bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychopathological precursors of the onset of mood disorders in offspring of parents with and without mood disorders: results of a 13‐year prospective cohort high‐risk study
Authors: Rudaz Dominique , Vandeleur Caroline L. , Gholam Mehdi , Castelao Enrique , Strippoli Marie‑Pierre F. , Marquet Pierre , Aubry Jean‑Michel , Merikangas Kathleen R. , Preisig Martin
Published: August 2020

Background

There is still limited evidence from prospective high‐risk research on the evolution of specific disorders that may emerge early in the development of mood disorders. Moreover, few studies have examined the specificity of mood disorder subtypes among offspring of parents with both major subtypes of mood disorders and controls based on prospective tracking across the transition from childhood to adulthood. Our specific objectives were to (a) identify differences in patterns of psychopathological precursors among youth with (hypo)mania compared to MDD and (b) examine whether these patterns differ by subtypes of parental mood disorders.

Methods

Our data stem from a prospective cohort study of 449 directly interviewed offspring (51% female, mean age 10.1 years at study intake) of 88 patients with BPD, 71 with MDD, 30 with substance use disorders and 60 medical controls. The mean duration of follow‐up was 13.2 years with evaluations conducted every three years.

Results

Within the whole cohort of offspring, MDE (Hazard Ratio = 4.44; 95%CI: 2.19–9.02), CD (HR = 3.31;1.55–7.07) and DUD (HR = 2.54; 1.15–5.59) predicted the onset of (hypo)manic episodes, whereas MDD in offspring was predicted by SAD (HR = 1.53; 1.09–2.15), generalized anxiety (HR = 2.56; 1.05–6.24), and panic disorder (HR = 3.13; 1.06–9.23). The early predictors of (hypo)mania in the whole cohort were also significantly associated with the onset of (hypo)mania among the offspring of parents with BPD.

Conclusions

The onset of mood disorders is frequently preceded by identifiable depressive episodes and nonmood disorders. These precursors differed by mood subtype in offspring. High‐risk offspring with these precursors should be closely monitored to prevent the further development of MDD or conversion to BPD.
Estimating the Use of Potentially Inappropriate Medications Among Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Fralick Michael , Bartsch Emily , Ritchie Christine S. , Sacks Chana A.
Published: August 2020

OBJECTIVES

Inappropriate prescribing of medications is common in health care, and is an important safety concern, especially for older adults, who have a high burden of comorbidity and are at greater risk for medication‐related adverse events. This study aims to estimate the extent and cost of potentially inappropriate prescribing of medications to older adults in the United States.

DESIGN

A cross‐sectional study.

SETTING

Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program data set (2014–2018).

PARTICIPANTS

Older adults who were enrolled in Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program between 2014 and 2018.

MEASUREMENTS

Potentially inappropriate medications were identified using the 2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria®.

RESULTS

In 2018, 7.3 billion doses of potentially inappropriate medications were dispensed. The most common medications by number of doses dispensed were proton pump inhibitors, benzodiazepines, and tricyclic antidepressants, and the top five unique medications by reported spending were dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, omeprazole, dronedarone, and conjugated estrogens. From 2014 to 2018, 43 billion doses of potentially inappropriate medications were dispensed, with a reported spending of $25.2 billion.

CONCLUSION

Potentially inappropriate medication use among older adults is both common and costly. Careful attention to potentially inappropriate medication use and deprescribing when clinically appropriate could reduce costs and potentially improve outcomes among older adults.
Potential curing and beneficial effects of Ooitabi (Ficus pumila L.) on hypertension and dyslipidaemia in Okinawa
Authors: Suzuki K. , Gonda K. , Kishimoto Y. , Katsumoto Y. , Takenoshita S.
Published: August 2020

Background

Over 30% of the population of Okinawa Prefecture have a high body mass index. The incidence of hypertension and dyslipidaemia has also increased in recent years. We found that Ooitabi (Ficus pumila L.), a plant native to Okinawa, was useful for hypertension. During ancient times, the extracts of Ooitabi leaves were used for making Ishimaki tea in some areas of Okinawa Prefecture. The plants in Okinawa are rich in antioxidants, and four flavonoid glycosides, including rutin, have been identified in Ooitabi.

Methods

In the present study, we conducted clinical verification tests on the effects of drinking Ishimaki tea on outpatients with hypertension and dyslipidaemia. Of 3814 Japanese patients who underwent medical check‐ups in Okinawa, 38 individuals with high blood pressure, dyslipidaemia, liver dysfunction and gout visited our hospital as outpatients and were asked to drink Ishimaki tea.

Results

After 3 months, there were significant reductions in body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, γ‐glutamyltrans peptidase, uric acid and ratio of blood vessel insulin resistance.

Conclusions

Ooitabi extract can lower blood pressure and improve lipid abnormalities and has likely contributed to the well‐known health and longevity of the population in Okinawa.
Pain and analgesia in pet rabbits: a survey of the attitude of veterinary nurses
Authors: Benato L. , Murrell J. , Blackwell E. , Saunders R. , Rooney N.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To gain insight into veterinary nurse knowledge of pain recognition and control in rabbits.

Materials and Methods

We used a survey to establish current attitudes amongst veterinary nurses towards pain management in pet rabbits and factors that might shape those attitudes. The survey was advertised at national and international veterinary conferences, in veterinary publications and on social media.

Results

A total of 284 questionnaires (95% from the UK) were completed and analysed. The majority of respondents (78%) nursed 1–10 rabbits per month and 5.6% of the respondents reported regularly running a rabbit clinic. The respondents were regularly involved in nursing during common procedures such as castration and ovariohysterectomy. Responsibility for post‐operative pain assessment was reported to be by “nurses only” (50%), “nurses and vets” (42%) and occasionally by “vets only” (3%). The majority of respondents reported that they did not use a pain scale but often relied on behavioural indicators, while 20% used the Rabbit Grimace Scale. The majority of the respondents reported being “fairly confident” at recognising pain in rabbits.

Clinical Significance

Veterinary nurses are involved in many aspects of rabbit care, and they are generally confident at nursing this species. This survey also suggests the need for more data on the use of pain assessment tools in rabbits and the importance of teamwork between nurses and veterinarians.
What is truth: Consensus and discordance in next‐generation phylogenetic analyses of Daucus
Authors: Spooner David M. , Ruess Holly , Ellison Shelby , Senalik Douglas , Simon Philipp
Published: August 2020

High‐throughput (next‐generation) DNA sequencing has removed barriers to data quantity and quality, and it has produced phylogenies with high statistical support. Such data are useful to address phylogenetic congruence among individual genes. Concatenated analyses of unlinked genes often produce well‐resolved phylogenetic trees with bootstrap support on major nodes at or approaching 100%, but they have been criticized for providing incorrect phylogenies for various reasons to include a history of hybridization, introgression, and incomplete lineage sorting. The present study compares next‐generation sequencing results of the same accessions of Daucus with different genomic regions, of which three have been reported before: (i) the entire plastid genome, (ii) 47 mitochondrial genes, and (iii) 94 conserved nuclear orthologs. Here, we report a fourth dataset, (iv) 564 895 nuclear SNPs. There are areas of discordance in all four results using the same accessions analyzed with maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and with the nuclear data species trees through a coalescent analysis. The nuclear results show significant areas of discordance that were unexpected, because these studies used the same DNA samples, the nuclear studies were generated from large and high‐quality datasets with the SNPs distributed on all nine linkage groups of Daucus carota, and the results were supported by high bootstrap values. These results raise questions concerning the best data and analytical methods to reconstruct and understand the “truth” of a phylogeny.
Prevalence and long‐term outcome of sub‐clinical primary sclerosing cholangitis in patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Culver Emma L. , Bungay Helen K. , Betts Margaret , Forde Colm , Buchel Otto , Manganis Charis , Warren Bryan F. , Cummings Fraser R. , Keshav Satish , Travis Simon P. L. , Chapman Roger W.
Published: August 2020

Background

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is closely associated with inflammatory bowel disease, particularly ulcerative colitis (UC), with an increased risk of biliary and colorectal malignancy. We sought to clarify the prevalence, characteristics and long‐term outcome of sub‐clinical PSC diagnosed by magnetic resonance cholangiogram (MRC) in patients with UC and normal liver biochemistry, with or without colorectal dysplasia (CRD).

Methods

In this prospective case‐control study, 70 patients with UC and normal liver function (51 extensive UC, 19 CRD), 28 healthy volunteers (negative controls) and 28 patients with PSC and cholestasis (positive controls) underwent MRC and blood evaluation. MRC scans were interpreted blindly by two radiologists who graded individually, the scans as definitive for PSC, possible for PSC or normal. Clinical outcome was assessed by blood monitoring, abdominal imaging and endoscopic surveillance.

Results

7/51 (14%) with extensive UC and 4/19 (21%) with CRD had biliary abnormalities on MRC consistent with PSC. 7/11 (64%) with sub‐clinical PSC had isolated intrahepatic duct involvement. Sub‐clinical PSC was associated with advanced age (P = .04), non‐smoking (P = .03), pANCA (P = .04), quiescent colitis (P = .02), absence of azathioprine (P = .04) and high‐grade CRD (P = .03). Inter‐observer (kappa = 0.88) and intra‐observer (kappa = 0.96) agreement for MRC interpretation was high. No negative controls were assessed as definite PSC, 4/28 were considered on blinding as possible PSC. During follow‐up of sub‐clinical PSC (median 10.1(3.1‐11.9) years), four patients developed abnormal liver biochemistry, two had radiological progression of PSC and seven developed malignancy, including two biliary and one colorectal carcinoma.

Conclusions

Prevalence of sub‐clinical PSC appears high in patients with extensive UC and normal liver biochemistry, with or without CRD. Disease progression and malignancy were identified on long‐term follow‐up. MRC should be considered for all patients with extensive UC or CRD to stratify surveillance.
The applicability of spectrophotometry for the assessment of blood meal volume inartificially fed Culicoides imicola in South Africa
Authors: de Beer C. J. , Boikanyo S. N. B. , Venter G. J. , Mans B.
Published: August 2020

The volume of the blood meal of haematophagous insects will determine the number of infective particles taken up during feeding and may as such denote the minimum dose needed to infect a competent vector. Culicoides midges resort among the smallest of haematophagous vectors and determining and comparing their blood meal volumes may be challenging. Collected Culicoides imicola females were fed on defibrinated bovine blood through a Parafilm® membrane using a Hemotek® system. After feeding, the weight of pools of 10 engorged females was compared to that of 10 unfed females to determine the volume of blood imbibed. After weighing, the pools were homogenized and their absorbance read at 410 nm. Spectrophotometer readings were then converted to blood meal volumes using calibration curves, obtained by the dilution of known volumes of blood used for feeding. Although the mean blood meal volumes determined spectrophotometrically (0.06 μL), differed significantly (P < 0.01) from those obtained by weighing (0.07 μL), the range in blood meal volumes determined spectrophotometrically (0.03–0.08 μL) and by weighing (0.01–0.11 μL) was positively correlated (r = 0.7; P < 0.01). Both methods can be used to determine the blood meal volume.
Spinal manifestations of CLN1 disease start during the early postnatal period
Authors: Nelvagal H. R. , Dearborn J. T. , Ostergaard J. R. , Sands M. S. , Cooper J. D.
Published: August 2020

Aim

To understand the progression of CLN1 disease and develop effective therapies we need to characterize early sites of pathology. Therefore, we performed a comprehensive evaluation of the nature and timing of early CLN1 disease pathology in the spinal cord, which appears especially vulnerable, and how this may affect behaviour.

Methods

We measured the spinal volume and neuronal number, and quantified glial activation, lymphocyte infiltration and oligodendrocyte maturation, as well as cytokine profile analysis during the early stages of pathology in Ppt1‐deficient (Ppt1−/−) mouse spinal cords. We then performed quantitative gait analysis and open‐field behaviour tests to investigate the behavioural correlates during this period.

Results

We detected significant microglial activation in Ppt1−/− spinal cords at 1 month. This was followed by astrocytosis, selective interneuron loss, altered spinal volumes and oligodendrocyte maturation at 2 months, before significant storage material accumulation and lymphocyte infiltration at 3 months. The same time course was apparent for inflammatory cytokine expression that was altered as early as one month. There was a transient early period at 2 months when Ppt1−/− mice had a significantly altered gait that resembles the presentation in children with CLN1 disease. This occurred before an anticipated decline in overall locomotor performance across all ages.

Conclusion

These data reveal disease onset 2 months (25% of life‐span) earlier than expected, while spinal maturation is still ongoing. Our multi‐disciplinary data provide new insights into the spatio‐temporal staging of CLN1 pathogenesis during ongoing postnatal maturation, and highlight the need to deliver therapies during the presymptomatic period.
A novel missense mutation of LRP6 identified by whole‐exome sequencing in a Chinese family with non‐syndromic tooth agenesis
Authors: Wang Huijuan , Liu Yi , Zheng Yafei , Zhao Xiaoxue , Lin Shiyi , Zhang Qin , Zhang Xiangyu
Published: August 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the genetic basis of non‐syndromic tooth agenesis (TA) in a Chinese family of five individuals using whole‐exome sequencing (WES) analysis.

Settings and sample population

Five participants/Family‐based study of a non‐syndromic TA proband.

Methods

The proband, proband's mother and grandmother displayed congenital tooth deficiency. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood or saliva samples of the proband, her parents and her grandmother, and WES was utilized to identify the causal genetic mutation. The identified mutation was further verified by Sanger sequencing and analysed using bioinformatics tools.

Results

A novel missense mutation, c.G711T (p.L237F), was identified in the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 6 (LRP6) gene in all affected individuals. Bioinformatics analysis predicted the mutation to be deleterious, with the mutant LRP6 protein displaying a tertiary structural change that might disturb the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway.

Conclusions

The identification of the mutation in the LRP6 gene and autosomal dominant inheritance with TA in the generations is consistent with the mutation being responsible for TA in the family, and furthers the association of LRP6 with nonsyndromic TA.
Effect of experimental DNA demethylation on phytohormones production and palatability of a clonal plant after induction via jasmonic acid
Authors: Latzel Vít , Münzbergová Zuzana , Skuhrovec Jiří , Novák Ondřej , Strnad Miroslav
Published: August 2020

Many plant species protect themselves against herbivores through mechanical or chemical so‐called inducible defences (ID). These are regulated via a hormonal cascade which may be under epigenetic control and in which jasmonic acid (JA) plays a prominent role. In this study, we indirectly tested the role of DNA methylation in the production of ID and the synthesis of hormones involved in the ID signalling cascade. Using different intensities of 5‐azacytidine application, we aimed to produce plants of Trifolium repens with different levels of DNA methylation alteration. We then elicited the plants together with controls, i.e. plants with natural DNA methylation status, with JA and then indirectly recorded ID production in herbivore‐choice trials in which the leaves of plants with different DNA methylation statuses were provided to caterpillars of a generalist herbivore, Spodoptera littoralis. We also analysed the balance of several key defence hormones such as jasmonates, abscisic acid (ABA), indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) and salicylic acid in the plants. We found that the S. littoralis preferred demethylated plants over non‐demethylated controls. Demethylation also reduced production of JA, ABA and IAA. We conclude that DNA methylation modulates expression of ID likely via regulation of signalling hormones involved in the establishment of defence.
Infection prophylaxis patterns following pediatric autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A survey of Pediatric Transplant and Cell Therapy Consortium centers
Authors: Falcon Corey P. , Broglie Larisa , Phelan Rachel , Choi Sung W. , Auletta Jeffery J. , Chewning Joseph H.
Published: August 2020

No standardized guidelines exist for infectious prophylaxis following pediatric auto‐HSCT. We hypothesized significant variation in clinical practice. Thirty‐three Pediatric Transplant and Cell Therapy Consortium centers completed a survey to assess institutional management. The majority utilize viral (91%) and fungal prophylaxis (94%), but duration varies. Bacterial prophylaxis during neutropenia is instituted by 42%. Our study demonstrates marked practice variability in infectious prophylaxis across centers. Additional research is needed to address patterns of infectious complications and to develop meaningful clinical practice guidelines for pediatric auto‐HSCT.
What periodontal recall interval is supported by evidence?
Authors: Trombelli Leonardo , Simonelli Anna , Franceschetti Giovanni , Maietti Elisa , Farina Roberto
Published: August 2020

Recall sessions are an integral part of supportive periodontal therapy. The aim of the current article is to review the existing evidence to support if and to what extent a predefined frequency of periodontal recall sessions ensures periodontal health and stability. Factors that potentially affect the time interval for recall are described. Moreover, original data on the relevance of residual diseased sites (ie, bleeding pockets) at patient level to predict the progression of periodontitis are presented. Overall, wide heterogeneity was found in the published literature with regards to the proposed supportive periodontal therapy recall frequency once active periodontal therapy has been completed. Available data clearly show that a primary and secondary preventive regimen based on routine supportive periodontal therapy is beneficial to preserve a periodontally healthy dentition and prevent tooth loss. However, convincing evidence regarding the appropriateness, risk‐benefit, and cost‐effectiveness of different recall intervals is currently scarce. In patients affected by moderate to advanced periodontitis, a supportive periodontal therapy protocol based on a 2‐4 month recall interval appears reasonable. Limited data suggest that the amount/proportion of residual diseased sites (intended as pockets or bleeding pockets) and risk assessment tools may be of value in establishing the appropriate recall frequency.
Sustained‐release delivery of antimicrobial drugs for the treatment of periodontal diseases: Fantasy or already reality?
Authors: Steinberg Doron , Friedman Michael
Published: August 2020

Periodontal diseases are prevalent in humans. Conventional means of combating these diseases involve basic oral hygiene, mostly toothbrushing, use of mouthwashes, and flossing. Supplementary means of treatment, either clinical or pharmaceutical, are often necessary. The use of sustained‐release delivery systems, applied locally to the periodontal pocket, seems to be one feasible approach: local sustained‐release delivery of antibacterial agents to treat periodontal diseases is conceivable. The use of local (intrapocket) sustained‐release delivery systems has numerous clinical, pharmacologic, and toxicologic advantages over conventional treatments for periodontal diseases. Sustained‐release technology has been proven to be effective over the last few decades. Films, gels, and fibers are the three main classical intrapocket pharmaceutical delivery systems. Research today is more focused on improving drug delivery, and less on introducing new drugs. New approaches, eg, those making use of nanotechnology, are emerging for local drug‐delivery systems. The local sustained‐release delivery system concept is innovative and a few products are already commercially available.
Effect of water velocity on the physiology of a collapsing Sargassum siliquastrum canopy under a controlled environment
Authors: Inoue Yukio , Terada Ryuta , Belleza Dominic F. C. , Nishihara Gregory N.
Published: August 2020

Seaweed beds form a canopy affecting water flow in and around them, and therefore affect mass transport processes between the canopy and the surrounding seawater. Nutrients and physiological byproducts are transferred to and from the bulk seawater and the macroalgae surface, where they are absorbed or released. A change in the canopy structure caused by the interaction of the canopy with water motion affects mass transport and therefore affects physiological rates. Many previous studies reported that photosynthesis and nutrient uptake rates increase as water velocity increases, and recent studies have begun to examine how the interaction between water velocity and canopies affects mass transport. To elucidate how this interaction can affect the physiology of macroalgae, we measured the spatial distribution of water velocity around and in a Sargassum siliquastrum canopy and examined its impact on photosynthesis and dark respiration in a re‐circulating flume. We examined eight water velocities ranging from 0.5 to 40 cm s−1 and three canopy densities, where the spacings between individuals were 4, 6, and 8 cm. Dissolved oxygen concentrations were measured at each velocity for 2 h under dark conditions and for 1 h under 800 μmol photons m−2 s−1. As water velocity increased, the canopy began to bend with the flow and collapse, which was quantified by digital images. The gross photosynthesis rate and the dark respiration rate of the canopy increased as water velocity increased. However, the gross photosynthesis rates began to decrease beyond 9 cm s−1, whereas the dark respiration rates began to decrease beyond 4 cm s−1. Canopy density did not influence either of the rates. We conclude that increasing water velocities led to a collapse of the canopy, which inhibited water exchange between the canopy exterior and interior, and further led to the decline in physiological rates at high water velocity.
Steering global energy governance: Who governs and what do they do?
Authors: Downie Christian
Published: August 2020

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring indirect governance at the global level. However, very little work has considered these relationships in the domain of energy. In fragmented global governance domains, such as energy, the G20 has frequently been identified as an actor capable of steering other actors via indirect forms of governance. Yet to date, we do not have answers to key questions including, what is the range of actors being enrolled by the G20? And what governance functions are these actors enrolled to perform? To answer these questions, I utilize a novel database of G20 enrollment since 2008, which shows that the G20 enrolls international organizations more frequently than any other actor, and that agenda setting is the most commonly performed governance function. These data are then matched with qualitative interview data to make descriptive inferences about the patterns of global energy governance, including the extent of fragmentation, the identity of focal actors, and the G20's steering role, and how these patterns have changed over time.
Phylogenomic relationships of bioluminescent elateroids define the ‘lampyroid’ clade with clicking Sinopyrophoridae as its earliest member
Authors: Kusy Dominik , He Jin‐Wu , Bybee Seth M. , Motyka Michal , Bi Wen‐Xuan , Podsiadlowski Lars , Li Xue‐Yan , Bocak Ladislav
Published: August 2020

Bioluminescence has been hypothesized as aposematic signalling, intersexual communication and a predatory strategy, but origins and relationships among bioluminescent beetles have been contentious. We reconstruct the phylogeny of the bioluminescent elateroid beetles (i.e. Elateridae, Lampyridae, Phengodidae and Rhagophthalmidae), analysing genomic data of Sinopyrophorus Bi & Li, and in light of our phylogenetic results, we erect Sinopyrophoridae Bi & Li, stat.n. as a clicking elaterid‐like sister group of the soft‐bodied bioluminescent elateroid beetles, that is, Lampyridae, Phengodidae and Rhagophthalmidae. We suggest a single origin of bioluminescence for these four families, designated as the ‘lampyroid clade’, and examine the origins of bioluminescence in the terminal lineages of click beetles (Elateridae). The soft‐bodied bioluminescent lineages originated from the fully sclerotized elateroids as a derived clade with clicking Sinopyrophorus and Elateridae as their serial sister groups. This relationship indicates that the bioluminescent soft‐bodied elateroids are modified click beetles. We assume that bioluminescence was not present in the most recent common ancestor of Elateridae and the lampyroid clade and it evolved among this group with some delay, at the latest in the mid‐Cretaceous period, presumably in eastern Laurasia. The delimitation and internal structure of the elaterid‐lampyroid clade provides a phylogenetic framework for further studies on the genomic variation underlying the evolution of bioluminescence.
Invisibilización de las mujeres en la Biblia: relatos, autorías, recepciones
Authors: Riba Lucía
Published: August 2020

La invisibilización de personas que quedan sin palabra, sin rostros, sin historia, sin la posibilidad de ser y manifestarse como sujetos, ha sido estudiada frecuentemente por las teólogas feministas, quienes destacan que –en la mayoría de casos– las invisibilizadas son las mujeres por el solo hecho de ser mujeres. El presente artículo analiza cómo se plasma este proceso en la Biblia, desde distintos puntos de vista: la invisibilización de las mujeres en los relatos históricos; la invisibilización de autorías de mujeres; la invisibilización en las recepciones, dada una hermenéutica androcéntricapatriarcal. Y señala que en los textos de autorías femeninas se visualizan gestos y actitudes alternativas que favorecen la construcción de espacios de paz y de vida plena.
Analysis of Structure–Acoustic Coupling Characteristics Between Adjacent Flexible Panels and Enclosed Cavity
Authors: Zhang Jie , Pang Jian , Wan Yuping , Yang Liang , Jia Wenyu , Zhang Siwen
Published: August 2020

This article studies the structure–acoustic coupling mechanism between two adjacent flexible panels and an enclosed cavity by analytical and mathematical methods based on modal expansion methods and impedance mobility techniques. The results show that the coupling relations among subsystem modes of the coupled system have selectivity characteristics. The coupling strength depends on the normalized mode–shape coupling coefficients. The coupling relationship between two flexible panels is established through the enclosed cavity. The structural–acoustic coupling effect mainly affects the low-order modes of the coupled system, especially the first-order modes of the panels and cavity. When one panel is weakly coupled with the cavity, the two flexible panels are decoupled. The vibration of the panel only depends on its structural characteristics and external excitation, and the panel radiates sound into the cavity. The vibration of another panel depends not only on its structural characteristics but also on its coupling effect with the cavity.
Comparison Between the Incremental Harmonic Balance Method and Alternating Frequency/Time-Domain Method
Authors: Ju R. , Fan W. , Zhu W. D.
Published: August 2020

Two widely used semi-analytical methods: the incremental harmonic balance (IHB) method and alternating frequency/time-domain (AFT) method are compared, and some long-standing discussions on frameworks of these two methods are cleared up. The IHB and AFT methods are proved for the first time to be theoretically equivalent when spectrum aliasing does not occur in the AFT method. Based on this equivalence, the minimal nonaliasing sampling rate for the AFT and fast Fourier transform (FFT)-based IHB methods can be obtained for a system with polynomial nonlinearities. While spectrum aliasing is theoretically inevitable for nonpolynomial nonlinearities, a sufficiently large sampling rate can be usually used with acceptable accuracy and efficiency for many systems. Convergence and efficiency of the IHB method, AFT method, and several FFT-based IHB methods are compared. Accuracy and convergence can be affected when the sampling rate is insufficient. This comparison can provide some insights to avoid misuse of these methods and choose which methods to use in engineering applications.
A Parametric Analysis of Endovascular Stent Geometry Manipulation on Radial Force Performance
Authors: Scott Joel C. R. , Doman Darrel A. , Johnston Clifton R.
Published: August 2020

Stents were manufactured to investigate the impact of altering stent design characteristics (leg length, bend angle, bend radius, and wire diameter) on radial force generation. Results from this design parameter study showed that leg length, bend angle, and wire diameter have a statistically significant impact on radial force generation, while lesser changes in bend radius did not (1.00 mm versus the original 0.794 mm). However, a larger variation of this parameter (1.588 mm) was statistically significant. Results gathered for all parameters were used in the creation of a prototypal software. Using input values of patient-specific arterial diameter and compliance, as well as stent design characteristic dimensions, this program has been developed to predict stent radial force at varying levels of expansion.
Application of Nonlinear Elastic Wave Spectroscopy in the Field of Nuclear Energy
Authors: Patera J. , Jansa J.
Published: August 2020

In the field of nuclear energy, two particular applications are considered—the measurement of biological shielding concrete and measurement of high-temperature high-pressure piping. For the measurement of biological shielding concrete, a special manipulator was developed, which is applied through the ionization channels of VVER-440 power plants. Biological shielding concrete is covered on all sides with an 11 mm thick steel liner preventing its assessment using any conventional test method. For the measurement of high-temperature high-pressure piping, acoustic emission sensors installed in the LEMOP system (NPP Temelin) are used for both excitation and data acquisition. In operation, this piping is covered with glass wool insulation, but installed sensors on the waveguides make it possible to assess pipelines without removing the insulation. To demonstrate the material degradation, a set of concrete test specimens and a set of steel test specimens were made. Nonlinear elastic wave spectroscopy is a test method based on measuring the elastic–plastic response of the material whose plastic component is caused by microcracks. Part of this response may be caused by inhomogeneity of the material itself or the nonlinearity of the test system used, which is to be minimized in the measurement. Due to degradation, the number of microcracks increases, increasing the total nonlinear response of the material. The aim of this approach is to monitor the degradation of concrete and metallic materials based on the response of the test system to ultrasonic excitation.
Flow driven transitions of polyelectrolytes
Authors: Singh Sunil P. , Winkler Roland G.
Published: August 2020

The nonequilibrium properties of uniformly charged linear polymers in the presence of explicit counterions under shear flow are studied by coarse-grained mesoscale hydrodynamics simulations. The conformational properties of the polyelectrolyte (PE) are quantified by the gyration tensor, the distribution of the end-to-end distance, and alignment with the flow, which display rather universal behavior for small and moderate electrostatic interaction strengths in the regime of condensed counterions. In the limit of strong counterion condensation, shear flow leads to a globule-coil transition and polymer stretching, associated with an increase of the effective PE charge. The polyelectrolytes exhibit a pronounced tumbling motion with cyclic stretched and collapsed conformations. The average tumbling-time period decreases with increasing shear rate by a power-law with the exponent −2/3 for PEs in the coiled state. The tumbling time exhibits a plateaulike regime over nearly a decade of shear rates for PEs in the globular state. In addition, we identify various characteristic PE structures under flow in the globule and coil limits determined by the condensed counterions.
METTL6 is a tRNA m
3
C methyltransferase that regulates pluripotency and tumor cell growth
Authors: Ignatova Valentina V. , Kaiser Steffen , Ho Jessica Sook Yuin , Bing Xinyang , Stolz Paul , Tan Ying Xim , Lee Chee Leng , Gay Florence Pik Hoon , Lastres Palma Rico , Gerlini Raffaele , Rathkolb Birgit , Aguilar-Pimentel Antonio , Sanz-Moreno Adrián , Klein-Rodewald Tanja , Calzada-Wack Julia , Ibragimov Emil , Valenta Magdalena , Lukauskas Saulius , Pavesi Andrea , Marschall Susan , Leuchtenberger Stefanie , Fuchs Helmut , Gailus-Durner Valerie , de Angelis Martin Hrabe , Bultmann Sebastian , Rando Oliver J. , Guccione Ernesto , Kellner Stefanie M. , Schneider Robert
Published: August 2020

RNA methyltransferase METTL6 is implicated in tumor cell growth and in mouse energy consumption.
Crystal structure of a YeeE/YedE family protein engaged in thiosulfate uptake
Authors: Tanaka Yoshiki , Yoshikaie Kunihito , Takeuchi Azusa , Ichikawa Muneyoshi , Mori Tomoyuki , Uchino Sayaka , Sugano Yasunori , Hakoshima Toshio , Takagi Hiroshi , Nonaka Gen , Tsukazaki Tomoya
Published: August 2020

The crystal structure of YeeE shows a sophisticated hourglass shape for thiosulfate uptake.
Amazon conservation and students’ interests for biodiversity: The need to boost science education in Brazil
Authors: Franzolin Fernanda , Garcia Paulo S. , Bizzo Nelio
Published: August 2020

Amazon youngsters’ interests about biodiversity are different from those of southeast Brazil, but both support conservation.
Examining metastatic behavior within 3D bioprinted vasculature for the validation of a 3D computational flow model
Authors: Hynes W. F. , Pepona M. , Robertson C. , Alvarado J. , Dubbin K. , Triplett M. , Adorno J. J. , Randles A. , Moya M. L.
Published: August 2020

3D printed vasculature paired with a 3D in silico model interrogates biophysical forces of circulating tumor cells.
DNA polymerase α interacts with H3-H4 and facilitates the transfer of parental histones to lagging strands
Authors: Li Zhiming , Hua Xu , Serra-Cardona Albert , Xu Xiaowei , Gan Songlin , Zhou Hui , Yang Wen-Si , Chen Chun-long , Xu Rui-Ming , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: August 2020

DNA Pol α transfers parental histones to lagging strands.
CRISPR-engineered human brown-like adipocytes prevent diet-induced obesity and ameliorate metabolic syndrome in mice
Authors: Wang Chih-Hao , Lundh Morten , Fu Accalia , Kriszt Rókus , Huang Tian Lian , Lynes Matthew D. , Leiria Luiz O. , Shamsi Farnaz , Darcy Justin , Greenwood Bennett P. , Narain Niven R. , Tolstikov Vladimir , Smith Kyle L. , Emanuelli Brice , Chang Young-Tae , Hagen Susan , Danial Nika N. , Kiebish Michael A. , Tseng Yu-Hua
Published: August 2020

Human white adipocytes engineered to express UCP1 activate endogenous BAT and protect against diet-induced obesity when transplanted into mice.
Human Monoclonal Antibody Derived from Transchromosomic Cattle Neutralizes Multiple H1 Clades of Influenza A Virus by Recognizing a Novel Conformational Epitope in the Hemagglutinin Head Domain
Authors: Gao Rongyuan , Sreenivasan Chithra C. , Sheng Zizhang , Hause Ben M. , Zhou Bin , Wentworth David E. , Clement Travis , Rausch Dana , Brunick Colin , Christopher-Hennings Jane , Wu Hua , Bausch Christoph L. , Sullivan Eddie J. , Hoppe Adam D. , Huber Victor C. , Wang Dan , Li Feng
Published: August 2020

Respiratory diseases caused by influenza viruses still pose a serious concern to global health, and neutralizing antibodies constitute a promising area of antiviral therapeutics. However, the potential application of antibodies is often hampered by the challenge in generating nonimmunogenic antibodies in large scale. In the present study, transchromosomic (Tc) cattle were used for the generation of nonimmunogenic monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), and characterization of such MAbs revealed one monoclonal antibody, 53C10, exhibiting a potent neutralization activity against H1N1 influenza viruses. Further characterization of the neutralization escape mutant generated using this MAb showed that three amino acid substitutions in the HA head domain contributed to the resistance. These findings emphasize the importance of Tc cattle in the production of nonimmunogenic MAbs and highlight the potential of MAb 53C10 in the therapeutic application against H1 influenza virus infection in humans.
Genome Sequence of a
Blattabacterium
Strain Isolated from the Viviparous Cockroach,
Diploptera punctata
Authors: Jennings Emily C. , Korthauer Matthew W. , Benoit Joshua B.
Published: August 2020

Here, we report the genome sequence and characterization for a
Blattabacterium
strain isolated from the viviparous cockroach,
Diploptera punctata
, which provides amino acids critical for intrauterine embryo development. The genome was assembled by sequencing of the cockroach fat body, which is the location of this obligate symbiont.
Development and Clinical Application of a Rapid and Sensitive Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test for SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Hu Xuejiao , Deng Qianyun , Li Junmin , Chen Jierong , Wang Zixia , Zhang Xiqin , Fang Zhixin , Li Haijian , Zhao Yunhu , Yu Pan , Li Wenmin , Wang Xiaoming , Li Shan , Zhang Lei , Hou Tieying
Published: August 2020

We developed a visual and rapid reverse transcription–loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) assay targeting the
S
gene for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The strength of our study was that we validated the RT-LAMP assay using 481 clinical respiratory samples from two prospective cohorts of suspected COVID-19 patients and on the serial samples from an asymptomatic carrier. The developed RT-LAMP approach showed an increased sensitivity (88.89%) and high consistency (kappa, 0.92) compared with those of reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) for SARS-CoV-2 screening while requiring only constant-temperature heating and visual inspection, facilitating SARS-CoV-2 screening in well-equipped labs as well as in the field. The time required for RT-LAMP was less than 1 h from sample preparation to the result (more than 2 h for RT-qPCR). This study showed that the RT-LAMP assay was a simple, rapid, and sensitive approach for SARS-CoV-2 infection and can facilitate COVID-19 diagnosis, especially in resource-poor settings.
Supplemental Material: Immiscibility and the origin of ladder structures, mafic layering, and schlieren in plutons
Authors: Glazner Allen , al. et
Published: August 2020

Chemical analyses of ladder structures.
Supplemental Material: The eruptive history, magmatic evolution, and influence of glacial ice at long-lived Akutan volcano, eastern Aleutian Islands, Alaska, USA
Authors: Coombs Michelle L. , al. et
Published: August 2020

Table S1: Sample descriptions, locations, and all major- and trace-element data; Table S2: Complete 40Ar/39Ar data; Figure S1: Photographs of lava-sample outcrops; Figure S2: Plateau and isochron figures for all 40Ar/39Ar experiments; Figure S3: Chondrite-normalized (McDonough and Sun, 1995) REE plots of eruptive products from Akutan Island, sorted by geologic unit.
Supplemental Material: Atmospheric dust flux in northeastern Gondwana during the peak of the late Paleozoic ice age
Authors: Abadi Mehrdad Sardar , al. et
Published: August 2020

Supplementary information and Figures S1–S10 and Tables S1 and S2.
Cause-specific child and adolescent mortality in the UK and EU15+ countries
Authors: Ward Joseph Lloyd , Wolfe Ingrid , Viner Russell M
Published: August 2020

Objective

To compare cause-specific UK mortality in children and young people (CYP) with EU15+ countries (European Union countries pre-2004, Australia, Canada and Norway).

Design

Mortality estimates were coded from the WHO World Mortality Database. Causes of death were mapped using the Global Burden of Disease mortality hierarchy to 22 cause groups. We compared UK mortality by cause, age group and sex with EU15+ countries in 2015 (or latest available) using Poisson regression models. We then ranked the UK compared with the EU15+ for each cause.

Setting

The UK and EU15+ countries.

Participants

CYP aged 1–19.

Main outcome measure

Mortality rate per 100 000 and number of deaths.

Results

UK mortality in 2015 was significantly higher than the EU15+ for common infections (both sexes aged 1–9, boys aged 10–14 and girls aged 15–19); chronic respiratory conditions (both sexes aged 5–14); and digestive, neurological and diabetes/urological/blood/endocrine conditions (girls aged 15–19). UK mortality was significantly lower for transport injuries (boys aged 15–19). The UK had the worst to third worst mortality rank for common infections in both sexes and all age groups, and in five out of eight non-communicable disease (NCD) causes in both sexes in at least one age group. UK mortality rank for injuries in 2015 was in the top half of countries for most causes.

Conclusions

UK CYP mortality is higher than a group of comparable countries for common infections and multiple NCD causes. Excess UK CYP mortality may be amenable to health system strengthening.
Fifteen-minute consultation: Paediatric organ and tissue donation
Authors: Singh Anju , Scales Angie , Mildner Reinout
Published: August 2020

This article explores ways in which paediatricians can help increase awareness and embed organ and tissue donation in the end-of-life care process. This can save patient lives on the organ transplant waiting list, many of whom currently die prematurely. The information benefits multidisciplinary staff including doctors, nurses and allied professionals to (1) recognise triggers for making referral to the specialist nurse for organ donation in order to make timely assessment for suitability for organ and/or tissue donation, (2) plan a multidisciplinary approach for families to make decisions for the gift of life and (3) help provide on-going support to families and staff.
Initiation of respiratory support for extremely preterm infants at birth
Authors: Murphy Madeleine C , McCarthy Lisa K , O’Donnell Colm P F
Published: August 2020

Neonatal resuscitation algorithms recommend assessing breathing and heart rate (HR) of newborns and giving respiratory support when one or both are unsatisfactory. Recommendations also state that preterm infants may be supported with continuous positive airway pressure rather than routinely intubated for positive pressure ventilation (PPV). We wished to describe the prevalence and time of initiation of respiratory support of extremely preterm and extremely low birthweight (ELBW) infants at our hospital. We reviewed videos of 55 infants. Although most were breathing, practically all newly born extremely preterm ELBW infants were given respiratory support soon after arrival to the resuscitation cot. For the majority, this was done without knowing the HR. The majority received PPV; again, this was often done without knowing the HR. A quarter of infants were managed without any PPV.
Semiprecision attachment: a connecting link between the removable and fixed prosthesis
Authors: Saneja Ritu , Bhatnagar Atul , Raj Nancy , Dubey Pavan
Published: August 2020

Oral rehabilitation of partially edentulous arches requires careful treatment planning before any prosthodontic intervention. The connection of the metal framework of fixed (fixed dental prosthesis (FPD)) and removable partial denture using adhesive attachments is a good alternative prosthetic option when solely fixed prosthesis (FPD or implant) cannot be used due to anatomical limitation. Attachments are the tiny interlocking devices that act as a hybrid link to join removable prosthesis to the abutment and direct the masticatory forces along the long axis of the abutment. This joint acts as a non-rigid stress breaker, which helps in distributing the occlusal load. Precision and semiprecision attachment have always been bordered by an aura of mystery due to technique sensitive procedure and lack of knowledge. The following case describes a combined contemporary and conventional approach and treatment sequence with the use of attachments for the rehabilitation of partially edentulous arches.
Cryodebulking of endobronchial hamartoma via fibreoptic bronchoscopy and literature review
Authors: Ng Boon Hau , Ban Yu-Lin Andrea , Low Hsueh Jing , Faisal Mohamed
Published: August 2020

Endobronchial hamartoma is a rare tumour. We report a 65-year-old woman with a history of recurrent pneumonia. Bronchoscopy revealed a 1 cm endobronchial mass obstructing the left upper lobe bronchus. Histopathological examination was consistent with a pulmonary hamartoma. This lesion was successfully debulked endoscopically with the use of a flexible cryoprobe without any complications. This case highlights both the importance of investigating recurrent pneumonia and the usefulness of endoscopic recanalisation in an obstructed segmental bronchus.
Lenalidomide demonstrates clinical activity in anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Bhaskar Shakthi , Abro Brooj , Fraum Tyler J , Mehta-Shah Neha
Published: August 2020

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive large B-cell lymphoma (ALK+ LBCL) is known to be a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma that relapses quickly after both conventional chemotherapy and more targeted therapy. Lenalidomide is an immunomodulator that has shown safety and efficacy in multiple myeloma and is also approved for use in several types of lymphoma. In the case described here, the patient had a significant partial response to lenalidomide, which has not previously been described in this type of lymphoma. Given how aggressive and difficult to treat ALK+ LBCL is, further research is warranted to more completely elucidate the mechanism of action of lenalidomide in ALK+ LBCL and its role in treatment.