bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time‐Inseparable Labor Productivity and the Workweek*
Authors: Eden Maya
Published: September 2020

A centuries‐old tradition, the week constitutes a coordination device that allows for temporal agglomeration in both production and leisure. But does it induce coordination on the optimal workweek? Central to this question is the nature of time‐inseparability in labor productivity. Productivity is increasing in restfulness, which diminishes with work time, and in skill, which improves with work time. I show that, because skill accumulates and depreciates slowly, there are productivity gains from coordinating on a workweek with fewer but more frequent vacation days.
Rifabutin for treating tuberculosis in solid organ transplant recipients: A retrospective observational study and literature review
Authors: Gomila‐Grange A. , Pérez‐Recio S. , Camprubí‐Ferrer D. , Lladó L. , Fava A. , García‐Romero E. , Grijota‐Camino M. D. , Sabé N. , Santin M.
Published: September 2020

Background

The treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients is challenging owing to interactions between rifampin and immunosuppressive drugs. Rifabutin, a rifamycin with excellent activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and that induces cytochrome p450 less, may facilitate treatment. We report our experience with rifabutin for treating TB in SOT recipients and review the available literature.

Methods

A retrospective observational study of all SOT recipients with TB between January 2000 and December 2019. The clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients treated with and without rifabutin‐containing regimens were compared and a literature review was conducted.

Results

We included 31 SOT recipients with TB, among whom 22 (71%) were men and the median age was 62 years (interquartile range 50‐20). There were no significant differences between patients treated with rifabutin (n = 12), rifampin (n = 14), and non‐rifamycins (n = 5) in clinical cure rates (83.3%, 64.3%, and 100%, respectively; P = .21), side effects (25%, 37.5%, and 20%, respectively; P = .74), or mortality (16.7%, 35.7%, and 0%, respectively; P = .21). Only one patient, treated with rifampin, suffered graft rejection. The literature review identified 59 SOT recipients with TB treated with rifabutin‐containing regimens from 8 publications. Overall, the clinical cure, graft rejection, and mortality rates were 93.2%, 5.1%, and 6.8%, respectively.

Conclusions

Rifabutin‐containing regimens offer a reliable alternative to rifampin when treating TB in SOT recipients.
Availability, price and affordability of essential medicines for managing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes: a statewide survey in Kerala, India
Authors: Satheesh Gautam , Sharma Abhishek , Puthean Sandra , Ansil T.P. Muhammed , E. Jereena , Raj Mishra Shiva , Unnikrishnan M. K.
Published: September 2020

Objective

Limited access to essential medicines (EMs) for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes is a major concern in low‐ and middle‐income countries. We aimed to generate data on availability, price and affordability of EMs for CVD and diabetes in India.

Methods

Using WHO/HAI survey methodology, we evaluated availability and prices of 23 EMs in 30 public sector facilities (government hospitals and semi‐public/government‐subsidised‐discount‐pharmacies (GSDPs)) and 60 private retail pharmacies across six districts in Kerala state, India (November 2018 ‐ May 2019). Median Price Ratios (MPRs) were calculated by comparing consumer prices with international reference prices. We also analysed data (collected in July 2020) on six anti‐hypertensive fixed‐dose‐combinations (FDCs) that were designated as ‘essential’ by the WHO in 2019.

Results

Mean availability of surveyed generic EMs was 45.7% in government hospitals, 64.7% in GSDPs and 72.0% in private retail pharmacies. On average, the most‐sold and highest‐priced generics, respectively, were 6.6% and 8.9% costlier than the lowest‐priced generics (LPG). Median MPR for LPG was 2.71 in private retail and 2.25 in GSDPs. Monthly supply of LPG would cost the lowest‐paid worker 1.11 and 0.79 days’ wages in private retail and GSDPs, respectively. Mean availability of the surveyed FDCs was poor (private retail: 15–85%; GSDPs: 8.3–66.7%), and the private retail prices of FDCs were comparable to the sum of corresponding constituent monotherapies.

Conclusion

Availability of CVD and diabetes EMs fall short of WHO’s 80% target in both sectors. Although availability in the private retail pharmacies was near‐optimal, prices appear unaffordable compared to GSDPs. Initiatives such as mandating generic prescribing, adding the WHO‐approved FDCs in local EM lists, improving price transparency, and streamlining medicine supply to ensure equitable access to EMs, especially in the public sector, are crucial in tackling Kerala’s ever‐increasing CVD burden.
Effect of platelet storage duration on clinical outcomes and incremental platelet change in critically ill children
Authors: Nellis Marianne E. , Spinella Philip C. , Tucci Marisa , Stanworth Simon J. , Steiner Marie E. , Cushing Melissa M. , Davis Peter J. , Karam Oliver ,   The Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators (PALISI) network, Pediatric Critical Care Blood Research Network (BloodNet), and the P3T Investigators
Published: September 2020

Background

The safety of platelet (PLT) concentrates with longer storage duration has been questioned due to biochemical and functional changes that occur during blood collection and storage. Some studies have suggested that transfusion efficacy is decreased and immune system dysfunction is worsened with increased storage age. We sought to describe the effect of PLT storage age on laboratory and clinical outcomes in critically ill children receiving PLT transfusions.

Study Design and Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of a prospective, observational point‐prevalence study. Children (3 days to 16 years of age) from 82 pediatric intensive care units in 16 countries were enrolled if they received a PLT transfusion during one of the predefined screening weeks. Outcomes (including PLT count increments, organ dysfunction, and transfusion reactions) were evaluated by PLT storage age.

Results

Data from 497 patients were analyzed. The age of the PLT transfusions ranged from 1 to 7 days but the majority were 4 (24%) or 5 (36%) days of age. Nearly two‐thirds of PLT concentrates were transfused to prevent bleeding. The indication for transfusion did not differ between storage age groups (P = .610). After patient and product variables were adjusted for, there was no association between storage age and incremental change in total PLT count or organ dysfunction scoring. A significant association between fresher storage age and febrile transfusion reactions (P = .002) was observed.

Conclusion

The results in a large, diverse cohort of critically ill children raise questions about the impact of storage age on transfusion and clinical outcomes which require further prospective evaluation.
Evaluation of the effects of hydroxyethyl starch (130/0.4) administration as a constant rate infusion on plasma colloid osmotic pressure in hypoabluminemic dogs
Authors: Borrelli Antonio , Maurella Cristiana , Lippi Ilaria , Ingravalle Francesco , Botto Angelica , Tarducci Alberto , Bruno Barbara
Published: September 2020

Objective

To evaluate the effects of 2 constant rate infusions of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4 on plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP) in hypoalbuminemic dogs.

Design

Prospective, randomized clinical trial.

Animals

A total of 24 client‐owned dogs.

Interventions

Hypoalbuminemic euvolemic dogs (albumin < 20 g/L [<2 g/dL]) with normal perfusion parameters requiring IV fluid therapy were enrolled. In addition to crystalloid, HES 130/0.4 was administered as a constant rate infusion over 24 hours at 1 mL/kg/h (group 1, n = 15) or at 2 mL/kg/h (group 2, n = 9), in order to support plasma COP. Before infusion, a blood sample was collected to perform CBC, serum electrophoresis, and serologic tests for some infective diseases. Plasma COP, albumin concentration, PCV, and total plasma protein concentration were evaluated serially at baseline (T0) and then at 6, 12, and 24 hours after the start of infusion, and a multilevel model was performed for these parameters to detect statistically significant differences between the 2 groups.

Measurement and Main Results

Twenty‐four dogs were included. No statistically significant differences in COP were found between the 2 groups; however, a high level of variability has been identified within the single individual. Among the other laboratory analyses, PCV was significantly decreased in group 1 at T12 and T24 compared with T0 (P < 0.001) and total plasma protein concentration was significantly increased in group 2 at T12 and T24 compared with T0 (P < 0.008).

Conclusion

No significant effect on plasma COP was found following infusion with HES 130/0.4 at doses of 1 mL/kg/h and 2 mL/kg/h for 24 hours to hypoalbuminemic dogs. The administered concomitant dose of crystalloids, underlying disease, and small sample size were all potential confounding factors.
DETERMINATION OF DEFLECTION BASIN USING PAVEMENT MODELLING COMPUTER PROGRAMS AND FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
Authors: P. Rosyidi Sri Atmaja , Hamim Asmah , Mohd Taib Aizat , Jamaludin Nor Azliana Akmal , Ahmed Memon Zubair , Md. Yusoff Nur Izzi , Hainin Mohd Rosli
Published: September 2020

Several methods can be used to model pavement structures, namely multi-layered elastic theory (MET), finite element method (FEM), or finite difference method (FDM). In this study, three computer programs, KENLAYER and EVERSTRESS 5.0 which are based on MET, and ANSYS, representing the FEM, are used in Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) test on a pavement structure to determine deflection basin. The deflection basin was developed by using the results of vertical deflection from each sensor of an FWD test. In this study, a pavement structure was modelled for three locations of FWD tests, namely CH 200, CH 1450, and CH 2300. Based on the comparative study, all computer programs show good potential in determining deflection basin, with small percentage of Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of between 1.00% to 4.31% for all models developed by the computer programs and field measurement. In order to obtain a higher accuracy of the FEM, the models considered the dynamic loading, increasing size of model geometry, as well as the reduction of the mesh element sizes. Moreover, changing from static to dynamic loading led to the reduction of percentage in RMSE for CH 200 from 2.41% to 0.94%.  Decreasing size of closer elements of loading region also results in lower percentages of RMSE, calculated at 4.21% to 3.63% and 1.20% to 1.18% for CH 1450 and CH 2300, respectively. FEM, therefore, is found to be the best method for determining deflection basin of FWD in comparison to other MET computer programs.
ASSESSMENT OF MICRONUCLEUS FREQUENCY AND RESPIRATORY HEALTH SYMPTOMS AMONG TRAFFIC POLICEMEN EXPOSED TO BTEX AND PM2.5 IN KLANG VALLEY, MALAYSIA
Authors: Awang Mohd Fairus , Jalaludin Juliana , Abu Bakar Suhaili , Latif Mohd Talib , Mohamad Fandi Noor Fatihah , Abd Hamid Haris Hafizal
Published: September 2020

Volatile organic compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene (BTEX), and particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) are often associated with traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) and harm the health of the community. This study aimed to evaluate the personal air pollutant exposure, micronucleus (MN) frequency, and respiratory health symptoms among 160 traffic policemen and 149 office workers in Klang Valley. Personal exposure concentrations for BTEX and PM2.5 among traffic police were 390.12 μg/m3 and 140.00 μg/m3 respectively, whereas 97.64 μg/m3 (BTEX) and 23.00 µg/m3 (PM2.5) among office workers. Statistical analysis for MN frequency between traffic policemen (6.2±2.6) and office workers (3.0±2.0) shows a significant difference (p < 0.001). The Chi-Square test for respiratory health symptoms indicates that only cough shows the significant differences between traffic policemen and office workers (χ2 = 5.645, p = 0.018, PR = 1.800). In short, this study showed that TRAP exposure would increase the chromosomal damage that can cause high MN frequency among traffic policemen and would increase the prevalence of respiratory health symptoms among urban workers.
Involvement of the lncRNA AFAP1‐AS1/microRNA‐195/E2F3 axis in proliferation and migration of enteric neural crest stem cells of Hirschsprung's disease
Authors: Pan Weikang , Wu Ali , Yu Hui , Yu Qiang , Zheng Baijun , Yang Weili , Tian Donghao , Li Peng , Gao Ya
Published: September 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are widely involved in the progression of Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR), but the role of actin filament associated protein 1 antisense RNA1 (AFAP1‐AS1), an lncRNA, in HSCR has not been explored before.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Downregulation of AFAP1‐AS1 blocks enteric neural crest stem cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and invasion and promotes the occurrence of HSCR via the miR‐195/E2F3 axis, indicating thatAFAP1‐AS might be a potential biomarker for HSCR patients.

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in several human disorders. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether they are implicated in the phenotypes of enteric neural crest stem cells (ENCSCs) in Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR). Therefore, we designed this study to explore the pathogenicity of AFAP1‐AS1 for HSCR. Microarray analysis and bioinformatic tools were used to screen out the differentially lncRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) in patients with HSCR. Small interference RNA transfection was applied to carry out functional experiments in ENCSCs. Cellular activities were detected by cell counting kit‐8, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine, Transwell assays and flow cytometry. Finally, rescue experiments were performed to examine the cofunction of AFAP1‐AS1 and miR‐195 and of miR‐195 and E2F transcription factor 3 (E2F3). AFAP1‐AS1 was reduced in HSCR patients. Meanwhile, knockdown of AFAP1‐AS1 reduced the cell migratory and proliferative capacities and facilitated cell apoptosis along with G0/G1 phase arrest. E2F3 was diminished when miR‐195 was upregulated, and AFAP1‐AS1 inhibition reduced its ability to bind to miR‐195. Altogether, AFAP1‐AS1 silencing acts as an endogenous RNA by interacting with miR‐195 to alter E2F3 expression, thus conferring repressive effects on ENCSC activity and promoting HSCR progression.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Heat Transfer and Turbulent Flow Characteristics in Three-Short-Pass Serpentine Cooling Channels With Miniature W-Ribs
Authors: Rao Yu , Guo Zhongqiu , Wang Deqiang
Published: September 2020

Detailed experimental and numerical studies have been conducted on the heat transfer, pressure loss, and turbulent flow structure of a three-short-pass serpentine cooling channel with miniature W-shaped ribs on the wall under the Reynolds numbers from 8500 to 60,000. Steady-state heat transfer experiments were done to obtain the globally averaged and total heat transfer performance of each ribbed pass of the serpentine channel, and the streamwise pressure loss characteristics of the serpentine-channel flow were also obtained by multipoint pressure measurements. Additionally, the transient liquid crystal thermography technique was also used to obtain the local heat transfer distributions on the miniature W-ribbed surface of each pass. Furthermore, numerical simulations were done by using the AKN k–ε turbulence model to reveal the detailed turbulent flow and heat transfer characteristics in the serpentine channel. The experiments indicate that the miniature W-ribbed short pass has significantly enhanced total heat transfer by a factor of up to 4.0. The total heat transfer enhancement shows appreciably different values in different passes of the serpentine channel, and the second pass shows about 15% higher heat transfer enhancement than the first pass, and the third pass shows the highest heat transfer enhancement, which is about 15% higher than the second pass. The pressure loss measurements indicate that the two flow turnings contribute more than 90% of the total pressure loss in the serpentine channel with one ribbed pass with the miniature W ribs. The numerical simulations indicate that the flow turnings significantly increase the turbulent mixing in the flow of the downstream pass, and the miniature W-ribs on the wall appreciably improve the near-wall vortex mixing, which contributes the heat transfer enhancement.
Computational Analysis of Rotating Effects on Heat Transfer and Pressure Loss of Turbulent Flow in Detached Pin Fin Arrays With Various Clearances
Authors: Liang Ce , Rao Yu
Published: September 2020

A detailed computational analysis is carried out on the heat transfer and pressure loss of a turbulent flow in detached pin fin arrays with various clearance values for the Reynolds number range of 20,000–80,000 and the rotation number range of 0–0.3. Clearances exist at the midheight of the detached pin fins, which account for 10%, 15%, and 20% of the full pin fin's height, respectively. The clearances release the fluid stagnation and reduce the bulk flow turbulent mixing level, which significantly reduces the pressure loss. Compared with the pin fin arrays, the pressure loss is decreased by up to 30.5% with the increase of the clearance value for the detached pin fin arrays. Also, the detached pin fin arrays show a maximum increase in the total Nusselt numbers by about 13.5%. Furthermore, the rotation effects can increase the friction factors as well as the Nusselt numbers simultaneously in both the pin fin arrays and the detached pin fin arrays. A higher rotation number can promote the heat transfer enhancement and uniformity in the detached pin fin channels.
Overview of Validation Experiments Focused on Silicon in LR-0
Authors: Czakoj Tomáš , Košťál Michal , Peltan Tomáš , Šimon Jan , Capote Roberto
Published: September 2020

Silicon dioxide is a common material in nature and is also often used in the nuclear industry (concrete, radioactive waste repositories in bedrocks), therefore, properly characterizing neutronic properties is very important for nuclear energy and criticality safety applications. The criticality worth was measured for several core arrangements containing silica sand both inside the core and/or as a reflector by measuring the moderator level. The core arrangements used sand as both lateral and central reflectors in different combinations. The results showed that the new thermal scattering law matrix for silicon dioxide available in ENDF/B-VIII.0 may have a problem for backward neutron scattering.
Fuzzy Fault Tolerant Control of a Bacterial Growth Process Using a Multiple Lyapunov Function
Authors: Khallouq Abdelmounaim , Karama Asma , Abyad Mohamed
Published: September 2020

This paper presents the problem of actuator fault estimation and fault-tolerant control (FTC) of a biological process using Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy formulation. The goal is to ensure the desired outputs tracking even if the time-varying actuator faults occur. We propose to use a proportional multi-integral (PMI) observer to estimate both the time-varying actuator faults and the state of system. The reconstructed faults are used to reconfigure the nominal controller. As a nominal control, we use a fuzzy linear quadratic integral (LQI) law. To ensure the global asymptotic convergence of the PMI observer and to improve the compensation speed of faults, we propose to use the multiple Lyapunov function by introducing a convergence rate. Sufficient conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) are developed. The obtained results show that, the proposed approach is successfully applied to the problem of actuator fault-tolerant control of a bacterial growth process.
Additive Manufactured Impinging Coolant, Low Electromagnetic Interference, and Nonmetallic Heat Spreader: Design and Optimization
Authors: Whitt Reece , Hudson Skyler , Huitink David , Yuan Zhao , Emon Asif , Luo Fang
Published: September 2020

With the increase of electronic device power density, thermal management and reliability are increasingly critical in the design of power electronic systems. First, increased density challenges the capability of conventional heat sinks to adequately dissipate heat. Second, higher frequency switching in high voltage, high current, wide bandgap power modules is creating intensified electromagnetic interference (EMI) challenges, in which metallic heat removal systems will couple and create damaging current ringing. Furthermore, mobile power systems require lightweight heat removal methods that satisfy the heat loads dissipated during operation. In this effort, we introduce an additive manufacturing (AM) pathway to produce custom heat removal systems using nonmetallic materials, which take advantage of impinging fluid heat transfer to enable efficient thermal management. Herein, we leverage the precision of additive manufacturing techniques in the development of three-dimensional optimized flow channels for achieving enhanced effective convective heat transfer coefficients. The experimental performance of convective heat removal due to liquid impingement is compared with conventional heat sinks, with the requirement of simulating the heat transfer needed by a high voltage inverter. The implementation of nonmetallic materials manufacturing is aimed to reduce electromagnetic interference in a low weight and reduced cost package, making it useful for mobile power electronics.
Effects of cryo-processing on the mechanical and biological properties of poly(vinyl alcohol)-gelatin theta-gels
Authors: Charron Patrick N. , Jacobs Jaime I. , Yao Selina X. , Floreani Rachael A.
Published: September 2020

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), a synthetic, nontoxic polymer, is widely studied for use as a biomedical hydrogel due to its structural and physicomechanical properties. Depending on the synthesis method, PVA hydrogels can exhibit a range of selected characteristics—strength, creep resistance, energy dissipation, degree of crystallinity, and porosity. While the structural integrity and behavior of the hydrogel can be fine-tuned, common processing techniques result in a brittle, linear elastic material. In addition, PVA lacks functionality to engage and participate in cell adhesion, which can be a limitation for integrating PVA materials with tissue in situ. Thus, there is a need to further engineer PVA hydrogels to optimize its physicomechanical properties while enhancing cell adhesion and bioactivity. While the inclusion of gelatin into PVA hydrogels has been shown to impart cell-adhesive properties, the optimization of the mechanical properties of PVA-gelatin blends has not been studied in the context of traditional PVA hydrogel processing techniques. The incorporation of poly(ethylene glycol) with PVA prior to solidification forms an organized, cell instructive hydrogel with improved stiffness. The effect of cryo-processing, i.e., freeze-thaw (FT) cycling was elucidated by comparing 1 FT and 8 FT theta-cryo-gels and cryo-gels. To confirm the viability of the gels, human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) protein and sulfated glycosaminoglycan assays were performed to verify the nontoxicity and influence on hMSC differentiation. We have devised an elastic PVA-gelatin hydrogel utilizing the theta-gel and cryo-gel processing techniques, resulting in a stronger, more elastic material with greater potential as a scaffold for complex tissues.
Structure of numerical algorithms and advanced mechanics
Authors: Chin Siu A.
Published: September 2020

Most elementary numerical schemes found useful for solving classical trajectory problems are canonical transformations. This fact should be made more widely known among teachers of computational physics and Hamiltonian mechanics. From the perspective of advanced mechanics, unlike that of numerical schemes, there are no bewildering number of seemingly arbitrary elementary schemes based on Taylor's expansion. There are only two canonical first and second order algorithms, on the basis of which one can comprehend the structures of higher order symplectic and non-symplectic schemes. This work shows that most elementary algorithms up to the fourth-order can be derived from canonical transformations and Poisson brackets of advanced mechanics.
Visualizing topological transport
Authors: Lizunova Mariya A. , Kuypers Samuel , Meijer Bernet , Silva Ana , van Wezel Jasper
Published: September 2020

We present a mathematically simple procedure for explaining and visualizing the dynamics of quantized transport in topological insulators. The procedure serves to illustrate and clarify the dynamics of topological transport in general, but for the sake of concreteness, it is phrased here in terms of electron transport in a charge-ordered chain, which may be mapped exactly onto transport between edge channels in the Integer Quantum Hall Effect. This approach has the advantage that it allows a direct visualization of the real-space and real-time evolution of the electronic charges throughout the topological pumping cycle, thus demystifying how charge flows between remote edges separated by an insulating bulk, why the amount of transported charge is given by a topological invariant, and how continuous driving yields a discrete, quantized amount of transported charge.
Do we need two ears to perceive the distance of a virtual frontal sound source?
Authors: Prud'homme Luna , Lavandier Mathieu
Published: September 2020

The present study investigated whether the perception of virtual auditory distance is binaural, monaural, or both. Listeners evaluated the distance of a frontal source of pink noise simulated in a room via headphones. Experiment 1 was performed with eyes closed in a soundproof booth. Experiment 2 was performed with eyes open in the room used to create the stimuli. Individualized and non-individualized stimuli were compared. Different conditions for controlling sound level were tested. The amount of binaural information in the stimuli was varied by mixing the left and right ear signals in different proportions. Results showed that the use of non-individualized stimuli did not impair distance perception. Binaural information was not used by naive listeners to evaluate distance, both with and without visual information available. However, for some listeners, a complete absence of binaural information could disrupt distance evaluation with headphones. Sound level was a dominant cue used by listeners to judge for distance, and some listeners could also reliably use reverberation-related changes in spectral content. In the absence of specific training, artificial manipulation of sound level greatly altered distance judgments.
Dopant-modulated sound transmission with zero index acoustic metamaterials
Authors: Gu Zhongming , Gao He , Liu Tuo , Li Yong , Zhu Jie
Published: September 2020

Zero index metamaterials have shown the ability to achieve total transmission or reflection by embedding particular defects with various effective parameters. Here, we present that tunable sound transmission can be realized by configuring a subwavelength-sized dopant inside zero index acoustic metamaterials. Despite its small spatial signature, the dopant is able to strongly interact with the acoustic waves inside the whole zero index metamaterials. It is due to the essence of the zero effective index that can homogenize the pressure field within the metamaterials. Sound transmission can thus be fully switched on and off by adjusting the dopant's surface impedance. A simple rectangular cavity with varied lengths is proposed to provide the required impedance boundary. Our model of correlating the dopant design with sound transmission performance is validated theoretically and numerically. We further demonstrate the utilization of the proposed design to effectively modulate the sound focusing effect. Such a dopant-modulated sound transmission scheme, with its simplicity and capability, has potential applications in fields like noise control and ultrasonography.
More Pace Variation and Pack Formation in Successful World-Class 10,000-m Runners Than in Less Successful Competitors
Authors: Renfree Andrew , Casado Arturo , Pellejero Gonzalo , Hanley Brian
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To determine different relationships between, and predictive ability of, performance variables at intermediate distances with finishing time in elite male 10,000-m runners. Methods: Official electronic finishing and 100-m split times of the men’s 10,000-m finals at the 2008 and 2016 Olympic Games and IAAF World Championships in 2013 and 2017 were obtained (125 athlete performances in total). Correlations were calculated between finishing times and positions and performance variables related to speed, position, time to the leader, and time to the runner in front at 2000, 4000, 6000, 8000, and 9900 m. Stepwise linear-regression analysis was conducted between finishing times and positions and these variables across the race. One-way analysis of variance was performed to identify differences between intermediate distances. Results: The SD and kurtosis of mean time, skewness of mean time, and position and time difference to the leader were either correlated with or significantly contributed to predictions of finishing time and position at at least one of the analyzed distances (.81 ≥ r ≥ .30 and .001 ≤ P ≤ .03, respectively). These variables also displayed variation across the race (.001 ≤ P ≤ .05). Conclusions: The ability to undertake a high degree of pace variability, mostly characterized by acceleration in the final stages, is strongly associated with achievement of high finishing positions in championship 10,000-m racing. Furthermore, the adoption and maintenance of positions close to the front of the race from the early stages are important to achieve a high finishing position.
Effect of Resistance-Training Programs Differing in Set Configuration on Maximal Strength and Explosive-Action Performance
Authors: Cuevas-Aburto Jesualdo , Jukic Ivan , González-Hernández Jorge Miguel , Janicijevic Danica , Barboza-González Paola , Chirosa-Ríos Luis Javier , García-Ramos Amador
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To compare the effects of 2 upper-body strength-training programs differing in set configuration on bench press 1-repetition maximum (BP1RM), bench press throw peak velocity against 30 kg (BPT30), and handball throwing velocity. Methods: Thirty-five men were randomly assigned to a traditional group (TRG; n = 12), rest redistribution group (RRG; n = 13), or control group (n = 10). The training program was conducted with the bench press exercise and lasted 6 weeks (2 sessions per week): TRG—6 sets × 5 repetitions with 3 minutes of interset rest; RRG—1 set × 30 repetitions with 31 seconds of interrepetition rest. The total rest period (15 min) and load intensity (75% 1RM) were the same for both experimental groups. Subjects performed all repetitions at maximal intended velocity, and the load was adjusted on a daily basis from velocity recordings. Results: A significant time × group interaction was observed for both BP1RM and BPT30 (P < .01) due to the higher values observed at posttest compared with pretest for TRG (effect size [ES] = 0.77) and RRG (ES = 0.56–0.59) but not for the control group (ES ≤ 0.08). The changes in BP1RM and BPT30 did not differ between TRG and RRG (ES = 0.04 and 0.05, respectively). No significant differences in handball throwing velocity were observed between the pretest and posttest (ES = 0.16, 0.22, and 0.02 for TRG, RRG, and control group, respectively). Conclusions: Resistance-training programs based on not-to-failure traditional and rest redistribution set configurations induce similar changes in BP1RM, BPT30, and handball throwing velocity.
A mutant form of ERα associated with estrogen insensitivity affects the coupling between ligand binding and coactivator recruitment
Authors: Li Yin , Coons Laurel A. , Houtman René , Carlson Kathryn E. , Martin Teresa A. , Mayne Christopher G. , Melchers Diana , Jefferson Tanner B. , Ramsey J. Tyler , Katzenellenbogen John A. , Korach Kenneth S.
Published: September 2020

A patient-derived mutation in ERα that causes estrogen insensitivity alters coregulator recruitment.
A Prospective, Randomized, Open-Label Trial of Early versus Late Favipiravir Therapy in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Doi Yohei , Hibino Masaya , Hase Ryota , Yamamoto Michiko , Kasamatsu Yu , Hirose Masahiro , Mutoh Yoshikazu , Homma Yoshito , Terada Masaki , Ogawa Taku , Kashizaki Fumihiro , Yokoyama Toshihiko , Koba Hayato , Kasahara Hideki , Yokota Kazuhisa , Kato Hideaki , Yoshida Junichi , Kita Toshiyuki , Kato Yasuyuki , Kamio Tadashi , Kodama Nobuhiro , Uchida Yujiro , Ikeda Nobuhiro , Shinoda Masahiro , Nakagawa Atsushi , Nakatsumi Hiroki , Horiguchi Tomoya , Iwata Mitsunaga , Matsuyama Akifumi , Banno Sumi , Koseki Takenao , Teramachi Mayumi , Miyata Masami , Tajima Shigeru , Maeki Takahiro , Nakayama Eri , Taniguchi Satoshi , Lim Chang Kweng , Saijo Masayuki , Imai Takumi , Yoshida Hisako , Kabata Daijiro , Shintani Ayumi , Yuzawa Yukio , Kondo Masashi
Published: September 2020

Favipiravir is an oral broad-spectrum inhibitor of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase that is approved for treatment of influenza in Japan. We conducted a prospective, randomized, open-label, multicenter trial of favipiravir for the treatment of COVID-19 at 25 hospitals across Japan. Eligible patients were adolescents and adults admitted with COVID-19 who were asymptomatic or mildly ill and had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0 or 1. Patients were randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to early or late favipiravir therapy (in the latter case, the same regimen starting on day 6 instead of day 1).
Synergistic Action of a Lytic Polysaccharide Monooxygenase and a Cellobiohydrolase from
Penicillium funiculosum
in Cellulose Saccharification under High-Level Substrate Loading
Authors: Ogunyewo Olusola A. , Randhawa Anmoldeep , Gupta Mayank , Kaladhar Vemula Chandra , Verma Praveen Kumar , Yazdani Syed Shams
Published: September 2020

The enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulosic biomass by cellulases continues to be a significant bottleneck in the development of second-generation biobased industries. While increasing efforts are being made to obtain indigenous cellulases for biomass hydrolysis, the high production cost of this enzyme remains a crucial challenge affecting its wide availability for the efficient utilization of cellulosic materials. This is because it is challenging to obtain an enzymatic cocktail with balanced activity from a single host. This report describes the annotation and structural analysis of an uncharacterized lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (LPMO) gene in
Penicillium funiculosum
and its impact on biomass deconstruction upon overexpression in a catabolite-derepressed strain of
P. funiculosum
. Cellobiohydrolase I (CBH1), which is the most important enzyme produced by many cellulolytic fungi for the saccharification of crystalline cellulose, was further overexpressed simultaneously with LPMO. The resulting secretome was analyzed for enhanced LPMO and exocellulase activities and the corresponding improvement in saccharification performance (by ∼20%) under high-level substrate loading using a minimal amount of protein.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of the Environmental Microbiota in Food Processing Plants as Impacted by Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedures: the Case of Slaughterhouses and Gaseous Ozone
Authors: Botta Cristian , Ferrocino Ilario , Pessione Alessandro , Cocolin Luca , Rantsiou Kalliopi
Published: September 2020

Our
in situ
survey demonstrates that RNA-based sequencing of 16S rRNA amplicons is a reliable approach to qualitatively probe, at high taxonomic resolution, the changes triggered by new and existing cleaning/sanitizing strategies in the environmental microbiota in human-built environments. This approach could soon represent a fast tool to clearly define which routine sanitizing interventions are more suitable for a specific food processing environment, thus limiting the costs of special cleaning interventions and potential product loss.
Nonlethal Plasmodium yoelii Infection Drives Complex Patterns of Th2-Type Host Immunity and Mast Cell-Dependent Bacteremia
Authors: Céspedes Nora , Donnelly Erinn , Garrison Sarah , Haapanen Lori , Van De Water Judy , Luckhart Shirley
Published: September 2020

Malaria strongly predisposes to bacteremia, which is associated with sequestration of parasitized red blood cells and increased gastrointestinal permeability. The mechanisms underlying this disruption are poorly understood. Here, we evaluated the expression of factors associated with mast cell activation and malaria-associated bacteremia in a rodent model. C57BL/6J mice were infected withPlasmodium yoeliiyoelli17XNL, and blood and tissues were collected over time to assay for circulating levels of bacterial 16S DNA, IgE, mast cell protease 1 (Mcpt-1) and Mcpt-4, Th1 and Th2 cytokines, and patterns of ileal mastocytosis and intestinal permeability.
Replicate Aptima Assay for Quantifying Residual Plasma Viremia in Individuals on Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Bakkour Sonia , Deng Xutao , Bacchetti Peter , Grebe Eduard , Montalvo Leilani , Worlock Andrew , Stone Mars , Deeks Steven G. , Richman Douglas D. , Busch Michael P.
Published: September 2020

Detection of residual plasma viremia in antiretroviral therapy (ART)-suppressed HIV-infected individuals is critical for characterizing the latent reservoir and evaluating the impact of cure interventions. Ultracentrifugation-based single-copy assays are sensitive but labor intensive. Fully automated replicate testing using a standard clinical viral load assay was evaluated as a high-throughput alternative for the quantification of low-level viremia. Four plasma samples from blood donors with acute HIV-1 infection and one viral culture supernatant were serially diluted into 25-ml samples to nominal viral loads ranging from 39 to <0.
Primary Swine Respiratory Epithelial Cell Lines for the Efficient Isolation and Propagation of Influenza A Viruses
Authors: Meliopoulos Victoria , Cherry Sean , Wohlgemuth Nicholas , Honce Rebekah , Barnard Karen , Gauger Phillip , Davis Todd , Shult Peter , Parrish Colin , Schultz-Cherry Stacey
Published: September 2020

Robust
in vitro
culture systems for influenza virus are critically needed. MDCK cells, the most widely used cell line for influenza isolation and propagation, do not adequately model the respiratory tract. Therefore, many clinical isolates, both animal and human, are unable to be isolated and characterized, limiting our understanding of currently circulating influenza viruses. We have developed immortalized swine respiratory epithelial cells that retain the ability to differentiate and can support influenza replication and isolation. These cell lines can be used as additional tools to enhance influenza research and vaccine development.
HIV Infection and Persistence in Pulmonary Mucosal Double Negative T Cells
In Vivo
Authors: Meziane Oussama , Salahuddin Syim , Pham Tram N. Q. , Farnos Omar , Pagliuzza Amélie , Olivenstein Ron , Thomson Elaine , Alexandrova Yulia , Orlova Marianna , Schurr Erwin , Ancuta Petronela , Haddad Élie , Chomont Nicolas , Cohen Eric A. , Jenabian Mohammad-Ali , Costiniuk Cecilia T.
Published: September 2020

Reservoirs of HIV during ART are the primary reasons why HIV/AIDS remains an incurable disease. Indeed, HIV remains latent and unreachable by antiretrovirals in cellular and anatomical sanctuaries, preventing its eradication. The lungs have received very little attention compared to other anatomical reservoirs despite being immunological effector sites exhibiting characteristics ideal for HIV persistence. Furthermore, PLWH suffer from a high burden of pulmonary non-opportunistic infections, suggesting impaired pulmonary immunity despite ART. Meanwhile, various immune cell populations have been proposed to be cellular reservoirs in blood, including CD4
−
CD8
−
DN T cells, a subset that may originate from CD4 downregulation by HIV proteins. The present study aims to describe DN T cells in human and humanized mice lungs in relation to intrapulmonary HIV burden. The characterization of DN T cells as cellular HIV reservoirs and the lungs as an anatomical HIV reservoir will contribute to the development of targeted HIV eradication strategies.
Fecal Short-Chain Fatty Acid Concentrations Increase in Newly Paired Male Marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Zhu Lifeng , Suhr Van Haute Mallory J. , Hassenstab Haley R. , Smith Caroline , Rose Devin J. , Mustoe Aaryn C. , Benson Andrew K. , French Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2020

This study addressed a knowledge gap about longitudinal changes in the gut microbiome metabolites during animal pairing. This research in the laboratory common marmoset can control for the confounding factors such as diet and other environmental conditions.
Phascolarctobacterium
showed the highest contribution to the sex-biased transmission of the female to the male after pairing. Here, we observed the sex difference in the increase in short-chain fatty acid concentration in the feces of newly paired marmosets, which may be caused by the sex-biased gut microbiome transmission after pairing.
North American Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus) Harbor an Exogenous
Deltaretrovirus
Authors: Hause Ben M. , Nelson Eric A. , Christopher-Hennings Jane
Published: September 2020

Bats host a large numbers of viruses, many of which are zoonotic. In the United States, the big brown bat (
Eptesicus fuscus
) is widely distributed and lives in small colonies that roost in cavities, often in human dwellings, leading to frequent human interaction. Viral metagenomic sequencing of samples from an
E. fuscus
bat submitted for rabies testing identified the first exogenous bat
Deltaretrovirus
. The
E. fuscus
deltaretrovirus (EfDRV) genome consists of the typical deltaretrovial 5′-
gag
-
pro
-
pol
-
env
-3′ genes along with genes encoding two putative transcriptional transactivator proteins distantly related to the Tax protein of human T-cell lymphotrophic virus and nuclear antigen 3B of Epstein-Barr virus. Searches of the
E. fuscus
genome sequence failed to identify endogenous EfDRV. RT-PCR targeting the EfDRV
pol
gene identified 4/60 (6.7%) bats with positive results. Together, these results suggest that EfDRV is exogenous. As all members of
Deltaretrovirus
are associated with T- and B-cell malignancies or neurologic disease, further studies on possible zoonosis are warranted.
Epigenetic Regulation as a Basis for Long-Term Changes in the Nervous System: In Search of Specificity Mechanisms
Authors: Borodinova A. A. , Balaban P. M.
Published: September 2020

Adaptive long-term changes in the functioning of nervous system (plasticity, memory) are not written in the genome, but are directly associated with the changes in expression of many genes comprising epigenetic regulation. Summarizing the known data regarding the role of epigenetics in regulation of plasticity and memory, we would like to highlight several key aspects. (i) Different chromatin remodeling complexes and DNA methyltransferases can be organized into high-order multiprotein repressor complexes that are cooperatively acting as the “molecular brake pads”, selectively restricting transcriptional activity of specific genes at rest. (ii) Relevant physiological stimuli induce a cascade of biochemical events in the activated neurons resulting in translocation of different signaling molecules (protein kinases, NO-containing complexes) to the nucleus. (iii) Stimulus-specific nitrosylation and phosphorylation of different epigenetic factors is linked to a decrease in their enzymatic activity or changes in intracellular localization that results in temporary destabilization of the repressor complexes. (iv) Removing “molecular brakes” opens a “critical time window” for global and local epigenetic changes, triggering specific transcriptional programs and modulation of synaptic connections efficiency. It can be assumed that the reversible post-translational histone modifications serve as the basis of plastic changes in the neural network. On the other hand, DNA methylation and methylation-dependent 3D chromatin organization can serve a stable molecular basis for long-term maintenance of plastic changes and memory.
Intraoperative tibial plateau fracture during bone preparation in a cruciate retaining primary total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Taylor Shea K , Sephien Andrew , Clader Timothy
Published: September 2020

Intraoperative fractures are a rare complication in total knee arthroplasty. Limited literature exists in regard to the incidence, mechanism of injury and management of intraoperative fractures. The authors report a unique case of an 80-year-old man who sustained a medial tibial plateau fracture that occurred intraoperatively during final tibia bone preparation with the use of the Woolley Tibia Punch (Innomed, Savannah, Georgia, USA). The fracture was managed with the addition of 4.5 mm cortical lag screws and the addition of a stemmed tibial implant to bypass the fracture. This is the first reported case in literature that describes an intraoperative medial tibial plateau that occurred through the use of a Woolley Tibia Punch. The authors recommend the consideration of drilling to prepare sclerotic bone for cement penetration rather than a punch in order to minimise the potential for intraoperative fractures that may occur with the use of a punch.
Clinical case of the neoadjuvant treatment with nivolumab in a patient with microsatellite unstable (MSI-H) locally advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Chubenko Viacheslav , Inusilaev Gamzat , Imyanitov Evgeny , Moiseyenko Vladimir
Published: September 2020

Locally advanced gastric cancer (GC) is often managed by neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery; however, pathological complete responses to preoperative systemic treatment are rare. Some GCs are characterised by high-level microsatellite instability (MSI-H) and therefore are potentially sensitive to anti-PD1 (the programmed death 1) therapy. Neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade demonstrated promising results in a number of trials involving various categories of patients with cancer; therefore, we considered feasible to offer preoperative nivolumab to a patient with T3N1M0 MSI-H GC. The patient experienced a reduction of the tumour size and the analysis of surgical material revealed complete elimination of tumour cells. MSI-H status deserves to be considered in future trials on patients with GC.