bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Houston–Apollo model for older people living in remote areas in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Kai‐Chieh , Hung Shou‐Hung , Hsueh Sung‐Ju , Chao Shiau‐Fang , Huang Wei‐Lieh , Chen Hsin‐Shui , Jeng Yachung , Chen Hsiu‐Hsi , Hwang Juey‐Jen , Liou Horng‐Huei
Published: February 2021

Aim

Senior healthcare is challenging in remote areas, particularly in an economically disadvantaged population. This study examined the benefits of a combined healthcare system (Houston–Apollo model) in improvements of physical performance and medical care utilization of local older people.

Methods

People aged ≥65 years who participated in congregate meal services were recruited. Using concepts of telemedicine and community health records, participants received consultation from local general physicians, who provided advice or arranged referrals to the National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch. Physical parameters including blood pressure, body mass index, grip strength, walking speed, and five times sit‐to‐stand test (FTSST) were transferred to the National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch and local doctors in a timely manner. Changes in physical parameters and utilization of healthcare facilities were measured at the beginning of recruitment and 1 year later.

Results

In the 470 registered participants, 66% had hypertension, 50% had weakness in grip strength, 58% were slow at FTSST and 78% had disability in 6‐meter walking speed. In total, 97 participants were followed up at 1 year. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure (mmHg) decreased from 137.4 to 133.3 (P = 0.019) and from 76.9 to 74.4 (P = 0.008), respectively. The time of FTSST (s) decreased from 11.3 to 10.4 (P = 0.011). The walking speed (m/s) increased from 0.71 to 0.74 (P = 0.039). Medical and dental outpatient usage increased by 2 and 1.14 times, respectively.

Conclusions

The Houston–Apollo model could provide benefits for the physical status of older adults, promote proactive and preventive healthcare utilization, and contribute to medical equality. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; ••: ••–••.
Identification and characterization of the antigen recognized by the germ cell mAb TRA98 using a human comprehensive wet protein array
Authors: Fukuda Eriko , Tanaka Hiromitsu , Yamaguchi Kei , Takasaka Mieko , Kawamura Yoshifumi , Okuda Hidenobu , Isotani Ayako , Ikawa Masahito , Shapiro Virginia Smith , Tsuchida Junji , Okada Yuki , Tsujimura Akira , Miyagawa Yasushi , Fukuhara Shinichiro , Kawakami Yoshitaka , Wada Morimasa , Nishimune Yoshitake , Goshima Naoki
Published: February 2021

TRA98 is a rat monoclonal antibody (mAb) which recognizes a specific antigen in the nuclei of germ cells. mAb TRA98 has been used to understand the mechanism of germ cell development and differentiation in many studies. In mice, the antigen recognized by mAb TRA98 or GCNA1 has been reported to be a GCNA gene product, but despite the demonstration of the immunoreactivity of this mAb in human testis and sperm in 1997, the antigen in humans remains unknown, as of date. To identify the human antigen recognized by mAb TRA98, a human comprehensive wet protein array was developed containing 19,446 proteins derived from human cDNAs. Using this array, it was found that the antigen of mAb TRA98 is not a GCNA gene product, but nuclear factor‐κB activating protein (NKAP). In mice, mAb TRA98 recognized both the GCNA gene product and NKAP. Furthermore, conditional knockout of Nkap in mice revealed a phenotype of Sertoli cell‐only syndrome. Although NKAP is a ubiquitously expressed protein, NKAP recognized by mAb TRA98 in mouse testis was SUMOylated. These results suggest that NKAP undergoes modifications, such as SUMOylation in the testis, and plays an important role in spermatogenesis.
Evaluation of the accuracy of immature granulocyte percentage in predicting pediatric serious bacterial infection
Authors: Güngör Ali , Göktuğ Aytaç , Tekeli Aysun , Bodur İlknur , Öztürk Betül , Güneylioğlu Muhammed Mustafa , Yaradılmış Raziye Merve , Akca Çağlar Ayla , Tuygun Nilden , Karacan Can Demir
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Serious bacterial infections (SBI) are major causes of mortality and morbidity in children. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of the immature granulocyte (IG) percentage in predicting SBI.

Methods

Patients admitted to the pediatric emergency department with fever were divided into two groups: with SBI and with non‐SBI. White blood cell (WBC) count, absolute neutrophil count (ANC), C‐reactive protein (CRP), and the percentage of IG value were recorded, and their accuracy in predicting SBI was evaluated.

Results

Sixty‐one (14.3%) patients fell into the SBI group and 367 (85.7%) were with non‐SBI. Mean IG percentage among SBI patients was 0.84 ± 1.21 and 0.27 ± 0.20 for with non‐SBI patients (P = .001). Based on disease, the highest IG percentage was found in patients diagnosed with sepsis (IG 3.7 ± 3.5%) and with bacterial meningitis (IG 1.6 ± 1.3%). The area under the curve (AUC) of IG percentage to predict SBI was 0.83 with 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.78‐0.88]; WBC was 0.76 (95% CI 0.70‐0.83); ANC was 0.73 (95% CI 0.67‐0.80), and CRP was 0.79 (95% CI 0.73‐0.85). When infection markers were compared to the most appropriate cut‐off values in predicting SBI, IG percentage showed the highest sensitivity and specificity. When the cut‐off value was determined as >0.35 for IG percentage, sensitivity was 75.4% and specificity was 76.6% in predicting SBI.

Conclusion

Patients with SBI had a higher IG percentage. Compared to other biomarkers, IG percentage had higher sensitivity and specificity in predicting SBI.
Crystal structure and actuation mechanisms in morphotropic phase boundary Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3‐Pb(Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3 piezoelectric ceramic
Authors: Zhang Jianbo , Liu Hui , Sun Shengdong , Liu Ye , Zhang Yueyun , Qi He , Deng Shiqing , Chen Jun
Published: February 2021

Lead‐based Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3‐Pb(Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3 (PZN‐PZT) piezoelectric ceramics have been intensively studied owing to their excellent performance in multilayer actuators; however, the detailed crystal structure and actuation mechanisms are still not well understood. In this study, in situ electric‐field‐biasing high‐energy synchrotron X‐ray diffraction was employed to monitor the crystal structure evolution and to deconvolute contributions to the electrostrain in the morphotropic phase boundary composition of 0.3PZN–0.7PZT. An electric‐field‐induced reversible phase transition between the coexisting monoclinic and tetragonal phases was identified. The unit cell parameters of the monoclinic phase exhibit significantly greater response to the electric field than those of the tetragonal phase. The effective lattice strain, evaluated through peak profile fitting, and the macroscopic strain measurement were found to be in agreement. The high electrostrain is primarily caused by the electric‐field‐induced phase transition with concurrent intrinsic/extrinsic contributions. This work provides a deeper description of the crystal structure and actuation mechanisms in PZN‐PZT piezoelectric systems.
Creating Spaces for Collaboration in Community Co‐design
Authors: Calvo Mirian , Sclater Madeleine
Published: February 2021

Urgent societal challenges have led to unease in our socio‐cultural interactions and the production systems that underpin our lives. To confront such challenges, collaboration stands out as an essential approach in accomplishing joint goals and producing new knowledge. It calls for interdisciplinary methodologies such as co‐design, an approach capable of bridging multiple expertise. The core activities of co‐design are based on the premise of collaboration and on developing creative social environments. Yet achieving collaboration through co‐design is challenging as people need to understand each other, and develop trust and rapport. We argue that ‘informal‐mutual learning’ is central to building mutual understanding. This article explores how we create spaces for collaboration through co‐design by examining the social environments supporting them. It examines the value of collaboration and its impact upon participants within an action research project conducted in Scotland. We identified Cultural‐Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) as a suitable theoretical framework. It offers support for holistic inquiry into participation and learning. Its strength was in the attention that it pays to multi‐dimensional human interactions within the social environment. This led to an understanding of the concepts of boundary‐crossing and boundary space examined through a CHAT lens. The findings shed light on four designerly conditions supporting informal‐mutual learning when engaged in collaboration during co‐design situations: choreography and orchestration, aesthetics, playfulness, and quality and quantity of participation. The findings enable us to elaborate on the theorisation of boundary space, a theoretical space for the assemblage of multiple levels of expertise to achieve collaboration.
Probing single‐tooth dental implants with and without prostheses: a cross‐sectional study comparing healthy and peri‐implant mucositis sites
Authors: García‐García Marta , Mir‐Mari Javier , Figueiredo Rui , Valmaseda‐Castellón Eduard
Published: February 2021

Aim

To evaluate differences in probing depth (PPD) with and without a prosthesis in implants without interproximal bone loss (IBL). Secondarily, to assess whether the difference in PPD measured with and without the crown was affected by diagnosis or implant location.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in patients with a single screw‐retained implant‐supported crown in the posterior area, without IBL. PPD and was assessed before and after crown removal. A subgroup analysis compared healthy vs. mucositis implants and premolar vs. molar locations.

Results

In the 62 implants analysed (23 healthy and 39 with mucositis), the PPD was 1.15 mm (SD = 1.24 mm) deeper without the prosthesis than with it (p < .001). This difference was independent of the implant location (p > .05) except for buccal sites (p = .048). The mean PPD difference for implants with mucositis was 0.95 mm (SD = 1.19 mm; p < .001) while healthy implants had a mean PPD variation of 1.47 mm (SD = 1.29 mm; p < .001).

Conclusion

The presence of prosthesis in single‐tooth implants in the posterior area without IBL seems to lead to an underestimation of PPD that appears to be significant in implants diagnosed with mucositis, although the difference is even greater in healthy implants. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Implementation of Specialist Palliative Care and Outcomes for Hospitalized Patients with Dementia
Authors: Lackraj Deven , Kavalieratos Dio , Murali Komal P. , Lu Yewei , Hua May
Published: February 2021

Background

In patients with serious illness, use of specialist palliative care may result in improved quality of life, patient and caregiver satisfaction and advance care planning, as well as lower health care utilization. However, evidence of efficacy is limited for patients with dementia, particularly in the setting of an acute hospitalization.

Objective

To determine whether implementation of hospital‐based specialist palliative care was associated with differences in treatment intensity outcomes for hospitalized patients with dementia.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Fifty‐one hospitals in New York State that either did or did not implement a palliative care program between 2008 and 2014. Hospitals that consistently had a palliative care program during the study period were excluded.

Participants

Hospitalized patients with dementia.

Measurements

The primary outcome of this study was discharge to hospice from an acute hospitalization. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay, use of mechanical ventilation and dialysis, and days in intensive care. Difference‐in‐difference analyses were performed using multilevel regression to assess the association between implementing a palliative care program and outcomes, while adjusting for patient and hospital characteristics and time trends.

Results

During the study period, 82,118 patients with dementia (mean (SD) age, 83.04 (10.04), 51,170 (62.21%) female) underwent an acute hospitalization, of which 41,227 (50.27%) received care in hospitals that implemented a palliative care program. In comparison to patients who received care in hospitals without palliative care, patients with dementia who received care in hospitals after the implementation of palliative care were more 35% likely to be discharged to hospice (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.35 (1.19–1.51), P < .001). No meaningful differences in secondary outcomes were observed.

Conclusion

Implementation of a specialist palliative care program was associated with an increase in discharge to hospice following acute hospitalization in patients with dementia.
Fortifying Home and Yard: Metal, Vegetation, and the Embodied Practice of Middle‐Class In/security in Jamaica
Authors: McKinson Kimberley D.
Published: February 2021

A middle‐class residential aesthetics defined by fortification and security has emerged in Kingston, Jamaica, in response to the city's crime rate. In this article, I foreground the material fortification of a middle‐class property as a means by which to theoretically analyze the Caribbean home and yard as canvases upon which to envision alternate configurations of security worlds. By centering the embodied and affective performance of middle‐class choreographies of in/security, I consider the ways in which historically situated racialized and gendered narratives impinge upon middle‐class residents as well as those deemed outsiders and become implicated in the creation and curation of fortified space. This article takes seriously the Caribbean middle‐class body, metal architectures, and residential vegetation as sites upon which in/security, in its varied contours, is performed. In so doing, it illuminates both the exclusionary and emancipatory possibilities that are central to the creative making of the Caribbean's middle class.
Pulmonary thromboembolism during pregnancy and puerperium: Comparison of survival and death cases
Authors: Takakura Sho , Tanaka Hiroaki , Tanaka Kayo , Katsuragi Shinji , Hayata Eijiro , Nakata Masahiko , Hasegawa Junichi , Sekizawa Akihiko , Ishiwata Isamu , Ikeda Tomoaki
Published: February 2021

Aim

In Japan, the frequency of maternal deaths due to obstetric hemorrhage has been decreasing in the last decade, while that resulting from other causes such as pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) was consistent. To help reduce maternal deaths due to PTE, we investigated PTE during pregnancy and puerperium and compared the survival and death cases, and aimed to find out life and death factors.

Methods

This study was a retrospective analysis based on a clinical chart review in 407 maternal and perinatal centers. We compared the survival and death cases of PTE during pregnancy and puerperium from 2013 to 2017.

Results

In PTE during pregnancy, the survival cases underwent significantly earlier diagnoses than the death cases, and thromboprophylaxis was performed in most of both the survival and death cases of PTE during puerperium according to the existing Japanese guidelines; however, only one fourth of the total cases underwent anticoagulation to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Conclusions

Early diagnosis of PTE in suspected cases was associated with better survival during pregnancy.
Comparison of survival outcomes between laparoscopic surgery and abdominal surgery for radical hysterectomy as primary treatment in patients with stage IB2/IIA2 cervical cancer
Authors: Chen Chunlin , Guo Jianxin , Liu Ping , Li Zhiqiang , Jiang Haixia , Zhu Qianyong , Bin Xiaonong , Lang Jinghe
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate the long‐term oncological outcomes of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) and abdominal radical hysterectomy (ARH) for the treatment of stage IB2/IIA2 cervical cancer without preoperative adjuvant therapy.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, retrospective, case‐matching study. The differences in overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) between the LRH and ARH were compared under the conditions of real‐world study and case–control matching (1:1 matching).

Results

There was no significant difference in the outcomes of LRH (n = 580) and ARH (n = 1653) in 5‐year OS and DFS (OS: 80.6% vs. 86.1%, p = 0.421; DFS: 78.6% vs. 80.7%, p = 0.376). After 1:1 matching, there was no difference in 5‐year OS and DFS between LRH (n = 554) and ARH (n = 554) (OS: 80.4% vs. 84.5%, p = 0.993; DFS: 79.0% vs. 78.8%, p = 0.695). Before and after matching, the surgical approach was not an independent risk factor for 5‐year OS and DFS, and postoperative adjuvant therapy affected patient prognosis. Further subgroup analysis suggested that there was no difference in LRH (n = 313) and ARH (n = 1092) in 5‐year OS or DFS in patients who underwent standard postoperative adjuvant therapy (OS: 83.0% vs. 87.7%, p = 0.992; DFS: 79.0% vs. 82.5%, p = 0.323). After 1:1 pairing, the 5‐year OS and DFS in LRH (n = 295) and ARH (n = 295) showed no difference. Before and after matching, the surgical approach was not an independent risk factor affecting the 5‐year OS and DFS.

Conclusions

There was no difference in the oncological outcomes between laparoscopic and abdominal surgery in patients with stage IB2/IIA2 cervical cancer without preoperative adjuvant therapy.

Clinical Trials

The ethical approval number is NFEC‐2017‐135, and the clinical research registration number is CHiCTR1800017778 (International Clinical Trials Registry Platform Search Port, http://apps.who.int/trialsearch/).
Clinical features of patients who had two COVID‐19 episodes: a European multicentre case series
Authors: Lechien J. R. , Chiesa‐Estomba C. M. , Radulesco T. , Michel J. , Vaira L. A. , Le Bon S. D. , Horoi M. , Falanga C. , Barillari M. R. , Hans S. , Tucciarone M. , Saussez S.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate the clinical features of patients who had two demonstrated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) episodes.

Methods

Data of patients with both COVID‐19 episodes were recruited from 22 March to 27 December 2020. The following outcomes were studied: epidemiological, comorbidities, prevalence and severity of general and otolaryngological symptom, olfactory, aroma, and gustatory dysfunctions. A comparison between first and second episodes was performed.

Results

Forty‐five patients reported having two confirmed COVID‐19 episodes. The majority of patients had mild infections in both episodes. The second clinical episode was significantly similar to the first. The symptom duration of the second episode was shorter than the first. The occurrence of loss of smell was unpredictable from the first to the second episode.

Conclusion

The recurrence of COVID‐19 symptoms is associated with a similar clinical picture than the first episode in patients with initial mild‐to‐moderate COVID episode. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the development of second episode remain uncertain and may involve either true reinfection or virus reactivation from sanctuaries.
Identifying Differences in Nutrition‐Related Learning Interests of Adolescent Students
Authors: Miller Margaret , Barwood Donna , Furfaro Michael , Boston Julie , Smith Sandra , Masek Martin
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

In this study, we examined nutrition‐related topics among adolescent students attending schools with different Indices of Community Socio‐Educational Advantage (ICSEA).

METHOD

Participating students (N = 206) from 5 schools in Western Australia completed a paper‐based questionnaire on nutrition‐related topics. Frequencies and independent chi‐square tests were used to identify differences between sexes and school ICSEA.

RESULTS

Of the participating students, 75% were interested in learning about 8 of 16 topics. We found statistically significant differences by sex (p < .01) for “Eating the right foods for preventing illness and disease,” “Eating the right food for being active” among girls, and “Reducing food waste” among boys. We also noted differences by school ICSEA.

CONCLUSION

Acknowledging sex and socioeducational differences in teaching and learning may help teachers to engage adolescent students in nutrition education.
National digestive disease specialists survey on cardiovascular risk management in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in spanish hospitals
Authors: Iruzubieta Paula , Arias‐Loste María Teresa , Fortea José Ignacio , Cuadrado Antonio , Rivas‐Rivas Coral , Rodriguez‐Duque Juan Carlos , García‐Ibarbia Carmen , Hernández José Luis , Crespo Javier
Published: February 2021

Background & Aims

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the main cause of mortality among non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. The aim was to explore the level of knowledge and clinical management of cardiovascular risk (CVR) in NAFLD patients by Digestive Disease specialists.

Methods

An anonymous web‐based survey was designed with 44 close‐ended questions, divided into five sections, that were based on current guidelines on CVD prevention. Between November 2019 and January 2020, Digestive Disease specialists from Spanish hospitals were invited to participate in this survey via email and Twitter. Student's t, chi‐square and Fishers' exact tests, and logistic regression were used for data analysis.

Results

208 clinicians completed the survey. Most respondents (83.2%) believe that NAFLD is an independent risk factor for CVD, especially in the presence of NASH and fibrosis. Personal history of CVDs and cardiovascular risk‐related comorbidities are collected by more than 75% of respondents. However, less than 17% perform an elementary physical examination to address the CVR, except weight which is evaluated by 69.8%. Over 54% of respondents do not perform or request any supplementary tests for CVR assessment, and only 10.2% use specific calculators. Furthermore, 54.3% spend less than 5 minutes giving lifestyle advice, and more than 52% do not start drug treatment after a recent diagnosis of any cardiovascular comorbidity. Only 25.6% have a multidisciplinary Unit for metabolic comorbidities in their hospitals, although 89% of the respondents would support the implementation of this Unit.

Conclusions

Cardiovascular risk management in daily clinical practice by Digestive Disease specialists in Spain remains suboptimal.
ComEB protein is dispensable for the transformation but must be translated for the optimal synthesis of comEC
Authors: De Santis Micaela , Hahn Jeanette , Dubnau David
Published: February 2021

We show that the ComEB protein is not required for transformation in Bacillus subtilis, despite its expression from within the comE operon under competence control, nor is it required for the correct polar localization of ComGA. We show further that the synthesis of the putative channel protein ComEC is translationally coupled to the upstream comEB open reading frame, so that the translation of comEB and a suboptimal ribosomal‐binding site embedded in its sequence are needed for proper comEC expression. Translational coupling appears to be a common mechanism in three major competence operons for the adjustment of protein amounts independent of transcriptional control, probably ensuring the correct stoichiometries for assembly of the transformation machinery. comEB and comFC, respectively, encode cytidine deaminase and a protein resembling type 1 phosphoribosyl transferases and we speculate that nucleotide scavenging proteins are produced under competence control for efficient reutilization of the products of degradation of the non‐transforming strand during DNA uptake.
Land as Interlocutor: A Study of Ojibwe Learner Language in Interaction on and With Naturally Occurring ‘Materials’
Authors: ENGMAN MEL M. , HERMES MARY
Published: February 2021

Ecological approaches to language learning and materials use represent educational settings as complex and dynamic systems by applying relational perspectives from the natural world in the classroom. For young bilingual Ojibwe learners, the natural world (i.e., local, rural, and reservation land) is a significant language learning resource unto itself. In the underrepresented context of Indigenous language reclamation in the Upper Midwest of the United States, local land is central to ways of knowing and being, thus it is also central to learning. This study examines the ‘intra‐actions’ among land‐based materials, an Ojibwe Elder, and immersion school youth on local forestland. Focusing on the interrelated nature of human and nonhuman elements, we rely on Indigenous perspectives of relationality and sociomateriality to expand and clarify the roles of land in Indigenous language learning for reclamation. This study highlights Ojibwe practices of relational consensual engagement with the environment and has implications for materials use research, as it underscores the significance of the natural world as emergent language learning and teaching materials.
The role of imaging in catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Berruezo Antonio , Penela Diego , Jáuregui Beatriz , Soto‐Iglesias David
Published: February 2021

Late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE‐CMR) and multidetector cardiac computed tomography (MDCT) have emerged as novel, fascinating imaging tools for arrhythmogenic substrate identification and characterization. The role of these techniques for aiding and guiding the catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia, either as a complement or a surrogate of the electroanatomic map, has been rising in recent years. Integrating pixel signal intensity maps or wall thickness maps delivered from LGE‐CMR or MDCT, respectively, into the navigation system has become a cornerstone for VT ablation procedures in a few centers of excellence around the world. The pre‐procedure scar characterization offers some advantages, helping decide for the best procedure planning and approach; complete substrate identification and characterization, helping to focus electroanatomical mapping in regions of interest and also has a positive impact in procedure efficiency and outcomes. In the present article, we perform a review of the most practical aspects for using LGE‐CMR or MDCT when a VT ablation procedure is planned, from the image acquisition to the integration into the navigation system, analyzing the current role of the LGE‐CMR and MDCT for arrhythmogenic substrate characterization as well as for guiding VT ablation.
Sovereign default and capital controls
Authors: McDowall Robert A.
Published: February 2021

This paper explores a role for capital control policies in enhancing a sovereign’s commitment to repay its debts. I study the equilibrium of an economy in which a sovereign must finance some expenditure, is constrained by the savings decisions of domestic households, and cannot discriminate between foreign and domestic lenders. I show that capital controls are crucial for implementing an equilibrium with lending from abroad and that optimal controls exhibit threshold behavior, instituted when domestic disposable income is low. Controls impose a wedge between the bond prices faced by foreign and domestic lenders. By crowding in domestic lending, and increasing the value of repayment, the sovereign can credibly enforce future repayment. The implementation result is robust to the introduction of labor taxes and uncertainty over the cost of default. These results offer a novel rationale for procyclical capital controls, distinct from conventional theories that stipulate controls be employed countercyclically to regulate capital inflows during expansions. The optimal policy is characterized and empirical implications are discussed.
Biogeochemical reappraisal of the freshwater–seawater mixing‐zone diagenetic model
Authors: Petrash Daniel A. , Bialik Or M. , Staudigel Philip T. , Konhauser Kurt O. , Budd David A.
Published: February 2021

First proposed nearly half a century ago, the mixing‐zone model of dolomitization enjoyed a brief stay in the limelight before falling out of favour. Despite extended past criticism, arguments that build on its current validity are presented and discussed. The coastal mixing zone can be seen as an aquifer system exhibiting marked physicochemical gradients, reflective of the admixture of low salinity freshwater and seawater sources with variable redox potentials. This perspective requires a more holistic look at the mixing zone, not only as a gradient of major element concentrations, but also as the locus of enhanced subsurface redox sensitive reactions that occur at the pore‐space scale within a moveable diagenetic front. Combined genomic and isotopic data indicate that an active subsurface biosphere thrives in the mixing zone. This could facilitate Mg2+ dehydration, generate alkalinity, consume protons and mobilize potentially catalyzing ions (i.e. Mn and Zn), which are all low temperature factors thought to promote dolomite formation from soluble precursors. In the updated model, the advective mix of fluids with contrasting composition modulate a range of biogeochemically induced mineral dissolution and reprecipitation reactions. Biotic and abiotic interactions between these fluids affect carbonate equilibrium and result in dissolution of soluble aragonitic and calcitic phases, while dolomite precipitates (as cement) and neomorphic replacement. The secondary dolomite often exhibits compositional heterogeneity and contentious δ18O signatures indicative of re‐equilibration. The role of manganese, zinc, intermediate sulphur species and ammonia are far from being fully understood, nor is their fingerprint in ancient deposits. Application of in situ spectroscopic imaging techniques, clumped and metal isotope analyses, as well as a more extended use of traditional approaches, such as sulphur isotopes, are poised to open many opportunities to further explore the biogeochemistry of this diagenetic environment and how it relates to platform dolomitization.
Phylogeny of the stink bug tribe Chlorocorini (Heteroptera, Pentatomidae) based on DNA and morphological data: the evolution of key phenotypic traits
Authors: Genevcius Bruno C. , Greve Caroline , Koehler Samantha , Simmons Rebecca B. , Rider David A. , Grazia Jocelia , Schwertner Cristiano F.
Published: February 2021

Pentatomidae is the third largest family of true bugs, comprising over 40 tribes. Few tribes have been studied in a phylogenetic context, and none of them have been examined using molecular data. Moreover, little is known about the evolution of key morphological characters widely used in taxonomic and phylogenetic studies at multiple levels. Here, we conduct a phylogenetic study of the tribe Chlorocorini (Pentatominae) combining 69 morphological characters and five DNA loci. We use the inferred phylogeny to reconstruct the evolution of key morphological characters such as the spined humeral angles of the pronotum, a dorsal projection on the apices of the femora and characters of male genitalia. We provide solid evidence that the tribe as currently recognized is not monophyletic based both on DNA and morphological data. The genera Arvelius Spinola and Eludocoris Thomas were consistently placed outside of the Chlorocorini, whereas the remaining genera were found to form a monophyletic group. We also show that nearly all morphological diagnostic characters for the tribe are homoplastic. The only exception is the development of the hypandrium, which contrary to expectations for genital traits, showed the slowest evolutionary rates. In contrast, the most rapidly evolving trait is the length of the ostiolar ruga, which may be attributed to selection favouring anti‐predatory behaviour and other functions of its associated scent glands. Lastly, we also provide a preliminary glimpse of the main phylogenetic relationships within the Pentatomidae, which indicates that most of the included subfamilies and tribes are not monophyletic. Our results suggest that the current subfamily‐level classification of Pentatomidae is not adequate to reflect its evolutionary history, and we urge for a more complete phylogeny of the family.
The burden of cytomegalovirus infection remains high in high‐risk kidney transplant recipients despite six‐month valganciclovir prophylaxis
Authors: Räihä Juulia , Ortiz Fernanda , Mannonen Laura , Loginov Raisa , Lempinen Marko , Lautenschlager Irmeli , Helanterä Ilkka
Published: February 2021

Cytomegalovirus continues to be a concern after transplantation despite prophylaxis regimens. Our aim was to analyse post‐prophylaxis primary cytomegalovirus infections among kidney transplant recipients after 6‐month valganciclovir prophylaxis and to determine the usefulness of surveillance after prophylaxis. Data from all cytomegalovirus D+/R‐ kidney transplant recipients from January 2004 to October 2018 at our center who received 6‐month prophylaxis with valganciclovir were retrospectively analysed (N = 481). Detailed analyses were performed for 136 patients who were monitored every 2‐4 weeks for DNAemia after the discontinuation of prophylaxis. Post‐prophylaxis primary cytomegalovirus infection occurred in 182/481 (38%) patients median 264 days after transplantation (IQR: 226‐367) and median 84 days after the end of prophylaxis (IQR: 46‐187). In 49% patients, cytomegalovirus infection occurred over 3 months after the end of prophylaxis. Cytomegalovirus infection was not associated with lower patient or graft survival and no independent risk factors for infection were found. From patients monitored closely, 71/136 (52%) patients developed post‐prophylaxis primary cytomegalovirus infection. Altogether, 52/136 (38%) patients were diagnosed with probable post‐prophylaxis cytomegalovirus disease and 19/136 (14%) patients had asymptomatic CMV infection. Recurrent infection occurred in 38/71 (39%) patients. The incidence of post‐prophylaxis primary cytomegalovirus infection among D+/R‐ kidney transplant recipients remains high despite 6‐month prophylaxis. Surveillance after prophylaxis was challenging as a considerable portion of the infections occurred late and already symptomatic.
Microglial remodeling of actin network by Tau oligomers, via G protein‐coupled purinergic receptor, P2Y12R‐driven chemotaxis
Authors: Das Rashmi , Chinnathambi Subashchandrabose
Published: February 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with age‐related neurodegeneration, synaptic deformation and chronic inflammation mediated by microglia and infiltrated macrophages in the brain. Tau oligomers can be released from damaged neurons via various mechanisms such as exosomes, neurotransmitter, membrane leakage etc. Microglia sense the extracellular Tau through several cell‐surface receptors and mediate chemotaxis and phagocytosis. The purinergic receptor P2Y12R recently gained interest in neurodegeneration for neuro‐glial communication and microglial chemotaxis towards the site of plaque deposition. To understand the effect of extracellular Tau oligomers in microglial migration, the P2Y12R‐mediated actin remodeling, reorientation of tubulin network and rate of migration were studied in the presence of ATP. The extracellular Tau species directly interacted with P2Y12R and also induced this purinoceptor expression in microglia. Microglial P2Y12R colocalized with remodeled membrane‐associated actin network as a component of migration in response to Tau oligomers. As an inducer of P2Y12R, ATP facilitated the localization of P2Y12R in lamellipodia and filopodia during accelerated microglial migration. The direct interaction of extracellular Tau oligomers with microglial P2Y12R would facilitate the signal transduction in both way, directional chemotaxis and receptor‐mediated phagocytosis. These unprecedented findings emphasize that microglia can modulate the membrane‐associated actin structure and incorporate P2Y12R to perceive the axis and rate of chemotaxis in Tauopathy.
SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence among blood donors after the first COVID‐19 wave in Canada
Authors: Saeed Sahar , Drews Steven J. , Pambrun Chantale , Yi Qi‐Long , Osmond Lori , O'Brien Sheila F.
Published: February 2021

Background

Case detection underestimates the burden of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Following the first COVID‐19 wave, we estimated the seroprevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) among blood donors across Canada.

Study Design and Methods

This serial cross‐sectional study was conducted between May 9 and July 21, 2020 from blood donors donating at all Canadian Blood Services locations. We used the Abbott Architect assay to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies from retention plasma. Seroprevalence was standardized to population‐level demographics and assay characteristics were adjusted using the Rogan‐Gladen equation. Results were stratified by region, age, ethnicity, ABO groups, and quantiles of material and social deprivation indices. Temporal trends were evaluated at 2‐week intervals. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression compared SARS‐CoV‐2 reactive to non‐reactive donors by sociodemographic variables.

Results

Overall 552/74642 donors, had detectable antibodies, adjusted seroprevalence was 7.0/1000 donors (95% CI; 6.3, 7.6). Prevalence was differential by geography, Ontario had the highest rate, 8.8/1000 donors (7.8, 9.8), compared to the Atlantic region 4.5/1000 donors (2.6, 6.4); adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.2 (1.5, 3.3). Donors that self‐identified as an ethnic minority were more likely than white donors to be sero‐reactive aOR 1.5 (1.2, 1.9). No temporal trends were observed.

Discussion

Worldwide, blood services have leveraged their operational capacity to inform public health. While >99% of Canadians did not show humoral evidence of past infection, we found regional variability and disparities by ethnicity. Seroprevalence studies will continue to play a pivotal role in evaluating public health policies by identifying trends and monitor disparities.
Effect of Dispersant Concentration With Friction Modifiers and Anti-Wear Additives on the Tribofilm Composition and Boundary Friction
Authors: Umer J. , Morris N. J. , Rahmani R. , Rahnejat H. , Howell-Smith S. , Balakrishnan S.
Published: February 2021

To extend drain intervals and improve efficiency, new engine oils with increased dispersant concentration and reduced viscosity are required. Low viscosity engine oils can increase the prevalence of boundary friction at low temperature and increase its severity at higher temperatures. As a result, combinations of organic and inorganic friction modifiers (FM) will be used to reduce boundary friction across a range of temperatures, also preventing damage to vehicle catalysts. This paper presents an experimental case study of such a new generation of fully formulated engine lubricants with varying concentrations of polyisobutylene succinimide dispersant, organic, and inorganic FM. Representative conditions pertaining to those encountered at the top dead center reversal of the piston compression ring-cylinder liner contact are created, and the generated friction measured through use of a sliding-strip tribometry. Subsequently, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is used to determine the composition of the formed surface tribofilms in order to explain the observed frictional characteristics. The key interactions and frictional behavior of the dispersant and friction modifiers are highlighted across a range of operating temperatures.
Load-Bearing Capacity Investigation of Friction Pairs in Hydro-Viscous Drive Based on Fractal Contact Theory
Authors: Cui Hong-Wei , Jiang Yu-Yu , Wang Qi-Liang
Published: February 2021

Hydro-viscous drive has gained extensive application in fans, pumps, belt conveyors, and scraper conveyors for step-less speed regulating, soft starting, and overload protection. In the mixed friction stage, the state of contact and load-bearing capacity are always changing with the pressure of control oil. In order to predict the load-bearing capacity of friction pairs, a description of the frictional and hydrodynamic lubrication states was first made. Oil film’s pressure distribution and load-bearing capacity were analyzed with the average flow model. The fractal contact model of the asperity surface was proposed for simulating mutual contact state and contact load between the asperities. The influences of fractal parameters on the contact performance of friction pairs were conducted. Eventually, test rig of load-bearing capacity was established. As indicated by the experiment, asperity contact area and load-bearing capacity of the asperity contact increase slowly at first and then rapidly with reduced film thickness ratio. Correspondingly, oil film load-bearing capacity progressively reduces. Due to the reduction of film thickness ratio, friction pairs’ load-bearing capacity increases gradually. The load-bearing capacity of friction pairs is affected by the fractal dimension and scale factor. Results of the experiment well conform to the theoretical values, which illustrates that friction pairs’ load-bearing capacity can be accurately predicted and computed using the average flow model and M-B fractal contact model. The calculation offers a theoretical reference to the survey about friction and torque properties of the hydro-viscous drive.
Optimal environmental estimation with ocean ambient noise
Authors: Gebbie John , Siderius Martin
Published: February 2021

This article presents an asymptotically optimal technique for estimating environmental parameters from ocean ambient noise. Noise from wind and breaking waves propagates through the water column and reflects off the bottom over a wide range of angles and frequencies and, in doing so, imparts information about the environment to the noise covariance matrix for a receiver array. Most environmental estimation techniques focus on spatial filtering methods aimed at recovering the vertical noise directionality. However, an often overlooked fact is that the noise covariance matrix fully characterizes the probability density function of each snapshot, which forms the basis for an information-theoretic approach. In this light, it is possible to obtain the theoretical bounds on optimal estimator performance while also providing a basis for assessing the utility of different parameterization schemes. Most importantly, it provides a natural definition for a maximum likelihood estimator that meets the optimal bounds in an asymptotic sense. This technique outperforms beamforming-based methods by a significant margin. It also remains unbiased in the presence of strong white noise, is tolerant to array tilt, can operate beyond the array design frequency, but does suffer greater sensitivity to model mismatch. These trade-offs are explored with simulations and analyses of experimental data.
KIF13A motors are regulated by Rab22A to function as weak dimers inside the cell
Authors: Patel Nishaben M. , Siva Meenakshi Sundaram Aravintha , Kumari Ruchi , Shewale Dipeshwari J. , Rai Ashim , Ritt Michael , Sharma Prerna , Setty Subba Rao Gangi , Sivaramakrishnan Sivaraj , Soppina Virupakshi
Published: February 2021

KIF13A functions as a weak dimer, critical for recycling endosomal tubulation in vivo.
Recruitment of archaeal DTD is a key event toward the emergence of land plants
Authors: Mazeed Mohd , Singh Raghvendra , Kumar Pradeep , Roy Ankit , Raman Bakthisaran , Kruparani Shobha P. , Sankaranarayanan Rajan
Published: February 2021

Chiral proofreader recruited from Archaea relieves anaerobic stress associated with translation machinery in land plants.
Multimessenger constraints on the neutron-star equation of state and the Hubble constant
Authors: Dietrich Tim , Coughlin Michael W. , Pang Peter T. H. , Bulla Mattia , Heinzel Jack , Issa Lina , Tews Ingo , Antier Sarah
Published: February 2021

A combined multimessenger analysis

Neutron stars are stellar remnants with densities greater than that of an atomic nucleus. The properties of matter under such extreme conditions are poorly understood and inaccessible to terrestrial laboratories. Dietrich
et al.
developed a framework to combine multiple constraints on the masses and radii of neutron stars, including data from gravitational waves, electromagnetic observations, and theoretical nuclear physics calculations. They used this analysis to constrain the neutron-star equation of state and also improved the precision on the gravitational wave (standard siren) measurement of the Hubble constant—the expansion rate of the Universe.

Science
, this issue p.
1450
Morphine acts on spinal dynorphin neurons to cause itch through disinhibition
Authors: Nguyen Eileen , Lim Grace , Ding Huiping , Hachisuka Junichi , Ko Mei-Chuan , Ross Sarah E.
Published: February 2021

Morphine-induced itch is mediated by a specific population of dynorphin-expressing spinal inhibitory neurons in mice.
Development and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines for those most vulnerable
Authors: Koff Wayne C. , Schenkelberg Theodore , Williams Tere , Baric Ralph S. , McDermott Adrian , Cameron Cheryl M. , Cameron Mark J. , Friemann Matthew B. , Neumann Gabriele , Kawaoka Yoshihiro , Kelvin Alyson A. , Ross Ted M. , Schultz-Cherry Stacey , Mastro Timothy D. , Priddy Frances H. , Moore Kristine A. , Ostrowsky Julia T. , Osterholm Michael T. , Goudsmit Jaap
Published: February 2021

Ensuring that COVID-19 vaccines are delivered to older populations and those living in low resource settings is essential to end the pandemic.
Higher Dosing of Rifamycins Does Not Increase Activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the Hollow-Fiber Infection Model
Authors: Pieterman E. D. , van den Berg S. , van der Meijden A. , Svensson E. M. , Bax H. I. , de Steenwinkel J. E. M.
Published: February 2021

Improvements in the translational value of preclinical models can allow more-successful and more-focused research on shortening the duration of tuberculosis treatment. Although the hollow-fiber infection model (HFIM) is considered a valuable addition to the drug development pipeline, its exact role has not been fully determined yet.
Metagenomics of Antimicrobial and Heavy Metal Resistance in the Cecal Microbiome of Fattening Pigs Raised without Antibiotics
Authors: Tunsagool Paiboon , Mhuantong Wuttichai , Tangphatsornruang Sithichoke , Am-In Nutthee , Chuanchuen Rungtip , Luangtongkum Taradon , Suriyaphol Gunnaporn
Published: February 2021

AMR is an increasing problem in farm animals, and raising farm animals without antibiotics is one method that could solve this problem. Our study showed that only some tetracycline and macrolide resistance genes,
tet
(Q),
tet
(W), and
mef
(A), were markedly abundant in ABF and C groups.
Characterization and Genomic Analysis of ɸSHP3, a New Transposable Bacteriophage Infecting Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
Authors: Wu Huiming , Zhang Yucen , Jiang Ye , Wu Han , Sun Wen , Huang Yu-Ping
Published: February 2021

S. maltophilia
is an emerging global pathogenic bacterium that displays genetic diversity in both environmental and clinical strains. Transposable phages have long been known to improve the genetic diversity of bacterial strains by transposition.
Th2 Cytokine Modulates Herpesvirus Reactivation in a Cell Type-Specific Manner
Authors: Wang Guoxun , Zarek Christina , Chang Tyron , Tao Lili , Lowe Alexandria , Reese Tiffany A.
Published: February 2021

Herpesviruses establish lifelong quiescent infections in specific cells in the body and reactivate to produce infectious virus only when precise signals induce them to do so. The signals that induce herpesvirus reactivation are often studied only in one particular cell type infected with the virus.
Draft Genome Sequence of Vogesella oryzae L3B39
T
, Isolated from the Rhizosphere of Saline-Tolerant Pokkali Rice
Authors: Kangale Luis Johnson , Levasseur Anthony , Anani Hussein , Raoult Didier , Ghigo Eric , Fournier Pierre-Edouard
Published: February 2021

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Vogesella oryzae
L3B39
T
(CSUR Q2602
T
 = DSM 28780), which is a
Vogesella
species isolated from the rhizosphere of saline-tolerant pokkali rice. The genome sequence was assembled into 58 contigs for a total size of 3,415,129 bp, with a G+C content of 62.3%.