bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of blood sampling technique, including the use of peripheral intravenous cannula, on haemolysis rates: A cohort study
Authors: Jacob Elisabeth , Jacob Alycia , Davies Hugh , Jacob Darren , Jenkins Mark , Husain Margaret , Coventry Linda
Published: April 2021

Aims

To explore the relationship between blood sampling techniques and haemolysis.

Background

Haemolysis rates of blood samples have been thought to be influenced by the method of collection. There is a lack of research evidence available to clearly show the comparative risk of haemolysis across different blood sampling methods, including venepuncture and use of peripheral intravenous cannulas.

Design

A prospective cohort study. Reporting followed the STROBE checklist.

Methods

A trained observer was used to record blood sampling techniques over a 10‐week period between April and June 2019. These records were then linked to pathology haemolysis results. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model patient and blood draw characteristics affecting haemolysis.

Results

Most of the blood samples were not haemolysed (n = 324, 87.1%). Multivariable analysis showed haemolysis was associated with increased tourniquet duration and if the level of tube was less than half full. Univariable analysis showed haemolysis was associated with increased age of the patient, the difficulty of cannulation/ venepuncture and increased number of attempts. No difference was found in the haemolysis rate related to the qualification of the blood collector.

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in haemolysis rates associated with sampling blood from a PIVC compared with venepuncture. Research should be undertaken to determine whether education on the factors influencing haemolysis is useful in decreasing haemolysis rates.

Relevance to clinical practice

There was no association with increased haemolysis rates when drawing blood via venepuncture compared with a peripheral intravenous cannula. Haemolysis of blood samples was associated with increased tourniquet duration, if level of the tube was less than half‐filled, increased age of the patient and difficulty of blood draw. Awareness of the risk of haemolysis associated with specific blood sampling methods may assist clinicians to improve care.
Patients’ expectations and experiences of being involved in their own care in the emergency department: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Eriksson‐Liebon M. , Roos S. , Hellström I.
Published: April 2021

Aims and objectives

To investigate patients’ experiences of being involved in their care in the emergency department (ED).

Background

Previous research shows that when patients experience involvement during care visits, this increased their trust in the care, gave a sense of control and promoted their autonomy.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design with semi‐structured interviews, using the "Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research" (COREQ) checklist.

Methods

Using convenience sampling, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 16 patients in the ED.

Results

The study identified four categories: attention and inattention; communication and understanding; varying levels of participation; and inefficient and inaccessible care. The results show that patients expected to be treated with respect and to be involved in an open dialogue about their care. Patients’ experiences of participation were related to their sense of control.

Conclusions

Based on the results of the study, the authors found that factors such as dialogue, information, attention and participation affected the patients’ involvement during the ED visit. Experiences of involvement and control were linked to patients’ experiences of care and of patients as individuals.

Relevance to clinical practice

Healthcare providers’ awareness of the importance of paying attention to the patient as an individual, and of the need for simple, continuous communication could facilitate patient involvement in own care.
‘The Woman Gives’: Exploring gender and relationship factors in HIV advance care planning among African American caregivers
Authors: Maragh‐Bass Allysha C. , Hendricks Sloan Danetta , Aimone Elizabeth V. , Knowlton Amy R.
Published: April 2021

Aims and objective

Advance care planning (ACP) is the communication process of documenting future healthcare preferences in case patients are unable to make healthcare decisions for themselves. Research suggests ACP discussions among persons living with HIV (PLHIV) are infrequent overall and may differ by gender and/or race.

Background

Previous literature has displayed that African Americans are less likely than other racial groups to use advanced care planning, palliative care or hospice, but does not conclusively account for ACP among PLHIV. African American PLHIV rely on informal care that may be differ by gender and represents an important pathway to increase ACP.

Design

The study was mixed methods and observational.

Methods

Participants completed self‐report surveys (N = 311) and were interviewed (n = 11). Poisson regression (quantitative) and grounded theory analyses (qualitative) were implemented, using COREQ checklist principles to ensure study rigor.

Results

Less than half had discussed ACP (41.2%; N = 267). More ACP knowledge predicted 76% lower likelihood of ACP discussions among women. Men who spent more time caregiving in a given week were nearly 3 times more likely to discuss ACP than men who spent less time caregiving. Women were more likely than men to be caregivers and were also expected to serve in that role more than men, which was qualitatively described as ‘being a woman’.

Conclusions

The present study is one of few studies exploring ACP among caregivers in African American populations hardest hit by HIV. Results suggest that ACP skill building and education are critical for African Americans living with HIV to promote ACP discussions with their caregivers. Knowledge about ACP topics was low overall even when healthcare had recently been accessed. Support reciprocity and gender‐specific communication skill building may facilitate ACP in African American HIV informal caregiving relationships.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Results underscore the need for ACP education which includes healthcare providers and caregivers, given African Americans' preference for life‐sustaining treatments at end‐of‐life. ACP is crucial now more than ever, as COVID‐19 complicates care for older adults with HIV at high risk of complications.
Multiracial Children's Experiences of Family Instability
Authors: Choi Kate H. , Goldberg Rachel E.
Published: April 2021

Objective

This study compares multiracial and monoracial children's exposures to family instability, attending to variation by parents' marital status at birth.

Background

Previous research has revealed considerable racial/ethnic heterogeneity in children's exposure to family instability. Adding to this diversity is the rising share of multiracial and multiethnic children. Yet, multiracial and multiethnic children's experiences of family instability remain largely unexamined.

Methods

Data come from the 2006–2019 National Survey of Family Growth, a nationally representative repeated cross‐section of U.S. adults of reproductive age. The analytic sample included 15,369 children born in first marriages and 8,612 children born in first cohabitations to non‐Hispanic White, non‐Hispanic Black, and Hispanic parents. Multistate life tables, negative binomial regression, and multinomial logistic regression were used to compare the number of family transitions and family trajectories of multiracial and monoracial children through age 12.

Results

Differences in exposures to family instability between multiracial and monoracial children varied by parents' marital status at birth. Multiracial children born to cohabiting parents generally experienced more childhood family instability than their monoracial counterparts. Conversely, the family experiences of multiracial children born in first marriages typically fell between those of their monoracial counterparts.

Conclusion

Given that higher shares of multiracial children are born within the context of cohabitation relative to their monoracial peers, these findings suggest that multiracial children may be particularly vulnerable to experiencing family instability.
Associations of high‐resolution‐typing‐defined MICA and MICB polymorphisms, and the levels of soluble MICA and MICB with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Bulgarian patients
Authors: Ivanova Milena , Al Hadra Bushra , Yordanov Stanislav , Lesichkova Spaska , Stoyanov Hristo , Shivarov Velizar , Deliverska Elitsa
Published: April 2021

Background

Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is a malignancy characterized by an aggressive tumor growth and significant mortality. Clarifying mechanisms responsible for immunomodulation are among the main challenges for the development of personalized approaches for the management of patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

The aim of the present study was to analyze the relevance of MICA and MICB to Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma pathogenesis focusing on allele polymorphisms and the levels of soluble MICA and MICB molecules.

Materials and methods

73 patients diagnosed with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and 149 healthy controls from the Bulgarian population were included in the study. MICA and MICB polymorphism was analyzed at high‐resolution level using Next‐Generation Sequencing. Serum levels of soluble MICA and MICB molecules were measured by ELISA.

Results

Our results show significant protective association with MICB*002:01, while relatively rare alleles MICB*018, *019, and *020 were observed with statistically significant increased frequency in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma patients compared to controls. Additionally, a predisposing association was observed for MICA*008:01‐MICB*019 haplotype. A correlation analysis between functionally relevant MICA polymorphisms and sMICA showed that homozygosity for MICA‐A5.1 or 129Val in OSCC patients was associated with significantly higher serum levels of sMICA.

Conclusion

This is the first study showing significant associations between MICB alleles and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and suggesting the possible role of MICB in immunosurveillance in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma development. Observed correlations between the levels of soluble MICA molecules and functionally relevant polymorphisms might represent a further step toward a better understanding of molecular mechanisms of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and developing strategies for therapeutic targeting harnessing effective immunosurveillance.
Serum insulin‐like growth factor‐1 concentrations in healthy cats before and after weight gain and weight loss
Authors: Zini Eric , Salesov Elena , Willing Anke , Palizzotto Carlo , Lutz Thomas A. , Reusch Claudia E.
Published: April 2021

Background

Measurement of serum concentrations of insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 is used to diagnose acromegaly in cats.

Hypothesis

Changes of body weight do not affect serum concentrations of IGF‐1 in cats.

Animals

Ten healthy purpose‐bred cats.

Methods

Prospective study. In lean cats, food availability was stepwise increased during the first week and given ad libitum for a total of 40 weeks to increase their body weight. From week 41 to week 60, food access was limited to reach a weight loss of 1% to 2% each week. Measurement of IGF‐1 was performed at week 0, 16, 40, and 60. Insulin‐like growth factor‐1 was measured by radioimmunoassay. Body weight and IGF‐1 were compared among the 4 time points.

Results

Body weight increased by 44% from week 0 (4.5 ± 0.4 kg) to week 40 (6.5 ± 1.2 kg) (P < .001) and decreased by 25% from week 40 to week 60 (4.9 ± 0.7 kg) (P < .001). Serum IGF‐1 concentrations did not differ during the study period (week 0, 16, 40, 60: 500 ± 188, 479 ± 247, 470 ± 184, 435 ± 154 ng/mL, respectively; P = .38). Correlations with body weight were not observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Insulin‐like growth factor‐1 might not be influenced by changes of body weight in healthy cats, possibly suggesting that the latter is unimportant when interpreting IGF‐1 results in this species.
Functional biogeography of weeds reveals how anthropogenic management blurs trait–climate relationships
Authors: Bourgeois Bérenger , Munoz François , Gaba Sabrina , Denelle Pierre , Fried Guillaume , Storkey Jonathan , Violle Cyrille
Published: April 2021

Questions

Studies in functional biogeography have mostly focused on unmanaged ecosystems, and neglected testing how management intensity affects community‐level response of plant traits to bioclimatic gradients. We hypothesize that trait–climate relationships for arable weeds spontaneously establishing in croplands subject to intensive management should differ from the relationships characterizing less intensively managed grassland ecosystems.

Location

France.

Methods

We computed community‐weighted means (CWM) and variances (CWV) of 954 and 5,619 cropland and grassland plant assemblages, respectively, for three fundamental leaf traits (specific leaf area, SLA; leaf dry matter content, LDMC; leaf nitrogen content, LNC). Based on growing season length accounting for both temperature and soil water limitations (GSLtw), we compared trait–climate relationships between herbicide‐free croplands and grasslands, and between herbicide‐free and herbicide‐sprayed cropland assemblages. The contribution of beta‐diversity to the trait–climate relationships was then evaluated using multiple regression on distance matrices.

Results

Distinct trait–climate relationships characterized herbicide‐free cropland and grassland plant assemblages. CWM of all traits showed weaker relations with GSLtw in cropland relative to grassland assemblages. CWV of LDMC and LNC responded more sharply in croplands. Furthermore, no herbicide effect on trait–climate relationships was detected within cropland assemblages. These results seem to be explained by a greater taxonomic beta‐diversity along the GSLtw gradient for grasslands.

Conclusions

Specific trait–environment relationships characterize croplands, underlining that management intensity greatly affects trait–climate relationships for plant assemblages. Deciphering the interplay between land use intensification and climate is critical to accurately forecast functional vegetation changes in response to global changes, and hence to foster actions enhancing ecosystem resilience.
Redox responses of Arabidopsis thaliana to the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae
Authors: Xu Junhuan , Padilla Carmen S. , Li Jiamei , Wickramanayake Janithri , Fischer Hillary D. , Goggin Fiona L.
Published: April 2021

The green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) is a phloem‐feeding insect that causes economic damage on a wide array of crops. Using a luminol‐based assay, a superoxide‐responsive reporter gene (Zat12::luciferase), and a probe specific to hydrogen peroxide (HyPer), we demonstrated that this aphid induces accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in Arabidopsis thaliana. Similar to the apoplastic oxidative burst induced by pathogens, this response to aphids was rapid and transient, with two peaks occurring within 1 and 4 hr after infestation. Aphid infestation also induced an oxidative response in the cytosol and peroxisomes, as measured using a redox‐sensitive variant of green fluorescent protein (roGFP2). This intracellular response began within minutes of infestation but persisted 20 hr or more after inoculation, and the response of the peroxisomes appeared stronger than the response in the cytosol. Our results suggest that the oxidative response to aphids involves both apoplastic and intracellular sources of ROS, including ROS generation in the peroxisomes, and these different sources of ROS may potentially differ in their impacts on host suitability for aphids.
The C4 protein encoded by Tomato leaf curl Yunnan virus interferes with mitogen‐activated protein kinase cascade‐related defense responses through inhibiting the dissociation of the ERECTA/BKI1 complex
Authors: Mei Yuzhen , Wang Yaqin , Hu Tao , He Zifu , Zhou Xueping
Published: April 2021

Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are involved in host defense against pathogens and are often activated by upstream plasma membrane leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases (LRR‐RLKs).

ERECTA (ER) is an LRR‐RLK that regulates plant developmental processes through activating MAPK cascades.

Tomato leaf curl Yunnan virus (TLCYnV) C4 protein interacts with BKI1, stabilizes it at the plasma membrane and impairs ER autophosphorylation through suppressing the dissociation of the BKI1/ER complex, and then inhibits the activation of downstream MAPK cascades, which ultimately creates a favorable environment for TLCYnV infection.

This study provides a novel viral strategy to impair MAPK activation.
High‐dose methotrexate‐induced epidermal necrosis in two pediatric patients
Authors: Ravi Manisha , Ridpath Alyson , Audino Anthony N. , Guinipero Terri , Chung Catherine , Fernandez Faith Esteban
Published: April 2021

Methotrexate‐induced epidermal necrosis (MEN) is an uncommon but potentially fatal complication. We present two pediatric oncology patients, a 5‐year‐old girl and a 3‐year‐old boy, who developed MEN from high‐dose methotrexate therapy for pre–B‐cell acute lymphocytic leukemia. Following administration of systemic methotrexate, the patients developed erythematous lesions with subsequent skin erosions. Pre‐medication with systemic corticosteroids and administration of folinic acid rescue following the methotrexate infusion allowed both patients to resume their chemotherapy regimen with methotrexate.
Photobiological Effects on Biochemical Composition in Porphyridium cruentum (Rhodophyta) with a Biotechnological Application
Authors: Castro‐Varela Pablo A. , Celis‐Plá Paula S. M. , Abdala‐Díaz Roberto , Figueroa Félix L.
Published: April 2021

This study describes the relation of photosynthetic capacity, growth and biochemical compounds in the microalgae Porphyridium cruentum under saturated irradiance (200 μmol m−2 s−1) by white light (WL) and low‐pressure sodium vapor lamps (SOX lamps—control) and supplemented by fluorescent lamps (FLs) with different light qualities (blue: λmax = 440 nm; green: λmax = 560 nm; and red: λmax = 660 nm). The maximum photosynthetic efficiency (Fv / Fm) showed a positive correlation with the light quality by saturating light SOX in mixture with stimulating blue light than the white light (WL) at the harvest day (10 days). The production, that is maximal electron transport rate (ETRmax), and energy dissipation, that is maximal nonphotochemical quenching (NPQmax), had the same pattern throughout the time (3–6 days) being the values higher under white light (WL) compared with SOX and SOX plus supplemented different light qualities. Total protein levels increased significantly in the presence of SOX light, while phycoerythrin (B‐PE) showed significant differences under SOX+ blue light. Arachidonic acid (ARA) was higher under SOX and SOX plus supplemented different light qualities than that under WL, whereas eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) was the reverse. The high photomorphogenic potential by SOX light shows promising application for microalgal biotechnology.
Onset and duration of action of lokivetmab in a canine model of IL‐31 induced pruritus
Authors: Fleck Timothy J. , Norris Lori R. , Mahabir Sean , Walters Rodney R. , Martinon Olivier , Dunham Steven A. , Gonzales Andrea J.
Published: April 2021

Background

Interleukin (IL)‐31 is a cytokine involved in allergic inflammation which induces pruritus across species including dogs. Using recombinant canine IL‐31 we have developed a model of pruritus in the dog to evaluate onset of action and duration of effect of therapeutic drugs.

Objective

To assess the onset of action and duration of effect of lokivetmab (Cytopoint) in the IL‐31‐induced pruritus model.

Animals

Twenty‐four purpose‐bred beagle dogs (neutered males, spayed and intact females) 1.5–4.7 years old and weighing between 6 and14 kg.

Methods and materials

Randomized, blinded, placebo‐controlled studies were designed to evaluate the antipruritic properties of lokivetmab. Laboratory beagle dogs were given either placebo, 0.125, 0.5 or 2.0 mg/kg lokivetmab, subcutaneously. IL‐31 then was administered to evaluate pruritus 3–5 h post‐placebo or ‐lokivetmab administration as well as one, seven, 14, 28, 42 and 56 days post‐dosing. Pruritus was evaluated over a 2 h window in animals by video monitoring and scored using a categorical scoring system.

Results

When animals were given 2.0 mg/kg lokivetmab, a significant reduction in pruritus was observed at 3–4, 4–5 and 3–5 h post‐treatment (P ≤ 0.0001). When animals were given either 0.125, 0.5 or 2 mg/kg lokivetmab, the duration of effect was dose‐dependent and statistically significant for 14, 28 and 42 days, respectively (P ≤ 0.0288).

Conclusion

These data indicate that a single subcutaneous injection of 2 mg/kg lokivetmab produces a significant suppression of pruritus starting 3 h post‐treatment that can be sustained for 42 days.
Strain elastography for the assessment of skin nodules in dogs
Authors: Brizzi Giulia , Crepaldi Paola , Roccabianca Paola , Morabito Simona , Zini Eric , Auriemma Edoardo , Zanna Giordana
Published: April 2021

Background

Strain elastography (SE) is a modern imaging technology that provides an additional way of evaluating the changes in soft tissue elasticity caused by pathophysiological processes. Despite its widespread use in human medicine, only a few studies on the application of SE in veterinary medicine are available.

Objectives

To evaluate the potential usefulness of SE as an integrative imaging model in the standard ultrasound technique to better discriminate between inflammatory and neoplastic skin nodules in dogs.

Animals

Fifty‐one client‐owned dogs with clinical evidence of single or multiple skin nodules detected during routine dermatological examination.

Methods and materials

Margins, echogenicity, echo‐structure, calcification and vascularisation of 65 skin nodules were assessed with ultrasound, and SE was used to score qualitative (E‐score, E‐index, E2) and semiquantitative (SR) parameters. A comparison of diagnostic yields with cytological and histological findings as the gold standard was performed.

Results

Mast cell and benign follicular tumours showed the highest E‐scores and SRs among neoplastic nodules; statistically significant differences were not detected. Calcific and nonvascularised nodules showed significantly higher E‐index values than the others. Overall, a negative correlation was observed between the longitudinal diameter of skin nodules and the qualitative elastic parameters.

Conclusions and clinical importance

In this study, SE proved to be useful to identify only a subset of nodules such as mast cells and hair follicular tumours. Although evidence supporting the use of SE in evaluating skin nodules was demonstrated to below, indicators to guide further research were developed.
Comparison of High-Intensity Training Versus Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Body Fat Percentage in Persons With Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Rugbeer Nivash , Constantinou Demitri , Torres Georgia
Published: April 2021

Background: High-intensity training is comprised of sprint interval training (SIT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). This study compared high-intensity training with moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and body fat percentage for overweight or obese persons. Methods: A systematic search of randomized controlled trials using the health science databases occurred up to April, 2020. Twenty-six studies were included for complete analysis. A total of 784 participations were analyzed. The unstandardized mean difference for each outcome measurement was extracted from the studies and pooled with the random effects model. Results: SIT was significantly better at improving CRF compared with MICT in overweight or obese persons (mean difference = −0.92; 95% confidence interval, −1.63 to −0.21; P = .01; I2 = 10%). Furthermore, there was no significant difference between MICT versus HIIT on CRF (mean difference = −0.52; 95% confidence interval, −1.18 to 0.13; P = .12; I2 = 23%). There was no significant difference in body fat percentage between MICT versus HIIT and MICT versus SIT. Conclusions: SIT was significantly better at improving CRF than MICT in overweight or obese persons.
Validity of a Rehab and Reconditioning Program Following an Adductor Longus Injury in Professional Soccer
Authors: Jiménez-Rubio Sergio , Estévez Rodríguez José Luis , Navandar Archit
Published: April 2021

Context: The high rates of adductor injuries and reinjuries in soccer have suggested that the current rehabilitation programs may be insufficient; therefore, there is a need to create prevention and reconditioning programs to prepare athletes for the specific demands of the sport. Objective: The aim of this study is to validate a rehab and reconditioning program (RRP) for adductor injuries through a panel of experts and determine the effectiveness of this program through its application in professional soccer. Design: A 20-item RRP was developed, which was validated by a panel of experts anonymously and then applied to 12 injured male professional soccer players. Setting: Soccer pitch and indoor gym. Participants: Eight rehabilitation fitness coaches (age = 33.25 [2.49] y) and 8 academic researchers (age = 38.50 [3.74] y) with PhDs in sports science and/or physiotherapy. The RRP was applied to 12 male professional players (age = 23.75 [4.97] y; height = 180.56 [8.41] cm; mass = 76.89 [3.43] kg) of the Spanish First and Second Division (La Liga). Interventions: The experts validated an indoor and on-field reconditioning program, which was based on strengthening the injured muscle and retraining conditional capacities with the aim of reducing the risk of reinjury. Main Outcome Measures: Aiken V for each item of the program and number of days taken by the players to return to full team training. Results: The experts evaluated all items of the program very highly as seen from Aiken V values between 0.77 and 0.94 (range: 0.61–0.98) for all drills, and the return to training was in 13.08 (±1.42) days. Conclusion: This RRP following an injury to the adductor longus was validated by injury experts, and initial results suggested that it could permit a faster return to team training.
Reflections on a Career Spanning Kinesiology and Athletic Training
Authors: Perrin David H.
Published: April 2021

In this essay, I reflect on my life and academic career, detailing my childhood, family background, education, and those who influenced me to study physical education and athletic training. My higher education started with a small college experience that had a transformative impact on my intellectual curiosity, leading to graduate degrees and, ultimately, a career in higher education. I chronicle my academic career trajectory as a non-tenure-track faculty member and clinician, tenured faculty member, department chair, dean, and provost. My personal and professional lives have been undergirded by a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, with examples provided in this essay.
Sequence of αPD-1 relative to local tumor irradiation determines the induction of abscopal antitumor immune responses
Authors: Wei Joyce , Montalvo-Ortiz Welby , Yu Lola , Krasco Amanda , Ebstein Sarah , Cortez Czrina , Lowy Israel , Murphy Andrew J. , Sleeman Matthew A. , Skokos Dimitris
Published: April 2021

The magnitude of antitumor abscopal effects is determined by the sequence of checkpoint blockade in relation to local tumor irradiation.
A SARS-CoV-2 Label-Free Surrogate Virus Neutralization Test and a Longitudinal Study of Antibody Characteristics in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Luo Yiqi Ruben , Yun Cassandra , Chakraborty Indrani , Wu Alan H. B. , Lynch Kara L.
Published: April 2021

Methods designed to measure severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) humoral response include virus neutralization tests to determine antibody neutralization activity. For ease of use and universal applicability, surrogate virus neutralization tests (sVNTs) based on antibody-mediated blockage of molecular interactions have been proposed. A surrogate virus neutralization test was established on a label-free immunoassay platform (LF-sVNT).
Alternating wet and dry depositional environments recorded in the stratigraphy of Mount Sharp at Gale crater, Mars
Authors: Rapin W. , Dromart G. , Rubin D. , Deit L. Le , Mangold N. , Edgar L.A. , Gasnault O. , Herkenhoff K. , Le Mouélic S. , Anderson R.B. , Maurice S. , Fox V. , Ehlmann B.L. , Dickson J.L. , Wiens R.C.
Published: April 2021

The Curiosity rover is exploring Hesperian-aged stratigraphy in Gale crater, Mars, where a transition from clay-bearing units to a layered sulfate-bearing unit has been interpreted to represent a major environmental transition of unknown character. We present the first description of key facies in the sulfate-bearing unit, recently observed in the distance by the rover, and propose a model for changes in depositional environments. Our results indicate a transition from lacustrine mudstones into thick aeolian deposits, topped by a major deflation surface, above which strata show architectures likely diagnostic of a subaqueous environment. This model offers a reference example of a depositional sequence for layered sulfate-bearing strata, which have been identified from orbit in other locations globally. It differs from the idea of a monotonic Hesperian climate change into long-term aridity on Mars and instead implies a period characterized by multiple transitions between sustained drier and wetter climates.
Controls on the origin and evolution of deep-ocean trench-axial channels
Authors: McArthur Adam D. , Tek Daniel E.
Published: April 2021

The type and volume of sediment entering subduction zones affects the style of plate-boundary deformation and thus sedimentary and tectonic cycles. Because submarine channels significantly increase the transport efficiency of turbidity currents, their presence or absence in subduction trenches is a primary control on trench fill. To date, comprehensive architectural characterization of trench-axial channels has not been possible, undermining efforts to identify the factors controlling their initiation and evolution. Here, we describe the evolution of the Hikurangi Channel, which traverses the Hikurangi Trench, offshore New Zealand. Analysis of two- and three-dimensional seismic data reveals that the channel was present only during the last ~3.5 m.y. of the ~27 m.y. of the trench’s existence; its inception and propagation resulted from increased sediment supply to the trench following amplified hinterland exhumation. To test if the controls on the evolution of the Hikurangi Channel are universal, multivariate statistical analysis of the geomorphology of subduction trenches globally is used to investigate the formative conditions of axial channels in modern trenches. Terrigenous sediment supply and thickness of sediment cover in a trench are the dominant controls; subsidiary factors such as trench length and rugosity also contribute to the conditions necessary for trench-axial channel development. Axial channels regulate sediment distribution in trenches, and this varies temporally and spatially as a channel propagates along a trench. The presence of a trench-axial channel affects plate-boundary mechanics and has implications for the style of subduction-margin deformation.
Supplemental Material: Confirmation of slow Ti diffusion in quartz by diffusion couple experiments and evidence from natural samples
Authors: Audétat Andreas , al. et
Published: April 2021

Detailed description of the methods, supplemental figures and supplemental tables.
Exploring spatiotemporal distribution of under-five mortality in Ethiopia: further analysis of Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys 2000, 2005, 2011 and 2016
Authors: Liyew Alemneh Mekuriaw , Kassie Ayenew , Teshale Achamyeleh Birhanu , Alem Adugnaw Zeleke , Yeshaw Yigizie , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn
Published: April 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore spatiotemporal distribution of under-five mortality in Ethiopia using data from four (2000, 2005, 2011 and 2016) consecutive demographic and health surveys.

Methods

A total of 41 498 children were included from four consecutive Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys. The geospatial analysis was conducted by using ArcGIS V.10.7 and saTScan V.9.6. Thus, spatial autocorrelation, hotspot analysis, spatial interpolation and spatial scan statistics were carried out for each survey separately to show the temporal pattern of geographically risk areas of under-five mortality in Ethiopia. Finally, the most under-five mortality rate (U5MR) risk areas in each survey period were mapped.

Results

Under-five mortality was spatially clustered in Ethiopia (Moran’s Index: 0.046–0.096, p<0.01). The Benishangul-Gumuz region was consistently at a higher risk in the last two decades. Additional hotspot areas were detected at Afar and Amhara (in 2000, 2005, 2016), at Gambala (in 2011) and the South Nation Nationality and People’s (SNNP) Region (in 2016). Moreover, 160 primary clusters were identified. Of these, 85 clusters (log-likelihood ratio (LLR)=13.10, p<0.01) were from Benishangul-Gumuz and Amhara regions (in 2000); 67 clusters (LLR=12.93, p<0.01) were from Afar and Amhara regions (in 2005); 4 clusters (LLR=10.54, p<0.01) were from Benishangul-Gumuz region (in 2011); and another 4 clusters (LLR=11.85, p<0.01) were from Afar region (in 2016).

Conclusion

High-risk areas were detected mainly in the Benishangul-Gumuz and Afar regions. As a result, designing under-five population targeted intervention programmes in those high-risk geographical regions was vital to reduce under-five mortality in Ethiopia.
Screen time is independently associated with serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in youth with obesity
Authors: Goldfield Gary S. , Cameron Jameason D. , Sigal Ronald J. , Kenny Glen P. , Holcik Martin , Prud’homme Denis , Guerin Eva , Alberga Angela S. , D’Angiulli Amedeo , Tremblay Mark S. , Mougharbel Fatima , Walsh Jeremy
Published: April 2021

Low levels of brain derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and excessive screen exposure are risk factors for neurocognitive deficits and obesity in youth, but the relationship between screen time and BDNF remains unknown. This study examined whether duration and/or type of sedentary screen time behaviour (TV viewing, video games, recreational computer use) are associated with serum BDNF levels in youth with obesity. The sample consisted of 250 inactive, postpubertal adolescents with obesity (172 females/78 males, aged 15.5 ± 1.4 years) at the baseline assessment of the Healthy Eating, Aerobic, Resistance Training in Youth Study. After controlling for self-reported age, sex, race, parental education, puberty stage, physical activity, and diet, higher total screen exposure was significantly associated with lower serum BDNF levels (β = −0.21, p = 0.002). TV viewing was the only type of screen behaviour that was associated with BDNF levels (β = −0.22, p = 0.001). Higher exposure to traditional forms of screen time was independently associated with lower serum BDNF levels, and this association appears to be driven primarily by TV viewing. Future intervention research is needed to determine whether limiting screen time is an effective way to increase BDNF and associated health benefits in a high-risk population of youth with obesity. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT00195858.

Novelty: This study is the first to show that recreational screen time is inversely associated with serum BDNF levels. The inverse association between screen time and BDNF is driven primarily by TV viewing, indicating the type of screen might matter.
Life history variation in Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) and the effects of diet and migration on the growth, condition, and body morphology of two Arctic charr populations in Cumberland Sound, Nunavut, Canada
Authors: Young A.L. , Tallman R.F. , Ogle D.H.
Published: April 2021

Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus (Linnaeus, 1758)) are phenotypically plastic with multiple dietary–morphological relationships observed throughout their circumpolar range. Feeding strategies often differ between Arctic charr life histories and can impact size-at-age and morphological attributes. We examined growth, condition, and body morphology for two High Arctic populations of Arctic charr with anadromous and landlocked life histories. Anadromous Arctic charr had higher growth rates, achieving mean lengths two times those of landlocked Arctic charr by age 10 and had higher overall condition, particularly in the fall. Ontogenetic shifts in diet were suspected in both populations, with an abrupt shift to marine feeding in the anadromous population and a gradual shift to piscivory in the landlocked population. Morphological differences between life histories manifested most predominantly in larger eye diameter, longer pectoral and pelvic fins, and longer upper jaws of landlocked Arctic charr, suggestive of piscivorous feeding specialization of landlocked fish >350 mm. Our findings emphasize the benefits that marine feeding can have for growth and condition of freshwater fishes in Arctic environments and also convey the necessity of adaptive feeding strategies to optimize growth and condition in fishes inhabiting low-production lacustrine habitats.
Dynamic, in situ, nonlinear-inelastic response and post-cyclic strength of a plastic silt deposit
Authors: Jana Amalesh , Stuedlein Armin W.
Published: April 2021

This study presents the use of controlled blasting as a source of seismic energy to obtain the coupled, dynamic, linear-elastic to nonlinear-inelastic response of a plastic silt deposit. Characterization of blast-induced ground motions indicates that the shear strain and corresponding residual excess pore pressures (EPPs) are associated with low-frequency near- and far-field shear waves that are within the range of earthquake frequencies, whereas the effect of high-frequency P-waves is negligible. Three blasting programs were used to develop the initial and pre-strained relationships between shear strain, EPP, and nonlinear shear modulus degradation. The initial threshold shear strain to initiate soil nonlinearity and to trigger generation of residual EPP ranged from 0.002% to 0.003% and 0.008% to 0.012%, respectively, where the latter corresponded to ∼70% of the maximum shear modulus, Gmax. Following pre-straining and dissipation of EPPs within the silt deposit, the shear strain necessary to trigger residual excess pore pressure increased two-fold. Greater excess pore pressures were observed in situ compared to those of intact direct simple shear (DSS) test specimens at a given shear strain amplitude. The reduction of in situ undrained shear strength within the blast-induced EPP field measured using vane shear tests compared favorably with that of DSS test specimens.
The β-carotene–oxygen copolymer: its relationship to apocarotenoids and β-carotene function
Authors: Mogg Trevor J. , Burton Graham W.
Published: April 2021

β-carotene spontaneously copolymerizes with molecular oxygen to form a β-carotene–oxygen copolymer compound (“copolymer”) as the main product, together with small amounts of many apocarotenoids. Both the addition and scission products are interpreted as being formed during progression through successive free radical β-carotene–oxygen adduct intermediates. The product mixture from full oxidation of β-carotene, lacking both vitamin A and β-carotene, has immunological activities, some of which are derived from the copolymer. However, the copolymer’s chemical makeup is unknown. A chemical breakdown study shows the compound to be moderately stable but nevertheless the latent source of many small apocarotenoids. GC–MS analysis with mass-spectral library matching identified a minimum of 45 structures, while more than 90 others remain unassigned. Newly identified products include various small keto carboxylic acids and dicarboxylic acids, several of which are central metabolic intermediates. Also present are glyoxal and methyl glyoxal dialdehydes, recently reported as β-carotene metabolites in plants. Although both compounds at higher concentrations are known to be toxic, at low concentration, methyl glyoxal has been reported to be potentially capable of activating an immune response against microbial infection. In plants, advantage is taken of the electrophilic reactivity of specific apocarotenoids derived from β-carotene oxidation to activate protective defenses. Given the copolymer occurs naturally and is a major product of non-enzymatic β-carotene oxidation in stored plants, by partially sequestering apocarotenoid metabolites, the copolymer may serve to limit potential toxicity and maintain low cellular apocarotenoid concentrations for signaling purposes. In animals, the copolymer may serve as a systemic source of apocarotenoids.
Seismic reliability assessment of base-isolated bridges in Quebec
Authors: Nassar M. , Guizani L. , Nollet M.-J. , Tahan A.
Published: April 2021

The aim of this work is to estimate the seismic reliability of a simple typical two-span lifeline base-isolated bridge designed to behave essentially elastic or as per the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code, for seven localities in Quebec. Two limit states are considered for possible failure due to unacceptable damage: flexure at the pier-base and displacement within the seismic isolation systems (SIS). The main problem random variables considered and modeled are seismic hazard, temperature, pier base dimensions, and material mechanical properties. The Monte Carlo method was used to evaluate the probability of failure and the reliability of each limit state. Preliminary results reveal that notwithstanding the large temperature and seismic hazard variabilities between the seven sites in Quebec, the global bridge reliability indices are almost uniform, approximately 3.45 ± 0.02. Furthermore, the security factor (i.e., 1.25) on the SIS displacement capacity results in reliability indices for SIS displacement that are not levelled with the flexural reliability indices and requires further examination and consideration.
Accumulation of straw-derived carbon and changes in soil humic acid structural characteristics during corn straw decomposition
Authors: Zhang XiaoWei , Dou Sen , Ndzelu Batande Sinovuyo , Zhang YiFeng , Liu Xin
Published: April 2021

Appropriate application of corn straw residues increase soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. However, sequestration and stabilization of added carbon (C) during corn straw transformation are not fully understood. Here, we present changes in soil humus C and humic acid (HA) molecular structure during corn straw decomposition in an incubation experiment carried out for 270 d at 25 °C. Corn straw was applied at the amount of 74.76 g per 18 kg soil (i.e., 1.57 g C·kg−1), in the soil surface (CS1), incorporated within 0–10 cm (CS2), applied below 10 cm soil depth (CS3), and no corn straw applied. The results showed that after corn straw application (CS1, CS2, and CS3), the accumulation of SOC content was rapid in the first 90 d. The HA spectral results of straw-amended soils showed a slight increase in aliphatic C compounds and amino acids on day 90. On day 180, the degree of condensation was less, and aliphatic C compounds were present in large quantities in soil HA. As decomposition advanced to day 270, the aliphatic character of HA appeared to slightly weaken, and soil HA was enriched with aromatic structures. These results suggest that corn straw application enriches soil HA with more aliphatic C compounds in the early stages of decomposition, and aromatic C structures are formed in the later stage of decomposition. Incorporation of corn straw into the soil (CS2 treatment) is more conducive in increasing SOC and aliphaticity in HA during corn straw decomposition, which can potentially increase C sequestration.
A hybrid model of viscous and Chaplygin gas to tackle the Universe acceleration
Authors: Hernández-Almada A. , García-Aspeitia Miguel A. , Rodríguez-Meza M. A. , Motta V.
Published: April 2021

Motivated by two seminal models proposed to explain the Universe acceleration, this paper is devoted to study a hybrid model which is constructed through a generalized Chaplygin gas with the addition of a bulk viscosity. We call the model a viscous generalized Chaplygin gas (VGCG) and its free parameters are constrained through several cosmological data like the Observational Hubble Parameter, Type Ia Supernovae, Baryon Acoustic Oscillations, Strong Lensing Systems, HII Galaxies and using Joint Bayesian analysis. In addition, we implement a Om-diagnostic to analyze the VGCC dynamics and its difference with the standard cosmological model. The hybrid model shows important differences when compared with the standard cosmological model. Finally, based on our Joint analysis we find that the VGCG could be an interesting candidate to alleviate the well-known Hubble constant tension.
An ensemble approach of improved quantum inspired gravitational search algorithm and hybrid deep neural networks for computational optimization
Authors: Kumar Yogesh , Verma Shashi Kant , Sharma Sandeep
Published: April 2021

In this paper, an autonomous ensemble approach of improved quantum inspired gravitational search algorithm (IQI-GSA) and hybrid deep neural networks (HDNN) is proposed for the optimization of computational problems. The IQI-GSA is a combinational variant of gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and quantum computing (QC). The improved variant enhances the diversity of mass collection for retaining the stochastic attributes and handling the local trapping of mass agents. Further, the hybrid deep neural network encompasses the convolutional and recurrent neural networks (HDCR-NN) which analyze the relational & temporal dependencies among the different computational components for optimization. The proposed ensemble approach is evaluated for the application of facial expression recognition by experimentation on Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces (KDEF) and Japanese Female Facial Expression (JAFFE) datasets. The experimentation evaluations evidently exhibit the outperformed recognition rate of the proposed ensemble approach in comparison with state-of-the-art techniques.
Cascading failure with preferential redistribution on bus–subway coupled network
Authors: Jo Sonnam , Gao Liang , Liu Feng , Li Menghui , Shen Zhesi , Xu Lida , Gao Zi-You
Published: April 2021

Robustness studies on integrated urban public transport networks have attracted growing attention in recent years due to the significant influence on the overall performance of urban transport system. In this paper, topological properties and robustness of a bus–subway coupled network in Beijing, composed of both bus and subway networks as well as their interactions, are analyzed. Three new models depicting cascading failure processes on the coupled network are proposed based on an existing binary influence modeling approach. Simulation results show that the proposed models are more accurate than the existing method in reflecting actual passenger flow redistribution in the cascading failure process. Moreover, the traffic load influence between nodes also plays a vital role in the robustness of the network. The proposed models and derived results can be utilized to improve the robustness of integrated urban public transport systems in traffic planning.