bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Genital Hiatus Size on Anatomic Outcomes After Mesh-Augmented Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation
Authors: Vaughan Monique H. , Giugale Lauren E. , Siddiqui Nazema Y. , Bradley Megan S.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Our objective is to compare anatomic outcomes at medium term after mesh-augmented sacrospinous ligament fixation among women categorized by their preoperative and postoperative genital hiatus size.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study in women undergoing Uphold mesh-augmented sacrospinous ligament fixation between 2010 and 2017. We compared 3 groups: (1) women with a wide genital hiatus preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively (“Persistently Wide” cohort), (2) women with a wide genital hiatus preoperatively but normal hiatus 6 weeks postoperatively (“Improved” cohort), and (3) women with a normal genital hiatus preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively (“Stably Normal” cohort). We defined a wide hiatus as 4 cm or greater and a normal hiatus as less than 4 cm. The primary outcome was anatomic failure, defined as recurrent prolapse beyond the hymen or retreatment for prolapse with surgery or pessary.

Results

Ninety-seven women were included in the study. Overall, mean age was 68 years (±7.15 years), mean body mass index was 28.36 kg/m2 (±5.34 kg/m2) and mean follow up time was 400 ± 216 days. Anatomic failure did not differ between groups (Persistently Wide, 15.4%; Improved, 11.1%; Stably Normal, 10.0%; P = 0.88). In logistic regression, the odds of anatomic failure remained similar among all groups (P = 0.93).

Conclusions

A persistently wide genital hiatus alone was not associated with anatomic failure in this small study cohort. Therefore, surgical reduction of the genital hiatus with level III support procedures may not affect prolapse recurrence at the time of mesh-augmented sacrospinous ligament fixation. Further studies are needed to confirm this relationship and investigate other potential mechanisms for these findings.
The prehospital use of younger age whole blood is associated with an improved arrival coagulation profile
Authors: Clements Thomas , McCoy Cameron , Assen Scott , Cardenas Jessica , Wade Charles , Meyer David , Cotton Bryan A.
Published: January 2021

INTRODUCTION

Recent in vitro data have shown that the hemostatic profile of whole blood (WB) degrades significantly after 14 days, yet the optimal storage remains debated. We hypothesized that arrival coagulation studies would be improved in patients receiving younger WB in the prehospital setting.

METHODS

This study was approved by our institutional institutional review board. We evaluated all trauma patients who received prehospital blood products by our helicopter service between July 2017 and July 2019. “Young” WB was defined as 14 days or less. Patients who received at least 1 U of young WB were classified as YOUNG, while the remainder was classified as OLD. Continuous data are presented as medians (25th–75th interquartile range) with comparisons performed using Wilcoxon rank sum. Assessments of clinical hemostatic potential included arrival platelet cell count and rapid thrombelastography. Multivariate regression analysis was also performed (Stata 12.1; College Station, TX).

RESULTS

A total of 220 patients received prehospital WB during the study period. Of these, 153 patients received YOUNG WB, while 67 were transfused only OLD WB units. There were no differences in demographics, prehospital or arrival physiology, or Injury Severity Score among the two groups. The measures of clot initiation (activated clotting time) and kinetics (k time) were improved, as were the measures of clot acceleration/fibrinogen function (angle) and platelet function (maximum amplitude). As well, arrival platelet count was higher in the YOUNG cohort. No significant differences in postarrival transfusion were noted (p = 0.220). Multivariate analysis showed the greatest differences in maximum amplitude and α angle but failed to reach significance.

CONCLUSION

Previous in vitro data have suggested deterioration of platelet function in cold-stored WB after 14 days. The current study demonstrated decreased global hemostasis by clinically available laboratory tests, especially related to fibrinogen and platelet interactions on univariate, but not multivariate analysis. This did not translate into increased transfusion requirements. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal storage duration for cold-stored WB for transfusion in the bleeding trauma patient, as well as rule out the presence of confounding variables.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, level IV.
Characteristics of survivors of civilian public mass shootings: An Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma multicenter study
Authors: Sarani Babak , Smith E. Reed , Shapiro Geoff , Nahmias Jeffry , Rivas Lisbi , McIntyre Robert , Robinson Bryce R.H. , Chestovich Paul J. , Amdur Richard , Campion Eric , Urban Shane , Shnaydman Ilya , Joseph Bellal , Gates Jonathan , Berne John , Estroff Jordan M.
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Firearm injury remains a public health crisis. Whereas there have been studies evaluating causes of death in victims of civilian public mass shootings (CPMSs), there are no large studies evaluating injuries sustained and treatments rendered in survivors. The purpose of this study was to describe these characteristics to inform ideal preparation for these events.

METHODS

A multicenter, retrospective study of CPMS survivors who were treated at designated trauma centers from July 1, 1999 to December 31, 2017, was performed. Prehospital and hospital variables were collected. Data are reported as median (25th percentile, 75th percentile interquartile range), and statistical analyses were carried out using Mann-Whitney U, χ2, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Patients who died before discharge from the hospital were excluded.

RESULTS

Thirty-one events involving 191 patients were studied. The median number of patients seen per event was 20 (5, 106), distance to each hospital was 6 (6, 10) miles, time to arrival was 56 (37, 90) minutes, number of wounds per patient was 1 (1, 2), and Injury Severity Score was 5 (1, 17). The most common injuries were extremity fracture (37%) and lung parenchyma (14%). Twenty-nine percent of patients did not receive paramedic-level prehospital treatment. Following arrival to the hospital, 27% were discharged from the emergency department, 32% were taken directly to the operating room/interventional radiology, 16% were admitted to the intensive care unit, and 25% were admitted to the ward. Forty percent did not require advanced treatment within 12 hours. The most common operations performed within 12 hours of arrival were orthopedic (15%) and laparotomy (15%). The most common specialties consulted were orthopedics (38%) and mental health (17%).

CONCLUSION

Few CPMS survivors are critically injured. There is significant delay between shooting and transport. Revised triage criteria and a focus on rapid transport of the few severely injured patients are needed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/care management, level IV.
Torque Teno Virus Load Is Associated With Subclinical Alloreactivity in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Prospective Observational Trial
Authors: Doberer Konstantin , Haupenthal Frederik , Nackenhorst Maja , Bauernfeind Florian , Dermuth Florentina , Eigenschink Michael , Schiemann Martin , Kläger Johannes , Görzer Irene , Eskandary Farsad , Reindl-Schwaighofer Roman , Kikić Željko , Böhmig Georg , Strassl Robert , Regele Heinz , Puchhammer-Stöckl Elisabeth , Bond Gregor
Published: January 2021

Background.

Nonpathogenic torque teno viruses (TTVs) are highly prevalent in transplant recipients and associated with immunosuppression. Studies in kidney transplant patients have proposed assessment of TTV load for risk stratification of clinically overt graft rejection. The value of TTV quantification in the context of subclinical rejection has not been evaluated.

Methods.

In this prospective trial, 307 consecutive kidney transplant recipients were subjected to per-protocol monitoring of plasma TTV. TTV was analyzed in the context of protocol biopsies (n = 82), scheduled 1 year posttransplantation.

Results.

TTV load at the time of biopsy was lower in recipients with rejection (n = 19; according to Banff, including borderline changes suspicious for acute T cell-mediated rejection) than those without rejection (n = 63) whereby each log increase in TTV copies/mL decreased the risk for rejection by 9% (risk ratio 0.91, 95% confidence interval, 0.85-0.97; P = 0.004). Development of chronic lesions (cg, cv, ci, ct, ah, ptcml) was associated with the number of days with a TTV load <1 × 106 copies/mL between months 3 and 12 posttransplant (β 0.07, 95% confidence interval, 0.01-0.14; P = 0.02).

Conclusions.

This trial demonstrates an association between TTV and subclinical graft rejection in kidney transplant recipients. A TTV load <1 × 106 copies/mL suggests suboptimal immunosuppression.
Adaptation of the City of Hope-Quality of Life-Ostomy Questionnaire From English to Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Santos Vera Lúcia Conceição de Gouveia , Gomboski Gustavo , Freitas Noélle de Oliveira , Grant Marcia
Published: January 2021

PURPOSE:

To culturally adapt the City of Hope-Quality of Life-Ostomy Questionnaire (COH-QOL-OQ) from English to Brazilian Portuguese and evaluate psychometric properties of the adapted instrument (internal consistency and construct validity).

DESIGN:

Methodological study to establish reliability and validity.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING:

The sample comprised 215 persons with stomas of any etiology who attended 1 of 3 specialized outpatient care center and 2 associations for persons with ostomies. Participants were residents of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, located in southeastern Brazil.

METHODS:

Techniques for cultural adaptation were carried out based on recommendations from the literature. We then evaluated the instrument's psychometric properties. Specifically, we evaluated construct (convergent and discriminant) validity and concurrent criterion validity via comparison of the adapted version of COH-QOL-OQ versus the WHOQOL-Bref (World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument). We also evaluated the internal consistency of the adapted COH-QOL-OQ, a measure of reliability.

RESULTS:

The internal consistency of the items was high with a Cronbach α of 0.92 for the total score and values ranging from 0.79 to 0.86 for the various domains of the COH-QOL-OQ. Confirmatory factorial analysis identified adjustment indexes to the acceptable model of adjustment for the COH-QOL-OQ model. Strong correlations between the COH-QOL-OQ and WHOQOL-Bref instrument domains confirmed the validity of the convergent construct. For the analysis of the concurrent criterion validity, the correlation coefficients between the score of item 16 and the other domains of COH-QOL-OQ ranged from 0.26 to 0.66. Analysis of the discriminate validity indicated that it was possible to isolate groups based on the temporal character of the stoma and time since ostomy surgery.

CONCLUSIONS:

The adapted version of COH-QOL-OQ demonstrates construct (convergent and discriminant) validity, concurrent criterion validity, and internal consistency (a measure of reliability) for evaluating health-related quality of life of persons with ostomies living in Brazil.
Reducing Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Extravasation in Neonates
Authors: Boyar Vita , Galiczewski Colleen
Published: January 2021

PURPOSE

Our objective was to reduce total and severe peripheral intravenous extravasation (PIVE) incidence by 40% in our neonatal intensive care unit.

SETTING/APPROACH:

This quality improvement initiative was performed at an academic, free-standing suburban children's hospital, in a level 4 neonatal intensive care unit from June 2017 to April 2018. Baseline extravasation data for a period of 6 months prior to the initiative were reviewed, along with a nursing knowledge questionnaire and random audits of catheter stabilization techniques. A Pareto chart and a key driver diagram were created to identify the most common causes of extravasations and lead to a series of process changes. We implemented 4 Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles: (1) dressing protocol for peripheral intravenous vascular (PIV) catheter securement that instituted standardized securement and safer equipment; (2) education on PIV assessment and maintenance, concentrating on hourly evaluation and documentation; (3) guidance algorithm for PIVE identification and treatment; and (4) escalation policy, limiting the number of placement attempts and increased use of a “superuser” team.

OUTCOMES:

The overall prevalence of extravasations decreased by 54%, from 73 preintervention to 40 at postintervention. At baseline, 52% (38/73) extravasations were severe; however, those in the severe category decreased by 35% (14/40) postintervention. The overall rate of adherence to the PIV catheter management algorithm approached 95%; whereas adherence to the securement guideline fluctuated between 80% and 98%.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE:

The implementation of these new practice recommendations along with the education has resulted in a decreased rate and severity of extravasation. Frequent audits and reinforcements are integral to sustainment and to ensure accountability for the implemented procedures.
Dynamic spatio-temporal patterns of metapopulation occupancy in patchy habitats
Authors: Bertassello L. E. , Bertuzzo E. , Botter G. , Jawitz J. W. , Aubeneau A. F. , Hoverman J. T. , Rinaldo A. , Rao P. S. C.
Published: January 2021

Spatio-temporal dynamics in habitat suitability and connectivity among mosaics of heterogeneous wetlands are critical for biological diversity and species persistence in aquatic patchy landscapes. Despite the recognized importance of stochastic hydroclimatic forcing in driving wetlandscape hydrological dynamics, linking such effects to emergent dynamics of metapopulation poses significant challenges. To fill this gap, we propose here a dynamic stochastic patch occupancy model (SPOM), which links parsimonious hydrological and ecological models to simulate spatio-temporal patterns in species occupancy in wetlandscapes. Our work aims to place ecological studies of patchy habitats into a proper hydrologic and climatic framework to improve the knowledge about metapopulation shifts in response to climate-driven changes in wetlandscapes. We applied the dynamic version of the SPOM (D-SPOM) framework in two wetlandscapes in the US with contrasting landscape and climate properties. Our results illustrate that explicit consideration of the temporal dimension proposed in the D-SPOM is important to interpret local- and landscape-scale patterns of habitat suitability and metapopulation occupancy. Our analyses show that spatio-temporal dynamics of patch suitability and accessibility, driven by the stochasticity in hydroclimatic forcing, influence metapopulation occupancy and the topological metrics of the emergent wetlandscape dispersal network. D-SPOM simulations also reveal that the extinction risk in dynamic wetlandscapes is exacerbated by extended dry periods when suitable habitat decreases, hence limiting successful patch colonization and exacerbating metapopulation extinction risks. The proposed framework is not restricted only to wetland studies but could also be applied to examine metapopulation dynamics in other types of patchy habitats subjected to stochastic external disturbances.
Eight-year periodical outbreaks of the train millipede
Authors: Niijima Keiko , Nii Momoka , Yoshimura Jin
Published: January 2021

Periodical cicadas are the only confirmed periodical animals with long life cycles. In Japan, however, 8-year periodicity had been suggested in a species of train millipedes that had frequently obstructed trains in the central mountainous region of Honshu, Japan. This species was identified asParafontaria laminata armigeraVerhoeff (Diplopoda: Xystodesmidae), which is endemic to Japan. We finally confirmed the 8-year periodicity of this millipede using detailed surveys of life histories over 8 years. Seven broods were recognized, with almost no overlaps in their distributions. We also report the historical outbreaks and train obstructions of this millipede during 1920–2016. This is the first confirmed case of periodical non-insect arthropods.
How value-sensitive design can empower sustainable consumption
Authors: Asikis Thomas , Klinglmayr Johannes , Helbing Dirk , Pournaras Evangelos
Published: January 2021

In a so-called overpopulated world, sustainable consumption is of existential importance. However, the expanding spectrum of product choices and their production complexity challenge consumers to make informed and value-sensitive decisions. Recent approaches based on (personalized) psychological manipulation are often intransparent, potentially privacy-invasive and inconsistent with (informational) self-determination. By contrast, responsible consumption based on informed choices currently requires reasoning to an extent that tends to overwhelm human cognitive capacity. As a result, a collective shift towards sustainable consumption remains a grand challenge. Here, we demonstrate a novel personal shopping assistant implemented as a smart phone app that supports a value-sensitive design and leverages sustainability awareness, using experts’ knowledge and ‘wisdom of the crowd’ for transparent product information and explainable product ratings. Real-world field experiments in two supermarkets confirm higher sustainability awareness and a bottom-up behavioural shift towards more sustainable consumption. These results encourage novel business models for retailers and producers, ethically aligned with consumer preferences and with higher sustainability.
Removal of 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxyacetic acid from water by MIL-101(Cr) metal-organic framework: kinetics, isotherms and statistical models
Authors: Isiyaka Hamza Ahmad , Jumbri Khairulazhar , Sambudi Nonni Soraya , Zango Zakariyya Uba , Saad Bahruddin , Mustapha Adamu
Published: January 2021

Effective removal of 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxyacetic acid (MCPA), an emerging agrochemical contaminant in water with carcinogenic and mutagenic health effects has been reported using hydrothermally synthesized MIL-101(Cr) metal-organic framework (MOF). The properties of the MOF were ascertained using powdered X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and surface area and porosimetry (SAP). The BET surface area and pore volume of the MOF were 1439 m
2
g
−1
and 0.77 cm
3
g
−1
, respectively. Artificial neural network (ANN) model was significantly employed for the accurate prediction of the experimental adsorption capacity (

q
e

) values with minimal error. A rapid removal of the pollutant (99%) was recorded within short time (approx. 25 min), and the reusability of the MOF (20 mg) was achieved up to six cycles with over 90% removal efficiency. The kinetics, isotherm and thermodynamics of the process were described by the pseudo-second-order, Freundlich and endothermic adsorption, respectively. The adsorption process is spontaneous based on the negative Gibbs free energy values. The significant correlation between the experimental findings and simulation results suggests the great potential of MIL-101(Cr) for the remediation of MCPA from water matrices.
A study of bacteria adhesion and microbial corrosion on different stainless steels in environment containingDesulfovibrio vulgaris
Authors: Tran T. T. T. , Kannoorpatti K. , Padovan A. , Thennadil S.
Published: January 2021

Stainless steel is an important material used in many applications due to its mechanical strength and corrosion-resistant properties. The high corrosion resistance of stainless steel is provided by the passive film. Different stainless steels have different alloy elements and surface properties which could have a significant influence on bacterial attachment to the surface and thus might result in different microbial corrosion behaviours. In this study, the effect of adhesion of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) on corrosion behaviour in artificial seawater on different stainless steels was investigated. Stainless steel materials used were SS 410, SS 420, SS 316 and DSS 2205 and pure chromium. The contact angle was measured to study the effect of surface properties of materials. Adhesion was measured by counting cells attached to the surface of materials. The corrosion behaviour of the materials was measured by electrochemical testing including measuring open circuit potential, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic behaviour. The long-term corrosion behaviour of each material was studied after six months of exposure by measuring weight loss and surface analysis with scanning electron microscope with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. Hydrophobicity had a strong effect on bacterial attachment. Alloying elements e.g. nickel also had shown its ability to attract bacteria to adhere on the surface. However, the corrosion rate of different materials is determined not only by bacterial attachment but also by the stability of the passive film which is determined by the alloying elements, such as Mo and Cr. Chromium showed high resistance to corrosion, possibly due to toxicity on bacterial attachment. The nature of bacterial attachment and corrosion behaviour of the materials are discussed.
Food and nutrition security under global trade: a relation-driven agent-based global trade model
Authors: Ge Jiaqi , Polhill J. Gareth , Macdiarmid Jennie I. , Fitton Nuala , Smith Pete , Clark Heather , Dawson Terry , Aphale Mukta
Published: January 2021

This paper addresses the highly relevant and timely issues of global trade and food security by developing an empirically grounded, relation-driven agent-based global trade model. Contrary to most price-driven trade models in the literature, the relation-driven agent-based global trade model focuses on the role of relational factors such as trust, familiarity, trade history and conflicts in countries' trade behaviour. Moreover, the global trade model is linked to a comprehensive nutrition formula to investigate the impact of trade on food and nutrition security, including macro and micronutrients. Preliminary results show that global trade improves the food and nutrition security of countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Trade also promotes a healthier and more balanced diet, as countries have access to an increased variety of food. The effect of trade in enhancing nutrition security, with an adequate supply of macro and micronutrients, is universal across nutrients and countries. As researchers call for a holistic and multifactorial approach to food security and climate change (Hammond and Dubé 2012
Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. USA
109
, 12 356–12 363. (
doi:10.1073/pnas.0913003109
)), the paper is one of the first to develop an integrated framework that consists of socio-economic, geopolitical, nutrition, environmental and agri-food systems to tackle these global challenges. Given the ongoing events of Brexit, the US–China trade war and the global COVID-19 pandemic, the paper will provide valuable insights on the role of trade in improving the food and nutrition security across countries.
Branched amphotericin functional poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide): an antifungal polymer
Authors: Swift Thomas , Caseley Emily , Pinnock Abbigail , Shepherd Joanna , Shivshetty Nagaveni , Garg Prashant , Ian Douglas C. W. , MacNeil Sheila , Rimmer Stephen
Published: January 2021

Branched poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) was functionalized with Amphotericin B (AmB) at the chain ends to produce an antifungal material. The polymer showed antifungal properties against AmB-sensitive strains ofCandida albicans,Fusarium keratoplasticumandAspergillus flavus(minimal inhibitory concentration ranged from 5 to 500 µg ml−1) but was not effective against an AmB resistant strain ofC. albicansnor againstCandida tropicalis. The polymer end groups bound to the AmB target, ergosterol, and the fluorescence spectrum of a dye used as a solvatochromic probe, Nile red, was blue shifted indicating that segments of the polymer became desolvated on binding. The polymer was less toxic to corneal and renal epithelial cells and explanted corneal tissue than the free drug. Also, the polymer did not induce reactive oxygen species release from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, nor did it cause a substantial release of the proinflammatory cytokines, tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β(at 0.5 mg ml−1).
Strategies for synthesis of Prussian blue analogues
Authors: Kjeldgaard Solveig , Dugulan Iulian , Mamakhel Aref , Wagemaker Marnix , Iversen Bo Brummerstedt , Bentien Anders
Published: January 2021

We report a comparison of different common synthetic strategies for preparation of Prussian blue analogues (PBA). PBA are promising as cathode material for a number of different battery types, including K-ion and Na-ion batteries with both aqueous and non-aqueous electrolytes. PBA exhibit a significant degree of structural variation. The structure of the PBA determines the electrochemical performance, and it is, therefore, important to understand how synthesis parameters affect the structure of the obtained product. PBA are often synthesized by co-precipitation of a metal salt and a hexacyanoferrate complex, and parameters such as concentration and oxidation state of the precursors, flow rate, temperature and additional salts can all potentially affect the structure of the product. Here, we report 12 different syntheses and compare the structure of the obtained PBA materials.
Ion release from hydroxyapatite and substituted hydroxyapatites in different immersion liquids:
in vitro
experiments and theoretical modelling study
Authors: Mocanu Aurora , Cadar Oana , Frangopol Petre T. , Petean Ioan , Tomoaia Gheorghe , Paltinean Gertrud-Alexandra , Racz Csaba Pal , Horovitz Ossi , Tomoaia-Cotisel Maria
Published: January 2021

Multi-substituted hydroxyapatites (ms-HAPs) are currently gaining more consideration owing to their multifunctional properties and biomimetic structure, owning thus an enhanced biological potential in orthopaedic and dental applications. In this study, nano-hydroxyapatite (HAP) substituted with multiple cations (Sr
2+
, Mg
2+
and Zn
2+
) for Ca
2+
and anion (

Si

O
4

4
−

) for

P

O
4

3
−

and OH
−
, specifically HAPc-5%Sr and HAPc-10%Sr (where HAPc is HAP-1.5%Mg–0.2%Zn–0.2%Si), both lyophilized non-calcined and lyophilized calcined, were evaluated for their
in vitro
ions release. These nanomaterials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, field emission-scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray, as well as by atomic force microscope images and by surface specific areas and porosity. Further, the release of cations and of phosphate anions were assessed from nano-HAP and ms-HAPs, both in water and in simulated body fluid, in static and simulated dynamic conditions, using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The release profiles were analysed and the influence of experimental conditions was determined for each of the six nanomaterials and for various periods of time. The pH of the samples soaked in the immersion liquids was also measured. The ion release mechanism was theoretically investigated using the Korsmeyer–Peppas model. The results indicated a mechanism principally based on diffusion and dissolution, with possible contribution of ion exchange. The surface of ms-HAP nanoparticles is more susceptible to dissolution into immersion liquids owing to the lattice strain provoked by simultaneous multi-substitution in HAP structure. According to the findings, it is rational to suggest that both materials HAPc-5%Sr and HAPc-10%Sr are bioactive and can be potential candidates in bone tissue regeneration.
Revisiting imperfect interface laws for two-dimensional elastodynamics
Authors: Pham Kim , Maurel Agnès , Marigo Jean-Jacques
Published: January 2021

We study the interaction of in-plane elastic waves with imperfect interfaces composed of a periodic array of voids or cracks. An effective model is derived from high-order asymptotic analysis based on two-scale homogenization and matched asymptotic technique. In two-dimensional elasticity, we obtain jump conditions set on the in-plane displacements and normal stresses; the jumps involve in addition effective parameters provided by static, elementary problems being the equivalents of the cell problems in classical two-scale homogenization. The derivation of the model is conducted in the transient regime and its stability is guarantied by the positiveness of the effective interfacial energy. Spring models are envisioned as particular cases. It is shown that
massless-spring
models are recovered in the limit of small void thicknesses and collinear cracks. By contrast, the use of
mass-spring
model is justified at normal incidence, otherwise unjustified. We provide quantitative validations of our model and comparison with spring models by means of comparison with direct numerical calculations in the harmonic regime.
The evolution of patterning during movement in a large-scale citizen science game
Authors: Hughes Anna E. , Griffiths David , Troscianko Jolyon , Kelley Laura A.
Published: January 2021

The motion dazzle hypothesis posits that high contrast geometric patterns can cause difficulties in tracking a moving target and has been argued to explain the patterning of animals such as zebras. Research to date has only tested a small number of patterns, offering equivocal support for the hypothesis. Here, we take a genetic programming approach to allow patterns to evolve based on their fitness (time taken to capture) and thus find the optimal strategy for providing protection when moving. Our ‘Dazzle Bug’ citizen science game tested over 1.5 million targets in a touch screen game at a popular visitor attraction. Surprisingly, we found that targets lost pattern elements during evolution and became closely background matching. Modelling results suggested that targets with lower motion energy were harder to catch. Our results indicate that low contrast, featureless targets offer the greatest protection against capture when in motion, challenging the motion dazzle hypothesis.
Bombella favorum sp. nov. and Bombella mellum sp. nov., two novel species isolated from the honeycombs of Apis mellifera
Authors: Hilgarth Maik , Redwitz Johannes , Ehrmann Matthias A. , Vogel Rudi F. , Jakob Frank
Published: January 2021

As part of a study investigating the microbiome of bee hives and honey, two novel strains (TMW 2.1880T and TMW 2.1889T) of acetic acid bacteria were isolated and subsequently taxonomically characterized by a polyphasic approach, which revealed that they cannot be assigned to known species. The isolates are Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, pellicle-forming, catalase-positive and oxidase-negative. Cells of TMW 2.1880T are non-motile, thin/short rods, and cells of TMW 2.1889T are motile and occur as rods and long filaments. Morphological, physiological and phylogenetic analyses revealed a distinct lineage within the genus

Bombella

. Strain TMW 2.1880T is most closely related to the type strain of

Bombella intestini

with a 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 99.5 %, and ANIb and in silico DDH values of 94.16 and 56.3 %, respectively. The genome of TMW 2.1880T has a size of 1.98 Mb and a G+C content of 55.3 mol%. Strain TMW 2.1889T is most closely related to the type strain of

Bombella apis

with a 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 99.5 %, and ANIb and in silico DDH values of 85.12 and 29.5 %, respectively. The genome of TMW 2.1889T has a size of 2.07 Mb and a G+C content of 60.4 mol%. Ubiquinone analysis revealed that both strains contained Q-10 as the main respiratory quinone. Major fatty acids for both strains were C16 : 0, C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c and summed feature 8, respectively, and additionally C14 : 0 2-OH only for TMW 2.1880T and C14 : 0 only for TMW 2.1889T. Based on polyphasic evidence, the two isolates from honeycombs of Apis mellifera represent two novel species of the genus

Bombella

, for which the names Bombella favorum sp. nov and Bombella mellum sp. nov. are proposed. The designated respective type strains are TMW 2.1880T (=LMG 31882T=CECT 30114T) and TMW 2.1889T (=LMG 31883T=CECT 30113T).
Convalescent Plasma for COVID-19. A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Gharbharan Arvind , Jordans Carlijn C.E. , Geurtsvankessel Corinne , den Hollander Jan G. , Karim Faiz , Mollema Femke P. N. , Stalenhoef-Schukken Janneke E. , Dofferhoff Anthonius , Ludwig Inge , Koster Adrianus , Hassing Robert-Jan , Bos Jeannet C. , van Pottelberge Geert R. , Vlasveld Imro N. , Ammerlaan Heidi S. M. , van Leeuwen-Segarceanu Elena M. , Miedema Jelle , van der Eerden Menno , Papageorgiou Grigorios , Boekhorst Peter te , Swaneveld Francis H. , Katsikis Peter D. , Mueller Yvonne , Okba Nisreen M.A. , Koopmans Marion P.G. , Haagmans Bart H.G. , Rokx Casper , Rijnders Bart J.A.
Published: January 2021

Structured abstract for full paper

Background

After recovery from COVID-19, most patients have anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies. Their convalescent plasma could be an inexpensive and widely available treatment for COVID-19.

Methods

The Convalescent-plasma-for-COVID (ConCOVID) study was a randomized trial comparing convalescent plasma with standard of care therapy in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in the Netherlands. Patients were randomized 1:1 and received 300ml of plasma with anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody titers of at least 1:80. The primary endpoint was day-60 mortality and key secondary endpoints were hospital stay and WHO 8-point disease severity scale improvement on day 15.

Results

The trial was halted prematurely after 86 patients were enrolled. Although symptomatic for only 10 days (IQR 6-15) at the time of inclusion, 53 of 66 patients tested had anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies at baseline. A SARS-CoV-2 plaque reduction neutralization test showed neutralizing antibodies in 44 of the 56 (79%) patients tested with median titers comparable to the 115 donors (1:160 vs 1:160, p=0.40). These observations caused concerns about the potential benefit of convalescent plasma in the study population and after discussion with the data safety monitoring board, the study was discontinued. No difference in mortality (p=0.95), hospital stay (p=0.68) or day-15 disease severity (p=0.58) was observed between plasma treated patients and patients on standard of care.

Conclusion

Most COVID-19 patients already have high neutralizing antibody titers at hospital admission. Screening for antibodies and prioritizing convalescent plasma to risk groups with recent symptom onset will be key to identify patients that may benefit from convalescent plasma. Clinicaltrials.gov:NCT04342182
Viral mutation, contact rates and testing: a DCM study of fluctuations
Authors: Friston Karl J. , Costello Anthony , Flandin Guillaume , Razi Adeel
Published: January 2021

This report considers three mechanisms that might underlie the course of the secondary peak of coronavirus infections in the United Kingdom. It considers: (i) fluctuations in transmission strength; (ii) seasonal fluctuations in contact rates and (iii) fluctuations in testing. Using dynamic causal modelling, we evaluated the contribution of all combinations of these three mechanisms using Bayesian model comparison. We found overwhelming evidence for the combination of all mechanisms, when explaining 16 types of data. Quantitatively, there was clear evidence for an increase in transmission strength of 57% over the past months (e.g., due to viral mutation), in the context of increased contact rates (e.g., rebound from national lockdowns) and increased test rates (e.g., due to the inclusion of lateral flow tests). Models with fluctuating transmission strength outperformed models with fluctuating contact rates. However, the best model included all three mechanisms suggesting that the resurgence during the second peak can be explained by an increase ineffective contact ratethat is the product of a rebound ofcontact ratesfollowing a national lockdown and increasedtransmission riskdue to viral mutation.
Excess mortality during the 1918–20 influenza pandemic in Czechia
Authors: Gaddy Hampton Gray
Published: January 2021

This research letter provides a replicable estimate of the mortality that the 1918–20 influenza pandemic caused in Czechia. A monthly all-cause excess mortality model identified clear periods of pandemic mortality in September 1918 through May 1919 and January 1920 through May 1920. The total excess mortality in those months implies a pandemic death toll of 71,967 and a national death rate of 0.75%.
Nuclear m6A reader Ythdc1 regulates the scaffold function of LINE1 in mouse ESCs
Authors: Chen Chuan , Liu Wenqiang , Guo Jiayin , Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Xuelian , Liu Jun , Dou Xiaoyang , Le Rongrong , Huang Yixin , Li Chong , Yang Lingyue , Kou Xiaochen , Zhao Yanhong , Wu You , Chen Jiayu , Wang Hong , Shen Bin , Gao Yawei , Gao Shaorong
Published: January 2021

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) on chromosome-associated regulatory RNAs (carRNAs), including repeat RNAs, play important roles in tuning the chromatin state and transcription1. Among diverse RNA-chromatin interacting modes, the nuclear RNA scaffold is considered important for trans-interactions2,3but has not yet been connected with m6A yet. Here, we found that Ythdc1 played indispensable roles in the embryonic stem cell (ESC) self-renewal and differentiation potency, and these roles highly depended on its m6A-binding ability.Ythdc1deficiency in ESCs resulted in decreased rRNA synthesis and the activation of 2-cell (2C) embryo-specific transcriptional program, and these observations recapitulated the transcriptome defects induced by dysfunction of the long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE1)-scaffold, which were unrelated to the direct targeting of Ythdc1. A detailed analysis revealed that Ythdc1 recognized m6A on LINE1 and was physically involved in the formation of the LINE1-Nucleolin partnership and the chromatin recruitment of Kap1. In summary, our study reveals a new link between m6A and the RNA scaffold and thus provides a new regulatory model for the crosstalk between RNA and the chromatin epigenome.
Mitofusin 1 and 2 regulation of mitochondrial DNA content is a critical determinant of glucose homeostasis
Authors: Sidarala Vaibhav , Zhu Jie , Levi-D’Ancona Elena , Pearson Gemma L. , Reck Emma C. , Walker Emily M. , Kaufman Brett A. , Soleimanpour Scott A.
Published: January 2021

The dynamin-like GTPases Mitofusin 1 and 2 (Mfn1 and Mfn2) are essential for mitochondrial function, which has been principally attributed to their regulation of fission/fusion dynamics. Here, we report that Mfn1 and 2 are critical for glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) primarily through control of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content. Whereas Mfn1 and Mfn2 individually were dispensable for glucose homeostasis, combined Mfn1/2 deletion in β-cells reduced mtDNA content, impaired mitochondrial morphology and networking, and decreased respiratory function, ultimately resulting in severe glucose intolerance. Importantly, gene dosage studies unexpectedly revealed that Mfn1/2 control of glucose homeostasis was dependent on maintenance of mtDNA content, rather than mitochondrial structure. Mfn1/2 maintain mtDNA content by regulating the expression of the crucial mitochondrial transcription factor Tfam, as Tfam overexpression ameliorated the reduction in mtDNA content and GSIS in Mfn1/2-deficient β-cells. Thus, the primary physiologic role of Mfn1 and 2 in β-cells is coupled to the preservation of mtDNA content rather than mitochondrial architecture, and Mfn1 and 2 may be promising targets to overcome mitochondrial dysfunction and restore glucose control in diabetes.
Recovery of high-quality assembled genomes via metagenome binning guided with single-cell amplified genomes
Authors: Arikawa Koji , Ide Keigo , Kogawa Masato , Saeki Tatusya , Yoda Takuya , Endoh Taruho , Matsuhashi Ayumi , Takeyama Haruko , Hosokawa Masahito
Published: January 2021

Background

Obtaining high-quality (HQ) reference genomes from microbial communities is crucial for understanding the phylogeny and function of uncultured microbes in complex microbial ecosystems. Despite the improved bioinformatic approaches to generate curated metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), existing metagenomic binners often fail to obtain reliable MAGs, and thus, they are nowhere comparable to genomes sequenced from isolates in terms of strain level resolution. Here, we present a single-cell genome-guided metagenome binning (MetaSAG) to reconstruct the strain-resolved genomes from microbial communities at once.

Results

MetaSAG employs single-cell amplified genomes (SAGs) generated with microfluidic technology as binning guides to recover improved draft genomes with the metagenomic data. To assess the performance of reconstructing genomes from various microbial communities, we compared MetaSAG with four conventional metagenomic binners using a cell mock community, human gut microbiota, and skin microbiota samples. MetaSAG showed precise contig binning and higher recovery rates (>97%) of rRNA and plasmids compared to conventional binners in genome reconstruction from the cell mock community. In human microbiota samples, MetaSAG recovered the largest number of genomes with a total of 103 gut microbial genomes (21 HQ and 65 showed >90% completeness) and 45 skin microbial genomes (10 HQ and 40 showed >90% completeness), respectively. Conventional binners recovered oneStaphylococcus hominisgenome, whereas MetaSAG recovered twoS. hominisgenomes from the identical skin microbiota sample. Single-cell sequencing indicated that theseS. hominisgenomes clearly derived from two distinct strains harboring specifically different plasmids. We found that all conventionalS. hominisMAGs had substantial lack or excess of the genome sequences and contamination of otherStaphylococcusbacteria (S. epidermidis).

Conclusions

MetaSAG enabled us to obtain the strain-resolved genomes in the mock community and human microbiota samples by assigning metagenomic sequences correctly and covering both highly conserved genes such as rRNA genes and unique extrachromosomal elements, including plasmids. MetaSAG will provide HQ genomes that are difficult to obtain with metagenomic analyses alone and will facilitate the understanding of microbial ecosystems by elucidating detailed metabolic pathways and horizontal gene transfer networks through microbial genomes. MetaSAG is available athttps://github.com/kojiari/metasag.
Chemical interplay and complementary adaptative strategies toggle bacterial antagonism and co-existence
Authors: Molina-Santiago Carlos , Vela-Corcía David , Petras Daniel , Díaz-Martínez Luis , Pérez-Lorente Alicia Isabel , Sopeña-Torres Sara , Pearson John , Caraballo-Rodríguez Andrés Mauricio , Dorrestein Pieter C. , de Vicente Antonio , Romero Diego
Published: January 2021

Bacterial communities are in a continuous adaptive and evolutionary race for survival. A myriad of molecules that kill, defend, or mediate communication between bacterial cells of different lineages shape the final structure of the microbial community. In this work we expand our knowledge on the chemical interplay and specific mutations that modulate the transition from antagonism to co-existence between two plant-beneficial bacteria,Pseudomonas chlororaphisPCL1606 andBacillus amyloliquefaciensFZB42. We reveal that the bacteriostatic activity of bacillaene produced byBacillusrelies on an interaction with the protein elongation factor FusA and how mutations in this protein lead to tolerance to bacillaene and other protein translation inhibitors. Additionally, we describe how the unspecific tolerance to antimicrobials associated with mutations in the glycerol kinase GlpK is provoked mainly by a decrease ofBacilluscell membrane permeability among other pleiotropic cellular responses. We conclude that nutrient specialization and mutations in basic biological functions are bacterial evolutive and adaptive strategies that lead to the coexistence of two primary competitive bacterial species rather than their mutual eradication.
Multistep-type construction of fixed point for multivalued ρ-quasi-contractive-like maps in modular function spaces
Authors: Akewe Hudson , Olaoluwa Hallowed
Published: January 2021

Purpose

In this paper, the explicit multistep, explicit multistep-SP and implicit multistep iterative sequences are introduced in the context of modular function spaces and proven to converge to the fixed point of a multivalued map T such that PρT, an associate multivalued map, is a ρ-contractive-like mapping.

Design/methodology/approach

The concepts of relative ρ-stability and weak ρ-stability are introduced, and conditions in which these multistep iterations are relatively ρ-stable, weakly ρ-stable and ρ-stable are established for the newly introduced strong ρ-quasi-contractive-like class of maps.

Findings

Noor type, Ishikawa type and Mann type iterative sequences are deduced as corollaries in this study.

Originality/value

The results obtained in this work are complementary to those proved in normed and metric spaces in the literature.
Creation of a COVID-19 business and life lesson: the impact on students’ learning and behavior
Authors: Bowyer Shane
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to encourage other educators to pivot and implement a current event activity when a situation arises. This paper examines the pedagogical benefits of implementing a current event class activity. The author discusses using tacit knowledge of an international trip to heighten awareness of the COVID-19 pandemic while linking it to business management knowledge. Results of a follow-up student survey are also discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the potential impact of COVID-19, an in-class activity was implemented and later followed up by a survey that addressed the activity impact. Students conducted brief research on COVID-19 and were put in small groups that analyzed scenarios for potential spread and identified steps business managers could take as safeguards. The entire class discussed the scenarios and potential actions during the upcoming spring break. The associated survey was for future classroom management and feedback concerning COVID-19 and not designed for research purposes.

Findings

The literature analyses and survey results indicate that pivoting from the syllabus and engaging students in a current event activity can be beneficial. In this study, students displayed increased awareness and changed actions as a result of the class activity.

Originality/value

This paper shares the author’s perspective regarding deviation from the course syllabus to conduct a class activity focused on a current event, which in this case is the COVID-19 pandemic.