bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paying Participants in COVID-19 Trials
Authors: Largent Emily A , Lynch Holly Fernandez
Published: May 2020

Trials are in development and underway to examine potential interventions for treatment and prophylaxis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). How should we think about offering payment to participants in these trials? Payment for research participation is ethically contentious even under ideal circumstances. Here, we review 3 functions of research payment—reimbursement, compensation, and incentive—and identify heightened and novel ethical concerns in the context of a global pandemic. We argue that COVID-19 trial participants should usually be offered reimbursement for research-related expenses, and compensation for their time and effort, as for other types of research under usual circumstances. Given increased risk of undue influence against pandemic background conditions, incentive payment should be avoided unless essential to recruitment and retention in important trials whose social value outweighs this risk. Where essential, however, incentives can be ethically permissible, so long as reasonable efforts are made to minimize the possibility of undue influence.
Differential Antibody Recognition of H3N2 Vaccine and Seasonal Influenza Virus Strains Based on Age, Vaccine Status, and Sex in the 2017–2018 Season
Authors: Ursin Rebecca L , Liu Hsuan , Powell Harrison R , Westerbeck Jason W , Shaw-Saliba Kathryn , Sylvia Kristyn E , Fenstermacher Katherine J , Mehoke Tom , Thielen Peter , Rothman Richard E , Pekosz Andrew , Klein Sabra L
Published: May 2020

Background

An antigenic mismatch between the vaccine and circulating H3N2 strains was hypothesized to contribute to the severity of the 2017–2018 season in North America.

Methods

Serum and nasal washes were collected from influenza positive and negative patients during the 2017–2018 season to determine neutralizing antibody (nAb) titers and for influenza virus sequencing, respectively.

Results

The circulating and vaccine H3N2 virus strains were different clades, with the vaccine strain being clade 3C.2a and the circulating viruses being 3C.2a2 or 3C.3a. At enrollment, both the H3N2 negative and positive patients had greater nAb titers to the egg-adapted vaccine virus compared to the cell-grown vaccine but the H3N2-negative population had significantly greater titers to the circulating 3C.2a2. Among H3N2-positive patients, vaccination, younger age, and female sex were associated with greater nAb responses to the egg-adapted vaccine H3N2 virus but not to the cell-grown vaccine or circulating viruses.

Conclusions

For the 2017–2018 circulating viruses, mutations introduced by egg adaptation decreased vaccine efficacy. No increased protection was afforded by vaccination, younger age, or female sex against 2017–2018 circulating H3N2 viruses.
Where We At? New Directions for Research on Popular Culture and World Politics
Authors: Crilley Rhys
Published: May 2020

A decade ago, scholars of international relations articulated a research agenda for the study of popular culture and world politics (PCWP), and since then a burgeoning literature has grown in this area. This article critically reflects on the research agenda put forward by Grayson, Davies, and Philpott and explores how recent scholarship has furthered the study of PCWP. In doing so, this article identifies four limitations of current research and suggests that if PCWP scholarship is to remain committed to understanding how power, identities, ideologies, and actions are made commonsense and legitimate, while also problematizing global inequalities and injustices, then it needs to pay greater attention to the analysis of four areas. These are (1) race, colonialism, and intersectionality in PCWP; (2) the impact of digital technology on PCWP; (3) the audience interpretation of PCWP; and (4) practices of making and producing PCWP.
Impact of duration of antibiotic therapy in central venous catheter-related bloodstream infection due to Gram-negative bacilli
Authors: Ruiz-Ruigómez María , Fernández-Ruiz Mario , San-Juan Rafael , López-Medrano Francisco , Orellana María Ángeles , Corbella Laura , Rodríguez-Goncer Isabel , Hernández Jiménez Pilar , Aguado José María
Published: May 2020

Background

A progressive increase in the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) due to Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) has been reported. Current guidelines recommend antibiotic treatment for at least 7–14 days, although the supporting evidence is limited.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single-centre study including all patients with a definite diagnosis of GNB CRBSI from January 2012 to October 2018 in which the central venous catheter (CVC) was removed. The occurrence of therapeutic failure [clinical failure (persistence of symptoms and laboratory signs of infection), microbiological failure (persistent bacteraemia or relapse) and/or all-cause 30 day mortality] was compared between episodes receiving short [≤7 days (SC)] or long courses [>7 days (LC)] of appropriate antibiotic therapy following CVC removal.

Results

We included 54 GNB CRBSI episodes with an overall rate of therapeutic failure of 27.8% (15/54). Episodes receiving SC therapy were more frequently due to MDR GNB [60.9% (14/23) versus 34.5% (10/29); P = 0.058] and had higher Pitt scores [median (IQR) 1 (0–4) versus 0 (0–2); P = 0.086]. There were no significant differences in the rate of therapeutic failure between episodes treated with SC or LC therapy [30.4% (7/23) versus 27.6% (8/29); OR 1.15; 95% CI 0.34–3.83; P = 0.822]. The use of SCs was not associated with increased odds of therapeutic failure in any of the exploratory models performed.

Conclusions

The administration of appropriate antibiotic therapy for ≤7 days may be as safe and effective as longer courses in episodes of GNB CRBSI once the CVC has been removed.
A Comparison of Four 3-Axis-Accelerometers for Monitoring Hospital Pneumatic Tube Systems
Authors: Franks Caroline E , Krekeler James A , Gronowski Ann M , Farnsworth Christopher W
Published: May 2020

Background

Validation of hospital pneumatic tube systems (PTS) is recommended to predict and prevent errors caused by sample hemolysis. 3-Axis accelerometer dataloggers have been successfully implemented as tools for PTS validation, but the most suitable device for such validation has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of four commercially available 3-axis accelerometers for PTS validation.

Methods

PCE-VD3 (PCE), CEM DT-178A (CEM), Extech VB300 (EXT), and MSR 145 (MSR) dataloggers were placed into a single PTS carrier and repeatedly transported through one of three PTS routes. The number and magnitude of accelerations within each PTS route was collected by each device. Deming regression analysis was used to compare device performance.

Results

The MSR datalogger captured the greatest number of g-forces >3 g, 5 g, 10 g, and 15 g, and the greatest magnitude of g-force (26.7 g) relative to the other devices (CEM: 23.0 g, EXT: 23.3 g, PCE: 23.7 g). As a result of increased sampling frequency, the MSR recorded the lowest AUC and the greatest number of g-forces exceeding 3 g relative to the other devices. Subjectively, the data were difficult to extract from 4 tested devices.

Conclusions

Commercially available dataloggers differ in their ability to detect the number and magnitude of g-forces within PTSs. We recommend that one device be used to perform all PTS evaluations, with baseline evaluations for tolerable AUC, number, and magnitude of g-forces established internally. Lack of harmonization, cumbersome data processing, and time-consuming data analysis are substantial barriers to universal implementation of dataloggers for PTS validation and monitoring.
Current Practices When Reporting Quantitative Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Test Results
Authors: Grenache David G
Published: May 2020

Background

Quantitative human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) tests are commonly used to determine a woman’s pregnancy status. Discrete results are evaluated and/or interpreted against a reference interval or cutoff. Reporting practices across laboratories have not been investigated.

Methods

A voluntary questionnaire was distributed to 6433 laboratories participating in a general chemistry proficiency testing survey.

Results

Responses were received from 3568 (55%) laboratories. Overall, 31% used a single reference cutoff, with 42% and 14% using values of 5.0 and 25.0 IU/L, respectively. In total, 68% of laboratories provided result interpretations, most frequently “negative” and “positive.” Reference intervals based on chronological age were offered by 9% of laboratories; 60% reported gestational age-based intervals. In addition, 25% provided male-specific reference intervals, with 2.0 IU/L being the most commonly used single-point cutoff. Only 12% of laboratories offered a separate, orderable test for hCG as a tumor marker, with 5.0 IU/L as the most frequently used reference threshold. Nearly half of laboratories used assay product insert data as the reference interval source.

Conclusions

There is wide variation when reporting quantitative hCG results. Despite a well-established reference limit of <5.0 IU/L for nonpregnant women, fewer than half of laboratories used this cutoff. The reporting of gestational age-based reference intervals is more common than those based on chronological age despite greater clinical utility for the latter. Data-driven guidelines for reporting quantitative hCG test results could deliver more consistent result interpretation.
Experiences implementing scalable, containerized, cloud-based NLP for extracting biobank participant phenotypes at scale
Authors: Miller Timothy A , Avillach Paul , Mandl Kenneth D
Published: May 2020

Objective

To develop scalable natural language processing (NLP) infrastructure for processing the free text in electronic health records (EHRs).

Materials and Methods

We extend the open-source Apache cTAKES NLP software with several standard technologies for scalability. We remove processing bottlenecks by monitoring component queue size. We process EHR free text for patients in the PrecisionLink Biobank at Boston Children’s Hospital. The extracted concepts are made searchable via a web-based portal.

Results

We processed over 1.2 million notes for over 8000 patients, extracting 154 million concepts. Our largest tested configuration processes over 1 million notes per day.

Discussion

The unique information represented by extracted NLP concepts has great potential to provide a more complete picture of patient status.

Conclusion

NLP large EHR document collections can be done efficiently, in service of high throughput phenotyping.
Pavement Burns Treated at a Desert Burn Center: Analysis of Mechanisms and Outcomes
Authors: Eisenberg Matthew , Chestovich Paul , Saquib Syed F
Published: May 2020

Burns from contact with hot pavement are a common mechanism treated at burn centers located in desert climates. Previous work has shown increased risk of pavement burns as ambient temperatures rise above 95 degrees. In direct sunlight, pavement absorbs radiant energy causing the temperature to rise high enough to cause second-degree burns in seconds. The goal of this study is to review the mechanisms and outcomes of patients suffering pavement burns and to compare patients who presented with hyperthermia to their normothermia counterparts. A retrospective chart review was performed on pavement burns at an ABA-verified Burn Center for 5 years from 2014 to 2018. A total of 195 patients were identified. It was found that 50.5% of admitted pavement burn patients required burn excision and 35.9% required split-thickness skin grafting. The leading causes of pavement burn admissions were found down by EMS and walking on pavement at 21.6% each, followed by mechanical falls at 15.1%. We found that patients with recorded hyperthermia had statistically significant increase in 30-day hospital mortality, intensive care unit days, surgical procedures, and %TBSA. Data provided from this study can be used for a public health initiative to help patients who may be at risk of acquiring pavement burns. The data may also be helpful for clinicians gaining information about the management, mechanism, and outcomes of pavement burn patients.
A Rather Messy Approach: Understanding the Queen’s Hotel, Birmingham, 1837–1857
Authors: Hirst Lisa
Published: May 2020

The Queen’s Hotel in Birmingham was one of the world’s most pioneering railway hotels. However, it has particular characteristics that do not readily fit within conventional analyses of architecture: it was not purpose built but was rather the result of a building expansion and modification; it was neither the product of a single architect, nor rooted to a single location. To understand these transitions requires a different approach. This article draws upon current discourses at the nexus of Architectural History and Design History. It is through disciplinary overlap and ‘messiness’ that we can achieve new insights into the development of the Queen’s Hotel during its first two decades. The rapidity of change during this period demonstrates how architecture was striving to keep pace with the progress of the railways. This article brings fresh understanding to the emergence of this particular form of railway hotel—which formed the frontispiece of the station—a typology that would become a dominant feature of Victorian England’s major towns and cities and emblem of the new railway age.
The Function and Dysfunction of the Pre-Trial Chamber at the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia
Authors: Naidu Natasha , Williams Sarah
Published: May 2020

This article examines claims that the Pre-Trial Chamber (PTC) of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) has been rendered dysfunctional in Cases 003 and 004, based on a qualitative analysis of PTC jurisprudence. It finds that the PTC has displayed signs of an inability to carry out both its core function and extended mandate in Cases 003 and 004, suggesting that the PTC is — at least on occasion — dysfunctional. Next, it argues that these signs of PTC dysfunction are not due to political interference at the ECCC alone but are also a result of structural weaknesses embedded in the PTC’s design during negotiations. These structural weaknesses have rendered the PTC unable to avoid dysfunction. Ultimately, this article explores the implications of PTC dysfunction for the ECCC and its proceedings and for the establishment of future tribunals under circumstances that are similarly politically challenging.
Elementary-base cirquent calculus II: Choice quantifiers
Authors: Japaridze Giorgi
Published: May 2020

Cirquent calculus is a novel proof theory permitting component-sharing between logical expressions. Using it, the predecessor article ‘Elementary-base cirquent calculus I: Parallel and choice connectives’ built the sound and complete axiomatization $\textbf{CL16}$ of a propositional fragment of computability logic. The atoms of the language of $\textbf{CL16}$ represent elementary, i.e. moveless, games and the logical vocabulary consists of negation, parallel connectives and choice connectives. The present paper constructs the first-order version $\textbf{CL17}$ of $\textbf{CL16}$, also enjoying soundness and completeness. The language of $\textbf{CL17}$ augments that of $\textbf{CL16}$ by including choice quantifiers. Unlike classical predicate calculus, $\textbf{CL17}$ turns out to be decidable.
Effect of Azadirachta indica (Sapindales: Meliaceae) Oil on the Immune System of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Immatures
Authors: Duarte Jucelio P , Redaelli Luiza R , Silva Carlos Eugênio , Jahnke Simone M
Published: May 2020

The insect immune system includes several mechanisms responsible for defending against pathogens, parasites, and parasitoids. Some botanical insecticides, such as Azadirachta indica oil, cause changes in the immune system of various insect species. Spodoptera frugiperda is an important agricultural pest; thus, knowledge about the effect of neem oil on the immune system of this species can assist in its management. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of A. indica oil on the immune system of S. frugiperda. Caterpillars (2–3 mg) were placed individually in containers (50 ml) with approximately 10 g of diet, containing 125, 250, and 500 ppm of neem oil with propanone; the control group received only the propanone diet. In four experiments, the total number of hemocytes, the phagocytic activity, the activity of lysozyme-like enzymes, and phenoloxidase activity were measured in caterpillars at the end of the sixth instar. The total number of hemocytes in insects exposed to neem oil was 21% lower than in the control group. The percentage of cells that phagocyted the latex beads was similar among the caterpillars that ingested the different concentrations. The mean diameter of cell lysis halos was reduced only at concentrations of 125 and 250 ppm. Absorbance did not differ between treatments. Knowing that this oil reduces the number of circulation cells and the activity of lysozyme-like enzymes is of great importance to design control strategies, once the neem oil could be added to other biological agents for mortality reducing the chances of this insect surviving in the environment.
Review of the EPG Waveforms of Sharpshooters and Spittlebugs Including Their Biological Meanings in Relation to Transmission of Xylella fastidiosa (Xanthomonadales: Xanthomonadaceae)
Authors: Backus Elaine A , Shih Hsien-Tzung
Published: May 2020

Electropenetrography (EPG) is one of the most rigorous methods to study stylet probing behaviors of piercing-sucking insects whose mouthparts move invisibly inside hosts. EPG is particularly useful for identifying vector behaviors that control transmission (acquisition, retention, and inoculation) of plant pathogens, comparing those behaviors among vector species, and aiding in development of novel vector and disease management tactics. Xylella fastidiosa (Wells et al.) is a gram-negative, invasive bacterium native to the Americas, where it is the causal agent of lethal scorch-type diseases such as Pierce’s disease of grapevines. Xylella fastidiosa is transmitted by sharpshooter leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Cicadellinae) and spittlebugs (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae). Despite over 75 yr of study, details of the inoculation mechanism of X. fastidiosa were unknown until the advent of EPG research with sharpshooters. Herein, the following topics are presented: 1) review of key EPG principles and waveforms published to date, emphasizing sharpshooters and spittlebugs; 2) summary of present understanding of biological meanings of sharpshooter waveforms; 3) review of mechanisms of transmission for X. fastidiosa illuminated by EPG; and 4) recommendations of the most useful waveform categories for EPG use in future, quantitative comparisons of sharpshooter stylet probing on various treatments such as infected versus uninfected plants, resistant varieties, or insecticide treatments. In addition, new work on the functional anatomy of the precibarial valve is discussed in the context of X. fastidiosa transmission and EPG waveforms. Also, the first block diagram of secondary, signal-processing circuits for the AC-DC EPG is published, and is discussed in relation to EPG signals appearances and meanings.
Do Sharpshooters From Around the World Produce the Same EPG Waveforms? Comparison of Waveform Libraries From Xylella fastidiosa (Xanthomonadales: Xanthomonadaceae) Vectors Kolla paulula (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) From Taiwan and Graphocephala atropunctata From California
Authors: Backus Elaine A , Shih Hsien-Tzung
Published: May 2020

When an exotic invasive species is a vector-borne plant pathogen, vector feeding behavior must be studied to identify potential host plant range and performance of specialized pathogen transmission behaviors. The most rigorous tool for assessing vector feeding behavior is electropenetrography (EPG). Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. is a gram-negative bacterium native to the Americas, where it is the causal agent of lethal scorch-type diseases such as Pierce’s disease (PD) of grapevines. In 2002, a PD strain of X. fastidiosa invaded Asia for the first time, as confirmed from grape vineyards in Taiwan. Kolla paulula (Wallker), a native Asian species of sharpshooter leafhopper, was found to be the primary vector in Taiwanese vineyards. This study used an AC-DC electropenetrograph to record stylet probing behaviors of K. paulula on healthy grapevines. The main objective was to create an EPG waveform library for K. paulula. Waveform description, characterization of R versus emf components (electrical origins), and proposed biological meanings of K. paulula waveforms are reported. In addition, comparison of K. paulula waveforms with those from the most efficient, native vector of X. fastidiosa in California vineyards, Graphocephala atropunctata, is also reported. Overall, both species of sharpshooters had similar-appearing waveforms. Five new findings were identified, especially that the previously described but rare waveform subtype, B1p, was extensively produced in K. paulula recordings. Sharpshooter waveforms from species worldwide share a high degree of similarity. Thus, EPG methods can be rapidly applied to potential vectors where X. fastidiosa is newly introduced.
The Size of the Crypto Economy: Calculating Market Shares of Cryptoassets, Exchanges and Mining Pools
Authors: Stylianou Konstantinos , Carter Nic
Published: May 2020

Cryptoassets and related actors such as crypto exchanges and mining pools are now fully integrated into mainstream economic activity. A necessary corollary is that they have attracted heightened regulatory and investor scrutiny. Although some rules and obligations apply uniformly across all economic actors in a given sector, many others, such as antitrust laws and some financial regulations as well as investor decisions are informed by actors’ relative economic size—meaning that those with larger market shares can become more attractive regulatory or investing targets. It is therefore a foundational issue to properly measure the economic footprint of economic actors in the crypto economy, for otherwise regulatory oversight and investor decisions risk being misled. This has proven a remarkably difficult exercise for multiple reasons including unfamiliarity with the underlying technology and role of involved actors, lack of understanding of the applicable metrics’ economic significance, and the unreliability of self-reported statistics, partly enabled by lack of regulation. Acknowledging the centrality of cryptoasset size in a number of regulatory and policymaking areas and the fact that previous attempts have been incomplete, simplistic, or even plainly wrong, this paper presents the first systematic examination of the economic footprint of cryptoassets and their constituent actors—mining pools and crypto exchanges. We aim to achieve a number of objectives: to introduce, identify, and organize all relevant and meaningful metrics of crypto economic actors market share calculation; to develop associations between metrics, and to explain their meaning, application, and limitations so that it becomes obvious in which context metrics can be useful or not, and what the potential caveats are; and to present rich, curated, and vetted data to illustrate metrics and their use in measuring the shares of crypto economic actors in their respective markets. The result is a comprehensive guidance into the size of the crypto economy.
Disseminated Tularemia: Finding the Needle in the Haystack
Authors: Stringham Sean , Green Hines Andrea , Attebery Jonah , Darwin Lisa , Wachholtz Abby , Deschamp Ashley , Choudhry Ojasvini , Neemann Kari
Published: May 2020

We report a case of disseminated tularemia in a previously healthy 8-month-old male. This case highlights an atypical presentation of tularemia with multisystem organ involvement. The diagnosis was complicated by concurrent primary cytomegalovirus infection. Bronchoalveolar lavage culture confirmed the diagnosis. The patient was successfully treated with gentamicin. Pertinent literature reviewed.
The role of radiotherapy in pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma: propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Cao Ling , Wu Hong-Fen , Zhao Ling , Bai Yan , Jiang Zhi-lan , Yang Wan-Ju , Liu Shi-xin
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study was to investigate the survival advantage of radiotherapy (RT) in patients with pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC). Patients with pulmonary LCNEC were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) dataset between January 2004 and December 2013. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis with 1:1 was used to ensure well-balanced characteristics of all comparison groups. A total of 1480 eligible cases were identified, with a median follow-up time of 11 months (0–131 months). After PSM, 980 patients were classified in no radiotherapy (No RT) and radiotherapy (RT) groups (n = 490 each). Patients in the RT group harbored significantly higher 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates compared to those in the No RT group (both P < 0.05). Furthermore, RT was an independent favorable prognostic factor of OS as well as CSS in multivariate analysis, both before [OS: hazard ratio (HR) 0.840, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.739–0.954, P = 0.007; CSS: HR 0.847, 95% CI 0.741–0.967, P = 0.014] and after (OS: HR 0.854, 95% CI 0.736–0.970, P = 0.016; CSS: HR 0.848, 95% CI 0.735–0.978, P = 0.023) PSM. In subgroup analysis, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage II and III, tumor size 5-10 cm, patients who underwent no surgery, or patients who received chemotherapy could significantly benefit from RT (all P < 0.05). To sum up, our findings suggested that RT could prolong the survival of patients with pulmonary LCNEC, especially those with stage II and III, tumor size 5-10 cm, those with no surgery, or those who received chemotherapy.
Pneumatic-aorta: an unusual aetiology for stroke
Authors: Mazhar Khurum , Narain Aditya , Mohamed Saifullah , Patel Akshay J , Abid Qamar , Bouras George
Published: May 2020

The following report describes a case in which air in the aorta led to stroke from cerebral emboli in a patient with distal oesophageal cancer. The patient presented with clinical features of a right-sided stroke. Computed tomography scans revealed air in the ascending aorta and brachiocephalic artery as a result of an oesophago-atrial fistula. The patient deteriorated and died soon after hospital admission despite conservative measures successfully dissipating the air. When encountered, emergent treatment of the underlying cause should be addressed but the outcome remains poor.
The class II KNOX transcription factors KNAT3 and KNAT7 synergistically regulate monolignol biosynthesis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Qin Wenqi , Yin Qi , Chen Jiajun , Zhao Xianhai , Yue Fengxia , He Junbo , Yang Linjie , Liu Lijun , Zeng Qingyin , Lu Fachuang , Mitsuda Nobutaka , Ohme-Takagi Masaru , Wu Ai-Min
Published: May 2020

The function of the transcription factor KNOTTED ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA7 (KNAT7) is still unclear since it appears to be either a negative or a positive regulator for secondary cell wall deposition with its loss-of-function mutant displaying thicker interfascicular and xylary fiber cell walls but thinner vessel cell walls in inflorescence stems. To explore the exact function of KNAT7, class II KNOTTED1-LIKE HOMEOBOX (KNOX II) genes in Arabidopsis including KNAT3, KNAT4, and KNAT5 were studied together. By chimeric repressor technology, we found that both KNAT3 and KNAT7 repressors exhibited a similar dwarf phenotype. Both KNAT3 and KNAT7 genes were expressed in the inflorescence stems and the knat3 knat7 double mutant exhibited a dwarf phenotype similar to the repressor lines. A stem cross-section of knat3 knat7 displayed an enhanced irregular xylem phenotype as compared with the single mutants, and its cell wall thickness in xylem vessels and interfascicular fibers was significantly reduced. Analysis of cell wall chemical composition revealed that syringyl lignin was significantly decreased while guaiacyl lignin was increased in the knat3 knat7 double mutant. Coincidently, the knat3 knat7 transcriptome showed that most lignin pathway genes were activated, whereas the syringyl lignin-related gene Ferulate 5-Hydroxylase (F5H) was down-regulated. Protein interaction analysis revealed that KNAT3 and KNAT7 can form a heterodimer, and KNAT3, but not KNAT7, can interact with the key secondary cell wall formation transcription factors NST1/2, which suggests that the KNAT3–NST1/2 heterodimer complex regulates F5H to promote syringyl lignin synthesis. These results indicate that KNAT3 and KNAT7 synergistically work together to promote secondary cell wall biosynthesis.
Melatonin synthesis enzymes interact with ascorbate peroxidase to protect against oxidative stress in cassava
Authors: Bai Yujing , Guo Jingru , Reiter Russel J , Wei Yunxie , Shi Haitao
Published: May 2020

Melatonin is an important indole amine hormone in animals and plants. The enzymes that catalyse melatonin synthesis positively regulate plant stress responses through modulation of the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the relationship between melatonin biosynthetic enzymes and ROS-scavenging enzymes has not been characterized. In this study, we demonstrate that two enzymes of the melatonin synthesis pathway in Manihot esculenta (MeTDC2 and MeASMT2) directly interact with ascorbate peroxidase (MeAPX2) in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Notably, in the presence of MeTDC2 and MeASMT2, MeAPX2 showed significantly higher activity and antioxidant capacity than the purified MeAPX2 protein alone. These findings indicate that MeTDC2–MeAPX2 and MeASMT2–MeAPX2 interactions both activate APX activity and increase antioxidant capacity. In addition, the combination of MeTDC2, MeASMT2, and MeAPX2 conferred improved resistance to hydrogen peroxide in Escherichia coli. Moreover, this combination also positively regulates oxidative stress tolerance in cassava. Taken together, these findings not only reveal a direct interaction between MeTDC2, MeASMT2, and MeAPX2, but also highlight the importance of this interaction in regulating redox homoeostasis and stress tolerance in cassava.
Weighing in on black hole binaries with bpass: LB-1 does not contain a 70 M⊙ black hole
Authors: Eldridge J J , Stanway E R , Breivik K , Casey A R , Steeghs D T H , Stevance H F
Published: May 2020

The recent identification of a candidate very massive (70 M⊙) black hole (BH) is at odds with our current understanding of stellar winds and pair-instability supernovae. We investigate alternate explanations for this system by searching the bpass v2.2 stellar and population synthesis models for those that match the observed properties of the system. We find binary evolution models that match the LB-1 system, at the reported Gaia distance, with more moderate BH masses of 4–7 M⊙. We also examine the suggestion that the binary motion may have led to an incorrect distance determination by Gaia. We find that the Gaia distance is accurate and that the binary system is consistent with the observation at this distance. Consequently, it is highly improbable that the BH in this system has the extreme mass originally suggested. Instead, it is more likely to be representative of the typical BH binary population expected in our Galaxy.
The Lx–Luv–Lradio relation and corona–disc–jet connection in optically selected radio-loud quasars
Authors: Zhu (朱世甫) S F , Brandt W N , Luo (罗斌) B , Wu (武剑锋) Jianfeng , Xue (薛永泉) Y Q , Yang (杨光) G
Published: May 2020

Radio-loud quasars (RLQs) are more X-ray luminous than predicted by the X-ray–optical/UV relation (i.e. $L_\mathrm{x}\propto L_\mathrm{uv}^\gamma$) for radio-quiet quasars (RQQs). The excess X-ray emission depends on the radio-loudness parameter (R) and radio spectral slope (αr). We construct a uniform sample of 729 optically selected RLQs with high fractions of X-ray detections and αr measurements. We find that steep-spectrum radio quasars (SSRQs; αr ≤ −0.5) follow a quantitatively similar $L_\mathrm{x}\propto L_\mathrm{uv}^{\gamma }$ relation as that for RQQs, suggesting a common coronal origin for the X-ray emission of both SSRQs and RQQs. However, the corresponding intercept of SSRQs is larger than that for RQQs and increases with R, suggesting a connection between the radio jets and the configuration of the accretion flow. Flat-spectrum radio quasars (FSRQs; αr > −0.5) are generally more X-ray luminous than SSRQs at given Luv and R, likely involving more physical processes. The emergent picture is different from that commonly assumed where the excess X-ray emission of RLQs is attributed to the jets. We thus perform model selection to compare critically these different interpretations, which prefers the coronal scenario with a corona–jet connection. A distinct jet component is likely important for only a small portion of FSRQs. The corona–jet, disc–corona, and disc–jet connections of RLQs are likely driven by independent physical processes. Furthermore, the corona–jet connection implies that small-scale processes in the vicinity of supermassive black holes, probably associated with the magnetic flux/topology instead of black hole spin, are controlling the radio-loudness of quasars.
Stellar mass primordial black holes as cold dark matter
Authors: Sobrinho J L G , Augusto P
Published: May 2020

Primordial black holes (PBHs) might have formed in the early Universe due to the collapse of density fluctuations. PBHs may act as the sources for some of the gravitational waves recently observed. We explored the formation scenarios of PBHs of stellar mass, taking into account the possible influence of the QCD phase transition, for which we considered three different models: crossover model, bag model, and lattice fit model. For the fluctuations, we considered a running-tilt power-law spectrum; when these cross the ∼10−9–10−1 s Universe horizon they originate 0.05–500 M⊙ PBHs that could (i) provide a population of stellar mass PBHs similar to the ones present on the binaries associated with all-known gravitational wave sources and (ii) constitute a broad-mass spectrum accounting for ${\sim}76{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of all cold dark matter in the Universe.
archi: pipeline for light curve extraction of CHEOPS background stars
Authors: Silva André M , Sousa Sérgio G , Santos Nuno , Demangeon Olivier D S , Silva Pedro , Hoyer S , Guterman P , Deleuil Magali , Ehrenreich David
Published: May 2020

High precision time-series photometry from space is being used for a number of scientific cases. In this context, the recently launched CHaracterizing ExOPlanet Satellite (CHEOPS) (ESA) mission promises to bring 20 ppm precision over an exposure time of 6 h, when targeting nearby bright stars, having in mind the detailed characterization of exoplanetary systems through transit measurements. However, the official CHEOPS (ESA) mission pipeline only provides photometry for the main target (the central star in the field). In order to explore the potential of CHEOPS photometry for all stars in the field, in this paper, we present archi, an additional open-source pipeline module1 to analyse the background stars present in the image. As archi uses the official data reduction pipeline data as input, it is not meant to be used as an independent tool to process raw CHEOPS data but, instead, to be used as an add-on to the official pipeline. We test archi using CHEOPS simulated images, and show that photometry of background stars in CHEOPS images is only slightly degraded (by a factor of 2–3) with respect to the main target. This opens a potential for the use of CHEOPS to produce photometric time-series of several close-by targets at once, as well as to use different stars in the image to calibrate systematic errors. We also show one clear scientific application where the study of the companion light curve can be important for the understanding of the contamination on the main target.
Detection of hybrid Pyganodon grandis and P. lacustris (Bivalvia: Unionidae) using F- and M-type mitochondrial DNA sequences and geometric morphometrics
Authors: Beauchamp Kate C , Beyett Tyler W , Scott Mariah W , Zanatta David T
Published: May 2020

Pyganodon grandis and P. lacustris, widespread and common species in North America, are known to co-occur across parts of their distributions. These mussels are genetically distinguishable with a sequence divergence between 9% and 13% for the mitochondrial (mt) DNA barcoding region, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), which is well beyond thresholds for distinct species. The objectives of this study were to (1) confirm the presence of two genetically distinct species (P. grandis and P. lacustris) in Font Lake and Lake Geneserath on Beaver Island in northern Lake Michigan, (2) identify hybrids using mitogenotype mismatch and (3) compare species and populations morphometrically. Of the 212 specimens sequenced, 146 (68.9%) were found to be heteroplasmic, with successful amplifications of both maternally (F-type, from mantle tissue) and paternally (M-type, from gonad tissue) inherited mt DNA sequences. Mismatches in species identity of the F- and M-type COI sequences were found in 22 specimens (15.1% of heteroplasmic specimens), with these being considered putative hybrids. Geometric morphometric analyses of shell shape reliably differentiated specimens by species (identified using COI sequences) and between lakes, correctly assigning 97.4% of homoplasmic and heteroplasmic specimens with matching mitogenomes to both species and lake of origin. The shape of putative hybrids generally resembled those of the F-type mt DNA sequence that was recovered. This study confirms that hybridization does occur between sympatric Pyganodon species. Additionally, our results reemphasize the value of modern morphometric techniques for distinguishing among species and populations with overlapping morphological variability.
DICER regulates the expression of major satellite repeat transcripts and meiotic chromosome segregation during spermatogenesis
Authors: Yadav Ram Prakash , Mäkelä Juho-Antti , Hyssälä Hanna , Cisneros-Montalvo Sheyla , Kotaja Noora
Published: May 2020

Constitutive heterochromatin at the pericentric regions of chromosomes undergoes dynamic changes in its epigenetic and spatial organization during spermatogenesis. Accurate control of pericentric heterochromatin is required for meiotic cell divisions and production of fertile and epigenetically intact spermatozoa. In this study, we demonstrate that pericentric heterochromatin is expressed during mouse spermatogenesis to produce major satellite repeat (MSR) transcripts. We show that the endonuclease DICER localizes to the pericentric heterochromatin in the testis. Furthermore, DICER forms complexes with MSR transcripts, and their processing into small RNAs is compromised in Dicer1 knockout mice leading to an elevated level of MSR transcripts in meiotic cells. We also show that defective MSR forward transcript processing in Dicer1 cKO germ cells is accompanied with reduced recruitment of SUV39H2 and H3K9me3 to the pericentric heterochromatin and meiotic chromosome missegregation. Altogether, our results indicate that the physiological role of DICER in maintenance of male fertility extends to the regulation of pericentric heterochromatin through direct targeting of MSR transcripts.
Acute Hepatitis B Surge: Opioid Epidemic Implication and Management Challenges
Authors: Johansson Erik D , Nunez Marina
Published: May 2020

We recognized a surge in acute hepatitis B at our institution and a link to the opioid epidemic since 2017. Among barriers to optimal management, we identified frequent deviations from national recommendations and patient noncompliance with follow-up.
COVID-19 and the UK labour market
Authors: Mayhew Ken , Anand Paul
Published: May 2020

This article considers policy responses to the COVID-19 crisis as they affect the labour market, how these policies are evolving and some of the design issues they face. The concentration is on the UK, but other countries are also discussed for comparative purposes. The Job Retention Scheme is a successful innovation to keep temporarily stopped workers attached to their employers. However, since economic recovery will be slow, it is not sustainable in its current form. A sustained rise in unemployment is inevitable and alternative policies to mitigate this and the dangers of scarring are discussed. The structure of output will change, as therefore will the composition of jobs. A comprehensive active manpower policy will be needed to efficiently match job seekers to available jobs. The young are likely to suffer disproportionately from the recession and this makes it essential to introduce radical policies to boost work-based training and to enhance the contribution made by further and higher education institutions.
Heat Sensing and Lipid Reprograming as a Signaling Switch for Heat Stress Responses in Wheat
Authors: Abdelrahman Mostafa , Ishii Takayoshi , El-Sayed Magdi , Tran Lam-Son Phan
Published: May 2020

Temperature is an essential physical factor that affects the plant life cycle. Almost all plant species have evolved a robust signal transduction system that enables them to sense changes in the surrounding temperature, relay this message and accordingly adjust their metabolism and cellular functions to avoid heat stress-related damage. Wheat (Triticum aestivum), being a cool-season crop, is very sensitive to heat stress. Any increase in the ambient temperature, especially at the reproductive and grain-filling stages, can cause a drastic loss in wheat yield. Heat stress causes lipid peroxidation due to oxidative stress, resulting in the damage of thylakoid membranes and the disruption of their function, which ultimately decreases photosynthesis and crop yield. The cell membrane/plasma membrane plays prominent roles as an interface system that perceives and translates the changes in environmental signals into intracellular responses. Thus, membrane lipid composition is a critical factor in heat stress tolerance or susceptibility in wheat. In this review, we elucidate the possible involvement of calcium influx as an early heat stress-responsive mechanism in wheat plants. In addition, the physiological implications underlying the changes in lipid metabolism under high-temperature stress in wheat and other plant species will be discussed. In-depth knowledge about wheat lipid reprograming can help develop heat-tolerant wheat varieties and provide approaches to solve the impact of global climate change.
INTRAORAL DENTAL X-RAY RADIOGRAPHY IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: STUDY FOR REVISING DIAGNOSTIC REFERENCE LEVEL VALUE
Authors: Praskalo Jovica , Beganović Adnan , Milanović Jovana , Stanković Koviljka
Published: May 2020

This paper presents the study that would allow a revision of the currently valid diagnostic reference level in intraoral dental X-ray radiography in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The study was conducted for six procedures that are used to capture incisor, premolar and molar teeth, of both maxilla and mandible, in adults. Measurements were performed on 41 intraoral X-ray devices, 20 of which were systems with digital image receptor and 21 film-based X-ray systems. In this study, incident air kerma (Ki) and air kerma-area product (PKA) were used as patient dose descriptors. The third quartile (Q3) of the measured incident air-kerma values was used to compare with the current national diagnostic reference level (DRL) for intraoral dental procedures. The obtained results of Q3 for both types of devices, with film-based and digital image receptors, have shown that the third quartile values are lower (3.5 and 1.2 mGy, respectively) than the current national DRL (7.0 mGy). Hence, new data can be used to re-establish the diagnostic reference levels in intraoral dental X-ray examinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Public procurement and innovation: a systematic literature review
Authors: Kundu Oishee , James Andrew D , Rigby John
Published: May 2020

Public procurement and innovation is the subject of a growing body of literature. This article systematically reviews the existing research, documenting its evolution and highlighting dominant and overlooked themes. We find a dramatic increase in the number of journal publications on this topic since 2008, the existence of thematic communities within the literature, and a focus on empirical work. We analysed keywords and abstracts to identify the broad boundaries of research on public procurement and innovation as well as particular areas of focus in the literature. We found a variety of terms used to describe the application of public procurement as an innovation policy tool and a variety of thematic interests and theoretical foundations. We argue that this makes it challenging to consolidate the research on the topic. From a policy perspective, the geographical context of research is overwhelmingly concentrated in OECD and EU countries.
Pediculosis Affects Mexican Children from Different Socioeconomic Status Equally: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sánchez-Casas Rosa M , Fernández-Salas Ildefonso , Laguna-Aguilar Maricela , Rodríguez-Rojas Jorge J , Medina-Ponce Marcia L , Díaz-González Esteban E
Published: May 2020

The prevalence of pediculosis in Mexican children was studied in San Nicolas and Tapachula, Mexico. A cross-sectional study included 888 students between six and 12 years old from two urban communities with an unequal socioeconomic status between September 2015 and March 2016. A Pearson χ2 and multivariate logistic analysis were carried out to associate risk factors to pediculosis. The overall prevalence of pediculosis from both localities was 23.9%. The female gender; long and medium hair; living with someone infested; previously infested by head lice and curling hair were variables linked to a significantly higher prevalence of pediculosis (p < 0.01). Nevertheless, no significant differences were observed in the age groups, localities and socioeconomic status for human lice infection. Socioeconomic variables such as numbers of inhabitants, floors of house, beds and rooms; and parents’ qualification did not show a significative association for pediculosis. Health education in schools is needed for pediculosis prevention and remove the stigmatization of this disease related to poverty.
Wild spirits: Elevated hypomanic tendencies are associated with entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial success
Authors: Pushkarskaya Helen , Pittenger Christopher , Kleine Marco , Perlson Godfrey , Just David
Published: May 2020

Entrepreneurs take extreme risks and make rash decisions but are responsible for innovation, technological change, and economic growth. Attempts to characterize the entrepreneurial personality have had limited success. We hypothesized that elevated hypomanic 15 tendencies (HPM), which have been linked to increased risk for psychopathology, are also associated with entrepreneurship. We tested the association of HPM with entrepreneurial activities cross-sectionally in three different populations (total N = 2,200, including 899 entrepreneurs), using three different measures of hypomanic tendencies. We report a robust positive association of HPM with several measures of entrepreneurial intent, behavior, and success. This may reflect a 20 particular ecological fit between individual characteristics associated with HPM and unique demands of entrepreneurial lifestyle, but highlights the psychological vulnerability of entrepreneurs, especially under conditions of stress.