bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legionella pneumophila temporally regulates the activity of ADP/ATP translocases by reversible ADP‐ribosylation
Authors: Fu Jiaqi , Li Pengwei , Guan Hongxin , Huang Dan , Song Lei , Ouyang Songying , Luo Zhao‐Qing
Published: March 2022

The mitochondrion is an important signaling hub that governs diverse cellular functions, including metabolism, energy production, and immunity. Among the hundreds of effectors translocated into host cells by the Dot/Icm system of Legionella pneumophila, several are targeted to mitochondria but the function of most of them remains elusive. Our recent study found that the effector Ceg3 inhibits the activity of ADP/ATP translocases (ANTs) by ADP‐ribosylation (ADPR). Here, we show that the effect of Ceg3 is antagonized by Larg1, an effector encoded by lpg0081, a gene that is situated next to ceg3. Larg1 functions to reverse Ceg3‐mediated ADPR of ANTs by cleaving the N‐glycosidic bond between the ADPR moiety and the modified arginine residues in ANTs, leading to restoration of their activity in ADP/ATP exchange. Structural analysis of Larg1 and its complex with ADPR reveals that this ADPR glycohydrolase harbors a unique macrodomain that catalyzes the removal of ADPR modification on ANTs. Our results also demonstrate that together with Ceg3, Larg1 imposes temporal regulation of the activity of ANTs by reversible ADPR during L. pneumophila infection.
Green‐Solvent‐Processed 17% Efficient Polymer Solar Cell Achieved Synergistically by Aligning Energy Levels and Improving Morphology with the Quaternary Strategy
Authors: Tan Honglin , Zhang Weichao , Zhang Pengyu , Lv Xiaoyu , Hexig Alata , Huang Jianhua , Li Beigang , Zhan Chuanlang
Published: March 2022

Low and unbalanced charge mobilities result in low short‐circuit current density (JSC) and small fill factor (FF), which greatly limits the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of polymer solar cells (PSCs) processed with green solvents. Herein, a unique quaternary material system (PM6:BTP‐BO‐4F:BTP:PhI‐Se) is reported, which uses an upshifted highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) acceptor guest (BTP) and a deep‐HOMO, ultra‐wide bandgap polymer donor guest (PhI‐Se) as quaternary strategy to align energy levels and improve morphology, leading to open‐circuit voltage (VOC) (from 0.812 to 0.851 V), FF (from 66.1% to 76.7%), and JSC (from 24.4 to 26.1 mA cm−2) increased simultaneously, hence obtaining PCEs of 17.0% processed with toluene. When processed with chlorobenzene (CB), 18.2% efficiency is obtained. Adding BTP and PhI‐Se as the third component increases hole and electron mobilities, respectively, going from 1.32/0.63 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1 for the host binary to 1.56/2.56 and 2.26/2.86 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1 for the BTP and PhI‐Se ternary. With both adding, the values shift to 3.69/3.20 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1 for the quaternary blends. The crystalline coherence length (CCL) increases from 18.8 nm to 20.2 nm and 23.6 nm, respectively, for the two ternaries, and then 25.7 nm for the quaternary blend.
Exfoliated 2D Antimonene‐Based Structures for Light‐Harvesting Photoactive Layer of Highly Stable Solar Cells
Authors: Bat-Erdene Munkhjargal , Myagmarsereejid Purevlkham , Bati Abdulaziz S. R. , Qin Jiadong , Zhong Yu Lin , Shapter Joseph G. , Batmunkh Munkhbayar
Published: March 2022

2D materials have shown great promise in various applications including solar cells, but their use as light‐harvesting active layers in photovoltaic (PV) devices is limited. Herein, surface‐oxidized antimonene sheets are prepared using a liquid‐phase exfoliation method and employed as an active light absorber material after functionalization. It is shown that 2D antimonene possesses unique surface chemistry that allows it to form photoactive Sb2S3 light absorbers for solar cells under ambient conditions. Under the standard PV testing conditions (AM1.5G), devices fabricated with 2D antimonene‐based light‐harvesting materials deliver a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of up to 4.28%. This novel type of solar cell exhibits outstanding operational stabilities, preserving >90% of the initial PCE after aging for 60 min at a temperature of 85 °C, retaining >95% of the initial efficiency after exposure to continuous light illumination under 1 sun for 180 min, and maintaining its functionality after being underwater for 25 min. This work opens new avenues for research in 2D materials and photovoltaics.
Emerging Ultrahigh‐Density Single‐Atom Catalysts for Versatile Heterogeneous Catalysis Applications: Redefinition, Recent Progress, and Challenges
Authors: Li Zesheng , Li Bolin , Hu Yifan , Liao Xichun , Yu Huiqing , Yu Changlin
Published: March 2022

In recent years, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with high metal loading have emerged in different heterogeneous catalysis fields and shown extraordinary catalytic properties. When there are enough coordination atoms (or functional groups) on the supports, it is possible to achieve a limit monolayer atom loading on the surface of supports with ultrahigh atom density (5–15 atoms nm−2) and extremely close site distance (0.2–0.5 nm), by using appropriate synthesis methods and procedures. These high‐density metal atoms usually have no or less metal bonds, which are mostly isolated by support atoms to form 3D foam‐like atomic constructions. Herein, a new notion of metal atomic foam catalysts (AFCs) is propsed to redefine these ultrahigh‐density SACs accommodated by specific supports. This new paradigm of 3D atomic construction for SACs has potential significance for both theoretical research and industrial applications. The latest major advancements in the controllable synthesis of AFCs on various supports (e.g., polymer, carbon, and metallic compound) via different methods (bottom‐up or top‐down approaches) are summarized. The latent catalytic principles and typical application cases of AFCs are emphasized in a wide range of heterogeneous catalysis fields (e.g., thermocatalysis, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, etc.). The challenges and prospects of this newly 3D ultrahigh‐density AFCs materials in practical industrial application are pointed out as well.
Safety system design and overfill protection for loading asphalt onto trucks
Authors: Ampadu Wendy , Malik Hassan , Diezmos Ray , Hyslob Jeremy
Published: March 2022

There are several technologies out there for use as high‐level switches as part of a system for shutting down flow to a vessel. Given that asphalt truck loading poses issues such as poor visibility, coating, condensation, and fumes, a solution that is robust enough to last in these conditions is often needed in industries. Furthermore, the design of the loading arm, rack, and process equipment may need to be changed to allow for the safety to work as needed. This report would not just be selecting an overflow technology but completing the redesign of structures for use at loading facilities. This report is based on loading facilities at a bitumen production company based in Toronto, Canada with over 25 locations across the country. The engineering design approach was used to create multiple redesign concepts for the loading dock system. Research on overfill systems was also completed by surveying the existing market for technologies and securing quotes from over 20 Canadian and United States instrumentation companies. A final loading dock redesign and level transmitter for overfill protection solution were chosen.
Increasing resistance to multiple anthelmintic classes in gastrointestinal nematodes on sheep farms in southwest England
Authors: Bull Katie , Glover Mike J. , Rose Vineer Hannah , Morgan Eric R.
Published: March 2022

Background

Anthelmintic resistance (AR) in gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) is increasing globally, and farmers are encouraged to adopt sustainable control measures. Haemonchus contortus is increasingly reported in the UK, potentially complicating effective GIN control.

Methods

Faecal egg count reduction tests (FECRT) were conducted on 13 farms in north Devon, England, UK in 2016. Relative abundance of H. contortus was quantified using peanut agglutinin staining and used to estimate faecal egg count reduction percentages (FECR%) using the eggCounts R package.

Results

On average, farms had GIN resistance to three anthelmintic classes. No farms had susceptibility to all anthelmintics tested. AR was more prevalent in 2016 than on the same farms in 2013. H. contortus was present on 85% of the farms tested and comprised on average 6% (0%–52%) of GIN eggs before treatment. Resistance or suspected resistance to all anthelmintics tested was observed in this species on different farms.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate diversity of AR profiles on farms, apparent progression of AR within a 3‐year period, and challenges detecting AR in mixed‐species infections. Where possible, interpretation of mixed‐species FECRT should take into account the relative abundance of species pre‐ and post‐treatment to identify pragmatic treatment options targeting individual genera.
Multi-objective-based reactive power planning and voltage stability enhancement using FACTS and capacitor banks
Authors: Eladl Abdelfattah A. , Basha Mohamed I. , ElDesouky Azza A.
Published: March 2022

Reactive power planning (RPP) and voltage stability improvement (VSI) consider two of the most important problems to meet a major challenge of the power system. In this work, a multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) for RPP with objectives of cost minimization of the power losses, new reactive power (VAR) sources, maximization of the VSI, and enhancement of total transfer capacity (TTC) is introduced. Different optimization variables are considered including generator voltages, transformer tap changers besides load, and different operational constraints. The best compromise solution is determined through a fuzzy min–max approach. Comparison studies among capacitor banks, flexible ac transmission systems (FACTS) or both as new VAR support sources to achieve better performance are explored. Moreover, the optimal allocations of switchable VAR sources are not determined in advance; instead, they are treated as control variables to improve the techno-economic operation of the network. Added to that many voltage stability indicators are presented, and their results are compared. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is examined on a modified IEEE 30-bus test system and South Egypt Electricity network where felicitous results have been acquired. The results expound on the effectiveness of the proposed approach compared with other optimization methods.
Submuscular Implant‐Based Breast Reconstruction Using a Musculofascial Pocket Formed by the Pectoralis Major Muscle and the Serratus Anterior Muscle Fascia: A Novel Surgical Approach
Authors: Mok Hsiao‐Pei , Wen Lingzhu , Lin Xiaoyi , Lin Xin , Liao Ning , Zhang Guochun
Published: March 2022

Background

Subpectoral implant‐based breast reconstruction following mastectomy commonly severs the inferior border of the pectoralis major muscle for better projection of the lower pole. This can affect a patient's postoperative motor function and result in animation deformity. Implant‐based breast reconstruction using partial muscle coverage with an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) can be costly. There is an unmet clinical need for a novel surgical method for submuscular implant‐based breast reconstruction.

Methods

We describe an innovative technique for submuscular implant‐based breast reconstruction following mastectomy. The approach utilizes the serratus anterior muscle fascia connected to the lateral margin of the pectoralis major muscle to form a lateral tissue pocket for implant coverage. This method preserves the inferior border of the pectoralis major muscle and minimizes the size of ADM coverage. Patient satisfaction on the BREAST‐Q Reconstruction Module and complications were assessed 12 months after surgery.

Results

The novel surgical design was safe and used minimal ADM (6 × 5cm2). Mean satisfaction with breasts was 61 ± 4.7 (range, 48–73), mean psychosocial well‐being was 66 ± 10 (range, 50–93), and mean sexual well‐being was 47 ± 7.8 (range, 27–70). Animation deformity was avoided by preserving the inferior border of the pectoralis major muscle. Rates of revision (7.6%) and postsurgical seroma (3.4%) were low, and capsular contracture was minimal.

Conclusions

Submuscular implant‐based breast reconstruction following mastectomy utilizing the serratus anterior muscle fascia connected to the lateral margin of the pectoralis major muscle to form a lateral tissue pocket for implant coverage is safe, feasible, and generates good aesthetic outcomes.
Elevated Serum Triglyceride Levels in Acute Pancreatitis: A Parameter to be Measured and Considered Early
Authors: Hidalgo Nils Jimmy , Pando Elizabeth , Alberti Piero , Vidal Laura , Mata Rodrigo , Fernandez Nair , Gomez‐Jurado Maria Jose , Dopazo Cristina , Blanco Laia , Tasayco Stephanie , Molero Xavier , Balsells Joaquim , Charco Ramon
Published: March 2022

Background

The value of serum triglycerides (TGs) related to complications and the severity of acute pancreatitis (AP) has not been clearly defined. Our study aimed to analyze the association of elevated levels of TG with complications and the severity of AP.

Methods

The demographic and clinical data of patients with AP were prospectively analyzed. TG levels were measured in the first 24 h of admission. Patients were divided into two groups: one with TG values of<200 mg/dL and another with TG≥200 mg/dL. Data on the outcomes of AP were collected.

Results

From January 2016 to December 2019, 247 cases were included: 200 with TG<200 mg/dL and 47 with TG≥200 mg/dL. Triglyceride levels≥200 mg/dL were associated with respiratory failure (21.3 vs. 10%, p=0.033), renal failure (23.4 vs. 12%, p=0.044), cardiovascular failure (19.1 vs. 7.5%, p=0.025), organ failure (34 vs. 18.5%, p=0.02), persistent organ failure (27.7 vs. 9.5%, p=0.001), multiple organ failure (19.1 vs. 8%, p=0.031), moderately severe and severe AP (68.1 vs. 40.5%, p=0.001), pancreatic necrosis (63.8 vs. 34%, p<0.001), and admission to the intensive care unit (27.7 vs. 9.5%, p=0.003). In the multivariable analysis, a TG level of≥200 mg/dL was independently associated with respiratory, renal, and cardiovascular failure, organ failure, persistent organ failure, multiple organ failure, pancreatic necrosis, severe pancreatitis, and admission to the intensive care unit (p<0.05).

Conclusions

In our cohort, TG≥200 mg/dL was related to local and systemic complications. Early determinations of TG levels in AP could help identify patients at risk of complications.
Sodium in the New Zealand diet: proposed voluntary food reformulation targets will not meet the WHO goal of a 30% reduction in total sodium intake
Authors: Wang Nan Xin , Skeaff Sheila , Cameron Claire , Fleming Elizabeth , McLean Rachael Mira
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To simulate the potential impact of the HeartSAFE 2020 programme, a food reformulation initiative by the New Zealand (NZ) Heart Foundation, on sodium intake in the NZ adult population.

Methods

A representative sample of NZ adults aged 15 years and older completed a 24-h diet recall survey, with 25% of participants completing a second diet recall, in the 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey (n = 4721). These data were used to estimate sodium intakes of participants. The effect of altering the sodium content of 840 foods in 17 categories and 35 sub-categories included in the NZ HeartSAFE 2020 programme was simulated. The simulated sodium intake reductions in each food sub-category for the entire sample were calculated. Using sampling weights, simulated reductions in population sodium intake and by sociodemographic subgroups were also analysed.

Results

Sodium intake from foods included in the HeartSAFE 2020 programme was 1307 mg/day (95% CI 1279, 1336) at baseline. After applying the HeartSAFE 2020 targets, potential sodium intake was 1048 mg/day (95% CI 1024, 1027). The absolute sodium reduction was 260 mg/day (95% CI 252, 268), corresponding to 20% sodium reduction for the foods included in the NZ HeartSAFE programme.

Conclusion

Current sodium targets featured in the NZ HeartSAFE programme will not meet the 30% sodium intake reduction set out by the WHO Global Action Plan. A more comprehensive strategy consistent with the WHO SHAKE Technical Package is needed to advance the goal of sodium intake reduction.
Referral trajectories in patients with vertigo, dizziness and balance disorders and their impact on health-related quality of life and functioning: results from the longitudinal multicenter study MobilE-TRA
Authors: Katzenberger Benedict , Koller Daniela , Strobl Ralf , Kisch Rebecca , Sanftenberg Linda , Voigt Karen , Grill Eva
Published: March 2022

Background

Due to reported barriers in the management of patients with vertigo, dizziness and balance problems (VDB), referral trajectories starting from primary care might be determined by other factors than medical necessity. The objective of this paper was to examine the impact of disease-related and other determinants on referral trajectories of older patients with VDB and to investigate, how these trajectories affect the patients’ functioning and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

Data originate from the longitudinal multicenter study MobilE-TRA, conducted in two German federal states. Referrals to neurologists or ear-nose-throat (ENT) specialists were considered. Referral patterns were visualized using a state sequence analysis. Predictors of referral trajectories were examined using a multinomial logistic regression model. Linear mixed models were calculated to assess the impact of referral patterns on the patients’ HRQoL and functioning.

Results

We identified three patterns of referral trajectories: primary care physician (PCP) only, PCP and neurologist, and PCP and ENT. Chances of referral to a neurologist were higher for patients with a neurological comorbidity (OR = 3.22, 95%-CI [1.003; 10.327]) and lower for patients from Saxony (OR = 0.08, 95%-CI [0.013; 0.419]). Patients with a PCP and neurologist referral pattern had a lower HRQoL and lower functioning at baseline assessment. Patients with unspecific diagnoses also had lower functioning.

Conclusion

Referral trajectories were determined by present comorbidities and the regional healthcare characteristics. Referral trajectories affected patients’ HRQoL. Unspecific VDB diagnoses seem to increase the risk of ineffective management and consequently impaired functioning.
Evidence for near-source nonlinear propagation of volcano infrasound from Strombolian explosions at Yasur Volcano, Vanuatu
Authors: Maher Sean P. , Matoza Robin S. , Jolly Arthur , de Groot-Hedlin Catherine , Gee Kent L. , Fee David , Iezzi Alexandra M.
Published: March 2022

Volcanic eruption source parameters may be estimated from acoustic pressure recordings dominant at infrasonic frequencies (< 20 Hz), yet uncertainties may be high due in part to poorly understood propagation dynamics. Linear acoustic propagation of volcano infrasound is commonly assumed, but nonlinear processes such as wave steepening may distort waveforms and obscure the sourcing process in recorded waveforms. Here we use a previously developed frequency-domain nonlinearity indicator to quantify spectral changes due to nonlinear propagation primarily in 80 signals from explosions at Yasur Volcano, Vanuatu. We find evidence for $$\le$$
≤
10−3 dB/m spectral energy transfer in the band 3–9 Hz for signals with amplitude on the order of several hundred Pa at 200–400 m range. The clarity of the nonlinear spectral signature increases with waveform amplitude, suggesting stronger nonlinear changes for greater source pressures. We observe similar results in application to synthetics generated through finite-difference wavefield simulations of nonlinear propagation, although limitations of the model complicate direct comparison to the observations. Our results provide quantitative evidence for nonlinear propagation that confirms previous interpretations made on the basis of qualitative observations of asymmetric waveforms.
Association between socioeconomic status and academic performance in children and adolescents with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Khalid Rabia , Van Zwieten Anita , Kim Siah , Didsbury Madeleine , Francis Anna , Mctaggart Steven , Walker Amanda , Mackie Fiona E. , Prestidge Chanel , Teixeira-Pinto Armando , Barton Belinda , Lorenzo Jennifer , Lah Suncica , Howard Kirsten , Nassar Natasha , Au Eric , Tong Allison , Blazek Katrina , Craig Jonathan C. , Wong Germaine
Published: March 2022

Background

Lower socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with lower academic achievement; however, this relationship is understudied in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study examined the relationship between SES and academic performance in children and adolescents with CKD.

Methods

A total of 377 participants aged 6–18 years with CKD stages 1–5 (n = 199), on dialysis (n = 43) or with a kidney transplant (n = 135) were recruited. Five SES measures and a composite SES index were examined for associations with parent-rated average or above average academic performance in numeracy and literacy using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Participants’ median age was 12.6 years (IQR 8.9–15.5). Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) (95%CI) for better performance in numeracy and literacy, respectively, were 0.71 (0.44–1.15) and 0.75 (0.45–1.23) for children whose caregivers had lower educational attainment; 0.46 (0.26–0.80) and 0.53 (0.30–0.93) for lower household income; 0.52 (0.32–0.85) and 0.44 (0.26–0.73) for caregivers who were unemployed; 0.68 (0.41–1.12) and 0.59 (0.35–1.00) for caregivers with poor self-rated financial status; and 0.93 (0.53–1.64) and 1.00 (0.56–1.79) for caregivers who did not own their own home. Compared with the highest SES index quartile, the aORs for better performance by SES quartile in descending order were 1.24 (0.60–2.54), 0.76 (0.37–1.58), and 0.39 (0.18–0.86) for numeracy and 0.88 (0.41–1.85), 0.77 (0.35–1.66), and 0.32 (0.14–0.72) for literacy. No interactions were identified between SES and CKD stage, child age, or gender.

Conclusions

Across all CKD stages, children from lower SES families are less likely to perform well in literacy and numeracy than those from higher SES households.

Graphical abstract

A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information
One year of Hybrid Closed Loop on peritoneal dialysis: a case report
Authors: Rossi Antonio , Montefusco Laura , Pastore Ida , Lunati Maria Elena , Argenti Sabrina , Muratori Milena , Chebat Enrica , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Gallieni Maurizio , Fiorina Paolo
Published: March 2022

Background

Automated insulin delivery is a game changer for type 1 diabetes treatment.

Objective

To describe the benefits of automated insulin delivery in a specific complex setting.

Methods

We are herein presenting a case of a patient with type 1 diabetes, in which Hybrid Closed Loop (Medtronic Minimed 670G on Auto Mode) was used over a year during automated peritoneal dialysis. The patient was previously on insulin therapy with sensor augmented pump and we switched him to Hybrid Closed Loop shortly before the begin of dialysis.

Results

Automated insulin delivery produced an increase of time in range (70-180 mg/dl) from 63% to 72%, after 3 months and to 74% after one year. Moreover, no hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia urgencies occurred overall during the year.

Conclusions

The case detailed here is the first report of Hybrid Closed Loop in a patient on automated peritoneal dialysis and it shows an improvement of time in range with a satisfying safety profile in a fragile, aged patient.
Antimicrobial activity of dalbavancin against Gram-positive bacteria isolated from patients hospitalized with bloodstream infection in United States and European medical centers (2018–2020)
Authors: Sader Helio S. , Castanheira Mariana , Huband Michael D. , Shortridge Dee , Carvalhaes Cecilia G. , Mendes Rodrigo M.
Published: March 2022

Dalbavancin and comparators were susceptibility tested against 8643 Gram-positive bacteria from 74 hospitals located in Europe and the United States by broth microdilution method. The most common organisms were Staphylococcus aureus (45.2%), Enterococcus faecalis (12.2%), and Staphylococcus epidermidis (8.9%), but rank order varied markedly by geographic region. Dalbavancin demonstrated potent activity and broad spectrum, with MIC90 values of 0.03 mg/L for Staphylococcus aureus, β-haemolytic streptococci, and viridans group streptococci; 0.06 mg/L for Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus epidermidis; and 0.12 mg/L for vancomycin-susceptible Enterococcus faecium. All organisms, except vancomycin-resistant enterococci and 1 Staphylococcus haemolyticus isolate, were inhibited at ≤ 0.25 mg/L of dalbavancin.
Leaving Home for Marital and Non-marital Reasons in the Netherlands, 1850–1940: The Impact of Parental Death and Parental Remarriage
Authors: Rosenbaum-Feldbrügge Matthias
Published: March 2022

Previous research shows that parentally bereaved children in north-western Europe in the past left home earlier than children who lived together with both biological parents. This article analyses the mechanisms behind this phenomenon with a special focus on the routes out of the parental household and the entry of step-parents and step-siblings. The Historical Sample of the Netherlands is exploited which contains detailed information about household composition and life courses of more than 22,000 female and male adolescent and young adult children born between 1850 and 1922. Event-history analysis is applied, and two exclusive routes out of the parental household, for marital and non-marital reasons, are studied in a competing risk design. The results show that parental loss does not increase the risk of early marriage before age 23, but strongly enhances the chances for leaving home for non-marital reasons, which are mainly work-related. This is especially true in case of maternal loss. No support is found for the hypothesis that the entry of a step-parent and step-siblings increases the risk of leaving home compared to living with a single widowed parent. Tensions with step-parents therefore do not suffice to explain why parentally bereaved children left earlier for non-marital reasons. Instead, we argue that children’s exit was in the interest of both the single widowed parent and the bereaved child.
Evaluation of the accuracy of multiplex polymerase chain reaction in differentiation between bacterial and viral meningitis
Authors: Ahmed Mahmoud Abdelfattah , Askar Gamal A. , Farghaly Hekma S. , Ahmed Asmaa O. , Kamal Dalia T. , Ahmed Shorook S. , Mohamad Ismail L.
Published: March 2022

Background

Meningitis is one of the most dangerous infection affecting children. The need for rapid and accurate diagnosis is mandatory for improving the outcome.

Aim of the work

To evaluate the role of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in diagnosis of meningitis either bacterial or viral and to detect its accuracy.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out in University Children Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, between November 2019 and September 2020. The study was approved by the Ethics Review Board of Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, and informed written consent was obtained. The committee’s reference number is 17200161. Clinicaltrails.gov ID: NCT03387969. Forty-eight children aged 2 to 18 years with meningitis were included. Detailed history and examination, blood glucose level at time of admission prior to lumbar puncture, and multiplex PCR in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were evaluated.

Results

The mean age of children was 3.27 ± 1.27 years. Thirty-five (72.9%) cases were bacterial meningitis while 13 (27.1%) cases were viral meningitis. Multiplex PCR had 94% sensitivity and 100% specificity for diagnosis of bacterial meningitis.

Conclusion

Multiplex PCR may help in diagnosis and differentiation of bacterial and viral meningitis with accurate and rapid results.

What is Known:• Rapid and accurate diagnosis is mandatory for successful treatment of meningitis.• Differentiation between bacterial and viral meningitis is important to avoid unnecessary treatment..

What is New:• Multiplex PCR is an important marker for rapid detection of meningitis.• Multiplex PCR may be used to differentiate between bacterial and non-bacterial cause of meningitis.
Diverse perspectives from diverse scholars are vital for theoretical biology
Authors: Shaw Allison K.
Published: March 2022

Science is based on studying some aspects of the world while holding others constant. The assumptions of what can and cannot be ignored implicitly shape our understanding of the world around us. This truth is particularly evident when studying biology through mathematical models, where one must explicitly state assumptions during the process of model building. Although we often recognize that all models are “wrong” in their assumptions, we often overlook the corollary that developing multiple models that are wrong in different ways can help us triangulate truth in our understanding. Theoretical biologists build models in the image of how they envision the world, an image that is shaped by their scientific identity, experiences, and perspectives. A lack of diversity in any of these axes handicaps our ability to understand biological systems through theory. However, we can overcome this by collectively recognizing our own assumptions, by understanding how perspective shapes the development of theory, and — most importantly — by increasing the diversity of theoretical biologists (in terms of identity, experiences, and perspectives). Combined, this will lead to developing theory that provides a richer understanding of the biological world.
Classification of Tree Species and Standing Dead Trees with Lidar Point Clouds Using Two Deep Neural Networks: PointCNN and 3DmFV-Net
Authors: Hell Maximilian , Brandmeier Melanie , Briechle Sebastian , Krzystek Peter
Published: March 2022

Knowledge about tree species distribution is important for forest management and for modeling and protecting biodiversity in forests. Methods based on images are inherently limited to the forest canopy. Airborne lidar data provide information about the trees’ geometric structure, as well as trees beneath the upper canopy layer. In this paper, the potential of two deep learning architectures (PointCNN, 3DmFV-Net) for classification of four different tree classes is evaluated using a lidar dataset acquired at the Bavarian Forest National Park (BFNP) in a leaf-on situation with a maximum point density of about 80 pts/m$$^{2}$$

2

. Especially in the case of BFNP, dead wood plays a key role in forest biodiversity. Thus, the presented approaches are applied to the combined classification of living and dead trees. A total of 2721 single trees were delineated in advance using a normalized cut segmentation. The trees were manually labeled into four tree classes (coniferous, deciduous, standing dead tree with crown, and snag). Moreover, a multispectral orthophoto provided additional features, namely the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index. PointCNN with 3D points, laser intensity, and multispectral features resulted in a test accuracy of up to 87.0%. This highlights the potential of deep learning on point clouds in forestry. In contrast, 3DmFV-Net achieved a test accuracy of 73.2% for the same dataset using only the 3D coordinates of the laser points. The results show that the data fusion of lidar and multispectral data is invaluable for differentiation of the tree classes. Classification accuracy increases by up to 16.3% points when adding features generated from the multispectral orthophoto.
Development of an economic replacement time model for mining equipment: a case study
Authors: Al-Chalabi Hussan
Published: March 2022

In mining operation equipment replacement represents a strategic decision problem. This paper presents an economic replacement time model for mining drill rigs. A total ownership cost minimization model was developed to optimize the lifetime of a drill rig used in Tara underground mine in Ireland. The developed methodology allows an innovative practical evaluation of the replacement process by applying sensitivity and regression analysis to rank the factors affecting the replacement time of existing and new models of the production drill rig. Compared to previous studies presented in the literature, the present study represents a further development in this field as it has resulted in a practical optimization model that can be used to estimate the economic replacement time of repairable equipment used in the mining and other production industries. The proposed model shows that the absolute economic replacement time of the drill rig investigated in this case study is 81 months and the mining company operating the rig can replace it with an identical one within an optimal replacement range of 6 months (i.e. from month 79–84) when the minimum total cost can still be achieved in practice. Sensitivity and regression analyses show that the maintenance cost has the largest impact on the economic replacement time of the drill rig. The study finds that decreasing the operating and maintenance costs of the drill rig will have the positive effect of increasing the economic replacement time linearly for a new model of the drill rig. The proposed model helps decision-makers to plan the replacement of old rigs and purchase new ones from an economic view point. Thus, this new model can be extended and used for more general applications in the mining industry.
On the role of heat source location and multiplicity in topographically controlled Marangoni–Rayleigh–Bénard convection
Authors: Lappa Marcello , Waris Wasim
Published: March 2022

Periodically distributed wall-mounted hot blocks with a cubic shape located at the bottom of a layer of liquid with a free top interface tend to create patterns in their surrounding fluid that are reminiscent of the classical modes of Marangoni–Rayleigh–Bénard convection. Through direct numerical solution of the governing equations in their complete three-dimensional unsteady and nonlinear formulation, we investigate this specific subject giving much emphasis to understanding how ensemble properties arise from the interplay of localized effects. Through the used numerical framework, we identify the emerging planforms and connect the statistics of the associated heat transport mechanisms with the spatially averaged behaviour of the underlying thermal currents. In some cases, all these features can be directly mapped into the topography at the bottom of the layer. In other circumstances, these systems contain their own capacity for transformation, i.e. intrinsic evolutionary mechanisms are enabled, by which complex steady or unsteady patterns are produced. It is shown that self-organization driven by purely surface-tension or mixed buoyancy–Marangoni effects can result in ‘quantized states’, i.e. aesthetically appealing solutions that do not depend on the multiplicity of wall-mounted elements.
Does Voting in One Election Reduce the Expected Cost of Voting in Subsequent Elections?
Authors: Sevi Semra , Blais André
Published: March 2022

The decision to vote is partly based on the expected cost of voting. We test the hypothesis that voting in one election reduces the expected cost of voting in the following election, as voters learn that the cost of voting is low. Using three different datasets—the National Electors Study conducted during the 2019 Canadian federal election; a two-wave YouGov survey in British Columbia and Quebec in 2008 and 2009, at the time of the federal and subsequent provincial elections; and a five-wave survey conducted for the Making Electoral Democracy Work project in Bavaria in 2013 and 2014, before and after the Land, federal and European elections—we find that voters who voted in a previous election perceive it will be easier to vote in a subsequent election. We also find evidence that voting leads to more accurate estimates of how little time it takes to vote.
Himasthla spp. (Trematoda) in the edible cockle Cerastoderma edule: review, long-term monitoring and new molecular insights
Authors: Richard Anaïs , Maire Olivier , Daffe Guillemine , Magalhães Luísa , de Montaudouin Xavier
Published: March 2022

Trematodes are the main macroparasites in coastal waters. The most abundant and widespread form of these parasites is metacercaria. Their impact on their host fitness is considered relatively low but metacercarial larvae of some species can have deleterious effects on individuals and/or populations. This review focused on the cockle Cerastoderma edule and four species of the genus Himasthla; a common host–parasite system in marine coastal environments. Our aims were (1) to review literature concerning Himasthla continua, Himasthla elongata, Himasthla interrupta and Himasthla quissetensis in cockles; (2) to provide molecular signatures of these parasites and (3) to analyse infection patterns using a 20-year monthly database of cockle monitoring from Banc d'Arguin (France). Due to identification uncertainties, the analysis of the database was restricted to H. interrupta and H. quissetensis, and it was revealed that these parasites infect cockles of the same size range. The intensity of parasites increased with cockle size/age. During the colder months, the mean parasite intensity of a cockle cohort decreased, while infection occurred in the warmest season. No inter-specific competition between trematode parasites was detected. Furthermore, even if the intensity of H. interrupta or H. quissetensis infection fluctuated in different years, this did not modify the trematode community structure in the cockles. The intensity of infection of both species was also positively correlated with trematode species richness and metacercarial abundance. This study highlighted the possible detrimental role of Himasthla spp. in cockle population dynamics. It also revealed the risks of misidentification, which should be resolved by further molecular approaches.
TRADITION AND INNOVATION IN AEGEAN IRON TECHNOLOGIES: A VIEW FROM EARLY IRON AGE IONIA
Authors: Mokrišová Jana , Verčík Marek
Published: March 2022

This article argues that Ionia, located in the central part of western Anatolia, was one of key areas of metallurgical innovation in the Aegean during the transitional period from the Late Bronze to the Early Iron Age. Recent evidence from this region challenges the established narrative that envisions a rather consistent diffusion of iron technologies from Cyprus arriving predominantly via the western part of the Aegean region. This contribution provides a new understanding of the spread of iron technologies in the Aegean by paying particular attention to the social context of technological change and by stressing the need for regional approaches within the Aegean. Crucially, it reassesses the latest evidence from central western Anatolia, and contextualises it within the key cultural, social and technological axes of continuity and change between the Late Bronze and Early Iron Age. This study complements the recent methodological discussions related to the integration of bronze and iron technologies that foreground regional perspectives and pay attention to local knowledge-scapes.
Parental education and youth suicidal behaviours: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen P. J. , Mackes N. , Sacchi C. , Lawrence A. J. , Ma X. , Pollard R. , Matter M. , Morgan C. , Harding S. , Schumann G. , Pariante C. , Mehta M. A. , Montana G. , Nosarti C. , Dazzan P.
Published: March 2022

Aims

Lower parental education has been linked to adverse youth mental health outcomes. However, the relationship between parental education and youth suicidal behaviours remains unclear. We explored the association between parental education and youth suicidal ideation and attempts, and examined whether sociocultural contexts moderate such associations.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis with a systematic literature search in PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline and Embase from 1900 to December 2020 for studies with participants aged 0–18, and provided quantitative data on the association between parental education and youth suicidal ideation and attempts (death included). Only articles published in English in peer-reviewed journals were considered. Two authors independently assessed eligibility of the articles. One author extracted data [e.g. number of cases and non-cases in each parental education level, effect sizes in forms of odds ratios (ORs) or beta coefficients]. We then calculated pooled ORs using a random-effects model and used moderator analysis to investigate heterogeneity.

Results

We included a total of 59 articles (63 study samples, totalling 2 738 374 subjects) in the meta-analysis. Lower parental education was associated with youth suicidal attempts [OR = 1.12, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.04–1.21] but not with suicidal ideation (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.98–1.12). Geographical region and country income level moderated the associations. Lower parental education was associated with an increased risk of youth suicidal attempts in Northern America (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.10–1.45), but with a decreased risk in Eastern and South-Eastern Asia (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.54–0.96). An association of lower parental education and increased risk of youth suicidal ideation was present in high- income countries (HICs) (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.05–1.25), and absent in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) (OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.77–1.08).

Conclusions

The association between youth suicidal behaviours and parental education seems to differ across geographical and economical contexts, suggesting that cultural, psychosocial or biological factors may play a role in explaining this association. Although there was high heterogeneity in the studies reviewed, this evidence suggests that the role of familial sociodemographic characteristics in youth suicidality may not be universal. This highlights the need to consider cultural, as well as familial factors in the clinical assessment and management of youth's suicidal behaviours in our increasingly multicultural societies, as well as in developing prevention and intervention strategies for youth suicide.
Natural Variability Has Concealed Increases in Western US Flood Hazard Since the 1970s
Authors: Bass Benjamin , Norris Jesse , Thackeray Chad , Hall Alex
Published: March 2022

Flood hazard across the western United States (US) has generally shown decreasing trends in recent decades. This region's extreme streamflow is highly influenced by natural variability, which could either mask or amplify anthropogenic streamflow trends. In this study, we utilize a technique known as dynamical adjustment to assess historical (1970–2020) annual maximum 1‐day streamflow (Qx1d) from unregulated basins across the western US with and without the impact of natural variability. After removing natural variability, the fraction of basins with a positive (>5%) trend in Qx1d shifts from 25% to 53%. Basins with increasing (decreasing) Qx1d trends after dynamical adjustment exhibit weak (strong) drying, and furthermore are associated with intensifying precipitation extremes and/or large decreases in snowpack. Increasing flood hazard will likely emerge for such basins as the current phase of natural decadal variability shifts, and anthropogenic signals continue to intensify.
Earthquake Phase Association Using a Bayesian Gaussian Mixture Model
Authors: Zhu Weiqiang , McBrearty Ian W. , Mousavi S. Mostafa , Ellsworth William L. , Beroza Gregory C.
Published: March 2022

Earthquake phase association algorithms aggregate picked seismic phases from a network of seismometers into individual sesimic events and play an important role in earthquake monitoring and research. Dense seismic networks and improved phase picking methods produce massive seismic phase datasets, particularly for earthquake swarms and aftershocks occurring closely in time and space, making phase association a challenging problem. We present a new association method, the Gaussian Mixture Model Association (GaMMA), that combines the Gaussian mixture model with earthquake location, origin time, and magnitude estimation. We treat earthquake phase association as an unsupervised clustering problem in a probabilistic framework, where each earthquake corresponds to a cluster of P and S phases with a hyperbolic moveout of arrival times and a decay of amplitude with distance. We use the multivariate Gaussian distribution to model the collection of phase picks of an event; and the mean of the multivariate Gaussian distribution is given by the predicted arrival time and amplitude from the causative event. We carry out the pick assignment to each earthquake and determine earthquake source parameters (i.e., earthquake location, origin time, and magnitude) under the maximum likelihood criterion using the Expectation‐Maximization algorithm. The GaMMA method does not require typical association steps of other algorithms, such as grid‐search or supervised training. The results for both synthetic tests and for the 2019 Ridgecrest earthquake sequence show that GaMMA effectively associates phases from a temporally and spatially dense earthquake sequence while producing useful estimates of earthquake location and magnitude.
Moderate to Elevated Atmospheric CO2 During the Early Paleocene Recorded by Platanites Leaves of the San Juan Basin, New Mexico
Authors: Milligan Joseph N. , Flynn Andrew G. , Kowalczyk Jennifer B. , Barclay Richard S. , Geng Jie , Royer Dana L. , Peppe Daniel J.
Published: March 2022

Throughout the Phanerozoic, estimated CO2 levels from CO2 proxies generally correlate well with independent estimates of temperature. However, some proxy estimates of atmospheric CO2 during the Late Cretaceous and early Paleocene are low (<400 ppm), seemingly at odds with elevated sea surface temperature. Here we evaluate early Paleocene CO2 by applying a leaf gas‐exchange model to Platanites leaves of four early Paleocene localities from the San Juan Basin, New Mexico (65.66–64.59 Ma). We first calibrate the model on two modern Platanus species, Platanus occidentalis and P. × acerifolia, where we find the leaf gas‐exchange model accurately predicts present‐day CO2, with a mean error rate between 5% and 14%. Applying the model to the early Paleocene, we find CO2 varies between ∼660 and 1,140 ppm. These estimates are consistent with more recent CO2 estimates from boron, leaf gas‐exchange, liverwort, and paleosol proxies that all suggest moderate to elevated levels of CO2 during the Late Cretaceous and early Paleocene. These levels of atmospheric CO2 are more in keeping with the elevated temperature during this period.