bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Method of measuring the surface profile by means of a mechatronic profilograph provided with a parallel control of sensor drives
Authors: Vasiliev S A , Fedorov A A , Ivantsivskiy V V , Chernukhin R V
Published: October 2021

The article considers a method for measuring the surface profile by means of a mechatronic profilograph provided with parallel control of sensor drives along a specified trajectory. A description of the developed control system for the mechatronic profilograph with distributed control of its actuators is presented. The given design of the control system makes it possible for the operating unit (laser sensor) of the profilograph to effectively perform the programed movements. The developed software implements a set of functions necessary for parallel control of the profilograph drives, depending on the specified on-line operating modes. The program allows you to set parameters and control instructions for lower-level modules, tabulate data on the movement of the working point along the x, y axes and distances in these coordinates as well as to construct 2D and 3D graphs. The implementation of the method for measuring the surface profile was carried out using a mechatronic profiler provided with parallel control of the sensor drives when profiling along the Fermat spiral. The information and measurement system made it possible to provide information on 2 parameters: the distance between the sensor and the measured surface, as well as the angle of turning determined by the angle sensor from the zero point. A graph of the measurement of the corrugated sheet surface with a flexure in the cross section downwards in polar coordinates is obtained. The analysis of the obtained data allowed us to determine the corrugated sheet flexure which was 13.8 mm.graph, immediately following the heading. The text should be set to 1 line spacing. The abstract should be centred across the page, indented 17 mm from the left and right page margins and justified. It should not normally exceed 200 words.
Clinical outcomes of concomitant use of enteral and intravenous sedatives and analgesics in mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19
Authors: Kang Nayoung , Alrashed Mohammed A , Place Eric M , Nguyen Phuongthao T , Perona Stephen J , Erstad Brian L
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To evaluate potential differences in days on mechanical ventilation for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) based on route of administration of analgesic and sedative medications: intravenous (IV) alone vs IV + enteral (EN).

This institutional review board–approved study evaluated ventilation time and fentanyl or midazolam requirements with or without concurrent EN hydromorphone and lorazepam. Patients were included in the study if they were 18 to 89 years old and were admitted to the intensive care unit with a positive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction or antigen test and respiratory failure requiring invasive mechanical ventilation for more than 72 hours. In total, 100 patients were evaluated, 60 in the IV-only group and 40 in the IV + EN group. There was not a significant difference in ventilation time between the groups (mean [SD], 19.6 [12.8] days for IV + EN vs 15.6 [11.2] days for IV only; P = 0.104). However, fentanyl (2,064 [847] μg vs 2,443 [779] μg; P < 0.001) and midazolam (137 [72] mg vs 158 [70] mg; P = 0.004) requirements on day 3 were significantly higher in the IV-only group, and the increase in fentanyl requirements from day 1 to day 3 was greater in the IV-only group than in the IV + EN group (378 [625] μg vs 34 [971] μg; P = 0.033).

Conclusion

Addition of EN analgesic and sedative medications to those administered by the IV route did not change the duration of mechanical ventilation in patients with COVID-19, but the combination may reduce IV opioid requirements, decreasing the impact of IV medication shortages.
Control of Elm Leaf Beetle with Trunk Injected Insecticides, 1993-1994
Authors: Casey Sclar D. , Cranshaw Whitney , Cooper Dayna , Eckberg Thomas
Published: October 2021

Plots were established using a series of street trees, approximately 60-ft (24 inch DBH), which lined a municipal park in Denver, CO. Two different injection techniques were employed in the trial. Arbor, capsules (Tree Technologies, Inc.) were applied 30 Jun by drilling a series of holes in the root flare of the tree. Rate of application was one capsule per 6 inch of circumference at breast height. Individual capsules contained either 5 ml of Bay NTN 33893 200SL (imidacloprid) or 4 ml of Avid (abamectin), which were allowed to drain completely. Direct trunk injections were made 26 Jul using a modified syringe that placed 1 ml of insecticide under the bark of the trunk. Injection sites were similarly made at intervals of 6 inches of tree circumference at breast height. Plot design was a RCB with 4 replications. No sampling was conducted during 1993, since treatments were applied after considerable defoliation had occurred. Plots were sampled twice during the 1994 season following the first and second generations of the elm leaf beetle. Leaves from 4 branches per tree were evaluated for amount of defoliation (skeletonizing). The rating system was: 0 = No damage present, 1 = 1-10% skeletonizing per branch, 2 = 11-20% skeletonizing per branch, 3 = 21-30% skeletonizing per branch, 4 = 31-40% skeletonizing per branch, 5 = 41-50% skeletonizing per branch, 6 = 51-60% skeletonizing per branch, 7 = 61-70% skeletonizing per branch, 8 = 71-80% skeletonizing per branch, 9 = 81-90% skeletonizing per branch, 10 = 91-100% skeletonizing per branch.
Crocodile social environments dictated by male philopatry
Authors: Baker Cameron J , Frère Céline H , Franklin Craig E , Campbell Hamish A , Irwin Terri R , Dwyer Ross G
Published: October 2021

Examining the social behaviors of solitary species can be challenging due to the rarity in which interactions occur and the large and often inaccessible areas which these animals inhabit. As shared space-use is a prerequisite for the expression of social behaviors, we can gain insights into the social environments of solitary species by examining the degree of spatial overlap between individuals. Over a 10-year period, we examined how spatial overlap amongst 105 estuarine crocodiles Crocodylus porosus was influenced by season, sex, and movement tactic. We discovered that crocodiles displayed highly consistent spatial overlaps with conspecifics between months and across years. Furthermore, male crocodiles that exhibited a greater degree of site fidelity displayed more stable social environments, while females and males that were less site-attached had more dynamic social environments with spatial overlaps between conspecifics peaking during the mating season. Our results demonstrate how long-term tracking of multiple individuals within the same population can be used to quantify the spatial structure and social environment of cryptic and solitary species.
Papilio butterfly vs. hawkmoth pollination explains floral syndrome dichotomy in a clade of Lilium
Authors: Liu Chang-Qiu , Niu Yang , Lu Qing-Biao , Chen Zhe , Cai Bo , Fang Ye , Gao Yun-Dong
Published: October 2021

Pollination niche shifts can drive remarkable floral divergence between closely related plant species. The Leucolirion clade of Lilium contains species with either tepal-recurved or trumpet-shaped flowers. The tepal-recurved flowers are bright orange and might be pollinated by butterflies and/or birds. The trumpet-shaped flowers are mostly pale and strongly fragrant and might permit visitation by a variety of hawkmoths. Lilium leucanthum has trumpet-shaped flowers, and some populations of this species show dark coloration on the floral outer surface, suggesting pollination by mammals. We identified pollinators and examined the dependence of reproduction on pollinators by floral visitor observations, pollen load analysis and pollination experiments. We also analysed floral traits to contrast the two floral syndromes involving different lepidopteran groups. The tepal-recurved lilies are specialized on a group of Papilio butterflies for pollination with pollen predominantly attached to the hindwings. The trumpet-shaped flowers are almost exclusively pollinated by hawkmoths, including diverse species with proboscises of different lengths. No mammal visitation was found to the populations of L. leucanthum with dark outer surfaces of flowers. Self-incompatibility prevails throughout the clade, including the populations in which pollinators were scarce. The butterfly- and hawkmoth-pollinated species display contrasting floral syndromes. Our findings confirmed that the dichotomy in floral syndrome in the Leucolirion clade is associated with Papilio butterfly vs. hawkmoth pollination, whereas intraspecific variation in colour of the floral outer surface of L. leucanthum many need a non-pollinator explanation.
Generalizations of genetic conservation principles in islands are not always likely: a case study from a Neotropical insular cactus
Authors: Franco Fernando Faria , Silva Felipe André , Khan Gulzar , Bonatelli Isabel A S , Amaral Danilo Trabuco , Zappi Daniela C , Taylor Nigel P , Moraes Evandro Marsola
Published: October 2021

Cereus insularis (Cereeae, Cactaceae) is an insular endemic and dominant element of the vegetation of Fernando de Noronha Islands (FNI), a Neotropical archipelago 350 km from mainland Brazil. Here, we estimate the levels of genetic diversity for C. insularis and investigate its genetic relationship with the closely allied C. fernambucensis, which is widespread along the Brazilian coast. We genotyped and analysed 112 individuals for ten nuclear microsatellite markers to understand genetic connectivity between insular and mainland populations. The levels of genetic diversity for this species indicate an absence of genetic erosion. Furthermore, the expected heterozygosity in C. insularis is consistent with a long-term colonization process of FNI. We identify signatures of recent and bilateral gene flow among mainland and insular populations. We explain our results taking into consideration the biogeographic hypothesis to explain the peripatric origin of C. insularis. Overall, this is a case study suggesting that the generalizations of genetic conservation principles in oceanic islands, such as low levels of genetic diversity, are not always the case. Rather than challenge these principles, we stress that island dynamism throughout time should be an important factor in explaining levels of genetic diversity in insular species.
Albumin is an interface between blood plasma and cell membrane, and not just a sponge
Authors: van de Wouw Jens , Joles Jaap A
Published: October 2021

Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma and acts as a carrier for many circulating molecules. Hypoalbuminaemia, mostly caused by either renal or liver disease or malnutrition, can perturb vascular homeostasis and is involved in the development of multiple diseases. Here we review four functions of albumin and the consequences of hypoalbuminaemia on vascular homeostasis. (i) Albumin is the main determinant of plasma colloid osmotic pressure. Hypoalbuminaemia was therefore thought to be the main mechanism for oedema in nephrotic syndrome (NS), however, experimental studies showed that intrarenal mechanisms rather than hypoalbuminaemia determine formation and, in particular, maintenance of oedema. (ii) Albumin functions as an interface between lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and circulating factors (lipoproteins and erythrocytes) and the endothelium. Consequently, hypoalbuminaemia results in higher LPC levels in lipoproteins and erythrocyte membrane, thereby increasing atherosclerotic properties of low-density lipoprotein and blood viscosity, respectively. Furthermore, albumin dose-dependently restores LPC-induced inhibition of vasodilation. (iii) Hypoalbuminaemia impacts on vascular nitric oxide (NO) signalling by directly increasing NO production in endothelial cells, leading to reduced NO sensitivity of vascular smooth muscle cells. (iv) Lastly, albumin binds free fatty acids (FFAs). FFAs can induce vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis, uncouple endothelial NO synthase and decrease endothelium-dependent vasodilation. Unbound FFAs can increase the formation of reactive oxygen species by mitochondrial uncoupling in multiple cell types and induce hypertriglyceridemia in NS. In conclusion, albumin acts as an interface in the circulation and hypoalbuminaemia impairs multiple aspects of vascular function that may underlie the association of hypoalbuminaemia with adverse outcomes. However, hypoalbuminaemia is not a key to oedema in NS. These insights have therapeutic implications.
Randomized comparison of three high-flux dialyzers during high-volume online hemodiafiltration—the comPERFORM study
Authors: Ehlerding Götz , Ries Wolfgang , Kempkes-Koch Manuela , Ziegler Ekkehard , Erlenkötter Ansgar , Zawada Adam M , Kennedy James P , Ottillinger Bertram , Stauss-Grabo Manuela , Lang Thomas
Published: October 2021

Background

Dialyzers should be designed to efficiently eliminate uraemic toxins during dialysis treatment, given that the accumulation of small and middle molecular weight uraemic solutes is associated with increased mortality risk of patients with end-stage renal disease. In the present study we investigated the novel FX CorAL dialyzer with a modified membrane surface for performance during online hemodiafiltration (HDF) in a clinical setting.

Methods

comPERFORM was a prospective, open, controlled, multicentric, interventional, crossover study with randomized treatment sequences. It randomized stable patients receiving regular post-dilution online HDF to FX CorAL 600 (Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland), xevonta Hi 15 (B. Braun) and ELISIO 150H (Nipro) each for 1 week. The primary outcome was β2-m removal rate (β2-m RR) during online HDF. Secondary endpoints were RR and/or clearance of β2-m and other molecules. Albumin removal over time was an exploratory endpoint. Non-inferiority and superiority of FX CorAL 600 versus comparators were tested.

Results

Fifty-two patients were included and analysed. FX CorAL 600 showed the highest β2-m RR (75.47%), followed by xevonta Hi 15 (74.01%) and ELISIO 150H (72.70%). Superiority to its comparators was statistically significant (P = 0.0216 and P < 0.0001, respectively). Secondary endpoints related to middle molecules affirmed these results. FX CorAL 600 demonstrated the lowest albumin removal up to 60 minutes and its sieving properties changed less over time than with comparators.

Conclusions

FX CorAL 600 efficiently removed middle and small molecules and was superior to the two comparators in β2-m RR. Albumin sieving kinetics point to reduced formation of a secondary membrane.
Role of 3-Carene in Host Location and Colonization by Dendroctonus pseudotsugae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Ross Darrell W , Neal Tiffany A , Wallin Kimberly F
Published: October 2021

The Douglas-fir beetle (Dendroctonus pseudotsugae Hopkins) occasionally colonizes western larch [Larix occidentalis Nutt. (Pinales: Pinaceae)] growing in close proximity to its primary host, Douglas-fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco (Pinales: Pinaceae)], but brood have never been found to survive in live western larch. Western larch produces the monoterpene 3-carene in higher concentrations than Douglas-fir. In this study, the toxicity and repellency of 3-carene to Douglas-fir beetle was evaluated in a series of laboratory and field tests. In a laboratory bioassay, 3-carene was one of the most toxic monoterpenes to Douglas-fir beetles among those tested. In a field trial, addition of 3-carene to multiple-funnel traps baited with frontalin (the primary component of Douglas-fir beetle aggregation pheromone) or frontalin and α-pinene significantly reduced the number of Douglas-fir beetles collected. In another field study, live western larch, felled western larch, live Douglas-fir, felled Douglas-fir, and live Douglas-fir surrounded by 3-carene releasers were baited with Douglas-fir beetle aggregation pheromones. There were significantly fewer Douglas-fir beetle entrance holes and egg galleries excavated on both live western larch and live Douglas-fir surrounded by 3-carene compared with live Douglas-fir. Most egg galleries excavated in live western larch were heavily impregnated with resin and no eggs hatched. There were no significant differences in egg galleries excavated or eggs hatched between felled western larch and felled Douglas-fir. Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that 3-carene slows the colonization process in live western larch allowing more time for host trees to respond to a colonization attempt and a higher likelihood of successfully resisting infestation.
Screening and Signalling Non-Cognitive Skills: Experimental Evidence from Uganda
Authors: Bassi Vittorio , Nansamba Aisha
Published: October 2021

We study how employers and job seekers respond to credible information on skills that are difficult to observe, and how this affects matching in the labour market. We experimentally vary whether certificates on workers’ non-cognitive skills are disclosed to both sides of the market during job interviews between young workers and small firms in Uganda. The certificates cause workers to increase their labour market expectations, while high-ability managers revise their assessments of the workers’ skills upwards. The reaction in terms of beliefs leads to an increase in positive assortative matching and to higher earnings for workers, conditional on employment.
Prognostic impact of invasive exercise haemodynamics in patients with severe mitral regurgitation
Authors: Hein Manuel , Neu Julia , Doerken Sam , Schoechlin Simon , Dorfs Stephan , Zeh Wolfgang , Pingpoh Clarence , Neumann Franz-Josef , Minners Jan , Jander Nikolaus
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVES

Abnormal invasive exercise haemodynamics in asymptomatic patients with severe mitral regurgitation were associated with higher regurgitation burden. We analysed the association between parameters of invasive exercise testing with mortality and valve surgery compared to guideline defined non-invasive criteria.

METHODS

This single centre, retrospective cohort study assesses the association of invasive exercise haemodynamics and mortality with and without surgery in patients with severe mitral regurgitation and normal ejection fraction (≥55%) as primary outcome. The secondary outcome was the need for mitral valve surgery in 113 asymptomatic patients primarily managed conservatively.

RESULTS

We identified 314 patients [age 59 years (standard deviation 13), 27% female] with available exercise haemodynamics with a median follow-up of 8.2 (interquartile range 5.2–11.2) years. Five-year survival rate was 93.0%. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure at maximum exercise >30 mmHg was the only parameter independently associated with mortality after adjustment for age and guideline criteria [hazard ratio (HR) 2.7 (1.3–5.6), P = 0.007]. In the 113 patients primarily managed conservatively, maximum pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was independently associated with mitral valve surgery during follow-up in multivariable analysis (HR 2.10 (1.32–3.34), P = 0.002; after adjustment for workload and weight: HR 1.31 (1.14–1.52), P < 0.001], whereas systolic pulmonary artery pressure and current guideline criteria were not. Adding maximum pulmonary capillary wedge pressure >25 mmHg improved the predictive power of current guideline criteria for surgery (area under the curve 0.61–0.68, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive exercise haemodynamics predict mortality and improve prognostic information about surgery during follow-up derived from current guideline criteria in asymptomatic patients with severe mitral regurgitation.
Effect of 5 years of exercise training on the cardiovascular risk profile of older adults: the Generation 100 randomized trial
Authors: Letnes Jon Magne , Berglund Ida , Johnson Kristin E , Dalen Håvard , Nes Bjarne M , Lydersen Stian , Viken Hallgeir , Hassel Erlend , Steinshamn Sigurd , Vesterbekkmo Elisabeth Kleivhaug , Støylen Asbjørn , Reitlo Line S , Zisko Nina , Bækkerud Fredrik H , Tari Atefe R , Ingebrigtsen Jan Erik , Sandbakk Silvana B , Carlsen Trude , Anderssen Sigmund A , Singh Maria A Fiatarone , Coombes Jeff S , Helbostad Jorunn L , Rognmo Øivind , Wisløff Ulrik , Stensvold Dorthe
Published: October 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 5 years of supervised exercise training (ExComb), and the differential effects of subgroups of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), with control on the cardiovascular risk profile in older adults.

Methods and results

Older adults aged 70–77 years from Trondheim, Norway (n = 1567, 50% women), able to safely perform exercise training were randomized to 5 years of two weekly sessions of HIIT [∼90% of peak heart rate (HR), n = 400] or MICT (∼70% of peak HR, n = 387), together forming ExComb (n = 787), or control (instructed to follow physical activity recommendations, n = 780). The main outcome was a continuous cardiovascular risk score (CCR), individual cardiovascular risk factors, and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak). CCR was not significantly lower [−0.19, 99% confidence interval (CI) −0.46 to 0.07] and VO2peak was not significantly higher (0.39 mL/kg/min, 99% CI −0.22 to 1.00) for ExComb vs. control. HIIT showed higher VO2peak (0.76 mL/kg/min, 99% CI 0.02–1.51), but not lower CCR (−0.32, 99% CI −0.64 to 0.01) vs. control. MICT did not show significant differences compared to control or HIIT. Individual risk factors mostly did not show significant between-group differences, with some exceptions for HIIT being better than control. There was no significant effect modification by sex. The number of cardiovascular events was similar across groups. The healthy and fit study sample, and contamination and cross-over between intervention groups, challenged the possibility of detecting between-group differences.

Conclusions

Five years of supervised exercise training in older adults had little effect on cardiovascular risk profile and did not reduce cardiovascular events.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01666340.
Electrocardiogram monitoring in the prone position in coronavirus disease 2019 acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Roccia Hugo , Argaud Laurent , Le Goic Maëva , Guérin Claude , Cour Martin
Published: October 2021

Aims

Prone positioning is increasingly used for treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In these high-risk patients for cardiovascular events who may spend more than 16 h a day in the prone position, an adequate monitoring of electrocardiogram (ECG) is mandatory. However, effects of prone positioning on the ECG are unknown as is the validity of the ECG recorded with electrodes placed dorsally. We aimed to compare ECG data obtained in the prone position from five electrodes positioned conventionally and dorsally, and to assess the effects of the change of position (from supine to prone) on the ECGs in patients with COVID-19 ARDS.

Methods and results

In patients with COVID-19 ARDS for whom the prone position was indicated, seven-lead ECG (frontal plane leads and V6) performed in the supine and the prone position with electrodes positioned conventionally and dorsally were compared. A total of 22 patients [20 (91%) males] were included. Among them, 10 (45%) patients had structural or ischaemic heart disease. After prone positioning, PR duration significantly increased and QRS duration significantly decreased whereas QT interval did not significantly change. In the prone position, there were excellent correlations between QRS axis, PR, RR, QRS, and QT intervals durations measured with electrodes placed on the torso and dorsally (with no change in the position of V6).

Conclusion

Prone positioning induced significant change in the ECG. In the prone position, ECG can be reliably monitored with four electrodes translated from conventional position to the back and with a precordial electrode left in V6 position.
New energy sources and technologies for atrial fibrillation catheter ablation
Authors: Boersma Lucas
Published: October 2021

Ablation has become a cornerstone for the management of symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients where anti-arrhythmic drugs fail. Electrical isolation of the pulmonary veins (PVs) is the basic step for every procedure but is still hampered by tools and energy sources that do not lead to durability of isolation. Novel therapies include high power short duration radiofrequency ablation in combination with optimal cooling of the electrode–tissue interface by irrigation or new electrode material to allow for optimal safe energy transfer. Novel tools include competitive balloon catheters using cryoenergy, laser, or radiofrequency current, or linear array ablation with ultralow temperature cryoablation to enhance durability of lesions. A novel energy source is rapidly evolving in the form of pulsed electrical field ablation resulting in irreversible electroporation of cardiac tissue, potentially without collateral side effects. Beyond PV isolation, ablation targets are still under study as standardized addition of lesion lines shows limited benefits. Mapping of the activation pattern during AF to guide patient-specific target ablation has been developing over the last decade, with mixed results by different platforms. The field of ablation for AF is evolving more rapidly than ever which will hopeful result in better long-term outcomes.
Sample Design and Estimation in the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project: Round 3 (2015–2016)
Authors: O’Muircheartaigh Colm , English Ned , Pedlow Steven , Schumm L Philip
Published: October 2021

Objectives

This article, and corresponding articles for the earlier rounds of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP), provide the scientific underpinning for the statistical analysis of NSHAP data. The 2015–2016 round of data collection for NSHAP comprised the third wave of data collection for the original cohort born 1920–1947 (C1) and the first wave of data collection for a second cohort born 1948–1965 (C2). Here we describe (a) our protocol for reinterviewing C1; (b) our approach to the sample design for C2, including the frame construction, stratification, clustering, and within-household selection; and (c) the construction of cross-sectional weights for the entire 2015–2016 sample when analyzed at the individual level or when analyzed as a sample of cohabiting couples. We also provide guidance on computing design-based standard errors.

Methods

The sample for C2 was drawn independently of the C1 sample using the NORC U.S. National Sampling Frame. A probability sample of households containing at least one individual born 1948–1965 was drawn, and from these, each age-eligible individual was included together with their cohabiting spouse or partner (even if not age-eligible). This C2 sample was combined with the C1 sample to yield a sample representative of the U.S. population of adults born 1920–1965.

Results

Among C1, we conducted 2,409 interviews corresponding to a 91% conditional response rate (i.e., among previous respondents); the unconditional three-wave response rate for the original C1 sample was 71%. Among C2, we conducted 2,368 interviews corresponding to a response rate of 76%.

Discussion

Together C1 and C2 permit inference about the U.S. population of home-dwelling adults born from 1920 to 1965. In addition, three waves of data from C1 are now available, permitting longitudinal analyses of health outcomes and their determinants among older adults.
Remagnetization of the Jurassic limestones in the Zaduo area, Eastern Qiangtang Terrane (Tibetan Plateau, China): implications for the India–Eurasia collision
Authors: Fu Qiang , Yan Maodu , Dekkers Mark J , Guan Chong , Yu Liang , Xu Wanlong , Li Bingshuai , Feng Zhantao , Xu Zunbo , Shen Miaomiao , Zhang Dawen
Published: October 2021

A series of terranes were accreted to Eurasia in the region of what is now the Tibetan Plateau, including the Qaidam-Qilian, the Songpan-Ganzi, the Qiangtang, the Lhasa and the Tethyan Himalaya terranes. The drift history of the Qiangtang Terrane and the timing of the Lhasa–Qiangtang collision are controversial. To contribute to this topic, here, we palaeomagnetically investigate the Middle-Upper Jurassic limestones of the Yanshiping group in the Zaduo area (32.5°N, 95.2°E), in the Estern Qiangtang Terrane. Twelve sites (133 samples) were processed. A major challenge in palaeomagnetism is the possibility of remagnetization that interferes with palaeogeographic reconstructions. Both thermal and alternating field demagnetizations were carried out to isolate the characteristic remanent magnetization (ChRM). Despite the positive reversals test, rock magnetic information points to a remagnetized ChRM. The ChRM is residing in stable single-domain (SSD) magnetite grains with cogenetic superparamagnetic (SP) particles. The co-occurreance of SSD and SP magnetites generates distinct rock-magnetic properties often refer to as the ‘remagnetized fingerprint’ in limestones. This remagnetization process is also manifested by the widespread occurrence of gypsum veinlets in the limestones. The site-mean direction of the 12 sites after tilt-correction is Ds = 30.6°, Is = 35.6°, κs = 182.9, α95 = 3.2°, corresponding to a palaeolatitude of ∼19.7°± 2.8°N for the study area. The corresponding palaeopole (59.8°N, 202.7°E with A95 = 2.8°) points to an NRM acquired after the India–Eurasia collision. The original sediments were likely anoxic because of the high organic carbon fluxes that prevailed during their deposition. After the India–Eurasia collision, it is envisaged that conditions became more oxic, giving rise to oxidation of iron sulphides to authigenic magnetite and the CRM acquisition. The Zaduo area in the Eastern Qiangtang Terrane has experienced ∼15.7° ± 3.2° (∼1740 ± 350 km) of latitudinal crustal shortening since the Eocene. In addition, the clockwise rotation responding to the India–Eurasia collision is also detected in the Zaduo area.
Conducting tobacco industry informant interviews: lessons and implications for commercial determinants of health research
Authors: Watts Christina , Burton Suzan , Freeman Becky
Published: October 2021

Investigating and exposing tobacco industry tactics to oppose and interfere with tobacco control policymaking is crucial to advancing public health. Whilst past investigations of tobacco industry activities have largely focused on secondary sources of information, such as publicly available tobacco industry documents, the collection of first-hand evidence from key informants has been an under-utilized method in tobacco industry monitoring. This article provides a detailed account of a methodological approach to systematically recruit former tobacco company employees as key informants for a study that aimed to gather information on the marketing tactics tobacco companies use in the Australian retail channel. Given the success of our study methodology in uncovering new information about tobacco company practices, we propose that key informant interviews with former industry employees should be a priority method for research investigating the role of commercial actors in influencing public health outcomes. To offer guidance to researchers who may wish to undertake a similar methodological approach, we also provide a reflective account of the elements of success and the lessons learned from this research.
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)—tyrosine kinase inhibitors as a first-line treatment for postoperative recurrent and EGFR-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Moriya Tetsuji , Hamaji Masatsugu , Yoshizawa Akihiko , Miyata Ryo , Noguchi Misa , Tamari Shigeyuki , Chiba Naohisa , Miyamoto Hideaki , Toyazaki Toshiya , Tanaka Satona , Yamada Yoshito , Yutaka Yojiro , Nakajima Daisuke , Ohsumi Akihiro , Menju Toshi , Date Hiroshi
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVES

To clarify survival outcomes and prognostic factors of patients receiving epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) - tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) as first-line treatment for postoperative recurrence.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed to identify consecutive patients who received EGFR-TKIs as first-line treatment for postoperative recurrence of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harbouring EGFR gene mutations at our institution between August 2002 and October 2020. Therapeutic response, adverse events, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were investigated. Survival outcomes were assessed using the Kaplan–Meier analysis. The Cox proportional hazards model was used for univariable and multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

Sixty-four patients were included in the study. The objective response and disease control rates were 53% and 92%, respectively. Grade 3 or greater adverse events were noted in 4 (6.3%) patients, including 1 patient (1.6%) of interstitial pneumonia. The median follow-up period was 28.5 months (range 3–202 months). The total number of events was 43 for PFS and 23 for OS, respectively. The median PFS was 18 months, and the median OS was 61 months after EGFR-TKI treatment. In multivariable analysis, osimertinib showed a tendency to prolong PFS [hazard ratio (HR) 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.12–1.1; P = 0.071], whereas the micropapillary component was significantly associated with shorter OS (HR 2.1, 95% CI 1.02–6.9; P = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

EGFR-TKIs as first-line treatment appeared to be a reasonable treatment option in selected patients with postoperative recurrent EGFR-mutated NSCLC. Osimertinib and the micropapillary component may be prognostic factors.
Concealment as Responsibility Shifting in Overlapping Generations Organizations
Authors: Tajika Tomoya
Published: October 2021

Firms sometimes have problems with their products or management systems: problems that can lead to catastrophic events. However, while workers in these firms are often aware of these problems, they sometimes fail to report them to their superiors. This paper examines workers’ incentives for concealing problems within an overlapping generations organization consisting of a subordinate and a manager. The results reveal that concealment exhibits strategic complementarity across different generations, which can lead to multiple equilibria. Further, imposing punishment and rewards on managers may paradoxically increase the motivation for concealment (JEL D23, D82, M51).
Who Watches the Watchmen: Evidence of the Effect of Body-Worn Cameras on New York City Policing
Authors: Zamoff Mitchell E , Greenwood Brad N , Burtch Gordon
Published: October 2021

We present a multi-year study of the rollout of Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs) to the New York City Police Department (NYPD). Our study adds to the prior body of work by clarifying some of the discord within it, particularly with respect to large urban police departments. We estimate the effect of BWC deployment on precinct volumes of citizen stops, arrests, complaints against officers, and use-of-force incidents. Results indicate that BWCs drive significant increases in stops and decreases in arrests and citizen complaints. We observe no effect on use of force. We also document heterogeneity in affected stops and complaints. Our findings speak to three potential benefits of BWCs in urban law enforcement: an increase in legitimate stops made by police; a decrease in complaints alleging officers’ abuse of authority; and a reduction in arrests (which appears beneficial, regardless of whether this results from improved behavior among police or citizens).
Investigation of Developmental Stage/Age, Gamma Irradiation Dose, and Temperature in Sterilization of MaleAedes aegypti(Diptera: Culicidae) in a Sterile Insect Technique Program
Authors: Ernawan Beni , Anggraeni Tjandra , Yusmalinar Sri , Ahmad Intan
Published: October 2021

The sterilization process using gamma irradiation is a crucial component in a program using sterile insect technique (SIT) to control Aedes aegypti. Unfortunately, there is no efficient standard protocol for sterilizing mosquitoes that can produce a high level of sterility while maintaining mating ability and longevity. Therefore, we conducted a study of the critical factors necessary to develop such a standard protocol. In this study, male Ae. aegypti pupae, as well as adults aged 1 d and 3 d, were irradiated using a Gamma-cell 220 irradiator doses of 0, 20, 40, 60, 70, 80, and 100 Gray (Gy). In addition, male Ae. aegypti in the pupal and adult stage aged 1 d were irradiated at a dose of 70 Gy at various temperatures. Changes in emergence rates, longevity, sterility, and mating competitiveness were recorded for each combination of parameters. Results showed that an increase of irradiation dose leads to a rise of induced sterility at all developmental stages, while simultaneously reducing emergence rate, survival, and mating competitiveness. Higher temperatures resulted in increased levels of sterility, reduced longevity, and did not affect the ability to mate. This study found that an irradiation dose of 70 Gy at a temperature between 20.00 and 22.30°C administered in the pupal stage induced a high level of sterility (around 98%), while maintaining mating competitiveness and longevity.
Mean field dynamo action in shearing flows – II. Fluctuating kinetic helicity with zero mean
Authors: Jingade Naveen , Singh Nishant K
Published: October 2021

Here we explore the role of temporal fluctuations in kinetic helicity on the generation of large-scale magnetic fields in the presence of a background linear shear flow. Key techniques involved here are same as in our earlier work, where we have used the renovating flow based model with shearing waves. Both the velocity and the helicity fields are treated as stochastic variables with finite correlation times, τ and τh, respectively. Growing solutions are obtained when τh > τ, even when this time-scale separation, characterized by m = τh/τ, remains below the threshold for causing the turbulent diffusion to turn negative. In regimes when turbulent diffusion remains positive, and τ is of the order of eddy turnover time T, the axisymmetric modes display non-monotonic behaviour with shear rate S: both, the growth rate γ and the wavenumber k* corresponding to the fastest growing mode, first increase, reach a maximum and then decrease with |S|, with k* being always smaller than eddy-wavenumber, thus boosting growth of magnetic fields at large length-scales. The cycle period Pcyc of growing dynamo wave is inversely proportional to |S| at small shear, exactly similar to the fixed kinetic helicity case of our earlier work. This dependence becomes shallower at larger shear. Interestingly enough, various curves corresponding to different choices of m collapse on top of each other in a plot of mPcyc with |S|.
Distribution of charge on floating dust particles over sunlit locations on Moon
Authors: Mishra S K , Sana Trinesh
Published: October 2021

The charging of fine particles within the photoelectron cloud is the key in characterizing the dusty plasma environment over sunlit locations. In this work, based on the statistical mechanics and charging kinetics of the floating dust particles within the photoelectron sheath over the sunlit lunar surface, the distribution of charge over floating particles has been investigated. The natural randomisation of the dust charging currents, the anisotropy in sheath photoelectron population and electric field/potential, and half Fermi–Dirac velocity distribution of the emitted photoelectrons have been consistently accounted for in the formulation. In this framework, due to natural fluctuation, the charge on the floating dust particles is shown to be distributed over a wide range (∼100 e). This random fluctuation in charge might alter the static equilibrium of the floating dust particles and induce an altitudinal fluctuation (∼10 %) about its mean position within the sheath. The concept and results suggest that the natural fluctuation of the dust charge could be a reason that the strict dust levitation under static force equilibrium is less likely to exhibit over the sunlit lunar surfaces. This effect of dust charge and subsequent altitudinal fluctuations have been found pronounced at larger latitudes (near the terminator region) and higher lunar altitudes.
Transitional events in the spectrophotometric regime between stripped envelope and superluminous supernovae
Authors: Prentice S J , Inserra C , Schulze S , Nicholl M , Mazzali P A , Vergani S D , Galbany L , Anderson J P , Ashall C , Chen T W , Deckers M , Delgado Mancheño M , González Díaz R , González-Gaitán S , Gromadzki M , Gutiérrez C P , Harvey L , Kozyreva A , Magee M R , Maguire K , Müller-Bravo T E , Muñoz Torres S , Pessi P J , Sollerman J , Teffs J , Terwel J H , Young D R
Published: October 2021

The division between stripped-envelope supernovae (SE-SNe) and superluminous supernovae (SLSNe) is not well-defined in either photometric or spectroscopic space. While a sharp luminosity threshold has been suggested, there remains an increasing number of transitional objects that reach this threshold without the spectroscopic signatures common to SLSNe. In this work, we present data and analysis on four SNe transitional between SE-SNe and SLSNe; the He-poor SNe 2019dwa and 2019cri, and the He-rich SNe 2019hge and 2019unb. Each object displays long-lived and variable photometric evolution with luminosities around the SLSN threshold of Mr < −19.8 mag. Spectroscopically however, these objects are similar to SE-SNe, with line velocities lower than either SE-SNe and SLSNe, and thus represent an interesting case of rare transitional events.
COVID-19 and adult-onset Still’s disease as part of hyperferritinemic syndromes
Authors: Kawasaki Tatsuya , Ooka Seido , Mizushima Machiko , Nakamura Yuta , Ikeda Hiroki , Sakurada Tsutomu , Suzuki Shotaro , Yamazaki Kazuko , Goto Yutaka , Sakurai Keiichi , Yukitaka Yamasaki , Kiyokawa Tomofumi , Tonooka Kumiko , Kunishima Hiroyuki , Kawahata Kimito
Published: October 2021

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is known to cause hyperferritinemia and haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Including this laboratory parameter, symptoms similar to COVID-19 have been observed in adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD), catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome, macrophage activation syndrome, and septic shock, which has led to the proposal of a concept called ‘hyperferritinemic syndromes’. High levels of some clinical markers in both COVID-19 and AOSD make them difficult to differentiate. While the efficacy of ciclesonide had been expected for mild pneumonia with COVID-19, the efficacy of tocilizumab (TCZ), which is a known treatment for AOSD, was not established. We report the first known occurrence of COVID-19 diagnosed in March 2020, preceded by the diagnosis of AOSD in April 2019. The patient was given prednisolone and TCZ, which led to remission. With the dyspnea and ground-glass appearance on chest computed tomography, PCR test revealed COVID-19 infection. Ciclesonide was started on Day 7 of the disease onset, which led to improved inflammatory markers. We infer that while TCZ is theoretically useful for COVID-19 due to its inhibition of interleukin 6. AOSD and COVID-19 may be differentiated by levels of ferritin, and appropriate treatment must be allocated.
The current state of SubtiWiki, the database for the model organism Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Pedreira Tiago , Elfmann Christoph , Stülke Jörg
Published: October 2021

Bacillus subtilis is a Gram-positive model bacterium with extensive documented annotation. However, with the rise of high-throughput techniques, the amount of complex data being generated every year has been increasing at a fast pace. Thus, having platforms ready to integrate and give a representation to these data becomes a priority. To address it, SubtiWiki (http://subtiwiki.uni-goettingen.de/) was created in 2008 and has been growing in data and viewership ever since. With millions of requests every year, it is the most visited B. subtilis database, providing scientists all over the world with curated information about its genes and proteins, as well as intricate protein–protein interactions, regulatory elements, expression data and metabolic pathways. However, there is still a large portion of annotation to be unveiled for some biological elements. Thus, to facilitate the development of new hypotheses for research, we have added a Homology section covering potential protein homologs in other organisms. Here, we present the recent developments of SubtiWiki and give a guided tour of our database and the current state of the data for this organism.
Constraints on error rate revealed by computational study of G•U tautomerization in translation
Authors: Kazantsev Andriy , Ignatova Zoya
Published: October 2021

In translation, G•U mismatch in codon-anticodon decoding is an error hotspot likely due to transition of G•U from wobble (wb) to Watson-Crick (WC) geometry, which is governed by keto/enol tautomerization (wb-WC reaction). Yet, effects of the ribosome on the wb-WC reaction and its implications for decoding mechanism remain unclear. Employing quantum-mechanical/molecular-mechanical umbrella sampling simulations using models of the ribosomal decoding site (A site) we determined that the wb-WC reaction is endoergic in the open, but weakly exoergic in the closed A-site state. We extended the classical ‘induced-fit’ model of initial selection by incorporating wb-WC reaction parameters in open and closed states. For predicted parameters, the non-equilibrium exoergic wb-WC reaction is kinetically limited by the decoding rates. The model explains early observations of the WC geometry of G•U from equilibrium structural studies and reveals discrimination capacity for the working ribosome operating at non-equilibrium conditions. The equilibration of the exoergic wb-WC reaction counteracts the equilibration of the open-closed transition of the A site, constraining the decoding accuracy and potentially explaining the persistence of the G•U as an error hotspot. Our results unify structural and mechanistic views of codon-anticodon decoding and generalize the ‘induced-fit’ model for flexible substrates.
Interactions between SQUAMOSA and SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE MADS-box proteins regulate meristem transitions during wheat spike development
Authors: Li Kun , Debernardi Juan M , Li Chengxia , Lin Huiqiong , Zhang Chaozhong , Jernstedt Judy , Korff Maria von , Zhong Jinshun , Dubcovsky Jorge
Published: October 2021

Inflorescence architecture is an important determinant of crop productivity. The number of spikelets produced by the wheat inflorescence meristem (IM) before its transition to a terminal spikelet (TS) influences the maximum number of grains per spike. Wheat MADS-box genes VERNALIZATION 1 (VRN1) and FRUITFULL 2 (FUL2) (in the SQUAMOSA-clade) are essential to promote the transition from IM to TS and for spikelet development. Here we show that SQUAMOSA genes contribute to spikelet identity by repressing MADS-box genes VEGETATIVE TO REPRODUCTIVE TRANSITION 2 (VRT2), SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE 1 (SVP1), and SVP3 in the SVP clade. Constitutive expression of VRT2 resulted in leafy glumes and lemmas, reversion of spikelets to spikes, and downregulation of MADS-box genes involved in floret development, whereas the vrt2 mutant reduced vegetative characteristics in spikelets of squamosa mutants. Interestingly, the vrt2 svp1 mutant showed similar phenotypes to squamosa mutants regarding heading time, plant height, and spikelets per spike, but it exhibited unusual axillary inflorescences in the elongating stem. We propose that SQUAMOSA–SVP interactions are important to promote heading, formation of the TS, and stem elongation during the early reproductive phase, and that downregulation of SVP genes is then necessary for normal spikelet and floral development. Manipulating SVP and SQUAMOSA genes can contribute to engineering spike architectures with improved productivity.