bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuberculosis contact investigation results among paediatric contacts in low-incidence settings in Finland
Authors: Kontturi Antti , Kekomäki Satu , Ruotsalainen Eeva , Salo Eeva
Published: March 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) risk is highest immediately after primary infection, and young children are vulnerable to rapid and severe TB disease. Contact tracing should identify infected children rapidly and simultaneously target resources effectively. We conducted a retrospective review of the paediatric TB contact tracing results in the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa from 2012 to 2016 and identified risk factors for TB disease or infection. Altogether, 121 index cases had 526 paediatric contacts of whom 34 were diagnosed with TB disease or infection. The maximum delay until first contact investigation visit among the household contacts under 5 years of age with either TB disease or infection was 7 days. The yield for TB disease or infection was 4.6% and 12.8% for household contacts, 0.5% and 0% for contacts exposed in a congregate setting and 1.4% and 5.0% for other contacts, respectively. Contacts born in a TB endemic country (aOR 3.07, 95% CI 1.10–8.57), with household exposure (aOR 2.96, 95% CI 1.33–6.58) or a sputum smear positive index case (aOR 3.96, 95% CI 1.20–13.03) were more likely to have TB disease or infection.

Conclusions: Prompt TB investigations and early diagnosis can be achieved with a well-organised contact tracing structure. The risk for TB infection or disease was higher among contacts with household exposure, a sputum smear positive index case or born in a TB endemic country. Large-scale investigations among children exposed in congregate settings can result in a very low yield and should be cautiously targeted.

What is Known:• Vulnerable young children are a high priority in contact tracing and should be evaluated as soon as possible after TB exposure

What is New:• Prompt investigations for paediatric TB contacts and early diagnosis of infected children can be achieved with a well-organised contact tracing structure• Large-scale investigations among children exposed in congregate settings can result in a very low yield and should be cautiously targeted
Patient-reported outcome measures in oncology: a qualitative study of the healthcare professional’s perspective
Authors: Graupner Caitlin , Breukink S. O. , Mul S. , Claessens D. , Slok A. H. M. , Kimman M. L.
Published: March 2021

Background

In the last decades, the number of cancer survivors has increased significantly due to improved treatment and better detection of recurrence. This increased survival redirects the scope from survival towards optimising functional outcomes and improving health-related quality of life (HRQol). Functional and HRQoL outcomes can be assessed with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). However, the use of PROMs in daily oncological care is not common. This qualitative study investigates the barriers and facilitators of PROM use in an oncological setting, from the perspective of the healthcare professionals (HCPs).

Methods

Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted among Dutch oncological HCPs. Barriers and facilitators of PROM implementation were identified on various levels of the healthcare system (i.e. level of the patient, individual professional, medical team, and healthcare organisation). Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were manually analysed by two independent reviewers using a thematic approach. Identified barriers and facilitators were categorised into Grol and Wensing’s framework for changing healthcare practice.

Results

Nineteen oncological HCPs working in academic and non-academic hospitals were interviewed. Barriers for PROM implementation were lack of good IT support, lack of knowledge on how to use PROMs, lack of time to complete and interpret PROMs, and a high administrative burden. PROM implementation can be facilitated by providing clear guidance regarding PROM interpretation, evidence that PROMs can save time, and stimulating multidisciplinary teamwork.

Conclusion

From a HCP point of view, adequately functioning IT technology, sufficient knowledge on PROMs, and dedicated time during the consultation are essential for successful implementation of PROMs in oncological care. Additional local context-specific factors need to be thoroughly addressed.
Multinational evaluation of the BioFire® FilmArray® Pneumonia plus Panel as compared to standard of care testing
Authors: Ginocchio Christine C. , Garcia-Mondragon Carolina , Mauerhofer Barbara , Rindlisbacher Cory ,   and the EME Evaluation Program Collaborative, Forcelledo L. , Fernández J. , Lienhard R. , Kerschner H. , Rossolini G. M. , Armand-Lefèvre L. , d’Humières C. , Cambau E. , Benmansour H. , Cavallo R. , Altwegg M. , Berlinger L. , Bonnet R. , Saint-Sardos P. , Meex C. , Lavigne J. P. , Leveque N. , Broutin L. , Cattoir V. , Auger G. , Pereira H. , Paitan Y. , Verroken A. , Pailhoriès H. , Lemarié C. , Martinetti-Lucchini G. , Frigerio Malossa S. , Sanguinetti M. , Spanu T. , Vandenesch F. , Poyart C. , Loubinoux J. , Mira J. P. , Bonacorsi S. , Cointe A. , Muñoz P. , Kestler M. , Esteva C. , Queralt X. , García-Rodríguez J. , Gómez M. D. , López-Hontangas J. L. , Ghisetti V. , Burdino E. , Schubert S. , Mencacci A. , Allegrucci F. , Rozemeijer W. , Paternotte N. , Allard A. , Re M. C. , Ambretti S. , Skov M. , Agergaard C. N. , Subudhi P. , Wichelhaus T. A. , Egli A. , Hinic V. , Alcock A. , Banavathi K. , Tiberio C. , Ruocco G. , Atripaldi L.
Published: March 2021

This study compared standard of care testing (SOC) to BioFire® FilmArray® Pneumonia plus Panel (PNplus). PNplus detects 15 bacteria with semiquantitative log bin values, 7 antibiotic resistance markers, three atypical bacteria (AB), and eight viral classes directly from bronchoalveolar lavage-like specimens (BLS) and sputum-like specimens (SLS). Fifty-two laboratories from 13 European countries and Israel tested 1234 BLS and 1242 SLS with PNplus and SOC. Detection rates and number of pathogens/samples were compared for PNplus pathogens. PNplus bin values and SOC quantities were compared. Three thousand two hundred sixty-two bacteria in PNplus were detected by PNplus and/or SOC. SOC detected 57.1% compared to 95.8% for PNplus (p ≤ 0.0001). PNplus semiquantitative bin values were less than SOC, equal to SOC, or greater than SOC in 5.1%, 25.4%, and 69.6% of results, respectively. PNplus bin values were on average ≥ 1 log than SOC values (58.5% 1–2 logs; 11.0% 3–4 logs). PNplus identified 98.2% of MRSA and SOC 55.6%. SOC detected 73/103 AB (70.9%) and 134/631 viruses (21.2%). PNplus detected 93/103 AB (90.3%) and 618/631 viruses (97.9%) (p ≤ 0.0001). PNplus and SOC mean number of pathogens/samples were 1.99 and 1.44, respectively. All gram-negative resistance markers were detected. PNplus and SOC results were fully or partially concordant for 49.1% and 26.4% of specimens, respectively. PNplus was highly sensitive and detected more potential pneumonia pathogens than SOC. Semiquantification may assist in understanding pathogen significance. As PNplus generates results in approximately 1 h, PNplus has potential to direct antimicrobial therapy in near real time and improve antimicrobial stewardship and patient outcomes.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Training Programs for Non-specialist Mental Health Professionals in Low and Middle Income Countries: A Scoping Review of Literature
Authors: Raj Vijay , Raykar Vibhay , Robinson Ainsley M. , Islam Md Rafiqul
Published: March 2021

Large treatment deficits in child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) care exist in low and middle income countries (LMICs). This study reviewed CAMH training programs for non-specialist health professionals (NSHPs) in LMICs. Multiple databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles describing programs from 2005 to 2018. Educational source materials, trainee evaluation methods, and perspectives on teaching methods, course content and scheduling were studied. Six programs were identified. NSHPs were most appreciative of training which included case-based discussions, role plays and clinical demonstrations that were relevant to local contexts. A need for less intense and more flexible timetables to enable reflection was identified. WHO’s mental health gap action program intervention guide (mhGAP-IG) and international association of child and adolescent psychiatrists and allied professionals resources should be used; they are free, easily accessible, and developed with extensive international contributions. Additionally, mhGAP-IG assessment tool encourages mutual learning, thereby iteratively enhancing training programs.
Correction to: Feminist Judgments Projects at the Intersection
Authors: Gayoye Martha , Hunter Mateenah , Manji Ambreena , Matinda Miriam , Sekalala Sharifah , Chaudhary Rachna , Lammasniemi Laura , Munoth Shreya , Prabhat Devyani , Sen Jhuma , Black Gillian , Cowan Sharon , Kennedy Chloë , Munro Vanessa E.
Published: March 2021

In the original publication of the article, errors in the production stages resulted in Vanessa Munro being listed as sole author.
Umgang mit sexueller und geschlechtlicher Vielfalt
Authors: Baer Steffen , Höblich Davina
Published: March 2021

Der Umgang mit Diversität gehört zu den zentralen Aufgaben von Professionellen in der Sozialen Arbeit. Dieser wird entlang der Befunde mehrerer empirischer Projekte zum Umgang von Fachkräften mit geschlechtlicher und sexueller Orientierung beleuchtet. Dabei wird das US-amerikanische Konzept der Gay-Affirmative Practice (GAP) als ein Ansatz zum Umgang mit Diversität in der professionellen Praxis daraufhin kritisch hinterfragt, inwieweit er zur unbeabsichtigten Reproduktion gesellschaftlicher Machtverhältnisse und Teilhabeverweigerungen beitragen und einzuordnen ist. Affirmativ meint hierbei, wörtlich, eine „bejahende“ – also anerkennende und wertschätzende – Praxis.
The zooarchaeological identification of a ‘Morisco’ community after the Christian conquest of Granada (Spain, early 16th century): sociocultural continuities and economic innovations
Authors: García-García Marcos , García-Contreras Guillermo , Alexander Michelle M. , Banerjea Rowena Y. , Pluskowski Aleks
Published: March 2021

This article presents the results of the zooarchaeological analysis of an assemblage dating to the second quarter of the 16th century that was discovered on the current university campus of Cartuja, on the outskirts of Granada (Andalusia, Spain). During the Middle Ages, this area was largely used for agricultural purposes, including as estates owned by high officials of the Nasrid dynasty, the last Islamicate polity in the Iberian Peninsula. The Castilian conquest of Granada in 1492 brought significant changes to the area, with the construction of a Carthusian monastery and the transformation of the surrounding landscape, including changes in property structures, different agrarian regimes and the demolition of pre-existing structures. Among these transformations was the filling up of a well with construction materials, and its further use as a rubbish dump. This fill yielded an interesting and unique zooarchaeological assemblage, the study of which is presented here. The results advance our understanding of changing patterns in animal consumption during the formative transition from the Middle Ages to the Early Modern period at the heart of the former Nasrid Kingdom of Granada, and indicate the continuity of some Andalusi consumption patterns along with specialised production and distribution systems of meat products that have no archaeological precedent in the region, suggesting that the bones were dumped by a possible ‘Morisco’ community (autochthonous Muslims forced to convert to Christianity in 1502).
Remarkable multicuspid teeth in a new elusive skate (Chondrichthyes, Rajiformes) from the Mediterranean Pliocene
Authors: Collareta Alberto , Mollen Frederik H. , Merella Marco , Casati Simone , Di Cencio Andrea
Published: March 2021

Here we report on four highly peculiar skate teeth from Arcille and Certaldo, two Pliocene localities of Tuscany (central Italy). While being attributable to Rajiformes and somewhat reminiscent ofDipturusandRostroraja, these specimens display an unusual multicuspid tooth design that does not match any extinct or extant skate taxon known to date. The studied teeth are thus referred to a new genus and species of Rajiformes,Nebriimimus wardigen. et sp. nov., which is here tentatively assigned to the family Rajidae. Based on pronounced morphological similarities between the rather large-sized teeth of the latter and those of extant nurse sharks, we hypothesise thatN. wardimight have been capable of actively foraging upon relatively large food items compared to other rays. This extinct skate species was likely not a common component of the Pliocene Tuscan marine vertebrate assemblages. The palaeoenvironmental scenarios thatN. wardiinhabited were marginal-marine and open shelf settings characterised by tropical climate conditions. AsN. wardiis currently known only from lower to mid-Pliocene deposits of the Mediterranean Basin, it is tempting to speculate that its speciation dates back to an earliest Pliocene phase of diversification that also contributed to the emergence of the Mediterranean endemic stock of extant skate species.
Characterization of blood donors and non-blood donors in Germany using an online survey
Authors: Stock Benita , Möckel Luis
Published: March 2021

Objectives of this study were to analyze characteristics influencing blood donation status, to identify anxieties and reasons for (non-)blood donation, and potential channels for future blood donation campaigns. A random population from Germany was interviewed using the online survey tool SoSci Survey. The access link to the questionnaire was distributed via snowball system and the Bavarian Red Cross. Statistical analysis was performed to identify factors influencing blood donation status. A total of 682 participants (27.3% blood donors) with a mean age of 33.4 and a standard deviation (SD) of 12.0 years were included into the analysis. Strongest factor associated with being blood donor was having a blood donor within family and friends (Odds ratio [OR]: 5.05 [95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 2.63; 9.70]; p≤0.001), whereas having anxiety related to blood donation was the strongest factor for being non-blood donor (OR: 0.11 [95% CI: 0.05; 0.21] p≤0.001). Other factors significantly influencing blood donor status were age, health-related quality of life, knowledge on blood donation, being an organ donor and having pre-conditions. Main anxieties avoiding blood donation were fear of physical consequences, and fear of the injection needle. Most frequently mentioned channels which should be used for blood donation campaigns were Instagram and free TV. Involving blood donors into campaigns to recruit new blood donors from their personal environment and to focus campaign content on physical benefits of blood donations might help to recruit new blood donors. In addition, running campaigns stronger on channels such as Instagram might increase their scope.
Anticandidal Activity of Omiganan and Its Retro Analog Alone and in Combination with Fluconazole
Authors: Czechowicz Paulina , Jaśkiewicz Maciej , Neubauer Damian , Gościniak Grażyna , Kamysz Wojciech
Published: March 2021

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a vaginal infection that manifests itself as several symptoms which can lead to various life-threatening complications. The majority of VVC is caused by Candida albicans strains, and it is estimated that approximately 75% of women worldwide would suffer from this condition at least once during their lifetime. Surprisingly, the detailed pathomechanism of yeast-like fungi invasions in vagina is not yet fully understood. However, the ability to form biofilm on vaginal mucosa is considered as one of the critical factors associated with failure of the therapy and recurrences of the disease. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising class of compounds that are receiving a growing interest owing to their antibacterial, antifungal, and antibiofilm properties. Omiganan is a synthetic analog of Indolicidin that is characterized by wide spectrum of antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities. Recent reports suggest improved activity of analogs with a reversed sequence (retro-analog concept). Therefore, Omiganan and its retro analog were tested against planktonic forms and biofilm of 18 Candida strains isolated from VVC. Moreover, the synergy between the AMPs and fluconazole was studied as well. The AMPs appeared to be effective against C. albicans biofilm, and the reversion of the sequence generally led to an improved antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, confocal and scanning electron microscopic visualizations revealed the effectiveness of AMPs-fluconazole combinations also against fluconazole-resistant strains.

Graphical Abstract
Subgame Maxmin Strategies in Zero-Sum Stochastic Games with Tolerance Levels
Authors: Flesch János , Herings P. Jean-Jacques , Maes Jasmine , Predtetchinski Arkadi
Published: March 2021

We study subgame $$\phi $$
ϕ
-maxmin strategies in two-player zero-sum stochastic games with a countable state space, finite action spaces, and a bounded and universally measurable payoff function. Here, $$\phi $$
ϕ
denotes the tolerance function that assigns a nonnegative tolerated error level to every subgame. Subgame $$\phi $$
ϕ
-maxmin strategies are strategies of the maximizing player that guarantee the lower value in every subgame within the subgame-dependent tolerance level as given by $$\phi $$
ϕ
. First, we provide necessary and sufficient conditions for a strategy to be a subgame $$\phi $$
ϕ
-maxmin strategy. As a special case, we obtain a characterization for subgame maxmin strategies, i.e., strategies that exactly guarantee the lower value at every subgame. Secondly, we present sufficient conditions for the existence of a subgame $$\phi $$
ϕ
-maxmin strategy. Finally, we show the possibly surprising result that each game admits a strictly positive tolerance function $$\phi ^*$$

ϕ
∗

with the following property: if a player has a subgame $$\phi ^*$$

ϕ
∗

-maxmin strategy, then he has a subgame maxmin strategy too. As a consequence, the existence of a subgame $$\phi $$
ϕ
-maxmin strategy for every positive tolerance function $$\phi $$
ϕ
is equivalent to the existence of a subgame maxmin strategy.
An improved algorithm for phase-resolved sea surface reconstruction from X-band marine radar images
Authors: Zinchenko Victoria , Vasilyev Leonid , Halstensen Svein Olav , Liu Yuming
Published: March 2021

We present a modified methodology for phase-resolved surface wave reconstruction from incoherent X-band marine radar images. The method is based on the linear wave theory and uses the linear dispersion relation to extract the valuable signals associated with gravity waves. A parameter optimization of the proposed modification is performed based on simulated synthetic radar images. The quantitative comparisons in the accuracy of the standard and modified reconstruction methods are made for both simulated and real radar images. The correlation coefficient between reconstructed and true wave elevations is improved up to 0.9–0.92 for the present modified method from 0.69 to 0.74 for the standard method for the simulated sea surfaces. The wave spectra reconstructed from the real X-band radar measurements are in good agreement with those obtained from the independent point measurement by Miros RangeFinder for both unimodal and bimodal seas.
Inflation bald als Folgeeffekt der COVID-19-Pandemie?
Authors: Beretta Edoardo
Published: March 2021

Obwohl man im Zuge der COVID-19-Pandemie aufgrund des dramatischen Einbruchs aller Wirtschaftsprognosen weltweit bislang von rezessiv-deflationären Auswirkungen ausgegangen ist, lassen sich Inflationsrisiken keineswegs ausschließen. Welche Folgeeffekte kann die Kombination aus milliardenhohen Liquiditätsspritzen bei starkem Produktionsrückgang sowie streng einzuhaltenden (und ebenso kostenträchtigen) Sicherheits- und Schutzauflagen entfalten? Und wieso sollte aus makroökonomischer Sicht zwischen „Inflation“ und „steigenden Lebenshaltungskosten“ unterschieden werden? Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird mithilfe eines logisch-analytischen Denkansatzes auch argumentiert, wie sich derartige Inflationsszenarien wirtschaftspolitisch abwenden ließen. Denn eins ist genauso sicher: die Relation zwischen Naturkatastrophen und Inflation besteht seit je. Umso mehr, falls Inflationserscheinungen – wie heutzutage – nur zum Teil erkannt werden.
Comparison of User Satisfaction and Preference with Inhalant Devices Between a Pressurized Metered-Dose Inhaler and Ellipta in Stable Asthma Patients: A Randomized, Crossover Study
Authors: Ohbayashi Hiroyuki , Asano Takamitsu , Kudo Sahori , Ariga Mitsue
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Inhalation therapy involves two types of adherence: adherence to the drug and adherence to the procedures for the inhalation device. User satisfaction and preference are key factors for maintaining good adherence of both types, and they should be evaluated based on three conditions being well maintained: asthma control level (ACL), adherence, and adequate device operability during usage duration. We compared user satisfaction and preference between a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) and a dry powder inhaler (Ellipta), while maintaining the three conditions during usage in stable asthma patients.

Methods

In this open-label, randomized, two-way crossover study, patients with stable asthma [Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores < 0.75] were classified into a 20–64-year age group (G1) and a ≥ 65-year age group (G2) and randomly assigned to either a formoterol/fluticasone combination (FFC) as the pMDI group or a vilanterol/fluticasone combination (VFC) as the Ellipta group. Satisfaction and preference levels were evaluated at week 4. ACL was measured using the ACQ and Japan Asthma Control Survey questionnaires at weeks 0 and 4. Device operability and respiratory resistance were also examined.

Results

Forty-four patients (23 G1, age 45.8 ± 1.9 years; 21 G2, 74.1 ± 1.3 years) were enrolled and maintained good ACL during the study. Adherence to FFC pMDI and VFC Ellipta was > 97% in all groups. Device operability did not differ significantly between FFC pMDI and VFC Ellipta in the G1 (p = 0.189) or G2 (p = 0.506) group. Overall satisfaction was marginally higher with the FFC pMDI than with the VFC Ellipta in G2 (p = 0.012) but non-significantly different in G1 (p = 0.733). Factors affecting overall satisfaction in G2 were difference of inhalation device and body mass index. Respiratory resistance did not change significantly over the study in G2.

Conclusion

Based on maintaining good ACL, adherence, and device operability, FFC pMDI showed significantly higher satisfaction and preference levels than VFC Ellipta in elderly persons.

Trial Registration

Japan Registry of Clinical Trials identifier, jRCTs041180001 (registered 21 August 2018).
Analysis of hyperbolic Pennes bioheat equation in perfused homogeneous biological tissue subject to the instantaneous moving heat source
Authors: Kabiri Ali , Talaee Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2021

The one-dimensional hyperbolic Pennes bioheat equation under instantaneous moving heat source is solved analytically based on the Eigenvalue method. Comparison with results of in vivo experiments performed earlier by other authors shows the excellent prediction of the presented closed-form solution. We present three examples for calculating the Arrhenius equation to predict the tissue thermal damage analysis with our solution, i.e., characteristics of skin, liver, and kidney are modeled by using their thermophysical properties. Furthermore, the effects of moving velocity and perfusion rate on temperature profiles and thermal tissue damage are investigated. Results illustrate that the perfusion rate plays the cooling role in the heating source moving path. Also, increasing the moving velocity leads to a decrease in absorbed heat and temperature profiles. The closed-form analytical solution could be applied to verify the numerical heating model and optimize surgery planning parameters.
Reactive transport in porous media: a review of recent mathematical efforts in modeling geochemical reactions in petroleum subsurface reservoirs
Authors: Abd Abdul Salam , Abushaikha Ahmad S.
Published: March 2021

The rapid advancements in the computational abilities of numerical simulations have attracted researchers to work on the area of reactive transport in porous media to improve the hydrocarbon production processes from mature reservoirs. In the hydrology community, reactive transport is well developed where the main research focuses on studying the movement of groundwater and contaminants in aquifers, and quantifying the effect of chemical reactions between the rocks and water. Recently, great efforts have been made to adapt similar models for petroleum applications where multiphase flow is experienced in the subsurface reservoirs. In such systems, thermodynamic and chemical equilibrium is key in establishing an accurate description of the states of the fluids existing in the reservoir. This paper presents a detailed and comprehensive review on the concepts of geochemical modeling, and how it can be mathematically adapted to petroleum multiphase flow problems in porous media. We introduce key physical concepts outlining the treatment of chemical reactions in experimental trials and then explain in detail how a network of chemical reactions can be modeled mathematically for numerical simulation applications. The steps of characterizing the physical behavior of the fluid flow—through a set of governing equations by either natural or molar variables formulations, and the methodology to simplify and incorporate the numerical algorithms into an existing reservoir simulation scheme are shown as well. We finally present two numerical cases from the literature to highlight the key variations between the different variable formulations and comment on the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.
Nano-platinum additives ball milled with hollow carbon spheres for mechanical tensile promotion of 2212- Pb1+x(HCNs/Pt)xBiSr2CaCu2O8 superconductor
Authors: Elsabawy Khaled M. , Fallatah Ahmed M. , Owidah Zeid O.
Published: March 2021

In the present investigations platinum nano-particles in range of ≤ 20 nm were carefully ball milled with nominal composition of hollow carbon nano-spheres to apply as a softener ductile mechanical tensile promoter for 2212-PBSCCO superconductor. The samples with general formula Pb1+x(HCNs/Pt)xBiSr2CaCu2O8 where (x = 0.1,0.2 and 0.4 mol) were carefully synthesized via solid state reaction route with a certain thermal treatment cycle involving, annealing step at 865 °C for 20 h. The mechanical tensile strength measurements for the sample with x = 0.4 mol from CNs/Pt achieved maximum mechanical tensile strength value of 45.77 MPa., with promotion ratio ~ 21.08% in contrast with pure-sample x = 0 with mechanical tensile of 37.8 MPa. Furthermore, the additions of (HCNs/Pt) does not damage the whole superconductivity on the investigated range (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4 mol). Results indicated that, the additions of (HCNs/Pt) had a remarkable, suppressing the Tc-values to Tc-offset = 62.2 K for the sample with maximum additive ratio x = 0.4 mol.
Seismic observations of a complex firn structure across the Amery Ice Shelf, East Antarctica
Authors: Hollmann Hannes , Treverrow Adam , Peters Leo E. , Reading Anya M. , Kulessa Bernd
Published: March 2021

We use seismic refraction data to investigate the firn structure across a suture zone on the Amery Ice Shelf, East Antarctica, and the possible role of glacier dynamics in firn evolution. In the downstream direction, the data reveal decreasing compressional-wave velocities and increasing penetration depth of the propagating wave in the firn layer, consistent with$\sim$1 m firn thickening every 6 km. The boundary between the Lambert Glacier unit to the west and a major suture zone and the Mawson Escarpment Ice Stream unit to the east, is marked by differences in firn thicknesses, compressional-wave velocities and seismic anisotropy in the across-flow direction. The latter does not contradict the presence of a single-maximum crystal orientation fabric oriented 45–$90^{\circ }$away from the flow direction. This is consistent with the presence of transverse simple shear governing the region's underlying ice flow regime, in association with elevated strain along the suture zone. The confirmation and quantification of the implied dynamic coupling between firn and the underlying ice requires integration of future seismic refraction, coring and modelling studies. Because firn is estimated to cover$\sim$98% of the Antarctic continent any such coupling may have widespread relevance to ice-sheet evolution and flow.
Do Stereotypes Explain Discrimination Against Minority Candidates or Discrimination in Favor of Majority Candidates?
Authors: Portmann Lea
Published: March 2021

Scholars have examined the role that negative stereotypes play in electoral discrimination against minority candidates. Incorporating literature on in-group favoritism, the author argues here that some degree of this discrimination can be explained instead by voters holding positive stereotypes of majority candidates and discriminating in their favor. Based on the results of an original moderation-of-process survey experiment carried out in Italy, the study provides evidence of electoral discrimination pertaining to immigrant-origin candidates, concentrated among right-wing citizens. It finds that stereotypes have little mediating effect on discriminationagainstcandidates with a migration background; rather, the primary role played by stereotypes is in discriminationin favor ofmajority candidates, that is, positive bias that reserves electoral benefits to them. The relevance of in-group favoritism is corroborated by the finding that large segments of the Italian voting population hold distinctively positive stereotypes of majority candidates without also negatively stereotyping immigrant-origin candidates.
Saccharomyces boulardiireduces the vertical transmission ofToxocara canislarvae in mice
Authors: Cruz L.A.X. , Hirsch C.D. , de Moura M.Q. , de Avila L.F.C. , Martins L.H.R. , Klafke G.B. , Conceição F.R. , Berne M.E.A. , Scaini C.J.
Published: March 2021

Probiotics have been shown to reduce the intensity ofToxocara canisinfection in mice. However, larval transmission of this nematode also occurs via transplacental and transmammary routes. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of theSaccharomyces boulardiiprobiotic on the vertical transmission ofT.canisin Swiss mice. The mice received 107S.boulardiicolony-forming units per gram of food. The supplementation began 15 days before mating and was maintained throughout pregnancy and lactation. The animals were inoculated with 300T.canisembryonated eggs on the 14th day of pregnancy. The presence of larvae was examined in the organs of the females and their offspring. The examined organs included the following: brain, liver, lungs, heart, kidneys, spleen, eye, skeletal muscle (carcass) and mammary glands of lactating females. There was a 42% (P= 0.041) reduction in the number of larvae transmitted to offspring in the group that received probiotic-supplemented food (GI). Additionally, there was a 50% reduction (P= 0.023) in the number of larvae found in the brains of lactating offspring in the GI group. These results reveal the potential ofS.boulardiiprobiotic use as an auxiliary method of controlling visceral toxocariasis.
Diagnostic yield of computed tomography in the evaluation of unilateral vocal fold palsy
Authors: Chew H S , Goh J C G , Tham D Y A
Published: March 2021

Background

There is a paucity of Asian-based data regarding the diagnostic yield of computed tomography imaging in the initial assessment of idiopathic unilateral vocal fold palsy.

Objectives

To investigate the diagnostic yield of computed tomography in idiopathic unilateral vocal fold palsy cases in an Asian tertiary hospital, and to determine the causative pathologies and positive predictive factors.

Method

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients (between 2010 and 2018) with a clinical diagnosis of idiopathic unilateral vocal fold palsy who underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the neck and chest at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.

Results

The overall computed tomography diagnostic yield was 21 per cent, with malignancy accounting for 63.6 per cent of diagnoses. Degree of vocal fold weakness was the only significant predictor of positive computed tomography findings (11.5 per cent in vocal fold paresis vs 29.1 per cent in vocal fold paralysis, p = 0.025). None of the patients with negative computed tomography findings went on to develop disease after a mean follow up of 14.3 months.

Conclusion

Computed tomography is a useful initial investigation for idiopathic unilateral vocal fold palsy, particularly in cases with vocal fold paralysis.
Fluorescent protein expression in temperature tolerant and susceptible reef-building corals
Authors: Dizon Exequiel Gabriel S. , Da-Anoy Jeric P. , Roth Melissa S. , Conaco Cecilia
Published: March 2021

Fluorescent proteins (FPs) are reported to play an important role as photoprotectants and antioxidants in corals subjected to stressful conditions. Identifying the various FP genes expressed and FP gene expression patterns under stress in diverse coral species can provide insight into FP function. In this study, we identified 16 putative FP homologues from the transcriptomes of corals with varying susceptibility to elevated temperature, includingAcropora digitifera,Favites colemani,Montipora digitataandSeriatopora caliendrum. Each coral expressed a different complement of FP transcripts, which were predicted to have distinct spectral properties. The most diverse and abundant repertoire of FP transcripts, including at least 6 green FPs, were expressed in the temperature-tolerant coral,F. colemani. In comparison, the other corals expressed fewer FP types. Specific FP transcripts exhibited variable expression profiles in coral fragments subjected to 32 ± 1 °C (treatment) or 28 ± 1 °C (control) for up to 72 h, suggesting that distinct FPs may have different roles. Further studies on the expression of the proteins encoded by these FP transcripts, their fluorescence activity, tissue localization, and possible antioxidant properties, are needed to reveal their contribution to thermal stress tolerance in certain species of corals.
Perceived major experiences of discrimination, ethnic group, and risk of psychosis in a six-country case−control study
Authors: Misra Supriya , Gelaye Bizu , Williams David R. , Koenen Karestan C. , Borba Christina P.C. , Quattrone Diego , Di Forti Marta , Tripoli Giada , La Cascia Caterina , La Barbera Daniele , Ferraro Laura , Tarricone Ilaria , Berardi Domenico , Lasalvia Antonio , Tosato Sarah , Szöke Andrei , Llorca Pierre-Michel , Arango Celso , Tortelli Andrea , de Haan Lieuwe , Velthorst Eva , Bobes Julio , Bernardo Miguel , Sanjuán Julio , Santos Jose Luis , Arrojo Manuel , Del-Ben Cristina Marta , Menezes Paulo Rossi , Selten Jean-Paul , Jones Peter B. , Jongsma Hannah E. , Kirkbride James B. , Rutten Bart P.F. , van Os Jim , Murray Robin M. , Gayer-Anderson Charlotte , Morgan Craig
Published: March 2021

Background

Perceived discrimination is associated with worse mental health. Few studies have assessed whether perceived discrimination (i) is associated with the risk of psychotic disorders and (ii) contributes to an increased risk among minority ethnic groups relative to the ethnic majority.

Methods

We used data from the European Network of National Schizophrenia Networks Studying Gene-Environment Interactions Work Package 2, a population-based case−control study of incident psychotic disorders in 17 catchment sites across six countries. We calculated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the associations between perceived discrimination and psychosis using mixed-effects logistic regression models. We used stratified and mediation analyses to explore differences for minority ethnic groups.

Results

Reporting any perceived experience of major discrimination (e.g. unfair treatment by police, not getting hired) was higher in cases than controls (41.8% v. 34.2%). Pervasive experiences of discrimination (≥3 types) were also higher in cases than controls (11.3% v. 5.5%). In fully adjusted models, the odds of psychosis were 1.20 (95% CI 0.91–1.59) for any discrimination and 1.79 (95% CI 1.19–1.59) for pervasive discrimination compared with no discrimination. In stratified analyses, the magnitude of association for pervasive experiences of discrimination appeared stronger for minority ethnic groups (OR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.12–2.68) than the ethnic majority (OR = 1.42, 95% CI 0.65–3.10). In exploratory mediation analysis, pervasive discrimination minimally explained excess risk among minority ethnic groups (5.1%).

Conclusions

Pervasive experiences of discrimination are associated with slightly increased odds of psychotic disorders and may minimally help explain excess risk for minority ethnic groups.
Apolipoprotein E e4 allele status and later-life depression in the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936
Authors: Iveson Matthew H. , Taylor Adele , Harris Sarah E. , Deary Ian J. , McIntosh Andrew M.
Published: March 2021

Background

Previous results have been mixed regarding the role of the apolipoprotein E e4 (APOE e4) allele in later-life depression: some studies note that carriers experience greater symptoms and increased risk while others find no such association. However, there are few prospective, population-based studies of the APOE e4-depression association and fewer that examine depressive symptom trajectory and depression risk longitudinally. We examined the association between APOE e4 allele status and longitudinal change in depressive symptoms and depression risk in later-life, over a 12-year follow-up period.

Methods

We used data from 690 participants of the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936 who took part in the Scottish Mental Survey 1947 (aged 11) and were followed-up in later-life over five waves from 2004 to 2019 (aged 70–82). We used APOE e4 allele status to predict longitudinal change in depressive symptom scores and risk of depression (defined by a symptom score threshold or use of depression-related medication). Models were adjusted for sex, childhood cognitive ability, childhood social class, education, adult social class, smoking status and functional limitations at baseline.

Results

Depressive symptom scores increased with age. Once adjusted for covariates, APOE e4 allele status did not significantly predict symptom score trajectories or depression risk. Greater functional limitations at baseline significantly predicted poorer symptom score trajectories and increased depression risk (defined by medications). APOE e4 allele status did not significantly moderate the contribution of sex, education or functional limitations.

Conclusions

There was no evidence that APOE e4 carriers experience an increased risk for later-life depression.
Seabird bycatch vulnerability in pelagic longline fisheries based on modelling of a long-term dataset
Authors: ZHOU CAN , BROTHERS NIGEL
Published: March 2021

The incidental mortality of seabirds in fisheries remains a serious global concern. Obtaining unbiased and accurate estimates of bycatch rates is a priority for seabird bycatch mitigation and demographic research. For measuring the capture risk of seabird interactions in fisheries, the rate of carcass retrieval from hauled gear is commonly used. However, reliability can be limited by a lack of direct capture observations and the substantial pre-haul bycatch losses known to occur, meaning incidence of seabird bycatch is underestimated. To solve this problem, a new measure (bycatch vulnerability) that links an observed interaction directly to the underlying capture event is proposed to represent the capture risk of fishery interactions by seabirds. The new measure is not affected by subsequent bycatch loss. To illustrate how to estimate and analyse bycatch vulnerability, a case study based on a long-term dataset of seabird interactions and capture confirmation is provided. Bayesian modelling and hypothesis testing were conducted to identify important bycatch risk factors. Competition was found to play a central role in determining seabird bycatch vulnerability. More competitive environments were riskier for seabirds, and larger and thus more competitive species were more at risk than smaller sized and less competitive species. Species foraging behaviour also played a role. On the other hand, no additional effect of physical oceanic condition and spatio-temporal factors on bycatch vulnerability was detected. Bycatch vulnerability is recommended as a replacement for the commonly used bycatch rate or carcass retrieval rate to measure the capture risk of an interaction. Combined with a normalized contact rate, bycatch vulnerability offers an unbiased estimate of seabird bycatch rate in pelagic longline fisheries.
‘Vacant Geelong’ and its lingering industrial architecture
Authors: Lozanovska Mirjana , Nakai Kidd Akari
Published: March 2021

Once a prosperous manufacturing town, Geelong in Victoria, Australia is undergoing a process of deindustrialisation and, in turn, redefining its identity to better retain viability in a globalised world. For instance, the town bid to host a Guggenheim museum on its Eastern Beach shore at the turn of the millennium, and has recently become a UNESCO City of Design (2017). Like so many declining regional industrial towns, Geelong has been undercut by the new economic forces, and has sought a new identity in cultural economies. The ‘Vacant Geelong’ project, which began at Deakin University in 2015 and is ongoing, evolved as a response to vacant industrial architecture in Geelong. Major industries including Ford (vehicles), Alcoa (aluminium), timber sawmills, wool mills, Pilkington Glass, cement works, and the oil refinery once defined the town and its history as an industrial architectural landscape.1 Major industries transformed the architectural and cultural terrain. Despite these cycles of transformation and erasure, and counter to a progressive and chronological approach to change, the ‘Vacant Geelong’ project explored this vacancy of industrial operation, yet presence of industrial architecture. Through inscriptions – artworks, design projects, creative research, installations, texts – it addressed those material realities that did not leave, the industrial structures – silos, ducts, chimneys, warehouses – that give Geelong its continuing industrial architectural character.
Body composition during the first 4 months in infants affected by neonatal abstinence syndrome: a pilot study
Authors: Corr Tammy E. , Schaefer Eric W. , Paul Ian M.
Published: March 2021

Newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) display symptoms related to neurologic excitability and autonomic dysfunction that result in increased metabolic demands. These infants also exhibit feeding difficulties and/or hyperphagia. Because the effects of these symptoms and behaviors on growth are unknown, we sought to measure serial body composition measurements over the first 4 months in infants with NAS requiring pharmacologic treatment using air displacement plethysmography. Fourteen infants of singleton birth with appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) weight and a gestational age of ≥35 weeks and <42 weeks were evaluated. In mixed-effects models, per week, infants increased in mean fat percent by 1.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–1.43), fat mass by 90 g (CI: 70–100), and fat-free mass by 140 g (CI: 130–150). The subgroup of infants (N = 5) requiring multidrug therapy for symptom control had lower mean fat percent (−1.2%, CI: −5.2–2.1), fat mass (−60 g, CI: −25–13), and fat-free mass (−270 g, CI: −610–80) across time compared to infants requiring monotherapy. We are the first to report how body composition measures change over time in a small group of patients with NAS. Infants with NAS were smaller and leaner in the first several weeks compared to previously reported body composition measurements in term infants, but grew similarly to their healthy counterparts by 16 weeks. Infants with more severe NAS may be at risk for abnormalities in longer term growth.
Choice of Pedotransfer Functions Matters when Simulating Soil Water Balance Fluxes
Authors: Weihermüller Lutz , Lehmann Peter , Herbst Michael , Rahmati Mehdi , Verhoef Anne , Or Dani , Jacques Diederick , Vereecken Harry
Published: March 2021

Modeling of the land surface water‐, energy‐, and carbon balance provides insight into the behavior of the Earth System, under current and future conditions. Currently, there exists a substantial variability between model outputs, for a range of model types, whereby differences between model input parameters could be an important reason. For large‐scale land surface, hydrological, and crop models, soil hydraulic properties (SHP) are required as inputs, which are estimated from pedotransfer functions (PTFs). To analyze the functional sensitivity of widely used PTFs, the water fluxes for different scenarios using HYDRUS‐1D were simulated and predictions compared. The results showed that using different PTFs causes substantial variability in predicted fluxes. In addition, an in‐depth analysis of the soil SHPs and derived soil characteristics was performed to analyze why the SHPs estimated from the different PTFs cause the model to behave differently.

The results obtained provide guidelines for the selection of PTFs in large scale models. The model performance in terms of numerical stability, time‐integrated behavior of cumulative fluxes, as well as instantaneous fluxes was evaluated, in order to compare the suitability of the PTFs. Based on this, the Rosetta, Wösten, and Tóth PTF seem to be the most robust PTFs for the Mualem van Genuchten SHPs and the PTF of Cosby for the Brooks Corey functions. Based on our findings, we strongly recommend to harmonize the PTFs used in model inter‐comparison studies to avoid artifacts originating from the choice of PTF rather from different model structures.
Uncovering Patterns in California’s Blazing Wildfires
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: March 2021

A study of trends in wildfire occurrence over the past 30 years shows that environmental, climatic, and human-related factors can point out regions with high fire probabilities.