bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sound vortex diffraction via topological charge in phase gradient metagratings
Authors: Fu Yangyang , Shen Chen , Zhu Xiaohui , Li Junfei , Liu Youwen , Cummer Steven A. , Xu Yadong
Published: October 2020

Artificial topological charge designed by azimuthal metagratings can be used to control sound vortex diffraction.
Was the moon magnetized by impact plasmas?
Authors: Oran Rona , Weiss Benjamin P. , Shprits Yuri , Miljković Katarina , Tóth Gábor
Published: October 2020

Magnetic fields induced by the solar wind and amplified by impacts cannot explain crustal magnetization on the Moon.
The Unconventional Cytoplasmic Sensing Mechanism for Ethanol Chemotaxis in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Tohidifar Payman , Bodhankar Girija A. , Pei Sichong , Cassidy C. Keith , Walukiewicz Hanna E. , Ordal George W. , Stansfeld Phillip J. , Rao Christopher V.
Published: October 2020

Ethanol is a chemoattractant for
Bacillus subtilis
even though it is not metabolized and inhibits growth.
B. subtilis
likely uses ethanol to find ethanol-fermenting microorganisms to utilize as prey. Two chemoreceptors sense ethanol: HemAT and McpB. HemAT’s myoglobin-like sensing domain directly binds ethanol, but the heme group is not involved. McpB is a transmembrane receptor consisting of an extracellular sensing domain and a cytoplasmic signaling domain. While most attractants bind the extracellular sensing domain, we found that ethanol directly binds between intermonomer helices of the cytoplasmic signaling domain of McpB, using a mechanism akin to those identified in many mammalian ethanol-binding proteins. Our results indicate that the sensory repertoire of chemoreceptors extends beyond the sensing domain and can directly involve the signaling domain.
Supplemental Material: Autogenic delta progradation during sea-level rise within incised valleys
Authors: Guerit Laure , al. et
Published: October 2020

Three supplemental figures, one table, and supplemental text.
Reproductive management of seasonal calving dairy herds
Authors: Lindley George , Willshire Jim
Published: October 2020

Background

Seasonal calving herds account for around a fifth of dairy farms in the UK (AHDB 2016). Their structure allows focused farm management and seasonal labour requirements, as well as the opportunity to maximise the conversion of grazed grass into milk. However, their economic success is underpinned by a requirement for optimal reproductive management, and for this reason a thorough understanding of how to approach fertility in these herds is essential for veterinary surgeons involved in their management.

Aim of the article

This article explains the concept of seasonal calving systems, the impacts of poor fertility, the key performance indicators used to monitor performance in clinical practice, and the key areas where improvements can be made.
Chaotic Saddles in a Generalized Lorenz Model of Magnetoconvection
Authors: Franco Francis F. , Rempel Erico L.
Published: October 2020

The nonlinear dynamics of a recently derived generalized Lorenz model [ Macek & Strumik, 2010 ] of magnetoconvection is studied. A bifurcation diagram is constructed as a function of the Rayleigh number where attractors and nonattracting chaotic sets coexist inside a periodic window. The nonattracting chaotic sets, also called chaotic saddles, are responsible for fractal basin boundaries with a fractal dimension near the dimension of the phase space, which causes the presence of very long chaotic transients. It is shown that the chaotic saddles can be used to infer properties of chaotic attractors outside the periodic window, such as their maximum Lyapunov exponent.
Revisiting Memristor Properties
Authors: Chen Ling , He Zhilong , Li Chuandong , Wen Shiping , Chen Yiran
Published: October 2020

Memristor is a natural synapse because of its nanoscale and memory property, which influences the performance of memristive artificial neural networks. A three-variable memristor model is simplified with 15 kinds of properties, including the learning experience, the forgetting curve, the spiking time-dependent plasticity (STDP), the spiking rate dependent plasticity (SRDP), and the integration property. Through the analysis of the model, one more unobserved property called pseudo-polarity reversibility property is predicted by assuming the long-term memory is independent of memductance.
ECG CLASSIFICATION COMPARISON BETWEEN MF-DFA AND MF-DXA
Authors: WANG JIAN , SHAO WEI , KIM JUNSEOK
Published: October 2020

In this paper, automatic electrocardiogram (ECG) recognition and classification algorithms based on multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MF-DFA) and multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis (MF-DXA) were studied. As human heart is a complex, nonlinear, chaotic system, using multifractal analysis to analyze chaotic systems is also a trend. We performed a comparison study of the multifractal nature of the healthy subjects and that of the cardiac dysfunctions ones. To analyze multifractal property quantitatively, the ranges of the Hurst exponent ([Formula: see text]) are computed by MF-DFA and MF-DXA. We found that for MF-DFA, the area of Hurst exponents for atrial premature beat (APB) people was narrower than normal sinus rhythm (NSR) subjects, and for MF-DXA, the difference of [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]) of NSR and APB subjects was larger than that of MF-DFA. We then regarded the Hurst exponents ([Formula: see text]) as the input vectors and took them into support vector machine (SVM) for classification. The results showed that [Formula: see text] obtained from MF-DXA led to a higher classification accuracy than that of MF-DFA. This is related to the widening of the difference in the values of Hurst exponents in MF-DFA and MF-DXA. The proposed MF-DFA-SVM and MF-DXA-SVM systems achieved classification accuracy of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], achieved classification sensitivity of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], achieved classification specificity of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. In general, the Hurst exponents obtained from MF-DXA played an important role in classifying ECG of the healthy and that of the cardiac dysfunctions subjects. Moreover, MF-DXA was more accurate than MF-DFA in the classification of ECG studied in this paper. The research in automatic medical diagnosis and early warning of major diseases has very important practical value.
FRACTAL LAKSHMANAN–PORSEZIAN–DANIEL MODEL WITH DIFFERENT FORMS OF NONLINEARITY AND ITS NOVEL SOLITON SOLUTIONS
Authors: KHAN Y.
Published: October 2020

The nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) can well identify the development of waves in deep water and optical fibers towards the least-order approximation. This study addresses the Lakshmanan–Porsezian–Daniel (LPD) fractal model which emerges from the application of the Heisenberg spin chain and fiber optics. This paper analyzes three types of nonlinear rules, namely Kerr law, quadratic law, and parabolic law. The variational approach to the combination of the Ritz idea is used to discover the new optical soliton solutions for the LPD-equation. It poses the requisite novel conditions for ensuring the existence of valid solitons. Three- and two-dimensional configurations are demonstrated by choosing the correct values for the parameters. This study focused on the pioneering research boundaries of the LPD-equation and other associated nonlinear evolution models in the field of communications network technology and optical fiber.
The Evolving Role of the Military in China’s COVID-19 Response
Authors: LI Nan
Published: October 2020

The fear of political vulnerability stemming from an over-reliance on the military for containing COVID-19 led the civilian leadership to deploy the level and type of military support that were deliberately measured and technically specialised; the timings of this support were also carefully planned. The concern about COVID-19 causing significant infections among PLA (People’s Liberation Army) ranks that may hamper PLA response to the perceived external security challenges also proved to be premature.
A Severe Case of Drug-Induced Liver Injury after Gemcitabine Administration: A Highly Probable Causality Grading as Assessed by the Updated RUCAM Diagnostic Scoring System
Authors: Mascherona Ilenia , Maggioli Caterina , Biggiogero Maira , Mora Oreste , Marelli Lucia
Published: October 2020

Gemcitabine is an antineoplastic drug used in several forms of advanced pancreatic, lung, breast, ovarian, and bladder cancer. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, gastrointestinal upset, rash, alopecia, and stomatitis. Transient serum enzyme elevations could be observed during therapy, but clinically significant acute liver injury has been rarely associated with its use. Few cases of acute liver injury have been reported in the literature. We reported the clinical case of a 73--year-old man who developed clinically significant acute hepatic injury after using gemcitabine. Possible causes, clinical presentation, and treatments are discussed. According to the updated RUCAM score, the case was rated 10 points and became a suspected drug-induced liver injury. Moreover, on the liver biopsy, there were histological findings of mild-to-moderate portal hepatitis, eosinophilia, bile duct injury, and mild perisinusoidal fibrosis, suggesting drug damage.
Catestatin as a New Prognostic Marker in Stable Patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction in Two-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Wołowiec Łukasz , Rogowicz Daniel , Banach Joanna , Gilewski Wojciech , Sinkiewicz Władysław , Grześk Grzegorz
Published: October 2020

Background and Purpose. The main goal of the study was to assess the usefulness of plasma concentrations of catestatin as a predictor of a composite endpoint (CE): unplanned hospitalization and death for all causes in patients with HFrEF in the midterm follow-up. Experimental Approach. The study group consisted of 52 Caucasian patients in NYHA classes II and III. The control group consisted of 24 healthy volunteers. The biomarkers, whose concentration was assessed before and after physical exertion as well as the variability of their concentration under the influence of the physical exertion, were NT-proBNP, troponin T, and catestatin. Key Results. During the 24-month follow-up period, 11 endpoints were recorded. The univariate analysis of the Cox proportional hazard model showed a statistically significant effect of all assessed CST concentrations on the occurrence of CE. In the 24-month follow-up, where the starting concentration of catestatin was compared with other recognized prognostic factors in HF, the initial concentration of catestatin showed statistical significance in CE prognosis as the only parameter tested. Conclusions. Plasma concentration of catestatin before and after physical exertion is a valuable prognostic parameter in predicting death from all causes and unplanned hospitalization in the group of patients with HFrEF in the 2-year follow-up.
Treatment of Multiple Myeloma Using Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells with Dual Specificity
Authors: Globerson Levin Anat , Rawet Slobodkin Moran , Waks Tova , Horn Galit , Ninio-Many Lihi , Deshet Unger Naamit , Ohayon Yaara , Suliman Shimrit , Cohen Yael , Tartakovsky Boris , Naparstek Ella , Avivi Irit , Eshhar Zelig
Published: October 2020

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has shown remarkable successes in fighting B-cell leukemias/lymphomas. Promising response rates are reported in patients treated with B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) CAR T cells for multiple myeloma. However, responses appear to be nondurable, highlighting the need to expand the repertoire of multiple myeloma–specific targets for immunotherapy and to generate new CAR T cells. Here, we developed a “dual-CAR” targeting two multiple myeloma–associated antigens and explored its safety and efficacy. To reduce the “off-target” toxicity, we used the recognition of paired antigens that were coexpressed by the tumor to induce efficient CAR T-cell activation. The dual-CAR construct presented here was carefully designed to target the multiple myeloma–associated antigens, taking into consideration the distribution of both antigens on normal human tissues. Our results showed that the CD138/CD38-targeted dual CAR (dCAR138-38) elicited a potent anti–multiple myeloma response both in vitro and in vivo. NSG mice transplanted with a multiple myeloma cell line and treated with dCAR138-38 showed median survival of 97 days compared with 31 days in the control group treated with mock-lymphocytes. The dCAR138-38 showed increased specificity toward cells expressing both targeted antigens compared with single-antigen–expressing cells and low activity toward primary cells from healthy tissues. Our findings indicated that the dCAR138-38 may provide a potent and safe alternative therapy for patients with multiple myeloma.
Paraneoplastic Stiff Person Syndrome in Early-Stage Breast Cancer with Positive Anti-Amphiphysin Antibodies
Authors: Vacaras Vitalie , Cucu Enia Eleonora , Radu Roxana , Muresanu Dafin Fior
Published: October 2020

Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurologic disorder, characterized by muscle rigidity and spasms. Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD) antibodies are associated with the classic form of SPS, while antibodies against amphiphysin are associated with the paraneoplastic form of the disease. We present the case of a patient with paraneoplastic SPS, presenting with muscle cramps of lower extremities that progressed to severe muscle rigidity and spasms, associated with a right breast tumor and positive anti-amphiphysin antibodies. Paraneoplastic SPS is a rare neurological disorder, challenging for the physicians both to diagnose and treat.
Differences in Uptake and Intracellular Fate between Bevacizumab and Aflibercept after Repetitive Long-Term Treatment in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium
Authors: Borchers Laura , Roider Johann , Klettner Alexa
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Anti-VEGF therapy is repeatedly given for an extended period of time to patients when treated for age-related macular degeneration. While short-term effects of anti-VEGF agents on retinal pigment epithelial cells have been investigated, the effects of long-term and repeated treatment on these cells are scarce. In this study, we have investigated the effects of anti-VEGF treatment (bevacizumab and aflibercept) after long-term, repeated treatment on uptake, storage, and subcellular localization. Methods: Experiments were conducted in primary porcine retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells in first passage and in ARPE-19 cell line. Cells were treated with 250 µg/mL bevacizumab, aflibercept, or, as a non-VEGF inhibiting antibody, rituximab once a week for 1 day, 7 days, 4, and 12 weeks. Cell survival was evaluated with methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. Uptake and localization of compounds were investigated with immunofluorescence microscopy. Selective intracellular proteins were stained with specific respective primary antibodies; actin cytoskeleton was stained with phalloidin. For quantitative analysis, intracellular signals were normalized to light intensity and exposure time. Intracellular association with lysosomes (Lamp2) and exosomes (CD63) was also quantified. In addition, subcellular fractions (nucleus, plasma, membrane, and cytoskeleton) were generated and analyzed in Western blot. Results: Weekly treatment up to 12 weeks displayed no toxic effects on RPE cells in any substance tested. Intracellular signal of bevacizumab and aflibercept was strongest after 1 day, decreased after 1 and 4 weeks but increased again after 12 weeks. The signal of intracellular bevacizumab was significantly stronger than of aflibercept. In addition, in primary RPE, aflibercept was significantly more associated with Lamp2, indicating degradation of aflibercept. At all time points, the respective therapeutics could be detected at the cytoskeleton. In primary RPE cells, co-localization with exosome marker CD63 showed a maximum after 1 day for bevacizumab and after 12 weeks for aflibercept. Actin-encapsulated therapeutics can be found at any time point tested. Conclusion: Both bevacizumab and aflibercept display a distinctive time-dependent uptake in the RPE cells and are stored in actin-covered accumulations for extended periods of time. When normalized and quantified, less aflibercept can be found in RPE cells, while more aflibercept is co-localized with Lamp2. Our data suggest that bevacizumab is differently processed by RPE cells than aflibercept.
The Pilgrimage Landscape in Contemporary Estonia: New Routes, Narratives, and Re-Christianization
Authors: Sepp Tiina , Remmel Atko
Published: October 2020

This article is the first attempt at mapping the pilgrimage landscape in contemporary Estonia, reputedly one of the most secularized countries in Europe. Based on fieldwork on three case studies — the Estonian Society of the Friends of the Camino de Santiago, the Pirita-Vastseliina pilgrim trail, and the “Mobile Congregation” — we have identified three distinctive features that shape the Estonian pilgrimage scene. The processes of Caminoization and heritagization characterize pilgrimage on a European scale, while the phenomenon that we call “bridging” has a more local flavor. Bridging refers to using pilgrimage to create connections between the Church (of any Christian denomination) and “secular” people. Historically a Christian practice, pilgrimage has transformed into something much more ambiguous. Thus, people often perceive pilgrimage as religion-related but still inherently secular. As the relationships between institutionalized religion and the vernacular world of beliefs and practices are multivalent, there is evidence of an ongoing “re-Christianization” of pilgrimage.
Weekend Couples as a Manifestation of Gender Equality?
Authors: Lee Yun-Suk
Published: October 2020

Some wives and husbands maintain separate residences. This form of couple is understood as a major transition in the gender arrangement of work and family. Using a sample of “weekend couples,” where Korean wives and husbands live separately, this study (1) compared weekend and typical couples in time spent on housework, and (2) examined whether time on housework is associated with life satisfaction in weekend and typical couples. I found that, while women in weekend couples spend much less time on household chores compared to women in typical couples, men in weekend couples assign more time to housework compared to their counterparts. Additionally, I found that, for women in both weekend and typical couples, more household tasks are related to lower levels of general satisfaction. The results suggest that maintaining separate residences may balance time use patterns between two partners, which could have important implications for the subjective well-being of weekend couples.
What Should We Require from an Account of Explanation in Historiography?
Authors: Virmajoki Veli
Published: October 2020

In this paper, I explicate desiderata for accounts of explanation in historiography. I argue that a fully developed account of explanation in historiography must explicate many explanation-related notions in order to be satisfactory. In particular, it is not enough that an account defines the basic structure of explanation. In addition, the account of explanation must be able to explicate notions such as minimal explanation, complete explanation, historiographical explanation, explanatory depth, explanatory competition, and explanatory goal. Moreover, the account should also tell how explananda can be chosen in a motivated way. Furthermore, the account should be able to clarify notions that are closely connected with explanation such as historical contingency. Finally, it is important that the account is able to recognize when explanation-related notions and issues are so closely intertwined that we are in danger of not seeing the differences between them. In other words, I argue that a satisfactory account of explanation in historiography must have the power to explicate central explanation-related notions and to clarify discussions where the differences between the notions are obscure. In order to explicate these desiderata, I formulate a (version of the) counterfactual account of explanation and show how that account is able to explicate explanation-related notions and clarify issues that are connected with historiographical explanations. The success of the counterfactual account suggests that historiographical explanations do not differ fundamentally from explanations in many other fields.
Finding Fossil Footprints in the Archival Record: Case Studies from the Archaeological Site of Melka Kunture (Upper Awash, Ethiopia)
Authors: Altamura Flavio
Published: October 2020

In this paper I discuss the potential of archival research (i.e. the reassessment of pictures and drawings) for the identification of hitherto overlooked fossil footprints. All of the most important sites of the Pleistocene sequence of Melka Kunture (Upper Awash Valley, Ethiopia) showed evidence of biogenic structures that had escaped attention during the archaeological investigations which started in the 1960s. The case studies described here show that fossil footprints at Melka Kunture occur more frequently than expected. This could encourage archaeologists to be more aware of the possible presence of bioturbated layers in other archaeological contexts and plan specific research accordingly, using Melka Kunture as a reference.
The Catholic Church and the covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Widyawati Fransiska , Lon Yohanes S.
Published: October 2020

This paper explores the connection between the activity of Catholic Church and the covid-19 pandemic through the case of a bishop ordination held in Ruteng, Indonesia. The ordination Mass took place on March 19, 2020, against the background rising numbers of covid-19 cases globally and in Indonesia. The Mass, which was attended by four thousand participants, led to criticisms of the Catholic Church in Ruteng. The Church was accused of jeopardizing the health of the community and failing to adhere to government advisories. It was labeled as selfish and stubborn. This paper discusses the urgency of both the covid-19 situation in Indonesia and of the bishop ordination in Ruteng. Ordination of a new bishop symbolizes a climax in the journey of the Catholic Church in Ruteng. It is a resolution of past conflicts and controversies in the history of the Church in the region. The Church needed ordination as a way of gaining power and legitimacy.
Fridericia resinosa: a new species of Bignoniaceae from Brazil

Authors: KAEHLER MIRIAM
Published: October 2020

Fridericia resinosa is a new species from ecotones bordering the Brazilian savannas and Amazon and savannas-Caatinga. The conspicuous petioles and petiolules length, vernicose adaxial surface of the leaflets, and the dark purple to bordeaux corolla, can be used to distinguish this liana species from morphologically close species. A complete description, diagnosis, a line drawing, distribution map, and notes on phenology, conservation status, and comparison to the morphologically related species are provided.
A new species of Trachylepis (Squamata: Scincidae) from the Amhara Region, Ethiopia, and a key to the Ethiopian Trachylepis
Authors: KOPPETSCH THORE
Published: October 2020

Ethiopia is known for its highly endemic and rich herpetofaunal diversity shaped by its biogeographical patterns. Here, a new species of skink, Trachylepis boehmei sp. nov., is described from the Ethiopian Highlands. It differs from its congeners in having smooth uncarinated dorsal scales, 26–29 scale rows around midbody, a slender body of small size, a relatively short tail, a low eye–snout distance and a unique colour pattern with 6–8 darkish brown dorsal stripes. Based on morphological characteristics, its biogeographical pattern and comparisons with other similar congeners this new species is closely related to Trachylepis megalura. A published new record of Trachylepis wingati for the Kafa region is re-examined and identified as T. megalura. An updated comprehensive key to the Trachylepis found in Ethiopia is provided. In the context of ongoing phylogenetic and taxonomic revisions of Trachylepis and its species complexes the presence of further cryptic taxa can be expected also for the Ethiopian biodiversity hotspots. Consequently, the need of further herpetological investigations in this region of ecological importance is stressed.
Redescription of Nogueirapis Moure, 1953 with two new species from the Amazon forest (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini)
Authors: NOGUEIRA DAVID SILVA , FEITOSA RIBEIRO CRISTIANO , DE OLIVEIRA MARCIO LUIZ
Published: October 2020

The bee genus Nogueirapis Moure is redescribed with the addition of new characters deriving from two new species from the Amazon rainforest. Nogueirapis batistai sp. nov. and N. rosariae sp. nov. are described and included in an identification key that covers all species of the genus. Occurrence records are updated for all species.
Broadening Impact of Field Campaigns: Integrating Meteorological and Chemical Observations
Authors: Mullendore Gretchen L. , Barth Mary C. , Klein Petra M. , Crawford James H.
Published: October 2020

Historically, atmospheric field campaigns typically focused on either meteorology or chemistry with very limited complementary observations from the other discipline. In contrast, a growing number of researchers are working across subdisciplines to include meteorological and chemical measurements when planning field campaigns to increase the value of the collected datasets for subsequent analyses. Including select trace gas measurements should be intrinsic to certain dynamics campaigns, as they can add insights into dynamical processes. This paper highlights the mutual benefits of joint dynamics–chemistry campaigns by reporting on a small sample of examples across a broad range of meteorological scales to demonstrate the value of this strategy, with focus on the Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry (DC3) campaign as a recent example. General recommendations are presented as well as specific recommendations of chemical species appropriate for a range of meteorological temporal and spatial scales.
Perceptions of Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis About Their Career and Illness: The Case of Turkey
Authors: Ulas-Kilic Ozlem , Aktas Emine Feyza
Published: October 2020

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common neurological disorders that is difficult to predict and prevent in the world. In parallel to the physiological effects of MS, the unpredictable changes involved in the illness influence the process of planning for the future. From this point of view, this study is intended to examine the career trajectory of people with MS. To better understand how MS-related changes impact the career trajectories of people with MS, interviews were completed with 10 individuals with MS living and working in Turkey with a focus on the career development process. The results indicate that people with MS experience physical, mental, and psychological symptoms and career barriers; however, they adjust to these symptoms with some strengths and coping strategies. The most common career path in this study is continuing, which means participants tried to deal with their illnesses, and stated their wish to be promoted in their fields by meeting the requirements. Finally, participants also reported receiving support from different resources such as family, supervisors, and colleagues and having altruistic values.
Altered Basal Autophagy Affects Extracellular Vesicle Release in Cells of Lagotto Romagnolo Dogs With a Variant ATG4D
Authors: Syrjä Pernilla , Palviainen Mari , Jokinen Tarja , Kyöstilä Kaisa , Lohi Hannes , Roosje Petra , Anderegg Linda , Leeb Tosso , Sukura Antti , Eskelinen Eeva-Liisa
Published: October 2020

Lagotto Romagnolo breed dogs develop a progressive neurological disease with intracellular vacuolar storage when homozygous for a variant in the autophagy-related gene 4D ( ATG4D). A lysosomal enzyme deficiency has not been proven in this disease, despite its overlapping morphology with lysosomal storage diseases. Instead, basal autophagy was altered in fibroblasts from affected dogs. The aim of this study was to clarify the origin of the limiting membrane of the accumulating vacuoles and determine whether altered basal autophagy affects the extracellular release of vesicles in cells from diseased dogs. When assessed by immunoelectron microscopy, the membrane of the cytoplasmic vacuoles in affected tissues contained ATG4D, markers for autolysosomes (microtubule-associated protein 1A/B light chain 3 and lysosome-associated membrane protein 2) and for recycling endosomes (transferrin receptor 2), indicating that the vacuoles are hybrid organelles between endocytic and autophagic pathways. Ultracentrifugation, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and mass spectrometry were used to analyze the vesicles released from cultured fibroblasts of affected and control dogs. The amount of extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from affected fibroblasts was significantly increased during basal conditions in comparison to controls. This difference disappeared during starvation. The basal EV proteome of affected cells was enriched with cytosolic, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondrial proteins. Heat shock proteins and chaperones, some of which are known substrates of basal autophagy, were identified among the proteins unique to EVs of affected cells. An increased release of extracellular vesicles may serve as a compensatory mechanism in disposal of intracellular proteins during dysfunctional basal autophagy in this spontaneous disease.
Autoimmune thyroid diseases, autoimmune hepatitis, celiac disease and type 1 diabetes mellitus in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus: Results from the CARRA Legacy Registry
Authors: AlAhmed Ohoud , Sivaraman Vidya , Moore-Clingenpeel Melissa , Ardoin Stacy P , Bout-Tabaku Sharon ,   for the CARRA registry investigators
Published: October 2020

Objective

Polyautoimmunity (PA) with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is reported as a poor prognostic factor, but little is known about its effect in childhood-onset SLE (cSLE). We describe PA in cSLE within the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Legacy Registry and evaluate its association to lupus disease outcomes.

Methods

CARRA Legacy Registry is the largest pediatric rheumatology registry that collected data at enrollment and every 6 months thereafter. We describe the co-occurrence of selected autoimmune disorders (autoimmune thyroid diseases, autoimmune hepatitis, celiac disease and type 1 diabetes mellitus) in cSLE. To assess outcomes, we studied measures of lupus disease activity, complications, and patient’s quality of life (QoL). Comparisons by PA status were made using chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, two-sample t-tests, Wilcoxon rank sum tests, and mixed effects models as appropriate.

Results

1285 patients met the American College of Rheumatology criteria for SLE. Of those, 388 (30%) had data on comorbidity. The prevalence of PA was 8.8%. Patients with PA reported more hospitalizations and aggressive immunotherapy use. SLEDAI and PGA scores improved over time, but did not differ by PA status. No significant differences were found in QoL measures or their trajectory over time by PA status.

Conclusion

In cSLE, PA is associated with more hospitalizations and aggressive immunotherapy use. Although lupus disease activity improved over time, patients' QoL neither improved over time nor differed by having other autoimmune disease. Prospective, case-control, long-term follow-up studies on cSLE are needed to validate our results.

MeSH Key Indexing Terms

Pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus; Autoimmune diseases; Outcome assessment
Self-Care Behavior and Associated Factors among Heart Failure Patients in Tigray, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hailu Gebru Tsegu , Kidanu Berhe Kalayou , Tilahun Tsehaye Weyzer , Hagos Mekonen Haftea , Gemechu Kiros Kbrom , Gebreslassie Gebrehiwot Tesfay , Teklebrhan Gebrehiwot Gessessew , Hailesilassie Teka Yared , Maeruf Mohammed Hayat
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of self-care behavior and associated factors among heart failure patients. This institutional-based cross-sectional study design was done in Tigray region, Ethiopia. The data collection process was made between February and April 2018. An interviewer assisted structured questionnaire and medical chart review was used to collect the data. Data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 22. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were conducted to identify the predictors ( p < .05). In this study, a total of 408 study subjects was included. The mean age of the participants was 45.4 (±19). The overall prevalence of good self-care behavior was 45.8% (95% CI: 40.9–50.5). Regression analysis revealed that age, educational level, co-morbidity, knowledge about heart failure, and social support were significantly associated with self-care behavior. Healthcare providers should strengthen patient education to improve self-care behavior.
Sustained Virologic Response of Patients Hospitalized Compared With Those Not Hospitalized During Treatment for Hepatitis C Virus With Direct-Acting Antivirals
Authors: Gentene Anthony J. , Bell Allison M. , Pence Alicia , Thomas Kelly , Jakubecz Collin , Stacy Elizabeth , Woolf Brittany , Guido Maria Rose , Mueller Eric W. , Sherman Kenneth E.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) have resulted in great success through high attainment of sustained virologic response (SVR). Risk factors for DAA treatment failure are important to identify because of worsened outcomes with failure and high treatment cost.

Objective:

We sought to identify whether hospitalization during treatment affects SVR. The primary outcome was the difference in SVR at 12 weeks after treatment

Methods:

This multicenter, single health system retrospective cohort review compared achievement of SVR between patients hospitalized during DAA treatment for HCV with those not hospitalized during treatment.

Results:

Patients in the hospitalized cohort (n = 94) had more severe disease at baseline than nonhospitalized patients (n = 167) as indicated through higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores, Fibrosis-4 scores, and imaging-suggested or biopsy-confirmed cirrhosis. Patients hospitalized during treatment had lower SVR rates compared with those not hospitalized (87.2% vs 95.2%; P = 0.043) but failed to reach significance when inpatient mortality was excluded on secondary analysis (91.1% vs 95.2%; P = 0.195). Patients who were hospitalized and did not achieve SVR had higher MELD scores, were more likely to have intensive care unit stay, and had longer hospital stay compared with those who achieved SVR. Of 94 patients, 93 provided home supply of DAAs during hospitalization.

Conclusion and Relevance:

Patients hospitalized during DAA treatment for HCV had reduced rates of SVR. This reduced SVR rate may be driven by inpatient mortality and severity of liver disease. Patient education to bring home supply of medication for use during admission is an effective intervention.
Water Quality Assessment of the Nile Delta Lagoons
Authors: Morsy Karim M , Mishra Amrit K , Galal Mona M
Published: October 2020

Nile Delta Lagoons have been formed 7000 years before the present. The lagoons were aqua-cultural and ecological keystones for the early Egyptian agricultural civilization. The water quality of Nile Delta Lagoons has been deteriorated with the economic development, population rapid increase, and the related industrialization, which exert high pressure on the surrounding environment. The 4 lagoons (1) Maryut, (2) Edku, (3) Burullus, and (4) Manzala are large is surface area, shallow in depth and located on the Nile Delta that receive great amounts of agricultural drainage, sewage, and industrial effluents before discharging into the Mediterranean Sea. The aim of this study is to monitor and assess the water and sediment quality of the lagoons. In light of this assessment, it was found that excessive nutrients are discharged into these lagoons causing severe eutrophication. In addition, relatively low values of dissolved oxygen were recorded causing fish mortality in the lagoons which amplifies in summer as the temperature increases. The article also examined the physical and biological parameters in addition to the chemical concentration of trace metals (Zn, Fe, Pb, Mn, Cr, and Cd) in the water and sediment samples that were collected from the 4 lagoons. High values of biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total coliform, fecal coliform, fecal streptococci, ammonia (NH3), total nitrogen, and total phosphorus were recorded. In addition, high concentrations of trace metals were found in the water and sediments of the 4 lagoons.
Thermal comfort analysis of radiant cooling panels with dedicated fresh-air system
Authors: Qin S. Y. , Cui X. , Yang C. , Jin L. W.
Published: October 2020

Radiant system has been increasingly applied in buildings due to its good thermal comfort and energy-saving potential. In this research, a simplified predicted mean vote (PMV) model and sensible cooling load equation were proposed based on human thermal comfort. Simulations were carried out using Airpak to explore relationships among thermal comfort characteristics, design and operation parameters. Results show that radiant surface temperature, fresh-air supply temperature and the area ratio are correlated approximately linearly with the indoor air temperature, while the relative humidity has little effect on the indoor air temperature. The indoor air velocity in the simulated environment was no more than 0.15 m/s, satisfying the requirements of limit values in the occupied zone. The results indicate that the optimum radiant surface temperature ( tc) is 19°C to 23°C when fresh-air supply temperature ( ts) is 26°C. The relative humidity ( φ) should be maintained at 50% to 70%, and the area ratio of radiant panels to total surfaces ( k1) should be kept within 0.15 to 0.38 when the radiant surface temperature is 20°C and the fresh-air supply temperature is 26°C. The simplified PMV model and the sensible load equation can provide reference for panel design based on characteristics of radiant cooling panels with a dedicated fresh-air system.
The emotive politics of digital mood tracking
Authors: Stark Luke
Published: October 2020

Through a values in design (VID) analysis, this article assesses two mood-tracking apps (Moodscope and MoodPanda) to argue the particular interface design choices of these applications serve to influence their users’ sense of sociality and self-fashioning. The design features of these artifacts signal a broader shift in the sociotechnical definitions and discourses of the feeling of an individual, enabling an emergent emotive politics at work across contemporary digital media technologies.
Three-Year Outcomes From the LIBERTY 360 Study of Endovascular Interventions for Peripheral Artery Disease Stratified by Rutherford Category
Authors: Giannopoulos Stefanos , Mustapha Jihad , Gray William A. , Ansel Gary , Adams George , Secemsky Eric A. , Armstrong Ehrin J.
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

To report the 3-year results of the LIBERTY 360 study, which investigated outcomes of endovascular treatment of symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Materials and Methods:

The LIBERTY trial ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01855412) was a prospective, observational, core laboratory–assessed, multicenter study of endovascular interventions enrolling >1200 participants treated at 51 sites. Data from 1189 patients were stratified according to Rutherford category (RC) and analyzed [RC 2-3 (n=500), RC 4-5 (n=589), and RC 6 (n=100)]. The primary outcomes were major amputation of the target limb and all-cause death; secondary outcomes were target vessel revascularization (TVR) or target lesion revascularization (TLR); major adverse events (MAEs; death within 30 days, TVR or TLR, and major amputation); death or major amputation combined; and change in self-reported quality of life (QoL) measures (VascuQol-25). The Kaplan-Meier (KM) method was employed to estimate the outcomes; estimates are presented with the 95% confidence intervals (CI). Predictors of 3-year MAE, death, TVR, and major amputation were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard regression modeling.

Results:

The 36-month KM survival rates were 86.0% in RC 2-3, 79.8% in RC 4-5, and 62.0% in RC 6 groups. The KM estimates of freedom from major amputation at 36 months were 98.5% in RC 2-3, 94.0% in RC 4-5, and 79.9% in RC 6. The 36-month KM estimates for freedom from TVR/TLR were 71.1% in RC 2-3, 64.2% in RC 4-5 and 61.9% in RC 6 groups. Patients with claudication at baseline were at lower risk for MAEs compared with RC 4-5 and RC 6 patients during the 36-month follow-up. Vascular QoL improved from baseline and persisted up to 36 months in all patients.

Conclusion:

Endovascular therapy is a viable treatment option for patients with symptomatic PAD, with sustained improved quality of life in both claudicants and patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia. These results provide important point estimates for midterm outcomes after modern endovascular interventions for PAD.
A survey of the feasibility of developing osteoporosis clinical trials in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Survey of the opinion of young people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, families and clinicians
Authors: Choong Wong Sze , Joseph Shuko , Capaldi Nadia , Marco Marina Di , Dunne Jennifer , Guglieri Michela , Horrocks Iain , Straub Volker , Faisal Ahmed S ,   the UK NorthStar Clinical Network
Published: October 2020

Background/aims

Given the extent of osteoporosis in people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy treated with glucocorticoids and the limited evidence of bone-protective therapies, clinical trials are needed. We conducted surveys to obtain the opinion of young people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, parents/guardians and neuromuscular clinicians on the feasibility of osteoporosis clinical trials in this population.

Methods

Online surveys were sent to three groups: (a) people with a confirmed diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (≥14 years), (b) parents and guardians and (c) neuromuscular clinicians in the UK NorthStar Clinical Network. Surveys (a) and (b) were distributed via the UK Duchenne muscular dystrophy Registry.

Results

Survey respondents included 52 people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy with a median age of 17 years (range: 14, 40) and 183 parents/guardians. Fourteen out of 23 (61%) NorthStar centres responded. Of the 52 people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, 13 (25%) were very concerned about their bone health and 21 (40%) were slightly concerned. Of the 183 parents/guardians, 75 (41%) were very concerned about their son’s bone health and 90 (49%) were slightly concerned. Fractures and quality of life were the top two main outcome measures identified by people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Fractures and bone density were the top two main outcome measures identified by parents/guardians and neuromuscular clinicians. Thirty percent of people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and 40% of parents/guardians would not take part if an osteoporosis trial involved a placebo that was administered parenterally. Only 2 of the 14 NorthStar centres (14%) would enrol people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy if a parenteral placebo was used in an osteoporosis trial in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Conclusion

There is great awareness of bone health and the need for bone-protective trials among people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and their carers. However, a proportion of people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and parents are reluctant to participate in a placebo-controlled osteoporosis trial that included a parenteral therapy. A larger proportion of health care experts are unwilling to enrol their patients in such a trial. Our finding is relevant for the design of bone-protective studies in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Detection of Angiographically Occult Ruptured Basilar Sidewall Perforator Aneurysm by Vessel Wall MR Imaging
Authors: Cox Mougnyan , Song Jae W. , Nabavizadeh Seyed Ali , Kung David , Loevner Laurie , Choudhri Omar
Published: October 2020

Basilar artery perforator aneurysms are rare with a prevalence of less than 1%. These are particularly challenging to detect given their small size and tendency to intermittently thrombose. We describe a case of a ruptured basilar artery sidewall perforator aneurysm that was angiographically occult on computed tomographic angiogram and cerebral catheter angiogram. One day after the initial diagnostic work-up, intracranial vessel wall MR imaging (VWI) was performed which revealed a small outpouching along the right posterolateral basilar arterial wall with a punctate enhancing focus suggestive of a thrombosed basilar perforator artery aneurysm. Thrombus within the small aneurysm sac likely contributed to the poor opacification of the aneurysm sac on conventional lumen-based imaging techniques. Ruptured aneurysms have high morbidity and mortality due to their tendency to rebleed, making their expedient detection and treatment imperative. This case highlights the role VWI can play in detecting small ruptured aneurysms that intermittently thrombose and are otherwise challenging to diagnose with conventional vessel imaging.
Is More Always Better? Examining the Nonlinear Association of Social Contact Frequency With Physical Health and Longevity
Authors: Stavrova Olga , Ren Dongning
Published: October 2020

Frequent social contact has been associated with better health and longer life. It remains unclear though whether there is an optimal contact frequency, beyond which contact is no longer positively associated with health and longevity. The present research explored this question by examining nonlinear associations of social contact frequency with health and longevity. Study 1 ( N ∼ 350,000) demonstrated that once the frequency of social contact reached a moderate level (monthly or weekly), its positive association with health flattened out. Study 2 ( N ∼ 50,000) extended these findings to longitudinal and mortality data: Although low contact frequency was associated with poor health and low survival rates, increasing the frequency of social interactions beyond a moderate level (monthly or weekly) was no longer associated with better health and longevity and, in some cases, was even related to worse health and increased mortality risks.
Thyroid hormones and modulation of diastolic function: a promising target for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Neves João Sérgio , Vale Catarina , von Hafe Madalena , Borges-Canha Marta , Leite Ana Rita , Almeida-Coelho João , Lourenço André , Falcão-Pires Inês , Carvalho Davide , Leite-Moreira Adelino
Published: October 2020

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a clinical syndrome with high mortality for which there is no proven therapy to improve its prognosis. Thyroid dysfunction is common in heart failure (HF) and is associated with worse prognosis. In this review, we discuss the cardiovascular effects of thyroid hormones, the pathophysiology of HFpEF, the prognostic impact of thyroid function, and the potential of thyroid hormones for treatment of HFpEF. Thyroid hormones have a central role in cardiovascular homeostasis, improving cardiac function through genomic and non-genomic mechanisms. Both overt and subclinical hypothyroidism are associated with increased risk of HF. Even when plasmatic thyroid hormones levels are normal, patients with HF may have local cardiac hypothyroidism due to upregulation of type 3 iodothyronine deiodinase. Thyroid hormones improve several pathophysiological mechanisms of HFpEF, including diastolic dysfunction and extra-cardiac abnormalities. Supplementation with thyroid hormones (levothyroxine and/or liothyronine), modulation of deiodinase activity, and heart-specific thyroid receptor agonists are potential therapeutic approaches for the treatment of HFpEF. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to clarify the role of thyroid hormones in the treatment of HFpEF.