bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Setting scientific names at all taxonomic ranks in italics facilitates their quick recognition in scientific papers
Authors: Thines Marco , Aoki Takayuki , Crous Pedro W. , Hyde Kevin D. , Lücking Robert , Malosso Elaine , May Tom W. , Miller Andrew N. , Redhead Scott A. , Yurkov Andrey M. , Hawksworth David L.
Published: November 2020

It is common practice in scientific journals to print genus and species names in italics. This is not only historical as species names were traditionally derived from Greek or Latin. Importantly, it also facilitates the rapid recognition of genus and species names when skimming through manuscripts. However, names above the genus level are not always italicized, except in some journals which have adopted this practice for all scientific names. Since scientific names treated under the various Codes of nomenclature are without exception treated as Latin, there is no reason why names above genus level should be handled differently, particularly as higher taxon names are becoming increasingly relevant in systematic and evolutionary studies and their italicization would aid the unambiguous recognition of formal scientific names distinguishing them from colloquial names. Several leading mycological and botanical journals have already adopted italics for names of all taxa regardless of rank over recent decades, as is the practice in theInternational Code of Nomenclature for algae,fungi, and plants,and we hereby recommend that this practice be taken up broadly in scientific journals and textbooks.
Adapting a skills-based stroke prevention intervention for communities in Ghana: a qualitative study
Authors: Ojo Temitope , Ryan Nessa , Birkemeier Joel , Appleton Noa , Ampomah Isaac , Glozah Franklin , Adongo Philip Baba , Adanu Richard , Boden-Albala Bernadette
Published: November 2020

Background

Stroke is a major cause of death in Ghana. Evidence-based interventions for stroke prevention have been successful in the US; however, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), such interventions are scarce. The “Discharge Education Strategies for Reduction of Vascular Events” (DESERVE) intervention led to a 10-mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) among Hispanic survivors of mild/moderate stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) at 1-year follow-up. Our objectives were to capture the perceptions of a diverse set of stakeholders in an urban community in Ghana regarding (1) challenges to optimal hypertension management and (2) facilitators and barriers to implementation of an evidence-based, skills-based educational tool for hypertension management in this context.

Methods

This exploratory study used purposive sampling to enroll diverse stakeholders in Accra (N= 38). To identify facilitators and barriers, we conducted three focus group discussions: one each with clinical nurses (n= 5), community health nurses (n= 20), and hypertensive adults (n= 10). To further examine structural barriers, we conducted three key informant interviews with medical leadership. All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was carried out via deductive coding based on Proctor’s implementation outcomes taxonomy, which conceptualizes constructs that shape implementation, such as acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, cost, and feasibility.

Results

Findings highlight facilitators, such as a perceived fit (appropriateness) of the core intervention components across stakeholders. The transferable components of DESERVE include: (1) a focus on risk knowledge, medication adherence, and patient–physician communication, (2) facilitation by lay workers, (3) use of patient testimonials, (4) use of a spirituality framework, and (5) application of a community-based approach. We report potential barriers that suggest adaptations to increase appropriateness and feasibility. These include addressing spiritual etiology of disease, allaying mistrust of biomedical intervention, and tailoring for gender norms. Acceptability may be a challenge among individuals with hypertension, who perceive relative advantage of alternative therapies like herbalism. Key informant interviews highlight structural barriers (high opportunity costs) among physicians, who perceive they have neither time nor capacity to educate patients.

Conclusions

Findings further support the need for theory-driven, evidence-based interventions among hypertensive adults in urban, multiethnic Ghana. Findings will inform implementation strategies and future research.
Trends in Melanoma Mortality in Brazil: A Registry-Based Study
Authors: Nader Marta Guilherme , Munhoz Rodrigo Ramella , Teixeira Monica La Porte , Waldvogel Bernadette Cunha , Pires de Camargo Veridiana , Feher Olavo , Sanches Jose Antonio
Published: November 2020

PURPOSE

A substantial increase in melanoma incidence has been consistently observed worldwide over the past decades. However, melanoma mortality rates have remained stable or declined over the past years in most regions. Given the paucity of melanoma mortality data for different Brazilian regions, we sought to describe melanoma mortality trends in southeastern Brazil and their relationship with demographic variables.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional registry-based analysis was conducted to describe melanoma mortality trends in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from 1996 to 2016. Demographic information from melanoma-related death records, including sex and age, was collected from the Fundação Sistema Estadual de Análise de Dados database. The annual percentage change (APC) was calculated to identify mortality trends over the period.

RESULTS

An increasing melanoma mortality trend was detected among males, regardless of age (APC, 1.72%; P < .001), and was more pronounced for men ≥ 60 years old (APC, 2.63%; P < .001). Melanoma mortality rates have also increased for patients ≥ 60 years old, regardless of sex (APC, 1.11%; P < .001). A non–statistically significant increase in the overall melanoma mortality rate was observed over the 20-year period analyzed (APC, 0.36%; P = .4).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest a stable melanoma mortality over the past two decades for the overall population studied; however, a significant increase in melanoma mortality rates has been demonstrated among males and in the population ≥ 60 years old, emphasizing the need to implement prevention strategies and expand access to effective therapies for this population.
Droplet Handling for Chemical Reactors Using a Digital Microfluidic Device
Authors: Hirama Hirotada , Yoshii Satoshi , Komazaki Yusuke , Kano Shinya , Torii Toru , Mekaru Harutaka
Published: November 2020

We present droplet manipulation using a digital microfluidic device comprising downward electrodes. Using this device, we demonstrated droplet transportation, programmable dispensing, and droplet coalescence without existing technical constraints on droplet manipulation. This device is expected to be useful for droplet-based multi-content screening and high-throughput screening in the field of analysis and synthesis.
Uniting Form and Function, Stability and Reactivity in Open Framework Materials
Authors: Xu Zhengtao
Published: November 2020

Functions and performance metrics are much sought after by materials researchers and editors; not to be sidelined, however, are fundamental design works directed at general methodological breakthrough and wide-scope applicability. For a close union of form and function is often crucial in catalysing paradigm shift. We use two forms of contrast to illustrate: the hard/soft design in carboxyl-thiol molecules, and the starburst/backfolded alkyne motifs. The former affords thiol-decked Zr4+-carboxyl frameworks, the latter, domino cyclization for crosslinked nanographene components. The versatile reactivity of the thiol and alkyne functions (e.g., for metal uptake), deployed in symmetrical dendritic forms, serves to bridge the worlds of coordination and covalent solids.
Exogenous Ketosis Impairs 30-min Time-Trial Performance Independent of Bicarbonate Supplementation
Authors: POFFÉ CHIEL , WYNS FELIX , RAMAEKERS MONIQUE , HESPEL PETER
Published: November 2020

Purpose

We recently demonstrated that coingestion of NaHCO3 to counteract ketoacidosis resulting from oral ketone ester (KE) intake improves mean power output during a 15-min time trial (TT) at the end of a 3-h cycling race by ~5%. This ergogenic effect occurred at a time when blood ketone levels were low, as ketosis was only induced during the initial ~2 h of the race. Therefore, in the current study, we investigated whether performance also increases if blood ketone levels are increased in the absence of ketoacidosis during high-intensity exercise.

Methods

In a double-blind crossover design, 14 well-trained male cyclists completed a 30-min TT (TT30′) followed by an all-out sprint at 175% of lactate threshold (SPRINT). Subjects were randomized to receive (i) 50 g KE, (ii) 180 mg·kg−1 body weight NaHCO3 (BIC), (iii) KE + BIC, or (iv) a control drink (CON).

Results

KE ingestion increased blood d-ß-hydroxybutyrate to ~3–4 mM during the TT30′ and SPRINT (P < 0.001 vs CON). In KE, blood pH and bicarbonate concomitantly dropped, causing 0.05 units lower pH and 2.6 mM lower bicarbonate in KE compared with CON during the TT30′ and SPRINT (P < 0.001 vs CON). BIC coingestion resulted in 0.9 mM higher blood d-ß-hydroxybutyrate (P < 0.001 vs KE) and completely counteracted ketoacidosis during exercise (P > 0.05 vs CON). Mean power output during TT30′ was similar between CON and BIC at 281 W, but was 1.5% lower in the KE conditions (main effect of KE: P = 0.03). Time to exhaustion in the SPRINT was ~64 s in CON and KE and increased by ~8% in the BIC conditions (main effect of BIC: P < 0.01).

Discussion

Neutralization of acid–base disturbance by BIC coingestion is insufficient to counteract the slightly negative effect of KE intake during high-intensity exercise.
Acute Running and Coronary Heart Disease Risk Markers in Male Cigarette Smokers and Nonsmokers: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: ALOTAIBI TAREQ F. , THACKRAY ALICE E. , ROBERTS MATTHEW J. , ALANAZI TURKI M. , BISHOP NICOLETTE C. , WADLEY ALEX J. , KING JAMES A. , O’DONNELL EMMA , STEINER MICHAEL C. , SINGH SALLY J. , STENSEL DAVID J.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Cigarette smoking is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease and is associated with impaired postprandial metabolism. Acute exercise reduces postprandial lipemia and improves other coronary heart disease risk markers in nonsmokers. Less is known about responses in cigarette smokers.

Methods

Twelve male cigarette smokers (mean ± SD; age = 23 ± 4 yr, body mass index = 24.9 ± 3.0 kg·m−2) and 12 male nonsmokers (age = 24 ± 4 yr, body mass index = 24.1 ± 2.0 kg·m−2) completed two, 2-d conditions (control and exercise) in a randomized crossover design. On day 1, participants rested for 9 h (0800–1700) in both conditions except a 60-min treadmill run (65% ± 7% peak oxygen uptake, 2.87 ± 0.54 MJ) was completed between 6.5 and 7.5 h (1430–1530) in the exercise condition. On day 2 of both conditions, participants rested and consumed two high-fat meals over 8 h (0900–1700) during which 13 venous blood samples and nine resting arterial blood pressure measurements were collected.

Results

Smokers exhibited higher postprandial triacylglycerol and C-reactive protein than nonsmokers (main effect group effect size [Cohen’s d] ≥ 0.94, P ≤ 0.034). Previous day running reduced postprandial triacylglycerol, insulin, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (main effect condition d ≥ 0.28, P ≤ 0.044) and elevated postprandial nonesterified fatty acid and C-reactive protein (main effect condition d ≥ 0.41, P ≤ 0.044). Group–condition interactions were not apparent for any outcome across the total postprandial period (0–8 h; all P ≥ 0.089), but the exercise-induced reduction in postprandial triacylglycerol in the early postprandial period (0–4 h) was greater in nonsmokers than smokers (−21%, d = 0.43, vs −5%, d = 0.16, respectively; group–condition interaction P = 0.061).

Conclusions

Acute moderate-intensity running reduced postprandial triacylglycerol, insulin, and resting arterial blood pressure the day after exercise in male cigarette smokers and nonsmokers. These findings highlight the ability of acute exercise to augment the postprandial metabolic health of cigarette smokers and nonsmokers.
Feasibility of using post-contrast dual-energy CT for pediatric radiation treatment planning and dose calculation
Authors: Ates Ozgur , Hua Chia-ho , Zhao Li , Shapira Nadav , Yagil Yoad , Merchant Thomas E , Krasin Matthew
Published: November 2020

Objectives:

When iodinated contrast is administered during CT simulation, standard practice requires a separate non-contrast CT for dose calculation. The objective of this study is to validate our hypothesis that since iodine affects Hounsfield units (HUs) more than electron density (ED), the information from post-contrast dual-layer CT (DLCT) would be sufficient for accurate dose calculation for both photon and proton therapy.

Methods and materials:

10 pediatric patients with abdominal tumors underwent DLCT scans before and after iodinated contrast administration for radiotherapy planning. Dose distributions with these DLCT-based methods were compared to those with conventional calibration-curve methods that map HU images to ED and stopping-power ratio (SPR) images.

Results:

For photon plans, conventional and DLCT approaches based on post-contrast scans underestimated the PTV D99 by 0.87 ± 0.70% (p = 0.18) and 0.36 ± 0.31% (p = 0.34), respectively, comparing to their non-contrast optimization plans. Renal iodine concentration was weakly associated with D99 deviation for both conventional (R2 = 0.10) and DLCT (R2 = 0.02) approaches. For proton plans, the clinical target volume D99 errors were 3.67 ± 2.43% (p = 0.0001) and 0.30 ± 0.25% (p = 0.40) for conventional and DLCT approaches, respectively. The proton beam range changed noticeably with the conventional approach. Renal iodine concentration was highly associated with D99 deviation for the conventional approach (R2 = 0.83) but not for DLCT (R2 = 0.007).

Conclusion:

Conventional CT with iodine contrast resulted in a large dosimetric error for proton therapy, compared to true non-contrast plans, but the error was less for photon therapy. These errors can be greatly reduced in the case of the proton plans if DLCT is used, raising the possibility of using only a single post-contrast CT for radiotherapy dose calculation, thus reducing the time and imaging dose required.

Advances in knowledge:

This study is the first to compare directly the differences in the calculated dose distributions between pre- and post-contrast CT images generated by single-energy CT and dual-energy CT methods for photon and proton therapy.
Real-time assessment of temporomandibular joint using HASTE sequences: feasibility and comparison with standard static sequences
Authors: Ravanelli Marco , Bottoni Luca , Buffa Irene , Tononcelli Elena , Borghesi Andrea , Maroldi Roberto , Farina Davide
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To test real-time MRI (rtMRI) using HASTE sequences in patients with suspected internal disk derangement (IDD) of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and to compare these sequences with standard static sequences.

Methods and materials:

99 TMJ were studied with both standard sequences (fat-saturated proton density) and HASTE sequences with high temporal resolution. Image quality was assessed using a 4-point Likert scale. Two radiologists analysed both standard and rtMRI sequences separately, randomly and blinded (by a third operator) to patients’ names in order to assess inter-observer repeatability. One of the radiologists performed the analysis twice for assessing intra-observer repeatability. The same radiologists evaluated randomly and blinded to the previous assessment both the sequences and decided in consensus which was the most credible. Qualitative scores were compared using Friedman’s test while concordance between radiologists and sequences was evaluated using the concordance correlation coefficient.

Results:

At image quality analysis, mean score was 3.41 for static MRI and 3.82 for rtMRI, with a statistically significant difference in favour of rtMRI (p < 0.0001). Inter-rater concordance between operator 1 (Op1) and operator 2 (Op2) with regard to the same sequence was high for both static and rtMRI sequences (0.824 and 0.888, respectively). Inter-rater variability of Op1 and Op2 between static and rtMRI sequences was lower (0.647 for Op1 and 0.633 for Op2). Among 71 discordances between sequences, 60 were judged in favour of rtMRI, while 11 were in favour of static MRI.

Conclusion:

rtMRI with HASTE sequences is a robust technique and provide additional information in assessing IDD compared to static sequences.
Recent advances in understanding amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and emerging therapies
Authors: Gittings Lauren M , Sattler Rita
Published: November 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons and subsequent progressive loss of muscle function. Within the last decade, significant progress has been made in the understanding of the etiology and pathobiology of the disease; however, treatment options remain limited and only two drugs, which exert a modest effect on survival, are approved for ALS treatment in the US. Therefore, the search for effective ALS therapies continues, and over 60 clinical trials are in progress for patients with ALS and other therapeutics are at the pre-clinical stage of development. Recent advances in understanding the genetics, pathology, and molecular mechanisms of ALS have led to the identification of novel targets and strategies that are being used in emerging ALS therapeutic interventions. Here, we review the current status and mechanisms of action of a selection of emerging ALS therapies in pre-clinical or early clinical development, including gene therapy, immunotherapy, and strategies that target neuroinflammation, phase separation, and protein clearance.
COVID-19 antibody tests: statistical implications
Authors: Kankam Hadyn KN , Hourston George JM , Ravindran Pahalavi , Azhar Bilal , Pope Cassie
Published: November 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had significant implications for society, with the introduction of restrictive social measures. Antibody tests provide a way of identifying patients who have been previously exposed to the virus and thus may have a degree of immunity. This is important in the development of public health policy, as local and national bodies seek to relax social restrictions in an attempt to mitigate the socioeconomic impact of the pandemic. This article explores the essential statistical concepts used to interpret the findings of diagnostic investigations, with examples illustrated using COVID-19 antibody tests.
Skincare at a glance: Impetigo
Authors: Hancock David
Published: November 2020

Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin's surface. It is most commonly seen in young children, but it can affect people of any age. Highly infectious, outbreaks occur where there is close contact between children, such as in nurseries and schools. This article looks at some of the causes of impetigo, diagnosis and commonly used treatments.
Inequality is not a political issue
Authors: Oldman Crystal
Published: November 2020

Health visitors see every day the effects of inequality and poverty on children and cannot remain silent on this issue, says Crystal Oldman
Description of the previously unknown male of Parapsammophila errabunda (Kohl, 1901) (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae) from Tunisia

Authors: BEN KHEDHER HASSIB , YILDIRIM EROL , BRAHAM MOHAMED , LJUBIMOROV TOSHKO
Published: November 2020

The male of Parapsammophila errabunda (Kohl, 1901) is described for the first time and illustrated by digital photographs. Some ecological notes of species are included. Key words: Parapsammophila errabunda, Sphecidae, male, description, Tunisia
Finding a place for my research to belong: experiences of early-career social work participatory action researchers in neoliberal academia
Authors: Kramer Catherine S. , Cosgrove Darren , Mountz Sarah , Lee Eunwoo
Published: November 2020

Social workers face complex challenges that demand practice-engaged research and research-engaged practice. Participatory action research and community-based participatory research span the boundaries that often exist between the research and practice communities. Some social workers argue the values underpinning participatory action research and community-based participatory research align with the values of the profession; however, such methodologies are not widely represented in social work research in the US. This article presents the findings of a study examining the lived experiences of 15 early-career scholars, mostly based in the US, who were pursuing participatory action research and community-based participatory research. The neoliberalisation of the academy pervaded their experiences, presenting significant barriers to their ability to pursue action-oriented methodologies. Review of the international participatory action research literature also suggests the US may contrast with other regions in the world like Asia and Latin America, where participatory action research is more robust. Recommendations to better develop participatory action research social work literature are offered.
Numerical investigation on image degradation caused by aero-optical effects of the supersonic mixing layer
Authors: Guo Guangming , Tong Xiaojian , Luo Qin
Published: November 2020

The supersonic mixing layer over the optic window of a high-speed imaging guided vehicle is the primary turbulent flow causing aero-optical effects such as the target image blurring, jittering, and offsetting. Employing the large eddy simulation and ray tracing methods, this paper presents a numerical investigation on target image degradation of a beam passing through the supersonic mixing layer under different conditions. The distorted wavefront, degraded target image, and peak signal-to-noise ratio of the degraded image are proposed to quantitatively evaluate the target image degradation. On the whole, the degraded target image is mainly shown as image blurring, and the larger the convective Mach number of the flow field, the more severe the image degradation. It is found that the beam incident position should be away from transition area of the supersonic mixing layer for a clearer image, the larger inlet fluid density difference results in a more severe target image degradation due to the stronger density fluctuation of turbulent flow structures, and the optimal beam incident angle is about 30° for the current calculation conditions.
In vivo acoustoelectric imaging for high-resolution visualization of
cardiac electric spatiotemporal dynamics
Authors: Alvarez Alexander , Preston Chet , Trujillo Teodoro , Wilhite Cameron , Burton Alex , Vohnout Sonia , Witte Russell S.
Published: November 2020

Acoustoelectric cardiac imaging (ACI) is a hybrid modality that exploits the interaction of an ultrasonic pressure wave and the resistivity of tissue to map current densities in the heart. This study demonstrates for the first time in vivo ACI in a swine model. ACI measured beat-to-beat variability (

n

=

20

) of the peak of the cardiac activation wave at one location of the left ventricle as

5.32

±

0.74

µ
V

,

3.26

±

0.54

m
m

below the epicardial surface, and

2.67

±

0.56

m
s

before the peak of the local electrogram. Cross-sectional ACI images exhibited propagation velocities of

0.192

±

0.061

m

/

s

along the epicardial–endocardial axis with an SNR of 24.9 dB. This study demonstrates beat-to-beat and multidimensional ACI, which might reveal important information to help guide electroanatomic mapping procedures during ablation therapy.
Photon-counting-based optical frequency metrology
Authors: Ferreira da Silva Thiago
Published: November 2020

Low power can be a concern for the calibration of frequency-stabilized lasers by traditional heterodyne beating at a photodiode. On the other hand, time-correlated photon counts in a Hong–Ou–Mandel interferometer are able to reveal the frequency difference between a pair of few-photon laser sources. This paper evaluates the photon-counting method as a metrological tool for optical frequency calibration traced to radiation standards. Measurement procedure and uncertainty budget are developed. The method’s uncertainty is determined as 0.24 MHz from measurements with a pair of frequency-stabilized He–Ne lasers. The optical frequency traces to standard radiation with 2.9 MHz uncertainty, limited by stability of the sources used. Validation measurements using classical heterodyne technique agree within 0.12 MHz, thus establishing the photon-counting approach as a resource for frequency metrology of extremely faint laser sources.
Positive role of the long luminescence lifetime of upconversion nanophosphors on resonant surfaces for ultra-compact filter-free bio-assays
Authors: Vu Duc Tu , Le Thanh-Thu Vu , Hsu Chia-Chen , Lai Ngoc Diep , Hecquet Christophe , Benisty Henri
Published: November 2020

We introduce a compact array fluorescence sensor principle that takes advantage of the long luminescence lifetimes of upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) to deploy a filter-free, optics-less contact geometry, advantageous for modern biochemical assays of biomolecules, pollutants or cells. Based on technologically mature CMOS chips for ∼10 kHz technical/scientific imaging, we propose a contact geometry between assayed molecules or cells and a CMOS chip that makes use of only a faceplate or direct contact, employing time-window management to reject the 975 nm excitation light of highly efficient UCNPs. The chip surface is intended to implement, in future devices, a resonant waveguide grating (RWG) to enhance excitation efficiency, aiming at the improvement of upconversion luminescence emission intensity of UCNP deposited atop of such an RWG structure. Based on mock-up experiments that assess the actual chip rejection performance, we bracket the photometric figures of merit of such a promising chip principle and predict a limit of detection around 10-100 nanoparticles.
Deep learning toolbox for automated enhancement, segmentation, and graphing of cortical optical coherence tomography microangiograms
Authors: Stefan Sabina , Lee Jonghwan
Published: November 2020

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is becoming increasingly popular for neuroscientific study, but it remains challenging to objectively quantify angioarchitectural properties from 3D OCTA images. This is mainly due to projection artifacts or “tails” underneath vessels caused by multiple-scattering, as well as the relatively low signal-to-noise ratio compared to fluorescence-based imaging modalities. Here, we propose a set of deep learning approaches based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to automated enhancement, segmentation and gap-correction of OCTA images, especially of those obtained from the rodent cortex. Additionally, we present a strategy for skeletonizing the segmented OCTA and extracting the underlying vascular graph, which enables the quantitative assessment of various angioarchitectural properties, including individual vessel lengths and tortuosity. These tools, including the trained CNNs, are made publicly available as a user-friendly toolbox for researchers to input their OCTA images and subsequently receive the underlying vascular network graph with the associated angioarchitectural properties.
Numerical and experimental investigation of highly flexible, transparent, and conductive WO3/Ag/PEI/CuSCN multilayered electrodes
Authors: Yang Jianchun , Wang Can , Yan Peixin , Li Xiaobing , Zhao Zining , Li Xueming
Published: November 2020

We propose a four-layer WO3/Ag/PEI/CuSCN laminated transparent electrode with a PEI (polyethyleneimine) seed layer. The optical properties of the WO3/Ag/CuSCN electrode were simulated by a transfer matrix theory. Its optimal structure was WO3 (35 nm)/ Ag (9 nm)/CuSCN (47 nm), and the optical transmittance reached 92.7% at a wavelength of 550 nm. The transmittance decreased with the increase of the Ag thickness (> 9 nm). The WO3/Ag/PEI/CuSCN laminated electrode was prepared by a solution method and a vacuum evaporation technique. The quality of an ultra-thin Ag film can be improved via the PEI seed layer in this electrode so that the ultra-thin Ag film has formed a uniform and continuous film at a thickness of 9 nm. The flexible electrode WO3 (35 nm)/Ag (9 nm)/PEI/CuSCN (47 nm) shows a sheet resistance of 10.2 Ω/sq, an optical transmittance of 90% and a surface root mean square roughness of 4.4 nm. The resistance of the electrode remained stable after 1000 times of bending test at a radius of 1 mm, and it has a good mechanical property.
Inverse-designed photon extractors for optically addressable defect qubits
Authors: Chakravarthi Srivatsa , Chao Pengning , Pederson Christian , Molesky Sean , Ivanov Andrew , Hestroffer Karine , Hatami Fariba , Rodriguez Alejandro W. , Fu Kai-Mei C.
Published: November 2020

Solid-state defect qubit systems with spin-photon interfaces show great promise for quantum information and metrology applications. Photon collection efficiency, however, presents a major challenge for defect qubits in high refractive index host materials. Inverse-design optimization of photonic devices enables unprecedented flexibility in tailoring critical parameters of a spin-photon interface including spectral response, photon polarization, and collection mode. Further, the design process can incorporate additional constraints, such as fabrication tolerance and material processing limitations. Here, we design and demonstrate a compact hybrid gallium phosphide on diamond inverse-design planar dielectric structure coupled to single near-surface nitrogen-vacancy centers formed by implantation and annealing. We observe up to a 14-fold broadband enhancement in photon extraction efficiency, in close agreement with simulations. We expect that such inverse-designed devices will enable realization of scalable arrays of single-photon emitters, rapid characterization of new quantum emitters, efficient sensing, and heralded entanglement schemes.
Clinical, regional, and genetic characteristics of Covid-19 patients from UK Biobank
Authors: Kolin David A. , Kulm Scott , Christos Paul J. , Elemento Olivier
Published: November 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) has rapidly infected millions of people worldwide. Recent studies suggest that racial minorities and patients with comorbidities are at higher risk of Covid-19. In this study, we analyzed the effects of clinical, regional, and genetic factors on Covid-19 positive status.

Methods

The UK Biobank is a longitudinal cohort study that recruited participants from 2006 to 2010 from throughout the United Kingdom. Covid-19 test results were provided to UK Biobank starting on March 16, 2020. The main outcome measure in this study was Covid-19 positive status, determined by the presence of any positive test for a single individual. Clinical risk factors were derived from UK Biobank at baseline, and regional risk factors were imputed using census features local to each participant’s home zone. We used robust adjusted Poisson regression with clustering by testing laboratory to estimate relative risk. Blood types were derived using genetic variants rs8176719 and rs8176746, and genomewide tests of association were conducted using logistic-Firth hybrid regression.

Results

This prospective cohort study included 397,064 UK Biobank participants, of whom 968 tested positive for Covid-19. The unadjusted relative risk of Covid-19 for Black participants was 3.66 (95% CI 2.83–4.74), compared to White participants. Adjusting for Townsend deprivation index alone reduced the relative risk to 2.44 (95% CI 1.86–3.20). Comorbidities that significantly increased Covid-19 risk included chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (adjusted relative risk [ARR] 1.64, 95% CI 1.18–2.27), ischemic heart disease (ARR 1.48, 95% CI 1.16–1.89), and depression (ARR 1.32, 95% CI 1.03–1.70). There was some evidence that angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ARR 1.48, 95% CI 1.13–1.93) were associated with increased risk of Covid-19. Each standard deviation increase in the number of total individuals living in a participant’s locality was associated with increased risk of Covid-19 (ARR 1.14, 95% CI 1.08–1.20). Analyses of genetically inferred blood types confirmed that participants with type A blood had increased odds of Covid-19 compared to participants with type O blood (odds ratio [OR] 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.33). A meta-analysis of genomewide association studies across ancestry groups did not reveal any significant loci. Study limitations include confounding by indication, bias due to limited information on early Covid-19 test results, and inability to accurately gauge disease severity.

Conclusions

When assessing the association of Black race with Covid-19, adjusting for deprivation reduced the relative risk of Covid-19 by 33%. In the context of sociological research, these findings suggest that discrimination in the labor market may play a role in the high relative risk of Covid-19 for Black individuals. In this study, we also confirmed the association of blood type A with Covid-19, among other clinical and regional factors.
HemoDownloader: Open source software utility to extract data from HemoCue HbA1c 501 devices in epidemiological studies of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Hansen Martin Rune Hassan , Schlünssen Vivi , Sandbæk Annelli
Published: November 2020

Diabetes mellitus is a serious disease with increasing global prevalence. Point-of-care analysis of glycated hemoglobin A (HbA1c) holds promise as a diagnostic test for diabetes mellitus in epidemiological studies in challenging environments with limited access to centralized biochemical labs. The HemoCue HbA1c 501 device can be used for point-of-care determination of HbA1c, but its usability in epidemiological studies is limited by its inability to export results in digital format. We have developed the open source HemoDownloader software to overcome this limitation of the device. HemoDownloader has an easy-to-use graphical user interface and can export data from HemoCue HbA1c 501 to standard spreadsheet file formats. The program has the potential to improve data collection and management in epidemiological studies of diabetes mellitus.
Changes in gadoxetic-acid-enhanced MR imaging during the first year after irreversible electroporation of malignant hepatic tumors
Authors: Bäumler Wolf , Schicho Andreas , Schaible Jan , Verloh Niklas , Senk Karin , Wiggermann Phillip , Stroszczynski Christian , Beyer Lukas Phillip
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the appearance and size of ablation zones in gadoxetic-acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during the first year after irreversible electroporation (IRE) of primary or secondary hepatic malignancies and to investigate potential correlations to clinical features.

Material and methods

The MRI-appearance of the ablation area was assessed 1–3 days, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 1 year after IRE. The size of the ablation zone and signal intensities of each follow-up control were compared. Moreover, relationships between clinical features and the MRI-appearance of the ablation area 1–3 days after IRE were analyzed.

Results

The ablation zone size decreased from 5.6 ± 1.4 cm (1–3 days) to 3.7±1.2 cm (1 year). A significant decrease of central hypointensities was observed in T2-blade- (3 months), T2 haste- (6 weeks; 3 months; 6 months; 1 year), T1 arterial phase- (3 months; 1 year), and diffusion-sequences (6 weeks; 3 months; 6 months; 9 months; 1 year). The unenhanced T1-sequences showed significantly increasing central hypointensities (6 weeks; 3 months; 6 months; 9 months; 1 year). Significantly increasing peripheral hypointensities were detected in T1 arterial phase- (3 months; 6 months; 9 months; 1 year) and in T1 portal venous phase-sequences (6 weeks; 3 months; 6 months; 9 months; 1 year). Peripheral hypointensities of unenhanced T1-sequences decreased significantly 1 year after IRE. 1–3 days after IRE central T1 portal venous hypo- or isointensities were detected significantly more often than hyperintensities, if more than 3 IRE electrodes were used.

Conclusion

Hepatic IRE results in continuous reduction of ablation zone size during the first postinterventional year. In addition to centrally decreasing T1-signal and almost steadily increasing signal in the enhanced T2 haste-, diffusion- and T1 arterial phase-sequences, there is a trend toward long-term decreasing T1 arterial- and portal venous MRI-signal intensity of the peripheral ablation area, probably representing a region of reversible electroporation.
The haybiome: Characterising the viable bacterial community profile of four different hays for horses following different pre-feeding regimens
Authors: Daniels Simon , Hepworth Jacob , Moore-Colyer Meriel
Published: November 2020

Respirable dust in conserved forages can pose problems with equid respiratory health, thus soaking (W) and high temperature steaming (HTS) are employed to reduce the levels in hay. The aim of this study was to characterize the viable bacterial community profile of four hays from two different locations in UK following pre-feeding wetting regimens. Hypothesis: (1) Viable microbial community profile of hays will not differ between different pre-feeding regimens. (2) Hay type and location will not influence microbial community profile. Replicates of each of the four hays were subjected to dry (D), HTS conducted in a HG600, W by submergence in 45 L tap water, 16°C for 12 hours. From each post-treated hay, 100 g samples were chopped and half (n = 36) treated with Propidium monoazide dye, the remaining half untreated. Bacterial DNA were extracted for profiling the V4-V5 region of 16S rRNA gene from all 72 samples, then sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Bioinformatics were conducted using QIIME pipeline (v1.9.1). Linear discriminate analysis effect size (LEfSe) was used to identify differences in operational taxonomic units and predicted metabolic pathways between hays and regimens. HTS reduced proportions of microbiota compared to W and D hay (P < 0.001, df 3, F 13.91), viability was reduced within regimens (P = 0.017, df 1, F 5.73). Soaking reduced diversity within and between regimens. Core bacterial communities differed between hays and regimens, however pre-feeding regimen had the greatest effect on the bacterial community profile. W and HTS reduced viable bacteria (P< 0.05) known to cause respiratory disease, for HTS both respiratory and dental disease, with the greatest reductions overall from HTS without reducing bacterial diversity. Soaking increased Gram-negative bacteria and reduced bacterial diversity. Collectively these findings add to a body of evidence that suggest HTS is the most suitable pre-feeding regimen of hay for equid health.
G ATA2 mediates the negative regulation of the prepro-thyrotropin-releasing hormone gene by liganded T3 receptor β2 in the rat hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus
Authors: Kuroda Go , Sasaki Shigekazu , Matsushita Akio , Ohba Kenji , Sakai Yuki , Shinkai Shinsuke , Nakamura Hiroko Misawa , Yamagishi Satoru , Sato Kohji , Hirahara Naoko , Oki Yutaka , Ito Masahiko , Suzuki Tetsuro , Suda Takafumi
Published: November 2020

Thyroid hormone (T3) inhibits thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) synthesis in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN). Although the T3 receptor (TR) β2 is known to mediate the negative regulation of the prepro-TRH gene, its molecular mechanism remains unknown. Our previous studies on the T3-dependent negative regulation of the thyrotropin β subunit (TSHβ) gene suggest that there is a tethering mechanism, whereby liganded TRβ2 interferes with the function of the transcription factor, GATA2, a critical activator of the TSHβ gene. Interestingly, the transcription factors Sim1 and Arnt2, the determinants of PVN differentiation in the hypothalamus, are reported to induce expression of TRβ2 and GATA2 in cultured neuronal cells. Here, we confirmed the expression of the GATA2 protein in the TRH neuron of the rat PVN using immunohistochemistry with an anti-GATA2 antibody. According to an experimental study from transgenic mice, a region of the rat prepro-TRH promoter from nt. -547 to nt. +84 was able to mediate its expression in the PVN. We constructed a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) reporter gene containing this promoter sequence (rTRH(547)-CAT) and showed that GATA2 activated the promoter in monkey kidney-derived CV1 cells. Deletion and mutation analyses identified a functional GATA-responsive element (GATA-RE) between nt. -357 and nt. -352. When TRβ2 was co-expressed, T3 reduced GATA2-dependent promoter activity to approximately 30%. Unexpectedly, T3-dependent negative regulation was maintained after mutation of the reported negative T3-responsive element, site 4. T3 also inhibited the GATA2-dependent transcription enhanced by cAMP agonist, 8-bromo-cAMP. A rat thyroid medullary carcinoma cell line, CA77, is known to express the preproTRH mRNA. Using a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay with this cell line where GATA2 expression plasmid was transfected, we observed the recognition of the GATA-RE by GATA2. We also confirmed GATA2 binding using gel shift assay with the probe for the GATA-RE. In CA77 cells, the activity of rTRH(547)-CAT was potentiated by overexpression of GATA2, and it was inhibited in a T3-dependent manner. These results suggest that GATA2 transactivates the rat prepro-TRH gene and that liganded TRβ2 interferes with this activation via a tethering mechanism as in the case of the TSHβ gene.
Genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 and clinical, epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 patients in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Tam Thi , Pham Thach Ngoc , Van Trang Dinh , Nguyen Trang Thu , Nguyen Diep Thi Ngoc , Le Hoa Nguyen Minh , Eden John-Sebastian , Rockett Rebecca J. , Nguyen Thuong Thi Hong , Vu Bich Thi Ngoc , Tran Giang Van , Le Tan Van , Dwyer Dominic E. , van Doorn H. Rogier ,   on behalf of the OUCRU COVID-19 Research Group
Published: November 2020

A second cluster of COVID-19 cases imported from Europe occured in Vietnam from early March 2020. We describe 44 SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR positive patients (cycle threshold value <30) admitted to the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi between March 6 and April 15 2020. Whole SARS-CoV-2 genomes from these patients were sequenced using Illumina Miseq and analysed for common genetic variants and relationships to local and globally circulating strains. Results showed that 32 cases were Vietnamese with a median age of 37 years (range 15–74 years), and 23 were male. Most cases were acquired outside Vietnam, mainly from the UK (n = 15), other European countries (n = 14), Russia (n = 6) and countries in Asia (n = 3). No cases had travelled from China. Forty-one cases had symptoms at admission, typically dry cough (n = 36), fever (n = 20), sore throat (n = 14) and diarrhoea (n = 12). Hospitalisation was long with a median of 25 days, most commonly from 20–29 days. All SARS-CoV-2 genomes were similar (92–100% sequence homology) to the reference sequence Wuhan_1 (NC_045512), and 32 strains belonged to the B.1.1 lineage. The three most common variants were linked, and included C3037T, C14408T (nsp12: P323L) and A23403G (S: D614G) mutations. This group of mutations often accompanied variant C241T (39/44 genomes) or GGG 28881..28883 AAC (33/44 genomes). The prevalence of the former reflected probable European origin of viruses, and the transition D614G was dominant in Vietnam. New variants were identified; however, none could be associated with disease severity.
Crazy Rich Asians and pan-Asian screen cosmopolitanism
Authors: Gallagher Mark
Published: November 2020

Crazy Rich Asians(2018), a box-office hit in North America, provoked celebration particularly from Asian American commentators and actors. Shot in Singapore and Malaysia with an Asian and Asian American cast, it was a success too in Singapore itself and in territories such as Hong Kong, Taiwan and Australia but not in East Asia’s largest markets, those of China, Japan and South Korea. Focusing on the phenomenon ofCrazy Rich Asians’ release, particularly its engagement with and circulation in East and Southeast Asia and its polarized reception among different Asian American and Asian communities, this article traces a series of discursive flashpoints to understand the film’s position in Asian and Asian American film culture. Arguing that the fortunes of US releases with Asian and Asian American casts reveal cosmopolitanism’s invisible borders, the article proposes a model of pan-Asian screen cosmopolitanism. This model recognizes that even globally hybrid screen texts such asCrazy Rich Asiansbear cultural markers that may inhibit their appeal in territories with shared ethnic heritages but discrete social histories.
Domesticating gangsters? Home/work conflicts in South Korean family drama gangster film
Authors: Plaice Mark R.
Published: November 2020

Gangster films are largely an urban genre set in the mean streets of metropolitan ganglands. A significant proportion of South Korean gangster films depart from this spatial convention, however, setting their central family or romance plots in the domestic space of the apartment. This article addresses the question of why we find gangsters in domestic space in South Korean cinema and examines what the domestic setting ‘does’ to the gangster film.The Show Must Go On(2008) is discussed in detail to exemplify the ways that questions of masculinity, gendered family role performance and class anxieties are crystallized around domestic space. What emerges in this spatial shift is a new sub-genre, the ‘family drama gangster film’. This form combines elements of the traditional gangster narrative with family melodrama, producing tension between the conflicting obligations of the gangster towards gang and family. The article concludes that the family drama gangster film emerged as a response to a conjunction of socio-economic and film industry factors and became a vehicle through which conflict between competing ideologies of Korean familism is negotiated, mostly resolving in favour of affective familism.
Video/Art: The First Fifty Years, Barbara London
Authors: Ogrodnik Benjamin
Published: November 2020

Review of: Video/Art: The First Fifty Years, Barbara London

New York: Phaidon (2020), 280 pp., h/bk, ISBN: 978-0-7148-7759-4, US $35.00
Metodologia para Valoração Preliminar de Imóveis Rurais para Estudos de Viabilidade de Projetos de Barragens
Authors: Teixeira Victória Gibrim , Ferreira Italo  Oliveira , Calijuri Maria Lúcia , Andrade Laura Coelho de , Pinheiro Letícia Perpétuo
Published: November 2020

Para avaliar qualquer imóvel rural de maneira tradicional, é fundamental realizar análises estatísticas baseadas em dados primários da área em estudo. Da mesma forma, para verificar a viabilidade de execução de um projeto de engenharia de grande porte, é necessário avaliar o impacto ambiental, social e econômico das áreas a serem afetadas. A avaliação econômica, normalmente, é realizada por meio de dados obtidos in loco. Em estudos preliminares, mesmo quando não se dispõe de dados primários, pode ser necessário estimativas de custo das terras para fins de avaliação de uma possível desapropriação, uma vez que estes gastos impactam no valor final do empreendimento. Diante disso, uma metodologia alternativa para cálculo de custos de uso e ocupação do solo com uso prioritário de dados secundários foi desenvolvida. A partir da definição das classes de cobertura do solo, um levantamento bibliográfico foi feito para valoração das mesmas, levando em consideração a realidade socioeconômica das regiões trabalhadas. Foi possível encontrar valores de uso direto de cada uma das classes, bem como aplicá-los nos locais de estudo.  Obteve-se custos de três áreas e os resultados mostraram que a metodologia desenvolvida é, além de simples e de baixo custo, muito promissora. A viabilidade das áreas foi avaliada pelo viés econômico, identificando os locais mais viáveis para implantação de obras de engenharia, descartando as demais.