bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Putting the team in the driver's seat: A meta‐analysis on the what, why, and when of team autonomy's impact on team effectiveness
Authors: Ryu Ji Woon , Neubert Emily M. , Gonzalez‐Mulé Erik
Published: June 2021

Autonomy is a ubiquitous team design feature, which is purported to relate positively to team effectiveness. However, the theoretical link between team autonomy and team effectiveness is not well understood, and previous studies have found inconsistent relations between them. We aim to resolve this incomplete understanding by examining “why” autonomy relates to team effectiveness, “what” aspects of team effectiveness are affected by team autonomy, and “when” the relations vary. To do so, we investigated task‐ and relationship‐focused team functioning as mediators, expanded the construct of team effectiveness beyond just team performance to include attitudes, and tested the moderating effects of task routineness and interdependence. Our meta‐analyses based on 415 effect sizes from 69 studies conducted on approximately 6,035 teams revealed that team autonomy positively relates to both task‐ and relationship‐focused team functioning. The results showed significant indirect effects of autonomy on both team performance and attitudes via both types of team functioning. Task routineness weakened the effect of team autonomy on task‐focused functioning and, ultimately, on team performance and attitudes, while it did not change the effect on relationship‐focused functioning. The influence of team autonomy did not vary by the level of task interdependence. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Characteristics of electronic cigarette user and traditional smokers: 2017 Youth risk behavior surveillance system
Authors: Lee Young‐Shin , Yang Kyeongra , Kameg Brayden , Palmer Josh , Lee Heeyoung
Published: June 2021

Background

Although electronic cigarette (e‐cigarette) use among adolescents rapidly has increased over the past decade, which has raised concerns over the corresponding behavioral health risks, the current literature presents limited data for understanding the characteristics of adolescent e‐cigarette users.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to (1) identify general characteristics that may be shared between e‐cigarette users and traditional cigarette smokers and (2) examine the unique characteristics of e‐cigarette users vis‐à‐vis traditional cigarette smokers.

Design

Cross‐sectional descriptive study.

Sample and data source

A total of 14,765 9th‐ to 12‐grade students drawn from the CDC 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System.

Results

We observed that the prevalence of marijuana, alcohol, and other illicit drug use was higher among e‐cigarette users and traditional tobacco users than non‐users. Moreover, physically active adolescents were more likely to use e‐cigarettes than those who were physically inactive, although the level of the activity did not predict smoking status.

Conclusion

We recommend that primary prevention strategies for e‐cigarette use should be incorporated in physical education programs and target adolescents who engage in not only health risk behaviors, but also health promoting behaviors, such as physical activity.
Advances in Neutralization Assays for SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Lu Yuying , Wang Jin , Li Qianlin , Hu Huan , Lu Jiahai , Chen Zeliang
Published: June 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has triggered a global health emergency and brought disaster to humans. Tremendous efforts have been made to control the pandemic, among which neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) are of specific interest to researchers. Neutralizing antibodies are generated within weeks after infection or immunization and can protect cells from virus intrusion and confer protective immunity to cells. Thus, production of NAbs is considered as a main goal for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccines and NAbs may be used for patient treatment in the form of monoclonal antibodies. Neutralization assays are capable of quantitatively detecting NAbs against SARS‐CoV‐2, allowing to explore the relationship between the level of NAbs and the severity of the disease, and may predict the possibility of re‐infection in COVID‐19 patients. They can also be used to test the effects of monoclonal antibodies, convalescent plasma and vaccines. At present, wild‐type virus neutralization assay remains the gold standard for measuring Nabs, while pseudovirus neutralization assays, Surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) and high‐throughput versions of neutralization assays are popular alternatives with their own advantages and disadvantages. In this review article, we summarize the characteristics and recent progress of SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralization assays. Special attention is given to the current limitations of various neutralization assays so as to promote new possible strategies with NAbs by which rapid SARS‐CoV‐2 serological diagnosis and antiviral screening in the future will be achieved.
X‐ray microtomography and phylogenomics provide insights into the morphology and evolution of an enigmatic Mesozoic insect larva
Authors: Badano Davide , Fratini Michela , Maugeri Laura , Palermo Francesca , Pieroni Nicola , Cedola Alessia , Haug Joachim T. , Weiterschan Thomas , Velten Jürgen , Mei Maurizio , Di  Giulio Andrea , Cerretti Pierfilippo
Published: June 2021

Fossils sometimes show unusual morphological features absent in living organisms, making it difficult to reconstruct both their affinity and their function. We describe here a new lacewing larva, Ankyloleon caudatus gen. et sp.n. (Neuroptera) from the Cretaceous amber of Myanmar, characterized by an abdomen unique among insects, with ‘tail‐like’ terminal segments bearing a ventral pair of vesicles. Phase‐contrast X‐ray microtomography reveals that these structures were dense and equipped with a median duct, suggesting that they were likely pygopods used for locomotion, holding the position through adhesive secretions. Our phylogenetic analyses, combining genomic and morphological data from both living and fossil lacewings, proved critical to placing Ankyloleon gen.n. on the lacewing tree of life as an early representative of the antlion clade, Myrmeleontiformia. These results corroborate the view that derived myrmeleontiform lacewings ‘experimented’ with unusual combinations of features and specializations during their evolutionary history, some of which are now lost.

Zoobank registration: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:0C0AC565‐1AC9‐42CC‐831D‐EDA38BA36F64
Ubuntuand the Ontology of Radical Escape
Authors: Sanni John Sodiq
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Communitarianism has been the dominant disposition of many African scholars towards ubuntu. The nature of the concept somewhat limits how one can theorise about ubuntu. However, I argue that there is still a lot more that can be harnessed from the ubuntu concept, especially as it pertains to the ontology of radical escape. I use radical escape as an ontological character of every human being whereby to exist is to escape. In this paper, I argue that ubuntu does not provide the possibility for radical escape. The nature of escape that ubuntu provides is limited to the confines of its communitarian outlook. In this paper, I bring on board the works of Mogobe Ramose, Thaddeus Metz, Kwame Gyekye, Emmanuel Levinas, and Thomas Lear, among others, to substantiate my position. I hope to demonstrate the need to accommodate the concept of radical escape in theorising about ubuntu.
Management of children with glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency presenting with acute haemolytic crisis during the SARs‐COV‐2 pandemic
Authors: Elalfy Mohsen , Adly Amira , Eltonbary Khadiga , Elghamry Islam , Elalfy Omar , Maebid Mohamed , Elsayh Khaled , Elsayed Heba‐T‐Allah N , El Ekiaby Magdy
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

Shortage of blood during the severe acute respiratory syndrome‐COV‐2 (SARs‐COV‐2) pandemic impacted transfusion practice. The primary aim of the study is to assess management of acute haemolytic crisis (AHC) in glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase(G6PD)‐ deficient children during SARs‐COV‐2 pandemic, and then to assess blood donation situation and the role of telemedicine in management.

Methods

Assessment of G6PD‐deficient children attending the Emergency Department (ER) with AHC from 1 March 2020 for 5 months in comparison to same period in the previous 2 years, in three paediatric haematology centres. AHC cases presenting with infection were tested for SARs‐COV‐2 using RT‐PCR. Children with Hb (50–65 g/L) and who were not transfused, were followed up using telemedicine with Hb re‐checked in 24 h.

Results

A 45% drop in ER visits due to G6PD deficiency‐related AHC during SARs‐COV‐2 pandemic in comparison to the previous 2 years was observed. 10% of patients presented with fever and all tested negative for COVID‐19 by RT‐PCR. 33% of patients had Hb < 50 g/L and were all transfused. 50% had Hb between 50 and 65 g/L, half of them (n = 49) did not receive transfusion and only two patients (4%) required transfusion upon follow up. A restrictive transfusion strategy was adopted and one of the reasons was a 39% drop in blood donation in participating centres.

Conclusion

Fewer G6PD‐deficient children with AHC visited the ER during SARs‐COV‐2 and most tolerated lower Hb levels. Telemedicine was an efficient tool to support their families. A restrictive transfusion strategy was clear in this study.
A novel chronic wound biofilm model sustaining coexistence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus suitable for testing of antibiofilm effect of antimicrobial solutions and wound dressings
Authors: Chen Xiaofeng , Lorenzen Jan , Xu Yijuan , Jonikaite Monika , Thaarup Ida Clement , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Kirketerp‐Møller Klaus , Thomsen Trine Rolighed
Published: June 2021

Chronic wounds are a large burden to patients and healthcare systems. Biofilm infections in chronic wounds are crucial factors leading to non‐healing of wounds. It is important to study biofilm in wounds and to develop effective interventions against wound biofilm. This study presents a novel in vitro biofilm model mimicking infected chronic wounds. The novel layered chronic wound biofilm model uses woundlike media and includes both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, which have been identified as the most important pathogens in wounds. The model sustains their coexistence for at least 96 h. Microscopy of the model revealed microbial growth in non‐surface attached microcolonies as previously observed in vivo. The model was used to determine log10‐reduction for the use of an antimicrobial solution and antimicrobial dressings (containing silver or honey) showing moderate‐to‐low antibiofilm effect, which indicates better concordance with the observed clinical performance of this type of treatment than other widely used standard tests.
Monocyte and macrophage derived myofibroblasts: Is it fate? A review of the current evidence
Authors: Vierhout Megan , Ayoub Anmar , Naiel Safaa , Yazdanshenas Parichehr , Revill Spencer D. , Reihani Amir , Dvorkin‐Gheva Anna , Shi Wei , Ask Kjetil
Published: June 2021

Since the discovery of the myofibroblast over 50 years ago, much has been learned about its role in wound healing and fibrosis. Its origin, however, remains controversial, with a number of progenitor cells being proposed. Macrophage–myofibroblast transition (MMT) is a recent term coined in 2014 that describes the mechanism through which macrophages, derived from circulating monocytes originating in the bone marrow, transformed into myofibroblasts and contributed to kidney fibrosis. Over the past years, several studies have confirmed the existence of MMT in various systems, suggesting that MMT could potentially occur in all fibrotic conditions and constitute a reasonable therapeutic target to prevent progressive fibrotic disease. In this perspective, we examined recent evidence supporting the notion of MMT in both human disease and experimental models across organ systems. Mechanistic insight from these studies and information from in vitro studies is provided. The findings substantiating plausible MMT showcased the co‐expression of macrophage and myofibroblast markers, including CD68 or F4/80 (macrophage) and α‐SMA (myofibroblast), in fibroblast‐like cells. Furthermore, fate‐mapping experiments in murine models exhibiting myeloid‐derived myofibroblasts in the tissue further provide direct evidence for MMT. Additionally, we provide some evidence from single cell RNA sequencing experiments confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridisation studies, showing monocyte/macrophage and myofibroblast markers co‐expressed in lung tissue from patients with fibrotic lung disease. In conclusion, MMT is likely a significant contributor to myofibroblast formation in wound healing and fibrotic disease across organ systems. Circulating precursors including monocytes and the molecular mechanisms governing MMT could constitute valid targets and provide insight for the development of novel antifibrotic therapies; however, further understanding of these processes is warranted.
Towards Vorst's conjecture in positive characteristic
Authors: Kerz Moritz , Strunk Florian , Tamme Georg
Published: June 2021

Vorst's conjecture relates the regularity of a ring with the$\mathbb {A}^{1}$-homotopy invariance of its$K$-theory. We show a variant of this conjecture in positive characteristic.
Alterations in arterial CO2 rather than pH affect the kinetics of neurovascular coupling in humans
Authors: Caldwell Hannah G. , Howe Connor A. , Hoiland Ryan L. , Carr Jay M.J.R. , Chalifoux Carter J. , Brown Courtney V. , Patrician Alexander , Tremblay Joshua C. , Panerai Ronney B. , Robinson Thompson G. , Minhas Jatinder S. , Ainslie Philip N.
Published: June 2021

Key points

We investigated the influence of arterial () with and without acute experimental metabolic alkalosis on neurovascular coupling (NVC).

We assessed stepwise iso‐oxic alterations in prior to and following intravenous NaHCO3 to acutely elevate arterial pH and [HCO3–].

The NVC response was not altered following NaHCO3 between stepwise stages; therefore, NVC is acutely mediated by rather than the prevailing arterial [H+]/pH.

The NVC response was attenuated by 27–38% with −10 mmHg and the absolute peak change was reduced by −19% with +10 mmHg irrespective of acutely elevated arterial pH/[HCO3–].

The NVC kinetics (i.e. time to peak) were markedly slower with hypercapnia versus hypocapnia (24 ± 5 vs. 7 ± 5 s, respectively) likely indicating an influence of resting cerebrovascular tone on NVC responsiveness.

Elevations in cerebral metabolism necessitate appropriate coordinated and localized increases in cerebral blood flow (i.e. neurovascular coupling; NVC). Recent pre‐clinical work indicates that arterial () mediates NVC independently of arterial/extracellular pH; this has yet to be experimentally tested in humans. The goal of this study was to investigate the hypotheses that: (1) the NVC response would be unaffected by acute experimentally elevated arterial pH; rather, would regulate any changes in NVC; and (2) stepwise respiratory alkalosis and acidosis would each progressively reduce the NVC response. Ten healthy males completed a standardized visual stimulus‐evoked NVC test during matched stepwise iso‐oxic alterations in (hypocapnia: −5, −10 mmHg; hypercapnia: +5, +10 mmHg) prior to and following intravenous NaHCO3 (8.4%, 50 mEq/50 ml) that elevated arterial pH (7.406 ± 0.019 vs. 7.457 ± 0.029; P < 0.001) and [HCO3–] (26.2 ± 1.5 vs. 29.3 ± 0.9 mEq/l; P < 0.001). Although the NVC response was collectively attenuated by 27–38% with −10 mmHg (stage post hoc: all P < 0.05), this response was unaltered following NaHCO3 (all P > 0.05) irrespective of the higher pH (P = 0.002) at each matched stage of (P = 0.417). The absolute peak change was reduced by −19 ± 41% with +10 mmHg irrespective of acutely elevated arterial pH/[HCO3–] (stage post hoc: P = 0.022). The NVC kinetics (i.e. time to peak) were markedly slower with hypercapnia versus hypocapnia (24 ± 5 vs. 7 ± 5 s, respectively; stage effect: P < 0.001). Overall, these findings indicate that temporal patterns in NVC are acutely regulated by rather than arterial pH per se in the setting of acute metabolic alkalosis in humans.
Preocupación y deterioro de la calidad ambiental. Apreciación de los estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Cantú-Martínez Pedro César
Published: June 2021

En el presente trabajo, se aborda el pensamiento y la manera de interiorizar el vínculo que existe entre el individuo y el ambiente en el que vive. El estudio se realizó en la Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (México), con la participación de 65 estudiantes universitarios. Como metodología, se empleó la Encuesta Internacional sobre Actitudes y Acciones de los Estudiantes Europeos con Relación a Temas Ambientales, Sección Problemas Ambientales, y esta fue valorada mediante la escala de Likert. La población promediaba una edad de 19,3 años, 41,5% fueron mujeres y 58,4% varones; de estos, 57% están preocupados y 43% poco preocupados. Las tres problemáticas principales que se identificaron fueron las industrias y pedreras, el tráfico y el ruido. Se concluye, además, que hay una similitud de opiniones del 39,1% entre mujeres y varones, y se confirma que las mujeres presentan una mayor preocupación que los varones.
Application of the Buckingham Π Theorem to Model the Multiple Effect Vacuum Membrane Distillation
Authors: Najib A. , Orfi J. , Alansary H. , Ali E.
Published: June 2021

This study aims to develop a dimensionless model of the vacuum multi-effect membrane distillation (V-MEMD) system through which a preliminary prediction of the most critical performance indicators can be attained. The Buckingham Π theorem was utilized to define dimensionless parameters that enable the predicted relationships associated with independent input parameters to describe the essential performance indicators of the V-MEMD system. The obtained simplified model reduces the design parameters from ten to two effective dimensionless parameters to realize the realistic and actual behavior of the designated system. The self-sustained model can be used as a short-cut tool for design and performance analysis to avoid time-consuming experimentations and complicated theoretical models. The compatibility of the generated model is assessed by matching the expected response of the output dimensionless parameters of recovery ratio (Π6) and gain output ratio (GOR, Π12) to variations in the pressure ratio and cooling process. The model is validated with other works, and discrepancies are found to be within ±8% and ±0.8 for the recovery ratio and GOR, respectively. Furthermore, the specific thermal energy consumption (STEC) is correlated to the GOR assuming constant vaporization enthalpy and density of the distillate water. The correlation can predict STEC within 5% accuracy over various operating conditions for the supplied hot water.
Transient Channel Sagging Measurements Under Severe Thermal Loading Condition: An Optical Imaging Approach
Authors: Singh Ankit R. , Tariq Andallib
Published: June 2021

Whenever any engineering system comprising of an internally heated channel/tube is exposed to a severe thermal load, the sagging or deflection measurement becomes an inevitable task from its safety/design analysis perspective. As an example, in a horizontal-type nuclear reactor safety study, it is required to measure the sagging of the channels during a postulated accidental scenario analysis. Unfortunately, measurement of the transient deflection/sagging of the channel under a harsh environment at extreme temperatures is a challenging task, and cannot be performed by the means of conventional intrusive approaches. This study proposes a non-contact digital imaging method with a laser generator and bandwidth filter, which is tested to measure the continuous channel sagging in a uniquely designed test rig. A scaled-down channel setup simulating the horizontal type nuclear reactor is used during the implementation of the present approach for sagging analysis at elevated temperatures. A digital edge detection tool with the Canny method is used to extract digital edges from recorded grayscale images, wherein successive images are used to measure transient sagging. The results are compared with post-test channel deflection measurements, and the difference in measurement is found to be within ±10 percent of post-test deflection.
Computational Fluid Dynamics and Experimental Analysis of the Heat Transfer in a Room With a Roof Solar Chimney
Authors: Vazquez-Ruiz A. , Navarro J. M. A. , Hinojosa J. F. , Xamán J. P.
Published: June 2021

This study reports a numerical-experimental analysis of heat transfer and airflow in a scaled room with a heated wall coupled with a double-channel vertical roof solar chimney. For the experimental part, a parametric study was performed in the thermal system, considering different values of heat flux supplied to a vertical wall of the scaled room (75 and 150 W/m2) and the absorber surface of the solar chimney (151 and 667 W/m2). Experimental temperature profiles were obtained at six different depths and heights, and experimental heat transfer coefficients were computed for both heated surfaces. The renormalization group k-ɛ turbulence model was evaluated against experimental data using computational fluid dynamics software. With the validated model, the effect of the heated wall and solar chimney on temperature fields, flow patterns, and heat transfer convective coefficients are presented and discussed. The cases with heat flux on the heated wall of the scaled room produce the biggest air changes per hour (ACH), being 30.1, 31.2, and 23.4 ACH for cases 1 to 3, respectively, while cases with no heated wall produce fewer ACH (11.72 and 12.28 for case 4 and 5). The comparison between cases with and without heat flux on one vertical wall but the same solar chimney heat flux shows that the ACH increases between 154% and 156%, respectively.
Surface plasmon resonance is possible in an optical fiber tapered to a point
Authors: Sunda-Meya Doryne , Hallen Hans D.
Published: June 2021

Surface plasmon resonance sensing using a flat surface or weakly narrowed fiber has been shown to be a sensitive indicator of probe environment. We report that surface plasmon sensing is possible at the tip of a sharpened optical fiber, tapered to a nanosized point, via a proof-of-principle study and modeling. The size of the region of interaction of the light in the tapered fiber with the outer environment is limited by the last ∼10 μm of the taper, so sampling is accomplished in an ultrasmall volume of liquid. Changes of light retroreflected through the fiber were measured as the chemical environment of the thin-metal coated, etched fiber optic tip was changed. We present a model for the sensor that shows how surface plasmon sensing, usually an angle-sensitive measurement, can work when implemented in backreflection from a tapered fiber.
Temperature dependence of barrier height inhomogeneity in β-Ga2O3 Schottky barrier diodes
Authors: Jadhav Aakash , Lyle Luke A. M. , Xu Ziyi , Das Kalyan K. , Porter Lisa M. , Sarkar Biplab
Published: June 2021

From an analysis of Pd contact Schottky diodes fabricated on (100) β-Ga2O3 wafers, in combination with data extracted from published work, we show that the barrier height inhomogeneity commonly observed in β-Ga2O3 Schottky diodes has a strong correlation to the temperature. For doping of ∼5 × 1017 cm−3, the barrier height arising from an inhomogeneous contact continues to increase to a temperature of ∼440 K followed by a decrease upon a further increase in temperature, which is commonly attributed to the bandgap narrowing of the semiconductor referred to as the Varshni shift. At this regime, Schottky characteristics representing close to homogeneous behavior is obtained. Thus, a device under normal operating conditions in a system, which results in an elevated temperature, is expected to exhibit near-homogeneous electrical characteristics.
Biogenic metallic elements in the human brain?
Authors: Everett James , Lermyte Frederik , Brooks Jake , Tjendana-Tjhin Vindy , Plascencia-Villa Germán , Hands-Portman Ian , Donnelly Jane M. , Billimoria Kharmen , Perry George , Zhu Xiongwei , Sadler Peter J. , O’Connor Peter B. , Collingwood Joanna F. , Telling Neil D.
Published: June 2021

Discovery of nanometallic Cu
0
with Fe
0
in the human brain will fundamentally boost our understanding of neurobiology.
Global tropospheric ozone responses to reduced NO

x

emissions linked to the COVID-19 worldwide lockdowns
Authors: Miyazaki Kazuyuki , Bowman Kevin , Sekiya Takashi , Takigawa Masayuki , Neu Jessica L. , Sudo Kengo , Osterman Greg , Eskes Henk
Published: June 2021

Global ozone plunged during the COVID-19 pandemic: a glimpse into future benefits for air quality and climate.
What fuels the fly: Energy metabolism in
Drosophila
and its application to the study of obesity and diabetes
Authors: Chatterjee Nirmalya , Perrimon Norbert
Published: June 2021

Drosophila
is a useful model system to study the regulation of energy metabolism and its diseases like obesity and diabetes.
Testicular germ cell–specific lncRNA,
Teshl
, is required for complete expression of Y chromosome genes and a normal offspring sex ratio
Authors: Hong Seong Hyeon , Han Gwidong , Lee Seung Jae , Cocquet Julie , Cho Chunghee
Published: June 2021

Testis-specific lncRNA regulates expression of mouse Y chromosome genes and plays a critical role in offspring sex ratio.
Computational modeling of tau pathology spread reveals patterns of regional vulnerability and the impact of a genetic risk factor
Authors: Cornblath Eli J. , Li Howard L. , Changolkar Lakshmi , Zhang Bin , Brown Hannah J. , Gathagan Ronald J. , Olufemi Modupe F. , Trojanowski John Q. , Bassett Danielle S. , Lee Virginia M. Y. , Henderson Michael X.
Published: June 2021

Spread of tau pathology follows brain connectivity, is modulated by selective vulnerability, and is predicted by network analysis.
Plasmodium falciparum
Pf77 and male development gene 1 as vaccine antigens that induce potent transmission-reducing antibodies
Authors: Tripathi Abhai K. , Oakley Miranda S. , Verma Nitin , Mlambo Godfree , Zheng Hong , Meredith Scott M. , Essuman Edward , Puri Ankit , Skelton Richard A. , Takeda Kazuyo , Majam Victoria , Quakyi Isabella A. , Locke Emily , Morin Merribeth , Miura Kazutoyo , Long Carole A. , Kumar Sanjai
Published: June 2021

Two
Plasmodium falciparum
vaccine candidates, Pf77 and PfMDV-1, have multistage expression and induce antibodies that reduce parasite transmission.
Therapeutic liver repopulation by transient acetaminophen selection of gene-modified hepatocytes
Authors: Vonada Anne , Tiyaboonchai Amita , Nygaard Sean , Posey Jeffrey , Peters Alexander Mack , Winn Shelley R. , Cantore Alessio , Naldini Luigi , Harding Cary O. , Grompe Markus
Published: June 2021

Acetaminophen treatment can be used to increase transgene expression for liver gene therapy into the therapeutic range in mice.
Degradation of Pyrene, Benz[a]anthracene, and Benzo[a]pyrene by Mycobacterium sp. Strain RJGII-135, Isolated from a Former Coal Gasification Site
Authors: Schneider J , Grosser R , Jayasimhulu K , Xue W , Warshawsky D
Published: June 2021

Volume 62, no. 1, p. 14, column 1, line 20: "250 (mu)g each of yeast extract, peptone, and soluble starch ml(sup-1)" should read "250 (mu)g each of yeast extract, peptone, and soluble starch liter(sup-1)." [This corrects the article on p. 13 in vol. 62.].
Detection of infectious astroviruses in water
Authors: Pinto R M , Abad F X , Gajardo R , Bosch A
Published: June 2021

Volume 62, no. 5, p. 1811, column 2, line 2: Reference "(16)" should read "(15)." Page 1812, column 1, line 17: "Willcocks and Carter (15)" should read "Willcocks et al. (14)." [This corrects the article on p. 1811 in vol. 62.].
Complete Genome Sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum Strain KUVMG001, an Isolate from South Korea
Authors: Song Yongjun , Kim Taesoo , La Tae-Min , Lee Hong-Jae , Lee Yoonsuk , Shin Hyunjin , Ahn Gyuhee , Hur Won , Song Seung-un , Lee Joong-Bok , Park Seung-Yong , Choi In-Soo , Lee Sang-Won
Published: June 2021

Mycoplasma gallisepticum
causes chronic respiratory diseases in poultry and economic losses to the chicken and turkey industry. We report the complete genome sequence of the field isolate strain KUVMG001 of
Mycoplasma gallisepticum
from South Korea.
Comparison of stress orientation indicators in Chicxulub’s peak ring: Kinked biotites, basal PDFs, and feather features
Authors: Ebert* M. , Poelchau M.H. , Kenkmann T. , Gulick S.P.S. , Hall B. , Lofi J. , McCall N. , Rae A.S.P.
Published: June 2021

During hypervelocity impacts, target rocks are subjected to shock wave compression with high pressures and differential stresses. These differential stresses cause microscopic shear-induced deformation, which can be observed in the form of kinking, twinning, fracturing, and shear faulting in a range of minerals. The orientation of these shear-induced deformation features can be used to constrain the maximum shortening axis. Under the assumption of pure shear deformation, the maximum shortening axis is parallel to the maximum principal axis of stress, σ1, which gives the propagation direction of the shock wave that passed through a rock sample. In this study, shocked granitoids cored from the uppermost peak ring of the Chicxulub crater (International Ocean Discovery Program [IODP]/International Continental Drilling Project [ICDP] Expedition 364) were examined for structures formed by shearing. Orientations of kink planes in biotite and basal planar deformation features (PDFs) in quartz were measured with a U-stage and compared to a previous study of feather feature orientations in quartz from the same samples. In all three cases, the orientations of the shortening axis derived from these measurements were in good agreement with each other, indicating that the shear deformation features all formed in an environment with similar orientations of the maximum principal axis of stress. These structures formed by shearing are useful tools that can aid in understanding the deformational effects of the shock wave, as well as constraining shock wave propagation and postshock deformation during the cratering process.
Providencia Island: A Miocene Stratovolcano on the Lower Nicaraguan Rise, Western Caribbean—A Geological Enigma Resolved
Authors: Smith Alan L. , Roobol M. John , Mattioli Glen S. , Daly George E. , Fryxell Joan E.
Published: June 2021

Providencia is the only example of subaerial volcanism on the Lower Nicaraguan Rise. In this volume, the authors examine this volcanism and the geological history of the western Caribbean and the Lower Nicaraguan Rise, whose origin and role in the development of the Caribbean plate has been described as enigmatic and poorly understood. While the Providencia alkaline suite is similar to others within the Western Caribbean Alkaline Province, its subalkaline suite is unique, having no equivalent within the province. In order to unravel its complex history and evolution, this volume presents new and previously published results for the geology, geochemistry, petrology, and isotopic ages from the Providencia island group.
A Method for Magma Viscosity Assessment by Lava Dome Morphology
Authors: Starodubtseva Yu. V. , Starodubtsev I. S. , Ismail-Zadeh A. T. , Tsepelev I. A. , Melnik O. E. , Korotkii A. I.
Published: June 2021

Lava domes form when a highly viscous magma erupts on the surface. Several types of lava dome morphology can be distinguished depending on the flow rate and the rheology of magma: obelisks, lava lobes, and endogenic structures. The viscosity of magma nonlinearly depends on the volume fraction of crystals and temperature. Here we present an approach to magma viscosity estimation based on a comparison of observed and simulated morphological forms of lava domes. We consider a two-dimensional axisymmetric model of magma extrusion on the surface and lava dome evolution, and assume that the lava viscosity depends only on the volume fraction of crystals. The crystallization is associated with a growth of the liquidus temperature due to the volatile loss from the magma, and it is determined by the characteristic time of crystal content growth (CCGT) and the discharge rate. Lava domes are modeled using a finite-volume method implemented in Ansys Fluent software for various CCGTs and volcanic vent sizes. For a selected eruption duration a set of morphological shapes of domes (shapes of the interface between lava dome and air) is obtained. Lava dome shapes modeled this way are compared with the observed shape of the lava dome (synthesized in the study by a random modification of one of the calculated shapes). To estimate magma viscosity, the deviation between the observed dome shape and the simulated dome shapes is assessed by three functionals: the symmetric difference, the peak signal-to-noise ratio, and the structural similarity index measure. These functionals are often used in the computer vision and in image processing. Although each functional allows to determine the best fit between the modeled and observed shapes of lava dome, the functional based on the structural similarity index measure performs it better. The viscosity of the observed dome can be then approximated by the viscosity of the modeled dome, which shape fits best the shape of the observed dome. This approach can be extended to three-dimensional case studies to restore the conditions of natural lava dome growth.
Malunited and malrotated Salter-Harris type I fracture of distal femur managed with circular ring external Ilizarov fixator
Authors: Ilyas Muhammad Saad , Zehra Uruj , Ijaz Nimra , Aziz Amer
Published: June 2021

A 9-year-old girl presented with malunited Salter-Harris type I fracture of distal femur treated by bone-setter (unreliable-practitioner). Assessment revealed 3 cm limb-length-discrepancy and affected leg was unable to bear weight, knee was stiff with no active-range of motion; radiographs showed displaced sagittally malunited femoral condyle with 163° posterior distal femoral angle (PDFA). Correction planned with circular-ring-external Ilizarov fixator using distraction-osteogenesis through supracondylar osteotomy and gradual anterior opening. Partial weight bearing allowed from first postoperative day on walker. Eight weeks follow-up showed restored anatomical position of femoral condyle and PDFA. During anterior-distraction and angulation correction, tibia subluxated posteriorly, for that assembly extended to tibia which gradually translated tibia anteriorly and reduced knee. Twenty weeks after removal of assembly patient was advised knee-ankle-foot-orthosis. At 40 weeks of frame removal, patient was walking without support and pain. Managing such rare injuries with distraction-osteogenesis technique allows gradual correction and monitoring, till desirable degree of correction is achieved.
Nationwide multicentre comparison of preoperative biometry and predictability of cataract surgery in Japan
Authors: Kamiya Kazutaka , Hayashi Ken , Tanabe Mao , Tabuchi Hitoshi , Sato Masaki , Gotoh Norihito , Kojima Takashi , Hatsusaka Natsuko
Published: June 2021

Aim

To compare the preoperative biometric data and the refractive accuracy of cataract surgery among major surgical sites in a nationwide multicentre study.

Methods

We prospectively obtained the preoperative biometric data of 2143 eyes of 2143 consecutive patients undergoing standard cataract surgery at major 12 facilities and compared the preoperative biometry as well as the postoperative refractive accuracy among them.

Results

We found significant differences in most preoperative variables, such as axial length (one-way analysis of variance, p=0.003), anterior chamber depth (p<0.001), lens thickness (p<0.001) and central corneal thickness (p<0.001), except for mean keratometry (p=0.587) and corneal astigmatism (p=0.304), among the 12 surgical sites. The prediction error using the Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraff/Theoretical (SRK/T formula was significantly more hyperopic than that using the Barrett Universal II formula (paired t-test, p<0.001). The absolute error using the SRK/T formula was significantly larger than that using the Barrett Universal II formula (p=0.016). The prediction error using the SRK/T formula was significantly more hyperopic than that using the Barrett Universal II formula at 10 of 12 institutions, but significantly more myopic at one institution. The absolute error using the SRK/T formula was significantly larger than that using the Barrett Universal II formula at 4 of 12 institutions but significantly smaller at two institutions.

Conclusions

Regional divergences of the preoperative biometry were not necessarily negligible, and the optimised intraocular lens power calculation formula was individually different among the 12 facilities. Our findings highlight the importance of individual optimisation of these formulas at each facility, especially in consideration of these biometric variations.

Trial registration number

Clinical Trial Registry; 000039976.
Impact of free maternity policies in Kenya: an interrupted time-series analysis
Authors: Orangi Stacey , Kairu Angela , Malla Lucas , Ondera Joanne , Mbuthia Boniface , Ravishankar Nirmala , Barasa Edwine
Published: June 2021

Background

User fees have been reported to limit access to services and increase inequities. As a result, Kenya introduced a free maternity policy in all public facilities in 2013. Subsequently in 2017, the policy was revised to the Linda Mama programme to expand access to private sector, expand the benefit package and change its management.

Methods

An interrupted time-series analysis on facility deliveries, antenatal care (ANC) and postnatal care (PNC) visits data between 2012 and 2019 was used to determine the effect of the two free maternity policies. These data were from 5419 public and 305 private and faith-based facilities across all counties, with data sourced from the health information system. A segmented negative binomial regression with seasonality accounted for, was used to determine the level (immediate) effect and trend (month-on-month) effect of the policies.

Results

The 2013 free-maternity policy led to a 19.6% and 28.9% level increase in normal deliveries and caesarean sections, respectively, in public facilities. There was also a 1.4% trend decrease in caesarean sections in public facilities. A level decrease followed by a trend increase in PNC visits was reported in public facilities. For private and faith-based facilities, there was a level decrease in caesarean sections and ANC visits followed by a trend increase in caeserean sections following the 2013 policy.

Furthermore, the 2017 Linda Mama programme showed a level decrease then a trend increase in PNC visits and a 1.1% trend decrease in caesarean sections in public facilities. In private and faith-based facilities, there was a reported level decrease in normal deliveries and caesarean sections and a trend increase in caesarean sections.

Conclusion

The free maternity policies show mixed effects in increasing access to maternal health services. Emphasis on other accessibility barriers and service delivery challenges alongside user fee removal policies should be addressed to realise maximum benefits in maternal health utilisation.
Indirect effects of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine on pneumococcal carriage in children hospitalised with acute respiratory infection despite heterogeneous vaccine coverage: an observational study in Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Chan Jocelyn , Lai Jana Y R , Nguyen Cattram D , Vilivong Keoudomphone , Dunne Eileen M , Dubot-Pérès Audrey , Fox Kimberley , Hinds Jason , Moore Kerryn A , Nation Monica L , Pell Casey L , Xeuatvongsa Anonh , Vongsouvath Manivanh , Newton Paul N , Mulholland Kim , Satzke Catherine , Dance David A B , Russell Fiona M
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Empiric data on indirect (herd) effects of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) in settings with low or heterogeneous PCV coverage are limited. The indirect effects of PCV, which benefits both vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals, are mediated by reductions in vaccine-type (VT) carriage (a prerequisite for disease). The aim of this study among hospitalised children in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is to determine the effectiveness of a 13-valent PCV (PCV13) against VT pneumococcal nasopharyngeal carriage (direct effects) and the association between village-level PCV13 coverage and VT carriage (indirect effects).

Methods

Pneumococcal nasopharyngeal carriage surveillance commenced in December 2013, shortly after PCV13 introduction (October 2013). We recruited and swabbed children aged 2–59 months admitted to hospital with acute respiratory infection. Pneumococci were detected usinglytAquantitative real-time PCR and serotyped using microarray. PCV13 status and village-level PCV13 coverage were determined using written immunisation records. Associations between both PCV13 status and village-level PCV13 coverage and VT carriage were calculated using generalised estimating equations, controlling for potential confounders.

Results

We enrolled 1423 participants and determined PCV13 coverage for 368 villages (269 863 children aged under 5 years). By 2017, median village-level vaccine coverage reached 37.5%, however, the IQR indicated wide variation among villages (24.1–56.4). Both receipt of PCV13 and the level of PCV13 coverage were independently associated with a reduced odds of VT carriage: adjusted PCV13 effectiveness was 38.1% (95% CI 4.1% to 60.0%; p=0.032); and for each per cent increase in PCV13 coverage, the estimated odds of VT carriage decreased by 1.1% (95% CI 0.0% to 2.2%; p=0.056). After adjustment, VT carriage decreased from 20.0% to 12.8% as PCV13 coverage increased from zero to 60% among under 5.

Conclusions

Despite marked heterogeneity in PCV13 coverage, we found evidence of indirect effects in Lao PDR. Individual vaccination with PCV13 was effective against VT carriage.
Cost and greenhouse gas emissions of current, healthy, flexitarian and vegan diets in Aotearoa (New Zealand)
Authors: Kidd Bruce , Mackay Sally , Vandevijvere Stefanie , Swinburn Boyd
Published: June 2021

Objective

To compare the costs and climate impact (greenhouse gas emissions) associated with current and healthy diets and two healthy and environmentally friendly dietary patterns: flexitarian and vegan.

Design

Modelling study

Setting

Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Main outcome measures

The distribution of the cost and climate impact (kgCO2e/kg of food per fortnight) of 2 weekly current, healthy, vegan and flexitarian household diets was modelled using a list of commonly consumed foods, a set of quantity/serves constraints for each, and constraints for food group and nutrient intakes based on dietary guidelines (Eating and Activity Guidelines for healthy diets and EAT-Lancet reference diet for vegan and flexitarian diets) or nutrition survey data (current diets).

Results

The iterative creation of 210–237 household dietary intakes for each dietary scenario was achieved using computer software adapted for the purpose (DIETCOST). There were stepwise differences between diet scenarios (p<0.001) with thecurrentdiet having the lowest mean cost in New Zealand Dollars (NZ$584 (95% CI NZ$580 to NZ$588)) per fortnight for a family of four) but highest mean climate impact (597 kgCO2e (95% CI 590 to 604 kgCO2e)), followed by the healthy diet (NZ$637 (95% CI NZ$632 to NZ$642), 452 kgCO2e (95% CI 446 to 458 kgCO2e)), the flexitarian diet (NZ$728 (95% CI NZ$723 to NZ$734), 263 kgCO2e (95% CI 261 to 265 kgCO2e)) and the vegan diet, which had the highest mean cost and lowest mean climate impact (NZ$789, (95% CI NZ$784 to NZ$794), 203 kgCO2e (95% CI 201 to 204 kgCO2e)). There was a negative relationship between cost and climate impact across diets and a positive relationship within diets.

Conclusions

Moving from current diets towards sustainable healthy diets (SHDs) will reduce climate impact but generally at a higher cost to households. The results reflect trade-offs, with the larger constraints placed on diets, the greater cost and factors such as nutritional adequacy, variety, cost and low-emissions foods being considered. Further monitoring and policies are needed to support population transitions that are country specific from current diets to SHD.
Covered stents versus balloon angioplasty for failure of arteriovenous access: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ng Benjamin , Fugger Magnus , Onakpoya Igho Jovwoke , Macdonald Andrew , Heneghan Carl
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Patients with end-stage renal disease may require arteriovenous (AV) access in the form of arteriovenous fistulae (AVFs) or arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) for haemodialysis. AV access dysfunction requires intervention such as plain balloon angioplasty or covered stents to regain patency.

Aim

To systematically review and meta-analyse the patency outcomes of covered stents in failing haemodialysis AV access, compared with balloon angioplasty.

Methods

The review was first registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42018069955) before data collection. We searched six electronic databases to identify relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) up until August 2020, without language restriction. Two reviewers assessed the suitability and quality of studies for inclusion using the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials guidelines. We meta-analysed data using a random-effects model.

Results

We included seven studies including 1147 patients in the systematic review, of which 867 had AVGs and 280 had AVFs. One study was an ongoing RCT. In the meta-analyses, we assessed patients with failing AVGs only. Overall risk of bias was moderate. Covered stents were associated with lower loss of patency versus angioplasty alone at 6, 12 and 24 months (OR 4.48, 95% CI 1.98 to 10.14, p<0.001; OR 4.07, 95% CI 1.74 to 9.54, p=0.001; OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.17 to 4.29, p=0.01, respectively). Covered stents afforded superior access circuit primary patency compared with angioplasty alone at 6 and 12 months (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.31 to 2.80, p<0.001; OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.41, p=0.02, respectively). This was not significant at 24 months. There was no significant difference in loss of secondary patency between groups at 12 or 24 months (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.23, p=0.25; OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.154, p=0.34, respectively).

Conclusion

Our results support use of covered stents over angioplasty alone, at 6, 12 and 24 months in failing AVGs. Further clinical trials are warranted.