bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scenario modelling of carbon mineralization in 3D soil architecture at the microscale: Toward an accessibility coefficient of organic matter for bacteria
Authors: Mbé Bruno , Monga Olivier , Pot Valérie , Otten Wilfred , Hecht Frédéric , Raynaud Xavier , Nunan Naoise , Chenu Claire , Baveye Philippe C. , Garnier Patricia
Published: July 2021

The microscale physical characteristics of microbial habitats considerably affect the decomposition of organic matter in soils. One of the challenges is to identify microheterogeneities in soil that can explain the extent of carbon mineralization. The aim of this study was therefore to identify descriptors of μm‐scale soil heterogeneity that can explain CO2 fluxes obtained at the mm scale. A suite of methods and models that visualize soil heterogeneity at scales relevant to microorganisms has been developed over the last decade. Among the existing 3D models that simulate microbial activity in soils, Mosaic is able to simulate, within a short computation time, the microbial degradation of organic matter at the microhabitat scale in soil using real 3D images of soil porosity. Our approach was to generate scenarios of carbon mineralization for various microscale environmental conditions and determine how the descriptors of soil structure could explain CO2 evolution. First, we verified that the simulated diffusion of solutes in the soil samples obtained with Mosaic were the same as those obtained using the same parameter set from a robust 3D model based on a lattice Boltzmann approach. Then, we ran scenarios considering different soil pore architectures, water saturations and microorganism and organic matter placements. We found that the CO2 emissions simulated for the different scenarios could be explained by the distance between microorganisms and organic matter, the diffusion of the substrate and the concentration of the available substrate. For some of the scenarios, we proposed a descriptor of accessibility based on the geodesic distance between microorganisms and organic matter weighted by the amount of organic matter. This microscale descriptor is correlated to the simulated CO2 flux with a correlation coefficient of 0.69.

Highlights

Does the microscopic soil organisation explain the macroscopic mineralisation fluxes ?

We present a new descriptor based on the geodesic distances between organic matter and microorganisms.

We found a correlation between the descriptor of μm‐heterogeneity and the mineralization fluxes.

Other scenarios should be carried out under wider environmental μm‐conditions to confirm our results.
Early diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by threshold tracking and conventional transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Tankisi Hatice , Nielsen Christina S.‐Z. , Howells James , Cengiz Bülent , Samusyte Gintaute , Koltzenburg Martin , Blicher Jakob U. , Møller Anette T. , Pugdahl Kirsten , Fuglsang‐Frederiksen Anders , de Carvalho Mamede , Bostock Hugh
Published: July 2021

Background and purpose

Short‐interval intracortical inhibition by threshold tracking (T‐SICI) has been proposed as a diagnostic tool for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) but has not been compared directly with conventional amplitude measurements (A‐SICI). This study compared A‐SICI and T‐SICI for sensitivity and clinical usefulness as biomarkers for ALS.

Methods

In all, 104 consecutive patients referred with suspicion of ALS were prospectively included and were subsequently divided into 62 patients with motor neuron disease (MND) and 42 patient controls (ALS mimics) by clinical follow‐up. T‐SICI and A‐SICI recorded in the first dorsal interosseus muscle (index test) were compared with recordings from 53 age‐matched healthy controls. The reference standard was the Awaji criteria. Clinical scorings, conventional nerve conduction studies and electromyography were also performed on the patients.

Results

Motor neuron disease patients had significantly reduced T‐SICI and A‐SICI compared with the healthy and patient control groups, which were similar. Sensitivity and specificity for discriminating MND patients from patient controls were high (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves 0.762 and 0.810 for T‐SICI and A‐SICI respectively at 1–3.5 ms). Paradoxically, T‐SICI was most reduced in MND patients with the fewest upper motor neuron (UMN) signs (Spearmanρ = 0.565,p = 4.3 × 10−6).

Conclusions

Amplitude‐based measure of cortical inhibition and T‐SICI are both sensitive measures for the detection of cortical involvement in MND patients and may help early diagnosis of ALS, with T‐SICI most abnormal before UMN signs have developed. The gradation in T‐SICI from pathological facilitation in patients with minimal UMN signs to inhibition in those with the most UMN signs may be due to progressive degeneration of the subset of UMNs experiencing facilitation.
Ketogenic diet–mediated seizure reduction preserves CA1 cell numbers in epileptic Kcna1‐null mice: An unbiased stereological assessment
Authors: Simeone Kristina A. , Wilke Julianne C. , Matthews Stephanie A. , Simeone Timothy A. , Rho Jong M.
Published: July 2021

There is growing evidence for the disease‐modifying potential of metabolic therapies, including the ketogenic diet (KD), which is used to treat medically intractable epilepsy. However, it remains unclear whether the KD exerts direct effects on histopathological changes in epileptic brain, or whether the changes are a consequence of diet‐induced reduction in seizure activity. Here, we used unbiased stereological techniques to quantify the seizure‐induced reduction in cell number in the CA1 region of the hippocampus of epileptic Kcna1‐null mice and compared the effects of the KD with that of phenobarbital (PB), a widely employed anti‐seizure drug. Our data suggest that the anti‐seizure activity of the KD or PB was similar. However, CA1 cell numbers of KD‐treated hippocampi were not significantly different from those seen in wild‐type (WT) mice, whereas CA1 cell counts in standard diet and PB‐treated Kcna1‐null mice were 23% and 31% lower than WT animals, respectively. These results support the notion that structural protection of cells may involve more than seizure attenuation, and that the KD engages mechanisms that also promote or restore hippocampal morphological integrity.
Numerical analyses of damage behavior of wire with inclusion in multipass drawing process
Authors: Ma Ao , Cheng Jiaxing , Wei Dasheng , Fang Feng , Li Zhaoxia
Published: July 2021

Inclusion is one of the main causes for unqualified wire. However, the forming mechanism of drawing fracture due to inclusions is still unclear. Therefore, it is significant to figure out the forming mechanism of wire drawing fracture with inclusions for designing and manufacturing high‐quality wires. In this paper, a physical model of wire with inclusion is established based on experimental observations. Multipass drawing is simulated by using finite element method (FEM) with the developed numerical damage modeling. Numerical results demonstrate that the damage increases with the development of drawing progress, and the damage caused by high elastic modulus of inclusion is greater than that of low elastic modulus. Pen‐tip shaped fracture of wire with inclusions is mainly caused by the superposition of core and external V‐shaped damage. Furthermore, the core V‐shaped crack will propagate along the external V‐shaped damage area.
Diurnal variability in soil nitrous oxide emissions is a widespread phenomenon
Authors: Wu Yuk‐Faat , Whitaker Jeanette , Toet Sylvia , Bradley Amy , Davies Christian A. , McNamara Niall P.
Published: July 2021

Manual measurements of nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions with static chambers are commonly practised. However, they generally do not consider the diurnal variability of N2O flux, and little is known about the patterns and drivers of such variability. We systematically reviewed and analysed 286 diurnal data sets of N2O fluxes from published literature to (i) assess the prevalence and timing (day or night peaking) of diurnal N2O flux patterns in agricultural and forest soils, (ii) examine the relationship between N2O flux and soil temperature with different diurnal patterns, (iii) identify whether non‐diurnal factors (i.e. land management and soil properties) influence the occurrence of diurnal patterns and (iv) evaluate the accuracy of estimating cumulative N2O emissions with single‐daily flux measurements. Our synthesis demonstrates that diurnal N2O flux variability is a widespread phenomenon in agricultural and forest soils. Of the 286 data sets analysed, ~80% exhibited diurnal N2O patterns, with ~60% peaking during the day and ~20% at night. Contrary to many published observations, our analysis only found strong positive correlations (R > 0.7) between N2O flux and soil temperature in one‐third of the data sets. Soil drainage property, soil water‐filled pore space (WFPS) level and land use were also found to potentially influence the occurrence of certain diurnal patterns. Our work demonstrated that single‐daily flux measurements at mid‐morning yielded daily emission estimates with the smallest average bias compared to measurements made at other times of day, however, it could still lead to significant over‐ or underestimation due to inconsistent diurnal N2O patterns. This inconsistency also reflects the inaccuracy of using soil temperature to predict the time of daily average N2O flux. Future research should investigate the relationship between N2O flux and other diurnal parameters, such as photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and root exudation, along with the consideration of the effects of soil moisture, drainage and land use on the diurnal patterns of N2O flux. The information could be incorporated in N2O emission prediction models to improve accuracy.
Exosome circCMTM3 promotes angiogenesis and tumorigenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma through miR‐3619‐5p/SOX9
Authors: Hu Ke , Li Nian‐Feng , Li Jia‐Rong , Chen Ze‐Guo , Wang Jian‐Hua , Sheng Lang‐Qing
Published: July 2021

Aim

As one of the most common and lethal carcinomas, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a global health concern and affects millions of people worldwide. Current treatments for HCC are very limited due to its unclear pathogenesis. Here, we aim to further investigate the role of circCMTM3/microRNA (miR)‐3619‐5p in HCC.

Methods

Human blood samples were collected from HCC patients and healthy people. Quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were undertaken to measure levels of circCMTM3, miR‐3619‐5p, SOX9, and exosome markers. The MTT, colony formation, and Transwell assays were used to examine the viability, migration, and invasion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), respectively. Tube formation assay was used to assess angiogenesis. Dual luciferase assay was used to validate circCMTM3/miR‐3619‐5p and miR‐3619‐5p/SOX9 interactions. A nude mouse xenograft model was used to test the role of circCMTM3 in HCC in vivo.

Results

Levels of circCMTM3 in exosomes from HCC patients and cells were elevated. Knockdown of circCMTM3 greatly decreased viability, migration, and invasion of HUVECs, as well as angiogenesis. CircCMTM3 acted as a miR‐3619‐5p sponge and miR‐3619‐5p inhibitor reversed the effects of si‐circCMTM3 on angiogenesis. MiR‐3619‐5p directly targeted SOX9 and modulated angiogenesis through SOX9. Furthermore, knockdown of circCMTM3 suppressed angiogenesis and HCC tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

The exosome circCMTM3/miR‐3619‐5p/SOX9 axis from HCC cells promotes angiogenesis and thus contributes to HCC tumorigenesis.
Electric‐assisted strategy enhances the photocatalytic performance of mixed‐dimensional CdS/MoS2 photocatalysts
Authors: Qiao Hui , Hu Rong , Huang Zongyu , Liu Shengqian , Qi Xiang
Published: July 2021

As an effective semiconductor catalyst, cadmium sulfide (CdS) is used in the field of split water hydrogen evolution because of its suitable band gap (~2.4 eV), good photocatalysis activity. However, the rapid recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs limits the application of CdS in the field of catalytic hydrogen evolution. Here, we synthesize a CdS/MoS2 mixed‐dimensional heterojunction by a simple hydrothermal method. In this process, CdS nanoparticles were supported on MoS2 nanosheets, where MoS2 acts as a loading platform and co‐catalyst to improve the photocatalytic performance of CdS. A series of characterizations confirmed that CdS nanoparticles with a size of approximately 130 nm were uniformly grown on the surface of MoS2 nanosheets. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) tests show that this CdS/MoS2 mixed‐dimensional heterojunction has enhanced photocatalysis hydrogen evolution activity, which is due to the CdS/MoS2 mixed‐dimensional heterojunction can promote the separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and positive synergy of MoS2 nanosheets as a co‐catalyst. In addition, a new electrically assisted method is used to enhance the photocatalytic activity, and the photocatalytic performance of the CdS/MoS2 mixed‐dimensional heterojunction is improved by nearly four times when a voltage of 0.6 V is applied. This phenomenon is attributed to the fact that providing an appropriate voltage can further promote the separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and rapid carrier mobility, thereby effectively improve the photocatalytic activity of the photocatalyst. This work provides a good guiding significance for the design and construction of high‐performance hydrogen evolution catalysts.
Efficient valuation of variable annuity portfolios with dynamic programming
Authors: Moenig Thorsten
Published: July 2021

The valuation of variable annuity portfolios presents major challenges for US life insurers. Recent studies propose machine learning and metamodeling techniques based on selecting a few representative guarantees. However, these methods face a critical trade‐off between speed and accuracy. In contrast, I propose a recursive dynamic programming approach and demonstrate its ability to value a large and highly heterogeneous variable annuity portfolio with a high degree of accuracy and within a few seconds—even under stochastic interest rates and volatility—since the heavy computational burden can be fully front‐loaded (in a one‐time effort at the guarantee's pricing stage). This makes the dynamic programming approach ideally suited for all variable annuity applications, including the computation of reserves and capital requirements and to determine the insurer's hedging position. Moreover, dynamic programming can naturally incorporate optimal policyholder behavior into the insurer's valuation.
Relationship between pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index and post‐incision heart rate and pupillary diameter variation in children
Authors: Sabourdin Nada , Del Bove Loïc , Louvet Nicolas , Luzon‐Chetrit Sarah , Tavernier Benoît , Constant Isabelle
Published: July 2021

Background

The Pupillary Pain Index is a recent pupillometric index designed to assess the level of analgesia under general anesthesia in children and adults. If analgesia is inadequate, acute nociceptive stimuli such as skin incision may induce significant hemodynamic disturbances.

Aims

Our aim was to investigate the potential relationship between pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index and heart rate increase following skin incision in children.

Methods

This was a prospective, non‐randomized, registered pilot study. We included children undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. Pupillary Pain Index was assessed 2 min before skin incision. Then, heart rate maximal variation (ΔHR) and pupillary diameter maximal variation (ΔPD) in the minute following incision were recorded. Spearman coefficient was calculated to characterize the relationship between Pupillary Pain Index and ΔHR or ΔPD. Using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, we also studied the predictive value of pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index for heart rate and pupillary diameter reactivity.

Results

53 patients were included (10 ± 4 years, 40 ± 19 kg). There was a modest correlation between pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index and ΔHR (Spearman rs = 0.35 [0.05–0.57], p = .011), and between pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index and ΔPD (Spearman rs = 0.54 [0.33–0.71], p < .001). Regarding the predictive value of Pupillary Pain Index for heart rate or pupillary diameter reactivity, the corresponding areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.90 [0.82–0.99] and 0.78 [0.65–0.93], respectively. A threshold of Pupillary Pain Index <3 predicted the absence of heart rate reactivity at incision with a good performance (negative predictive value = 1).

Conclusions

In children, pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index was moderately correlated with post‐incision nociception. Pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index had good predictive performances for heart rate or pupillary diameter reactivity to skin incision. Pre‐incision Pupillary Pain Index <3 might predict the absence of heart rate reaction to incision.
The application of health behavior theories to promote cervical cancer screening uptake
Authors: Dsouza Jyoshma Preema , Van den Broucke Stephan , Pattanshetty Sanjay , Dhoore William
Published: July 2021

Background

While cervical cancer is a major cause of mortality, its progress and survival rate can be improved through screening. Yet despite their wide availability, women's participation in cervical cancer screening (CCS) programs is often suboptimal, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Besides demographic and organizational characteristics, screening uptake is influenced by psychological factors, most of which are included in health behavior theories. This systematic review compared different health behavior theories in terms of their capacity to explain CCS uptake and inform CCS promotion campaigns.

Methods

A comprehensive search and analysis of published intervention and non‐intervention (observational) studies that applied at least one health behavior theory to CCS participation.

Results

After quality screening, 48 observational and 21 intervention studies were identified that applied the Health Belief Model (HBM), Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), Transtheoretical model (TTM), Social‐ecological Model (SEM), and/or Theory of Triadic Influence (TTI) to CCS. The HBM was most frequently used to explain behavior, whereas the TPB was better at explaining screening intentions. Tailored intervention studies focusing on all theoretical constructs were most effective in modifying perceptions and increasing CCS uptake.

Conclusions

Despite their inconsistent use, health behavior theories can explain CCS intentions and behavior and contribute to the development of targeted interventions to promote screening uptake.
Characteristics of a Single Sensor Fiber-Coupled Three-Dimensional Particle Image Velocimetry for Reacting Flow-Fields
Authors: Rising Cal J. , Reyes Jonathan , Ahmed Kareem A.
Published: July 2021

Tomographic particle image velocimetry (Tomo-PIV) has become a standard tool for capturing a three-dimensional (3D) velocity fields in nonreacting flows. However, the diagnostic approach can become costly and challenging to implement when extended to applications which require high-speed cameras. This limitation has led to the use of fiber wound bundles to allow for multiple views to be captured on a single camera sensor. Additionally, employing this diagnostic approach on reacting flow-fields becomes more complex as the introduction of the flame causes additional luminosity and optical distortion which impacts the particle field reconstruction. This work seeks to validate and determine the limitations when utilizing a single sensor fiber-coupled approach for capturing Tomo-PIV data on a reacting flow-field. A premixed propane (C3H8) and air Bunsen burner flame is utilized to examine if the single sensor approach can meet the parameters for acceptable reconstruction based on previous research. The resulting velocity fields are then compared to a traditional PIV measurement to assess the deviation of the single sensor approach from a standard velocimetry measurement approach. It is demonstrated that there is strong agreement between the velocity and vorticity for the average flow-fields; however, when comparing the Reynolds shear stresses, a significant deviation is revealed. The deviation is attributed to strong velocity fluctuations occurring within the instantaneous Tomo-PIV data, which creates a significant divergence between the measurement techniques on an instantaneous basis. This demonstrates that while the approach can obtain reliable velocity and vorticity statistics, there are significant limitations in calculating second-order turbulence statistics. Thus, revealing that there is a tradeoff between the ability to extract the full velocity gradient tensor and the extent of the turbulence-related analysis which can be reliably performed.
Accelerating Additive Design With Probabilistic Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Karnati Sreekar , Nag Soumya , Johnson Neil , Khan Genghis , Ribic Brandon
Published: July 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM) has been growing rapidly to transform industrial applications. However, the fundamental mechanism of AM has not been fully understood which resulted in low success rate of building. A remedy is to introduce surrogate modeling based on experimental dataset to assist additive design and increase design efficiency. As one of the first papers for predictive modeling of AM especially direct energy deposition (DED), this paper discusses a bidirectional modeling framework and its application to multiple DED benchmark designs including: (1) forward prediction with cross-validation, (2) global sensitivity analyses, (3) backward prediction and optimization, and (4) intelligent data addition. Approximately 1150 mechanical tensile test samples were extracted and tested with input variables from machine parameters, postprocess, and output variables from mechanical, microstructure, and physical properties.
Damage-tolerant 3D-printed ceramics via conformal coating
Authors: Sajadi Seyed Mohammad , Vásárhelyi Lívia , Mousavi Reza , Rahmati Amir Hossein , Kónya Zoltán , Kukovecz Ákos , Arif Taib , Filleter Tobin , Vajtai Robert , Boul Peter , Pang Zhenqian , Li Teng , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Rahman Muhammad M. , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: July 2021

Conformal polymer coating leads to damage-tolerant architected ceramic structures with high strength and toughness.
Imaging the coherent propagation of collective modes in the excitonic insulator Ta
2
NiSe
5
at room temperature
Authors: Bretscher Hope M. , Andrich Paolo , Murakami Yuta , Golež Denis , Remez Benjamin , Telang Prachi , Singh Anupam , Harnagea Luminita , Cooper Nigel R. , Millis Andrew J. , Werner Philipp , Sood A. K. , Rao Akshay
Published: July 2021

Pump-probe microscopy measurements reveal the presence of rapidly propagating phason-phonon modes in an excitonic condensate.
The site of breast cancer metastases dictates their clonal composition and reversible transcriptomic profile
Authors: Berthelet Jean , Wimmer Verena C. , Whitfield Holly J. , Serrano Antonin , Boudier Thomas , Mangiola Stefano , Merdas Michal , El-Saafin Farrah , Baloyan David , Wilcox Jordan , Wilcox Steven , Parslow Adam C. , Papenfuss Anthony T. , Yeo Belinda , Ernst Matthias , Pal Bhupinder , Anderson Robin L. , Davis Melissa J. , Rogers Kelly L. , Hollande Frédéric , Merino Delphine
Published: July 2021

Optical barcoding reveals enhanced TNFα activation and polyclonality in lung, but not liver, metastases from breast cancer.
Generative hypergraph clustering: From blockmodels to modularity
Authors: Chodrow Philip S. , Veldt Nate , Benson Austin R.
Published: July 2021

Novel clustering techniques enable the detection of modules in large datasets with multiway interactions.
Bionic microenvironment-inspired synergistic effect of anisotropic micro-nanocomposite topology and biology cues on peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Li Guicai , Zheng Tiantian , Wu Linliang , Han Qi , Lei Yifeng , Xue Longjian , Zhang Luzhong , Gu Xiaosong , Yang Yumin
Published: July 2021

Anisotropic micro-nanocomposite topographies and biological cues can synergistically promote peripheral nerve regeneration.
Multicellular modeling of ciliopathy by combining iPS cells and microfluidic airway-on-a-chip technology
Authors: Sone Naoyuki , Konishi Satoshi , Igura Koichi , Tamai Koji , Ikeo Satoshi , Korogi Yohei , Kanagaki Shuhei , Namba Toshinori , Yamamoto Yuki , Xu Yifei , Takeuchi Kazuhiko , Adachi Yuichi , Chen-Yoshikawa Toyofumi F. , Date Hiroshi , Hagiwara Masatoshi , Tsukita Sachiko , Hirai Toyohiro , Torisawa Yu-suke , Gotoh Shimpei
Published: July 2021

Combined induced pluripotent stem cells and airway-on-a-chip establish the global axis of planar cell polarity in patient-derived airway cell sheet.
Identification of Anti-Premembrane Antibody as a Serocomplex-Specific Marker To Discriminate Zika, Dengue, and West Nile Virus Infections
Authors: Hsieh Szu-Chia , Tsai Wen-Yang , Tsai Jih-Jin , Stone Mars , Simmons Graham , Busch Michael P. , Lanteri Marion , Stramer Susan L. , Balmaseda Angel , Harris Eva , Wang Wei-Kung
Published: July 2021

Despite a decline in Zika virus (ZIKV) transmission since late 2017, questions regarding its surveillance, potential reemergence, and interactions with other flaviviruses in regions where it is endemic remain unanswered. Recent studies have reported reduced risks of symptomatic Zika by prior dengue virus (DENV) infection and increased risks of severe dengue disease by previous ZIKV or DENV infection, highlighting a need for better serological tests to discriminate past ZIKV, DENV, and/or other flavivirus infections and improved understanding of the immune interactions and vaccine strategy for these viruses.
Neurotransmitter System-Targeting Drugs Antagonize Growth of the Q Fever Agent, Coxiella burnetii, in Human Cells
Authors: Fullerton Marissa S. , Colonne Punsiri M. , Dragan Amanda L. , Brann Katelynn R. , Kurten Richard C. , Voth Daniel E.
Published: July 2021

Coxiella burnetii
causes the debilitating disease Q fever in humans. This infection is difficult to treat with current antibiotics and can progress to long-term, potentially fatal infection in immunocompromised individuals or when treatment is delayed.
What’s under the Christmas Tree? A Soil Sulfur Amendment Lowers Soil pH and Alters Fir Tree Rhizosphere Bacterial and Eukaryotic Communities, Their Interactions, and Functional Traits
Authors: Steven Blaire , LaReau Jacquelyn C. , Taerum Stephen J. , Zuverza-Mena Nubia , Cowles Richard S.
Published: July 2021

We used sulfur incorporation to investigate the legacy effects of lowered soil pH on the bacterial and eukaryotic populations in the rhizosphere of Christmas trees. Acidification of the soils drove alterations of fir tree root chemistry and large shifts in the taxonomic and functional compositions of the communities.
Supplemental Material: Jurassic Arc: Reconstructing the Lost World of eastern Gondwana
Authors: Foley Elliot K. , al. et
Published: July 2021

Sample locations, U-Pb and Hf isotopic data from analyzed detrital zircons, the analytical and instrument setup and procedures used, and crustal volume calculations.
Supplemental Material: Ice-crystal traces imply ephemeral freezing in early Permian equatorial Pangea
Authors: Pfeifer Lily S. , al. et
Published: July 2021

Appendices S1–S4
Novel Molybdenite-Based Nanopowder Catalysts for Hydrodesulfurization
Authors: Fedushchak T. A. , Uimin M. A. , Maikov V. V. , Akimov A. S. , Zhuravkov S. P. , Vosmerikov A. V. , Prosvirin I. P. , Velichkina L. M. , Stepanov A. A. , Kogan V. M.
Published: July 2021

Novel bulk single-component sulfide catalysts were prepared under the
conditions of solid-phase dispersion of МoS2 molybdenite
at various mechanical treatment times and various amounts of polar and nonpolar
liquid microadditives. The chemical degradation of the samples in the air was
found to lead to the formation of surface sulfate anions that shield
catalytically active Mo sites. Indirect correlations of the hydrodesulfurization
ability of MoS2 powders with the concentration of sulfate
anions on their surface, and with the aqueous pH in the powder suspensions,
including the dielectric permittivity of the organic dopants, can serve as
reference indicators of high catalytic activity in the model reaction of
dibenzothiophene hydrogenolysis. The study identified the most active sample
able to run for an extended time during multiple cycles without losing its
catalytic properties. Also, the paper discusses the dibenzothiophene conversion
routes, the product composition, the probable structure of active sites in the
catalysts, and the desulfurization degree of diesel fuel components.
Rare case of obstetric cholestasis presenting in the first trimester following in vitro fertilisation
Authors: Koh Krystal , Kathirvel Rajeswari , Mathur Manisha
Published: July 2021

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) generally presents in the third trimester with pruritus without a rash, characterised by elevated bile acids, with or without transaminitis and hyperbilirubinaemia. Risk factors include a family history of cholestasis, South Asian ethnicity, multifetal gestation, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and history of hepatitis or biliary disorders.

IVF involves the use of high dose gonadotropin stimulation and human chorionic gonadotropin trigger. High doses of progesterone supplementation are additionally given after embryo transfer. The increase in oestrogen and progesterone levels early on in the pregnancy is a possible explanation for the development of ICP in IVF pregnancies at earlier gestations.

We present a rare case of iatrogenic ICP presenting in the first trimester in a pregnancy conceived by IVF. Unlike other cases reported, our patient did not have recurrence of ICP in the third trimester, and also had no history of ICP in her first pregnancy.
Performance of the Innova SARS-CoV-2 antigen rapid lateral flow test in the Liverpool asymptomatic testing pilot: population based cohort study
Authors: García-Fiñana Marta , Hughes David M , Cheyne Christopher P , Burnside Girvan , Stockbridge Mark , Fowler Tom A , Fowler Veronica L , Wilcox Mark H , Semple Malcolm G , Buchan Iain
Published: July 2021

Objective

To assess the performance of the SARS-CoV-2 antigen rapid lateral flow test (LFT) versus polymerase chain reaction testing in the asymptomatic general population attending testing centres.

Design

Observational cohort study.

Setting

Community LFT pilot at covid-19 testing sites in Liverpool, UK.

Participants

5869 asymptomatic adults (≥18 years) voluntarily attending one of 48 testing sites during 6-29 November 2020.

Interventions

Participants were tested using both an Innova LFT and a quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) test based on supervised self-administered swabbing at testing sites.

Main outcome measures

Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of LFT compared with RT-qPCR in an epidemic steady state of covid-19 among adults with no classic symptoms of the disease.

Results

Of 5869 test results, 22 (0.4%) LFT results and 343 (5.8%) RT-qPCR results were void (that is, when the control line fails to appear within 30 minutes). Excluding the void results, the LFT versus RT-qPCR showed a sensitivity of 40.0% (95% confidence interval 28.5% to 52.4%; 28/70), specificity of 99.9% (99.8% to 99.99%; 5431/5434), positive predictive value of 90.3% (74.2% to 98.0%; 28/31), and negative predictive value of 99.2% (99.0% to 99.4%; 5431/5473). When the void samples were assumed to be negative, a sensitivity was observed for LFT of 37.8% (26.8% to 49.9%; 28/74), specificity of 99.6% (99.4% to 99.8%; 5431/5452), positive predictive value of 84.8% (68.1% to 94.9%; 28/33), and negative predictive value of 93.4% (92.7% to 94.0%; 5431/5814). The sensitivity in participants with an RT-qPCR cycle threshold (Ct) of <18.3 (approximate viral loads >10
6
RNA copies/mL) was 90.9% (58.7% to 99.8%; 10/11), a Ct of <24.4 (>10
4
RNA copies/mL) was 69.4% (51.9% to 83.7%; 25/36), and a Ct of >24.4 (<10
4
RNA copies/mL) was 9.7% (1.9% to 23.7%; 3/34). LFT is likely to detect at least three fifths and at most 998 in every 1000 people with a positive RT-qPCR test result with high viral load.

Conclusions

The Innova LFT can be useful for identifying infections among adults who report no symptoms of covid-19, particularly those with high viral load who are more likely to infect others. The number of asymptomatic adults with lower Ct (indicating higher viral load) missed by LFT, although small, should be considered when using single LFT in high consequence settings. Clear and accurate communication with the public about how to interpret test results is important, given the chance of missing some cases, even at high viral loads. Further research is needed to understand how infectiousness is reflected in the viral antigen shedding detected by LFT versus the viral loads approximated by RT-qPCR.
Clinical outcomes of patients with multiple sclerosis treated with ocrelizumab in a US community MS center: an observational study
Authors: Smoot Kyle , Chen Chiayi , Stuchiner Tamela , Lucas Lindsay , Grote Lois , Cohan Stanley
Published: July 2021

Background

To monitor long-term outcomes of ocrelizumab treatment.

Objective

To evaluate safety and treatment outcomes of ocrelizumab in a community-based multiple sclerosis (MS) population.

Methods

Adult patients with MS prescribed ocrelizumab were eligible. Chart reviews were conducted at the start of ocrelizumab treatment and every 6 months thereafter.

Results

Of the 355 patients enrolled, 71.9% were female; mean (SD) age was 51.8 (12.5) years; 78.3% had relapsing MS (RMS). Median baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) (IQR) was 3.0 (2.0–4.0) for RMS, 6.5 (6.0–7.5) for secondary progressive MS, and 6.5 (6.0–7.0) for primary progressive MS. Respiratory infections occurred in 40.1% and urinary tract infections in 33.1% of patients. There was no difference in the percentage of infections among patients <55 (68.5%, n=122), and those ≥55 of age (67.5%, n=104) (p=0.94). Twenty-five hospitalisations were due to infections; 69.2% of these patients were ≥55 with a mean EDSS of 5.7 (±1.86). Four patients have died. Serum IgM and IgG levels did not predict infection risk. Annualised relapse rate was 0.34 for the patients with RMS in the preceding 2 years and 0.09 in patients who received ≥2 ocrelizumab 600 mg courses. The first on-treatment MRI was stable in 262 (90.0%) patients, 6.9% had new T2 lesions, 2.7% had enlarging T2 lesions and 1.4% had gadolinium-enhancing lesions. Median EDSS at 12 months was unchanged.

Conclusion

Ocrelizumab effectively controlled relapse risk and disability worsening. Although only 12.1% of patients have discontinued ocrelizumab, infections resulting in hospitalisation are a concern, especially in older and disabled patients.
Rationale and protocol for the efficacy, safety and tolerability of nangibotide in patients with septic shock (ASTONISH) phase IIb randomised controlled trial
Authors: Francois Bruno , Lambden Simon , Gibot Sebastien , Derive Marc , Olivier Aurelie , Cuvier Valerie , Witte Stephan , Grouin Jean-Marie , Garaud Jean Jacques , Salcedo-Magguilli Margarita , Levy Mitchell , Laterre Pierre-François
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Septic shock is the subgroup of patients with sepsis, which presents as vasopressor dependence, an elevated blood lactate concentration and is associated with a mortality of at least 30%. Expression of the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1) pathway, measured using a serum biomarker of pathway activation (soluble TREM-1, sTREM-1) has been associated with outcome in septic shock. Preclinical and early phase patient data suggest that therapeutic modulation of this pathway may improve survival.

Methods and analysis

Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability of Nangibotide in Patients with Septic Shock is a phase IIb randomised controlled trial that will take place in up to 50 centres in seven countries and recruit 450 patients with septic shock to receive either placebo or one of two doses of nangibotide, a novel regulator of the TREM-1 pathway. The primary outcome will be the impact of nangibotide therapy on the change in Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score from a baseline determined before initiation of study drug therapy. This will be assessed first in the patients with an elevated sTREM-1 level and then in the study population as a whole. In addition to safety, secondary outcomes of the study will include efficacy of nangibotide in relation to sTREM-1 levels in terms of organ function, mortality and long-term morbidity. This study will also facilitate the development of a novel platform for the measurement of sTREM-1 at the point of care.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the responsible ethics committees/institutional review boards in all study countries: Belgium: Universitair Ziekenhuis Antwerpen, France: CPP Ile de France II, Denmark: Region Hovedstaden, Spain: ethics committee from Valld’Hebron Hospital, Barcelona, Finland: Tukija, Ireland: St. James’ Hospital (SJH) / Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) Joint Research Ethics Committee, USA: Lifespan, Providence

Trial registration numbers

EudraCT Number: 2018-004827-36 andNCT04055909.
Study protocol of a phase 2, dual-centre, randomised, controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of probiotic and egg oral immunotherapy at inducing desensitisation or sustained unresponsiveness (remission) in participants with egg allergy compared with placebo (Probiotic Egg Allergen Oral Immunotherapy for Treatment of Egg Allergy: PEAT study)
Authors: Loke Paxton , Chebar Lozinsky Adriana , Orsini Francesca , Wong Lydia Su-Yin , Leung Agnes Sze-Yin , Tham Elizabeth Huiwen , Lopata Andreas L , Shek Lynette Pei-Chi , Tang Mimi LK
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Egg allergy is the most common food allergy in children but recent studies have shown persistence or delayed resolution into adolescence. As there is currently no effective long-term treatment, definitive treatments that improve quality of life and prevent fatalities for food allergies are required. We have previously shown that a novel treatment comprising a combination of the probioticLactobacillus rhamnosusCGMCC 1.3724 with peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT) is highly effective at inducing sustained unresponsiveness, with benefit persisting to 4 years after treatment cessation in the majority of initial treatment responders. In this study, we plan to extend the probiotic food OIT platform to another allergen, namely egg. We describe the protocol for a phase 2, dual-centre, randomised, controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of probiotic and egg OIT at inducing desensitisation or sustained unresponsiveness (remission) in participants with egg allergy compared with placebo.

Methods and analysis

80 participants aged 5–30 years of age with current egg allergy confirmed by double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge at study screening will be recruited from Australia and Singapore. There are two intervention arms—probiotic and egg OIT (active) or placebo. Interventions are administered once daily for 18 months. The primary outcome is the proportion of participants who attain 8-week sustained unresponsiveness in the active group versus placebo group.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committees at the Royal Children’s Hospital (HREC 2019.082) and the National Healthcare Group Domain Specific Review Board (2019/00029). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated via presentations at international conferences.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12619000480189.
Contrast extravasation and outcome of endovascular therapy in acute ischaemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Tao , Wang You , Yuan Jinxian , Chen Yangmei , Luo Haiyan
Published: July 2021

Objective

Contrast extravasation (CE) after endovascular therapy (EVT) is commonly present in acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients. Substantial uncertainties remain about the relationship between CE and the outcomes of EVT in patients with AIS. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate this association.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies were performed.

Data source

We systematically searched the Medline and Embase databases for relevant clinical studies. The last literature search in databases was performed in June 2020.

Eligibility criteria for study selection

We included studies exploring the associations between CE and the outcomes of EVT in patients with AIS undergoing EVT.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two reviewers extracted relevant information and data from each article independently. We pooled ORs with CIs using a random-effects meta-analysis to calculate the associations between CE and outcomes of EVT. The magnitude of heterogeneity between estimates was quantified with the I2statistic with 95% CIs.

Results

Fifteen observational studies that enrolled 1897 patients were included. Patients with CE had higher risks of poor functional outcome at discharge (2.38, 95% CI 1.45 to 3.89 p=0.001; n=545) and poor functional outcome at 90 days (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.20 to 3.90; n=1194). We found no association between CE and in-hospital mortality (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.27 to 3.30; n=376) or 90-day mortality (OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.81 to 2.36; n=697) after EVT. Moreover, CE was associated with higher risks of post-EVT intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) (OR 6.68, 95% CI 3.51 to 12.70; n=1721) and symptomatic ICH (OR 3.26, 95% CI 1.97 to 5.40; n=1092).

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that in patients with AIS undergoing EVT, CE is associated with higher risks of unfavourable functional outcomes and ICH. Thus, we should pay more attention to CE in patients with AIS undergoing EVT.
Secondary analyses to test the impact on inequalities and uptake of the schools-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme by stage of implementation of a new consent policy in the south-west of England
Authors: Fisher Harriet , Evans Karen , Reynolds Rosy , Yates Julie , Roderick Marion , Ferrie Jo , Macleod John , Hickman Matthew , Audrey Suzanne
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To test the impact on inequalities and uptake of the schools-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme by stage of implementation of a new policy providing additional opportunities to consent.

Setting

Two local authorities in the south-west of England.

Participants

Young women (n=7129) routinely eligible for HPV vaccination aged 12–13 years during the intervention period (2017/2018 to 2018/2019 programme years).

Interventions

Local policy change that included additional opportunities to provide consent (parental verbal consent and adolescent self-consent).

Outcomes

Secondary analyses of cross-sectional intervention data were undertaken to examine uptake by: (1) receipt of parental written consent forms and; (2) percentage of unvaccinated young women by stage of implementation.

Results

During the intervention period, 6341 (89.0%) eligible young women initiated the HPV vaccination series. Parental written consent forms were less likely to be returned where young women attended alternative education provider settings (p<0.001), belonged to non-white British ethnic groups (p<0.01) or more deprived quintiles (p<0.001). Implementation of parental verbal consent and adolescent self-consent reduced the percentage of unvaccinated young women from 21.3% to 16.5% (risk difference: 4.8%). The effect was greater for young women belonging to the most deprived compared with the least deprived quintile (risk difference: 7.4% vs 2.3%, p<0.001), and for young women classified as Unknown ethnic category compared with white British young women (6.7% vs 4.2%, p<0.001). No difference was found for non-white British young women (5.4%, p<0.21).

Conclusions

Local policy change to consent procedures that allowed parents to consent verbally and adolescents to self-consent overcame some of the barriers to vaccination of young women belonging to families less likely to respond to paper-based methods of gaining consent and at greater risk of developing cervical cancer.

Trial registration number

49 086 105.
Prevalence and risk factors of worry among teachers during the COVID-19 epidemic in Henan, China: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Wang Yanqing , Li Quanman , Tarimo Clifford Silver , Wu Cuiping , Miao Yudong , Wu Jian
Published: July 2021

Objective

To evaluate the level of worry and its influencing factors during the COVID-19 epidemic among teachers in Henan Province in China.

Study design

A cross-sectional study was conducted.

Methods

We designed a cross-sectional survey that included 88 611 teachers from three cities in Henan Province, China between 4 February 2020 and 12 February 2020. Level of worry was measured using a five-item Likert scale, with 1 being ‘not worried’ and 5 being ‘very worried’. The OR and 95% CI of potential influencing factors for level of worry among study participants were estimated using ordinal logistic regression models.

Results

About 59% of teachers reported being ‘very worried’ about the COVID-19 epidemic. The proportion of female teachers was higher than of male teachers (60.33% vs 52.89%). In all age groups considered in this study, a ‘very worried’ condition accounted for the highest proportion. The age group 40–49 years had the lowest proportion of participants who were very worried, 52.34% of whom were men and 58.62% were women. After controlling for potential confounding factors, age, education level, type of teacher, school location, attention level, fear level, anxiety level and behaviour status were all related to level of worry (all p<0.05).

Conclusion

During the COVID-19 epidemic, there was a high proportion of teachers who were ‘very worried’ about the situation in Henan Province, China. Our study may remind policymakers to consider factors including age, educational status, type of teacher, school location, source of information on COVID-19, attention level, anxiety level, fear level and behaviour status to alleviate worry.