bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an animal model for bath infection by Flavobacterium psychrophilum
Authors: Avendaño‐Herrera Ruben , Benavides Isabella , Espina Jaime A. , Soto‐Comte Daniela , Poblete‐Morales Matías , Valdés Juan A. , Feijóo Carmen G. , Reyes Ariel E.
Published: March 2020

Flavobacterium psychrophilum is the causative agent of bacterial cold‐water disease and rainbow trout syndrome in freshwater salmonid fish worldwide, generating injuries and high mortality rates. Despite several studies on this bacterium, the infection mechanism remains unknown due to limitations in the employed animal models. In this work, we propose using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model for studying bacterial pathogenicity. To substantiate this proposal, zebrafish infection by F. psychrophilum strain JIP 02/86 was characterized. Zebrafish larvae were infected using the bath method, and morphological changes and innate immune system activation were monitored using transgenic fish. Salmonid‐like infection phenotypes were observed in 4.74% of treated larvae, as manifested by fin, muscle and caudal peduncle damage. Symptomatic and dead larvae accounted for 1.35% of all challenged larvae. Interestingly, infected larvae with no infection phenotypes showed stronger innate immune system activation than specimens with phenotypes. A failure of function assay for myeloid factor pu.1 resulted in more infected larvae (up to 43.5%), suggesting that low infection rates by F. psychrophilum would be due to the protective actions of the innate immune system against this bacterium in zebrafish larvae. Our results support the use of zebrafish as an infection model for studying F. psychrophilum. Furthermore, the percentage of infected fish can be modulated by disturbing, to varying extents, the differentiation of myeloid cells. Using this evidence as a starting point, different aspects of the infection mechanism of F. psychrophilum could be studied in vivo.
Relationships Between Profiles of Physical Activity and Major Mobility Disability in the LIFE Study
Authors: Fanning Jason , Rejeski W. Jack , Chen Shyh‐Huei , Guralnik Jack , Pahor Marco , Miller Michael E.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVES

To examine the relationship between time spent in light physical activity (LPA) and in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and the pattern of accumulation on the risk for major mobility disability (MMD) in a large multicenter study of physical activity (PA) and aging, the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) study.

DESIGN

Data were collected from individuals randomized to a PA intervention as part of the LIFE study, an eight‐center single‐blind randomized clinical trial conducted between February 2010 and December 2013.

SETTING

Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Study

PARTICIPANTS

Older adult participants (78.4 years; N = 507) at risk for MMD.

INTERVENTION

All older adults included in these analyses were randomized to a structured PA intervention that included two center‐based plus three to four home‐based exercise sessions per week with a primary goal of walking for 150 minutes weekly. Participants attended the intervention for 2.5 years on average.

MEASUREMENTS

MMD was defined as the inability to complete a 400‐m walk within 15 minutes and without assistance. Physical function was assessed via the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Actigraph accelerometers were used to quantify amount and variability in LPA and MVPA.

RESULTS

In an adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression, we identified a significant interaction (P = .017) between SPPB score and LPA amount and variability such that more LPA was associated with a reduced risk for MMD among those with higher initial function, as was lower variability (eg, via distributing LPA across the day). The SPPB × MVPA interaction was significant (P = .04), such that more MVPA was associated with lower MMD risk among those with lower function. Finally, greater MVPA variability was associated with lower risk for MMD.

CONCLUSION

A prescription of PA for older adults should account for key factors such as physical function and emphasize both amount and pattern of accumulation of PA from across the intensity continuum. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1476‐1483, 2020.
The impact of multicomponent programmes on balance and fall reduction in adults with intellectual disabilities: a randomised trial
Authors: Kovačič T. , Kovačič M. , Ovsenik R. , Zurc J.
Published: March 2020

Background

One challenge a modern society faces is this: providing those vulnerable and ageing groups of adults who have intellectual disabilities with appropriate support for improving static and dynamic balance. Balance is a crucial component of physical fitness and, consequently, of fall reduction and prevention. The aim of the present randomised controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy, after 16 weeks, that three different Special Olympics physical activity programmes had on balance and on fall reduction in adults with intellectual disabilities.

Method

A convenience sample of 150 persons with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities was recruited from the accessible Special Olympics Slovenia population of physically inactive adults with intellectual disabilities. The sample was randomised to the experimental group 1 (multicomponent balance‐specific exercise programme group with additional workshops on such social gerontology topics as active and healthy ageing;N = 50), the experimental group 2 (multicomponent wellness programme group;N = 50) and a control group (regular Special Olympics athletic training;N = 50).

Results

Significant differences were found between groups in the balance scores throughout the study period and in the ability to decrease fall frequency.

Conclusions

Balance assessment is a high predictor of frequency of falls, and among adults with intellectual disabilities, it significantly correlates with exercise. The results indicate that a multicomponent balance‐specific exercise programme with a significant sociogerontological component on active ageing could be a useful intervention for intellectually disabled adults who have poor balance and who experience frequent falls.
Role of dynein–dynactin complex, kinesins, motor adaptors, and their phosphorylation in dendritogenesis
Authors: Tempes Aleksandra , Weslawski Jan , Brzozowska Agnieszka , Jaworski Jacek
Published: March 2020

One of the characteristic features of different classes of neurons that is vital for their proper functioning within neuronal networks is the shape of their dendritic arbors. To properly develop dendritic trees, neurons need to accurately control the intracellular transport of various cellular cargo (e.g., mRNA, proteins, and organelles). Microtubules and motor proteins (e.g., dynein and kinesins) that move along microtubule tracks play an essential role in cargo sorting and transport to the most distal ends of neurons. Equally important are motor adaptors, which may affect motor activity and specify cargo that is transported by the motor. Such transport undergoes very dynamic fine‐tuning in response to changes in the extracellular environment and synaptic transmission. Such regulation is achieved by the phosphorylation of motors, motor adaptors, and cargo, among other mechanisms. This review focuses on the contribution of the dynein–dynactin complex, kinesins, their adaptors, and the phosphorylation of these proteins in the formation of dendritic trees by maturing neurons. We primarily review the effects of the motor activity of these proteins in dendrites on dendritogenesis. We also discuss less anticipated mechanisms that contribute to dendrite growth, such as dynein‐driven axonal transport and non‐motor functions of kinesins.

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Tattoo removal “the artistic state of the art.” Tattoo on forehead, nose, and chin: Successful removal with modified R20 technique using low‐fluence Q‐switched Nd YAG laser: A case report
Authors: Elghblawi Ebtisam
Published: March 2020

Background

Tattooing is an ancient practice that has been performed all over the world which is used to beautify the skin and augment beauty. Regrettable tattoos are treated with Q switch lasers, in many sessions, and the effectiveness is doubtful.

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate how a unique protocol of R20 Q switch Nd YAG laser, can be employed successfully in removing long standing facial tattoos, in skin type IV, in an effective disciplined timing and cost wise modalities. The adopted method was a‐4 single passes, with 20 minutes gap respectively.

Methods and Results

A lady received the conventional Q switch laser at one session, with no noticeable results. On the other session, she received the R20 method, and an immediate whitening reaction was observed. No adverse reactions were noted.

Conclusion

The R20 Q technique is very effective tool in a single treatment session than the conventional multiple laser sessions, in tattoo removal, and I would invite other dermatologists utilize it in their clinical setting. This method does not need any newer laser technology, clears the tattoo fast, and cuts down unnecessary treatment duration and cost.
Phylogenetic analyses confirm polyphyly of the genus Campanula (Campanulaceae s. str.), leading to a proposal for generic reappraisal
Authors: Xu Chao , Hong De‐Yuan
Published: March 2020

Previous phylogenetic analyses found that the largest genus in the tribe Campanuleae, Campanula L. is polyphyletic. The genus is extremely intermingled, involving more than 50 genera, but no generic reappraisal has been attempted. For undertaking further phylogenetic analyses and subsequent generic reappraisal of the tribe, we sampled 333 samples, representing 27 of 28 genera currently recognized. Among them, 146 samples and two genera, Cylindrocarpa Regel and Sergia Fed., were newly sequenced. Six chloroplast DNA loci (atpB‐rbcL, matK, petD‐intron, rbcL, rpl16, and trnL‐F) and internal transcribed spacer were used to undertake phylogenetic analyses. Our chloroplast DNA phylogeny comprises 24 clades, that is, 18 Cam clades and six genera, Feeria Buser, Homocodon D. Y. Hong, Jasione L., Peracarpa Hook. f. & Thomson, Trachelium L., and Favratia Feer. Campanula species are scattered among the 18 Cam clades and the six genera, and some of them join with well‐established genera like Phyteuma L. and Adenophora Fisch. In the phylogeny Musschia Dumort. is at the basal position, but Jasione's position is unclear, whether in the tribe Campanuleae or in Wahlenbergieae; the other 22 lineages are grouped into two major clades: clade A comprising Cam 13–17 plus Feeria and Trachelium, and clade B comprising Cam 02, 03, 04‐1, 04‐2, and 06‐12 plus Homocodon and Peracarpa. We found that the molecular phylogeny is closely correlated with morphology, particularly pollen morphology: clade A with pollen 3‐porate and capsule dehiscent mostly by basal pores; and clade B with pollen mostly 4 (5–15)‐porate and capsule dehiscent mostly by apical‐middle pores. A generic reappraisal of the tribe is suggested based on the integrated phylogenetic analyses.
Extraterritorial human rights obligations to “civilize” intellectual property law: Access to textbooks in Africa, copyright, and the right to education
Authors: Beiter Klaus D.
Published: March 2020

Printed textbooks remain crucial for education, particularly in developing countries. However, in many of these countries, textbooks are unavailable, too expensive, or not accessible in local languages. Cheaply (translating and) reproducing textbooks would be a strategy. However, reprography is highly regulated under copyright law. Copyright also adds to the cost of textbooks. The availability, accessibility, and acceptability of learning materials constitute elements of the right to education under international human rights law (IHRL). Extraterritorial state obligations (ETOs) under IHRL—obligations of states, in appropriate circumstances, to observe the human rights of those beyond their borders—could assume a key function in “civilizing” intellectual property (IP) law. This Article demonstrates the significance of ETOs for IP law by focusing on the issue of how ETOs under the right to education of IHRL prescribe requirements that international copyright law must comply with to facilitate access to textbooks in schools and universities. Drawing on the expert Maastricht Principles on Extraterritorial Obligations of States in the Area of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of 2011, and applying the well‐known typology of state obligations to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights, the ETOs concept is introduced and 20 typical ETOs relevant in this context are identified. The discussion relates to the situation in developing countries more generally, focuses, however, on Africa.
A novel cysteine‐rich receptor‐like kinase gene, TaCRK2, contributes to leaf rust resistance in wheat
Authors: Gu Jia , Sun Jiawei , Liu Na , Sun Xizhe , Liu Chunji , Wu Lizhu , Liu Gang , Zeng Fanli , Hou Chunyan , Han Shengfang , Zhen Wenchao , Wang Dongmei
Published: March 2020

Leaf rust, caused by Puccinia triticina, is one of the most destructive fungal diseases in wheat production worldwide. The hypersensitive reaction (HR) is an important defence response against P. triticina infection. In this study, the physiological races 165 and 260 of P. triticina were combined with a line derived from the bread wheat cultivar Thatcher with the leaf rust resistance locus Lr26 to form compatible and incompatible combinations, respectively. Based on an RNA‐Seq database of the interaction systems, a new wheat cysteine‐rich receptor‐like kinase gene, TaCRK2, is specifically induced and up‐regulated in the incompatible combination. We identified that TaCRK2 was regulated in a Ca2+‐dependent manner. Knockdown of TaCRK2 by virus‐induced gene silencing and RNAi leads to a dramatic increase in HR area and the number of haustorial mother cells at the single infection site. In addition, urediniospores, a P. triticina‐specific pathogenic marker in compatible combinations, were observed on leaf surfaces of silenced plants at approximately 15 days after inoculation in the incompatible combination. Moreover, transcription levels of TaPR1, TaPR2, and TaPR5 were obviously reduced in TaCRK2‐silenced plants. TaCRK2 overexpression in Nicotiana benthamiana induced strong HR‐like cell death. Finally, transient expression of green fluorescent protein fused with TaCRK2 in N. benthamiana indicated that TaCRK2 localizes in the endoplasmic reticulum. Thus, TaCRK2 plays an important role in the resistance to P. triticina infection and has a positive regulation effect on the HR cell death process induced by P. triticina.
How parties and interest groups protect their ties: The case of lobbying laws
Authors: Crepaz Michele
Published: March 2020

Scholars have recently shown renewed interest in the study of party‐interest group ties. According to previous studies, traditional ties between parties and organized interest are a matter of the past. Globalization, deindustrialization, and neoliberalism have posed serious challenges to their survival. Recent contributions suggest that, while these ties are indeed weaker than before, they have not disappeared. How do parties and groups protect their ties? This paper attempts to provide a partial, though often neglected, answer: their relationship survives when both actors work together to protect it. While previous literature identified regulatory policies, such as ethics and transparency regulations, as detrimental to party‐group ties, their introduction is erroneously treated as independent from these ties. Through a comparative case study of the introduction of lobbying laws in Austria, Australia, and Ireland, this paper suggests that parties and groups shape the content of lobbying regulations in such a way to protect their relationship.
The effects of mood and retrieval cues on semantic memory and metacognition
Authors: Hall Amanda C. G. , Evans Daniel G. , Higginbotham Lindsay , Thompson Kathleen S.
Published: March 2020

We investigated whether the previously established effect of mood on episodic memory generalizes to semantic memory and whether mood affects metacognitive judgments associated with the retrieval of semantic information. Sixty‐eight participants were induced into a happy or sad mood by viewing and describing IAPS images. Following mood induction, participants saw a total of 200 general knowledge trivia items (50 open‐ended and 50 multiple‐choice after each of two mood inductions) and were asked to provide a metacognitive judgment about their knowledge for each item before providing a response. A sample trivia item is: Author – – To kill a mockingbird. Results indicate that mood affects the retrieval of semantic information, but only when the participant believes they possess the requested semantic information; furthermore, this effect depends upon the presence of retrieval cues. In addition, we found that mood does not affect the likelihood of different metacognitive judgments associated with the retrieval of semantic information, but that, in some cases, having retrieval cues increases accuracy of these metacognitive judgments. Our results suggest that semantic retrieval processes are minimally susceptible to the influence of affective state but does not preclude the possibility that affective state may influence encoding of semantic information.
Platelet function analysed by ROTEM platelet in cardiac surgery after cardiopulmonary bypass and platelet transfusion
Authors: Kjellberg Gunilla , Holm Manne , Lindvall Gabriella , Gryfelt Gunilla , van der Linden Jan , Wikman Agneta
Published: March 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate whether ROTEM platelet can provide additional information to the traditional ROTEM analysis to guide treatment with platelet transfusions in cardiac surgery and to identify factors triggering platelet administration.

Background

Platelets play a crucial role in coagulation and haemostasis after cardiac surgery. Excessive bleeding after cardiopulmonary bypass usually requires transfusions of blood products, including platelets. The ROTEM platelet is a novel point‐of‐care analysis for whole blood.

Materials and methods

We included 23 patients scheduled for complex cardiac surgery. ROTEM (in‐tem, ex‐tem), ROTEM platelet (ARA‐tem, ADP‐tem and TRAP‐tem) and platelet count were analysed before induction of anaesthesia (T0), after cardiopulmonary bypass and protamine reversal (T1) and after platelet transfusion (T2, n = 10).

Results

ROTEM and ROTEM platelet tests were all significantly reduced between T0 and T1. ROTEM parameters improved significantly after platelet transfusion. Regarding ROTEM platelet, only TRAP‐tem increased between T1 and T2 (P = .008). Factors triggering platelet transfusion were long duration of surgery and time on cardiopulmonary bypass.

Conclusion

ROTEM platelet with thrombin activation, TRAP‐tem, improved significantly, indicating that platelet transfusion may reverse cardiopulmonary bypass‐induced platelet dysfunction. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether TRAP‐tem can be a valuable analysis regarding indications for transfusion of platelets after extensive cardiac surgery.
Unchanged cerebrovascular CO2 reactivity and hypercapnic ventilatory response during strict head‐down tilt bed rest in a mild hypercapnic environment
Authors: Laurie Steven S. , Christian Kate , Kysar Jacob , Lee Stuart M.C. , Lovering Andrew T. , Macias Brandon R. , Moestl Stefan , Sies Wolfram , Mulder Edwin , Young Millennia , Stenger Michael B.
Published: March 2020

Key points

Carbon dioxide levels are mildly elevated on the International Space Station and it is unknown whether this chronic exposure causes physiological changes to astronauts.

We combined ∼4 mmHg ambient with the strict head‐down tilt bed rest model of spaceflight and this led to the development of optic disc oedema in one‐half of the subjects.

We demonstrate no change in arterialized , cerebrovascular reactivity to CO2 or the hypercapnic ventilatory response.

Our data suggest that the mild hypercapnic environment does not contribute to the development of spaceflight associated neuro‐ocular syndrome.

Chronically elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) levels can occur in confined spaces such as the International Space Station. Using the spaceflight analogue 30 days of strict 6° head‐down tilt bed rest (HDTBR) in a mild hypercapnic environment ( = ∼4 mmHg), we investigated arterialized , cerebrovascular reactivity and the hypercapnic ventilatory response in 11 healthy subjects (five females) before, on days 1, 9, 15 and 30 of bed rest (BR), and 6 and 13 days after HDTBR. During all HDTBR time points, arterialized was not significantly different from the pre‐HDTBR measured in the 6° HDT posture, with a mean (95% confidence interval) increase of 1.2 mmHg (–0.2 to 2.5 mmHg, P = 0.122) on day 30 of HDTBR. Respiratory acidosis was never detected, although a mild metabolic alkalosis developed on day 30 of HDTBR by a mean (95% confidence interval) pH change of 0.032 (0.022–0.043; P < 0.001), which remained elevated by 0.021 (0.011–0.031; P < 0.001) 6 days after HDTBR. Arterialized pH returned to pre‐HDTBR levels 13 days after BR with a change of –0.001 (–0.009 to 0.007; P = 0.991). Compared to pre‐HDTBR, cerebrovascular reactivity during and after HDTBR did not change. Baseline ventilation, ventilatory recruitment threshold and the slope of the ventilatory response were similar between pre‐HDTBR and all other time points. Taken together, these data suggest that the mildly increased ambient combined with 30 days of strict 6° HDTBR did not change arterialized levels. Therefore, the experimental conditions were not sufficient to elicit a detectable physiological response.
Residual Strength Evaluation of First-Stage Absorber With Weld Considering Corrosion and Thermal Stress
Authors: Mou Yisheng , Lian Zhanghua , Zhang Qiang , Liu Yang
Published: March 2020

The first-stage absorber, which is often used to purify crude oil or highly acidic natural gas, is the core equipment of petrochemical enterprises. Uniaxial strength is checked considering axial stress, hoop stress, and radial stress which is the main design idea of high-pressure vessel. However, absorber integrity issues, due to corrosion, thermal stress, and residual stress caused by welds, can cause absorber deformation, strength degradation, and even explosion. In this paper, mathematical models for absorber strength degradation, due to corrosion and thermal stress, are established. Another finite element model by element activation is established to evaluate the residual stress caused by the welding process. According to the parametric study, the effects of various parameters on residual strength of damaged absorber are studied. Strength check is carried out based on Lame thick-walled solution, and von Mises yield a criterion for the absorber according to the stress distribution of the absorber considering corrosion, thermal stress, and residual stress under tri-axial stress. Finally, accuracy of the mathematical model and the element model, of the effect of corrosion, thermal stress, and residual stress on residual strength, is verified according to actual service environment of the absorber. The research results presented in this paper can offer a technological basis and theoretical foundation for residual strength evaluation and absorber design of the first-stage principal absorber with weld considering corrosion and thermal stress in a sour environment.
Electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation investigation of fibronectin adsorption dynamics driven by electrical stimulation onto a conducting and partially biodegradable copolymer
Authors: da Silva Aruã C. , da Silva Rubens A. , Souza Maria J. P. G. , Montoya Paula M. , Bentini Ricardo , Augusto Tatiana , Torresi Roberto M. , Catalani Luiz H. , Córdoba de Torresi Susana I.
Published: March 2020

Functional surface coatings are a key option for biomedical applications, from polymeric supports for tissue engineering to smart matrices for controlled drug delivery. Therefore, the synthesis of new materials for biological applications and developments is promising. Hence, biocompatible and stimuli-responsive polymers are interesting materials, especially when they present conductive properties. PEDOT-co-PDLLA graft copolymer exhibits physicochemical and mechanical characteristics required for biomedical purposes, associated with electroactive, biocompatible, and partially biodegradable properties. Herein, the study of fibronectin (FN) adsorption onto PEDOT-co-PDLLA carried out by an electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation is reported. The amount of FN adsorbed onto PEDOT-co-PDLLA was higher than that adsorbed onto the Au surface, with a significant increase when electrical stimulation was applied (either at +0.5 or −0.125 V). Additionally, FN binds to the copolymer interface in an unfolded conformation, which can promote better NIH-3T3 fibroblast cell adhesion and later cell development.
Optimal placement of droplets for UV nanoimprint lithography
Authors: Ban Yang H. , Bonnecaze Roger T.
Published: March 2020

Optimizing the locations and sizes of droplets are key to reduce defects and increase throughput of ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography (UVNIL). Previously, simulation models describing the flow and coalescence of multiple fluid drops were developed and used to predict the fluid flow during spreading and feature filling. However, the effect of small channels on the resulting capillary pressure is neglected even though the flow along small channels or grooves is encountered in UVNIL. In this study, an accurate method to estimate capillary pressure boundary conditions at the fluid-air interface is developed along with fluid simulation. A method to estimate and compute the anisotropic capillary pressure for templates with line and space patterns is presented. It is found that the droplets flow faster in the direction of the pattern not only because of anisotropic permeability but also the nanostructure of the template, which further propels anisotropic spreading of the droplets by exerting larger capillary pressure. Using the new capillary pressure boundary condition, the simulation of multidrop spreading in UVNIL is performed to study the effects of anisotropic capillary pressures caused by the template structure. A simulation approach to determine optimal droplet placement was developed. From the simulation, a general rule of thumb is developed: delaying droplet merging as much as possible and reducing the number of merging events.
Evaluation of alternatives to paraffin for antirelaxation coatings
Authors: Lazare Jovian , Enakaya Nyesa , Lyons John L.
Published: March 2020

Paraffin wax is currently used as an antirelaxation coating in alkali metal vapor cells since it prevents spin depolarization of alkali atoms. However, the performance of paraffin decreases rapidly above 80 °C due to degradation; thus, the inability to operate at higher temperatures motivates a search for alternatives. Here, the authors use first-principles density functional theory to study rubidium (Rb) atom interactions with paraffin, along with potential alternative coating materials such as pristine and hydrogenated graphene, molybdenum disulfide, and the hydrogen-terminated silicon (111) surface. The authors’ results are in close agreement with experiments that find an adsorption energy of 0.1 eV for Rb on paraffin. The authors also find that Rb adsorbs strongly on graphene, MoS2, and silicon surfaces, but that Rb has a low adsorption energy on hydrogenated graphene, which may be suitable as an antirelaxation coating. The authors link adsorption behavior to the charge-transfer-induced ionic bonding between Rb and the underlying material. In paraffin and hydrogenated graphene, charge transfer is avoided, leading to low Rb adsorption energies for these materials.
Modeling of the near to far acoustic fields of an echolocating bottlenose dolphin and harbor porpoise
Authors: Wei Chong , Au Whitlow W. L. , Ketten Darlene R.
Published: March 2020

Echolocation signals emitted by odontocetes can be roughly classified into three broad categories: broadband echolocation signals, narrowband high-frequency echolocation signals, and frequency modulated clicks. Previous measurements of broadband echolocation signal propagation in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) did not find any evidence of focusing as the signals travel from the near-field to far-field. Finite element analysis (FEA) of high-resolution computed tomography scan data was used to examine signal propagation of broadband echolocation signals of dolphins and narrowband echolocation signals of porpoises. The FEA results were used to simulate the propagation of clicks from phonic lips, traveling through the forehead, and finally transmission into the water. Biosonar beam formation in the near-field and far-field, including the amplitude contours for the two species, was determined. The finite element model result for the simulated amplitude contour in the horizontal plane was consistent with prior direct measurement results for Tursiops, validating the model. Furthermore, the simulated far-field transmission beam patterns in both the vertical and horizontal planes were also qualitatively consistent with results measured from live animals. This study indicates that there is no evidence of convergence for either Tursiops or Phocoena as the sound propagates from the near-field to the far-field.
Reversible spin storage in metal oxide—fullerene heterojunctions
Authors: Moorsom T. , Rogers M. , Scivetti I. , Bandaru S. , Teobaldi G. , Valvidares M. , Flokstra M. , Lee S. , Stewart R. , Prokscha T. , Gargiani P. , Alosaimi N. , Stefanou G. , Ali M. , Al Ma’Mari F. , Burnell G. , Hickey B. J. , Cespedes O.
Published: March 2020

Hybrid interfaces form a spin capacitor for the generation and storage of spin angular momentum via optical or electronic stimuli.
Single-asperity sliding friction across the superconducting phase transition
Authors: Wang Wen , Dietzel Dirk , Schirmeisen André
Published: March 2020

Nanoscale friction experiments on high-
T
c
superconductors link energy dissipation during sliding to the electron system.
Liquid dispersions of zeolite monolayers with high catalytic activity prepared by soft-chemical exfoliation
Authors: Roth Wieslaw J. , Sasaki Takayoshi , Wolski Karol , Song Yeji , Tang Dai-Ming , Ebina Yasuo , Ma Renzhi , Grzybek Justyna , Kałahurska Katarzyna , Gil Barbara , Mazur Michal , Zapotoczny Szczepan , Cejka Jiri
Published: March 2020

The first direct exfoliation of zeolites in high yield expands potential for catalysts, membranes, and tailored composites.
Surface-state Coulomb repulsion accelerates a metal-insulator transition in topological semimetal nanofilms
Authors: Ito S. , Arita M. , Haruyama J. , Feng B. , Chen W.-C. , Namatame H. , Taniguchi M. , Cheng C.-M. , Bian G. , Tang S.-J. , Chiang T.-C. , Sugino O. , Komori F. , Matsuda I.
Published: March 2020

Increased Coulomb repulsion from surface states substantially modulates quantum confinement in topological semimetal nanofilms.
Crystal structure of SARS-CoV-2 main protease provides a basis for design of improved α-ketoamide inhibitors
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Lin Daizong , Sun Xinyuanyuan , Curth Ute , Drosten Christian , Sauerhering Lucie , Becker Stephan , Rox Katharina , Hilgenfeld Rolf
Published: March 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a global health emergency. An attractive drug target among coronaviruses is the main protease (M
pro
, also called 3CL
pro
) because of its essential role in processing the polyproteins that are translated from the viral RNA. We report the x-ray structures of the unliganded SARS-CoV-2 M
pro
and its complex with an α-ketoamide inhibitor. This was derived from a previously designed inhibitor but with the P3-P2 amide bond incorporated into a pyridone ring to enhance the half-life of the compound in plasma. On the basis of the unliganded structure, we developed the lead compound into a potent inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 M
pro
. The pharmacokinetic characterization of the optimized inhibitor reveals a pronounced lung tropism and suitability for administration by the inhalative route.
Lymph node stromal CCL2 limits antibody responses
Authors: Dasoveanu Dragos C. , Park Hyeung Ju , Ly Catherine L. , Shipman William D. , Chyou Susan , Kumar Varsha , Tarlinton David , Ludewig Burkhard , Mehrara Babak J. , Lu Theresa T.
Published: March 2020

Lymph node stromal CCL2 limits plasma cell survival via monocyte accumulation and reactive oxygen species and is tuned by vascular permeability.
Fosmanogepix (APX001) Is Effective in the Treatment of Pulmonary Murine Mucormycosis Due to Rhizopus arrhizus
Authors: Gebremariam Teclegiorgis , Alkhazraji Sondus , Alqarihi Abdullah , Wiederhold Nathan P. , Shaw Karen Joy , Patterson Thomas F. , Filler Scott G. , Ibrahim Ashraf S.
Published: March 2020

Mucormycosis is a life-threatening infection with high mortality that occurs predominantly in immunocompromised patients. Manogepix (MGX) is a novel antifungal that targets Gwt1, a protein involved in an early step in the conserved glycosylphosphotidyl inositol (GPI) posttranslational modification pathway of surface proteins in eukaryotic cells. Inhibition of fungal inositol acylation by MGX results in pleiotropic effects, including inhibition of maturation of GPI-anchored proteins necessary for growth and virulence.
Moving more: physical activity and its positive effects on long term conditions in children and young people
Authors: Dimitri Paul , Joshi Kush , Jones Natasha
Published: March 2020

While the benefits of regular participation in physical activity in children and young people are clear, misconceptions have developed about the possible negative effects and potential complications of exercise on long-term conditions such as epilepsy, asthma and diabetes. Over the last decade evidence has emerged supporting the positive impact that physical activity has on long-term conditions. Previous concerns were raised about the risks of hypoglycaemia in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) thus limiting participation in sports. Importantly, physical activity improves the metabolic profile, bone mineral density, cardiorespiratory fitness and insulin sensitivity while lowering mortality risk in children with T1DM. Children with asthma were prevented from doing exercise due to concerns about precipitating an acute asthmatic episode. To the contrary, physical activity interventions have consistently shown an increase in cardiovascular fitness, physical capacity, asthma-free days and quality of life in childhood asthmatics. Children with epilepsy are often excluded from sports due to concerns relating to increased seizure frequency, yet evidence suggests that this is not the case. The evidence supporting physical activity in childhood survivors of cancer is growing but still primarily confined to patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Participation in sports and physical activity also reduces mental health problems developing in adolescence. While further research is required to investigate benefits of physical activity on specific aspects of long-term conditions in children, in general this group should be advised to increase participation in sports and exercise as a means of improving long-term physical and mental health.
Efficacy of colistin in multidrug-resistant neonatal sepsis: experience from a tertiary care center in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Ambreen Gul , Salat Muhammad Sohail , Hussain Kashif , Raza Syed Shamim , Ali Umer , Azam Iqbal , Iqbal Junaid , Fatmi Zafar
Published: March 2020

Objective

Infections with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) such as Gram-negative bacteria have high morbidity and mortality with limited treatment options. Colistin, an antibiotic active against MDRO, was rarely used due to frequent adverse effects, but its use has now been recommended among adults. In this study, we determined the efficacy of colistin for the treatment of sepsis in neonates.

Design/setting/patients/outcomes

We conducted a retrospective record review of all neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan, between June 2015 and June 2018, who had sepsis and received colistin by intravenous, inhalation and/or intrathecal routes. Predictors of colistin efficacy, for neonatal survival and microbial clearance, were assessed using multiple logistic regression.

Results

153 neonates received colistin; 120 had culture-proven sepsis; and 93 had MDR-GNB (84 colistin-sensitive). 111 (72.5%) neonates survived and were discharged from hospital; 82.6% had microbial clearance. Neonates with colistin-sensitive bacteria (adjusted OR (AOR)=3.2, 95% CI 2.8 to 4.0), and those in which colistin therapy started early (AOR=7.2, 95% CI 3.5 to 13.6) were more likely to survive. Neonates with increased gestational age (AOR=1.9, 95% CI 1.5 to 3.0), higher weight (AOR=5.4, 95% CI 3.3 to 11.8) and later onset of sepsis (AOR=4.3, 95% CI 2.0 to 9.0) had higher survival. Adverse events included nephrotoxicity in 5.2%; 13.7% developed seizures and 18.3% had electrolyte imbalance.

Conclusions

Colistin therapy was associated with survival among neonates suffering from MDR-GNB sepsis. The frequency of side effects was moderate.
The practice of blood volume submitted for culture in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Singh Moni Pankhuri , Balegar V Kiran Kumar , Angiti Rajeshwar Reddy
Published: March 2020

Background

Neonatal sepsis is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in neonatal intensive care units. The volume of blood taken for culture remains one of the most important factors in isolating microorganisms.

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of the intervention on the blood volume submitted for culture and to identify factors influencing the volume as determined by the phlebotomist.

Methods

Blood culture volume was determined by weighing the culture bottle before and immediately after blood inoculation. A 3-month preintervention audit revealed that in 126/130 samples (96.9%), the volume of blood submitted was suboptimal. Multiple intervention measures were instituted, and volume was monitored over the next 9 months.

Results

637 blood culture samples were included in the study, 130 were in preintervention and 507 were in postintervention epochs. Following the intervention, suboptimal volume samples reduced from 96.9% (126/130 samples) to 25% (126/507 samples), p<0.0001 and the median (IQR) sample volume improved from 0.36 (0.23) ml to 0.9 (0.27) ml, p<0.0001. Poor blood flow was identified as the most common reason for an inadequate sample.

Conclusion

The study underscores the role of educational intervention in improving the blood culture volume in newborn infants. Poor backflow from the cannula is an important cause of inadequate volume collection.
Brucellaendocarditis of pulmonary valve: a rare presentation
Authors: Kasinadhuni Ganesh Naga , Kumar H Mohan , Sharma Ashwani Kumar , Vijayvergiya Rajesh
Published: March 2020

Brucellosis is one of the most frequent zoonotic infections. Cardiac involvement is rare and when involved, affects aortic valve the most. The appearance of a new murmur on clinical examination during sepsis should suspect seeding on valves. Our patient had pulmonary valve endocarditis secondary to brucellosis which was managed with pharmacotherapy as there was no valvular pathology. Triple therapy is standard of care and usually given for months, non-response to pharmacological treatment warrants surgical intervention. Our patient completed the triple-drug regimen at 3 months and is asymptomatic at present.
Towards universal health coverage: achievements and challenges of 10 years of healthcare reform in China
Authors: Tao Wenjuan , Zeng Zhi , Dang Haixia , Li Peiyi , Chuong Linh , Yue Dahai , Wen Jin , Zhao Rui , Li Weimin , Kominski Gerald
Published: March 2020

Universal health coverage (UHC) has been identified as a priority for the global health agenda. In 2009, the Chinese government launched a new round of healthcare reform towards UHC, aiming to provide universal coverage of basic healthcare by the end of 2020. We conducted a secondary data analysis and combined it with a literature review, analysing the overview of UHC in China with regard to financial protection, coverage of health services and the reported coverage of the WHO and the World Bank UHC indicators. The results include the following: out-of-pocket expenditures as a percentage of current health expenditures in China have dropped dramatically from 60.13% in 2000 to 35.91% in 2016; the health insurance coverage of the total population jumped from 22.1% in 2003 to 95.1% in 2013; the average life expectancy increased from 72.0 to 76.4, maternal mortality dropped from 59 to 29 per 100 000 live births, the under-5 mortality rate dropped from 36.8 to 9.3 per 1000 live births, and neonatal mortality dropped from 21.4 to 4.7 per 1000 live births between 2000 and 2017; and so on. Our findings show that while China appears to be well on the path to UHC, there are identifiable gaps in service quality and a requirement for ongoing strengthening of financial protections. Some of the key challenges remain to be faced, such as the fragmented and inequitable health delivery system, and the increasing demand for high-quality and value-based service delivery. Given that China has committed to achieving UHC and ‘Healthy China 2030’, the evidence from this study can be suggestive of furthering on in the UHC journey and taking the policy steps necessary to secure change.
At the speed of Juul: measuring the Twitter conversation related to ENDS and Juul across space and time (2017–2018)
Authors: Kim Yoonsang , Emery Sherry L , Vera Lisa , David Bryn , Huang Jidong
Published: March 2020

Background

Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) are the most-used tobacco product by adolescents, and Juul has rapidly become the most popular ENDS brand. Evidence indicates that Juul has been marketed heavily on social media. In light of recent lawsuits against the FDA spurred by claims that the agency responded inadequately to this marketing push, measuring the social media conversation about ENDS like Juul has important public health implications.

Methods

We employed search filters to collect Juul-related and other ENDS-related data from Twitter in 2017–2018 using Gnip Historic PowerTrack. Trained coders labelled random samples for Juul and ENDS relevance, and the labelled samples were used to train a supervised learning classifier to filter out irrelevant tweets. Tweets were geolocated into US counties and theirfitness for usewas assessed.

Results

The amount of Juul-related tweets increased 67 times over the study period (from 18 849 in the first quarter of 2017 to 1 287 028 in the last quarter of 2018), spreading widely across US counties. By the last quarter 2018, 34% of US counties had more than 6 Juul-related posts per 10 000 people, up from 0% in the first quarter 2017. However, during the same period, the total of non-Juul ENDS-related tweets decreased by 25%.

Conclusions

Juul-related content grew exponentially on Twitter and spread across the entire country during the time when the brand was gaining market share. This social media buzz continued to increase even after FDA’s multiple interventions to curb promotions targeting minors.
Looking at the axionic dark sector with ANITA
Authors: Esteban I. , Lopez-Pavon J. , Martinez-Soler I. , Salvado J.
Published: March 2020

The ANITA experiment has recently observed two anomalous events emerging from well below the horizon. Even though they are consistent with tau cascades, a high-energy Standard Model or Beyond the Standard Model explanation is challenging and in tension with other experiments. We study under which conditions the reflection of generic radio pulses can reproduce these signals. Furthermore, we propose that these pulses can be resonantly produced in the ionosphere via axion–photon conversion. This naturally explains the direction and polarization of the events and avoids other experimental bounds.
STUDY ON EVOLUTION OF FRACTAL DIMENSION FOR FRACTURED COAL SEAM UNDER MULTI-FIELD COUPLING
Authors: LIU GUANNAN , YU BOMING , YE DAYU , GAO FENG , LIU JISHAN
Published: March 2020

In the process of gas extraction, fracture-pore structure significantly influences the macroscopic permeability of coal seam. However, under the multi-field coupling, the mechanism of coal seam fracture-pore evolution remains to be clarified. In this paper, considering the effect of adsorption expansion, the fractal theory for porous media coupled with the multi-field model for coal seam is considered, and a multi-field coupling mechanical model is constructed by considering the influence of fracture-pore structure. Furthermore, the evolution mechanism of fractal dimension with physical and mechanical parameters of coal seam is studied. It is found that the fractal dimension for coal seam is inversely proportional to mining time and in situ stress, proportional to elastic modulus, Langmuir volume constant and Langmuir volume strain constant, and inversely proportional to Langmuir pressure constant. Compared with other factors, Langmuir pressure constant and Langmuir volume strain constant have the significance influence on the fractal dimension for the fracture length.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONDITIONS OF KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND INNOVATION CAPABILITY IN NEW TECHNOLOGY-BASED FIRMS
Authors: ACOSTA-PRADO JULIO CÉSAR , NAVARRETE JUAN FERNANDO FRANCO , TAFUR-MENDOZA ARNOLD ALEJANDRO
Published: March 2020

Successfully developing a new product, service or production process for commercial purposes involves complex and dynamic changes, and therefore requires conditions of knowledge management that fosters innovation. In this sense, processes by which knowledge is created and exploited in the firm constitute key competence and source of innovation capabilities. The objective of the study is to examine the relationship between conditions of knowledge management and innovation capability. The sample consists of 102 Colombian new technology-based firms. According to results, conditions of knowledge management has a positive effect on innovation capability, specifically flexible structure, information and communications technology, strategic purpose, and competitive environment. The results help firms, especially those that require a lot of knowledge and carry out their activities in uncertain and dynamic environments, to management and understand how the processes of innovation capability are influenced by the conditions of knowledge management.