bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PU.1 inhibition attenuates atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation vulnerability induced by angiotensin‐II by reducing TGF‐β1/Smads pathway activation
Authors: Hu Juan , Zhang Jing‐Jing , Li Li , Wang Shan‐Ling , Yang Hai‐Tao , Fan Xian‐Wei , Zhang Lei‐Ming , Hu Guang‐Ling , Fu Hai‐Xia , Song Wei‐Feng , Yan Li‐Jie , Liu Jing‐Jing , Wu Jin‐Tao , Kong Bin
Published: June 2021

Fibrosis serves a critical role in driving atrial remodelling‐mediated atrial fibrillation (AF). Abnormal levels of the transcription factor PU.1, a key regulator of fibrosis, are associated with cardiac injury and dysfunction following acute viral myocarditis. However, the role of PU.1 in atrial fibrosis and vulnerability to AF remain unclear. Here, an in vivo atrial fibrosis model was developed by the continuous infusion of C57 mice with subcutaneous Ang‐II, while the in vitro model comprised atrial fibroblasts that were isolated and cultured. The expression of PU.1 was significantly up‐regulated in the Ang‐II‐induced group compared with the sham/control group in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, protein expression along the TGF‐β1/Smads pathway and the proliferation and differentiation of atrial fibroblasts induced by Ang‐II were significantly higher in the Ang‐II‐induced group than in the sham/control group. These effects were attenuated by exposure to DB1976, a PU.1 inhibitor, both in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, in vitro treatment with small interfering RNA against Smad3 (key protein of TGF‐β1/Smads signalling pathway) diminished these Ang‐II‐mediated effects, and the si‐Smad3‐mediated effects were, in turn, antagonized by the addition of a PU.1‐overexpression adenoviral vector. Finally, PU.1 inhibition reduced the atrial fibrosis induced by Ang‐II and attenuated vulnerability to AF, at least in part through the TGF‐β1/Smads pathway. Overall, the study implicates PU.1 as a potential therapeutic target to inhibit Ang‐II‐induced atrial fibrosis and vulnerability to AF.
EGCG synergizes the therapeutic effect of irinotecan through enhanced DNA damage in human colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Wu Wenbing , Dong Jingying , Gou Hui , Geng Ruiman , Yang Xiaolong , Chen Dan , Xiang Bin , Zhang Zhengkun , Ren Sichong , Chen Lihong , Liu Ji
Published: June 2021

Irinotecan is a kind of alkaloid with antitumour activity, but its low solubility and high toxicity limit its application. Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) is one of the main bioactive components in tea. The epidemiological investigation and animal and cell experiments show that EGCG has a preventive and therapeutic effect on many kinds of tumours. Here, colorectal cancer cells RKO and HCT116 were employed, and the CCK8 proliferation test was used to screen the appropriate concentration of EGCG and irinotecan, and the effects of single and/or combined drugs on migration, invasion, DNA damage, cell cycle and autophagy of tumour cells were investigated. The results showed that EGCG combined with irinotecan (0.5 μmol L−) not only had a stronger inhibitory effect on tumour cells than EGCG or irinotecan alone but also prevented tumour cell migration and invasion. EGCG alone did not cause DNA damage in colorectal cancer cells, but its combination with irinotecan could induce S or G2 phase arrest by inhibiting topoisomerase I to cause more extensive DNA damage. EGCG also induced apoptosis by promoting autophagy with irinotecan synergistically. These results indicated that EGCG in combination with irinotecan could be a promising strategy for colorectal cancer.
Aetiology of shame and its association with adolescent depression and anxiety: results from a prospective twin and sibling study
Authors: Nikolić Milica , Hannigan Laurie J. , Krebs Georgina , Sterne Abram , Gregory Alice M. , Eley Thalia C.
Published: June 2021

Background

Shame is considered a maladaptive self‐conscious emotion that commonly co‐occurs alongside depression and anxiety. Little is known, however, about the aetiology of shame and its associations with depression and anxiety. We estimated, for the first time, genetic and environmental influences on shame and on its associations with depression and anxiety in adolescence.

Methods

The sample was twin and sibling pairs from the Genesis 1219 Study (Time 1, N = 2,685; males 42.8%, Mage = 14.95, SD = 1.67, age range: 12–21; Time 2, N = 1618; males 39.7%, Mage = 16.97, SD = 1.64, age range: 14–23). Participants completed validated questionnaires to measure shame (at Time 1), depression and anxiety (at Times 1 and 2).

Results

Shame was moderately to strongly associated with concurrent depression and anxiety. Prospectively, shame was significantly associated with an increase in depression, but not anxiety. Genetic analyses revealed that shame was moderately heritable with substantial nonshared environmental influence. The associations between shame and concurrent depression and anxiety were primarily accounted for by overlapping genetic influences. Prospectively, the association between shame and later depression was primarily accounted for by genetic and nonshared environmental influences shared with earlier depression. The unique association between shame and later depression was mostly explained by common nonshared environmental influences.

Conclusions

The findings offer novel evidence regarding aetiology of shame—although moderately heritable, shame in adolescents may also result from nonshared environmental factors. Genetic and nonshared environmental influences contribute to the co‐occurrence of shame with depression and anxiety.
Routines and coparenting as interrelated family management systems
Authors: Petren Raymond E. , Puhlman Daniel J.
Published: June 2021

This article presents a conceptual model drawing from family systems theory that focuses on the intersection of coparenting and routine development and maintenance as a key process in family management. The importance of both coparenting and routines for family management has been clearly articulated in the literature; however, how they impact one another and work together in family management has not been conceptualized. After briefly reviewing the literature, we articulate a model of family management that includes the establishment, monitoring, and adjustment of routines, orchestrated by the coparental subsystem. We then explore the intersection of coparenting and routine development, examining how both systems of family management influence each other. We argue that when coparenting and routines work effectively together, the result is greater levels of family integrity and continuity. Finally, we provide suggestions for further empirical work and practical implications.
A cross‐sectional study using the national standard to examine differences between public and private non‐profit nursing homes in China
Authors: Hua Jianing , Cui Min , Geng Guiling , Yang Wenwen , Xi Qun , Qian Xiangyun
Published: June 2021

Aim

Most studies on nursing home quality focus on developed countries, with little coverage in developing countries. Our study aimed to compare the differences between Chinese public and private non‐profit nursing homes using the latest national standard.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted including 232 nursing homes in Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, China. We conducted statistical analyses (chi‐square and independent sample t test) to investigate differences in public and private non‐profit nursing homes. We fitted a binary logistic regression model with whether or not the nursing home received a 3‐star or higher rating as the dependent variable, and the ownership type as explanatory variable, after adjusting for nursing home characteristics.

Results

Of the 232 nursing homes included in the study sample, 44.8% were public nursing homes and 55.2% were private non‐profit nursing homes. The t test analysis comparing the measures of nursing homes yielded significant results for 4 measures, 3 of which (overall rating, environment, and services) favored private non‐profit nursing homes. A regression analysis using whether or not the nursing home received a 3‐star or higher rating as the dependent variable showed that when adjusting for nursing home characteristics, private non‐profit nursing homes were more likely to have a 3 or higher star compared with public nursing homes (odds ratio = 1.961, 95% confidence interval: 1.056–3.643).

Conclusion

These results suggested that private non‐profit nursing homes performed better than public nursing homes when using the Chinese national standard for nursing homes.
Three‐dimensional transfer function of optical microscopes in reflection mode
Authors: Lehmann Peter , Pahl Tobias
Published: June 2021

Three‐dimensional (3D) transfer functions build the basis for a comprehensive characterization of optical imaging systems in the spatial frequency domain. Utilizing the projection‐slice theorem, the 2D modulation transfer function of an incoherent imaging system can be derived from a 3D transfer function by integration with respect to the axial spatial frequency. For a diffraction limited microscope with homogeneous incoherent pupil illumination, the modulation transfer function equals the 2D autocorrelation function of a circular disc. However, until now to the best of our knowledge no 3D transfer function has been published, which exactly leads to the 2D modulation transfer function of a diffraction limited microscope in reflection mode. In this article, we derive a formula, which after integration with respect to the axial spatial frequency coordinate perfectly fits to the diffraction limited 2D modulation transfer function. The inverse three‐dimensional Fourier transform of the 3D transfer function results in a complex‐valued 3D point spread function, from which the depth of field, the lateral resolution and, in addition, the corresponding 3D point spread function of both, a conventional and an interference microscope, can be obtained.
Antifungal activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles in Fusarium oxysporum‐Solanum lycopersicum pathosystem under controlled conditions
Authors: González‐Merino Ana María , Hernández‐Juárez Agustín , Betancourt‐Galindo Rebeca , Ochoa‐Fuentes Yisa María , Valdez‐Aguilar Luis Alonso , Limón‐Corona Mónica Lorena
Published: June 2021

Antifungal activity of zinc oxide (ZnO) and ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) was evaluated on the control of Fusarium oxysporum Schltdl. (Nectriaceae) under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. In vitro evaluation, poisoned culture media was prepared, and an explant was placed in the centre of solid medium. The experimental design was completely randomized with 18 treatments. Mycelial growth and conidia concentration were evaluated. Subsequently, three treatments (3,000, 1,500, 100 ppm) of ZnO NPs and ZnO were chosen for their evaluation in the greenhouse in tomato plants of Floradade variety under a randomized block design. Inoculation was carried out with a 1x107 conidia per mL suspension of F. oxysporum, when the plants presented the third pair of true leaves. Later, the application of different concentrations of ZnO and ZnO NPs was carried out; in this investigation, the incidence and severity and plant height were evaluated into account to determine the treatment effect on F. oxysporum. In vitro, the best treatments in mycelial growth inhibition were the high concentrations of ZnO NPs from 1,600 to 3,000 ppm with 81%–83%, and in the sporulation of the fungus, they were also those that inhibited from 82.57% to 83.85%. In greenhouse, the treatments that reached the highest plant height were ZnO NPs from 1,500 to 3,000 ppm, with a range of 166.0–175.40 cm, with a severity on the scale of 0.40–0.80 and an incidence of 20%–40%. ZnO NPs have a potential application as an antifungal agent and can be used to control the spread of F. oxysporum in tomato plants, in addition to improving the promoter effect related to the Zinc activity as a precursor in auxins synthesis, cytokinins and gibberellins biosynthesis, as well as the induction of higher activity of antioxidant enzymes useful in response to the pathogens attack.
Multi‐species fish foraging associations during tool use by the graphic tuskfish Choerodon graphicus (De Vis 1885) (Labridae)
Authors: Pryor Kimberley Jane , Milton Ashley Monique
Published: June 2021

Multi‐species foraging associations occur when one or more species forage together. However, these associations have not yet been studied during tool use in fishes. Observations were made of the graphic tuskfish Choerodon graphicus (De Vis 1885) in New Caledonia to determine whether other fishes attended it during tool‐use events. A new subtype of attendant associations, "scavenging at anvil", formed during 15 of 16 tool‐use events (94%). Six identifiable attendant families were observed: Acanthuridae (surgeonfishes; 3.7% of total attendant fishes), Balistidae (triggerfishes; 11.9%), Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes; 9.6%), Labridae (wrasses; 19.3%), Pomacanthidae (angelfishes; 0.7%) and Pomacentridae (damselfishes; 54.8%). Anvil choice significantly influenced the assemblages of attendants (p = 1.982e‐10) but the size of C. graphicus did not (p = .4658). C. graphicus sometimes chased attendants but attendants did not behave aggressively towards C. graphicus or other attendants. C. graphicus appeared to be disadvantaged when attendants distracted it during tool use or scavenged its food. Attendants benefitted when they obtained food they could not otherwise access. Attendants may have responded to visual cues such as appearance, body movements and sand clouds, and auditory cues such as the "clack" sound made when a mollusc was struck on an anvil. Future studies should assess the importance of multi‐species fish foraging associations during tool use to the ecology of coral reefs.
Mothers' and health workers' exposure to breastmilk substitutes promotions in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Emerson Jillian , Kouassi Firmin , Oka Kouamé Réné , Damey Florence Neto , Cisse Aita Sarr , Tharaney Manisha
Published: June 2021

Marketing of breastmilk substitutes (BMS) continues to undermine breastfeeding globally, and low income countries experiencing rapid economic growth are especially vulnerable as expanding BMS markets. The objective of the study was to understand the prevalence of exposure to BMS promotions among mothers of children 0–23 months, the frequency and type of contacts between BMS companies and health workers and the presence of educational/informational materials and branded equipment associated with such companies in health facilities in Abidjan using the World Health Organization's NetCode protocol. The methods included structured interviews with health workers and mothers and observations of equipment/materials in a sample of 42 facilities, 330 mothers and 129 health workers. Descriptive statistics were produced, and chi‐squared tests were used to assess differences by child age and facility type. Forty‐three per cent of mothers were advised to feed BMS products in the past 6 months, with a significantly higher percentage of mothers of older children (6–23 months) advised compared to infants 0–5 months. Two thirds (66%) of mothers had seen promotions outside of facilities. Among health workers, 63% were contacted by BMS companies, and only 8% were familiar with the International Code of Marketing of BMS. Differences were found between public/private facilities in the types of requests BMS companies made to health workers. Strong actions are needed in Côte d'Ivoire to prevent BMS promotion in the health system, including increasing health workers' knowledge of the International Code and national regulations, monitoring violations and reaching mothers and families to promote optimal breastfeeding practices.
Social and behaviour change communication to improve child feeding practices in Ethiopia
Authors: Workicho Abdulhalik , Biadgilign Sibhatu , Kershaw Meghan , Gizaw Rahel , Stickland Jennifer , Assefa Wossen , Abuye Cherinet , Woldegiorgis Behailu , Berhanu Lioul , Kennedy Eileen
Published: June 2021

Social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) interventions can positively affect optimal nutritional practices. This study evaluated the added value of a virtual facilitator tool to an enhanced community conversation (ECC) programme to improve infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practice among children under the Growth through Nutrition Activity programme in Ethiopia. The study used a quasi‐experimental design with a control group. Pregnant and/or lactating women were the study population for both study groups. The intervention (ECC + VF) group received all the same components as the control group but had the addition of in‐person ECC meetings supplemented with audio‐recorded virtual facilitators (VF) sessions designed to complement the monthly meeting lesson or topic. A difference in difference analysis was employed using generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) in Stata version 15.0 (Stata Corporation, College Station, TX). A p‐value of less than or equal to 0.05 was considered significant for all tests. Accordingly, a 13.6% change in iron folic acid (IFA) intake for 3 months and above was observed in the intervention group. Even though not statistically significant, large to moderate positive changes in child minimum diet diversity (20%), minimum acceptable diet (18%) and women diet diversity (7.9%) were observed in the intervention group. This study identified the use of virtual facilitators as a modality to transmit standard nutrition messages during ECC programmes for optimal IYCF practices. The findings strengthen the notion that using a combination of SBCC approaches has advantage over a single method in improving important nutritional practices.
Reinventing the wheel? Reassessing the roles of gene flow, sorting and convergence in repeated evolution
Authors: Waters Jonathan M. , McCulloch Graham A.
Published: June 2021

Biologists have long been intrigued by apparently predictable and repetitive evolutionary trajectories inferred across a variety of lineages and systems. In recent years, high‐throughput sequencing analyses have started to transform our understanding of such repetitive shifts. While researchers have traditionally categorized such shifts as either “convergent” or “parallel,” based on relatedness of the lineages involved, emerging genomic insights provide an opportunity to better describe the actual evolutionary mechanisms at play. A synthesis of recent genomic analyses confirms that convergence is the predominant driver of repetitive evolution among species, whereas repeated sorting of standing variation is the major driver of repeated shifts within species. However, emerging data reveal numerous notable exceptions to these expectations, with recent examples of de novo mutations underpinning convergent shifts among even very closely related lineages, while repetitive sorting processes have occurred among even deeply divergent taxa, sometimes via introgression. A number of very recent analyses have found evidence for both processes occurring on different scales within taxa. We suggest that the relative importance of convergent versus sorting processes depends on the interplay between gene flow among populations, and phylogenetic relatedness of the lineages involved.
Plant parasitic cyst nematodes redirect host indole metabolism via NADPH oxidase‐mediated ROS to promote infection
Authors: Chopra Divykriti , Hasan M. Shamim , Matera Christiane , Chitambo Oliver , Mendy Badou , Mahlitz Sina‐Valerie , Naz Ali Ahmad , Szumski Shelly , Janakowski Slawomir , Sobczak Miroslaw , Mithöfer Axel , Kyndt Tina , Grundler Florian M. W. , Siddique Shahid
Published: June 2021

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in response to infections often activate immune responses in eukaryotes including plants. In plants, ROS are primarily produced by plasma membrane‐bound NADPH oxidases called respiratory burst oxidase homologue (Rboh). Surprisingly, Rbohs can also promote the infection of plants by certain pathogens, including plant parasitic cyst nematodes.

The Arabidopsis genome contains 10 Rboh genes (RbohA–RbohJ). Previously, we showed that cyst nematode infection causes a localised ROS burst in roots, mediated primarily by RbohD and RbohF. We also found that plants deficient in RbohD and RbohF (rbohD/F) exhibit strongly decreased susceptibility to cyst nematodes, suggesting that Rboh‐mediated ROS plays a role in promoting infection. However, little information is known of the mechanism by which Rbohs promote cyst nematode infection.

Here, using detailed genetic and biochemical analyses, we identified WALLS ARE THIN1 (WAT1), an auxin transporter, as a downstream target of Rboh‐mediated ROS during parasitic infections. We found that WAT1 is required to modulate the host’s indole metabolism, including indole‐3‐acetic acid levels, in infected cells and that this reprogramming is necessary for successful establishment of the parasite.

In conclusion, this work clarifies a unique mechanism that enables cyst nematodes to use the host’s ROS for their own benefit.
Is coronavirus pandemic‐related anxiety higher in children with chronic kidney disease than healthy children?
Authors: Erfidan Gökçen , Özyurt Gonca , Arslansoyu‐Çamlar Seçil , Özdemir‐Şimşek Özgür , Başaran Cemaliye , Alaygut Demet , Mutlubaş Fatma , Kasap‐Demir Belde
Published: June 2021

Background

Since the emergence and worldwide spread of the new coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic, it has caused people to experience adverse psychological effects. This study aimed to assess anxiety levels during COVID‐19 in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including nephrotic syndrome (NS) and kidney transplantation (Tx).

Methods

A case‐controlled, cross‐sectional study was conducted with children aged 10–18 years, who had a diagnosis of CKD or NS, or Tx, and followed in our center between April and July 2020. A healthy control group was recruited with age‐ and gender‐matched children. A questionnaire with printed and online versions was designed in three parts: the first addressed demographic characteristics, the second addressed opinions about the pandemic, and the third was the Turkish version of the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale – Child Version.

Results

A total of 88 children completed the questionnaire. The patient and control groups were similar in terms of gender, age, household members and history of psychiatric treatment. Both groups stated that coronavirus is a risky disease for children (63.6%), and that they were afraid of contagion (69.3%). Only half of them were receiving realistic and informative answers from family members. In the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale – Child Version, 66% of them received a high score on at least one subscale. The social phobia scores of the control group were higher than those of the patient group, although the proportion of high scores was similar in both groups. The ratio of high‐scored participants was higher in CKD patients for panic disorder, and was lower in the immunosuppressive agent group for social phobia.

Conclusion

The current COVID‐19 pandemic is a disaster that children encounter for the first time in their lives. It does not exclusively cause anxiety among children with chronic kidney diseases but also affects healthy children.
Healthy measures: Feasibility study of a moderate carbohydrate weight management intervention
Authors: Leslie Jamie L. , Odar Stough Cathleen , Lee Seung‐Yeon , Mitchell Monica J. , Kalarchian Melissa
Published: June 2021

Background

People of all weights need to prevent changes that could lead to obesity, a leading public health issue.

Objective

To assess the feasibility of Healthy Measures, a moderate carbohydrate (160‐300 g/d) nutrition education and behavioral intervention.

Design

An uncontrolled intervention feasibility study including in‐person group meetings every 2 weeks for 3 months.

Sample

Fifteen participants of normal and overweight BMI.

Measurements

We assessed feasibility of recruitment, attendance, retention and satisfaction as well as anthropometric measures and social cognitive variables with Healthy Measures, a nutrition‐focused intervention with moderate carbohydrate portions that also emphasizes self‐monitoring of anthropometric measurements. An intent‐to‐treat analysis was used.

Results

Healthy Measures was feasible, with 13 participants (86.7%) completing pre‐ and post‐intervention assessments. Eight participants lost or maintained weight (53.3%); four gained weight. Healthy eating self‐efficacy increased overall (t = ‐2.54, p = .024). Increased protein and fat intake was associated with weight loss, while reduced protein, carbohydrate, and fat intake resulted in weight gain.

Conclusions

Healthy Measures shows promise for prevention of weight gain, with evidence of feasibility and positive outcomes. Further research is needed to establish efficacy relative to alternative approaches.
A substitution in exon 2 resulted in the novel HLA‐A*30:140 variant identified in a Chinese individual
Authors: Zhong Yan‐Ping , Zou Hong‐Yan , Quan Zhan‐Rou , He Liu‐Mei , Deng Zhi‐Hui
Published: June 2021

HLA‐A*30:140 differs from HLA‐A*30:01:01 by one nucleotide change in exon 2 at position 341 (C > A).
Optimization of ultrasonographic ureteral jet detection and normal ureteral jet morphology in dogs
Authors: Gremillion Christine , Cohen Eli B. , Vaden Shelly , Seiler Gabriela
Published: June 2021

Ureteral jets are visualized with ultrasound as echogenic streams extending from the ureterovesicular junction into the urinary bladder. In clinical practice, diuretics are sometimes administered to increase visibility of ureteral jets, however this has not been well described in the veterinary literature. The purpose of this prospective, crossover study was to describe the normal morphology of canine ureteral jets, determine an optimal protocol for diuretic administration to increase visibility of ureteral jets, and confirm in vitro the effect that differences in specific gravity and velocity have on visibility. Ultrasound of 10 normal dogs was performed at baseline and following 1 mg/kg furosemide administered intravenously or subcutaneously. Increased numbers of ureteral jets were seen post‐furosemide administration compared to baseline, with an overall increased number of ureteral jets identified following intravenous administration when compared to subcutaneous administration. Time to first ureteral jet was significantly shorter with intravenous compared to subcutaneous administration. Urine specific gravity significantly decreased following furosemide administration. For the in vitro study, saline solutions of varying specific gravities were infused into a bath of hypertonic saline with specific gravity of 1.037. There was good visibility in vitro with infusion of solutions of specific gravities of 1.010‐1.025. Infusion of saline solution with a specific gravity of 1.030 had reduced visibility, while infusion of saline with equivalent specific gravity (1.037) was not visible with B‐mode ultrasonography. Both intravenous and subcutaneous furosemide administration significantly increase ureteral jet detection with ultrasound secondary to differences in specific gravity, confirming results of prior studies.
Experiences of working as early career allied health professionals and doctors in rural and remote environments: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Dymmott Alison , George Stacey , Campbell Narelle , Brebner Chris
Published: June 2021

Objective:

The objective of this review is to investigate the experiences of working as an early career allied health professional or doctor, and the factors that influence this experience in rural or remote environments.

Introduction:

Recruitment and retention of health professionals in rural and remote areas is challenging, with a range of strategies used to attract and retain them, which vary by profession and jurisdiction. Workforce recommendations are often based on the collective experience of all health professions. This review will explore the experiences of early career allied health professionals and doctors and compare and synthesize the evidence in order to better understand the individual and collective factors to generate relevant recommendations.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider qualitative studies that include early career allied health professionals’ or doctors’ experiences of working in rural or remote areas and the personal and professional factors that impact on this experience.

Methods:

CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Informit, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, Google Scholar, and WorldWideScience.org will be searched to identify published and unpublished studies. Studies published since 2000 in English will be considered for the review. Identified studies will be screened for inclusion in the review by two independent reviewers. Studies for inclusion will be critically appraised by two independent reviewers. Data will be extracted using a standardized tool and reviewers will discuss any disagreements. Data synthesis will adhere to the meta-aggregative approach to categorize findings. The categories will be synthesized into synthesized findings that can be applied as evidence-based recommendations.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42021223187
A Blade-Vibration-Damping Device—Its Testing and a Preliminary Theory of Its Operation
Authors: Di Taranto R. A.
Published: June 2021

Presented herein is a report on a wire-damping device which has shown considerable damping ability when placed in a hollow rotor blade. A series of tests is reported which have all shown the damping ability of this device at nonrotating and rotating conditions. Two theories are postulated and expressions derived to explain the mechanism of damping by the wires for nonrotating-type damping and rotating-type damping. The postulated mechanism for damping in the nonrotating rotor blade considers that the wires absorb energy by rubbing around one another as a result of the motion imparted by the vibratory motion of the blade. The postulated mechanism for damping in the rotating rotor blade considers that a component of centrifugal force holds the wires against the side of the blade and the vibratory bending motion of the blade causes relative motion between the blade wall and the adjacent wires to absorb energy. Criteria are set forth for determining which mechanism is operative. Good correlation was obtained between test and theory.
An Approximate Analysis of Timoshenko Beams Under Dynamic Loads
Authors: Boley B. A. , Chao Chi-Chang
Published: June 2021

An approximate method for the analysis of Timoshenko beams under impact is presented; it is based on a “traveling-wave” approach and on the principle of virtual work. Displacement functions are assumed in terms of several time-dependent parameters; the latter are found as the solution of a set of ordinary differential equations. Some of the characteristics of the propagation of disturbances are analyzed in the Appendix. Illustrative numerical results pertaining to semi-infinite and finite beams also are presented.
Creep Deflections and Stresses of Beam-Columns
Authors: Lin T. H.
Published: June 2021

A method of calculating the creep deflections and stresses of a beam-column is shown. The differential equation of equilibrium in terms of creep strain is solved by the method of integrating factors with Green’s function. For restrained and built-in ends, the end moments are found from the end conditions. An illustrative example is given for a beam-column of an ideal H-section with built-in ends and subjected to uniform lateral load. The deflection-time curve and flange stresses at different instants are shown.
Axially Symmetric Motions of Thick Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Mirsky I. , Herrmann G.
Published: June 2021

An approximate theory of axially symmetric motions of thick, elastic, cylindrical shells, in which the effect of transverse normal stress is retained, is deduced from the three-dimensional theory of elasticity. The present theory contains, in addition to the usual membrane and bending terms, also the influence of rotatory inertia and transverse shear deformation. Thus it may be specialized to a variety of shell, plate, and solid-cylinder equations. The propagation of free harmonic waves in an infinite shell is studied on the basis of the present theory and the three-dimensional theory of elasticity. Excellent agreement is obtained for the phase velocity of the lowest mode of motion for a wide range of the parameters involved.
Effect of Curvature on the Hertz Theory for Two Circular Cylinders in Contact
Authors: Loo Tsu-Tao
Published: June 2021

The effect of curvature on the Hertz theory for the case of two circular cylinders in line contact is studied, and a correction term due to consideration of this curvature is found. An expression for the relative normal approach of two cylinders is also obtained, a result which heretofore has not been formulated.
Further Large-Deflection Analysis for a Plate Strip Subjected to Normal Pressure and Heating
Authors: Williams M. L.
Published: June 2021

In an earlier paper (1) an analysis was carried out to determine the stresses and deflection in an infinite strip plate undergoing large deflections when the plate was subjected to a combined normal loading and uniform temperature rise through the thickness, both of which were permitted to vary across the plate width. This paper extends the analysis and design charts to the case where the temperature distribution through the thickness of the plate may have any desired distribution. If the usual plate assumptions regarding plane sections remaining plane are valid, then the arbitrary temperature distribution can be represented completely by the average temperature and the first moment of the temperature about the plate middle surface, as far as the engineering stresses and deflections are concerned. The convenient nondimensional design charts cover equilibrium positions in the buckling as well as nonbuckling range and show maximum stress and central deflection as a function of pressure, average temperature, and temperature moment for cases of both clamped and simply supported edges.
General Instability of Ring-Stiffened Cylindrical Shells Subject to External Hydrostatic Pressure—A Comparison of Theory and Experiment
Authors: Galletly G. D. , Slankard R. C. , Wenk E.
Published: June 2021

Tests are described of a number of machined-stiffened cylinders subjected to external hydrostatic pressure, and the observed general instability strengths compared with predictions from theories of Kendrick and Nash. Agreement with Kendrick was found rather good. Results also are presented from electrical strain gages which show in detail the growth of embryonic lobes and nonlinear characteristics of deformation at the threshold of buckling. Weakening effects of imperfect circularity are discussed.
Buckling of a Thin Annular Plate Under Uniform Compression
Authors: Yamaki N.
Published: June 2021

This paper deals with the elastic stability of a circular annular plate under uniform compressive forces applied at its edges. By integrating the equilibrium equation of the buckled plate, the problem is solved in its most general form for twelve different combinations of the boundary conditions of the edges. For each case cited the lowest critical loads are calculated with the ratio of its radii as the parameter. It is clarified that the assumption of symmetrical buckling, which has been made by several researchers, often leads to the overestimate for the stability of the plate. Discussions for the limiting cases of the circular plate and infinite strip also are included.
Stresses in a Dumbbell-Shaped Disk Rotating About an Axis Lying in Its Middle Plane
Authors: Chatterjee B. B.
Published: June 2021

This paper is concerned with the determination of stresses in a dumbbell-shaped disk rotating about an axis perpendicular to the axis of symmetry in its middle plane. The peripheral stress also is calculated.
Stresses Produced in a Half Plane by Moving Loads
Authors: Cole J. , Huth J.
Published: June 2021

A study is made of stresses and displacements induced in an elastic half plane (plane strain) by a concentrated line load moving at a constant speed along its surface. The stress field for an arbitrary load distribution can be built up by superposition of these concentrated-load solutions. Three cases are considered: (a) The load is moving more slowly than either the longitudinal or transversal wave speeds of the elastic medium (subsonic case). (b) The load speed is between the two wave speeds (transonic case). (c) The load speed is greater than either wave speed (supersonic case). In each of these cases the nature of the singularity caused by the load is examined and the complete solution is given.
Large Symmetric Deflections of Annular Plates
Authors: Wempner G. A. , Schmidt R.
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a series solution of the von Karman equations for axially symmetric deflections of annular plates. A numerical procedure is described for evaluating the coefficients in the series. Results obtained by this procedure are given for a plate subjected to axial edge loads. A method is presented for demonstrating convergence and appraising the errors.
The Flexure of a Uniformly Pressurized, Circular, Cylindrical Shell
Authors: Wood J. D.
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the moment-curvature relationship and the components of displacement in the cross section of a uniformly pressurized, long, closed, circular, cylindrical shell. The shell is loaded in one of its principal planes by two equal and opposite terminal couples: First, the shell undergoes small initial displacements. These are formed by superimposing pressurization displacements upon Saint Venant displacements. Second, from this deformed position the shell is perturbed into a system of additional small displacements. A Rayleigh-Ritz technique is used to find the latter displacements from the theorem of minimum potential energy. The point at which the moment-curvature relationship becomes nonlinear is shown by several curves in this paper.
Theory of Pitch and Curvature Corrections for the Helical Spring—II (Torsion)
Authors: Ancker C. J. , Goodier J. N.
Published: June 2021

The helical spring of round cross section loaded in axial tension is solved. Both pitch and curvature are considered. All deformations and stresses are obtained by a “thin-slice” method which reduces the variables from three to two. The method is described in a previous paper. The form of the solution is deduced from considerations of symmetry. This knowledge, applied to the equations of the boundary-value problem, produces algebraic equations which are then solved.
Response of a Simply Supported Timoshenko Beam to a Purely Random Gaussian Process
Authors: Samuels J. C. , Eringen A. C.
Published: June 2021

The generalized Fourier analysis is applied to the damped Timoshenko beam equation to calculate the mean-square values of displacements and bending stress, resulting from purely random loading. Compared with the calculations, based on the classical beam theory, it was found that the displacement correlations of both theories were in excellent agreement. Moreover, the mean square of the bending stress, contrary to the results of the classical beam theory, was found to be convergent. Computations carried out with a digital computer are plotted for both theories.
The Wedge Under a Concentrated Couple: A Paradox in the Two-Dimensional Theory of Elasticity
Authors: Sternberg Eli , Koiter W. T.
Published: June 2021

The classical two-dimensional solution for the stress distribution in an elastic wedge which is subjected to a concentrated couple at the vertex, breaks down when the opening angle 2α of the wedge satisfies the equation tan 2α = 2α, i.e., when 2α is approximately 257 deg. As the foregoing critical opening angle 2α* is approached, all of the nonvanishing components of stress become infinite throughout the field, while the solution displays no obvious pathological characteristics for other values of the wedge angle. It is the purpose of the present paper to account for this peculiar singular behavior and to show that the solution under examination has physical significance only for wedge angles below the critical angle; for opening angles in the range 2α* ≤ 2α < 2π, the notion of a “concentrated couple” at the vertex of an elastic wedge, is found to be inherently deficient in meaning. The present investigation, as a by-product, augments the supply of counterexamples to the traditional version of Saint Venant’s principle.
Relief of Thermal Stresses Through Creep
Authors: Poritsky H. , Fend F. A.
Published: June 2021

Equations are developed for analyzing the effects of thermal creep on stress distributions. In formulating these elastoplastic equations, the tensile test stress-strain creep data are extended to compound stresses by means of the Mises-Hencky hypothesis. The various equations are manipulated to yield a numerical procedure by means of which the stress and strain components are computed successively at the end of various time intervals. In these calculations it is assumed that the initial creep rates remain constant during each time interval. The resulting equations are applied to the axially symmetric problem of relief of thermal stresses in an infinitely long cylinder which is quickly heated to a parabolic temperature, and maintained at that temperature. End effects are neglected. The calculation is reduced to repeated solutions of a certain second-order ordinary differential equation. Curves are plotted showing the gradual relief of the stresses caused by the creep. The methods developed are illustrative of a procedure which may be followed for other stress-creep problems.
Laminar Flow in a Uniformly Porous Channel
Authors: White F. M. , Barfield B. F. , Goglia M. J.
Published: June 2021

The problem of laminar channel flow has been investigated for the case of uniform fluid suction or injection through the channel walls. The solution can be divided into three steps: (a) A judicious choice of stream function reduces the Navier-Stokes equations to an ordinary, fourth-order, nonlinear differential equation, which contains a free parameter R, the Reynolds number based upon fluid velocity through the wall. (b) Since general analysis of this equation is intractable, the parameter R is eliminated by a suitable transformation. (c) The transformed, nonparametric equation yields to a series solution, valid and absolutely convergent for all R. From this general solution, expressions are developed for velocity components, pressure distribution, and wall-friction coefficient.
Vibration Fatigue Assessment of Additive Manufactured Nickel Alloy With Inherent Damping
Authors: Scott-Emuakpor Onome , Sheridan Luke , Runyon Brian , George Tommy
Published: June 2021

The fatigue life behavior and internal surface conditions of inherently damped additive manufactured (AM) specimens subjected to vibration bending are under investigation. This study supports research that demonstrated 95% vibration suppression due to damping capability of AM components with 1–3% internal volume of unfused powder; however, the viability of fatigue performance is unknown. The following effort explores whether internal wall damage caused by unfused powder particle motion debits fatigue life. Comparisons between the fatigue behaviors of unfused powder pocket and fully fused nickel based alloy 718 specimens confirms a long suspected powder interaction phenomena critical to damping performance.
Structural basis of the activation of the CC chemokine receptor 5 by a chemokine agonist
Authors: Isaikina Polina , Tsai Ching-Ju , Dietz Nikolaus , Pamula Filip , Grahl Anne , Goldie Kenneth N. , Guixà-González Ramon , Branco Camila , Paolini-Bertrand Marianne , Calo Nicolas , Cerini Fabrice , Schertler Gebhard F. X. , Hartley Oliver , Stahlberg Henning , Maier Timm , Deupi Xavier , Grzesiek Stephan
Published: June 2021

The structure of CCR5 in complex with [6P4]CCL5 and the G
i
protein reveals its activation mechanism.
Burrowing soft robots break new ground
Authors: Tao Junliang (Julian)
Published: June 2021

A bioinspired soft robot burrows through shallow dry sand with remarkable speed and maneuverability.
Stealthy tracking of deep ocean organisms with
Mesobot
Authors: Lindsay Dhugal John
Published: June 2021

Tracking deep ocean animals over their daily cycles will revolutionize our understanding of the largest biome on Earth.
Legionella pneumophila CRISPR-Cas Suggests Recurrent Encounters with One or More Phages in the Family
Microviridae
Authors: Deecker Shayna R. , Urbanus Malene L. , Nicholson Beth , Ensminger Alexander W.
Published: June 2021

Legionnaires’ disease is an often-fatal pneumonia caused by
Legionella pneumophila
, which normally grows inside amoebae and other freshwater protists.
L. pneumophila
trades diminished access to nutrients for the protection and isolation provided by the host. One outstanding question is whether
L. pneumophila
is susceptible to phages, given the protection provided by its intracellular lifestyle.
Peptides Affecting the Outer Membrane Lipid Asymmetry System (MlaA-OmpC/F) Reduce Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) Colonization in Chickens
Authors: Kathayat Dipak , Closs Gary , Helmy Yosra A. , Lokesh Dhanashree , Ranjit Sochina , Rajashekara Gireesh
Published: June 2021

Avian pathogenic
Escherichia coli
(APEC) is a subgroup of extraintestinal pathogenic
E. coli
(ExPEC) and considered a foodborne zoonotic pathogen transmitted through consumption of contaminated poultry products. APEC shares genetic similarities with human ExPECs, including uropathogenic
E. coli
(UPEC) and neonatal meningitis
E. coli
(NMEC).
Perspectives and Benefits of High-Throughput Long-Read Sequencing in Microbial Ecology
Authors: Tedersoo Leho , Albertsen Mads , Anslan Sten , Callahan Benjamin
Published: June 2021

Short-read, high-throughput sequencing (HTS) methods have yielded numerous important insights into microbial ecology and function. Yet, in many instances short-read HTS techniques are suboptimal, for example, by providing insufficient phylogenetic resolution or low integrity of assembled genomes. Single-molecule and synthetic long-read (SLR) HTS methods have successfully ameliorated these limitations.
The Exocyst Regulates Hydrolytic Enzyme Secretion at Hyphal Tips and Septa in the Banana Fusarium Wilt Fungus Fusarium odoratissimum
Authors: Yang Shuai , Zhou Xin , Guo Pingting , Lin Yaqi , Fan Qingwen , Zuriegat Qussai , Lu Songmao , Yang Junjie , Yu Wenying , Liu Hong , Lu Guodong , Shim Won-Bo , Wang Zonghua , Yun Yingzi
Published: June 2021

The exocyst complex is a multisubunit tethering complex (MTC) for secretory vesicles at the plasma membrane and contains eight subunits, Sec3, Sec5, Sec6, Sec8, Sec10, Sec15, Exo70, and Exo84. While the exocyst complex is well defined in eukaryotes from yeast to humans, the exocyst components in filamentous fungi show different localization patterns in the apical tips of hyphae, which suggests that filamentous fungi have evolved divergent strategies to regulate endomembrane trafficking.
RPAcan3990: an Ultrasensitive Recombinase Polymerase Assay To Detect
Angiostrongylus cantonensis
DNA
Authors: Sears William J. , Qvarnstrom Yvonne , Nutman Thomas B.
Published: June 2021

Angiostrongylus cantonensis
is one of the leading causes of eosinophilic meningitis worldwide. A field-deployable molecular detection method could enhance both environmental surveillance and clinical diagnosis of this emerging pathogen.
Murine Cytomegalovirus MCK-2 Facilitates
In Vivo
Infection Transfer from Dendritic Cells to Salivary Gland Acinar Cells
Authors: Ma Jiawei , Bruce Kimberley , Stevenson Philip G. , Farrell Helen E.
Published: June 2021

Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) establish myeloid cell-associated viremias and persistent shedding from the salivary glands.
In vitro
studies with human CMV (HCMV) have implicated HCMV UL128 in epithelial tropism, but its role
in vivo
is unknown. Here, we analyzed how a murine CMV (MCMV) protein with similar physical properties, designated MCK-2, contributes to host colonization.