bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race and Ethnic Group Disparities in Emotional Distress Among Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bui Cindy N , Peng Changmin , Mutchler Jan E , Burr Jeffrey A
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives

Framed within Conservation of Resources theory, this study addressed race–ethnic differences in the relationships between emotional distress and current and expected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic stressors.

Research Design and Methods

The study employed data from the Household Pulse Survey, a large national survey collecting weekly data to understand the experiences of Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic (age 55 and above; N = 94,550). Emotional distress included depression and anxiety symptoms. COVID-19 stressors included current and expected income, housing, health care, and food insecurities.

Results

Older persons of color reported higher rates of stressors and emotional distress than their White counterparts. In relation to current stressors, older Black persons responded with less emotional distress and older Latino persons responded with more emotional distress than older White persons. In addition, older persons of color were more likely to expect future resource losses related to COVID-19, and the association between these expectations and emotional distress varied by race–ethnic group.

Discussion and Implications

The findings reflected the disproportionate negative impact of COVID-19 stressors on emotional distress among older persons of color, providing a baseline for future studies to further examine the impacts of the pandemic among diverse older adult populations.
Sectoral systems of innovation in the era of the fourth industrial revolution: an introduction to the special section
Authors: Li Daitian , Liang Zheng , Tell Fredrik , Xue Lan
Published: December 2020

The sectoral system framework has been adopted to study innovation and industrial dynamics in a wide range of sectors. However, recent development of the so-called “fourth industrial revolution” technologies, such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, additive manufacturing, advanced robotics, Internet of Things, smartphones, and autonomous vehicles, has been blurring the boundaries of existing sectors, bringing both opportunities and challenges for sectoral systems research. In this introductory essay, we first provide a quick review on the sectoral systems of innovation literature, clarifying some conceptual and methodological issues. Then, we discuss how the fourth industrial revolution might reshape sectoral systems along three different dimensions (i.e. technological, market, and policy dimensions). Finally, we introduce articles in this special section and call for future research on this intriguing topic.
The Gastrointestinal Microbiota of the Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Sheh Alexander
Published: December 2020

The microbiota is heavily involved in both health and disease pathogenesis, but defining a normal, healthy microbiota in the common marmoset has been challenging. The aim of this review was to systematically review recent literature involving the gastrointestinal microbiome of common marmosets in health and disease. Twelve sources were included in this review. The gut microbiome composition was reviewed across institutions worldwide, and taxonomic shifts between healthy individuals were described. Unlike the human gut microbiome, which is dominated by Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, the marmoset gut microbiome shows great plasticity across institutions, with 5 different phyla described as dominant in different healthy cohorts. Genera shared across institutions include Anaerobiospirillum, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Collinsella, Fusobacterium, Megamonas, Megasphaera, Phascolarctobacterium, and Prevotella. Shifts in the abundance of Prevotella or Bifidobacterium or invasion by pathogens like Clostridium perfringens may be associated with disease. Changes in microbial composition have been described in healthy and diseased marmosets, but factors influencing the severe changes in microbial composition have not been established. Multi-institutional, prospective, and longitudinal studies that utilize multiple testing methodologies are required to determine sources of variability in the reporting of marmoset microbiomes. Furthermore, methods of microbial manipulation, whether by diet, enrichment, fecal microbiome transplantation, etc, need to be established to modulate and maintain robust and resilient microbiome communities in marmoset colonies and reduce the incidence of idiopathic gastrointestinal disease.
Comparison of the Vaginal Microbiota in Postmenopausal Black and White Women
Authors: Hudson Patricia L , Ling Wodan , Wu Michael C , Hayward Matthew R , Mitchell Alissa J , Larson Joseph , Guthrie Katherine A , Reed Susan D , Kwon Douglas S , Mitchell Caroline M
Published: December 2020

Background

We compared vaginal microbial communities in postmenopausal black and white women.

Methods

Shotgun sequencing of vaginal swabs from postmenopausal women self-identified as black or white was compared using MiRKAT.

Results

Vaginal community dominance by Lactobacillus crispatus or Lactobacillusgasseri was more common in 44 postmenopausal black women (n = 12, 27%) than among 44 matched white women (n = 2, 5%; P = .01). No individual taxa were significantly more abundant in either group.

Conclusions

We identified small overall differences in vaginal microbial communities of black and white postmenopausal women. L. crispatus dominance was more common in black women.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT02516202 (MsFLASH05) and NCT01418209 (MsFLASH03).
Intensive Care Unit–Like Care of Nonhuman Primates with Ebola Virus Disease
Authors: Blair Paul W , Kortepeter Mark G , Downey Lydia G , Madar Cristian S , Downs Isaac L , Martins Karen A , Rossi Franco , Williams Janice A , Madar Annie , Schellhase Christopher W , Bearss Jeremy J , Zeng Xiankun , Bavari Sina , Soloveva Veronica , Wells Jay B , Stuthman Kelly S , Garza Nicole L , Vantongeren Sean A , Donnelly Ginger C , Steffens Jesse , Kalapaca Jennifer , Wiseman Perry , Henry Joseph , Marko Shannon , Chappell Mark , Lugo-Roman Luis , Ramos-Rivera Elliot , Hofer Christian , Blue Eugene , Moore Joshua , Fiallos Jimmy , Wetzel Darrel , Pratt William D , Unangst Tami , Miller Adele , Sola James J , Reisler Ronald B , Cardile Anthony P
Published: December 2020

Background

Ebola virus disease (EVD) supportive care strategies are largely guided by retrospective observational research. This study investigated the effect of EVD supportive care algorithms on duration of survival in a controlled nonhuman primate (NHP) model.

Methods

Fourteen rhesus macaques were challenged intramuscularly with a target dose of Ebola virus (1000 plaque-forming units; Kikwit). NHPs were allocated to intensive care unit (ICU)–like algorithms (n = 7), intravenous fluids plus levofloxacin (n = 2), or a control group (n = 5). The primary outcome measure was duration of survival, and secondary outcomes included changes in clinical laboratory values.

Results

Duration of survival was not significantly different between the pooled ICU-like algorithm and control groups (8.2 vs 6.9 days of survival; hazard ratio; 0.50; P = .25). Norepinephrine was effective in transiently maintaining baseline blood pressure. NHPs treated with ICU-like algorithms had delayed onset of liver and kidney injury.

Conclusions

While an obvious survival difference was not observed with ICU-like care, clinical observations from this model may aid in EVD supportive care NHP model refinement.
Intestinal Antibody Responses to 2 Novel Live Attenuated Type 2 Oral Poliovirus Vaccines in Healthy Adults in Belgium
Authors: Brickley Elizabeth B , Connor Ruth I , Wieland-Alter Wendy , Weiner Joshua A , Ackerman Margaret E , Arita Minetaro , Gast Chris , De Coster Ilse , Van Damme Pierre , Bandyopadhyay Ananda S , Wright Peter F
Published: December 2020

In a blinded phase 1 trial (EudraCT 2017-0000908-21; NCT03430349) in Belgium, healthy adults (aged 18–50 years) previously immunized exclusively with inactivated poliovirus vaccine were administered a single dose of 1 of 2 novel type 2 oral poliovirus vaccines (nOPV2-c1: S2/cre5/S15domV/rec1/hifi3 (n = 15); nOPV2-c2: S2/S15domV/CpG40 (n = 15)) and isolated for 28 days in a purpose-built containment facility. Using stool samples collected near days 0, 14, 21, and 28, we evaluated intestinal neutralization and immunoglobulin A responses to the nOPV2s and found that nOPV2-c1 and nOPV2-c2 induced detectable poliovirus type 2–specific intestinal neutralizing responses in 40.0% and 46.7% of participants, respectively.
Role of Immunoglobulin M and A Antibodies in the Neutralization of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
Authors: Klingler Jéromine , Weiss Svenja , Itri Vincenza , Liu Xiaomei , Oguntuyo Kasopefoluwa Y , Stevens Christian , Ikegame Satoshi , Hung Chuan-Tien , Enyindah-Asonye Gospel , Amanat Fatima , Baine Ian , Arinsburg Suzanne , Bandres Juan C , Kojic Erna Milunka , Stoever Jonathan , Jurczyszak Denise , Bermudez-Gonzalez Maria , Nádas Arthur , Liu Sean , Lee Benhur , Zolla-Pazner Susan , Hioe Catarina E
Published: December 2020

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected millions of people globally. Virus infection requires the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein. Although studies have demonstrated anti-spike and -RBD antibodies to be protective in animal models, and convalescent plasma as a promising therapeutic option, little is known about immunoglobulin isotypes capable of blocking infection.

Methods

We studied spike- and RBD-specific immunoglobulin isotypes in convalescent and acute plasma/serum samples using a multiplex bead assay. We also determined virus neutralization activities in plasma and serum samples, and purified immunoglobulin fractions using a vesicular stomatitis pseudovirus assay.

Results

Spike- and RBD-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) M, IgG1, and IgA1 were produced by all or nearly all subjects at variable levels and detected early after infection. All samples displayed neutralizing activity. Regression analyses revealed that IgM and IgG1 contributed most to neutralization, consistent with IgM and IgG fractions’ neutralization potency. IgA also exhibited neutralizing activity, but with lower potency.

Conclusion

IgG, IgM, and IgA are critical components of convalescent plasma used for treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The Politics of Teaching International Relations in the Arab World: Reading Walt in Beirut, Wendt in Doha, and Abul-Fadl in Cairo
Authors: Darwich May , Valbjørn Morten , Salloukh Bassel F , Hazbun Waleed , Samra Amira Abu , Saddiki Said , Saouli Adham , Albloshi Hamad H , Makdisi Karim
Published: December 2020

Can International Relations (IR) as it is taught in the Arab world be said to be an “American social science” or is it taught differently in different places? The forum addresses this question through an exploration of what and how scholars at Arab universities are teaching IR and how institutional, historical, and linguistic, as well as political and individual factors shape classroom dynamics in the Arab world. This forum attempts to bring the classroom into the Global/Post-Western debate by showing how IR can be taught differently in different places with a focus on a region under-represented in IR debates: the Arab world. The essays, exhibiting diversity in pedagogical strategies and theoretical perspectives, provide a window into how the “international” is perceived and taught locally by teachers and students in various Arab contexts. While the influence from the American “core” of the discipline is obvious, the forum documents how the theoretical and conceptual foundations of IR based on Western perspectives and history do not travel intact. The essays collectively provide evidence of different kinds of IRs not just across but also within regions and show that studying pedagogy can become a way to study how disciplinary IR varies contextually.
The Increasing Representativeness of International Organizations’ Secretariats: Evidence from the United Nations System, 1997–2015
Authors: Parizek Michal , Stephen Matthew D
Published: December 2020

Although international organizations (IOs) and their secretariats play important roles in international politics, we know surprisingly little about their staffing composition and the factors that shape it. What accounts for the national composition of the secretariats of IOs? We theorize that the national composition of international secretariats is shaped by three factors: the desire by powerful states for institutional control, a commonly shared interest in a secretariat's functional effectiveness, and, increasingly, a need for secretariats to be seen as legitimate by being representative of the global population. Building on recent constructivist literature, we argue that IOs face increasing normative pressure to be representative in their staffing patterns. Using panel regression, we assess our argument with a new dataset covering states’ representation in the secretariats of thirty-five United Nations system bodies from 1997 to 2015. The results indicate that while functional effectiveness plays a significant and stable role, international secretariats have become increasingly representative of the global population. Moreover, this has come primarily at the expense of the over-representation of powerful states. This shift from power to representation is particularly strong in large IOs with high political and societal visibility. When it comes to IO secretariats, representativeness (increasingly) matters.
Trade Competition and Worker Compensation: Why Do Some Receive More than Others?
Authors: Kim Sung Eun , Pelc Krzysztof J
Published: December 2020

Dealing with the distributional consequences of trade liberalization has become one of the key challenges facing developed democracies. Governments have created compensation programs to ease labor market adjustment, but these resources tend to be distributed highly unevenly. What accounts for the variation? Looking at the largest trade adjustment program in existence, the US’ Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), we argue that petitions for compensation are largely driven by legislative attitudes. When legislators express negative views of TAA, individuals in their districts become less likely to petition for, and receive, compensation. This effect is especially pronounced in Republican districts. An underprovision of TAA, in turn, renders individuals more likely to demand other forms of government support, like in-kind medical benefits. We use roll-call votes, bill sponsorships, and floor speeches to measure elite attitudes, and we proxy for the demand for trade adjustment using economic shocks from Chinese import competition. In sum, we show how the individual beliefs of political elites can be self-fulfilling.
Safety and efficacy of de-labelling penicillin allergy in adults using direct oral challenge: a systematic review
Authors: Cooper Lesley , Harbour Jenny , Sneddon Jacqueline , Seaton R Andrew
Published: December 2020

Background

Approximately 10% of people have an unverified penicillin allergy, with multiple personal and public health consequences.

Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of direct oral challenge, without prior skin testing, in this population.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched from inception to 28 June 2020 (updated November 2020) to find published and unpublished studies that reported direct oral challenge for the purpose of removal of penicillin allergy labels. Population weighted mean was used to calculate the proportion of patients who developed an immediate or delayed reaction to direct oral challenge across the studies.

Results

Thirteen studies were included in the review, with a sample size of 1202 (range 7–328). Studies included inpatient and outpatient cohorts assessed as low risk for true allergy. In pooled analysis of all 13 studies there were 41/1202 (3.41%) mild immediate or delayed reactions to direct oral challenge. The population-weighted mean incidence of immediate or delayed reaction to an oral challenge across studies was also 3.41% (95% CI: 2.38%–4.43%). There were no reports of serious adverse reactions, 96.5% of patients could be de-labelled and many were subsequently successfully treated with penicillin.

Conclusions

Direct oral challenge is safe and effective for de-labelling patients assessed as low risk for true allergy. Non-specialist clinicians competent in using an assessment algorithm can offer evaluation of penicillin allergy labels using direct oral challenge in appropriate patients. These measures will facilitate optimal infection treatment for patients, support antimicrobial stewardship, and minimize antimicrobial resistance.
Advancing electronic health record vendor usability maturity: Progress and next steps
Authors: Hettinger Aaron Z , Melnick Edward R , Ratwani Raj M
Published: December 2020

Despite basic federal requirements promoting a user-centered design approach to electronic health record (EHR) development and usability testing there have been usability and safety risks with EHR technology. Four EHR vendors were asked to provide written descriptions of their usability practices, and we reviewed these descriptions to identify areas where there has been advancement and areas for improvement. All 4 vendors described user-centered design processes and usability testing methods that demonstrate advancement from previous studies of vendor practices. Importantly, vendors are also beginning to address aspects of EHR implementation that play a critical role in shaping EHR usability. There are important areas for improvement in vendor practices including a greater focus on safety and on measurement and benchmarking. Vendors sharing their current usability practices demonstrates a step toward greater transparency which has typically been lacking.
Orius similis (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae): A Promising Candidate Predator of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Zeng Guang , Zhi Jun-Rui , Zhang Chang-Rong , Zhang Tao , Ye Jia-Qin , Zhou Lei , Hu Chao-Xing , Ye Mao
Published: December 2020

The bug Orius similis Zheng is a native generalist predator of insect pests in southern China. The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), is a notorious defoliator that is now an economically important insect pest throughout China. To investigate the ability of O. similis to control FAW, we evaluated the predatory capacity, behavior, and functional response of O. similis with respect to FAW and their olfactory response. Both females and males successfully preyed on FAW eggs and first-instar larvae but not on second-instar or older larvae. Adult O. similis only attacked and killed one egg or one larva at a time before sucking the prey, and similar predatory behavior was also observed with regard to FAW egg masses. Both female and male O. similis exhibited type II functional response when preying on FAW eggs and first-instar larvae. Maximum estimated prey consumed per day was 23.7 eggs and 26.2 larvae for adult females and 22.5 eggs and 19.6 larvae for adult males. Moreover, in a Y-tube olfactometer experiment, both female and male O. similis exhibited a significant preference for maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings damaged by FAW over clean air, healthy seedlings, FAW feces, and FAW, suggesting that seedlings damaged by FAW may releases specific volatiles attracting the predator. Collectively, the results of the study suggest that O. similis is a promising candidate for the biological control of FAW eggs and first-instar larvae, particularly given its attraction to FAW-damaged leaves, which may enable it to locate the target prey rapidly.
Residual Activity of Acaricides for Controlling Spider Mites in Watermelon and Their Impacts on Resident Predatory Mites
Authors: Schmidt-Jeffris Rebecca A , Coffey John L , Miller Gilbert , Farfan Monica A
Published: December 2020

Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Trombidiformes: Tetranychidae), is an important, worldwide pest of watermelon, Citrullus lanatus L. (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai (Cucurbitales: Cucurbitaceae). Feeding results in chlorotic spots and leaf necrosis, which can substantially reduce yields. In watermelon, T. urticae is managed solely with acaricides. Issues with acaricide resistance and pesticide label restrictions on number of applications per season require research-based recommendations on products with effective, long-lasting residues. To improve recommendations for T. urticae management in watermelon and to measure possible effects on non-target beneficial mites, we conducted acaricide efficacy trials in two locations in South Carolina, United States. The adulticidal products abamectin, bifenazate, fenpyroximate, and tolfenpyrad and the ovicidal products spiromesifen and etoxazole were tested. We also conducted two bioassays to better determine duration of acaricide residues. In the field trials, all acaricides except tolfenpyrad reduced T. urticae abundance, but all acaricides also reduced abundance of the most common predatory mite, Neoseiulus fallacis (Garman) (Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae). In the bioassays, abamectin and bifenazate residues caused high adult T. urticae mortality at up to 21 d after treatment, performing better than fenpyroximate and tolfenpyrad. Etoxazole and spiromesifen were longer lasting, with <1 offspring per treated female in the etoxazole treatment at 28 d after treatment. Based on efficacy, abamectin or bifenazate should be rotated with etoxazole for fast knockdown of active stages while reducing reproduction, respectively. However, development and registration of more selective acaricides in watermelon is needed to preserve biological control of T. urticae by predatory mites.
Learning from Incidental Exposure to Political Information in Online Environments
Authors: Nanz Andreas , Matthes Jorg
Published: December 2020

This article aims to explain learning outcomes of incidental exposure (IE) to political information in online environments. Drawing on the Political Incidental News Exposure Model, we predict learning outcomes by distinguishing between first-level (i.e., scanning of incidentally encountered information) and second-level IE (i.e., effortful processing of incidentally encountered information appraised as relevant). Furthermore, we conceptualize intention-based IE (i.e., while looking for non-political content) and topic-based IE (i.e., while looking for different political content). In a 2x2 experiment (N = 290), we manipulated respondents’ initial processing goal (i.e., political or non-political information) and low (i.e., first-level IE) versus high (i.e., second-level IE) relevance of the incidentally encountered information. Results show stronger learning effects for second level than for first-level IE. Learning effects do not differ between topic-based and intention-based IE, but second-level IE decreases learning related to the initial processing goal. Theoretical implications are discussed.
A method of finding stress solutions for a general plastic material under plane strain and plane stress conditions
Authors: Alexandrov Sergei , Jeng Yeau-Ren
Published: December 2020

A general plastic material under plane strain and plane stress is classified by a yield criterion that depends on both the first and second invariants of the stress tensor. The yield criterion together with the stress equilibrium equations forms a statically determinate system. This system is investigated in the principal lines coordinate system (i.e. the coordinate curves of this coordinate system coincide with trajectories of the principal stress directions). It is shown that the scale factors of the principal lines coordinate system satisfy a simple equation. Using this equation, a method for constructing the principal stress trajectories is developed. Therefore, the boundary value problem of plasticity theory reduces to a purely geometric problem. It is believed that the method developed is useful for solving a wide class of boundary value problems in plasticity.
A nonlinear strain-rate dependent constitutive model for uncured rubber materials under large deformation
Authors: Zhou Weihua , Fang Changqing , Tan Huifeng , Sun Huiyu
Published: December 2020

Uncured rubber possesses remarkable hyperelastic and viscoelastic properties while it undergoes large deformation; therefore, it has wide application prospects and attracts great research interests from academia and industry. In this paper, a nonlinear constitutive model with two parallel networks is developed to describe the mechanical response of uncured rubber. The constitutive model is incorporated with the Eying model to describe the hysteresis phenomenon and viscous flow criterion, and the hyperelastic properties under large deformation are captured by a non-Gaussian chain molecular network model. Based on the model, the mechanical behaviors of hyperelasticity, viscoelasticity and hysteresis under different strain rates are investigated. Furthermore, the constitutive model is employed to estimate uniaxial tensile, cyclic loading–unloading and multistep tensile relaxation mechanical behaviors of uncured rubber, and the prediction results show good agreement with the test data. The nonlinear mechanical constitutive model provides an efficient method for predicting the mechanical response of uncured rubber materials.
Analysis of the transmission loss of double-leaf panels with an equivalent spring–mass model for studs
Authors: Li Yuan-Wei , Wang Chao-Nan
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the sound insulation of double-leaf panels. In practice, double-leaf panels require a stud between two surface panels. To simplify the analysis, a stud was modeled as a spring and mass. Studies have indicated that the stiffness of the equivalent spring is not a constant and varies with the frequency of sound. Therefore, a frequency-dependent stiffness curve was used to model the effect of the stud to analyze the sound insulation of a double-leaf panel. First, the sound transmission loss of a panel reported by Halliwell was used to fit the results of this study to determine the stiffness of the distribution curve. With this stiffness distribution of steel stud, some previous proposed panels are also analyzed and are compared to the experimental results in the literature. The agreement is good. Finally, the effects of parameters, such as the thickness and density of the panel, thickness of the stud and spacing of the stud, on the sound insulation of double-leaf panels were analyzed.
Parasitic extraction and power loss estimation of power devices
Authors: Cheng H-C , Shen Y-H , Chen W-H
Published: December 2020

This study aims to characterize the switching transients and power losses of silicon (Si) power metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) in an SOT-227 package (hereinafter named “power MOSFET package”) and Si power MOSFET-based three-phase MOSFET inverter during load cycles through numerical modeling and experimental validation. The three-phase inverter comprises six power MOSFET packages as switches for brushless direct current motor drive. First of all, three-dimensional electromagnetic analyses are performed to extract the parasitic parameters of these two power devices. Subsequently, the device model and the previously derived package model of the power MOSFET are combined together in circuit simulation of a double pulse test (DPT). The calculated waveform profiles and switching times are compared with those obtained from the DPT experiment. Likewise, an effective compact circuit simulation model of the three-phase six-switch inverter, considering the parasitic effects, is developed for the switching loss estimation in the first switching interval of the six-step switching sequence. At last, parametric study is performed to explore, respectively, the influences of some crucial factors on the parasitic inductances and switching transients of the power MOSFET package and the switching losses of the three-phase inverter.
A case report—nonrecurrent laryngeal nerve and associated vascular anomalies: the role of imaging
Authors: Kozhisseri Raseena Nechikkattu , Rajapurkar Mayuri , Ramachandran Ranjini , Mallya Pranav , Sadananda Arjun
Published: December 2020

The anomalous position of nonrecurrent laryngeal nerve (NRLN) predisposes it to injury during thyroid surgery. The presence of right aberrant subclavian artery is a strong indicator of having an NRLN. Here, we are presenting a case report of an NRLN and role of imaging in its prediction.
Ebselen and diphenyl diselenide against fungal pathogens: A systematic review
Authors: Benelli Jéssica Louise , Poester Vanice Rodrigues , Munhoz Lívia Silveira , Melo Aryse Martins , Trápaga Mariana Rodrigues , Stevens David A , Xavier Melissa Orzechowski
Published: December 2020

Fungal infections are one of the most prevalent diseases in the world and there is a lack of new antifungal drug development for these diseases. We conducted a systematic review of the literature regarding the in vitro antifungal activity of the organoselenium compounds ebselen (Eb) and diphenyl diselenide [(PhSe)2]. A systematic review was carried out based on the search for articles with data concerning Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values, indexed in international databases and published until August 2020. A total of 2337 articles were found, and, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria used, 22 articles were included in the study. Inhibitory activity against 96% (200/208) and 95% (312/328) of the pathogenic fungi tested was described for Eb and [(PhSe)2], respectively. Including in these 536 fungal isolates tested, organoselenium activity was highlighted against Candida spp., Cryptococcus ssp., Trichosporon spp., Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., Pythium spp., and Sporothrix spp., with MIC values lower than 64 μg/mL. In conclusion, Eb and [(PhSe)2] have a broad spectrum of in vitro inhibitory antifungal activity. These data added with other pharmacological properties of these organoselenium compounds suggest that both compounds are potential future antifungal drugs. Whether MICs toward the upper end of the ranges described here are compatible with efficacious therapy, and whether they may achieve such end as a result of the favorable non-antimicrobial effects of selenium on the host, requires more in vivo testing.
Cross-reactive probes on Illumina DNA methylation arrays: a large study on ALS shows that a cautionary approach is warranted in interpreting epigenome-wide association studies
Authors: Hop Paul J , Zwamborn Ramona A J , Hannon Eilis J , Dekker Annelot M , van Eijk Kristel R , Walker Emma M , Iacoangeli Alfredo , Jones Ashley R , Shatunov Aleksey , Khleifat Ahmad Al , Opie-Martin Sarah , Shaw Christopher E , Morrison Karen E , Shaw Pamela J , McLaughlin Russell L , Hardiman Orla , Al-Chalabi Ammar , Van Den Berg Leonard H , Mill Jonathan , Veldink Jan H
Published: December 2020

Illumina DNA methylation arrays are a widely used tool for performing genome-wide DNA methylation analyses. However, measurements obtained from these arrays may be affected by technical artefacts that result in spurious associations if left unchecked. Cross-reactivity represents one of the major challenges, meaning that probes may map to multiple regions in the genome. Although several studies have reported on this issue, few studies have empirically examined the impact of cross-reactivity in an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS). In this paper, we report on cross-reactivity issues that we discovered in a large EWAS on the presence of the C9orf72 repeat expansion in ALS patients. Specifically, we found that that the majority of the significant probes inadvertently cross-hybridized to the C9orf72 locus. Importantly, these probes were not flagged as cross-reactive in previous studies, leading to novel insights into the extent to which cross-reactivity can impact EWAS. Our findings are particularly relevant for epigenetic studies into diseases associated with repeat expansions and other types of structural variation. More generally however, considering that most spurious associations were not excluded based on pre-defined sets of cross-reactive probes, we believe that the presented data-driven flag and consider approach is relevant for any type of EWAS.
Safety, Efficacy, and Durability of Stent Plus Balloon-Assisted Coiling for the Treatment of Wide-Necked Intracranial Bifurcation Aneurysms
Authors: Aydin Kubilay , Stracke Paul , Berdikhojayev Mynzhylky , Barburoglu Mehmet , Mosimann Pascal J , Suleimankulov Nurzhan , Sarshayev Marat , Sencer Serra , Chapot Rene
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms remain a challenge for endovascular surgeons. Dual-stent-assisted coiling techniques have been defined to treat bifurcation aneurysms with a complex neck morphology. However, there are still concerns about the safety of dual-stenting procedures. Stent plus balloon-assisted coiling is a recently described endovascular technique that enables the coiling of wide-necked complex bifurcation aneurysms by implanting only a single stent.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility, efficacy, safety, and durability of this technique for the treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patients with wide-necked intracranial bifurcation aneurysms treated with stent plus balloon-assisted coiling. The initial and follow-up clinical and angiographic outcomes were assessed. Preprocedural and follow-up clinical statuses were assessed using modified Rankin scale.

RESULTS

A total of 61 patients (mean age: 54.6 ± 10.4 yr) were included in the study. The immediate postprocedural digital subtraction angiography revealed complete aneurysm occlusion in 86.9% of the cases. A periprocedural complication developed in 11.5% of the cases. We observed a delayed ischemic complication in 4.9%. There was no mortality in this study. The permanent morbidity rate was 3.3%. The follow-up angiography was performed in 55 of 61 patients (90.1%) (the mean follow-up period was 25.5 ± 27.3 mo). The rate of complete aneurysm occlusion at the final angiographic follow-up was 89.1%. The retreatment rate was 1.8%.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that stent plus balloon-assisted coiling is a feasible, effective, and relatively safe endovascular technique for the treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms located in the posterior and anterior circulation.
Micronutrient gaps during the complementary feeding period in South Asia: A Comprehensive Nutrient Gap Assessment
Authors: Beal Ty , White Jessica M , Arsenault Joanne E , Okronipa Harriet , Hinnouho Guy-Marino , Murira Zivai , Torlesse Harriet , Garg Aashima
Published: December 2020

Micronutrient malnutrition is a key driver of morbidity and mortality for millions of children in South Asia. Understanding the specific micronutrients lacking in the diet during the complementary feeding period is essential for addressing undernutrition caused by inadequate diets. A Comprehensive Nutrient Gap Assessment was used to synthesize diverse evidence and estimate the public health significance of complementary-feeding micronutrient gaps and identify evidence gaps in 8 countries in South Asia. There were important gaps across the region in iron, zinc, vitamin A, folate, vitamin B12, and, to a lesser extent, calcium and vitamin C. The most nutrient-dense, whole-food sources of these micronutrients include liver, small fish, eggs, ruminant meat, and dark leafy greens. Investment is needed in some countries to collect data on micronutrient biomarkers and dietary intakes. A food systems approach is essential for improving child diets and reducing malnutrition, which affects millions of children, their futures, and society at large across South Asia and beyond.
Herne Hill Almond Blossoms
Authors: Ruskin John
Published: December 2020

36. When I was about four years old my father found himself able to buy the lease of a house on Herne Hill, a rustic eminence four miles south of the ‘Standard in Cornhill’;* of which the leafy seclusion remains, in...
Quem Tu, Melpomene
Authors: Ruskin John
Published: December 2020

195. Whether in the biography of a nation, or of a single person, it is alike impossible to trace it steadily through successive years. Some forces are failing while others strengthen, and most act irregularly, or else at uncorresponding periods of renewed enthusiasm...
Roslyn Chapel
Authors: Ruskin John
Published: December 2020

238. I must yet return, before closing the broken record of these first twenty years, to one or two scattered days in 1836, when things happened which led forward into phases of work to be given account of in next volume.

I cannot find the...
Chapter XI
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

There was something so absurd in the association of Madame Fontaine’s charms with the extinction of Mr Engelman’s pipe, that I burst out laughing. My good old friend looked at me in grave surprise.

‘What is there to laugh at in my forgetting to keep...
Chapter XXIII
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

Circumstances had obliged my aunt to perform the last stage of her journey to Frankfort by the night mail.* She had only stopped at our house on her way to the hotel; being unwilling to trespass on the hospitality of her partners,...
Chapter XXV
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

When supper was announced, I went upstairs again to show my aunt the way to the room in which we took our meals.

‘Well?’ I said.

‘Well,’ she answered coolly, ‘Madame Fontaine has promised to reconsider it.’

I confess I was staggered. By what possible...
Chapter I
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

In the preceding portion of this narrative I spoke as an eye-witness. In the present part of it, my absence from Frankfort leaves me dependent on the documentary evidence of other persons. This evidence consists (first) of letters addressed to myself; (secondly) of statements...
Chapter XIII
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

Madame Fontaine instantly left her room. Alarmed by the violent ringing of the bell, Minna followed her mother downstairs. The door of the office was open; they both saw what had happened as soon as they reached the hall. In sending for Madame Fontaine,...
Chapter XVII
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

The departure from the house was interrupted by an unforeseen cause of delay.

Jack refused to follow the hearse, with Doctor Dormann and Mr Keller. ‘I won’t lose sight of her!’ he cried—‘no! not for a moment! Of all living creatures, I must be the...
II
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

Joseph’s face, when he opened the door, at once informed me that something extraordinary was going on in the house.

‘Anything wrong?’ I asked.

Joseph looked at me in a state of bewilderment. ‘You had better speak to the doctor,’ he said.

‘The doctor! Who...
IX
Authors: Collins Wilkie
Published: December 2020

The night is getting on; and the lamp I am writing by grows dim.

My mind wanders away from Frankfort, and from all that once happened there. The picture now in my memory presents an English scene.

I am at the house of business in...
Chapter III
Authors: Lewis Matthew
Published: December 2020

——These are the Villains

Whom all the Travellers do fear so much.

———Some of them are Gentlemen,

Such as the fury of ungoverned Youth

Thrust from the company of awful Men.*

Two Gentlemen of Verona.

The marquis and Lorenzo proceeded to the Hotel...
Chapter II
Authors: Lewis Matthew
Published: December 2020

Tell us, ye Dead, will none of you in pity

To those you left behind disclose the secret?

O! That some courteous Ghost would blab it out,

What ’tis you are, and we must shortly be.

I’ve heard, that Souls departed have sometimes

Fore-warned Men...
The Carbury Family
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

Something of herself and condition Lady Carbury has told the reader in the letters given in the former chapter, but more must be added. She has declared she had been cruelly slandered; but she has also shown that she was not a woman whose...
The Beargarden
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

Lady Carbury’s house in Welbeck Street was a modest house enough,—with no pretensions to be a mansion, hardly assuming even to be a residence; but, having some money in her hands when she first took it, she had made it pretty and...
The Longestaffes
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

Mr Adolphus Longestaffe, the squire of Caversham in Suffolk, and of Pickering Park in Sussex, was closeted on a certain morning for the best part of an hour with Mr Melmotte in Abchurch Lane, had there discussed all his private affairs, and was about...
Miles Grendall’s Triumph
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

Sir Felix as he walked down to his club felt that he had been checkmated,—and was at the same time full of wrath at the insolence of the man who had so easily beaten him out of the field. As far as he could...
Mrs Hurtle
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

Paul Montague at this time lived in comfortable lodgings in Sackville Street, and ostensibly the world was going well with him. But he had many troubles. His troubles in reference to Fisker, Montague, and Montague,—and also their consolation,—are already known to the reader. He...
Mrs Hurtle Goes to the Play
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

On the day after the visit just recorded, Paul Montague received the following letter from Mrs Hurtle:—

‘My dear Paul,—

‘I think that perhaps we hardly made ourselves understood to each other yesterday, and I am sure that you do not understand how...
‘Unanimity is the Very Soul of These Things’
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

That evening Montague was surprised to receive at the Beargarden a note from Mr Melmotte, which had been brought thither by a messenger from the city,—who had expected to have an immediate answer, as though Montague lived at the club.

‘Dear Sir,’ said...
Sir Felix Makes Himself Ready
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

Sir Felix, when he promised to meet Ruby at the Music Hall on the Tuesday, was under an engagement to start with Marie Melmotte for New York on the Thursday following, and to go down to Liverpool on the Wednesday. There was no reason,...
Sir Felix Meddles with Many Matters
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

There is no duty more certain or fixed in the world than that which calls upon a brother to defend his sister from ill-usage; but, at the same time, in the way we live now, no duty is more difficult, and we may say...
Marie’s Perseverance
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

Very early the next morning, very early that is for London life, Melmotte was told by a servant that Mr Croll had called and wanted to see him. Then it immediately became a question with him whether he wanted to see Croll....
Lady Carbury and Mr Broune
Authors: Trollope Anthony
Published: December 2020

When Sir Felix Carbury declared to his friends at the Beargarden that he intended to devote the next few months of his life to foreign travel, and that it was his purpose to take with him a Protestant divine,—as was much the habit with...
Chapter III
Authors: Equiano Olaudah
Published: December 2020

The author is carried to Virginia—His distress—Surprise at seeing a picture and a watch—Is bought by Captain Pascal, and sets out for England—His terror during the voyage—Arrives in England—His wonder at a fall of snow—Is sent to Guernsey, and in some time goes on board...
Chapter XI: Maggie Tries to Run Away from Her Shadow
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

Maggie’S intentions, as usual, were on a larger scale than Tom had imagined. The resolution that gathered in her mind, after Tom and Lucy had walked away, was not so simple as that of going home. No! she would run away and...
Chapter IV: A Vanishing Gleam
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

Mr
Tulliver, even between the fits of spasmodic rigidity which had recurred at intervals ever since he had been found fallen from his horse, was usually in so apathetic a condition that the exits and entrances into his room were not felt to be...
Chapter V: Tom Applies His Knife to the Oyster
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

The next day, at ten o’clock, Tom was on his way to St Ogg’s, to see his uncle Deane, who was to come home last night, his aunt had said; and Tom had made up his mind that his uncle Deane was the ...
Chapter VII: How a Hen Takes to Stratagem
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

The days passed, and Mr Tulliver showed, at least to the eyes of the medical man, stronger and stronger symptoms of a gradual return to his normal condition: the paralytic obstruction was, little by little, losing its tenacity, and the mind was rising from...
Chapter I: A Variation of Protestantism Unknown to Bossuet
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

Journeying down the Rhone on a summer’s day, you have perhaps felt the sunshine made dreary by those ruined villages which stud the banks in certain parts of its course, telling how the swift river once rose, like an angry, destroying god, sweeping down...
Chapter I: In the Red Deeps
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

The family sitting-room was a long room with a window at each end; one looking towards the croft and along the Ripple to the banks of the Floss, the other into the mill-yard. Maggie was sitting with her work against the latter window when...
Chapter IV: Another Love-Scene
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

Early in the following April, nearly a year after that dubious parting you have just witnessed, you may, if you like, again see Maggie entering the Red Deeps through the group of Scotch firs. But it is early afternoon and not evening,...
Chapter XI: In the Lane
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

Maggie had been four days at her aunt Moss’s, giving the early June sunshine quite a new brightness in the care-dimmed eyes of that affectionate woman, and making an epoch for her cousins great and small, who were learning her words and actions by...
Chapter XIII: Borne Along by the Tide
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

In Less than a week Maggie was at St Ogg’s again,—outwardly in much the same position as when her visit there had just begun. It was easy for her to fill her mornings apart from Lucy without any obvious effort; for she had her...
Chapter XIV: Waking
Authors: Eliot George
Published: December 2020

When Maggie was gone to sleep, Stephen, weary too with his unaccustomed amount of rowing, and with the intense inward life of the last twelve hours, but too restless to sleep, walked and lounged about the deck with his cigar far on into midnight,...
Chapter VII
Authors: Dostoevsky Fyodor
Published: December 2020

A gentleman’s carriage of great elegance, harnessed to a pair of sprightly greys, stood in the middle of the road. There was no one inside, and the coachman himself had come down from the box and was standing beside it, while someone held the...
Chapter I
Authors: Dostoevsky Fyodor
Published: December 2020

The morning following Piotr Petrovich’s fateful meeting with Dunechka and Pulkheria Alexandrovna exerted its sobering effect even on Piotr Petrovich. To his great displeasure, he was obliged little by little to accept as an accomplished and irreversible fact, what had yesterday still appeared to...
III. The Slaves’ New Year’s Day
Authors: Jacobs Harriet
Published: December 2020

Dr. Flint owned a fine residence in town, several farms, and about fifty slaves, besides hiring a number by the year.

Hiring-day at the south takes place on the 1st of January. On the 2d, the slaves are expected to go to their new...
IV. The Slave who dared to feel like a Man
Authors: Jacobs Harriet
Published: December 2020

Two years had passed since I entered Dr. Flint’s family, and those years had brought much of the knowledge that comes from experience, though they had afforded little opportunity for any other kinds of knowledge.

My grandmother had, as much as possible, been a mother...