bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suicide intervention training with law enforcement officers
Authors: Osteen Philip J. , Ohme Karen , Morris R.C. , Arciniegas Jorge , Frey Jodi J. , Woods MaKenna , Forsman R. Lane
Published: May 2021

Law Enforcement Officers’ (LEO) interactions with people facing mental health crises have risen exponentially since the era of deinstitutionalization. On average, about 10% of the individuals law enforcement interacts with daily have mental health challenges. Several factors influence the outcome of these interactions, not least of which is an officer's role as a gatekeeper as well as their training related to people with mental health challenges. We hypothesized that participating in the online QPR Training for Law Enforcement Officers would be associated with improved knowledge about suicide, attitudes to suicide and suicide intervention, and self‐efficacy. Additionally, we hypothesized that these outcomes would be associated with greater use of intervention skills when encountering individuals at risk for suicide in the community. Results of our longitudinal analysis find that most of the participating officers reported some prior training and yet demonstrated statistically significant improvements in knowledge and attitudes after controlling for previous training. No significant changes were observed in LEO’s use of intervention skills following training. We conclude by suggesting that there is substantial need for increased training; and offering possible conceptual and empirical explanations for the observed results.
An evaluation of the long‐term sustainability of suicide prevention programs in an offshore Island
Authors: Yip Paul Siu Fai , Yeung Cheuk Yui , Chen Yu‐Chih , Lai Carmen Chui Shan , Wong Clifford Long Hin
Published: May 2021

Introduction

In 2002, a suicide prevention program for visitors was implemented in Cheung Chau, an offshore island with 21,000 residents and many visitors. This research revisited the intervention and evaluated its long‐term effectiveness. Insights are provided into implementing a sustainable intervention.

Methods

Suicide death records (2007–2017) of Cheung Chau residents and visitors were retrieved. Information related to suicide method and sociodemographic characteristics of people who died by suicide were explored. Bivariate analyses were conducted to examine differences between visitors and residents; visitors and residents who died in Cheung Chau; and residents who died in or outside Cheung Chau.

Results

After post‐implementation period, suicide rate for visitors and residents increased. Visitors were generally younger than the residents with a different distribution of type of housing. Most of the visitors killed themselves by charcoal burning, and nearly half of the residents used hanging.

Conclusion

Long‐term evaluation and monitoring of suicide prevention programs and sustained efforts are crucial to ensure program success. The prevention program in Cheung Chau was initially effective, but its long‐term effects wore off. Both the mental health needs of visitors and residents should be addressed. Refinement of the current program and sustainable efforts are required for ensuring long‐term success.
Entrapment and suicidal ideation: The protective roles of presence of life meaning and reasons for living
Authors: Moscardini Emma H. , Oakey‐Frost D Nicolas , Robinson Anthony , Powers Jeffrey , Aboussouan Alix B. , Rasmussen Susan , Cramer Robert J. , Tucker Raymond P.
Published: May 2021

Objective

The integrated motivational–volitional model of suicide proposes that feelings of entrapment play a key role in the development of suicidal ideation. The model also posits a set of motivational moderators which either facilitate or hinder the development of suicidal thinking when entrapment is present. These motivational moderators include factors such as attitudes, future goals, thwarted belongingness, and social support. Two previously studied protective factors against suicide, reasons for living and life meaning, have received support in suicidology and might serve as motivational moderators in this model.

Methods

The current cross‐sectional study included college students (N=195) oversampled for recent suicidal ideation who took a series of self‐report questionnaires online.

Results

Our findings demonstrated that both reasons for living and life meaning are protective against the relation between entrapment and suicidal ideation, especially when presence of life meaning and reasons for living of high. Search for life meaning was found demonstrated a less protective relation with SI severity, particularly when reasons for living were low.

Conclusion

Both motivational moderators demonstrated protective relationships with suicidal ideation and may be relevant to suicide prevention strategies. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
The NSEBA Demonstration Project: implementation of a point‐of‐care platform for early infant diagnosis of HIV in rural Zambia
Authors: Sutcliffe Catherine G. , Moyo Nkumbula , Schue Jessica L. , Mutanga Jane N. , Hamahuwa Mutinta , Munachoonga Passwell , Maunga Sylvia , Thuma Philip E. , Moss William J.
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To describe the experience and resource requirements of implementing point‐of‐care testing for early infant diagnosis of HIV in rural Zambia.

Methods

A demonstration project was conducted using a hub‐and‐spoke model in 2018–2019 at five clinics in rural Zambia. Two testing hubs were established, and all HIV‐exposed infants were tested with the GeneXpert system. Data on costs, turnaround times and test results were collected.

Results

Seven hundred and eighty six tests were conducted. At the hubs, results were available a median of 2.4 (IQR: 2.1, 2.8) hours after sample collection and most mothers (84%) received same‐day results. At the spoke facilities, results were available a median of 9 days (IQR: 7, 12) after sample collection and provided to the mother a median of 16 days (IQR: 10, 28) after sample collection. Eleven children tested positive, and 9 (82%) started treatment a median of 13 days (IQR: 7, 21) after sample collection and on the day mothers received results. In contrast, results from matching samples sent for routine testing were available a median of 38 days (IQR: 27, 61) after sample collection and provided to the mother a median of 91 days (IQR: 47, 135) after sample collection.

Conclusions

Implementing point‐of‐care testing in a network of rural health centres in Zambia required significant initial and ongoing investment in infrastructure, training and supervision. However, point‐of‐care testing can rapidly diagnose HIV‐infected infants, so they can benefit from early treatment.
Allergen components of Dermatophagoides farinae recognised by serum immunoglobulin (Ig)E in Thai dogs with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Khantavee Nathrada , Reamtong Onrapak , Sookrung Nitat , Suradhat Sanipa , Prapasarakul Nuvee
Published: May 2021

Background

Dermatophagoides farinae (Der f) is a common allergen in dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD). However, the relevant components of Der f require further investigation.

Objectives

We aimed to provide data on the immunoglobulin (Ig)E‐binding specific components of Der f for further diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Animals

Serum samples were collected from five healthy, nine Der f‐allergic atopic and seven non‐Der f‐allergic atopic dogs identified based on an intradermal skin test.

Methods and materials

We explored the component profiles of Der f extracts through 2D gel electrophoresis and IgE immunoblotting. The IgE‐binding components in both groups of atopic dogs were analysed by mass spectrometry.

Results

The majority of Der f‐allergic atopic dogs recognised Der f Alternaria alternata allergen 10 (Der f Alt a 10), elongation factor 1‐alpha (EF1‐α), gelsolin‐like allergen Der f 16, Der f 28 and Der f 2. Der f 3, Der f 10, Der f 20 and Der f 32 were recognised as minor allergens. Alpha‐enolase, serine protease, arginine kinase and a few hypothetical proteins were recognised components in both groups of atopic dogs. Unexpectedly, Der f 15 (chitinase) was found to be a minor component.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Multiple IgE‐binding allergens of Der f were identified in Thai atopic dogs. We propose that the specific antigen set that is bound by IgE, comprising Der f Alt a 10, EF1‐α, gelsolin‐like Der f 16, Der f 28 and Der f 2, could be used for future diagnostics and immunotherapy platforms.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor prevents skeletal muscle fibrosis in diabetic mice
Authors: Kakutani Naoya , Takada Shingo , Nambu Hideo , Maekawa Satoshi , Hagiwara Hikaru , Yamanashi Katsuma , Obata Yoshikuni , Nakano Ippei , Fumoto Yoshizuki , Hata Soichiro , Furihata Takaaki , Fukushima Arata , Yokota Takashi , Kinugawa Shintaro
Published: May 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

We questioned whether an angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor prevents skeletal muscle fibrosis in diabetic mice.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Administration of ACE inhibitor prevents the increase in skeletal muscle fibrosis during the early phase after induction of diabetes by streptozotocin. Our findings might provide a new therapeutic target for skeletal muscle abnormalities in diabetes.

Fibrosis is characterized by the excessive production and accumulation of extracellular matrix components, including collagen. Although the extracellular matrix is an essential component of skeletal muscle, fibrosis can have negative effects on muscle function. Skeletal muscle fibrosis was shown to be increased in spontaneously hypertensive rats and to be prevented by an angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, an antihypertensive drug, in dystrophic mice or a mouse model of myocardial infarction. In this study, we therefore analysed whether (1) there is increased skeletal muscle fibrosis in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic mice, and (2) a preventive effect on skeletal muscle fibrosis by administration of an ACE inhibitor. Skeletal muscle fibrosis was significantly increased in STZ‐induced diabetic mice compared with control mice from 2 to 14 days post‐STZ. The ACE inhibitor prevented both skeletal muscle fibrosis and the reduction in muscle function in STZ‐treated mice. Our study demonstrated that administration of an ACE inhibitor prevents the increase in skeletal muscle fibrosis during the early phase after onset of diabetes. Our findings might provide a new therapeutic target for skeletal muscle abnormalities in diabetes. Future studies are required to clarify whether skeletal muscle fibrosis is also linked directly to physical activity.
Fibrinogen‐like protein 2 contributes to normal murine cardiomyocyte maturation and heart development
Authors: Fan Cheng , Chen Hong , Liu Kun , Wang Zhaohui
Published: May 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What is the role of fibrinogen‐like protein 2 (FGL2) in murine cardiomyocyte maturation?

What is the main finding and its importance?

This is the first study showing both global Fgl2 knockout and cardiac‐specific FGL2 deletion trigger early death and dilated cardiomyopathy. By using an adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated CRISPR/Cas9‐based somatic mutagenesis system, it was demonstrated that cardiac‐specific FGL2 depletion induces ventricular dilatation and remodelling, and disrupts the normal hypertrophic growth and polyploidization of cardiomyocytes. In addition, it was shown that modulation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 and fibroblast growth factor 2 signalling is associated with loss‐of‐FGL2‐mediated cardiac dysfunction. These results suggest FGL2 is an important determinant of cardiomyocyte maturation.

In the first few weeks after birth in altricial mammals, postnatal cardiomyocytes (CMs) undergo dramatic changes, including cell volume enlargement, cell cycle withdrawal and polyploidization to become mature CMs. Aberrations in this process could disrupt the essential contractility and synchronization of adult CMs, leading to various heart diseases. However, the mechanism of CM maturation is poorly understood. Fibrinogen‐like protein 2 (FGL2) is an immune coagulant which participates in maturation of multiple cell types. However, little evidence exists regarding a role of FGL2 in CM maturation. In this study, we observed that global Fgl2–/– pups had high lethality and suffered from cardiac dysfunction before P28. To further confirm the phenotype and study the mechanisms upon FGL2 deficiency, we used an adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated CRISPR/Cas9‐based somatic mutagenesis system to generate loss‐of‐function mutations of Fgl2 specifically in CMs. We designed two guide RNAs (gRNAs) exclusively targeting Fgl2 exon1 and produced Fgl2‐gRNA AAV9 to deliver to neonatal Cas9 mice. Here, we demonstrated the efficient FGL2 depletion in the heart after Fgl2‐gRNA AAV9 delivery. Consistent with the findings in global Fgl2–/– mice, we observed AAV9‐mediated FGL2 depletion triggered early death and dilated cardiomyopathy. In addition, FGL2 depletion perturbed the normal hypertrophic growth and polyploidization of maturing CMs. Furthermore, we found modulation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 and fibroblast growth factor 2 signalling was associated with FGL2 deficiency‐mediated cardiac dysfunction. Here, we demonstrate the successful depletion of FGL2 in maturing CMs in vivo and show FGL2 is an important determinant for normal CM maturation.
A Method to Reduce the Number of Assembly Tightening Passes in Bolted Flange Joints
Authors: Zhu Linbo , Bouzid Abdel-Hakim , Hong Jun
Published: May 2021

Bolted flange joints are extensively used in pressure vessels and piping equipment and rotating machinery. Achieving a uniform bolt preload during the assembly process is particularly important to satisfy tightness in applications such as oil, gas, fossil, and nuclear industries. However, this task becomes very difficult due to the need of retightening the bolts because of elastic interaction and bolt cross talk. The risk of leakage failure under service loading is consequently increased because of the scatter of the bolt preload. This article presents an analytical model based on the theory of circular beams on the linear elastic foundation that simulates the elastic interaction present during the tightening of bolted flange joints to reduce the number of passes while achieving bolt load uniformity. As such, a novel methodology that optimizes tightening sequence strategies is suggested to obtain uniform bolt tension while avoiding yield under a minimum number of tightening passes. In this regard, based on the target preload, the load applied to each bolt in each pass is suggested. The developed approach is validated both numerically using finite element method and experimentally on a NPS 4 class 900 welding neck flange joint using the criss-cross tightening and sequential patterns.
A Kinematic Analysis Method of Double Roller Tripod Joints Based on the Principle of Conjugate Surfaces
Authors: Qiu Yinyuan , Shi Baoshu , Lü Hui
Published: May 2021

To systematically investigate the contact constraint relationships and the influences of fit clearances on the kinematic performances of a double roller tripod joint (DRTJ), a method for the kinematic analysis of DRTJs is proposed based on the principle of conjugate surfaces. In the proposed method, the constraint relations between rollers and tracks as well as between rollers and trunnions are first derived based on the principle of conjugate surfaces. Then, according to the constructed constraint relationships, the kinematic analysis model of a DRTJ considering the influences of fit clearances is established. Next, the effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by measuring the relative displacements and angles between rollers and tracks via experiment. Finally, kinematic analyses are carried out and the main results show that the relative pitch angle between rollers and tracks are always kept as zeroes under any working condition by designing the shapes of rollers’ outer surfaces to be semi-toroid. The fit clearances have little influence on the kinematic performances of the DRTJ, thus proper fit clearances between rollers and tracks as well as between rollers and trunnions can be designed to improve the lubricating conditions of the DRTJ.
Substrate-borne vibration and sound production by the land hermit crab Coenobita compressus during social interactions
Authors: Roberts Louise
Published: May 2021

Despite the diversity of sound production in crustacea, sounds produced by the land hermit crabs (Coenobitidae) are not well understood. Here, sound and substrate-borne vibration production by the tropical species Coenobita compressus was characterized in relation to shell architecture and social context. Sound production rates were compared between group and solitary conditions. Chirps were measurable in the air (peak frequency 800–8400 Hz) and within the sediment (40–1120 Hz). On average, chirp pulses were 0.08 s, spaced 0.41–0.92 s apart, and had trains composed of 4–6 pulses. There were significant correlations between the shell architecture and chirp vibroacoustics. Notably, a correlation between the substrate-borne peak frequency and shell wall thickness was found, indicating that the shell remodeling process which crabs undertake (shell wall thinning) impacts the vibroacoustics of the chirps. Chirp production was significantly linked to sociality during increased individual proximity and shell contests; hence, the function is hypothesized to be intraspecific communication relative to personal space and defense. Although there have been anecdotal observations of chirping in the Coenobitidae, this paper provides a full characterization of C. compressus, which produces chirps in two sensory modes, indicating the potential of being a seismic signaler.
“Caught in the Headlights”: A Reflective Account of the Challenges Faced by a Neophyte Practitioner Working With a National Squad
Authors: Wren Barnaby , Wagstaff Christopher R.D. , Quartiroli Alessandro
Published: May 2021

This article provides a neophyte practitioner’s account of providing psychological support to a national team for the first time. The practitioner felt “caught in the headlights” due to his lack of preparation for the range of organizational issues he encountered. In this confessional tale, experiential knowledge gained by the practitioner is shared through the presentation of self-reflections from the 6-month period when he supported the squad. While the practitioner’s time with this national squad was limited, it gave him a sense of the micropolitical landscape of the sporting organization and illuminated some of the complexities and dilemmas that characterize applied sport psychology practice. These reflections are offered to guide other aspiring professionals during their initial training experiences.
Acyltransferase AniI, a Tailoring Enzyme with Broad Substrate Tolerance for High-Level Production of Anisomycin
Authors: Wang Qing , Kong Lingxin , Zheng Xiaoqing , Shen Jufang , Wang Junbo , Zhang Dashan , Qiao Yongjian , Wang Jinjin , Deng Zixin , You Delin
Published: May 2021

Acylation is an important tailoring reaction during natural product biosynthesis. Acylation could increase the structural diversity and affect the chemical stability, volatility, biological activity, and even the cellular localization of specialized compounds.
Sesbanimide R, a Novel Cytotoxic Polyketide Produced by Magnetotactic Bacteria
Authors: Awal Ram Prasad , Haack Patrick A. , Bader Chantal D. , Riese Cornelius N. , Schüler Dirk , Müller Rolf
Published: May 2021

The findings of this study contribute a new secondary metabolite member to the glutarimide-containing polyketides. The determined structure of sesbanimide R correlates with its cytotoxic bioactivity, characteristic for members of this family. Sesbanimide R represents the first natural product isolated from magnetotactic bacteria and identifies this highly diverse group as a so-far-untapped source for the future discovery of novel secondary metabolites.
Agrobacterium tumefaciens Growth Pole Ring Protein: C Terminus and Internal Apolipoprotein Homologous Domains Are Essential for Function and Subcellular Localization
Authors: Zupan John , Guo Zisheng , Biddle Trevor , Zambryski Patricia
Published: May 2021

Bacterial growth and division are extensively studied in model systems (
Escherichia coli
,
Bacillus subtilis
, and
Caulobacter crescentus
) that grow by dispersed insertion of new cell wall material along the length of the cell. An alternative growth mode—polar growth—is used by some
Actinomycetales
and
Proteobacteria
species.
Quantitative Proteomics Reveals that Hsp90 Inhibition Dynamically Regulates Global Protein Synthesis in Leishmania mexicana
Authors: Kalesh Karunakaran , Sundriyal Sandeep , Perera Hirunika , Cobb Steven L. , Denny Paul W.
Published: May 2021

Leishmaniaspp. are the causative agents of leishmaniasis, a poverty-related disease, which is endemic in >90 countries worldwide, affecting approximately 12 million people, with an estimated 700,000 to 1 million new cases and around 70,000 deaths annually. Inhibitors of the chaperone protein Hsp90 have shown promising antileishmanial activity.
Effects of a community-driven water, sanitation and hygiene intervention on water and sanitation infrastructure, access, behaviour, and governance: a cluster-randomised controlled trial in rural Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Quattrochi John Paul , Coville Aidan , Mvukiyehe Eric , Dohou Caleb Jeremie , Esu Federica , Cohen Byron , Bokasola Yannick Lokaya , Croke Kevin
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Inadequate water and sanitation is a central challenge in global health. Since 2008, the Democratic Republic of Congo government has implemented a national programme, Healthy Villages and Schools (Villages et Ecoles Assainis(VEA), with support from UNICEF, financed by UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Methods

A cluster-level randomised controlled trial of VEA was implemented throughout 2019 across 332 rural villages, grouped into 50 treatment and 71 control clusters. Primary outcomes included time spent collecting water; quantity of water collected; prevalence of improved primary source of drinking water; and prevalence of improved primary defecation site. Secondary outcomes included child health, water governance, water satisfaction, handwashing practices, sanitation practices, financial cost of water, school attendance and water storage practices. All outcomes were self-reported. The primary analysis was on an intention-to-treat basis, using linear models. Outcomes were measured October–December 2019, median 5 months post-intervention.

Results

The programme increased access to improved water sources by 33 percentage points (pp) (95% CI 22 to 45), to improved sanitation facilities by 26 pp (95% CI 14 to 37), and improved water governance by 1.3 SDs (95% CI 1.1 to 1.5), water satisfaction by 0.6 SD (95% CI 0.4 to 0.9), handwashing practices by 0.5 SD (95% CI 0.3 to 0.7) and sanitation practices by 0.3 SD (95% CI 0.1 to 0.4). There was no significant difference in financial cost of water, school attendance, child health or water storage practices.

Conclusion

VEA produced large increases in access to and satisfaction with water and sanitation services, in self-reported hygiene and sanitation behaviour, and in measures of water governance.

Trial registration number

AEARCTR-0004648; American Economic Association RCT registry.
Apnoea–hypopnoea indices determined via continuous positive airway
pressure (AHI-CPAPflow) versus those determined by
polysomnography (AHI-PSGgold): a protocol for a systematic review
and meta-analysis
Authors: Bertelli Fanny , Suehs Carey Meredith , Mallet Jean Pierre , Rotty Marie Caroline , Pepin Jean Louis , Gagnadoux Frédéric , Matzner-Lober Eric , Bourdin A , Molinari Nicolas , Jaffuel Dany
Published: May 2021

Introduction

To date, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) remains the
cornerstone of obstructive sleep apnoea treatment. CPAP data describing
residual sleep-disordered breathing events (ie, the CPAP-measured
apnoea–hypopnoea indices (AHI-CPAPflow)) is
difficult to interpret because it is an entirely different metric than
the polysomnography (PSG) measured AHI gold standard
(AHI-PSGgold). Moreover, manufacturer
definitions for apnoea and hypopnoea are not only different from those
recommended for PSG scoring, but also different between manufacturers.
In the context of CPAP initiation and widespread telemedicine at home to
facilitate sleep apnoea care, there is a need for concrete evidence that
AHI-CPAPflow can be used as a surrogate for
AHI-PSGgold.

Methods and analysis

No published systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) has compared
the accuracy of AHI-CPAPflow against
AHI-PSGgold and the primary objective of this
study is therefore to do so using published data. The secondary
objectives are to similarly evaluate other sleep disordered breathing
indices and to perform subgroup analyses focusing on the
inclusion/exclusion of central apnoea patients, body mass index levels,
CPAP device brands, pressure titration modes, use of a predetermined and
fixed pressure level or not, and the impact of a 4% PSG desaturation
criteria versus 3% PSG on accuracy. The Preferred Reporting Items for
SRMA protocols statement guided study design. Randomised controlled
trials and observational studies of adult patients (≥18 years old)
treated by a CPAP device will be included. The CPAP intervention and PSG
comparator must be performed synchronously. PSGs must be scored manually
and follow the American Academy of Sleep Medicine guidelines (2007 AASM
criteria or more recent). To assess the risk of bias in each study, the
Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 tool will be
used.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol received ethics committee approval on 16 July 2020
(IRB_MTP_2020_07_2020000404) and results will be disseminated via
peer-reviewed publications.

PROSPERO/Trial registration numbers

CRD42020159914/NCT04526366; Pre-results
Asia-Pacific consensus on physical activity and exercise in pregnancy and the postpartum period
Authors: Lee Ryan , Thain Serene , Tan Lay Kok , Teo Terry , Tan Kok Hian
Published: May 2021

Physical activity and exercise in pregnancy are generally beneficial and enhance the physical and mental health of women. These benefits also prevent excessive weight gain and reduce risks of obesity in pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, higher rates of caesarean delivery, macrosomia and stillbirth. Thus, there is a need to optimise perinatal exercise and physical activity globally. There is currently no consensus recommendation on the role of physical activity and exercise in pregnancy and the postpartum period in the Asia-Pacific region. In this paper, we present seven key consensus recommendations on physical activity and exercise in pregnancy and the postpartum period by 18 key members representing 10 countries in Asia-Pacific regions during an international workshop of the Asia

Diabetes in Pregnancy Conference in Singapore on 11–12 January 2020. Through these consensus recommendations, we hope to improve the metabolic health of pregnant women living in Asia-Pacific regions by educating the public and guiding healthcare professionals on the safety and importance of physical exercise and activity to benefit pregnant women and after childbirth.
Diagnostic accuracy of non-invasive tests for advanced fibrosis in patients with NAFLD: an individual patient data meta-analysis
Authors: Mózes Ferenc Emil , Lee Jenny A , Selvaraj Emmanuel Anandraj , Jayaswal Arjun Narayan Ajmer , Trauner Michael , Boursier Jerome , Fournier Céline , Staufer Katharina , Stauber Rudolf E , Bugianesi Elisabetta , Younes Ramy , Gaia Silvia , Lupșor-Platon Monica , Petta Salvatore , Shima Toshihide , Okanoue Takeshi , Mahadeva Sanjiv , Chan Wah-Kheong , Eddowes Peter J , Hirschfield Gideon M , Newsome Philip Noel , Wong Vincent Wai-Sun , de Ledinghen Victor , Fan Jiangao , Shen Feng , Cobbold Jeremy F , Sumida Yoshio , Okajima Akira , Schattenberg Jörn M , Labenz Christian , Kim Won , Lee Myoung Seok , Wiegand Johannes , Karlas Thomas , Yılmaz Yusuf , Aithal Guruprasad Padur , Palaniyappan Naaventhan , Cassinotto Christophe , Aggarwal Sandeep , Garg Harshit , Ooi Geraldine J , Nakajima Atsushi , Yoneda Masato , Ziol Marianne , Barget Nathalie , Geier Andreas , Tuthill Theresa , Brosnan M. Julia , Anstee Quentin Mark , Neubauer Stefan , Harrison Stephen A. , Bossuyt Patrick M , Pavlides Michael
Published: May 2021

Objective

Liver biopsy is still needed for fibrosis staging in many patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The aims of this study were to evaluate the individual diagnostic performance of liver stiffness measurement by vibration controlled transient elastography (LSM-VCTE), Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4) and NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) Fibrosis Score (NFS) and to derive diagnostic strategies that could reduce the need for liver biopsies.

Design

Individual patient data meta-analysis of studies evaluating LSM-VCTE against liver histology was conducted. FIB-4 and NFS were computed where possible. Sensitivity, specificity and area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) were calculated. Biomarkers were assessed individually and in sequential combinations.

Results

Data were included from 37 primary studies (n=5735; 45% women; median age: 54 years; median body mass index: 30 kg/m2; 33% had type 2 diabetes; 30% had advanced fibrosis). AUROCs of individual LSM-VCTE, FIB-4 and NFS for advanced fibrosis were 0.85, 0.76 and 0.73. Sequential combination of FIB-4 cut-offs (<1.3; ≥2.67) followed by LSM-VCTE cut-offs (<8.0; ≥10.0 kPa) to rule-in or rule-out advanced fibrosis had sensitivity and specificity (95% CI) of 66% (63–68) and 86% (84–87) with 33% needing a biopsy to establish a final diagnosis. FIB-4 cut-offs (<1.3; ≥3.48) followed by LSM cut-offs (<8.0; ≥20.0 kPa) to rule out advanced fibrosis or rule in cirrhosis had a sensitivity of 38% (37–39) and specificity of 90% (89–91) with 19% needing biopsy.

Conclusion

Sequential combinations of markers with a lower cut-off to rule-out advanced fibrosis and a higher cut-off to rule-in cirrhosis can reduce the need for liver biopsies.
Long-term safety and effectiveness of canakinumab therapy in patients with cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome: results from the β-Confident Registry
Authors: Walker Ulrich A , Tilson Hugh H , Hawkins Philip N , Poll Tom van der , Noviello Stephanie , Levy Jeremy , Vritzali Eleni , Hoffman Hal M , Kuemmerle-Deschner Jasmin B
Published: May 2021

Objective

To report the long-term safety and effectiveness of canakinumab, a fully human anti-interleukin 1β monoclonal antibody, in patients with cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS), including familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome (FCAS), Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS) and neonatal-onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID), in a real-world setting.

Methods

From December 2009 to December 2015, the β-Confident Registry prospectively enrolled patients with CAPS and non-CAPS conditions who received canakinumab per routine care and were prospectively followed for up to 6 years. The registry protocol did not mandate specific visits or procedures; however, all observed adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) had to be recorded. Canakinumab effectiveness was evaluated by Physician’s Global Assessment (PGA).

Results

Of 288 patients enrolled, 3 were excluded due to missing informed consent. Among the remaining 285 patients, 243 (85.3%) were patients with CAPS and 42 (14.7%) had atypical CAPS (6.3%) or other conditions (8.4%). The median age was 26.6 years. Based on PGA, 58 of 123 (47.2%) patients with CAPS had no disease activity at 48 months, and 65 of 123 (52.8%) experienced mild/moderate disease activity at 48 months. Among CAPS phenotypes, AE incidence rates per 100 patient-years were lowest for FCAS (73.1; 95% CI 60.3 to 87.8) compared with those with MWS (105.0; 95% CI 97.2 to 113.2) or NOMID (104.6; 95% CI 86.6 to 125.2). One hundred twenty-eight SAEs were reported in 68 patients with CAPS (incidence rate/100 patient-years, 14.0; 95% CI 11.6 to 16.6). One death (metastatic rectal adenocarcinoma in a patient with MWS) was reported.

Conclusions

The response to canakinumab was sustained for up to 6 years. Canakinumab demonstrated a favourable safety profile over long-term treatment in patients with CAPS.

Trial registration number

NCT01213641.
Voluntary running of defined distances alters bone microstructure in C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet
Authors: Yan Lin , Nielsen Forrest H. , Sundaram Sneha , Cao Jay
Published: May 2021

Obesity increases the risk for pathological conditions such as bone loss. On the other hand, physical exercise reduces body adiposity. To test the hypothesis that physical activity improves bone quality, we evaluated voluntary running of defined distances on trabecular and cortical microstructure in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Sedentary mice were fed the standard AIN93G diet or the HFD. Mice fed the HFD remained sedentary or were assigned to unrestricted running or 75%, 50%, and 25% of unrestricted running with an average running activity at 8.3, 6.3, 4.2, and 2.1 km per day, respectively. The bone structural differences found in sedentary mice were that HFD, compared with the AIN93G diet, resulted in a lower bone volume fraction (BV/TV) and a higher structure model index (SMI) in vertebrae. Running had a greater effect on trabecular microstructure in femurs than in vertebrae; the decrease in SMI and an increase in trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) were in dose-dependent manners. Running was positively correlated with BV/TV and Tb.Th and inversely correlated with SMI in femurs. The HFD increased plasma concentrations of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, a marker of bone resorption, in sedentary mice, while running decreased it in a dose-dependent manner. The findings show that voluntary running improves bone quality in young adult mice fed an HFD.

Novelty: The high-fat diet alters bone microstructure by increasing bone resorption. Quantitative voluntary running improves bone microstructure through its attenuation of bone resorption in mice fed a high-fat diet.
The scalar field models of Tsallis holographic dark energy with Granda–Oliveros cutoff in modified gravity
Authors: Pradhan Anirudh , Varshney Gunjan , Sharma Umesh Kumar
Published: May 2021

This research explores the Tsallis holographic quintessence, k-essence, and tachyon models of dark energy in the modified f(R, T) gravity framework with Granda–Oliveros cutoff. We have analyzed the energy density through [Formula: see text]. We study the correspondence between the quintessence, k-essence, and tachyon energy density with the Tsallis holographic dark energy density in a flat FRW Universe. The reconstruction is performed for different values of Tsallis parameter δ in the region of ωΛ > –1 for the EoS parameter. This correspondence allows reconstruction of the potentials and the dynamics for the scalar field models, if we set some constraints for the model parameters, which describe the accelerated expansion of the Universe.
Soil temperature and water contents among vertical tillage, strip tillage, and chisel plowing in the Upper Great Plains
Authors: Alghamdi Rashad S. , Daigh Aaron Lee M. , DeJong-Hughes Jodi , Wick Abbey F.
Published: May 2021

Long winters in the Red River Valley (RRV) of eastern North Dakota and western Minnesota result in short growing seasons for corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) systems. Historically, producers implement aggressive tillage to warm the soil, which has caused hesitation when considering reduced tillage systems. The association between soil warming–drying and crop yields via research at farmer-operated, production-scale systems practicing reduced tillage is lacking. A two-year study was conducted at three producer-operated, corn–soybean fields in the RRV with five soil series ranging from sandy loams to silty clays. Soil temperature (T), soil volumetric water content (θ), and crop yields were measured to evaluate the effects of soil warming and drying and crop performance under reduced tillage practices of vertical tillage (VT), strip tillage with shanks (STS), strip tillage with coulters (STC), and chisel plow (CP). Results showed that daytime soil T and θ in the tilled strips for STC and STS (i.e., in the plant rows) were similar to CP and significantly different from VT. The ST treatments demonstrated added benefits of higher soil θ between the tilled strips (i.e., between the plant rows) during the mid-growing season when plant water needs are at their highest. However, daily averaged soil T and θ demonstrated little to no significant differences among the tillage treatments. Moreover, crop yields were inconsistent with soil T and θ, indicating weak to no practical association in these on-farm settings.
Magnetorheological elastomer-based variable stiffness flexible coupling for vibration isolation
Authors: Syam Thaer M.I. , Hegazi Ahmed A.A. , Muthalif Asan G.A. , Badri Yousif
Published: May 2021

Rotating mechanical equipment such as pumps and motors can suffer from unattenuated torsional vibration. The causes of such vibration range from imbalance within the rotating system to misalignment, or even operating at frequencies close to the system’s natural frequency. Smart composite materials are materials for which exposure to external stimuli changes their properties. Magnetorheological elastomers (MRE) are smart composite materials whose mechanical properties, such as stiffness, are changed when exposed to a magnetic field. In this article, we report on the fitting of a variable stiffness coupling (VSC) within a shaft to isolate torsional vibration, which can adapt and change its attenuation frequency range. We experimentally tested the VSC concept for isolating torsional vibration. MRE samples with 40% volume fraction were fabricated and manufactured using a 3D mold design and fixed within a coupling in a shaft to investigate the effects of magnetic fields on the torsional rigidity. Impact hammer tests were conducted in combination with an accelerometer to analyze the transmissibility factor. Our results show that the level of vibration decreased when the magnetic field increased. The first natural frequency of the system happened at 26 Hz and moved to 28 Hz when the applied magnetic field increased from 0 to 12.38 mT. The torsional stiffness of the MRE samples increased from from 37.4 to 61.6 N.m/rad when the magnetic field increased from 0 to 12.38 mT. Variation in the torsional damping coefficient fluctuated as the damping effect of MRE was ignored.
Tetraquark state X(6900) and the interaction between diquark and antidiquark
Authors: Ke Hong-Wei , Han Xin , Liu Xiao-Hai , Shi Yan-Liang
Published: May 2021

Recently LHCb declared a new structure X(6900) in the final state di-$$J/\psi $$

J
/
ψ

which is popularly regarded as a cc-$$\bar{c}\bar{c}$$

c

¯

c

¯

tetraquark state. Within the Bethe–Salpeter (B–S) framework we study the possible cc-$$\bar{c}\bar{c}$$

c

¯

c

¯

bound states and the interaction between diquark (cc) and antidiquark ($$\bar{c}\bar{c}$$

c

¯

c

¯

). In this work cc ($$\bar{c}\bar{c}$$

c

¯

c

¯

) is treated as a color anti-triplet (triplet) axial-vector so the quantum numbers of cc-$$\bar{c}\bar{c}$$

c

¯

c

¯

bound state are $$0^+$$

0
+

, $$1^+$$

1
+

and $$2^+$$

2
+

. Learning from the interaction in meson case and using the effective coupling we suggest the interaction kernel for the diquark and antidiquark system. Then we deduce the B–S equations for different quantum numbers. Solving these equations numerically we find the spectra of some excited states can be close to the mass of X(6900) when we assign appropriate values for parameter $$\kappa $$
κ
introduced in the interaction (kernel). We also briefly calculate the spectra of bb-$$\bar{b}\bar{b}$$

b

¯

b

¯

bound states. Future measurement of bb-$$\bar{b}\bar{b}$$

b

¯

b

¯

state will help us to determine the exact form of effective interaction.
Tungsten plasma density and temperature time analysis using 1.064 $$\upmu $$m nanosecond dual-pulse laser
Authors: Gromelski Wojciech , Gasior Pawel
Published: May 2021

The information about time evolution of plasma electron temperature and density plays a fundamental role in numerous physics-related sciences. For CF DP-LIBS (calibration-free double-pulse laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy), not only may it serve to minimize the impact on the investigated sample, but also to optimize the laser and spectral parameters, or even to pave the way for real-time chemical analysis of the sample. To evaluate this impact and describe the plasma time behavior, electron temperature and density are calculated for plasma induced by double-pulse Nd:YAG laser with various (0–500 ns) inter-pulse delays. The parameters are calculated using various methods, such as Stark broadening, Boltzmann plot and Saha equation to provide complementary calculations for comparison. To ensure validity of the results, calibration of the measurement setup was performed. In the work, tungsten samples are investigated, because the W is chosen as the preferred material for plasma-facing components in future fusion devices such as ITER. Since LIBS method will be used to monitor tritium retention in ITER, the results may be utilized to improve the diagnostics.
Repeated radiation damage and thermal annealing of avalanche photodiodes
Authors: DSouza Ian , Bourgoin Jean-Philippe , Higgins Brendon L. , Lim Jin Gyu , Tannous Ramy , Agne Sascha , Moffat Brian , Makarov Vadim , Jennewein Thomas
Published: May 2021

Avalanche photodiodes (APDs) are well-suited for single-photon detection on quantum communication satellites as they are a mature technology with high detection efficiency without requiring cryogenic cooling. They are, however, prone to significantly increased thermal noise caused by in-orbit radiation damage. Previous work demonstrated that a one-time application of thermal annealing reduces radiation-damage-induced APD thermal noise. Here we examine the effect of cyclical proton irradiation and thermal annealing. We use an accelerated testing environment which emulates a realistic two-year operating profile of a satellite in low-Earth-orbit. We show that repeated thermal annealing is effective at maintaining thermal noise of silicon APDs within a range suitable for quantum key distribution throughout the nominal mission life, and beyond. We examine two strategies—annealing at a fixed period of time, and annealing only when the thermal noise exceeds a pre-defined limit. We find both strategies exhibit similar thermal noise at end-of-life, with a slight overall advantage to annealing conditionally. We also observe that afterpulsing probability of the detector increases with cumulative proton irradiation. This knowledge helps guide design and tasking decisions for future space-borne quantum communication applications.
Cascaded Deeply Supervised Convolutional Networks for Liver Lesion Segmentation
Authors: Peng Kaiyi , Fang Bin , Zhou Mingliang
Published: May 2021

Liver lesion segmentation from abdomen computed tomography (CT) with deep neural networks remains challenging due to the small volume and the unclear boundary. To effectively tackle these problems, in this paper, we propose a cascaded deeply supervised convolutional networks (CDS-Net). The cascaded deep supervision (CDS) mechanism uses auxiliary losses to construct a cascaded segmentation method in a single network, focusing the network attention on pixels that are more difficult to classify, so that the network can segment the lesion more effectively. CDS mechanism can be easily integrated into standard CNN models and it helps to increase the model sensitivity and prediction accuracy. Based on CDS mechanism, we propose a cascaded deep supervised ResUNet, which is an end-to-end liver lesion segmentation network. We conduct experiments on LiTS and 3DIRCADb dataset. Our method has achieved competitive results compared with other state-of-the-art ones.
Geochemical, petrographic, and stratigraphic analyses of the Portage Lake Volcanics of the Keweenawan CFBP: implications for the evolution of main stage volcanism in continental flood basalt provinces
Authors: Davis William Ray , Collins M. A. , Rooney T. O. , Brown E. L. , Stein C. A. , Stein S. , Moucha R.
Published: May 2021

Continental flood basalt provinces (CFBPs) are large igneous features formed by the extrusion of massive amounts of lavas that require significant evolution within the lithosphere. Although sequential lava flows are effective probes of magmatic systems, CFBPs are typically poorly preserved. We focus on lava flows from the well-preserved 1.1 Ga Keweenawan CFBP that erupted within the Midcontinent Rift System. We present a new geochemical, petrographic, and stratigraphic synthesis from the Main stage Portage Lake Volcanics (PLV). Flow-by-flow analysis of the PLV reveals that major element behaviour is decoupled from trace element behaviour; MgO exhibits limited variability, while compatible and incompatible trace elements deviate from high to low concentrations throughout the sequence. The concentrations of incompatible trace elements slightly decrease from the base of the sequence to the top. We investigate these observations by applying a recharge, evacuation, assimilation and fractional crystallization model to geochemical and petrographic data. Our modelling demonstrates a magmatic system experiencing increased evacuation rates while fractionation and assimilation rates decrease, indicating an increase in magmatic flux. The outcome of this modelling is a progressively more efficient magma system within the PLV. This study highlights the utility of joint petrographic and geochemical interpretation in constraining CFBP magma evolution.
Electrodeposition of Cu on CoTa Barrier in the Alkaline CuSO4-Ethylenediamine Solution
Authors: Qiu Li-Na , Wang Xu , Hu Chun-Feng , Qu Xin-Ping
Published: May 2021

Direct Cu electroplating on the CoxTay layers in an alkaline CuSO4-Ethylenediamine (En) solution was carried out and the effects of plating time, plating potential and current density on the film properties were investigated. The electrodeposition mechanism of Cu in CuSO4-En solution at different pH values was systematically studied by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical quartz crystal microgravimetry in combination with UV–visible spectrophotometry. The deposition mechanism of Cu in the electrolyte is closely related to pH value. At pH 5, the predominant reaction is the reduction of Cu2+ to metallic Cu; at pH 7 and pH 9, the predominant reactions are the reduction of CuEn2
2+ to metallic Cu. Results also show that increasing plating current density or potential can effectively increase Cu nucleation density on the CoxTay. A high nucleation density (about 2.2 × 1011 cm−2) of Cu on Co1Ta1 is obtained. The electroplated Cu film has a relatively strong (111) preferred orientation. These results suggest that the direct Cu electroplating on the Co1Ta1 alloy barrier with higher anti-corrosion than Co in the alkaline solution and high nucleation density provides a new approach for the future Cu interconnect.
Diet-dependent sex differences in the response to vertical sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Hutch Chelsea R. , Stelmak Daria , Kanke Matt , Koch-Laskowski Kieran , Cummings Bethany , Griffin Cameron , Leix Kyle , Sethupathy Praveen , Singer Kanakadurga , Sandoval Darleen A.
Published: May 2021

These data highlight the interaction of postsurgical diet after bariatric surgery on metabolic outcomes across sexes. These data suggest the impact of VSG on hepatic triglycerides is diet-dependent in females and support the hypothesis that males and females achieve similar metabolic outcome, at least within the liver, via distinct mechanisms.