bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Repercussions of Parental Depression for Perceptions of Coparental Cooperation
Authors: Turney Kristin , Hardie Jessica Halliday
Published: July 2020

Objective

This study investigates the repercussions of parental depression for perceptions of coparental cooperation.

Background

Depression is a common mental health condition that can interrupt the family system by constraining mothers' and fathers' abilities to perform parenting roles. There are also reasons to expect that the relationship between depression and coparental cooperation varies by parents' residential and repartnership status.

Method

In this article, the authors used longitudinal data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 3,494) and structural equation modeling to examine the relationship between parental prior and current depression and coparental cooperation, the explanatory power of four sets of mediators (relationship status and quality, parenting stress, economic well‐being, and child behavior), and how residential and repartnership status moderate the associations between parental depression and coparental cooperation.

Findings

Results suggest three primary findings. First, both prior and current maternal and paternal depression had repercussions for coparental relationships. Second, the association between parental depression and coparental cooperation was indirect, operating predominately through relationship status and quality. Third, the association between parental depression and coparental cooperation was, by and large, not contingent on parental residential status or repartnership status.

Conclusion

These findings elucidate the pathways and contingencies through which parental depression alters the coparental relationship.
Symbiodiniaceae Dinoflagellates Express Urease in Three Subcellular Compartments and Upregulate its Expression Levels in situ in Three Organs of a Giant Clam (Tridacna squamosa) During Illumination
Authors: Ip Yuen Kwong , Teng Germaine Ching Yun , Boo Mel Veen , Poo Jeslyn Shi Ting , Hiong Kum Chew , Kim Hyoju , Wong Wai Peng , Chew Shit Fun
Published: July 2020

Giant clams harbor three genera of symbiotic dinoflagellates (Symbiodinium, Cladocopium, and Durusdinium) as extracellular symbionts (zooxanthellae). While symbiotic dinoflagellates can synthesize amino acids to benefit the host, they are nitrogen‐deficient. Hence, the host must supply them with nitrogen including urea, which can be degraded to ammonia and carbon dioxide by urease (URE). Here, we report three complete coding cDNA sequences of URE, one for each genus of dinoflagellate, obtained from the colorful outer mantle of the giant clam, Tridacna squamosa. The outer mantle had higher transcript level of Tridacna squamosa zooxanthellae URE (TSZURE) than the whitish inner mantle, foot muscle, hepatopancreas, and ctenidium. TSZURE was immunolocalized strongly and atypically in the plastid, moderately in the cytoplasm, and weakly in the cell wall and plasma membrane of symbiotic dinoflagellates. In the outer mantle, illumination upregulated the protein abundance of TSZURE, which could enhance urea degradation in photosynthesizing dinoflagellates. The urea‐nitrogen released could then augment synthesis of amino acids to be shared with the host for its general needs. Illumination also enhanced gene and protein expression levels of TSZURE/TSZURE in the inner mantle and foot muscle, which contain only small quantities of symbiotic dinoflagellate, have no iridocyte, and lack direct exposure to light. With low phototrophic potential, dinoflagellates in the inner mantle and foot muscle might need to absorb carbohydrates in order to assimilate the urea‐nitrogen into amino acids. Amino acids donated by dinoflagellates to the inner mantle and the foot muscle could be used especially for synthesis of organic matrix needed for light‐enhanced shell formation and muscle protein, respectively.
Mast cells exhibit intracellular microbicidal activity against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: de Lima Heliton G. , Pinke Karen H. , Lopes Marcelo M. R. , Buzalaf Camila P. , Campanelli Ana Paula , Lara Vanessa S.
Published: July 2020

Background and Objective

Several studies have demonstrated that mast cells are equipped with versatile tools to combat and kill bacteria. Additionally, mast cells produce and secrete a variety of mediators, which either regulate the host's immune system or directly attack bacteria. In this study, the intracellular microbicidal capacity of mast cells against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans was evaluated.

Methods

Murine mast cells were challenged in vitro with A actinomycetemcomitans for 3, 5, 10, and 24 hours. Subsequently, the colony‐forming units were counted. Additionally, the production and release of nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide were analyzed by DAF‐FM diacetate, the Griess reaction, and the Amplex Red kit, respectively. Cell death was evaluated using FITC Annexin V and propidium iodide staining.

Results

Mast cells are able to efficiently eliminate periodontopathogen, with best results after 10 hours of intracellular challenge. The production/release of nitric oxide—and to a lesser extent of hydrogen peroxide—by mast cells was in agreement with its microbicidal capacity. Ninety percent of the mast cells  maintained their cellular viability even after 24 hours of bacterial challenge.

Conclusions

This is—to the best of our knowledge—the first report to describe the intracellular microbicidal activity of mast cells against A actinomycetemcomitans, concerning the production and release of potentially bactericidal substances. Further, the low number of cell deaths confirms that the decreased number of colony‐forming units was due to the higher antimicrobial activity of mast cells. The results highlight the importance of these cells in the defense mechanisms of biofilm‐induced periodontal disease.
How Tony Melcher advanced our understanding of periodontal biology and regeneration
Authors: Brunette Donald M. , Ellen Richard P. , McCulloch Christopher A.
Published: July 2020

Tony Melcher, a highly influential and forward‐thinking scientist and teacher, focussed on the origins, behaviour and regulation of cells in periodontal tissues. His recent death in April 2020, has motivated us to highlight his multi‐level contributions to research in biology and the dental sciences. Tony was particularly adept at recognizing the inherent instructive power of the periodontium, most notably as a model system for studying the inter‐relationships between the structure, development and functions of connective tissues. Further, his mentoring of dozens of students who subsequently went on to develop their own careers in research, and his leadership in promoting collaborations in dental sciences world‐wide, engendered important advances in the importance and utility of research relating to oral tissues. Here, we reflect upon his development of a large, multi‐disciplinary research enterprise, the MRC Group in Periodontal Physiology at the University of Toronto and brief commentaries of those who worked with him there. We examine his early career development and then go on to consider some of his most highly cited publications and their impact on subsequent research trends.
Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound liver imaging reporting and data system for diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Shin Jaeseung , Lee Sunyoung , Bae Heejin , Chung Yong Eun , Choi Jin‑Young , Huh Yong‐Min , Park Mi‑Suk
Published: July 2020

Background & aims

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI‐RADS) is a comprehensive system for standardizing CEUS at high risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We performed a meta‐analysis to determine the diagnostic performance of the CEUS LR‐5 for HCC and the pooled proportions of HCCs in each CEUS LI‐RADS category.

Methods

We searched multiple databases for studies reporting the diagnostic accuracy of the CEUS LI‐RADS. Random‐effects model was used to determine summary estimates of the diagnostic performance of CEUS LR‐5 and the pooled proportions of HCCs in each CEUS LI‐RADS category. Risk of bias and concerns regarding applicability were evaluated with the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2 tool.

Results

Eleven studies were included in the final analysis, which consisted of 5535 observations with 3983 HCCs. The pooled per‐observation sensitivity and specificity of the CEUS LR‐5 for diagnosing HCC were 69% (95% confidence interval [CI], 64%–73%) and 92% (95% CI, 83%–96%) respectively. The pooled proportions of HCCs were 0% (95% CI, 0‐0%) for LR‐1, 1% (95% CI, 0%–4%) for CEUS LR‐2, 26% (95% CI, 14%–39%) for CEUS LR‐3, 77% (95% CI, 68%–86%) for CEUS LR‐4, 97% (95% CI, 95%–98%) for CEUS LR‐5, 57% (95% CI, 44%–69%) for CEUS LR‐M and 100% (95% CI, 93%–100%) for CEUS LR‐5V or TIV.

Conclusions

The CEUS LR‐5 category showed moderate sensitivity and high specificity for diagnosing HCC. The proportion of HCCs was higher in the higher CEUS LI‐RADS categories.
Recent developments and ongoing trials in transplant oncology
Authors: Moeckli Beat , Ivanics Tommy , Claasen Marco , Toso Christian , Sapisochin Gonzalo
Published: July 2020

Over the past two decades since the introduction of the Milan criteria, the field of transplant oncology has undergone a rapid development with a rising proportion of liver transplantations being performed for oncological indications. For many patients with liver tumours, transplantation represents the only chance for cure. However, many challenges remain, such as the adequate patient selection, management of post‐transplant recurrence and refinement of neoadjuvant treatment protocols. This review provides an overview of the current state of the art of liver transplantation for oncological indications such as hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal liver metastasis and metastatic neuroendocrine tumours. We also summarize the ongoing research and explore future trends. Clinical trials are currently studying new diagnostic modalities, innovative pharmacological treatments, novel surgical techniques, downstaging regimens and new indications for liver transplantation. These emerging results will continue to shape the field of transplant oncology and provide us with the necessary tools to better select, treat and follow patients with liver tumours qualifying for liver transplantation.
Leptomeningeal myelomatosis with hypertrophy of the cauda equina nerve roots: A case report
Authors: Sugimoto Takamichi , Takasuka Hiroki , Ishikawa Ruoyi , Tazuma Taku , Hayashi Masahiro , Mine Naoko , Naito Hiroyuki , Nomura Eiichi , Shiote Yasuhiro , Yamawaki Takemori
Published: July 2020

Patients with multiple myeloma often have neurologic complications, but infiltration of the leptomeninges is rare. We present a case of difficulty walking with multiple myeloma and leptomeningeal myelomatosis, which was characterized by cauda equina hypertrophy. Sciatica and positive straight leg raising test were accompanied with hypertrophy. This highlights the importance of consideration for MRI imaging to detect cauda equina lesion in patients of difficulty walking with multiple myeloma.
Letting others do wrong
Authors: Doggett Tyler
Published: July 2020

It is sometimes—but not always—permissible to let others do wrong. This paper is about why that is so.
State‐of‐the‐art of measures of the obesogenic environment for children
Authors: Mei Kun , Huang Hong , Xia Fang , Hong Andy , Chen Xiang , Zhang Chi , Qiu Ge , Chen Gang , Wang Zhenfeng , Wang Chongjian , Yang Bo , Xiao Qian , Jia Peng
Published: July 2020

Various measures of the obesogenic environment have been proposed and used in childhood obesity research. The variety of measures poses methodological challenges to designing new research because methodological characteristics integral to developing the measures vary across studies. A systematic review has been conducted to examine the associations between different levels of obesogenic environmental measures (objective or perceived) and childhood obesity. The review includes all articles published in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus by 31 December 2018. A total of 339 associations in 101 studies have been identified from 18 countries, of which 78 are cross‐sectional. Overall, null associations are predominant. Among studies with non‐null associations, negative relationships between healthy food outlets in residential neighbourhoods and childhood obesity is found in seven studies; positive associations between unhealthy food outlets and childhood obesity are found in eight studies, whereas negative associations are found in three studies. Measures of recreational or physical activity facilities around the participants' home are also negatively correlated to childhood obesity in nine out of 15 studies. Results differ by the types of measurement, environmental indicators and geographic units used to characterize obesogenic environments in residential and school neighbourhoods. To improve the study quality and compare reported findings, a reporting standard for spatial epidemiological research should be adopted.
A 1.7‐Mb chromosomal inversion downstream of a PpOFP1 gene is responsible for flat fruit shape in peach
Authors: Zhou Hui , Ma Ruijuan , Gao Lei , Zhang Jinyun , Zhang Aidi , Zhang Xiujun , Ren Fei , Zhang Weihan , Liao Liao , Yang Qiurui , Xu Shengli , Otieno Ogutu Collins , Zhao Jianbo , Yu Mingliang , Jiang Quan , Korban Schuyler S. , Han Yuepeng
Published: July 2020

Flat peaches have become popular worldwide due to their novelty and convenience. The peach flat fruit trait is genetically controlled by a single gene at the S locus, but its genetic basis remains unclear. Here, we report a 1.7‐Mb chromosomal inversion downstream of a candidate gene encoding OVATE Family Protein, designated PpOFP1, as the causal mutation for the peach flat fruit trait. Genotyping of 727 peach cultivars revealed an occurrence of this large inversion in flat peaches, but absent in round peaches. Ectopic overexpression of PpOFP1 resulted in oval‐shaped leaves and shortened siliques in Arabidopsis, suggesting its role in repressing cell elongation. Transcriptional activation of PpOFP1 by the chromosomal inversion may repress vertical elongation in flat‐shaped fruits at early stages of development, resulting in the flat fruit shape. Moreover, PpOFP1 can interact with fruit elongation activator PpTRM17, suggesting a regulatory network controlling fruit shape in peach. Additionally, screening of peach wild relatives revealed an exclusive presence of the chromosomal inversion in P. ferganensis, supporting that this species is the ancestor of the domesticated peach. This study provides new insights into mechanisms underlying fruit shape evolution and molecular tools for genetic improvement of fruit shape trait in peach breeding programmes.
Mortality salience, effort, and cardiovascular response to a bar‐press challenge: Remarkably nuanced effects of a death prime on heart performance
Authors: Mlynski Christopher , Reza Ariel , Whitted Melissa , Wright Rex A.
Published: July 2020

We presented participants with a bar‐pressing challenge relevant to their identity after having exposed them to a prime that made their mortality more or less salient. For some participants, difficulty was low; for others, it was high; for the rest, it was unfixed. As expected, heart pre‐ejection period responses—reflecting heart contraction force—were (a) stronger under high‐salience conditions when difficulty was high and unfixed, but (b) low regardless of salience when difficulty was low. Findings bear out conceptually and extend results from a previous experiment. In doing so, they add substantively to a new line of support for terror management theory and document the predictive utility of a proposed blended analysis of associated effort processes. The blended analysis speaks to the way in which motives to manage existential terror should convert into active goal striving and to the impact that existential threat might have on aspects of autonomic arousal.
To Sample or Not to Sample? An Analysis of the Need for Salmonella Sampling of Smaller Poultry Processors
Authors: Hill Andrew , Muñoz Violeta , Downes Jane , Schuppers Manon , Buncic Sava , O'Brien Sarah , Stärk Katharina D. C.
Published: July 2020

Within the European Union (EU), microbiological criteria (MC) sampling for Salmonella in poultry was introduced in 2005. In particular, processors had to meet a target of fewer than seven positive samples out of 50. However, processors producing small amounts of poultry meat did not have to sample if national authorities determined this was an acceptable risk. The U.K. Food Standards Agency (FSA) thus has a sampling regime based on throughput that allows smaller processors not to sample. In 2011, the limit of 7/50 was reduced to 5/50. Given the current uncertainty regarding U.K. trade relations with the EU, the U.K. FSA decided to conduct a new risk assessment of the risks of Salmonella produced by smaller processors, to determine whether sampling was now necessary. Current evidence suggests that an MC sampling regime in smaller slaughterhouses is not warranted from a national public health perspective. Because of the insensitivities of the MC sampling scheme, the introduction of MC sampling into smaller slaughterhouses would only be necessary if the suspected carcass prevalence was 15% or more. While our analysis is prone to uncertainty, we estimated that the carcass prevalence in smaller processors is below this. Thus, we recommended that the current sampling framework, allowing smaller processors not to sample, was still applicable.
A Precautionary Assessment of Systemic Projections and Promises From Sunlight Reflection and Carbon Removal Modeling
Authors: Low Sean , Honegger Matthias
Published: July 2020

Climate change is a paradigmatic example of systemic risk. Recently, proposals for large‐scale interventions—carbon dioxide removal (CDR) and solar radiation management (SRM)—have started to redefine climate governance strategies. We describe how evolving modeling practices are trending toward optimized and “best‐case” projections—portraying deployment schemes that create both technically slanted and politically sanitized profiles of risk, as well as ideal objectives for CDR and SRM as mitigation‐enhancing, time‐buying mechanisms for carbon transitions or vulnerable populations. As promises, stylized and hopeful projections may selectively reinforce industry and political activities built around the inertia of the carbon economy. Some evidence suggests this is the emerging case for certain kinds of CDR, where the prospect of future carbon capture substitutes for present mitigation. Either of these implications are systemic: explorations of climatic futures may entrench certain carbon infrastructures. We point out efforts and recommendations to forestall this trend in the implementation of the Paris Agreement, by creating more stakeholder input and strengthening political realism in modeling and other assessments, as well as through policy guardrails.
A novel HLA‐A allele, HLA‐A*31:72, detected in a Chinese hematopoietic stem cell donor and platelet donor
Authors: Li Jian‐Ping , Liu Ying , Zhang Xu , Lin Feng‐Qiu , Li Xiao‐Feng
Published: July 2020

HLA‐A*31:72 has one nucleotide change from HLA‐A*31:01:02:01, where histidine (188) is changed to arginine.
“You Rise Up … They Burn You Again”: Market fires and the urban intimacies of disaster colonialism
Authors: Faria Caroline , Katushabe Jovah , Kyotowadde Catherine , Whitesell Dominica
Published: July 2020

In this paper we develop a feminist political ecology of disaster colonialism. To do so, we focus on a series of fires that devastated Park Yard Market in Kampala, Uganda, one of the largest retail spaces in East Africa. Officially accidental, rumours suggest the fires were deliberately set to displace traders and make way for the lucrative (re)development of the city‐centre land. Concerned less with the veracity of these rumours and more with their political ecologies, we show how narratives of Park Yard forwarded by the state and private interests indeed readied it for disaster. Here, we trace how colonial narratives of urban planning in the city, driven by technocratic imperatives of improvement, modernisation, and safety echo in the contemporary devaluation of Park Yard and its women traders. Against this, we show how the caring labour and investment by those traders was central to the formation and maintenance of the market. Over time they created an economically viable space, even as their work was devalued and legally unrecognised. Our analysis interrogates the colonial past‐presents and the gendered‐racialised logics of neoliberal urban development. This framing understands spectacular disaster, a series of highly destructive fires, as inextricably connected to historically produced systems of precarious urban marginality. It demonstrates the uneven impacts, and in particular the deeply deleterious impacts for low‐income Ugandan women; the relationship between fire disaster, vulnerability, and the labour of social reproduction; and the varied ways female traders resisted, adapted, and struggled to defend their economic space in the city. Specifically, a feminist political ecology also helps us understand the embodied nature of this relationship. That is, it is always produced through emotion‐laden, material, and corporeal gendered, racialised and classed power and both relies on and violates particular kinds of idealised or disposable urban subjectivities.
Scleral defect repair using decellularized porcine sclera in a rabbit model
Authors: Wang Fuyan , Zhao Long , Li Hua , Li Dongfang , Zhou Mingming , Zhou Qingjun , Xie Lixin
Published: July 2020

Background

The sclera is one of the most commonly used repair materials in ophthalmic plastic surgery and is often used for supporting, wrapping, filling, and pressing during surgery. Although the sclera plays an irreplaceable role in ophthalmology applications, there are many restrictive factors, such as high costs and limited sources. Here, we report the use of a decellularized porcine sclera (DPS) for scleral reconstruction in rabbit models.

Methods

The DPS generated by a hybrid decellularization protocol was characterized in respect of histological observation, DNA, α‐gal, GAG, and collagen content. The mechanical properties were evaluated by uniaxial tensile testing. LIVE/DEAD and Cell Counting Kit (CCK)‐8 assays were performed to assess its in vitro cytocompatibility and cytotoxicity. In vivo biocompatibility and biointegration of the DPS for repairing scleral defect in rabbit were measured by slit‐lamp and histological analyses. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was used to detect the expression of CD4, CD8, CD45, CD68, and vimentin.

Results

Through decellularization, the major xenoantigen DNA and α‐gal are efficiently removed while abundant matrix components and mechanical properties are well preserved in the DPS. Extracts of the DPS and DPS samples had no inhibitory effects on the proliferation of HFSFs. Moreover, there was no sign that an immune reaction occurred in or around the transplanted DPS grafts within 28 days of animal implantation.

Conclusion

The decellularization strategy we developed is feasible and effective. The prepared DPS holds great potential for the repair of scleral injury.
Non-Brownian Newtonian suspensions may be rate dependent in time sweep oscillatory shear flow
Authors: Martone Raffaella , Carotenuto Claudia , Minale Mario
Published: July 2020

A non-Brownian, inertialess, dense suspension of rigid hollow glass spheres is studied with time sweep oscillatory experiments. The measured apparent complex viscosity is shown to depend on the amplitude of the applied strain, in agreement with the literature, and, unexpectedly, also on the angular frequency. Two different regimes are individuated depending on the applied strain. For values smaller than 1, when the structure evolution is driven by the shear-induced diffusion, the complex viscosity depends on the frequency, for values larger than 1, it is rate independent. In the first regime, the dependence on the applied strain amplitude and the angular frequency can be lumped into a single parameter: The maximum shear rate, the applied strain amplitude times the angular frequency. The results obtained are quite surprising since in a non-Brownian, inertialess, dense suspension, the particle interactions do not have a characteristic time scale and, consequently, the governing equations of motion result rate independent. Only the presence of a nonhydrodynamic force can introduce a characteristic time. We observe that this nonhydrodynamic force must be so small to be neglected in simple shear, since the behavior of the investigated suspension in the steady shear flow is found to be rate independent, and it must show its effects only in oscillatory experiments with strain amplitude smaller than 1. The frequency dependence is also observed with two less concentrated suspensions and all the data collapse on a single master curve, proving that the physics underneath the rate dependence is independent of the concentration.
Crustal thickening and endogenic oxidation of magmatic sulfur
Authors: Tang Ming , Lee Cin-Ty A. , Ji Wei-Qiang , Wang Rui , Costin Gelu
Published: July 2020

Crustal thickening primes the magmatic conditions to make porphyry Cu deposits.
On-demand spin-state manipulation of single-photon emission from quantum dot integrated with metasurface
Authors: Bao Yanjun , Lin Qiaoling , Su Rongbin , Zhou Zhang-Kai , Song Jindong , Li Juntao , Wang Xue-Hua
Published: July 2020

The integration of single-photon sources and metasurfaces provides powerful conceptual structures for quantum optics applications.
Rab5a Promotes Cytolethal Distending Toxin B-Induced Cytotoxicity and Inflammation
Authors: Chen Ming-xian , Chen Yu , Fu Rui , Mao Guo-qun , Liu Sai-yue , Shen Tang-biao
Published: July 2020

The cytolethal distending toxin B subunit (CdtB) induces significant cytotoxicity and inflammation in many cell types that are involved in the pathogenesis of postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study tested the potential role of Rab small GTPase 5a (Rab5a) in the process. We tested mRNA and protein expression of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β [IL-1β] and IL-6) in THP-1 macrophages by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), respectively.
Reports of Coding-Complete Genome Sequences of Five 2019 Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) Strains Isolated in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan M. Imran , Hasan Kazi Nadim , Sufian Abu , Hosen M. Bayejid , Polol Mohammed Nafiz Imtiaz , Khaleque M. Abdul , Rahman M. Mizanur , Chowdhury M. S. M. , Haider Hasan Ul , Razu Mamudul Hasan , Khan Mala , Rabbi Mohammad Fazle
Published: July 2020

This study determined five coding-complete genome sequences of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strains isolated from oropharyngeal swab specimens of Bangladeshi patients who were diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and had no travel history.
A Chronostratigraphic Framework for the Rise of the Ediacaran Macrobiota: New Constraints from Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, Newfoundland
Authors: Matthews Jack J. , Liu Alexander G. , Yang Chuan , McIlroy Duncan , Levell Bruce , Condon Daniel J.
Published: July 2020

The Conception and St. John’s Groups of southeastern Newfoundland contain some of the oldest known fossils of the Ediacaran macrobiota. The Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve UNESCO World Heritage Site is an internationally recognized locality for such fossils and hosts early evidence for both total group metazoan body fossils and metazoan-style locomotion. The Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve sedimentary succession includes ∼1500 m of fossil-bearing strata containing numerous dateable volcanogenic horizons, and therefore offers a crucial window into the rise and diversification of early animals. Here we present six stratigraphically coherent radioisotopic ages derived from zircons from volcanic tuffites of the Conception and St. John’s Groups at Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve. The oldest architecturally complex macrofossils, from the upper Drook Formation, have an age of 574.17 ± 0.66 Ma (including tracer calibration and decay constant uncertainties). The youngest rangeomorph fossils from Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, in the Fermeuse Formation, have a maximum age of 564.13 ± 0.65 Ma. Fossils of the famous “E” Surface are confirmed to be 565.00 ± 0.64 Ma, while exceptionally preserved specimens on the “Brasier” Surface in the Briscal Formation are dated at 567.63 ± 0.66 Ma. We use our new ages to construct an age-depth model for the sedimentary succession, constrain sedimentary accumulation rates, and convert stratigraphic fossil ranges into the time domain to facilitate integration with time-calibrated data from other successions. Combining this age model with compiled stratigraphic ranges for all named macrofossils within the Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve succession, spanning 76 discrete fossil-bearing horizons, enables recognition and interrogation of potential evolutionary signals. Peak taxonomic diversity is recognized within the Mistaken Point and Trepassey Formations, and uniterminal rangeomorphs with undisplayed branching architecture appear several million years before multiterminal, displayed forms. Together, our combined stratigraphic, paleontological, and geochronological approach offers a holistic, time-calibrated record of evolution during the mid–late Ediacaran Period and a framework within which to consider other geochemical, environmental, and evolutionary data sets.
New age constraints on the duration and origin of the Late Ordovician Guttenberg δ13Ccarb excursion from high-precision U-Pb geochronology of K-bentonites
Authors: Metzger J. Garrecht , Ramezani Jahandar , Bowring Samuel A. , Fike David A.
Published: July 2020

Perturbations to the global carbon cycle as recorded in the isotopic compositions of marine deposits have been commonly associated with major shifts in the climate and/or biologic activity, including mass extinctions. The Late Ordovician Guttenberg isotopic carbon excursion (GICE) is a large, globally correlative positive shift (∼3‰) in the carbon isotopic composition of marine carbonates (δ13Ccarb), but its driving mechanism(s) remains ambiguous. This is in large part due to uncertain correlations among Late Ordovician records, as well as complex and poorly constrained temporal relationships of abundant K-bentonite (altered volcanic ash) marker beds deposited in this time interval. Here, we provide new, high-precision U-Pb zircon geochronology by chemical-abrasion–isotope-dilution–thermal ionization mass spectrometry for K-bentonites bounding the GICE in the North American Midcontinent, including robust 206Pb/238U ages (reported with 2σ analytical uncertainty) for two important regional markers: the Deicke (453.35 ± 0.10 Ma) and Millbrig (453.36 ± 0.14 Ma) K-bentonites. The new data from these K-bentonites directly constrain the duration of the GICE to less than 400 k.y. at two well-studied locations in eastern Missouri, United States. The abruptness of the GICE precludes relatively gradual tectonic mechanisms as possible drivers of the excursion and suggests more rapid environmental drivers, such as changes in eustatic sea level associated with pre-Hirnantian glacial activity.
Supplemental Material: Kinematic and geodynamic evolution of the Isthmus of Panama region: Implications for Central American Seaway closure
Authors: McGirr Rebecca , al. et
Published: July 2020

GitHub repository link to plate motion model (GPlates) and slab-tracker Python code, plate reconstruction methodology, and supplementary figures.
The effect of posterior vitreous detachment on aflibercept response in diabetic macular oedema
Authors: Özsaygili Cemal , Küçük Bekir , Yildirim Yener
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To investigate the effect of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) on aflibercept response in treatment-naïve diabetic macular oedema (DME).

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Methods

One hundred and fifty eyes of 150 treatment-naïve patients with DME were enrolled. The patients were divided into three groups according to their PVD status: group 1 (no PVD during injections), group 2 (PVD during injections) and group 3 (PVD already present initially). Three consecutive aflibercept injections at intervals of 1 month were applied to all patients. The efficacy of the aflibercept treatment on DME was assessed by comparing changes in central retinal thickness (CRT) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) values after three loading dose injections.

Results

After three consecutive injections, the mean reduction of CRT in groups 1, 2 and 3 were −199.6±106.9, −224.9±124.1 and −210.7±126.3, respectively. The decrease in CRT was significant in all groups (p<0.001 in all groups, paired-samples t-test); however, mean changes in CRT were similar among groups (all p>0.05, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA)). The mean improvement in BCVA in groups 1, 2 and 3 was 6.6±0.9, 6.5±0.8 and 6.1±0.4 ETDRS letters, respectively. The improvement of BCVA was significant in all groups (p<0.001 in all groups, paired-samples t-test) and mean changes were similar between groups (p>0.05, one-way ANOVA). There was no significant relationship between the presence or development of PVD and the mean decrease of CRT and improvement of BCVA (for CRT r=−0.052, p=0.531 and for BCVA r=−0.078, p=0.342).

Conclusion

In the present study, it was observed that the efficacy of aflibercept treatment in patients with DME did not depend on PVD status.
Long-term safety and tolerability of subretinal transplantation of embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium in Asian Stargardt disease patients
Authors: Sung Youngje , Lee Min Ji , Choi Jinjung , Jung Sang Yoon , Chong So Young , Sung Jung Hoon , Shim Sung Han , Song Won Kyung
Published: July 2020

Background

Although human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have been considered a potential therapeutic option for regenerative medicine, there are some concerns regarding tumorigenicity, immunogenicity and ethical considerations. Stargardt macular dystrophy (SMD) is the most common form of juvenile macular degeneration that causes early onset blindness. Therapeutic options for SMD remain limited, although several treatment strategies are currently under investigation. Here, we report a 3-year assessment of a phase I clinical trial involving subretinal transplantation of hESC-retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells in patients with SMD.

Methods

This prospective, non-randomised clinical trial included three patients with SMD. All transplant recipients had central visual acuity no better than 20/400. Trans-pars plana vitrectomy was performed in the eye with poorer vision. RPE cells were reconstituted in balanced salt solution plus, then injected into the subretinal space using a semi-automated subretinal injection method.

Results

No serious adverse events occurred throughout the 3-year period following the injection of hESC-RPE cells. The functional and anatomical results were favourable, compared with the natural course of SMD reported in the ProgStar study. One patient showed best-corrected visual acuity improvement, while the other patients had stable best-corrected visual acuity during the 3-year follow-up period.

Conclusion

These results suggest the long-term safety, tolerability, and feasibility of subretinal hESC-derived RPE cell transplantation in regenerative medicine.

Trial registration number

NCT01625559.
Analysis of new cases of uveitis at academic and community settings
Authors: Berkenstock Meghan , Mopuru Renuka , Thorne Jennifer , Scott Adrienne Willams
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Describe the demographics of new patients with uveitis presenting to an urban, academic centre and affiliated, suburban satellite clinics to assess if changes in infrastructure were needed for clinical care. Secondarily, examine the frequency of infectious uveitides.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of single academic centre of 436 consecutive, new patients with uveitis (686 eyes) and 3 affiliated, satellite clinics seen by 8 uveitis specialists from 1 July 2013 to 31 March 2017. Demographics recorded included patient age, race, associated systemic disease, uveitis chronicity, and anatomic location. The main outcome measure was comparing frequencies of patient demographics, immunosuppressive agent use, and infectious uveitis between locations.

Results

366 patients (587 eyes) were evaluated at the academic clinic and 70 (99 eyes) at the satellite locations. Anterior uveitis was the most common anatomic location; more acute, unilateral cases were seen at satellites (p=0.007; p=0.002, respectively). A larger percentage of posterior and panuveitis cases presented to the academic centre (p<0.0001). There was no difference in systemic disease association (p=0.925) or infectious uveitis cases (p=0.956). The use of non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications was higher at the academic clinic (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Anterior uveitis comprised the majority of cases in both clinics. Non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive agents were used more frequently at the academic clinic, reflecting more cases of chronic posterior and panuveitis. Compounded intravitreal injections, specialised ophthalmic imaging studies and high-risk medication monitoring can be centralised in the academic clinic. Infectious uveitis cases were seen at both locations, with an increase in syphilis diagnoses at the academic centre.
Female and male US Olympic athletes live 5 years longer than their general population counterparts: a study of 8124 former US Olympians
Authors: Antero Juliana , Tanaka Hirofumi , De Larochelambert Quentin , Pohar-Perme Maja , Toussaint Jean-François
Published: July 2020

Objective

To quantify US female and male Olympic athletes’ longevity and the years of life lost or saved due to multiple causes of death as compared with the US general population.

Methods

Former US athletes who had participated in the summer or winter Olympic Games at least once between 1912 and 2012 were included. Olympians’ date of birth, death and the underlying causes of death were certified by the National Death Index. The Olympians’ overall and cause-specific mortality were compared with the US general population based on the US life tables, adjusted by sex, period and age. Mortality differences between the populations were quantified using the years lost/years saved (YS) method.

Results

8124 US Olympians (2301 women and 5823 men) lived 5.1 years longer (YS 95% CI 4.3 to 6.0) than the general population, based on 2309 deaths observed (225 women, 2084 men). Different causes of death contributed to longevity for Olympians as follows: 2.2 years were saved (1.9 to 2.5) from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs); cancer, 1.5 years (1.3 to 1.8); respiratory diseases (eg, influenza, pneumonia), 0.8 years (0.7 to 0.9); external causes (eg, accidents, homicides), 0.5 years (0.4 to 0.6); endocrine and metabolic diseases (eg, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia), 0.4 years (0.2 to 0.5) and digestive system diseases (eg, cirrhosis, hepatic failure), 0.3 years (0.2 to 0.4). Mortality rates due to nervous system disorders (eg, Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons’s diseases) and mental illness (eg, dementia, schizophrenia) were not different from the general population.

Conclusion

US Olympians lived longer than the general population, an advantage mainly conferred by lower risks of CVD and cancer. Nervous system disorders and mental illness did not differ between US Olympians and the general population.
Preventable causes of cancer in Texas by race/ethnicity: insufficient physical activity
Authors: Gudenkauf Franciska J , Thrift Aaron P
Published: July 2020

Background

According to the 2018 Third Expert Report from the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research, there is strong evidence that physical activity of all types and intensities protects against colon, endometrial and breast cancers. We aimed to estimate the percentage and number of incident cancer cases diagnosed in Texas in 2015 that were attributable to insufficient physical activity, and we examined for differences across racial/ethnic subgroups to reveal important causes of and potential avenues for reductions to cancer health disparities.

Methods

We calculated population attributable fractions for cancers attributable to insufficient physical activity using prevalence data from the Texas Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and relative risk estimates associated with insufficient physical activity from prior studies. Cancer incidence data were gathered from the Texas Cancer Registry.

Results

Overall, approximately 2.0% of all new cancers or 2094 excess cancer cases diagnosed in 2015 in Texans aged ≥25 years were attributable to insufficient physical activity, with more cancers in women (3.2%) than in men (0.8%). Of all cancer sites, the highest population attributable fraction for insufficient physical activity was observed for endometrial cancers (21.7% compared with 12.7% for colon cancers, 10.9% for premenopausal breast cancers and 2.0% for postmenopausal breast cancers). Hispanics (2.6%) and non-Hispanic blacks (2.5%) had higher proportions of cancers attributable to insufficient physical activity than non-Hispanic whites (1.8%).

Conclusions

Public health programmes should stress physical activity as a means of cancer prevention, especially among minority groups, who may have disproportionately higher percentages of cancers attributable to insufficient physical activity.
Management of tracheostomies in the intensive care unit: a scoping review
Authors: Whitmore Kirsty A , Townsend Shane C , Laupland Kevin B
Published: July 2020

Objectives

While there is an extensive body of literature surrounding the decision to insert, and methods for inserting, a tracheostomy, the optimal management of tracheostomies within the intensive care unit (ICU) from after insertion until ICU discharge is not well understood. The objective was to identify and map the key concepts relating to, and identify research priorities for, postinsertion management of adult patients with tracheostomies in the ICU.

Design

Scoping review of the literature.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature were searched from inception to 3 October 2019. Additional sources were searched for published and unpublished literature.

Eligibility criteria

We included studies of any methodology that addressed the a priori key questions relating to tracheostomy management in the ICU. No restrictions were placed on language or year of publication.

Data extraction and synthesis

Titles and abstracts were screened by two reviewers. Studies that met inclusion criteria were reviewed in full by two reviewers, with discrepancies resolved by a third. Data were extracted for included studies, and results mapped along the prespecified research questions.

Results

6132 articles were screened, and 102 articles were included for detailed analysis. Protocolised weaning was found to be successful in liberating patients from the ventilator in several cohort studies. Observational studies showed that strategies that use T-pieces and high-flow oxygen delivery improve weaning success. Several lines of evidence, including one clinical trial, support early cuff deflation as a safe and effective strategy as it results in a reduced time to wean, shorter ICU stays and fewer complications. Early tracheostomy downsizing and/or switching to cuffless tubes was found to be of benefit in one study. A substantial body of evidence supports the use of speaking valves to facilitate communication. While this does not influence time to wean or incidence of complications, it is associated with a major benefit in patient satisfaction and experience. Use of care bundles and multidisciplinary team approaches have been associated with reduced complications and improved outcomes in several observational studies.

Conclusions

The limited body of evidence supports use of weaning protocols, early cuff deflation, use of speaking valves and multidisciplinary approaches. Clinical trials examining post-tracheostomy management strategies in ICUs are a priority.
Epididymitis rates in Australian hospitals 2009–2018: ecological analysis
Authors: Goller Jane L , De Livera Alysha M , Donovan Basil , Fairley Christopher K , Low Nicola , Hocking Jane S
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To investigate rates of acute epididymitis diagnosed in Australian hospital settings.

Methods

Yearly hospital admission and emergency department (ED) rates of epididymitis as primary diagnoses were calculated for 15–44-year-old men for three states (Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland) from 2009 to 2014 using population denominators. Zero inflated Poisson regression models were used to analyse variation in rates by year, age, and residential area. Additionally, we investigated national epididymitis admission trends from 2009 to 2018 using generalised linear models.

Results

Between 2009 and 2014, there was a total of 7375 admissions and 17 281 ED presentations for which epididymitis was the main reason for care. Most epididymitis diagnoses (94.0% in admissions, 99.7% in EDs) were without abscess, and 2.5% of admissions were for chlamydial epididymitis. Almost a quarter (23.3%) of epididymitis diagnosed in EDs resulted in hospital admission. In 2014, the epididymitis rate per 100 000 men was 38.7 in admissions and 91.9 in EDs. Comparing 2014 with 2009, the overall epididymitis diagnosis rate increased in admissions by 32% (adjusted incident rate ratio (aIRR) 1.32, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.44) and in ED attendances by 40% (aIRR 1.40, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.49). By age, the highest rates were among men 35–44 years in admissions and men 15–24 years in EDs. National admission rates of epididymitis during 2009–2018 showed a similar pattern.

Conclusion

Rates of epididymitis diagnosis in hospital admission and ED presentations increased. Different age-related rates in these settings suggest a different aetiology or differential severity by age group.
Embedded class solutions of an anisotropic object in Rastall gravity
Authors: Mustafa G. , Xia Tie-Cheng
Published: July 2020

In this current work, we explore an anisotropic compact model with radius 9.1 km and mass 2.01 [Formula: see text] in the regime of Karmarkar condition in Rastall theory. To solve the extended field equations for the Rastall framework we have employed the Karmarkar condition. We investigate a comparative discussion to show the physical acceptance of Karmarkar condition in Rastall theory. Our obtained solutions, i.e. metric functions, density function and both the pressure components have well-behaved nature. The energy bounds and the equilibrium stability in the background of modified TOV equation (for Rastall proposal) are also discussed in this study. The parameter [Formula: see text] from [Formula: see text] metric function has some important role in this current model. All the calculated properties have different natures for [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text]. In this current study we also discuss some physical parameters of this current model to check the validity of the model. In the end, it is concluded that our model is acceptable physically and geometrically.
Nonlinear dynamics of a charged particle in a strong non-null knot wave background
Authors: Crişan Adina V. , Vancea Ion V.
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we study the dynamics of a charged particle interacting with the non-null electromagnetic knot wave background. We analyze the classical system in the Hamilton–Jacobi formalism and find the action, the linear momentum and the trajectory of the particle. Also, we calculate the effective mass and the emitted radiation along the knot wave. Next, we quantize the system in the classical strong knot wave background by using the strong-field QED canonical formalism. We explicitly construct the Furry picture and calculate the Volkov solutions of the Dirac equation. As an application, we discuss the one-photon Compton effect where we determine the general form of the S-matrix. Also, we discuss in detail the first partial amplitudes in the transition matrix in two simple backgrounds and show that there is a pair of states for which these amplitudes are identical.