bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A physics master’s degree opens doors to myriad careers
Authors: Feder Toni
Published: April 2019

If you want to improve your options in industry or consider a career in teaching, a master’s in physics may be for you.
Mechanical hive mind
Authors: Peleg Orit
Published: April 2019

Honeybees work together to maintain a stable structure that adapts to environmental changes.
Tellurium in the environment: current knowledge and identification of gaps
Authors: Filella Montserrat , Reimann Clemens , Biver Marc , Rodushkin Ilia , Rodushkina Katerina
Published: April 2019

Environmental contextTellurium, a chemical element increasingly being used in new technologies, is an emerging contaminant. Our understanding of tellurium’s environmental behaviour, however, is poor, with critical knowledge gaps such as its distribution in the various environmental compartments and the environmental fluxes associated with mining, usage and disposal. Significant progress in these areas requires the development of robust analytical methods that are sufficiently sensitive to provide data at environmentally relevant concentrations.
AbstractTellurium has recently become a ‘technology-critical element’ increasingly used in new applications. Thus, potential environmental impacts need to be evaluated. This, in turn, requires knowledge of its typical concentrations in the environment along with better understanding of the chemical processes governing its environmental behaviour. We evaluate the current situation of our understanding of tellurium in the environment and identify the areas where improvements in measurement technology are most needed. The comprehensive evaluation of published data described in this study shows that values for tellurium concentrations in the different environmental compartments are scarce, particularly in the case of natural waters where reliable estimates of tellurium concentrations in seawater and freshwater cannot even be produced. Data in air are even less abundant than for natural water. Concentration data do exist for soils suggesting a predominant geological origin. Some urban soil surveys and lake sediment data close to tellurium contamination sources point to possible effects on the element’s distribution as a result of human activity; long-range atmospheric transport remains to be proved. Current knowledge about tellurium behaviour in the environment is strongly hindered by analytical difficulties, with insufficiently low analytical detection limits being the main limitation. For instance, ‘dissolved’ concentrations are well below current analytical capabilities in natural water and often require pre-concentration procedures that, for the moment, do not provide consistent results; solid samples require complex mineralisation procedures that often exclude tellurium from routine multielement studies. In general, the use of available measuring techniques is far from straightforward and needs particular expertise. Overcoming the current analytical limitations is essential to be able to progress in the field.
Breaking tolerance with engineered class I antigen-presenting molecules
Authors: Parks Christopher A. , Henning Kalli R. , Pavelko Kevin D. , Hansen Michael J. , Van Keulen Virginia P. , Reed Brendan K. , Stone Jennifer D. , Schrum Adam G. , Gil Diana , Kranz David M. , Bordner Andrew J. , Barry Michael A. , Pease Larry R.
Published: April 2019

Significance

Provision of sufficient activating signals can drive self-tolerant T cells to cross-react on self-peptide-MHC in a breakdown of tolerance. This approach has been applied in the development of heteroclitic peptide vaccines, which retain sufficient similarity to self to allow reactivation of effector cells on unaltered self-epitopes but require detailed knowledge about the behavior of individual altered self-peptide antigens. We designed altered-self MHC mutant antigen-presenting molecules to drive CTL capable of cross-reacting on self-peptide-MHC and demonstrate the breaking of self-tolerance to defined and undefined self-antigens. These findings bear particular importance in the field of cancer immunotherapy in which breaking tolerance to weakly antigenic cancer-associated antigens is fundamental to vaccination strategies.
Earth history and the passerine superradiation
Authors: Oliveros Carl H. , Field Daniel J. , Ksepka Daniel T. , Barker F. Keith , Aleixo Alexandre , Andersen Michael J. , Alström Per , Benz Brett W. , Braun Edward L. , Braun Michael J. , Bravo Gustavo A. , Brumfield Robb T. , Chesser R. Terry , Claramunt Santiago , Cracraft Joel , Cuervo Andrés M. , Derryberry Elizabeth P. , Glenn Travis C. , Harvey Michael G. , Hosner Peter A. , Joseph Leo , Kimball Rebecca T. , Mack Andrew L. , Miskelly Colin M. , Peterson A. Townsend , Robbins Mark B. , Sheldon Frederick H. , Silveira Luís Fábio , Smith Brian Tilston , White Noor D. , Moyle Robert G. , Faircloth Brant C.
Published: April 2019

Avian diversification has been influenced by global climate change, plate tectonic movements, and mass extinction events. However, the impact of these factors on the diversification of the hyperdiverse perching birds (passerines) is unclear because family level relationships are unresolved and the timing of splitting events among lineages is uncertain. We analyzed DNA data from 4,060 nuclear loci and 137 passerine families using concatenation and coalescent approaches to infer a comprehensive phylogenetic hypothesis that clarifies relationships among all passerine families. Then, we calibrated this phylogeny using 13 fossils to examine the effects of different events in Earth history on the timing and rate of passerine diversification. Our analyses reconcile passerine diversification with the fossil and geological records; suggest that passerines originated on the Australian landmass ∼47 Ma; and show that subsequent dispersal and diversification of passerines was affected by a number of climatological and geological events, such as Oligocene glaciation and inundation of the New Zealand landmass. Although passerine diversification rates fluctuated throughout the Cenozoic, we find no link between the rate of passerine diversification and Cenozoic global temperature, and our analyses show that the increases in passerine diversification rate we observe are disconnected from the colonization of new continents. Taken together, these results suggest more complex mechanisms than temperature change or ecological opportunity have controlled macroscale patterns of passerine speciation.
Indexical ‘mismatch’; or, adaptability at work
Authors: Verschueren Jef
Published: April 2019

This epilogue reflects on the notions of ‘irregularity’ and ‘mismatch’ which form the leitmotiv for this issue on perspectivization in language use, and more specifically on perspective shift and perspective persistence. While endorsing the approach, it is suggested that, given the complexities involved (who orients to what aspects of context and how?) any stable form-function coding would probably fail to perform the communicative task at hand, so that adaptable structures and processes are predictable. It is also pointed out that the observed irregularities seem to show a high degree of persistence across time and space, and it is suggested that this ‘regularity’ may be the most useful focus for this type of research.
Mudge's Medley Concerto
Authors: Gibson Ronnie , Talbot Michael
Published: April 2019

A previously unnoticed concerto for two horns and strings published anonymously in London probably in late 1757 or 1758 is attributable to Richard Mudge (1718–63), a clergyman-composer best known for his Six Concertos in Seven Parts. The print names it A Concerto Principally Form'd upon Subjects Taken from Three Country Dances, and there is evidence to suggest that it is identical to the Medley Concerto listed elsewhere under Mudge's name. The concerto can in turn be linked to so-called ‘Medley Concerts’ that took place in London in 1757. The country dances, on whose material Mudge draws with obvious respect for the originals, are all Scottish tunes found in James Oswald's slightly earlier collections. Mudge's original and attractive work testifies to the great interest in Scottish, in particular ‘Highland’, music in mid-eighteenth-century London, prompting reflection on the many-sided and surprisingly intimate relationship that then existed between traditional music and art music.
Remediating Modernism: On the Digital Ends of Montreal's Electroacoustic Tradition
Authors: Valiquet Patrick
Published: April 2019

This article examines ongoing efforts to associate the decline of the modernist electroacoustic music tradition with the rise of digital technologies. Illustrative material is drawn from ethnographic and archival fieldwork conducted in 2011 and 2012 in the Canadian city of Montreal. The author surveys examples of institutions, careers, performances and works showing how the digital is brought into the ideological service of existing musical orders and power structures by musicians, policy-makers and other intermediaries. Drawing upon the social theories of Pierre Bourdieu and Georgina Born, as well as on contemporary media theory, the author argues that accounts of the disruptive agency of digital mediation are incomplete without a corresponding attention to the complex cultural mechanisms by which it is kept under control. What is at stake in the transformation of Montreal's electroacoustic tradition is not a collapse so much as a further remediation of modernist social and aesthetic principles.
Single-cell imaging of CAR T cell activity in vivo reveals extensive functional and anatomical heterogeneity
Authors: Cazaux Marine , Grandjean Capucine L. , Lemaître Fabrice , Garcia Zacarias , Beck Richard J. , Milo Idan , Postat Jérémy , Beltman Joost B. , Cheadle Eleanor J. , Bousso Philippe
Published: April 2019

CAR T cells represent a potentially curative strategy for B cell malignancies. However, the outcome and dynamics of CAR T cell interactions in distinct anatomical sites are poorly understood. Using intravital imaging, we tracked interactions established by anti-CD19 CAR T cells in B cell lymphoma–bearing mice. Circulating targets trapped CAR T cells in the lungs, reducing their access to lymphoid organs. In the bone marrow, tumor apoptosis was largely due to CAR T cells that engaged, killed, and detached from their targets within 25 min. Notably, not all CAR T cell contacts elicited calcium signaling or killing while interacting with tumors, uncovering extensive functional heterogeneity. Mathematical modeling revealed that direct killing was sufficient for tumor regression. Finally, antigen-loss variants emerged in the bone marrow, but not in lymph nodes, where CAR T cell cytotoxic activity was reduced. Our results identify a previously unappreciated level of diversity in the outcomes of CAR T cell interactions in vivo, with important clinical implications.
Proposed experiments to detect keV-range sterile neutrinos using energy-momentum reconstruction of beta decay or K-capture events
Authors: Smith Peter F
Published: April 2019

Sterile neutrinos in the keV mass range may constitute the galactic dark matter. Various proposed direct detection and laboratory searches are summarized. It is suggested that a promising method for searching for keV sterile neutrinos in the laboratory is complete energy-momentum reconstruction of individual beta-decay or K-capture events, by measuring the vector momentum of all decay products from atoms suspended in a magneto-optical trap. Reconstruction of the ‘missing mass’ would isolate any keV-range sterile neutrinos as a separated population. A survey of suitable nuclides is presented, together with the measurement precision required in a typical experimental configuration. Among the most promising are the K-capture nuclides 131Cs, which requires measurement of an x-ray and several Auger electrons in addition to the atomic recoil, and 7Be which has only a single decay product but needs development work to achieve a trapped source. A number of background effects are discussed. It is concluded that, with current time-of-flight precision, sterile neutrinos with masses down to the 10 keV region would be detectable with relative couplings 10−5–10−6 in a 1–2 year running time, and with foreseeable future upgrades eventually able to reach coupling levels down to 10−10–10−11 using high-population trapped sources.
Effective determination of surface potential landscapes from metal-organic nanoporous network overlayers
Authors: Piquero-Zulaica Ignacio , Abd El-Fattah Zakaria M , Popova Olha , Kawai Shigeki , Nowakowska Sylwia , Matena Manfred , Enache Mihaela , Stöhr Meike , Tejeda Antonio , Taleb Amina , Meyer Ernst , Ortega J Enrique , Gade Lutz H , Jung Thomas A , Lobo-Checa Jorge
Published: April 2019

Determining the scattering potential landscape for two-dimensional superlattices provides key insight into fundamental quantum electron phenomena. Theoretical and semiempirical methods have been extensively used to simulate confinement effects of the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) on superlattices with a single scatterer in the form of vicinal surfaces and dislocation networks or isolated structures such as quantum corrals and vacancy islands. However, the complexity of the problem increases when the building blocks (or scatterers) are heterogeneous, as in metal-organic nanoporous networks (MONNs), since additional potentials may come into play. Therefore, the parametrization of the surface potential landscape is often inaccurate, leading to incorrect scattering potentials. Here, we address this issue with a combination of scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy, angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy measurements together with electron plane-wave expansion simulations on a MONN grown on Cu(111). This experimental-theory approach, enables us to capture the 2DEG response to the intricate scattering potential landscape, and reveals systematic modeling procedures. Starting from a realistic geometry of the system, we determine the repulsive scattering potentials for both molecules and coordinated metal adatoms, the latter contradicting the established simulation framework. Moreover, we reveal local asymmetries and subtle renormalization effects of the 2DEG that relate to the interaction of the MONN and the underlying substrate.
Computational analysis of vibrational spectrum and hydrogen bonds of ice XVII
Authors: Zhu Xu-Liang , Yuan Zhen-Yu , Jiang Lu , Zhang Kai , Wang Ze-Ren , Luo Hui-Wen , Gu Yue , Cao Jing-Wen , Qin Xiao-Ling , Zhang Peng
Published: April 2019

Based on first-principles density functional theory, we investigated the relationship between the vibrational normal modes and the spectrum of the newest laboratory-prepared ice phase, an empty clathrate hydrate structure from gas hydrate named ice XVII. A 48-molecule supercell was designed to mimic the hydrogen-disordered structure. Despite its much lower density than ice Ih, its phonon density of states shows features very similar to those of that phase. In our previous studies of ice Ic and ice XIV, we found two basic hydrogen bond vibrational modes in these hydrogen-ordered ice phases, which contribute two sharp hydrogen bond peaks in the translation region. In this study, we found that this rule also holds in the hydrogen-disordered phase ice XVII. A water molecule vibrating along its angle bisector possesses strong energy, because this vibrational mode involves oscillation against four bonded neighbors. In contrast, a water molecule vibrating perpendicular to its angle bisector has low energy because this mode involves only two of the molecule’s hydrogen bonds. This is an evidence in hydrogen-disordered ice and strengthens our proposal that the existence of two basic hydrogen bond vibrational modes is a general rule among ice family.
Unknown spin radiation
Authors: Khrapko R
Published: April 2019

When the canonical spin tensor is used, a spin is detected along the axis of rotation of a rotating electric dipole. Early this spin radiation was obtained by Feynman in the frame of quantum mechanics. The magnitude of the spin flux is half the flux of the angular momentum that is emitted by a rotating dipole, according to modern electrodynamics, and this angular momentum flux is recognized here as an orbital angular momentum. Thus, the total angular momentum flux exceeds 1.5 times the value now recognized. It is shown that the torque experienced by a rotating dipole from the field is equal in magnitude to this total angular momentum flux.
Gender and Editorial Authorship in High-Impact Epidemiology Journals
Authors: Qureshi Riaz , Lê Jimmy , Li Tianjing , Ibrahim Michel , Dickersin Kay
Published: April 2019

Women comprise about half of senior epidemiologists, but little is known about whether they are also viewed as leaders (i.e., authorities) in the field. We believe editorial roles are markers of leadership in a field. Our objective was to describe the distribution of gender across authorship of editorials published in 5 high-impact epidemiology journals over the past 8 years. We included editorials and commentaries published in American Journal of Epidemiology, European Journal of Epidemiology, Epidemiology, International Journal of Epidemiology, and Journal of Clinical Epidemiology between 2010 and 2017. We classified genders of all authors as woman, man, or unknown and computed the proportions of women editorial authors over all journals and according to position (e.g., first author). Only 31% (682/2,228) of all editorial authors and 36% (524/1,477) of unique editorial authors (i.e., counting each editorial author name only once) were women. We identified 1,180 editorials; 594 had sole authors, 24% (141/594) of whom were women, and 586 had 2 or more authors, 31% (184/586) of which had women as first authors. If women are underrepresented as editorial authors across epidemiology journals (e.g., as a marker of epidemiology leadership), the situation merits immediate correction.
Effects of Distraction on Performance Validity: A Pilot Study with Veterans
Authors: Shura Robert D , Taber Katherine H , Armistead-Jehle Patrick , Denning John H , Rowland Jared A
Published: April 2019

Objective

The purpose of this experimental pilot study was to evaluate whether distraction can affect results of performance validity testing.

Method

Thirty-three veterans who have served in the US military since 09/11/2001 (Mage = 38.60, SD = 10.85 years) completed the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM), Trail Making Test, and Medical Symptom Validity Test (MSVT). Subjects were randomly assigned to complete the MSVT in one of three experimental conditions: standard administration, while performing serial 2 s (Cognitive Distraction), and while submerging a hand in ice water (Physical Distraction).

Results

All participants included in primary analyses passed the TOMM (n = 30). Physical distraction did not affect performance on the MSVT. Cognitive distraction negatively affected MSVT performance.

Conclusions

Cognitive distraction can substantially affect MSVT performance in a subgroup of individuals. Physical distraction did not significantly affect MSVT performance.
Rate of intersexual interactions affects injury likelihood in Tasmanian devil contact networks
Authors: Hamilton David G , Jones Menna E , Cameron Elissa Z , McCallum Hamish , Storfer Andrew , Hohenlohe Paul A , Hamede Rodrigo K
Published: April 2019

Identifying the types of contacts that result in disease transmission is important for accurately modeling and predicting transmission dynamics and disease spread in wild populations. We investigated contacts within a population of adult Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) over a 6-month period and tested whether individual-level contact patterns were correlated with accumulation of bite wounds. Bite wounds are important in the spread of devil facial tumor disease, a clonal cancer cell line transmitted through direct inoculation of tumor cells when susceptible and infected individuals bite each other. We used multimodel inference and network autocorrelation models to investigate the effects of individual-level contact patterns, identities of interacting partners, and position within the social network on the propensity to be involved in bite-inducing contacts. We found that males were more likely to receive potentially disease-transmitting bite wounds than females, particularly during the mating season when males spend extended periods mate-guarding females. The number of bite wounds individuals received during the mating season was unrelated to any of the network metrics examined. Our approach illustrates the necessity for understanding which contact types spread disease in different systems to assist the management of this and other infectious wildlife diseases.
Not Achieving Sustained Viral Eradication of Hepatitis C Virus After Treatment Leads to Worsening Patient-reported Outcomes
Authors: Younossi Zobair M , Stepanova Maria , Jacobson Ira , Muir Andrew J , Pol Stanislas , Zeuzem Stefan , Younes Ziad , Herring Robert , Lawitz Eric , Younossi Issah , Racila Andrei
Published: April 2019

Background

The causative relationship between the clearance of infections and long-term, health-related quality-of-life (HRQL) improvements in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been generally accepted. The aim of this study was to assess long-term HRQL trends in HCV patients who did not achieve sustained virologic responses (SVRs) after treatment with direct-acting antivirals.

Methods

HCV patients who completed treatment in clinical trials and did not achieve SVRs were enrolled in a long-term registry (#NCT01457768). HRQL scores were prospectively collected using the short form–36 instrument (8 HRQL domains and 2 summary scores).

Results

There were 242 patients included: they had a median age of 54 years (standard deviation ± 8 years), 85% were male, and 38% had cirrhosis. Before treatment, patients’ HRQL scores were similar to the general population norms (all 1-sided P > 0.05), but were followed by significant decreases by the end of treatment (−3.4 to −6.2 points; P < .05 for 5/8 HRQL domains and mental summary). By the time subjects entered the registry, all but 1 of the mean HRQL scores had returned to their pretreatment levels (P > .05). During subsequent periods in the registry, patients experienced further HRQL decrements: up to −9.2 points (P < .05 for all HRQL domains) at Week 24 and up to −8.3 points (P < .05 for 5/8 HRQL domains) at Week 48. Although these HRQL decrements were observed regardless of cirrhosis status, they were more pronounced in patients with cirrhosis (P < .05 for 3/8 HRQL domains).

Conclusions

Patients who did not achieve an SVR after treatment experienced worsening HRQL scores in long-term follow-ups. Retreatment of these patients will be important not only to improve their clinical outcomes, but also their quality of life.
Genetic Network Analysis to Assess the Risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Transmission Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Seeking Partners on the Internet
Authors: Martin Thomas C S , Chaillon Antoine , Graves Susannah K , Lin Timothy , Gianella Sara , Smith Davey M , Little Susan J , Hoenigl Martin
Published: April 2019

Background

Online partner seeking (OPS) among men who have sex with men (MSM) is associated with increased risk behavior including frequency of unprotected anal intercourse, number of partners, and incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, the impact on transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is uncertain.

Methods

MSM diagnosed with acute and early HIV infection were recruited from the Primary Infection Resource Consortium. HIV transmission events in the year following infection were inferred using estimated date of infection combined with genetic network analysis with linked sequences defined as ≤0.015 sequences/site difference in the HIV type 1 (HIV-1) pol coding region. Participants completed a detailed baseline questionnaire including reported methods of meeting sexual partners, including OPS, in the prior 3 months, and regression was performed with inferred transmission as the outcome.

Results

From 147 MSM who completed the questionnaire, there were an associated 20 inferred HIV transmissions. No association with OPS was found (odds ratio, 0.64 [95% confidence interval, .24–1.69]; P = .37), though individuals who reported OPS were more likely to have reported a greater number of partners (P = .003) and prior STIs (P = .002). Geospatial analysis did not indicate that OPS was associated with increased geographical reach of the user (P = .68).

Conclusions

Individuals reporting OPS did not have increased odds of inferred HIV-1 transmission in the year following infection using genetic linkage analysis despite apparently increased risk behavior. OPS also did not increase the geographic distance between genetically clustered HIV infections, suggesting that individuals mainly use the internet to meet partners in their local region.
Contribution of Genetic Background and Data Collection on Adverse Events of Anti–human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Drugs (D:A:D) Clinical Risk Score to Chronic Kidney Disease in Swiss HIV-infected Persons With Normal Baseline Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate
Authors: Dietrich Léna G , Barceló Catalina , Thorball Christian W , Ryom Lene , Burkhalter Felix , Hasse Barbara , Furrer Hansjakob , Weisser Maja , Steffen Ana , Bernasconi Enos , Cavassini Matthias , de Seigneux Sophie , Csajka Chantal , Fellay Jacques , Ledergerber Bruno , Tarr Philip E
Published: April 2019

Background

In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the relative contribution of genetic background, clinical risk factors, and antiretrovirals to chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unknown.

Methods

We applied a case-control design and performed genome-wide genotyping in white Swiss HIV Cohort participants with normal baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR >90 mL/minute/1.73 m2). Univariable and multivariable CKD odds ratios (ORs) were calculated based on the Data Collection on Adverse Events of Anti-HIV Drugs (D:A:D) score, which summarizes clinical CKD risk factors, and a polygenic risk score that summarizes genetic information from 86 613 single-nucleotide polymorphisms.

Results

We included 743 cases with confirmed eGFR drop to <60 mL/minute/1.73 m2 (n = 144) or ≥25% eGFR drop to <90 mL/minute/1.73 m2 (n = 599), and 322 controls (eGFR drop <15%). Polygenic risk score and D:A:D score contributed to CKD. In multivariable analysis, CKD ORs were 2.13 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.55–2.97) in participants in the fourth (most unfavorable) vs first (most favorable) genetic score quartile; 1.94 (95% CI, 1.37–2.65) in the fourth vs first D:A:D score quartile; and 2.98 (95% CI, 2.02–4.66), 1.70 (95% CI, 1.29–2.29), and 1.83 (95% CI, 1.45–2.40), per 5 years of exposure to atazanavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, respectively. Participants in the first genetic score quartile had no increased CKD risk, even if they were in the fourth D:A:D score quartile.

Conclusions

Genetic score increased CKD risk similar to clinical D:A:D score and potentially nephrotoxic antiretrovirals. Irrespective of D:A:D score, individuals with the most favorable genetic background may be protected against CKD.
Mechanical and clinical evaluation of the effect of microscrew on root proximity and cortical bone thickness
Authors: Tsatalis Andrea E , Watanabe Keiichiro , Mitchell Bobby , Kim Do-Gyoon , Lee Damian J , Zheng Fengyuan , Kyung Hee-Moon , Deguchi Toru
Published: April 2019

Background/Objectives

Primary stability is required for successful use of microscrew. This study investigated correlations among biomechanical, morphological, and clinical values in relationship to root contact and different placement locations.

Materials/Methods

Thirty-three microscrews were placed between the molars (n = 18) or in the body of the mandible (n = 15) in three pigs. Insertion torque, Periotest, resonance frequency analysis (RFA), and static and dynamic stiffness were measured. Cone beam computed tomography was performed before and after the insertion of microscrews. Interproximal microscrews were divided into root contacted microscrews (n = 9) and non-root contact microscrews (n = 9). Factorial analysis of variance was conducted, with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results

A significant difference was observed between bodily and root contacted microscrews in Periotest, RFA, static and dynamic stiffness, Tanδ, and bone density (RFA, P = 0.045; all others, P < 0.001). A significant difference was observed between bodily and non-root contact microscrews in Periotest, RFA, and bone density (RFA, P = 0.025; all others, P < 0.001). A significant difference was observed in static (P = 0.01) and dynamic (P = 0.038) stiffness between microscrews with and without contact. Dynamic stiffness (P = 0.02) and Tanδ (P = 0.03) showed significant correlations with Periotest results only in bodily microscrews.

Limitations

Since a pig bone was used, some differences in the quality and quantity of the bone might be observed between humans.

Conclusions/Implications

Stiffness values distinguished between microscrews with and without contact. Periotest and RFA results indicated that bodily microscrews were more stable than interproximal microscrews. Periotest and RFA may be useful with large, microscrews and/or in thick cortical bone, but further investigation is required to determine the stability of interproximal microscrews.
A Dictator’s Gift: Dominant party regimes and health expenditures
Authors: Yan Huang-Ting , Lin Yu-Chun
Published: April 2019

Background

A country’s health expenditure significantly improves its population health status. This study aims to examine the determinants of health expenditure in dictatorships.

Methods

We designed a mixed methods research approach. First, we used panel data from 1995 to 2014 covering 99 countries (n = 1488). Fixed effects regression models were fitted to determine how different types of authoritarianism relate to health expenditure. Second, we chose Ivory Coast to apply the synthetic control methods for a case study. We constructed a synthetic Ivory Coast, combining other dominant party regimes to resemble the values of health expenditure predictors for Ivory Coast prior to a regime change from a dominant party system to personalist dictatorships in 2000.

Results

We found that dominant party autocracies, compared with non-dominant party regimes, increased health expenditure (% of GDP) (1.36 percentage point increase, CI = 0.59–2.12). The marginal effect, however, decreased when an autocrat in this type of regime held elections (0.86 percentage point decrease, CI = 0.20–1.52). Furthermore, we found the difference in health expenditure between the actual Ivory Coast and its synthetic version starts to grow following the regime change in 2000 (in 2000, actual: 6.00%, synthetic: 6.04%; in 2001, actual: 4.85%, synthetic: 5.99%), suggesting a pronounced negative effect of the government transition on Ivory Coast health expenditure.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that different forms of dictatorship are associated with varying levels of health expenditure. Where dictatorships rely on popular support, as is the case with dominant party dictatorships, health expenditure is generally greater.
Medical schools, primary care and family medicine: clerkship directors’ perceptions of the current environment
Authors: Porter Maribeth , Fe Agana Denny , Hatch Robert , Datta Susmita , Carek Peter J
Published: April 2019

Background

The culture at a medical school and the positive experiences in primary care clerkships influence student specialty choice. This choice is significant if the demand for primary care physicians is to be met. The aim of this study was to examine family medicine clerkship directors’ perceptions of the medical school environment.

Methods

Data were collected as part of the 2015 Council of Academic Family Medicine Educational Research Alliance Family Medicine Clerkship Director survey. Questions asked included how clerkship directors perceived the environment of their medical school towards family medicine, has the environment towards family medicine changed between 2010 and 2015, do they take action to influence student attitudes towards family medicine and whether faculty members in other departments make negative comments about family medicine.

Results

The response rate was 79.4%. While most respondents indicated the environment of their medical school has become more positive towards family medicine, a majority of clerkship directors perceived the environment to be either very much against, slightly against or indifferent towards family medicine. Nearly one-half (41.4%) of the clerkship directors were notified more than once a year that a faculty member of another department made a negative comment about family medicine. Results varied among regions of the USA and between schools located in the USA and Canada.

Conclusion

Family medicine clerkship directors often perceived negativity towards family medicine, a finding that may limit the effectiveness of academic health centres in their mission to better serve their community and profession.
Discriminating Between Models of Ambiguity Attitude: a Qualitative Test
Authors: Cubitt Robin , van de Kuilen Gijs , Mukerji Sujoy
Published: April 2019

During recent decades, many new models have emerged in pure and applied economic theory according to which agents’ choices may be sensitive to ambiguity in the uncertainty that faces them. The exchange between Epstein (2010) and Klibanoff et al. (2012) identified a notable behavioral issue that distinguishes sharply between two classes of models of ambiguity sensitivity that are importantly different. The two classes are exemplified by the α-maxmin expected utility (MEU) model and the smooth ambiguity model, respectively; and the issue is whether or not a desire to hedge independently resolving ambiguities contributes to an ambiguity-averse agent's preference for a randomized act. Building on this insight, we implement an experiment whose design provides a qualitative test that discriminates between the two classes of models. Among subjects identified as ambiguity sensitive, we find greater support for the class exemplified by the smooth ambiguity model; the relative support is stronger among subjects identified as ambiguity averse. This finding has implications for applications that rely on specific models of ambiguity preference.
Risk Factors Analysis for Human Cytomegalovirus Viremia in Donor+/Recipient+ Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Yang Rong , Zhang Runan , Zhang Yanyue , Huang Yaping , Liang Hanying , Gui Genyong , Gong Shengnan , Wang Huiqi , Xu Min , Fan Jun
Published: April 2019

Objective

To assess the rate of, and risk factors for, human cytomegalovirus viremia (HCMV) in donor+/recipient+ (HCMV serostatus matched) hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients.

Methods

HCMV DNA from 144 donor+/recipient+ HSCT recipients was examined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results

The cumulative incidence of HCMV viremia was 69.4% (100/144) during the 48 weeks after HSCT. In a multivariate analysis, acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) was discovered to be a risk factor for the occurrence of HCMV viremia (P = .006). The cumulative incidence of HCMV viremia and increasing DNA loads were significantly associated with aGVHD occurrence (P = .001 for each). The occurrence of late-term HCMV viremia was associated with aGVHD (P = .001) and a higher DNA load during the first 12 weeks after HSCT (P = .04).

Conclusions

aGVHD is a risk factor for HCMV viremia. Recipients with aGVHD who have a high HCMV DNA load should be strictly monitored to prevent HCMV activation.
Current knowledge on the etiology and epidemiology of Scopulariopsis infections
Authors: Pérez-Cantero Alba , Guarro Josep
Published: April 2019

Scopulariopsis is a common fungus in the environment, characterized by its intrinsic resistance to the available antifungal drugs. Around 70 cases of infection by this fungus have been described in the literature. Pulmonary and disseminated infections are the most common and their treatment is difficult; therefore, very diverse approaches have been taken, with varied results. A successful outcome has been reported in only a few cases, generally attributed to a multitreatment strategy combining medical and surgical procedures that ultimately led to the resection of the infected tissue if possible, identification of the mould, and an aggressive long-term antifungal therapy. Although most of the infections are caused by Scopulariopsis brevicaulis, a few other species have also been linked to these cases, although molecular evidence has not been proven for all of them. On this basis, more knowledge on the epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of these unusual infections would improve their management. This review aims to compile the current data on Scopulariopsis infections.
Update on testing the isotropy of the properties of gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Řípa Jakub , Shafieloo Arman
Published: April 2019

Previously, we proposed a novel method to inspect the isotropy of the properties of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), such as their duration, fluences and peak fluxes at various energy bands and different time-scales, complementary to existing studies of the spatial distribution of GRBs by other authors. The method was then applied to the Fermi Gamma-ray Burst Monitor (GBM) Burst Catalog containing 1591 GRBs. Except for one particular direction where we noticed some hints of violation from statistical isotropy, the rest of the data showed consistency with isotropy. In this work, we apply our method, with some minor modifications, to the updated Fermi GBM data sample containing 2266 GRBs, which is thus ∼40  per cent larger. We also test two other major GRB catalogues: the Burst And Transient Source Experiment (BATSE) Current GRB Catalog of the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory (CGRO), containing ∼2000 bursts, and the Swift Burst Alert Telescope (BAT) GRB Catalog, containing ∼1200 bursts. The new results using the updated data are consistent with our previous findings and we find no statistically significant anisotropic feature in the observed properties of these samples of all GRBs.
6.7 GHz variability characteristics of new periodic methanol maser sources
Authors: Olech M , Szymczak M , Wolak P , Sarniak R , Bartkiewicz A
Published: April 2019

Discovery of periodic maser emission was an unexpected result from monitoring observations of methanol transitions in high-mass young stellar objects. We report on the detection of five new periodic sources from a monitoring program with the Torun 32 m telescope. Variability with a period of 149 to 540 d and different patterns from sinusoidal-like to intermittent was displayed. Three-dimensional structure of G59.633−0.192 determined from the time delays of burst peaks of the spectral features and high angular resolution map implies that the emission traces a disc. For this source the 6.7 GHz light curve followed the infrared variability supporting a radiative scheme of pumping. An unusual time delay of ∼80 d occurred in G30.400−0.296 could not be explained by the light travel time and may suggest a strong differentiation of physical conditions and excitation in this deeply embedded source. Our observations suggest the intermittent variability may present a simple response of maser medium to the underlying variability induced by the accretion luminosity while other variability patterns may reflect more complex changes in the physical conditions.
Relationship Between Nicotine Intake and Reward Function in Rats With Intermittent Short Versus Long Access to Nicotine
Authors: Geste Jean R , Levin Brandon , Wilks Isaac , Pompilus Marjory , Zhang Xiping , Esser Karyn A , Febo Marcelo , O’Dell Laura , Bruijnzeel Adriaan W
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Tobacco use improves mood states and smoking cessation leads to anhedonia, which contributes to relapse. Animal studies have shown that noncontingent nicotine administration enhances brain reward function and leads to dependence. However, little is known about the effects of nicotine self-administration on the state of the reward system.

Methods

To investigate the relationship between nicotine self-administration and reward function, rats were prepared with intracranial self-stimulation electrodes and intravenous catheters. The rats were trained on the intracranial self-stimulation procedure and allowed to self-administer 0.03 mg/kg/infusion of nicotine. All rats self-administered nicotine daily for 10 days (1 hour/day) and were then switched to an intermittent short access (ShA, 1 hour/day) or long access (LgA, 23 hour/day) schedule (2 days/week, 5 weeks).

Results

During the first 10 daily, 1-hour sessions, nicotine self-administration decreased the reward thresholds, which indicates that nicotine potentiates reward function. After switching to the intermittent LgA or ShA schedule, nicotine intake was lower in the ShA rats than the LgA rats. The LgA rats increased their nicotine intake over time and they gradually consumed a higher percentage of their nicotine during the light phase. The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonist mecamylamine induced a larger increase in reward thresholds (ie, anhedonia) in the LgA rats than the ShA rats. In the LgA rats, nAChR blockade with mecamylamine decreased nicotine intake for 2 hours and this was followed by a rebound increase in nicotine intake.

Conclusions

A brief period of nicotine self-administration enhances reward function and a high level of nicotine intake leads to dependence.

Implications

These animal studies indicate that there is a strong relationship between the level of nicotine intake and brain reward function. A high level of nicotine intake was more rewarding than a low level of nicotine intake and nicotine dependence was observed after long, but not short, access to nicotine. This powerful combination of nicotine reward and withdrawal makes it difficult to quit smoking. Blockade of nAChRs temporarily decreased nicotine intake, but this was followed by a large rebound increase in nicotine intake. Therefore, nAChR blockade might not decrease the use of combustible cigarettes or electronic cigarettes.
Salp metabolism: temperature and oxygen partial pressure effect on the physiology of Salpa fusiformis from the California Current
Authors: Trueblood Lloyd A
Published: April 2019

Salps are pelagic tunicates that play an important role in carbon cycling by filter feeding and packaging waste into dense fecal pellets that sink rapidly to the deep ocean. There has been limited research on salp physiology and no studies that examine how changes in environmental factors such as temperature and dissolved oxygen impact basic physiological processes. Here I examine temperature and oxygen partial pressure effect on metabolism in blastozooids of Salpa fusiformis. Routine metabolic rates of 1.66 and 3.95 μmol O2 g−1 h−1 wet weight at 10°C and 17°C, respectively, resulted in a Q10 = 3.45. The observed decrease in metabolism associated with decreased temperature, as well as hypoxia tolerance, is explored in the context of observed vertical migrations into hypoxic waters in the California Current, and potential impacts on carbon output. Metabolic rates for S. fusiformis are compared to metabolic rates published for other species of salps and gelatinous zooplankton. Expansion of this work across a broader set of species is critical to quantify the impact climate change may have on salps and their role in marine carbon cycling.
Seasonal zooplankton development in a temperate semi-enclosed basin: two years with different spring bloom timing
Authors: Mahara Natalie , Pakhomov Evgeny A , Jackson Jennifer M , Hunt Brian Pv
Published: April 2019

Coastal temperate waters undergo considerable intra- and interannual environmental variations, which is reflected in the dynamic nature of their zooplankton communities. Since zooplankton phenology is dependent on several factors, particularly temperature and spring bloom timing, it is imperative to understand how zooplankton communities may shift under future climate conditions with warmer temperatures and more variable spring bloom initiation. To examine zooplankton phenology and response to shifts in bloom timing, we analyzed fortnightly zooplankton and environmental samples collected in the northern Strait of Georgia (B.C., Canada), a large semi-enclosed temperate basin, in 2015 and 2016. Despite a 5-week difference in spring bloom timing, zooplankton community succession was remarkably similar between years. In both years, biomass peaked within the same calendar week and communities were separated into winter, early spring and summer-autumn assemblages that formed independent of the spring bloom timing. Although some species-level phenological differences were observed between years, predominately delayed population development, zooplankton communities appeared to demonstrate resilience to interannual environmental variations on the whole. If ongoing warming shifts the timing of zooplankton consumers’ life history timing, it could lead to a mismatch with their zooplankton prey resource that exhibits comparatively less interannual variability.
Symbrachydactyly
Authors: Mills Janith K. , Butler Lesley , Mills Elisa M. , Oishi Scott N.
Published: April 2019

Although congenital hand anomalies associated with finger nubbins may be produced by amniotic band disruption sequence (ABDS), symbrachydactyly should be considered in the differential diagnosis. ABDS usually affects more than one limb but symbrachydactyly largely is limited to one upper extremity, and has five distinct clinical presentations: short-fingered, atypical cleft, monodactylous, peromelic, and a forearm proximal transverse deficiency. This article discusses the diagnosis of symbrachydactyly compared with ABDS and outlines plans for managing patients with symbrachydactyly.
Chemotherapy Wait Times in a Network of Pediatric Oncology Clinics
Authors: Elsaid Mohamed , Morgan Jennifer , Colorado Natalia , Woolsey Jennifer , Canterberry Natosha , Rice Patricia , Russo Carolyn
Published: April 2019

Patient satisfaction with medical care delivery is an important aspect of value-based health care. Providers strive to provide optimal patient satisfaction. Among a network of ambulatory pediatric oncology affiliate clinics, we conducted patient satisfaction surveys and found that the lowest scores were related to delays in the administration of chemotherapy. To address this shortcoming, we used continuous improvement methodologies to reduce the delay in chemotherapy administration in 3 affiliate clinics. To evaluate the efficacy of the quality improvement interventions implemented at each affiliate clinic, we measured the time from patient arrival to the start of chemotherapy administration over a 2-week period before and after the interventions. Wait times for chemotherapy administration were reduced in each clinic by 7% to 15%, exceeding the preestablished goal of a 5% reduction without affecting patient safety. Patient satisfaction for chemotherapy wait times was also marginally increased. In conclusion, implementation of quality improvement interventions across a clinical network can improve specific aspects of patient satisfaction, thereby improving the overall patient experience.
Trilineage Dysplasia in an Adolescent With Germline GATA2 Mutation
Authors: Gardner Juli-Anne , Devitt Katherine A.
Published: April 2019

The GATA family of DNA binding proteins consists of six different transcription factors (GATA1-6), each with diverse biologic function. The GATA2 protein has been shown to be vital for proliferation and maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells; mutations result in variable phenotypes including myelodysplastic syndrome.