bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The update of semantic memories in amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: de Mendonça Alexandre , Cardoso Sandra , Maroco João , Guerreiro Manuela , Carmo Joana C.
Published: June 2020

It is still controversial to what extent neocortical consolidated memories are susceptible of change by processes of reconsolidation and transformation throughout experience, and whether the medial temporal lobes are necessary for this update of semantic consolidated memories, as they are for episodic remembering. We hypothesize that patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) who have deficits in episodic memory may also have difficulties in updating information on added new features of objects. Sixteen participants with aMCI and 20 healthy control participants performed a semantic word‐to‐picture task, in which they were asked to identify as belonging to a given semantic category NEW objects, that have incorporated novel features, as well as OLD items, semantically and visually SIMILAR items and UNRELATED items. Patients with aMCI made a greater percentage of errors than healthy controls. Participants globally made greater percentages of errors in difficult types of items, namely NEW and SIMILAR, as compared to easier ones, OLD and UNRELATED. Importantly, an item by diagnostic group interaction effect was observed, and post hoc analysis showed that patients with aMCI made a higher percentage of errors than controls in NEW items only. In conclusion, patients with aMCI had a particular difficulty in identifying the NEW items of the word‐to‐picture task as compared to the control participants, supporting the concept of a flexible and dynamic conceptual knowledge system, involving the update of semantic memories and the integration of new attributes in a constant transformation process, which is impaired in these patients.
Product‐harm science communication: The halo effect and its moderators
Authors: Untilov Olga , Ganassali Stéphane
Published: June 2020

Science communication on a product‐harm situation aims to create awareness on the product's potential impacts for consumers. However, consumers tend to overestimate the information provided, due to possible halo effects. Here we designed a contextual model of halo development including individual and message characteristics detected in the literature as potential moderators. Our experimental study, based on a sample of 3,766 European respondents, evaluates these halo moderators in the context of a product‐harm science communication. The results reveal a stronger halo effect on consumers' beliefs when the focal topic is considered as more important (health vs. ethics) and simultaneously when the source of information is more credible (official vs. non‐official). Highly involved consumers are also subject to greater halo effects. Suggested implications mainly focus on the need to consider potential amplifying halo effects and on the importance of responding to a product‐harm communication via a very accurate communication approach.
The Extraordinary Ordinary: Re‐engineering Multilingualism as a Natural Category
Authors: Berthele Raphael
Published: June 2020

This article addresses different ways scholars conceptualize the multilingual repertoire. Formal and functional approaches investigate crosslinguistic influence across clearly demarcated languages, while dynamic systems theory and translanguaging approaches question countability and boundedness of languages. Problems with both perspectives are discussed, and a unified approach that relies on the idea of languages as natural categories is presented as a form of conceptual reengineering. It embraces the possibility and the meaningfulness of the identification of languages in the repertoire while also accounting for their continuous, graded nature and the lack of clear boundaries of language categories. The proposal accounts for seemingly inconsistent findings on the effects of bi‐ and multilingualism on cognition and on language learning. Multilingualism as a field of inquiry is the investigation of an ordinary phenomenon; what is special about multilingualism is that multilingual speakers may have an extraordinary amount of language and linguistic variability at their disposal.
Trigonal‐sparing versus trigonal‐involved Botox injection for treatment of idiopathic overactive bladder: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: El‐Hefnawy Ahmed S. , Elbaset Mohamed A. , Taha Diaa‐Eldin , Wadie Bassem S. , Kenawy Mahmoud , Shokeir Ahmed A. , Badry Mohamed E.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate safety and efficacy of trigone‐involved Botox injections in comparison with trigone‐sparing injections in refractory idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB).

Materials and Methods

One hundred and three patients randomly received a 100‐IU intradetrusal injection of Botox either sparing the trigone (52 patients) or involving the trigone (51 patients). Patients were prospectively evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 months. Efficacy was evaluated by 3‐day voiding diaries, OAB symptom score (OABSS), and pressure flow study. Any complications were recorded. An ascending cystogram was done at 3 months for detection of vesicoureteral reflux. Urinary tract infection (UTI) was estimated on urine culture basis. Primary outcome was the difference of total OABSS at 3 months.

Results

The mean age ± SD was 34.3 ± 10 years (range 18‐59 years). There was a reduction of episodes of all components of OAB in both groups in comparison with baseline by the end of the study but without significant difference between both groups. The trigonal‐sparing group had less score of frequency compared with the trigonal‐involved group throughout the study period (P < .05). There was no difference in OABSS at 3 months (1.5 ± 0.4 vs 1.6 ± 0.3, P .875). Two patients in the trigonal‐involved group out of 51 (3.9%) were in need of clean intermittent catheterization because of voiding difficulty and a postvoid residual > 200 mL. There was a higher rate of UTI in the trigonal‐involved group ranging from 5.6% up to 11.7% at each follow‐up visit. No patient had reflux.

Conclusion

Trigone injections are not superior to trigone‐sparing injections. On the contrary, the incidence of UTI and voiding difficulty were higher. The concept of reflux induced by trigonal injection has not been proven.
The Meteoritical Bulletin, no. 108
Authors: Gattacceca Jérôme , McCubbin Francis M. , Bouvier Audrey , Grossman Jeffrey N.
Published: June 2020

Meteoritical Bulletin 108 contains 2141 meteorites including 12 falls (Aguas Zarcas, Benenitra, Jalangi, Komaki, Ksar El Goraane, Mhabes el Hamra, Natun Balijan, Oued Sfayat, Shidian, Taqtaq‐e Rasoul, Tocache, Viñales), with 1640 ordinary chondrites, 149 carbonaceous chondrites, 134 HED achondrites, 45 lunar meteorites, 38 ureilites, 27 iron meteorites, 23 Martian meteorites, 22 primitive achondrites, 19 Rumuruti chondrites, 15 mesosiderites, 10 enstatite chondrites, 7 ungrouped achondrites, 4 pallasites, 4 ungrouped chondrites, and 4 angrites. Nine hundred and nine meteorites are from Africa, 747 from Antarctica, 279 from South America, 148 from Asia, 29 from North America, 18 from Oceania, 6 from Europe (including 2 from Russia), and 5 from unknown locations.
The need to freeze—Dehydration during specimen preparation for electron microscopy collapses the endothelial glycocalyx regardless of fixation method
Authors: Hempel Casper , Kapishnikov Sergey , Perez‐Berna Ana Joaquina , Werner Stephan , Guttmann Peter , Pereiro Eva , Qvortrup Klaus , Andresen Thomas Lars
Published: June 2020

Objective

The endothelial glycocalyx covers the luminal surface of the endothelium and plays key roles in vascular function. Despite its biological importance, ideal visualization techniques are lacking. The current study aimed to improve the preservation and subsequent imaging quality of the endothelial glycocalyx.

Methods

In mice, the endothelial glycocalyx was contrasted with a mixture of lanthanum and dysprosium (LaDy). Standard chemical fixation was compared with high‐pressure frozen specimens processed with freeze substitution. Also, isolated brain microvessels and cultured endothelial cells were high‐pressure frozen and by transmission soft x‐rays, imaged under cryogenic conditions.

Results

The endothelial glycocalyx was in some tissues significantly more voluminous from chemically fixed specimens compared with high‐pressure frozen specimens. LaDy labeling introduced excessive absorption contrast, which impeded glycocalyx measurements in isolated brain microvessels when using transmission soft x‐rays. In non‐contrasted vessels, the glycocalyx was not resolved. LaDy‐contrasted, cultured brain endothelial cells allowed to assess glycocalyx volume in vitro.

Conclusions

Both chemical and cryogenic fixation followed by dehydration lead to substantial collapse of the glycocalyx. Cryogenic fixation without freeze substitution could be a way forward although transmission soft x‐ray tomography based solely on amplitude contrast seems unsuitable.
Intravenous therapy for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bongomin Felix , Asio Lucy Grace , Olum Ronald , Denning David W.
Published: June 2020

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a potentially life‐threatening debilitating lung disease necessitating long‐term oral antifungal treatment. However, development of antifungal‐resistant isolates of Aspergillus and major toxicities requiring discontinuation of treatment limits their use. Intravenous (IV) antifungals are an option in this group of patients. We comprehensively evaluate the response rates to IV antifungals in the management of CPA. We searched Medline and Embase databases to select clinical studies providing information about IV amphotericin B or an echinocandin for the treatment of CPA from inception to May 2020. Reviews, single‐case reports and case series reporting <10 patients were excluded. We evaluated 12 eligible studies. A total of 380 patients received amphotericin B (n = 143) or an echinocandin (n = 237) and were included in the meta‐analysis. In a pooled analysis, overall response to IV antifungals was 61% ((95% confidence interval (CI): 52%‐70%; I2 = 73.3%; P < .001), to amphotericin B was 58% (95% CI: 36%‐80%; I2 = 86.6%; P < .001) and to echinocandins was 62% (95% CI: 53%‐72%; I2 = 63.6%; P < .001). Amphotericin B courses were usually doses at slightly <1 mg/Kg (deoxycholate) or 3 mg/Kg (liposomal) for 2‐3 weeks. Micafungin doses varied from 12.5 to 300 mg (frequently, 150 mg) daily for at least 3 weeks, and sometimes much longer. Liposomal amphotericin B was well tolerated, but led to renal function loss in 25% of patients. Adverse events were observed in 5‐35.3% of patients receiving echinocandins, none of which was considered major. Intravenous antifungals have a place in the management of CPA. A head‐to‐head comparison of amphotericin B and echinocandins is lacking, and future studies should look at evaluating short‐ and longer‐term outcomes of these agents.
Evidence‐based medicine—When observational studies are better than randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bosdriesz Jizzo R. , Stel Vianda S. , van Diepen Merel , Meuleman Yvette , Dekker Friedo W. , Zoccali Carmine , Jager Kitty J.
Published: June 2020

In evidence‐based medicine, clinical research questions may be addressed by different study designs. This article describes when randomized controlled trials (RCT) are needed and when observational studies are more suitable. According to the Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine, study designs can be divided into analytic and non‐analytic (descriptive) study designs. Analytic studies aim to quantify the association of an intervention (eg, treatment) or a naturally occurring exposure with an outcome. They can be subdivided into experimental (ie, RCT) and observational studies. The RCT is the best study design to evaluate the intended effect of an intervention, because the randomization procedure breaks the link between the allocation of the intervention and patient prognosis. If the randomization of the intervention or exposure is not possible, one needs to depend on observational analytic studies, but these studies usually suffer from bias and confounding. If the study focuses on unintended effects of interventions (ie, effects of an intervention that are not intended or foreseen), observational analytic studies are the most suitable study designs, provided that there is no link between the allocation of the intervention and the unintended effect. Furthermore, non‐analytic studies (ie, descriptive studies) also rely on observational study designs. In summary, RCTs and observational study designs are inherently different, and depending on the study aim, they each have their own strengths and weaknesses.
The root‐knot nematode effector MiPDI1 targets a stress‐associated protein (SAP) to establish disease in Solanaceae and Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhao Jianlong , Mejias Joffrey , Quentin Michaël , Chen Yongpan , de Almeida‐Engler Janice , Mao Zhenchuan , Sun Qinghua , Liu Qian , Xie Bingyan , Abad Pierre , Favery Bruno , Jian Heng
Published: June 2020

Large amounts of effectors are secreted by the oesophageal glands of plant‐parasitic nematodes, but their molecular mode of action remains largely unknown. We characterized a Meloidogyne incognita protein disulphide isomerase (PDI)‐like effector protein (MiPDI1) that facilitates nematode parasitism.

In situ hybridization showed that MiPDI1 was expressed specifically in the subventral glands of M. incognita. It was significantly upregulated during parasitic stages. Immunolocalization demonstrated MiPDI1 secretion in planta during nematode migration and within the feeding cells. Host‐induced silencing of the MiPDI1 gene affected the ability of the nematode to infect the host, whereas MiPDI1 expression in Arabidopsis increased susceptibility to M. incognita, providing evidence for a key role of MiPDI1 in M. incognita parasitism.

Yeast two‐hybrid, bimolecular fluorescence complementation and coimmunoprecipitation assays showed that MiPDI1 interacted with a tomato stress‐associated protein (SlSAP12) orthologous to the redox‐regulated AtSAP12, which plays an important role in plant responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. SAP12 silencing or knocking out in Nicotiana benthamiana and Arabidopsis increased susceptibility to M. incognita.

Our results suggest that MiPDI1 acts as a pathogenicity factor promoting disease by fine‐tuning SAP‐mediated responses at the interface of redox signalling, defence and stress acclimation in Solanaceae and Arabidopsis.
Body mass index, waist circumference and body fat are positively correlated with hair cortisol in children: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ling Jiying , Kao Tsui‐Sui Annie , Robbins Lorraine B.
Published: June 2020

The current body of research lacks a meta‐analysis of the relationship between hair cortisol concentration (HCC) and anthropometry in children. Therefore, this systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted to examine this relationship and explore possible moderators between HCC and body mass index (BMI/BMI z‐score). Eleven databases were searched: CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, PsycEXTRA, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, Social Sciences Full Text, Sociological Abstracts and Web of Sciences. Random‐effects models and exploratory moderator analyses with mixed‐effects models were performed using the Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis software. The meta‐analysis showed small positive correlations between HCC and BMI (r = 0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02, 0.14, n = 18, p = .009), BMI z‐score (r = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.16, n = 12, p = .003), waist circumference (r = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.17, n = 10, p = .001) and body fat including fat mass index (r = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.11, n = 3, p = .005). The relationship between HCC and BMI/BMI z‐score was significantly moderated by children's sex. Results from this meta‐analysis provide initial objective support for a small positive relationship between HCC and anthropometric factors.
Epigenetic regulation of white adipose tissue in the onset of obesity and metabolic diseases
Authors: Castellano‐Castillo Daniel , Ramos‐Molina Bruno , Cardona Fernando , Queipo‐Ortuño María Isabel
Published: June 2020

Obesity and metabolic syndrome are among the most prevalent health problems in developed countries. The impairment of adipose tissue (AT) function is partially responsible for the aetiology of these conditions. Epigenetics refers to several processes that add modifications to either the DNA or chromatin architectural proteins (histones). These processes can regulate gene expression, chromatin compaction and DNA repair. Epigenetics includes mechanisms by which the cell can adapt the cellular response to the environmental conditions. Here, we review the role of epigenetics in the onset of obesity and related metabolic disorders, with special focus on AT. We highlight the importance of nutrients and lifestyle in the regulation of the epigenetic mechanisms and how they can impact on AT plasticity and function in obesity and metabolic diseases. Thus, the epigenetic landscape emerges as a fine‐tune regulator of the cellular responses according to the energetic, metabolic and physiological conditions of the cell. Alterations in metabolic pathways deregulated during obesity and metabolic syndrome could in part explain the disturbances in the epigenetic marks of the AT in these disorders. The understanding of how this epigenetic deregulation may affect AT biology and function could lead to new therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic strategies.
Secretory structures in plants: Lessons from the Plumbaginaceae on their origin, evolution and roles in stress tolerance
Authors: Caperta Ana D. , Róis Ana S. , Teixeira Generosa , Garcia‐Caparros Pedro , Flowers Timothy J.
Published: June 2020

The Plumbaginaceae (non‐core Caryophyllales) is a family well known for species adapted to a wide range of arid and saline habitats. Of its salt‐tolerant species, at least 45 are in the genus Limonium; two in each of Aegialitis, Limoniastrum and Myriolimon, and one each in Psylliostachys, Armeria, Ceratostigma, Goniolimon and Plumbago. All the halophytic members of the family have salt glands and salt glands are also common in the closely related Tamaricaceae and Frankeniaceae. The halophytic species of the three families can secrete a range of ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl−, HCO3−, SO42‐) and other elements (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn). Salt glands are, however, absent in salt‐tolerant members of the sister family Polygonaceae. We describe the structure of the salt glands in the three families and consider whether glands might have arisen as a means to avoid the toxicity of Na+ and/or Cl− or to regulate Ca2+ concentrations with the leaves. We conclude that the establishment of lineages with salt glands took place after the split between the Polygonaceae and its sister group the Plumbaginaceae.
The Local Revolution under Second‐Order Devolution: The Effect of County Governments on TANF Administration
Authors: McBrayer Markie
Published: June 2020

The subsequent research attempts to explore if and how county governments might be significant in administering welfare policy when discretion has devolved to these local governing bodies. First, I ask how descriptive representation might lead to substantive representation in local governments by examining how women and minorities serving on local governing bodies might affect TANF programmatic outcomes. I find that when the proportion of women serving on county boards is greater, TANF administration is less punitive. Second, I explore how local partisanship might affect programmatic outcomes, given that previous research demonstrates a strong relationship between local political leanings and the punitiveness of welfare policy. I find that the partisan leanings of the local governing body substantively affect welfare administration, where Republican‐dominated boards institute more punitive welfare policy than their Democratic counterparts. Finally, I assess if and how electoral rules, like whether the local governing body is elected at large or to serve single‐member districts, might affect program administration, finding that local governing bodies with a greater proportion of members serving single‐member districts result in welfare participants being less likely to be sanctioned.
Can reporting enhance transboundary water cooperation? Early insights from the Water Convention and the Sustainable Development Goals reporting exercise
Authors: Rieu‐Clarke Alistair
Published: June 2020

A notable milestone in transboundary water cooperation has been the incorporation of reporting both under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework and the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes. Much can be gained from reviewing the initial reporting exercise, which took place in 2017 and 2018. The first reporting exercise has demonstrated that, while progress has been made in the last decades, the need to strengthen cooperation over transboundary rivers, lakes and aquifers is clearly evident. Additionally, the experience of the first reporting exercise suggests that, although some adjustments might be made, reporting can play a valuable role in advancing transboundary water cooperation in the years to come.
Business operations, contestability, bureaucratic holdup, and bribe solicitations
Authors: Goel Rajeev K. , Mazhar Ummad , Saunoris James W.
Published: June 2020

Adding to the literature on factors driving corruption and bribery, this paper examines the effect of contestability in business operations on bribe solicitations. Contestability undermines the bureaucratic rent‐seeking potential, whereas bureaucratic holdup increases it. This paper tries to capture these influences empirically using cross‐country survey data. The results show that the relatively greater contestability of business startup procedures compared to startup regulatory times led to fewer bribe demands; however, property registration regulations with lower relative contestability led to more bribe demands, especially for import licenses. We find relatively greater support for bureaucratic holdup (i.e., time taken by bureaucratic clearances) in startup procedures than with import licenses. Finally, older and larger firms received lower bribe demands, ceteris paribus.
Is SARS‐CoV‐2 transfusion transmitted?
Authors: Katz Louis M.
Published: June 2020

See article on page 1119–1122, in this issue
Reynolds-Averaged Simulation of the Fully Developed Turbulent Drag Reduction Flow in Concentric Annuli
Authors: Xiong Xiao , Zhang Yan , Rahman Mohammad Azizur
Published: June 2020

Reynolds-averaged modeling is performed for polymer-induced drag reduction (DR) fluid at the fully developed turbulent regime in a concentric annulus by using the commercial code, ansys-fluent. The numerical approach adopted in this study relies on a modified k–ε–v2¯–f model to characterize the turbulence and the finitely extensible nonlinear elastic-Peterlin (FENE-P) constitutive model to represent the rheological behavior of the polymer solution. The near-wall axial velocity, Reynolds stress, and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) budget near both walls of the annulus (fixed radius ratio of 0.4) are compared in detail at a constant Reynolds number (Re=10,587) and various rheological parameters (Weissenberg number We in the range of 1–7 and the maximum polymer elongation L = 30 and 100). Current simulation has predicted the redistributions of turbulent statistics in the annulus, where the two turbulent boundary layers (TBLs) of the DR flow differ more compared to those of its Newtonian counterpart. The difference is also found to be highly dependent on the rheological properties of the viscoelastic fluid.
Animal-borne tags provide insights into the acoustic communication of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) on the calving grounds
Authors: R. G. Dombroski Julia , Parks Susan E. , A. C. Flores Paulo , Martín López Lucía M. , Shorter K. Alex , Groch Karina R.
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the repertoire, call-type variability and call rates of southern right whales on a calving ground off Brazil in the western South Atlantic. Acoustic tag data were collected from four lactating females and one juvenile. Pulsive, hybrid, and upcalls showed the greatest variability among call-types with up to 23% of non-standard forms detected. Quiet sounds (grunt, single, and double pulse) were detected for the first time in this species on the calving grounds. Although the sample size was limited, results suggest that social interaction increased call-type diversity and call rates, in line with other acoustic studies on right whales.
Intensity evaluation of bottom backscattering between high-frequency underwater acoustic instruments and its experimental validation
Authors: Feng Xuelei , Ge Xiyun , Zhou Hongkun , Wei Ningyang
Published: June 2020

Running several high-frequency underwater acoustic instruments simultaneously on board a surface or underwater platform can cause interference between the instruments. By combining ray theory and the high-frequency bistatic scattering model for water bottoms, this work presents a practical method for evaluating the relative intensities of such interference signals corresponding to different instrument-to-instrument distances. To examine this method's effectiveness, a series of lake experiments were conducted. The relative intensity of the interference signal was first evaluated by using the proposed method, and then it was measured for comparison. The experimental results showed good agreement between the evaluated and the measured intensities.
Influence of interchain interactions on the tumbling of chains in a polymer melt during shear flow
Authors: Xu Tingyu , Tang Xiaoliang , Tian Fucheng , Chen Wei , Li Liangbin
Published: June 2020

Polymer chains in both dilute solutions and melts undergo cyclic rotation and retraction, which is known as tumbling, under steady shear flow. However, it is still not known how the individual molecules in melts rotate freely under the constraints caused by surrounding chains. In this work, a Brownian dynamics simulation is used to investigate the influences of the interchain interactions on the polymer chain motions in both dilute solutions and melts under steady shear flow. Compared with previous simulation studies, a greater number of similarities and differences between tumbling in dilute solutions and melts are addressed, and the results explicitly suggest the critical role of the entanglements in melts during shear flow. Three components of the gyration radius in different directions [flow direction (⟨Rgx2⟩), gradient direction (⟨Rgy2⟩), and vorticity direction (⟨Rgz2⟩)] are shown to exhibit different dependencies on the shear rate depending on whether dilute solutions or melts are being examined. However, the characteristic tumbling times τr in both cases are proportional to γ˙−2/3. The distributions P(T) of time T that the chains spend in each tumbling cycle show that both states exhibit an exponential decay of P(T/τr) in the high-T region. In the low-T region, P(T/τr) in the melts with variable shear rates are coincident with each other, while P(T/τr) in dilute solutions show different shapes. With respect to the distributions of chain orientation, both cases show the same scaling relationships for shear rates and chain lengths. Based on these findings, main conclusions are as follows. The entanglements still restrict the evolutions of polymer chain configurations despite the number of entanglements decreasing with increased flow strength. The tumbling motion in melts can occur inside the tube, and the chain behaviors inside the confining tubes are rather similar to those in dilute solutions.
Drones against vector-borne diseases
Authors: Rasmussen Eric
Published: June 2020

Uncrewed aerial vehicles can reduce the cost of preventative measures against vector-borne diseases.
Quaternary slip rates on the White Mountains fault zone, eastern California: Implications for comparing geologic to geodetic slip rates across the Walker Lane
Authors: Lifton Zachery M. , Lee Jeffrey , Frankel Kurt L. , Newman Andrew V. , Schroeder Jeffrey M.
Published: June 2020

The White Mountains fault zone in eastern California is a major fault system that accommodates right-lateral shear across the southern Walker Lane. We combined field geomorphic mapping and interpretation of high-resolution airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR) digital elevation models with 10Be cosmogenic nuclide exposure ages to calculate new late Pleistocene and Holocene right-lateral slip rates on the White Mountains fault zone. Alluvial fans were found to have ages of 46.6 + 11.0/–10.0 ka and 7.3 + 4.2/–4.5 ka, with right-lateral displacements of 65 ± 13 m and 14 ± 5 m, respectively, yielding a minimum average slip rate of 1.4 ± 0.3 mm/yr. These new slip rates help to resolve the kinematics of fault slip across this part of the complex Pacific–North American plate boundary. Our results suggest that late Pleistocene slip rates on the White Mountains fault zone were significantly faster than previously reported. These results also help to reconcile a portion of the observed discrepancy between modern geodetic strain rates and known late Pleistocene slip rates in the southern Walker Lane. The total middle to late Pleistocene slip rate from the southern Walker Lane near 37.5°N was 7.9 + 1.3/–0.6 mm/yr, ∼75% of the observed modern geodetic rate.
T-piece resuscitators: can they provide safe ventilation in a low compliant newborn lung?
Authors: Hinder Murray Kenneth , Drevhammar Thomas , Donaldsson Snorri , Boustred Matthew , Crott Matthew , Tracy Mark Brian
Published: June 2020

Background

T-piece resuscitators (TPRs) are used for primary newborn resuscitation in birthing and emergency rooms worldwide. A recent study has shown spikes in peak inflation pressure (PIP) over set values with two brands of TPRs inbuilt into infant warmer/resuscitation platforms. We aimed to compare delivered ventilation between two TPR drivers with inflation pressure spikes to a standard handheld TPR in a low test lung compliance (Crs), leak-free bench test model.

Methods

A single operator provided positive pressure ventilation to a low compliance test lung model (Crs 0.2–1 mL/cmH2O) at set PIP of 15, 25, 35 and 40 cmH2O. Two TPR devices with known spikes (Draeger Resuscitaire, GE Panda) were compared with handheld Neopuff (NP). Recommended settings for positive end-expiratory pressure (5 cmH2O), inflation rate of 60/min and gas flow rate 10 L/min were used.

Results

2293 inflations were analysed. Draeger and GE TPR drivers delivered higher mean PIP (Panda 18.9–49.5 cmH2O; Draeger 21.2–49.2 cmH2O and NP 14.8–39.9 cmH2O) compared with set PIP and tidal volumes (TVs) compared with the NP (Panda 2.9–7.8 mL; Draeger 3.8–8.1 mL; compared with NP 2.2–6.0 mL), outside the prespecified acceptable range (±10% of set PIP and ±10% TV compared with NP).

Conclusion

The observed spike in PIP over set values with Draeger and GE Panda systems resulted in significantly higher delivered volumes compared with the NP with identical settings. Manufacturers need to address these differences. The effect on patient outcomes is unknown.
Four-year observation of the changes in corneal endothelium cell density and
correlated factors after Implantable Collamer Lens V4c implantation
Authors: Yang Wen , Zhao Jing , Sun Ling , Zhao Jiao , Niu Lingling , Wang Xiaoying , Zhou Xingtao
Published: June 2020

Background

To evaluate the changes in corneal endothelium cell density (ECD) and the
correlated factors after Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) V4c
implantation.

Methods

In this retrospective, consecutive study, 48 eyes of 25 patients with
myopia who underwent ICL V4c implantation were enrolled. Patients were followed
up for at least 4 years, during which manifest refraction, uncorrected distance
visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure,
ECD, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume (ACV), anterior chamber
angle (ACA), vault and distance from the corneal endothelium to the central ICL
(C-ICL) were measured. Spearman’s correlation analysis was used to identify
variables correlated with changes in ECD, and generalised estimating equation
model adjusting within-patient intereye correlations was used to predict
changes in ECD.

Results

All surgeries were performed safely with no complications during follow-up
(average 52±2.9 months). Safety and efficacy indices were 1.23±0.22 and
1.04±0.16, respectively. No eyes had decreased CDVA, and 67% gained one or more
lines. Further, 79% were within ±0.50 D, and 100% were within ±1.0 D of the
attempted refraction. Additionally, a 4.03%±2.2% reduction in ECD compared with
the preoperative value was observed at the last follow-up visit. Changes in ECD
were significantly correlated with vault, C-ICL, change in ACA and change in
ACV. Vault was the most significant factor for changes in ECD.

Conclusions

ICL V4c implantation is safe and effective for myopia correction. Anterior
segment biometric parameters including the vault, ACA and C-ICL may influence
changes in ECD; specifically, the vault plays a major role.
A data linkage study of suspected seizures in the urgent and emergency care system in the UK
Authors: Hughes-Gooding Thomas , Dickson Jon M , O'Keeffe Colin , Mason Suzanne M
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The urgent and emergency care (UEC) system is struggling with increased demand, some of which is clinically unnecessary. Patients suffering suspected seizures commonly present to EDs, but most seizures are self-limiting and have low risk of short-term adverse outcomes. We aimed to investigate the flow of suspected seizure patients through the UEC system using data linkage to facilitate the development of new models of care.

Methods

We used a two-stage process of deterministic linking to perform a cross-sectional analysis of data from adults in a large region in England (population 5.4 million) during 2014. The core dataset comprised a total of 739 436 ambulance emergency incidents, 1 033 778 ED attendances and 362 358 admissions.

Results

A high proportion of cases were successfully linked (86.9% ED-inpatient, 77.7% ED-ambulance). Suspected seizures represented 2.8% of all ambulance service incidents. 61.7% of these incidents led to dispatch of a rapid-response ambulance (8 min) and 72.1% were conveyed to hospital. 37 patients died before being conveyed to hospital and 24 died in the ED (total 61; 0.3%). The inpatient death rate was 0.4%. Suspected seizures represented 0.71% of ED attendances, 89.8% of these arrived by emergency ambulance, 45.4% were admitted and 44.5% of these admissions lasted under 48 hours.

Conclusions

This study confirms previously published data from smaller unlinked datasets, validating the linkage method, and provides new data for suspected seizures. There are significant barriers to realising the full potential of data linkage. Collaborative action is needed to create facilitative governance frameworks and improve data quality and analytical capacity.
Novel histopathological classification of meningiomas based on dural invasion
Authors: Murase Makoto , Tamura Ryota , Kuranari Yuki , Sato Mizuto , Ohara Kentaro , Morimoto Yukina , Yoshida Kazunari , Toda Masahiro
Published: June 2020

Aims

Histological invasion into the adjacent brain parenchyma is frequently investigated in meningioma because it is an important morphological criterion for grade II meningioma according to the 2016 WHO classification. However, few studies have focused on dural invasion of meningiomas. Herein, we propose a novel histopathological classification based on dural invasion of meningiomas.

Methods

Forty-nine cases with WHO grade I meningiomas who underwent Simpson grade I removal were collected. After the meningeal layer (ML) and periosteal layer (PL) of dura mater were visualised by Masson’s trichrome stain, we evaluated the depth (to the ML and PL) and the patterns (1, expanding; 2, infiltrating) of dural invasion of meningiomas using serial paraffin sections. Invasion-associated markers, including Ki-67, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, MMP-9 and MMP-13, aquaporin 1 and Na-K-2Cl cotransporter, were quantitatively analysed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Thirty-five cases (71.4%) showed the dural invasion. In 27 of these 35 cases (77.1%), dural invasion was localised in ML. Type 1 (expanding type) and type 2 (infiltrating type) invasions were observed in 23 and 12 cases, respectively. The recurrence rate in cases with type 2 invasion was significantly higher than that in cases with type 1 invasion. The percentage of MMP-1-positive tumour cells was also significantly higher in cases with dural invasion than those without, suggesting involvement of MMP-1 in dural invasion.

Conclusions

We quantitatively evaluated the depth and patterns of dural invasion in meningiomas. The patterns of dural invasion were associated with meningioma recurrence.
Risk of 30-day mortality and its association with alcohol concentration level among driver victims of motor vehicle crashes: comparison of population- and hospital-based designs
Authors: Chang Ya-Hui , Lu Tsung-Hsueh , Hsu I-Lin , Chen Bae-Ling , Li Chung-Yi
Published: June 2020

Background

Although blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is undoubtedly associated with increased risk of injury among driver victims involved in motor vehicle crashes (MVCs), some studies noted that high BAC was associated with reduced risk of mortality after injury. In addition, most of the previous studies included only injured patients admitted, which may lead to potential selection bias arising from exclusion of those with minor injury and those who died at the accident scene of MVC.

Method

The population-based design included 2586 driver victims with BAC equivalent >0 and 10 307 matched controls (BAC equivalent =0) selected from the Police-reported Traffic Accident Registry from 1 July to 31 December 2016 in Taiwan. The hospital-based design comprised a subset sample, which included 517 driver victims with BAC equivalent >0 and 662 with BAC equivalent =0 hospitalised on the same day the MVCs occurred. Conditional logistic regression models with adjustment for potential confounders were used to estimate the ORs and 95% CIs of 30-day mortality associated with BAC equivalent level.

Results

In the population-based design, a positive dose–gradient relationship was observed between BAC equivalent level and 30-day mortality, with a covariate-adjusted OR of 3.77 (95% CI 1.84 to 7.72), 6.19 (95% CI 3.13 to 12.26) and 7.75 (95% CI 4.51 to 13.32) for low, moderate and high BAC equivalent levels, respectively. By contrast, the hospital-based design revealed no significant association between 30-day mortality and alcohol concentration regardless of the BAC equivalent level.

Conclusion

The association between BAC equivalent level and short-term mortality could have been overlooked in hospital-based studies that excluded MVC-related deaths outside hospital settings.
Bartonella neuroretinitis (cat-scratch disease)
Authors: Yap Siew Mei , Saeed Mamoun , Logan Patricia , Healy Daniel G
Published: June 2020

We report a patient with cat-scratch disease presenting with meningitis and neuroretinitis. This condition, caused by Bartonella henselae, has a worldwide distribution and is among the most common infective causes of neuroretinitis. Bartonella neuroretinitis is a rare but under-recognised mimic of optic neuritis; it should be suspected in a patient with an infective prodrome whose fundus shows optic disc oedema and a macular star. A low-positive initial serological test for Bartonella henselae does not exclude cat-scratch disease if there is high clinical suspicion, and repeat testing is recommended to look for titre rise.
How much of the future mortality toll of smoking can be avoided?
Authors: Warner Kenneth E , Mendez David
Published: June 2020

Objective

To determine how much future smoking-related mortality in the USA can be prevented, recognising that some of that future mortality results from past smoking.

Methods

Employing a dynamic population simulation model, we estimate smoking’s expected mortality burden in the USA, measured as life-years lost (LYL), in a status-quo scenario run from 2018 through 2100. We then estimate LYL attributable to past smoking assuming that all smoking ceases at the end of 2017. We calculate the potential avoidable LYL, which we call the maximum potential reduction in premature mortality (MPRPM), as the difference between the two. We use data from the US Census Bureau, National Vital Statistics Reports, the National Health Interview Survey and Cancer Prevention Study II.

Results

Under status-quo assumptions, smoking will claim 305 million LYL in the US from 2018 to 2100. If all smoking ceased at the end of 2017, past smoking would be responsible for 191.8 million LYL. Thus, avoidable LYL by 2100—the MPRPM—would be 113.2 million, 37% of the expected toll of smoking. A sensitivity analysis finds that were the annual smoking initiation rate 3% instead of 7.8%, the MPRPM would be 13-14% lower. Were the annual permanent smoking cessation rate twice our status-quo estimate of 4.35%, the MPRPM would be 38-39% lower.

Conclusions

Public health can address only the future toll of future smoking. Smoking’s MPRPM is the reduction in the mortality burden of smoking that tobacco control can strive to achieve.
Four-point functions in momentum space: conformal ward identities in the scalar/tensor case
Authors: Corianò Claudio , Maglio Matteo Maria , Theofilopoulos Dimosthenis
Published: June 2020

We derive and analyze the conformal Ward identities (CWI’s) of a tensor 4-point function of a generic CFT in momentum space. The correlator involves the stress–energy tensor T and three scalar operators O (TOOO). We extend the reconstruction method for tensor correlators from 3- to 4-point functions, starting from the transverse traceless sector of the TOOO. We derive the structure of the corresponding CWI’s in two different sets of variables, relevant for the analysis of the 1–3 (1 graviton $$\rightarrow $$→ 3 scalars) and 2–2 (graviton + scalar $$\rightarrow $$→ two scalars) scattering processes. The equations are all expressed in terms of a single form factor. In both cases we discuss the structure of the equations and their possible behaviors in various asymptotic limits of the external invariants. A comparative analysis of the systems of equations for the TOOO and those for the OOOO, both in the general (conformal) and dual-conformal/conformal (dcc) cases, is presented. We show that in all the cases the Lauricella functions are homogeneous solutions of such systems of equations, also described as parametric 4K integrals of modified Bessel functions.
Stable exponential cosmological solutions with three different Hubble-like parameters in EGB model with a $$\Lambda $$-term
Authors: Ernazarov K. K. , Ivashchuk V. D.
Published: June 2020

We consider aD-dimensional Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet model with a cosmological term$$\Lambda $$Λand two non-zero constants:$$\alpha _1$$α1and$$\alpha _2$$α2. We restrict the metrics to be diagonal ones and study a class of solutions with exponential time dependence of three scale factors, governed by three non-coinciding Hubble-like parameters:$$H \ne 0$$H≠0,$$h_1$$h1and$$h_2$$h2, obeying$$m H + k_1 h_1 + k_2 h_2 \ne 0$$mH+k1h1+k2h2≠0and corresponding to factor spaces of dimensions$$m > 1$$m>1,$$k_1 > 1$$k1>1and$$k_2 > 1$$k2>1, respectively ($$D = 1 + m + k_1 + k_2$$D=1+m+k1+k2). We analyse two cases: i)$$m< k_1 < k_2$$m<k1<k2and ii)$$1< k_1 = k_2 = k$$1 0$$α=α2/α1>0and$$\alpha \Lambda > 0$$αΛ>0satisfies certain restrictions, e.g. upper and lower bounds. In case ii) explicit relations for exact solutions are found. In both cases the subclasses of stable and non-stable solutions are singled out. For$$m > 3$$m>3the case i) contains a subclass of solutions describing an exponential expansion of 3-dimensional subspace with Hubble parameter$$H > 0$$H>0and zero variation of the effective gravitational constantG. The case$$H = 0$$H=0is also considered.
Dirac quasinormal modes of power-Maxwell charged black holes in Rastall gravity
Authors: Shao Cai-Ying , Hu Yu , Tan Yu-Jie , Shao Cheng-Gang , Lin Kai , Qian Wei-Liang
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we study the quasinormal modes of the massless Dirac field for charged black holes in Rastall gravity. The spherically symmetric black hole solutions in question are characterized by the presence of a power-Maxwell field, surrounded by the quintessence fluid. The calculations are carried out by employing the WKB approximations up to the 13th-order, as well as the matrix method. The temporal evolution of the quasinormal modes is investigated by using the finite difference method. Through numerical simulations, the properties of the quasinormal frequencies are analyzed, including those for the extremal black holes. Among others, we explore the case of a second type of extremal black holes regarding the Nariai solution, where the cosmical and event horizon coincide. The results obtained by the WKB approaches are found to be mostly consistent with those by the matrix method. It is observed that the magnitudes of both real and imaginary parts of the quasinormal frequencies increase with increasing [Formula: see text], the spin–orbit quantum number. Also, the roles of the parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], associated with the electric charge and the equation of state of the quintessence field, respectively, are investigated regarding their effects on the quasinormal frequencies. The magnitude of the electric charge is found to sensitively affect the time scale of the first stage of quasinormal oscillations, after which the temporal oscillations become stabilized. It is demonstrated that the black hole solutions for Rastall gravity in asymptotically flat spacetimes are equivalent to those in Einstein gravity, featured by different asymptotical spacetime properties. As one of its possible consequences, we also investigate the behavior of the late-time tails of quasinormal models in the present model. It is found that the asymptotical behavior of the late-time tails of quasinormal modes in Rastall theory is governed by the asymptotical properties of the spacetimes of their counterparts in Einstein gravity.
Deeper investigations of the (4 + 1)-dimensional Fokas and (2 + 1)-dimensional Breaking soliton equations
Authors: Baskonus Haci Mehmet , Kumar Ajay , Kumar Ashok , Gao Wei
Published: June 2020

The main aim of this paper is to investigate the various dimensional nonlinear Fokas and Breaking soliton equations via a powerful analytical method, namely, sine-Gordon expansion method. Many new solutions such as complex combined dark-bright soliton solutions, singular and hyperbolic functions are derived. Choosing the suitable values of these parameters, various novel simulations are also plotted. Such results explain the wave behavior of the governing models, physically.