bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case–Parent Trio Studies in Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Khan Mahamad Irfanulla , CS Prashanth
Published: December 2020

Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) is one of the most common congenital malformations in humans involving various genetic and environmental risk factors. The prevalence of CL/P varies according to geographical location, ethnicity, race, gender, and socioeconomic status, affecting approximately 1 in 800 live births worldwide. Genetic studies aim to understand the mechanisms contributory to a phenotype by measuring the association between genetic variants and also between genetic variants and phenotype population. Genome-wide association studies are standard tools used to discover genetic loci related to a trait of interest. Genetic association studies are generally divided into two main design types: population-based studies and family-based studies. The epidemiological population-based studies comprise unrelated individuals that directly compare the frequency of genetic variants between (usually independent) cases and controls. The alternative to population-based studies (case–control designs) includes various family-based study designs that comprise related individuals. An example of such a study is a case–parent trio design study, which is commonly employed in genetics to identify the variants underlying complex human disease where transmission of alleles from parents to offspring is studied. This article describes the fundamentals of case–parent trio study, trio design and its significances, statistical methods, and limitations of the trio studies.
Seeing through squids’ camouflage
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: December 2020

A molecular explanation of color tunability in squid cells suggests the protein reflectin relies on an amplifier to realize its full potential.
Simulations confirm face masks suppress the spread of COVID-19
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: December 2020

Fluid dynamics simulations of unprecedented resolution and realism support recommendations to wear face masks indoors, and suggest outside wear may be beneficial as well.
Multi-wavelength crosstalk-free photonic Doppler velocimetry
Authors: Barbarin Yohan , Le Blanc Gaël , d’Almeida Thierry , Hamrouni Marin , Roudot Marie , Luc Jérôme
Published: December 2020

Multiplexed photonic Doppler velocimetry systems are developed to measure velocities with high density in physics experiments such as shock physics experiments on novel materials. Decreasing the mesh size can lead to crosstalk issues, which can be overcome by wavelength multiplexing. Crosstalk has been characterized on a line of eight collimators with a pitch of 1 mm. A crosstalk-free photonic Doppler velocimetry system with 16 telecom wavelengths was built. Wavelength multiplexing provides as well a reduction in the total number of fiber components. The system was designed for velocities up to 1000 m/s and with a bandwidth of 2 GHz. In the frequency domain, the channel spacing is 100 GHz, which is more than enough to prevent any crosstalk. A ramp compression experiment was carried out by a high-pulsed-power generator to demonstrate the dynamic performances of the crosstalk free system at about 80 m/s.
Microfluidic compartmentalization to identify gene biomarkers of infection
Authors: Kathrada Ahmad Ismat , Wei Shih-Chung , Xu Ying , Cheow, Lih Feng , Chen Chia-Hung
Published: December 2020

Infectious diseases caused by pathogens, such as SARS-COV, H7N9, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus, and human immunodeficiency virus, have fatal outcomes with common features of severe fever and subsequent bacterial invasion progressing to multiorgan failure. Gene biomarkers are promising to distinguish specific infections from others with similar presenting symptoms for the prescription of correct therapeutics, preventing pandemics. While routine laboratory methods based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to measure gene biomarkers have provided highly sensitive and specific viral detection techniques over the years, they are still hampered by their precision and resource intensity precluding their point-of-care use. Recently, there has been growing interest in employing microfluidic technologies to advance current methods for infectious disease determination via gene biomarker measurements. Here, based on the requirement of infection detection, we will review three microfluidic approaches to compartmentalize gene biomarkers: (1) microwell-based PCR platforms; (2) droplet-based PCR; and (3) point-of-care devices including centrifugal chip, SlipChip, and self-powered integrated microfluidic point-of-care low-cost enabling chip. By capturing target genes in microwells with a small sample volume (∼μl), sensitivity can be enhanced. Additionally, with the advance of significant sample volume minimization (∼pl) using droplet technology, gene quantification is possible. These improvements in cost, automation, usability, and portability have thereby allowed point-of-care applications to decentralize testing platforms from laboratory-based settings to field use against infections.
A Hospital-Wide Initiative to Redesign Substance use Disorder Care: Impact on Pharmacotherapy Initiation
Authors: Wakeman Sarah E. , Kane Martha , Powell Elizabeth , Howard Sydney , Shaw Christopher , Kehoe Laura , Rosen Joy , Quinlan Joan , Regan Susan
Published: December 2020

Background

Substance use disorder (SUD) treatment in general medical settings remains underutilized. We evaluated 5 years of a hospital-wide SUD initiative which included an inpatient addiction consult team (ACT), low-threshold Bridge Clinic, recovery coaches, and office-based addiction treatment (OBAT) nurses.

Methods

Naturalistic registry study. We calculated frequencies of patient contacts, types of substance use diagnoses, and medication treatment initiation and duration.

Results

From 2014 to 2019, 7,036 unique patients were seen, including 4,959 by ACT, 1,197 in Bridge Clinic, 2,250 by a recovery coach, and 979 by an OBAT nurse. The median age was 47, 31% were women, 80% were white, 7% were black, 6% were Hispanic/Latinx, and 25% were experiencing homelessness. Alcohol use disorder was seen in 62%, opioid use disorder in 54%, cocaine use disorder in 29%, benzodiazepine use disorder in 14%, and stimulant use disorder in 7%. Co-occurring medical and psychiatric illnesses were common; 35% had hepatitis C, 59% depression, 66% anxiety, and 13% schizophrenia. 1,623 patients received a prescription for buprenorphine during the study period (42% of patients with OUD), 877 for oral naltrexone, and 163 for extended-release naltrexone. The mean length of continuous treatment was 178.4 days for buprenorphine, 47.7 days for oral naltrexone, and 1.29 injections for extended-release naltrexone.

Conclusion

A hospital SUD initiative effectively initiated SUD pharmacotherapy with naltrexone and buprenorphine. Medication treatment episodes were longer with buprenorphine.
Tobacco Quitline Engagement and Outcomes among Primary Care Patients Reporting use of Tobacco or Dual Tobacco and Cannabis: An Observational Study
Authors: McClure Jennifer B. , Lapham Gwen
Published: December 2020

Background

Dual use of tobacco and cannabis is increasingly common, but it is unclear how it impacts individuals’ interest in or ability to stop smoking. If dual users fail to engage in treatment or have worse treatment outcomes, it would suggest that tobacco treatment programs may need to be tailored to the specific needs of those using cannabis and tobacco.

Methods

We conducted an observational study using electronic treatment records from adults (18 years and older) who (a) were enrolled in a regional healthcare system in Washington state, (b) sought tobacco cessation treatment through an insurance-covered quitline from July 2016 to December 2018 and (c) had cannabis use frequency during the period of their quitline enrollment documented in their electronic health record (EHR) ( n = 1,390). Treatment engagement was defined by the total number of quitline counseling calls and web-logins completed. Point prevalent self-reported tobacco abstinence was assessed 6 months post-quitline enrollment.

Results

Thirty-two percent of participants ( n = 441) reported dual use of tobacco and any cannabis during the observation period; 9.4% ( n = 130) reported daily cannabis use. Among dual users reporting daily cannabis use, 13.9% had a diagnosed cannabis user disorder in the EHR. Neither engagement with quitline counseling nor long-term tobacco abstinence rates differed between those using tobacco-only and either dual-use group (i.e., persons using any cannabis or daily cannabis).

Conclusions

Dual use of tobacco and cannabis is common among smokers seen in primary care and those enrolling in quitline care, but it may not undermine tobacco quitline engagement or smoking cessation. Opportunities exist in the US to leverage quitlines to identify and intervene with dual users of tobacco and cannabis.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tobacco quitline care was equally engaging and effective among tobacco users and dual users of tobacco and cannabis • Many daily cannabis users calling tobacco quitlines likely have a cannabis use disorder • Tobacco quitlines can be leveraged to identify and intervene with dual users of tobacco and cannabis
Displacement field estimation from OCT images utilizing speckle information with applications in quantitative elastography
Authors: Sherina Ekaterina , Krainz Lisa , Hubmer Simon , Drexler Wolfgang , Scherzer Otmar
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we consider the problem of estimating the internal displacement field of an object which is being subjected to a deformation, from optical coherence tomography images before and after compression. For the estimation of the internal displacement field we propose a novel algorithm, which utilizes particular speckle information to enhance the quality of the motion estimation. We present numerical results based on both simulated and experimental data in order to demonstrate the usefulness of our approach, in particular when applied for quantitative elastography, when the material parameters are estimated in a second step based on the internal displacement field.
Development and validation of a novel fibre-optic respiratory rate sensor (FiRRS) integrated in oxygen delivery devices
Authors: Sinha R , Hernandez Francisco U , He C , Korposh S , Correia R , Norris A M , Liu C , Hayes-Gill B R , Morgan S P
Published: December 2020

Respiratory rate (RR) monitoring provides crucial information on the overall health condition of patients and a reliable, low cost RR monitor for normal hospital inpatient or home use would be of significant benefit. The proposed system measures light reflection from a Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) located near, and the total reflection spectrum from a humidity sensing film deposited at, the tip of an optical fibre. Every breath causes a shift in the wavelength reflected from the FBG and intensity change in the overall reflection spectrum. The accuracy of different techniques is investigated in a two-part study with 15 healthy volunteers. In part 1, the participants’ respiration rate followed a handheld mobile application at 5, 12 and 30 breaths per minute with simultaneous measurement using the optical fibre system, thoracic impedance pneumography (TIP) and capnometry device (where possible). Two types of medical face masks and a nasal cannula with oxygen delivery rates were investigated. In part 2, participants wore an anaesthetic face mask and breathed at normal and low tidal volumes to evaluate whether low tidal volumes could be detected. The most accurate measurement of RR was through monitoring the Bragg wavelength shift (mean accuracy = 88.1%), followed by the intensity change at the Bragg wavelength (mean accuracy = 78.9%), capnometry (mean accuracy = 77.8%), area under the overall spectrum (mean accuracy = 65.4%) and TIP (mean accuracy = 43.1%). The Fibre-optic Respiratory Rate Sensor system (FiRRS) can differentiate between normal and low tidal volumes (p-value < 0.05) and demonstrated higher accuracy than capnometry measurement of end-tidal carbon dioxide in exhaled air. These latter two monitors measured RR more accurately than TIP. A comparable accuracy in the measurement of RR was obtained when the FiRRS was implemented in nasal cannula and face masks.
An assessment of contamination pickup on ground robotic vehicles for nuclear surveying application
Authors: Banos A , Hayman J , Wallace-Smith T , Bird B , Lennox B , Scott T B
Published: December 2020

Ground robotic vehicles are often deployed to inspect areas where radioactive floor contamination is a prominent risk. However, the accuracy of detection could be adversely affected by enhanced radiation signal through self-contamination of the robot occurring over the course of the inspection. In this work, it was hypothesised that a six-legged robot could offer advantages over the more conventional ground robotic devices such as wheeled and tracked rovers. To investigate this, experimental contamination testing and computational Monte Carlo simulation techniques (GEANT4) were employed to understand how radioactive contamination pick-up on three different robotic vehicles would affect their detection accuracy. Two robotic vehicles were selected for comparison with the hexapod robot based on their type of locomotion; a wheeled rover and a tracked rover. With the aid of a non-toxic fluorescent tracer dust, the contamination received by the all three vehicles when traversing a contaminated area was initially compared through physical inspection using high definition cameras. The parametric results from these tests where used in the computational study carried out in GEANT4. A cadmium zinc telluride detector was simulated at heights ranging from 10 to 50 cm above each contaminated vehicle, as if it were mounted on a plinth. Assuming a uniform activity of 60 Bq cm−2 on all contaminated surfaces, the results suggested that due to the hexapod’s small ground-contacting surface area and geometry, radiation detection rates using an uncollimated detector are likely to be overestimated by between only 0.07%–0.12%, compared with 3.95%–8.43% and 1.75%–14.53% for the wheeled and tracked robot alternatives, respectively.
Establishment of regional diagnostic reference levels for digital mammography in Western Province of Sri Lanka
Authors: Niroshani H S , Jeyasugiththan Jeyasingam , Senanayake G , Negishi Toru
Published: December 2020

The radiation dose to the breasts should be kept to a minimum as breast tissues are highly sensitive to radiation. In mammography, the mean glandular dose (MGD) is used to specify the patient dose. In this study, data on the MGD during diagnostic mammographic examinations was collected using the database from six digital mammography facilities available in the Western Province in Sri Lanka. Examinations involving breast pathology, breast implants, or compressed breast thicknesses (CBT) outside the range of 20–110 mm were excluded in this study. The mean MGD per breast was 3.50 mGy, with a mean CBT of 57 mm. The mean MGD per facility varies from 1.58 to 2.27 mGy, with overall 75th and 95th percentiles of 2.15 and 2.82 mGy, respectively. The 75th and 95th percentile MGD per image, for the average CBT of 57 ± 12 mm, were 2.00 and 2.65 mGy respectively. The 75th percentile value of the MGD is suggested for the Western Province and it depends on the specific CBT.
Energy storage performance of 2D MoS2and carbon nanotube heterojunctions in symmetric and asymmetric configuration
Authors: Radhakrishnan Sithara , K A Sree Raj , Kumar Susendaran Ravi , Johari Priya , Rout Chandra Sekhar
Published: December 2020

Excellent cyclic stability and fast charge/discharge capacity demonstrated by supercapacitors foster research interest into new electrode materials with 100% cycle life and high specific capacitance. We report an improvement in the electrochemical performance of MoS2/multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) nanohybrid and intensively explored its performance in symmetric and asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) assembly. The symmetric assembly of MoS2/MWCNT exhibits capacitance of around 274.63 F g−1at 2 A g−1with higher specific energy/power outputs (20.70 Wh kg−1/1.49 kW kg−1) as compared to the supercapacitor based on pristine MoS2(5.82 Wh kg−1/1.07 kW kg−1). On the other hand, a unique all-carbon-based ASC assembled with MoS2/MWCNT and VSe2/MWCNT composite with K2SO4as electrolyte delivers the highest energy density of 32.18 Wh kg−1at a power density of 1.121 kW kg−1with exceptional cycling stability and excellent retention of about 98.43% even after 5000 cycles. These outstanding results demonstrate the excellent electrochemical properties of both symmetric and asymmetric systems with high energy density and performance, which further enable them to be a potential candidate for supercapacitor applications.
Development of a collective scattering system and its application to the measurement of multiscale fluctuations in KSTAR plasmas
Authors: Lee W , Lee D J , Park H K , Nam Y U , Lee T-G , Choi M J , Ahn H-J , Park H-K , Na Y-S , Park M S
Published: December 2020

A four-channel collective scattering system (CSS) has been developed to extend the current turbulence measurement capability (poloidal wavenumber

<

3 cm−1) beyond the ion gyroscale in the KSTAR tokamak. By utilizing a 300 GHz probe beam and four-channel detector array, the CSS can measure electron density fluctuations of four distinct poloidal wavenumbers from 14 to 26 cm−1 at a high sampling rate (typically 10 MS s−1). In between discharges the radial measurement location can be varied from the plasma center to the outer edge with the remote control of the optical system. In this paper, the details of the major components and laboratory evaluation of the optical system are described. Several initial measurements such as (1) the broadband turbulence reduction during L–H transition, (2) the broadband turbulence increase in H-mode when the amplitude of edge-localized mode crashes is reduced by increased density, (3) the amplification of a quasi-coherent mode by additional heating in high-performance H-mode, and (4) the appearance of high-frequency magnetohydro-dynamical modes during slow L–H transition, are briefly presented. The possibility of the CSS as a hybrid system (of a scattering system and fluctuation interferometer), which complicates the interpretation of the CSS data, is also discussed.
Investigations on electrical parameters degradation and recovery of E-mode GaN high-electron mobility transistors under repetitive unclamped inductive switching stresses based on low-frequency noise
Authors: Xu X B , Li B , Chen Y Q , Wu Z H , He Z Y , En Y F , Huang Y
Published: December 2020

During no or minimal avalanche capability, the surge ruggedness of the E-mode AlGaN/GaN high-electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) with p-GaN gate has not been fully understood. This work unveils the comprehensive results from repetitive unclamped inductive switching (UIS) measurements on commercial p-gate GaN HEMTs. The Electrical parameters degradation and recovery characteristics have been investigated. Firstly, a careful study has been made about the degradation of output, transfer, gate leakage, and gate capacitance parameters of GaN HEMT devices before and after repetitive UIS pulses, which acting on the device channel. With the help of the low-frequency noises (LFNs), the test results show that the device characteristics have gradual degradation with an increase in UIS pules, including increased threshold voltage (V
th), and decreased gate leakage current (I
gss). Subsequently, the LFN testing is carried out with the increase of UIS pulses. Finally, the recovery characteristics of the devices are studied and the physics associated are discussed after putting the device at room temperature in the air for 1–15 d, which includes DC characteristics and trap density. These results physically confirm that the mechanism of the degradation and recovery of device characteristics, that is the charge trapping effects of electrons. After repetitive UIS stresses, the electrons are trapping and de-trapping on interfaces and in the bulk layer of devices, which can change electric field distribution below the grids. These have a strong impact on the electrical performance of devices.
Decay heating power of various types of plutonium
Authors: Gao Zhengming , Zhao Juan
Published: December 2020

Analysis of the influence of the decay heating power of plutonium is one of the important tasks of the process in design of nuclear reactors, nuclear waste disposal or mechanical analysis of nuclear explosive devices. The paper simulated the decay heating power of some isotopes by means of cascade decay dynamics, then numerical regression was done and some formulae were obtained describing the heating power of the isotopes respectively. Furthermore, the paper reached to a common formula describing the heating power of all kinds of plutonium, and the heating powers of various types of plutonium used in fields of nuclear energy, nuclear waste disposal or military were obtained. Comparing with other calculation methods, calculating the heating power of various types of plutonium using this common formula raised in the paper could result in higher precision and more efficient, and because of the time-dependence, the common formula could also be used in thermal-related analysis of plutonium considering the storage time.
Prediction of multi-parameters in the inverse heat conduction problems
Authors: Abdelhamid Talaat , Chen Rongliang , Alam Mahbub
Published: December 2020

This paper studies the prediction of the spatial-dependent-heat transfer coefficient γ(x) and- heat flux q(x), using the modified conjugate gradient method (MCGM). The mathematical formulation of the problem well defined and the existence of the minimizer is investigated. We establish the sensitivity and adjoint equations for computing the gradient with respect to γ(x) and q(x). The proposed algorithm 4.1 is derived for reconstructing γ(x) and q(x) using the MCGM. The numerical experiments are examined to show the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method. Finally, some conclusions and remarks are given.
Simulation and analysis of inclined flow channel of hydraulic slide valve
Authors: Chen Chen , Song Yilong , Xie Yudong , Han Jiazhen , Liu Yanjun
Published: December 2020

The inclined flow channel, that is, the flow channel axis is not parallel to the slide valve axis, is used in this paper. This flow channel is more conducive to the flow of fluid, thus reducing the kinetic energy loss when the fluid passes through the slide valve. FLUENT simulation software is used to simulate and analyze the two-dimensional flow field of slide valve flow channel at different angles between flow channel axis and spool axis, and the flow field nephogram at different inclination angles are obtained. The result of simulation is analyzed and the optimal angle is 45 degrees. It also analyzes the influence of different inlet flow velocities on the flow field. The results show that the higher the velocity, the easier the formation of vortices and the greater influence on the pressure difference between inlet and outlet.
Predictions on the water content in natural gas and water distribution in the China-Russia eastern gas pipeline
Authors: Zhang Kejia , Li Changjun , Wang Yubin , Ouyang Xin , Jia Wenlong
Published: December 2020

In the process of natural gas transportation, the existence of free water is a disturbing problem. This paper studies the calculation model of the natural gas water content of the China-Russia eastern gas pipeline and the amount and distribution of fluid accumulation in the China-Russia eastern gas pipeline commissioning stage. By comparing the calculation, Li correlation with the Keenan-Keyes model is a suitable model for calculating the natural gas water content of the China-Russia eastern gas pipeline. According to the model and software calculation, under the winter conditions in the first year of production of the China-Russia eastern gas pipeline, the total water accumulation in the pipeline increases with the increase of water content. The water produced in the pipeline can reach 255 × 103 m3 in the case of saturated water content in the first year of production. The water accumulation in the pipeline is mainly distributed in the ascending part of the low-lying pipe section. Where the height difference of the pipeline is greater, the water accumulation is more serious. In the pipeline section with a mileage of 53km - 134km, the water accumulation was the most serious, and the liquid holdup was as high as 0.66.
The overlap phases of SIC-POVMs
Authors: Lü Xin
Published: December 2020

A symmetric informationally complete positive-operator-valued measure (SIC-POVM) is a special type of generalized quantum measurements that possesses a high degree of symmetry. It plays an important role in quantum tomography, quantum cryptography and foundations of quantum mechanics. The most important and difficult problem about SIC-POVM is to show its existence in every dimension n, which is suggested by many numerical evidences. In this paper, this existence problem of SIC-POVMs is investigated by considering their overlap phases. Specifically, the symmetric requirements of SIC-POVMs are encoded into the overlap phases between the fiducial project and the n
2 displacement operators. In this way, an equivalent condition of the existence of Weyl-Heisenberg group covariant SIC-POVMs is obtained in terms of these phases, so that a set of complex equations is established, which enables one to study the existence problem in a more explicit and direct fashion. In particular, we show that all the numbers appearing in the overlap phases have to be algebraic numbers. The significance of Zauner’s conjecture in our equivalent condition is also discussed, and therefore the SIC-POVMs in dimension four is constructed explicitly. Actually, our system of equations always admits a solution, the real difficulty lies in how to ensure these complex number solutions are of norm one, and therefore indeed phases. Our result shows that constructing SIC-POVMs from the overlap phases is possible, and symmetries can be applied directly to reduce the number of equations, so that it provide new insights into the difficult problem of SIC-POVMs, especially about the algebraic properties of these overlap phases.
Turing pattern of a reaction-diffusion predator-prey model with weak Allee effect and delay
Authors: Li Yexuan , Liu Hua , Wei Yumei , Ma Ming
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we investigate a reaction-diffusion model with gestation delay and weak Allee effect. The conditions of delay-induced instability are obtained after stability analysis. By using numerical simulation, we discuss the effects of gestation delay and weak Allee effect on the Turing pattern. The results show that weak Allee effect and gestation delay can change the pattern formations. This means Allee effect and delay play significant roles in spatial invasion of populations.
Shapable bulk agarose–gelatine–hydroxyapatite–minocycline nanocomposite fabricated using a mineralizing system aided with electrophoresis for bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Zhang Heng , He Xiaoxue , Zhang Ya , Li Quanli , Liu Yueming , Zhang Yiwen , Wang Zonghua , Zhu Qinghai , Li Xiaofeng
Published: December 2020

To develop a shapable bulk antibacterial nanocomposite biomaterial for bone regeneration. A bulk agarose–gelatine hydrogel was mineralized using a hydrogel mineralizing system aided with electrophoresis, and the mineralized hydrogel was loaded with minocycline to obtain the agarose–gelatine–hydroxyapatite–minocycline nanocomposite. The nanocomposite had a large Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area of 44.4518 m2 g−1 and a high porosity of 76.9%. Hydroxyapatite crystals were well developed in the hydrogel matrix and exhibited a hybrid structure of microscale and nanoscale motifs. The addition of minocycline resulted in a continuous antibiotic release, inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus over 2 weeks in vitro. Exposed to rabbit bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, the nanocomposite revealed good cytocompatibility in vitro. Furthermore, the biomaterial could effectively enhance the bone regeneration in a critical-size rabbit cranial defect model in vivo. These findings depicted that the nanocomposite, with good biocompatibility and good antibacterial property, is a promising candidate for future clinical application in bone tissue engineering or as a prospective bone replacement biomaterial.
Long-term atmospheric inorganic nitrogen deposition in West African savanna over 16 year period (Lamto, Côte d’Ivoire)
Authors: Ossohou Money , Galy-Lacaux Corinne , Yoboué Véronique , Adon Marcellin , Delon Claire , Gardrat Eric , Konaté Ismaël , Ki Adja , Zouzou Raphaël
Published: December 2020

We present a long term assessment trend of atmospheric inorganic nitrogen deposition in Sub Saharan Africa (2000–2015) using observational and model data. This work proposes a compilation of International Network to study Deposition and Atmospheric chemistry in Africa wet and dry nitrogen deposition fluxes collected at the wet savanna site of Lamto (Côte d’Ivoire). Total deposition calculation takes in account: (a) gaseous (NO2, NH3, HNO3) dry deposition fluxes estimated by considering nitrogen compound concentrations at the monthly scale and modeling average monthly dry deposition velocities, (b) particulate PM10 (pNO3
−, pNH4
+) dry deposition fluxes calculated using the same inferential method and (c) wet deposition (WD) fluxes including ions concentration measurements (NO3
−, NH4
+) in rainwater combined with rainfall amount. We demonstrate for the first time the monthly and annual decreasing trends for dry nitrogen deposition of N-NO2 (−2.33% month−1 and −2.54% yr−1) and N-NH3 (−2.55% month−1 and −2.89% yr−1), but increasing trends for dry deposition of N-HNO3 (+1.00% month−1) and WD of N-NO3
− (+1.67% month−1 and +2.13% yr−1) and N-NH4
+ (+2.33% month−1 and +3.36% yr−1). Dry season N-NO2 deposition flux decline shows agreement with long term trend in NOx emissions by biomass burning. Increasing trends for wet N deposition signals a gradual increase of nitrogen fertilizers use in agricultural practices in the Lamto area. Results also show no significant trend in total N deposition over the 16 year study period explained by the compensation of decreasing and increasing trends for dry and wet N deposition, respectively. However, at the annual scale, the mean total N deposition flux is estimated to 10.3 ± 1.2 kgN ha−1 yr−1 over the 16 year period, indicating an increase of 8% compared to the period 2000–2007.
Detecting multiple sclerosis via breath analysis using an eNose, a pilot study
Authors: Ettema A R , Lenders M W P M , Vliegen J , Slettenaar A , Tjepkema-Cloostermans M C , de Vos C C
Published: December 2020

In the present study we investigated whether multiple sclerosis (MS) can be detected via exhaled breath analysis using an electronic nose (eNose). The AeonoseTM (an eNose, The eNose Company, Zutphen, the Netherlands) is a diagnostic test device to detect patterns of volatile organic compounds in exhaled breath. We evaluated whether the AeonoseTM can make a distinction between the breath patterns of patients with MS and healthy control subjects. In this mono-center, prospective, non-invasive study, 124 subjects with a confirmed diagnosis of MS and 129 control subjects each breathed into the AeonoseTM for 5 min. Exhaled breath data was used to train an artificial neural network (ANN) predictive model. To investigate the influence of medication intake we created a second predictive model with a subgroup of MS patients without medication prescribed for MS. The ANN model based on the entire dataset was able to distinguish MS patients from healthy controls with a sensitivity of 0.75 (95% CI: 0.66–0.82) and specificity of 0.60 (0.51–0.69). The model created with the subgroup of MS patients not using medication and the healthy control subjects had a sensitivity of 0.93 (0.82–0.98) and a specificity of 0.74 (0.65–0.81). The study showed that the AeonoseTM is able to make a distinction between MS patients and healthy control subjects, and could potentially provide a quick screening test to assist in diagnosing MS. Further research is needed to determine whether the AeonoseTM is able to differentiate new MS patients from subjects who will not get the diagnosis.
Experimental investigation of damage formation and material removal in ultrasonic assisted grinding of RBSiC
Authors: Liu Jinting , Kang Renke , Dong Zhigang , Zheng Feifei , Zeng Yanfen , Bao Yan
Published: December 2020

Ultrasonic assisted grinding (UAG) has been considered as a prominent processing method of the reaction bonded silicon carbide (RBSiC). To improve the knowledge of UAG process, both conventional grinding (CG) and UAG were used to process the RBSiC for in-depth investigation. Grinding forces, surface topographies, and subsurface damages during CG and UAG were compared. Furtherly, the ground surface was analyzed on aspects of both topographical characteristics and material removal mechanism. The results indicated that the removal of material is mainly achieved by the intersections of cracks initiated from both big SiC particles and mixture area of silicon matrix and small SiC grains. The crack propagation during UAG was more intensified due to the ultrasonic impact, which results in higher efficiency of machining RBSiC.
Hospital-Based Donor Recruitment and Predonation Serologic Testing for COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma
Authors: Balcerek Joanna , Trejo Evelin , Levine Kendall , Couey Paul , Kornberg Zoe V , Rogine Camille , Young Charlotte , Li P Jonathan , Shy Brian R , Taylor Jordan E , Bakhtary Sara , Friedlander Terence , Lynch Kara L , Bern Caryn , Esensten Jonathan H
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Serologic testing for antibodies to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in potential donors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) convalescent plasma (CCP) may not be performed until after blood donation. A hospital-based recruitment program for CCP may be an efficient way to identify potential donors prospectively

Methods

Patients who recovered from known or suspected COVID-19 were identified and recruited through medical record searches and public appeals in March and April 2020. Participants were screened with a modified donor history questionnaire and, if eligible, were asked for consent and tested for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (IgG and IgM). Participants positive for SARS-CoV-2 IgG were referred for CCP collection.

Results

Of 179 patients screened, 128 completed serologic testing and 89 were referred for CCP donation. IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 23 of 51 participants with suspected COVID-19 and 66 of 77 participants with self-reported COVID-19 confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The anti–SARS-CoV-2 IgG level met the US Food and Drug Administration criteria for “high-titer” CCP in 39% of participants confirmed by PCR, as measured by the Ortho VITROS IgG assay. A wide range of SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels were observed.

Conclusions

A hospital-based CCP donor recruitment program can prospectively identify potential CCP donors. Variability in SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels has implications for the selection of CCP units for transfusion.
Robots as intelligent assistants to face COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Seidita Valeria , Lanza Francesco , Pipitone Arianna , Chella Antonio
Published: December 2020

Motivation

The epidemic at the beginning of this year, due to a new virus in the coronavirus family, is causing many deaths and is bringing the world economy to its knees. Moreover, situations of this kind are historically cyclical. The symptoms and treatment of infected patients are, for better or worse even for new viruses, always the same: more or less severe flu symptoms, isolation and full hygiene. By now man has learned how to manage epidemic situations, but deaths and negative effects continue to occur. What about technology? What effect has the actual technological progress we have achieved? In this review, we wonder about the role of robotics in the fight against COVID. It presents the analysis of scientific articles, industrial initiatives and project calls for applications from March to now highlighting how much robotics was ready to face this situation, what is expected from robots and what remains to do.

Results

The analysis was made by focusing on what research groups offer as a means of support for therapies and prevention actions. We then reported some remarks on what we think is the state of maturity of robotics in dealing with situations like COVID-19.
A Negotiative Theory of Journalistic Roles
Authors: Raemy Patric , Vos Tim P
Published: December 2020

In probing how journalists negotiate the perceived discrepancy between their social role orientation and role performance, we arrive at a negotiative theory of roles. The theory is based on an inductive study where we combine classic theoretical frameworks of role theory with conceptual approaches of discursive institutionalism and Hochschilds’ theory of feeling rules. We examined journalists’ narratives from qualitative in-depth interviews with 20 Swiss newspaper journalists, who were asked to interpret the perceived gap—found in previous studies—between journalism ideals and journalism practice. The results compelled us to revisit role theories and to consider a number of overlooked or under-utilized analytic features of social roles to propose refinements to the concepts of journalistic roles and role performance. This resulted in a negotiative theory of roles that focuses attention on intra- and interpersonal discourse as well as what we call “role work.”
Contrasting the conformational effects of α-O-GalNAc and α-O-Man glycan protein modifications and their impact on the mucin-like region of alpha-dystroglycan
Authors: Borgert Andrew , Foley B Lachele , Live David
Published: December 2020

We have carried out a comparative study of the conformational impact of modifications to threonine residues of either α-O-Man or α-O-GalNAc in the context of a sequence from the mucin-like region of α-dystroglycan. Both such modifications can coexist in this domain of the glycoprotein. Solution NMR experiments and molecular dynamics calculations were employed. Comparing the results for an unmodified peptide Ac- PPTTTTKKP-NH2 sequence from α-dystroglycan, and glycoconjugates with either modification on the Ts, we find that the impact of the α-O-Man modification on the peptide scaffold is quite limited, while that of the α-O-GalNAc is more profound. The results for the α-O-GalNAc glycoconjugate are consistent with what has been seen earlier in other systems. Further examination of the NMR-based structure and the MD results suggest a more extensive network of hydrogen bond interactions within the α-O-GalNAc-threonine residue than has been previously appreciated, which influences the properties of the protein backbone. The conformational effects are relevant to the mechanical properties of α-dystroglycan.
Equivariant KK-Theory and the Continuous Rokhlin Property
Authors: Gardella Eusebio
Published: December 2020

We introduce and study the continuous Rokhlin property for actions of compact groups on $C^*$-algebras. An important technical result is a characterization of the continuous Rokhlin property in terms of asymptotic retracts. As a consequence, we derive strong $KK$-theoretical obstructions to the continuous Rokhlin property. Using these, we show that the Universal Coefficient Theorem (UCT) is preserved under formation of crossed products and passage to fixed point algebras by such actions, even in the absence of nuclearity. Our analysis of the $KK$-theory of the crossed product allows us to prove a ${{\mathbb {T}}}$-equivariant version of Kirchberg–Phillips: two circle actions with the continuous Rokhlin property on Kirchberg algebras are conjugate whenever they are $KK^{{{\mathbb {T}}}}$-equivalent. In the presence of the UCT, this is equivalent to having isomorphic equivariant $K$-theory. We moreover characterize the $KK^{{{\mathbb {T}}}}$-theoretical invariants that arise in this way. Finally, we identify a $KK^{{{\mathbb {T}}}}$-theoretic obstruction to the continuous property, which is shown to be the only obstruction in the setting of Kirchberg algebras. We show by means of explicit examples that the Rokhlin property is strictly weaker than the continuous Rokhlin property.
Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of ridinilazole and six comparators against Chinese, Japanese and South Korean strains of Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Collins Deirdre A , Wu Yuan , Tateda Kazuhiro , Kim Hee-Jung , Vickers Richard J , Riley Thomas V
Published: December 2020

Background

Clostridioides difficile is the most common cause of antimicrobial-associated diarrhoea in high-income countries. Fluoroquinolone resistance enabled the emergence and intercontinental spread of the epidemic ribotype (RT) 027 strain of C. difficile in the early 2000s. Despite frequent inappropriate antimicrobial use in Asia, RT 027 is rarely isolated in the region, but the often fluoroquinolone- and clindamycin-resistant RT 017 strain predominates.

Objectives

This study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of ridinilazole, a novel antimicrobial agent with highly specific activity for C. difficile, against clinical strains of C. difficile from Asia.

Methods

C. difficile strains from Japan (n = 64), South Korea (n = 32) and China (n = 44) were tested by the agar dilution method for susceptibility to ridinilazole, metronidazole, vancomycin, clindamycin, moxifloxacin, rifaximin and fidaxomicin.

Results

All strains were susceptible to ridinilazole, with low MICs (0.03–0.25 mg/L). Several strains showed multiresistance profiles, particularly RT 017 (100% clindamycin resistant, 91.3% moxifloxacin resistant, 82.6% rifaximin resistant) and RT 369 (94.4% clindamycin resistant, 100% moxifloxacin resistant). Rifaximin resistance was absent in all strains from Japan. Multiresistance to clindamycin, moxifloxacin and rifaximin was found in 19 RT 017 strains (from China and South Korea), 2 RT 001 strains (South Korea) and 1 RT 046 strain (South Korea).

Conclusions

Ridinilazole showed potent activity against a range of Asian C. difficile strains, which otherwise frequently displayed resistance to several comparator antimicrobial agents. Ongoing surveillance of antimicrobial resistance profiles is required to monitor and control the spread of resistant strains.
Effect of Visual Cues and a Fermentation-Based Attractant Blend on Trap Catch of Two Invasive Drosophila Flies in Berry Crops in Mexico
Authors: Cruz-Esteban Samuel , Garay-Serrano Edith , Rojas Julio C
Published: December 2020

Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) and Zaprionus indianus (Gupta) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) are invasive pests of economic importance worldwide. This study was undertaken as a first step to investigate the interaction between visual and chemical cues on the captures of D. suzukii and Z. indianus under field conditions. Specifically, we evaluated the effect of color cardboards and their combinations on the capture of these drosophilids by attractant-baited multihole traps in blackberry and blueberry crops. Color had a significant effect on the captures of D. suzukii and Z. indianus by attractant-baited traps in both crops. Overall, attractant-baited traps with yellow and yellow + green cards captured the highest number of flies compared to attractant-baited traps using cards of other colors or without cards. Multihole traps without attractant and color cardboards caught very few flies of both species. In general, more females than male D. suzukii were captured, but no sexual differences were found in the captures of Z. indianus. The results obtained will be useful for the development of a monitoring or mass trapping system for the management of D. suzukii and Z. indianuspopulations in Mexico.
Heterozygosity-Fitness Correlations in a Continental Island Population of Thorn-Tailed Rayadito
Authors: Botero-Delgadillo Esteban , Quirici Verónica , Vásquez Rodrigo A , Kempenaers Bart
Published: December 2020

Heterozygosity-fitness correlations (HFCs) have been used to monitor the effects of inbreeding in threatened populations. HFCs can also be useful to investigate the potential effects of inbreeding in isolated relict populations of long-term persistence and to better understand the role of inbreeding and outbreeding as drivers of changes in genetic diversity. We studied a continental island population of thorn-tailed rayadito (Aphrastura spinicauda) inhabiting the relict forest of Fray Jorge National Park, north-central Chile. This population has experienced a long-term, gradual process of isolation since the end of the Tertiary. Using 10 years of field data in combination with molecular techniques, we tested for HFCs to assess the importance of inbreeding depression. If inbreeding depression is important, we predict a positive relationship between individual heterozygosity and fitness-related traits. We genotyped 183 individuals at 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci and used 7 measures of reproductive success and estimates of apparent survival to calculate HFCs. We found weak to moderate statistical support (P-values between 0.05 and 0.01) for a linear effect of female multi-locus heterozygosity (MLH) on clutch size and nonlinear effects on laying date and fledging success. While more heterozygous females laid smaller clutches, nonlinear effects indicated that females with intermediate values of MLH started laying earlier and had higher fledging success. We found no evidence for effects of MLH on annual fecundity or on apparent survival. Our results along with the long-term demographic stability of the study population contradict the hypothesis that inbreeding depression occurs in this population.
Young Newcomers’ Convoy of Social Relations: The Supportive Network of Accompanied Refugee Minors in Urban Belgium
Authors: Huysmans Minne , Lambotte Deborah , Muls Jaël , Vanhee Jan , Meurs Pieter , Verté Dominique
Published: December 2020

Social networks play a crucial role in migration processes, facilitating adaption and well-being. Yet, accessing and establishing supportive ties in the host society are far from evident. This study voices the ways by which Accompanied Refugee Minors (ARM) (re)create supportive networks across multiple borders shortly after arrival into an urban environment, by applying Kahn and Antonucci’s Convoy Model of social relations. In order to do so, 25 ARM who recently migrated to urban Belgium were interviewed. Most of the ARM have little links to their new living environment. Their fragile networks are homogenous and seldomly connect to the urban context they live in. This group of newcomers is positioned in an intermediate position: on the one hand, they are mostly seen as ‘accompanied’ children where parents are seen as primary source of support; on the other hand, they are young refugees, both enhancing exclusionary aspects in their connection to the broader society surrounding them.
The Capability ‘To Be Secure’: Media Coverage of African Asylum Seekers During Covid-19 in Israel
Authors: Shomron Baruch
Published: December 2020

The health and economic consequences of Covid-19 have not affected the different groups in society equally, particularly the weakest communities, chief among them asylum seekers who have been hit the hardest. This study focuses on the Israeli media’s role during this crisis, and whether they have advocated or hindered African asylum seekers capability ‘to be secure’. This capability is the most important in the capabilities approach, as it advocates not only quality of life but also life itself. The study reveals mixed results as the Israeli media both hinders and advocates for asylum seekers’ security during the Covid-19 pandemic. By mapping out the themes of the media coverage, this study serves as a roadmap for policymakers and media organizations for the improvement of asylum seekers’ security through mass media coverage. Furthermore, this study contributes to the debate regarding the role media should play in society, especially regarding asylum seekers in their time of need.