bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prevalence and distribution in genomes of low-complexity, amyloid-like, reversible, kinked segment (LARKS), a common structural motif in amyloid-like fibrils
Authors: Hughes Michael P. , Goldschmidt Luki , Eisenberg David S.
Published: December 2020

Membraneless Organelles (MLOs) are vital and dynamic reaction centers in cells that organize metabolism in the absence of a membrane. Multivalent interactions between protein Low-Complexity Domains (LCDs) contribute to MLO organization. Our previous work used computational methods to identify structural motifs termed Low-complexity Amyloid-like Reversible Kinked Segments (LARKS) that can phase-transition to form hydrogels and are common in human proteins that participate in MLOs. Here we searched for LARKS in proteomes of six model organisms:Homo sapiens, Drosophila melanogaster, Plasmodium falciparum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, andEscherichia coli. We find LARKS are abundant inM. tuberculosis, D. melanogaster, andH. sapiens, but not inS. cerevisiaeorP. falciparum. Abundant LARKS require high glycine content, which enables kinks to form in LARKS as is illustrated in the known LARKS-rich amyloid structures of TDP43, FUS, and hnRNPA2, three proteins that participate in MLOs. These results support the idea of LARKS as an evolved structural motif and we offer the LARKSdb webserver which permits users to search for LARKS in their protein sequences of interest.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity ofAndrographis paniculataextract and its major component Andrographolide in human lung epithelial cells and cytotoxicity evaluation in major organ cell representatives
Authors: Sa-ngiamsuntorn Khanit , Suksatu Ampa , Pewkliang Yongyut , Thongsri Piyanoot , Kanjanasirirat Phongthon , Manopwisedjaroen Suwimon , Charoensutthivarakul Sitthivut , Wongtrakoongate Patompon , Pitiporn Supaporn , Khemawoot Phisit , Chutipongtanate Somchai , Borwornpinyo Suparerk , Thitithanyanont Arunee , Hongeng Suradej
Published: December 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has become a major health problem affecting more than fifty million cases with over one million deaths globally. The effective antivirals are still lacking. Here, we optimized a high-content imaging platform and the plaque assay for viral output study using the legitimate model of human lung epithelial cells, Calu-3, to determine anti-SARS-CoV–2 activity ofAndrographis paniculataextract and its major component andrographolide. SARS-CoV-2 at 25TCID50was able to reach the maximal infectivity of 95% in Calu-3 cells. Post-infection treatment ofA. paniculataand andrographolide in SARS-CoV–2 infected Calu-3 cells significantly inhibited the production of infectious virions with the IC50of 0.036 μg/mL and 0.034 μM, respectively, as determined by plaque assay. The cytotoxicity profile developed over the cell line representatives of major organs, including liver (HepG2 and imHC), kidney (HK-2), intestine (Caco-2), lung (Calu-3) and brain (SH-SY5Y), showed the CC50of >100 μg/mL forA. paniculataextract and 13.2-81.5 μM for andrographolide, respectively, corresponding to the selectivity index over 380. In conclusion, this study provided experimental evidence in favor ofA. paniculataand andrographolide for further development as a monotherapy or in combination with other effective drugs against SARS-CoV–2 infection.
A Draft Genome forHirudo verbana, the Medicinal Leech
Authors: Paulsen Riley T. , Agany Diing D.M. , Petersen Jason , Davis Christel M. , Ehli Erik A. , Gnimpieba Etienne , Burrell Brian D.
Published: December 2020

The medicinal leech,Hirudo verbana, is a powerful model organism for investigating fundamental neurobehavioral processes. The well-documented arrangement and properties ofH. verbana’s nervous system allows changes at the level of specific neurons or synapses to be linked to physiological and behavioral phenomena. Juxtaposed to the extensive knowledge ofH. verbana’snervous system is a limited, but recently expanding, portfolio of molecular and multi-omics tools. Together, the advancement of genetic databases forH. verbanawill complement existing pharmacological and electrophysiological data by affording targeted manipulation and analysis of gene expression in neural pathways of interest. Here, we present the first draft genome assembly forH. verbana, which is approximately 250 Mbp in size and consists of 61,282 contigs. Whole genome sequencing was conducted using an Illumina sequencing platform followed by genome assembly with CLC-Bio Genomics Workbench and subsequent functional annotation. Ultimately, the diversity of organisms for which we have genomic information should parallel the availability of next generation sequencing technologies to widen the comparative approach to understand the involvement and discovery of genes in evolutionarily conserved processes. Results of this work hope to facilitate comparative studies withH.verbanaand provide the foundation for future, more complete, genome assemblies of the leech.
The spatio-temporal axis for phenotypic change: a comparison of source and translocated Arctic charr populations after 25 generations
Authors: Hassve Marius H. , Hagenlund Mari , Østbye Kjartan , Häkli Katja , Vogler Thomas , Gregersen Finn , Andersen Gørli B. , Stegarud Svein O. , Langdal Kjell , Waalberg Max E. , Langevoll Karl C. , Præbel Kim
Published: December 2020

Evolution of morphological traits is hypothesized to act on an extended time scale, yet studies have suggested that these changes are possible within a few generations. Trophic polymorphism enabled through niche adaptations and ecological opportunity is one phenomenon that facilitate occurrence of rapid adaptive variation, common in many northern freshwater fish species. One such species is Arctic charr, which is known for its extensive variation in morphology and the occurrence of morphs. However, the speed at which such morphological variation arises is poorly studied despite the importance for understanding the onset of evolution. The aim of this study was to elucidate this process in a gradient of eight lakes that was stocked with Arctic charr in the period from 1910 to 1917 from Lake Tinnsjøen, Norway. We used morphological measurements to test for differences in traits between populations and Haldane and Darwin’s evolutionary rates to estimate divergence rates in traits. We also tested for correlation between putative genetic and morphological divergence. In addition, we contrasted the morphological divergence with that expected under neutral genetic expectations, using 12 microsatellite markers, to analyze whether and which morphological differences that is following early genetic divergence. A significant genetic differentiation was found between the source population and five of the translocated populations with corresponding differences in morphological traits for four of the populations. Population genetic structuring indicated six different genetic clusters. The translocated populations also exhibited trait divergence estimated with both Haldane and Darwin’s rates. Differences in morphological traits showed a significant correlation with genetic divergence, and the morphological differences were most likely affected by differences in lake parameters such as maximum depth, lake size and fish community. We conclude that intraspecific morphological and genetic divergence can form on short evolutionary time scales with important implications for conservation and management practices.
Srsf3 mediates alternative RNA splicing downstream of PDGFRα signaling
Authors: Dennison Brenna J.C. , Larson Eric D. , Fu Rui , Mo Julia , Fantauzzo Katherine A.
Published: December 2020

Signaling through the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) is critical for mammalian craniofacial development, though the mechanisms by which the activity of downstream intracellular effectors is regulated to mediate gene expression changes have not been defined. We find that the RNA-binding protein Srsf3 is phosphorylated at Akt consensus sites downstream of PI3K-mediated PDGFRα signaling in palatal mesenchyme cells, leading to its nuclear translocation. We further demonstrate that ablation ofSrsf3in the neural crest lineage leads to facial clefting due to defective cranial neural crest cell specification and survival. Finally, we show that Srsf3 regulates the alternative RNA splicing of transcripts encoding protein kinases in the facial process mesenchyme to negatively regulate PDGFRα signaling. Collectively, our findings reveal that PI3K/Akt-mediated PDGFRα signaling primarily modulates gene expression through alternative RNA splicing in the facial mesenchyme and identify Srsf3 as a critical regulator of craniofacial development.
Extracellular spreading of Wingless is required forDrosophilaoogenesis
Authors: Wang Xiaoxi , LaFever Kimberly S. , Waghmare Indrayani , Page-McCaw Andrea
Published: December 2020

Recent studies have investigated whether the Wnt family of extracellular ligands can signal at long range, spreading from their source and acting as morphogens, or whether they signal only in a juxtacrine manner to neighboring cells. The original evidence for long-range Wnt signaling arose from studies of Wg, aDrosophilaWnt protein, which patterns the wing disc over several cell diameters from a central source of Wg ligand. However, the requirement of long-range Wg for patterning was called into question when it was reported that replacing the secreted protein Wg with a membrane-tethered version, NRT-Wg, results in flies with normally patterned wings. We and others previously reported that Wg spreads in the ovary about 50 μm or 5 cell diameters, from the cap cells to the follicle stem cells (FSCs) and that Wg stimulates FSC proliferation. We used theNRT-wgflies to analyze the consequence of tethering Wg to the cap cells.NRT-wghomozygous flies are sickly, but we found that hemizygousNRT-wg/nullflies, carrying only one copy of tethered Wingless, were significantly healthier. Despite their overall improved health, these hemizygous flies displayed dramatic reductions in fertility and in FSC proliferation. Further, FSC proliferation was nearly undetectable when thewglocus was converted toNRT-wgonly in adults, and the resulting germarium phenotype was consistent with a previously reportedwgloss-of-function phenotype. We conclude that Wg protein spreads from its source cells in the germarium to promote FSC proliferation.
Relevance of disaster awareness factors and evacuation experiment without emergency alarm: fire case study
Authors: Adhiutama Akbar , Darmawan Rony , Nuraeni Shimaditya , Pambudi Noorhan Firdaus , Mulyono Nur Budi
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The lack of studies about the relevance of disaster awareness factors and disaster evacuation as a part of disaster responses especially for fire cases in an academic environment in Indonesia has triggered this study to explore the disaster awareness factors and evacuation experiment without emergency alarm for case study students in the classroom. The relevance of disaster awareness factors in transforming into practical action and decision in a disaster evacuation need to be examined to study the relevance of both phases in disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

This research conducted a quantitative approach by studying questionnaires from 162 respondents collectively divided into five groups to examine the student disaster awareness factors randomly from those groups. The qualitative approach was implemented through the evacuation experiments that were conducted twice to analyze the disaster evacuation performance. The analysis for the relevance is conducted by comparing the result of the questionnaire study and the evacuation experiment.

Findings

According to the questionnaire study, generally, the students are highly confident with their hazard knowledge in disaster awareness except that half of them are doubtful about appropriate steps in a disaster. The experiment without explosive sound showed that they have slower responses in the critical moment of evacuation. The response in the experiments showed relevance with several disaster awareness factors

Research limitations/implications

This study has explored the relevance of disaster awareness factors with disaster response in a campus building. In the part of reducing risk during fire disaster, this research shows the importance of social interaction and hazard knowledge during the disaster.

Practical implications

The improvement of disaster evacuation procedures and training in a campus building is mandatory to reduce disaster risk based on the relevance of disaster awareness factors and disaster response in this study.

Originality/value

This study measures the relevance of disaster awareness factors performance of the students by comparing it to their actions and decisions in an experimental setting of fire building. The disaster awareness factor performance was measured by a questionnaire survey while the experiments were deployed to observe the performance of their actions and decisions during evacuation as part of the disaster response phase.
Identification of knowledge assets in construction projects and their impact on project performance
Authors: Singla Harish Kumar , Shrivas Abhishek , Sharma Ashu
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The previous researchers have identified human capital, relational capital and structural capital as knowledge assets in knowledge-driven organizations. The current study is an attempt to identify and validate the knowledge assets in construction projects. The study also aims to understand the interrelation of these knowledge assets and their impact on project performance through the development of a conceptual model.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is divided into three phases. In phase I, the constructs of “knowledge assets” and “project performance” in construction projects are identified using the exploratory factor analysis. In phase II, these constructs are validated using confirmatory factor analysis. Two separate surveys are conducted for phase I and phase II, respectively. In phase III, the authors develop two conceptual models based on the literature review and two construction project cases in India. The models examine the inter-relationship of knowledge assets and measures their impact on project performance. The models are empirically tested using the responses of the second survey through a structural equation model.

Findings

The study extracts four knowledge asset constructs and one performance construct which are named human capital, structural capital, relational capital, human capital capacity building process and project performance, respectively. The study finds that both the conceptual models are statistically excellent fit. The results of the models suggest that relational capital and structural capital have a direct positive impact on project performance, whereas human capital has an indirect effect on project performance mediated through relational capital, structural capital and human capital capacity building process.

Research limitations/implications

The items for knowledge asset constructs and measurement of project performance are moderated by experts, working in construction projects in India, hence the process may contain subjective bias. Further, two construction project cases were selected by authors in the study that originate from India.

Practical implications

The study has implications for the project executors (contractors) as well as for project owners. The contractors must maintain healthy relations with all the stakeholders in a project like a client, suppliers, architects, etc. They must develop systems that are people-friendly to avoid the problems of time and cost overruns in projects. The owners must also maintain healthy relations. This can result in a win-win situation for both parties and can lead to superior project performance.

Originality/value

The study develops and empirically tests two conceptual models that explain the interrelations of knowledge assets and how it benefits the construction project performance in India. Therefore, the generalization of the results is difficult; however, the results can be replicated in projects with similar settings.
Late Paleozoic Element Migration and Accumulation under Intracontinental Sinistral Strike‐slip Faulting in the West Junggar Orogenic Belt, NW China
Authors: WANG Ye , CHEN Xuanhua , NIE Lanshi , DING Weicui , WANG Xueqiu , XU Shenglin , MA Feizhou , HAN Lele
Published: December 2020

The migration, accumulation and dispersion of elements caused by tectonic dynamics have always been a focus of attention, and become the basis of tectono‐geochemistry. However, the effects of faulting, especially strike‐slip faulting, on the adjustment of geochemical element distribution, are still not clear. In this paper, we select the West Junggar Orogenic Belt (WJOB), NW China, as a case study to test the migration behavior of elements under tectonic dynamics. The WJOB is dominated by NE‐trending large‐scale sinistral strike‐slip faults such as the Darabut Fault, the Mayile Fault, and the Baerluke Fault, which formed during the intracontinental adjustment under N–S compression during ocean‐continental conversion in the Late Paleozoic. Geochemical maps of 13 elements, Al, W, Sn, Mo, Cu, Pb, Zn, As, Sb, Hg, Fe, Ni, and Au, are analyzed for the effects of faulting and folding on element distribution at the regional scale. The results show that the element distribution in the WJOB is controlled mainly by two mechanisms during tectonic deformation: first is the material transporting mechanism, where the movement of geological units is consistent with the direction of tectonic movement; second is the diffusion mechanism, especially by tectonic pressure dissolution driven by tectonic dynamics, where the migration of elements is approximately perpendicular or opposite to the direction of tectonic movement. We conclude that the adjustment of element distributions has been determined by the combined actions of transporting and diffusion mechanisms, and that the diffusion mechanism plays an important role in the formation of geochemical Au blocks in the WJOB.
Safety and Pharmacokinetics of the Oral TYK2 Inhibitor PF‐06826647: A Phase I, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Dose‐Escalation Study
Authors: Singh Ravi Shankar P. , Pradhan Vivek , Roberts Erika S. , Scaramozza Matthew , Kieras Elizabeth , Gale Jeremy D. , Peeva Elena , Vincent Michael S. , Banerjee Anindita , Fensome Andrew , Dowty Martin E. , Winkle Peter , Tehlirian Christopher
Published: December 2020

Selective inhibition of tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) may offer therapeutic promise in inflammatory conditions, with its role in downstream pro‐inflammatory cytokine signaling. In this first‐in‐human study, we evaluated the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of a novel TYK2 inhibitor, PF‐06826647, in healthy participants. This phase I, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group study included two treatment periods (single ascending dose (SAD) and multiple ascending dose (MAD)) in healthy participants and a cohort of healthy Japanese participants receiving 400 mg q.d. or placebo in the MAD period (NCT03210961). Participants were randomly assigned to PF‐06826647 or placebo (3:1). Participants received a single oral study drug dose of 3, 10, 30, 100, 200, 400, or 1,600 mg (SAD period), then 30, 100, 400, or 1,200 mg q.d. or 200 mg b.i.d. for 10 days (MAD period). Safety (adverse events (AEs), vital signs, and clinical laboratory parameters), tolerability, and PK were assessed. Overall, 69 participants were randomized to treatment, including six Japanese participants. No deaths, serious AEs, severe AEs, or AEs leading to dose reduction or temporary/permanent discontinuation were observed. All AEs were mild in severity. No clinically relevant laboratory abnormalities or changes in vital signs were detected. PF‐06826647 was rapidly absorbed with a median time to maximum plasma concentration of 2 hours in a fasted state, with modest accumulation (< 1.5‐fold) after multiple dosing and low urinary recovery. PF‐06826647 was well‐tolerated, with an acceptable safety profile for doses up to 1,200 mg q.d. for 10 days, supporting further testing in patients.
Assessment of von Willebrand disease and pregnancy outcomes at regional Australian hospitals
Authors: Wilson Emily , Hanna Fayez , Hyppa Annemarie , Orlowski Ella , Dawar Hizb U. , Sanga Zar , Dennis Amanda , Pavlov Toly , Khalafallah Alhossain A.
Published: December 2020

Background

von Willebrand disease (vWD) is a heterogeneous hereditary bleeding disorder and is associated with risk of primary postpartum haemorrhage (PPH).

Design and Methods

An observational study at a tertiary referral centre in Australia of 16 women with 23 deliveries with a median age of 27.5 years (range, 21‐39; IQR = 9). Median gestational age at delivery was 39 weeks (range, 35‐41; IQR = 1.1).

Results

All cases had type 1 vWD, apart from one case with type 2. Patients were managed in combined obstetrics and haematology clinics. PPH occurred in ten deliveries (44%). Intravenous desmopressin was administered in 6 cases, and IV human vWF was administered in 4 cases. Two cases with mild vWD had received oral tranexamic acid. The median Apgar score at 1 and 5 min was 9 (IQR = 1.0), while the median Apgar score at 10 min was 10.0 (IQR = 0.0). One case required transfusion of blood products postdelivery. There were no other significant complications observed.

Conclusions

vWD was associated with a high incidence of primary PPH. Individualised treatment to restore haemostasis, according to the severity of the disease, could achieve as possible, normal haemostasis with favourable outcomes for both mothers and their infants. Further studies to confirm our findings are warranted.
Implementation challenges for seafarers’ social security protection: The case of the European Union
Authors: Carballo Piñeiro Laura
Published: December 2020

In a world of competing flag States and short‐term employment, enjoying the benefits provided by a social security system is a difficult, if not impossible, task for many seafarers. The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, has abandoned the flag State principle in favour of the residence principle for that reason. This article addresses the implementation challenges of this approach by examining the European Union case, and highlights the advantages of the residence principle in terms of administrative efficiency and effectiveness, enhanced coordination between social security contributions and personal income tax in cross‐border situations, and better use of State aid measures.
Influence of water activity on belite (β‐C2S) hydration
Authors: Cook Rachel , Ma Hongyan , Okoronkwo Monday , Sant Gaurav , Kumar Aditya
Published: December 2020

The hydration of the two most reactive phases of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), tricalcium silicate (C3S), and tricalcium aluminate (C3A) is successfully halted when the activity of water () falls below critical thresholds of 0.70 and 0.45, respectively. It has been established that the reduction in relative humidity (RH) and  suppresses the hydration of all anhydrous phases in OPC, including less explored phases like dicalcium silicate, that is, belite (β‐C2S). However, the degree of suppression, that is, the critical threshold, for β‐C2S, standalone has yet to be established. This study utilizes isothermal microcalorimetry and X‐ray diffraction techniques to elucidate the influence of on the hydration of ‐C2S suspensions via incremental replacements of water with isopropanol (IPA). Experimentally, this study shows that with increasing IPA replacements, hydration is increasingly suppressed until eventually brought to a halt at a critical threshold of approximately 27.7% IPA on a weight basis (wt.%IPA). From thermodynamic estimations, the exact critical threshold and solubility product constant of ‐C2S () are established as 0.913 and 10−12.68, respectively. This study enables enhanced understanding of β‐C2S reactivity and provides thermodynamic parameters during the hydration of β‐C2S‐containing cementitious systems such as OPC‐based and calcium aluminate‐based systems.
Common causes of hair loss – clinical manifestations, trichoscopy and therapy
Authors: Alessandrini A. , Bruni F. , Piraccini B.M. , Starace M.
Published: December 2020

The field of hair disorders is constantly growing. The most important hair diseases are divided in non‐ cicatricial and cicatricial ones. Non‐cicatricial alopecia are more frequent than cicatricial alopecia. The first step is to obtain a good history and physical examination. Laboratory testing is often unnecessary, while trichoscopy is fundamental for all hair diseases. Scalp biopsy is strongly suggested in cicatricial alopecia and in doubtful cases. Androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, trichotillomania are common causes of non‐ cicatricial alopecia. Frontal fibrosing alopecia, discoid lupus erythematosus, lichen planopilaris, follicullitis decalvans are some of the most common forms of cicatricial hair loss. Many treatments are available, and a prompt diagnosis is very important for the prognosis.
Chemical Composition, Knoop Hardness, Surface Roughness, and Adhesion Aspects of Additively Manufactured Dental Interim Materials
Authors: Revilla‐León Marta , Morillo Jorge Alberto , Att Wael , Özcan Mutlu
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To measure the chemical composition, Knoop hardness, surface roughness, and composite bond strength of additive manufactured (AM) and conventional interim materials.

Material and Methods

Disks were prepared using conventionally (CNV group) and additively manufactured (AM group) materials: CNV‐1 (Protemp 4; 3M ESPE), CNV‐2 (Anaxdent new outline dentin; Anaxdent), AM‐1 (FreePrint temp; Detax), AM‐2 (E‐Dent 400 C&B MFH; Envisiontec), AM‐3 (NextDent C&B MFH; 3D Systems), and AM‐4 (Med620 VEROGlaze; Stratasys). Each group was subdivided into 3 subgroups (n = 20) for analyzing Knoop hardness (KHN), chemical composition, superficial roughness (Ra), and composite shear bond strength. The first subgroup was exposed to a microhardness test. Subsequently, EDAX analysis was selected to analyze the chemical composition. The second subgroup was selected to measure the superficial roughness (Ra) using a contact profilometer. The third subgroup was used to measured composite shear bond strength using a universal testing apparatus. A digital microscope was used to analyze the fracture mode. The Shapiro‐Wilk test showed normally distributed data. One‐way ANOVA and post hoc Sidak tests were selected (α = 0.05).

Results

Major variances in chemical composition were observed among the specimens. Significant differences in Knoop hardness (p < 0.001) and surface roughness (p < 0.001) were detected. The AM‐4 (13.45 ± 2.93 KHN), the CNV‐2 (13.35 ± 5.84 KHN), the AM‐2 (13.03 ± 3.29 KHN), and the AM‐1 (12.55 ± 2.93 KHN) groups obtained the highest Knoop hardness values, followed by the AM‐3 and the CNV‐1 groups (p < 0.05). The AM‐1 group (1.88 ± 1.11 Ra) obtained the highest surface roughness values among the groups, followed by the AM‐3 group (0.90 ± 0.14 Ra) (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences in shear bond strength values were found between the groups ranging from 23.18 ± 8.88 MPa to 33.29 ± 9.17 MPa (p = 0.061). All the groups showed a cohesive mode of failure.

Conclusions

The AM interim materials tested had significant chemical composition variations compared to conventional materials. For the mechanical properties evaluated, the AM materials obtained appropriate mechanical properties for use as an interim dental restoration. However, further studies are required to evaluate more extensively its mechanical properties and verify their applicability in the oral cavity, clinical behavior, and biocompatibility.
Epidemiological characteristics and transmission dynamics of paediatric cases with coronavirus disease 2019 in Hubei province, China
Authors: Wang Mengyi , Nie XiuQuan , Huang Shuqiong , Pi Wei , Wang Dongming , Zhou Min , Ma Jixuan , Li Mingyan , Chen Weihong
Published: December 2020

Aim

This study aimed to identify the epidemiological characteristics and transmission dynamics of paediatric cases.

Methods

Information on 1369 paediatric cases with COVID‐19 from 8 December 2019 to 7 March 2020 in Hubei province was extracted from the National Infectious Disease Surveillance System. The analysis included epidemic curves, temporal–spatial distribution, clinical classification and interval times between onset and diagnosis.

Results

Among 1369 paediatric cases, the median age was 9 years and 58.2% of them were males. The proportion of severe and critical cases in children was lower than that in adults and the proportion of asymptomatic cases in children was five times greater than for adult cases. The first paediatric case was reported on 2 January 2020, and the daily number of new paediatric cases remained high from 1 February through to 22 February. The epidemiological curve of paediatric cases lagged behind that of adults by 19 days, and the first spike of the epidemic curve in senior high school students occurred 1 week earlier than in other paediatric groups. The proportion of clustered cases among children was about twice that for adults. The median of the interval in paediatric cases between onset and diagnosis, isolation and notification were 3, 0 and 3 days, respectively, and all of those were significantly shorter than in adults.

Conclusions

The epidemic curve of child cases lagged behind that of adult cases by 19 days, and the major form of transmission observed was in clusters.
Policy Uncertainty and Customer Concentration
Authors: Leung Woon Sau , Sun Jiong
Published: December 2020

Using data involving customer–supplier relationships and a large sample of US publicly listed firms, our study documents a negative and statistically significant relationship between economic policy uncertainty and firms’ customer‐base concentration. The negative relation is predominant in firms with higher inventory efficiency and those operating in competitive, high‐R&D, and nondurable industries. Customer‐base diversification is further shown to enhance firm performance during periods of increasing policy uncertainty, but not when policy uncertainty decreases. Overall, our evidence suggests that firms respond to increasing policy uncertainty by diversifying their customer base and such behavior contributes positively to firm performance.
When Does Dispute Resolution Substitute for a Reputation System? Empirical Evidence from a Service Procurement Platform
Authors: Burtch Gordon , Hong Yili , Kumar Senthil
Published: December 2020

We consider the role of online dispute resolution (ex‐post guarantees of supplier quality) when introduced in the presence of an online reputation system (an ex‐ante informational mechanism), in the context of online service procurement platforms. We argue that dispute resolution will reduce buyers’ reliance on reputation systems in their hiring decisions to varying extents, depending on the nature of the work required. We assess these predictions using proprietary data capturing projects, service providers, bids, and hiring decisions around a natural experiment: the introduction of a new dispute resolution system at a major online service procurement platform. We provide evidence consistent with our expectations; introducing a dispute resolution system led buyers to reduce their consideration of service provider rating volumes in hiring decisions, particularly for projects where service provider performance could be evaluated objectively by a third party (e.g., data entry, as opposed to more subjective, creative work, like logo design). We also report a variety of additional analyses, which demonstrate the robustness of our findings to alternative measures, dynamics of the effects depending on buyers’ experience with the dispute process, and the impact of the dispute service on buyers’ propensity to enter ratings of service providers. These findings provide empirical evidence that dispute resolution can be an effective, alternative means of mitigating supplier quality risks in online service procurement markets in place of ex‐ante signals of provider quality. However, this is particularly true in settings where the output of work contracted can be objectively evaluated by a third party.
Civilian prehospital transfusion – experiences from a French region
Authors: Cassignol Arnaud , Marmin Julien , Mattei Pascal , Goffinet Léa , Pons Sandrine , Renard Aurélien , Demory Didier , Bordes Julien
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives

Haemorrhagic shock is a leading cause of avoidable mortality in prehospital care. For several years, our centre has followed a procedure of transfusing two units of packed red blood cells outside the hospital. Our study’s aim was twofold: describe the patient characteristics of those receiving prehospital blood transfusions and analyse risk factors for the 7‐day mortality rate.

Materials and methods

We performed a monocentric retrospective observational study. Demographic and physiological data were recovered from medical records. The primary outcome was mortality at seven days for all causes. All patients receiving prehospital blood transfusions between 2013 and 2018 were included.

Results

Out of 116 eligible patients, 56 patients received transfusions. Trauma patients (n = 18) were younger than medical patients (n = 38) (P = 0·012), had lower systolic blood pressure (P = 0·001) and had higher haemoglobin levels (P = 0·016). Mortality was higher in the trauma group than the medical group (P = 0·015). In‐hospital trauma patients received more fresh‐frozen plasma and platelet concentrate than medical patients (P < 0·05). Predictive factors of 7‐day mortality included transfusion for trauma‐related reasons, low Glasgow Coma Scale, low peripheral oxygen saturation, prehospital intensive resuscitation, existing coagulation disorders, acidosis and hyperlactataemia (P < 0·05).

Conclusion

Current guidelines recommend early transfusion in patients with haemorrhagic shock. Prehospital blood transfusions are safe. Coagulation disorders and acidosis remain a cause of premature death in patients with prehospital transfusions.
First-Order Error-Adapted Eigen Perturbation for Real-Time Modal Identification of Vibrating Structures
Authors: Panda Satyam , Tripura Tapas , Hazra Budhaditya
Published: December 2020

A new computationally efficient error adaptive first-order eigen-perturbation technique for real-time modal identification of linear vibrating systems is proposed. The existence of error terms in the approximation of the eigenvalue problem of response covariance matrix in a perturbative framework often hinders the convergence of response-only modal identification. In the proposed method, the error in first-order eigen-perturbation is incorporated using a feedback, formulated by exploiting the generalized eigenvalue decomposition of the real-time covariance matrix of streaming response data. Since the incorporation of the higher-order perturbation terms in the total perturbation is mathematically challenging, the proposed feedback approach provides a computationally efficient framework yet in a more elegant manner. A new criterion for the quality of updated eigenspace is proposed in the present work utilizing the concept of diagonal dominance. Numerical case studies and validation using a standard ASCE benchmark problem have shown applicability of the proposed approach in faster estimation of real-time modal properties and anomaly identification with minimal number of initially required batch data. The applicability of the proposed approach toward real-time under-determined modal identification problems is demonstrated using a real-time decentralized framework. The advantage of rapidly converging online mode-shapes is demonstrated using a passive vibration control problem, where a multi-tuned-mass-damper (MTMD) for a multi-degrees-of-freedom system is tuned online. An extension for online retuning of the detuned MTMD system further demonstrates the fidelity of the proposed algorithm in online passive control.
The Evaluation of the Primary Circuit Passivation Layer Formed After Hot Functional Tests at the EMO3
Authors: Kůs Pavel , Kronďák Martin , Skala Martin , Kobzová Alena , Brabec Petr , Halodová Patricie , Mihóková Janka , Tkáč Štefan , Černá Anna
Published: December 2020

The presented article outlines and describes the processes involved in the creation and testing of the passivation layer that was created during hot functional tests (HFTs) at the third unit of the nuclear power plant (NPP) Mochovce. The article is divided into several sections. In Sec. 1 is the description of the hot tests on the third block, in particular the chemical regime, i.e., the formation of hydrogen or the necessary adjustment of the pH value. Sec. 2 of the article describes the evaluation of the passivation layer using instrumental techniques, i.e., Raman microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results obtained by using these techniques provided a comprehensive view of the resulting layer and clearly defined its' structure. The measurement revealed that a passivation layer was formed, the inner layer of which is enriched with a chrome element. The upper part of the passivation layer was composed of iron oxides, mainly magnetite.
Application of Alumina-Based Ceramic Paste for High-Temperature Electronics Packaging
Authors: Nasiri Ardalan , Ang Simon
Published: December 2020

Alumina-based die-attach and encapsulation for high-temperature (300–500 °C) electronic packaging were investigated. The alumina paste material comprises aluminum dihydric phosphate as a binder and alumina powder as a filler with embedded nano-aluminum nitride and nanosilica powders to promote its curing process, reduce its curing tension, and increase its bond shear strength. The chip-to-substrate bond strength was enhanced and met the MIL-STD-883 2019.9 requirements for die-attach assembly. Its encapsulation property was improved with fewer cracks compared to similar commercial ceramic encapsulants. The die-attach material and encapsulation properties tested at 500 °C showed no defect or additional cracks. Thermal aging and thermal cycling were carried out on the samples. X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed a higher oxygen bonding percentage for the 10% nanosilica ceramic sample than the samples with no nanosilica. XRD peak broadening is largest for the 10% nanosilica ceramic, which indicated smaller crystallite sizes. The smaller crystallite size for the 10% nanosilica sample introduces a larger microstrain to the alumina crystal structure. FTIR revealed the presence of alumina-silicate bonds on these samples with the largest amount present in the 10% nanosilica samples. Si-O and Al-O bonds were observed from FTIR on nanosilica samples especially the higher than 10% nanosilica samples. SEM and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) results showed a uniform bond line for the 10% sample and uniform material distribution.
Applications and Impacts of Nanoscale Thermal Transport in Electronics Packaging
Authors: Warzoha Ronald J. , Wilson Adam A. , Donovan Brian F. , Donmezer Nazli , Giri Ashutosh , Hopkins Patrick E. , Choi Sukwon , Pahinkar Darshan , Shi Jingjing , Graham Samuel , Tian Zhiting , Ruppalt Laura
Published: December 2020

This review introduces relevant nanoscale thermal transport processes that impact thermal abatement in power electronics applications. Specifically, we highlight the importance of nanoscale thermal transport mechanisms at each layer in material hierarchies that make up modern electronic devices. This includes those mechanisms that impact thermal transport through: (1) substrates, (2) interfaces and two-dimensional materials, and (3) heat spreading materials. For each material layer, we provide examples of recent works that (1) demonstrate improvements in thermal performance and/or (2) improve our understanding of the relevance of nanoscale thermal transport across material junctions. We end our discussion by highlighting several additional applications that have benefited from a consideration of nanoscale thermal transport phenomena, including radio frequency (RF) electronics and neuromorphic computing.
Concurrent Validity of ActiGraph GT3X+ and Axivity AX3 Accelerometers for Estimating Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior
Authors: Hedayatrad Leila , Stewart Tom , Duncan Scott
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Accelerometers are commonly used to assess time-use behaviors related to physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep; however, as new accelerometer technologies emerge, it is important to ensure consistency with previous devices. This study aimed to evaluate the concurrent validity of the commonly used accelerometer, ActiGraph GT3X+, and the relatively new Axivity AX3 (fastened to the lower back) for detecting physical activity intensity and body postures when using direct observation as the criterion measure. Methods: A total of 41 children (aged 6–16 years) and 33 adults (aged 28–59 years) wore both monitors concurrently while performing 10 prescribed activities under laboratory conditions. The GT3X+ data were categorized into different physical activity intensity and posture categories using intensity-based cut points and ActiGraph proprietary inclinometer algorithms, respectively. The AX3 data were first converted to ActiGraph counts before being categorized into different physical activity intensity categories, while activity recognition models were used to detect the target postures. Sensitivity, specificity, and the balanced accuracy for intensity and posture category classification were calculated for each accelerometer. Differences in balanced accuracy between the devices and between children and adults were also calculated. Results: Both accelerometers obtained 74–96% balanced accuracy, with the AX3 performing slightly better (∼4% higher, p < .01) for detecting postures and physical activity intensity. Error in both devices was greatest when contrasting sitting/standing, sedentary/light intensity, and moderate/light intensity. Conclusion: In comparison with the GT3X+ accelerometer, AX3 was able to detect various postures and activity intensities with slightly higher balanced accuracy in children and adults.
Bilateral visual improvement with unilateral gene therapy injection for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy
Authors: Yu-Wai-Man Patrick , Newman Nancy J. , Carelli Valerio , Moster Mark L. , Biousse Valerie , Sadun Alfredo A. , Klopstock Thomas , Vignal-Clermont Catherine , Sergott Robert C. , Rudolph Günther , La Morgia Chiara , Karanjia Rustum , Taiel Magali , Blouin Laure , Burguière Pierre , Smits Gerard , Chevalier Caroline , Masonson Harvey , Salermo Yordak , Katz Barrett , Picaud Serge , Calkins David J. , Sahel José-Alain
Published: December 2020

At 96 weeks after unilateral intravitreal injection of rAAV2/2-
ND4
, vision improved in both eyes in 78% of subjects affected with LHON.
An epoxide hydrolase inhibitor reduces neuroinflammation in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ghosh Anamitra , Comerota Michele M. , Wan Debin , Chen Fading , Propson Nicholas E. , Hwang Sung Hee , Hammock Bruce D. , Zheng Hui
Published: December 2020

Blocking epoxide hydrolase with a bioavailable small-molecule inhibitor reduces neuropathology in an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model.
Aeromonas
Species from Nonchlorinated Distribution Systems and Their Competitive Planktonic Growth in Drinking Water
Authors: van Bel Nikki , van der Wielen Paul , Wullings Bart , van Rijn Jeroen , van der Mark Ed , Ketelaars Henk , Hijnen Wim
Published: December 2020

The occurrence of the bacterial genus
Aeromonas
in nonchlorinated drinking water in the Netherlands is regarded as an indication of elevated microbial regrowth in the distribution system. Identification of the prevalent species in 10 distribution systems by genotyping yielded seven different species, with
A. rivuli
,
A. veronii
, and
A. sobria
being the most dominant ones.
Diagnostic Accuracy Study of a Novel Blood-Based Assay for Identification of Tuberculosis in People Living with HIV
Authors: Södersten Erik , Ongarello Stefano , Mantsoki Anna , Wyss Romain , Persing David H. , Banderby Sara , Strömqvist Meuzelaar Linda , Prieto Jacqueline , Gnanashanmugam Devasena , Khatri Purvesh , Schumacher Samuel G. , Denkinger Claudia M.
Published: December 2020

A nonsputum triage test to rule out tuberculosis (TB) disease is a WHO high-priority diagnostic, and a combinatory score based on a 3-gene host signature has shown promise in discriminating TB from other illnesses. We evaluated the accuracy of an early-prototype cartridge assay (“Xpert MTB Host Response” or Xpert-MTB-HR-Prototype) of this 3-gene signature on biobanked blood samples from people living with HIV (PLHIV) against a comprehensive microbiological reference standard (CMRS) and against Xpert MTB/RIF on the first sputum sample alone.
Left atrio-oesophageal fistula after atrial fibrillation ablation
Authors: Paul Vishesh , Meenakshisundaram Rajamurugan , Jamal Abdur R , Bin Farooq Talha
Published: December 2020

We report a case of a 68-year-old woman who presented with atypical chest pain and fluctuating neurological symptoms 4 weeks after cryoballoon ablation procedure for atrial fibrillation. Brain imaging showed multiple embolic infarcts, while the chest imaging revealed an abnormal connection between the posterior wall of the left atrium and the oesophagus. Based on her clinical presentation and the imaging findings, a diagnosis of left atrio-oesophageal fistula (AOF) was established. AOF carries a high mortality rate unless an urgent surgical repair is performed. Oesophageal instrumentation for an echocardiogram or endoscopy should be avoided as it can result in massive air embolus, causing stroke or death.
Atezolizumab-induced myositis and myocarditis in a patient with metastatic urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Sessums Mary , Yarrarapu Siva , Guru Pramod K , Sanghavi Devang K
Published: December 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionised cancer therapy in the past decade. Although they have been indicated to treat a diverse range of malignant neoplasms, they are also associated with various immune-related adverse effects. We report the case of a 74-year-old man with a history of urothelial carcinoma who had atezolizumab-induced myocarditis and myositis resulting in acute hypercapnic respiratory failure, despite the discontinuation of atezolizumab and aggressive treatment with corticosteroids. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for early diagnosis and treatment of immune-related adverse events. Physicians must be aware of the risks associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors and have a basic knowledge regarding their management.
Common and external iliac artery occlusion in Behçet’s disease: a case of anchoring bias
Authors: Khawaja Hussain , Font Cristina
Published: December 2020

This report describes the case of a 45-year-old woman with a history of Behçet’s disease and complex regional pain syndrome of her legs who presented with severe pain and swelling in her left lower extremity. The patient was initially diagnosed with exacerbation of complex regional pain syndrome, which fit the symptom complex of hyperalgesia, oedema and skin temperature changes. However, after unsuccessful attempts at significant pain relief during admission, CT angiography demonstrated occlusion of the left common and external iliac arteries, a limb-threatening emergency. This case describes an example of anchoring bias, a type of cognitive bias in which there is a tendency to rely too heavily on an initial piece of information, the ‘anchor’, when making decisions. This report emphasises that clinicians should be aware of biases when making decisions and avoid anchoring bias by asking themselves if their diagnosis is influenced by any leading pieces of information.