bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the in situ performance of a 60 kW condensing gas boilers thermal installation and economic assessment
Authors: Bălănescu D T , Homutescu V M , Ianuş G , Lupu A G
Published: December 2020

Condensing gas boilers currently represent the most advanced solution for heating based on combustion of fossil fuels from both efficiency and pollution points of view. Besides, compared with the district heating, condensing gas boilers make possible the entire management of the heat supply function by the real heating needs. Subsequently, minimization of the heating cost is possible. In this view, one of the buildings of the “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi was disconnected from the district heating and two condensing gas boilers – one of 25 kW and the other of 35 kW nominal output – were connected to the heating network to ensure the heat supply. A performance and economic analysis of the thermal installation with the two boilers, based on in situ experiments, was performed. The analysis was performed for nine operating regimes described by boilers flow water temperatures from 80 °C to 40 °C. Efficiency (in terms of higher heating value of the fuel) had varied from 86.7 % to 97.5 % and the price of thermal energy produced with the two boilers proved to be 21…30 % lower than the price of thermal energy coming from the district heating system. The annual heating savings are estimated to be 642…907 Euro/year, which induce a payback period of 1.6…2.3 years with strict reference to the investment represented by the two boilers.
The analysis of the thermal barrier coating using Ansys software
Authors: Frătiţa M , Uzuneanu K , Popescu F , Ion I V
Published: December 2020

The main source of energy for the propulsion of automotive and trucks is still internal combustion piston engines. These are constantly improved in such a way as to achieve the lowest possible consumption of low-emission fuel. The results of the simulation of new technologies are confirmed in experimental stands, thus being the basis for the development of internal combustion engines. This paper shows the theoretical simulation of temperature distribution and thermal flow distribution when a thermal barrier is applied to the engine combustion chamber components. More specifically, the impact of thermal barriers on the surface of the piston crown shall be investigated.
Compression ignition engine – solutions for reducing pollutant emissions
Authors: Istrate A , Bică M , Duinea M
Published: December 2020

Due to the specific type of combustion in the compression ignition engines, the exhaust gases raise specific pollution problems, which implies the identification of specially adapted solutions for these types of engines. The increasingly stringent pollution standards worldwide have forced manufacturers to find more ingenious solutions for efficiently reducing the harmful impact of these pollutant emissions on the environment. The solutions for reducing pollutant emissions can be grouped into three broad categories, depending on the methods of action: a) solutions that use active methods that consist in optimizing the combustion process or engine construction; b) solutions that use passive methods that consist of retaining and neutralizing pollutant emissions along the exhaust pipe; c) solutions that seek to improve the composition of fuels to result fewer pollutant emissions. Regardless of the method used, the effect of the solutions for reducing pollutant emissions depends on the engine operating regime, to which we will pay proper attention.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on renewable sources implementation: case of PV systems in Romania
Authors: Radu A , Panaite C E , Popescu A
Published: December 2020

In 2020, the world population was surprised by the spread and aggressiveness of a pandemic outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 disease (caused by COVID-19 coronavirus). In a world-spread effort to diminish the medical effects, the measures employed by a large majority of countries severely influenced all economic sectors, including the energy one. This paper reports on the status of energy sources and usage on the Romanian market within worldwide context and current effects of the national contingency plan measures on the energy market, especially on solar photovoltaic area. The conclusions should offer a perspective of changes occurring on national and international level in the energy area, in both existing and future investments market.
CO2 high temperature heat pump – a promising solution
Authors: Talaba O , Dima D , Buiuc V , Ionita C , Stefanescu M F , Serban A , Dobrovicescu A
Published: December 2020

The study focuses on obtaining hot water above 80°C for industrial purposes. Compared to the electrical heating the use of a heat pump appears much more efficient. A comparative analysis using different refrigerants is carried out. The cold source is waste heat from an industrial process. The exergetic analysis reveals the advantages and weaknesses of using CO2 as refrigerant. Based on the exergy destruction concept several schematics of two-stage CO2 Heat Pumps are considered. For high temperature water heating, a CO2 Heat Pump system represents a promising solution.
Money, Motivation +Machine Learning
Authors: Hamilton Johanna
Published: December 2020

Ilia Kolochenko, CEO and founder of ImmuniWeb, tells Johanna Hamilton AMBCS about the rise in phishing attacks and how the most sophisticated crimes go, largely, unnoticed.
Thermal stability of laser-induced modified volumes in Si as studied by in situ and ex situ heating experiments
Authors: Saka Hiroyasu , Iwata Hiroyuki , Kawaguchi Daisuke
Published: December 2020

Radiation of a permeable laser beam into Si induces considerable modification of structures. Thermal stability of the laser-induced modified volumes (LIMV’s) was studied comprehensively by means of in situ and ex situ heating experiments using transmission electron microscopy. The behavior in the tail region of a LIMV can be understood by dislocation theory, while that of a void formed at the very focus of a laser beam cannot be understood easily.
The Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cuschieri Joseph , Robinson Bryce , Lynch John , Mitchell Steve , Arbabi Saman , Bryson Chloe , Sayre Michael , Maier Ronald V. , Bulger Eileen
Published: December 2020

The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has led to an overwhelming strain on healthcare delivery. This pandemic has created a sustained stress on the modern healthcare system, with unforeseen and potential drastic effects. Although the initial focus during this pandemic has been preparedness and response directed to the pandemic itself, traumatic injury has continued to remain a common problem that requires immediate evaluation and care to provide optimal outcomes. The State of Washington had the first reported case and death related to COVID-19 in the United States. Harborview Medical Center, which serves as the sole Level-1 adult and pediatric trauma center for the state, was rapidly affected by COVID-19, but still needed to maintain preparedness and responses to injured patients for the region. Although initially the focus was on the emerging pandemic on institutional factors, it became obvious that sustained efforts for regional trauma care required a more global focus. Because of these factors, Harborview Medical Center was quickly entrusted to serve as the coordinating center for the regions COVID-19 response, while also continuing to provide optimal care for injured patients during the pandemic. This response allowed the care of injured patients to be maintained within designated trauma centers during this pandemic. This present report summarizes the evolution of trauma care delivery during the first phase of this pandemic and provides informative recommendations for sustained responses to the care of injured patients during the pandemic based on lessons learned during the initial response.
SARS-CoV-2 infecting the inner ear results in potential hearing damage at the early stage or prognosis of COVID-19 in rodents
Authors: Xue Xia , Tian Yongan , Miao Mingsan , Wang Jianyao , Tang Wenxue , Wang Yaohe , Liu Jianbo , Xu Hongen , Miao Jinxin
Published: December 2020

Objectives

In order to find out the association between the sensorineural hearing loss and COVID-19, we detected the expression ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the mouse the hamster.

Design

Using the public data from NCBI and GISAID, we assessed the expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 at the transcriptomic, DNA, and protein levels of ACE2 in the brain, inner ear, and muscle from the golden Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) and mouse (Mus musculus).

Results

We identified ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expressed at different level in the inner ear and brain at DNA and transcriptomic levels of both mouse and the hamster. The protein expression shows a similar pattern of the brain and inner ear, while the expression of ACE2 from the inner ear was relatively higher than it from the muscle.

Conclusion

SARS-CoV-2 could infect the hearing system potentially and SSNHL could be a characteristic to detect asymptomatic patients of COVID-19.
Berberine and obatoclax inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication in primary human nasal epithelial cells in vitro
Authors: Varghese Finny S. , van Woudenbergh Esther , Overheul Gijs J. , Eleveld Marc J. , Kurver Lisa , van Heerbeek Niels , van Laarhoven Arjan , Miesen Pascal , den Hartog Gerco , de Jonge Marien I. , van Rij Ronald P.
Published: December 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged as a new human pathogen in late 2019 and has infected an estimated 10% of the global population in less than a year. There is a clear need for effective antiviral drugs to complement current preventive measures including vaccines. In this study, we demonstrate that berberine and obatoclax, two broad-spectrum antiviral compounds, are effective against multiple isolates of SARS-CoV-2. Berberine, a plant-derived alkaloid, inhibited SARS-CoV-2 at low micromolar concentrations and obatoclax, originally developed as an anti-apoptotic protein antagonist, was effective at sub-micromolar concentrations. Time-of-addition studies indicated that berberine acts on the late stage of the viral life cycle. In agreement, berberine mildly affected viral RNA synthesis, but strongly reduced infectious viral titers, leading to an increase in the particle-to-pfu ratio. In contrast, obatoclax acted at the early stage of the infection, in line with its activity to neutralize the acidic environment in endosomes. We assessed infection of primary human nasal epithelial cells cultured on an air-liquid interface and found that SARS-CoV-2 infection induced and repressed expression of a specific set of cytokines and chemokines. Moreover, both obatoclax and berberine inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in these primary target cells. We propose berberine and obatoclax as potential antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2 that could be considered for further efficacy testing.
Gaplessindicarice genome reveals synergistic effects of active transposable elements and segmental duplications that promote rice genome evolution
Authors: Li Kui , Jiang Wenkai , Hui Yuanyuan , Kong Mengjuan , Gao Li-Zhi , Li Pengfu , Lu Shan
Published: December 2020

The ultimate goal of genome assembly is a high-accuracy gapless genome. Here we report a new assembly pipeline which we have used to produce a gapless genome for theindicarice cultivar Minghui 63. The 395.82 Mb final assembly is composed of 12 contigs with a contig N50 size of 31.82 Mb. All chromosomes are now gapless, with each chromosome represented by a single contig. This is the first gapless genome assembly achieved for higher plants or animals. BUSCO evaluation showed that gene regions of our assembly have higher completeness than the current rice reference genome (IRGSP-1.0). Compared withjaponicarice,indicahas more transposable elements (TEs) and segmental duplications (SDs), the latter of which produce many duplicated genes that can affect plant traits through dose effect or sub-/neo-functionalization. The insertion of TEs can also affect the expression of duplicated genes, which may drive evolution of these genes. We also found the expansion ofNBS-LRRdisease resistance genes andcZOGTgrowth-related genes in SDs, suggesting that SDs contribute to the adaptative evolution of rice disease resistance and developmental processes. Our findings suggest that active TEs and SDs together provide synergistic effects to promote rice genome evolution.
Real-time monitoring epidemic trends and key mutations in SARS-CoV-2 evolution by an automated tool
Authors: Xi Binbin , Jiang Dawei , Li Shuhua , Lon Jerome R , Bai Yunmeng , Lin Shudai , Hu Meiling , Meng Yuhuan , Qu Yimo , Huang Yuting , Liu Wei , Du Hongli
Published: December 2020

With the global epidemic of SARS-CoV-2, it is important to monitor the variation, haplotype subgroup epidemic trends and key mutations of SARS-CoV-2 over time effectively, which is of great significance to the development of new vaccines, the update of therapeutic drugs, and the improvement of detection reagents. The AutoVEM tool developed in the present study could complete all mutations detections, haplotypes classification, haplotype subgroup epidemic trends and key mutations analysis for 131,576 SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences in 18 hours on a 1 core CPU and 2G internal storage computer. Through haplotype subgroup epidemic trends analysis of 131,576 genome sequences, the great significance of the previous 4 specific sites (C241T, C3037T, C14408T and A23403G) was further revealed, and 6 new mutation sites of highly linked (T445C, C6286T, C22227T, G25563T, C26801G and G29645T) were discovered for the first time that might be related to the infectivity, pathogenicity or host adaptability of SARS-CoV-2. In brief, we proposed an integrative method and developed an efficient automated tool to monitor haplotype subgroup epidemic trends and screen out the key mutations in the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 over time for the first time, and all data could be updated quickly to track the prevalence of previous key mutations and new key mutations because of high efficiency of the tool. In addition, the idea of combinatorial analysis in the present study can also provide a reference for the mutation monitoring of other viruses.
Modelling of SHMT1 riboregulation predicts dynamic changes of serine and glycine levels across cellular compartments
Authors: Monti Michele , Guiducci Giulia , Paone Alessio , Rinaldo Serena , Giardina Giorgio , Liberati Francesca Romana , Cutruzzolà Francesca , Tartaglia Gian Gaetano
Published: December 2020

Human serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) regulates the serine-glycine one carbon metabolism and plays a role in cancer metabolic reprogramming. Two SHMT isozymes are acting in the cell: SHMT1 encoding the cytoplasmic isozyme, and SHMT2 encoding the mitochondrial one. Here we present a molecular model built on experimental data reporting the interaction between SHMT1 protein and SHMT2 mRNA, recently discovered in lung cancer cells. Using a stochastic dynamic model, we show that RNA moieties dynamically regulate serine and glycine concentration, shaping the system behaviour. For the first time we observe an active functional role of the RNA in the regulation of the serine-glycine metabolism and availability, which unravels a complex layer of regulation that cancer cells exploit to fine tune amino acids availability according to their metabolic needs. The quantitative model, complemented by an experimental validation in the lung adeno-carcinoma cell line H1299, exploits RNA molecules as metabolic switches of the SHMT1 activity. Our results pave the way for the development of RNA-based molecules able to unbalance serine metabolism in cancer cells.
Host-generalist fungal pathogens of seedlings may maintain forest diversity via host-specific impacts and differential susceptibility among tree species
Authors: Spear Erin R. , Broders Kirk
Published: December 2020

Host-specialized pathogens are credited with the maintenance of tropical forest diversity under the Janzen-Connell hypothesis. Yet, in diverse forests, selection may favor pathogens with broad host ranges given their passive dispersal and the relative rarity of tree species.

We surveyed the host associations of potential pathogens isolated from symptomatic seedlings in the forests in Panama and used inoculations to assess: (i) the pathogenicity and host ranges of 27 fungal isolates, and (ii) differences among tree species in susceptibility.

Thirty-one of the 33 non-singleton OTUs isolated from seedlings are multi-host. All 31 multi-host OTUs exhibit low to moderate specialization, and we observed phylogenetically overdispersed host use for 19 OTUs. The pathogenicity of 10 isolates was experimentally confirmed; nine caused disease in seedlings in multiple families. However, the outcome of infection differs among tree species susceptible to a given multi-host pathogen. Furthermore, some tree species were seemingly resistant to all fungi tested, while others were susceptible to multiple fungi. Tree species adapted to environments with lower disease pressure were most likely to exhibit disease.

Our results suggest that generalist pathogens contribute to the maintenance of local and regional forest diversity via host-specific impacts and the exclusion of disease-sensitive trees from disease-prone habitats.
RNA polymerase II condensate formation and association with Cajal and histone locus bodies in living human cells
Authors: Imada Takashi , Shimi Takeshi , Kaiho Ai , Saeki Yasushi , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: December 2020

In eukaryotic nuclei, a number of phase-separated nuclear bodies (NBs) are present. RNA polymerase II (Pol II) is the main player in transcription and forms large condensates in addition to localizing at numerous transcription foci. Cajal bodies (CBs) and histone locus bodies (HLBs) are NBs that are involved in transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of small nuclear RNA and histone genes. By live-cell imaging using human HCT116 cells, we here show that Pol II condensates (PCs) nucleated near CBs and HLBs, and the number of PCs increased during S phase concomitantly with the activation period of histone genes. Ternary PC–CB– HLB associates were formed via three pathways: nucleation of PCs and HLBs near CBs, interaction between preformed PC–HLBs with CBs, and nucleation of PCs near preformed CB– HLBs. Coilin knockout increased the co-localization rate between PCs and HLBs, whereas the number, nucleation timing, and phosphorylation status of PCs remained unchanged. Depletion of PCs did not affect CBs and HLBs. Treatment with 1,6-hexanediol revealed that PCs were more liquid-like than CBs and HLBs. Thus, PCs are dynamic structures often nucleated following the activation of gene clusters associated with other NBs. (187 words)
Functional architecture of the synaptic transducers at a central glutamatergic synapse
Authors: Brockmann Marisa M. , Toulme Estelle , Grasskamp Andreas T. , Trimbuch Thorsten , Südhof Thomas C. , Walter Alexander M. , Rosenmund Christian
Published: December 2020

Neuronal synapses transduce informationviathe consecutive action of three transducers: voltage-gated Ca2+-channels, fusion-competent synaptic vesicles, and postsynaptic receptors. Their physical distance is thought to influence the speed and efficiency of neurotransmission. However, technical limitations have hampered resolving their nanoscale arrangement. Here, we developed a new method for live-labeling proteins for electron microscopy (EM), revealing that release-competent vesicles preferentially align with Ca2+-channels and postsynaptic AMPA receptors within 20-30 nm and thereby forming a transsynaptic tripartite nanocomplex. Using functional EM, we show that single action potentials cause vesicles within the nanocomplex to fuse with a 50% probability. The loss of the presynaptic scaffold disrupts the formation of the tripartite transducers. Strikingly, the forced transsynaptic alignment of the Ca2+-channel subunit α2δ1 and AMPA receptors suffice to restore neurotransmission in a scaffold lacking synapse. Our results demonstrate a synaptic transducer nanocomplex that actively contributes to the organization of central synapses.
BDNF VAL66MET polymorphism and memory decline across the spectrum of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lim Yen Ying , Laws Simon M. , Perin Stephanie , Pietrzak Robert H. , Fowler Christopher , Masters Colin L. , Maruff Paul ,   AIBL Research Group
Published: December 2020

The brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met (rs6265) polymorphism has been shown to moderate the extent to which memory decline manifests in preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD). To date, no study has examined the relationship between BDNF and memory in individuals across biologically confirmed AD clinical stages (i.e., Aβ+). We aimed to understand the effect of BDNF on episodic memory decline and clinical disease progression over 126 months in individuals with preclinical, prodromal and clinical AD. Participants enrolled in the Australian Imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle (AIBL) study who were Aβ + (according to positron emission tomography), and cognitively normal (CN; n = 238), classified as having mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 80), or AD (n = 66) were included in this study. Cognition was evaluated at 18 month intervals using an established episodic memory composite score over 126 months. We observed that in Aβ + CNs, Met66 was associated with greater memory decline with increasing age and were 1.5 times more likely to progress to MCI/AD over 126 months. In Aβ + MCIs, there was no effect of Met66 on memory decline or on disease progression to AD over 126 months. In Aβ + AD, Val66 homozygotes showed greater memory decline, while Met66 carriers performed at a constant and very impaired level. Our current results illustrate the importance of time and disease severity to clinicopathological models of the role of BDNF Val66Met in memory decline and AD clinical progression. Specifically, the effect of BDNF on memory decline is greatest in preclinical AD and reduces as AD clinical disease severity increases.
Abstract or concrete? The influence of image type on consumer attitudes
Authors: Zhou Zhimin , Zheng Ling , Li Xinli
Published: December 2020

Pictures have been used for a wide range of marketing purposes, but few studies have focused on the specific uses of abstract versus concrete images in marketing field. This study explores the impact of image type on consumer attitudes based on the conception of imagery elaboration. We find that the interaction between product category and image type has a significant effect on consumer attitudes. Specifically, for hedonic product, abstract image is more likely to motivate consumers to form a positive attitude than concrete image, whereas for utilitarian product, concrete image is more effective. We also show the mediating role of imagery elaboration. The interaction of product category and image type has a significant effect on imagery elaboration: in the case of hedonic product, product with abstract image was found to be better for evoking imagery elaboration, whereas in the case of utilitarian product, adding a concrete image to the product was more successful at generating imagery elaboration. Furthermore, imagery elaboration has a significant effect on consumer attitudes. This study offers specific suggestions that companies can incorporate into product design and marketing.
Drug interactions of natural supplements in dermatology: a review
Authors: Hadeler Edward K. , Maderal Andrea D.
Published: December 2020

Limited information is available on the drug–drug interactions of natural supplements in dermatology. Many natural supplements are available over the counter, but drug–drug interactions can occur. This study reviews the clinical use and drug interactions of six natural supplements commonly recommended in dermatology: nicotinic acid (nicotinamide), polypodium leucotomos (heliocare), turmeric, horse chestnut seed extract, zinc, and N‐acetylcysteine. We reviewed the drug–drug interactions of each supplement using the PubMed database and IBM Micromedex. For nicotinic acid, zinc, horse chestnut, and N‐acetylcysteine, IBM Micromedex generated 11, 23, one, and two results, respectively. Further review of literature from PubMed identified two drug interactions with polypodium leucotomos, two with turmeric, and two more with zinc. Notable interactions included an increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when nicotinic acid is taken by patients using statins, an increased risk of bleeding associated with horse chestnut seed, especially when used in combination with warfarin, and reduced plasma concentration in many drugs when taken with zinc. Furthermore, N‐acetylcysteine may interfere with concentrations of other medications used in the psychiatric setting, and polypodium leucotomos and turmeric may interfere with the CYP metabolic pathway, which may affect drugs metabolized by this pathway. Prior to recommending a treatment, dermatologists should foster awareness of these interactions. In order to advance the practice as a whole, research should continue to evaluate the drug interactions of these natural supplements.
Predictive value of protease‐activated receptor‐2 (PAR2) in cervical cancer metastasis
Authors: He Shengnan , Xu Meiquan , Xiong Zhen , Hu Ye , Huo Qin , Lu Jingxiao , Lin Yuntao , Yang Lan
Published: December 2020

Metastasis is the primary cause of an unfavourable prognosis in patients with malignant cancer. Over the last decade, the role of proteinases in the tumour microenvironment has attracted increasing attention. As a sensor of proteinases, proteinase‐activated receptor 2 (PAR2) plays crucial roles in the metastatic progression of cervical cancer. In the present study, the expression of PAR2 in multiple types of cancer was analysed by Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA). Kaplan‐Meier plotter was used to calculate the correlation between survival and the levels of PAR2, Grb‐associated binding protein 2(Gab2) and miR‐125b. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed to examine PAR2 expression in a tissue microarray (TMA) of CESCs. Empower Stats was used to assess the predictive value of PAR2 in the metastatic potential of CESC. We found that PAR2 up‐regulation was observed in multiple types of cancer. Moreover, PAR2 expression was positively correlated with the clinicopathologic characteristics of CESC. miR‐125b and its target Gab2, which are strongly associated with PAR2‐induced cell migration, are well‐characterized as predictors of the prognostic value of CESC. Most importantly, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data set analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of the PAR2 model was significantly greater than that of the traditional model (0.833 vs 0.790, P < .05), demonstrating the predictive value of PAR2 in CESC metastasis. Our results suggest that PAR2 may serve as a prognostic factor for metastasis in CESC patients.
Premature or nevoid sebaceous hyperplasia? Two case reports of a rare disease
Authors: Ozturk Murat , Ayhan Erhan , An Isa , Akman Ilik Zehra , Kaya Şeyhmus
Published: December 2020

Early or familial cases of sebaceous hyperplasia (SH) with multiple lesions, thought to be associated with genetic predisposition, have been reported in young individuals. Rarely reported variants include the giant, diffuse, zosteriform, and/or linear (nevoid) form. However, premature SH, defined as benign proliferation of sebaceous glands that occurs during or after puberty, is histologically similar to SH. Whether the definitions of nevoid SH or premature SH are the same remains unclear. We report two sporadic cases of premature SH.
Pharmacokinetic analysis of two different doses of simvastatin following oral administration in dogs
Authors: Kim Min‐Soo , Baek In‐hwan
Published: December 2020

Simvastatin, used orally to treat hyperlipidemia, exhibits highly variable pharmacokinetics (PKs) in humans. The aim of this study was to investigate simvastatin PKs using noncompartmental analysis and population PK models following a single oral administration of two doses (20 and 80 mg) in dogs. Forty beagle dogs were randomly divided into two groups corresponding to the two doses. Blood samples were collected from each group according to the assigned schedule after oral administration. The plasma concentration of simvastatin was determined using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The area under the curve and maximum concentration of simvastatin increased in a dose‐dependent manner with high variability. A two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption (Ka = 1.83 hr‐1) and first‐order elimination (clearance [CL/F] = 292 L/h; volume of distribution in the central compartment [Vc/F] = 1506 L) well described the PKs of simvastatin in dogs. Large variability in the PKs of simvastatin was quantitated via modeling approaches, allowing the differentiation of between‐subject variability (144.8 CV% for Ka; 94.7 CV% for CL/F; 97.5 CV% for Vc/F) and residual variability (62.7%). These findings will help facilitate the development of an optimal dose regimen of simvastatin in canines with hypercholesterolemia and may be useful in developing novel formulations.
Surface behaviors correlate with prey abundance and vessels in an endangered killer whale (Orcinus orca) population
Authors: Bubac Christine M. , Johnson Amy C. , Otis Robert
Published: December 2020

Southern Resident killer whales (SRKWs) (Orcinus orca) are an endangered population in the United States and Canada, partly due to declines of their primary prey species, Chinook salmon. Prey availability influences various aspects of SRKW behavior, including distribution patterns and social structure. Yet, it is unclear to what extent a limited prey source influences the frequency of surface‐active behaviors (SABs), behaviors with important ecological implications. Here, we used long‐term datasets (1996–2019) to examine the relationships between the abundance of Chinook salmon, vessel presence, and the frequency with which SRKWs perform SABs. Salmon abundance was a significant predictor of SAB frequency, with fewer SABs performed in times of lower salmon abundance. SRKWs displayed more SABs when more whale watching vessels were present, and the whales spent a greater amount of time in the study area, performing more milling as opposed to traveling behavior, when vessel numbers were higher. Lastly, we found pod‐specific differences, such that K pod displayed significantly fewer SABs than either J or L pods. The observed relationships between SRKW behavior and both salmon abundance and vessel presence have implications for social network cohesion and foraging success. Our study adds to a growing body of literature highlighting factors affecting SRKW behavior as they experience increased threats from decreased prey availability, habitat loss, and anthropogenic disturbance, with implications for trans‐boundary management and conservation efforts.
Stem girdling affects the onset of autumn senescence in aspen in interaction with metabolic signals
Authors: Lihavainen Jenna , Edlund Erik , Björkén Lars , Bag Pushan , Robinson Kathryn M. , Jansson Stefan
Published: December 2020

Autumn senescence in aspen (Populus tremula) is precisely timed every year to relocate nutrients from leaves to storage organs before winter. Here we demonstrate how stem girdling, which leads to the accumulation of photosynthates in the crown, influences senescence. Girdling resulted in an early onset of senescence, but the chlorophyll degradation was slower and nitrogen more efficiently resorbed than during normal autumn senescence. Girdled stems accumulated or retained anthocyanins potentially providing photoprotection in senescing leaves. Girdling of one stem in a clonal stand sharing the same root stock did not affect senescence in the others, showing that the stems were autonomous in this respect. One girdled stem with unusually high chlorophyll and nitrogen contents maintained low carbon‐to‐nitrogen (C/N) ratio and did not show early senescence or depleted chlorophyll level unlike the other girdled stems suggesting that the responses depended on the genotype or its carbon and nitrogen status. Metabolite analysis highlighted that the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, salicylic acid pathway, and redox homeostasis are involved in the regulation of girdling‐induced senescence. We propose that disrupted sink‐source relation and C/N status can provide cues through the TCA cycle and phytohormone signaling to override the phenological control of autumn senescence in the girdled stems.
French Influences on Germany’s Commercial Courts in the Nineteenth Century
Authors: Vogl Thomas
Published: December 2020

The present contribution explores the extent of influence which French law had on the development of Germany’s commercial courts in the nineteenth century. Modern literature describes this influence as marginal, yet without further proof. The author takes this state of research as a starting point to compare the Napoleonic legislation on commercial courts with the German commercial court systems of the nineteenth century. However, the present contribution will start with an overview of the German legal situation at the end of the eighteenth century. This is followed by an examination of whether French law was transferred to Germany during the French occupation of large parts of Germany at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Against this background it is possible to fully analyse the influence which French law had on the further development of German commercial courts.
Optimization of Antibiotic Selection in the Emergency Department for Adult Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Authors: Ebied Alex M. , Antonelli Paige
Published: December 2020

Objectives: Emergency department (ED) order sets that include skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) stratification and antimicrobial selection criteria may improve clinical outcomes and appropriateness of initial antibiotic selection. The purpose of this study was to optimize and evaluate antimicrobial prescribing for SSTI in the ED by implementing an institution specific Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guideline directed computerized provider order entry (CPOE) order set. The primary outcome was the rate of appropriate antibiotic prescribing for SSTI in the ED before and after order set revision. Secondary outcomes were length of hospital stay, rate of continuity of antibiotics from the ED to hospital admission orders, and frequency of order set utilization. Methods: This was a single-centered, retrospective, cohort study. The ED SSTI order set revision reflected current IDSA guidelines, institution formulary, and institution antibiogram. Results: A total of 180 patients were included in the study. The rate of appropriate antibiotic prescribing was 74.4% and 78.9% ( P = .60) in the pre-revision and post-revision groups, respectively. Length of hospital stay of admitted patients was 4.93 and 4.32 days ( P = .61). Rate of antibiotics continued from the ED to admission was 62.1% and 59.4% ( P = .99). Order set utilization was 17.8% and 24.4% ( P = .36). A subgroup analysis found appropriateness increased with order set use in admitted patients (50% vs 88.2%; P = .0382) and total patients (50% vs 81.8%; P = .037). Conclusion: An order set reflective of current IDSA guidelines and institution specific antibiogram showed a similar rate of appropriate antibiotic selection compared to provider’s clinical judgment. Provider awareness of SSTI management could have been a limitation to the study.
Psychometric Properties of the Environmental Reward Observation Scale: Study on Its Internal Structure, Factor Invariance, and Method Effect Associated With Its Negative Items
Authors: Vilca Lindsey W. , Echebaudes-Ilizarbe Robert I. , Aquino-Hidalgo Jannia M. , Ventura-León José , Martinez-Munive Renzo , White Michael
Published: December 2020

The aim of this study was to assess the factorial structure of the scale, the method's effect associated with its negative items, its temporal invariance, and factorial invariance according to sex. For this purpose, three samples were collected, an initial sample of 200 participants, a second sample of 461 participants and a third sample of 107 participants; making a total of 768 Peruvian university students. Other instruments were applied together with the EROS scale in order to measure satisfaction with life, anxiety, stress and depression. Regarding the results, in the initial sample it was found that the original scale containing positive and negative items does adequately fit the data (RMSEA = .19; CFI = .77; TLI = .71) and also evidence was found supporting the existence of a methodological effect associated with the negative items. It was also found that version B of the scale which only has positive items data fits the data (RMSEA = .13; CFI = .96; TLI = .95). In the second sample it was found that version B still had a good fit to the data in a larger sample (RMSEA = .07; CFI = .98; TLI = .98). In addition, it was found that the scale can be considered invariant according to sex and presents validity based on other constructs. In the third sample it was found that the test-retest reliability of the scale was adequate (.70 [CI95% .593–.788]) and also evidence was found in favor of the temporal invariance of the scale. It is concluded that the scale formed only by positive items presents more robust psychometric properties and constitutes a better alternative to measure the level of reward provided by the environment.
A Systematic Overview of Meta-Analyses on Socioeconomic Status, Cognitive Ability, and Achievement: The Need to Focus on Specific Pathways
Authors: Korous Kevin M. , Causadias José M. , Bradley Robert H. , Luthar Suniya S. , Levy Roy
Published: December 2020

Meta-analyses on the relation between socioeconomic status (SES) and performance on measures of cognitive ability and achievement arrive at the same general conclusion of a small to medium association. Advancements in methods make possible for meta-analyses to examine specific pathways linking SES to cognitive ability and achievement, as well as the moderators of these pathways. In this study, we conducted a systematic overview of meta-analyses on SES to address three research questions: 1) what is the direction and overall strength of association between SES and performance on measures of cognitive ability and achievement, and how precise are the effect sizes reported? 2) to what extent have meta-analyses examined moderation by components of SES, age, sex, and race/ethnicity? and 3) to what extent have meta-analyses examined mechanisms linking SES to cognitive ability and achievement? We conducted a systematic search using online archives (i.e., PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, Sociological Abstracts, and Web of Science), searching issues in Psychological Bulletin and Review of Educational Research, and examining references and citations. We identified 14 meta-analyses published between 1982 and 2019. These meta-analyses consistently reported positive associations of small to medium magnitude, indicating that SES is a meaningful contributor to the development of cognitive ability and achievement. Fewer meta-analyses reported evidence of moderation by age, sex, and race/ethnicity. None of the meta-analyses directly examined mechanisms, but provided evidence of possible mechanisms for future research. We suggest that meta-analyses can increase their contribution to future research, interventions, and policy by narrowing their focus on specific pathways.
J. G. Ballard’s Surrealist Liberalism
Authors: Bell Duncan
Published: December 2020

J. G. Ballard was one of the most original writers of the postwar era. Although he has drawn considerable attention from scholars across various fields, the character of his political thinking remains a puzzle. He has been claimed as both a radical and a conservative, while others suggest that his work expresses no distinct political stance. Drawing on a wide range of source materials, I argue that from the 1960s to the early years of the twenty-first century Ballard developed a bold and intriguing account of liberalism grounded in insights drawn from surrealism and Freudian psychoanalysis. This was an idiosyncratic version of the liberalism of fear. The essay analyzes Ballard’s sociopolitical vision, focusing in particular on his account of human nature, social reality, totalitarianism, and the power of the imagination.
Developmental trajectories in infant pointing: The effects of vocalisation and communicative intention
Authors: Perucchini Paola , Bello Arianna , Presaghi Fabio , Aureli Tiziana
Published: December 2020

The goal of this intensive longitudinal study was to trace the developmental trajectories of infant pointing production, through consideration of the modality (i.e. pointing alone vs pointing–vocal coupling) and the communicative intention (i.e. imperative vs declarative). Multilevel analysis was used to model the normative trend and the individual differences in pointing trajectories. Eighteen Italian infants participated in this study and were followed monthly from 9 to 18 months of age. The infants were involved in a structured task designed to elicit imperative and declarative pointing (T-POINT). The proportion of pointing for each participant as a function of age, modality (pointing alone vs pointing–vocal coupling) and context (imperative vs declarative), and the interactional effects, were modelled. Random effects among participants for age trends were estimated. This analysis defined the following: (1) a significant linear increase in pointing production, without and with vocalisation; (2) a significant increase in pointing–vocal coupling over pointing produced alone, in an accelerated form; (3) that the context does not appear to moderate linear and quadratic trends; and (4) that infants differed in their developmental trajectories with respect to the quadratic component, which means that some of the infants developed faster with age than the others. Results are discussed with respect to the hypothesis of strong integration between different systems of communication, further underlining the progression of pointing–vocal coupling.
The Effects of Provision of Instrumental, Emotional, and Informational Support on Psychosocial Adjustment of Involuntary Childless Women in Pakistan
Authors: Iram Anila , Mustafa Mudasir , Ahmad Saeed , Maqsood Sidra , Maqsood Fauzia
Published: December 2020

The objectives of the study are to investigate (i) the level of social support, social adjustment, and psychological adjustment; and (ii) the effects of social support (emotional, informational, and instrumental support) on social adjustment, psychological adjustment, and psychosocial adjustment among childless women. A total of 334 woman respondents were surveyed using a simple random sampling technique. Factor analysis, reliability analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. In the overall model, emotional support, instrumental support, and informational support were significantly associated with social adjustment. In addition, emotional support and instrumental support were significant with psychological adjustment. Furthermore, emotional support, instrumental support, and informational support were the predictors of psychosocial adjustment among childless women. This study contributed to the broader avenues of understanding social support such as husband, in-laws, friends, and relatives, and the accumulation of social support among the childless women in the patriarchal society. The findings highlighted the efficacy and utility of the centuries-old social institution of family as a major predictor of psychosocial support to the childless woman. It subsidized to the limited body of research on provision of social support and psychosocial adjustment among childless women in the patriarchal society.
Post-Fontan pulmonary artery growth in patients with a bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt with additional antegrade pulsatile blood flow
Authors: Ferns Sunita J , Zein Chawki El , Subramanian Sujata , Husayni Tarek , Ilbawi Michel N
Published: December 2020

Background

Patients with antegrade pulmonary blood flow after a bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt (Glenn) may have better pulmonary artery growth. This study evaluated pulmonary artery growth in patients with and without prior additional pulsatile antegrade flow in a Glenn shunt at midterm follow-up after a Fontan procedure.

Methods

We reviewed 212 patients who had single-ventricle palliation in a 10-year period;103 (33 in pulsatile group 1 and 70 in nonpulsatile group 2) were selected for analysis. Data on demographics, procedures, perioperative course, and midterm follow-up after the Fontan procedure were compared. Echocardiography data were collected. Pulmonary artery sizes measured at cardiac catheterization and follow-up echocardiograms were used to calculate the Nakata index.

Results

Perioperative details were comparable in both groups, mean pulmonary artery pressure and systemic oxygen saturations were higher in group 1 compared to group 2. Venovenous collaterals were increased in group 1. There was a significant difference in the pre-Fontan and follow-up Nakata index between groups. There was a significant increase in the Nakata index in group 1 between the pre-Glenn and pre-Fontan assessments as well as the Nakata index between the pre-Fontan and midterm follow-up. There was no significant change in the Nakata index in group 2 between assessments.

Conclusions

A pulsatile Glenn shunt is associated with better pulmonary artery growth which continues long after the additional pulsatile flow is eliminated. It is possible that the effects of anterograde pulmonary blood flow on pulmonary artery growth in early life continue long after the Fontan completion.
The experiences of veterans with mental health problems participating in an occupational therapy and resilience workshop intervention: an exploratory study
Authors: Vaughan-Horrocks Hannah , Reagon Carly , Seymour Alison
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Occupational therapy has long had a strong presence in military mental healthcare. Today’s veterans have complex needs and can face challenges reintegrating into civilian life. This exploratory study investigated whether veterans receiving mental health treatment who participated in a bespoke occupational therapy and resilience workshop intervention improved their perceived participation in everyday life.

Method

An interpretivist hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used to explore veterans’ perspectives. Ten participants took part in two semistructured focus groups. Thematic analysis was used to identify and analyse patterns within the data.

Findings

Most participants developed occupational goals and started to make lifestyle changes; participants developed an appreciation of the value of occupation; participants developed insight into their recovery journeys; and value was placed on the ‘healing power’ of the group.

Conclusion

This exploratory study provides preliminary evidence to suggest occupational therapy was influential in helping participants understand the impact of occupation on health and start making lifestyle changes. Participants also reflected on their recovery journeys. The benefits of doing this within a group environment appear to have been particularly therapeutic. Original occupational therapy research in this specialism is sparse. This novel study provides insight that can further discussion and enhance understanding about what the profession can offer this client group.