bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralization and serology testing of COVID‐19 convalescent plasma from donors with nonsevere disease
Authors: Gniadek Thomas J. , Thiede Joshua M. , Matchett William E. , Gress Abigail R. , Pape Kathryn A. , Fiege Jessica K. , Jenkins Marc K. , Menachery Vineet D. , Langlois Ryan A. , Bold Tyler D.
Published: September 2020

Background

The transfer of passive immunity with convalescent plasma is a promising strategy for treatment and prevention of COVID‐19, but donors with a history of nonsevere disease are serologically heterogenous. The relationship between SARS‐Cov‐2 antigen–binding activity and neutralization activity in this population of donors has not been defined.

Study Design and Methods

Convalescent plasma units from 47 individuals with a history of nonsevere COVID‐19 were assessed for antigen‐binding activity of using three clinical diagnostic serology assays (Beckman, DiaSorin, and Roche) with different SARS‐CoV‐2 targets. These results were compared with functional neutralization activity using a fluorescent reporter strain of SARS‐CoV‐2 in a microwell assay.

Results

Positive correlations of varying strength (Spearman r = 0.37‐0.52) between antigen binding and viral neutralization were identified. Donors age 48 to 75 years had the highest neutralization activity. Units in the highest tertile of binding activity for each assay were enriched (75%‐82%) for those with the highest levels of neutralization.

Conclusion

The strength of the relationship between antigen‐binding activity and neutralization varies depending on the clinical assay used. Units in the highest tertile of binding activity for each assay are predominantly comprised of those with the greatest neutralization activity.
Trade in intangibles and the global trade imbalance
Authors: Fu Xiaolan , Ghauri Pervez
Published: September 2020

The emergence of intangibles has brought significant challenges for our understanding of capitalism and international trade. This paper develops a framework for the measurement of global trade that integrates trade in intangibles and trade in goods and services to analyse the global trade imbalance. Through in‐depth discussions of the five modes through which trade in tangibles are carried out, it develops an integrated framework for the measurement of international trade. Applying this framework to the estimation of trade imbalance of a group of the world's top innovative countries, we see significant adjustments of their trade balance. The overall trade deficit of the United States reduces by nearly half of its size from USD763 billion to 390 billion in 2015, the year for which we have the latest trade in value‐added data. The paper argues that the true picture of global trade imbalance is of much smaller scale than the traditional trade statistics suggest. Policy responses to rebalance should be discussed using a framework that fully incorporates different types of trade activities in the twenty‐first century. Implications of the new conundrum of globalisation are also discussed.
Shortened immunotherapy dose‐escalation saves time, but is it safe? A case‐control study comparing the rates of adverse reactions between conventional and fast‐escalation subcutaneous immunotherapy protocols during the induction phase
Authors: Herrmann Ina , Loft Klaus E. , Olivry Thierry
Published: September 2020

Background

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only intervention believed to change the course of atopic diseases. As dogs appear to have fewer severe adverse events (AEs) compared to people receiving AIT, a prolonged dose‐escalation induction phase might not be needed.

Objectives

To report the incidence and characteristics of AEs induced by a fast‐escalation subcutaneous immunotherapy (f‐SCIT) protocol compared to a conventional (c‐SCIT) regimen.

Animals

One hundred dogs treated with either f‐ SCIT (Centre 1, 50 dogs) or c‐SCIT (Centre 2, 50 dogs).

Methods and materials

A case‐control study retrospectively evaluating AEs during the induction of AIT. We determined the incidence and type of AEs in each SCIT group; we also assessed factors such as self‐limitation and the need for AE‐associated protocol changes.

Results

Twelve of 100 dogs (12%) developed a SCIT‐attributable AE during the induction phase, with one dog having a local and 11 having systemic reactions (nine Grade I, two Grade II, none of grades III or IV). Dogs treated with the f‐SCIT had a significantly higher rate of AEs (11 of 50; 22%) compared to those receiving the c‐SCIT (one of 50; 2%). Most of the AEs (10 of 11; 91%) in the f‐SCIT group were mild and self‐limiting.

Conclusions and clinical importance

The induction phase of f‐SCIT is simpler, and the maintenance phase is reached faster than that of the c‐SCIT. Despite its higher rate of AEs than with the c‐SCIT regimen, the majority of f‐SCIT‐associated AEs were mild and self‐limiting. Whether or not this f‐SCIT protocol leads to a faster time‐to‐efficacy needs to be determined.
Preexercise Cycling Protocol Alters Pacing Behavior in Competitive Time Trials
Authors: Konings Marco J. , Hettinga Florentina J.
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The behavior of an opponent has been shown to alter pacing and performance. To advance our understanding of the impact of perceptual stimuli such as an opponent on pacing and performance, this study examined the effect of a preexercise cycling protocol on exercise regulation with and without an opponent. Methods: Twelve trained cyclists performed 4 experimental, self-paced 4-km time-trial conditions on an advanced cycle ergometer in a randomized, counterbalanced order. Participants started the time trial in rested state (RS) or performed a 10-min cycling protocol at 67% peak power output (CP) before the time trial. During the time trials, participants had to ride alone (NO) or against a virtual opponent (OP). The experimental conditions were (1) RS-NO, (2) RS-OP, (3) CP-NO, and (4) CP-OP. Repeated-measures analyses of variance (P < .05) were used to examine differences in pacing and performance in terms of power output. Results: A faster pace was adopted in the first kilometer during RS-OP (318 [72] W) compared with RS-NO (291 [81] W; P = .03), leading to an improved finishing time during RS-OP compared with RS-NO (P = .046). No differences in either pacing or performance were found between CP-NO and CP-OP. Conclusions: The evoked response by the opponent to adopt a faster initial pace in the 4-km time trial disappeared when cyclists had to perform a preceding cycling protocol. The outcomes of this study highlight that perceived exertion alters the responsiveness to perceptual stimuli of cyclists during competition.
Distinct evolutionary paths in chronic lymphocytic leukemia during resistance to the graft-versus-leukemia effect
Authors: Bachireddy Pavan , Ennis Christina , Nguyen Vinhkhang N. , Gohil Satyen H. , Clement Kendell , Shukla Sachet A. , Forman Juliet , Barkas Nikolaos , Freeman Samuel , Bavli Natalie , Elagina Liudmila , Leshchiner Ignaty , Mohammad Arman W. , Mathewson Nathan D. , Keskin Derin B. , Rassenti Laura Z. , Kipps Thomas J. , Brown Jennifer R. , Getz Gad , Ho Vincent T. , Gnirke Andreas , Neuberg Donna , Soiffer Robert J. , Ritz Jerome , Alyea Edwin P. , Kharchenko Peter V. , Wu Catherine J.
Published: September 2020

The clinical kinetics of CLL relapse after stem cell transplant are underwritten by distinct genetic and epigenetic evolutionary trajectories.
A Choline-Recognizing Monomeric Lysin, ClyJ-3m, Shows Elevated Activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Luo Dehua , Huang Li , Gondil Vijay Singh , Zhou Wanli , Yang Wan , Jia Minghui , Hu Shencai , He Jin , Yang Hang , Wei Hongping
Published: September 2020

Streptococcus pneumoniae
is a leading pathogen for bacterial pneumonia, which can be treated with bacteriophage lysins harboring a conserved choline binding module (CBM). Such lysins regularly function as choline-recognizing dimers. Previously, we reported a pneumococcus-specific lysin ClyJ comprising the binding domain from the putative endolysin gp20 from the
Streptococcus
phage SPSL1 and the CHAP (cysteine, histidine-dependent amidohydrolase/peptidase) catalytic domain from the PlyC lysin.
Formate-Dependent Acetogenic Utilization of Glucose by the Fecal Acetogen
Clostridium bovifaecis
Authors: Yao Ye , Fu Bo , Han Dongfei , Zhang Yan , Liu He
Published: September 2020

The acetyl-CoA pathway is an ancient pathway of CO
2
fixation, which converts 2 mol of CO
2
into acetyl-CoA. Autotrophic growth with H
2
and CO
2
via the acetyl-CoA pathway as the terminal electron accepting process is the most unique feature of acetogenic bacteria. However, the fecal acetogen
Clostridium bovifaecis
strain BXX displayed poor metabolic capabilities of autotrophic acetogenesis, and acetogenic utilization of glucose occurred only with the supplementation of formate. The formate-dependent acetogenic growth of
Clostridium bovifaecis
was associated with its lack of a gene encoding formate dehydrogenase, which may result from adaption to a formate-rich intestinal environment. This study gave insight into a unique metabolic feature of fecal acetogens. Because of the requirement of formate for the acetogenic growth of certain acetogens, the ecological impact of acetogens could be more complex and important in the formate-rich environment due to their trophic interactions with other microbes.
Biophysical and Dynamic Characterization of Fine-Tuned Binding of the Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus M2-1 Core Domain to Long RNAs
Authors: Caruso Icaro P. , Guimarães Giovana C. , Machado Vitor B. , Fossey Marcelo A. , Willbold Dieter , Almeida Fabio C. L. , Souza Fátima P.
Published: September 2020

The main outcome is the molecular description of the fine-tuned binding of the cdM2-1/RNA complex and the provision of evidence that the domain alone has unfolding activity for long RNAs. This binding mode is essential in the understanding of the function in the full-length protein. Human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV), an orthopneumovirus, stands out for the unique role of its M2-1 protein as a transcriptional antitermination factor able to increase RNA polymerase processivity.
Complete Genome Sequences of 47 Environmental Isolates of Escherichia coli
Authors: Breckell Georgia , Silander Olin K.
Published: September 2020

Escherichia coli
is commonly considered a host-associated bacterium. However, there is evidence that some strains occupy environmental (non-host-associated) niches. Here, we report the complete genomes of 47
Escherichia coli
environmental isolates. These will be useful for understanding the dynamics of plasmids, phages, and other repetitive genetic elements.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Pseudarthrobacter
sp. Strain ATCC 49442 (Formerly Micrococcus luteus), a Pyridine-Degrading Bacterium
Authors: Gupta Nidhi , Skinner Kelly A. , Summers Zarath M. , Edirisinghe Janaka N. , Weisenhorn Pamela B. , Faria José P. , Marshall Christopher W. , Sharma Anukriti , Gottel Neil R. , Gilbert Jack A. , Henry Christopher S. , O’Loughlin Edward J.
Published: September 2020

We present here the draft genome sequence of a pyridine-degrading bacterium,
Micrococcus luteus
ATCC 49442, which was reclassified as
Pseudarthrobacter
sp. strain ATCC 49442 based on its draft genome sequence. Its genome length is 4.98 Mbp, with 64.81% GC content.
Complete Coding Sequences of 23 South African Domestic and Wildlife Rabies Viruses
Authors: Sabeta Claude , Mohale Debrah , Phahladira Baby , Ngoepe Ernest , Van Schalkwyk Antoinette , Mogano Kgaogelo , Chirima George , Suzuki Toru , Makita Kohei
Published: September 2020

South African rabies viruses originating from dogs and jackals (canid viruses) are closely related and highlight cross-species transmission events between the two canine species. Rabies due to the canid lyssavirus variant is a significant public health matter in this country. The complete coding sequences of 23 canid lyssaviruses from South Africa are reported here.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Spirosoma
sp. Strain KCTC 42546, Isolated from a Reservoir in South Korea
Authors: Kusolkumbot Pokchut , Kim Song-Gun , Suwannachart Chatrudee
Published: September 2020

This study reports on the complete genome sequence of
Spirosoma
sp. strain KCTC 42546, isolated from fresh water in a reservoir in South Korea. The genome contained genes for various glycosyl hydrolases, which are associated with degrading sugars and DNA-repairing enzymes.
Minor salivary gland transplantation for severe dry eye disease due to cicatrising conjunctivitis: multicentre long-term outcomes of a modified technique
Authors: Vazirani Jayesh , Bhalekar Swapnil , Amescua Guillermo , Singh Swati , Basu Sayan
Published: September 2020

Aim

To report the clinical outcomes of autologous minor salivary gland transplantation (MSGT) for the treatment of severe dry eye disease caused by cicatrising conjunctivitis.

Methods

This was a retrospective case series of patients undergoing MSGT at four different centres from 2016 to 2018. The technical modifications included en bloc harvesting of a 20 mm×15 mm mucosa–gland–muscle complex and fixation of the glands to the superior bulbar surface anchored to the superior rectus muscle. The primary outcome measure was improvement in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Secondary outcome measures were change in Schirmer test scores and grades of conjunctival and corneal fluorescein staining, grades of corneal neovascularisation, opacification and keratinisation.

Results

21 eyes of 19 patients underwent MSGT, with a median follow-up duration of 3 years. The median BCVA improved from a baseline value of 20/500 to 20/125 at 1 year (p=0.0004) and 20/80 at 3 years (p=0.0002) after surgery. The proportion of cases with BCVA ≥20/200 improved from 38% at baseline to 67% at 1 year (p=0.0294), 78% at 2 years (p=0.0227) and 93% at 3 years (p=0.0015) after surgery. There was a significant improvement (p<0.0036) in Schirmer scores, conjunctival and corneal staining scores as well as grades of corneal neovascularisation and opacification after surgery. There were no serious sight-threatening complications in the transplanted eyes or at the donor site.

Conclusions

Long-term improvement in the visual acuity, ocular surface environment, and keratopathy was noted after MSGT performed in severely dry eyes using a modified technique.
The impact of demonetisation on the utilisation of hospital services, patient outcomes and finances: a multicentre observational study from India
Authors: George Tarun K , Peter John Victor , Jeyaseelan Lakshmanan , Yadav Bijesh , Patole Shalom , Koshy Roshine Mary , Joseph Prabhu , P Balasubramanian , Nair Aravindan , Zachariah Anand , George Krupa , Abraham Georgi , Venkatesh Balasubramanian
Published: September 2020

Background

This study assessed trends in healthcare utilisation in relation to the implementation of an economic policy in India wherein 500 and 1000 rupee notes were demonetised.

Methods

In this ambidirectional observational study of private not-for-profit hospitals, data on hospital outpatient and inpatient numbers, surgeries, emergency department (ED) visits, obstetric admissions and mortality were obtained for pre-demonetisation (September/October 2016), early (November/December 2016) and late demonetisation (January/February 2017), and post-demonetisation periods (March/April 2017) and compared with the control period (2015–2016) from 11 centres (three tertiary hospitals; eight secondary). A Bayesian regression analysis was performed to adjust for seasonal (winter) effect. Monthly financial data, including the proportion of cash versus non-cash transactions, were collected.

Findings

Overall, at the pooled all-hospital level, Bayesian analysis showed non-significant increase in outpatients (535.4, 95% CI −7097 to 8116) and decrease in deaths (–6.3 per 1000 inpatients, 95% CI −15.45 to 2.75) and a significant decrease in inpatients (−145.6, 95% CI −286.4 to −10.63) during demonetisation. Analysis at the level of secondary and tertiary hospitals showed a variable effect. For individual hospitals, after adjusting for the seasonal effect, some hospitals observed a significant reduction in outpatient (n=2) and inpatient (n=3) numbers, ED visits (n=4) and mortality (n=2) during demonetisation, while others reported significantly increased outpatient numbers (n=3) and ED visits (n=2). Deliveries remained unchanged during demonetisation in the hospitals that provided the service. There was no significant reduction in hospital incomes during demonetisation. In tertiary hospitals, there was a significant increase in non-cash component of transactions from 35% to 60% (p=0.02) that persisted beyond the demonetisation period.

Conclusions

The effect of demonetisation on healthcare utilisation was variable. Some hospitals witnessed a significant reduction in utilisation in some areas, while others reported increased utilisation. There was an increase in non-cash transactions that persisted beyond the period of demonetisation.
Allocating resources to support universal health coverage: development of a geographical funding formula in Malawi
Authors: McGuire Finn , Revill Paul , Twea Pakwanja , Mohan Sakshi , Manthalu Gerald , Smith Peter C.
Published: September 2020

Background

Universal health coverage (UHC) requires that local health sector institutions—such as local authorities—are properly funded to fulfil their service delivery commitments. In this study, we examine how formula funding can align sub-national resource allocations with national priorities. This is illustrated by outlining alternative options for using mathematical formula to guide the allocation of national drug and service delivery budgets to district councils in Malawi in 2018/2019.

Methods

We use demographic, epidemiological and health sector budget data with information on implementation constraints to construct three variant allocation formulae. The first gives an equal per capita allocation to each district, and is included as a baseline to compare alternatives. The second allocates funds to districts using estimates of the resources required to provide Malawi’s essential health package of priority cost-effective interventions to the full population in need of each intervention. The third adjusts these estimates to reflect a practicable level of attainable coverage for each intervention, based on the current configurations of health services and demand for interventions.

Findings

Compared with current district allocations, not underpinned by an explicit formula, the formulae presented in this study suggest sizeable shifts in the allocations received by many districts. In some cases, the magnitude of these shifts exceed 50% reductions or doubling of district budgets. The large shifts illustrate inequities in the current system of budget allocation and the potential improvements possible.

Conclusion

The use of mathematical formulae can guide the efficient and equitable allocation of healthcare funds to local health authorities. The formulae developed were facilitated by the existence of an explicit package of priority interventions. The approach can be replicated in wide range of countries seeking to achieve UHC.
Mental health in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic: cross-sectional analyses from a community cohort study
Authors: Jia Ru , Ayling Kieran , Chalder Trudie , Massey Adam , Broadbent Elizabeth , Coupland Carol , Vedhara Kavita
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Previous pandemics have resulted in significant consequences for mental health. Here, we report the mental health sequelae of the COVID-19 pandemic in a UK cohort and examine modifiable and non-modifiable explanatory factors associated with mental health outcomes. We focus on the first wave of data collection, which examined short-term consequences for mental health, as reported during the first 4–6 weeks of social distancing measures being introduced.

Design

Cross-sectional online survey.

Setting

Community cohort study.

Participants

N=3097 adults aged ≥18 years were recruited through a mainstream and social media campaign between 3 April 2020 and 30 April 2020. The cohort was predominantly female (n=2618); mean age 44 years; 10% (n=296) from minority ethnic groups; 50% (n=1559) described themselves as key workers and 20% (n=649) identified as having clinical risk factors putting them at increased risk of COVID-19.

Main outcome measures

Depression, anxiety and stress scores.

Results

Mean scores for depression (x- =7.69, SD=6.0), stress (x- =6.48, SD=3.3) and anxiety (x- = 6.48, SD=3.3) significantly exceeded population norms (all p<0.0001). Analysis of non-modifiable factors hypothesised to be associated with mental health outcomes indicated that being younger, female and in a recognised COVID-19 risk group were associated with increased stress, anxiety and depression, with the final multivariable models accounting for 7%–14% of variance. When adding modifiable factors, significant independent effects emerged for positive mood, perceived loneliness and worry about getting COVID-19 for all outcomes, with the final multivariable models accounting for 54%–57% of total variance.

Conclusions

Increased psychological morbidity was evident in this UK sample and found to be more common in younger people, women and in individuals who identified as being in recognised COVID-19 risk groups. Public health and mental health interventions able to ameliorate perceptions of risk of COVID-19, worry about COVID-19 loneliness and boost positive mood may be effective.
Povidone iodine treatment is deleterious to human ocular surface conjunctival cells in culture
Authors: Swift William , Bair Jeffrey A , Chen Wanxue , Li Michael , Lie Sole , Li Dayu , Yang Menglu , Shatos Marie A , Hodges Robin R , Kolko Miriam , Utheim Tor P , Scott Wendell , Dartt Darlene A
Published: September 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of povidone iodine (PI), an antiseptic commonly used prior to ocular surgery, on viability of mixed populations of conjunctival stratified squamous and goblet cells, purified conjunctival goblet cells and purified conjunctival stromal fibroblasts in primary culture.

Methods and analysis

Mixed population of epithelial cells (stratified squamous and goblet cells), goblet cells and fibroblasts were grown in culture from pieces of human conjunctiva using either supplemented DMEM/F12 or RPMI. Cell type was evaluated by immunofluorescence microscopy. Cells were treated for 5 min with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS); 0.25%, 2.5%, 5% or 10% PI in PBS; or a positive control of 30% H2O2. Cell viability was determined using Alamar Blue fluorescence and a live/dead kit using calcein/AM and ethidium homodimer-1 (EH-1).

Results

Mixed populations of epithelial cells, goblet cells and fibroblasts were characterised by immunofluorescence microscopy. As determined with Alamar Blue fluorescence, all concentrations of PI significantly decreased the number of cells from all three preparation types compared with PBS. As determined by calcein/EH-1 viability test, mixed populations of cells and fibroblasts were less sensitive to PI treatment than goblet cells. All concentrations of PI, except for 0.25% used with goblet cells, substantially increased the number of dead cells for all cell populations. The H2O2control also significantly decreased the number and viability of all three types of cells in both tests.

Conclusion

We conclude that PI, which is commonly used prior to ocular surgeries, is detrimental to human conjunctival stratified squamous cells, goblet cells and fibroblasts in culture.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and risk of incident diabetes mellitus: an updated meta-analysis of 501 022 adult individuals
Authors: Mantovani Alessandro , Petracca Graziana , Beatrice Giorgia , Tilg Herbert , Byrne Christopher D , Targher Giovanni
Published: September 2020

Objective

Follow-up studies have shown that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with an increased risk of incident diabetes, but currently, it is uncertain whether this risk changes with increasing severity of NAFLD. We performed a meta-analysis of relevant studies to quantify the magnitude of the association between NAFLD and risk of incident diabetes.

Design

We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases from January 2000 to June 2020 using predefined keywords to identify observational studies with a follow-up duration of at least 1 year, in which NAFLD was diagnosed by imaging techniques or biopsy. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effects modelling.

Results

33 studies with 501 022 individuals (30.8% with NAFLD) and 27 953 cases of incident diabetes over a median of 5 years (IQR: 4.0–19 years) were included. Patients with NAFLD had a higher risk of incident diabetes than those without NAFLD (n=26 studies; random-effects HR 2.19, 95% CI 1.93 to 2.48;I2=91.2%). Patients with more ‘severe’ NAFLD were also more likely to develop incident diabetes (n=9 studies; random-effects HR 2.69, 95% CI 2.08 to 3.49;I2=69%). This risk markedly increased across the severity of liver fibrosis (n=5 studies; random-effects HR 3.42, 95% CI 2.29 to 5.11;I2=44.6%). All risks were independent of age, sex, adiposity measures and other common metabolic risk factors. Sensitivity analyses did not alter these findings. Funnel plots did not reveal any significant publication bias.

Conclusion

This updated meta-analysis shows that NAFLD is associated with a ~2.2-fold increased risk of incident diabetes. This risk parallels the underlying severity of NAFLD.
Do socioeconomic and birth order gradients in child maltreatment differ by immigrant status?
Authors: Kenny Kathleen S , Pulver Ariel , O’Campo Patricia , Guttmann Astrid , Urquia Marcelo L
Published: September 2020

Background

While literature has documented strong gradients in child maltreatment (CM) by socioeconomic status and family composition in the general population, how these patterns extend to immigrants remain inconclusive. Using population-based administrative data, we examined, for the first time, whether gradients in CM by neighbourhood income and childbirth order vary by immigrant status.

Methods

We used linked hospitalisation, emergency department visits, small-area income, birth and death records with an official Canadian immigration database to create a retrospective cohort of all 1 240 874 children born from 2002 to 2012 in Ontario, Canada, followed from 0 to 5 years. We estimated rate ratios of CM among immigrants and non-immigrants using modified Poisson regression.

Results

CM rates were 1.6 per 100 children among non-immigrants and 1.0 among immigrants. CM was positively associated with neighbourhood deprivation. The adjusted rate ratio (ARR) of CM in the lowest neighbourhood income quintile versus the highest quintile was 1.57 (95% CI 1.49 to 1.66) for non-immigrants and 1.33 (95% CI 1.15 to 1.54) for immigrants. The socioeconomic gradient disappeared when restricted to children of immigrant mothers arrived at 25+ years and in analyses excluding emergency department visits. Compared to a first child, the ARR of CM for a fourth or higher-order child was 1.75 (95% CI 1.63 to 1.89) among non-immigrants and 0.57 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.74) among immigrants.

Conclusions

Immigrants exhibited lower CM rates than non-immigrants across neighbourhood income quintiles and differences were greatest in more deprived neighbourhoods. The contrasting birth order gradients between immigrants and non-immigrants require further investigation.
From the lens of the clinical residents: undergraduate to postgraduate medical education and the transition process
Authors: Demiroren Meral , Atilgan Burge , Tasdelen Teker Gulsen , Turan Sevgi
Published: September 2020

The concept of continuity in medical education reflects the progressive professional and personal development that physicians need in education. The aim of this study is investigating the views of the residents about the adequacy of undergraduate and postgraduate education in the context of preparing them for the next stage and their perceptions about the transition period. This phenomenological study was conducted at Hacettepe University Medical School. The study group consisted of medical and surgical sciences residents in the first year and last year of postgraduate medical education. Four focus group interviews were held with the participation of 21 residents. The participants emphasised that practising with real patients under supervision by taking an active role in healthcare teams was important for their preparation for the next stage in their carrier. However, their educational experiences during undergraduate medical education differed in community-based education, scientific research training, learning in small groups, internship and guidance of clinical educators. The transition period has been expressed with the concepts of identity change, high responsibilities and expectations required by the new identity, adaptation to the healthcare team, institution, and health system, meeting the expectations in an overly busy work environment, and feelings of incompetence. Participants pointed out that curriculum, which was declared and taught, educational environments, assessment approaches, consultancy systems and practices differed between the clinical departments. In line with the principles of competency-based education, practices related to the development and assessment of the competencies with all professional aspects in postgraduate medical education can be strengthened.
Females and males do not differ for fatigability, muscle damage and magnitude of the repeated bout effect following maximal eccentric contractions
Authors: Bruce Christina D. , Ruggiero Luca , Dix Gabriel U. , Cotton Paul D. , McNeil Chris J.
Published: September 2020

Unaccustomed eccentric (ECC) exercise induces muscle fatigue as well as damage and initiates a protective response to minimize impairments from a subsequent bout (i.e., repeated bout effect; RBE). It is uncertain if the sexes differ for neuromuscular responses to ECC exercise and the ensuing RBE. Twenty-six young adults (13 females) performed 2 bouts (4 weeks apart) of 200 ECC maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) of the dorsiflexors. Isometric (ISO) MVC torque and the ratio of ISO torque in response to low- versus high-frequency stimulation (10:100 Hz) were compared before and after (2–10 min and 2, 4, and 7 days) exercise. The decline in ECC and ISO MVC torque and the 10:100 Hz ratio following bout 1 did not differ between sexes (P > 0.05), with reductions from baseline of 31.5% ± 12.3%, 24.1% ± 15.4%, and 51.3% ± 12.2%, respectively. After bout 2, the 10:100 Hz ratio declined less (45.0% ± 12.4% from baseline) and ISO MVC torque recovered sooner compared with bout 1 but no differences between sexes were evident for the magnitude of the RBE (P > 0.05). These data suggest that fatigability with ECC exercise does not differ for the sexes and adaptations that mitigate impairments to calcium handling are independent of sex.

Novelty: One bout of 200 maximal eccentric dorsiflexor contractions caused equivalent muscle fatigue and damage for females and males. The repeated bout effect observed after a second bout 4 weeks later also had no sex-related differences. Prolonged low-frequency force depression is promoted as an indirect measure of muscle damage in humans.
Challenges in nanoscale physics of wetting phenomena
Authors: Afkhami S. , Gambaryan-Roisman T. , Pismen L. M.
Published: September 2020

We describe the aims and content of this issue.
A Swallowing Decoder Based on Deep Transfer Learning: AlexNet Classification of the Intracranial Electrocorticogram
Authors: Hashimoto Hiroaki , Kameda Seiji , Maezawa Hitoshi , Oshino Satoru , Tani Naoki , Khoo Hui Ming , Yanagisawa Takufumi , Yoshimine Toshiki , Kishima Haruhiko , Hirata Masayuki
Published: September 2020

To realize a brain–machine interface to assist swallowing, neural signal decoding is indispensable. Eight participants with temporal-lobe intracranial electrode implants for epilepsy were asked to swallow during electrocorticogram (ECoG) recording. Raw ECoG signals or certain frequency bands of the ECoG power were converted into images whose vertical axis was electrode number and whose horizontal axis was time in milliseconds, which were used as training data. These data were classified with four labels (Rest, Mouth open, Water injection, and Swallowing). Deep transfer learning was carried out using AlexNet, and power in the high-[Formula: see text] band (75–150[Formula: see text]Hz) was the training set. Accuracy reached 74.01%, sensitivity reached 82.51%, and specificity reached 95.38%. However, using the raw ECoG signals, the accuracy obtained was 76.95%, comparable to that of the high-[Formula: see text] power. We demonstrated that a version of AlexNet pre-trained with visually meaningful images can be used for transfer learning of visually meaningless images made up of ECoG signals. Moreover, we could achieve high decoding accuracy using the raw ECoG signals, allowing us to dispense with the conventional extraction of high-[Formula: see text] power. Thus, the images derived from the raw ECoG signals were equivalent to those derived from the high-[Formula: see text] band for transfer deep learning.
Effects of rotation on a scalar field in a Kaluza–Klein theory
Authors: Leite E. V. B. , Belich H. , Vitória R. L. L.
Published: September 2020

We have investigated the effects of rotation on a scalar field subject to the Aharonov–Bohm effect, an effect arising from a particular and possible scenario, from the theoretical point of view, of the Kaluza–Klein theory. Through the boundary condition induced by the non-inertial effect, for a particular case, we analyze a scalar particle in a region bounded by the cylindrical surfaces and under the effects of a hard-wall confining potential. In addition, a scalar particle with position-dependent mass interacting with the Coulomb-type potential. Then, in this scenario of the Kaluza–Klein theory in a uniformly rotating frame, we analyze the Klein–Gordon oscillator. In all cases an effect analogous to the Sagnac effect is observed on the relativistic energy levels determined analytically.
Simulation and evaluation of speed and lane-changing advisory of CAVS at work zones in heterogeneous traffic flow
Authors: Wu Wenjing , Sun Renchao , Ni Anning , Liang Zhikang , Jia Hongfei
Published: September 2020

Emerging connected autonomous vehicle (CAV) technologies provide an opportunity to the vehicle motion control to improve the traffic performance. This study simulated and evaluated the CAV-based speed and lane-changing (LC) control strategies at the expressway work zone in heterogeneous traffic flow. The control strategies of CAV are optimized by the multi-layer control structure based on model predictive control. The heterogeneous traffic flow composed of human-driven vehicles and CAVs is constructed based on cellular automata by the proposed Expected Distance-based Symmetric Two-lane Cellular Automate (ED-STCA) LC model and CAV car-following model. The six control strategies composed of variable speed limits (VSL), LC and their coordinated control strategies are experimented. The average travel time and throughput are selected to assess the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy under each combination of vehicles’ arrival rates and CAV mixed ratios. The numerical results show that: (i) the effect of the control strategy on the traffic is not obvious under free flow, and the control strategy may worsen the traffic under medium traffic. (ii) Early lane-changing control (ELC) is better than late lane-changing control (LLC) under medium traffic, and LLC is better under heavy traffic. (iii) [Formula: see text] is the best choice under heavy traffic and the mixed rate of CAVs is high. The simulation results obtained in the paper would provide some practical references for transportation agencies to manage the traffic in work zone under networking environment in the future.
Polynomial invariants of virtual doodles and virtual knots
Authors: Kim Joonoh
Published: September 2020

In this study, we describe a method of making an invariant of virtual knots defined in terms of an integer labeling of the flat virtual knot diagram. We give an invariant of flat virtual knots and virtual doodles modifying the previous invariant.
𝔤𝔩n-webs, categorification and Khovanov–Rozansky homologies
Authors: Tubbenhauer Daniel
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we define an explicit basis for the [Formula: see text]-web algebra [Formula: see text] (the [Formula: see text] generalization of Khovanov’s arc algebra) using categorified [Formula: see text]-skew Howe duality.

Our construction is a [Formula: see text]-web version of Hu–Mathas’ graded cellular basis and has two major applications: it gives rise to an explicit isomorphism between a certain idempotent truncation of a thick calculus cyclotomic KLR algebra and [Formula: see text], and it gives an explicit graded cellular basis of the [Formula: see text]-hom space between two [Formula: see text]-webs. We use this to give a (in principle) computable version of colored Khovanov–Rozansky [Formula: see text]-link homology, obtained from a complex defined purely combinatorially via the (thick cyclotomic) KLR algebra and needs only [Formula: see text].
Study of charged-particle multiplicity fluctuations in pp collisions with Monte Carlo event generators at the LHC
Authors: Shokr E. , El-Farrash A. H. , De Roeck A. , Mahmoud M. A.
Published: September 2020

Proton–Proton ([Formula: see text]) collisions at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) are simulated in order to study events with a high local density of charged particles produced in narrow pseudorapidty windows of [Formula: see text] = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5. The [Formula: see text] collisions are generated at center of mass energies of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] TeV, i.e., the energies at which the LHC has operated so far, using PYTHIA and HERWIG event generators. We have also studied the average of the maximum charged-particle density versus the event multiplicity for all events, using the different pseudorapidity windows. This study prepares for the multi-particle production background expected in a future search for anomalous high-density multiplicity fluctuations using the LHC data.
A study of nuclear radii and neutron skin thickness of neutron-rich nuclei near the neutron drip line
Authors: Rahaman Usuf , Ikram M. , Imran M. , Usmani Anisul Ain
Published: September 2020

We studied the charge radius ([Formula: see text]), neutron radius ([Formula: see text]), and neutron skin-thickness ([Formula: see text]) over a chain of isotopes from C to Zr with the stable region to the neutron drip line. Theoretical calculations are done with axially deformed self-consistent relativistic mean-field theory (RMF) and effective nonlinear NL3 and NL3* interactions. The theoretically estimated values are compared with available experimental data and a reasonable agreement is noted. We additionally assessed the two-neutron separation energy ([Formula: see text]) to mark the drip line nuclei of the considered isotopic series. In the reference of [Formula: see text], neutron magicity is also discussed. The calculated neutron radii are compared with empirical estimation made by [Formula: see text] to examine the abnormal trend of the radius for neutron drip line nuclei. In view to guide the long tails, the density distribution for some skin candidates is analyzed. Finally, neutron skin thickness is observed for the whole considered isotopic series.
Complete transition diagrams of generic Hamiltonian flows with a few heteroclinic orbits
Authors: Yokoyama Tetsuo , Yokoyama Tomoo
Published: September 2020

We study the transition graph of generic Hamiltonian surface flows, whose vertices are the topological equivalence classes of generic Hamiltonian surface flows and whose edges are the generic transitions. Using the transition graph, we can describe time evaluations of generic Hamiltonian surface flows (e.g., fluid phenomena) as walks on the graph. We propose a method for constructing the complete transition graph of all generic Hamiltonian flows. In fact, we construct two complete transition graphs of Hamiltonian surface flows having three and four genus elements. Moreover, we demonstrate that a lower bound on the transition distance between two Hamiltonian surface flows with any number of genus elements can be calculated by solving an integer programming problem using vector representations of Hamiltonian surface flows.
Validation of a High-Order Large Eddy Simulation Solver for Acoustic Prediction of Supersonic Jet Flow
Authors: Shen Weiqi , Miller Steven A. E.
Published: September 2020

A high-order large eddy simulation (LES) code based on the flux reconstruction (FR) scheme is further developed for supersonic jet simulation. The FR scheme provides an efficient and easy-to-implement way to achieve high-order accuracy on an unstructured mesh. The order of accuracy and the shock capturing capability of the solver are validated with the isentropic Euler vortex and Sod’s shock tube problem. A heated under-expanded supersonic jet case from NASA’s Small Hot Jet Acoustic Rig (SHJAR) database is used for validation. The turbulence statistics along the nozzle centerline and lip-line are examined. We predict the acoustic radiation with the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings method, which is integrated with our solver. The far-field acoustic predictions show reasonable agreement with the experimental measurement in the upstream and downstream directions, where the shock-associated noise and the large-scale turbulent mixing noise are dominant, respectively.
A Functional 3D-Printable Magnet Model of the ATLAS Toroid
Authors: Woithe Julia , Jansky Alexandra , Keller Oliver , Gonçalves Tiago
Published: September 2020

The ATLAS detector is the largest particle detector at the LHC and one of the most complex machines ever built. It allows precise measurements of particles emanating from proton collisions. Due to its complexity, introducing the ATLAS detector in the high-school physics classroom can be challenging. Nonetheless, we show how to use 3D printing to provide a hands-on classroom activity by constructing a functional 3D model of the toroidal ATLAS magnet system. This model can be used to discover, visualize and explain the shape of a toroidal magnetic field and to start a discussion about the role of magnetic fields in particle detectors in general.
A Highschooler’s Guide to GeV-Range Electromagnetism
Authors: Chatterji Satchit , Desai Aayush , Dwarkesh Aditya , Ganesh Anushree , Kunder Ameya , Malhotra Pulkit , Sahoo Roshni , Shah Jinal , Velmurugan Kiranbhaskar , Joos Markus , Da Cruz E Silva Cristóvão Beirão , Morello Gianfranco
Published: September 2020

The following article has been written primarily by the high school students who make up the team “Cryptic Ontics”, one of the two winning teams in the 2018 edition of CERN’s Beamline for Schools (BL4S) competition, and is based on the set of experiments the students endeavoured to conduct over the course of a two-week period at CERN.

Reconstructing influential physical theories from scratch often helps in uncovering hitherto unknown logical connections and eliciting instructive empirical checkpoints within said theory. With this in mind, in the following article, a top-down reconstruction (beginning with the experimental observations and ending at the theoretical framework) of the Lorentz force equation is performed, and potentially interesting questions which come up are explored. In its most common form, the equation is written out as: [Formula: see text]. Only the term that includes the magnetic field [Formula: see text] will be dealt with for this article. The independent parameters we use are (i) the momenta of the particles, (ii) the charge (rather, the types) of particles, either positive or negative, and (iii) the current passing through the dipole generating the electromagnetic field. We then measure the angle by which particles get deflected while varying these three parameters and derive an empirical relationship between them.
Organization, Function, and Development of the Mouse Retinogeniculate Synapse
Authors: Liang Liang , Chen Chinfei
Published: September 2020

Visual information is encoded in distinct retinal ganglion cell (RGC) types in the eye tuned to specific features of the visual space. These streams of information project to the visual thalamus, the first station of the image-forming pathway. In the mouse, this connection between RGCs and thalamocortical neurons, the retinogeniculate synapse, has become a powerful experimental model for understanding how circuits in the thalamus are constructed to process these incoming lines of information. Using modern molecular and genetic tools, recent studies have suggested a more complex circuit organization than was previously understood. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the structural and functional organization of the retinogeniculate synapse in the mouse. We discuss a framework by which a seemingly complex circuit can effectively integrate and parse information to downstream stations of the visual pathway. Finally, we review how activity and visual experience can sculpt this exquisite connectivity.
Electrochemical Modulation of Odorant Molecule: A Study of p-cresol
Authors: Vasquez M. M. , Ngaboyamahina E.
Published: September 2020

p-Cresol modulation was for the first time evaluated as an alternative option for odor control in sanitation facilities. Results indicate that the oxidation of p-cresol can generate 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (4-HB), a molecule with a sweet-woody odor, following the introduction of chloride ions into the supporting electrolyte. In an attempt to impede electrode fouling, pulsed chronoamperometry (CA) was implemented and resulted in ∼10% higher p-cresol removal compared to CA at constant potential. Boron doped diamond (BDD) was also explored as an alternative working electrode. p-Cresol oxidation on the diamond surface resulted in higher removal percentages, but the desired oxidation product was not detected by Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) likely due to complete combustion.
MnO2-Pi on Biomass Derived Porous Carbon for Electro-Catalytic Oxidation of Pyridyl Carbinol
Authors: Mathew Agnus T. , Hegde Supriya , Akshaya K. B. , P. Kannan , Varghese Anitha , Hegde Gurumurthy
Published: September 2020

A facile electrochemical oxidation of pyridyl carbinol based on Manganese dioxide-Phosphate (MnO2-Pi) was fabricated by electro-deposition of MnO2-Pi on Porous carbon nanospheres (PCN) modified carbon fiber paper (CFP) electrode. A simple working electrode was developed initially by coating Monkey Pod (MP) derived PCN on carbon fiber paper (CFP) electrode. Voltammetric deposition of MnO2-Pi on PCN/CFP electrode was carried out in an electrolyte containing phosphate buffer and KMnO4. The modified electrodes (PCN/CFP and MnO2-Pi-PCN/CFP) were characterized by different physicochemical methods and electroanalytical techniques like cyclic voltammetry and AC impedance spectroscopy. Inorganic phosphate (Pi) and MnO2 centers present on PCN/CFP electrode plays a major role towards oxidation of pyridyl carbinol electrochemically. The proposed MnO2-Pi-PCN/CFP electrode was effectively applied for the electrochemical oxidation of pyridyl carbinol in TEMPO medium.