bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heat‐killed Helicobacter pylori upregulates NKG2D ligands expression on gastric adenocarcinoma cells via Toll‐like receptor 4
Authors: Hernández Carolina , Toledo‐Stuardo Karen , García‐González Paulina , Garrido‐Tapia Macarena , Kramm Karina , Rodríguez‐Siza José Alejandro , Hermoso Marcela , Ribeiro Carolina H. , Molina María Carmen
Published: April 2021

Background

Natural killer (NK) cells are paramount for immunity against infectious agents and tumors. Their cytokine and cytolytic responses can be mediated by natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D), an activating receptor whose ligands (NKG2DL) expression is induced in conditions of cell stress and malignant transformation. Since sustained expression of NKG2DL MICA is related to lower survival rates in gastric adenocarcinoma patients, and Helicobacter pylori infection contributes to tumorigenesis; we asked whether H. pylori stimulus could promote NKG2DL expression on human gastric adenocarcinoma cells.

Methods

Heat‐killed H. pylori (HKHP) was used to stimulate MKN45 cells before analysis of NKG2DL and Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) protein levels by flow cytometry and transcripts by real‐time PCR. LPS from Rhodobacter sphaeroides and inhibitory peptide Pepinh MYD were used to inhibit TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway to assess its participation on NKG2DL expression. NK cell‐mediated cytotoxicity was measured by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and CD107a mobilization assays.

Results

Stimulation of MKN45 cells with HKHP increased MICA, ULBP4 (another NKG2DL), and TLR4 at the protein and transcriptional levels. MICA, but not ULBP4 expression, was upregulated in a TLR4/MyD88‐dependent manner. Furthermore, the presence of NKG2DL on the surface of HKHP‐stimulated MKN45 cells enabled NK cell cytotoxic activation.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that induction of NKG2DL expression on gastric adenocarcinoma cells by H. pylori promotes an immune response that may ultimately contribute to either gastric tissue damage, as a consequence of persistent activation of immunity, or tumor immune evasion due to chronic NKG2DL expression.
Influence of chronic stress on the mechanism of the cytotoxic system in common carp (Cyprinuscarpio)
Authors: Shimon‐Hophy Mazal , Avtalion Ramy R.
Published: April 2021

Aquaculture conditions expose fish to internal and environmental stressors that increase their susceptibility to morbidity and mortality. The brain accumulates stress signals and processes them according to the intensity, frequency duration and type of stress, recruiting several brain functions to activate the autonomic or limbic system. Triggering the autonomic system causes the rapid release of catecholamines, such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, into circulation from chromaffin cells in the head kidney. Catecholamines trigger blood cells to release proinflammatory and regulatory cytokines to cope with acute stress. Activation of the limbic axis stimulates the dorsolateral and dorsomedial pallium to process emotions, memory, behaviour and the activation of preoptic nucleus‐pituitary gland‐interrenal cells in the head kidney, releasing glucocorticoids, such as cortisol to the bloodstream. Glucocorticoids cause downregulation of various immune system functions depending on the duration, intensity and type of chronic stress. As stress persists, most immune functions, with the exception of cytotoxic functions, overcome these effects and return to homeostasis. The deterioration of cytotoxic functions during chronic stress appears to be responsible for increased morbidity and mortality.
Dielectric resonator antenna with Y3Al5O12 transparent dielectric ceramics for 5G millimeter‐wave applications
Authors: Du Chao , Fu Mao‐Sen , Zhou Di , Guo Huan‐Huan , Chen He‐Tuo , Zhang Jian , Wang Jun‐Ping , Wang Shao‐Fei , Liu Hai‐Wen , Liu Wen‐Feng , Li Long , Xu Zhuo
Published: April 2021

Microwave dielectric ceramics are considered to be one of the key materials for dielectric resonators (DR) and have very broad application prospects in the fifth generation (5G) mobile communication system. Here we have prepared high‐quality factor Y3Al5O12 (YAG) transparent dielectric ceramics using high‐purity α‐Al2O3 and Y2O3 powders by cold isostatic pressing of the vacuum sintered with tungsten meshes as the heating elements. Optimum relative permittivity () ~10.53, quality factor Q × f (Q = 1/dielectric loss, f = resonant frequency) ~95, 270 GHz (at =7.37 GHz), and temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (TCF) ~ −51.7 ppm °C−1 were obtained at a sintering temperature of 1780°C for 12 h. For the first time, YAG transparent ceramic dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) is designed as a dominant mode and a higher‐order mode using the aperture coupling feeding configuration excitation. The proposed transparent dielectric ceramic DRA can provide a broad impedance bandwidth of 4.193 GHz (ranging from 21.90 to 26.09 GHz) for S11 < −10 dB, radiation efficiency of 92.1%, and compact DR unit. The proposed DRA can be used potentially as a 5G millimeter (mm)‐wave multiple‐input‐multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna unit.
Mapping and ablation of post‐AF atrial tachycardias
Authors: Chugh Aman
Published: April 2021

Atrial tachycardias are commonly encountered in patients undergoing catheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Unlike typical atrial flutter that can be readily recognized and ablated, these post‐AF tachycardias can arise from a wide variety of locations and involve a multiplicity of mechanisms. Apart from diagnostic challenges, radiofrequency ablation to eliminate the tachycardias may require multiple approaches. In addition, specialized techniques such as epicardial and chemical ablation may be required for definitive treatment. This review describes the various mechanisms and approaches to mapping and ablation of these challenging tachycardias
Ablation outcomes for atypical atrial flutter versus recurrent atrial fibrillation following index pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Akhtar Tauseef , Daimee Usama A. , Sivasambhu Bhradeev , Boyle Thomas A. , Arbab‐Zadeh Armin , Marine Joseph E. , Berger Ronald , Calkins Hugh , Spragg David
Published: April 2021

Background

Data related to electrophysiologic characteristics of atypical atrial flutter (AFL) following atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation and its prognostic value on repeat ablation success are limited.

Methods

We studied consecutive patients who underwent a repeat left atrial (LA) ablation procedure for either recurrent AF or atypical AFL, at least 3 months after index AF ablation, between January 2012 and July 2019. The demographics, clinical history, procedural data, complications, and 1‐year arrhythmia‐free survival rates were recorded for each subject after the first repeat ablation.

Results

A total of 336 patients were included in our study. Among these 336 patients, 102 underwent a repeat ablation procedure for atypical AFL and 234 underwent a repeat ablation procedure for recurrent AF. The mean age was 63.7 ± 10.7 years, and 72.6% of patients were men. The atypical AFL cohort had significantly higher LA diameters (4.6 vs. 4.4 cm, p = .04) and LA volume indices (LAVi; 85.1 vs. 75.4 ml/m2, p = .03) compared to AF patients at repeat ablation. Atypical AFL patients were more likely to have had index radiofrequency (RF) ablation (as opposed to cryoballoon) than recurrent AF patients (98% vs. 81%, p = .01). Atypical AFLs were roof‐dependent in 35.6% and peri‐mitral in 23.8% of cases. Major complications at repeat ablation occurred in 0.9% of the total cohort. Arrhythmia‐free survival at one year was significantly higher in the recurrent atypical AFL compared to the recurrent AF cohort (75.5 vs. 65.0%, p = .04).

Conclusion

In our series, roof‐dependent flutter is the most common form of atypical atrial flutter post AF ablation. Patients developing atypical AFL after index AF ablation have greater LA dimensions than patients with recurrent AF. The success rate of first repeat ablation is significantly higher among patients with recurrent atypical AFL as compared to recurrent AF after index AF ablation.
Intrinsic cardiac autonomic nervous system: What do clinical electrophysiologists need to know about the “heart brain”?
Authors: Aksu Tolga , Gopinathannair Rakesh , Gupta Dhiraj , Pauza Dainius H.
Published: April 2021

It is increasingly recognized that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a major contributor in many cardiac arrhythmias. Cardiac ANS can be divided into extrinsic and intrinsic parts according to the course of nerve fibers and localization of ganglia and neuron bodies. Although the role of the extrinsic part has historically gained more attention, the intrinsic cardiac ANS may affect cardiac function independently as well as influence the effects of the extrinsic nerves. Catheter‐based modulation of the intrinsic cardiac ANS is emerging as a novel therapy for the management of patients with brady and tachyarrhythmias resulting from hyperactive vagal activation. However, the distribution of intrinsic cardiac nerve plexus in the human heart and the functional properties of intrinsic cardiac neural elements remain insufficiently understood. The present review aims to bring the clinical and anatomical elements of the immune effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity together, by reviewing neuroanatomical terminologies and physiological functions, to guide the clinical electrophysiologist in the catheter lab and to serve as a reference for further research.
Predictors of inappropriate shock in Brugada syndrome patients with a subcutaneous implantable cardiac defibrillator
Authors: Casu Gavino , Silva Etelvino , Bisbal Felipe , Viola Graziana , Merella Pierluigi , Lorenzoni Giovanni , Motta Giovanni , Bandino Stefano , Berne Paola
Published: April 2021

Background

Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators (S‐ICDs) avoid complications secondary to transvenous leads, but inappropriate shocks (ISs) are frequent. Furthermore, IS data from patients with Brugada syndrome (BrS) with an S‐ICD are scarce.

Objective

We aimed to establish the frequency and predictors of IS in this population.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical and electrocardiographic characteristics, automated screening test data, device programming, and IS occurrence in adult patients with BrS with an S‐ICD.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients were enrolled (69% male, mean age at diagnosis 46 ± 13 years, mean age at implantation 48 ± 13 years). During a mean follow‐up of 26 ± 21 months, 18% patients experienced IS. Patients with IS were younger at the time of diagnosis (36 ± 8 vs. 48 ± 13 years, p = .018) and S‐ICD implantation (38 ± 9 vs. 50 ± 23 years, p = .019) and presented with spontaneous type 1 Brugada electrocardiogram pattern more frequently at diagnosis or during follow‐up (71% vs. 25%, p = .018). During automated screening tests, patients with IS showed lower QRS voltage in the primary vector in the supine position (0.58 ± 0.26 vs. 1.10 ± 0.35 mV, p = .011) and lower defibrillator automated screening score in the primary vector in the supine (123 ± 165 vs. 554 ± 390 mV, p = .005) and standing (162 ± 179 vs. 486 ± 388 mV, p = .038) positions. Age at diagnosis was the only independent predictor of IS (hazard ratio = 0.873, 95% confidence interval: 0.767–0.992, p = .037).

Conclusion

IS was a frequent complication in patients with BrS with an S‐ICD. Younger age was independently associated with IS. A more thorough screening process might help prevent IS in this population.
Comparison of the lesion formation and safety in ex vivo porcine heart study: Using ThermoCool SmartTouch and ThermoCool SmartTouch‐SF catheters
Authors: Guo Min , Qu Lijuan , Zhang Nan , Yan Rui , Xue Zheng , Sun Meng , Wang Rui
Published: April 2021

Background

The study was performed to compare the efficacy and safety during radiofrequency ablation (RFA) using ThermoCool SmartTouch (ST) and ThermoCool SmartTouch‐SF (STSF) catheters in the porcine heart.

Methods and Results

RFA was performed on the porcine myocardium by using two irrigated ablation catheters. Three groups were divided based on the different contact forces (CFs): low contact force (LCF) (1–3 g), medium contact force (MCF) (5–10 g), and high contact force (HCF) (15–20 g). In each group, RFA was delivered at four power settings of 30, 40, 50, 60 W. At each power, RFA was applied to reach the target ablation index (AI) of 350, 450, and 500. Altogether, 360 RF lesions were created by using 72 ablation conditions. AI value was positively correlated with lesion size using ST and STSF catheters. At a fixed power, lesion dimensions significantly smaller in the LCF group, whereas did not differ between MCF and HCF groups. Furthermore, at a fixed CF, lesion dimensions increased with power set at 40 W compared with 30 W but decreased with high‐power RF energy (50 and 60 W). Although the average lesion surface diameter and the maximum diameter was increased using the STSF catheter, there were no significant differences in LV between the two catheters. The steam pop provoked more frequently using ST catheter and showed a negative correlation with CF and positive correlation with high‐power energy.

Conclusion

The STSF catheter is safer and equally effective in lesion formation compared with the ST catheter. LV was increased along with the early increase of CF and power, whereas a further increase of CF and power significantly reduces the lesion size.
Cerebriform sebaceous nevus: a subtype of organoid nevus due to specific postzygotic FGFR2 mutations
Authors: Theiler M. , Weibel L. , Christen‐Zaech S. , Carmignac V. , Sorlin A. , Neuhaus K. , Chevarin M. , Thauvin‐Robinet C. , Philippe C. , Faivre L. , Vabres P. , Kuentz P.
Published: April 2021

Background

Postzygotic mutations in FGFR2 have been identified in mosaic forms of acne, keratinocytic epidermal nevi, nevoid acanthosis nigricans / rounded and velvety epidermal nevus and in two fetuses with papillomatous pedunculated sebaceous nevus (PPSN).

Objectives

To determine the clinical and genetic characteristics of children with cerebriform, papillomatous and pedunculated variants of sebaceous nevi.

Methods

Infants diagnosed with sebaceous nevi characterized by a cerebriform, papillomatous and/or pedunculated morphology over a 10‐year period (2010–2019) at three paediatric dermatology centres in Switzerland and France were included in this case series. Clinical and histological characteristics were assessed. Next‐generation sequencing was used to assess for FGFR2 mutations.

Results

All nevi were located on the head, with a rounded or linear shape and a typical cerebriform, sometimes papillomatous and pedunculated, surface. No associated extracutaneous anomalies were found. Nevi harboured postzygotic mutations in the transmembrane domain of FGFR2 in 6/8 children (75%), either the known specific p.(Cys382Arg) mutation in 5 cases, or a novel mutation, p.(Val395Asp), in one.

Conclusions

We found an exquisite genotype–phenotype correlation in these rare nevi, with specific postzygotic mutations in the transmembrane domain of FGFR2. As not all lesions were truly papillomatous and pedunculated, the term cerebriform sebaceous nevus (CSN) appears more suitable than PPSN to describe this entity. The cerebriform pattern of CSN is reminiscent of cutis gyrata, as seen in Beare–Stevenson syndrome, which is caused by closely related germline FGFR2 mutations. While clinically impressive, CSN seem to carry a good prognosis and a low risk for extracutaneous associations.
Experimental study on drying kinetics of ivy gourd using solar dryer
Authors: Elangovan Elavarasan , Natarajan Sendhil Kumar
Published: April 2021

Vegetable preservation through drying technology is an effective method to minimize wastage while satisfying the essential nutrition requirements. It is necessary to expand the existing technologies to preserve seasonal and regional specific vegetables. The present study is intended to find suitable conditions to increase preservation capacity through solar drying. A single slope solar dryer (SSSD) is designed, fabricated and ivy gourd is taken as a vegetable sample. Experiments are carried out in the highest temperature region in South India at 10.925°N latitude, 79.838°E longitude. The safe moisture content of the passive and active mode solar dryer was attained in 9 and 7 hr whereas it took 11 hr in sun drying. During the dehydrating process, the temperature of the system varied from 35 to 71°C. Existing kinetics models are used to optimize the “goodness of fit” and proposed a novel model to suit India's environmental conditions. Exergy analysis and thin layer drying kinetic studies are performed and studied the influence of various parameters in the dehydrating of ivy gourd. The study revealed that the air temperature, RH, global radiation, and airspeed, significantly influence the drying kinetics. However, all the above four drying parameters are interconnected to enhance the drying process and which in turn enhance the drying kinetics process. Obtained results are explained with suitable discussions.

Practical Application

Almost 40–50% amount of food items annually are rotten all over the global due to deficiency of proper preservation methods. Solar drying is found as a sustainable approach for food preservation; however, the food items dehydrated under sun dehydrating lose their nutritional, medicinal properties due to slow and nonuniform dehydrating rate. In this article, the newly designed SSSD is developed and a thin‐layer dehydrating mathematical correlation for freshly harvested ivy gourd is conducted. The results showed that forced convection solar drying setup could enhance the product quality of ivy gourd and also decrease the dehydrating time.
Drying characteristics of fermented‐cooked cassava chips used in the production of complementary food: Mathematical and Gaussian process regression modeling approaches
Authors: Okonkwo Clinton E. , Olaniran Abiola F. , Adeyi Oladayo , Adeyi Abiola J. , Ojediran John O. , Adewumi Adejoke D. , Iranloye Yetunde M. , Erinle Oluwakemi C.
Published: April 2021

The hot air drying characteristics of fermented‐cooked (FC) cassava chips were investigated at a temperature of 50, 60, and 70°C and the fan speed of 0.5, 0.9, and 1.3 m/s. Proximate compositions, functional characteristics, and moisture diffusion parameters of the FC cassava chips were also studied. Furthermore, the applicability of mathematical (MM) and Gaussian process regression (GPR) – based modeling approaches for modeling drying kinetics of the chips was analyzed. Effective diffusivity (Deff) increased with an increase in temperature and fan speed and ranged between 1.1 × 108 and 6 × 108 m2/s. The activation energy (Ea) decreased with fan speed level up to 0.9 m/s and fluctuated between 0.9 and 1.3 m/s. Ea was from 46 to 57 KJ/mol. The drying rate decreased with an increase in temperature and fan speed. Process variables also showed a significant effect on the proximate compositions. FTIR result revealed that drying affected the functional characteristics of the chips. The GPR‐based model showed superiority and can therefore be used for optimization and control monitoring which are necessary for product standardization.

Practical Applications

Drying of food materials happens to be a major unit operation in the most food process line, prompting the establishment of its drying conditions important. Drying kinetic modeling is very crucial for accurate control of the drying process in the industries. This study shows that GPR‐ based models performed better than mathematical models for modeling the drying curve of FC cassava chips. It also shows how some processing operation affects the functional properties of the chips. GPR‐models are useful in developing robust control systems for industrial drying processes.
Using machine‐learning algorithms to identify patients at high risk of upper gastrointestinal lesions for endoscopy
Authors: Liu Yongjia , Lin Da , Li Lan , Chen Yu , Wen Jiayao , Lin Yiguang , He Xingxiang
Published: April 2021

Background and Aim

Endoscopic screening for early detection of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) lesions is important. However, population‐based endoscopic screening is difficult to implement in populous countries. By identifying high‐risk individuals from the general population, the screening targets can be narrowed to individuals who are in most need of an endoscopy. This study was designed to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)‐based model to predict patient risk of UGI lesions to identify high‐risk individuals for endoscopy.

Methods

A total of 620 patients (from 5300 participants) were equally allocated into 10 parts for 10‐fold cross validation experiments. The machine‐learning predictive models for UGI lesion risk were constructed using random forest, logistic regression, decision tree, and support vector machine (SVM) algorithms. A total of 48 variables covering lifestyles, social‐economic status, clinical symptoms, serological results, and pathological data were used in the model construction.

Results

The accuracies of the four models were between 79.3% and 93.4% in the training set and between 77.2% and 91.2% in the testing dataset (logistics regression: 77.2%; decision tree: 87.3%; random forest: 88.2%; SVM: 91.2%;). The AUCs of four models showed impressive predictive ability. Comparing the four models with the different algorithms, the SVM model featured the best sensitivity and specificity in all datasets tested.

Conclusions

Machine‐learning algorithms can accurately and reliably predict the risk of UGI lesions based on readily available parameters. The predictive models have the potential to be used clinically for identifying patients with high risk of UGI lesions and stratifying patients for necessary endoscopic screening.
Independent separate legal representation for rape complainants in adversarial systems: lessons from Northern Ireland
Authors: ILIADIS MARY , SMITH OLIVIA , DOAK JONATHAN
Published: April 2021

In March 2018, Northern Ireland was divided by the acquittal of four men for rape, attempted rape, exposure, and perverting the court of justice in what became known as the ‘Belfast Rugby Rape Trial’. The case resulted in considerable debate about the ill‐treatment of rape complainants and prompted the Gillen Review into the Laws and Procedures in Serious Sexual Offences. Gillen proposed the introduction of separate legal representation (SLR) to safeguard complainants’ sexual history and medical records pre‐trial. Since the Review was published, however, scepticism about the applicability of complainant SLR within an adversarial context remains. We examine the arguments for and against SLR in adversarial systems and propose a ‘Gillen‐plus’ framework for SLR that would not interfere with the accused's rights or public interest and could provide the basis for reform across other adversarial jurisdictions. We question whether Northern Ireland's unique socio‐political context strengthens or weakens the justifications for introducing SLR.
Bayes risk, elicitability, and the Expected Shortfall
Authors: Embrechts Paul , Mao Tiantian , Wang Qiuqi , Wang Ruodu
Published: April 2021

Motivated by recent advances on elicitability of risk measures and practical considerations of risk optimization, we introduce the notions of Bayes pairs and Bayes risk measures. Bayes risk measures are the counterpart of elicitable risk measures, extensively studied in the recent literature. The Expected Shortfall (ES) is the most important coherent risk measure in both industry practice and academic research in finance, insurance, risk management, and engineering. One of our central results is that under a continuity condition, ES is the only class of coherent Bayes risk measures. We further show that entropic risk measures are the only risk measures which are both elicitable and Bayes. Several other theoretical properties and open questions on Bayes risk measures are discussed.
Resisting the muddy notion of the ‘Inclusionary Other’: A re/turn to the philosophical underpinnings of Othering's construction
Authors: Krabbe Janina S.
Published: April 2021

The notion of ‘Inclusionary Othering,’ in garnering uptake within diverse nursing spheres, muddies a critical understanding of Othering by obscuring the colonial production, exploitation and perpetuation of the Other for economic and political gain. The ongoing genocide of Indigenous women and girls in Canada is a direct manifestation of the Othering process and in response to the report's Calls for Justice, it is an apt time to re‐enliven the conversation of the process of Othering's philosophical construction. The purpose of this article is to re/turn to the philosophical underpinnings of the process of Othering in hopes of enlivening a new wave of resistance within nursing and elsewhere to the means by which the Other is constructed as well as to the notion of Inclusionary Othering itself. Perhaps this re/turn to the philosophy of Edward Said and Sylvia Wynter can result in further thwarting the Othering construct by highlighting its colonial construction and usher in a pragmatic shift, increasing critical engagement with the construct as well as inspiring a re/newed resistance toward Othering in nursing practice.
Amitraz toxicosis in 3 dogs after being in a rice field
Authors: Epstein Steven E. , Poppenga Robert , Stump Sam
Published: April 2021

Objective

To describe the clinical course and novel biochemical findings in 3 dogs with amitraz toxicosis.

Case Series Summary

Three Labrador Retrievers developed acute onset obtundation to stupor after being in a rice field. On admittance to the hospital, they all displayed bradycardia, hyperglycemia, hyperlactatemia, respiratory acidosis, and metabolic alkalosis. All clinical signs resolved in 18–48 hours with supportive care. One dog represented with similar clinical signs and biochemical abnormalities 3 days after discharge following spending time in a different rice field owned by the same owner. Toxicological analysis of serum from all 3 dogs and vomitus from 1 dog returned positive for amitraz and one of its metabolites.

New or Unique Information Provided

This is the first case series of dogs with confirmed amitraz toxicosis following an environmental exposure. Novel biochemical findings of hyperlactatemia, respiratory acidosis, and metabolic alkalosis were documented in all 3 dogs. Clinicians should be concerned for amitraz toxicosis when presented with an animal with the constellation of signs including decreased mental status, bradycardia, and hyperglycemia, particularly if relevant acid–base abnormalities are also detected.
Back stable Schubert calculus
Authors: Lam Thomas , Lee Seung Jin , Shimozono Mark
Published: April 2021

We study the back stable Schubert calculus of the infinite flag variety. Our main results are:

–

a formula for back stable (double) Schubert classes expressing them in terms of a symmetric function part and a finite part;

–

a novel definition of double and triple Stanley symmetric functions;

–

a proof of the positivity of double Edelman–Greene coefficients generalizing the results of Edelman–Greene and Lascoux–Schützenberger;

–

the definition of a new class ofbumplesspipedreams, giving new formulae for double Schubert polynomials, back stable double Schubert polynomials, and a new form of the Edelman–Greene insertion algorithm;

–

the construction of the Peterson subalgebra of the infinite nilHecke algebra, extending work of Peterson in the affine case;

–

equivariant Pieri rules for the homology of the infinite Grassmannian;

–

homology divided difference operators that create the equivariant homology Schubert classes of the infinite Grassmannian.
Rational points and derived equivalence
Authors: Addington Nicolas , Antieau Benjamin , Honigs Katrina , Frei Sarah
Published: April 2021

We give the first examples of derived equivalences between varieties defined over non-closed fields where one has a rational point and the other does not. We begin with torsors over Jacobians of curves over$\mathbb {Q}$and$\mathbb {F}_q(t)$, and conclude with a pair of hyperkähler 4-folds over$\mathbb {Q}$. The latter is independently interesting as a new example of a transcendental Brauer–Manin obstruction to the Hasse principle. The source code for the various computations is supplied as supplementary material with the online version of this article.
Ready for Anything?
Authors: Gonzalez Carlos M.
Published: April 2021

Stories of using 3D printing to respond to the pandemic throw a spotlight on additive manufacturing and its potential for fast, flexible production of critically needed parts. Whether it was face shields, nasopharyngeal swabs, or respiratory masks, additive manufacturing rose to the challenge to fill in the gap caused by a disrupted supply chain. Now, some industry observers are starting to ask whether 3D printing could be the future of manufacturing.
Catalyzing a Solution
Authors: Marco J. Castaldi
Published: April 2021

To meet the ambitious targets ahead of us, all possible processes and technologies must be considered to ensure end-of-life plastics are not disposed in landfills. Chemical recycling can repurpose used plastics into new products, including new plastics, industrial products, and transportation fuels. In addition to creating new products, these technologies keep these plastic materials circulating within the existing infrastructure and economy.
Visualizing Fluid Flow Around a Baseball Using Water Instead of Air
Authors: Cross Rod
Published: April 2021

The flow of air around a baseball and over the seam acts to slow the ball and to deflect it sideways. Turbulent flow can be visualized, and sideways deflection of the ball can be observed clearly if the ball is dropped in a glass fish tank and filmed with a high-speed camera. Results are presented for a baseball and also for a billiard ball with a metal ring attached to simulate the effect of the baseball seam.
Balloon-borne Solar Radiation Measurements During the 2017 North American Eclipse
Authors: Slaton William V. , Jeffery Elaine
Published: April 2021

Asolar eclipse provides a well-characterized reduction in solar radiation. Solar radiation is a driving factor in meteorological and climate models. Hence, solar eclipses provide a unique opportunity to do large-scale meteorological experiments by measuring the effects on temperature, pressure, and wind while the atmospheric conditions stay mostly constant as the solar radiation amount changes. An eclipse is also a good opportunity to see what happens to solar power generation. Balloon-borne sensors get you above the cloud layer, but as we shall see, they are not necessarily ideal for this type of measurement.
Using the Naked Eye to Analyze Polarized Light From a Smartphone
Authors: Thoms L.-J. , Colicchia G. , Girwidz R.
Published: April 2021

Optical polarization phenomena are omnipresent in physics, chemistry, biology, and technology. Studying optical polarization is best done through an interdisciplinary approach that combines biology and technology, which usually makes things more interesting to students. Seeing Haidinger’s brush for the first time can be an exciting discovery for many students. Polarization also has profound conceptual relevance to school curricula, and many beautiful polarization experiments can be performed with cheap materials. In this article we present experiments that students can perform with a smartphone as a source of polarized light and the naked eye as their analyzer.
Water Leakage from a Rotating Cylindrical Tank
Authors: Artuković Ranko Martin , Marušić Mirko
Published: April 2021

Although the old problem of rotating liquid is described and solved in many textbooks and articles, the story still remains interesting. Intuitive understanding of the equipotential spatial surfaces is very difficult. This article is an attempt to present Newton’s rotating tank in the light of the law of conservation of energy.
Increased Ankle Range of Motion Reduces Knee Loads During Landing in Healthy Adults
Authors: Schroeder Lauren E. , Tatarski Rachel L. , Weinhandl Joshua T.
Published: April 2021

Decreased dorsiflexion range of motion (DROM) can be modified using static stretching and joint mobilizations and may attenuate known knee anterior cruciate ligament injury risk factors. It is not known how these interventions compare to each other and how they improve knee landing mechanics. This study’s purpose was to determine the immediate effects of static stretching and joint mobilization interventions on DROM measurement changes and right-leg drop jump knee landing mechanics. Eighteen females and 7 males, all recreationally active, completed 2 study sessions. Active and passive DROM, the weight-bearing lunge test, the anterior reach portion of the Star Excursion Balance Test, and a right-leg drop jump landing task were completed before and after the intervention. Change in DROM (ΔDROM) was calculated for DROM assessments between preintervention and postintervention. Pairwise dependentttests determined no differences in ΔDROM between interventions, and statistical parametric mapping determined increased knee flexion (P = .004) and decreased anterior shear force (P = .015) during landing after both interventions. Increased DROM improves sagittal plane displacement and loading at the knee. Stretching may be a more feasible option in a healthy population for those wanting to maintain range of motion and decrease knee injury risk without physical therapist involvement.
More than 1000 rivers account for 80% of global riverine plastic emissions into the ocean
Authors: Meijer Lourens J. J. , van Emmerik Tim , van der Ent Ruud , Schmidt Christian , Lebreton Laurent
Published: April 2021

More than 1000 rivers account for most plastic emissions, ranging from small urban drains to large rivers.
Fishers’ response to temperature change reveals the importance of integrating human behavior in climate change analysis
Authors: Fiorella Kathryn J. , Bageant Elizabeth R. , Schwartz Naomi B. , Thilsted Shakuntala H. , Barrett Christopher B.
Published: April 2021

Fishers’ response to temperature change reveals the importance of integrating human behavior in climate change analysis.
Na
+
/Ca
2+
exchanger mediates cold Ca
2+
signaling conserved for temperature-compensated circadian rhythms
Authors: Kon Naohiro , Wang Hsin-tzu , Kato Yoshiaki S. , Uemoto Kyouhei , Kawamoto Naohiro , Kawasaki Koji , Enoki Ryosuke , Kurosawa Gen , Nakane Tatsuto , Sugiyama Yasunori , Tagashira Hideaki , Endo Motomu , Iwasaki Hideo , Iwamoto Takahiro , Kume Kazuhiko , Fukada Yoshitaka
Published: April 2021

NCX is a new clock component common to eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
A skin-conformable wireless sensor to objectively quantify symptoms of pruritus
Authors: Chun Keum San , Kang Youn J. , Lee Jong Yoon , Nguyen Morgan , Lee Brad , Lee Rachel , Jo Han Heul , Allen Emily , Chen Hope , Kim Jungwoo , Yu Lian , Ni Xiaoyue , Lee KunHyuck , Jeong Hyoyoung , Lee JooHee , Park Yoonseok , Chung Ha Uk , Li Alvin W. , Lio Peter A. , Yang Albert F. , Fishbein Anna B. , Paller Amy S. , Rogers John A. , Xu Shuai
Published: April 2021

We report the development of a skin-conformable wireless sensor capable of assessing scratching for the quantification of itch.
The mid-Miocene Zhangpu biota reveals an outstandingly rich rainforest biome in East Asia
Authors: Wang Bo , Shi Gongle , Xu Chunpeng , Spicer Robert A. , Perrichot Vincent , Schmidt Alexander R. , Feldberg Kathrin , Heinrichs Jochen , Chény Cédric , Pang Hong , Liu Xingyue , Gao Taiping , Wang Zixi , Ślipiński Adam , Solórzano-Kraemer Mónica M. , Heads Sam W. , Thomas M. Jared , Sadowski Eva-Maria , Szwedo Jacek , Azar Dany , Nel André , Liu Ye , Chen Jun , Zhang Qi , Zhang Qingqing , Luo Cihang , Yu Tingting , Zheng Daran , Zhang Haichun , Engel Michael S.
Published: April 2021

The Zhangpu biota provides a new insight into biodiversity redistribution during the Mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum.
Precise correction of Duchenne muscular dystrophy exon deletion mutations by base and prime editing
Authors: Chemello F. , Chai A. C. , Li H. , Rodriguez-Caycedo C. , Sanchez-Ortiz E. , Atmanli A. , Mireault A. A. , Liu N. , Bassel-Duby R. , Olson E. N.
Published: April 2021

Base and prime genome editing correct Duchenne muscular dystrophy mutations to restore dystrophin in mice and human cells.
Motivational Resilience during COVID-19 across at-Risk Undergraduates
Authors: Cromley Jennifer , Kunze Andrea
Published: April 2021

Media reports suggest the switch to online courses due to COVID-19 has “demotivated” undergraduates. Our semester-long study of motivation for biology was in progress when COVID-19 was declared a pandemic.
From Bored Games to Board Games: Student-Driven Game Design in the Virtual Classroom
Authors: Heim Ashley B. , Holt Emily A.
Published: April 2021

Classroom assessments needed to be rapidly modified at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, as instruction transitioned from an in-person to virtual format. Yet, a significant obstacle among instructors during this time was developing online assessments that were useful, engaging, and accessible for students.
Innovation in a Time of Crisis: Adapting Active Learning Approaches for Remote Biology Courses
Authors: Morrison Erin S. , Naro-Maciel Eugenia , Bonney Kevin M.
Published: April 2021

The sudden switch from predominantly in-person to remote learning across all levels of education due to the COVID-19 pandemic posed many challenges, including transitioning in-person active learning efforts to an online format. Although active learning has increased student engagement in science, it can be challenging to effectively integrate into remote courses.
Development of the Organonitrogen Biodegradation Database: Teaching Bioinformatics and Collaborative Skills to Undergraduates during a Pandemic
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Authors: Robinson Serina L. , Biernath Troy , Rosenthal Caleb , Young Dean , Wackett Lawrence P. , Martinez-Vaz Betsy M.
Published: April 2021

Physical distancing and inaccessibility to laboratory facilities created an opportunity to transition undergraduate research experiences to remote, digital platforms, adding another level of pedagogy to their training. Basic bioinformatics skills together with critical analysis of scientific literature are essential for addressing research questions in modern biology.
Undergraduate Virtual Engagement in Community Genome Annotation Provides Flexibility to Overcome Course Disruptions
Authors: Saha Surya , Shippy Teresa D. , Brown Susan J. , Benoit Joshua B. , D’Elia Tom
Published: April 2021

Recently, students and faculty have been forced to deal with unprecedented disruptions to their courses and broader uncertainties that have presented serious challenges to quality instruction. We present a flexible, team-based approach to teaching and learning that can transition seamlessly between face-to-face, hybrid, and fully online instruction when disruptions occur.
Exploring the Effects on Student Learning and Engagement of COVID-19: An Innovative and Interdisciplinary Approach
Authors: Lungu Bwalya , Lungu Maria
Published: April 2021

Educators are tasked with developing new pedagogical, communication, and assessment strategies to ensure the delivery of quality instruction to students. The nexus that exists between student engagement and teaching methods has been a sustained and distinct focus for higher education institutions.
CURE in Antibiotic Discovery Using a Combination of in-Person, Hands-On Laboratory Activities and Remote, Mentor-Type Experiences during COVID-19
Authors: Smith Mary Ann V.
Published: April 2021

Pedagogy designed to improve student engagement, like the course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE), was given its hardest challenge yet during the COVID-19 pandemic: to find a way to exist and continue productive work in a remote environment. Faculty in STEM disciplines have worked to implement CURE programs into course curriculums, only to have had some of them disrupted during spring 2020.
Using Critical Analysis of Scientific Literature To Maintain an Interactive Learning Environment for In-Person and Online Course Modalities
Authors: Fischer Kristin M.
Published: April 2021

Every instructor has concerns about effectively balancing the amount of course content with experiences to enhance a student’s skills for professional success. The COVID-19 pandemic made this process even more challenging by requiring many instructors to shift rapidly from in-person to online instruction while maintaining academic integrity.
The Challenges of Teaching Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory Online in the Time of COVID-19
Authors: Davis Claudette P. , Pinedo Tommy
Published: April 2021

In April 2020, New York City’s K–12 schools, colleges, and universities went into lockdown in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and faculty began converting face-to-face classes into distance learning classes. Teachers and college faculty learned to use new technology to continue instruction for the remainder of the academic year.
Juvenile Individuals of Opahs (Lampridae) from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Notes on the Systematics and Distribution of Opahs, Including the Description of a New Subgenus, Paralampris subgen. nov.
Authors: Kukuev E. I.
Published: April 2021

Juvenile specimens of opahs (Lampridae) from the Southwest Atlantic, southeastern Pacific Ocean, and Gulf of Guinea are described. A taxonomic review of the composition of the family Lampridae is carried out, taking into account the recent revision of opah species of the genus Lampris and our own data. A new subgenus, Paralampris subgen. nov., has been identified.
Neuropathic corneal pain and dry eye: a continuum of nociception
Authors: Dieckmann Gabriela , Borsook David , Moulton Eric
Published: April 2021

Throughout the body, damage to peripheral nerves normally involved in nociception may produce a constellation of symptoms—including irritation, itchiness and pain. The neurobiological processes involved in corneal symptoms of dry eye (DE) and neuropathic corneal pain (NCP) have not been clearly considered in terms of nociceptive processing. The conventional underlying presumption is that a labelled line principle is responsible; that these distinct perceptions are hard coded by primary afferent inputs to the central nervous system. This presumption oversimplifies the neurobiological mechanisms underlying somatosensory perception. The labelled line perspective that DE represents a chronic pain condition does not make intuitive sense: how can an eye condition that is not painful in most cases be considered a pain condition? Does not chronic pain by definition require pain to be present? On the other hand, NCP, a term that clearly denotes a painful condition, has historically seemed to resonate with clinical significance. Both DE and NCP can share similar features, yet their differentiation is not always clear. As is often the case, clinical terms arise from different disciplines, with DE evolving from ophthalmological findings and NCP inspired by pain neurophysiology. This review evaluates the current definition of these terms, the rationale for their overlap and how the neurophysiology of itch impacts our understanding of these conditions as a continuum of the same disease. Despite the complexity of nociceptive physiology, an understanding of these mechanisms will allow us a more precise therapeutic approach.
Implications of COVID-19 infection on patients with uveitis under biologic treatment
Authors: AlBloushi Abdulrahman F , Alfawaz Abdullah M , Abu El Asrar Ahmed M
Published: April 2021

Background/aims

To investigate the incidence, severity of COVID-19 infection and the outcomes in patients with uveitis treated with biologic agents during COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In this prospective study, we included all patients with uveitis treated with biologic agents and tested for COVID-19 infection between May 2020 and October 2020.

Results

A total of 59 patients were identified. Behçet’s disease was the most common diagnosis (64.4%). Infliximab was the most frequent biologic agent used (61%). Nine (15.3%) patients were tested positive for COVID-19. None of the patients with positive COVID-19 test developed any COVID-19-related symptoms during follow-up. Of the nine patients with positive COVID-19 test, only two patients had uveitis flare-up after the biologic suspension.

Conclusion

Uveitis patients under biologic therapy can be silent carriers for COVID-19.
Evaluation of qPCR on blood and skin microbiopsies, peripheral blood buffy coat smear, and urine antigen ELISA for diagnosis and test of cure for visceral leishmaniasis in HIV-coinfected patients in India: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Owen Sophie I , Burza Sakib , Kumar Shiril , Verma Neena , Mahajan Raman , Harshana Amit , Pandey Krishna , Cloots Kristien , Adams Emily , Das Pradeep
Published: April 2021

Introduction

HIV coinfection presents a challenge for diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Invasive splenic or bone marrow aspiration with microscopic visualisation ofLeishmaniaparasites remains the gold standard for diagnosis of VL in HIV-coinfected patients. Furthermore, a test of cure by splenic or bone marrow aspiration is required as patients with VL-HIV infection are at a high risk of treatment failure. However, there remain financial, implementation and safety costs to these invasive techniques which severely limit their use under field conditions.

Methods and analysis

We aim to evaluate blood and skin qPCR, peripheral blood buffy coat smear microscopy and urine antigen ELISA as non-invasive or minimally invasive alternatives for diagnosis and post-treatment test of cure for VL in HIV-coinfected patients in India, using a sample of 91 patients with parasitologically confirmed symptomatic VL-HIV infection.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study has been granted by The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, The Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, the University of Antwerp and the Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Science in Patna. Any future publications will be published in open access journals.

Trial registration number

CTRI/2019/03/017908.
Psychological distress during COVID-19 pandemic in low-income and middle-income countries: a cross-sectional study of older persons in Thailand
Authors: Pothisiri Wiraporn , Vicerra Paolo Miguel Manalang
Published: April 2021

Objective

The COVID-19 situation in Thailand was controlled with various social measures. Much of the information covered in the media and in studies focused on the public health and economic aspects of the pandemic. This study aimed to explore the psychological well-being of older people, which is important especially in an ageing society categorised as low income or middle income due to the limits of economic and healthcare resources.

Setting

The impact of COVID-19 on older persons in Thailand, an online survey, taken across nine provinces within the five regions of the country.

Participants

Information was collected from 1230 adults aged at least 60 years old.

If an older person was illiterate, unable to access the internet or had a disability preventing them from responding to the survey, an intermediary residing in the community conducted the survey interview.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The analysis focused on the worries of older adults and the factors associated with psychological distress experienced during the pandemic using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The majority of people aged at least 60 years old experienced psychological distress during COVID-19. Employment loss (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.38), inadequate income (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.44) and debt incursion (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.57 to 4.80) were detrimental to psychological well-being. The negative changes in the perception of their health status (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.23 to 2.99) and decreased life satisfaction (OR 1.49, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.87) also weighed on older Thais. The protective factors for psychological well-being were residing in rural areas (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.61) and being married (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.01).

Conclusion

Observing the concerns of the older population is important for introducing policies that can alleviate their precarious financial and health statuses.