bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple inheritance, complex regulation: Supergene‐mediated fire ant queen polymorphism
Authors: Arsenault Samuel V. , King Joanie T. , Kay Sasha , Lacy Kip D. , Ross Kenneth G. , Hunt Brendan G.
Published: August 2020

The fire ant Solenopsis invicta exists in two alternate social forms: monogyne nests contain a single reproductive queen and polygyne nests contain multiple reproductive queens. This colony‐level social polymorphism corresponds with individual differences in queen physiology, queen dispersal patterns and worker discrimination behaviours, all evidently regulated by an inversion‐based supergene that spans more than 13 Mb of a “social chromosome,” contains over 400 protein‐coding genes and rarely undergoes recombination. The specific mechanisms by which this supergene influences expression of the many distinctive features that characterize the alternate forms remain almost wholly unknown. To advance our understanding of these mechanisms, we explore the effects of social chromosome genotype and natal colony social form on gene expression in queens sampled as they embarked on nuptial flights, using RNA‐sequencing of brains and ovaries. We observe a large effect of natal social form, that is, of the social/developmental environment, on gene expression profiles, with similarly substantial effects of genotype, including: (a) supergene‐associated gene upregulation, (b) allele‐specific expression and (c) pronounced extra‐supergene trans‐regulatory effects. These findings, along with observed spatial variation in differential and allele‐specific expression within the supergene region, highlight the complex gene regulatory landscape that emerged following divergence of the inversion‐mediated Sb haplotype from its homologue, which presumably largely retained the ancestral gene order. The distinctive supergene‐associated gene expression trajectories we document at the onset of a queen’s reproductive life expand the known record of relevant molecular correlates of a complex social polymorphism and point to putative genetic factors underpinning the alternate social syndromes.
Interactions among Triatoma sanguisuga blood feeding sources, gut microbiota and Trypanosoma cruzi diversity in southern Louisiana
Authors: Dumonteil Eric , Pronovost Henry , Bierman Eli F. , Sanford Anna , Majeau Alicia , Moore Ryan , Herrera Claudia
Published: August 2020

Integrating how biodiversity and infectious disease dynamics are linked at multiple levels and scales is highly challenging. Chagas disease is a vector‐borne disease, with specificities of the triatomine vectors and Trypanosoma cruzi parasite life histories resulting in a complex multihost and multistrain life cycle. Here, we tested the hypothesis that T. cruzi transmission cycles are shaped by triatomine host communities and gut microbiota composition by comparing the integrated interactions of Triatoma sanguisuga in southern Louisiana with feeding hosts, T. cruzi parasite and bacterial microbiota in two habitats. Bugs were collected from resident's houses and animal shelters and analysed for genetic structure, blood feeding sources, T. cruzi parasites, and bacterial diversity by PCR amplification of specific DNA markers followed by next‐generation sequencing, in an integrative metabarcoding approach. T. sanguisuga feeding host communities appeared opportunistic and defined by host abundance in each habitat, yielding distinct parasite transmission networks among hosts. The circulation of a large diversity of T. cruzi DTUs was also detected, with TcII and TcV detected for the first time in triatomines in the US. The bacterial microbiota was highly diverse and varied significantly according to the DTU infecting the bugs, indicating specific interactions among them in the gut. Expanding such studies to multiple habitats and additional triatomine species would be key to further refine our understanding of the complex life cycles of multihost, multistrain parasites such as T. cruzi, and may lead to improved disease control strategies.
Hemalin fromHaemaphysalis flava ticks: cloning, expression and antithrombogenicity
Authors: Liu L. , Tang H. , Feng L.‐L. , Cheng T.‐Y.
Published: August 2020

Hemalin, initially described in Haemaphysalis longicornis, is a protein with anticoagulant activity. We retrieved a gene fragment functionally annotated as hemalin from H. flava salivary gland transcriptomic library, but its full‐length complementary DNA (cDNA) and antithrombogenicity have not been investigated in the species. Here we cloned the full length of hemalin (Hf‐hemalin) by 3′‐end rapid‐amplification of cDNA ends, and the open reading frame (ORF) of Hf‐hemalin was expressed in Escherichia coli. The recombinant protein (rHf‐Hemalin) was tested for antithrombogenicity. The full‐length of Hf‐hemalin was 607 bp with an ORF of423 bp. Protein encoded by Hf‐hemalin was predicted to contain 2 Kunitz domains and a signal peptide. The expression of Hf‐hemalin in salivary glands, midguts and ovaries was higher in the semi‐engorged than the fully engorged. Prokaryotic expression yielded a product of 40 kDa containing a glutathione S‐transferase (GST) tag. Incubation of rHf‐Hemalin with rat plasma significantly extended prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time compared with normal saline and GST controls. Our data demonstrated that Hemalin from H. flava shared a similar primary structure with that from H. longicornis, and was also anticoagulant. Further investigations are needed to test its feasibility to be an antigen candidate for the development of vaccines against ticks.
Enhanced recovery after surgical correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Julien‐Marsollier Florence , Michelet Daphné , Assaker Rita , Doval Antoine , Louisy Simon , Madre Chrystèle , Simon Anne‐Laure , Ilharreborde Brice , Brasher Christopher , Dahmani Souhayl
Published: August 2020

Background

Few publications in the literature examine enhanced recovery after scoliosis surgery (ERAS) in children, despite significant scientific interest in adults. The objective of the current study was to describe an ERAS protocol for surgical correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and its results.

Methods

ERAS outcomes were measured in two patient cohorts. Historical controls and ERAS groups were selected from patients managed for scoliosis surgery in 2015 and 2018, respectively. The ERAS protocol included fasting minimization, carbohydrate loading, the avoidance of background morphine infusions, perioperative opioid‐sparing protocols, the use of a cooling brace, early physiotherapy, feeding and oral medications, and the early removal of urinary catheters and surgical drains. The main outcome of the study was hospital length of stay.

Results

Overall, 82 controls and 81 ERAS patients were recruited. ERAS protocols were observed in over 80% of patients for almost items. Median length of hospital stay was significantly lower in the ERAS group (‐ 3 [95% confidence interval: −2; −4] days). Median morphine consumption was reduced by 25% and 35% on days 2 and 3, respectively. The incidence of PONV did not differ between the two groups, and the incidence of constipation decreased slightly but significantly in the ERAS group on day 2. Pain intensity at rest and movement were lower in the ERAS group at day 2 and 3.

Conclusions

The current study suggests an ERAS protocol after adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery is associated with reduced hospital length of stay and improved postoperative care.
A simple screening test of filtration efficiency for protecting the gas sampling line from coronavirus using fluorescent microspheres
Authors: Brustowicz Robert M. , Yuki Koichi
Published: August 2020

Background

During the coronavirus pandemic, preventing contamination of the anesthesia machine, critical to avoid cross‐contamination between patients, has proven challenging when treating premature infants and neonates. While attaching a HEPA filter to the endotracheal tube will protect the anesthesia machine and the gas sampling line from contamination, this contribution to the dead space makes ventilation of these small patients challenging. Direct filtration of the gas sampling line eliminates this problem; however, appropriate filters are not readily available.

Aims

Identify a small filter capable of filtering out particles of a size similar to the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus for the gas sampling line.

Methods

We used fluorescence microspheres suspended in a solution for a challenge test to determine the filtration efficiency of various filters. The microspheres varied in diameter (0.02 µm, 0.042 µm, 0.109 µm, and 0.989 µm). A fluorescence plate reader was used to evaluate the degree of fluorescence intensity in the flow‐through from various filters and referenced to the fluorescence intensity of the input.

Results

AHEPA filter, as recommended as an anti‐viral filter, effectively filtered all the particles tested. The B. Braun PERIFIX Flat Epidural Filter was the second most effective filter, filtering particles larger than 0.042 µm. Other filters tested did not filter fluorescence microspheres equivalent in size to a single coronavirus particle (0.07 µm).

Conclusions

Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the Flat Epidural Filter for use as an anesthesia machine gas filter, our simple challenge test suggests that it could be used to effectively filter the anesthesia gas sampling line.
Use of psoralen therapies obtained abroad in two children with Vitiligo
Authors: Bell Katheryn A. , Saardi Karl M. , Norton Scott A. , Habeshian Kaiane A.
Published: August 2020

We describe two American‐born children with vitiligo, each of whom travelled to their family's ancestral home (India and Ethiopia), where their skin conditions were treated with PUVAsol, which involves the use of topical or oral psoralens followed by exposure to natural sunlight. Both children experienced modest repigmentation and were subsequently seen in our dermatology clinics. PUVAsol may be an attractive treatment option for some families, but there are potentially serious side effects including phototoxicity and cutaneous malignancy. Dermatologists should be aware of the existence of this treatment modality as well as its complications.
A practical review of dermoscopy for pediatric dermatology part II: Vascular tumors, infections, and inflammatory dermatoses
Authors: Natsis Nicola E. , Gordon Samantha C. , Kaushik Anshika , Seiverling Elizabeth V.
Published: August 2020

In addition to the evaluation of melanocytic growths (Part I), dermoscopy is helpful in the identification and management of vascular tumors, skin infections, and inflammatory conditions. In this practical review, we present the classic dermoscopic findings of the following: vascular tumors, infectious conditions (molluscum contagiosum, scabies, verruca vulgaris), inflammatory conditions (psoriasis, atopic dermatitis), juvenile xanthogranuloma, and nevus sebaceus.
Effects of language context on executive control in unbalanced bilinguals: An ERPs study
Authors: Jiao Lu , Liu Cong , de Bruin Angela , Chen Baoguo
Published: August 2020

The influence of the language context on language control has been widely discussed in the bilingualism literature, and there is an increase in studies examining the effect of language context on domain‐general executive control. However, it remains unclear how language contexts affect executive control performance. In the present study, we created single‐ and mixed‐language comprehension contexts. Unbalanced Chinese‐English bilinguals completed a modified flanker task that was interleaved with a single‐language or mixed‐language picture‐word matching task. The effects of language comprehension context on language control were reflected by the N2 and LPC effects. Executive control processes also differed depending on the language comprehension context, with faster behavioral responses and larger N2 but smaller P3 electrophysiological components in the mixed‐language context. Moreover, the LPC amplitude in the mixed‐language context predicted the behavioral performance in the executive control task. These findings suggested that flexible language control during language comprehension altered executive control processes in unbalanced bilinguals.
Key issues in Northwestern Mediterranean dry grassland restoration
Authors: Buisson Elise , De Almeida Tania , Durbecq Aure , Arruda André J. , Vidaller Christel , Alignan Jean‐François , Toma Tiago S. P. , Hess Manon C. M. , Pavon Daniel , Isselin‐Nondedeu Francis , Jaunatre Renaud , Moinardeau Cannelle , Young Truman P. , Mesléard François , Dutoit Thierry , Blight Olivier , Bischoff Armin
Published: August 2020

Dry grasslands of the Northwestern Mediterranean Basin are seminatural species‐rich ecosystems, composed of many annual species and some structuring perennial species. As these grasslands have been used as rangelands for centuries, human management (grazing; fire regimes) is one of their main ecological and evolutionary drivers, along with the Mediterranean climate. Despite EU conservation policy, damage to such grasslands still occurs and efficient ecological restoration is needed. This article reviews restoration constraints, effective techniques, and research perspectives for restoring them in the light of their ecological characteristics. Major restoration constraints specifically include (1) a poor contribution of the internal (seed bank) and external (seed rain) species pools, and (2) low establishment of some perennial species. The latter may be the result of the low seed quantity or quality of perennial species, stochastic or extended droughts, high soil nutrient content that may lead to competition (e.g. between weed and target species), inappropriate grazing management or fire regimes leading to shrub encroachment, or the death of target species seedlings in early stages of restoration. Successful restoration techniques include seeding, transplanting, hay transfer, and timely soil transfer, all of which have to be adapted to regional plant phenology and to local Mediterranean climate. They must be combined with appropriate grazing or fire management. Their success may depend on years with particular rainfall amounts or patterns or on particular target plant species. We discuss research perspectives contributing to a better understanding of seed dispersal, seedling recruitment, and soil processes and suggest the benefits of using ecosystem engineer species.
The influence of soil tillage system on Salsola kali L. emergence during the fallow period within cereal fields
Authors: Santín‐Montanyá María Inés , Gandía María Luisa , Casanova Carlos , Sánchez‐Jiménez Francisco Javier , Tenorio José Luis
Published: August 2020

With the move towards conservation agriculture, we have seen an increase in weeds such as Salsola kali L., well known as Russian thistle, which are wind spread over fallow land. The emergence of this weed species seemed erratic, perhaps connected to climate conditions and management techniques. In order to shed some light on this issue, we carried out a field experiment over 3 years to monitor Russian thistle density in fallow plots, comparing three tillage systems. This study provides an insight about the limitations of assuming no‐tillage techniques within a cropping system that include fallow in the rotation sequence. Our results show that no‐tillage systems are more vulnerable to S. kali. Low spring rain leads to high S. kali density, especially in no‐tillage plots. High spring rainfall reduced the emergence in all tillage systems because of soil water saturation. Minimum tillage technique served to maintain control over this species even in weather conditions that favoured its emergence in other systems. In order to reduce the need for herbicide in fallow lands under conservation systems, we recommend the implementation of minimum tillage to combat Russian thistle infestation.
Recent developments in trichodysplasia spinulosa disease
Authors: Narayanan Deepika , Rady Peter L. , Tyring Stephen K.
Published: August 2020

Trichodysplasia Spinulosa (TS) is a rare proliferative skin disease that occurs primarily in immunocompromised patients, specifically organ transplant recipients. TS is characterized by uncontrolled inner root sheath cell proliferation and folliculocentric papular eruption that can progress to disfiguring leonine facies when left untreated. TS presents with distinct histological features including the presence of large eosinophilic, trichohyaline granules within hyperproliferating inner root sheath cells of the hair bulb. The discovery of the Trichodysplasia Spinulosa Polyomavirus (TSPyV) and recent studies highlighting the role of TSPyV tumor antigens in cell proliferation pathways have provided new insight into the mechanisms of TS development. In this review, we discuss the expansion of our understanding of TS, specifically over the past 5 years. We summarize novel cases of TS and recent developments in the mechanisms underlying TSPyV‐mediated disease progression. We also evaluate advancements in diagnostic methods and treatment options. As the incidence of TS continues to rise, it is becoming critical for clinicians to understand the clinical features of TS and emerging research regarding pathogenesis and therapeutics for early treatment of this potentially disfiguring disease.
Placenta‐targeted treatment in hypoxic dams improves maturation and growth of fetal cardiomyocytes in vitro via the release of placental factors
Authors: Ganguly Esha , Spaans Floor , Morton Jude S. , Kirschenman Raven , Aljunaidy Mais M. , Phillips Thomas E. J. , Case C. Patrick , Cooke Christy‐Lynn M. , Davidge Sandra T.
Published: August 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does treatment of hypoxic dams with a placenta‐targeted antioxidant prevent the release of placenta‐derived factors that impair maturation or growth of fetal cardiomyocytes in vitro?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Factors released from hypoxic placentae impaired fetal cardiomyocyte maturation (induced terminal differentiation) and growth (increased cell size) in vitro, which was prevented by maternal treatment with a placenta‐targeted antioxidant (nMitoQ). Moreover, there were no sex differences in the effects of placental factors on fetal cardiomyocyte maturation and growth. Overall, our data suggest that treatment targeted against placental oxidative stress could prevent fetal programming of cardiac diseases via the release of placental factors.

Pregnancy complications associated with placental oxidative stress may impair fetal organ development through the release of placenta‐derived factors into the fetal circulation. We assessed the effect of factors secreted from placentae previously exposed to prenatal hypoxia on fetal cardiomyocyte development and developed a treatment strategy that targets placental oxidative stress by encapsulating the antioxidant MitoQ into nanoparticles (nMitoQ). We used a rat model of prenatal hypoxia (gestational day (GD) 15–21), which was treated with saline or nMitoQ on GD15. On GD21, placentae were harvested, placed in culture, and conditioned medium (containing placenta‐derived factors) was collected after 24 h. This conditioned medium was then added to cultured cardiomyocytes from control dam fetuses. Conditioned medium from prenatally hypoxic placentae increased the percentage of binucleated cardiomyocytes (marker of terminal differentiation) and the size of mononucleated and binucleated cardiomyocytes (sign of hypertrophy), effects that were prevented by nMitoQ treatment. Our data suggest that factors derived from placentae previously exposed to prenatal hypoxia lead to abnormal fetal cardiomyocyte development, and show that treatment against placental oxidative stress may prevent fetal programming of cardiac disease.
Numerical Optimization of Key Design Parameters of a Thermoelectric Microfluidic Sensor for Ultrasensitive Detection of Biochemical Analytes
Authors: Ishraq Bari Saif Mohammad , Reis Louis G. , Nestorova Gergana G.
Published: August 2020

The design of highly sensitive thermoelectric microfluidic sensors for the characterization of biochemical processes is an important area of engineering research. This study reports the design and fabrication of a continuous-flow biosensor with an integrated thermopile and three-dimensional numerical analysis of the critical design parameters that significantly increase the detection sensitivity of the platform. The paper discusses the impact of volumetric flowrate, channel height, material thermal properties, and heat sink on the magnitude of the thermoelectric signal. In the platform understudy, the heat generated by the enzymatic reaction between glucose oxidase-conjugated antibody and glucose is converted to an electric output by an antimony-bismuth thin-film thermopile with a theoretical Seebeck coefficient of 7.14 µV mK−1. Since this experimental configuration has been implemented in a various biochemical analysis, particular emphasis in this work is maximizing the detection sensitivity of the device. Computational thermal modeling was performed to investigate the impact of channel height (50 µm, 100 µm, 150 µm, and 200 µm), the volumetric flow rate of the substrate (25 µL min−1 and 50 µL min−1), and the microdevice material (glass, PMMA, and PDMS) on the output of the thermoelectric sensor. Experimental data validated the model and provided an excellent correlation between the predicted and measured voltage output. Results show that fabricating the calorimeter out of materials with lower thermal diffusivity, reducing the channel height, and eliminating the heat sink at the reference junction of the thermopile increases the sensitivity of the platform by 783%.
Nondestructive Assessment of Growing Rat Tibial Mechanical Properties Under Three-Point Bending: A Microcomputed Tomography Based Finite Element Study
Authors: Zimmermann Yann , Mustafy Tanvir , Villemure Isabelle
Published: August 2020

Microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) based finite element models (FEM) are efficient tools to assess bone mechanical properties. Although they have been developed for different animal models, there is still a lack of data for growing rat long bone models. This study aimed at developing and calibrating voxel-based FEMs using micro-CT scans and experimental data. Twenty-four tibiae were extracted from rats aged 28, 56, and 84 days old (d.o.) (n = 8/group), and their stiffness values were evaluated using three-point bending tests. Prior to testing, tibiae were scanned, reconstructed, and converted into FEM composed of heterogeneous bone properties based on pixel grayscales. Three element material laws (one per group) were calibrated using back-calculation process based on experimental bending data. Two additional specimens per group were used for model verification. The calibrated rigidity–density (E-ρ) relationships were different for each group: E28 = 10,320·ρash3.45; E56 = 43,620·ρash4.41; E84 = 20,090·ρash2.0. Obtained correlations between experimental and FEM stiffness values were 0.43, 0.10, and 0.66 with root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 14.4%, 17.4%, and 15.2% for 28, 56, and 84 d.o. groups, respectively. Prediction errors were less than 13.5% for 28 and 84 d.o. groups but reached 57.1% for the 56 d.o. group. Relationships between bone physical and mechanical properties were found to change during the growth, similarly to bending stiffness values, which increased with bone development. The reduced correlation observed for the 56 d.o. group may be related to the pubescent transition at that age group. These FE models will be useful for investigation of bone behavior in growing rats.
Relating polymeric microparticle formulation to prevalence or distribution of fibronectin and poly-d-lysine to support mesenchymal stem cell growth
Authors: Ugur Deniz , Sottile Virginie , Montero-Menei Claudia N. , Boury Frank , Zelzer Mischa
Published: August 2020

Protein-coated polymer-based microparticles are attractive supports for cell delivery, but the interplay between microparticle properties, protein coating, and cell response is poorly understood. The interest in alternative microparticle formulations increases the need for a better understanding of how functional protein coatings form on different microparticles. In this work, microparticle formulations based on biodegradable polymers [poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and the triblock copolymer PLGA-poloxamer-PLGA] were prepared via an emulsion-based process. To explore the impact that the use of a surfactant has on the properties of the microparticles, the emulsion was stabilized by using either a surfactant, poly(vinyl alcohol), or an organic solvent, propylene glycol. Four different types of microparticles were prepared through combinations of the two types of polymers and the two types of stabilizers. The coating of microparticles with proteins/polypeptides such as fibronectin and poly-d-lysine has been demonstrated before and is an integral step for their application as microcarriers, e.g., for cell delivery; however, the impact of the microparticles’ surface chemical properties on the formation (prevalence and distribution) of the mixed polypeptide coatings and the influence on subsequent cell attachment remain to be elucidated. Using a colocalization analysis approach on ToF-SIMS images of protein-coated microparticles, we show that the use of propyleneglycol over PVA as well as the substitution of PLGA by the triblock copolymer resulted in enhanced protein adsorption. Furthermore, if propyleneglycol is used, the substitution of PLGA with the triblock copolymer leads to increased stem cell adhesion.
Bottom-up assembly of a bilayer structure of icosahedral viral nanoparticles
Authors: Müller-Renno C. , Rink V. , Ani M. , Braun M. , Boonrod K. , Krczal G. , Ziegler Ch.
Published: August 2020

The development of 2D and 3D structures on the nanoscale containing viral nanoparticles (VNPs) as interesting nanobuilding blocks has come into focus for a bottom-up approach as an alternative to the top-down approach in nanobiotechnology. Our research has focused on the plant Tomato Bushy Stunt Virus (TBSV). In a previous study, we reported the impact of the pH value on the 2D assembly of viral monolayers. Here, we extend these studies into the third dimension by using specific interactions between the layers in combination with selective side chains on the viral capsid. The virus bilayer structure is prepared by an alternating deposition of His-tagged TBSV (4D6H-TBSV, first layer), Ni-NTA nanogold (second layer) complexes and 4D6H-TBSV, respectively, and 6D-TBSV (6xaspartic acid TBSV) as the third layer, i.e., the second layer of VNPs. The formed layer structures were imaged by using scanning force and scanning electron microscopy. The data show that a virus bilayer structure was successfully built up by means of the interaction between Ni-NTA nanogold and histidine. By comparing 4D6H- with 6D-TBSV in the third layer, the importance of these specific interactions is shown. This work paves the way for 3D nanodevices based on VNPs.
Etch selectivity during plasma-assisted etching of SiO2 and SiNx: Transitioning from reactive ion etching to atomic layer etching
Authors: Gasvoda Ryan J. , Zhang Zhonghao , Wang Scott , Hudson Eric A. , Agarwal Sumit
Published: August 2020

Continued downscaling of semiconductor devices has placed stringent constraints on all aspects of the fabrication process including plasma-assisted anisotropic etching. To address manufacturing challenges associated with atomic-scale control, material selectivity, etch fidelity, and increasingly complex device architectures, reactive ion etching (RIE) is transitioning to plasma-assisted atomic layer etching (ALE). Even though the number of elements used in the semiconductor devices has increased several-fold over the last four decades, SiO2 and SiNx remain the most commonly used dielectric materials. In fact, fluorocarbon based, plasma-assisted ALE processes for SiO2 and SiNx have already been integrated into semiconductor manufacturing, including etching of self-aligned contacts for advanced transistors. However, several challenges remain in achieving ultrahigh etch selectivity of SiO2 over SiNx and vice versa. In this article, first, the authors provide a focused review on selective RIE of SiO2 over SiNx and contrast this with ALE. A particular focus is given to the etching mechanism, including the role of the mixing layer composition and thickness at the fluorocarbon-SiO2 interface, the F-to-C ratio in the fluorocarbon parent gas, H2 dilution, surface composition on the nonetched SiNx, ion flux and energy, Ar plasma activation duration in ALE, and chamber memory effects. Second, we discuss the reverse case of selectively etching SiNx over SiO2 with careful attention given to the role of novel hydrofluorocarbon gases and dilution of the primary feed gas with other gases such as CH4 and NO. In the second part of this review, we also discuss how novel surface chemistries are enabled by the introduction of ALE, which include selective (NH4)2SiF6 formation on the SiNx surface and selective surface prefunctionalization of SiO2 to enable ultrahigh selectivity. Through this review, the authors hope to provide the readers with an exhaustive knowledge of the selectivity mechanisms for RIE of SiO2 over SiNx and vice versa, which provides a basis for developing future highly material-selective ALE processes.
Natural Infection with
Giardia
Is Associated with Altered Community Structure of the Human and Canine Gut Microbiome
Authors: Berry Alexander S. F. , Johnson Kaylynn , Martins Rene , Sullivan Megan C. , Farias Amorim Camila , Putre Alexandra , Scott Aiysha , Wang Shuai , Lindsay Brianna , Baldassano Robert N. , Nolan Thomas J. , Beiting Daniel P.
Published: August 2020

While enteric parasitic infections are among the most important infections in lower- and middle-income countries, their impact on gut microbiota is poorly understood. We reasoned that clinical symptoms associated with these infections may be influenced by alterations of the microbiome that occur during infection. To explore this notion, we took a two-pronged approach. First, we studied a cohort of dogs naturally infected with various enteric parasites and found a strong association between parasite infection and altered gut microbiota composition.
Giardia
, one of the most prevalent parasite infections globally, had a particularly large impact on the microbiome. Second, we took a database-driven strategy to integrate microbiome data with clinical data from large human field studies and found that
Giardia
infection is also associated with marked alteration of the gut microbiome of children, suggesting a possible explanation for why
Giardia
has been reported to be associated with protection from moderate to severe diarrhea.
Methodological quality of meta-analyses indexed in PsycINFO: leads for enhancements: a meta-epidemiological study
Authors: Leclercq Victoria , Beaudart Charlotte , Ajamieh Sara , Tirelli Ezio , Bruyère Olivier
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Meta-analyses (MAs) are often used because they are lauded to provide robust evidence that synthesises information from multiple studies. However, the validity of MA conclusions relies on the procedural rigour applied by the authors. Therefore, this meta-research study aims to characterise the methodological quality and meta-analytic practices of MAs indexed in PsycINFO.

Design

A meta-epidemiological study.

Participants

We evaluated a random sample of 206 MAs indexed in the PsycINFO database in 2016.

Primary and secondary outcomes

Two authors independently extracted the methodological characteristics of all MAs and checked their quality according to the 16 items of the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR2) tool for MA critical appraisal. Moreover, we investigated the effect of mentioning Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) on the methodological quality of MAs.

Results

According to AMSTAR2 criteria, 95% of the 206 MAs were rated as critically low quality. Statistical methods were appropriate and publication bias was well evaluated in 87% and 70% of the MAs, respectively. However, much improvement is needed in data collection and analysis: only 11% of MAs published a research protocol, 44% had a comprehensive literature search strategy, 37% assessed and 29% interpreted the risk of bias in the individual included studies, and 11% presented a list of excluded studies. Interestingly, the explicit mentioning of PRISMA suggested a positive influence on the methodological quality of MAs.

Conclusion

The methodological quality of MAs in our sample was critically low according to the AMSTAR2 criteria. Some efforts to tremendously improve the methodological quality of MAs could increase their robustness and reliability.
Prevalence trends in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease at the global, regional and national levels, 1990–2017: a population-based observational study
Authors: Ge Xiaojun , Zheng Limei , Wang Mei , Du Yuxuan , Jiang Junyao
Published: August 2020

Objective

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of end-stage liver diseases worldwide. Understanding NAFLD prevalence and trends over time at the global, regional and national levels is critical to understanding the NAFLD disease burden and creating more tailored prevention strategies.

Design

Population-based observational study.

Setting

The study was global, including 21 regions and 195 countries or territories.

Main outcomes measure

The estimated annual percentage change for NAFLD prevalence.

Results

Worldwide, cases of NAFLD have increased from 391.2 million in 1990 to 882.1 million in 2017, with the prevalence rate increasing from 8.2% to 10.9% during the same period. The increasing trends were consistent across sexes. Case numbers were highest in East Asia, followed by South Asia, then North Africa and the Middle East. The highest prevalence of NAFLD was observed in North Africa and the Middle East, while the greatest increase was detected in Western Europe, followed by Tropical Latin America, then high-income North America.

Conclusion

Nearly all countries or territories worldwide have experienced a significant increase in NAFLD prevalence. The greatest increase was observed in Oman. Almost all countries showed a significant increasing trend in NAFLD prevalence over the past three decades. This drastic increase is alarming and suggests that NAFLD has emerged as a new public health concern worldwide. As such, more efficient prevention strategies are urgently needed.
Improving end-of-life care for adults with cystic fibrosis: an improvement project
Authors: Cathcart Fiona , Wood Jayne , Madge Su
Published: August 2020

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-limiting disease that results in premature death mainly due to respiratory failure. Literature suggests that for many people with CF end-of-life wishes are discussed too late or not at all, with most dying in hospital. The aim of this project was to improve end-of-life care for adults with CF.

Design

Three improvement cycles were carried out over a 2-year period in one of the largest adult CF centres in Europe. The first cycle involved implementing regular multidisciplinary team (MDT) debriefs after a patient death with increased education. The second cycle involved codesigning a CF-specific advance care plan (ACP) with patients, families, bereaved relatives and experts across the UK, then implementing this into our service. The final cycle was designing a CF-specific end of life, online course for clinicians. Success was measured by: use of ACP and whether patients had died in their preferred location, patient feedback via a survey and satisfaction with the online course using a postcourse report.

Results

The number of patients given the opportunity to discuss their end of life wishes increased from 10% to 85%. The number of patients who died in their preferred location increased from 7% to 85% over the 2-year project time. Patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The key barrier has been changing MDT culture, overcoming this required the engagement of the whole team. The online course has been successful with 258 participants to date from 26 countries.

Conclusion

Education, staff support and a CF-specific ACP document empowered healthcare professionals to initiate difficult conversations to improve end-of-life care.
Close air support: enhancing emergency care in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Low Tze Yi , Mathews Ian , Lau Joel Wen-Liang , Ngiam Kee Yuan
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the world by storm and overwhelmed healthcare institutions even in developed countries. In response, clinical staff and resources have been redeployed to the areas of greatest need, that is, intensive care units and emergency rooms (ER), to reinforce front-line manpower. We introduce the concept of close air support (CAS) to augment ER operations in an efficient, safe and scalable manner. Teams of five comprising two on-site junior ER physicians would be paired with two CAS doctors, who would be off-site but be in constant communication via teleconferencing to render real-time administrative support. They would be supervised by an ER attending. This reduces direct viral exposure to doctors, conserves precious personal protective equipment and allows ER physicians to focus on patient care. Medical students can also be involved in a safe and supervised manner. After 1 month, the average time to patient disposition was halved. General feedback was also positive. CAS improves efficiency and is safe, scalable and sustainable. It has also empowered a previously untapped group of junior clinicians to support front-line medical operations, while simultaneously protecting them from viral exposure. Institutions can consider adopting our novel approach, with modifications made according to their local context.
Psychosocial Factors Associated with Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder in General Practitioners during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Monterrosa-Castro Alvaro , Redondo-Mendoza Velia , Mercado-Lara María
Published: August 2020

Healthcare providers commonly experience symptoms of anxiety during public health crises and pandemics. The objective of the study was to identify the frequency of symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in general practitioners and to estimate the association with particular psychosocial and demographic factors. This is a cross-sectional study, where a total of 531 general practitioners completed an online form that contained sociodemographic variables, questions about fear and perceptions concerning medical work during the COVID-19 pandemic, 7-Item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), questionnaire on psychosomatic problems and Fear of COVID-19 Scale. The presence of symptoms of GAD was defined by a GAD-7 score of 10 or more points. Voluntary and anonymous participation, acceptance of terms, and informed consent were requested. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Symptoms of GAD were identified in 4 out of 10 Colombian general practitioners; the following psychosocial and demographic factors were associated with a greater presence of these symptoms: female gender, social discrimination, anguish, job disappointment, nightmares, stress and other symptoms of fear regarding the pandemic. Conversely, feeling protected by the state or employer, being satisfied with their job as a physician, and trusting government measures and information were associated with a lower presence of symptoms of GAD. These findings highlight the importance of timely psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions in these individuals. The authors suggest mental health providers should be deployed during times of crisis to decrease the risk of developing mental illness.
Is there a link between very early changes of primary and secondary lymphoid organs in 18F-FDG-PET/MRI and treatment response to checkpoint inhibitor therapy?
Authors: Seith Ferdinand , Forschner Andrea , Weide Benjamin , Gückel Brigitte , Schwartz Martin , Schwenck Johannes , Othman Ahmed E , Fenchel Matthias , Garbe Claus , Nikolaou Konstantin , Schwenzer Nina , la Fougère Christian , Pfannenberg Christina
Published: August 2020

Response assessment or prediction to checkpoint inhibitor therapy (CIT) is an unsolved problem in current routine diagnostics of patients with melanoma. Here, we evaluated very early changes of primary and secondary lymphoid organs under CIT in multiparametric [18F]-labeled fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET)/MRI as possible predictors of treatment response and investigated their correlation with baseline blood immune biomarkers. Between October 2014 and November 2017, 17 patients with unresectable melanoma (8 females; 65±11 years) undergoing CIT were prospectively evaluated using whole-body 18F-FDG-PET/MRI before CIT start (t0), 2 weeks (t1) and 3 months after CIT initiation (t2). At each time point, the volume, the 18F-FDG-uptake and the mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of the spleen as well as the 18F-FDG uptake of the bone marrow were assessed. Relative lymphocyte count (RLC), relative eosinophil count (REC) and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were assessed at baseline. Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours modified for immune-based therapeutics (iRECIST) and decisions from an interdisciplinary tumor board were used for treatment response evaluation at t2. iRECIST was compared with PET response criteria in solid tumors for image-based response evaluation at different time points. Comparative analysis was conducted with Mann-Whitney U test with false discovery rate correction for multiple testing and correlation coefficients were computed. In lymphoid organs, significant differences (p<0.05) between responders (9/17) and non-responders were found for the 18F-FDG-uptake in the spleen at t1 and the increase of the uptake t1-t0 (responders/non-responders: standardized uptake value lean body mass 1.19/0.93; +49%/−1%). The best correlation coefficients to baseline biomarkers were found for the 18F-FDG-uptake in the spleen at t1: NLR, r=−0.46; RLC, r=0.43; REC, r=0.58 (p<0.05), respectively. Compared with the non-responder group, the responder group showed marked increases also in the volume of the spleen (+22%/+10%), the 18F-FDG-uptake of bone marrow (+31%/−9%) at t1 and the ADCmean at t2 (+46%/+15%) compared with t0, however, not reaching significance. Our findings indicate that an effective systemic immune response in patients undergoing CIT can be detected as a significantly increased spleen activity in 18F-FDG-PET as early as 2 weeks after treatment initiation.

Trial registration number

NCT03132090, DRKS00013925.
Outcomes to first-line pembrolizumab in patients with PD-L1-high (≥50%) non–small cell lung cancer and a poor performance status
Authors: Alessi Joao V , Ricciuti Biagio , Jiménez-Aguilar Elizabeth , Hong Fangxin , Wei Zihan , Nishino Mizuki , Plodkowski Andrew J , Sawan Peter , Luo Jia , Rizvi Hira , Carter Brett W , Heymach John V , Altan Mehmet , Hellmann Matthew , Awad Mark
Published: August 2020

Background

Patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and a poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) have been excluded from phase III immunotherapy clinical trials. We sought to evaluate clinical outcomes to first-line pembrolizumab in patients with advanced NSCLC, a PD-L1 Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) of ≥50%, and an ECOG PS of 2.

Methods

We performed a multicenter retrospective analysis of patients with metastatic NSCLC and a PD-L1 TPS of ≥50% (negative for genomic alterations inEGFRandALK) who received treatment with first-line pembrolizumab. Clinical outcomes were compared in patients based on ECOG PS.

Results

Among the 234 patients, 83.3% (n=195) had an ECOG PS of 0 or 1, and 16.7% (n=39) had an ECOG PS of 2. The baseline clinicopathological characteristics were balanced between the ECOG PS 0–1 vs 2 groups in terms of age, sex, tobacco use, histology,KRASmutation status, presence of other potentially targetable driver mutations (BRAF, MET, HER2, RET), presence of brain metastases, and PD-L1 TPS distribution. Compared with patients with an ECOG PS of 0 or 1, patients with an ECOG PS of 2 had a significantly lower objective response rate (43.1% vs 25.6%; p=0.04), a numerically shorter median progression-free survival (6.6 months vs 4.0 months; HR 0.70 (95% CI 0.47 to 1.06); p=0.09), and a significantly shorter median overall survival (20.3 months vs 7.4 months; HR 0.42 (95% CI 0.26 to 0.68); p<0.001). On disease progression, patients with an ECOG PS of 2 were significantly less likely to receive second-line systemic therapy compared with patients with an ECOG PS of 0–1 (65% vs 22.2%, p=0.001).

Conclusions

A subset of patients with NSCLC and an ECOG PS of 2 can respond to first-line pembrolizumab. However, clinical outcomes in this population are often poor and use of second-line systemic therapy is infrequent.
Optimal control of a diffusive eco-epidemiological predator–prey model
Authors: Zhang Xuebing , Wang Guanglan , Zhu Honglan
Published: August 2020

In this study, we investigate the optimal control problem for a diffusion eco-epidemiological predator–prey model. We applied two controllers to this model. One is the separation control, which separates the uninfected prey from the infected prey population, and the other is used as a treatment control to decrease the mortality caused by the disease. Then, we propose an optimal problem to minimize the infected prey population at the final time and the cost cause by the controls. To do this, by the operator semigroup theory we prove the existence of the solution to the controlled system. Furthermore, we prove the existence of the optimal controls and obtain the first-order necessary optimality condition for the optimal controls. Finally, some numerical simulations are carried out to support the theoretical results.
Tunnelling, Chalk and turbidity: conceptual model of risk to groundwater public water supplies
Authors: Burris P. , Speed C. D. , Saich A. E. , Hughes S. , Cole S. , Banks M.
Published: August 2020

Tunnelling for infrastructure developments within sections of Chalk below the water table creates suspended sediment, which may give rise to turbidity risks where tunnel alignments pass close to abstraction boreholes used for public water supply. In high-transmissivity zones in Chalk it is predicted that groundwater velocities within fractures are high enough to maintain continual suspension and transport of sediment. The assessment of risk from turbidity has been conceptually modelled in a manner akin to a source–pathway–receptor contaminant transport model. Turbidity characteristics in Chalk are described as well as turbidity effects upon public water supplies. Data from a case study of a proposed tunnelling project have been used in this study. Data acquired from the site investigation stage indicated that turbidity levels of over 4000 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) were created from drilling and abrading the Chalk, which may be a proxy for what occurs at tunnelling cutting faces. The sediment generated had a d80 particle passing size value of 10.5 µm and groundwater velocities in fractures were calculated to be
c.
0.5 mm s
−1
; literature values suggest that higher velocities are attainable and therefore these values are considered sufficient for suspending the sediment. The conceptualization used information from hydrogeological, geotechnical, engineering and water-resource assessments. The risk assessment part of the model focuses on how turbidity could be released from tunnelling machinery in specific circumstances (the source term), how the continued suspension of sediment and movement within the aquifer (the pathway) could occur and assessment of consequences at the receptor. The conceptualization concludes that there is a plausible risk of turbidity pollution in the Chalk aquifer from tunnelling, with a discussion on further data acquisition and approaches to quantitative analysis and modelling.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Ground models in engineering geology and hydrogeology collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/Ground-models-in-engineering-geology-and-hydrogeology