bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A history of early household economics: Improving the family’s contribution to industrial production and rationalizing family consumption
Authors: Bankovsky Miriam
Published: June 2020

This article contributes to our knowledge of two early phases in the history of household economics. The first is represented by the 19th-century theory of Alfred Marshall and the second by the interwar theories of several North American consumer economists (Hazel Kyrk, Elizabeth Hoyt, and Margaret Reid). The aim is to present the analytical focus and accounts of social good that animated these phases. Since Marshall’s focus was on improving industrial production, his family economics explained how the Victorian family could improve the labour it contributed to industry. But the North American consumer economists sought to improve family consumption. Regarding ethics, 19th-century families were to cultivate an industrious and altruistic character. But the consumer economists thought families needed protection from producer fraud, along with living standards that expressed their individuality. Early household economics also accepted the gendered family form that had accompanied these developments, rejecting more ‘activist’ conceptions.
Association Between Kinesiophobia and Life Space Among Community-Dwelling Older People with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
Authors: Uchida Kazuaki , Murata Shunsuke , Kawaharada Rika , Tsuboi Yamato , Isa Tsunenori , Okumura Maho , Matsuda Naoka , Nakatsuka Kiyomasa , Horibe Kana , Kogaki Masahumi , Ono Rei
Published: June 2020

Objective

Kinesiophobia (i.e., fear of movement caused by pain) is increasingly acknowledged as a determinant of disuse among patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Kinesiophobia may affect life space—a crucial indicator of an active lifestyle among older people. This study aimed to investigate the previously unexamined association between kinesiophobia and life space among community-dwelling older people with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Community.

Subjects

We analyzed data from 194 community-dwelling older people (age ≥65 years, mean age = 75.7 years, 71.6% women) with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Methods

Kinesiophobia, life space, and pain severity were assessed using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, Life Space Assessment, and Brief Pain Inventory. Linear regression models were applied to analyze the associations between kinesiophobia and life space, and pain severity and life space.

Results

In our sample, the prevalence rates for chronic musculoskeletal pain were 10.82% (N = 21) for neck, 55.15% (N = 107) for lower back, 25.26% (N = 49) for shoulder, and 50.00% (N = 97) for knee. The results suggest that higher kinesiophobia is associated with smaller life space (adjusted beta = −0.91, 95% CI = −1.43 to −0.45, P < 0.001), even after adjustment for age, gender, years of education, pain severity, and presence of comorbidity. On the contrary, no significant association between pain severity and life space was observed (adjusted beta = −0.61, 95% CI = −2.92 to 1.72, P = 0.624).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that kinesiophobia plays an important role in the determination of life space among older people with chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Modeling Phylogenetic Biome Shifts on a Planet with a Past
Authors: Landis Michael , Edwards Erika J , Donoghue Michael J
Published: June 2020

The spatial distribution of biomes has changed considerably over deep time, so the geographical opportunity for an evolutionary lineage to shift into a new biome may depend on how the availability and connectivity of biomes has varied temporally. To better understand how lineages shift between biomes in space and time, we developed a phylogenetic biome shift model in which each lineage shifts between biomes and disperses between regions at rates that depend on the lineage’s biome affinity and location relative to the spatial distribution of biomes at any given time. To study the behavior of the biome shift model in an empirical setting, we developed a literature-based representation of paleobiome structure for three mesic forest biomes, six regions, and eight time strata, ranging from the Late Cretaceous (100 Ma) through the present. We then fitted the model to a time-calibrated phylogeny of 119 Viburnum species to compare how the results responded to various realistic or unrealistic assumptions about paleobiome structure. Ancestral biome estimates that account for paleobiome dynamics reconstructed a warm temperate (or tropical) origin of Viburnum, which is consistent with previous fossil-based estimates of ancestral biomes. Imposing unrealistic paleobiome distributions led to ancestral biome estimates that eliminated support for tropical origins, and instead inflated support for cold temperate ancestry throughout the warmer Paleocene and Eocene. The biome shift model we describe is applicable to the study of evolutionary systems beyond Viburnum, and the core mechanisms of our model are extensible to the design of richer phylogenetic models of historical biogeography and/or lineage diversification. We conclude that biome shift models that account for dynamic geographical opportunities are important for inferring ancestral biomes that are compatible with our understanding of Earth history.[Ancestral states; biome shifts; historical biogeography; niche conservatism; phylogenetics]
Redescription of the skull of the Australian flatback sea turtle,Natator depressus,provides new morphological evidence for phylogenetic relationships among sea turtles (Chelonioidea)
Authors: Chatterji Ray M , Hutchinson Mark N , Jones Marc E H
Published: June 2020

Chelonioidea (sea turtles) are a group where available morphological evidence for crown-group relationships are incongruent with those established using molecular data. However, morphological surveys of crown-group taxa tend to focus on a recurring subset of the extant species. The Australian flatback sea turtle, Natator depressus, is often excluded from comparisons and it is the most poorly known of the seven extant species of Chelonioidea. Previous descriptions of its skull morphology are limited and conflict. Here we describe three skulls of adult N. depressus and re-examine the phylogenetic relationships according to morphological character data. Using X-ray micro Computed Tomography we describe internal structures of the braincase and identify new phylogenetically informative characters not previously reported. Phylogenetic analysis using a Bayesian approach strongly supports a sister-group relationship between Chelonia mydas and N. depressus, a topology that was not supported by previous analyses of morphological data but one that matches the topology supported by analysis of molecular data. Our results highlight the general need to sample the morphological anatomy of crown-group taxa more thoroughly before concluding that morphological and molecular evidence are incongruous.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Intermediate-risk Prostate Cancer With VMAT and Real-time Electromagnetic Tracking
Authors: D’Agostino Giuseppe R. , Mancosu Pietro , Di Brina Lucia , Franzese Ciro , Pasini Luisa , Iftode Cristina , Comito Tiziana , De Rose Fiorenza , Guazzoni Giorgio F. , Scorsetti Marta
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

Stereotactic body radiation treatment represents an intriguing therapeutic option for patients with early-stage prostate cancer. In this phase II study, stereotactic body radiation treatment was delivered by volumetric modulated arc therapy with flattening filter free beams and was gated using real-time electromagnetic transponder system to maximize precision of radiotherapy and, potentially, to reduce toxicities.

Materials and Methods:

Patients affected by histologically proven prostate adenocarcinoma and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) intermediate class of risk were enrolled in this phase II study. Beacon transponders were positioned transrectally within the prostate parenchyma 7 to 10 days before simulation computed tomography scan. The radiotherapy schedule was 38 Gy in 4 fractions delivered every other day. Toxicity assessment was performed according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), v4.0.

Results:

Thirty-six patients were enrolled in this study. Median initial prostate-specific antigen was 7.0 ng/mL (range: 2.3 to 14.0 ng/mL). Median nadir–prostate-specific antigen after treatment was 0.2 ng/mL (range: 0.006 to 4.8 ng/mL). A genitourinary acute toxicity was observed in 21 patients (dysuria grade [G] 1: 41.7%, G2: 16.7%). Gastrointestinal acute toxicity was found in 9 patients (proctitis G1: 19.4%, G2: 5.6%). Late toxicity was mild (genitourinary toxicity G1: 30.6%; G2: 8.3%; gastrointestinal toxicity G1: 13.9%; G2: 19.4%). At a median follow-up time of 41 months, 3 biochemical recurrences were observed (2 local recurrences, 1 distant metastasis). Three-year biochemical recurrence-free survival was 89.8% (International Society of Urologic Pathology Grade Group 2: 100%, Grade Group 3: 77.1%,P=0.042).

Conclusion:

Ultrahypofractionated radiotherapy, delivered with flattening filter free-volumetric modulated arc therapy and gated by electromagnetic transponders, is a valid option for intermediate-risk prostate cancer.
Carcinoid Tumors of the Orbit and Ocular Adnexa
Authors: Mustak Hamzah , Liu Wenjing , Murta Fabiola , Ozgur Omar , Couch Steven , Garrity James , Shinder Roman , Kazim Michael , Callahan Alison , Hayek Brent , Kim HeeJoon , Yu Fei , Esmaeli Bita , Rose Geoffrey , Rootman Daniel
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Well-differentiated neuroendocrine or carcinoid tumors are found most commonly in the gastrointestinal tract. When metastatic to the orbit, they tend to have a propensity for the extraocular muscles. The purpose of this study was to better understand the diversity in presentation of orbital carcinoid disease and to determine predictors for survival.

Methods:

In this observational cross-sectional cohort study, data from 8 tertiary orbital practices were compiled. Demographic, clinical, pathologic, American Joint Committee on Cancer stage and grade, imaging, and management data were extracted for all the patients. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Subgroups were compared utilizing analysis of variance analyses and Kaplan–Meier curves. Time to progression and disease-specific and overall mortality were calculated. Comparisons were performed for the following a priori pairs: unknown versus known primary tumor, single versus multiple extraocular muscle involvement, unilateral versus bilateral orbital disease, extraocular muscle versus other orbital involvement, and excisional versus incisional surgery.

Results:

A total of 28 patients with carcinoid tumors of the orbit were identified. Of these, 57.1% of patients were female, the mean age at diagnosis of the primary tumor was 58.8 years and the mean age at diagnosis of orbital disease was 62.6 years. At primary presentation, all patients were American Joint Committee on Cancer stage III or IV and 21.4% demonstrated carcinoid syndrome. Muscle involvement was noted in 78.6% of patients, and of these, 72% were noted to have single muscle disease. Eight patients had no primary tumor identified; 3 of these 8 demonstrated disseminated disease at the time of diagnosis. The overall 5-year survival rate was 81.8% from diagnosis of primary tumor and 50% from diagnosis of orbital disease. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with unilateral orbital disease when compared with bilateral orbital disease had a longer progression-free survival and time to death from all causes (p = 0.025). Patients with disease localized to the orbit at presentation had longer time to death than those with disseminated disease. Treatment with surgery, radiation, or octreotide did not appear to affect survival. Patients managed with systemic chemotherapy had a shorter time of survival than the rest of the group. All other subgroup comparisons were not found to be statistically significant.

Conclusions:

Neuroendocrine tumors of the orbit represent a wide spectrum of disease, with some cases being part of disseminated disease, while others being localized presentations. This heterogeneity may be responsible for the slightly higher overall survival in these patients than others with metastatic carcinoid tumors in other locations.
Pre-sarcopenia is the prognostic factor of overall survival in early-stage hepatoma patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Yeh Wen-Shuo , Chiang Pi-Ling , Kee Kwong-Ming , Chang Ching-Di , Lu Sheng-Nan , Chen Chien-Hung , Wang Jing-Houng
Published: June 2020

Sarcopenia might have impact on the outcome of patients with hepatoma carcinoma (HCC). This study was to determine whether pre-sarcopenia is associated with the outcome of HCC patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

Patients with newly diagnosed HCC undergoing RFA were enrolled. We excluded patients without pre-RFA abdominal computed tomography or with incomplete ablation. Psoas muscle area index was calculated at the mid-lumbar 3 level of computed tomography images with the manual trace method. Pre-sarcopenia was defined as psoas muscle area index less than 4.24 and 2.50 cm2/m2 for males and females respectively. The demographics and clinical characteristics were recorded before RFA.

All patients were followed regularly until death or end of 2018. A total of 136 patients, including – BCLC stage 0 (n = 44, 32.4%) and – stage A (n = 92, 67.6%), were enrolled (males/females: 78/58, age: 65.4 years) with a mean follow-up period of 3.84 years. There were 75 patients (55.1%) with HCC recurrence and 47 patients (34.6%) with mortality during follow-up. Twenty-two (16.2%) patients were diagnosed with pre-sarcopenia. Multivariate analysis showed pre-sarcopenia (HR: 2.110 (1.092–4.078); P = .026) was the only factor significantly associated with overall survival (OS); however, there were no factors associated with HCC recurrence.

For patients without and with pre-sarcopenia, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates were 92.0%, 77.6%, 68.9%, and 81.8%, 54.5%, 44.1% respectively (P = .007). For early-stage HCC patients undergoing RFA, pre-sarcopenia is the prognostic factor of OS, but not of recurrence, with a worse 5-year OS rate of 44.1%.
Anti-Müllerian hormone as an ovarian reserve marker in women with the most frequent muscular dystrophies
Authors: Parmova Olesja , Vlckova Eva , Hulova Monika , Mensova Livie , Crha Igor , Stradalova Petra , Kralickova Eva , Jurikova Lenka , Podborska Martina , Mazanec Radim , Dusek Ladislav , Jarkovsky Jiri , Bednarik Josef , Vohanka Stanislav , Srotova Iva
Published: June 2020

Some muscular dystrophies may have a negative impact on fertility. A decreased ovarian reserve is 1 of the factors assumed to be involved in fertility impairment. AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) is currently considered the best measure of ovarian reserve.

A total of 21 females with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (MD1), 25 females with myotonic dystrophy type 2 (MD2), 12 females with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), 12 female carriers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy mutations (cDMD) and 86 age-matched healthy controls of reproductive age (range 18 – 44 years) were included in this case control study. An enzymatically amplified 2-site immunoassay was used to measure serum AMH level.

The MD1 group shows a significant decrease of AMH values (median 0.7 ng/mL; range 0 – 4.9 ng/mL) compared with age-matched healthy controls (P < .01). AMH levels were similar between patients and controls in terms of females with MD2 (P = .98), FSHD (P = .55) and cDMD (P = .60).

This study suggests decreased ovarian reserve in women with MD1, but not in MD2, FSHD and cDMD.
Genetic variations associated with telomere length affect the risk of gastric carcinoma
Authors: Lili Ma , Yuxiang Fan , Zhongcheng Han , Ying Su , Ru Chen , Rong Xu , Jiang Liu
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to further understand the role of relative telomere length (RTL) in susceptibility to gastric carcinoma (GC) and investigate the association between genetic polymorphisms in the telomere length related genes and GC risk.

RTL was measured using the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction from 1000 patients and 1100 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed using the Agena MassARRAY platform. The statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square/ WelchTtests, Mann–WhitneyUtest, and logistic regression analysis.

The association analysis of telomere length and GC showed that the RTL in the case group was shorter than in the controls, and the shorter RTL was associated with an increased risk of GC. The association analysis between telomere length related genes polymorphisms and genetic susceptibility to GC indicated that: In the allele models and genetic models,TERT(rs10069690, rs2242652 and rs2853676) andTN1F1(rs7708392 and rs10036748) were significantly associated with an increased risk of GC. In addition, the haplotype "Grs10069690Crs2242652” ofTERTand the haplotype "Grs7708392Trs10036748” ofTNIP1were associated with an increased risk of GC

Our results suggested that shorter RTL was associated with an increased risk of GC; The association analysis have identified that theTERT(rs10069690, rs2242652 and rs2853676) andTN1P1(rs7708392 and rs10036748) were associated with GC risk.
Incidence and mortality trend of congenital heart disease at the global, regional, and national level, 1990–2017
Authors: Wu Weiliang , He Jinxian , Shao Xiaobo
Published: June 2020

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most commonly diagnosed congenital disorder in newborns. The incidence and mortality of CHD vary worldwide. A detailed understanding of the global, regional, and national distribution of CHD is critical for CHD prevention.

We collected the incidence and mortality data of CHD from the Global Burden of Disease study 2017 database. Average annual percentage change was applied to quantify the temporal trends of CHD incidence and mortality at the global, regional, and national level, 1990–2017. A sociodemographic index (SDI) was created for each location based on income per capita, educational attainment, and fertility.

The incidence of CHD was relatively high in developing countries located in Africa and Asia, while low in most developed countries. Between 1990 and 2017, the CHD incidence rate remained stable at the global level, whereas increased in certain developed countries, such as Germany and France. The age-standardized mortality rate of CHD declined substantially over the last 3 decades, regardless of sex, age, and SDI region. The decline was more prominent in developed countries. We also detected a significant positive correlation between CHD incidence and CHD mortality in both 1990 and 2017, by SDI.

The incidence of CHD remained stable over the last 3 decades, suggesting little improvement in CHD prevention strategies and highlighting the importance of etiological studies. The mortality of CHD decreased worldwide, albeit the greatly geographical heterogeneity. Developing countries located in Africa and Asia deserve more attention and priority in the global CHD prevention program.
The research of Tuna Huichun Gong on pulmonary function, exercise tolerance, and quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease based on the concept of early pulmonary rehabilitation
Authors: Yu Wei , Su Peiyuan , Wang Jiaojiao , Zhou Pengcheng , Chen Keling , Liu Li , Xia Qianming , Chen Yuewei
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common high-burden and highly disabling lung disease. The quality of life and exercise endurance of patients with COPD is often low because of atrophy of the respiratory and skeletal muscles. Although recommended by the global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease guidelines, pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has not been used widely because of its inherent limitations. Tuna-Hui-Chun-Gong (TNHCG) is a popular traditional exercise used to treat COPD in China. We aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of TNHCG for PR of COPD.

Methods:

The provided protocol is for a single-blind randomized controlled trial in which 120 COPD patients will be randomly and equally divided into the experimental or control group. The control group will be treated with standard COPD drugs while the experimental group will perform TNHCG exercises apart from standard drug treatment. The duration of treatment will be 24 weeks and a follow-up for 48 weeks. The primary outcome will be the 6-Minute Walk Test. The secondary outcomes will include the pulmonary function test, St George's respiratory questionnaire, COPD assessment test, modified medical research council dyspnea scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and exacerbation frequency. A safety assessment will also be performed during the trial.

Discussion:

Our study will provide evidence to support TNHCG exercise as an additional measure for PR of COPD.

Trial registration:

ChiCTR1900028332, Registered December 29, 2019.

Ethics and dissemination:

Ethics approval has been granted by the Sichuan Traditional Chinese Medicine Regional Ethics Review Committee (No. 2019KL-050).
Leakiness and flow capture ratio of insect pectinate antennae
Authors: Jaffar-Bandjee Mourad , Steinmann Thomas , Krijnen Gijs , Casas Jérôme
Published: June 2020

The assumption that insect pectinate antennae, which are multi-scale organs spanning over four orders of magnitude in size among their different elements, are efficient at capturing sexual pheromones is commonly made but rarely thoroughly tested. Leakiness, i.e. the proportion of air that flows within the antenna and not around it, is a key parameter which depends on both the macro- and the microstructure of the antenna as well as on the flow velocity. The effectiveness of a structure to capture flow and hence molecules is a trade-off between promoting large leakiness in order to have a large portion of the flow going through it and a large effective surface area to capture as much from the flow as possible, therefore leading to reduced leakiness. The aim of this work is to measure leakiness in 3D-printed structures representing the higher order structure of an antenna, i.e. the flagellum and the rami, with varying densities of rami and under different flow conditions. The male antennae of the mothSamia cynthia(Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) were used as templates. Particle image velocimetry in water and oil using 3D-printed scaled-up surrogates enabled us to measure leakiness over a wide range of equivalent air velocities, from 0.01 m s−1to 5 m s−1, corresponding to those experienced by the moth. We observed the presence of a separated vortex ring behind our surrogate structures at some velocities. Variations in the densities of rami enabled us to explore the role of the effective surface area, which we assume to permit equivalent changes in the number of sensilla that host the chemical sensors. Leakiness increased with flow velocity in a sigmoidal fashion and decreased with rami density. The flow capture ratio, i.e. the leakiness multiplied by the effective surface area divided by the total surface area, embodies the above trade-off. For each velocity, a specific structure leads to a maximum flow capture ratio. There is thus not a single pectinate architecture which is optimal at all flow velocities. By contrast, the natural design seems to be robustly functioning for the velocity range likely to be encountered in nature.
A domain-level DNA strand displacement reaction enumerator allowing arbitrary non-pseudoknotted secondary structures
Authors: Badelt Stefan , Grun Casey , Sarma Karthik V. , Wolfe Brian , Shin Seung Woo , Winfree Erik
Published: June 2020

Information technologies enable programmers and engineers to design and synthesize systems of startling complexity that nonetheless behave as intended. This mastery of complexity is made possible by a hierarchy of formal abstractions that span from high-level programming languages down to low-level implementation specifications, with rigorous connections between the levels. DNA nanotechnology presents us with a new molecular information technology whose potential has not yet been fully unlocked in this way. Developing an effective hierarchy of abstractions may be critical for increasing the complexity of programmable DNA systems. Here, we build on prior practice to provide a new formalization of ‘domain-level’ representations of DNA strand displacement systems that has a natural connection to nucleic acid biophysics while still being suitable for formal analysis. Enumeration of unimolecular and bimolecular reactions provides a semantics for programmable molecular interactions, with kinetics given by an approximate biophysical model. Reaction condensation provides a tractable simplification of the detailed reactions that respects overall kinetic properties. The applicability and accuracy of the model is evaluated across a wide range of engineered DNA strand displacement systems. Thus, our work can serve as an interface between lower-level DNA models that operate at the nucleotide sequence level, and high-level chemical reaction network models that operate at the level of interactions between abstract species.
The effects of motor modularity on performance, learning and generalizability in upper-extremity reaching: a computational analysis
Authors: Al Borno Mazen , Hicks Jennifer L. , Delp Scott L.
Published: June 2020

It has been hypothesized that the central nervous system simplifies the production of movement by limiting motor commands to a small set of modules known as muscle synergies. Recently, investigators have questioned whether a low-dimensional controller can produce the rich and flexible behaviours seen in everyday movements. To study this issue, we implemented muscle synergies in a biomechanically realistic model of the human upper extremity and performed computational experiments to determine whether synergies introduced task performance deficits, facilitated the learning of movements, and generalized to different movements. We derived sets of synergies from the muscle excitations our dynamic optimizations computed for a nominal task (reaching in a plane). Then we compared the performance and learning rates of a controller that activated all muscles independently to controllers that activated the synergies derived from the nominal reaching task. We found that a controller based on synergies had errors within 1 cm of a full-dimensional controller and achieved faster learning rates (as estimated from computational time to converge). The synergy-based controllers could also accomplish new tasks—such as reaching to targets on a higher or lower plane, and starting from alternative initial poses—with average errors similar to a full-dimensional controller.
Climatological, virological and sociological drivers of current and projected dengue fever outbreak dynamics in Sri Lanka
Authors: Wagner Caroline E. , Hooshyar Milad , Baker Rachel E. , Yang Wenchang , Arinaminpathy Nimalan , Vecchi Gabriel , Metcalf C. Jessica E. , Porporato Amilcare , Grenfell Bryan T.
Published: June 2020

The largest ever Sri Lankan dengue outbreak of 2017 provides an opportunity for investigating the relative contributions of climatological, epidemiological and sociological drivers on the epidemic patterns of this clinically important vector-borne disease. To do so, we develop a climatologically driven disease transmission framework for dengue virus using spatially resolved temperature and precipitation data as well as the time-series susceptible-infected-recovered (SIR) model. From this framework, we first demonstrate that the distinct climatological patterns encountered across the island play an important role in establishing the typical yearly temporal dynamics of dengue, but alone are unable to account for the epidemic case numbers observed in Sri Lanka during 2017. Using a simplified two-strain SIR model, we demonstrate that the re-introduction of a dengue virus serotype that had been largely absent from the island in previous years may have played an important role in driving the epidemic, and provide a discussion of the possible roles for extreme weather events and human mobility patterns on the outbreak dynamics. Lastly, we provide estimates for the future burden of dengue across Sri Lanka using the Coupled Model Intercomparison Phase 5 climate projections. Critically, we demonstrate that climatological and serological factors can act synergistically to yield greater projected case numbers than would be expected from the presence of a single driver alone. Altogether, this work provides a holistic framework for teasing apart and analysing the various complex drivers of vector-borne disease outbreak dynamics.
Gamow’s cyclist: a new look at relativistic measurements for a binocular observer
Authors: Cryer-Jenkins E. A. , Stevenson P. D.
Published: June 2020

The visualization of objects moving at relativistic speeds has been a popular topic of study since Special Relativity’s inception. While the standard exposition of the theory describes certain shape-changing effects, such as the Lorentz-contraction, it makes no mention of how an extended object would appear in a snapshot or how apparent distortions could be used for measurement. Previous work on the subject has derived the apparent form of an object, often making mention of George Gamow’s relativistic cyclist thought experiment. Here, a rigorous re-analysis of the cyclist, this time in three dimensions, is undertaken for a binocular observer, accounting for both the distortion in apparent position and the relativistic colour and intensity shifts undergone by a fast-moving object. A methodology for analysing binocular relativistic data is then introduced, allowing the fitting of experimental readings of an object’s apparent position to determine the distance to the object and its velocity. This method is then applied to the simulation of Gamow’s cyclist, producing self-consistent results.
Exact and linearized refractive index stress-dependence in anisotropic photoelastic crystals
Authors: Daví Fabrizio
Published: June 2020

For the permittivity tensor of photoelastic anisotropic crystals, we obtain the exact nonlinear dependence on the Cauchy stress tensor. We obtain the same result for its square root, whose principal components, the crystal principal refractive index, are the starting point for any photoelastic analysis of transparent crystals. From these exact results we then obtain, in a totally general manner, the linearized expressions to within higher-order terms in the stress tensor for both the permittivity tensor and its square root. We finish by showing some relevant examples of both nonlinear and linearized relations for optically isotropic, uniaxial and biaxial crystals.
A unified approach for topology optimization with local stress constraints considering various failure criteria: von Mises, Drucker–Prager, Tresca, Mohr–Coulomb, Bresler– Pister and Willam–Warnke
Authors: Giraldo-Londoño Oliver , Paulino Glaucio H.
Published: June 2020

An interesting, yet challenging problem in topology optimization consists of finding the lightest structure that is able to withstand a given set of applied loads without experiencing local material failure. Most studies consider material failure via the von Mises criterion, which is designed for ductile materials. To extend the range of applications to structures made of a variety of different materials, we introduce a unified yield function that is able to represent several classical failure criteria including von Mises, Drucker–Prager, Tresca, Mohr–Coulomb, Bresler–Pister and Willam–Warnke, and use it to solve topology optimization problems with local stress constraints. The unified yield function not only represents the classical criteria, but also provides a smooth representation of the Tresca and the Mohr–Coulomb criteria—an attribute that is desired when using gradient-based optimization algorithms. The present framework has been built so that it can be extended to failure criteria other than the ones addressed in this investigation. We present numerical examples to illustrate how the unified yield function can be used to obtain different designs, under prescribed loading or design-dependent loading (e.g. self-weight), depending on the chosen failure criterion.
Analysis of the changing geometry of flexible structure: 1. approach and formulation
Authors: Ting Edward C. , Wu Tung-Yueh
Published: June 2020

An alternative approach for the analysis of flexible structure is presented. Instead of following theories of finite deformation, classical structural models with infinitesimal strain and engineering stress are assumed as the basis of formulation. A compatible concept of description is developed to handle the large geometrical change due to load. The article first discusses: (i) the condition that a classical model can be adopted to formulate a flexible theory of structure and (ii) the procedure to formulate a description of geometry that embraces assumptions of the classical model. Based on the discussion, a general procedure to develop the flexible structural model is proposed. Equations for the cylindrical deformation of a flexible panel are derived as an example. In an accompanying article: ‘Analysis of the changing geometry of flexible structure: 2. Analysis of flexible solid’, an algorithm is developed to study three-dimensional flexible solids. Numerical results are obtained to verify the concept and procedure.
Stochastic scattering model of anomalous diffusion in arrays of steady vortices
Authors: Buonocore Salvatore , Sen Mihir , Semperlotti Fabio
Published: June 2020

We investigate the occurrence of anomalous transport phenomena associated with tracer particles propagating through arrays of steady vortices. The mechanism responsible for the occurrence of anomalous transport is identified in the particle dynamic, which is characterized by long collision-less trajectories (Lévy flights) interrupted by chaotic interactions with vortices. The process is studied via stochastic molecular models that are able to capture the underlying non-local nature of the transport mechanism. These models, however, are not well suited for problems where computational efficiency is an enabling factor. We show that fractional-order continuum models provide an excellent alternative that is able to capture the non-local nature of anomalous transport processes in turbulent environments. The equivalence between stochastic molecular and fractional continuum models is demonstrated both theoretically and numerically. In particular, the onset and the temporal evolution of heavy-tailed diffused fields are shown to be accurately captured, from a macroscopic perspective, by a fractional diffusion equation. The resulting anomalous transport mechanism, for the selected ranges of density of the vortices, shows a superdiffusive nature.
Evolution in interacting species alters predator life-history traits, behaviour and morphology in experimental microbial communities
Authors: Cairns Johannes , Moerman Felix , Fronhofer Emanuel A. , Altermatt Florian , Hiltunen Teppo
Published: June 2020

Predator–prey interactions heavily influence the dynamics of many ecosystems. An increasing body of evidence suggests that rapid evolution and coevolution can alter these interactions, with important ecological implications, by acting on traits determining fitness, including reproduction, anti-predatory defence and foraging efficiency. However, most studies to date have focused only on evolution in the prey species, and the predator traits in (co)evolving systems remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated changes in predator traits after approximately 600 generations in a predator–prey (ciliate–bacteria) evolutionary experiment. Predators independently evolved on seven different prey species, allowing generalization of the predator's evolutionary response. We used highly resolved automated image analysis to quantify changes in predator life history, morphology and behaviour. Consistent with previous studies, we found that prey evolution impaired growth of the predator, although the effect depended on the prey species. By contrast, predator evolution did not cause a clear increase in predator growth when feeding on ancestral prey. However, predator evolution affected morphology and behaviour, increasing size, speed and directionality of movement, which have all been linked to higher prey search efficiency. These results show that in (co)evolving systems, predator adaptation can occur in traits relevant to foraging efficiency without translating into an increased ability of the predator to grow on the ancestral prey type.
A mitochondrial genetic divergence proxy predicts the reproductive compatibility of mammalian hybrids
Authors: Allen Richard , Ryan Hannah , Davis Brian W. , King Charlotte , Frantz Laurent , Irving-Pease Evan , Barnett Ross , Linderholm Anna , Loog Liisa , Haile James , Lebrasseur Ophélie , White Mark , Kitchener Andrew C. , Murphy William J. , Larson Greger
Published: June 2020

Numerous pairs of evolutionarily divergent mammalian species have been shown to produce hybrid offspring. In some cases, F1hybrids are able to produce F2s through matings with F1s. In other instances, the hybrids are only able to produce offspring themselves through backcrosses with a parent species owing to unisexual sterility (Haldane's Rule). Here, we explicitly tested whether genetic distance, computed from mitochondrial and nuclear genes, can be used as a proxy to predict the relative fertility of the hybrid offspring resulting from matings between species of terrestrial mammals. We assessed the proxy's predictive power using a well-characterized felid hybrid system, and applied it to modern and ancient hominins. Our results revealed a small overlap in mitochondrial genetic distance values that distinguish species pairs whose calculated distances fall within two categories: those whose hybrid offspring follow Haldane's Rule, and those whose hybrid F1offspring can produce F2s. The strong correlation between genetic distance and hybrid fertility demonstrated here suggests that this proxy can be employed to predict whether the hybrid offspring of two mammalian species will follow Haldane's Rule.
Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies Among Healthcare Workers at a Tertiary Academic Hospital in New York City
Authors: Mansour Mayce , Levin Emily , Muellers Kimberly , Stone Kimberly , Mendu Rao , Wajnberg Ania
Published: June 2020

Background: SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing is important for understanding immunity prevalence, and may have implications for healthcare workers (HCW) during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: We conducted immunologic testing of healthcare workers to determine the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG in this population. HCW were advised to wait at least two weeks from time of symptom onset or suspected exposure before undergoing testing. All participants were self-reported asymptomatic for at least three days at the time of testing. Results: Two hundred eighty-five samples were collected from March 24, 2020 to April 4, 2020. The average age of participants was 38 years (range 18-84), and 54% were male. Thirty-three percept tested IgG positive, 3% tested weakly positive, and 64% tested negative. Neither age nor sex was associated with antibody development. Conclusion: Thirty-six percent of HCW had IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, reflecting the high exposure of inpatient and ambulatory frontline staff to this viral illness, most of whom had minimal symptoms and were working in the weeks preceding testing. While we continue to recommend standard protective precautions per CDC guidelines for all HCW, HCW with SARS-CoV-2 IgG may become our safest frontline providers as we learn if our IgG antibodies confer immunity. Knowing IgG antibody status may ease concerns regarding personal risk as this pandemic continues.
When “Shelter-in-Place” Isn’t Shelter That’s Safe: A Rapid Analysis of Domestic Violence Case Differences During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Stay-at-Home Orders
Authors: McLay Molly M.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study explored the COVID-19 pandemic’s impacts on domestic violence (DV) with the following research questions: 1) Did DV occurring during the pandemic differ on certain variables from cases occurring on a typical day the previous year? 2) Did DV occurring after the implementation of shelter-in-place orders differ (on these same variables) from cases occurring prior to shelter-in-place orders?

Methods

Two logistic regression models were developed to predict DV case differences before and during the pandemic. DV reports (N=4618) were collected from the Chicago Police Department. Cases from March 2019 and March 2020 were analyzed based on multiple variables. One model was set to predict case differences since the pandemic began, and another model was set to predict case differences during the shelter-in-place period later that month.

Results

Both models were significant with multiple significant predictors. During the pandemic period, cases with arrests were 20% less likely to have occurred, and cases at residential locations were 22% more likely to have occurred. During the shelter-in-place period, cases at residential locations were 64% more likely to have occurred, and cases with child victims were 67% less likely to have occurred.

Conclusions

This study offers a rapid analysis of DV case differences since the pandemic and shelter-in-place began. Additional variables and data sources could improve model explanatory power. Research, policy, and practice in this area must pivot to focus on protecting children whose access to mandated reporters has decreased and moving victims out of dangerous living situations into safe spaces.
A comparative evaluation of a dye-based and probe-based RT-qPCR assay for the screening of SARS-CoV-2 using individual and pooled-sample testing
Authors: Verdugo Claudio , Plaza Anita , Acosta-Jamett Gerardo , Castro Natalia , Gutiérrez Josefina , Hernández Carlos , López-Joven Carmen , Loncoman Carlos A. , Navarrete Claudio , Ramírez-Reveco Alfredo , Romero Alex , Silva Andrea , Vega Matías , Verdugo Cristóbal , Vergara-Amado Jonathan
Published: June 2020

Effective interventions are mandatory to control the transmission and spread of SARS-CoV-2, a highly contagious virus causing devastating effects worldwide. Cost-effective approaches are pivotal tools required to increase the detection rates and escalate further in massive surveillance programs, especially in countries with limited resources that most of the efforts have focused on symptomatic cases only. Here, we compared the performance of the RT-qPCR using an intercalating dye with the probe-based assay. Then, we tested and compared these two RT-qPCR chemistries in different pooling systems: after RNA extraction (post-RNA extraction) and before RNA extraction (pre-RNA extraction) optimizing by pool size and template volume. We evaluated these approaches in 610 clinical samples. Our results show that the dye-based technique has a high analytical sensitivity similar to the probe-based detection assay used worldwide. Further, this assay may also be applicable in testing by pool systems post-RNA extraction up to 20 samples. However, the most efficient system for massive surveillance, the pre-RNA extraction pooling approach, was obtained with the probe-based assay in test up to 10 samples adding 13.5 µL of RNA template. The low cost and the potential use in pre-RNA extraction pool systems, place of this assays as a valuable resource for scalable sampling to larger populations. Implementing a pool system for population sampling results in an important savings of laboratory resources and time, which are two key factors during an epidemic outbreak. Using the pooling approaches evaluated here, we are confident that it can be used as a valid alternative assay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in human samples.
Therapeutic Anticoagulation Is Associated with Decreased Mortality in Mechanically Ventilated COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Trinh Muoi A. , Chang Daniel R. , Govindarajulu Usha S. , Kane Erica , Fuster Valentin , Kohli-Seth Roopa , Ahmed Sanam , Levin Matthew A , Chen Martin D.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate differences in morbidity and mortality among mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19 treated with therapeutic versus prophylactic anticoagulation.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 245 COVID-19 positive patients admitted to the ICU requiring mechanical ventilation from March 1, 2020 through April 11, 2020 at Mount Sinai Hospital. Patients either received therapeutic anticoagulation for a minimum of 5 days or prophylactic dose anticoagulation. Morbidity and mortality data were analyzed.

Results

Propensity score (PS) weighted Kaplan-Meier plot demonstrated a survival advantage (57% vs. 25%) at 35 days from admission to the ICU in patients who received therapeutic anticoagulation for a minimum of 5 days compared to those who received prophylactic anticoagulation during their hospital course. A multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression model with PS weights to adjust for baseline differences found a 79% reduction in death in patients who were therapeutically anticoagulated HR 0.209, [95% Cl (0.10, 0.46), p < 0.001]. Bleeding complications were similar between both groups. A 26.7% [95% Cl (1.16, 1.39), p< 0.001] excess mortality was found for each 1 mg/dL rise in serum creatinine over a 21-day period.

Conclusions

Therapeutic anticoagulation is associated with a survival advantage among patients with COVID-19 who require mechanical ventilation in the ICU.
Rethinking antiviral effects for COVID-19 in clinical studies: early initiation is key to successful treatment
Authors: Iwanami Shoya , Ejima Keisuke , Su Kim Kwang , Noshita Koji , Fujita Yasuhisa , Miyazaki Taiga , Kohno Shigeru , Miyazaki Yoshitsugu , Morimoto Shimpei , Nakaoka Shinji , Koizumi Yoshiki , Asai Yusuke , Aihara Kazuyuki , Watashi Koichi , Thompson Robin N. , Shibuya Kenji , Fujiu Katsuhito , Perelson Alan S. , Iwami Shingo , Wakita Takaji
Published: June 2020

Development of an effective antiviral drug for COVID-19 is a global health priority. Although several candidate drugs have been identified throughin vitroandin vivomodels, consistent and compelling evidence for effective drugs from clinical studies is limited. The lack of evidence could be in part due to heterogeneity of virus dynamics among patients and late initiation of treatment. We first quantified the heterogeneity of viral dynamics which could be a confounder in compassionate use programs. Second, we demonstrated that an antiviral drug is unlikely to be effective if initiated after a short period following symptom onset. For accurate evaluation of the efficacy of an antiviral drug for COVID-19, antiviral treatment should be initiated before or soon after symptom onset in randomized clinical trials.

One Sentence Summary

Study design to evaluate antiviral effect.