bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of seasonality in reproduction of multiannual delayed gametophytes ofSaccharina latissima
Authors: Ebbing Alexander P. J. , Pierik Ronald , Fivash Gregory S. , van de Loosdrecht Nienke C. J. , Bouma Tjeerd J. , Kromkamp Jacco C. , Timmermans Klaas
Published: June 2021

Delayed gametophytes are able to grow vegetatively for prolonged periods of time. As such, they are potentially very valuable for kelp aquaculture given their great promise in opening up novel opportunities for kelp breeding and farming. However, large‐scale application would require more in‐depth understanding of how to control reproduction in delayed gametophytes. For newly formed gametophytes, many environmental factors for reproduction have been identified, with key drivers being light intensity, temperature, and the initial gametophyte density. However, the question of whether delayed gametophytes react similarly to these life cycle controls remains open for exploration. In this study, we performed a full factorial experiment on the influences of light intensity, temperature, and density on the reproduction of multiannual delayed gametophytes ofSaccharina latissima, during which the number of sporophytes formed was counted. We demonstrate that delayed gametophytes ofS. latissimacan reliably reproduce sexually after more than a year of vegetative growth, depending on the effects between light intensity and temperature. Under higher light intensities (≥29 µmol photons · m−2· s−1), optimal reproduction was observed at lower temperatures (10.2°C), while at lower light intensities (≤15 µmol photons · m−2· s−1), optimal reproduction was observed at higher temperatures (≥12.6°C). Given the seasonal lag between solar radiation and sea surface temperature in natural systems, these conditions resemble those found during spring (i.e., increasing light intensity with low temperatures) and autumn (i.e., decreasing light intensity with higher temperatures). Seasonality can be used as an aquaculture tool to better control the reproduction of delayed gametophytes.
How sexual differences affect locomotor performance and metabolism of the Sword Snake: An integrated view from energetics
Authors: Lima‐Santos J. , Carvalho J. E. , Brasileiro C. A.
Published: June 2021

In snakes, behavioral differences between sex and body size can positively influence locomotor performance and metabolic rate. Evidence suggests that larger body size can positively influence the locomotor performance of snakes and affect the metabolic rate of individuals. However, the influence of sexual variation on locomotor performance may not be entirely explained by the variation in body morphology, but also by sexual behavior. Herein, we investigated the locomotor performance, resting metabolic rate, and enzyme activities in the biochemical metabolic pathways of the sexually dimorphic snake Tomodon dorsatus. We used 20 females and 14 males to measure the sprint speed as a proxy for locomotor performance and oxygen consumption to assess the metabolic rate. We also measured the maximum activity of the enzymes: lactate dehydrogenase and citrate synthase in the intercostal skeletal muscle, liver, and heart. Individual snout–vent length was related to tail length, body mass, and sex but was not with the maturity. Males of T. dorsatus are faster than females, and sprint speed and oxygen consumption were found to not be correlated. Males also had higher metabolic rate, while enzyme activities were similar in males and females. These results contributed to understanding the sexual variation in the reproductive behavior of T. dorsatus. Although the results on locomotor performance do not support the hypothesis that locomotion in the species is favored by sexual dimorphism, the increased locomotor performance in males can be explained by courtship behavior. On the other hand, sexual dimorphism and smaller body size can explain the increased metabolic rates in males.
Assertoric content, responsibility, and metasemantics
Authors: Peet Andrew
Published: June 2021

I argue that assertoric content functions as a means for us to track the responsibilities undertaken by communicators, and that distinctively assertoric commitments are distinguished by being generated directly in virtue of the words the speaker uses. This raises two questions: (a) Why are speakers responsible for the content thus generated? (b) Why is it important for us to distinguish between commitments in terms of their manner of generation? I answer the first question by developing a novel responsibility based metasemantics. I answer the second by reference to the conflicting pressures governing the resources we have available for appraising speech.
Spectroscopy outperforms leaf trait relationships for predicting photosynthetic capacity across different forest types
Authors: Yan Zhengbing , Guo Zhengfei , Serbin Shawn P. , Song Guangqin , Zhao Yingyi , Chen Yang , Wu Shengbiao , Wang Jing , Wang Xin , Li Jing , Wang Bin , Wu Yuntao , Su Yanjun , Wang Han , Rogers Alistair , Liu Lingli , Wu Jin
Published: June 2021

Leaf trait relationships are widely used to predict ecosystem function in terrestrial biosphere models (TBMs), in which leaf maximum carboxylation capacity (Vc,max), an important trait for modelling photosynthesis, can be inferred from other easier‐to‐measure traits. However, whether trait–Vc,max relationships are robust across different forest types remains unclear.

Here we used measurements of leaf traits, including one morphological trait (leaf mass per area), three biochemical traits (leaf water content, area‐based leaf nitrogen content, and leaf chlorophyll content), one physiological trait (Vc,max), as well as leaf reflectance spectra, and explored their relationships within and across three contrasting forest types in China.

We found weak and forest type‐specific relationships between Vc,max and the four morphological and biochemical traits (R2 ≤ 0.15), indicated by significantly changing slopes and intercepts across forest types. By contrast, reflectance spectroscopy effectively collapsed the differences in the trait–Vc,max relationships across three forest biomes into a single robust model for Vc,max (R2 = 0.77), and also accurately estimated the four traits (R2 = 0.75–0.94).

These findings challenge the traditional use of the empirical trait–Vc,max relationships in TBMs for estimating terrestrial plant photosynthesis, but also highlight spectroscopy as an efficient alternative for characterising Vc,max and multitrait variability, with critical insights into ecosystem modelling and functional trait ecology.
Temperature and multiple parasites combine to alter host community structure
Authors: Friesen Olwyn , Poulin Robert , Lagrue Clément
Published: June 2021

Predicting the effects of climate change requires understanding complex interactions among multiple abiotic and biotic factors. By influencing key interactions among host species, parasites can affect community and ecosystem structuring. Yet, our understanding of how multiple parasites and abiotic factors interact to alter ecosystem structure remains limited. To empirically test the role of temperature variation and parasites in shaping communities, we used a multigenerational mesocosm experiment composed of four sympatric freshwater crustacean species (isopods and amphipods) that share up to four parasite species. Mesocosms were assigned to one of four different treatments with contrasting seasonal temperatures (normal and elevated) and parasite exposure levels (continuous and arrested (presence or absence of parasite larvae in mesocosm)). We found that parasite exposure and water temperature had interactive effects on the host community. Continuous exposure to parasites altered the community structure and differences in water temperature altered species abundance. The abundance of the amphipod Paracalliope fluviatilis decreased substantially when experiencing continuous parasite exposure and elevated water temperatures. Elevated temperatures also led to parasite‐induced mortality in another amphipod host, Paracorophium excavatum. Contrastingly, isopod hosts were affected much less, suggesting increasing temperatures in conjunction with higher parasite exposure might increase their relative abundance in the community. Changes in invertebrate host populations have implications for other species such as fish and birds that consume crustaceans as well as having impacts on ecosystem processes, such as aquatic primary production and nutrient cycling. In light of climate change predictions, parasite exposure and rise in average temperatures may have substantial impacts on communities and ecosystems, altering ecosystem structure and dynamics.
Notch‐Hes1 signaling activation in Caroli disease and polycystic liver disease
Authors: Takahashi Kenta , Sato Yasunori , Yamamura Minako , Nakada Satoko , Tamano Yuko , Sasaki Motoko , Harada Kenichi
Published: June 2021

The Notch signaling pathway plays a key role in the morphogenesis of the biliary tree, but its involvement in cystic biliary diseases, such as Caroli disease (CD) and polycystic liver disease (PLD), has yet to be determined. Immunostaining was performed using liver sections of CD and PLD, and the results were compared with those of congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) and von Meyenburg complex (VMC). The expression of Notch receptor 1 (Notch1) was increased in the nuclei of biliary epithelial cells in all cases of CD and PLD, whereas it remained at a low level in CHF and VMC. In addition, Notch2 and Notch3 were preferably expressed in the nuclei of biliary epithelial cells of PLD. Accordingly, the Notch effector Hes1 was highly expressed in biliary epithelial cells of CD and PLD, and the cell proliferative activity was significantly higher in CD and PLD. The expression of the Notch ligand Delta‐like 1 was significantly increased in biliary epithelial cells of CD and PLD, which may be causally associated with the nuclear overexpression of Notch1 and Hes1. These results indicate that aberrant activation of the Notch‐Hes1 signaling pathway may be responsible for the progression of biliary cystogenesis in CD and PLD.
Evaluation of high salinity tolerance in Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre by a systematic analysis of hormone‐metabolic network
Authors: Marriboina Sureshbabu , Sharma Kapil , Sengupta Debashree , Yadavalli Anurupa Devi , Sharma Rameshwar Prasad , Reddy Attipalli Ramachandra
Published: June 2021

Salinity stress results in significant losses in plant productivity and loss of cultivable lands. Although Pongamia pinnata is reported to be a salt‐tolerant semiarid biofuel tree, the adaptive mechanisms to saline environments are elusive. Despite a reduction in carbon exchange rate (CER), the unchanged relative water content provides no visible salinity induced symptoms in leaves of hydroponic cultivated Pongamia seedlings for 8 days. Our Na+‐specific fluorescence results demonstrated that there was an effective apoplastic sodium sequestration in the roots. Salinity stress significantly increased zeatin (~5.5‐fold), and jasmonic acid (~3.8‐fold) levels in leaves while zeatin (~2.5‐fold) content increased in leaves as well as in roots of salt‐treated plants. Metabolite analysis suggested that osmolytes such as myo‐inositol and mannitol were enhanced by ~12‐fold in leaves and roots of salt‐treated plants. Additionally, leaves of Pongamia showed a significant enhancement in carbohydrate content, while fatty acids were accumulated in roots under salt stress condition. At the molecular level, salt stress enhanced the expression of genes related to transporters, including the Salt Overly Sensitive 2 gene (SOS2), SOS3, vacuolar‐cation/proton exchanger, and vacuolar‐proton/ATPase exclusively in leaves, whereas the Sodium Proton Exchanger1 (NHX1), Cation Calcium Exchanger (CCX), and Cyclic Nucleotide Gated Channel 5 (CNGC5) were up‐regulated in roots. Antioxidant gene expression analysis clearly demonstrated that peroxidase levels were significantly enhanced by ~10‐fold in leaves, while Catalase and Fe‐superoxide Dismutase (Fe‐SOD) genes were increased in roots under salt stress. The correlation interaction studies between phytohormones and metabolites revealed new insights into the molecular and metabolic adaptations that confer salinity tolerance to Pongamia.
Addition of zolpidem to combination therapy with atomoxetine‐oxybutynin increases sleep efficiency and the respiratory arousal threshold in obstructive sleep apnoea: A randomized trial
Authors: Messineo Ludovico , Carter Sophie G. , Taranto‐Montemurro Luigi , Chiang Alan , Vakulin Andrew , Adams Robert J. , Carberry Jayne C. , Eckert Danny J.
Published: June 2021

Background and objective

Atomoxetine combined with oxybutynin (Ato‐Oxy) has recently been shown to reduce obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) severity by >60%. However, Ato‐Oxy also modestly reduced the respiratory arousal threshold, which may decrease sleep quality/efficiency. We sought to investigate the additional effect of zolpidem with Ato‐Oxy on sleep efficiency (primary outcome), the arousal threshold, OSA severity, other standard polysomnography (PSG) parameters, next‐day sleepiness and alertness (secondary outcomes).

Methods

Twelve participants with OSA received 10 mg zolpidem plus Ato‐Oxy (80‐5 mg, respectively) or Ato‐Oxy plus placebo prior to overnight in‐laboratory PSG according to a double‐blind, randomized, crossover design (1‐week washout). Participants were fitted with an epiglottic catheter, a nasal mask and pneumotachograph to quantify arousal threshold and airflow. Next‐day sleepiness and alertness were assessed via the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale and a driving simulation task.

Results

The addition of zolpidem increased sleep efficiency by 9% ± 13% (80.9% ± 16.9% vs. 88.2% ± 8.2%, p = 0.037) and the respiratory arousal threshold by 17% ± 18% (−26.6 ± 14.5 vs. −33.8 ± 20.3 cm H2O, p = 0.004) versus Ato‐Oxy + placebo. Zolpidem did not systematically change OSA severity. Combination therapy was well tolerated, and zolpidem did not worsen next‐day sleepiness. However, median steering deviation during the driving simulator task increased following the zolpidem combination.

Conclusion

Zolpidem improves sleep efficiency via an increase in the respiratory arousal threshold to counteract potential wake‐promoting properties of atomoxetine in OSA. These changes occur without altering the rate of respiratory events or overnight hypoxaemia. However, while the addition of zolpidem does not increase next‐day perceived sleepiness, caution is warranted given the potential impact on next‐morning objective alertness.
Quantitative Analysis of Safety Risks and Relationship with Delayed Project Completion Times
Authors: Alkaissy Maryam , Arashpour Mehrdad , Li Heng , Alaghmand Sina , Nezamian Abe
Published: June 2021

Dynamic work environments in construction and civil infrastructure sectors remain susceptible to safety risks. Although previous research has resulted in improvements, there is currently a gap in measuring temporal impacts of safety risks quantitatively. Precise modeling of potential delays caused by safety incidents is vital for efficient management of risks and making informed decisions on project contingency. Toward this aim, the current research adopts a nondeterministic modeling method to simulate and quantify safety incidents and find correlations with project delays. Using a deductive approach, three research questions were formulated, and investigations conducted on Australian data collected from 2016 onwards. Quantitative impacts of safety risks on project completion times were numerically measured. Furthermore, safety risks were ranked based on their significance of temporal impacts on project performance. This paper contributes to the theory of safety management by developing a nondeterministic method to model impacts of safety risks at both industry and project levels. Practical contributions and outcomes can facilitate using machine learning methods to plan proportionate time buffers to address safety risks.
Bivariate change point detection: Joint detection of changes in expectation and variance
Authors: Messer Michael
Published: June 2021

A method for change point detection is proposed. We consider a univariate sequence of independent random variables with piecewise constant expectation and variance, apart from which the distribution may vary periodically. We aim to detect change points in both expectation and variance. For that, we propose a statistical test for the null hypothesis of no change points and an algorithm for change point detection. Both are based on a bivariate moving sum approach that jointly evaluates the mean and the empirical variance. The joint consideration helps improve inference compared with separate univariate approaches. We infer on the strength and the type of changes with confidence. Nonparametric methodology supports the analysis of diverse data. Additionally, a multiscale approach addresses complex patterns in change points and effects. We demonstrate the performance through theoretical results and simulation studies. A companion R‐package jcp (available on CRAN) is discussed.
Extending the Reach of Tooling Theory: A Neurocognitive and Phylogenetic Perspective
Authors: Colbourne Jennifer A. D. , Auersperg Alice M. I. , Lambert Megan L. , Huber Ludwig , Völter Christoph J.
Published: June 2021

Tool use research has suffered from a lack of consistent theoretical frameworks. There is a plethora of tool use definitions and the most widespread ones are so inclusive that the behaviors that fall under them arguably do not have much in common. The situation is aggravated by the prevalence of anecdotes, which have played an undue role in the literature. In order to provide a more rigorous foundation for research and to advance our understanding of the interrelation between tool use and cognition, we suggest the adoption of Fragaszy and Mangalam's (2018) tooling framework, which is characterized by the creation of a body‐plus‐object system that manages a mechanical interface between tool and surface. Tooling is limited to a narrower suite of behaviors than tool use, which might facilitate its neurocognitive investigation. Indeed, evidence in the literature indicates that tooling has distinct neurocognitive underpinnings not shared by other activities typically classified as tool use, at least in primates. In order to understand the extent of tooling incidences in previous research, we systematically surveyed the comprehensive tool use catalog by Shumaker et al. (2011). We identified 201 tool use submodes, of which only 81 could be classified as tooling, and the majority of the tool use examples across species were poorly supported by evidence. Furthermore, tooling appears to be phylogenetically less widespread than tool use, with the greatest variability found in the primate order. However, in order to confirm these findings and to understand the evolution and neurocognitive mechanisms of tooling, more systematic research will be required in the future, particularly with currently underrepresented taxa.
Characteristics of carbon-containing low-k dielectric SiCN thin films deposited via remote plasma atomic layer deposition
Authors: Jung Chanwon , Song Seokhwi , Park Hyunwoo , Kim Youngjoon , Lee Eun Jong , Lee Sung Gwon , Jeon Hyeongtag
Published: June 2021

This study investigates amorphous SiCN thin films deposited by remote plasma atomic layer deposition. Bis[(diethylamino)dimethylsilyl](trimethylsilyl)amine (DTDN-2) and N2 plasma were used as the precursor and reactant, respectively. The deposition temperature ranged from 100 to 300 °C, and the plasma power was set to 100 and 300 W. It was determined that the SiCN film carbon content increased with decreasing plasma power and deposition temperature. Likewise, decreasing the plasma power and deposition temperature lowered the dielectric constant of the film owing to the low film density and high carbon content. It was found that the composition of the SiCN film deposited at 300 °C was similar to that of the SiN film. The wet etch rate of the film deposited at 200 °C had the lowest value owing to the carbon content and high film density. The chemical bonding states of Si, C, and N were measured by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Simultaneous measurements of acoustic emission and sonochemical luminescence for monitoring ultrasonic cavitation
Authors: Kwon Ohbin , Pahk Ki Joo , Choi Min Joo
Published: June 2021

In the present study, a novel hybrid method was considered to identify and measure inertial cavitation activity using acoustic and optical emissions from violent bubble collapses. A photomultiplier (PMT) tube and a calibrated cylindrical needle hydrophone were used to simultaneously detect sonochemical luminescence (SCL) signals and acoustic emissions, respectively, during sonication. A cylindrical focusing ultrasound transducer operating at 398.4 kHz was employed to produce a dense cavitation bubble cloud at the focus. The results clearly showed that a similar trend between the PMT output (i.e., the SCL results) and the broad band acoustic emissions started to appear at the frequencies considered above the fourth harmonic of the sonication frequency. The experimental observation suggests that the occurrence of inertial cavitation can be monitored using the high pass spectral acoustic power and the cut-off frequency can be effectively chosen with the aid of sonochemical luminescence measurement. The hybrid method is expected to be useful for cavitation dosimetry in various medical and industrial applications.
An empirical model for wind-generated ocean noise
Authors: Hildebrand John A. , Frasier Kaitlin E. , Baumann-Pickering Simone , Wiggins Sean M.
Published: June 2021

An empirical model for wind-generated underwater noise is presented that was developed using an extensive dataset of acoustic field recordings and a global wind model. These data encompass more than one hundred years of recording-time and capture high wind events, and were collected both on shallow continental shelves and in open ocean deep-water settings. The model aims to explicitly separate noise generated by wind-related sources from noise produced by anthropogenic sources. Two key wind-related sound-generating mechanisms considered are: surface wave and turbulence interactions, and bubble and bubble cloud oscillations. The model for wind-generated noise shows small frequency dependence (5 dB/decade) at low frequencies (10–100 Hz), and larger frequency dependence (∼15 dB/decade) at higher frequencies (400 Hz–20 kHz). The relationship between noise level and wind speed is linear for low wind speeds (<3.3 m/s) and increases to a higher power law (two or three) at higher wind speeds, suggesting a transition between surface wave/turbulence and bubble source mechanisms. At the highest wind speeds (>15 m/s), noise levels begin to decrease at high frequencies (>10 kHz), likely due to interaction between bubbles and screening of noise radiation in the presence of high-density bubble clouds.
Flexibility, Position, and Strength of the Shoulder Complex in Pediatric and Adult Amateur Tennis Athletes
Authors: Barbosa Germanna M. , Ribeiro Larissa P. , Nasser Ana B. , Oliver Gretchen D. , Camargo Paula R.
Published: June 2021

Context: Understanding the musculoskeletal adaptations in the shoulder complex of varying ages of tennis athletes may suggest preventive protocols and conditioning and rehabilitation programs to this population. This study aimed to generate a bilateral descriptive profile of shoulder flexibility, scapular and clavicular position, and muscle strength in pediatric and adult amateur tennis athletes. The outcome measures were compared between groups and sides. The number and percentage of athletes “at risk” according to cutoff values for shoulder range of motion (ROM) were also analyzed. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: 36 pediatric and 28 adult amateur tennis athletes were tested. Outcome measures were ROM of shoulder flexion, abduction, internal and external rotation, posterior capsule tightness, pectoralis minor index (PMI), scapular upward rotation, clavicular elevation, and strength of the external rotators, serratus anterior, and lower trapezius of the dominant/nondominant sides. Results: Pediatric athletes had greater dominant side external rotation (P = .01) and total ROM (P = .04), increased Low Flexion test (P = .01), and decreased PMI (P = .01) compared with the adults. Bilaterally, the pediatric athletes had greater dominant side external rotation ROM (P < .01) and decreased PMI (P = .002) as compared with their nondominant side, whereas the adults displayed lower values on posterior capsule tightness (P = .01) and decreased PMI (P = .02) on their dominant side compared with their nondominant side. For the remaining outcomes, no interaction effects were observed. The cutoff values for shoulder ROM showed that several athletes were “at risk” of shoulder problems. Conclusion: Upper extremity adaptations at the shoulder are present in both pediatric and adult tennis athletes. These data can assist clinicians in better understanding the biomechanical adaptations in the shoulder of amateur tennis athletes in different age groups.
The Experimental Effect of Parent Versus Peer Influence on Children’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior
Authors: Kobak Mallory , Lepp Andrew , Rebold Michael , Glickman Ellen , Barkley Jacob E.
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To assess children’s physical activity, sedentary behavior, liking, and motivation during 3 separate simulated recess conditions: playing alone, with their parent participating, and with their peer participating. Methods: Children participated in the 3 separate conditions. During each condition, the children had access to an outdoor playground and sedentary activity options for 30 minutes. Accelerometry recorded the physical activity. Time allocated to sedentary options was monitored via a stopwatch. A visual analog scale was used to assess liking, and motivation was assessed as the children’s willingness to participate in an additional 10 minutes of each condition. Results: The children sat 88% less and were 33% more physically active with their peer versus playing alone. The children also sat 65% less during the parent condition than alone. Lastly, the children reported ≥34% liking and were ≥2-fold more likely to participate in the additional 10-minute activity bout during the parent and peer conditions than alone. The differences were significant (P ≤ .05) except for the children’s decision to participate in the additional 10 minutes in the parent versus the alone condition (P = .058). Conclusions: Relative to the alone condition, the presence of a peer or parent reduced sedentary behavior and increased liking and the motivation to participate in that condition. However, only the presence of a peer increased physical activity versus alone.
Acute Cardiometabolic and Perceptual Responses to Individual and Group-Based Body-Weight Resistance Exercise in Girls
Authors: Ricci Jeanette M. , Currie Katharine D. , Astorino Todd A. , Pfeiffer Karin A.
Published: June 2021

Girls’ acute responses to group-based high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) are not well characterized. Purpose: To compare acute responses to treadmill-based HIIE (TM) and body-weight resistance exercise circuit (CIRC) and to CIRC performed in a small-group setting (group CIRC). Method: Nineteen girls (9.1 [1.1] y) completed exercise testing on a TM to determine peak oxygen uptake, peak heart rate (HRpeak), and maximal aerobic speed. The TM involved eight 30-second sprints at 100% maximal aerobic speed. The CIRC consisted of 8 exercises of maximal repetitions performed for 30 seconds. Each exercise bout was followed by 30 seconds of active recovery. The blood lactate concentration was assessed preexercise and postexercise. The ratings of perceived exertion, affective valence, and enjoyment were recorded at preexercise, Intervals 3 and 6, and postexercise. Results: The mean heart rate was higher during group CIRC (92% [7%] HRpeak) than CIRC (86% [7%] HRpeak) and TM (85% [4%] HRpeak) ( = .49). The mean oxygen uptake equaled 76% (11%) of the peak oxygen uptake for CIRC and did not differ from TM (d = 0.02). The CIRC elicited a greater postexercise blood lactate concentration versus TM (5.8 [1.7] vs 1.4 [0.4] mM, d = 3.61). The perceptual responses were similar among conditions (P > .05), and only the rating of perceived exertion increased during exercise ( = .78). Conclusion: Whether performed individually or in a small group, CIRC represents HIIE and may be a feasible alternative to running-based HIIE.
Differing lymphokine profiles of functional subsets of human CD4 and CD8 T cell clones
Authors: Salgame P , Abrams JS , Clayberger C , Goldstein H , Convit J , Modlin RL , Bloom BR
Published: June 2021

Functional subsets of human T cells were delineated by analyzing patterns of lymphokines produced by clones from individuals with leprosy and by T cell clones of known function. CD4 clones from individuals with strong cell-mediated immunity produced predominantly interferon-gamma, whereas those clones that enhanced antibody formation produced interleukin-4. CD8 cytotoxic T cells secreted interferon-gamma. Interleukin-4 was produced by CD8 T suppressor clones from immunologically unresponsive individuals with leprosy and was found to be necessary for suppression in vitro. Both the classic reciprocal relation between antibody formation and cell-mediated immunity and resistance or susceptibility to certain infections may be explained by T cell subsets differing in patterns of lymphokine production.
Modulation of the time course of fast EPSCs and glutamate channel kinetics by aniracetam
Authors: Tang CM , Shi QY , Katchman A , Lynch G
Published: June 2021

It is generally accepted that glutamate serves as the neurotransmitter at most excitatory synapses in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). Synaptic release of glutamate may trigger a fast and a slow excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC). The slow EPSC is mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor channels, whereas the fast EPSC is mediated by non-NMDA receptor channels. The nootropic agent aniracetam selectively and reversibly slows the desensitization kinetics of non-NMDA channels and lengthens their single-channel open times. Antiracetam also modulates the kinetics of the fast EPSC in a manner that mirrors its action on the kinetics of the non-NMDA channels. These results support the hypothesis that the properties of the non-NMDA glutamate channels rather than the rate of neurotransmitter clearance are the primary determinants of the kinetics of the fast EPSC in the mammalian CNS.
Manual Reading of Sensititre Broth Microdilution System Panels Improves Accuracy of Susceptibility Reporting for Polymyxin Antibiotics
Authors: Bellerose Michelle M. , Clark Andrew E. , Youn Jung-Ho , Weingarten Rebecca A. , Crooks Chelsea M. , Dekker John P. , Frank Karen M.
Published: June 2021

Accurate and reproducible antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) of polymyxin antibiotics is critical, as these drugs are last-line therapeutic options for the treatment of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections. However, polymyxin AST in the routine laboratory remains challenging.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Canadian Strain of Raoultella planticola with Metal and Antimicrobial Resistance Genes
Authors: Kang Mingsong , Chmara John , Naushad Sohail , Huang Hongsheng
Published: June 2021

Raoultella planticola
is a Gram-negative opportunistic bacterial pathogen associated with hospital-acquired infections in humans. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of one
Raoultella planticola
strain isolated from Canadian wastewater treatment facilities containing one chromosome and four plasmids with four antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and four metal resistance gene clusters.
Draft Genome Sequence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strain Awamori Number 101, Commonly Used to Make Awamori, a Traditional Spirit, in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: Tsukahara Masatoshi , Ise Kotaro , Nezuo Maiko , Azuma Haruna , Akao Takeshi , Toyama Hirohide
Published: June 2021

We report here the draft genome sequence for
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
strain Awamori number 101, an industrial strain used for producing awamori, a distilled alcohol beverage. It was constructed by assembling the short reads obtained by next-generation sequencing. The 315 contigs constitute an 11.5-Mbp genome sequence coding 6,185 predicted proteins.
Subduction initiation-induced rapid emplacement of garnet-bearing peridotites at a nascent forearc: Petrological and Os-Li isotopic evidence from the Purang ophiolite, Tibet
Authors: Gong Xiao-Han , Xu Ji-Feng , Shi Ren-Deng , Su Ben-Xun , Huang Qi-Shuai , Huang Xiao-Xiao
Published: June 2021

Garnet-bearing peridotites commonly occur in the deeper parts of mature or thickened oceanic lithosphere, and are rarely exhumed and emplaced onto the seafloor. The Purang ophiolitic peridotites in south Tibet contain rare symplectite pseudomorphs after garnet, offering a unique window into the still poorly understood evolution of the deep oceanic lithosphere. Here, integrated petrologic and Os-Li isotopic data are used to constrain the evolution and dynamics of emplacement for these garnet peridotite protoliths. The Purang peridotites show wide variations of chemical compositions (spinel Cr#: 0.2–0.8) and Os model ages (up to 2.0 Ga), thus representing a piece of heterogeneous oceanic mantle lithosphere. Dunite channels show two distinctive groups of Cr# of spinels and Os-isotope compositions, with the low- to medium-Cr# (0.2–0.6) and high-Cr# (0.7–0.8) dunites reflecting the reaction of host lherzolites/harzburgites with percolating mid-ocean ridge basalt–like and boninitic melts, respectively. This confirms recent subduction initiation-related melt percolation in the Purang peridotites. Coexisting olivines and pyroxenes in the peridotites show systematic Li elemental and isotopic disequilibrium, suggesting fast cooling of the peridotites to Li closure temperature shortly after the melt percolations, likely during exhumation of the peridotites onto the seafloor. This supports a close link between subduction initiation and tectonic emplacement of the Purang peridotites. Combined with other geological evidence, we suggest the Purang peridotites may originate from the deep part of old, thick oceanic lithosphere of the Neo-Tethys. This thick oceanic lithosphere was progressively weakened and thinned likely during widespread plume-lithosphere interaction, triggering the transformation of garnet peridotite protoliths to spinel peridotites. Subsequently, initiation of a new subduction zone along the lithospheric weakness caused rapid ascent and emplacement of the Purang peridotites at a nascent forearc.
Supplemental Material: Staged formation of the supergiant Olympic Dam uranium deposit, Australia
Authors: Ehrig Kathy , Kamenetsky Vadim , al. et
Published: June 2021

Items S1 (mine-scale maps of Cu, U, Pb grades), S2 (methods), and S3 (interpretation of Pb isotopes in Cu sulfides); and Tables S1 and S2 (U-Pb dating and REE compositions of uraninite, respectively).
Hypokalaemic periodic paralysis secondary to subclinical hyperthyroidism: an uncommon cause of acute muscle paralysis
Authors: Payus Alvin Oliver , Liew Sat Lin , Tiong Nee , Mustafa Norlaila
Published: June 2021

Hypokalaemic periodic paralysis secondary to subclinical hyperthyroidism is an uncommon clinical phenomenon characterised by lower limb paralysis secondary to hypokalaemia in the background of subclinical hyperthyroidism. In this article, we report a patient who presented with progressive lower limb muscle weakness secondary to hypokalaemia that was refractory to potassium replacement therapy. He has no diarrhoea, no reduced appetite and was not taking any medication that can cause potassium wasting. Although he was clinically euthyroid, his thyroid function test revealed subclinical hyperthyroidism. His 24-hour urine potassium level was normal, which makes a rapid transcellular shift of potassium secondary to subclinical hyperthyroidism as the possible cause. He was successfully treated with potassium supplements, non-selective beta-blockers and anti-thyroid medication. This case report aimed to share an uncommon case of hypokalaemic periodic paralysis secondary to subclinical hyperthyroidism, which to our knowledge, only a few has been reported in the literature.
Transthyretin amyloidosis and herpes zoster infection: a mimic of temporal arteritis
Authors: Riley Mark , Ibrahim Ammoura , Kofman Maria , Peredo-Wende Ruben
Published: June 2021

We describe the case of a patient who presented with symptoms of persistent headaches, left-sided facial pain and blurry vision of the left eye. The patient had recovered from a herpes zoster infection of the V1 division of the trigeminal nerve 1 month prior. Serum inflammatory markers were elevated, raising concern for temporal arteritis. Empiric high-dose prednisone was initiated. Bilateral temporal artery biopsies were performed but did not show evidence of vasculitis or multinucleated giant cells. Instead, extracellular material deposits were present within the vessel walls. Congo red staining was diagnostic for amyloidosis. Liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry identified the amyloid fibrils to be transthyretin-type (ATTR) consistent with age-related amyloidosis. Temporal artery involvement of amyloidosis is rare but when present is most often due to light chain amyloidosis. Based on our review of the literature, only a few cases of temporal artery ATTR amyloidosis have been reported.
Candida albicansmycotic aneurysm of aortic arch following laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for colon cancer
Authors: Rushforth Eve , Hamed Mazin , Aryal Kamal
Published: June 2021

An 81-year-old man was referred to the colorectal surgeons for an elective laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for a caecal adenocarcinoma (T2N0M0). The operation was uneventful; however, 12 days postoperatively the patient developed symptoms of sepsis of unknown origin. After extensive investigations and work up,Candida albicanswas grown as the causative organism with the site of infection being a new saccular mycotic aneurysm arising from the distal, posterior aspect of the aortic arch. The mycotic aneurysm was not initially considered as a differential diagnosis, and this case highlights the importance of consideration of mycotic aneurysm as a differential diagnosis in postsurgical septic patients.
Synovial chondromatosis of the middle ear: a rare differential diagnosis to cholesteatoma
Authors: Feekings Karoline , Giacomodonato Romina , Høgsbro Morten
Published: June 2021

Synovial chondromatosis (SC) is a rare benign disorder, usually found in larger joints. This case report describes an elderly woman with a bulging mass behind the left eardrum, slowly progressing in size. On surgical exploration and biopsy, the patient was diagnosed with SC of the incudomalleolar joint. Imaging and histopathological findings, surgical management and follow-up are being discussed. SC is a very rare finding in the middle ear and a differential diagnosis to cholesteatoma.
Premature closure of ductus arteriosus after a single dose of diclofenac during pregnancy
Authors: dos Santos Constança Soares , Silva Patricia Vaz , Castelo Rui , Tiago Joaquim
Published: June 2021

A male term neonate was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit in the first hours of life with central cyanosis. Echocardiogram showed severe biventricular hypertrophy, markedly right-sided, tricuspid regurgitation, a patent foramen ovale and a closed ductus arteriosus (CDA). The mother recalled being treated with a single dose of intravenous diclofenac for low back pain 2 weeks earlier. The newborn was started on propranolol with symptomatic improvement and was discharged on day 10. At 1-month follow-up, he showed complete resolution of ventricular hypertrophy and suspended propranolol. In the literature, of the 22 cases of CDA after intrauterine exposure to diclofenac, 11 resolved in utero, 3 required ventilatory and inotropic support and 1 evolved to persistent pulmonary hypertension. In this case, a thorough anamnesis was key to identify the probable cause of an otherwise unexplained transient ventricular hypertrophy. This case also alerts to the fetal risks of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs during the third trimester, requiring close monitoring.
Performance assessment of the county healthcare systems in Kenya: a mixed-methods analysis
Authors: Moses Mark W , Korir Julius , Zeng Wu , Musiega Anita , Oyasi Joyce , Lu Ruoyan , Chuma Jane , Di Giorgio Laura
Published: June 2021

Introduction

A well performing public healthcare system is necessary for Kenya to continue progress towards universal health coverage (UHC). Identifying actionable measures to improve the performance of the public healthcare system is critical to progress towards UHC. We aimed to measure and compare the performance of Kenya’s public healthcare system at the county level and explore remediable drivers of poor healthcare system performance.

Methods

Using administrative data from fiscal year 2014/2015 through fiscal year 2017/2018, we measured the technical efficiency of 47 county-level public healthcare systems in Kenya using stochastic frontier analysis. We then regressed the technical efficiency measure against a set of explanatory variables to examine drivers of efficiency. Additionally, in selected counties, we analysed surveys and focus group discussions to qualitatively understand factors affecting performance.

Results

The median technical efficiency of county public healthcare systems was 84% in fiscal year 2017/2018 (with an IQR of 79% to 90%). Across the four fiscal years of data, 27 out of the 47 Kenyan counties had a declining technical efficiency score. Our regression analysis indicated that impediments to the flow of funding—measured by the budget absorption rate which is the ratio between funds spent and funds released—were significantly related to poor healthcare system performance. Our analysis of interviews and surveys yielded a similar conclusion as nearly 50% of respondents indicated issues stemming from poor budget absorption were significant drivers of poor healthcare system performance.

Conclusion

Public healthcare systems at the county-level in Kenya general performed well; however, addressing delays in the flow of funding is a concrete step to improve healthcare system performance. As Kenya—and other countries—provides additional funding to meet their UHC goals, establishing a strong and robust public financial management system is critical to ensure that the benefits of UHC are realised.
Safety and efficacy of lacosamide versus phenytoin for refractory seizures in neurosurgical patients
Authors: Schaidle Sarah , Greathouse Kasey , McConnell Deepika
Published: June 2021

Background

Postoperative neurosurgical patients have increased risk of seizures. Traditional anti-epileptics, such as phenytoin, are not always effective and cause adverse effects. Levetiracetam is the first-line therapy due to its similar efficacy and more favourable side effect profile. However, many patients continue to seize despite adequate dosing. Lacosamide has been used for refractory seizures and may offer similar seizure control without the negative aspects of traditional agents. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if lacosamide is as safe and effective as phenytoin in terminating seizures in neurosurgical patients already on levetiracetam.

Methods

This retrospective, single-centre cohort study identified neurosurgical intensive care unit (ICU) patients ≥18 years old who had received levetiracetam plus either phenytoin or lacosamide at Northwestern Memorial Hospital between 1 January 2016 and 31 August 2017. The primary endpoint was treatment failure and the secondary endpoint was safety assessed by liver function tests, blood pressure, heart rate and ECG.

Results

70 patients were included in this study, 52 in the phenytoin group and 18 in the lacosamide group. Both phenytoin and lacosamide groups had similar treatment failure rates (25% vs 22% respectively, p=1). Phenytoin use resulted in a mean decrease in systolic blood pressure of 20.9 mm Hg compared with 9.8 mm Hg in the lacosamide group (p=0.019). There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of other adverse effects.

Conclusions

The use of lacosamide for refractory seizures in neurosurgical ICU patients was associated with similar failure rates, but fewer adverse effects when compared with phenytoin.
Predicting 90-day modified Rankin Scale score with discharge information in acute ischaemic stroke patients following treatment
Authors: ElHabr Andrew K , Katz Jeffrey M , Wang Jason , Bastani Mehrad , Martinez Gabriela , Gribko Michele , Hughes Danny R , Sanelli Pina
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To understand variability in modified Rankin Scale scores from discharge to 90 days in acute ischaemic stroke patients following treatment, and examine prediction of 90-day modified Rankin Scale score by using discharge modified Rankin Scale and discharge disposition.

Materials and methods

Retrospective analysis of acute ischaemic stroke patients following treatment was performed from January 2016 to March 2020. Data collection included demographic and clinical characteristics and outcomes data (modified Rankin Scale score at discharge, 30 days and 90 days and discharge disposition). Pearson’s χ2test assessed statistical differences in distribution of modified Rankin Scale scores at discharge, 30 days and 90 days. The predictive power of discharge modified Rankin Scale score and disposition quantified the association with 90-day outcome.

Results

A total of 280 acute ischaemic stroke patients (65.4% aged ≥65 years, 47.1% female, 60.7% white) were included in the analysis. The modified Rankin Scale score significantly changed between 30 and 90 days from discharge (p<0.001) after remaining stable from discharge to 30 days (p=0.665). The positive and negative predictive values of an unfavourable long-term outcome for discharge modified Rankin Scale scores of 3–5 were 67.7% (95% CI 60.4% to 75.0%) and 82.0% (95% CI 75.1% to 88.8%), and for non-home discharge disposition were 72.4% (95% CI 64.5% to 80.2%) and 74.5% (95% CI 67.8% to 81.3%), respectively.

Conclusions

Discharge modified Rankin Scale score and non-home discharge disposition are good individual predictors of 90-day modified Rankin Scale score for ischaemic stroke patients following treatment.
Sources of work-related psychological distress experienced by UK-wide foundation and junior doctors: a qualitative study
Authors: Riley Ruth , Buszewicz Marta , Kokab Farina , Teoh Kevin , Gopfert Anya , Taylor Anna K , Van Hove Maria , Martin James , Appleby Louis , Chew-Graham Carolyn
Published: June 2021

Objectives

This paper reports findings exploring work cultures, contexts and conditions associated with psychological distress in foundation and junior doctors.

Design

Qualitative study using in-depth interviews with 21 junior doctor participants. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, anonymised and imported into NVivo V.11 to facilitate data management. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis employing the constant comparative method.

Setting

NHS in England.

Participants

A purposive sample of 16 female and five male junior doctor junior doctor participants who self-identified as having stress, distress, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts, or having attempted to kill themselves.

Results

Analysis reported four key themes: (1) workload and working conditions; (2) toxic work cultures—including abuse and bullying, sexism and racism, culture of blaming and shaming; (3) lack of support; (4) stigma and a perceived need to appear invulnerable.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for future solutions and interventions targeted at improving work cultures and conditions. There needs to be greater recognition of the components and cumulative effects of potentially toxic workplaces and stressors intrinsic to the work of junior doctors, such as the stress of managing high workloads and lack of access to clinical and emotional support. A cultural shift is needed within medicine to more supportive and compassionate leadership and work environments, and a zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment and discrimination.