bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Turbulent Heliosheath Driven by Rayleigh Taylor Instability
Authors: Opher Merav , Drake James , Zank Gary , Toth Gabor , Powell Erick , Shelley Warren , Kornbleuth Marc , Florinski Vladimir , Izmodenov Vladislav , Giacalone Joe , Fuselier Stephen , Dialynas Konstantinos , Loeb Abraham , Richardson John 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The heliosphere is the bubble formed by the solar wind as it interacts with the interstellar medium (ISM). Studies show that the solar magnetic field funnels the heliosheath solar wind (the shocked solar wind at the edge of the heliosphere) into two jet-like structures1-2. Magnetohydrodynamic simulations show that these heliospheric jets become unstable as they move down the heliotail1,3 and drive large-scale turbulence. However, the mechanism that produces of this turbulence had not been identified. Here we show that the driver of the turbulence is the Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability caused by the interaction of neutral H atoms streaming from the ISM with the ionized matter in the heliosheath (HS). The drag between the neutral and ionized matter acts as an effective gravity which causes a RT instability to develop along the axis of the HS magnetic field. A density gradient exists perpendicular to this axis due to the confinement of the solar wind by the solar magnetic field. The characteristic time scale of the instability depends on the neutral H density in the ISM and for typical values the growth rate is ~ 3 years. The instability destroys the coherence of the heliospheric jets and magnetic reconnection ensues, allowing ISM material to penetrate the heliospheric tail. Signatures of this instability should be observable in Energetic Neutral Atom (ENA) maps from future missions such as IMAP4. The turbulence driven by the instability is macroscopic and potentially has important implications for particle acceleration.
J’accuse: difference between the two Covid-19 episodes in Italy, what is the cause?
Authors: Cornelli Umberto , Belcaro Giovanni , Rosaria Cesarone Maria , Martino Recchia , Roberto Cotellese 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have struck Italy in two waves.Objective: To analyse the differences between the first (W1) and the second wave (W2).Methods: Our analysis was based on weekly data retrieved from the Official Bulletin of the Italian Civil Protection Department from 1 March 2020 to 21 January 2021.Results: W1 lasted about 23 weeks, from March to 15 August 2020. W2 started on 16 August and was still underway on 21 January 2021.W2 is much more severe than W1 in terms of positive cases and deaths, and its decay is much slower.We have identified at least six different causes of these differences: the colder season, the impact of seasonalinfluenza, viral mutation, the lack of a plan to tackle viral resurgence, poor care of elderly people, and lack of oralhygiene as an important preventive measure. Moreover, in an attempt to give the best possible informationthrough the media, the experts have instead caused feelings of uncertainty and fear.Conclusions: There are several reasons for the differences between W1 and W2: the start of the colder seasonduring W2, poor care of elderly people, the delay in providing seasonal influenza vaccination, the lack of anational plan against COVID-19 resurgence, confusion over the lockdown measures, lack of information aboutoral hygiene, and confusing information given through the media.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Ocular Morbidity among Prisoners of Luzira Prison (Uganda): Across-Sectional Based Study.
Authors: zalwango charity , Ayebare Pauline , Mwanja Pius , Erima Denis , Kasadhakawo Moses , Mugerwa Micheal , Ampaire Anne 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Globally, ocular morbidity has emerged as a major public concern with over 284 million people visually impaired. Prisoners(inmates) tend to have limited access to health care especially eye health and as a result some conditions may go undiagnosed or mismanaged. With the increasing prison population in Uganda and in the face of limited facilities, little is known about the prevalence and factors associated with ocular morbidity amongst prisoners(inmates) of Luzira prison.Method: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on inmates of Luzira prison. The study included both male (334) and female (33) prisoners(inmates) using the Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling. Data on social demographic characteristics, medical, imprisonment factors and ocular assessment was collected using a questionnaire. All complete data was entered using an Epidata version 3.1 entry template. Logistic regression was used to determine associated factors. Results: Overall, a total of 367 inmates were examined consisting of 334 (91%) males and 33(8.9%) females. The male to female ratio was 10:1. The ages ranged from 18-76 years with mean age of 39 years (SD + 13.4). The overall ocular morbidity was found to be 49 percent. The most common ocular morbidity included; Presbyopia (27.4%), Allergic conjunctivitis (19.6%), Cataracts (11.4%). Other disorders included Refractive errors, Pterygia, Optic atrophy and Vitamin A deficiency. There was a statistically significant relationship between ocular morbidity and Age (OR 11.96, P-value=0.001), Trauma (OR 5.21, P-value 0.009), Non prison food (OR 0.45, P-value=0.006).Conclusion: The prevalence of ocular morbidity among inmates was found to be high. Ocular morbidity was significantly associated with age, trauma and having meals besides prison food. A fully functional eye unit established within the prison with essential drugs and timely referral of complicated cases would help in offering quality eye services to the inmates.
Research on Cutting Performance in High-speed Milling of TC11 Titanium Alloy Using Self-propelled Rotary Milling Cutters
Authors: Lu Yujiang , Chen Tao 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Titanium alloy materials, with excellent chemical and physical properties, are widely applied to the manufacture of key components in the aerospace industry. Nevertheless, its hard-to-machine characteristic causes various problems in the machining process, such as severe tool wear, difficulty to ensure good surface quality, etc. To achieve high efficiency and quality of machining titanium alloy materials, this paper conducted an experimental research on the high-speed milling of TC11 titanium alloy with self-propelled rotary milling cutters. In the work, the wear mechanism of self-propelled rotary milling cutters was explored, the influence of milling velocity was analyzed on the cutting process, and the variation laws were obtained of milling forces, chip morphology and machined surface quality with the milling length. The results showed that in the early and middle stages of milling, the insert coating peeled off evenly under the joint action of abrasive and adhesive wear mechanisms. As the milling length increased, the dense notches occurred on the cutting edge of the cutter, the wear mechanism converted gradually into fatigue wear, and furthermore coating started peeling off the cutting edge with the occurrence of thermal fatigue cracks on the insert. As the milling length was further extended, the milling forces tended to intensify, the chip deformation worsened, and the obvious cracks occurred at the bottom of chips. Moreover, the rise in milling velocity reduced the tool wear resistance, increased obviously the milling forces and the surface roughness.
A Human 3D neural assembloid model for SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Gleeson Joseph , Wang Lu , Sievert David , Clark Alex , Federman Hannah , Gastfriend Benjamin , Shusta Eric V , Palecek Sean P , Carlin Aaron 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Clinical evidence suggests the central nervous system (CNS) is frequently impacted by SARS-CoV-2 infection, either directly or indirectly, although mechanisms remain unclear. Pericytes are perivascular cells within the brain that are proposed as SARS-CoV-2 infection points1. Here we show that pericyte-like cells (PLCs), when integrated into a cortical organoid, are capable of infection with authentic SARS-CoV-2. Prior to infection, PLCs elicited astrocytic maturation and production of basement membrane components, features attributed to pericyte functions in vivo. While traditional cortical organoids showed little evidence of infection, PLCs within cortical organoids served as viral ‘replication hubs’, with virus spreading to astrocytes and mediating inflammatory type I interferon transcriptional responses. Therefore, PLC-containing cortical organoids (PCCOs) represent a new ‘assembloid’ model2 that supports SARS-CoV-2 entry and replication in neural tissue, and PCCOs serve as an experimental model for neural infection.
Multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from surgical site of dogs, surgeon's hands and operating room in a veterinary teaching hospital in Brazil
Authors: de Menezes Mareliza Possa , Borzi Mariana , Ruaro Mayara , Cardozo Marita , Ávila Fernando , Rabelo Rodrigo , Moraes Paola 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profile of Gram-positive cocci and Gram-negative bacilli isolated from the surgical environment. All samples were collected during the intraoperative period of clean/clean-contaminated (G1) and contaminated (G2) surgery. A total of 150 samples were collected from the surgical wound in the beginning (n = 30) and end (n = 30) of the procedure, surgeon’s hands before (n = 30) and after (n = 30) antisepsis and the surgical environment (n = 30). Forty-three isolates with morphological and biochemical characteristics of Staphylococcus spp. and 13 of Gram-negative bacilli were obtained. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (85.71% [18/21]), coagulase-positive staphylococci (9.52% [2/21]) and Pseudomonas spp. (47.52% [1/21]) in G1, and coagulase-negative staphylococci (40% [14/35]), coagulase-positive staphylococci (20% [7/35]), Proteus spp. (17.14% [6/35]), E. coli (8.57% [3/35]), Pseudomonas spp. (2.86% [1/35]) and Salmonella spp. (2.86 [1/35]) in G2 were more frequently isolated, and a high incidence of multidrug resistance was observed in coagulase-negative staphylococci (87.5% [28/32]), coagulase-positive staphylococci (100% [11/11]) and Gram-negative bacilli (76.92% [10/13]). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. accounted for 83.72% (36/43) of the Staphylococcus strains. Gram-negative bacilli cefotaxime-resistance constituted 81.82% (9/11) and imipenem resistance constituted 53.85% (7/13). The high rate of resistance of commensal bacteria found in our study is worrying. Coagulase-negative staphylococci are community pathogens related to nosocomial infections in human and veterinary hospitals, their presence in healthy patients and in veterinary professionals represent an important source of infection in the one health context. Continuous surveillance and application of antimicrobial stewardship programs are essential in the fight against this threat.
Effect of TiO2 Nano-filler on Electrical Properties of Na+ Ion Conducting PEO/PVDF&nbsp;Based Blended Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Ganta Kiran Kumar , Jeedi Venkata Ramana , Kumar K. Vijaya , Mallaiah Yalla , Narsaiah E. Laxmi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Nanocomposite Polymer Electrolyte (NCPE) films based on a blend of two polymers poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) complexed with sodium perchlorate (NaClO4) salt and Nano-filler Titanium dioxide (TiO2) (i.e., (80wt%PEO/20wt%PVDF) + 7.5wt%NaClO4+ xwt%TiO2 where x = 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18) were prepared and characterized as potential candidates for battery applications. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) has been employed between the frequencies 10 Hz and 4 MHz to investigate electrical, dielectric and electric modulus properties of the prepared NCPE films. Effect of TiO2 Nano-filler concentration on the structural, ionic conductivity, and dielectric relaxation has been studied. The AC conductivity of the NCPE films at high frequencies obeys Jonscher’s power law. The values of DC ionic conductivity calculated by fitting the AC conductivity spectra to the best fit of Joncher’s power law are consistent with the values of DC ionic conductivity calculated from the bulk resistance (Rb) of the NCPE films. The ionic conductivity that depends on temperature follows the Arrhenius rule between the temperatures 298 K and 328 K. The maximum ionic conductivity at ambient temperature 8.75x10-5 S/cm was obtained for (80wt%PEO/20wt%PVDF) +7.5wt%NaClO4 +15wt%TiO2 NCPE film and it is attributed to the decrease in crystallinity. Using Wagner’s polarization technique ionic transport numbers of various NCPE films were measured.
Fabrication Large-scale Diffractive Lens Arrays on Chalcogenide Glass by Means of Step-and-Repeat Hot Imprinting and Non-Isothermal Glass Molding
Authors: Shu Yang , Chen Tiantong , Zhou Wenchen , Zhou zhixiong , Yi Allen Y 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In this study, a new cost-effective and high-precision process chain for the fabrication of large-scale diffractive lens arrays on chalcogenide glass is proposed. First, a positive diffractive lens array is fabricated on a PMMA master substrate by employing a step-and-repeat hot imprinting process. The direct hot imprinting can transfer the microstructures from a heated mold to the polymer substrate accurately. Repeating the hot imprinting process according to a predetermined path, the desired diffractive lens array is obtained. Unlike photolithography and electron-beam writing, which are expensive technologies with sophisticated process, the hot imprinting is an easier, cheaper and more eco-friendly method for fabricating diffractive features with continuous profile. Afterwards a casting process is applied to create a PDMS mold with the negative features. The diffractive lens array with continuous profile is successfully transferred from the master substrate to the PDMS elastomer, which is used as a mold for subsequent precision glass molding. Finally, the microstructures of PDMS mold are replicated to the chalcogenide glass by non-isothermal glass molding. In this process, the mold and workpiece are set at different temperatures. The PDMS mold at low temperature maintains enough rigidity, so as to press the features into the softened chalcogenide glass more easily, which is at relatively higher temperature, resulting in a positive high-fidelity diffractive lens array on the chalcogenide glass. Surface profiles and optical performance of the fabricated components are characterized quantitatively. Results showed that large-scale diffractive lens array with continuous profile can be successfully fabricated on Chalcogenide glass by this proposed process chain with high quality and integrity.
Insomnia in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: Strong Association with Anxiety/Depression and Impaired Quality of Life
Authors: Mulette Pauline , Ravoninjatovo Bruno , Guguen Camille , Barbe Coralie , Ancel Julien , Dury Sandra , Dumazet Antoine , Perdu Dominique , Perotin Jeanne-Marie , Guillard Thomas , Lebargy François , Deslee Gaetan , Launois Claire 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: While sleep disruption is a common complaint among children with cystic fibrosis (CF), only a few studies have investigated insomnia in adults. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with insomnia in clinically stable adult CF patients.Methods: Twenty-eight CF patients (18M/10F), with a median age of 27 (22-34) (median (interquartile range) years and a median of forced expiratory volume in one second of 72 (39-93) % predicted completed questionnaires on insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index, ISI), sleep quality (PSQI), daytime sleepiness (Epworth), restless legs syndrome (IRLS), pain (NRS), anxiety/depression (HAD) and quality of life (CFQ-R 14+). Respiratory assessment data, including symptoms, sputum analysis, arterial blood gases, 6-minute walking test, pulmonary function tests and polysomnographic variables, were also analyzed. Results: Forty-three percent of patients were insomniac (ISI > 7). Compared with non-insomniac patients (ISI ≤ 7), insomniac patients had more severely impaired quality of life and a higher HAD score: median anxiety score of 9 (8-11) vs 4 (3-6) (p <0.0001), median depression score of 7 (5-10) vs 1 (1-4) (p <0.001), with a positive correlation between ISI and HAD anxiety/depression scores (r=0.702/r=0.701, respectively, p <0.0001). Insomnia was also associated with mMRC dyspnea scale ³ 2, restless legs syndrome, pain and lower SpO2 during sleep. Conclusions: The strong association between insomnia, impaired quality of life and increased HAD score should prompt physicians to be particularly attentive to the management of anxiety and depression in adult CF patients with insomnia.Trial registration: on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02924818)
TGF-β-induced α-SMA expression is mediated by C/EBPβ acetylation in human alveolar epithelial cells
Authors: Ding Hui , Chen Jinjun , Qin Jingping , Chen Ruhua , Yi Zili 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Although the morbidity and mortality rates associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) are high, there is still lack of powerful and precise therapeutic options for IPF. Object: Through in vitro model, this study sought to determine whether binding of acetylated CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β (C/EBPβ) to alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) promoter could affect the activity of the latter as well as assess if it is essential for epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and extracellular matrix deposition in IPF. Methods: The expression of EMT and C/EBPβ in A549 cells treated with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) as pulmonary fibrotic model was detected by western blotting and qPCR. Collagen-I expression using ELISA was performed. The luciferase activity was used to examine the activity of C/EBPβ. Knockdown of C/EBPβ was performed by siRNA. We also investigated the effect of deacetylation of C/EBPβ on EMT using sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). The binding ability of C/EBPβ with α-SMA promoter was affirmed via chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and electrophoresis mobility shift assay (EMSA). The relationship between α-SMA and acetylated C/EBPβ was determined with co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). SiRNA-mediated knockdown of C/EBPβ in A549 cells attenuated TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast differentiation and ECM deposition. The extent of association between acetylated C/EBPβ and α-SMA promoter was dynamically monitored. Results: It was confirmed that deacetylation of C/EBPβ in A549 cells successfully ameliorated TGF-β1-induced EMT, as shown by reduction in α-SMA expression and excessive collagen-I accumulation. Conclusion: The EMT and fibrotic effect of TGF-β1 is dependent on acetylated C/EBPβ-mediated regulation of α-SMA gene activity. Thus, C/EBPβ acetylation may play a central role in pulmonary fibrosis.
Apoptosis Repressor with Caspase Recruitment Domain (ARC) Promotes Bone Regeneration of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Activating Fgf-2/PI3K/Akt Signaling
Authors: Hu Longwei , Wang Yang , Pan Hongya , Kadir Kathreena , Wen Jin , Li Siyi , Zhang Chenping 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Objectives:
This study aims to investigate whether Apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain (ARC) could promote survival and enhance osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow -derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).
Materials and methods:
The lentivirus transfection method was used to establish ARC -overexpressing BMSCs. The CCK-8 method was used to detect cell proliferation. The BD Pharmingen™ APC Annexin V Apoptosis Detection kit was used to detect cell apoptosis. The osteogenic capacity was investigated by OCN immunofluorescence staining, ALP analysis, ARS assays and RT-PCR analysis. Cells were seeded into calcium phosphate cement (CPC) scaffolds and then inserted subcutaneously into nude mice and the defect area of the rat calvarium. Histological analysis was conducted to evaluate the in vivo cell apoptosis and new bone formation of the ARC -overexpressing BMSCs. RNA-seq was used to detect the possible mechanism of the effect of ARC on BMSCs.
Results:
ARC promoted BMSC proliferation and inhibited cell apoptosis. ARC enhanced BMSC osteogenic differentiation in vitro. An in vivo study revealed that ARC can inhibit BMSC apoptosis and increase new bone formation. ARC regulates BMSCs mainly by activating the Fgf-2/PI3K/Akt pathway.
Conclusions:
The present study suggests that A RC is a powerful agent for promoting bone regeneration of BMSCs and provides a promising method for bone tissue engineering.
The usability of Jordan Stillbirths and Neonatal Deaths Surveillance (JSANDS) system: Results of focus group discussions
Authors: Khader Yousef S. , Shattnawi Khulood Kayed , Al-Sheyab Nihaya , Alyahya Mohammad S. , Batieha Anwar 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Jordan Stillbirths and Neonatal Deaths Surveillance system (JSANDS) is a newly developed system and is currently implemented in five large hospitals in Jordan. This study aimed at exploring the healthcare professionals’ perception about the usability of JSANDS. Methods: A descriptive qualitative approach, using focus group discussions, was adopted. A total of 5 focus groups including 23 focal points were conducted in five participating hospitals in Jordan. Results: Data analysis identified nine main issues related to the JSANDS system: the system usefulness, the system performance, data quality, the system limitations, human rights, female empowerment, nurses’ competencies strengthened, the sustainability of the JSANDS, and COVID-19 impact on the system. Users reported that JSANDS data were useful, the system was simple and easy to use, and the data were accurate and complete. However, some users reported that some technical issues need to be enhanced. Conclusions: JSANDS was perceived positively by the current users. According to them, it provides a formative and comprehensive data on stillbirths and neonatal deaths and their causes, and therefore, was recommended to be adopted by its users and scaled up.
Sea water whirlpool spa as a source of Legionella infection
Authors: Linsak Dijana Tomic , Kese Darja , Broznic Dalibor , Lusic Darija Vukic , Cenov Arijana , Moric Milan , Gobin Ivana 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Bacterial pneumonia caused by the inhalation of aerosols contaminated with Legionella spp. is also known as Legionnaires' disease. In this study, we report a case of pneumonia caused by Legionella pneumophila sg.1 in a 58-year-old man who visited a sea water-filled whirlpool within a hotel and spa complex. The patient's Legionella urine antigen test was positive for L. pneumophila sg.1. During the field study, samples were taken from both the outdoor and indoor sea water-filled pools. Samples from the whirlpool were culture positive for L. pneumophila sg.1. Typing results indicated sea water isolate belonged to Sequence type ST82 and Allentown/France MAb subgroup. In vitro experiments showed that L. pneumophila strains are able to survive within sea water up to 7 days, and survival time is prolonged with sea water dilution. Also, our results indicate that L. pneumophila Allentown strain was the most resistant to adverse conditions in sea water with the highest values of DT50 (420 min) and DT90 (1,396 min). The possible source of infection was adding potable water for filling up the whirlpool. The survival of the L. pneumophila in additionally conditioned sea water should be considered in a further study.