bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of oxidation resistance of MgO‐C bricks in oxy‐combustion and air‐combustion
Authors: Zanotelli Vitor H. , Ribas Lucas L. , Bragança Saulo R.
Published: April 2021

There are important advantages in oxy‐fuel technology over conventional combustion, such as the reduction in fuel consumption and gaseous emissions. However, before its use in the steel industry, it is essential to know that the alteration of the firing system can lead to an increase in the wear of the oxide‐carbon refractories. In the present work, four types of MgO‐C bricks were fired under oxy‐fuel and air‐fuel conditions in a semi‐industrial furnace, simulating the heating of a steelmaking ladle. The fired bricks were evaluated in terms of weight loss, thickness of the decarburized layer, and phases and microstructure formed in this layer. The results indicated few differences in the properties of the bricks fired in the two systems. The brick with 12% carbon and Al antioxidant showed the highest oxidation resistance among all bricks investigated. The most important factor for the use of the oxy‐fuel system was the correct selection of the refractory microstructural properties, including the utilization of antioxidant additives.
A Legacy of Harm? Climate Change and the Carbon Cost of Procreation
Authors: Burkett Daniel
Published: April 2021

There is growing acknowledgement of a moral obligation to curb our personal carbon emissions. However, while much has been said regarding certain kinds of carbon‐intensive behaviours, the philosophical literature has – until only very recently – been largely silent regarding one of the worst things that a person can choose to do from a climate perspective: namely, have a child. I contend that procreation is an inessential high‐emission activity – one that results in inordinately greater emissions than other activities like joyguzzling or flying. Given this, I argue that if we believe that individuals bear moral responsibility for their personal carbon emissions, then we have strong moral reasons to refrain from choosing to procreate, reasons which – for many – amount to a moral obligation to refrain from choosing to have children. I also consider whether our climate duties might also be discharged by offsetting the climate burden of any children we do choose to have and providing a concrete quantification of what that offsetting might look like.
Sirtuin 1 alleviates neuroinflammation‐induced apoptosis after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Wei Guan , Wang Jiawei , Wu Yanbin , Zheng Xiaoxin , Zeng Yile , Li Yasong , Chen Xiangrong
Published: April 2021

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) plays a very important role in a wide range of biological responses, such as metabolism, inflammation and cell apoptosis. Changes in the levels of SIRT1 have been detected in the brain after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Further, SIRT1 has shown a neuroprotective effect in some models of neuronal death; however, its role and working mechanisms are not well understood in the model of TBI. This study aimed to address this issue. SIRT1‐specific inhibitor (sirtinol) and activator (A3) were introduced to explore the role of SIRT1 in cell apoptosis. Results of the study suggest that SIRT1 plays an important role in neuronal apoptosis after TBI by inhibiting NF‐κB, IL‐6 and TNF‐α deacetylation and the apoptotic pathway sequentially, possibly by alleviating neuroinflammation.
Understanding why the COVID‐19 pandemic‐related lockdown increases mental health difficulties in vulnerable young children
Authors: Adegboye Dolapo , Williams Ffion , Collishaw Stephan , Shelton Katherine , Langley Kate , Hobson Christopher , Burley Daniel , van Goozen Stephanie
Published: April 2021

Background

The mental health consequences of school closure, social isolation, increased financial and emotional stress, and greater exposure to family conflicts are likely to be pronounced for primary school children who are known to be vulnerable. Data from prior to the pandemic are needed to provide robust assessments of the impact of COVID‐19 on vulnerable children.

Method

The present study capitalises on an ongoing study of primary school children (4–8 years) identified as ‘at‐risk’ for mental health problems by teachers. We collected mental health and socio‐economic data prior to the pandemic and re‐assessed this cohort (n = 142) via researcher‐led video calls during the pandemic to evaluate the social and emotional impacts of COVID‐19 for these families.

Results

Mental health problems, particularly anxiety, increased significantly in these children. Parental mental health difficulties (anxiety and depression) were also prevalent. There were higher reports of financial stress during lockdown amongst low‐income families previously identified as living in poverty, prior to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Financial strain was found to indirectly predict increases in child mental health problems through parental mental health.

Conclusion

These findings show that the pandemic exacerbated mental health problems in already vulnerable children. These negative outcomes were explained by financial stress (e.g., lost employment, loss of income and inability to pay bills), which was negatively linked to parental mental health.
Increasing intensities of Anisakissimplex (Rudolphi, 1809 det. Krabbe, 1878) larvae with weight and sea age in returning adult Atlantic salmon, Salmosalar L., of coastal waters of Norway
Authors: Mo Tor Atle , Fossøy Frode , Poppe Trygve T.
Published: April 2021

Ninety wild Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., (1.5–10.3 kg) were caught in the Namsen Fjord near the mouth of River Namsen, mid‐Norway, and examined for the presence and distribution of Anisakis simplex (Rudolphi, 1809 det. Krabbe, 1878) larvae by digestion of the viscera and muscles in a pepsin/HCl solution. All salmon were migrating spawners after 1–4 years of feeding in the Atlantic Ocean. All 90 Atlantic salmon had A. simplex larvae in the viscera, and all, except two, had A. simplex larvae in the musculature. The number of A. simplex larvae in each fish varied between 3 and 181, and the total mean number of nematode larvae was 44.5. The intensity of A. simplex larvae was positively correlated with increasing weight and sea age of the host. However, the proportion of larvae in the muscle fillets decreased with increasing host weight and sea age. Atlantic salmon females had more A. simplex larvae than males. In all the fish examined, 70.2% of the A. simplex larvae were found in the viscera and 29.8% in the musculature. The majority (93%) of the larvae in the musculature occurred in the hypaxial sections anterior to the anus. As A. simplex larvae commonly occur in the musculature of wild Atlantic salmon, consumption of unfrozen, raw or semi‐raw musculature represents a risk for humans developing anisakiasis.
Parenteral nutrition in emergency surgery: A multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ashmore Daniel , Lee Matthew ,   The Nutrition in Emergency Surgery (NEmS) collaborative
Published: April 2021

Background

Emergency general surgical patients are inherently at high risk of malnutrition. Early decision‐making with implementation is fundamental to patient recovery. For many patients, parenteral nutrition (PN) is the only feeding option available. The present study assessed the timing and outcomes of this decision‐making process.

Methods

A sample of at least 10 consecutive adult patients admitted as a general surgical emergency to eight UK hospitals over 1 year who had received PN was identified. Patient demographics, basic descriptors and nutritional data were captured. Process measures regarding dates decisions were made or activities completed were extracted from records, as were outcome measures including PN complications. Six time frames examining the process of PN delivery were analysed. Associations between categorical and binary variables were investigated with a chi‐squared test with significance determined as p < 0.05.

Results

In total, 125 patients were included. Intestinal obstruction was the most common diagnosis with 59% of all patients deemed high risk on nutritional assessment at admission. Median time to decision for PN was 5 days following admission (n = 122, interquartile range = 7). Patients received PN for a mean of 11 days. Eighty‐five percent of patients developed a complication, with a phosphate abnormality being the most commonly reported (54%). Only altered blood glucose levels appeared to correlate with a delay in starting PN (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The present study shows there are delays in the decision to use PN in the acutely ill surgical patient. Once initiated, the pathway is relatively short. There are high rates of electrolyte abnormalities in this population.
Reconstructing the metamorphic evolution of the Araçuaí orogen (SE Brazil) using in situ U–Pb garnet dating and P–T modelling
Authors: Schannor Mathias , Lana Cristiano , Nicoli Gautier , Cutts Kathryn , Buick Ian , Gerdes Axel , Hecht Lutz
Published: April 2021

The Araçuaí orogen of SE Brazil consists of a suite of deformed, metamorphosed, and partly migmatitic sedimentary rocks and granitoid batholiths that predominantly formed during collision of the São Francisco and Congo cratons during West Gondwana assembly in the late Neoproterozoic. While widespread anatexis and a prolonged magmatic record are well‐established, insufficient information exists about the extensive exposure of metamorphic rocks along the Araçuaí orogen. Combining information from a wide range of these metamorphic rocks is essential to reconstruct mountain‐building processes and heat sources that operate in convergent tectonic settings. New petrographic observations, mineral chemistry, and phase equilibria modelling were used to constrain peak metamorphic conditions of amphibolite facies metasedimentary rocks from the central domain of the orogen at 580–620°C and 7–9 kbar. We applied in situ low‐U (<1 µg/g) garnet U–Pb geochronology, which yielded ages in the range of 590–565 Ma, interpreted as the timing of bulk garnet growth during prograde metamorphism, and consistent with previously established monazite ages for the peak metamorphic event. Metamorphic zircon ages of c. 630 Ma are related to a cryptic terrane accretion event prior to the orogeny, whereas garnet U–Pb ages record the main orogenic event as revealed by disequilibrium rare earth element partitioning between the two minerals. A compilation of our results with previously reported metamorphic conditions defines a clockwise P–T evolution for the Araçuaí orogeny, characterized by slow burial to depths of 26–30 km, followed by nearly isothermal decompression from ~10 to 6 kbar. Substantial differences of peak temperatures in various domains of the orogen are consistent with the presence of different protoliths in the crustal sections. The higher concentration of heat‐producing elements (HPEs) in lithologies from the anatectic domains may have triggered partial melting of metasedimentary rocks. This suggests that HPEs were a significant heat source for crustal reworking during West Gondwana convergent tectonics.
Does non‐invasive blood pressure measurement increase the complications and decrease indwelling time of peripheral intravenous catheters: A cohort study
Authors: Tan Qiling , Zhao Shangping , Li Xiaoqin , Gu Bo , Ni Zhao
Published: April 2021

Aims and objectives

To explore the efficacy of non‐invasive blood pressure monitors on reducing clinical complications of peripheral intravenous catheters in renal transplant recipients.

Background

A peripheral intravenous catheter is a regular route of medication administration, but the incidence of complications such as infiltration, occlusion and phlebitis perpetuates in the clinical setting.

Design

This was a cohort study.

Methods

Patients were placed naturally into observation group or control group according to whether or not the two procedures (non‐invasive blood pressure monitoring and peripheral intravenous catheters indwelling) were on the same arm. Univariate test and Cox regression model were used to estimate relative risk factors. The STROBE checklist was used to guide the submission.

Results

We identified 177 kidney recipient patients during the perioperative period with 440 peripheral intravenous catheters. There were incidences of 112 (25.5%) phlebitis, 137 (31.1%) occlusion and 150 (31.8%) infiltration. There was no significant difference between incidence of phlebitis, occlusion and infiltration between the observation group and the control group (p > .05). The observation group peripheral intravenous catheters indwelling time was 97.03 ± 6.76 hr, while it was 89.22 ± 9.55 hr for the control group. However, this difference was not significant between the two groups (p > .05). Cox risk regression showed that only a high BMI was a risk factor for peripheral intravenous catheters indwelling time.

Conclusion

Non‐invasive blood pressure monitoring did not increase complications or shorten PIVCs indwelling time among renal transplant recipients. BMI represented an independent risk factor for the peripheral intravenous catheters indwelling time.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is not a prohibition to take non‐invasive blood pressure measurement when having a peripheral intravenous catheter, especially in some special circumstances in the clinical practice or when good prevention procedures are implemented.
Does Adolescent Digital Technology Use Detract from the Parent–Adolescent Relationship?
Authors: Jensen Michaeline , George Madeleine J. , Russell Michael A. , Lippold Melissa A. , Odgers Candice L.
Published: April 2021

A population‐representative sample of young adolescents (N = 2,104, mean age 12.4) reported on digital technology use and relationships in 2015. A subsample (N = 388) completed a 14‐day ecological momentary assessment in 2016–2017 via mobile phone. Across the 2,104 adolescents, those who reported more social networking site engagement were more likely to live in families characterized by more family chaos and to report that their online experiences resulted in problems with their parents. However, when the subsample of adolescents was followed daily, there was little consistent evidence that adolescents’ quantity of daily digital technology use detracted from the amount of time they spend interacting with close others (including parents) nor that adolescent daily technology use was associated with more negative or less positive parent–adolescent interactions.
Diagnosis and surgical treatment of a primary splenic torsion in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: Rooney T. , Gardhouse S. , Berke K. , Cassel N. , Walsh T. , Eshar D.
Published: April 2021

A 4‐year‐old female spayed domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo) presented with a history of vomiting over 24 hours. On physical examination, a significantly enlarged, firm spleen was palpated. Abdominal radiographs and abdominal ultrasound were suggestive of a splenic torsion or splenic infarction. An exploratory laparotomy confirmed the initial diagnosis and splenectomy was performed using a vessel sealing device. Histologic evaluation and culture of the spleen were consistent with primary torsion without evidence of infection or neoplasia. The patient recovered from surgery without complications. Based on a literature search, this is the first report of the clinical diagnosis and successful surgical treatment of a primary splenic torsion in a ferret. Although it appears to be a rare and potentially life‐threatening disease in ferrets, splenic torsion should be considered as a differential diagnosis in ferrets that present with non‐specific signs and a palpably enlarged spleen.
A comprehensive species sampling sheds light on the molecular phylogenetics of Calothecinae (Poaceae, Pooideae, Poeae): Evidence for a new subtribe and multiple genera within the Chascolytrum clade
Authors: da Silva Leonardo N. , Saarela Jeffery M. , Essi Liliana , de Souza‐Chies Tatiana T.
Published: April 2021

The circumscription of the grass subtribe Calothecinae has undergone several changes since its description. Currently, it comprises Chascolytrum and the recently described genera Laegaardia and Paramochloa. Here we evaluate the circumscription of Calothecinae and the recently proposed infrageneric classification of Chascolytrum based on a phylogeny with more comprehensive taxon and molecular marker sampling than in previous studies. We sampled all Calothecinae genera, all but one Chascolytrum species, two South American Trisetum s.l., and representatives of the subtribes Agrostidinae, Brizinae, Echinopogoninae, Koeleriinae, Phalaridinae, and Torreyochloinae within Poaceae tribe Poeae. We performed Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood analyses of four plastid DNA regions (atpF‐atpH, matK, rps16 intron, and trnL‐trnF) and two nuclear ribosomal regions (ITS and ETS). Our results revealed that neither Calothecinae nor Chascolytrum is monophyletic, as currently recognized, because Trisetum brasiliense and Trisetum bulbosum are nested within Chascolytrum. We include these two Trisetum species in Calothecinae as incertae sedis. Laegaardia and Paramochloa form a clade that is sister to the Chascolytrum + Trisetum clade, and based on morphological characters, we transfer the former to the new subtribe Paramochloinae. Our Chascolytrum phylogeny is better resolved and supported than in previous studies, and based on these results, we divide Chascolytrum into nine genera, including two new ones: Boldrinia (gen. nov.), Calotheca, Chascolytrum, Erianthecium, Lombardochloa, Microbriza, Poidium, Rhombolytrum, and Rosengurttia (gen. nov.). We provide a key to Calothecinae genera, descriptions of the genera, nomenclatural information, and keys to species of each genus. In addition, six new combinations are proposed.
Heart rate detection by Fitbit ChargeHR™: A validation study versus portable polysomnography
Authors: Benedetti Davide , Olcese Umberto , Frumento Paolo , Bazzani Andrea , Bruno Simone , d’Ascanio Paola , Maestri Michelangelo , Bonanni Enrica , Faraguna Ugo
Published: April 2021

Consumer “Smartbands” can collect physiological parameters, such as heart rate (HR), continuously across the sleep–wake cycle. Nevertheless, the quality of HR data detected by such devices and their place in the research and clinical field is debatable, as they are rarely rigorously validated. The objective of the present study was to investigate the reliability of pulse photoplethysmographic detection by the Fitbit ChargeHR™ (FBCHR, Fitbit Inc.) in a natural setting of continuous recording across vigilance states. To fulfil this aim, concurrent portable polysomnographic (pPSG) and the Fitbit’s photoplethysmographic data were collected from a group of 25 healthy young adults, for ≥12 hr. The pPSG‐derived HR was automatically computed and visually verified for each 1‐min epoch, while the FBCHR HR measurements were downloaded from the application programming interface provided by the manufacturer. The FBCHR was generally accurate in estimating the HR, with a mean (SD) difference of −0.66 (0.04) beats/min (bpm) versus the pPSG‐derived HR reference, and an overall Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) of 0.93 (average per participant r = 0.85 ± 0.11), regardless of vigilance state. The correlation coefficients were larger during all sleep phases (rapid eye movement, r = 0.9662; N1, r = 0.9918; N2, r = 0.9793; N3, r = 0.9849) than in wakefulness (r = 0.8432). Moreover, the correlation coefficient was lower for HRs of >100 bpm (r = 0.374) than for HRs of <100 bpm (r = 0.84). Consistently, Bland–Altman analysis supports the overall higher accuracy in the detection of HR during sleep. The relatively high accuracy of FBCHR pulse rate detection during sleep makes this device suitable for sleep‐related research applications in healthy participants, under free‐living conditions.
Paracoccidioidomycosis due to P lutzii: The importance of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in the symptomatic and asymptomatic phases in severe cases
Authors: Nery Andreia Ferreira , de Camargo Zoilo Pires , Rodrigues Anderson Messias , Portela Tiago Ferreira , Hoffmann‐Santos Hugo Dias , Dambros Pedro Vitor Krüger , de Souza Jânio Felipe Ribeiro , Garcia Alexandre Carvalho , Santos Carolina Araújo Damasio , Hagen Ferry , Hahn Rosane Christine
Published: April 2021

Background

PCM is a neglected systemic mycosis endemic in Brazil. The middle‐west region of Brazil has shown the highest number of PCM by Paracoccidioides lutzii (P lutzii) cases. Differentiating cases of severe PCM from non‐severe ones should be a concern at the bedside. Diagnosis of severe PCM by P lutzii is based on the subjectivity of clinical manifestations, which can result in a delay in starting its treatment and, consequently evolution to severe sequelae. There is not laboratory biomarker available to support the early diagnosis of severe PCM that is feasible for all the realities that coexist in Brazil.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of laboratory biomarkers as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in the diagnosis of severe PCM.

Patients/Methods

ESR, CRP and NLR were analysed for 44 patients with PCM by P lutzii and a Receiver Operation Characteristic (ROC) curve were generated to identify the NLR cut‐off point and point out the presence of severe PCM.

Results

Sixteen (36.4%) had severe PCM and 28 (63.6%) had non‐severe PCM. The mean NLR was higher and statistically significant among patients with severe PCM than among those with non‐severe PCM. The area under the ROC curve was 0.859 for the diagnosis of severe PCM. The cut‐off point for NLR for the diagnosis of severe PCM was 3.318 (sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 77%).

Conclusions

According to results, it is plausible to conclude that NLR represents a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of severe PCM.
Thecaphora dahuangis, a new species causing leaf smut disease of the traditional medicinal plant dahuang (Rheum palmatum) in China
Authors: Piątek Marcin , Lutz Matthias , Wang Yan , Wang Shengrong , Kellner Ronny
Published: April 2021

Chinese rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) is an important crop that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. The main cultivation areas are the Chinese provinces of Gansu, Qinhai, Tibet, and Sichuan. Various fungal diseases threaten Chinese rhubarb, the most common of which is leaf smut. In literature, the causal agent of this disease is described as Thecaphora schwarzmaniana. We present morphological data and molecular phylogenetic data of two rDNA loci (ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 and 28S D1‐D2) that justify the classification of the causal agent as a distinct species. Here we describe the new species Thecaphora dahuangis for the leaf smut pathogen of Chinese rhubarb.
Should We Change the Way We Think About Market Performance When It Comes to Quasi‐Markets? A New Framework for Evaluating Public Service Markets
Authors: Dickinson Helen , Carey Gemma , Malbon Eleanor , Gilchrist David , Chand Satish , Kavanagh Anne , Alexander Damon
Published: April 2021

Markets are increasingly used by governments to deliver social services, underpinned by the belief that they can drive efficiency and quality. These ‘quasi‐markets' require on‐going management to ensure they meet policy goals, and address issues of market inequity. This has seen debates emerge around ‘market stewardship' and ‘market shaping’ that center on how best to manage markets toward optimal policy outcomes. At present, there is a significant gap in both literature and practice with regard to what types of actions are most effective for market stewardship. In this article, we outline a framework that helps diagnose different quasi‐market problems. We delineate two dimensions of public service quasi‐markets—sufficiency and diversity—using the example of a disability personalization market to show how this framework can unpack different types of quasi‐market states. Lastly, we outline the types of interventions that might be adopted to help deal with ineffective quasi‐markets.

Evidence for Practice

Market mechanisms are increasing being used by governments around the world to drive innovation and efficacies.

Increasingly it is being recognized that these markets need intervention in order to meet policy goals.

This paper provides a framework for conceptualizing types of market problems, and offers solutions for the scenarios outlined.
Cryopreservation of llama semen using a combination of permeable cryoprotectants
Authors: Fumuso Fernanda Gabriela , Bertuzzi Mariana Lucía , Velásquez González Nicolás , Miragaya Marcelo H. , Carretero Maria Ignacia
Published: April 2021

Semen cryopreservation is not available for massive use in South American Camelids (SACs) due to the lack of an efficient protocol and the low pregnancy rates obtained with artificial insemination (AI). The use of a single cryoprotectant (CP) is commonly used in SACs frozen semen. The objective of the study was to evaluate the combined cryoprotective capacity of two permeable CPs at different stages of the cryopreservation protocol in llama semen. Sixteen ejaculates from 4 llama males were analysed, and sperm quality was assayed in raw semen, at 5°C, after equilibration of samples with the CPs and when samples were thawed. The following CPs and combination were used: 6% glycerol (GL), 6% dimethylformamide (DMF) and the combination of both CPs: 3% GL and 3% DMF. A Kruskal–Wallis test and an experimental factorial design, considering one factor with four levels (raw semen, 6% GL, 6% DMF and GL/DMF), were used. Total sperm motility and live sperm with intact acrosomes remained unchanged after equilibration of samples (p > .05). A significant decrease in the percentage of functional membrane, motile and live sperm with intact acrosomes was observed when samples were thawed (GL, DMF and GL/DMF). Nevertheless, the cryopreservation protocols used preserved sperm DNA quality; thus, sperm chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation were unaffected (p > .05) when GL, DMF and GL/DMF were used. To conclude, no superiority was found between the use of a single or a combination of permeable cryoprotectants to freeze llama semen.
Reduced exercise tolerance in mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: The contribution of combined abnormalities of diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide and ventilatory efficiency
Authors: Phillips Devin B. , James Matthew D. , Elbehairy Amany F. , Milne Kathryn M. , Vincent Sandra G. , Domnik Nicolle J. , de‐Torres Juan P. , Neder J. Alberto , O'Donnell Denis E. ,   The Canadian Respiratory Research Network (CRRN)
Published: April 2021

Background and objective

The combination of both reduced resting diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and ventilatory efficiency (increased ventilatory requirement for CO2 clearance [V˙E/V˙CO2]) has been linked to exertional dyspnoea and exercise intolerance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. The current study examined if low resting DLCO and higher exercise ventilatory requirements were associated with earlier critical dynamic mechanical constraints, dyspnoea and exercise limitation in patients with mild COPD.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, we compared V˙E/V˙CO2, dynamic inspiratory reserve volume (IRV), dyspnoea and exercise capacity in groups of patients with Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease stage 1 COPD with (1) a resting DLCO at or greater than the lower limit of normal (≥LLN; Global Lung Function Initiative reference equations [n = 44]) or (2) below the <LLN (n = 33), and age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (n = 81).

Results

Spirometry and resting lung volumes were similar in the two COPD groups. During exercise, V˙E/V˙CO2 (nadir and slope) was consistently higher in the DLCO < LLN compared with the other groups (all p < 0.05). The DLCO < LLN group had lower IRV and greater dyspnoea intensity at standardized submaximal work rates and lower peak work rate and oxygen uptake than the other two groups (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Reduced exercise capacity in patients with DLCO < LLN was related to higher ventilatory requirements, a faster rate of decline in dynamic IRV and greater dyspnoea during exercise. These simple measurements should be considered for the clinical evaluation of unexplained exercise intolerance in individuals with ostensibly mild COPD.
Structural and functional changes in COPD: What we have learned from imaging
Authors: Benlala Ilyes , Laurent François , Dournes Gael
Published: April 2021

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of mortality worldwide. It is a heterogeneous disease involving different components of the lung to varying extents. Developments in medical imaging and image analysis techniques provide new insights in the assessment of the structural and functional changes of the disease. This article reviews the leading imaging techniques: CT and MRI of the lung in research settings and clinical routine. Both visual and quantitative methods are reviewed, emphasizing their relevance to patient phenotyping and outcome prediction.
Analytical construction of soliton families in one‐ and two‐dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equations with nonparity‐time‐symmetric complex potentials
Authors: Yang Jianke
Published: April 2021

The existence of soliton families in nonparity‐time‐symmetric complex potentials remains poorly understood, especially in two spatial dimensions. In this article, we analytically investigate the bifurcation of soliton families from linear modes in one‐ and two‐dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equations with localized Wadati‐type nonparity‐time‐symmetric complex potentials. By utilizing the conservation law of the underlying non‐Hamiltonian wave system, we convert the complex soliton equation into a new real system. For this new real system, we perturbatively construct a continuous family of low‐amplitude solitons bifurcating from a linear eigenmode to all orders of the small soliton amplitude. Hence, the emergence of soliton families in these nonparity‐time‐symmetric complex potentials is analytically explained. We also compare these analytically constructed soliton solutions with high‐accuracy numerical solutions in both one and two dimensions, and the asymptotic accuracy of these perturbation solutions is confirmed.
The consequences of non‐standard working and marital biographies for old age income in Europe: Contrasting the individual and the household perspective
Authors: Möhring Katja
Published: April 2021

The article addresses the question of how individuals with non‐standard work or family histories fare under different national pension systems in terms of their individual and household income in old age. It provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship of life course with later life individual and household income, and thereby goes beyond previous research that either focuses on one or the other. Life history data for 12 European countries of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) are used to examine old age individual and household income of individuals (a) with non‐standard working histories (e.g., non‐standard employment or unemployment), (b) with family instabilities (e.g., divorce or single parenthood). The results show that non‐employment and low‐status employment are old age income risks for both genders. Having children represents a burden for household income and for women's individual income only if associated with employment interruptions. Cross‐national variation is stronger for the relationship of old age income with the employment history than with the fertility history. Especially Beveridge‐plus countries that provide unconditional basic pension schemes mitigate previous life course inequality.
Hyperkalemia: The Trojan horse of pediatric transfusion?
Authors: Romon Iñigo , Cortes Miguel A.
Published: April 2021

See article on page 1093–1101, in this issue
Quantifying dynamic range in red blood cell energetics: Evidence of progressive energy failure during storage
Authors: Rogers Stephen C. , Ge Xia , Brummet Mary , Lin Xue , Timm David D. , d'Avignon Andre , Garbow Joel R. , Kao Jeff , Prakash Jaya , Issaian Aaron , Eisenmesser Elan Z. , Reisz Julie A. , D'Alessandro Angelo , Doctor Allan
Published: April 2021

Background

During storage, red blood cells (RBCs) undergo significant biochemical and morphologic changes, referred to collectively as the “storage lesion”. It was hypothesized that these defects may arise from disrupted oxygen‐based regulation of RBC energy metabolism, with resultant depowering of intrinsic antioxidant systems.

Study Design and Methods

As a function of storage duration, the dynamic range in RBC metabolic response to three models of biochemical oxidant stress (methylene blue, hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase, and diamide) was assessed, comparing glycolytic flux by NMR and UHPLC–MS methodologies. Blood was processed/stored under standard conditions (AS‐1 additive solution) with leukoreduction. Over a 6‐week period, RBC metabolic and antioxidant status were assessed at baseline and following exposure to the three biochemical oxidant models. Comparison was made of glycolytic flux (1H‐NMR tracking of [2‐13C]‐glucose and metabolomic phenotyping with [1,2,3‐13C3] glucose), reducing equivalent (NADPH/NADP+) recycling, and thiol‐based (GSH/GSSG) antioxidant status.

Results

As a function of storage duration, we observed the following: (1) a reduction in baseline hexose monophosphate pathway (HMP) flux, the sole pathway responsible for the regeneration of the essential reducing equivalent NADPH; with (2) diminished stress‐based dynamic range in both overall glycolytic as well as proportional HMP flux. In addition, progressive with storage duration, RBCs showed (3) constraint in reducing equivalent (NADPH) recycling capacity, (4) loss of thiol based (GSH) recycling capacity, and (5) dysregulation of metabolon assembly at the cytoplasmic domain of Band 3 membrane protein (cdB3).

Conclusion

Blood storage disturbs normal RBC metabolic control, depowering antioxidant capacity and enhancing vulnerability to oxidative injury.
Exponential increase in neutralizing and spike specific antibodies following vaccination of COVID‐19 convalescent plasma donors
Authors: Vickers Molly A. , Sariol Alan , Leon Judith , Ehlers Alexandra , Locher Aaron V. , Dubay Kerry A. , Collins Laura , Voss Dena , Odle Abby E. , Holida Myrl , Merrill Anna E. , Perlman Stanley , Knudson C. Michael
Published: April 2021

Background

With the recent approval of COVID‐19 vaccines, recovered COVID‐19 subjects who are vaccinated may be ideal candidates to donate COVID‐19 convalescent plasma (CCP).

Case Series

Eleven recovered COVID‐19 patients were screened to donate CCP. All had molecularly confirmed COVID‐19, and all but one were antibody positive by chemiluminescence immunoassay (DiaSorin) prior to vaccination. All were tested again for antibodies 11–21 days after they were vaccinated (Pfizer/Moderna). All showed dramatic increases (~50‐fold) in spike‐specific antibody levels and had at least a 20‐fold increase in the IC50 neutralizing antibody titer based on plaque reduction neutralization testing (PRNT). The spike‐specific antibody levels following vaccination were significantly higher than those seen in any non‐vaccinated COVID‐19 subjects tested to date at our facility.

Conclusion

Spike‐specific and neutralizing antibodies demonstrated dramatic increases following a single vaccination after COVID‐19 infection, which significantly exceeded values seen with COVID‐19 infection alone. Recovered COVID‐19 subjects who are vaccinated may make ideal candidates for CCP donation.
The skin microbiota in equine pastern dermatitis: a case‐control study of horses in Switzerland
Authors: Kaiser‐Thom Sarah , Hilty Markus , Axiak Shannon , Gerber Vinzenz
Published: April 2021

Background

Equine pastern dermatitis (EPD), a multifactorial syndrome, manifests as skin lesions of variable severity in the pastern area. Despite the widespread use of antibacterial therapy for treating this condition, little is known about the contributing bacteria.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To investigate the bacterial skin microbiota in EPD‐affected and unaffected (control) pasterns.

Animals

Case‐control study with 80 client‐owned horses; each with at least one EPD‐affected and one control pastern.

Methods and materials

Horses were grouped by the form of EPD (mild, exudative or proliferative), the assigned severity grade and type of pretreatment (disinfectant, topical antibacterial or no antibacterial pretreatment). Skin swabs were obtained, and the microbiota composition was compared between the groups.

Results

Bacterial alpha diversity was reduced in affected pasterns (P < 0.001) and this reduction was significantly associated with the EPD forms (P < 0.001), and not with the type of pretreatment (P > 0.14). Analyses of beta‐diversity confirmed a disordering of the skin microbiota (P = 0.004) in affected versus control pasterns, that was particularly profound in more severe lesions. The type of pretreatment was not significantly associated with this disordering. Four differentially abundant families were detected, of which Staphylococcaceae was the most distinct. The relative abundance of staphylococci was significantly increased in affected pasterns (P = 0.011), particularly in those that had received antibacterial treatment previously.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Changes in the microbiota are associated with the EPD form or severity of lesions. The role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of EPD as well as the propriety and consequences of antibacterial treatment should therefore be further investigated.
General Introduction of the Shura Council in Saudi Arabia and Parliamentary Diplomacy
Authors: Alshareef Shaker Ahmed
Published: April 2021

Aim: The thesis aims to evaluate the role of the Shura Council in Saudi Arabia's transition and identify if Shura Council can be a catalyst for change in the nation's foreign policy. Saudi's economy is over-relying on oil production, which increases the Kingdom's vulnerability due to uncertainties in the oil markets and other risks. Saudi's vision 2030 aims to decrease Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil and expand the Kingdom's economic resources. The vision 2030 is anchored on three pillars: solidifying the Kingdom's locus in the heart of the Arab and Islamic nations; the quest to become an international investment powerhouse; the Kingdom's strategic site with the capacity to be a hub that connects three continents Africa, Asia, and Europe.Method: The thesis adopts literature review as the main method to establish the composition and effectiveness of the Shura council its design functions.Findings: As currently constituted, the Shura council cannot freely champion effective foreign policies and regulations that support the Kingdom's goals. Shura council is fully under the kings' absolute power, denying them the opportunity to meet their democratic mandate.Concision: The Shura studies and interpret the laws, development plans, and the annual reports of Ministries and Government Sectors. Hence, the council also proposes and amend laws. As long as the Shura Council Members are still King's appointees, the political, social, and economic reforms that Saudi Arabians are eagerly waiting for will take decades to come by. Human rights violations are still evident.Recommendations: The study recommends constitutional monarchy adoption, need for human rights, and fundamental freedom laws to be upheld and allow public participation in legislative process. Strengthening the parliament's oversight roles require the Kingdom to grand Shura Council's independence granting power to partake a vote of no confidence, hearing, interpellation and make committees of inquiry where need be to help Saudi to attain vision 2030 goals.
Characterization of topographic effects on sonic boom reflection by resolution of the Euler equations
Authors: Emmanuelli Ariane , Dragna Didier , Ollivier Sébastien , Blanc-Benon Philippe
Published: April 2021

The influence of topography on sonic boom propagation is investigated. The full two-dimensional Euler equations in curvilinear coordinates are solved using high-order finite-difference time-domain techniques. Simple ground profiles, corresponding to a terrain depression, a hill, and a sinusoidal terrain, are examined for two sonic boom waves: a classical N-wave and a low-boom. Ground reflection of the sonic boom is affected by elevation variations: a concave ground profile induces compression, which tends to increase the peak pressure in particular, while the opposite is true for convex elevation variations, which lead to expansion and a reduction in peak pressure. The reflected boom is then strongly altered. Furthermore, a sufficiently concave topography can cause focal zones, which generate extra contributions at ground level in the form of U-waves in addition to the reflected wave. This mechanism has the largest effect on waveforms at ground level. The variations of standard metrics are of a few dBs compared to a flat ground for both sonic boom waves, and they are notably greater for the terrain depression than for the hill. Finally, in the case of a sinusoidal terrain, the pressure waveforms are composed of multiple arrivals due to successive focal zones.
The learning effect of an active-learning room-acoustics coursework
Authors: Hioka Yusuke , Kingan Michael , Dodd George
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates the learning effect of a developed coursework for an engineering acoustics course offered to fourth year and postgraduate engineering students at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. The coursework incorporated practical active-learning activities and was developed to help students gain understanding of complex concepts related to the room-acoustics measurement and analysis and also introduce students to some of the practical tasks that are typical of a practising acoustical engineer in New Zealand. The learning effect of the coursework was measured by comparing students' performance in two quizzes that were run before and after students worked on the coursework. Students' performance on the final examination was also analyzed. An analysis of the common mistakes made by students in the assignment report was also conducted. Overall, the analysis suggests that the coursework generally improved the students' understanding of the material that it covered.
Warming Shapes
nirS-
and
nosZ
-Type Denitrifier Communities and Stimulates N
2
O Emission in Acidic Paddy Soil
Authors: Xing Xiao-Yi , Tang Ya-Fang , Xu Hui-Fang , Qin Hong-Ling , Liu Yi , Zhang Wen-Zhao , Chen An-Lei , Zhu Bao-Li
Published: April 2021

The interdependence between global warming and greenhouse gas N
2
O has always been the hot spot. However, information on factors contributing to N
2
O and temperature-dependent community structure changes is scarce.
Clinical Evaluation of the Abbott Alinity SARS-CoV-2 Spike-Specific Quantitative IgG and IgM Assays among Infected, Recovered, and Vaccinated Groups
Authors: Narasimhan Madhusudhanan , Mahimainathan Lenin , Araj Ellen , Clark Andrew E. , Markantonis John , Green Allen , Xu Jing , SoRelle Jeffrey A. , Alexis Charles , Fankhauser Kimberly , Parikh Hiren , Wilkinson Kathleen , Reczek Annika , Kopplin Noa , Yekkaluri Sruthi , Balani Jyoti , Thomas Abey , Singal Amit G. , Sarode Ravi , Muthukumar Alagarraju
Published: April 2021

The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to impose a significant burden on global health infrastructure. While identification and containment of new cases remains important, laboratories must now pivot and consider an assessment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) immunity in the setting of the recent availability of multiple COVID-19 vaccines.
Hydrothermal recycling of sedimentary ammonium into oceanic crust and the Archean ocean at 3.24 Ga
Authors: Stüeken E.E. , Boocock T.J. , Robinson A. , Mikhail S. , Johnson B.W.
Published: April 2021

The Archean ocean supported a diverse microbial ecosystem, yet studies suggest that seawater was largely depleted in many essential nutrients, including fixed nitrogen. This depletion was in part a consequence of inefficient nutrient recycling under anoxic conditions. Here, we show how hydrothermal fluids acted as a recycling mechanism for ammonium (NH4+) in the Archean ocean. We present elemental and stable isotope data for carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur from shales and hydrothermally altered volcanic rocks from the 3.24 Ga Panorama district in Western Australia. This suite documents the transfer of NH4+ from organic-rich sedimentary rocks into underlying sericitized dacite, similar to what is seen in hydrothermal systems today. On modern Earth, hydrothermal fluids that circulate through sediment packages are enriched in NH4+ to millimolar concentrations because they efficiently recycle organic-bound N. Our data show that a similar hydrothermal recycling process dates back to at least 3.24 Ga, and it may have resulted in localized centers of enhanced biological productivity around hydrothermal vents. Last, our data provide evidence that altered oceanic crust at 3.24 Ga was enriched in nitrogen, and, when subducted, it satisfies the elemental and isotopic source requirements for a low-N, but 15N-enriched, deep mantle nitrogen reservoir as sampled by mantle plumes.
Supplemental Material: Subduction of the Izanagi-Pacific Ridge–transform intersection at the northeastern end of the Eurasian plate
Authors: Yamasaki Toru , al. et
Published: April 2021

Methods, data sources and calculation methods for Figure 2, Figure S1 (mode of occurrence and photomicrographs), and Tables S1–S5 (whole-rock geochemical data, Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic data, zircon U-Pb dating results, references for compiled data, and parameters for melting-mixing calculations).
Complexes Based on Poly(styrenesulfonic acid) and Poly(ethylene oxide)
Authors: Vetosheva P. I. , Bodaev V. O. , Pyshkina O. A. , Litmanovich E. A. , Sergeev V. G.
Published: April 2021

Complexation in aqueous salt-free semidilute solutions of poly(styrenesulfonic acid) and poly(ethylene oxide) leading to the formation of soluble poly(styrenesulfonic acid)–poly(ethylene oxide) complexes is studied. It is shown that the interaction of the components in such complexes significantly weakens with an increase in temperature, as well as with a decrease in the poly(ethylene oxide) chain length. Using viscometry and light scattering, it is demonstrated that, in dilute aqueous and aqueous-saline solutions, no complexes are formed between poly(styrenesulfonic acid) and poly(ethylene oxide) and the system is a compatible mixture of the polymers in a common solvent.
Fifteen-minute consultation: Recognition of sickle cell crises in the paediatric emergency department
Authors: Patel Shrina , Dadnam Christopher , Hewitson Rebecca , Thakur Indu , Morgan Jeff
Published: April 2021

Children with sickle cell disease can develop life-threatening and painful crises that require prompt assessment and efficient management by healthcare professionals in the emergency or acute care setting. Due to migration patterns and improved survival rates in high-prevalence countries, there is an increased tendency to encounter these patients across the UK. These factors warrant regular revisions in sickle cell crisis management, along with education for medical personnel and patients to improve clinical care and patient management. The focus of this article is on the initial assessment and management of acute paediatric sickle cell complications in the emergency setting. Specific case studies, including acute pain crises, trauma, splenic sequestration, aplastic crises, acute chest syndrome, infection, avascular necrosis, osteomyelitis and stroke, are discussed. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have also reviewed specific concerns around this patient group.