bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Granular Pneumocytes: Electron Microscopic Evidence of Their Exocrinic Function
Authors: Bensch K. , Schaefer K. , Avery M. E.
Published: October 2021

The contents of the lamellar bodies of granular pneumocytes are normally released into the alveolar lumen. Exposure of guinea pigs to an atmosphere containing carbon dioxide causes the formation of abnormal lamellar bodies and a significant increase in the pulmonary surface tension. The eventual return to a normal pulmonary surface tension coincides with the formation of normal lamellar bodies.
Mycotoxins: Aflatoxin Isolated from
Penicillium puberulum
Authors: Hodges F. Allen , Zust James R. , Smith Howard R. , Nelson A. A. , Armbrecht B. H. , Campbell A. D.
Published: October 2021

Penicillium puberulum
Bainer was found growing on a sample of moldy peanuts. It also grows on shredded wheat, potatoes, and laboratory culture media such as wort, potato dextrose, and Sabouraud agars, and synthesizes aflatoxin on these substrates. Thin-layer chromatograms of the chloroform-soluble toxin produced by the mold when grown on shredded wheat show fluorescent bands with R
F
values identical with those of the fractions B
1
, B
2
, G
1
, and G
2
of the toxin produced by
Aspergillus flavus
. This extract produces typical bile duct proliferation type of liver damage in 2- to 3-day-old Peking white ducklings.
Reduction of Cardiac Stores of Norepinephrine in Experimental Heart Failure
Authors: Spann James F. , Chidsey Charles A. , Braunwald Eugene
Published: October 2021

Constriction of the ascending aorta in the guinea pig resulted in ventricular hypertrophy and congestive heart failure. In animals with heart failure which were killed 5 to 40 days after constriction, the norepinephrine stores in both ventricles were strikingly reduced; the extent of reduction was related to the severity of the constriction.
Paleontologic Technique for Defining Ancient Ocean Currents
Authors: Stehli F. G.
Published: October 2021

Subtraction from the new data, of a quadratic surface fitted to the taxonomic diversity data of recent planktonic foraminifera yields a residual surface closely related to ocean current systems. This technique could be applied to fossil materials to develop knowledge of ocean circulation patterns during glacial and interglacial climatic episodes.
Nature of the Excitatory Sarcoplasmic Reticular Junction
Authors: Hoyle Graham
Published: October 2021

The appositional regions between the surface membrane and sarcoplasmic reticulum in insects, decapod crustaceans, and barnacles are largely diadic and show a four-layered structure which is roughly circular in surface view. Each consists of the 56-angstrom double-membrane of the intermediary (here called excitatory) element, and the 75-Å double-membrane of the cisternal element of the reticulum, separated by a space of about 100 Å. A sheet of electron-dense material is found between the two elements, giving the superficial appearance of an additional membrane. The orbits of thin filaments around the thick filaments adjacent to both excitatory and reticular elements are incomplete on the contact side. Regularly spaced bridges connect the thick filaments with both the excitatory elements and cisternal elements and hold the diads in place during stretch and contraction.
Clostridium botulinum
Type F from Marine Sediments
Authors: Eklund Melvin W. , Poysky Frank
Published: October 2021

Clostridium botulinum
Type F has been demonstrated in two samples of marine sediments. One sample was taken 83 kilometers off the coast of California; the other, 100 kilometers off the coast of Oregon. Cultures of this type have not been reported previously in the United States, and only once before in the whole world.
Infrared Spectra from Fine Particulate Surfaces
Authors: Aronson J. R. , Emslie A. G. , McLinden H. G.
Published: October 2021

Characteristic spectral information can be obtained from a surface composed of fine particles either if the spectrum is observed at sufficiently high signal-to-noise ratio or if the particles are well compacted.
Isotope Separation by Thermal Diffusion in Liquid Metal
Authors: Ott Aadu
Published: October 2021

Isotopic enrichment of several percent has been obtained in liquid lithium metal by applying a temperature gradient over a single-stage separation column. For other metals the method should have the highest efficiency, if these have low melting points and are liquids over a wide temperature range.
Sexual Reproduction in
Candida lipolytica
Authors: Wickerham Lyferd J. , Kurtzman Cletus P. , Herman Alberta I.
Published: October 2021

Candida lipolytica
is a rather common yeast isolated more frequently from substrates containing lipids or proteins, such as dairy products, than from substrates rich in sugars. This species assimilates hydrocarbons and is currently being studied for its potential to convert petroleum into yeast cells for use in feeds and foods. We have found
C. lipolytica
to exist in nature primarily in the heterothallic haploid state. When appropriate strains of opposite sex are mixed on a suitable sporulation medium, conjugation occurs followed by the production of ascospores. Since heterothallism permits laboratory control of hybridization, this characteristic of
C. lipolytica
enhances the possibility of improving its strains for technological uses.
Isolation of a G protein that is modified by learning and reduces potassium currents in Hermissenda
Authors: Nelson TJ , Collin C , Alkon DL
Published: October 2021

In Hermissenda crassicornis conditioned to associate light and rotation, type B photoreceptor neurons exhibit pairing-specific decreases in the potassium currents IA and IK-Ca, which account for many of the behavioral changes elicited by associative conditioning. To determine which proteins are involved in storage of this memory, high-performance liquid chromatography was used to examine proteins from Hermissenda eyes. Conditioning-specific changes in four phosphoproteins were observed 24 hours after conditioning. One of these proteins, cp20, was purified to apparent homogeneity and found to be a G protein. When injected back into Hermissenda type B cells, cp20 reduced IK and IK-Ca in a manner indistinguishable from the reduction caused by conditioning, suggesting that this protein may play a crucial role in memory acquisition or retention.
New Skull Turns Up in Northeast Africa
Authors: Morell Virginia
Published: October 2021

A new area for exploring human origins may be opening up. Three weeks ago, in the Danakil Desert of Eritrea, a team of Eritrean and Italian scientists unearthed a well-preserved hominid skull and other fossils dating to about 2 million years ago. Although the skull's precise identity is still shrouded in sand and stone, researchers think it could be
Homo erectus
; in any event, it is the first hominid found in the region.
Cave Structure Boosts Neandertal Image
Authors: Balter Michael
Published: October 2021

An enigmatic structure found hundreds of meters from the entrance to a cave in southern France implies that Neandertals were active in a realm—the depths of caves—that only modern humans were thought to have frequented. Made of pieces of stalactite and stalagmite, the structure dates from 47,600 years ago, well before modern humans arrived in Europe. Its construction so far from daylight would have required a sophisticated use of fire, something researchers have generally not attributed to the Neandertals.
Care Guide Gives Labs More Freedom
Authors: Roush Wade
Published: October 2021

Boston—The Bible of lab animal care—the Guide for the Care and Use of
Laboratory Animals
—came out with a new scriptural interpretation last week, unveiled at a conference in Boston. The revision, the first to the powerful guide since 1985, allows researchers to alter old standards for space allotments and cage construction to focus instead on enhancing animals' sense of “wel-being”—for example, housing playful animals such as cats and chimpanzees in multilevel cages with plenty to distract them. Researchers welcomed the changes, but many in the animal-welfare movement object, saying the new guidelines are subjective and difficult to enforce.
DOE to Industry: So Long, Partner
Authors: Lawler Andrew
Published: October 2021

A program to connect the Department of Energy's (DOE's) weapons labs with industry is in a shambles after Congress decided it strayed from the labs' primary mission to defend the country. The resulting sharp drop in funding has forced lab officials to terminate or cut back on so-called Cooperative Research and Development Agreements, angering companies that had entered into such partnerships. Energy officials concede that they may have gone too far in touting the value of such arrangements, but lab managers say that they haven't given up on the concept of working with industry.
The Term Protein
Authors: Levene P. A.
Published: October 2021

The article on "The Revolt of the Biochemists" by me published July 10th in SCIENCE contained the following statement: In 1860 the term "protein" was introduced by Mulder....

It should read: In 1839....

The author overlooked the error and is indebted to Professor Lafayette B. Mendel for having called his attention to it.
A Correction
Authors: Murphy Robert Cushman
Published: October 2021

In my review of Professor Pearse's book, "The Migrations of Animals from Sea to Land," I questioned the statement that "most species of salmon die after spawning." Such doubt, however, appears to be unjustified, for the adults of the five Pacific species of
Oncorhynchus
do not return to the ocean after their upstream reproductive migration. Only to the Atlantic salmon (
Salmo salar
), the two land-locked forms (
sebago
and
ouananiche
) and the steelhead salmon (
gairdnerii
) of the Columbia River, etc., would the objection apply.
Two Corrections
Authors: Wilder B. G.
Published: October 2021

My attention has just been called to this paragraph in SCIENCE, June 3, 1898, p. 784, foot of column two:

"
Erratum
: In the review of Wilder's System of Nomenclature, p. 716, col. I, line 5, for 'chippocamp' read 'hippocamp.' "

This prompt public correction renders needless and unjust the commentary upon the subject in my address last December before the Association of American Anatomists (
Proceedings
, p. 33, and SCIENCE, April 21, 1899, p. 577), and I deplore my non-acquaintance with it up to the present time. Since none of those who heard my address reminded me of the 'Erratum,' it seems to have been overlooked by them also.

In this connection, may properly be corrected a typographical error in the address itself (
Proceedings
, p. 16, and SCIENCE, April 21, 1899, p. 566, note, title 6); the date of publication of the 'Review' in SCIENCE should be May 20th, not 28th.

These corrections will be incorporated in the Proceedings and sent to those who receive copies of SCIENCE from me.
Iroquoian Etymologies
Authors: Hewitt J. N. B.
Published: October 2021

I wish to make a correction. In my article (
Science
, April 17, 1891), instead of the word rati
kowaněñ
, on p. 219, second column, at the end of the first paragraph, read rati
kowaněñ's
. This error was perhaps due to an oversight of the copyist in transcribing with a typewriter from my script notes, and overlooked in revision.
NLRP3 inflammasome activation triggers gasdermin D–independent inflammation
Authors: Wang Chun , Yang Tong , Xiao Jianqiu , Xu Canxin , Alippe Yael , Sun Kai , Kanneganti Thirumala-Devi , Monahan Joseph B. , Abu-Amer Yousef , Lieberman Judy , Mbalaviele Gabriel
Published: October 2021

Sustained stimulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome causes inflammation in the absence of GSDMD.
An Efficient Interaction Protocol Inference Scheme for Incompatible Updates in IoT Environments
Authors: Son Heesuk , Lee Dongman
Published: October 2021

Incompatible updates of IoT systems and protocols give rise to interoperability problems. Even though various protocol adaptation and unknown protocol inference schemes have been proposed, they either do not work where the updated protocol specifications are not given or suffer from inefficiency issues. In this work, we present an efficient protocol inference scheme for incompatible updates in IoT environments. The scheme refines an active automata learning algorithm, L*, by incorporating a knowledge base of the legacy protocol behavior into its membership query selection procedure for updated protocol behavior inference. It also infers protocol syntax based on our previous work that computes the most probable message field updates and adapts the legacy protocol message accordingly. We evaluate the proposed scheme with two case studies with the most popular IoT protocols and prove that it infers updated protocols efficiently while improving the L* algorithm’s performance for resolving the incompatibility.
Improved Time Domain Substructural Damage Identification Method on Large‐Span Spatial Structure
Authors: Yang Taoyuan , Liu Kun , Nie Guibo
Published: October 2021

The large‐span spatial structure is a complex structural type with large number of elements, which makes health monitoring difficult. A time domain global substructural identification method was proposed in this paper to identify the local damage for the large‐span spatial structure. The proposed method was an improvement method based on the time domain substructural identification method, which can identify the damage with a reduced structural model, and explicit force identification method, which can give convergent force identification result with incomplete response measurements, and it can assess one or more target substructures without knowing the conditions of the other parts of the structure. The application of the new method to large‐span spatial structure was presented, and then an improved global method was proposed to further reduce the computation time and promote it in practice. Two orthogonal spatial square pyramid grid structure models are constructed to validate the time domain global substructural method and the improved global method. The results show that the time domain global substructural damage identification method identifies the small local damage in multiple members with satisfactory accuracy and the improved global method effectively shortens identification time.
Traffic Game Model with the Contract Model
Authors: Zhang Lin , Liu Xinquan
Published: October 2021

To distribute the right-of-way of intersection reasonably, the game model between each adjacent agent was obtained through agent technology. The Nash equilibrium model to measure the negotiation effects was proposed, and the existence of the Nash equilibrium solution was proved. We obtained the game equilibrium solution between each adjacent agent and thus got the equilibrium price (cost) in the network. According to the equilibrium price, travelers will choose the best path in transportation networks by adopting the path strategy with the minimum cost or fuzzy-comparison strategy. The results indicate that the contract mode algorithm makes signal control of each intersection coordinated and unified and shows subjective initiative of traffic control and management fully. The contract-based algorithm combining the management initiatives with the driver’s rational behavior will make the control effectiveness of the road network system increase by 55.58%. Hence, it is an effective measurement for studying coordination between system optimality and user optimality.
A New Heat Dissipation Model and Convective Two-Phase Nanofluid in Brittle Medium Flow over a Cone
Authors: Hussain Azad , Haider Qusain , Rehman Aysha , Abdussattar Aishah , Y Malik M.
Published: October 2021

A time-dependent convectional flow of a two-phase nanofluid over a rotating cone with the impact of heat and mass rates is elaborated in this article. The instability in the flow field is induced by the cone angular velocity that depends on the time. The Navier–Stokes self-similar solution and the energy equations are obtained numerically. Here, the achieved solution is not only for Navier–Stokes equations but also for the equations of the boundary layers. In this work, the concentration, Brownian motion, and thermal buoyancy effects have important significance. We have assumed viscous dissipation with heat-absorbing fluid. Similarity answers for spinning cones with divider temperature boundary conditions give an arrangement of nonlinear differential conditions that have been handled numerically. The MATLAB methodology BVP4C is used to resolve the reduced structure of nonlinear differential equations numerically. Observation for skin friction and Nusselt number is also taken into account. Velocity and temperature impact is depicted graphically, while the outward shear stress values and heat allocation rate are included in tables.
Dynamic Response Study of Impulsive Force of Debris Flow Evaluation and Flexible Retaining Structure Based on SPH‐DEM‐FEM Coupling
Authors: Li Bailong , Wang Changming , Li Yanying , Zhang Shuhua
Published: October 2021

Flexible retaining structure is demonstrated to be an effective measure for debris flow prevention in mountainous areas, which can effectively separate water and stone, reduce particle mass, and dissipate kinetic energy. In order to explore the impulsive force and dynamic response of flexible retaining structure impacted by solid‐liquid two‐phase debris flow, a complex dynamic interaction model of particle‐fluid‐structure has been established by employing the SPH‐DEM‐FEM coupling numerical analysis method. In the present study, the process, impulse force, and dynamic response of a flexible retaining structure subjected to debris flow under different slopes were investigated, respectively. The numerical results are compared with those of the calculation formula of the peak impulsive force of the semiempirical debris flow. Meanwhile, the effectiveness of the coupling numerical simulation is verified. The simulation results show that the coupled SPH‐DEM‐FEM numerical analysis method can visualise the impact of the solid‐liquid two‐phase debris flow on the flexible retaining structure, reproducing the impact, retaining, water‐stone separation, climbing, silting, and deposition process of debris flow. The dynamic time‐history curve of the coupling numerical analysis method for the flexible retaining structure is consistent with the results of the existing literature. The debris flow evaluation results of flexible retaining structure impacted by solid‐liquid two‐phase debris flow are in an order of magnitude with the empirical formula results. Moreover, the results are reliable. The obtained results have a certain reference value for the study on the impulsive force and dynamic response of the flexible retaining structure impacted by solid‐liquid two‐phase debris flow and the engineering design of the flexible retaining structure.
Salt‐Sensitive Hypertension, Renal Injury, and Renal Vasodysfunction Associated With Dahl Salt‐Sensitive Rats Are Abolished in Consomic SS.BN1 Rats
Authors: Potter Jacqueline C. , Whiles Shannon A. , Miles Conor B. , Whiles Jenna B. , Mitchell Mark A. , Biederman Brianna E. , Dawoud Febronia M. , Breuel Kevin F. , Williamson Geoffrey A. , Picken Maria M. , Polichnowski Aaron J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Abnormal renal hemodynamic responses to salt‐loading are thought to contribute to salt‐sensitive (SS) hypertension. However, this is based largely on studies in anesthetized animals, and little data are available in conscious SS and salt‐resistant rats.

Methods and Results

We assessed arterial blood pressure, renal function, and renal blood flow during administration of a 0.4% NaCl and a high‐salt (4.0% NaCl) diet in conscious, chronically instrumented 10‐ to 14‐week‐old Dahl SS and consomic SS rats in which chromosome 1 from the salt‐resistant Brown‐Norway strain was introgressed into the genome of the SS strain (SS.BN1). Three weeks of high salt intake significantly increased blood pressure (20%) and exacerbated renal injury in SS rats. In contrast, the increase in blood pressure (5%) was similarly attenuated in Brown‐Norway and SS.BN1 rats, and both strains were completely protected against renal injury. In SS.BN1 rats, 1 week of high salt intake was associated with a significant decrease in renal vascular resistance (−8%) and increase in renal blood flow (15%). In contrast, renal vascular resistance failed to decrease, and renal blood flow remained unchanged in SS rats during high salt intake. Finally, urinary sodium excretion and glomerular filtration rate were similar between SS and SS.BN1 rats during 0.4% NaCl and high salt intake.

Conclusions

Our data support the concept that renal vasodysfunction contributes to blood pressure salt sensitivity in Dahl SS rats, and that genes on rat chromosome 1 play a major role in modulating renal hemodynamic responses to salt loading and salt‐induced hypertension.
Key Factors in Decision Making for ECLS: A Binational Factorial Survey
Authors: Drewniak Daniel , Brandi Giovanna , Buehler Philipp Karl , Steiger Peter , Hagenbuch Niels , Stamm-Balderjahn Sabine , Schenk Liane , Rosca Ana , Krones Tanja
Published: October 2021

Background

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) provides support to patients with cardiopulmonary failure refractory to conventional therapy. While ECLS is potentially life-saving, it is associated with severe complications; decision making to initiate ECLS must, therefore, carefully consider which patients ECLS potentially benefits despite its consequences.

Objective

To answer 2 questions: First, which medically relevant patient factors influence decisions to initiate ECLS? Second, what are factors relevant to decisions to withdraw a running ECLS treatment?

Methods

We conducted a factorial survey among 420 physicians from 111 hospitals in Switzerland and Germany. The study included 2 scenarios: 1 explored willingness to initiate ECLS, and 1 explored willingness to withdraw a running ECLS treatment. Each participant responded to 5 different vignettes for each scenario. Vignettes were analyzed using mixed-effects regression models with random intercepts.

Results

Factors in the vignettes such as patients’ age, treatment costs, therapeutic goal, comorbidities, and neurological outcome significantly influenced the decision to initiate ECLS. When it came to the decision to withdraw ECLS, patients’ age, days on ECLS, criteria for discontinuation, condition of the patient, comorbidities, and neurological outcome were significant factors. In both scenarios, patients’ age and neurological outcome were the most influential factors.

Conclusions

This study provided insights into physicians’ decision making processes about ECLS initiation and withdrawal. Patients’ age and neurological status were the strongest factors influencing decisions regarding initiation of ECLS as well as for ECLS withdrawal. The findings may contribute to a more refined understanding of complex decision making for ECLS.
Association mapping of drought tolerance and agronomic traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.) landraces
Authors: Beena Radha , Kirubakaran Silvas , Nithya Narayanan , Manickavelu Alagu , Sah Rameshwar Prasad , Abida Puthenpeedikal Salim , Sreekumar Janardanan , Jaslam Poolakkal Muhammed , Rejeth Rajendrakumar , Jayalekshmy Vijayalayam Gengamma , Roy Stephen , Manju Ramakrishnan Vimala , Viji Mariasoosai Mary , Siddique Kadambot H. M.
Published: October 2021

Background

Asian cultivars were predominantly represented in global rice panel selected for sequencing and to identify novel alleles for drought tolerance. Diverse genetic resources adapted to Indian subcontinent were not represented much in spite harboring useful alleles that could improve agronomic traits, stress resilience and productivity. These rice accessions are valuable genetic resource in developing rice varieties suited to different rice ecosystem that experiences varying drought stress level, and at different crop stages. A core collection of rice germplasm adapted to Southwestern Indian peninsular genotyped using SSR markers and characterized by contrasting water regimes to associate genomic regions for physiological, root traits and yield related traits. Genotyping-By-Sequencing of selected accessions within the diverse panel revealed haplotype variation in genic content within genomic regions mapped for physiological, morphological and root traits.

Results

Diverse rice panel (99 accessions) were evaluated in field and measurements on plant physiological, root traits and yield related traits were made over five different seasons experiencing varying drought stress intensity at different crop stages. Traits like chlorophyll stability index, leaf rolling, days to 50% flowering, chlorophyll content, root volume and root biomass were identified as best predictors of grain yield under stress. Association mapping revealed genetic variation among accessions and revealed 14 genomic targets associated with different physiological, root and plant production traits. Certain accessions were found to have beneficial allele to improve traits, plant height, root length and spikelet fertility, that contribute to the grain yield under stress. Genomic characterization of eleven accessions revealed haplotype variation within key genomic targets on chromosomes 1, 4, 6 and 11 for potential use as molecular markers to combine drought avoidance and tolerance traits. Genes mined within the genomic QTL intervals identified were prioritized based on tissue specific expression level in publicly available rice transcriptome data.

Conclusion

The genetic and genomic resources identified will enable combining traits with agronomic value to optimize yield under stress and hasten trait introgression into elite cultivars. Alleles associated with plant height, specific leaf area, root length from PTB8 and spikelet fertility and grain weight from PTB26 can be harnessed in future rice breeding program.
Associations of overweight and gestational diabetes mellitus with free sugars from solid and liquid sources: cross-sectional and nested case-control analyses
Authors: Mussa Joseph , Brazeau Anne-Sophie , Peters Tricia , Dahhou Mourad , Sanmartin Claudia , Ross Nancy , Rahme Elham , Dasgupta Kaberi
Published: October 2021

Background

Sugar-sweetened beverages have obesogenic and diabetogenic effects ascribed to free sugars. These include added sugars and naturally occurring sugars in juices. A meta-analysis indicates that some foods with added sugars are associated with lower type 2 diabetes rates. To expand the evidence relevant to free sugars from solid sources, we examined a young to middle-aged population with respect to overweight and gestational diabetes (GDM) outcomes.

Methods

We studied female participants (12–50 years old) from the 2004–2005 Canadian Community Health Survey 2.2 (CCHS) with data linked to the hospital Discharge Abstract Database (DAD) until 2017, providing 13 years of follow-up. We estimated free sugars by solid and liquid sources from 24-h dietary recalls as percent total energy intake (TE%), and computed body mass index (BMI). We applied ICD-10 diagnostic codes for deliveries and GDM to DAD. We conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses to evaluate associations between free sugars with overweight at baseline (cross-sectional component) and, in those who delivered, with GDM during follow-up (nested case control component). We compared those with consumption above versus below various thresholds of intake for free sugars, considering solid and liquid sources separately (2.TE%, 5TE%, 10TE% and 15TE% thresholds).

Results

Among 6305 participants, 2505 (40%) were overweight, defined as BMI ≥ 85th percentile below 18 years and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 for adults. Free sugars from solid sources were associated with lower odds of overweight above versus below the 2.5TE% (adjusted odds ratio [adjOR] 0.80, 95%CI 0.70–0.92), 5TE% (adjOR 0.89, 95%CI 0.79–0.99), and 10TE% (adjOR 0.86, 95%CI 0.75–0.97) thresholds. Free sugars from liquid sources were associated with greater odds of overweight across the 2.5TE% (adjOR 1.20, 95%CI 1.07–1.36), 10TE% (adjOR 1.17, 95%CI 1.02–1.34), and 15TE% (adjOR 1.43, 95%CI 1.23–1.67) thresholds. There were 113 cases of GDM among the 1842 women who delivered (6.1%). Free sugars from solid sources were associated with lower odds of GDM above versus below the 5TE% threshold (adjOR 0.56, 95%CI 0.36–0.85).

Conclusions

Our findings support limiting free sugars from liquid sources, given associations with overweight. We did not identify adverse associations of free sugars from solid sources across any of the thresholds examined.
Changes in childhood experimentation with, and exposure to, tobacco and e-cigarettes and perceived smoking norms: a repeated cross-sectional study of 10–11 year olds’ in Wales
Authors: Hallingberg Britt , Angel Lianna , Brown Rachel , Copeland Lauren , Gray Linsay , Van Godwin Jordan , Moore Graham
Published: October 2021

Background

Today’s primary school children have grown up in a climate of strong smoking restrictions, decreasing tobacco use, and the emergence of e-cigarettes. Children’s exposure to tobacco declined substantially in years following the introduction of smoke-free legislation, with smoking uptake and perceived smoking norms declining. There is debate regarding whether emergence of e-cigarettes may interrupt trends in children’s smoking perceptions, or offer a means for adults to limit children’s exposure to tobacco. This study examines change in children’s tobacco and e-cigarettes experimentation (ever use), exposure to secondhand smoking and vaping, and perceived smoking norms.

Methods

Data from four, repeat cross-sectional surveys of Year 6 primary school pupils (age 10–11 years) in Wales in 2007, 2008, 2014 and 2019 (n = 6741) were combined. E-cigarette use and perceptions were included in 2014 and 2019 surveys. Analyses used binary logistic regression analyses, adjusted for school-level clustering.

Results

Child tobacco experimentation and most indicators of exposure to tobacco smoke indicated a graded decreasing trend over time from 2007 to 2019. Exposure to e-cigarettes increased from 2014 to 2019, as did pupil awareness of e-cigarettes (OR = 2.56, 95%CI = 2.12–3.10), and parental use (OR = 1.26, 95%CI = 1.00–1.57). A decrease in child e-cigarette experimentation was not significant (OR = 0.80, 95%CI = 0.57–1.13). Children’s normative perceptions for smoking by adults and children indicated a graded decrease over time (OR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.54–0.80; OR = 0.69, 95%CI = 0.55–0.86; respectively from 2014 to 2019). However, fewer reported disapproval of people smoking around them in 2019 relative to 2014 (OR = 0.68, 95%CI = 0.53–0.88). Higher exposure to tobacco cigarettes and e-cigarettes in public places, cars and households were associated with favourable normative perceptions for tobacco smoking; however in models adjusted for exposure to both associations of e-cigarette exposure were attenuated.

Conclusion

Children’s experimentation with and exposure to tobacco, and their perceptions of smoking as a normative behaviour, have continued to decline alongside growth in exposure to e-cigarettes. Although a large majority of pupils reported they minded people smoking around them, there was some evidence of diminishing disapproval of secondhand smoke since 2007. Further research is needed to understand whether use of e-cigarettes in cars and homes is displacing prior smoking or being introduced into environments where smoking had been eliminated.
Development of therapies for rare genetic disorders of GPX4: roadmap and opportunities
Authors: Cheff Dorian M. , Muotri Alysson R. , Stockwell Brent R. , Schmidt Edward E. , Ran Qitao , Kartha Reena V. , Johnson Simon C. , Mittal Plavi , Arnér Elias S. J. , Wigby Kristen M. , Hall Matthew D. , Ramesh Sanath Kumar
Published: October 2021

Background

Extremely rare progressive diseases like Sedaghatian-type Spondylometaphyseal Dysplasia (SSMD) can be neonatally lethal and therefore go undiagnosed or are difficult to treat. Recent sequencing efforts have linked this disease to mutations in GPX4, with consequences in the resulting enzyme, glutathione peroxidase 4. This offers potential diagnostic and therapeutic avenues for those suffering from this disease, though the steps toward these treatments is often convoluted, expensive, and time-consuming.

Main body

The CureGPX4 organization was developed to promote awareness of GPX4-related diseases like SSMD, as well as support research that could lead to essential therapeutics for patients. We provide an overview of the 21 published SSMD cases and have compiled additional sequencing data for four previously unpublished individuals to illustrate the genetic component of SSMD, and the role of sequencing data in diagnosis. We outline in detail the steps CureGPX4 has taken to reach milestones of team creation, disease understanding, drug repurposing, and design of future studies.

Conclusion

The primary aim of this review is to provide a roadmap for therapy development for rare, ultra-rare, and difficult to diagnose diseases, as well as increase awareness of the genetic component of SSMD. This work will offer a better understanding of GPx4-related diseases, and help guide researchers, clinicians, and patients interested in other rare diseases find a path towards treatments.
Prevalence and characteristics of malaria co-infection among individuals with visceral leishmaniasis in Africa and Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wilairatana Polrat , Chanmol Wetpisit , Rattaprasert Pongruj , Masangkay Frederick Ramirez , Milanez Giovanni De Jesus , Kotepui Kwuntida Uthaisar , Kotepui Manas
Published: October 2021

Background

Malaria and visceral leishmaniasis (VL) co-infection can occur due to the overlapping geographical distributions of these diseases; however, only limited data of this co-infection have been reported and reviewed. This study aimed to explore the pooled prevalence and characteristics of this co-infection using a systematic review approach.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases were searched for relevant studies. The quality of these studies was assessed in accordance with strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. The numbers of individuals co-infected with Plasmodium and VL and the total numbers of individuals with VL were used to estimate the pooled prevalence using random-effects models. Differences in age, sex and the presence of anemia and malnutrition on admission were compared between co-infected individuals and individuals with VL using a random-effects model; the results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity among the included studies was assessed and quantified using Cochrane Q and I2 statistics.

Results

Of the 3075 studies identified, 12 met the eligibility criteria and were included in this systematic review. The pooled prevalence of Plasmodium infection among the 6453 individuals with VL was 13%, with substantial heterogeneity of the data (95% CI 7–18%, I2 97.9%). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that the highest prevalence of co-infection occurred in African countries, whereas the lowest prevalence occurred in Asian countries. Patients aged < 5 years had higher odds of having co-infection than having VL (co-infection, n = 202; VL, n = 410) (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.37–2.01, I2 0%; P < 0.0001), whereas patients aged 20–29 years had lower odds of having co-infection than having VL (co-infection, n = 170; VL, n = 699) (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.60–0.93, I2 18%; P = 0.01). Male patients had equivalent odds of having co-infection and having VL (co-infection, n = 525; VL, n = 2232) (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.078–1.08, I2 0%; P = 0.29). Patients with co-infection had lower odds of having anemia at admission than those with VL (co-infection, n = 902; VL, n = 2939) (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.44–0.93, I2 0%; P = 0.02). No difference in malnutrition at admission was found in the meta-analysis.

Conclusions

The prevalence of malaria co-infection among individuals with VL was heterogeneous and ranged from 7 to 18%, depending on geographical area. Age and anemia at admission were associated with co-infection status. Further longitudinal studies are needed to determine if co-infection with malaria has an impact on the severity of VL.

Graphical abstract
Knowledge/perception and attitude/practices of populations of two first-line communities of the Centre Region of Cameroon regarding onchocerciasis and black fly nuisance and bio-ecology
Authors: Domche André , Nana-Djeunga Hugues C. , Yemeli Linda Djune , Nanga Cédric Lenou , Boussinesq Michel , Njiokou Flobert , Pion Sébastien , Kamgno Joseph
Published: October 2021

Background

Despite high black fly densities in persisting onchocerciasis foci in Cameroon, no vector control has ever been carried out to complement Community-Directed Treatment with Ivermectin (CDTI). As a prelude to community-based vector control, this study explored knowledge/perception and attitude/practice (KAP) of populations of two first-line communities regarding onchocerciasis, black fly nuisance and bio-ecology.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two communities of the Bafia Health District, following a household-based interview approach using a structured questionnaire. KAP scores were calculated and categorised as good or poor based on the number of correct or positive responses. Associations between KAP and socio-demographic parameters were explored using logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 215 individuals aged 15–100 years were interviewed. Positive associations were observed between good knowledge/perception and age and the duration of residency in the community. Most respondents (91.6%) described having post-biting sequels (oedema, itching) and more than half (69.3%) admitted that black fly bites affect their productivity. Although 81.4% of the respondents stated that black fly densities are higher during the rainy season, only 10.7% of them knew that they breed in the river. Also, 59.5% of the interviewees stated that black flies bite not only outdoors but also indoors, and 78.6% of enrolees were ready to help to fight against black flies. Most of the respondents were well aware of onchocerciasis, even though the transmission mode and vector bio-ecology were not well known.

Conclusion

This study revealed the need to implement community-based vector control to support CDTI in the fight against onchocerciasis and to reduce black fly nuisance.

Graphical abstract
Psychometric properties of the Persian version of the quality of recovery-15 questionnaire
Authors: Shahsavari Hooman , Ghane Golnar , Ghiyasvandian Shahrzad , Zakerimoghadam Masoumeh , Najafi Fatemeh
Published: October 2021

Background

Recovery after surgery is a complex process since it depends on many factors, such as the patient’s sex, age, surgery type, and presence of other diseases. This study aimed to translate and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the quality of recovery-15 (QoR-15) questionnaire in Iranian patients undergoing surgery.

Methods

The Persian version of the QoR-15 questionnaire was developed after translating and culturally validating the instrument. Content validity was assessed with a sample of clinicians (n = 15) and face validity was assessed in a sample of patients (n = 15) undergoing elective surgery. The final questionnaire was completed by 450 patients (n = 450) 24 h after surgery. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis in patients (N = 250). Convergence and divergent validity were also assessed. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and construct reliability was also assessed. Test–retest reliability was assessed on a randomly selected sub sample of 50 patients. Finally, the questionnaire was completed by a further sample of 200 patients 24 h after surgery and construct validity was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis.

Results

According to Lawshe, all items received at least an acceptable ratio for content validity ratio (CVR). Item content validity index (I-CVI) of each item was greater than 0.79. Construct validity indicated good fit statistics in the five components of CFA, and CFI was > 0.93. The reliability of the QoR-15 questionnaire was acceptable based on Cronbach’s alpha score (> 0.001), test–retest reliability value (0.81), and CR (> 0.7).

Conclusion

The Persian version of the QoR-15 questionnaire was equivalent to the original one regarding both conceptual and linguistic aspects. This study also confirmed the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the QoR-15 questionnaire. Therefore, the Persian version of the QoR-15 questionnaire can be a suitable and brief instrument to assess the recovery quality in Iranian patients undergoing surgery.
A Class of Stochastic and Distributions-Free Quantum Mechanical Evolution Equations
Authors: Costanza Gregorio Jose
Published: October 2021

A procedure allowing to construct rigorously discrete as well as continuum deterministic evolution equations from stochastic evolution equations is developed using Dirac's bra–ket notation. This procedure is an extension of an approach previously used by the author coined Discrete Stochastic Evolution Equations. Definitions and examples of discrete as well as continuum one-dimensional lattices are developed in detail in order to show the basic tools that allow to construct Schrödinger-like equations. Extension to multi-dimensional lattices are studied in order to provide a wider exposition and the one-dimensional cases are derived as special cases, as expected. Some variants of the procedure allow the construction of other evolution equations. Also, using a limiting procedure, it is possible to derive the Schrödinger equation from the Schrödinger-like equations. Another possible approach is given in the appendix.Quanta 2021; 10: 22–33.
The Dragon in the Caribbean: the future of CARICOM-China trade relations
Authors: Baksh Sarah , Darbasie Mikayla , Rodulfo Carissa , Potter Shannon
Published: October 2021

Over the years, the trade performance of CARICOM states has decreased as a result of poor direct investment inflows, increasing global competition and the dependence of CARICOM states on their long-standing relationships with Europe and the US. The East Asian market is one of the fastest-growing regions in the world and has been highlighted as a potential region for CARICOM states to diversify their export markets. China is the largest entity within this market and is one of the world’s largest trading nations. China’s economic prowess has growing influence, and coupled with the erosion of CARICOM’s traditional trading relationships, it is essential to explore the possibility of engaging in deeper economic relations with China. Ultimately, this article proposes the creation of a comprehensive economic and trade agreement between CARICOM and China, based on a model agreement developed between Canada and the European Union. Therefore, this article will: outline the current economic relationship between CARICOM and China, and assess its impact; identify the parties’ interests; explain the concept of a comprehensive economic and trade agreement; explore the possible effects of entering into such a comprehensive economic and trade agreement with China; and, lastly, offer considerations on provisions that can be included to ensure the viability of the agreement.
Modelling and simulation of industrial multistage flash desalination process with exergetic and thermodynamic analysis. A case study of Azzour seawater desalination plant
Authors: Almerri Abdullah H. , Al-Obaidi Mudhar A. , Alsadaie Salih , Mujtaba Iqbal M.
Published: October 2021

Despite the fact of being intensive energy consumption, MSF is a mature technology that characterised by a high production capacity of high-quality water. The multistage flash (MSF) desalination process is one of the prominent thermal desalination used in the industry of seawater desalination to produce high quantity and high quality of freshwater. However, this process consumes large amount of energy and faces thermal limitations due to its high degree of exergy destruction at several units of the process. Therefore, the research of MSF is still existed to elevate the performance indicators and to resolve the concern of high energy consumption. To rectify these limitations, it is important to determine the units responsible in dissipating energy. This study aims to model an industrial MSF process validated against real data and then investigate the exergy destruction and thermodynamic limitations of the process. As a case study, Azzour MSF seawater desalination plant, located in Al Khiran in Kuwait is under the focus. A comprehensive model is developed by analysing several published models. Specifically, the calculation of exergy destruction has embedded both physical and chemical exergies that identified as a strong point of the model developed. As expected, the highest exergy destruction (55.5%) occurs within the heat recovery section followed by the brine heater with exergy destruction of 28.26% of the total exergy destruction. This study identifies the sections of the industrial process that cause the highest energy losses.
Investigation on in situ silica dispersed in natural rubber latex matrix combined with spray sputtering technology
Authors: Chang Tianhao , Bian Huiguang , Xiao Yao , Xue Junxiu , Wang Chuansheng
Published: October 2021

In this study, different processes are performed for the preparation of natural rubber latex (NRL)/silica composites. A novel approach is to use spray sputtering technology combined with in situ method to improve the dispersion of silica in rubber latex matrix and further improve the properties of vulcanizates. Results show that in situ silica in rubber matrix prepared from NH4Cl and Na2SiO3 has better Payen effect than other processes. Meanwhile, when the in situ silica reached 10 phr in the rubber matrix, the dosage can suitably match the dispersion capacity of the spray sputtering process with superior comprehensive mechanical properties. Compared with the traditional precipitation method, the tensile strength and tear strength of the silica/NR composites prepared by spray sputtering technology combined with in situ method were increased by 34.7% and 19.7%.
Validation of amplicon-based next generation sequencing panel for second-tier test in newborn screening for inborn errors of metabolism
Authors: Tsang Kwok Yeung , Chan Toby Chun Hei , Yeung Matthew Chun Wing , Wong Tsz Ki , Lau Wan Ting , Mak Chloe Miu
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Next generation sequencing (NGS) technology has allowed cost-effective massive parallel DNA sequencing. To evaluate the utility of NGS for newborn screening (NBS) of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), a custom panel was designed to target 87 disease-related genes. The pilot study was primarily proposed for second-tier testing under the NBSIEM program in Hong Kong.

Methods

The validation of the panel was performed with two reference genomes and an external quality assurance (EQA) sample. Sequencing libraries were synthesized with amplicon-based approach. The libraries were pooled, spiked-in with 2% PhiX DNA as technical control, for 16-plex sequencing runs. Sequenced reads were analyzed using a commercially available pipeline.

Results

The average target region coverage was 208× and the fraction of region with target depth ≥20× was 95.7%, with a sensitivity of 91.2%. There were 85 out of 87 genes with acceptable coverage, and EQA result was satisfactory. The turnaround time from DNA extraction to completion of variant calling and quality control (QC) procedures was 2.5 days.

Conclusions

The NGS approach with the amplicon-based panel has been validated for analytical performance and is suitable for second-tier NBSIEM test.