bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early closure mechanisms of the ductus arteriosus in immature infants
Authors: Hallman Mikko , Treluyer Jean Marc , Aikio Outi , Rozé Jean‐Christophe
Published: March 2021

Aim

According to experimental studies, cardiopulmonary distress decreases after closure of patent ductus arteriosus. However, early closure of the ductus using ibuprofen or indomethacin has failed to increase survival without serious morbidity. We review relevant data aiming to define optimal early management strategies that promote early closure of ductus arteriosus without serious adverse effects.

Methods

Literature in English was searched selectively focusing on the potential of using acetaminophen for early closure of the ductus.

Results

Prophylactic ibuprofen or indomethacin intended to close the ductus, predisposes infants to ischaemia, bleeding and immune dysfunction. Acetaminophen appears to have a similar efficacy as indomethacin or ibuprofen, and all three dose‐dependently constrict the ductus. Ibuprofen and indomethacin cause non‐specific inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, while acetaminophen predominantly inhibits prostaglandin E synthesis. Owing to low CYP450 activity in infancy, acetaminophen toxicity has been rarely evident. However, increasing the dosage increases the oxidative stress. We review prophylactic treatments that may increase the safety and efficacy of acetaminophen. These include vitamin A, cysteine and glutamine, and low‐dose corticosteroid supplementation.

Conclusion

The current challenge is to define a safe perinatal management practice that promotes cardiorespiratory adaptation in immature infants, particularly the seamless closure of the ductus before significant cardiopulmonary distress develops.
Allergic contact dermatitis from potassium sorbate and sorbic acid in topical pharmaceuticals and medical devices
Authors: Dendooven Ella , Kerre Stefan , Foubert Kenn , Pieters Luc , Lambert Julien , Goossens An , Aerts Olivier
Published: March 2021

Background

The preservatives sorbic acid (SA) and potassium sorbate (PS) are considered rare skin sensitizers. PS‐containing products always contain SA to a certain extent, and positivity to PS may reflect sensitization to SA. Their optimal patch test conditions are unknown.

Objectives

To report on the outcome of testing with SA and PS in various concentrations and/or vehicles.

Patients and methods

Seventeen patients with allergic contact dermatitis from PS/SA‐containing topical pharmaceuticals and medical devices were patch tested to SA 2% and 5% pet.; SA 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%. eth.; and/or SA 2% aq., whereas PS was patch tested 5% pet. and/or 5% aq.

Results

Only one patient, not tested to the ethanol preparations, presented with a (doubtful) positive reaction to SA 2% pet., while this remained negative in 13 patients who reacted to SA 2% eth. The preparations containing SA 5% pet.; 1%, 3%, and 5% eth.; and SA 2% aq. had little or no additional value. PS 5% pet. performed better than 5% aq., and always mirrored SA sensitization.

Conclusions

Sensitization to SA and PS is probably underestimated. SA 2% eth. and PS 5% pet. are preferred for patch testing, and patients sensitized to SA should avoid PS‐containing products.
Lessons from old fenced plots: Eco‐cultural Impacts of feral ungulates and potential decline in sea‐level rise resilience of coastal floodplains in northern Australia
Authors: Sloane Daniel R. , Ens Emilie , Wunungmurra Yumutjin , Gumana Yinimala , Wunungmurra Bandibandi , Wirrpanda Manman , Towler Gillian , Preece David , Rangers Yirralka
Published: March 2021

Management of feral animals can be complicated by conflicting economic, social, cultural and political values of stakeholders. To visually demonstrate the ecological impacts of feral ungulates, natural resource managers often construct exclusion fences; however, lessons are not often widely shared in the scientific literature and Indigenous insights are rarely recorded. Here, we report on long‐term (7–11 years) feral buffalo and pig exclusion fences that were constructed by the Yirralka Rangers in ephemeral coastal wetlands of the Laynhapuy Indigenous Protected Area, northern Australia. Elevation transects across fence boundaries suggested that feral ungulates may be eroding floodplains and therefore reducing elevation. Comparisons of intermittent photos and contemporary inside–outside fence floristic assessments suggested that feral ungulates have an obvious and significant effect on vegetation cover and composition which may also inhibit natural soil accretion. Interviews with senior Indigenous knowledge holders revealed that feral ungulate culling was broadly supported due to impacts on cultural and spiritual values. Synthesis of the results suggested that feral ungulates are having substantial impacts on the cultural use, flora and soil stabilisation of coastal wetlands. Further research on soil erosion and accretion in places with and without ungulates will elucidate the effects of ungulates on potential sea‐level rise resilience of coastal wetlands. This paper highlights the benefits of cross‐cultural and collaborative multi‐disciplinary research such as producing holistic outcomes relevant to stakeholders that can inform management decisions.
Tropical tufa and karst streams support unique and threatened assemblages of aquatic Diptera, Empididae in Thailand
Authors: Plant Adrian R.
Published: March 2021

Aquatic Empididae (Diptera) in the subfamilies Hemerodromiinae and Clinocerinae were used as a model to provide the first appraisal of diversity, endemism, environmental preferences and anthropic threats to Diptera communities of calcareous streams and tufa ecosystems of tropical karst habitats of Thailand. Hemerodromia Mg. (Hemerodromiinae) was abundant and speciose with 17 spp., of which six were associated with tufa, two with calcareous streams, three occurred on both tufa and streams and six were eurytopic species also found away from karst. Clinocerinae were only represented by one rare species of Clinocera Mg. Local and regional‐scale endemism was apparent at species level in Hemerodromia. Assemblage similarity in tufa habitats decayed with distance but cluster analysis provided only weak support for community‐level endemism at any geographic scale. Ordination indicated that benthic substrate and canopy cover were the most important environmental variables for many species. The six obligate tufa species of Hemerodromia were absolutely associated with rapid shallow flows of water over tufa surfaces at waterfalls. Species richness and abundance varied through the monsoon cycle but there was little evidence of simple correlations with seasonal changes in water temperature, conductivity and pH. The hypothesis that cold‐adapted aquatic Empididae might have been marooned in cold emergent groundwaters at lower elevations was not supported. It is concluded that tropical tufa ecosystems in Thailand support distinctive, rich and often endemic populations of stenotopic species of considerable biological and conservation interest. Deteriorative changes linked to tourism, water abstraction and agricultural activity could threaten these unique communities.
Whiptail lizards (Aspidoscelis exsanguis) recognize invertebrate prey via cuticular hydrocarbons
Authors: Goldberg Jay K. , Pintel Genevieve , Pruett Jake A. , Weiss Stacey L.
Published: March 2021

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) present on the surface of arthropods are important mediators of both intraspecific and interspecific interactions. They are known to be important chemical cues that help predatory arthropods locate prey, yet less is known about if and how vertebrate insectivores use these nearly ubiquitous chemical cues. We examined behavioral responses of insectivorous lizards (Aspidoscelis exsanguis) to the CHCs of three different species of arthropod prey (crickets, ants, and spiders). We presented cotton swabs with either extracted CHCs or a solvent control to determine if lizards respond to CHCs in the absence of visual cues of prey. We found that CHCs not only increased the frequency of chemosensory behaviors performed by predatory lizards, but that they also elicit feeding‐like behavior from lizards (e.g., biting at the cotton swabs). These results indicate that lizards not only respond to arthropod CHCs, but that they are sufficient for prey‐recognition by our chosen lizard species. This finding lays the ground work for future studies to investigate the precise compounds that are used by foraging lizards, and how the chemical communication systems of arthropods respond to selection exerted by vertebrate predators.
Phenotypic plasticity under rapid global changes: The intrinsic force for future seagrasses survival
Authors: Pazzaglia Jessica , Reusch Thorsten B. H. , Terlizzi Antonio , Marín‐Guirao Lázaro , Procaccini Gabriele
Published: March 2021

Coastal oceans are particularly affected by rapid and extreme environmental changes with dramatic consequences for the entire ecosystem. Seagrasses are key ecosystem engineering or foundation species supporting diverse and productive ecosystems along the coastline that are particularly susceptible to fast environmental changes. In this context, the analysis of phenotypic plasticity could reveal important insights into seagrasses persistence, as it represents an individual property that allows species’ phenotypes to accommodate and react to fast environmental changes and stress. Many studies have provided different definitions of plasticity and related processes (acclimation and adaptation) resulting in a variety of associated terminology. Here, we review different ways to define phenotypic plasticity with particular reference to seagrass responses to single and multiple stressors. We relate plasticity to the shape of reaction norms, resulting from genotype by environment interactions, and examine its role in the presence of environmental shifts. The potential role of genetic and epigenetic changes in underlying seagrasses plasticity in face of environmental changes is also discussed. Different approaches aimed to assess local acclimation and adaptation in seagrasses are explored, explaining strengths and weaknesses based on the main results obtained from the most recent literature. We conclude that the implemented experimental approaches, whether performed with controlled or field experiments, provide new insights to explore the basis of plasticity in seagrasses. However, an improvement of molecular analysis and the application of multi‐factorial experiments are required to better explore genetic and epigenetic adjustments to rapid environmental shifts. These considerations revealed the potential for selecting the best phenotypes to promote assisted evolution with fundamental implications on restoration and preservation efforts.
Measuring a Low Horizontal Hydraulic Gradient in a High Transmissivity Aquifer
Authors: McDonald John P.
Published: March 2021

High transmissivity aquifers typically have low hydraulic gradients (i.e., a flat water table). Measuring low gradients using water levels can be problematic because measurement error may be greater than the true difference in water levels (i.e., a low signal‐to‐noise ratio). In this study, the feasibility of measuring a hydraulic gradient in the range of 10−6 to 10−5 m/m was demonstrated. The study was performed at a site where the depth to water from land surface ranged from 40.1 to 94.2 m and the aquifer transmissivity was estimated at 41,300 m2/d (hydraulic conductivity of 18,800 m/d). The goals of the study were to reduce measurement error as much as practicable and assess the importance of factors affecting water level measurement accuracy. Well verticality was the largest source of error (0.000 to 0.168 m; median of 0.014 m), and geodetic survey of casing elevations was the next most important source of error (0.002 to 0.013 m; median of 0.005 m). Variability due to barometric pressure fluctuations was not an important factor at the site. Hydraulic heads were measured to an accuracy of ±0.0065 m, and the average hydraulic gradient was estimated to be 8.0 × 10−6 (±0.9 × 10−6) m/m. The improvement in accuracy allowed for two reversals in the groundwater flow direction to be identified, after which the gradient averaged 2.5 × 10−5 (±0.4 × 10−5) m/m. This study showed it is possible to sufficiently control sources of error to measure hydraulic gradients in the 10−6 to 10−5 m/m range.
Incidence and survival of cutaneous melanoma in Belgium and the Netherlands from 2004 to 2016: striking differences and similarities of two neighbouring countries
Authors: Reyn B. , Van Eycken E. , Louwman M. , Henau K. , Schreuder K. , Brochez L. , Garmyn M. , Kukutsch N.A.
Published: March 2021

Background

Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is a multifactorial disease, with both environmental and genetic factors involved. The incidence of CM has risen rapidly during the last decades, making it a growing public health problem.

Objectives

The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare incidence and survival data of CM between two neighbouring countries, Belgium (BE) and the Netherlands (NL).

Methods

Data were collected by the Belgian Cancer Registry (BCR) and the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR) from 1 January 2004 until 31 December 2016. Mucosal melanoma, in situ CM and melanoma in children from 0 to 14 years were excluded. Age‐standardized incidence rates were calculated using the World Standard Population (WSR) per 100 000 persons. Five‐year relative survival ratios were calculated using the Ederer II methodology.

Results

Total number of CM was higher in NL (63 789) compared with BE (27 679). The WSR was 1.5 times higher in NL compared with BE (27.7 vs. 18.6/100 000/year). The WSR of stage IV tumours was higher in BE than in NL (0.3 vs. 0.2/100 000/year). Five‐year relative survival of stage IV tumours was higher in BE compared with NL (27.2% vs. 13.7%).

Conclusions

Incidence of CM was higher in NL, indicating a higher risk of CM diagnosis. Stage IV tumours were relatively more frequent in BE for both sexes, while relative survival of stage IV tumours was higher in BE. As geographical location and latitude of both neighbouring countries are almost identical, other factors like differences in behaviour, follow‐up and/or treatment may explain these differences.
Association between Labeobarbus spp. (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) and environmental variables in the Luhoho basin (Eastern Congo River basin; DRC)
Authors: Kisekelwa Tchalondawa , Snoeks Jos , Zamba Armel Ibala , Amzati Gaston Sefu , Isumbisho Mwapu , Masilya Pascal Mulungula , Lemmens Pieter , Vreven Emmanuel
Published: March 2021

The African cyprinid genus Labeobarbus is characterized by a high polymorphism in mouth morphology. The association between four species of this genus (two chiselmouths, one rubberlip with a well‐developed fleshy mental lobe on the lower jaw, i.e., a fleshy appendage on the chin, and one usually with a poorly developed one) and 26 environmental variables was investigated in four affluents of the Luhoho River in the Albertine Highlands of the Upper Congo basin. A combination of univariate and multivariate analyses suggested that differences exist in habitat composition at localities where different Labeobarbus species were reported, and within different mouth phenotypes. The association of L. longidorsalis with the presence of cobbles and pebbles and of L. brauni with the presence of boulders suggests that the occurrence of chiselmouths phenotype is associated with stony habitats, whereas phenotypes with a mental lobe, i.e., Labeobarbus longifilis and L. paucisquamatus, mostly occupy habitats without stones. Differences in the distribution between these two species appear to be linked to physico‐chemical parameters such as electrical conductivity and water temperature rather than substrate type. The findings of this study are relevant for developing guidelines that aim effective local preservation and conservation of these Labeobarbus species.
How impaired is too impaired? Exploring futile neuropsychological test patterns as a function of dementia severity and cognitive screening scores
Authors: Kiselica Andrew M. , Johnson Ellen , Benge Jared F.
Published: March 2021

Some older adults cannot meaningfully participate in the testing portion of a neuropsychological evaluation due to significant cognitive impairments. There are limited empirical data on this topic. Thus, the current study sought to provide an operational definition for a futile testing profile and examine cognitive severity status and cognitive screening scores as predictors of testing futility at both baseline and first follow‐up evaluations. We analysed data from 9,263 older adults from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set. Futile testing profiles occurred rarely at baseline (7.40%). There was a strong relationship between cognitive severity status and the prevalence of futile testing profiles, χ2(4) = 3559.77, p < .001. Over 90% of individuals with severe dementia were unable to participate meaningfully in testing. Severity range on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) also demonstrated a strong relationship with testing futility, χ2(3) = 3962.35, p < .001. The rate of futile testing profiles was similar at follow‐up (7.90%). There was a strong association between baseline dementia severity and likelihood of demonstrating a futile testing profile at follow‐up, χ2(4) = 1513.40, p < .001. Over 90% of individuals with severe dementia, who were initially able to participate meaningfully testing, no longer could at follow‐up. Similarly, there was a strong relationship between baseline MoCA score band and likelihood of demonstrating a futile testing profile at follow‐up, χ2(3) = 1627.37, p < .001. Results can help to guide decisions about optimizing use of limited neuropsychological assessment resources.
Endocranial morphology of the piciformes (Aves, Coraciimorphae): Functional and ecological implications
Authors: Demmel Ferreira María Manuela , Degrange Federico Javier , Tirao Germán Alfredo , Tambussi Claudia Patricia
Published: March 2021

We used three‐dimensional digital models to investigate the brain and endosseous labyrinth morphology of selected Neotropical Piciformes (Picidae, Ramphastidae, Galbulidae and Bucconidae). Remarkably, the brain morphology of Galbulidae clearly separates from species of other families. The eminentiae sagittales of Galbulidae and Bucconidae (insectivorous with high aerial maneuverability abilities) are smaller than those of the toucans (scansorial frugivores). Galbula showed the proportionally largest cerebellum, and Ramphastidae showed the least foliated one. Optic lobes ratio relative to the telencephalic hemispheres showed a strong phylogenetic signal. Three hypotheses were tested: (a) insectivorous taxa that need precise and fast movements to catch their prey, have well developed eminentiae sagittales compared to fruit eaters, (b) species that require high beak control would show larger cerebellum compared to other brain regions and higher number of visible folia and (c) there are marked differences between the brain shape of the four families studied here that bring valuable information of this interesting bird group. Hypotheses H1 and H2 are rejected, meanwhile H3 is accepted.
Lnc‐RNA LINC01279 induces endometriosis via targeting of HOXA10
Authors: Liu Liling , Cheng Junping , Wei Fu , Pang Lihong , Zhi Zhifu , Yang Wenmei , Tan Weihong
Published: March 2021

Aim

To explore the regulatory role and molecular mechanism of lncRNA‐LINC01279 in endometriosis (EMs).

Methods

Between September 2018 and July 2019, 20 EMs patients and 20 healthy subjects were recruited to detect the expression of lncRNA‐LINC01279 in EMs and in normal endometrium via qRT‐PCR. Autograft was used to establish EMs models on Spraque–Dawley (SD) rats, which was followed by taking volume measurements of EMs endometrium and observing pathological changes in the morphology of EMs via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The qRT‐PCR technique was further carried out to determine mRNA expression of lncRNA‐LINC01279 and HOXA10 in the serum of EMs rats and LINC01279 shRNA‐transfected rats, while the protein expression of HOXA10 was determined using a Western blot.

Results

EMs patients presented with upregulation of lncRNA‐LINC01279 and downregulation of HOXA10 (p < 0.01 or 0.001). Online predictions further revealed that lncRNA‐LINC01279 regulated the expression of HOXA10 via miRNA‐135b. In EMs models, it was observed that there were a significantly enlarged endometrium and poor pathological morphology, significant upregulation of lncRNA‐LINC01279, and downregulation of miR‐135b and HOXA10 in serum (p < 0.05, 0.01 or 0.001). In the lncRNA‐LINC01279 shRNA group, EMs rats, following treatment, had a sharp decrease in the volume of EMs endometrium, and an improvement in pathological morphology, while lncRNA‐LINC01279 was downregulated, with upregulation of miR‐135b and HOXA10 (p < 0.05, 0.01 or 0.001).

Conclusion

LncRNA‐LINC01279, by the mechanism of targeting miR‐135b, has the potential to downregulate the expression of HOXA10, and therefore, can promote the development and progression of EMs.
Sex difference feeding behaviour of NOD SCID mice in a pharmacological model of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Tur Daria A. , Khotskin Nikita V. , Akulov Andrey E.
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to assess the sex differences in the feeding behaviour of non‐obese diabetic severe combined immunodeficient (NOD SCID) mice in a pharmacological model of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1Dm). In our study, we chose NOD SCID mice of both sexes and assessed their feeding behaviour, body weight, body fat and water content under identical experimental conditions and diets. After 1 month of diabetes mellitus in mice in the experimental group, males and females did not show any increase in body weight, and they weighed significantly less than the control group. However, compared with the control group, in females with a background of T1Dm, there was a significant decrease in body fat. The amount of water consumed in the experimental groups was higher than that in the control groups. The amount of food consumed by males increased when they increased their water consumption, whereas food consumption in females decreased significantly with an increase in water consumption. Thus, we discovered sex differences in the feeding behaviour, body weight and body fat and water content in the pharmacological model of T1Dm after 1 month in NOD SCID mice.
The role of ion‐transporting proteins in the evolution of salt tolerance in charophyte algae
Authors: Phipps Shaunna , Goodman Charles A. , Delwiche Charles F. , Bisson Mary A.
Published: March 2021

Species within the genus Chara have variable salinity tolerance. Their close evolutionary relationship with embryophytes makes their study crucial to understanding the evolution of salt tolerance and key evolutionary processes shared among the phyla. We examined salt‐tolerant Chara longifolia and salt‐sensitive Chara australis for mechanisms of salt tolerance and their potential role in adaptation to salt. We hypothesize that there are shared mechanisms similar to those in embryophytes, which assist in conferring salt tolerance in Chara, including a cation transporter (HKT), a Na+/H+ antiport (NHX), a H+‐ATPase (AHA), and a Na+‐ATPase (ENA). Illumina transcriptomes were created using cultures grown in freshwater and exposed to salt stress. The presence of these candidate genes, identified by comparing with genes known from embryophytes, has been confirmed in both species of Chara, with the exception of ENA, present only in salt‐tolerant C. longifolia. These transcriptomes provide evidence for the contribution of these mechanisms to differences in salt tolerance in the two species and for the independent evolution of the Na+‐ATPase. We also examined genes that may have played a role in important evolutionary processes, suggested by previous work on the Chara braunii genome. Among the genes examined, cellulose synthase protein (GT43) and response regulator (RRB) were confirmed in both species. Genes absent from all three Chara species were members of the GRAS family, microtubule‐binding protein (TANGLED1), and auxin synthesizers (YUCCA, TAA). Results from this study shed light on the evolutionary relationship between Chara and embryophytes through confirmation of shared salt tolerance mechanisms, as well as unique mechanisms that do not occur in angiosperms.
Pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐6‐induced hepcidin, a key mediator of periodontitis‐related anemia of inflammation
Authors: Han Ye , Huang Wenxue , Meng Huanxin , Zhan Yalin , Hou Jianxia
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To investigate whether anemia of inflammation (AI) occurs in periodontitis patients and to further explore underlying pathogenesis of periodontitis‐related AI by an experimental periodontitis model.

Background

Previous studies have reported periodontitis patients could show a tendency toward AI. However, the relationship between periodontitis and AI remains unclear, and the related pathological mechanisms have not been identified.

Materials and Methods

Periodontal clinical parameters, inflammatory markers, and anemia‐related indicators were compared between 98 aggressive periodontitis (AgP) patients and 103 healthy subjects. An experimental periodontitis model was induced by ligature placement in mice. The changes in mice inflammatory markers, anemia indicators, hepcidin mRNA expression, and serum hepcidin concentrations were measured. Human and mouse liver cells were treated with interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) for analyzing the changes in hepcidin expression based on mRNA and protein levels.

Results

AgP patients exhibited higher white blood cell counts, IL‐6, and C‐reactive protein. Adjusted linear regression analyses showed correlations between AgP and decreased hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT). The ligature‐induced periodontitis caused systemic inflammation and elevated IL‐6 levels. Lower red blood cell counts, HGB, and HCT were detected, whereas the levels of hepcidin mRNA expression and serum hepcidin concentrations increased. The treatment of hepatocytes with IL‐6 induced both hepcidin mRNA expression and hepcidin secretion.

Conclusions

Systemic inflammation induced by periodontitis leads to an increased risk for AI. IL‐6‐induced hepcidin could play a central mediator role and act as a key pathologic mechanism. Our results demonstrate periodontitis may be considered as an additional inflammatory disease contributing to the development of AI.
Viral hepatitis C cascade of care: A population‐level comparison of immigrant and long‐term residents
Authors: Yasseen Abdool S. , Kwong Jeffrey C. , Feld Jordan J. , Janjua Naveed Z. , Greenaway Christina , Lapointe‐Shaw Lauren , Sherman Morris , Mazzulli Tony , Kustra Rafal , MacDonald Liane , Sander Beate , Crowcroft Natasha S.
Published: March 2021

Background & aims

Viral hepatitis C represents a major global burden, particularly among immigrant‐receiving countries such as Canada, where knowledge of disparities in hepatitis C virus among immigrant groups for micro‐elimination efforts is lacking. We quantify the hepatitis C cascades of care among immigrants and long‐term residents prior to the introduction of direct‐acting antiviral medications.

Methods

Using laboratory and health administrative records, we described the hepatitis C virus cascades of care in terms of diagnosis, engagement with care, treatment initiation, and clearance in Ontario, Canada (1997‐2014). We stratified the cascade by immigrant and long‐term resident groups and identify drivers at each stage using multivariable Poisson regression.

Results

We included 940 245 individuals in the study with an estimated hepatitis C prevalence of 167 923 (1.4%) overall, 23 759 (0.7%) among all immigrants, and 6019 (1.1%) among immigrants from hepatitis C endemic countries. Overall there were 104 616 individuals with reactive antibody results, 73 861 tested for viral RNA, 52 388 with viral RNA detected, 50 805 genotyped, 13 159 on treatment and 3919 with evidence of viral clearance. Compared to long‐term residents, immigrants showed increased nucleic‐acid testing (aRR: 1.09 [95%CI: 1.08, 1.10]), treatment initiation (aRR: 1.46 [95%CI: 1.38, 1.54]), and higher clearance rates (aRR: 1.07 [95%CI: 1.03, 1.11]).

Conclusions

Hepatitis C virus is more prevalent among long‐term residents compared to immigrants overall, however, immigrants from endemic countries are an important subgroup to consider for future screening and linkage to care initiatives. These findings are prior to the introduction of newer medications and provide a population‐based benchmark for follow‐up studies and evaluation of treatment programs and surveillance activities.
Turning Aboutness About
Authors: Sandgren Alexander
Published: March 2021

There are two families of influential and stubborn puzzles that many theories of aboutness (intentionality) face: underdetermination puzzles and puzzles concerning representations that appear to be about things that do not exist. I propose an approach that elegantly avoids both kinds of puzzle. The central idea is to explain aboutness (the relation supposed to stand between thoughts and terms and their objects) in terms of relations of co‐aboutness (the relation of being about the same thing that stands between the thoughts and terms themselves).
Is rigid tracheobronchoscopy safe enough for airway disease?
Authors: Goto Taichiro
Published: March 2021

See related Reply
Depositional and early diagenetic characteristics of modern saline pan deposits at the Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah, USA
Authors: Bernau Jeremiah A. , Bowen Brenda B.
Published: March 2021

The Bonneville Salt Flats form a saline pan in western Utah, USA. This modern saline pan has a unique history of land‐speed racing and potash mining. Multi‐decadal measurements record decreasing evaporite volume and extent, spurring multiple environmental studies. The goal of this work is to describe saline pan evaporite morphologies within the context of environmental measurements. Environmental data include field observations, groundwater and dust trap samples, precipitation, albedo, time‐lapse photography, groundwater level, and temperature measurements of air, groundwater and the shallow evaporite crust. Petrographic data include thick sections, evaporite slabs and sediments, and X‐ray computed tomography of evaporites. Diverse halite morphologies are formed at the surface, vadose and phreatic zones. The presence and preservation of these morphologies are influenced by spatially heterogenous natural and anthropogenic processes, including daily to seasonal changes in brine salinity, mineral saturation states, and water level within and across saline pan stages. In addition to hydrological balances delineated by the saline pan stages of flooding, evapoconcentration and desiccation, changes in vertical brine movement, temperature and surficial sedimentary structures influence evaporite morphologies. These results are transferable to the interpretation of altered evaporites and enhancing saline pan depositional models.
Non‐tuberculous mycobacteria immunopathogenesis: Closer than they appear. a prime of innate immunity trade‐off and NTM ways into virulence
Authors: Cruz‐Aguilar Marisa , Castillo‐Rodal Antonia I. , Arredondo‐Hernández René , López‐Vidal Yolanda
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The growing incidence of non‐tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and changes in epidemiological factors have indicated that immune dysregulation may be associated with the emergence of NTM. Minireview entails to acknowledge complex interaction and new ways NTM are evolving around diverse immune status.

Methods

In order to perform this review, we selected peer reviewed, NLM database articles under the terms NTM, mycobacterium complex ‘AND’ ‐Host‐ immune response, immunity regulation, Disease, Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP´s), and ‐pathogen‐ followed by a snow ball rolling basis search on immune components and NTM related with diseases distribution.

Results

The universal exposure and diversity of NTM are well‐documented; however, hospitals seldom establish vigilant control of water quality or immunodeficiencies for patients with NTM infections. Depending on the chemical structures and immune mechanisms presented by various NTM varieties, they can trigger different effects in dendritic and natural killer cells, which release interleukin (IL)‐17, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and rIL‐1B. The T helper (Th)2‐acquired immune response is responsible for autoimmune responses in patients with NTM infections, and, quite disturbingly, immunocompetent patients have been reported to suffer from NTM infections.

Conclusion

New technologies and a comprehensive view has taught us; to acknowledge metabolic/immune determinants and trade‐offs along transit through mutualism‐parasite continuous.
The family as gender and sexuality factory: A review of the literature and future directions
Authors: Stacey Lawrence
Published: March 2021

Early theorists understood the family as a key institution in the production of gender and sexuality. In this paper, I trace the development of this line of thought and review parents' role in shaping children's gender and sexuality over the life course. I first describe the three most prominent theoretical frameworks used to locate parents in these studies: psychoanalysis, socialization, and interactional approaches. In doing so, I illuminate the contributions of each theory to sociological thought on children's gender and sexuality while pointing to weaknesses with psychoanalysis and socialization. I then discuss how parents influence children's development and performance of gender and heterosexuality, paying attention to variations based on race, class, gender, and sexuality. Based on the current state of the literature, I suggest that we sociologists should diversify our methodological approaches in this area, attend to how changes in families correspond to changes in parents' role in shaping children's gender and sexuality, and grapple with how children's performances of gender and sexuality influence parents' performances of gender and sexuality.
Systematic comparative study of computational methods for HLA typing from next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Yu Yuechun , Wang Ke , Fahira Aamir , Yang Qiangzhen , Sun Renliang , Li Zhiqiang , Wang Zhuo , Shi Yongyong
Published: March 2021

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system plays an important role in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and organ transplantations, immune disorders as well as oncological immunotherapy. However, HLA typing remains a challenging task due to the high level of polymorphism and homology among HLA genes. Based on the high‐throughput next‐generation sequencing data, new HLA typing algorithms and software tools were developed. But there is still a deficit of systematic comparative studies to assist in the selection of the optimal analytical approaches under different conditions. Here, we present a detailed comparison of eight software tools for HLA typing on different real datasets (whole‐genome sequencing, whole‐exome sequencing and transcriptomic sequencing data) and in‐silico samples with different sequencing lengths, depths, and error rates. We figure out the algorithms with the best efficiency in different scenarios, and demonstrate the effect of different raw reads on analytical performances. Our results provide a comprehensive picture of specifications and performances of the eight existing HLA genotyping algorithms, which could assist researchers in selecting the most appropriate tool for specific raw datasets.
28‐day thawed plasma maintains α2‐antiplasmin levels and inhibits tPA‐induced fibrinolysis
Authors: Stettler Gregory R. , Moore Ernest E. , Huebner Benjamin R. , Nunns Geoffrey R. , Moore Hunter B. , Coleman Julia R. , Kelher Marguerite , Banerjee Anirban , Silliman Christopher C.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Evidence supports the use of plasma‐first resuscitation in the treatment of trauma‐induced coagulopathy (TIC). While thawed plasma (TP) has logistical benefits, the ability of plasma proteins to attenuate fibrinolysis and correct TIC remain unknown. We hypothesize that TP retains the ability to inhibit tissue plasminogen activator(tPA)‐induced fibrinolysis at 28‐day storage.

Methods

Healthy volunteers underwent blood draws followed by 50% dilution of whole blood (WB) with TP at 28‐, 21‐, 14‐, 7‐, 5‐, and, 0‐day storage, normal saline (NS), and WB control. Samples underwent citrated tPA‐challenge (75 ng/ml) thromboelastography (TEG). Plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) and α2‐antiplasmin (α2‐AP) concentrations in thawed or stored plasma were determined.

Results

In the presence of tPA, 28‐day TP inhibited tPA‐induced coagulopathy as effectively as WB. 28‐day TP had a similar R‐time, MA, and fibrinolysis (P > 0·05 for all) compared to WB, while angle was enhanced (P = 0·02) compared to WB. Significant correlations were present between storage time and clot strength (P = 0·04) and storage time and fibrinolysis (P = 0·0029). Active PAI‐1 levels in thawed plasma were 1·10 ± 0·54 ng/mL while total PAI‐1 levels were 4·79 ± 1·41 ng/mL. There was no difference of α2‐AP levels in FFP (40·45 ± 3·5 μg/mL) compared to plasma thawed for 14 (36·78 ± 5·39 μg/mL, P = 0·65) or 28 days (45·16 ± 5·61 μg/mL, P = 0·51).

Discussion

Thawed plasma retained the ability to inhibit tPA‐induced fibrinolysis over 28‐day storage at 1–4°C. α2‐AP levels were maintained in plasma thawed for 28 days and FFP. These in vitro results suggest consideration should be made to increasing the storage life of TP.
Displacements Determined by Airy’s Stress Function
Authors: Westergaard H. M.
Published: March 2021

Airy’s stress function defines a plane state of stress by simple formulas. When the constants of elasticity are known, Airy’s function will also define the strains and detrusions by simple formulas, but the determination of the displacements is less direct. The solution described in this paper may be interpreted as a variant of a solution given by A. E. H. Love. Simple formulas are obtained by use of functions of a complex variable.
Transient Torques in Induction-Motor Drives
Authors: Wahl A. M.
Published: March 2021

When an induction motor is thrown across the line by the sudden closing of a switch, transient pulsating torques, which in typical cases may reach values from 3 to 6 times the nominal starting torque, are set up in the shafts, gearing, and couplings of the connected system. The actual magnitude of these torques depends not only upon the electrical characteristics of the motor but also on the mechanical characteristics of the drive, i.e., coupling flexibility, motor, and load inertias. In this paper, which is an elaboration with additional experimental results of a previous paper by the author, a method is developed for calculating such systems, a typical example being the roll-table drive used in continuous-strip mills. Tests on typical drives, carried out in parallel with the theoretical work, indicate that the method of calculation is satisfactory for practical use. A discussion of the transient torques set up during “plugging,” i.e., reversing rotation by interchanging two leads, is also given. A consideration of such torques is particularly important where motors are started and stopped frequently or continuously since, under such conditions, fatigue failure may occur if the mechanical stresses developed exceed the endurance limit of the material.
Effects of Surface Finish
Authors: Burwell J. T. , Kaye J. , van Nymegen D. W. , Morgan D. A.
Published: March 2021

Various commercial surface finishes are produced on steel shafts and in Part 1 it is found that the finish has little effect on the operation of a journal bearing in the region of hydrodynamic lubrication but does markedly affect the load capacity. In Part 2 a chemical method of detecting iron in oil is developed with a sensitivity of one part in ten million. This method is used to measure the iron removed during “running-in” from shafts with different surface finishes and under different loads.
Note on the Angular Motions of Ships
Authors: Minorsky Nicholas
Published: March 2021

The object of this paper is to bring to the attention of mechanical engineers a number of dynamical problems encountered in the theory of the ship; to indicate briefly the form of corresponding differential equations and their solutions; to analyze the validity of underlying theoretical assumptions; and to approach in this manner a comparison of the ship’s dynamics with problems commonly encountered in other fields, such as that of vibration theory.
An Extension of the Sand-Heap Analogy in Plastic Torsion Applicable to Cross Sections Having One or More Holes
Authors: Sadowsky M. A.
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the author cites the basic theory of the sand-heap method of plasticity as developed by A. Nádai, which involves determination of the twisting moment in plastic torsion by means of the formula M = 2 k m V . The author explains the principles upon which the analogy is modified to apply in the case of cross sections having one or more holes, such as a twisted shaft. The technique developed to meet such cases is described in detail and a mathematical analysis is given which results in a twisting-moment formula for a cross section with holes, equivalent in accuracy to that of the original equation for the simple case of a twisted bar.
Correlation of Residual Stresses in the Fatigue Strength of Axles
Authors: Horger O. J. , Neifert H. R.
Published: March 2021

The object of this paper is to present a correlation between residual stresses, obtained by heat-treatment, with fatigue values, determined from an investigation of full-size railroad axles. The axles tested were of both solid and tubular design and represent members which could be used under a car in actual service. It was found from these tests that high axle fatigue strength is associated with high surface residual compressive stresses, and lowest axle strength values with surface residual tensile stresses.
Graphical Analysis of Impact of Elastic Bars
Authors: DeJuhasz K. J.
Published: March 2021

The object of this paper is to apply the methods of graphical analysis to the problem of longitudinal central impact of elastic bars, partly to compare the results of the graphical procedure with those arrived at mathematically, and partly to treat complicated cases not readily amenable to mathematical treatment.
Investigation of Self-Excited Torsional Oscillations and Vibration Damper for Induction-Motor Drives
Authors: Wahl A. M. , Fischer E. G.
Published: March 2021

An unusual case of torsional oscillation was observed recently on several large induction-motor drives used for tunnel ventilation on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. These drives, which consist essentially of an induction motor driving a heavy centrifugal fan through a speed reducer, showed a severe torsional oscillation (with a double amplitude around 80 deg) at a point between two thirds and full speed during the accelerating period. These vibrations were found to be self-excited, as a consequence of the negative damping inherent in the shape of the speedtorque curve of the normal induction motor.

After consideration of various methods for eliminating the trouble, a torsional-vibration damper of relatively simple design was developed. Torsiograph records made on the actual drive showed that the oscillation was reduced to negligible values by the use of this damper.

Since induction-motor drives of this general type are used rather widely, it was felt that an account of this investigation, including the methods of calculating damper capacity, the laboratory tests on the damper, and the field tests on the actual drives would be of value to engineers, particularly those interested in vibration.
Ekman Layer Scrubbing and Shroud Heat Transfer in Centrifugal Buoyancy-Driven Convection
Authors: Gao Feng , Chew John W.
Published: March 2021

This paper presents large-eddy and direct numerical simulations of buoyancy-driven convection in sealed and open rapidly rotating cavities for Rayleigh numbers in the range 107–109, and axial throughflow Reynolds numbers 2000 and 5600. Viscous heating due to the Ekman layer scrubbing effect, which has previously been found responsible for the difference in sealed cavity shroud Nusselt number predictions between a compressible N–S solver and an incompressible counterpart using the Boussinesq approximation, is discussed and scaled up to engine conditions. For the open cavity with an axial throughflow, laminar Ekman layer behavior of the mean flow statistics is confirmed up to the highest condition in this paper. The Buoyancy number Bo is found useful to indicate the influence of an axial throughflow. For the conditions studied the mean velocities are subject to Ra, while the velocity fluctuations are affected by Bo. A correlation, Nu′=0.169(Ra′)0.318, obtained with both the sealed and open cavity shroud heat transfer solutions, agrees with that for free gravitational convection between horizontal plates within 16% for the range of Ra′ considered.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Tree Trunk Axes in Glulam Beam Design Considering Fuzzy Probability-Based Random Fields
Authors: Schietzold F. Niklas , Graf Wolfgang , Kaliske Michael
Published: March 2021

Deterministic design and a priori parameters are used in traditional optimization approaches. The material characteristics of solid wood are not deterministic in reality. Hence, realistic optimization and simulation methods need to take the uncertainties of parameters into account. The uncertainty characteristics of wood are mainly originated in natural variation. In addition to this, incertitudes from lack of knowledge are inherent. Accordingly, the aleatoric approach of randomness can be expanded to a polymorphic uncertainty model. Fuzzy probability-based randomness is used in this work. Therefore, the epistemic approach of fuzziness is taken into account. The distribution functions of random variables are parametrized by fuzzy variables. So coupling of both, aleatoric and epistemic uncertainties, is involved. Interactions of fuzzy variables and crosscorrelations of random variables are considered among and within the parameters. Crosscorrelated random fields are used to represent spatial variation of material parameters. The autocovariance structures are modeled structurally dependent on the tree trunk axes. Finite element method is applied as deterministic basic solution of a loaded timber structure. A local orthotropic material formulation with respect to specifically located tree trunk axes is used. The optimal positions of the tree trunk axes for each wooden log are examined as design parameters. Polymorphic uncertainty is used to describe a priori parameters. The developed methods for uncertainty analysis are embedded in an automated and parallelized optimization processing. An analysis of a two-tier glulam beam, according to a purlin of a timber roof construction, is shown as numerical example for the optimization framework.