bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
p75NTR optimizes the osteogenic potential of human periodontal ligament stem cells by up‐regulating α1 integrin expression
Authors: Li Jun , Zhao Manzhu , Wang Yingying , Shen Mengjie , Wang Shuai , Tang Mengying , Li Meng , Luo Yuting , Yang Kun , Wen Xiujie
Published: May 2020

Human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) are a promising source in regenerative medicine. Due to the complexity and heterogeneity of hPDLSCs, it is critical to isolate homogeneous hPDLSCs with high regenerative potential. In this study, p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) was used to isolate p75NTR+ and p75NTR− hPDLSCs by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. Differences in osteogenic differentiation among p75NTR+, p75NTR− and unsorted hPDLSCs were observed. Differential gene expression profiles between p75NTR+ and p75NTR− hPDLSCs were analysed by RNA sequencing. α1 Integrin (ITGA1) small interfering RNA and ITGA1‐overexpressing adenovirus were used to transfect p75NTR+ and p75NTR− hPDLSCs. The results showed that p75NTR+ hPDLSCs demonstrated superior osteogenic capacity than p75NTR− and unsorted hPDLSCs. Differentially expressed genes between p75NTR+ and p75NTR− hPDLSCs were highly involved in the extracellular matrix‐receptor interaction signalling pathway, and p75NTR+ hPDLSCs expressed higher ITGA1 levels than p75NTR− hPDLSCs. ITGA1 silencing inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of p75NTR+ hPDLSCs, while ITGA1 overexpression enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of p75NTR− hPDLSCs. These findings indicate that p75NTR optimizes the osteogenic potential of hPDLSCs by up‐regulating ITGA1 expression, suggesting that p75NTR can be used as a novel cell surface marker to identify and purify hPDLSCs to promote their applications in regenerative medicine.
Systematic review on the definition and predictors of severe Clostridiodes difficile infection
Authors: Zhang Valencia Ru Yan , Woo Aaron Shu Jeng , Scaduto Christina , Cruz Maria Teresa Kasunuran , Tan Yan Yuan , Du Hao , Feng Mengling , Siah Kewin Tien Ho
Published: May 2020

Clostridiodes difficile infection (CDI) is one of the most common hospital‐acquired infections with high mortality rates. Optimal management of CDI depends on early recognition of severity. However, currently, there is no acceptable standard of prediction. We reviewed severe CDI predictors in published literature and its definition according to clinical guidelines. We systematically reviewed studies describing clinical predictors for severe CDI in medical databases (Cochrane, EMBASE, Global Health Library, and MEDLINE/PubMed). They were independently evaluated by two reviewers. Six hundred thirty‐three titles and abstracts were screened, and 31 studies were included. We excluded studies that were restricted to a specific patient population. There were 16 articles that examined mortality in CDI, as compared with 15 articles investigating non‐mortality outcomes of CDI. The commonest risk factors identified were comorbidities, white blood cell count, serum albumin level, age, serum creatinine level and intensive care unit admission. Generally, the studies had small patient populations, were retrospective in nature, and mostly from Western centers. The commonest severe CDI criteria in clinical guidelines were raised white blood cell count, followed by low serum albumin and raised serum creatinine levels. There was no commonly agreed upon definition of severe CDI severity in the literature. Current clinical guidelines' definitions for severe CDI are heterogeneous. Hence, there is a need for prospective multi‐center studies using standardized protocol for biospecimen investigation collection and shared data on outcomes of patients in order to devise a universally accepted definition for severe CDI.
The plant endoplasmic reticulum: an organized chaos of tubules and sheets with multiple functions
Authors: KRIECHBAUMER V. , BRANDIZZI F.
Published: May 2020

The endoplasmic reticulum is a fascinating organelle at the core of the secretory pathway. It is responsible for the synthesis of one third of the cellular proteome and, in plant cells, it produces receptors and transporters of hormones as well as the proteins responsible for the biosynthesis of critical components of a cellulosic cell wall. The endoplasmic reticulum structure resembles a spider‐web network of interconnected tubules and cisternae that pervades the cell. The study of the dynamics and interaction of this organelles with other cellular structures such as the plasma membrane, the Golgi apparatus and the cytoskeleton, have been permitted by the implementation of fluorescent protein and advanced confocal imaging. In this review, we report on the findings that contributed towards the understanding of the endoplasmic reticulum morphology and function with the aid of fluorescent proteins, focusing on the contributions provided by pioneering work from the lab of the late Professor Chris Hawes.
A case of ingrown nail using buckle VHO‐Osthold® Perfect as a method of conservative treatment
Authors: Kuros Faustyna , Wcisło‐Dziadecka Dominika
Published: May 2020

Background

Ingrowing Nailis an ailment in the toe area. This problem is observed in 20% of the population, in all age groups, but most often occurs in teenagers and young adults. The process of ingrowing nail stimulates natural defense mechanisms of the body in the form of inflammation and severe pain.

Aims

The aim of this paper was to make the VHO‐Osthold® Perfect buckle effective as an alternative to nail plate surgery and to determine the patient's comfort during this method of treatment.

Patients/Methods

A descriptive case study conducted in a 15‐year‐old patient who had ingrowing nails in the big toes of both feet.

Results

It has been shown that the VHO‐Osthold® Perfect buckle therapy constitutes an effective method for ingrowing nails and one in a few conservative methods in orthonyxia, as an alternative to surgery.

Conclusions

The study and clinical experience confirm that the therapy of ingrowing nails with the VHO‐Osthold® Perfect buckle is painless and noninvasive. This treatment can be safely and effectively carried out by a qualified podiatrist or cosmetologist in podological practice.
Nonprescription acne vulgaris treatments: Their role in our treatment armamentarium—An international panel discussion
Authors: Dréno Brigitte , Araviiskaia Elena , Kerob Delphine , Andriessen Anneke , Anfilova Maryna , Arenbergerova Monika , Forero Barrios Olga L. , Bukvić Mokos Zrinka , Haedersdal Merete , Hofmann Maja A. , Khamaysi Ziad , Kosmadaki Marita , Lesiak Aleksandra , Roó Elia , Zbranca‐Toporas Anca , Wiseman Marni C. , Zimmo Sameer , Guerin Lucie , Fabbrocini Gabriella
Published: May 2020

Background

Acne vulgaris (acne), a common inflammatory skin disorder, has its peak incidence between 14 and 19 years of age, with girls frequently developing acne earlier than boys. Over recent years, persistent acne is becoming more prevalent in adult women.

Objectives

This review and panel discussion addresses challenges in acne management, particularly in adult women. The role which nonprescription acne treatment can play is explored when used as monotherapy or as an adjunctive treatment for acne of all severity.

Methods

The best available evidence on nonprescription acne treatment was coupled with the opinion of an international expert panel of dermatologists to adopt statements and recommendations discussed in this review.

Results

All severity of acne has a significant burden on patients. Addressing environmental factors that are important for the individual with acne may help to educate, prevent, effectively manage, and maintain acne, as per the panel. They agreed that the adult female acne population has unique needs because of their aging skin and social environment. Nonprescription acne treatment products may help to balance the efficacy and tolerability of prescription acne treatment. Currently, there are no specific guidelines for how to use nonprescription acne treatment products in these patients.

Conclusion

The panel agreed that guidelines including nonprescription acne treatment either as monotherapy for mild acne or in combination with prescription treatments for more severe acne would address a significant unmet need.
Hypermethylated PAX1 and ZNF582 genes in the tissue sample are associated with aggressive progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sun Rui , Juan Yi‐Chen , Su Yee‐Fun , Zhang Wen‐Bo , Yu Yao , Yang Hong‐Yu , Yu Guang‐Yan , Peng Xin
Published: May 2020

Background

DNA methylation of paired box gene 1 (PAX1) and zinc finger 582 (ZNF582) is promising cancer biomarkers for oral squamous cell carcinoma detection. This study aims to investigate the correlation between PAX1 or ZNF582 methylation and the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods

A total of 135 OSCC cases from Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology were enrolled in this study. Tissue specimens were collected from the lesion site and corresponding adjacent normal site. The methylation level of these two genes was evaluated in primary and recurrent OSCC group.

Results

Hypermethylation of PAX1 or ZNF582 was observed in lesion sites among primary and recurrent OSCC cases. In the lesion site of primary cases, promoter methylation was observed in T3/T4 (PAX1: P = .02; ZNF582: P = .01), stage III/IV (PAX1: P = .03; ZNF582: P = .01), and bone invasion cases (PAX1: P = .02; ZNF582: P = .047). In the subgroup analysis, the correlation between hypermethylation and OSCC severity remains significant with exposure to smoking/alcohol consumption.

Conclusions

Hypermethylated PAX1 and ZNF582 can sufficiently act as biomarkers to reflect the severity or progression of OSCC.
Pollinator shifts along an elevation gradient mediate different response in self‐pollination in heterostylous Primula nivalis
Authors: Abdusalam Aysajan , Liao Wan‐Jin , Zhang Zhi‐Qiang , Li Qing‐Jun
Published: May 2020

Pollinator shift and its influence on floral traits have been well documented to explain the diversity of angiosperms, but such effects are still less known at the intraspecific level, especially the responses of different morphs of distylous plants. We hypothesized that the pollen transfer efficiency would decrease if the pollinator shifted from a long‐tongued to short‐tongued insect across populations, and plants would evolve towards selfing in response to the stressed pollination environment. Given the gender specialization between flower morphs, the long styled (L‐morph) plants would increase female reproduction. Our study showed that the short‐tongued Bombus tianshanicus, the most‐visit pollinator in high elevation populations of distylous Primula nivalis, was less efficient in pollen transfer than long‐tongued Bombylius major. The plants evolved to promote selfing through reducing the anther–stigma separation and increasing intramorph self‐compatibility. The hand pollination experiment showed that after intramorph selfing, the fruit set and seed set increased with increasing elevation. Moreover, anther and stigma were closer in the L‐morph than in the short styled (S‐morph) plants, and the L‐morphs showed higher pollen transfer efficiency than the S‐morphs. Along with increased self‐compatibility, the fruit set and seed set of L‐morph plants were significantly higher than those of S‐morph plants. We described the pollinator shifts along an elevation gradient in a distylous plant and the response of plants by promoting selfing, which confirmed our hypothesis and supported the pollinator‐shift model. Our study also highlighted the different response in self‐compatibility between flower morphs.
Sex and age differences in tree cavity dependence in a small arboreal marsupial
Authors: Goldingay R. L.
Published: May 2020

Many mammal species depend on tree cavities for shelter and for breeding. Some species may use tree cavities as well as other varied shelters, but the extent of their dependence on tree cavities is unknown. One such species is the eastern pygmy‐possum (Cercartetus nanus) from eastern Australia which typically shelters alone. Four key questions were addressed: (1) do different age and sex classes differ in their preferences for small (4 cm diameter) and large (10 cm diameter) cavities, (2) does the availability of large cavities influence female breeding status, (3) does the availability of large cavities influence where adult females and males are detected, and (4) does the availability of large cavities influence survival and abundance? Two 9‐ha plots containing few (≤2 per ha) ‘large’ natural cavities were provisioned with artificial cavities in different years. When plots were provisioned with small and large cavities, breeding females (n = 46) showed a pronounced preference for sheltering in the large cavities while adult males (n = 67) and subadults (n = 40) preferred the small cavities. When one plot and not the other was provisioned with large cavities, adult females were significantly more likely to be reproductive and be detected on the plot with large cavities, but survival was not influenced. Detection of adult males did not vary with large cavity provisioning. The abundance of adult pygmy‐possums varied among years, being higher on the plot provisioned with large cavities when the other plot was not provisioned, but equivalent when both were provisioned. The findings of this study are consistent with the hypothesis that breeding females are dependent on a large cavity to raise a litter. Other mammal species around the world are likely to exhibit similar but currently unrecognized shelter site strategies which have implications for their management.
Representation in Cognitive Science: Replies
Authors: Shea Nicholas
Published: May 2020

In their constructive reviews, Frances Egan, Randy Gallistel and Steven Gross have raised some important problems for the account of content advanced by Nicholas Shea in Representation in Cognitive Science. Here the author addresses their main challenges. Egan argues that the account includes an unrecognised pragmatic element; and that it makes contents explanatorily otiose. Gallistel raises questions about homomorphism and correlational information. Gross puts the account to work to resolve a dispute about probabilistic contents in perception, but argues that a question remains about whether probabilities are found in the content or instead in the manner of representation.
Immunotherapy‐refractory vacuolar myopathy with mucin deposition in scleromyxedema: A possible role of fibroblast growth factor 2
Authors: Yanagihara Yuki , Hayashi Shintaro , Koge Junpei , Honda Hiroyuki , Yamasaki Ryo , Yamada Yuichi , Oda Yoshinao , Iwaki Toru , Kira Jun‐ichi
Published: May 2020

Scleromyxedema (SME) is characterized by widespread waxy papules on the skin, with mucin deposits in the upper dermis. Twenty‐one SME cases of myopathy have been reported; of the cases, six showed vacuolar formation, and two showed mucin deposition. We report the first case of SME with mucin‐associated vacuolated fibers. A 45‐year‐old woman with SME developed progressive proximal muscle weakness. Muscle biopsy revealed myopathic changes with numerous vacuoles linked to mucin in the affected muscle fibers, which were heavily immunostained for fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2). Despite repeated high dose oral prednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin administrations, muscle weakness recurred continuingly, culminating in death due to congestive heart failure. Immunotherapy was partly effective in our case, although it was refractory. Treatment responsiveness in patients with SME myopathy varied; however, due to its rarity, the mechanism remains to be elucidated. To address this issue, we investigated muscle specimens immunohistochemically and detected marked upregulation of FGF2 in the affected muscle fibers of our patient. FGF2, a strong myogenesis inhibitor, may exert a suppressive effect on muscle fiber regeneration, which may have conferred refractoriness to our patient's SME myopathy.
Overview of transnational recommendations for COVID‐19 transmission control in dental care settings
Authors: Jamal Mohamed , Shah Maanas , Almarzooqi Sameeha Husain , Aber Hend , Khawaja Summayah , El Abed Rashid , Alkhatib Zuhair , Samaranayake Lakshman Perera
Published: May 2020

On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) as a pandemic. Until an effective treatment or a vaccine is developed, the current recommendations are to contain the disease, and control its transmission. It is now clear that the primary mode of SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission is aerosol/droplet spread, and by contacting virus‐contaminated surfaces acting as fomites (inanimate vectors). Furthermore, recent data indicate that the live virus particles are present in saliva, and, more alarmingly, asymptomatic individuals may transmit the infection. By virtue of the nature of the practice of dentistry where intrinsically, a high volume of aerosols is produced, as well as the close proximity of dentists and patients during treatment, dentists and allied health staff are considered the highest risk health professional group for acquiring SARS‐CoV‐2 during patient management. Therefore, several organizations and specialty associations have proposed guidelines and recommendations for limiting the transmission of SARS‐COV‐2 from carriers to dentists and vice versa. This paper aims to provide a review of these guidelines, and concludes with a brief look at how the practice of dentistry may be impacted by COVID‐19, in the post‐pandemic era.
Cryptic growth strategies of the Cambrian coralCambroctoconus: flexible modes of budding and growth in immediate response to available space
Authors: Ezaki Yoichi , Adachi Natsuko , Liu Jianbo , Yan Zhen
Published: May 2020

The Cambrian coralCambroctoconusoccurs selectively in the crypts of calcimicrobeEpiphytonreefs of the Zhangxia Formation (Miaolingian) in Shandong Province, North China. These cryptobionts preferentially grow laterally and/or downward, in some cases showing pendent growth from the ceilings of the reef framework. The upside‐down growth is clearly shown by the downward‐oriented aperture and the presence of fork‐like holdfasts at its base. The coral aggregations reveal two cryptic growth strategies: one involves the prevalence of far smaller individuals in vertically narrow spaces; the other involves the predominance of modular individuals in large cavernous spaces. Offset individuals frequently appear projecting downward and are connected to each other in a chain‐like fashion. Individuals often undergo rejuvenescence laterally and downward, when the growth directions may change. Therefore, the size and modularity of individuals and the direction of budding depend largely upon the cryptic microenvironments available at the time. The cryptobionts make the best use of vacant spaces by modifying the location of budding and altering their growth directions through rejuvenescence. The cryptic growth strategies found inCambroctoconusindicate a certain degree of morphological variability in the modules. More importantly, they indicate that the individuals flexibly and exquisitely utilized the microbial crypts that were still predominant even during the middle Cambrian. These modes of cryptic growth demonstrate the age‐specific exploitation of niches by sessile skeletal organisms that was facilitated by the development of a firm attachment structure.
An intermediate type of medusa from the early Cambrian Kuanchuanpu Formation, South China
Authors: Wang Xing , Vannier Jean , Yang Xiaoguang , Kubota Shin , Ou Qiang , Yao Xiaoyong , Uesugi Kentaro , Sasaki Osamu , Komiya Tsuyoshi , Han Jian
Published: May 2020

The tetraradial or pentaradial fossil embryos and related hatched individuals from the early Cambrian Kuanchuanpu Formation are of great interest for understanding the early evolution of medusozoans. The phylogenetic and evolutionary significance of their external and internal characters (e.g. manubrium, tentacles, septa and claustra) is still controversial. Here we describe a new pentamerous medusozoan, Hanagyroia orientalis gen. et sp. nov., characterized by five well‐developed perradial oral lips around a remarkably large manubrium, a conspicuous equatorial groove, and five short interradial pairs of extensile tentacles at the bell margin. Internally, five broad and stout interradial septa join horizontally to form the claustra. Hanagyroia orientalis lacks the frenula, apertural lappet and velarium seen in coeval microfossils and extant cubozoans. Although H. orientalis resembles extant coronate scyphozoans in its round medusa‐like bell margin and equatorial groove, cladistic analysis suggests close affinity with cubozoans. Hanagyroia may represent an intermediate morphological type between scyphozoans and cubozoans. The well‐developed oral lips and paired short strong tentacles of Hanagyroia suggest direct development.
Patterns of intraspecific variation through ontogeny: a case study of the Cretaceous nautilidEutrephoceras dekayiand modernNautilus pompilius
Authors: Tajika Amane , Landman Neil H. , Morimoto Naoki , Ikuno Kenji , Linn Tom
Published: May 2020

The magnitude and ontogenetic patterns of intraspecific variation can provide important insights into the evolution and development of organisms. Understanding the intraspecific variation of organisms is also a key to correctly pursuing studies in major fields of palaeontology. However, intraspecific variation has been largely overlooked in ectocochleate cephalopods, particularly nautilids. Furthermore, little is known regarding the evolutionary pattern. Here, we present morphological data for the Cretaceous nautilidEutrephoceras dekayi(Morton) and the modern nautilidNautilus pompiliusLinnaeus through ontogeny. The data are used to describe conch morphology and to elucidate the evolutionary patterns of intraspecific variation. We discovered a similar overall pattern of growth trajectories and the presence of morphological changes at hatching and maturity in both taxa. We also found that intraspecific variation is higher in earlier ontogeny than in later ontogeny in both taxa. The high variation in earlier ontogeny may imply increased flexibility in changing the timing of developmental events, which probably played an important role in nautilid evolution. We assume that the decrease in variation in later ontogeny reflects developmental constraints. Lastly, we compared the similarity/dissimilarity of ontogenetic patterns of variation between taxa. Results reveal that the similarity/dissimilarity of the ontogenetic pattern differs betweenE. dekayiandN. pompilius. We conclude that this shift in the ontogenetic pattern of variation may be rooted in changes in the developmental programme of nautilids through time. We propose that studying ontogenetic patterns of intraspecific variation can provide new insights into the evolution and development of organisms.
Property Tax Information and Support for School Bond Referenda: Experimental Evidence
Authors: Brunner Eric J. , Robbins Mark D. , Simonsen Bill
Published: May 2020

This article reports on an experiment testing whether additional information influences support for bond referenda. Respondents were randomly assigned to treatment conditions that varied the way the potential implications of property tax increases were presented to voters. The results show a persistent negative effect of tax information on the probability of support for school bond referenda across all treatments. Specifically, the results show that the probability of voting yes decreased by 6 to 9 percentage points, depending on the treatment. This result persists across multiple specifications and robustness tests. The effects are consistent across populations, with only those with high levels of education showing no statistically significant effect of the treatment on their support for school referenda.

Evidence for Practice

Some states require bond referenda to include statements that seek to make plain the connection between ballot passage and property taxes, while others do not.

We find a persistent negative effect of property tax information on the probability of support for school bond referenda of 6 to 9 percentage points, depending on the wording.

This line of research has become increasingly important to public policy making given that about half the states, including the largest state, California, have some type of property tax wording requirements for referenda.

We argue that providing wording connecting property taxes to bond referenda passage is consistent with transparency efforts governments have pursued for decades. However, such wording might not improve the accuracy of information for citizens since, ultimately, the ensuing property tax levy depends on myriad factors, only one of which is debt service on bonds.
Australian Quarantine Policy: From Centralization to Coordination with Mid‐Pandemic COVID‐19 Shifts
Authors: Moloney Kim , Moloney Susan
Published: May 2020

Combining a historical institutionalism approach with institutional isomorphism and punctuated equilibrium, this article analyzes quarantine policy change across 120 years of Australian quarantine history. By anchoring its analysis within specific time periods (the years before the Spanish flu, seven decades of inaction, and multiple post‐1997 pandemic updates and responses), the authors highlight when and why policies did or did not change and how the constant push‐and‐pull between state and Commonwealth institutional ownership altered policy possibilities. The heart of the analysis showcases how Australia's successful COVID‐19 response is a unique output of prior quarantine policies, institutional evolution, and mid‐pandemic alterations of key national pandemic response plans.
Why regulators assess risk differently: Regulatory style, business organization, and the varied practice of risk‐based food safety inspections across the EU
Authors: Borraz Olivier , Beaussier Anne‐Laure , Wesseling Mara , Demeritt David , Rothstein Henry , Hermans Marijke , Huber Michael , Paul Regine
Published: May 2020

This article advances scholarship on comparative regulation by moving beyond the conventional focus on formal law and EU comitology to assess the extent of ‘practice convergence’ in the implementation of EU regulation. Drawing on 50 key informant interviews, a survey, and policy document analysis, we compare how regulators in England, Germany, France and the Netherlands have implemented EU requirements that food safety inspections be ‘risk‐based’. Focusing on a clear dependent variable – risk‐scoring methods – we find important differences in the conception and targeting of risk‐based inspections; with starkly different implications for what kind of food businesses they need to target to ensure safety within an ostensibly harmonized single market. We attribute variation in the implementation of risk‐based inspection to the ways that EU requirements were filtered through long‐entrenched regulatory styles and modes of food business organization in each country, reinforcing preexisting inspection practices in the design of new risk‐based tools.
Does women’s participation in agricultural technology adoption decisions affect the adoption of climate‐smart agriculture? Insights from Indo‐Gangetic Plains of India
Authors: Aryal Jeetendra Prakash , Farnworth Cathy R. , Khurana Ritika , Ray Srabashi , Sapkota Tek B. , Rahut Dil Bahadur
Published: May 2020

Increased participation of women in the agricultural technology adoption decision by farm households is one of the key indicators of gender empowerment in the agricultural sector. This study examines whether women’s participation in the household decision to adopt agricultural technology affects the adoption of climate‐smart agriculture (CSA), using data collected from 1,267 farm households from two Indian states of Bihar and Haryana. When we considered the sex of the household head (using a dummy variable for male‐headed vs female‐headed household) as a basis of analyzing the role of gender in the adoption of CSA, we found that women in Haryana had no role in the adoption of CSA. On the contrary, when we considered women’s participation in technology adoption decisions as a basis of gender analysis, we found that women’s participation in technology adoption decisions in Haryana is much higher as compared to Bihar. Consequently, the likelihood to adopt CSA is higher in Haryana than in Bihar. We also found that wealth, training, and access to extension and market positively influenced CSA adoption. Qualitative analysis shows that women farmers prioritize family food security rather than farm income, and therefore, they are more likely to focus on CSA to ensure food security.
Measuring Income Inequality Across Countries and Over Time: The Standardized World Income Inequality Database
Authors: Solt Frederick
Published: May 2020

Objective

This article documents wide‐ranging revisions to the Standardized World Income Inequality Database (SWIID), which seeks to maximize the comparability of income inequality estimates for the broadest possible coverage of countries and years.

Methods

Twok‐fold cross‐validations, by observation and by country, are used to evaluate the SWIID's success in predicting the Luxembourg Income Study (LIS), recognized in the field as setting the standard for comparability.

Results

The cross‐validations indicate that the new SWIID's estimates and their uncertainty are even more accurate than previous versions, extending its advantage in comparability over alternate income inequality data sets.

Conclusion

Given its superior coverage and comparability, the SWIID remains the optimum source of data for broadly cross‐national research on income inequality.
An NGS‐based HLA haplotype analysis and population comparison between two cities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Vianna Romulo , Secco Danielle , Hanhoerderster Leonardo , Motta Juliana , Cardoso Juliana , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: May 2020

HLA genes can exhibit extensive variations in frequency, especially in highly admixed populations, such as that of Brazil. In this study, we demonstrated NGS‐based HLA typing in our laboratory using an Illumina HiSeq 2500 sequencing platform and downstream analysis. We herein describe and compare the allele and haplotype frequencies of the populations in Barra Mansa (BM) and Rio de Janeiro (RJ), using the acquired genetic data. Sequences encompassing 7 HLA loci (HLA‐A, HLA‐B, HLA‐C, HLA‐DRB1, HLA‐DQB1, HLA‐DPA1, and HLA‐DPB1) were amplified from a total of 1435 bone marrow samples donated by volunteers recruited in BM (37.56%) and RJ (62.44%) using polymerase chain reactions, and were sequenced using five distinct HiSeq 2500 runs. Alleles were analyzed to generate 2‐locus haplotypes and extended haplotypes encompassing more than two loci. The most frequent haplotype was A*01:01:01~C*07:01:01~B*08:01:01~DRB1*03:01:01~DQB1*02:01:01~DPA1*01:03:01~DPB1*04:01:01 in both populations. The populations of BM and RJ exhibited a significant difference in genetic composition (P = .03) but not in genetic variance (P = .45). However, some groups of subjects, classified based on self‐declared ethnicity, particularly Branca and Preta, displayed significant genetic variance (P < .05). In conclusion, these genetic data indicate no differences in HLA loci between the populations of these two cities, but were informative with respect to variations in ancestry composition.
Successful management of noncirrhotic hyperammonemia syndrome after kidney transplantation from putative Ureaplasma infection
Authors: Cheema Faiqa , Kutzler Heather L. , Olowofela Ayokunle S. , Maneckshana Bejon T. , Rochon Caroline , Sheiner Patricia A. , Serrano Oscar K.
Published: May 2020

Noncirrhotic hyperammonemia (NCH) is a rare but often fatal complication of solid organ transplantation. We present a case wherein an infectious cause of NCH was suspected following kidney transplantation (KT) and the patient was promptly started on empirical antibiotic treatment which proved to be lifesaving. A 56‐year‐old Chinese woman with a past medical history of end‐stage renal disease secondary to ischemic nephropathy and cerebrovascular accident received a kidney from a 52‐year‐old brain‐dead donor with a Kidney Donor Profile Index score of 70%. She experienced immediate graft function and was discharged on post‐operative day (POD) 4. On POD 10, she presented with a fever, acute onset of confusion, and abdominal pain. Her mental status deteriorated and required emergent intubation. Empiric broad‐spectrum antibiotics were initiated. On hospital day 3, a serum ammonia was 889 μmol/L (normal <53 μmol/L). A urine sample was sent for Ureaplasma polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and moxifloxacin and doxycycline were empirically started. Her ammonia rapidly normalized, and her mental status improved 48 hours after antibiotic initiation. She was extubated 5 days into treatment and was discharged after an 11‐day hospitalization. Following discharge, her urine test resulted positive for Ureaplasma parvum or Ureaplasma urealyticum DNA detection with the 16S rRNA gene amplification probe. Mental status changes and hyperammonemia in the first 30 days post‐KT should raise suspicion for NCH, and prompt empiric treatment with antimicrobials covering Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma should be considered.
Response of industrial hemp to Salsola kali subsp. tragus densities under organic and conventional fertilisation
Authors: Akrami‐Dizaj Mohammad , Sarabi Vahid
Published: May 2020

A 2‐year field study was conducted to determine the effects of different nutrition systems and Salsola kali subsp. tragus densities on industrial hemp yield and its components. Experiments were conducted as a split plot in a randomised complete block design with three replicates. Factors were fertilisation (poultry manure, vermicompost and nitrogen fertiliser) as the main plot and weed density (0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 plants/m2) as the subplot. Results indicated that the maximum number of racemes per plant, seeds per raceme, 1000‐seed weight, biomass, grain yield and harvest index (HI) of industrial hemp were obtained using vermicompost and were reduced with nitrogen fertiliser application. All measured properties in hemp plants decreased due to increasing S. kali subsp. tragus density, especially at 15 and 20 plants/m2. The most significant reduction in hemp grain yield and its components was observed by increasing weed density with the application of nitrogen fertiliser. The application of vermicompost at high weed densities resulted in greater hemp grain yield and its components compared with nitrogen fertiliser. It is recommended to apply organic fertilisers, especially vermicompost at high S. kali subsp. tragus densities.
The Influence of the Established Links between University Courses on the Quality of Teaching
Authors: Rybička Jiří , Čačková Petra
Published: May 2020

One of the tools to determine the recommended order of the courses to be taught is to set the prerequisites, that is, the conditions that have to be fulfilled before commencing the study of the course. The recommended sequence of courses is to follow logical links between their logical units, as the basic aim is to provide students with a coherent system according to the Comenius' principle of continuity. Declared continuity may, on the other hand, create organizational complications when passing through the study, as failure to complete one course may result in a whole sequence of forced deviations from the recommended curriculum and ultimately in the extension of the study period. This empirical study deals with the quantitative evaluation of the influence of the level of initial knowledge given by the previous study on the overall results in a certain follow-up course. In this evaluation, data were obtained that may slightly change the approach to determining prerequisites for higher education courses.
Design as a Feature of Biomedical Engineering Education—Satisfying ABET and Preparing Students to Address Clinical Needs
Authors: Grimm Michele J.
Published: May 2020

Design is an important aspect of biomedical engineering education. It prepares students to work as part of a team to develop systems that address medical and health-related needs—and it is required to be part of an accredited undergraduate engineering program. This work looks at the history of design requirements in the U.S. and the current state of biomedical engineering curricula with respect to design. As a growing number of programs have expanded their design program beyond the capstone project, some examples of innovative programs are described. There is no single way to address design education within an undergraduate biomedical engineering program. However, intentional development of this component of the curriculum can enhance the impact on student learning and outcomes.
A Respiratory Mechanics Model of the Human Lung for Positive Pressure Breathing at High Altitude
Authors: Koeroghlian Mark M. , Nichols Steven P. , Longoria Raul G.
Published: May 2020

A respiratory mechanics model of the human lung is developed for studying pressure-compensated breathing through a respiration mask in low-ambient pressure environments encountered during high-altitude flight. The model formulation is described using a bond graph (BG) approach to convey the key elements used to capture critical effects in lung airways and effects of dissipative and energy storing processes. Specific extensions to constitutive relations are described, along with derivation and solution of system state equations via simulation. Gas exchange effects are not incorporated in the model, with emphasis placed on developing and assessing a respiratory mechanics model for integration with breathing support systems. Results from several case studies with variations in the lung characteristics and operational conditions are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the model in predicting key physiological measures, reported in the form of flow-volume loops and work of breathing (WoB). Favorable comparisons with the past results reported in the literature confirm the suitability of this model as part of a system-level model capable of guiding modifications and explaining anomalous behavior in these critical systems.
In situ exfoliated 2D molybdenum disulfide analyzed by XPS
Authors: Wang Xinglu , Cormier Christopher R. , Khosravi Ava , Smyth Christopher M. , Shallenberger Jeffrey R. , Addou Rafik , Wallace Robert M.
Published: May 2020

Molybdenum disulfide, a two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide, was analyzed using in situ x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The XPS spectra obtained from a fresh surface which was exfoliated and annealed in ultrahigh vacuum include a survey scan, high resolution spectra of O 1s, C 1s, Mo 3d, S 2s, S 2p, Mo 3p, Mo 4p, S 3s, and the valence band. Quantitative analysis indicates a sulfur deficient surface composition of MoS1.8, and impurities were below the XPS detection limit.
Reducing vessel noise: An example of a solar-electric passenger ferry
Authors: Parsons Miles J. G. , Duncan Alec J. , Parsons Sylvia K. , Erbe Christine
Published: May 2020

Concern over the impacts of anthropogenic noise on aquatic fauna is increasing, as is the number of vessels in the world's oceans, lakes, and rivers. Sound signatures of different vessel types are increasingly characterized, yet few reports are available on solar-electric powered vessels. Such data are important to model the sound levels experienced by marine fauna and their potential impacts. Sounds from two vessel types were recorded in the shallow waters of the Swan River, Western Australia, using bottom-mounted OceanInstruments SoundTraps. Multiple passes from two 10-m solar-electric powered passenger ferries and, for comparison, two 25-m conventionally powered (inboard diesel engine) passenger ferries were selected. Analysis was conducted on 58 and 16 passes by the electric ferries (in 2016 and 2017–2018, respectively) and 10 and 14 passes by the conventional ferry (2016 and 2017–2018, respectively) at 5-m range. At 55-m range, analysis was conducted on 17 and 1 passes by the electric ferry (2016 and 2017–2018, respectively) and 9 and 3 passes of the conventional ferry (2016 and 2017–2018, respectively). Measured received levels and modeled sound propagation were then used to estimate monopole source levels (MSL) and radiated noise levels (RNL). At 55-m range, the conventionally powered ferry type produced 156 and 157 dB re 1 μPa2m2 MSL and RNL, respectively, while the same metrics for the electric ferry were 12 dB lower. At frequencies below 500 Hz, spectral levels of the electric ferry at a range of <5 m were 10–25 dB lower than those of the conventional ferry, implying a potential benefit for animals that use low-frequency communication, if electric motors replaced petrol or diesel engines.
Estimating acoustic wave dispersion in water pipelines using a single spatial measurement
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Li Zhao , Lee Pedro , Murch Ross
Published: May 2020

Estimating acoustic wave dispersion in pipelines filled with water is studied using theoretical analysis and laboratory experiments. Previous methods for experimentally estimating the dispersion of the propagating modes require multiple spatial measurements, making it difficult to measure. In this work the authors propose a method that utilizes only one spatial measurement using a singular value decomposition based approach. Experimental results of a cylindrical high-density polyethylene pipeline are used to demonstrate the usefulness of the approach. The approach could be useful in estimating the size and material properties of pipelines.
Guided wave imaging of composite plates using passive acquisitions by fiber Bragg gratings
Authors: Recoquillay Arnaud , Druet Tom , Nehr Simon , Horpin Margaux , Mesnil Olivier , Chapuis Bastien , Laffont Guillaume , D'Almeida Oscar
Published: May 2020

In this paper, imaging results of defects in composite plates using guided wave-based algorithms, such as delay and sum and Excitelet, are presented. Those algorithms are applied to passive data for which the signal corresponding to each emitter-receiver couple is recovered as a result of the cross correlation of the ambient noise measured simultaneously by the two sensors. The transition to passive imaging allows the use of lighter sensors that are unable to emit ultrasonic waves, such as fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) sensors on optical fibers, which are used in this study. The imaging results presented here show the feasibility of active and passive imaging in composite plates using FBGs as receivers, reducing the impact of the acquisition system on the structure in the context of structural health monitoring.
SpoVG Modulates Cell Aggregation in Staphylococcus aureus by Regulating
sasC
Expression and Extracellular DNA Release
Authors: Zhu Qing , Liu Banghui , Sun Baolin
Published: May 2020

This study revealed that SpoVG can modulate cell aggregation by repressing
sasC
expression and extracellular DNA (eDNA) release. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the potential linkage between cell aggregation and antibiotic resistance. Our findings provide novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms of SpoVG involved in cell aggregation and in biofilm development and formation in
Staphylococcus aureus
.
HIV RNA Rebound in Seminal Plasma after Antiretroviral Treatment Interruption
Authors: Gianella Sara , Chaillon Antoine , Chun Tae-Wook , Sneller Michael C. , Ignacio Caroline , Vargas-Meneses Milenka V. , Caballero Gemma , Ellis Ronald J. , Kovacs Colin , Benko Erika , Huibner Sanja , Kaul Rupert
Published: May 2020

To cure HIV, we likely need to target the reservoirs in all anatomic compartments. Here, we used sophisticated statistical and phylogenetic methods to analyze blood and semen samples collected from 12 persons with HIV who began antiretroviral therapy (ART) during very early HIV infection and who interrupted their ART as part of a clinical trial. First, we found that HIV RNA rebound in semen occurred significantly later and reached lower levels than in blood. Second, we found that the virus in semen was genetically different in some participants compared to that in blood. Finally, we found increased HIV RNA molecular diversity in semen compared to that in blood in almost all study participants. These data suggest that the HIV RNA populations emerging from the genital compartment after ART interruption might not be the same as those emerging from blood plasma. Future research should evaluate whether the genital compartment might contribute to viral rebound in some people with HIV (PWH) interrupting ART.
Per Os
Infectivity Factor 5 Identified as a Substrate of P33 in the Baculoviral Disulfide Bond Formation Pathway
Authors: Zhang Huanyu , Kuang Wenhua , Chen Cheng , Shang Yu , Ma Xiaoyan , Deng Fei , Wang Hualin , Wang Manli , Hu Zhihong
Published: May 2020

Similar to some large DNA viruses that encode their own disulfide bond pathway, baculovirus encodes a viral sulfhydryl oxidase, P33. Enzyme activity of P33 is related to infectious BV production, occlusion-derived virus (ODV) envelopment, occlusion body morphogenesis, and oral infectivity, suggesting that P33 is involved in disulfide bond formation of multiple proteins. A complete disulfide bond formation pathway normally contains a sulfhydryl oxidase, a disulﬁde-donating enzyme, and one or more substrates. In baculovirus, apart from P33, other components of the putative pathway remain unknown. In this study, we identified PIF5 as the first substrate of P33, which is fundamental for revealing the complete disulfide bond formation pathway in baculovirus. PIF5 is essential for oral infection and is absent from the PIF complex. Our study demonstrated that native disulfide bonds in PIF5 are required for oral infection, which will help us to reveal its mode of action.
Toxic mercury pulses into late Permian terrestrial and marine environments
Authors: Grasby Stephen E. , Liu Xiaojun , Yin Runsheng , Ernst Richard E. , Chen Zhuoheng
Published: May 2020

Large spikes in mercury (Hg) concentration are observed globally at the latest Permian extinction (LPE) horizon that are thought to be related to enhanced volcanic emissions of the Siberian Traps large igneous province (LIP). While forming an effective chemostratigraphic marker, it remains unclear whether such enhanced volcanic Hg emissions could have generated toxic conditions that contributed to extinction processes. To address this, we examined the nature of enhanced Hg emissions from the Siberian Traps LIP and the potential impact it may have had on global ecosystems during the LPE. Model results for a LIP eruption predict that pulses of Hg emissions to the atmosphere would have been orders of magnitude greater than normal background conditions. When deposited into world environments, this would have generated a series of toxic shocks, each lasting >1000 yr. Such repeated Hg loading events would have had severe impact across marine trophic levels, as well as been toxic to terrestrial plant and animal life. Such high Hg loading rates may help explain the co-occurrence of marine and terrestrial extinctions.
Supplemental Material: An intensified East Asian winter monsoon in the Japan Sea between 7.9 and 6.6 Ma
Authors: Matsuzaki Kenji , al. et
Published: May 2020

Details of the method used to estimate radiolarian-based sea-surface temperature.
Supplemental Material: Seismic velocity precursors to the 2016 Mw 6.5 Norcia (Italy) earthquake
Authors: Chiarabba Claudio , al. et
Published: May 2020

Inversion details and model resolution.