayamajhi Sabina , Bian Shanshan , Zhang Qing , Meng Ge , Liu Li , Wu Hongmei , Zhang Shunming , Wang Yawen , Zhang Tingjing , Wang Xuena , Thapa Amrish , Sun Shaomei , Wang Xing , Jia Qiyu , Song Kun , Niu Kaijun
Published: September 2020

Background & aims

Seaweeds are rich sources of anti‐oxidants and anti‐inflammatory properties, which are beneficial to non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, whether seaweed consumption is associated with NAFLD is unknown. We investigated the association of seaweed consumption with newly diagnosed NAFLD in a large‐scale adult population.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study involved 24 572 participants aged over 18 years. NAFLD was diagnosed by results of liver ultrasonography and alcohol intake. Dietary information was assessed using a validated and standardized 100‐item food frequency questionnaire. Multivariate logistic analysis was used to evaluate the association between seaweed consumption and NAFLD.

Results

The prevalence of newly diagnosed NAFLD was 20.1%. After adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and other dietary intakes, the multivariable adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of newly diagnosed NAFLD across seaweed consumption were 1.00 (reference) for almost never, 1.03 (0.93, 1.15) for <1 time/wk, 1.01 (0.90, 1.13) for 1 time/wk, and 0.84 (0.73, 0.96) for >1 times/wk (P for trend < .001). Stratified analyses suggested a potential effect modification by obesity status; the odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) across extreme quartiles was 0.77 (0.66, 0.91) in non‐obese participants and 1.02 (0.79, 1.33) in obese participants (P for interaction < .001).

Conclusion

Seaweed consumption is negatively associated with NAFLD, especially in non‐obese participants.
Blood deprivation and heat stress increase mortality in bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) exposed to insect pathogenic fungi or desiccant dust
Authors: Rukke B. A. , Salma U. , Birkemoe T. , Aak A.
Published: September 2020

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) have returned as a nuisance pest in the last 20 years. Different bed bug control measures in combination have not been thoroughly studied, although induction of multiple stressors may improve extermination. The effects of heat stress only, heat stress followed by exposure to insect pathogenic fungi, and heat stress followed by exposure to desiccant dust on starved and blood‐fed bed bugs were investigated. Five days at 22 °C (control), 32 °C, 34 °C, or 36 °C (heat stress) did not cause mortality in adults. However, their starved first instar nymphs produced after heat stress suffered mortalities of 33%, 56% and 100%, respectively. Exposure to insect pathogenic fungi after heat stress increased the mortality of adults and their progeny compared to exposure to fungi without heat stress. The beneficial effects of heat stress were not observed in blood‐fed bed bugs. Desiccant dust killed all nymphs within 2 days and all adults within 3 days regardless of previous heat stress, but survival time was prolonged by access to blood. This study highlights the advantage of combining different methods in pest management, and points to heat stress combined with blood deprivation as possible management elements to increase the control success.
Attributable mortality of candidemia after introduction of echinocandins
Authors: Cornely Florian B. , Cornely Oliver A. , Salmanton‐García Jon , Koehler Felix C. , Koehler Philipp , Seifert Harald , Wingen‐Heimann Sebastian , Mellinghoff Sibylle C.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Candidemia is among the most frequent nosocomial bloodstream infections. Landmark case‐control studies on amphotericin B and fluconazole estimated attributable mortality rates of 38% and 49%, respectively. After introduction of echinocandins, these may have decreased.

Methods

In a case‐control design, 100 consecutive, hospitalised patients with candidemia were enrolled at the University Hospital of Cologne, Germany between 2014 and 2017. Controls were patients without candidemia matched for age, sex, year and duration of hospitalisation, main admission diagnosis and Patient Clinical Complexity Level (PCCL). Main data captured were risk factors for candidemia, attributable mortality rates and diagnostic and therapeutic adherence according to the EQUAL Candida score.

Results

Overall mortality rates for cases and controls were 43% and 17% (P < .001), respectively; day 30 mortality rates were 38% and 11% (P = .03), accounting for an attributable mortality of 26% and 27%. Guideline adherence was higher in surviving vs non‐surviving patients: while survivors reached a median of 17 (IQR: 16‐19) points, non‐surviving cases reached a median 16 (IQR: 14‐18) points out of 22 maximum achievable points (P = .028). Risk factors for candidemia were more frequent in cases compared to control patients, especially chronic pulmonary disease (25% vs 16%; P = n.s.), chronic liver disease (21% vs 6%; P = .002), stay on intensive care unit (70% vs 64%; P = n.s.), respiratory failure (56% vs 50%; P = n.s.) and central venous catheter (97% vs 35%; P < .001).

Conclusions

Attributable mortality of nosocomial candidemia is still substantial but has decreased compared to previous studies with similar design.
Low rates of invasive fungal disease in patients with multiple myeloma managed with new generation therapies: Results from a multi‐centre cohort study
Authors: Lim Chhay , Sinha Priyadarshini , Harrison Simon J. , Quach Hang , Slavin Monica A. , Teh Benjamin W.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

A multi‐centre study to determine the outcomes and risks for invasive fungal disease (IFD) in myeloma (MM) patients treated with second‐generation immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies was conducted.

Methods

Clinical and microbiology records were reviewed to capture patient demographics, disease characteristics, treatment, IFD episodes and outcomes. Categorical and continuous variables between patients with IFD and without IFD were compared using chi‐square test, Fisher's exact test and Mann‐Whitney rank sum test, respectively, with P‐value < .05 considered statistically significant.

Results

Five out of 148 (3.4%) MM patients were diagnosed with five episodes of IFI: 3 were proven, 1 probable and 1 possible. Median time from commencement of new generation therapy to IFD diagnosis was 4.0 months (Interquartile range [IQR]: 3.4‐5.7). In patients with IFD, median cumulative steroid dose over 60 days was 1119 mg (IQR: 1066‐1333 mg). None of the patients with IFD had prolonged neutropenia (neutrophil count < 0.5 × 109/L for more than 10 days). Common sites of infection were the respiratory tract (40.0%) and bloodstream (40.0%). Cryptococcus neoformans (n = 2) and Candida krusei (n = 1) were the fungal pathogens isolated in the three proven cases. 30‐day mortality rate was 40.0%. Patients with IFD were younger (median 58 versus 68 years, P = .52) and treated with more lines of therapy (median 5 vs 3, P = .04).

Conclusion

IFD rate is low in heavily treated MM patients treated with second‐generation therapy including monoclonal antibodies. Patients do not appear to have traditional risk factors such as prolonged neutropenia.
Protective role of HO‐1 against acute kidney injury caused by cutaneous exposure to arsenicals
Authors: Srivastava Ritesh K. , Muzaffar Suhail , Khan Jasim , Traylor Amie M. , Zmijewski Jaroslaw W. , Curtis Lisa M. , George James F. , Ahmad Aftab , Antony Veena B. , Agarwal Anupam , Athar Mohammad
Published: September 2020

Lewisite and many other similar arsenicals are warfare vesicants developed and weaponized for use in World Wars I and II. These chemicals, when exposed to the skin and other epithelial tissues, cause rapid severe inflammation and systemic damage. Here, we show that topically applied arsenicals in a murine model produce significant acute kidney injury (AKI), as determined by an increase in the AKI biomarkers NGAL and KIM‐1. An increase in reactive oxygen species and ER stress proteins, such as ATF4 and CHOP, correlated with the induction of these AKI biomarkers. Also, TUNEL staining of CHOP‐positive renal tubular cells suggests CHOP mediates apoptosis in these cells. A systemic inflammatory response characterized by a significant elevation in inflammatory mediators, such as IL‐6, IFN‐α, and COX‐2, in the kidney could be the underlying cause of AKI. The mechanism of arsenical‐mediated inflammation involves activation of AMPK/Nrf2 signaling pathways, which regulate heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1). Indeed, HO‐1 induction with cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) treatment in arsenical‐treated HEK293 cells afforded cytoprotection by attenuating CHOP‐associated apoptosis and cytokine mRNA levels. These results demonstrate that topical exposure to arsenicals causes AKI and that HO‐1 activation may serve a protective role in this setting.
Comparison of short‐term light disturbance, optical and visual performance outcomes between a myopia control contact lens and a single‐vision contact lens
Authors: García‐Marqués José Vicente , Macedo‐De‐Araújo Rute Juliana , Cerviño Alejandro , García‐Lázaro Santiago , McAlinden Colm , González‐Méijome Jose Manuel
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To compare the optical and visual performance of a dual‐focus (DF) contact lens used for myopia control with a single‐vision (SV) contact lens of the same material.

Methods

A randomised, double‐masked crossover study. Twenty‐eight healthy, myopic volunteers between 18 and 32 years of age (23.49 ± 4.07 years) participated in this study. The sensory dominant eye for distance vision was determined. Refraction, best‐corrected visual acuity (VA) and aberrations for 3 mm and 5 mm pupil diameters were quantified without a contact lens in situ. Subjects were fitted with two contact lens designs: DF and SV, both made of omafilcon A material. The Quality of Vision (QoV) questionnaire, over‐refraction, best‐corrected VA, stereopsis at 40 cm, best‐corrected photopic and mesopic contrast sensitivity, light disturbance and aberrations were assessed 25 min after contact lens insertion.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in best‐corrected VA and stereopsis between the baseline, DF and SV conditions. Photopic and mesopic contrast sensitivity were lower for the DF contact lens at all frequencies, with the exception of the mesopic contrast sensitivity at 18 cycles per degree (p = 0.23). Higher order aberrations and light disturbance size and irregularity were higher for the DF contact lens (p < 0.001). No differences were found in higher order aberrations between baseline and the SV contact lens condition for each pupil diameter. QoV scores also revealed lower frequency, severity and bothersome scores with the SV contact lens than with the DF contact lens (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The DF contact lens design decreased the psychophysical and psychometric visual quality scores in the short‐term under dim‐light conditions when compared with a single‐vision contact lens design of the same material. VA and stereopsis were unaffected by the lens design.
Only hearing what they want to hear: Assessing when and why performance information triggers intentions to coproduce
Authors: Porumbescu Gregory A. , Cucciniello Maria , Bellé Nicola , Nasi Greta
Published: September 2020

While performance information is often used to communicate the importance of public policies and stimulate civic engagement, we know little about the processes that connect the two. This study proposes a conceptual model that links performance information to a specific form of public engagement: coproduction. Drawing on insights from information aversion theory, we argue that the effect of performance information on engagement in coproduction depends on levels of policy understanding and the valence of performance information that individuals are exposed to. Specifically, we predict that individuals exposed to positive performance information will understand the policy better than those exposed to negative performance information. Further, we predict that higher levels of policy understanding will increase coproduction engagement intentions. These predictions are examined using two experiments and a representative sample of US residents (n = 836). Findings indicate that participants best understood positive information and that understanding significantly increased coproduction engagement intentions.
Maternal glucose tolerance in pregnancy and child cognitive and behavioural problems in early and mid‐childhood
Authors: Xu Tingting , Faleschini Sabrina , Rifas‐Shiman Sheryl L. , Monthé‐Drèze Carmen , Oken Emily , Hivert Marie‐France , Tiemeier Henning
Published: September 2020

Background

Maternal abnormal glucose tolerance during pregnancy may adversely affect offspring cognition and behaviour, but few prospective studies investigated this association at multiple points throughout childhood.

Objectives

We hypothesised that maternal abnormal glucose tolerance is associated with child cognitive and behavioural outcomes in early and mid‐childhood.

Methods

We examined the associations of maternal abnormal glucose tolerance at 26‐28 weeks of pregnancy with offspring cognitive and behavioural scores in 1421 children in the Project Viva pre‐birth cohort. In early (mean 3.3 years) and mid‐childhood (mean 7.9 years), we measured child cognition using validated instruments, the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test, Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning, and the Wide Range Assessment of Visual Motor Abilities (WRAVMA); we assessed parent‐ and teacher‐rated behavioural outcomes with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the Behavioural Rating Inventory of Executive Function. We used linear regression models adjusted for potential confounders (maternal race/ethnicity, pre‐pregnancy BMI, intelligence, age, parity, smoking status, education, and household income at enrolment, in addition to child's sex and age at assessment).

Results

Of 1421 mothers, 69 (4.9%) had gestational diabetes mellitus, 43 (3.0%) impaired glucose tolerance, 122 (8.6%) isolated hyperglycaemia, and 1187 (83.5%) normal glucose tolerance. Offspring born to women with gestational diabetes mellitus had lower total WRAVMA scores (−3.09 points; 95% CI −6.12, −0.05) in early childhood compared with offspring of women with normal glucose tolerance. None of the abnormal glucose tolerance categories during pregnancy were associated with any of the cognitive outcomes (verbal, non‐verbal, and visual motor scores) or behavioural measures in mid‐childhood.

Conclusions

Children born to mothers who had gestational diabetes mellitus had slightly lower scores on one cognitive test in early childhood. We found no evidence to support that maternal abnormal glucose tolerance was associated with cognitive or behavioural development in mid‐childhood.
Functional traits and ecosystem services in ecological restoration
Authors: Carlucci Marcos B. , Brancalion Pedro H. S. , Rodrigues Ricardo R. , Loyola Rafael , Cianciaruso Marcus V.
Published: September 2020

The application of a functional trait‐based approach to ecological restoration is receiving growing attention worldwide, but lack of knowledge on functional traits and how they link to ecosystem services imposes a major barrier to operationalize such approach. Synthesizing the existing knowledge on functional trait‐based restoration is thus a timely and important challenge. We systematically reviewed the literature to assess how ecosystem services are associated to functional traits across organisms, ecosystem types, and continents. We also assessed the existing trait‐based frameworks to target ecosystem services in restoration ecology. Then, we discussed future perspectives for the field, especially the challenges of applying trait‐based frameworks in megadiverse tropical ecosystems, which have ambitious restoration commitments. Most papers focused on plants (72%), terrestrial habitats (69%), and non‐tropical ecosystems (68%) and monitored ecosystem services and functional traits after restoration started rather than using them as previous targets. Only 12% of the papers targeted the restoration of both services and traits a priori, and 3.8% presented a clear trait‐based framework to target ecosystem services in restoration. The possibility of selecting alternative subsets of complementary species in their provisioning of ecosystem services should make functional restoration more feasible than traditional approaches in species‐rich tropical ecosystems. With this review and our critical insights on the perspectives of applying functional trait‐based restoration widely, we hope to assist broad‐scale restoration programs to obtain higher levels of benefits for nature and human well‐being per unit of area undergoing restoration, going beyond the area‐based approach that has dominated restoration commitments.
A new Gini correlation between quantitative and qualitative variables
Authors: Dang Xin , Nguyen Dao , Chen Yixin , Zhang Junying
Published: September 2020

We propose a new Gini correlation to measure dependence between a categorical and numerical variables. Analogous to Pearson R2 in ANOVA model, the Gini correlation is interpreted as the ratio of the between‐group variation and the total variation, but it characterizes independence (zero Gini correlation mutually implies independence). Closely related to the distance correlation, the Gini correlation is of simple formulation by considering the nature of categorical variable. As a result, the proposed Gini correlation has a simpler computation implementation than the distance correlation and is more straightforward to perform inference. Simulation and real data applications are conducted to demonstrate the advantages.
Max‐infinitely divisible models and inference for spatial extremes
Authors: Huser Raphaël , Opitz Thomas , Thibaud Emeric
Published: September 2020

For many environmental processes, recent studies have shown that the dependence strength is decreasing when quantile levels increase. This implies that the popular max‐stable models are inadequate to capture the rate of joint tail decay, and to estimate joint extremal probabilities beyond observed levels. We here develop a more flexible modeling framework based on the class of max‐infinitely divisible processes, which extend max‐stable processes while retaining dependence properties that are natural for maxima. We propose two parametric constructions for max‐infinitely divisible models, which relax the max‐stability property but remain close to some popular max‐stable models obtained as special cases. The first model considers maxima over a finite, random number of independent observations, while the second model generalizes the spectral representation of max‐stable processes. Inference is performed using a pairwise likelihood. We illustrate the benefits of our new modeling framework on Dutch wind gust maxima calculated over different time units. Results strongly suggest that our proposed models outperform other natural models, such as the Student‐t copula process and its max‐stable limit, even for large block sizes.
Biochar addition mitigates nitrogen loss induced by straw incorporation and nitrogen fertilizer application
Authors: Li Na , Ma Xingxia , Xu Hongwei , Feng Yongzhong , Ren Guangxin , Yang Gaihe , Han Xinhui , Wang Xiaojiao , Ren Chengjie
Published: September 2020

Biochar has been shown to be potentially beneficial for enhancing yields and soil properties, and diminishing nitrogen (N) losses. However, it remains unclear how biochar regulates soil carbon (C) and N to mitigate N losses induced by straw mixing with N fertilizer in dryland soils. Therefore, we investigated the effects of straw mixing (S1), S1 with biochar (SB) and no straw inputs (S0), and routine urea application rates (N1) and 70% of routine rates (N0.7) on yields and N losses, and identify the relationship between N losses and soil C and N compounds. Results showed that N0.7 and N1 were suitable for the maize and wheat seasons, respectively, contributing to mitigating N losses without reducing crop yields. Moreover, in the maize season, N0.7‐SB significantly mitigated the straw‐induced NH3‐N and N2O‐N emissions by 106% and 81%, respectively. In the wheat season, N1‐SB reduced the straw‐induced NH3‐N and N2O‐N emissions by 35% and 66%, respectively. In addition, N0.7‐SB sharply reduced soil inorganic N (SIN) storage in the maize season. Furthermore, the NH3‐N and N2O‐N emission rates were negatively correlated with dissolved organic carbon/SIN content (0–20 cm) (DOC/SIN0‐20). N losses (N2O‐N and NH3‐N emissions and SIN storage) were positively correlated with SIN0‐20, but negatively correlated with soil organic carbon / SIN0‐20 (SOC/ SIN0‐20). This study provides further evidence that biochar with an appropriate N application rate decreased SIN0‐20 and increased DOC/SIN0‐20, thus reducing SIN storage and the straw‐induced gaseous N emissions without decreasing crop yields.
Early Time Modifications to the Buoyancy-Drag Model for Richtmyer–Meshkov Mixing
Authors: Youngs David L. , Thornber Ben
Published: September 2020

The Buoyancy-Drag model is a simple model, based on ordinary differential equations, for estimating the growth in the width of a turbulent mixing zone at an interface between fluids of different densities due to Richtmyer–Meshkov and Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities. The model is calibrated to give the required self-similar behavior for mixing in simple situations. However, the early stages of the mixing process are very dependent on the initial conditions and modifications to the Buoyancy-Drag model are then needed to obtain correct results. In a recent paper, Thornber et al. (2017, “Late-Time Growth Rate, Mixing, and Anisotropy in the Multimode Narrowband Richtmyer–Meshkov Instability: The θ-Group Collaboration,” Phys. Fluids, 29, p. 105107), a range of three-dimensional simulation techniques was used to calculate the evolution of the mixing zone integral width due to single-shock Richtmyer–Meshkov mixing from narrowband initial random perturbations. Further analysis of the results of these simulations gives greater insight into the transition from the initial linear behavior to late-time self-similar mixing and provides a way of modifying the Buoyancy-Drag model to treat the initial conditions accurately. Higher-resolution simulations are used to calculate the early time behavior more accurately and compare with a multimode model based on the impulsive linear theory. The analysis of the iLES data also gives a new method for estimating the growth exponent, θ (mixing zone width ∼ tθ), which is suitable for simulations which do not fully reach the self-similar state. The estimates of θ are consistent with the theoretical model of Elbaz and Shvarts (2018, “Modal Model Mean Field Self-Similar Solutions to the Asymptotic Evolution of Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov Instabilities and Its Dependence on the Initial Conditions,” Phys. Plasmas, 25, p. 062126).
Pulsating Flow Past a Square Cylinder: Analysis of Force Coefficient Spectra and Vortex Structure Development
Authors: Fowler Thomas S. , Witherden Freddie D. , Girimaji Sharath S.
Published: September 2020

This study examines the changes in force coefficients and wake flow structures of a square cylinder subject to pulsating in-flow at different frequencies. The Reynolds number is 200, according to previous literature. Over a range of forcing frequencies, a regime is observed where the shedding frequency scales with the forcing frequency rather than the natural shedding frequency, known as the lock-in phenomenon in literature. The change in spectral character across three frequency regimes—pre-lock-in, lock-in, and post-lock-in—are examined and characterized. During pre-lock-in, the shedding frequency remains equal to the natural shedding frequency. However, the corresponding peak in lift coefficient (CL) power spectral density (PSD) is a single decade larger than that of neighboring minima. This contrasts greatly with subsequent regimes where the amplitudes of the peaks are observed to be substantially larger than the amplitudes of neighboring minima. The onset of lock-in is sharp, and the corresponding excitation frequency is identified. The shedding frequency becomes a function of the forcing frequency within this regime, and the corresponding CL PSD peak is four decades larger than that of neighboring minima. The transition beyond the lock-in regime is gradual with peaks of the spectra broadening until separating into multiple discrete peaks. To comprehend the changes in the force coefficients, the vortex structure in the wake is characterized at different frequencies. The connection between the vortex development sequence and force profile is investigated, and z-vorticity probes are utilized to correlate these qualitative observations with prior quantitative analysis. Three-dimensional flow effects are also examined.
Rayleigh–Taylor Instability With Varying Periods of Zero Acceleration
Authors: Aslangil Denis , Farley Zachary , Lawrie Andrew G. W. , Banerjee Arindam
Published: September 2020

We present our findings from a numerical investigation of the acceleration-driven Rayleigh–Taylor Instability, modulated by varying periods without an applied acceleration field. It is well known from studies on shock-driven Richtmyer–Meshkov instability that mixing without external forcing grows with a scaling exponent as ≈t0.20−0.28. When the Rayleigh–Taylor Instability is subjected to varying periods of “zero” acceleration, the structural changes to the mixing layer remain remarkably small. After the acceleration is re-applied, the mixing layer quickly resumes the profile of development it would have had if there had been no intermission. This behavior contrasts in particular with the strong sensitivity that is found to other variable acceleration profiles examined previously in the literature.
Sound field estimation near the tympanic membrane using area-distance measurements in the ear canal
Authors: Keefe Douglas H.
Published: September 2020

The sound field near the tympanic membrane (TM) is estimated based on acoustic data measured at the tip of a probe inserted into the ear canal, from which the area-distance function of the ear canal is calculated. Such information has the potential to quantify the sound input to the middle ear at high frequencies. Spatial variation in the ear-canal cross-sectional area is described acoustically by quantifying forward and reverse sound waves between the probe tip and a near-TM location. A causal acoustic reflection function (RF) measured in the time domain at the probe tip is used to calculate area-distance functions of the ear canal. Area-distance functions are compared with plane-wave methods based on layer peeling and Ware-Aki algorithms. A time-domain model of viscothermal wall loss is devised and applied to ear-canal data, with area-distance functions compared between loss-less and lossy methods. This model is applicable to time-domain RF calibrations using measured data in short tubes. Specification of the near-TM sound field may benefit the interpretation of data from physiological tests such as otoacoustic emission and auditory brainstem responses and high-frequency behavioral tests such as extended audiometry and tests of spatial processing of sound.
Functional properties of habenular neurons are determined by developmental stage and sequential neurogenesis
Authors: Fore Stephanie , Acuña-Hinrichsen Francisca , Mutlu Kadir Aytac , Bartoszek Ewelina Magdalena , Serneels Bram , Faturos Nicholas Guy , Chau Khac Thanh Phong , Cosacak Mehmet Ilyas , Verdugo Carmen Diaz , Palumbo Fabrizio , Ringers Christa , Jurisch-Yaksi Nathalie , Kizil Caghan , Yaksi Emre
Published: September 2020

Sequential neurogenesis determines the functional properties of habenular neurons.
A tumor-to-lymph procedure navigated versatile gel system for combinatorial therapy against tumor recurrence and metastasis
Authors: Qin Lin , Cao Jun , Shao Kun , Tong Fan , Yang Zhihang , Lei Ting , Wang Yazhen , Hu Chuan , Umeshappa Channakeshava Sokke , Gao Huile , Peppas Nicholas A.
Published: September 2020

In situ vaccine–based combinatorial therapy induced potent tumor-specific immunity against tumor recurrence and metastasis.
Bioinspired liquid gating membrane-based catheter with anticoagulation and positionally drug release properties
Authors: Wang Chunyan , Wang Shuli , Pan Hong , Min Lingli , Zheng Huili , Zhu Huang , Liu Gang , Yang Weizhong , Chen Xinyu , Hou Xu
Published: September 2020

We introduced a liquid gating membrane-based catheter system with anticoagulation and positionally drug release properties.
Ancient Beringian paleodiets revealed through multiproxy stable isotope analyses
Authors: Halffman Carrin M. , Potter Ben A. , McKinney Holly J. , Tsutaya Takumi , Finney Bruce P. , Kemp Brian M. , Bartelink Eric J. , Wooller Matthew J. , Buckley Michael , Clark Casey T. , Johnson Jessica J. , Bingham Brittany L. , Lanoë François B. , Sattler Robert A. , Reuther Joshua D.
Published: September 2020

Stable isotope analyses show that Ancient Beringian diets were seasonally structured and included substantial summer salmon.
Illuminating the core of adaptive immunity—how the regulatory genome controls
Rag
chromatin dynamics
Authors: Wang Xun , Rothenberg Ellen V.
Published: September 2020

E2A specifies adaptive immunity by instructing large-scale topological changes for
Rag
gene super-enhancer formation (see the related Research Article by

Miyazaki
et al
.

).
We’re on our own
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: September 2020

The failure of U.S. government scientists in the Trump administration to follow the science around COVID-19 has left the medical community to fend for itself.
Cross-Kingdom Activation of
Vibrio
Toxins by ADP-Ribosylation Factor Family GTPases
Authors: Herrera Alfa , Satchell Karla J. F.
Published: September 2020

Pathogenic
Vibrio
species use many different approaches to subvert, attack, and undermine the host response. The toxins they produce are often responsible for the devastating effects associated with their diseases. These toxins target a variety of host proteins, which leads to deleterious effects, including dissolution of cell organelle integrity and inhibition of protein secretion. Becoming increasingly prevalent as cofactors for
Vibrio
toxins are proteins of the small GTPase families.
A Direct Comparison of Enhanced Saliva to Nasopharyngeal Swab for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Symptomatic Patients
Authors: Procop Gary W. , Shrestha Nabin K. , Vogel Sherilynn , Van Sickle Kelly , Harrington Susan , Rhoads Daniel D. , Rubin Brian P. , Terpeluk Paul
Published: September 2020

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in shortages of nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) and viral transport media, necessitating the search for alternate diagnostic specimens, such as saliva. We directly compared matched saliva and NPS specimens from symptomatic patients suspected of having COVID-19. An enhanced saliva specimen (i.e., strong sniff, elicited cough, and collection of saliva/secretions) was collected without transport medium prior to collection of NPS from 224 patients with symptoms deemed consistent with COVID-19.
Reconstructing crustal thickness evolution from europium anomalies in detrital zircons
Authors: Tang Ming , Ji Wei-Qiang , Chu Xu , Wu Anbin , Chen Chen
Published: September 2020

A new data compilation shows that in intermediate to felsic rocks, zircon Eu/Eu* [chondrite normalized Eu/ ] correlates with whole rock La/Yb, which has been be used to infer crustal thickness. The resultant positive correlation between zircon Eu/Eu* and crustal thickness can be explained by two processes favored during high-pressure differentiation: (1) supression of plagioclase and (2) endogenic oxidation of Eu2+ due to garnet fractionation. Here we calibrate a crustal thickness proxy based on Eu anomalies in zircons. The Eu/Eu*-in-zircon proxy makes it possible to reconstruct crustal thickness evolution in magmatic arcs and orogens using detrital zircons. To evaluate this new proxy, we analyzed detrital zircons separated from modern river sands in the Gangdese belt, southern Tibet. Our results reveal two episodes of crustal thickening (to 60–70 km) since the Cretaceous. The first thickening event occurred at 90–70 Ma, and the second at 50–30 Ma following Eurasia-India collision. These findings are temporally consistent with contractional deformation of sedimentary strata in southern Tibet.
Differential effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor and low-carbohydrate diet on body composition and metabolic profile in obese diabetic db/db mice
Authors: Kusakabe Toru , Yokota Shigefumi , Shimizu Mika , Inoue Takayuki , Tanaka Masashi , Ohue-Kitano Ryuji , Muranaka Kazuya , Yamakage Hajime , Wada Hiromichi , Hasegawa Koji , Satoh-Asahara Noriko
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Treatment using sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitor and low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) for obesity and type 2 diabetes are similar in terms of carbohydrate limitation. However, their mechanisms of action differ, and the effects on the body remain unclear. We investigated the effects of SGLT2 inhibitor and LCD on body composition and metabolic profile using the db/db mouse model for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Research design and methods

Eight-week-old male db/db mice were divided into four groups: mice receiving normal diet and vehicle or canagliflozin (Cana) administration and mice receiving LCD and vehicle or Cana administration for 8 weeks. Consumed calories were adjusted to be equal among the groups.

Results

Both Cana administration and LCD feeding resulted in significant weight gain. Cana administration significantly decreased plasma glucose levels and increased plasma insulin levels with preservation of pancreatic β cells. However, LCD feeding did not improve plasma glucose levels but deteriorated insulin sensitivity. LCD feeding significantly reduced liver weight and hepatic triglyceride content; these effects were not observed with Cana administration. Combined treatment with LCD did not lead to an additive increase in blood β-ketone levels.

Conclusions

SGLT2 inhibitors and LCD exert differential effects on the body. Their combined use may achieve better metabolic improvements in obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Immunonutrition for traumatic brain injury in children and adolescents: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Rong , Li Hailong , Yang Lijun , Chen Xinwei , Zeng Linan , Bo Zhenyan , Zhang Lingli
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of paediatric trauma death and disability worldwide. The ‘Guidelines for the Management of Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (Fourth Edition)’ recommend that nutritional goals should be achieved within 5–7 days of injury. Immune-enhancing nutrition or immunonutrition, referring to the addition of specialised nutrients, including glutamine, alanine, omega-3 fatty acids and nucleotides, to standard nutrition formulas, may improve surgical outcomes in the perioperative period. However, the role of immune-enhancing nutritional supplements for patients with paediatric TBI remains unclear. We will conduct a systematic review to determine the efficacy and safety of immunonutrition for patients with paediatric TBI and provide evidence for clinical decision-making.

Methods and analysis

Studies reporting immune-enhancing nutrition treatments for patients with paediatric TBI will be included. Outcomes of interest include the length of hospital stay, wound infections, all-cause mortality, non-wound infection, including pneumonia, urinary tract infection and bacteraemia, and the reports adverse events. Duration of follow-up has no restriction. Primary studies consisting of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs will be eligible for this review, and only studies published in English will be included. We will search the Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library databases from their inception dates to January 2020. We will also search clinicaltrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for additional information. Two reviewers will independently select studies and extract data. Risk-of-bias will be assessed with tools based on the Cochrane risk-of-bias criteria and Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. A meta-analysis will be used to pool data when there are sufﬁcient studies with homogeneity. Heterogeneity of the estimates across studies will be assessed; if necessary, a subgroup analysis will be performed to explore the source of heterogeneity. The Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation method will be applied to assess the level of evidence obtained from this systematic review.

Ethics and dissemination

The proposed systematic review and meta-analysis will be based on published data, and thus ethical approval is not required. The results of this review will be published.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020154814.
Intermittent pneumatic compression for venous thromboembolism prevention: a systematic review on factors affecting adherence
Authors: Greenall Richard , Davis Rachel E
Published: September 2020

Objective

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially fatal complication of hospitalisation. Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is one approach to reducing the likelihood of a VTE. Adherence to IPC is known to be inadequate though the reasons for this remain unclear. This systematic review explores factors that affect adherence to IPC in the inpatient context.

Methods

Information sources—EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO were searched for literature between January 1960 and May 2019. Eligibility criteria—studies were included if they focused on inpatient care and examined factors affecting adherence to IPC devices.

Results

Included studies—a total of 20 out of 1476 studies were included. Synthesis of results—eight factors were identified that affected adherence: patient discomfort (n=8), healthcare professionals’ knowledge and behaviours (n=6), mobilisation (n=6), equipment supply and demand (n=3), the use of guidelines (n=3), intensive care context (n=2), computer-assisted prescribing (n=2) and patients’ knowledge of IPC (n=1).

Conclusion

Overall while the evidence base is quite limited, a number of factors were shown to affect adherence to IPC. These findings could be used to inform future research and quality improvement efforts to increase adherence in this very important, but currently under-researched area.