bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rumkowski’s Scapegoat? The Case of Łódź Ghetto Functionary Maks Szczęśliwy at a Rabbinic/Honor Court in Helsinki, 1949–1953
Authors: Muir Simo
Published: July 2021

This article analyzes the honor court trial of Maks Szczęśliwy, former head of the Łódź ghetto Provisioning Department and one of Chaim Rumkowski’s closest associates, accused of “crimes against humanity.” In order to determine whether Szczęśliwy could be accepted as its member, the Jewish Community of Helsinki established a tribunal under rabbinical authority. The tribunal contacted Jewish institutions for assistance and advice in Sweden, Poland, Great Britain, and Israel, and ultimately took the case to the Rabbinic High Court of Israel. The author investigates how shifting attitudes among the transnational survivor community towards former members of Jewish councils and other alleged collaborators shaped the final outcome of the case.
Keeping an eye on pink eye: a global conjunctivitis outbreak expert survey
Authors: Kaur Gurbani , Seitzman Gerami D , Lietman Thomas M , McLeod Stephen D , Porco Travis C , Doan Thuy , Deiner Michael S
Published: July 2021

Background

Recurrent conjunctivitis epidemics are prevalent worldwide. Aetiologies are often undetermined.

Methods

We surveyed conjunctivitis researchers about perceived trends in prevalence, incidence and aetiologies of conjunctivitis epidemics.

Results

Of the 155 participants, 7% endorsed globally variable and dynamic microbial aetiologies of conjunctivitis epidemics. Increased incidence of conjunctivitis epidemics over the last decade were reported by 21% of respondents. Peak seasons differed between the northern and southern hemispheres.

Conclusions

There is regional equipoise regarding the increasing incidence and emerging underlying aetiologies of epidemic conjunctivitis. Further investigation of global surveillance and microbial characterization of conjunctivitis outbreaks could improve prevention and outcomes.
Simultaneous Estimation of Six Nitrosamine Impurities in Valsartan Using Liquid Chromatographic Method
Authors: Bodiwala Kunjan B , Panchal Bhoomi G , Savale Shrinivas S , Dave Jayant B , Sureja Dipen K , Dhameliya Tejas M , Chhabria Mahesh T
Published: July 2021

Background

Nitrosamine impurities are potent carcinogens in animals and probable carcinogens in humans. There is a need for effective analytical methods to detect and identify various nitrosamine impurities, and to develop rapid solutions to ensure the safety and quality of the drugs.

Objective

A liquid chromatographic method was developed for estimation of six nitrosamine impurities in valsartan.

Methods

The developed method employed: a C18 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column as a stationary phase; a combination of acetonitrile, water (pH 3.2 adjusted with formic acid), and methanol with gradient elution as mobile phase; and 228 nm as the detection wavelength. The developed method was validated as per International Conference on Harmonization Q2(R1) guidelines. The method was successfully applied to estimate six nitrosamine impurities in valsartan API (active pharmaceutical ingradient) and formulation (tablets).

Results

The method was able to separate each impurity and valsartan with resolved and sharp peaks. Results indicated that the developed method is linear in selected ranges (coefficient of regressions >0.9996), precise (RSD <2%), accurate (recovery in a range of 99.02–100.16%), sensitive (low detection and quantitation limits), and specific for estimation of each impurity in valsartan. Assay results were in agreement with the spiked amount of each impurity.

Conclusion

The developed method can be applied for simultaneous estimation of six nitrosamine impurities in valsartan raw material, tablets, and fixed dose combination at very low levels.

Highlights

Development, validation, and application of a HPLC method for the estimation of six nitrosamine impurities in valsartan API and formulation samples.
Monitoring the Cleanliness of Reusable Surgical Instruments in Central Sterile Supply Department by Adenosine Triphosphate Method
Authors: Li Ye , Lu Ye , Cai Ran , Hu Guoqing , Lu Longxi
Published: July 2021

Background

Cleaning is very important in reusable surgical instruments (RSI) reprocessing. The adenosine triphosphate (ATP) method is widely used to assess cleanliness, but few studies focus on using this method on RSIs.

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of the ATP Bioluminescence Assay for monitoring the cleanliness of RSIs.

Methods

The study was conducted in three central sterile supply departments (CSSD) from 2015 to 2020. Surgical scissors, hemostatic forceps, and other non-lumen instruments were sampled after cleaning. The surface of each instrument was swabbed in a uniform manner, including hinged joints and teeth, and the amount of ATP (amol) was calculated.

Results

A total of 871 RSIs were tested, the mean ATP lg (amol) was 2.829 ± 0.539 and the qualified rate was 80.57%. Washer-disinfector cleaning was more efficient than manual cleaning, the mean ATP lg (amol) were 2.776 ± 0.513 and 2.948 ± 0.575, respectively; the qualified rates were 84.97% and 70.59%, respectively. With the time of bare instruments expose to environment increased, the qualified rate was decreased (Ptrend = 0.044).

Conclusion

ATP levels are stable and repeatable for continuous monitoring of the cleanliness of RSIs. It is a rapid and viable method for assessing the cleanliness of RSIs. Washer-disinfector cleaning is recommended and cleaned instruments should be placed in sterile packaging in good time.

Highlights

The ATP method is viable for assessing the cleanliness of RSI in CSSDs.
Predictors of Follow-up Compliance in Pediatric Burn Patients During the Time of COVID
Authors: Chara Alejandro , Hodgman Erica , Ziegfeld Susan , Parrish Carisa , Rhee Daniel , Garcia Alejandro V
Published: July 2021

The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased isolation and potentially decreased access to healthcare. We therefore evaluated the effect of COVID-19 on rates of compliance with recommended post-injury follow-up. We hypothesized that this isolation may lead to detrimental effects on adherence to proper follow-up for children with burn injuries. We queried the registry at an ABA-verified Level 1 pediatric burn center for patients aged 0–18 years who were treated and released from March 30 to July 31, 2020. As a control, we included patients treated during the same time frame from 2016 to 2019. Patient and clinical factors were compared between the COVID and pre-COVID cohorts. Predictors of follow-up were compared using chi-squared and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate for predictors of compliance with follow-up. A total of 401 patients were seen and discharged from the pediatric ED for burns. Fifty-eight (14.5%) of these patients were seen during the pandemic. Burn characteristics and demographic patterns did not differ between the COVID and pre-COVID cohorts. Likewise, demographics did not differ between patients with follow-up and those without. The rate of compliance with 2-week follow-up was also not affected. Burn size, burn depth, and mechanism of injury all were associated with higher compliance to follow up. After adjusting for these variables, there was still no difference in the odds of appropriate follow-up. Despite concerns about decreased access to healthcare during COVID, follow-up rates for pediatric burn patients remained unchanged at our pediatric burn center.
Cilostazol attenuated prenatal valproic acid-induced behavioural and biochemical deficits in a rat model of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Luhach Kanishk , Kulkarni Giriraj T , Singh Vijay P , Sharma Bhupesh
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is categorized as a neurodevelopmental disorder, presenting with a variety of aetiological and phenotypical features. Inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase-3 (PDE3) with cilostazol is known to produce beneficial effects in several brain disorders. The pharmacological outcome of cilostazol administration was investigated in prenatal valproic acid (VPA)-induced ASD deficits in albino Wistar rats.

Methods

Cilostazol was administered in two doses (30/60 mg/kg) to male rats born of females administered with VPA on gestational day 12. Behavioural assays on locomotion (open field), social interaction, repetitive behaviour (y-maze) and anxiety (elevated plus maze) were performed in all groups. Further, biochemical assessments of markers associated with neuronal function (BDNF, pCREB), inflammation (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10) and oxidative stress were carried out in frontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum and cerebellum.

Key findings

The cilostazol regimen, attenuated prenatal VPA exposure associated hyperlocomotion, social interaction deficits, repetitive behavior, and anxiety. Further, biochemical markers such as BDNF, pCREB, IL-10 and GSH were found to be significantly increased contrary to markers such as TNF-α, IL-6 and TBARS in the assessed brain regions.

Conclusions

Cilostazol rectified core behavioural traits while producing significant changes to biochemistry in the brain, suggesting benefits of cilostazol administration in experimental models of ASD.
Swift/UVOT follow-up of gravitational wave alerts in the O3 era
Authors: Oates S R , Marshall F E , Breeveld A A , Kuin N P M , Brown P J , De Pasquale M , Evans P A , Fenney A J , Gronwall C , Kennea J A , Klingler N J , Page M J , Siegel M H , Tohuvavohu A , Ambrosi E , Barthelmy S D , Beardmore A P , Bernardini M G , Campana S , Caputo R , Cenko S B , Cusumano G , D’Aì A , D’Avanzo P , D’Elia V , Giommi P , Hartmann D H , Krimm H A , Laha S , Malesani D B , Melandri A , Nousek J A , O’Brien P T , Osborne J P , Pagani C , Page K L , Palmer D M , Perri M , Racusin J L , Sakamoto T , Sbarufatti B , Schlieder J E , Tagliaferri G , Troja E
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we report on the observational performance of the Swift Ultra-violet/Optical Telescope (UVOT) in response to the gravitational wave (GW) alerts announced by the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory and the Advanced Virgo detector during the O3 period. We provide the observational strategy for follow-up of GW alerts and provide an overview of the processing and analysis of candidate optical/UV sources. For the O3 period, we also provide a statistical overview and report on serendipitous sources discovered by Swift/UVOT. Swift followed 18 GW candidate alerts, with UVOT observing a total of 424 deg2. We found 27 sources that changed in magnitude at the 3σ level compared with archival u- or g-band catalogued values. Swift/UVOT also followed up a further 13 sources reported by other facilities during the O3 period. Using catalogue information, we divided these 40 sources into five initial classifications: 11 candidate active galactic nuclei (AGNs)/quasars, three cataclysmic variables (CVs), nine supernovae, 11 unidentified sources that had archival photometry, and six uncatalogued sources for which no archival photometry was available. We have no strong evidence to identify any of these transients as counterparts to the GW events. The 17 unclassified sources are likely a mix of AGN and a class of fast-evolving transient, and one source may be a CV.
Outliers in the LIGO black hole mass function from coagulation in dense clusters
Authors: Flitter Jordan , Muñoz Julian B , Kovetz Ely D
Published: July 2021

The advanced LIGO O3a run catalogue has been recently published, and it includes several events with unexpected mass properties, including mergers with individual masses in the lower and upper mass gaps, as well as mergers with unusually small mass ratios between the binary components. Here, we entertain the possibility that these outliers are the outcome of hierarchical mergers of black holes or neutron stars in the dense environments of globular clusters. We use the coagulation equation to study the evolution of the black hole mass function within a typical cluster. Our prescription allows us to monitor how various global quantities change with time, such as the total mass and number of compact objects in the cluster, its overall merger rate, and the probability to form intermediate-mass black holes via a runaway process. By accounting for the LIGO observational bias, we predict the merger event distributions with respect to various variables such as the individual masses M1 and M2, their ratio q, and redshift z, and we compare our predictions with the published O3a data. We study how these distributions depend on the merger-rate and ejections parameters and produce forecasts for the (tight) constraints that can be placed on our model parameters using the future data set of the O5 run. Finally, we also consider the presence of a static channel with no coagulation producing merger events alongside the dynamic channel, finding that the two can be distinguished based solely on the merger mass distribution with future O5 data.
Impact of gas-based seeding on supermassive black hole populations at z ≥ 7
Authors: Bhowmick Aklant K , Blecha Laura , Torrey Paul , Kelley Luke Zoltan , Vogelsberger Mark , Kosciw Kaitlyn , Nelson Dylan , Weinberger Rainer , Hernquist Lars
Published: July 2021

Deciphering the formation of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) is a key science goal for upcoming observational facilities. In many theoretical channels proposed so far, the seed formation depends crucially on local gas conditions. We systematically characterize the impact of a range of gas-based black hole seeding prescriptions on SMBH populations using cosmological simulations. Seeds of mass $M_{\mathrm{seed}}\sim 10^3\!-\!10^{6}~\mathrm{M}_{\odot }\, h^{-1}$ are placed in haloes that exceed critical thresholds for star-forming, metal-poor gas mass and halo mass (defined as $\tilde{M}_{\mathrm{sf,mp}}$ and $\tilde{M}_{\mathrm{h}}$, respectively, in units of Mseed). We quantify the impact of these parameters on the properties of z ≥ 7 SMBHs. Lower seed masses produce higher black hole merger rates (by factors of ∼10 and ∼1000 at z ∼ 7 and z ∼ 15, respectively). For fixed seed mass, we find that $\tilde{M}_{\mathrm{h}}$ has the strongest impact on the black hole population at high redshift (z ≳ 15, where a factor of 10 increase in $\tilde{M}_{\mathrm{h}}$ suppresses merger rates by ≳100). At lower redshift (z ≲ 15), we find that $\tilde{M}_{\mathrm{sf,mp}}$ has a larger impact on the black hole population. Increasing $\tilde{M}_{\mathrm{sf,mp}}$ from 5 to 150 suppresses the merger rates by factors of ∼8 at z ∼ 7–15. This suggests that the seeding criteria explored here could leave distinct imprints on LISA merger rates. In contrast, AGN luminosity functions are much less sensitive to seeding criteria, varying by factors ≲2–3 within our models. Such variations will be challenging to probe even with future sensitive instruments such as Lynx or JWST. Our study provides a useful benchmark for development of seed models for large-volume cosmological simulations.
Gravitational wave signature from phase transition of a combusting neutron star to quark star
Authors: Mallick Ritam , Singh Shailendra , R Prasad
Published: July 2021

Fluctuation at the neutron star centre gives rise to a small deconfined quark core very close to the star centre. The density discontinuity at the quark–hadron boundary initiates a shock wave, which propagates outwards of the star. The shock has enough energy to combust nuclear matter to 2-flavour quark matter in the star. The 2-flavour quark matter is not stable and settles to a stable 3-flavour matter in the weakly interacting time-scale. In this paper, we study the conversion of 2-flavour matter to 3-flavour matter. We set-up a differential equation to convert the excess of down quarks to strange quarks involving weak reaction and diffusion of quarks. Calculating the reaction rate and diffusion, we solve the differential equation to find the velocity of the conversion front. As the conversion front moves out, the density profile changes, bringing about a change in the star’s quadrupole moment and thereby emitting gravitational waves (GWs). As the conversion process occurs, the temperature of the star rises, but the neutrino carries away the heat in some tens of ms. The GW amplitude of a colder star is well within the present detector capability, but the frequency is slightly on the higher side. Relatively hotter stars are on the boundary of present detectors and easily detectable with future detectors, and their frequency is also within the present detectability range. In comparison, phase transition from Galactic pulsars is easily detectable with present detectors.
Moving-mesh radiation-hydrodynamic simulations of wind-reprocessed transients
Authors: Calderón Diego , Pejcha Ondřej , Duffell Paul C
Published: July 2021

Motivated by recent theoretical work on tidal disruption events and other peculiar transients, we present moving-mesh radiation-hydrodynamic simulations of radiative luminosity emitted by a central source being reprocessed by a wind-like outflow. We couple the moving-mesh hydrodynamic code jet with our newly developed radiation module based on mixed-frame grey flux-limited diffusion with implicit timestep update. This allows us to study the self-consistent multidimensional radiation-hydrodynamic evolution over more than 10 orders of magnitude in both space and time in a single run. We simulate an optically thick spherical wind with constant or evolving mass-loss rate, which is irradiated by a central isotropic or angularly dependent radiation source. Our spherically symmetric simulations confirm previous analytic results by identifying different stages of radiation reprocessing: radiation trapped in the wind, diffusing out through the wind, and reaching constant maximum attenuation. We find that confining the central radiation source in a cone with moderate opening angles decrease up to one order of magnitude the early flux along sightlines oriented away from the direction of radiation injection but that the reprocessed radiation becomes isotropic roughly after one lateral diffusion time through the ejecta. We discuss further applications and guidelines for the use of our novel radiation-hydrodynamics tool in the context of transient modelling.
Global three-dimensional simulations of outer protoplanetary discs with ambipolar diffusion
Authors: Cui Can , Bai Xue-Ning
Published: July 2021

The structure and evolution of protoplanetary discs (PPDs) are largely governed by disc angular momentum transport, mediated by magnetic fields. In the most observable outer disc, ambipolar diffusion is the primary non-ideal magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effect. In this work, we study the gas dynamics in outer PPDs by conducting a series of global three-dimensional non-ideal MHD simulations with ambipolar diffusion and net poloidal magnetic flux, using the Athena++ MHD code, with resolution comparable to local simulations. Our simulations demonstrate the coexistence of magnetized disc winds and turbulence driven by the magneto-rotational instability (MRI). While MHD winds dominate disc angular momentum transport, the MRI turbulence also contributes significantly. We observe that magnetic flux spontaneously concentrates into axisymmetric flux sheets, leading to radial variations in turbulence levels, stresses, and accretion rates. Annular substructures arise as a natural consequence of magnetic flux concentration. The flux concentration phenomena show diverse properties with different levels of disc magnetization and ambipolar diffusion. The disc generally loses magnetic flux over time, though flux sheets could prevent the leak of magnetic flux in some cases. Our results demonstrate the ubiquity of disc annular substructures in weakly MRI turbulent outer PPDs and imply a stochastic nature of disc evolution.
HD 183579b: a warm sub-Neptune transiting a solar twin detected by TESS
Authors: Gan Tianjun , Bedell Megan , Wang Sharon Xuesong , Foreman-Mackey Daniel , Meléndez Jorge , Mao Shude , Stassun Keivan G , Howell Steve B , Ziegler Carl , Wittenmyer Robert A , Hellier Coel , Collins Karen A , Shporer Avi , Ricker George R , Vanderspek Roland , Latham David W , Seager Sara , Winn Joshua N , Jenkins Jon M , Addison Brett C , Ballard Sarah , Barclay Thomas , Bean Jacob L , Bowler Brendan P , Briceño César , Crossfield Ian J M , Dittman Jason , Horner Jonathan , Jensen Eric L N , Kane Stephen R , Kielkopf John , Kreidberg Laura , Law Nicholas , Mann Andrew W , Mengel Matthew W , Morgan Edward H , Okumura Jack , Osborn Hugh P , Paegert Martin , Plavchan Peter , Schwarz Richard P , Shiao Bernie , Smith Jeffrey C , Spina Lorenzo , Tinney C G , Torres Guillermo , Twicken Joseph D , Vezie Michael , Wang Gavin , Wright Duncan J , Zhang Hui
Published: July 2021

We report the discovery and characterization of a transiting warm sub-Neptune planet around the nearby bright (V = 8.75 mag, K = 7.15 mag) solar twin HD 183579, delivered by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). The host star is located 56.8 ± 0.1 pc away with a radius of R* = 0.97 ± 0.02 R⊙ and a mass of M* = 1.03 ± 0.05 M⊙. We confirm the planetary nature by combining space and ground-based photometry, spectroscopy, and imaging. We find that HD 183579b (TOI-1055b) has a radius of Rp = 3.53 ± 0.13 R⊕ on a 17.47 d orbit with a mass of Mp = 11.2 ± 5.4 M⊕ (3σ mass upper limit of 27.4 M⊕). HD 183579b is the fifth brightest known sub-Neptune planet system in the sky, making it an excellent target for future studies of the interior structure and atmospheric properties. By performing a line-by-line differential analysis using the high-resolution and signal-to-noise ratio HARPS spectra, we find that HD 183579 joins the typical solar twin sample, without a statistically significant refractory element depletion.
Modes of a stellar system I: Ergodic systems
Authors: Lau Jun Yan , Binney James
Published: July 2021

The excursions of star clusters and galaxies around statistical equilibria are studied. For a stable ergodic model Antonov’s Hermitian operator on six-dimensional phase space has the normal modes as its eigenfunctions. The excitation energy of the system is just the sum of the (positive) energies associated with each normal mode. Formulae are given for the DFs of modes, which are of the type first described by van Kampen rather than Landau, and Landau ‘modes’ can be expressed as sums of van Kampen modes. Each van Kampen mode comprises the response of non-resonant stars to driving by the gravitational field of stars on a group of resonant tori, so its structure is sensitive to the degree of self gravity. The emergence of global distortions in N-body models when particles are started from an analytical equilibrium is explained in terms of the interplay of normal modes. The positivity of modal energies opens the way to modelling the thermal properties of clusters in close analogy with those of crystals.
Spectroscopic modelling of two high-mass X-ray binaries, Cyg X–3 and 4U 1538–522
Authors: Shaw Gargi , Bhattacharyya Sudip
Published: July 2021

We report a detailed modelling of soft X-ray emission lines from two stellar wind-fed Galactic high-mass X-ray binary (HMXB) systems, Cyg X-3 and 4U 1538-522, and estimate physical parameters, e.g. hydrogen density, radiation field, chemical abundances, wind velocity, etc. The spectral synthesis code cloudy is utilized for this modelling. We model highly ionized X-ray spectral lines, such as Fe XXV (6.700 keV) and Fe XXVI (6.966 keV), and reproduce the observed line flux values. We find that for Cyg X–3 and 4U 1538-522, the inner radius of the ionized gas is at a distance of 1012.25 cm and 1010.43 cm, respectively, from the primary star, which is the main source of ionization. The densities of the ionized gas for Cyg X–3 and 4U 1538–522 are found to be ∼1011.35 cm−3 and 1011.99 cm−3, respectively. The corresponding wind velocities are 2000 km s−1 and 1500 km s−1. The respective predicted hydrogen column densities for Cyg X–3 and 4U 1538–522 are 1023.2 cm−2 and 1022.25 cm−2. In addition, we find that magnetic field affects the strength of the spectral lines through cyclotron cooling. Hence, we perform separate model comparisons including magnetic field for both the sources. Most of the parameters, except the hydrogen column density, have similar values with and without magnetic field. We estimate that the most probable strength of the magnetic field for Cyg X–3 and 4U 1538–522, where the Fe XXV and Fe XXVI lines originate, is ∼102.5 G.
Reactions to Sales Restrictions on Flavored Vape Products or All Vape Products Among Young Adults in the United States
Authors: Posner Heather , Romm Katelyn F , Henriksen Lisa , Bernat Debra , Berg Carla J
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Despite increases in e-cigarette sales restrictions, support for sales restrictions and perceived impact on young adult use are unclear.

Aims and Methods

We analyzed February-May 2020 data from a longitudinal study of 2159 young adults (ages 18–34; Mage = 24.75 ± 4.71; n = 550 past 30-day e-cigarette users) in six metropolitan areas (Atlanta, Boston, Minneapolis, Oklahoma City, San Diego, and Seattle). We examined support for e-cigarette sales restrictions and—among e-cigarette users—perceived impact of flavored vape product and all vape product sales restrictions on e-cigarette and cigarette use (and potential correlates; ie, e-cigarette/tobacco use, use-related symptoms/health concerns).

Results

About 24.2% of e-cigarette users (and 57.6% of nonusers) supported (strongly/somewhat) sales restrictions on flavored vape products; 15.1% of e-cigarette users (45.1% of nonusers) supported complete vape product sales restrictions. If restricted to tobacco flavors, 39.1% of e-cigarette users reported being likely (very/somewhat) to continue using e-cigarettes (30.5% not at all likely); 33.2% were likely to switch to cigarettes (45.5% not at all). Considering complete vape product sales restrictions, equal numbers (~39%) were likely versus not at all likely to switch to cigarettes. Greater policy support correlated with being e-cigarette nonusers (adjusted R2 [aR2] = .210); among users, correlates included fewer days of use and greater symptoms and health concerns (aR2 = .393). If such restrictions were implemented, those less likely to report continuing to vape or switching to cigarettes used e-cigarettes on fewer days, were never smokers, and indicated greater health concern (aR2 = .361).

Conclusions

While lower-risk users may be more positively impacted by such policies, other young adult user subgroups may not experience benefit.

Implications

Young adult e-cigarette users indicate low support for e-cigarette sales restrictions (both for flavored products and complete restrictions). Moreover, if vape product sales were restricted to tobacco flavors, 39.1% of users reported being likely to continue using e-cigarettes but 33.2% were likely to switch to cigarettes. If vape product sales were entirely restricted, e-cigarette users were equally likely to switch to cigarettes versus not (~40%). Those most likely to report positive impact of such policies being implemented were less frequent users, never smokers, and those with greater e-cigarette-related health concerns. This research should be considered in future tobacco control initiatives.
Is cohesive capitalism under threat?
Authors: Besley Timothy
Published: July 2021

This paper argues that a distinctive form of capitalism, cohesive capitalism, emerged in the post-war period supporting the wellbeing of its citizens through building state capacities alongside open and democratic forms of government. The paper identifies a range of threats that this model now faces and speculates on what it would take, particularly in terms of international cooperation, to respond to them.
The SARS-CoV-2 spike L452R-E484Q variant in the Indian B.1.617 strain showed significant reduction in the neutralization activity of immune sera
Authors: Li Gen , Zhou Zhongcheng , Du Peng , Yu Meixing , Li Ning , Xiong Xinxin , Huang Hong , Liu Zhihai , Dai Qinjin , Zhu Jie , Guo Chengbin , Wu Shanyun , Baptista-Hon Daniel T , Miao Man , Ming Lam Wai , Wu Yong , Zeng Fanxin , Zhang Charlotte L , Zhang Edward D , Song Haifeng , Liu Jianghai , Lau Johnson Yiu-Nam , Xiang Andy P , Zhang Kang
Published: July 2021

To assess the impact of the key non-synonymous amino acid substitutions in the RBD of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.617.1 (dominant variant identified in the current India outbreak) on the infectivity and neutralization activities of the immune sera, L452R and E484Q (L452R-E484Q variant), pseudotyped virus was constructed (with the D614G background). The impact on binding with the neutralizing antibodies was also assessed with an ELISA assay. Pseudotyped virus carrying a L452R-E484Q variant showed a comparable infectivity compared with D614G. However, there was a significant reduction in the neutralization activity of the immune sera from non-human primates vaccinated with a recombinant receptor binding domain (RBD) protein, convalescent patients, and healthy vaccinees vaccinated with an mRNA vaccine. In addition, there was a reduction in binding of L452R-E484Q-D614G protein to the antibodies of the immune sera from vaccinated non-human primates. These results highlight the interplay between infectivity and other biologic factors involved in the natural evolution of SARS-CoV-2. Reduced neutralization activities against the L452R-E484Q variant will have an impact on health authority planning and implications for the vaccination strategy/new vaccine development.
A case report of response to crizotinib in chemotherapy-refractory metastatic gallbladder cancer with met amplification and acquired resistance resulting from the loss of MET amplification
Authors: Sun Hongna , Li Xiaofen , Dai Shuang , Shen Xudong , Qiu Meng
Published: July 2021

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a highly invasive disease and the most prevalent malignancy of the biliary system. Patients with GBC are commonly diagnosed at a late stage and have an unfavorable prognosis. Palliative chemotherapy has been the standard care for recurrent or metastatic disease in the past decades. Recently, several targeted therapies have been investigated in advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) including inhibitors of genes or pathways such as FGFR2 fusions or rearrangements, IDH1 mutations, and NTRK gene fusions. Also, several clinical studies involving molecular stratification have been performed in defined patient groups, for example, BRAF V600E and HER2. Mesenchymal epithelial transition(MET)encodes a tyrosine kinase receptor and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor is a proto-oncogene. Targeting the MET signaling pathway is an effective strategy in numerous cancer types. However, the poor efficacy of MET inhibitors has been demonstrated in several phase II studies, but currently no reports have explained the potential mechanisms of resistance to MET inhibitors in BTC. In this article, we report a case of metastatic GBC with MET amplification that exhibited a rapid response to crizotinib after the failure of two lines of chemotherapy. After the patient had progressed and discontinued crizotinib, cabozantinib was introduced. Analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) by next-generation sequencing (NGS) indicated a loss of MET amplification status. To our knowledge, this is the first case study demonstrating the use of NGS in ctDNA to monitor the development of acquired resistance during anti-MET treatment in GBC.
Schizophrenia-associated variation at ZNF804A correlates with altered experience-dependent dynamics of sleep slow waves and spindles in healthy young adults
Authors: Bartsch Ullrich , Corbin Laura J , Hellmich Charlotte , Taylor Michelle , Easey Kayleigh E , Durant Claire , Marston Hugh M , Timpson Nicholas J , Jones Matthew W
Published: July 2021

The rs1344706 polymorphism in ZNF804A is robustly associated with schizophrenia and schizophrenia is, in turn, associated with abnormal non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep neurophysiology. To examine whether rs1344706 is associated with intermediate neurophysiological traits in the absence of disease, we assessed the relationship between genotype, sleep neurophysiology, and sleep-dependent memory consolidation in healthy participants. We recruited healthy adult males with no history of psychiatric disorder from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) birth cohort. Participants were homozygous for either the schizophrenia-associated ‘A’ allele (N = 22) or the alternative ‘C’ allele (N = 18) at rs1344706. Actigraphy, polysomnography (PSG) and a motor sequence task (MST) were used to characterize daily activity patterns, sleep neurophysiology and sleep-dependent memory consolidation. Average MST learning and sleep-dependent performance improvements were similar across genotype groups, albeit more variable in the AA group. During sleep after learning, CC participants showed increased slow-wave (SW) and spindle amplitudes, plus augmented coupling of SW activity across recording electrodes. SW and spindles in those with the AA genotype were insensitive to learning, whilst SW coherence decreased following MST training. Accordingly, NREM neurophysiology robustly predicted the degree of overnight motor memory consolidation in CC carriers, but not in AA carriers. We describe evidence that rs1344706 polymorphism in ZNF804A is associated with changes in the coordinated neural network activity that supports offline information processing during sleep in a healthy population. These findings highlight the utility of sleep neurophysiology in mapping the impacts of schizophrenia-associated common genetic variants on neural circuit oscillations and function.
Yoga for treating low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Anheyer Dennis , Haller Heidemarie , Lauche Romy , Dobos Gustav , Cramer Holger
Published: July 2021

Yoga is frequently used for back pain relief. However, the evidence was judged to be of only low to moderate certainty. To assess the efficacy and safety of yoga in patients with low back pain, a meta-analysis was performed. Therefore, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched to May 26, 2020. Only randomized controlled trials comparing Yoga with passive control (usual care or wait list), or an active comparator, for patients with low back pain and that assessed pain intensity or pain-related disability as a primary outcome were considered to be eligible. Two reviewers independently extracted data on study characteristics, outcome measures, and results at short-term and long-term follow-up. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Thirty articles on 27 individual studies (2702 participants in total) proved eligible for review. Compared with passive control, yoga was associated with short-term improvements in pain intensity (15 RCTs; mean difference [MD] = −0.74 points on a numeric rating scale; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.04 to −0.44; standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.37 95% CI = −0.52 to −0.22), pain-related disability (15 RCTs; MD = −2.28; 95% CI = −3.30 to −1.26; SMD = −0.38 95% CI = −0.55 to −0.21), mental health (7 RCTs; MD = 1.70; 95% CI = 0.20-3.20; SMD = 0.17 95% CI = 0.02-0.32), and physical functioning (9 RCTs; MD = 2.80; 95% CI = 1.00-4.70; SMD = 0.28 95% CI = 0.10-0.47). Except for mental health, all effects were sustained long-term. Compared with an active comparator, yoga was not associated with any significant differences in short-term or long-term outcomes.
Experimental evidence of a functional relationship within the brainstem trigeminocervical complex in humans
Authors: Basedau Hauke , Nielsen Trine , Asmussen Katharina , Gloss Katrin , Mehnert Jan , Jensen Rigmor H. , May Arne
Published: July 2021

The existence of a trigeminocervical complex has been suggested based on animal data, but only indirect evidence exists in humans. We investigated the functional relationship between the trigeminal and the occipital region by stimulating one region and measuring electrical pain thresholds (EPTs) of the corresponding opposite region. This study consists of 2 single-blinded, randomised protocols. Forty healthy participants were recruited in the propaedeutic protocol I. Electrical pain thresholds were measured on the V1 and the greater occipital nerve (GON) dermatome bilaterally as well as on the left forearm longitudinally before and after application of topical capsaicin. Protocol II was then online preregistered, and, additionally, the ipsilateral trigeminal dermatomes V2 and V3 were tested. Greater occipital nerve stimulation increased the EPT ipsilateral at V1 after 20 minutes (P = 0.006) compared with baseline, whereas trigeminal stimulation increased the EPT at the ipsilateral (P = 0.023) as well as the contralateral GON (P = 0.001) after capsaicin application. Protocol II confirmed these results and additionally showed that GON stimulation with capsaicin increased EPTs ipsilateral at all 3 trigeminal dermatomes and that trigeminal stimulation on V1 led to an ipsilateral increase of EPTs at GON, V2, and V3. Our data suggest a strong functional interplay between the trigeminal and occipital system in humans. The fact that the stimulation of one of these dermatomes increases the EPT of the respective other nerve could be explained by segmental inhibition on the brainstem level.
Impact of changes in opioid funding and clinical policies on rapid tapering of opioids in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Martins Diana , Khuu Wayne , Tadrous Mina , Greaves Simon , Sproule Beth , Bozinoff Nikki , Juurlink David N. , Mamdani Muhammad M. , Paterson J. Michael , Gomes Tara ,   On behalf of the Ontario Drug Policy Research Network
Published: July 2021

Reports have emerged of abrupt tapering among recipients of long-term prescription opioids to conform new prescribing guidelines. We conducted a population-based, repeated cross-sectional time-series study among very high-dose (≥200 MME) opioid recipients in Ontario, Canada, to examine changes in the monthly prevalence of rapid tapering from 2014 to 2018, defined as recipients experiencing either a ≥50% reduction in daily doses or abrupt discontinuation sustained for 30 days. Interventional autoregressive integrated moving average models were used to test for significant changes following key guidelines and drug policies and programs. A sensitivity analysis examined rapid tapering sustained for 90 days. The monthly prevalence of rapid tapering events was stable from January 2014 to September 2016 (average monthly prevalence: 1.4%) but increased from 1.4% in October 2016 to 1.8% in April 2017 (P = 0.001), coincident with Ontario's Fentanyl Patch-for-Patch Return Program implementation. Transient spikes in the prevalence of rapid tapering also occurred 2 months after Ontario's delisting of publicly funded high-strength opioids and the release of updated Canadian Opioid Prescribing Guideline for Chronic Pain, reaching 2.3% in March 2017 and July 2017, respectively. However, this prevalence decreased to 1.2% in December 2018 (P < 0.0001). Although the prevalence of abrupt opioid discontinuation was lower, similar trends were observed. Our sensitivity analysis examining long-lasting rapid tapering found similar trends but lower prevalence, with no changes in complete discontinuation. These temporary increases in rapid tapering events highlight the need for improved communication and evidence-based resources for prescribers to minimize negative consequences of evolving policies and guidelines.
Improvement in the Prediction of Coronary Heart Disease Risk by Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Goldman Orit , Raphaeli Orit , Goldman Eran , Leshno Moshe
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives:

Cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease (CHD), are the main cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Although CHD cannot be entirely predicted by classic risk factors, it is preventable. Therefore, predicting CHD risk is crucial to clinical cardiology research, and the development of innovative methods for predicting CHD risk is of great practical interest. The Framingham risk score (FRS) is one of the most frequently implemented risk models. However, recent advances in the field of analytics may enhance the prediction of CHD risk beyond the FRS. Here, we propose a model based on an artificial neural network (ANN) for predicting CHD risk with respect to the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) dataset. The performance of this model was compared to that of the FRS.

Methods:

A sample of 3066 subjects from the FHS offspring cohort was subjected to an ANN. A multilayer perceptron ANN architecture was used and the lift, gains, receiver operating characteristic (ROC), and precision-recall predicted by the ANN were compared with those of the FRS.

Results:

The lift and gain curves of the ANN model outperformed those of the FRS model in terms of top percentiles. The ROC curve showed that, for higher risk scores, the ANN model had higher sensitivity and higher specificity than those of the FRS model, although its area under the curve (AUC) was lower. For the precision-recall measures, the ANN generated significantly better results than the FRS with a higher AUC.

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that the ANN model is a promising approach for predicting CHD risk and a good screening procedure to identify high-risk subjects.
Novosphingobium aureum sp. nov., a marine bacterium isolated from salt flat sediment
Authors: Yoo Yeonjae , Kim Dongjun , Lee Hanbyul , Khim Jong Seong , Kim Bogun , Yang Dongmin , Pathiraja Duleepa , Choi In-Geol , Kim Jae-Jin
Published: July 2021

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, pale yellow-coloured, rod-shaped marine bacterium designated strain YJ-S2-02T was isolated from salt flat sediment sampled in Yongyu-do, Republic of Korea. Strain YJ-S2-02T grew at pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0), 10–40 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and with optimum 1 % (w/v) NaCl. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain YJ-S2-02T was closely related to

Novosphingobium naphthalenivorans

NBRC 102051T (97.8 %) followed by

Novosphingobium mathurense

SM117T (97.5 %),

Novosphingobium indicum

H25T (97.3 %),

Novosphingobium pentaromativorans

US6-1T (96.8 %),

Novosphingobium fontis

STM-14T (96.6 %),

Novosphingobium endophyticum

EGI60015T (96.5 %),

Novosphingobium naphthae

D39T (96.5 %) and

Novosphingobium malaysiense

MUSC 273T (95.9 %). The average nucleotide identity and estimated DNA–DNA hybridization values between YJ-S2-02T and related type strains were 77.0–77.9 % and 19.1–24.0 %. Strain YJ-S2-02T was characterized as having Q-10 as the predominant respiratory quinone and the principal fatty acids (>10 %) were summed feature 8 (C18 : 1
 ω6c/ω7c, 20.7 %), C18 : 3
 ω6c (16.3 %) and C17 : 1
 ω6c (11.8 %). The polar lipids consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, sphingolipids and two unidentified lipids. The DNA G+C content of strain YJ-S2-02T was 65.6 mol%. On the basis of the polyphasic taxonomic evidence presented in this study, YJ-S2-02T should be classified as representing a novel species within the genus

Novosphingobium

, for which name Novosphingobium aureum is proposed, with the type strain YJ-S2-02T (=KACC 21677T =KCTC 72891T=JCM 33996T).
On the mathematical modelling and analysis of Listeriosis from contaminated food products
Authors: Mbalilo V. M. , Chukwu C. W. , Nyabadza F.
Published: July 2021

Listeriosis is a food-borne disease caused by a bacterium known as Listeria monocytogens. Humans can be infected by consuming contaminated food products. A transmission can also occur through contact with infected animals or people, however to a less extent. In this paper, a mathematical model for Listeriosis dynamics was developed. The steady states and their stability of the model system were determined and analyzed. The result shows that the disease-free equilibrium is asymptotically stable if the bacteria’s growth rate is less than its removal rate, and also the growth rate of food contamination is less than its removal rate. It was further observed that we can still have Listeriosis driven by the contaminated food products even if the Listeria bacteria population in the environment is very small.The results indicate that Listeriosis can be effectively controlled by removing contaminated food products, which was the policy adopted by the South African government during the recent Listeriosis outbreak.
Defective monocyte enzymatic function and an inhibitory immune phenotype in HIV-exposed uninfected African infants in the era of anti-retroviral therapy
Authors: Afran Louise , Jambo Kondwani C. , Nedi Wilfred , Miles David JC , Kiran Anmol , Banda Dominic H , Kamg’ona Ralph , Tembo Dumizulu , Burger Annette , Nastouli Eleni , Ferne Brigit , Mwandumba Henry C , Moss Paul , Goldblatt David , Rowland-Jones Sarah , Finn Adam , Heyderman Robert S
Published: July 2021

HIV-Exposed Uninfected (HEU) infants are a rapidly expanding population in sub-Saharan Africa and are highly susceptible to disease caused by encapsulated bacteria in the first year of life. The mechanism of this increased risk is still poorly understood. We therefore investigated if HIV exposure dysregulates HEU infant immunity and if this is amplified by human herpes virus infection (HHV). Here, we compared monocyte enzymatic function, innate and adaptive immune cell phenotype, and vaccine-induced antibody responses between HEU and HUU infants. We demonstrate altered monocyte phagosomal function and B cell subset homeostasis, and lower vaccine-induced anti-Haemophilus influenzae type b(Hib)and anti-Tetanus Toxoid (TT) IgG titers in HEU compared to HUU infants. There was no difference in the prevalence of HHV infection between HEU and HUU infants. Our findings suggest that even in the era of antiretroviral therapy (ART)-mediated viral suppression, HIV exposure dysregulates monocyte and B cell function during a vulnerable period of immune maturation in infancy. This may contribute to the high rates of invasive bacterial disease and pneumonia in HEU infants.
Diagnostic performance of a novel digital immunoassay (RapidTesta SARS-CoV-2): a prospective observational study with 1,127 nasopharyngeal samples
Authors: Suzuki Hiromichi , Akashi Yusaku , Ueda Atsuo , Kiyasu Yoshihiko , Takeuchi Yuto , Maehara Yuta , Ochiai Yasushi , Okuyama Shinya , Notake Shigeyuki , Nakamura Koji , Ishikawa Hiroichi
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Digital immunoassays are generally regarded as superior tests for the detection of infectious disease pathogens, but there have been insufficient data concerning SARS-CoV-2 immunoassays.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated a novel digital immunoassay (RapidTesta SARS-CoV-2). Two nasopharyngeal samples were simultaneously collected for antigen tests and RT-PCR. Real-time RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2, using a method developed by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Japan, served as the reference RT-PCR method.

Results

During the study period, 1,127 nasopharyngeal samples (symptomatic patients: 802, asymptomatic patients: 325) were evaluated. For digital immunoassay antigen tests, the sensitivity was 78.3% (95% CI: 67.3%–87.1%) and the specificity was 97.6% (95% CI: 96.5%–98.5%). When technicians visually analyzed the antigen test results, the sensitivity was 71.6% (95% CI: 59.9%–81.5%) and the specificity was 99.2% (95% CI: 98.5%–99.7%). Among symptomatic patients, the sensitivity was 89.4% (95% CI; 76.9%–96.5%) with digital immunoassay antigen tests, and 85.1% (95% CI; 71.7%–93.8%) with visually analyzed the antigen test, respectively.

Conclusions

The findings indicated that RapidTesta SARS-CoV-2 analysis with the DIA device had sufficient analytical performance for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal samples. When positive DIA results are recorded without a visually recognizable red line at the positive line location on the test cassette, additional RT-PCR evaluation should be performed.