bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperate and tropical coastal waters share relatively similar microbial biofilm communities while free‐living or particle‐attached communities are distinct
Authors: Catão C. P. Elisa , Pollet Thomas , Garnier Cédric , Barry‐Martinet Raphaëlle , Rehel Karine , Linossier Isabelle , Tunin‐Ley Alina , Turquet Jean , Briand Jean‐François
Published: April 2021

Free‐living (FL) marine microbial communities differ from those attached to particles (PA). Likewise, biofilms (B) colonizing artificial surfaces, including plastics or ship hulls, hardly resemble their planktonic surroundings. However, few studies have examined the effect of the environment on these lifestyles and on the source of organisms colonizing marine surfaces. Using 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding, we identified specificities of marine prokaryotic community lifestyles (FL, PA or B) sampled in three coastal polluted locations with dissimilar environmental conditions: the North‐Western Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Biofilms developed over polyvinyl chloride (PVC) were found to be significantly different from FL or PA collected during the immersions. Alpha‐diversity increased from FL to PA and to B, illustrating the integrative aspect of the latter, with little proportion of operational taxonomic units shared with the first two. Beta‐diversity clustered first the lifestyles and then the sites. FL and PA were more affected by water quality, especially by trace metal contamination, whereas B were as sensitive to trace metals as to nutrients. Although biofilms should be supplied by the planktonic (ultra) rare biosphere, source tracking could only detect small contributions of FL or PA taxa to B communities.
An algorithm for random generation of admissible horizontal alignments for optimum layout design
Authors: Vázquez‐Méndez Miguel E. , Casal Gerardo , Castro Alberte , Santamarina Duarte
Published: April 2021

This work deals with the design of horizontal alignments (HAs) for its application in intelligent civil systems. Two consecutive tasks are performed: the random generation of admissible horizontal alignments (AHAs; alignments verifying some geometric constraints set in advance) and the optimal design of layouts joining two given points. A rigorous mathematical analysis of the first task leads to a novel algorithm for random generation of alignments, which is used to develop the global optimization method proposed for the second task. The usefulness of this approach is shown on some practical applications. First, two problems with applications in robotics, pipe layout design, and forest road design are solved in realistic situations. Next, the random generation of AHAs in mountainous terrain is addressed. Finally, the model is extended to 3D alignments and a real case study is presented, designing a bypass on the N‐640 Spanish national road, surrounding the urban area of Monterroso.
Nalbuphine for spinal anesthesia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yu Pan , Zhang Jie , Wang Jun
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Various adjuvants for prolongation of intra‐operative and postoperative analgesia have been clinically studied, but the safety and efficiency of nalbuphine as an adjuvant to local anesthetics in spinal anesthesia remains unconfirmed. Therefore, we conducted a meta‐analysis about the effect of nalbuphine as an adjuvant to local anesthetics in spinal anesthesia in regard to time of onset of sensory blockade and motor blockade, duration of motor blockade, 2‐segment sensory regression time, the duration of analgesia, and incidence of side effects to provide a reliable basis for clinical application.

Methods

Databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, Web of Science, CNKI, CBM, WanFang, and Viper, were searched for eligible studies. Data were extracted according to the proposed inclusion and exclusion criteria, RevMan version 5.3 and Stata 16 were selected to perform meta‐analysis.

Results

Eighteen published studies including 1633 patients met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that adding nalbuphine to local anesthetics for spinal anesthesia can prolong two‐segment sensory regression time (mean difference [MD] = 24.31; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 19.61–29.00, p < 0.001) and the duration of analgesia (MD = 118.11; 95% CI = 71.34–164.89, p < 0.001) without significantly increasing the incidence of adverse reactions in comparison to normal saline group. In addition, the analgesic effect of nalbuphine group was not statistically different from that of control group when compared with the potent opioid group, but the occurrence of hypotension (risk ratio [RR] = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.18–0.68, p < 0.01), the occurrence of shivering (RR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.08–0.43, p < 0.01), and the occurrence of pruritus (RR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.10–0.53, p < 0.01) was lower than the potent opioid group.

Conclusions

Nalbuphine as additives to local anesthetics can significantly prolong the two segments of sensory block and the average duration of analgesia without increasing the incidence of adverse reactions when compared with normal saline group. In addition, the analgesic efficacy of nalbuphine served as an adjunct to local anesthetics was clinically not different from that of the potent opioids, but the occurrence of hypotension, shivering, and pruritus was lower than the potent opioids.
Optimizing Island Refuges against global Catastrophic and Existential Biological Threats: Priorities and Preparations
Authors: Boyd Matt , Wilson Nick
Published: April 2021

Human civilization is vulnerable to global catastrophic biological threats and existential threats. Policy to mitigate the impact of major biological threats should consider worst‐case scenarios. We aimed to strengthen existing research on island refuges as a mitigating mechanism against such threats by considering five additional factors as well as recent literature on catastrophic risks and resilience. We also analyzed the performance of potential refuge islands during early phases the COVID‐19 pandemic. Using a composite indicator (scored from 0–1) based on 14 global macroindices, we present analysis supporting Australia (0.71), New Zealand (0.64), and Iceland (0.58) as the leading candidate island nation refuges to safeguard the survival of humanity and a flourishing technological civilization from the threat of a catastrophic pandemic. Data from the COVID‐19 pandemic supports this finding where islands have performed relatively well. We discuss the persisting weaknesses of even the best candidate refuges and the growing literature describing what preparations such a refuge should ensure to enhance resilience. Refuge preparations by Australia and New Zealand, in particular, may additionally provide some immunity against winter‐inducing catastrophes such as global nuclear war. Existing disaster resilience frameworks such as the Sendai framework could be worded to mandate preventive measures against global catastrophic and existential threats. The issue of island refuges against certain global catastrophic risks should be raised at relevant international political summits.
An n‐dimensional Rosenbrock distribution for Markov chain Monte Carlo testing
Authors: Pagani Filippo , Wiegand Martin , Nadarajah Saralees
Published: April 2021

The Rosenbrock function is a ubiquitous benchmark problem in numerical optimization, and variants have been proposed to test the performance of Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms on distributions with a curved and narrow shape. In this work we discuss the Rosenbrock distribution and the advantages and limitations of its current n‐dimensional extensions. We then propose a new extension to arbitrary dimensions called the Hybrid Rosenbrock distribution, which addresses all the limitations that affect the current extensions. The Hybrid Rosenbrock distribution is composed of conditional normal kernels arranged in such a way that preserves the key features of the original Rosenbrock kernel. Moreover, due to its structure, the Hybrid Rosenbrock distribution is analytically tractable, and possesses several desirable properties which make it an excellent test model for computational algorithms. We conclude with numerical experiments that show how commonly used Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms may fail to explore densities with curved correlation structure, restating the importance of a reliable benchmark problem for this class of densities.
Exit from open‐ended social benefits into employment: Access to work, active labour market policies and work intensity
Authors: Mato‐Díaz Fco Javier , Miyar‐Busto María
Published: April 2021

An analysis is made of the sensitivity of minimum income schemes to the effects of labour market participation and active labour market services. Data comes from the only regional scheme in Spain that has an open‐ended duration and has existed for a period long enough to be analysed. This scheme shows the closest resemblance with the first national minimum income programme, introduced by the Spanish government in 2020 (Ingreso Mínimo Vital). Survival analysis results show that people who access full‐time work contracts have a higher probability of exiting into employment than those who do not, although the majority of people who sign at least one contract remain in the scheme, nevertheless. A defining element for exiting the scheme is work intensity. Thus, despite the fact that the scheme is compatible with some jobs, results suggest that increasing the compatibility between work and benefit would be a crucial factor in facilitating exit from the scheme. In addition, analyses of the elements defining the probability of signing a work contract while on the benefit show that active labour market policies heighten said probability, but do not subsequently influence exit from the scheme.
Characterization of two new HLA alleles: HLA‐A*02:982 and HLA‐C*04:441
Authors: Loginova Maria , Smirnova Daria , Kutyavina Svetlana , Kashin Konstanin , Paramonov Igor
Published: April 2021

Two new alleles were identified during routine next generation sequencing.
Genomic andin vitropharmacodynamic analysis of rifampicin resistance in multidrug‐resistant canineStaphylococcus pseudintermediusisolates
Authors: Hicks Karly , Tan Yongjun , Cao Wenqi , Hathcock Terri , Boothe Dawn , Kennis Robert , Zhang Dapeng , Wang Xu , White Amelia
Published: April 2021

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern in canineStaphylococcus pseudintermediusdermatitis. Treatment with rifampicin (RFP) is considered only in meticillin‐resistant and multidrug‐resistantS. pseudintermedius(MDR‐MRSP).

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine an optimal RFP dosing for MDR‐MRSP treatment without induction of RFP resistance and identify causal mutations for antimicrobial resistance.

Methods and materials

Time–kill assays were performed in a control isolate and three MDR‐MRSP isolates at six clinically relevant concentrations [32 to 1,024 × MIC (the minimum inhibitory concentration)]. Whole‐genome resequencing and bioinformatic analysis were performed in the resistant strains developed in this assay.

Results

The genomic analysis identified nine antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in MDR‐MRSP isolates, which are responsible for resistance to seven classes of antibiotics. RFP activity against all four isolates was consistent with a time‐dependent and bacteriostatic response. RFP resistance was observed in six of the 28 time–kill assays, including concentrations 64 × MIC in MDR‐MRSP1 isolates at 24 h, 32 × MIC in MDR‐MRSP2 at 48 h, 32 × MIC in MDR‐MRSP3 at 48 h and 256 × MIC in MDR‐MRSP3 at 24 h. Genome‐wide mutation analyses in these RFP‐resistant strains discovered the causal mutations in the coding region of therpoBgene.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

A study has shown that 6 mg/kg per os results in plasma concentrations of 600–1,000 × MIC ofS. pseudintermedius. Based on our data, this dose should achieve the minimum MIC (×512) to prevent RFP resistance development; therefore, we recommend a minimum daily dose of 6 mg/kg for MDR‐MRSP pyoderma treatment when limited antibiotic options are available.
Mechanism of Ceramic-Like Friction of Quasicrystal-Reinforced Al Matrix Composites Formed by In Situ Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Li Shuo , Mansori Mohamed El , Wang Qingzheng , Kang Nan , Hadrouz Mourad El
Published: April 2021

The wear of aluminum alloy may be decreased by its reinforcement with quasicrystals (QCs) prepared by melt, which in itself has good wear-resisting properties. This research paper considers the part played by a dense Al-Fe-Cr QC reinforced Al matrix composite fabricated by the directed energy deposition (DED) in reducing wear between sliding surfaces and discusses briefly some of the factors which, in practice, explain ceramic-like properties of quasicrystal including low friction and wear resistance. The hardness of reinforcement phases, QC Al91Fe4Cr5 and Al13(Fe, Cr)4, was up to ∼91 and ∼112 HV respectively, while the Al matrix was just ∼70 HV. Furthermore, the reinforcement phases contributed to form the mechanical mixing layer (MML) which significantly decreased the coefficient of friction (COF) and improves the wear resistance. With the increase of load from 1 N to 5 N, the COF dropped from 0.82 to 0.33 because the higher load was beneficial to the formation of harder and denser MML. Through the comprehensive analysis of the wear test and worn surface, the wear behavior and mechanism of this QC-reinforced Al matrix composite have been explained in detail. The results indicate that the quasicrystal-reinforced Al matrix composites formed by DED are one of the promising wear-resistance materials.
Mooring Analysis of a Dual-Spar Floating Wind Farm With a Shared Line
Authors: Liang Guodong , Jiang Zhiyu , Merz Karl
Published: April 2021

Wind farms with shared mooring lines have the potential to reduce mooring costs. However, such wind farms may encounter complex system dynamics because adjacent wind turbines are coupled. This paper presents an analysis of the shared mooring system with a focus on the system natural periods. We first apply Irvine’s method to model both the shared line and the two-segment single lines. The response surface method is proposed to replace iterations of the catenary equations of the single lines, and a realistic single line design is presented for OC3 Hywind. Then, system linearization and eigenvalue analysis are performed for the wind farm consisting of two spar floating wind turbines, one shared line, and four single lines. The obtained natural periods and natural modes are verified by numerical free decay tests. Finally, a sensitivity study is carried out to investigate the influence of mooring properties. It is found that the shared line has a significant influence on the natural periods in the surge and sway modes. The natural periods in the surge and sway modes are also most sensitive to the mooring property variations. Two sway eigenmodes are identified, and the lower sway natural period varies between 23 s and 88 s in the sensitivity study. The present analysis method can be used to identify critical natural periods at the preliminary design stage of shared mooring systems.
Dynamic Load and Contact Stress Analysis of Spur Gears
Authors: Arikan M. A. Sahir
Published: April 2021

Dynamic loads on spur gears are calculated by using an analytical model based on torsional vibrations of gears, and dynamic load variations during a mesh cycle of a tooth are determined. Variable stiffnesses of gear teeth, which are required for dynamic load calculations are found by using the finite element method. Contact stresses are calculated by using the analytical expressions developed for two elestic bodies held in contact by forces normal to the area of contact and accompanied by tangential (frictional) forces, and contact stress variations during a mesh cycle of a tooth are determined.
Feature Extraction for Casting Core Development
Authors: Ganter M. A. , Skoglund P. A.
Published: April 2021

Feature extraction techniques are presented for the generation of casting core patterns from a boundary representation (B-Rep) solid model. Techniques are presented which would allow for automatic extraction of three classes of core features (internal voids, single and multi-surface holes, and boundary perturbations). The task of extracting casting cores from solid models involves recognizing a collection of entities (i.e. slots, bosses, undercut surfaces, local and global concavities, etc.) from the set of lower level entities (i.e. the B-Rep structure). To this end, a combination of solid modeling B-Rep and graph structures and their associated methods will be used for casting core development. Appropriate local features are identified and extracted from the original object, and are grouped into one or more new object(s) (termed a core-object). If the core-object is multiply connected (i.e. composed of multiple objects), it is graph separated into global feature objects. Each of these global feature objects represents a core in the final pattern. Lastly, the geometry of the original part is augmented to add core prints where core geometries were extracted. The core print, as currently developed, combines the extracted core geometry and its convex hull.
A Geometry Based Method of Integrated Engineering Analysis and Optimization
Authors: Dolin Ronald M. , Bernhard Robert J.
Published: April 2021

An integrated geometry based method of analysis and optimization is presented. The significance of geometry based analysis and optimization methods are discussed. A hierarchical integer based data structure, used to define and manipulate geometry, is presented. Many features of the integer based data structure are given. Shapes are shown to represent the fundamental geometry. Variables of shapes are constrained and related to each other so that a reduced set of design variables result. These design variables are used to pose both analysis and optimization problems. Heuristics are used to simplify the integrated geometry specification, analysis and optimization procedures. The resulting engineering environment concurrently poses analysis and optimization problems during geometry generation, leading to an integrated geometry based method of analysis and optimization.
Synthesis of Spatially and Intrinsically Constrained Curves Using Simulated Annealing
Authors: Malhotra Alok , Oliver James H. , Tu Weizhen
Published: April 2021

A general technique is presented for automatic generation of B-spline curves in a spatially constrained environment, subject to specified intrinsic shape properties. Spatial constraints are characterized by a distance metric relating points on the curve to polyhedral models of obstacles which the curve should avoid. The shape of the curve is governed by constraints based on intrinsic curve properties such as parametric variation and curvature. To simultaneously address the independent goals of global obstacle avoidance and local control of intrinsic shape properties, curve synthesis is formulated as a combinatorial optimization problem and solved via simulated annealing. Several example applications are presented which demonstrate the robustness of the technique. The synthesis of both uniform and non-uniform B-spline curves is also demonstrated. An extension of the technique to general sculptured surface model synthesis is briefly described, and a preliminary example of simple surface synthesis presented.
Optimal Design With a Monomial-Based Version of Newton’s Method
Authors: Burns Scott A.
Published: April 2021

A monomial-based method for solving systems of algebraic nonlinear equations is presented. The method uses the arithmetic-geometric mean inequality to construct a system of monomial equations that approximates the system of nonlinear equations. This “monomial method” is closely related to Newton’s method, yet exhibits many special properties not shared by Newton’s method that enhance performance. These special properties are discussed in relation to engineering design optimization.
An Automatic Approach to Handling Inequality Constraints in an Interactive Design Environment
Authors: Sridhar Natarajan , Agrawal Rajiv , Kinzel Gary L.
Published: April 2021

A general mechanical design can be characterized by a set of equality and inequality constraints. Constraint Management algorithms have been successfully applied for the satisfaction of equality constraints. The goal of this paper is to extend the ideas of constraint management to handle inequality constraints. Past research shows that the handling of inequality constraints has been restricted to optimization and symbolic frameworks. As opposed to the traditional optimization schemes in which all the inequality constraints are converted to equalities, our approach introduces slack variables for only those inequalities that are active at that particular stage of the design process. The basic premise governing the algorithm presented in this paper is to satisfy a set of inequality constraints while deviating as little as possible from the given design specifications. An occurrence matrix formulation is used to represent both the equality and inequality constraints that govern the design. A linear model of the design, based on sensitivity computations, is used to automate the procedure. The work is illustrated for the classical weldment design problem.
NIH lifts restrictions on fetal tissue research
Authors: Servick Kelly
Published: April 2021

Scientists applaud end of intramural research ban and Trump-era review board.
Preventing
Engrailed-1
activation in fibroblasts yields wound regeneration without scarring
Authors: Mascharak Shamik , desJardins-Park Heather E. , Davitt Michael F. , Griffin Michelle , Borrelli Mimi R. , Moore Alessandra L. , Chen Kellen , Duoto Bryan , Chinta Malini , Foster Deshka S. , Shen Abra H. , Januszyk Michael , Kwon Sun Hyung , Wernig Gerlinde , Wan Derrick C. , Lorenz H. Peter , Gurtner Geoffrey C. , Longaker Michael T.
Published: April 2021

Regeneration without scarring

Wounds in adult mammals typically heal by forming fibrotic scars. Mascharak
et al.
found that a specific population of skin fibroblasts (
Engrailed-1
lineage–negative fibroblasts) activate expression of
Engrailed-1
and turn on profibrotic cellular programs in response to local tissue mechanics in wounds (see the Perspective by Konieczny and Naik). When mechanical signaling was inhibited in these cells (using either genetic deletion or small-molecule inhibition), skin wounds in mice no longer formed scars but instead healed by regeneration, restoring skin with normal hair follicles and glands, extracellular matrix, and mechanical strength.

Science
, this issue p.
eaba2374
; see also p.
346
Cholinergic neurons constitutively engage the ISR for dopamine modulation and skill learning in mice
Authors: Helseth Ashley R. , Hernandez-Martinez Ricardo , Hall Victoria L. , Oliver Matthew L. , Turner Brandon D. , Caffall Zachary F. , Rittiner Joseph E. , Shipman Miranda K. , King Connor S. , Gradinaru Viviana , Gerfen Charles , Costa-Mattioli Mauro , Calakos Nicole
Published: April 2021

Always stressed

The integrated stress response (ISR) plays a role in proteostasis and is important in the brain for learning and memory. Typically, the pathway is thought to be activated transiently to fulfill these roles but may become persistent in disease states. Helseth
et al.
developed a reporter to study ISR activation brainwide and found a class of cells that engage ISR for steady-state cell function (see the Perspective by Ingebretson and Lemos). In mice, cholinergic interneurons required the ISR to maintain properties of tonic firing and response to dopamine. Inhibiting the ISR in these cells changed dopamine neuromodulation and enhanced performance in learned tasks. Thus, ISR engagement can play a steady-state role that is independent of cell stress and important in learning.

Science
, this issue p.
eabe1931
; see also p.
345
Barcoded viral tracing of single-cell interactions in central nervous system inflammation
Authors: Clark Iain C. , Gutiérrez-Vázquez Cristina , Wheeler Michael A. , Li Zhaorong , Rothhammer Veit , Linnerbauer Mathias , Sanmarco Liliana M. , Guo Lydia , Blain Manon , Zandee Stephanie E. J. , Chao Chun-Cheih , Batterman Katelyn V. , Schwabenland Marius , Lotfy Peter , Tejeda-Velarde Amalia , Hewson Patrick , Manganeli Polonio Carolina , Shultis Michael W. , Salem Yasmin , Tjon Emily C. , Fonseca-Castro Pedro H. , Borucki Davis M. , Alves de Lima Kalil , Plasencia Agustin , Abate Adam R. , Rosene Douglas L. , Hodgetts Kevin J. , Prinz Marco , Antel Jack P. , Prat Alexandre , Quintana Francisco J.
Published: April 2021

Single-cell analysis of CNS interactions

Despite their importance in the physiology and pathology of the central nervous system (CNS), few methods are available for the unbiased, systematic investigation of cell-to-cell interactions at single-cell resolution. Clark
et al.
developed RABID-seq, a method that combines barcoded viral tracing with single-cell RNA sequencing (see the Perspective by Silvin and Ginhoux). RABID-seq identified the axon guidance molecules Sema4D-PlexinB2 and EphrinB3-EphB3 as mediators of microglia-astrocyte interactions that promote CNS pathology in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and, potentially, multiple sclerosis. These studies also identified candidate therapeutic molecules for the modulation of microglia-astrocyte interactions in multiple sclerosis.

Science
, this issue p.
eabf1230
; see also p.
342
Man's (next) best friend
The New Breed: What Our History with Animals Reveals about Our Future with Robots
Kate Darling
Henry Holt and Co., 2021. 256 pp.
Authors: Gellers Joshua C.
Published: April 2021

Our relationships with animals offer insight into the future of human–robot relations
Expanding cell-to-cell interactions
Authors: Silvin Aymeric , Ginhoux Florent
Published: April 2021

A new single-cell sequencing approach reveals astrocyte and microglia cross-talk during inflammation
Blocking endothelial lipase with monoclonal antibody MEDI5884 durably increases high density lipoprotein in nonhuman primates and in a phase 1 trial
Authors: Le Lay John E. , Du Qun , Mehta Minal B. , Bhagroo Nicholas , Hummer B. Timothy , Falloon Judith , Carlson Glenn , Rosenbaum Anton I. , Jin ChaoYu , Kimko Holly , Tsai Lan-Feng , Novick Steven , Cook Bill , Han David , Han Chang Yeop , Vaisar Tomas , Chait Alan , Karathanasis Sotirios K. , Rhodes Christopher J. , Hirshberg Boaz , Damschroder Melissa M. , Hsia Judith , Grimsby Joseph S.
Published: April 2021

Neutralization of endothelial lipase with a monoclonal antibody raises functional HDL in both nonhuman primates and in healthy humans.
The Quorum-Sensing Inhibitor Furanone C-30 Rapidly Loses Its Tobramycin-Potentiating Activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilms during Experimental Evolution
Authors: Bové Mona , Bao Xuerui , Sass Andrea , Crabbé Aurélie , Coenye Tom
Published: April 2021

The use of quorum-sensing inhibitors (QSI) has been proposed as an alternative strategy to combat antibiotic resistance. QSI reduce the virulence of a pathogen without killing it and it is claimed that resistance to such compounds is less likely to develop, although there is a lack of experimental data supporting this hypothesis.
Microevolution of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Subpopulations and Heteroresistance in a Patient Receiving 27 Years of Tuberculosis Treatment in Germany
Authors: Sonnenkalb Lindsay , Strohe Gerald , Dreyer Viola , Andres Sönke , Hillemann Doris , Maurer Florian P. , Niemann Stefan , Merker Matthias
Published: April 2021

Preexisting and newly emerging resistant pathogen subpopulations (heteroresistance) are potential risk factors for treatment failure of multi/extensively drug resistant (MDR/XDR) tuberculosis (TB). Intrapatient evolutionary dynamics of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
complex (Mtbc) strains and their implications on treatment outcomes are still not completely understood.
Disrupting Irreversible Bacterial Adhesion and Biofilm Formation with an Engineered Enzyme
Authors: Mayton Holly M. , Walker Sharon L. , Berger Bryan W.
Published: April 2021

In this study, the ability of an engineered enzyme to reduce bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation of several foodborne pathogens was demonstrated, representing a promising option for enhancing or replacing chlorine and other chemical sanitizers in food processing applications. Specifically, significant reductions of biofilms of the pathogens
Escherichia coli
O157:H7,
Salmonella
Typhimurium, and
Listeria monocytogenes
are observed, as are reductions in initial adhesion.
Potassium and Sodium Salt Stress Characterization in the Yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kluyveromyces marxianus, and
Rhodotorula toruloides
Authors: Illarionov Aleksandr , Lahtvee Petri-Jaan , Kumar Rahul
Published: April 2021

Characterization of microbial cell factories under industrially relevant conditions is crucial for designing efficient bioprocesses. Salt stress, typical in industrial bioprocesses, impinges upon cell volume and affects productivity.
Direct Fluconazole Disk Susceptibility Testing for Candida glabrata-Positive Blood Cultures
Authors: Israel Sarah , Perlman Amichai , Moran-Gilad Jacob , Korem Maya
Published: April 2021

Direct susceptibility testing from blood cultures has been reported to reduce the time interval between a positive blood culture to preliminary reporting of susceptibility and can underpin timely appropriate treatment of candidemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate direct susceptibility testing of
Candida glabrata
to fluconazole using disk diffusion compared to the Sensititre YeastOne broth microdilution-based method.
A physical and chemical sedimentary record of Laramide tectonic shifts in the Cretaceous-Paleogene San Juan Basin, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Hobbs Kevin M. , Fawcett Peter J.
Published: April 2021

Fluvial siliciclastic rocks bracketing the Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) boundary in the San Juan Basin, New Mexico (USA), provide records of regional fluvial and tectonic evolution during the Laramide orogeny. Petrographic analyses of sandstones from the Upper Cretaceous Fruitland Formation and Kirtland Formation and the Paleocene Ojo Alamo Sandstone and Nacimiento Formation show that the rivers depositing these sediments were sourced in areas where unroofing of crystalline basement rocks took place, introducing an increasing proportion of immature detrital grains into the fluvial system through time. After the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary, rivers deposited an increasing amount of microcline and orthoclase feldspar relative to plagioclase feldspar, suggesting a growing source in unique crystalline basement rocks. Geochemical analyses show significant differences between Al- and K-poor Upper Cretaceous sandstones and Al- and K-rich lower Paleocene sandstones in the San Juan Basin.

The high proportion of sand-sized material in the Ojo Alamo Sandstone suggests that it was deposited in a basin with a low ratio of sediment supply to accommodation. However, magnetostratigraphic age constraints suggest it had a relatively high sedimentation and/or subsidence rate of as much as 0.38 m/k.y. The sediment supply must have been high in order to deposit a basin-wide coarse sand-dominated package, suggesting rapid creation of topographic relief in the San Juan uplift, the proposed source area of the Ojo Alamo fluvial system.

The observed sedimentary architecture and age constraints of the Ojo Alamo Sandstone, including kilometers-wide sand bodies and limited overbank mudstones throughout most of the outcrop area, are difficult to reconcile with accepted models of aggradation and avulsion in large fluvial systems, but available age and lithologic data make difficult a complete understanding of Paleocene San Juan Basin fluvial systems and basin evolution. Here, we present new lithologic, petrographic, and thickness data from San Juan Basin K-Pg fluvial siliciclastic units and interpretations of their origins.
Deactivation Mechanism of Palladium Catalysts for Ethanol
Conversion to Butanol
Authors: Ezzhelenko D. I. , Nikolaev S. A. , Chistyakov A. V. , Chistyakova P. A. , Tsodikov M. V.
Published: April 2021

A Pd/Al2O3 catalyst (Pd = 0.1 wt
%) for ethanol conversion to butanol deactivates within 10 h of service, despite
its high initial activity at 275°C. Probable deactivation mechanisms were
explored, including poisoning of
Pd/Al2O3 due to adsorption of
by-products on Pd, sintering of Pd phases, leaching of Pd from the catalyst,
changes in the Pd electronic state, changes in the catalyst’s porous structure,
and blockage of Al2O3 active
sites. The Pd/Al2O3 deactivation
was found to be mainly caused by CO molecules that evolved during side
reactions. These molecules can either block Pd active sites due to the formation
of strong Pd–CO complexes, or enter a CO disproportionation reaction to form
carbon deposits on Pd phases. The knowledge gained from this study can be used
for the targeted modification of
Pd/Al2O3 and the creation of
selective systems operating stably in the presence of by-products.
Risk model for intraoperative complication during cataract surgery based on data from 900 000 eyes: previous intravitreal injection is a risk factor
Authors: Hård af Segerstad Poya
Published: April 2021

Background/aims

The aim of this study was to develop a risk model for intraoperative complication (IC) during cataract surgery, defined as posterior capsule rupture and/or zonular dehiscence, and to include previous intravitreal therapy (pIVT) in the model.

Methods

This retrospective register-based study covered patients reported to the Swedish National Cataract Register (SNCR) between 1 January 2010 and 30 June 2018. Odds ratios (ORs) were used to quantify association strength of each variable with IC. Data from the SNCR were cross referenced with the Swedish Macula Register to include data on pIVT. Variables statistically significant in the univariate analyses (p<0.05) were included in a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results

The inclusion criteria were met by 907 499 eyes. The overall rate of IC was 0.86%. Variables significantly associated with IC were best corrected visual acuity ≥1.0 LogMAR (OR (adjusted): 1.75, p<0.001), age ≥90 years (OR: 1.25, p<0.001), male sex (OR: 1.09, p<0.01), pseudoexfoliation (OR: 1.33, p<0.001), glaucoma (OR: 1.11, p<0.05), diabetic retinopathy (OR: 1.35, p<0.001), pIVT (OR: 1.45, p<0.05), surgeon’s experience <600 surgeries (OR: 2.77, p<0.001), use of rhexis hooks (OR: 6.14, p<0.001), blue staining (OR: 1.87, p<0.001) and mechanical pupil dilation (OR: 1.52, p<0.001).

Conclusion

The risk model can be used in the preoperative setting to predict the probability of IC, to facilitate planning of surgery and improving patient communication. Patients who have undergone intravitreal therapy prior to cataract surgery have an increased risk of IC during cataract surgery.
Area under the dark adaptation curve as a reliable alternate measure of dark adaptation response
Authors: Pundlik Shrinivas , Nigalye Archana , Laíns Inês , Mendez Kevin M , Katz Raviv , Kim Janice , Kim Ivana K , Miller John B , Vavvas Demetrios , Miller Joan W , Luo Gang , Husain Deeba
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Quantification of dark adaptation (DA) response using the conventional rod intercept time (RIT) requires very long testing time and may not be measurable in the presence of impairments due to diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The goal of this study was to investigate the advantages of using area under the DA curve (AUDAC) as an alternative to the conventional parameters to quantify DA response.

Methods

Data on 136 eyes (AMD: 98, normal controls: 38) from an ongoing longitudinal study on AMD were used. DA was measured using the AdaptDx 20 min protocol. AUDAC was computed from the raw DA characteristic curve at different time points, including 6.5 min and 20 min (default). The presence of AMD in the given eye was predicted using a logistic regression model within the leave-one-out cross-validation framework, with DA response as the predictor while adjusting for age and gender. The DA response variable was either the AUDAC values computed at 6.5 min (AUDAC6.5) or at 20 min (AUDAC20) cut-off, or the conventional RIT.

Results

AUDAC6.5 was strongly correlated with AUDAC20 (β=86, p<0.001, R2=0.87). The accuracy of predicting the presence of AMD using AUDAC20 was 76%, compared with 79% when using RIT, the current gold standard. In addition, when limiting AUDAC calculation to 6.5 min cut-off, the predictive accuracy of AUDAC6.5 was 80%.

Conclusions

AUDAC can be a valuable measure to quantify the overall DA response and can potentially facilitate shorter testing duration while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Identifying sustainable lifestyle strategies for maintaining good glycemic control: a validation of qualitative findings
Authors: Weller Susan C , Vickers Benjamin N
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Diabetes self-care practices are less effective outside of controlled research settings, and almost half of patients do not achieve good glycemic control. Qualitative studies suggest some lifestyle strategies may be linked to good control, but those strategies have not been validated. This study provides population-based evidence that dietary strategies identified in qualitative studies are associated with glycemic control in US patients with diabetes.

Research design and methods

In a cross-sectional sample of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), qualitative self-management themes were matched to survey questions and used to predict good glycemic control (hemoglobin A1c <7.0% (53 mmol/mol)). Patients were limited to those 50 years of age and older with a diagnosis of diabetes for at least 1 year (N=465).

Results

Patients averaged 65 years of age with a body mass index of 32.56 kg/m2and 42% reported no physical activity. In logistic regression models controlling for sociodemographic and medical history variables, self-monitoring of blood glucose, weight loss, and physical activity were not significantly associated with glycemic control. Instead, dietary practices such as consuming low-calorie foods (OR=4.05, 95% CI 1.64 to 10.01), eating less fat (OR=2.15, 95% CI 1.03 to 4.47), and reducing sodium (OR=1.94, 95% CI 1.18 to 3.17) were significantly associated with good glycemic control, as was diabetes education or consultation with a dietitian (OR=3.48, 95% CI 1.28 to 9.45). Non-adherence to medications (OR=0.27, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.68) and general dietary descriptions, such as following a ‘diabetic diet’ (OR=0.32, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.57) and ‘changing eating habits for weight loss’ (OR=0.34, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.77), were associated with poorer glycemic control.

Conclusions

The NHANES validation of lifestyle management strategies suggests practices that may be sustainable. In a population that tends to be obese with low physical activity, successful self-care might emphasize specific dietary practices offering concrete touchpoints for patient communication and guidance. These strategies might help maintain glycemic control.
How do Canadian public health agencies respond to the COVID-19 emergency using social media: a protocol for a case study using content and sentiment analysis
Authors: Kothari Anita , Foisey Lyndsay , Donelle Lorie , Bauer Michael
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Keeping Canadians safe requires a robust public health (PH) system. This is especially true when there is a PH emergency, like the COVID-19 pandemic. Social media, like Twitter and Facebook, is an important information channel because most people use the internet for their health information. The PH sector can use social media during emergency events for (1) PH messaging, (2) monitoring misinformation, and (3) responding to questions and concerns raised by the public. In this study, we ask: what is the Canadian PH risk communication response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of social media?

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a case study using content and sentiment analysis to examine how provinces and provincial PH leaders, and the Public Health Agency of Canada and national public heath leaders, engage with the public using social media during the first wave of the pandemic (1 January–3 September 2020). We will focus specifically on Twitter and Facebook. We will compare findings to a gold standard during the emergency with respect to message content.

Ethics and dissemination

Western University’s research ethics boards confirmed that this study does not require research ethics board review as we are using social media data in the public domain. Using our study findings, we will work with PH stakeholders to collaboratively develop Canadian social media emergency response guideline recommendations for PH and other health system organisations. Findings will also be disseminated through peer-reviewed journal articles and conference presentations.
Swiss-wide multicentre evaluation and prediction of core outcomes in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: protocol for the ARCR_Pred cohort study
Authors: Audigé Laurent , Bucher Heiner C C , Aghlmandi Soheila , Stojanov Thomas , Schwappach David , Hunziker Sabina , Candrian Christian , Cunningham Gregory , Durchholz Holger , Eid Karim , Flury Matthias , Jost Bernhard , Lädermann Alexandre , Moor Beat Kaspar , Moroder Philipp , Rosso Claudio , Schär Michael , Scheibel Markus , Spormann Christophe , Suter Thomas , Wieser Karl , Zumstein Matthias ,   ARCR_Pred Study Group, Müller Andreas M
Published: April 2021

Introduction

In the field of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR), reporting standards of published studies differ dramatically, notably concerning adverse events (AEs). In addition, prognostic studies are overall methodologically poor, based on small data sets and explore only limited numbers of influencing factors. We aim to develop prognostic models for individual ARCR patients, primarily for the patient-reported assessment of shoulder function (Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS)) and the occurrence of shoulder stiffness 6 months after surgery. We also aim to evaluate the use of a consensus core event set (CES) for AEs and validate a severity classification for these events, considering the patient’s perspective.

Methods and analysis

A cohort of 970 primary ARCR patients will be prospectively documented from several Swiss and German orthopaedic clinics up to 24 months postoperatively. Patient clinical examinations at 6 and 12 months will include shoulder range of motion and strength (Constant Score). Tendon repair integrity status will be assessed by ultrasound at 12 months. Patient-reported questionnaires at 6, 12 and 24 months will determine functional scores (subjective shoulder value, OSS), anxiety and depression scores, working status, sports activities, and quality of life (European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 5 Level questionnaire). AEs will be documented according to a CES. Prognostic models will be developed using an internationally supported regression methodology. Multiple prognostic factors, including patient baseline demographics, psychological, socioeconomic and clinical factors, rotator cuff integrity, concomitant local findings, and (post)operative management factors, will be investigated.

Ethics and dissemination

This project contributes to the development of personalised risk predictions for supporting the surgical decision process in ARCR. The consensus CES may become an international reference for the reporting of complications in clinical studies and registries. Ethical approval was obtained on 1 April 2020 from the lead ethics committee (EKNZ, Basel, Switzerland; ID: 2019-02076). All participants will provide informed written consent before enrolment in the study.

Trial registration number

NCT04321005.

Protocol version

Version 2 (13 December 2019).
Modelling the impact of the tier system on SARS-CoV-2 transmission in the UK between the first and second national lockdowns
Authors: Laydon Daniel J , Mishra Swapnil , Hinsley Wes R , Samartsidis Pantelis , Flaxman Seth , Gandy Axel , Ferguson Neil M , Bhatt Samir
Published: April 2021

Objective

To measure the effects of the tier system on the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK between the first and second national lockdowns, before the emergence of the B.1.1.7 variant of concern.

Design

This is a modelling study combining estimates of real-time reproduction number Rt (derived from UK case, death and serological survey data) with publicly available data on regional non-pharmaceutical interventions. We fit a Bayesian hierarchical model with latent factors using these quantities to account for broader national trends in addition to subnational effects from tiers.

Setting

The UK at lower tier local authority (LTLA) level. 310 LTLAs were included in the analysis.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Reduction in real-time reproduction number Rt.

Results

Nationally, transmission increased between July and late September, regional differences notwithstanding. Immediately prior to the introduction of the tier system, Rt averaged 1.3 (0.9–1.6) across LTLAs, but declined to an average of 1.1 (0.86–1.42) 2 weeks later. Decline in transmission was not solely attributable to tiers. Tier 1 had negligible effects. Tiers 2 and 3, respectively, reduced transmission by 6% (5%–7%) and 23% (21%–25%). 288 LTLAs (93%) would have begun to suppress their epidemics if every LTLA had gone into tier 3 by the second national lockdown, whereas only 90 (29%) did so in reality.

Conclusions

The relatively small effect sizes found in this analysis demonstrate that interventions at least as stringent as tier 3 are required to suppress transmission, especially considering more transmissible variants, at least until effective vaccination is widespread or much greater population immunity has amassed.
Novel recessive locus for body mass index in childhood asthma
Authors: Lee Sanghun , Lasky-Su Jessica , Won Sungho , Laurie Cecelia , Celedón Juan Carlos , Lange Christoph , Weiss Scott , Hecker Julian
Published: April 2021

Most genome-wide association studies of obesity and body mass index (BMI) have so far assumed an additive mode of inheritance in their analysis, although association testing supports a recessive effect for some of the established loci, for example, rs1421085 in FTO. In two whole-genome sequencing (WGS) studies of children with asthma and their parents (892 Costa Rican trios and 286 North American trios), we discovered an association between a locus (rs9292139) in LOC102724122 and BMI that reaches genome-wide significance under a recessive model in the combined analysis. As the association does not achieve significance under an additive model, our finding illustrates the benefits of the recessive model in WGS analyses.