bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Stigma Toward Nonsuicidal Self‐Injury: An Examination of Implicit and Explicit Attitudes
Authors: Piccirillo Marilyn L. , Burke Taylor A. , Moore‐Berg Samantha L. , Alloy Lauren B. , Heimberg Richard G.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Evidence suggests that individuals without a history of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) are likely to view NSSI as a stigmatized behavior. However, there is limited evidence evaluating the presence of self‐stigma among individuals who have engaged in NSSI.

Methods

We recruited a university sample (n = 351) and employed implicit and explicit measures to examine the degree of stigmatization toward those with NSSI scarring, as compared to nonintentional disfigurement (i.e., accidental scarring) and to tattoos (i.e., a culturally sanctioned form of intentional tissue alteration). We examined the extent to which bias is related to indicators of NSSI severity among those with a history of NSSI.

Results

We provide evidence that negative biases toward NSSI may represent the effects of self‐stigma. However, findings suggest that biases were generally attenuated among participants with a history of NSSI as compared to those without. Participants who had lower levels of NSSI explicit bias were more likely to have a history of more severe engagement in NSSI; however, no significant relationships were found between implicit bias and NSSI severity indicators.

Conclusions

We present a theoretical rationale for attenuated biases among individuals with a history of NSSI and discuss implications of this research for NSSI recovery.
Identification of the novel HLA‐C*06:297 allele by next generation sequencing
Authors: Ingrassia F. , Pecoraro A. , Bruno F. , Lo Brutto A. , Cappuzzo V.
Published: May 2020

HLA‐C*06:297 differs from C*06:02:01:01 by a single nucleotide change in codon‐19 (CCC>TCC).
Effect of proximal abducting ulnar osteotomy (PAUL) on frontal plane thoracic limb alignment: An ex vivo canine study
Authors: Amadio Alexandra , Corriveau Kayla M. , Norby Bo , Stephenson Timothy R. , Saunders W. Brian
Published: May 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of proximal abducting ulnar osteotomy (PAUL) on frontal plane thoracic limb alignment in standing and recumbent positions.

Study design

Ex vivo cadaveric study.

Sample population

Canine thoracic limbs (n = 15 limb pairs).

Methods

Limbs were acquired from healthy Labrador retrievers that had been euthanized for reasons unrelated to this study. A limb press was used to obtain standing and recumbent caudocranial radiographs before and after PAUL. Foot lateralization and rotation were directly measured in standing position. Mechanical joint angles were determined using full limb radiographic montages and the center of rotation of angulation (CORA) method for pre‐PAUL (Pre), 2‐mm PAUL (PAUL2), and 3‐mm PAUL (PAUL3). Data are reported as mean ± SD and 95% CI. Mixed linear modeling was used to identify differences in limb alignment values and foot position, with significance established at P ≤ .004.

Results

There were differences in five of 12 limb alignment values pre‐PAUL and post‐PAUL in standing and recumbent positions. In the standing position, there was an increase in mechanical medial proximal radioulnar angle (Pre, 80.6° ± 2.5°; PAUL2, 82.6° ± 2.4°; PAUL3, 84° ± 2.4°) and a decrease in elbow compression angle (Pre, 1.4° ± 1.3°; PAUL2, 1° ± 0.9°; PAUL3, 0.8° ± 1°). There was a movement of mechanical humeral radioulnar angle (Pre, −8.9° ± 2.8°; PAUL2, −6.1° ± 2.7°; PAUL3, −5.2 ± 2.7°), mechanical thoracic humeral angle (Pre, 3.9° ± 1.7°; PAUL2, 2.4° ± 1.4°; PAUL3, 2.6° ± 1.5°), and elbow mechanical axis deviation (Pre, 1.9% ± 1.1%; PAUL2, 0.9% ± 1.1%; PAUL3, 0.4% ± 1.4%) toward a value of “0” representing coaxial alignment of the limb. The foot underwent lateralization (Pre, 1.4 ± 0.6 cm; PAUL2, 1.8 ± 0.7 cm; PAUL3, 2.3 ± 0.7 cm) and external rotation (Pre, 10.5° ± 4.7°; PAUL2, 13.7° ± 5.1°; PAUL3, 16° ± 6.6°).

Conclusion

In the ex vivo setting, PAUL resulted in translation of the mechanical axis of the thoracic limb from a medial to lateral direction through alterations in limb alignment values associated with the elbow, humerus, and proximal radius/ulna.

Clinical significance

Additional studies are required to determine whether PAUL alters thoracic limb alignment in client‐owned dogs.
Modelling qualitative and quantitative parameters of groundwater using a new wavelet conjunction heuristic method: wavelet extreme learning machine versus wavelet neural networks
Authors: Poursaeid Mojtaba , Mastouri Reza , Shabanlou Saeid , Najarchi Mohsen
Published: May 2020

In recent years, as a result of climate change as well as rainfall reduction in arid and semi‐arid regions, modelling qualitative and quantitative parameters belonging to aquifers has become crucially important. In Iran, as aquifers are treated as the most commonly used drinking water resources, modelling their qualitative and quantitative parameters is enormously important. In this paper, for the first time, values of salinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), groundwater level (GWL) and electrical conductivity (EC) of the Arak Plain, located in Markazi Province, Iran, are simulated by means of four modern artificial intelligence models including extreme learning machine (ELM), wavelet extreme learning machine (WELM), online sequential extreme learning machine (OSELM) and wavelet online sequential extreme learning machine (WOSELM) as well as the MODFLOW software for a 15‐year period monthly. To develop the hybrid artificial intelligence models, the wavelet is employed. First, the effective lags in estimating the qualitative and quantitative parameters of the groundwater are identified using the autocorrelation function (ACF) and the partial autocorrelation function (PACF) analysis. After that, four different models are developed by the selected input combinations and also the ACF and the PACF in the form of different lags for each of ELM, WAELM, OSELM and WOSELM methods. Then, the superior models in simulating the groundwater qualitative and qualitative parameters are detected by conducting a sensitivity analysis. To forecast the electrical conductivity (EC) by the best WOSELM model, the values of the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NSC), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and the scatter index (SI) are obtained to be 0.991, 18.005 and 4.28E‐03, respectively. In addition, the most effective lags in estimating these parameters are introduced. Subsequently, the results found by the MODFLOW model are compared with those of the artificial intelligence models and it is concluded that the latter are more accurate. For instance, the scatter index and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient values calculated by WOSELM for TDS, respectively, are 5.34E‐03 and 0.991. Finally, an uncertainty analysis is conducted to evaluate the performance of different numerical models. For example, MODFLOW has an underestimated performance in simulating the salinity parameter.
Glacial refuges and cryptic speciation in a Southern Palearctic tiger beetle (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae)
Authors: Torres‐Mantelet Nicolás , Galián José , León‐Quinto Trinidad , López‐López Alejandro
Published: May 2020

Pleistocene glaciations had a determining role for shaping the current distribution and diversity of organisms, especially in the Palearctic region. In this work, we carry out a phylogeographic analysis of Iberian and two Eastern European populations of the tiger beetle Calomera littoralis (Fabricius, 1787) in order to infer the processes that may have affected their evolutionary history. According to our results, the genetic diversity of central Iberian C. littoralis populations is very low. The haplotype networks also suggest that these populations experienced a genetic bottleneck in the past, possibly related to the last glacial maxima, similar to that observed in other cicindelid taxa. These results highlight the remarkable dispersal capacity of this species, being able to move freely from one locality to another, despite the relatively long distances of sub‐optimal habitat that separates them. The genetic data of central Iberian populations contrast with those of the Eastern European populations, with higher genetic diversity and no hints of any past bottleneck. This can be explained by the different characteristics of both (Iberian and Pontic) glacial refuges. The high degree of genetic differentiation between the three C. littoralis clades, and the inclusion of C. lunulata between them, suggests that the three analysed populations could be considered as different cryptic species. In that case, C. littoralis may correspond to a species complex that is still undergoing a process of speciation, similar to that observed in Cicindela campestris.
Extreme occupational heat exposure is associated with elevated haematological and inflammatory markers in Fire Service Instructors
Authors: Watkins Emily R. , Hayes Mark , Watt Peter , Renshaw Derek , Richardson Alan J.
Published: May 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Fire service instructors are frequently exposed to live fire scenarios, representing the most extreme chronic occupational heat exposure. These individuals report a series of unique health issues. We sought to identify whether the number of exposures completed was associated with inflammatory and immunological markers and symptoms of ill health.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Fire service instructors exhibit greater levels of inflammatory markers in comparison to firefighters. The number of exposures to fire is positively related to the prevalence of ill health and inflammation. Implementation of a proposed limit of nine exposures per month might be appropriate to minimize health issues.

Fire Service Instructors (FSIs) experience ∼10 times more fire exposures than firefighters (FFs), and the increased physiological stress from this potentially puts them at risk of ill health and future cardiac events. The aim of the study was to establish whether FSIs exhibit elevated biomarkers associated with cardiac event risk, identify whether FSIs experience systemic inflammation linked to the frequency of fire exposure and evaluate a proposed exposure limit of nine exposures per month. Blood samples were collected from 110 Fire Service personnel (mean ± SD, age,44 ± 7 years; height, 178.1 ± 7.1 cm; and body mass, 84.3 ± 12.0 kg; FSIs n = 53 and FFs n = 57) for biomarker analysis. Work history details were collected from all participants. Participants with biomarker concentrations above healthy reference ranges were classified as being ‘at risk’. The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet count, cardiac troponin T, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, C‐reactive protein and immunoglobulin G were greater in FSIs than in FFs (P < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that 18.8% of IL‐6, 24.9% of IL‐1β, 29.2% of C‐reactive protein and 10.9% of immunoglobulin G variance could be explained by the number of exposures to heat per month. Odds ratios revealed that those FSIs above the nine per month exposure limit were six to 12 times more likely to be classified as ‘at risk’ and were 16 times more likely to experience symptoms of ill health. Increased cytokine levels suggest that FSIs experience systemic inflammation, which is related to symptoms of ill health. We propose that an exposure limit could reduce the prevalence of these biomarker risk factors and ill health.
Mechanisms underlying selective coupling of endothelial Ca2+ signals with eNOS vs. IK/SK channels in systemic and pulmonary arteries
Authors: Ottolini Matteo , Daneva Zdravka , Chen Yen‐Lin , Cope Eric L. , Kasetti Ramesh B. , Zode Gulab S. , Sonkusare Swapnil K.
Published: May 2020

Key points

Endothelial cell TRPV4 (TRPV4EC) channels exert a dilatory effect on the resting diameter of resistance mesenteric and pulmonary arteries.

Functional intermediate‐ and small‐conductance K+ (IK and SK) channels and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) are present in the endothelium of mesenteric and pulmonary arteries.

TRPV4EC sparklets preferentially couple with IK/SK channels in mesenteric arteries and with eNOS in pulmonary arteries.

TRPV4EC channels co‐localize with IK/SK channels in mesenteric arteries but not in pulmonary arteries, which may explain TRPV4EC‐IK/SK channel coupling in mesenteric arteries and its absence in pulmonary arteries.

The presence of the nitric oxide‐scavenging protein, haemoglobin α, limits TRPV4EC‐eNOS signalling in mesenteric arteries.

Spatial proximity of TRPV4EC channels with eNOS and the absence of haemoglobin α favour TRPV4EC‐eNOS signalling in pulmonary arteries.

Spatially localized Ca2+ signals activate Ca2+‐sensitive intermediate‐ and small‐conductance K+ (IK and SK) channels in some vascular beds and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in others. The present study aimed to uncover the signalling organization that determines selective Ca2+ signal to vasodilatory target coupling in the endothelium. Resistance‐sized mesenteric arteries (MAs) and pulmonary arteries (PAs) were used as prototypes for arteries with predominantly IK/SK channel‐ and eNOS‐dependent vasodilatation, respectively. Ca2+ influx signals through endothelial transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4EC) channels played an important role in controlling the baseline diameter of both MAs and PAs. TRPV4EC channel activity was similar in MAs and PAs. However, the TRPV4 channel agonist GSK1016790A (10 nm) selectively activated IK/SK channels in MAs and eNOS in PAs, revealing preferential TRPV4EC‐IK/SK channel coupling in MAs and TRPV4EC‐eNOS coupling in PAs. IK/SK channels co‐localized with TRPV4EC channels at myoendothelial projections (MEPs) in MAs, although they lacked the spatial proximity necessary for their activation by TRPV4EC channels in PAs. Additionally, the presence of the NO scavenging protein haemoglobin α (Hbα) within nanometer proximity to eNOS limits TRPV4EC‐eNOS signalling in MAs. By contrast, co‐localization of TRPV4EC channels and eNOS at MEPs, and the absence of Hbα, favour TRPV4EC‐eNOS coupling in PAs. Thus, our results reveal that differential spatial organization of signalling elements determines TRPV4EC‐IK/SK vs. TRPV4EC‐eNOS coupling in resistance arteries.
Unileg Thermoelectric Module Comprised by Coated Halide-Perovskite Thin Film
Authors: Saini Shrikant , Baranwal Ajay Kumar , Yabuki Tomohide , Hayase Shuzi , Miyazaki Koji
Published: May 2020

The direct conversion of thermal energy into electricity is possible by thermoelectric effect. CsSnI3 perovskite has shown a way with its intrinsic ultralow thermal conductivity and large Seebeck coefficient. In this work, CsSnI3 thin films were optimized. Thin films were structurally and chemically characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Thermoelectric properties such as electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, and thermal conductivity were measured near room temperature (300 K). CsSnI3 thin films unileg thermoelectric modules were fabricated on a glass substrate. The maximum output power is obtained about 0.8 nW for five legs (25 mm × 3 mm × 600 nm) modules for the temperature difference of about 5 °C.
A Unified Control Framework for Traction Machine Drive Using Linear Parameters Varying-Based Field-Oriented Control
Authors: Hanif Athar , Ahmed Qadeer , Bhatti Aamer Iqbal , Rizzoni Giorgio
Published: May 2020

The performance of an electrified powertrain in extreme operating conditions is greatly compromised. This is due to the fact that meeting the road loads, ensuring efficient powertrain operation, and minimizing the loss of lifetime (aging) of an electric machine are three essential but conflicting targets. In this paper, a unified multi-objective linear parameters varying (LPV)-based field-oriented control (FOC) framework is proposed to solve the problem of conflicting objectives mentioned above. The outer loop in a unified control framework generates the reference currents using linear matrix inequality (LMI)-based torque and flux controllers. Moreover, optimal flux is estimated using LPV observer to ensure efficient machine operations. In the inner loop of a unified control framework, the multi-objective controller (MOC) is synthesized by selecting optimal weighting functions using LMI-based convex optimization approach. The stability of the proposed unified control framework is also analyzed. The effectiveness of the proposed unified control framework is tested for a direct drive electrified powertrain of a three-wheeled vehicle commonly found in urban transportation for Asian countries. The urban driving schedule-based simulation results confirm that the lifetime of traction machine can be enhanced by appropriate control framework design without compromising its performance.
Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound superb microvascular imaging for breast tumor: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhong Lin , Wang Cong
Published: May 2020

Aim: This meta-analysis aimed to identify the accuracy of ultrasound superb microvascular imaging (SMI) for the diagnosis of a breast tumor.Material and method: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, EBSCO, and CBM databases from January 1st, 2013 until February 1st, 2020 without language restrictions. Meta-analysis was conducted using STATA version 14.0 and Meta-Disc version 1.4 software. We calculated the summary statistics for sensitivity (Sen), specificity (Spe), positive and negative likelihood ratio (LR+/LR−), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve.Results: Fifteen studies that met all inclusion criteria were included in this meta-analysis. A total of 955 breast neoplasm patients and 1116 patients with benign breast tumors were assessed. All breast lesions were histologically confirmed after SMI. The pooled Sen was 0.81 (95%CI=0.78-0.83); the pooled Spe was 0.71 (95%CI=0.68-0.73) The pooled LR+ was 3.24 (95%CI=2.27-4.64); the pooled negative LR−was 0.25 (95%CI=0.18-0.34) The pooled DOR of SMI in the diagnosis of breast tumor was 46.97 (95 % CI=16.72∼131.97). The area under the SROC curve was 0.87 (95%CI=0.84- 0.90). We found no evidence for publication bias (t=−0.84, p=0.42).Conclusion: Our meta-analysis indicates that SMI may have a high diagnostic accuracy in differential diagnosis between benign and malignant breast tumors. Thus, SMI may be a good tool for the diagnosis of breast tumors.
The acoustical impulse response of a line source of finite length above an absorbing plane
Authors: Ochmann Martin
Published: May 2020

It was shown in previous publications that the impulse response of an infinite line source, as well as a point source in the three-dimensional space above an absorbing plane, can be expressed in closed form. However, line sources of a finite length are much more practical. In this study, the impulse response of a finite line source above the absorbing ground is derived and presented in a closed form, which is the main result of the present work. The corresponding analytical solution is composed of three distinct signals. Those are the direct signal, the mirrored signal, and the “pressure tail.” The direct signal is the line-of-sight signal. The mirrored signal is the signal emitted from the image source. It is weighted with the reflection coefficient of the infinite line source, which is a surprising mathematical result. The direct signal and the mirrored signal are both of finite duration. However, the third signal—the pressure tail—starts at the end of the mirrored signal and continues indefinitely for a finite surface impedance. In general, this last signal is relatively weak; it can be considered as the reverberation of the source caused by the infinite plane.
How Coach Educators Deliver Formal Coach Education: A Full Range Leadership Perspective
Authors: Garner Paul , Turnnidge Jennifer , Roberts Will , Côté Jean
Published: May 2020

While recent work recognizes a need for coach education to place greater emphasis on interpersonal knowledge when developing coaching expertise, it is our position that coach educators (CEs) must follow a similar trajectory in embracing the interpersonal knowledge requisite of their role and move beyond a reliance on content and professional knowledge in order to shape their delivery. To better understand CEs’ behaviors, the authors observed four experienced CEs in Alpine skiing, using an adapted version of the Coach Leadership Assessment System during delivery of a coach education and assessment course. The authors also interviewed CEs to further elucidate the observational data. The findings suggest the benefit of transactional approaches to leadership during assessment when set against the backdrop of an environment driven by intentions consistent with transformational leadership. Furthermore, we call for a greater appreciation of context when imagining CEs’ behaviors that align with effective practice.
Doctors race to understand inflammatory condition in kids
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: May 2020

Studies are launching to pinpoint children most at risk.
Diverse students display inventions at HBCU showcase
Authors: Korte Andrea
Published: May 2020

Innovators from historically black institutions address challenges being faced by their communities
Tracking the rapid pace of a retreating ice sheet
Authors: Jakobsson Martin
Published: May 2020

Seafloor mapping shows that Antarctic ice sheets retreated faster during the last deglaciation than today
COVID-19 research in Africa
Authors: Bekker Linda-Gail , Mizrahi Valerie
Published: May 2020

When two French doctors recently discussed the ease of conducting clinical research on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in African nations, with an insinuation that ethical and safety standards for testing vaccines and treatments in these nations are lower than in other countries, anti-African research sentiments flared on social media and in news reports. Suggesting that clinical trial conduct is at a lower standard in Africa is unacceptable. Africa has innovated and implemented health solutions with high ethical regard for its people. In March, the Academy of Science of South Africa stressed the importance of research and development on COVID-19 in Africa as “key to the response to outbreaks of emerging and re-emerging pathogens.” The expertise and infrastructure of African clinical research sites, along with African nations' engagement of their communities who wish to contribute to effective solutions, are ready to be leveraged to tackle this pandemic emergency.
Identification of Estrogen Receptor Modulators as Inhibitors of Flavivirus Infection
Authors: Eyre Nicholas S. , Kirby Emily N. , Anfiteatro Daniel R. , Bracho Gustavo , Russo Alice G. , White Peter A. , Aloia Amanda L. , Beard Michael R.
Published: May 2020

Flaviviruses such as Zika virus (ZIKV), dengue virus (DENV), and West Nile virus (WNV) are major global pathogens for which safe and effective antiviral therapies are not currently available. To identify antiviral small molecules with well-characterized safety and bioavailability profiles, we screened a library of 2,907 approved drugs and pharmacologically active compounds for inhibitors of ZIKV infection using a high-throughput cell-based immunofluorescence assay. Interestingly, estrogen receptor modulators raloxifene hydrochloride and quinestrol were among 15 compounds that significantly inhibited ZIKV infection in repeat screens.
Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Deficient in RNA Cap Guanine-N-7 Methylation Is Attenuated and Induces Higher Type I and III Interferon Responses
Authors: Lu Yunjian , Cai Hui , Lu Mijia , Ma Yuanmei , Li Anzhong , Gao Youling , Zhou Jiyong , Gu Howard , Li Jianrong , Gu Jinyan
Published: May 2020

Coronaviruses (CoVs) include a wide range of important human and animal pathogens. Examples of human CoVs include severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1), Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and the most recently emerged SARS-CoV-2. Examples of pig CoVs include porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), and swine enteric alphacoronavirus (SeACoV). There are no vaccines or antiviral drugs for most of these viruses. All known CoVs encode a bifunctional nsp14 protein which possesses ExoN and guanine-N-7 methyltransferase (G-N-7 MTase) activities, responsible for replication fidelity and RNA cap G-N-7 methylation, respectively. Here, we biochemically characterized G-N-7 MTase of PEDV nsp14 and found that G-N-7 MTase-deficient PEDV was defective in replication and induced greater responses of type I and III interferons. These findings highlight that CoV G-N-7 MTase may be a novel target for rational design of live attenuated vaccines and antiviral drugs.
Crustal and upper mantle structure beneath the South China Sea and Indonesia
Authors: Corchete V.
Published: May 2020

A three-dimensional (3-D) S-velocity model for the crust and upper mantle beneath the South China Sea and Indonesia is presented, determined by means of Rayleigh wave analysis, in the depth range from 0 km to 400 km. The crustal and lithospheric mantle structure of this study area was previously investigated using several methods and databases. Due to their low resolution, a 3-D structure for this area has not been previously determined. The determination of such a 3-D S-velocity model is the goal of the present study. The most conspicuous features of the crust and upper mantle structure include the S-velocity difference between the Java Sea and the Banda Sea regions and a transitional boundary between these two regions. This model confirms the principal structural features revealed in previous studies: an oceanic crust structure in the center of the South China Sea, crustal thinning from the northern continental margin of the South China Sea to this oceanic crust, and the existence of a high-velocity layer in the lower crust of the northern continental margin. This study concludes that the north of the South China Sea is a nonvolcanic-type continental margin, solving the open question of whether the continental margin of the northern South China Sea is volcanic or nonvolcanic. A new map of the asthenosphere’s base is also presented.
Advanced myeloma masquerading as chronic shoulder pain in a 48-year-old man: a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Bhadra Rajarshi , Nikova Teodora , Somasundaram Meyappan , Ravakhah Keyvan
Published: May 2020

Although solitary plasmacytomas may occasionally present as collar bone swellings or fractures, multiple myeloma involving clavicle is extremely rare. Ten to forty per cent of multiple myeloma cases are asymptomatic and are incidental diagnoses. Our case report describes an entirely benign presentation like chronic shoulder pain masquerading advanced myeloma, thereby posing a significant diagnostic dilemma. We present a 48-year-old man who presented with chronic bilateral shoulder pain with no history of trauma and was eventually diagnosed with advanced multiple myeloma and pathologic fracture of the right clavicle. It is, therefore, evident that a low threshold for suspicion can lead to early diagnosis and initiation of treatment and better survival.
Syringomyelia as a delayed complication of lumbar–sacral adhesive arachnoiditis in Pott’s disease
Authors: Jesrani Gautam , Kaur Jaspreet , Gupta Monica , Sawal Nishit
Published: May 2020

Syringomyelia is the development of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord and is an extremely rare chronic manifestation of tuberculosis. The syrinx so formed may expand over time, causing compression or destruction of spinal tracts and surrounding nerve roots. Development of syringomyelia in a patient of Pott’s disease is particularly infrequent. We report this rare case of a 31-year-old man with syringomyelia as a prolonged complication of Pott’s disease.
80-year-old man with dyspnoea and bilateral groundglass infiltrates: an elusive case of COVID-19
Authors: Samec Matthew J , Khawaja Ali , Patel Ashokakumar M , Dugani Sagar B
Published: May 2020

COVID-19 is a novel viral infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 virus, first identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019. COVID-19 has spread rapidly and is now considered a global pandemic. We present a case of a patient with minimal respiratory symptoms but prominent bilateral groundglass opacities in a ‘crazy paving’ pattern on chest CT imaging and a negative initial infectious workup. However, given persistent dyspnoea and labs suggestive of COVID-19 infection, the patient remained hospitalised for further monitoring. Forty-eight hours after initial testing, the PCR test was repeated and returned positive for COVID-19. This case illustrates the importance of clinical vigilance to retest patients for COVID-19, particularly in the absence of another compelling aetiology. As COVID-19 testing improves to rapidly generate results, selective retesting of patients may uncover additional COVID-19 cases and strengthen measures to minimise the spread of COVID-19.
Smoking habits of UK military personnel on deployment: Exercise SAIF SAREEA 3
Authors: Williams J F , Fuller M , Smith M B
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Changes of environment brought about by deployments are often attributed to an increase in smoking of service personnel. Electronic cigarettes are recognised as being a viable aid to quitting smoking but are currently banned from sale in Oman and were therefore banned during exercise SAIF SAREEA 3 (SS3). This paper sought to establish whether smoking increased on this exercise and for what reasons. Also, if deployed smoking cessation services are likely to be used, if available.

Methods

Questionnaires were distributed to deployed troops at various locations in theatre for data collection.

Results

Smoking prevalence increased by 5.2% (29) in the deployed population by the end of the exercise. The largest increase was seen in those smoking 20 cigarettes a day or more, rising by 269.8% (73) with a mean increase of 9 cigarettes per day. During the exercise the number of personnel using electronic cigarettes decreased and individuals’ rate of electronic cigarette use also decreased. Those who smoked less during the exercise did mainly through choice (56.8%). 50% (280) of all individuals who increased smoking habits during the exercise did so out of boredom.

Conclusions

During exercise SS3 the number of individuals who smoked and the quantity they smoked increased. The ban on electronic cigarettes in Oman and while on exercise potentially had an effect on the increased smoking habits. There is an argument to include smoking cessation material in medical modules to prevent ex-smokers from restarting, continue to aid those quitting and potentially lessen severity of increasing smoking habits while deployed.
Methodological aspects of economic evaluations conducted in the palliative or end of life care settings: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Fischer Claudia , Chwala Eva , Simon Judit
Published: May 2020

Introduction

In light of this growing palliative care and end of life care patient population, as well as new (expensive) drugs and treatments, quality research providing evidence for decision-making is required. However, common research guidance is lacking in this field, especially in respect to the methods applied in economic evaluations. Therefore, the aim of the planned systematic review is to identify and summarise relevant information on methodological challenges, potential solutions and recommendations for conducting economic evaluations of interventions in adult patients, irrespective of their underlying disease and gender in the palliative or end of life care settings, with no restrictions in regards to countries/geographical regions. The results of this systematic review may help to clarify the current methodological questions and form the basis of new, setting specific methods guidelines and support ongoing applied economic evaluations in the field.

Methods and analysis

A systematic review will be conducted using Medline, Embase, Health Technology Assessment Database and NHS Economic Evaluation Database to identify the studies published from 1999 onwards with relevant information on methodological challenges, potential solutions and recommendations for conducting economic evaluations in the palliative or end of life care settings. Articles in English, German, Spanish, French or Dutch language will be considered. Two independent reviewers will conduct the screening of articles; any discrepancies will be resolved by discussion and involvement of a third reviewer. Predesigned data extraction forms will be applied, consequently narratively synthesised and categorised. Studies’ methodological quality will be critically appraised. Besides existing economic guidelines and checklists for specific information on the palliative and end of life care sector will be searched.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required, as this is a planned systematic review of published literature. An article will be disseminated in a related peer-reviewed journal, as well as presented at leading palliative care and health economic conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020148160.
A brief and personal history of ‘what’s in a name’ in reproductive genetics
Authors: Nisker Jeff
Published: May 2020

Although Juliet’s claim, ‘What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet’, may apply to family names, ‘that which we call’ embryos and procedures in reproductive genetics often smell sweet because the names were created to perfume not-so-sweet-smelling practices. Reproductive-genetic scientists and clinicians, including myself, have used perfumed names to make our research smell sweet for research ethics boards, research grant funders, government regulators, hospital administrators and the general public. The sweet-smelling names in reproductive genetics explored here include ‘pre-embryo’, preimplantation genetic ‘diagnosis’, ‘normal’ embryo, ‘suitable’ embryo, ‘healthy’ embryo, preimplantation genetic ‘testing’, ‘non-invasive prenatal testing’, ‘donation’, and most recently ‘mitochondrial replacement therapy’, a sweet-smelling name for germline nuclear transfer prohibited in antireproductive cloning legislation in most countries. In order for informed choices to occur for women who come to clinicians for information regarding reproductive genetics, and for transparency of scrutiny by research ethics boards, governmental regulators and the general public, it is essential that we consider the real meaning of sweet-smelling names in reproductive genetics.
No association between night shiftwork and mammographic density
Authors: El-Zaemey Sonia , Fritschi Lin , Heyworth Jane , Boyle Terry , Saunders Christobel , Wylie Elizabeth , Stone Jennifer
Published: May 2020

Background

Increased mammographic density is one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer. Night shiftwork and its related factors, which include light at night, phase shift and sleep disruption, are believed to increase breast cancer risk however, their effects on mammographic density have barely been studied.

Methods

This study included 1821 women enrolled in the Breast Cancer Environment and Employment Study between 2009 and 2011. Mammographic density was measured using the Cumulus software program. The association of night shiftwork factors with square root transformed absolute dense area (DA) and percentage dense area (PDA) were modelled using linear regression adjusted for confounders.

Results

Ever doing graveyard shiftwork (between 24:00 and 05:00 hours) was not associated with PDA (β=−0.10; 95% CI −0.27 to 0.08)) and DA (β=−0.12; 95% CI −0.33 to 0.09)). No association was found between night shiftwork related factors (light at night, phase shift and sleep disturbance) with PDA or DA.

Conclusions

Shiftwork and its related factors are not associated with mammographic density. Using high-quality, comprehensive shiftwork data from a large population-based breast cancer case–control study, this study suggests that mammographic density does not play a role in the relationship between shiftwork and breast cancer risk.
The N-glycans of lactoferrin: more than just a sweet decoration
Authors: Zlatina Kristina , Galuska Sebastian P.
Published: May 2020

Nearly all extracellular proteins undergo post-translational modification with sugar chains during their transit through the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus. These “sweet” modifications not only influence the activity of its carrier protein, but they themselves often have bioactivity, independent of the carrier function. Lactoferrin belongs to the group of glycoproteins and is modified with several different N-glycans. This minireview summarizes several studies dealing with the diverse glycosylation patterns of lactoferrin from different origins, and the potential impact of these post-translational modifications on the functionality of lactoferrin. A special emphasis is placed on the differences between human and bovine lactoferrin, because the latter form is often selected for the development of novel therapeutic approaches in humans. For this reason, the potential impact of the bovine-specific glycosylation patterns on the observed heterogeneous effects of lactoferrin in humans is discussed within this minireview.
Warm, dry conditions inhibit aspen growth, but tree growth and size predict mortality risk in the southwestern United States
Authors: Ireland Kathryn B. , Moore Margaret M. , Fulé Peter Z. , Yocom Larissa L. , Zegler Thomas J.
Published: May 2020

Widespread, rapid aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) mortality since the beginning of the 21st century, sometimes called sudden aspen decline (SAD), has been documented in many locations across North America, but it has been particularly pronounced in the southwestern United States. We investigated the relationship among aspen growth, mortality, and climate across three forest types in northern Arizona using cross-dated tree-ring samples from 126 live and 132 dead aspens. Aspen growth was negatively correlated with warm temperatures and positively associated with higher precipitation. Using survival analysis techniques to investigate the links between aspen mortality, tree traits, and climatic conditions, we found that tree traits played a larger role in mortality risk than climate factors. Trees with larger diameters, older trees, and trees with faster growth rates over the past 50 years had a reduced risk of mortality. Management actions aimed at maintaining the most vigorous, fastest growing aspen in the region could help mitigate the impacts of a warmer, drier future.
Increasing ground-layer plant taxonomic diversity masks declining phylogenetic diversity along a silvicultural disturbance gradient
Authors: Hupperts Stefan F. , Webster Christopher R. , Froese Robert E. , Lilleskov Erik A. , Marcarelli Amy M. , Dickinson Yvette L.
Published: May 2020

Most plant diversity in temperate deciduous forests is found in the ground layer, but nearly all studies comparing plant community assembly using taxonomic, trait, and phylogenetic diversity indices are limited to woody plants. To examine the relationship between short-term ground-layer plant community assembly and disturbance severity, we leveraged a silvicultural experiment that applied a combination of harvest and site preparation treatments in a northern hardwood forest in Michigan, USA. We predicted that after two growing seasons, plant communities would be less sensitive to harvest treatments when compared with site preparation treatments that disturb the rhizosphere and modify rooting substrate. We also predicted that an increase in taxonomic diversity would accompany a decline in trait diversity and phylogenetic diversity. Instead, plant species composition responded similarly to harvest treatment and site preparation treatment. However, our measure of disturbance severity was positively correlated with both trait diversity and taxonomic diversity but negatively correlated with phylogenetic diversity, indicating that increasingly diverse traits and taxonomies along this disturbance severity gradient were comprised of more phylogenetically simple plant communities. Informed management decisions should therefore consider the underlying value of each diversity measure, as taxonomic diversity alone may not be the best metric for assessing plant community assembly.
Proton decay and axion dark matter in SO(10) grand unification via minimal left–right symmetry
Authors: Hamada Yuta , Ibe Masahiro , Muramatsu Yu , Oda Kin-ya , Yokozaki Norimi
Published: May 2020

We study the proton lifetime in the SO(10) Grand Unified Theory (GUT), which has the left–right (LR) symmetric gauge theory below the GUT scale. In particular, we focus on the minimal model without the bi-doublet Higgs field in the LR symmetric model, which predicts the LR-breaking scale at around $$10^{10-12}$$1010-12 GeV. The Wilson coefficients of the proton decay operators turn out to be considerably larger than those in the minimal SU(5) GUT model especially when the Standard Model Yukawa interactions are generated by integrating out extra vector-like multiplets. As a result, we find that the proton lifetime can be within the reach of the Hyper-Kamiokande experiment even when the GUT gauge-boson mass is in the $$10^{16}$$1016–$$10^{17}$$1017 GeV range. We also show that the mass of the extra vector-like multiplets can be generated by the Peccei–Quinn symmetry breaking in a consistent way with the axion dark matter scenario.
Optimized Active Power Management in Solar PV-Fed Transformerless Grid-Connected System for Rural Electrified Microgrid
Authors: Krishna Bekkam , Bheemraj T. S. , Karthikeyan V.
Published: May 2020

Dynamic voltage instability is one of the major issues faced by grid-connected renewable energy systems due to fluctuations in the generation and sudden variation in the loads. The primary objective of this paper is to propose a method for constant power consumption from the grid to maintain a stable DC-link voltage during peak and nonpeak hours. It can be achieved by implementing an optimized active power management (OAPM) scheme between the photovoltaic (PV) and the grid by enabling a battery energy storage system (BESS). The intelligent constant power balance (ICPB) algorithm and detailed control strategies for dual active bridge (DAB) isolated DC–DC converter and grid-connected voltage source inverter (VSI) are discussed in this paper. Moreover, the high-gain step-up DC–DC converter (HSDC) is utilized to perform maximum power point tracking (MPPT) operation and to meet the required DC-link voltage. The accuracy of power transmission of DAB gets improved by imposing a curve-fitting interpolation (CFI) approach, thereby maintaining a constant DC-link voltage. Furthermore, an instantaneous sinusoidal current control (ISCC) scheme assures the feeding of active power with better power quality. The measured results are obtained and verified under different dynamic conditions of load and generation. Based on the validation, we conclude that the proposed OAPM scheme is most suitable for grid-connected renewable energy systems in the rural electrified microgrid.
Edge Network Security Risk Control Based on Attack and Defense Map
Authors: Shi Lin , Wang Zilong , Zeng Yixuan
Published: May 2020

The standardized communication protocol and the universal application of intelligent electronic devices in edge networks provide technical support to the realization of smart cities and also bring network security issues that cannot be ignored. How to analyze and quantitatively assess the vulnerability of the edge network has become an important issue that needs to be solved urgently in the edge network security risk control. Based on the analysis of the vulnerability mechanism, this paper proposes the selection criteria and generation methods of vulnerability indicators and of composite vulnerability indicators, respectively. In addition, this paper proposes an improved vulnerability severity rating method to analyze the vulnerability of the system and potential security threats. This paper describes the security risk status of vulnerable points based on the state transition of the state offensive and defensive graph and implements the description of the security risk status of attacks in terms of attack frequency, attack success rate and harm. Experimental results justify the effectiveness of the proposed solution.
A 4500 year record of palaeomagnetic secular variation and relative palaeointensity from the Tyrrhenian Sea
Authors: Lurcock Pontus , Florindo Fabio , Bonomo Sergio , Cascella Antonio , Di Rita Federico , Ferraro Luciana , Insinga Donatella Domenica , Magri Donatella , Margaritelli Giulia , Pelosi Nicola , Petrosino Paola , Vallefuoco Mattia , Cosentino Claudia , Lirer Fabrizio
Published: May 2020

A marine sediment core from the western Mediterranean provides a new high-resolution 4500 year record of palaeomagnetic secular variation and relative palaeointensity. In 2013, the 7.1 m C5 core was recovered from the Tyrrhenian Sea as part of the NextData climate data project. The coring site, 15 km offshore from the Volturno river mouth, is well located to record combined marine and terrestrial palaeoclimatic influences, and the fine-grained, rapidly deposited sediments are effective palaeomagnetic recorders. We investigate the palaeomagnetic field direction and strength recorded in the core, which provide a valuable high-resolution record of Holocene geomagnetic variation in the area. Using rock magnetic techniques, we constrain the magnetic mineralogy of the studied sediments and confirm their suitability for palaeomagnetic analysis. Palaeomagnetic declination and inclination records were determined by stepwise alternating-field demagnetization, and relative palaeointensity estimates were obtained based on normalization to anhysterestic and isothermal remanent magnetization and to magnetic susceptibility. The age of the core is well constrained with a tephra and biostratigraphic age model, and its magnetic records are compared with relevant core and model data for the region, demonstrating that our record is compatible with previous results from the area. An automated curve matching approach is applied to assess the compatibility of our data with the existing secular variation path for the Mediterranean area.
Early­­­­–Middle Ordovician sedimentation and bimodal volcanism at the margin of Iapetus: the Trollhøtta–Kinna Basin of the central Norwegian Caledonides
Authors: Dalslåen Bjørgunn H. , Gasser Deta , Grenne Tor , Augland Lars E. , Andresen Arild
Published: May 2020

The late Neoproterozoic–Paleozoic Iapetus Ocean developed between Laurentia, Baltica, Siberia and Gondwana. Its Paleozoic closure history is recorded by volcano-sedimentary successions within the Caledonian orogen of Scandinavia, the British Isles and Newfoundland. We present new lithological, geochemical and geochronological data relevant for the Iapetan closure history from the hitherto poorly known Trollhøtta–Kinna Basin (central Norwegian Caledonides). This basin consists of alternating siliciclastic rocks, mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORBs), and felsic volcanic rocks highly enriched in, for example, Th, U and light REEs. Rhyolites from the stratigraphically upper part are dated by zircon U–Pb thermal ionization mass spectrometry to 473.3 ± 1.0 and 472.4 ± 0.7 Ma. Detrital zircon spectra indicate deposition after
c.
480 Ma, with sediments derived from composite Cambro-Ordovician and Archean–Neoproterozoic landmass(es), possibly the Laurentian margin or a related microcontinent. The peculiar bimodal volcanic association is interpreted as an intermittent phase of marginal basin rifting, derived from a heterogeneous mantle source previously metasomatized by continental material. The tectonic mechanisms behind rifting could be slab retreat and/or break-off, or far-field tectonic forces within the Iapetan realm. Comparison of this basin with other Iapetus-related, similarly-aged volcano-sedimentary successions along the Caledonian–Appalachian orogen indicate that the bimodal MORBs and highly enriched rocks reflect a palaeotectonic setting hitherto unknown in the orogen.