bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and characterization of carbon–silicon carbide particulate composites by powder metallurgical route
Authors: Manocha Lalit M. , Prasad Guddu , Manocha Satish
Published: May 2021

Carbon–silicon carbide composites have been prepared using powder metallurgical route. Phenolic resin, cokes, silicon powder, and silicon carbide in varying amounts were dry mixed and co‐ball milled. The co‐ball milled powders were then compacted and cured simultaneously in hot press. The compacted blocks were carbonized at 1000°C and further heat‐treated at 1400°C in an inert atmosphere. Silicon carbide was formed in carbon–ceramic composites due to the reaction of silicon with carbon matrix during heat treatment at 1400°C. The densities of the final carbon–ceramic composites obtained were in the range of 1.66–1.83 gm/cm3 with open porosities of 2–7%. Scanning electron microscopy and X‐Ray diffraction were used to characterize the microstructures and compositions, respectively, of the composites processed at 1000 and 1400°C. It is found that the sintered composites consist of β‐SiC with particle size varying from 1 to 5 μm. Mechanical strengths of the composites were found to be highly dependent on the percentage of silicon carbide formed due to the reaction of silicon with carbon matrix at 1400°C. Friction coefficient, measured by pin‐on‐disc method, was found to be higher for 1400°C heat‐treated composites as compared to 1000°C heat‐treated composites due to formation of SiC.
Prevalence of ocular disease during dupilumab treatment for atopic dermatitis: a bicentric retrospective comparative cohort study
Authors: Barbé Jordane , Poreaux Claire , Remen Thomas , Schoeffler Amélie , Cloché Véronique , Schmutz Jean‐Luc , Escobar Gabriela , Busztejn Anne‐Claire
Published: May 2021

Background

Dupilumab is the first human monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). Clinical trials have reported an increase of ocular side effects in patients who receive dupilumab, with a prevalence of 5–37%.

Objective

To compare the prevalence of ocular disease between AD patients receiving dupilumab treatment and AD reference group and to study the profile of the patients who developed ocular disease secondary to dupilumab treatment.

Methods

Efficacy outcomes were collected both at baseline and at month 4 (M4). Presence of ocular disease was recorded at M4.

Results

Data from 100 patients were examined. At M4, ocular disease was significantly more frequent in the dupilumab group (36% vs. 10%, P = 0.002). Severe allergic conjunctivitis and blepharitis were significantly more frequent in the dupilumab group (30% vs. 4%, P < 0.001, and 22% vs. 2%, P = 0.004, respectively). Six of 18 patients permanently discontinued therapy.

Conclusion

This study observed a prevalence of 36% of ocular disease in AD patients treated with dupilumab. Additional studies are required to confirm the risk factors we found for dupilumab‐associated ocular disease and to identify new ones. Consultation with an ophthalmologist before the introduction of dupilumab might limit the occurrence of complications.
Efficacy of computerized cognitive training on improving cognitive functions of stroke patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhou Yuxin , Feng Haixia , Li Guohong , Xu Cuirong , Wu Yanping , Li Huimin
Published: May 2021

Aim

To evaluate the effects of computerized cognitive training on the cognitive functions of stroke patients.

Background

With increased publications on computerized cognitive training, a meta‐analysis is essential to determine the effects of computerized cognitive training among stroke patients.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled studies.

Data Sources

Cochrane Library, Pubmed, EBSCO, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biology Medicine disc and Wanfang Database were explored to search for research studies from inception to January 2020.

Review Methods

Six outcomes indicators were considered to determine the effects of computerized cognitive training. Two reviewers were selected to search and independently appraise the available articles from various databases. Meta‐analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

A total of 622 patients with 17 studies were included. Computerized cognitive training significantly improves global cognition, working memory, attention and executive function of stroke patients. However, there was inadequate evidence to demonstrate any effects of computerized cognitive training on activities of daily living and depression.

Conclusion

Computerized cognitive training improves the cognitive functions of stroke patients. However, further research studies are needed to confirm its efficacy in activities of daily living as well as on alleviating depression.
A nomogram prediction model for sternal incision problems
Authors: You Pan , Zhou Xin , He Ping , Zhang Jian , Mao Tongchun , Li Xiang , Wang Wei , Wen Renguo , Ma Ruiyan , Wang Shaoliang , Zhang Yiming , Xiao Yingbin
Published: May 2021

Presently, the incidence and mortality rates of sternal incision problems (SIPs) after thoracotomy remain high, and no effective preventive measures are available. The data on 23 182 patients at Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University treated with median sternotomy from 1 August 2009 to 31 July 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. A prediction model of SIPs after median thoracotomy was established using R software and then validated using the bootstrap method. Next, the validity and accuracy of the model were tested and evaluated. In total, 15 426 cases met the requirements of the present study, among which 309 cases were diagnosed with SIPs, with an incidence rate of 2%. The body mass index (BMI), intensive care unit (ICU) time, diabetes mellitus, and revision for bleeding were identified as independent risk factors for postoperative SIPs. The nomogram model achieved good discrimination (73.9%) and accuracy (70.2%) in predicting the risk of SIPs after median thoracotomy. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under curve of the model was 0.705 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.746‐0.803); the Hosmer‐Lemeshow test showed that χ2 = 6.987 and P = 0.538, and the fitting degree of the calibration curve was good. Additionally, the clinical decision curve showed that the net benefit of the model was greater than 0, and the clinical application value was high. The nomogram based on BMI, ICU time, diabetes mellitus, and revision for bleeding can predict the individualised risk of SIPs after median sternotomy, showing good discrimination and accuracy, and has high clinical application value. It also provides significant guidance for screening high‐risk populations and developing intervention strategies.
Fabrication and characterizations of Cr3+‐doped ZnGa2O4 transparent ceramics with persistent luminescence
Authors: Liu Qiang , Mao Xinyu , Li Xiaoying , Chen Penghui , Liu Xin , Liu Ziyu , Zhu Danyang , Chen Haohong , Xie Tengfei , Li Jiang
Published: May 2021

0.5 at.% Cr:ZnGa2O4 precursor was synthesized by the co‐precipitation method with nitrates as raw materials, using ammonium carbonate as the precipitant. Low‐agglomerated Cr:ZnGa2O4 powders with an average particle size of 43 nm were obtained by calcining the precursor at 900℃ for 4 h. Using the powders as starting materials, 0.5 at.% Cr:ZnGa2O4 ceramics with an average grain size of about 515 nm were prepared by presintering at 1150℃ for 5 h in air and HIP post‐treatment at 1100℃ for 3 h under 200 MPa Ar. The in‐line transmittance of 0.5 at.% Cr:ZnGa2O4 ceramics with a thickness of 1.3 mm reaches 59.5% at the wavelength of 700 nm. The Cr:ZnGa2O4 ceramics can be effectively excited by visible light and produce persistent luminescence at 700 nm. For Cr:ZnGa2O4 transparent ceramics, the brightness of afterglow was larger than 0.32 mcd/m2 after 30 min, which is far superior to that of Cr:ZnGa2O4 persistent luminescence powders.
Virulence and live vaccine potential of EdwardsiellapiscicidaphoP and phoQ mutants in catfish against edwardsiellosis
Authors: Sayed Mohamed , Ozdemir Ozan , Essa Manal , Olivier Alicia , Karsi Attila , Lawrence Mark L. , Abdelhamed Hossam
Published: May 2021

Edwardsiella piscicida is a Gram‐negative facultative intracellular bacterium causing edwardsiellosis in catfish, the largest aquaculture industry in the United States. A safe and effective vaccine is an urgent need to avoid economic losses associated with E. piscicida outbreaks. PhoP/PhoQ is a two‐component signal transduction system (TCS) that plays an important role in bacterial pathogenesis through sense and response to environmental and host stress signals. This study aimed to explore the contribution of PhoQ/PhoP in E. piscicida virulence and develop live attenuated vaccines against E. piscicida infection in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) and hybrid catfish (channel catfish ♀ × blue catfish (I. furcatus) ♂). In the current study, two in‐frame deletion mutants were constructed by deleting phoP (ETAC_09785) and phoQ (ETAC_09790) genes in E. piscicida strain C07‐087, and the virulence and protection efficacy of the constructed strains were evaluated in catfish following intraperitoneal injection. Both EpΔphoP and EpΔphoQ strains had a delayed adaptation to oxidative stress (0.2% H2O2) compared to E. piscicida wild type. The EpΔphoP and EpΔphoQ mutants produced significantly less biofilm compared to wild‐type E. piscicida. Notably, EpΔphoP and EpΔphoQ mutants were significantly attenuated in channel catfish compared with wild‐type E. piscicida (6.63% and 4.17% versus 49.16% mortalities), and channel catfish vaccinated with EpΔphoP and EpΔphoQ were significantly protected (95.65% and 97.92% survival) against E. piscicida infection at 21 days post‐vaccination. In hybrid catfish, EpΔphoP was significantly more attenuated than EpΔphoQ, but EpΔphoQ provided significantly better protection than EpΔphoP. EpΔphoP and EpΔphoQ strains both induced specific antibodies in channel catfish against E. piscicida at 14 and 21 days post‐vaccination. This result indicated that EpΔphoP and EpΔphoQ mutants were safe and protective in channel catfish fingerlings, while EpΔphoP was safe in hybrid catfish. Our findings show that PhoP and PhoQ are required for adaptation to oxidative stress and biofilm formation and may help E. piscicida face tough environmental challenges; thus, functional PhoP and PhoQ are critical for a successful infection.
Decreasing perceived risk associated with regular cannabis use among older adults in the United States from 2015 to 2019
Authors: Han Benjamin H. , Funk‐White Makaya , Ko Roxanne , Al‐Rousan Tala , Palamar Joseph J.
Published: May 2021

Background/objectives

Cannabis use among older adults is increasing sharply in the United States. While the risks and benefits of cannabis use remain unclear, it is important to monitor risk factors for use, including low perception of harm. The objective of this study was to estimate recent national trends in perceived risk associated with cannabis use among older adults.

Design

Trend analysis.

Setting/participants

A total of 18,794 adults aged 65 and older participating in the 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a cross‐sectional nationally representative survey of non‐institutionalized individuals in the United States.

Measurements

We estimated the prevalence of older adults who believe that people who smoke cannabis once or twice a week are at great risk of harming themselves physically and in other ways. This was examined across cohort years and stratified by demographic characteristics, diagnosis of chronic disease, past‐month tobacco and binge alcohol use, and all‐cause emergency department use.

Results

Between 2015 and 2019, perceived risk associated with regular use decreased from 52.6% to 42.7%, an 18.8% relative decrease (p < 0.001). Decreases in perceived risk were detected in particular among those never married (a 32.6% relative decrease), those who binge drink (a 31.3% relative decrease), use tobacco (a 26.8% relative decrease), have kidney disease (a 32.1% relative decrease), asthma (a 31.7% relative decrease), heart disease (a 16.5% relative decrease), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (a 21.5% relative decrease), two or more chronic conditions (a 20.2% relative decrease), and among those reporting past‐year emergency department use (a 21.0% relative decrease) (ps < 0.05).

Conclusions

The perceived risk of regular cannabis use is decreasing among older adults. We detected sharp decreases in risk perception among those with chronic disease and high‐risk behaviors, including tobacco and binge alcohol use. As the number of older adults who use cannabis increases, efforts are needed to raise awareness of the possible adverse effects with special emphasis on vulnerable groups.
Does oxidative stress correlate with disease activity and severity in alopecia areata? An analytical study
Authors: Sachdeva Soumya , Khurana Ananta , Goyal Parul , Sardana Kabir
Published: May 2021

Background

Oxidative stress (OS) has been implicated as a contributory factor in the multifactorial etiopathogenesis of alopecia areata (AA). But with the existing data, it is unclear whether OS is a cause or effect of the disease state in Alopecia areata.

Aims

To compare the OS parameters viz.malon‐di‐aldehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant status (TAS) in serum of patients with alopecia areata versus age and sex matched controls, and assess their correlation with the severity of the disease.

Patients/Methods

Forty clinically diagnosed patients of alopecia areata and forty (n = 40) age and sex‐matched healthy controls were recruited. ELISA was used for the evaluation of MDA, and spectrophotometric method was used to evaluate serum TAS and whole blood SOD.

Results

Mean serum TAS and whole blood SOD levels of cases were significantly lower than controls (p = 0.005 and p = 0.002, respectively). Mean serum MDA level of patients was significantly higher compared to controls (p = 0.001). While levels of serum TAS and whole blood SOD were found to decrease from mild to severe grades of disease (p = 0.003, p < 0.001 respectively), levels of MDA increased with increasing disease severity (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The OS parameters were deranged in all subsets of AA, with the greatest derangement seen with whole blood SOD levels.
Comparison of death and survival cervical necrotizing fasciits cases
Authors: Sizer Bilal , Yılmaz Ümit , Kınış Vefa , Yorgancılar Argün Ediz
Published: May 2021

Background

Cervical Necrotizing Fasciitis (CNF) is associated with a high mortality rate. The occurrence of mediastinitis with CNF may increase mortality up to 70%.

Aims

We aimed to identify the differences between surviving and deceased cases.

Methods

The present study was conducted retrospectively by scanning the files of 16 patients between the ages of 19–71 who were diagnosed with CNF. Patients were divided into two groups as the surviving patient group (SPG) and the deceased patient group (DPG). Both groups were compared in terms of age, gender, Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRİNEC) score, duration of symptom onset to hospital admission, use of antibiotherapy prior to admission, duration of hospitalization, presence of diabetes mellitus (DM), presence of dental etiology, mediastinitis, and respiratory distress at the time of admission.

Results

Diabetes mellitus was the most common comorbid disease. 5 out of 7 deceased patients had DM. Dental events were the most common etiology. Rapid surgical debridement and airway management was the first treatment method. The most frequently isolated species in the culture was Streptococcus. 6 of 11 patients who developed mediastinitis deceased at the end of the process.

Conclusion

Dental pathologies mostly play a role in the etiology. It is obvious that dentists, another occupational group that frequently encounters this patient group, have a critical role in this process. Therefore, precise attention should be given to dental problems in patients with diabetes, and hospitalization and initiation of broad‐spectrum antibiotherapy should be considered in case of suspicion of deep neck infection.
Histopathological examination of the curettage material in nonviable pregnancies and evaluation of the frequency of hydatidiform mole
Authors: Dagdeviren Gulsah , Cevher Funda , Cendek Busra , Erkaya Salim
Published: May 2021

Aim

The study aimed to determine the frequency of possible missed diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic disease in nonviable pregnancies and to evaluate the importance of histopathological examination.

Methods

In this retrospective study, the results of the histopathological assessment of patients undergoing uterine surgery with a diagnosis of nonviable pregnancy were analyzed before 14 weeks of gestation. Nonviable pregnancy was defined as anembryonic pregnancy and intrauterine exitus (IU‐ex) based on ultrasound findings. The frequency and sonographic characteristics of molar pregnancy in nonviable pregnancy were analyzed.

Results

Molar pregnancy was detected in 24 (1.62%) of 1481 patients diagnosed with nonviable pregnancy on ultrasound. One thousand one hundred and twenty‐one of the cases were IU‐ex (75.69%) and the remaining were anembryonic pregnancy (24.31%). The mean crown‐rump length of pregnancies in the IU‐ex group was 16.7 mm and the mean gestational age was 8 weeks. The average gestational sac diameter was found to be 26 mm in anembryonic pregnancy patients. The hydatidiform mole ratio was significantly higher in anembryonic pregnancy patients (3.06%) than in IU‐ex patients (1.16%) (p = 0.013).

Conclusions

The appearance of early molar pregnancy on ultrasound evaluation may mimic anembryonic pregnancies. Therefore, histopathological examination of anembryonic pregnancies may be useful in early diagnosis and for the treatment of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.
Impact of major depression and antidepressant use on alcoholic and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: A population‐based study
Authors: Shaheen Abdel Aziz , Kaplan Gilaad G. , Sharkey Keith A. , Lethebe Brendan Cord , Swain Mark G.
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

The effect of major depression and antidepressant use on patient survival in chronic liver disease is unknown. We evaluated the impact of major depressive disorder (MDD) and antidepressants on survival among patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

The Health Improvement Network database, the largest medical database in the United Kingdom, was used to identify incident ALD (n = 4148) and NAFLD (n = 19 053) in patients between 1986 and 2017. Our primary outcome was development of decompensated cirrhosis or death. MDD and each class of antidepressants were assessed in multivariate Cox proportional hazards models as time‐varying covariates. Models were adjusted for age, sex, socio‐economic status and comorbidities.

Results

MDD rate was higher among patients with ALD (22.8%) compared to those with NAFLD (16.1%), P < .01. Antidepressant usage was common in patients with ALD (47.4%) and NAFLD (40.8%). After adjusting for covariates, MDD (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR]: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.63‐1.02 for NAFLD; and AHR 1.01, 0.88‐1.15 for ALD) was not associated with improved decompensated cirrhosis‐free survival. The antidepressant mirtazapine was associated with worse decompensated cirrhosis‐free survival among NAFLD (AHR 2.16, 95% CI: 1.32‐3.52) and ALD (AHR 1.53, 1.09‐2.15) cohorts. Similarly, mirtazapine was associated with mortality in both cohorts.

Conclusions

MDD was not associated with worse outcomes for ALD or NAFLD. Mirtazapine was associated with an increased risk of decompensated cirrhosis or death, which was not observed with other antidepressants. Prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Endemic mycoses: Expansion of traditional geographic ranges and pitfalls in management
Authors: Thompson George R. , Pasqualotto Alessandro C.
Published: May 2021

The endemic mycoses are a diverse group of environmental fungi that share several characteristics. Pitfalls in the recognition and management of endemic fungal infections are common. A general understanding of common presenting manifestations and their lingering effects is of paramount importance to the treating physician. We review the unmet needs of recently published guidelines and outline future areas of research.
Trends in Pediatric MRI sedation/anesthesia at a tertiary medical center over time
Authors: Vinson Amy E. , Peyton James , Kordun Anna , Staffa Steven J. , Cravero Joseph
Published: May 2021

Background

Each year, hundreds of thousands of children require sedation/anesthesia to facilitate MRI scans. Anesthetic techniques for accomplishing sedation/anesthesia vary widely between institutions and providers, with unclear implications for patient safety.

Aims

We sought to establish trends in anesthetic practice for pediatric MRI sedation/anesthesia across a 7‐year period and determine rates of adverse events, considering technique used, age, and ASA physical classification status (ASA‐PS).

Methods

Using established data resources, we analyzed 24 052 anesthetics performed by anesthesiologists for MRI scans between 5/1/2013 and 12/31/2019 on patients less than 18 years old, focusing on medications used, trends of use, and associated adverse events. Adverse events (hypoxia, hypotension, bradycardia) were defined by deviation from age norms and accessed via the electronic anesthetic record database. The Cochran‐Armitage test was used to assess trends over time in categorical data, and one‐way ANOVA was used to analyze continuous data. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was implemented to determine the independent associations between anesthetic technique and adverse events while adjusting for age, ASA‐PS, and weight.

Results

The most significant trends noted were a decrease in “propofol‐only” anesthetic techniques and an increase in propofol and dexmedetomidine combination techniques. Mild desaturation (80–89% SpO2) occurred in 4.22% of cases with more significant hypoxia much rarer (0.44% of cases having desaturation <70% SpO2). Bradycardia occurred in 2.39% of cases and hypotension in 1.75% of cases. Major adverse events were rare.

Conclusions

We provide the largest report of the nature of MRI sedation/anesthesia as practiced by anesthesiologists in a large children's hospital. We demonstrate that, even in a large system, anesthetic techniques are pliable and shift significantly over time. Our data also support a high level of safety within our system, despite a case mix likely higher in risk than those in most of the previously published studies.
BIN2 negatively regulates plant defence against Verticillium dahliae in Arabidopsis and cotton
Authors: Song Yun , Zhai Yaohua , Li Linxuan , Yang Zhaoen , Ge Xiaoyang , Yang Zuoren , Zhang Chaojun , Li Fuguang , Ren Maozhi
Published: May 2021

Verticillium wilt is caused by the soil‐borne vascular pathogen Verticillium dahliae, and affects a wide range of economically important crops, including upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). Previous studies showed that expression levels of BIN2 were significantly down‐regulated during infestation with V. dahliae. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of BIN2 in plant regulation against V. dahliae remains enigmatic. Here, we characterized a protein kinase GhBIN2 from Gossypium hirsutum, and identified GhBIN2 as a negative regulator of resistance to V. dahliae. The Verticillium wilt resistance of Arabidopsis and cotton were significantly enhanced when BIN2 was knocked down. Constitutive expression of BIN2 attenuated plant resistance to V. dahliae. We found that BIN2 regulated plant endogenous JA content and influenced the expression of JA‐responsive marker genes. Further analysis revealed that BIN2 interacted with and phosphorylated JAZ family proteins, key repressors of the JA signalling pathway in both Arabidopsis and cotton. Spectrometric analysis and site‐directed mutagenesis showed that BIN2 phosphorylated AtJAZ1 at T196, resulting in the degradation of JAZ proteins. Collectively, these results show that BIN2 interacts with JAZ proteins and plays a negative role in plant resistance to V. dahliae. Thus, BIN2 may be a potential target gene for genetic engineering against Verticillium wilt in crops.
Stepwise artificial evolution of an Sw‐5b immune receptor extends its resistance spectrum against resistance‐breaking isolates of Tomato spotted wilt virus
Authors: Huang Haining , Huang Shen , Li Jia , Wang Huiyuan , Zhao Yaqian , Feng Mingfeng , Dai Jing , Wang Tongkai , Zhu Min , Tao Xiaorong
Published: May 2021

Plants use intracellular nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat immune receptors (NLRs) to recognize pathogen‐encoded effectors and initiate immune responses. Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), which has been found to infect >1000 plant species, is among the most destructive plant viruses worldwide. The Sw‐5b is the most effective and widely used resistance gene in tomato breeding to control TSWV. However, broad application of tomato cultivars carrying Sw‐5b has resulted in an emergence of resistance‐breaking (RB) TSWV. Therefore, new effective genes are urgently needed to prevent further RB TSWV outbreaks. In this study, we conducted artificial evolution to select Sw‐5b mutants that could extend the resistance spectrum against TSWV RB isolates. Unlike regular NLRs, Sw‐5b detects viral elicitor NSm using both the N‐terminal Solanaceae‐specific domain (SD) and the C‐terminal LRR domain in a two‐step recognition process. Our attempts to select gain‐of‐function mutants by random mutagenesis involving either the SD or the LRR of Sw‐5b failed; therefore, we adopted a stepwise strategy, first introducing a NSmRB‐responsive mutation at the R927 residue in the LRR, followed by random mutagenesis involving the Sw‐5b SD domain. Using this strategy, we obtained Sw‐5bL33P/K319E/R927A and Sw‐5bL33P/K319E/R927Q mutants, which are effective against TSWV RB carrying the NSmC118Y or NSmT120N mutation, and against other American‐type tospoviruses. Thus, we were able to extend the resistance spectrum of Sw‐5b; the selected Sw‐5b mutants will provide new gene resources to control RB TSWV.
Higher frequency of circulating Vδ1 γδT cells in patients with advanced schistosomiasis
Authors: Zheng Li , Wang Lixia , Hu Yuan , Yi Jia , Wan Lun , Shen Yujuan , Liu Si , Zhou Xiaorong , Cao Jianping
Published: May 2021

Gamma‐delta (γδ) T cells are the bridge between natural and adaptive immunity. In the present study, peripheral blood was collected from 13 patients with advanced schistosomiasis (schistosomiasis group) and 13 uninfected people (control group) to investigate the γδ T cells and their subtypes in human schistosomiasis. Compared with the control group, the proportion of Vδ1 cells and CD27+Vδ1+ cells in the schistosomiasis group increased significantly, while CD27− cells and CD27−Vδ1− cells decreased. Only the level of IL‐17A differed between the groups, being significantly decreased in the schistosomiasis group. In the schistosomiasis group, there were no correlations between the liver fibrosis and subsets of γδ T cells, or the level of cytokines. Additionally, the level of IL‐17A correlated positively with the proportion of CD27− Vδ1− cells. Thus, there was a higher frequency of circulating Vδ1 γδT cells in patients with advanced schistosomiasis. The decreased IL‐17A might be related to the reduction in CD27−Vδ1− cell.
Oomycete species associated with Theobroma cacao crops in Colombia
Authors: Ramírez Martínez Julie , Cárdenas Toquica Martha , Guevara‐Suarez Marcela , Duarte Diannefair , Victorino Jimenez Laura Daniela , Argüello Bernal Bibian Katherine , Gutiérrez Rodríguez Edwin , Restrepo Restrepo Silvia
Published: May 2021

The study of oomycetes associated with crops is highly important due to the economic losses they might cause. In cacao, the genus Phytophthora has been extensively studied, but little is known about other genera and species of oomycetes associated with this plant. This study aimed to determine the oomycetes’ diversity present in Colombian cacao crops. A total of 146 isolates were obtained from diseased plants and soil in 11 departments. Analysis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (coxI) sequences was performed along with the assessment of morphological characteristics. Nine species were identified, distributed in four genera: Phytophthora (P. palmivora, 54%; P. nicotianae, 1%), Phytopythium (Phy. chamaehyphon, 15%; Phy. cucurbitacearum, 9%; Phy. vexans, 7%; Phy. helicoides, 1%), Globisporangium (G. splendens, 3%), and Pythium (Py. delicense, 1%; Py. inflatum,1%). Additionally, an unidentified and possibly new species of Phytophthora (5%) and three unidentified species of Phytopythium (3%) were found. This is the first report of Globisporangium, Phytopythium, and Pythium in cacao crops of Colombia and the first report of the species Phy. chamaehyphon in the country. Interestingly, some isolates of Phytopythium spp. were isolated from necrotic leaves and vascular section of stems, which may suggest a role in cacao diseases traditionally associated with Phytophthora. Also, it is proposed that the new species of Phytophthora may be contributing significantly to black pod disease in Colombian cacao crops, and we highlight that the study of P. palmivora is urgent because of its distribution all over the country.
Source‐to‐sink analysis for the mud and sand in the late‐Quaternary Qiantang River incised‐valley fill and its implications for delta‐shelf–estuary dispersal systems globally
Authors: Zhang Xia , Lin Chun‐Ming , Dalrymple Robert W. , Yang Shou‐Ye
Published: May 2021

The Changjiang (i.e. the Yangtze River) debouches a huge amount of sediment to the East China Sea and exerts a significant effect on the evolution of the down‐drift Qiantang River system. This study quantitatively documents the temporal change in the import of Changjiang sand and mud to the late Quaternary Qiantang River incised valley by establishing separate mixing models based on zircon U‐Pb ages for the sand and trace‐element compositions of the mud fraction. Results indicate that the Qiantang River provided all of the sediment to its valley before ca 8.0 cal kyr bp. However, its sediment proportion decreases upward due to the onset of export of sediment from the Changjiang after its delta had prograded sufficiently. Changjiang mud, a major component (ca 87%) of the Changjiang‐derived sediment, is considered to be primarily supplied through the resuspension and landward transportation of sediment from the inner‐shelf mud wedge in the East China Sea by flood‐tidal currents and waves. Changjiang sand, which arrived in the Qiantang River valley later than the mud, is interpreted to be derived from the reworking of older deposits on the East China Sea shelf and along the northern margin of the Qiantang River estuary. In the later part of the valley fill, Qiantang River sediment is only ca 9% of the Changjiang contribution, although Qiantang River mud has begun to be exported recently. The Changjiang contribution to the Qiantang River system constitutes ca 50% of the total sediment load discharged by the Changjiang during the 8–6 cal kyr bp period, but <4% since 6 cal kyr bp. This study illustrates the need to exercise caution when interpreting compositional data from linked coastal‐shelf sediment‐dispersal systems with significant along‐coast transport, and is expected to be applicable in a general way to other linked river–coastal‐shelf systems.
Redistribution and Insurance in Welfare States around the World*
Authors: Bartels Charlotte , Neumann Dirk
Published: May 2021

Redistribution across individuals within the framework of a one‐year period is an empirically intensely studied question. However, a substantial share of annual redistribution might turn out to serve individual insurance in a longer perspective, reducing the level of actual redistribution across individuals. In this paper, we investigate to what extent long‐run redistribution diverges from annual redistribution in welfare states of different types. Exploiting panel data from the Cross‐National Equivalent File (CNEF) for Australia, Germany, South Korea, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, we find that welfare states such as Germany that are assumed to engage in a high level of redistribution actually achieve relatively less redistribution between individuals in the long run than the United Kingdom or the United States. Regression results show that a higher share of elderly in a country is associated with more annual redistribution, but with less long‐run redistribution between individuals. The results suggest that, in welfare states with aging populations, we might expect growing annual redistribution that, to a substantial extent, is in fact income smoothing for the elderly.
Pregnancy after CMV infection following uterus transplantation: A case report from the Dallas Uterus Transplant Study
Authors: Rosenzweig Matthew , Wall Anji , Spak Cedric W. , Testa Giuliano , Johannesson Liza
Published: May 2021

Uterus transplantation is a repeatedly proven treatment for women with absolute uterine‐factor infertility, which is the congenital or acquired absence of the uterus, who desire to carry, and ultimately deliver, a child. No stranger to the field of transplant or obstetrics is cytomegalovirus. Cytomegalovirus is both a frequent complication after transplant, presenting as an opportunistic infection, and a common congenital disease in the newborn child from pregnancy. To date, there have been no reported cases of pregnancy following uterus transplantation from cytomegalovirus‐positive donors into cytomegalovirus‐negative recipients. We present a case report describing our experience of a cytomegalovirus‐negative recipient, transplanted with a uterus from a cytomegalovirus‐positive living donor, and subsequently diagnosed with active cytomegalovirus infection despite prophylactic treatment. She was treated for infection prior to embryo transfer and carried a healthy child to term. This case suggests transplanting a cytomegalovirus‐positive uterus into a negative donor is possible to do safely.
Ectopic expression of the Arabidopsis florigen gene FLOWERING LOCUST in seeds enhances seed dormancy via the GA and DOG1 pathways
Authors: Chen Fengying , Li Yu , Li Xiaoying , Li Wenlong , Xu Jimei , Cao Hong , Wang Zhi , Li Yong , Soppe Wim J.J. , Liu Yongxiu
Published: May 2021

Ectopic expression of specific genes in seeds could be a tool for molecular design of crops to alter seed dormancy and germination, thereby improving production. Here, a seed‐specific vector, 12S‐pLEELA, was applied to study the roles of genes in Arabidopsis seeds. Transgenic lines containing FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) driven by the 12S promoter exhibited significantly increased seed dormancy and earlier flowering. Mutated FT(Y85H) and TERMINAL FLOWER1 (TFL1) transgenic lines also showed increased seed dormancy but without altered flowering time. FT(Y85H) and TFL1 caused weaker seed dormancy enhancement compared to FT. The FT and TFL1 transgenic lines showed hypersensitivity to paclobutrazol, but not to abscisic acid in seed germination. The levels of bioactive gibberellin 3 (GA3) and GA4 were significantly reduced, consistent with decreased expression of COPALYL DIPHOSPHATE SYNTHASE (CPS), KAURENE OXIDASE (KO), GIBBERELLIN 3‐OXIDASE2 (GA3ox2), and GA20ox1 in p12S::FT lines. Exogenous GA4+7 could recover the germination ability of FT transgenic lines. These results revealed that FT regulates GA biosynthesis. A genetic analysis indicated that the GA signaling regulator SPINDLY (SPY) is epistatic to FT in GA‐mediated seed germination. Furthermore, DELAY OF GERMINATION1 (DOG1) showed significantly higher transcript levels in p12S::FT lines. Seed dormancy analysis of dog1‐2 spy‐3 p12S::FT‐2 indicated that the combination of SPY and DOG1 is epistatic to FT in the regulation of dormancy. Overall, we showed that ectopic expression of FT and TFL1 in seeds enhances dormancy through affecting GA and DOG1 pathways.
Use of convalescent plasma inCOVID‐19 patients with immunosuppression
Authors: Senefeld Jonathon W. , Klassen Stephen A. , Ford Shane K. , Senese Katherine A. , Wiggins Chad C. , Bostrom Bruce C. , Thompson Michael A. , Baker Sarah E. , Nicholson Wayne T. , Johnson Patrick W. , Carter Rickey E. , Henderson Jeffrey P. , Hartman William R. , Pirofski Liise‐anne , Wright R. Scott , Fairweather De Lisa , Bruno Katelyn A. , Paneth Nigel S. , Casadevall Arturo , Joyner Michael J.
Published: May 2021

In the absence of effective countermeasures, human convalescent plasma has been widely used to treat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the causative agent of novel coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19), including among patients with innate or acquired immunosuppression. However, the association between COVID‐19‐associated mortality in patients with immunosuppression and therapeutic use of convalescent plasma is unknown. We review 75 reports, including one large matched‐control registry study of 143 COVID‐19 patients with hematological malignancies, and 51 case reports and 23 case series representing 238 COVID‐19 patients with immunosuppression. We review clinical features and treatment protocols of COVID‐19 patients with immunosuppression after treatment with human convalescent plasma. We also discuss the time course and clinical features of recovery. The available data from case reports and case series provide evidence suggesting a mortality benefit and rapid clinical improvement in patients with several forms of immunosuppression following COVID‐19 convalescent plasma transfusion. The utility of convalescent plasma or other forms of antibody therapy in immune‐deficient and immune‐suppressed patients with COVID‐19 warrants further investigation.
A multicenter retrospective study into endogenous causes of uveitis in cats in the United Kingdom: Ninety two cases
Authors: Wegg Michaela L. , Jeanes Emily C. , Pollard Danica , Fleming Lorraine , Dawson Charlotte
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the most common causes of endogenous feline uveitis in a UK referral population and to investigate associations based on signalment.

Methods

Retrospective multicenter cross‐sectional study from 2010 to 2019 including cats presented to the Animal Health Trust and the Royal Veterinary College with clinical signs consistent with uveitis. Cats were included in analyzes if they had a full physical examination including an ophthalmic examination, complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and infectious disease testing for at least two diseases unless the diagnosis was found on clinical examination (eg, neoplasia).

Results

A total of 92 cats were included in the study. The majority of cats presenting with uveitis were male (66.3%). The most common causes of endogenous uveitis were idiopathic uveitis (42/92 45.7%), feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) 15/92 16.3%), and lymphoma (10/92 10.9%). Fisher's exact test showed differences in breed across diagnosis groups (p = .002) with purebred cats being overrepresented in the lymphoma and FIP groups. Kruskal‐Wallis test showed differences in median age across diagnosis groups (p < .001) with cats in the FIP group having the youngest age (median 1.4 years, interquartile range (IQR) 0.4–1.8 years) and cats in the neoplasia (primary or paraneoplastic) group having the oldest age (median 12.8 IQR 10.8–13.8). Idiopathic uveitis was unilateral in 56.1% of cases, and infectious causes were unilateral in 47.8% of cases.

Conclusions

The most common cause of endogenous uveitis in a population of cats in the UK was idiopathic uveitis, followed by FIP and lymphoma.
Transmissibility Enhanced Inverse Chatter Stability Solution
Authors: Liu Yen-Po , Altintas Yusuf
Published: May 2021

The structural dynamics of a machine tool at the tool center point characterizes its vibration response and machining stability which affects productivity. The dynamics are mostly dominated by the spindle-holder-tool assembly whose main vibration mode can change during machining due to centrifugal forces, thermal expansion, and gyroscopic moments generated at high spindle speeds. This paper proposes the identification of the spindle’s in-process modal parameters: natural frequency, damping ratio, and modal constant, by using a limited number of vibration transmissibility and critical chatter stability measurements. The classical inverse stability solution, which tunes the modal parameters to minimize prediction errors in chatter stability limits, is augmented with vibration transmissibility under two methods: (1) transmissibility-enhanced inverse stability solution: the modal parameters are updated to minimize prediction errors in chatter stability, and vibration transmissibility; (2) artificial neural network (ANN)-integrated inverse stability solution: the ANN uses vibration transmissibility to estimate the natural frequency and damping ratio, such that the inverse stability solution only needs to identify the modal constant. While both methods are experimentally validated, it is shown that the transmissibility-enhanced inverse stability solution is a more effective approach than the time-consuming ANN alternative for the estimation of in-process spindle dynamics.
FE analysis of the effects of process representations on the prediction of residual stresses and chip morphology in the down-milling of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Tounsi Nejah , El-Wardany Tahany
Published: May 2021

Part I of these two-part papers will investigate the effect of three FEM representations of the milling process on the prediction of chip morphology and residual stresses (RS), when down-milling small uncut chips with thickness in the micrometer range and finite cutting edge radius. They are: i) orthogonal cutting with the mean uncut chip thickness t, obtained by averaging the uncut chip thickness over the cutting length, ii) orthogonal cutting with variable t, which characterizes the down-milling process and which is imposed on a flat surface of the final workpiece, and iii) modelling the true kinematics of the down milling process. The appropriate constitutive model is identified through 2D FEM investigation of the effects of selected constitutive equations and failure models on the prediction of RS and chip morphology in the dry orthogonal machining of Ti6Al4V and comparison to experimental measurements. The chip morphology and RS prediction capability of these representations is assessed using the available set of experimental data. Models featuring variable chip thickness have revealed the transition from continuous chip formation to the rubbing mode and have improved the predictions of residual stresses. The use of sequential cuts is necessary to converge toward experimental data.
Investigations on Ba diffusion and SiO evaporation during BaSi2 film formation on Si substrates by thermal evaporation
Authors: Yazawa Daisuke , Hara Kosuke O. , Yamanaka Junji , Arimoto Keisuke
Published: May 2021

Thermal evaporation is a simple and rapid process to fabricate BaSi2 films for solar cell applications. In this study, we investigated the extent of Ba diffusion into the Si substrate and SiO evaporation, which occur during the BaSi2 film formation, aiming at elucidating BaSi2 film formation processes. Composition depth profiles determined by Auger electron spectroscopy reveal that SiO evaporates at 650 °C and above concurrently with surface oxidation, which is supported by surface roughening observed by secondary electron microscopy. Ba diffusion into the substrate is also detected from composition depth profiles. It is demonstrated that the amount of Ba in-diffusion decreases as the deposition rate increases. The present findings serve for controlling the composition of BaSi2 evaporated films.
Traditional Lègong Dance Training Is Superior to Moderate Aerobic Training on Physical Fitness Improvement Among Young Girls
Authors: Griadhi I Putu Adiartha , Adiatmika I Putu Gede , Tirtayasa I Ketut
Published: May 2021

Background: Légong dance is a famous Balinese dance with a dynamic movement. It potentially becomes an exercise of choice to improve young girls’ physical fitness. This study aimed to evaluate légong dance training’s effect on physical fitness compared with aerobic training. Methods: Forty young girls were randomly assigned to the aerobic training (AG) and lègong dance (DG) group and trained with jogging and lègong dancing at moderate-intensity aerobic training. Each was carried out for 30 minutes, 3 times a week, for 6 weeks. Result: Aerobic capacity (estimated maximal oxygen consumption) improved significantly in AG and DG, with a mean difference and Cohen d effect size of 0.36 mL/kg/min and 0.68. The back- and leg-muscle strength increased significantly in DG and AG, with a mean difference of 5.55 kg and 6.67 kg, and an effect size of 0.69 and 0.77. Balance improved significantly in DG and AG, with a mean difference of 21.26 seconds and an effect size of 1.05. All significant values are reported at P < .05. There were no significant improvements in arm muscle strength, body fat percentage, and flexibility in either group (P > .05). Conclusion: Lègong dance training results in significant physical fitness improvement and better results than aerobic training.
France’s 2020 Report Card on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors in Children and Youth: Results and Progression
Authors: Fillon Alicia , Genin Pauline , Larras Benjamin , Vanhelst Jeremy , Luiggi Maxime , Aubert Salome , Verdot Charlotte , Rey Olivier , Lhuisset Lena , Bois Julien , Fearnbach Nicole , Duclos Martine , Thivel David
Published: May 2021

Background: There is an alarming and constant worldwide progression of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors in children and adolescents. The present paper summarizes findings from France’s 2020 Report Card on physical activity for children and youth, comparing its results to its 2 previous editions (2016 and 2018). Methods: France’s 2020 Report Card follows the standardized methodology established by the Active Healthy Kids Global Matrix, grading 10 common physical activity indicators using the best available evidence. The grades were informed by national surveys, peer-reviewed literature, government and nongovernment reports, and online information. Results: The expert panel awarded the following grades: Overall Physical Activity: D; Organized Sport Participation and Physical Activity: C−; Active Play: INC; Active Transportation: C−; Sedentary Behaviors: D−; Family and Peers: D−; Physical Fitness: D; School: B−; Community and the Built Environment: F; Government: C. Conclusions: This 2020 edition of France’s Report Card again highlights the alarming levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviors among French children and adolescents, calling for the development of effective national action. It also draws attention to the particular deleterious effects of the COVID-19 confinement on youth’s movement behaviors, which significantly worsened the situation.
Aquaculture mediates global transmission of a viral pathogen to wild salmon
Authors: Mordecai Gideon J. , Miller Kristina M. , Bass Arthur L. , Bateman Andrew W. , Teffer Amy K. , Caleta Jessica M. , Di Cicco Emiliano , Schulze Angela D. , Kaukinen Karia H. , Li Shaorong , Tabata Amy , Jones Brad R. , Ming Tobi J. , Joy Jeffrey B.
Published: May 2021

Molecular epidemiology reveals that aquaculture contributes to emergence of a fish virus at both global and local epidemic hierarchies.
Dynamics of contact electrification
Authors: Kaponig Mirco , Mölleken Andre , Nienhaus Hermann , Möller Rolf
Published: May 2021

A detailed analysis of contact electrification between metals reveals a mechanism leading to unexpectedly high voltages.