bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autophagy alleviates amiodarone-induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Wandrer Franziska , Frangež Živa , Liebig Stephanie , John Katharina , Vondran Florian , Wedemeyer Heiner , Veltmann Christian , Pfeffer Tobias J. , Shibolet Oren , Schulze-Osthoff Klaus , Simon Hans-Uwe , Bantel Heike
Published: July 2020

Amiodarone is a widely used antiarrhythmic drug that can cause the development of steatohepatitis as well as liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. The molecular mechanisms of amiodarone-mediated liver injury remain largely unknown. We therefore analyzed amiodarone-mediated hepatocellular injury in patients with chronic heart failure, in primary hepatocytes and HepG2 cells. We found that amiodarone-treated patients with chronic heart failure revealed significantly higher serum levels of caspase-cleaved keratin-18, an apoptosis biomarker, compared to healthy individuals or patients not receiving amiodarone. Furthermore, amiodarone treatment of hepatocytes resulted in apoptosis associated with lipid accumulation and ER-stress induction. Liver cell steatosis was accompanied by enhanced de novo lipogenesis which, after reaching peak levels, declined together with decreased activation of ER stress. The decline of amiodarone-mediated lipotoxicity was associated with protective autophagy induction. In contrast, in hepatocytes treated with the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine as well as in autophagy gene (ATG5 or ATG7)-deficient hepatocytes, amiodarone-triggered toxicity was increased. In conclusion, we demonstrate that amiodarone induces lipid accumulation associated with ER stress and apoptosis in hepatocytes, which is mirrored by increased keratin-18 fragment serum levels in amiodarone-treated patients. Autophagy reduces amiodarone-mediated lipotoxicity and could provide a therapeutic strategy for protection from drug-induced liver injury.
Benefits and added value of convection-permitting climate modeling over Fenno-Scandinavia
Authors: Lind Petter , Belušić Danijel , Christensen Ole B. , Dobler Andreas , Kjellström Erik , Landgren Oskar , Lindstedt David , Matte Dominic , Pedersen Rasmus A. , Toivonen Erika , Wang Fuxing
Published: July 2020

Convection-permitting climate models have shown superior performance in simulating important aspects of the precipitation climate including extremes and also to give partly different climate change signals compared to coarser-scale models. Here, we present the first long-term (1998–2018) simulation with a regional convection-permitting climate model for Fenno-Scandinavia. We use the HARMONIE-Climate (HCLIM) model on two nested grids; one covering Europe at 12 km resolution (HCLIM12) using parameterized convection, and one covering Fenno-Scandinavia with 3 km resolution (HCLIM3) with explicit deep convection. HCLIM12 uses lateral boundaries from ERA-Interim reanalysis. Model results are evaluated against reanalysis and various observational data sets, some at high resolutions. HCLIM3 strongly improves the representation of precipitation compared to HCLIM12, most evident through reduced “drizzle” and increased occurrence of higher intensity events as well as improved timing and amplitude of the diurnal cycle. This is the case even though the model exhibits a cold bias in near-surface temperature, particularly for daily maximum temperatures in summer. Simulated winter precipitation is biased high, primarily over complex terrain. Considerable undercatchment in observations may partly explain the wet bias. Examining instead the relative occurrence of snowfall versus rain, which is sensitive to variance in topographic heights it is shown that HCLIM3 provides added value compared to HCLIM12 also for winter precipitation. These results, indicating clear benefits of convection-permitting models, are encouraging motivating further exploration of added value in this region, and provide a valuable basis for impact studies.
Positionspapier der Kommission Digitale Rheumatologie der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Rheumatologie e. V.: Aufgaben, Ziele und Perspektiven für eine moderne Rheumatologie
Authors: Knitza J. , Callhoff J. , Chehab G. , Hueber A. , Kiltz U. , Kleyer A. , Krusche M. , Simon D. , Specker C. , Schneider M. , Voormann A. , Welcker M. , Richter J. G.
Published: July 2020

Die Digitalisierung im Gesundheitswesen ist für die Rheumatologie eine ebenso große Herausforderung wie für andere medizinische Fachgebiete. Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Rheumatologie e. V. (DGRh) will diesen Prozess aktiv gestalten und davon profitieren. Mit der Gründung der Kommission Digitale Rheumatologie hat sie ein Gremium geschaffen, das die damit verbundenen Aufgaben bearbeitet, die DGRh zu Fragestellungen berät und sich positioniert. Für die DGRh berührt dies verschiedenste Bereiche der Digitalisierung in Medizin und Rheumatologie. Dieses Positionspapier legt die aktuell von der Kommission bearbeiteten Themengebiete, Entwicklungen und identifizierten Aufgaben dar.
Enzymatic transesterification of urethane-bond containing ester
Authors: Skoczinski Pia , Espinoza Cangahuala Mónica K. , Maniar Dina , Loos Katja
Published: July 2020

Here we demonstrate the feasibility and successful application of enzymes in polyurethane network synthesis as well as occurring hurdles that have to be addressed when using urethanes synthesis substrates. The enzymatic transesterification of an urethane-bond containing monofunctional ester and a model alcohol carbitol using lipases is discussed. The reaction is optimized in terms of transesterification time and temperature, the reaction solvent, the possibility of a cosolvent and the alcohol amount, the used transesterification environment, and the biocatalyst. Enzymatic cross-linking of polyurethanes can open up a pool of new possibilities for cross-linking and related polyurethane network properties due to the enzymes high enantio-, stereo-, and regioselectivity and broad substrate spectrum.
Near-Field Spot for Localized Light-Excitation of a Single Fluorescent Molecule
Authors: Nisar Muhammad Shemyal , Cui Yujun , Dang Kaitong , Jiang Liyong , Zhao Xiangwei
Published: July 2020

Zero-mode waveguides have become important tools for the detection of single molecules. There are still, however, serious challenges because large molecules need to be packed into nano-holes. To circumvent this problem, we investigate and numerically simulate a novel planar sub-wavelength 3-dimension (3D) structure, which is named as near-field spot. It enables the detection of a single molecule in highly concentrated solutions. The near-field spot can produce evanescent waves at the dielectric/water interface, which exponentially decay as they travel away from the dielectric/water interface. These evanescent waves are keys for the detection of fluorescently tagged single molecules. A numerical simulation of the proposed device shows that the performance is comparable with a zero-mode waveguide. Additional degrees-of-freedom, however, can potentially supersede its performance.
Mapping second wave feminist periodicals: Networks of conflict and counterpublics, 1970–1990
Authors: Wonders Bec
Published: July 2020

The second wave of feminism saw a surge in women's publishing that resulted in a women-controlled communications infrastructure within feminist periodicals. As a result of women actively contributing to the ‘letters to the editor’ pages, second wave periodicals offer rich source material for tracing the development of feminist theory. Indicative of an invested and participatory counterpublic of readers, second wave periodicals also reveal the internal disagreements and debates which feminists were grappling with during the 1970s and 1980s.Spare rib,Trouble & strife,Revolutionary/radical feminist newsletterandOutwritewere feminist periodicals that all published coverage of the 1982 Lebanese war, and discussed the subsequent implications of anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism. Conflict over how correctly to cover the disagreements, both editorially and ideologically, dominated the correspondence pages of these periodicals. However, mediating conflict was uniquely suited to the medium of a periodical, as it allowed for less outspoken women to see themselves as contributors and add to a plurality of opinion. The visual mapping of these debates by means of Social Network Analysis highlights how the circulation of feminist periodicals enabled communication in the form of a webbed network of debate. The periodical format, and in particular the letters pages, offered a much-needed forum for criticism and disagreement to play out, and in turn the advancement of feminist discourse. As historical source material, they tell the story of a complex and diverse movement, unsettling the notion of a neat chronology of distinct decades of feminist history.
Prospective Study Demonstrates Utility of EP-QuIC in Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease Diagnoses
Authors: Simon Sharon L. R. , Peterson Anne , Phillipson Clark , Walker Jonathan M. , Richmond Meika , Jansen Gerard H. , Knox J. David
Published: July 2020

Prospectively acquired Canadian cerebrospinal fluid samples were used to assess the performance characteristics of three ante-mortem tests commonly used to support diagnoses of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease. The utility of the end-point quaking-induced conversion assay as a test for Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease diagnoses was compared to that of immunoassays designed to detect increased amounts of the surrogate markers 14-3-3γ and hTau. The positive predictive values of the end-point quaking-induced conversion, 14-3-3γ, and hTau tests conducted at the Prion Diseases Section of the Public Health Agency of Canada were 96%, 68%, and 66%, respectively.
THE TREE PROPERTY AT THE TWO IMMEDIATE SUCCESSORS OF A SINGULAR CARDINAL
Authors: CUMMINGS JAMES , HAYUT YAIR , MAGIDOR MENACHEM , NEEMAN ITAY , SINAPOVA DIMA , UNGER SPENCER
Published: July 2020

We present an alternative proof that from large cardinals, we can force the tree property at
$\kappa ^+$
and
$\kappa ^{++}$
simultaneously for a singular strong limit cardinal
$\kappa $
. The advantage of our method is that the proof of the tree property at the double successor is simpler than in the existing literature. This new approach also works to establish the result for
$\kappa =\aleph _{\omega ^2}$
.
A new nektaspid euarthropod from the Lower Ordovician strata of Morocco
Authors: Pérez-Peris Francesc , Laibl Lukáš , Lustri Lorenzo , Gueriau Pierre , Antcliffe Jonathan B , Bath Enright Orla G , Daley Allison C
Published: July 2020

Nektaspids are Palaeozoic non-biomineralized euarthropods that were at the peak of their diversity during the Cambrian Period. Post-Cambrian nektaspids are a low-diversity group with only a few species described so far. Here we describeTariccoia tazagurtensis, a new species of small-bodied nektaspid from the Lower Ordovician Fezouata Shale of Morocco. The new species differs from the type (and only other known) species from the Ordovician strata of Sardinia (Italy),Tariccoia arrusensis, in possessing more pointed genal angles, a cephalon with marginal rim, a pygidium with anterior margin curved forwards, a rounded posterior margin, and longer and more curved thoracic tergites. The two specimens ofT. tazagurtensissp. nov. show remains of digestive glands that are comparable to those seen in the Cambrian nektaspidNaraoia. The rare occurrence ofT. tazagurtensissp. nov. in the Fezouata Shale and the distribution of other liwiids suggest that these liwiids were originally minor members of open-marine communities during the Cambrian Period, and migrated into colder brackish or restricted seas during the Ordovician Period.
ESTADO, BANCA PÚBLICA Y FINANCIAMIENTO DE LAS EXPORTACIONES: EL GRAN PRÉSTAMO ARGENTINO A LOS ALIADOS DE 1918–19
Authors: Regalsky Andrés , Vence Conti Agustina
Published: July 2020

The outbreak of the First World War had a strong impact on Latin American economies, due to the sharp interruption of the influx of capital and the deep disturbances that it caused in international trade. In the Argentine case, a notable aspect was, together with the increase in the fiscal deficit, the growing trade and payment balance surplus. Public indebtedness was reoriented towards the domestic market by the means of a state bank Banco de la Nación, and this institution also granted a large loan to the governments of England and France, to finance the export of cereals to those countries. This work seeks to contribute both to the debate on the financial impact of the war and postwar conflict in Argentina, as well as to the role of public banks to mitigate the ups and downs of the external sector and mitigate its effects on local actors.
A mother–child intervention program for adolescent mothers: Results from a randomized controlled trial (the TeeMo study)
Authors: Firk Christine , Dahmen Brigitte , Dempfle Astrid , Niessen Anke , Baumann Christin , Schwarte Reinhild , Koslowski Julia , Kelberlau Kerstin , Konrad Kerstin , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate
Published: July 2020

Children of adolescent mothers are a high-risk group for negative child development. Previous findings suggest that early interventions may enhance child development by improving mother–child interaction. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate a mother–child intervention (STEEP-b) program in high-risk adolescent mother–infant dyads (N= 56) within a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Mother–child interaction was assessed at baseline (T1), postintervention (T2), and follow-up (T3). The primary outcome was the change in maternal sensitivity and child responsiveness from T1 to T2 that was measured by blinded ratings of videotaped mother–child-interaction with the Emotional Availability Scales. A modified intention-to-treat analysis was performed to examine the data. No intervention effect was found for maternal sensitivity, 95% CI [-0.59–0.60],p= .99, and child responsiveness, 95% CI [-0.51–0.62],p= .84. Maternal sensitivity and child responsiveness did not change over time in both groups (allps> .05). A statistically nonsignificant, but potentially clinically meaningful difference emerged between rates of serious adverse events, SC: 4 (14.8%), STEEP-b: 1 (3.4%), possibly driven by different intensity of surveillance of dyads in the treatment groups. The current findings question the effectiveness of STEEP-b for high-risk adolescent mothers and do not justify the broad implementation of this approach.
Presidential Greatness in a Polarized Era: Results from the Latest Presidential Greatness Survey
Authors: Rottinghaus Brandon , Eady Gregory , Vaughn Justin S.
Published: July 2020

For generations, scholars have used surveys to examine presidential greatness. However, the rising tide of politicization calls these ratings into question. Can those who study the presidency offer fair judgments regardless of their political affiliation? Does their affiliation alter judgments of presidential greatness in historical or contemporary terms? Using a 2018 expert survey of political scientists who study the presidency, we find that party affiliation and ideological differences do alter—albeit slightly—perceptions of presidential greatness for both past and present presidents up to and including Donald Trump. Our results call into question such ratings insofar as they exist absent the political and ideological context of the reviewer.
100 Years of Suffrage and Girls Still Struggle to Find their “Fit” in Politics
Authors: Bos Angela L. , Holman Mirya R. , Greenlee Jill S. , Oxley Zoe M. , Lay J. Celeste
Published: July 2020

When women gained the national right to vote 100 years ago, remarkable possibilities for their voice and presence in politics opened. However, despite gains in women’s representation, numerous gaps continue to exist in which adult women engage less in politics than men. In identifying and explaining adult gender gaps, little attention has been given to whether gaps emerge among children. This is a pressing issue because children’s perceptions are likely to influence their participation as adults. This article explores whether and how girls and boys differently view politics and their role in it. We report survey data from more than 1,600 children ages 6 to 12 to explore basic gender gaps in political interest and ambition. We argue that these results may reveal the roots of a larger problem: 100 years after women gained suffrage, girls still express less interest and enthusiasm than boys for political life and political office.
Intersectionality and Voting Rights
Authors: Montoya Celeste
Published: July 2020

One hundred years after ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment, the ability of women to effectively exercise the right to vote is far from guaranteed. Although 1920 may mark the historical moment when women’s suffrage was added to the Constitution, the past century has been rife with obstacles preventing many women, particularly women of color, from exercising their right to vote. Scholars have noted that for these women, the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 was pivotal in more fully securing the right to vote (Hewitt 2010; Junn and Brown 2008; Montoya 2018; Smooth 2006). With a resurgence in voter-suppression efforts and a US Supreme Court ruling that weakened the VRA, voting rights again are imperiled. Although the role of race and class justifiably have been placed at the center of analysis, little attention has been given to the potential gendered considerations. This article argues that gender is still a salient part of the story, and intersectional analysis is necessary for a more thorough understanding of the impact that restrictive laws might have in order to counter them.
Co-optation and Repression of Religion in Authoritarian Regimes
Authors: Schleutker Elina
Published: July 2020

Comparative research on authoritarianism has largely neglected religion. Yet, in order to understand the logic of authoritarian control over the civil society, it is necessary to study how the authoritarian regimes deal with religious groups. In this paper, lessons from the two rapidly expanding fields on regulation of religion and comparative authoritarianism are combined. In particular, a conceptualization of regulation of religion in the authoritarian context is proposed, according to which positive endorsement of religion can be understood as co-optation, whereas negative restrictions can be seen as repression. By employing data on positive endorsement and negative restrictions on religion from 2014 for ca. 70 countries, three different clusters of authoritarian countries regarding the regulation of religion are identified. Finally, it is argued that capacity and ambition of both the religious groups and the authoritarian regimes are the main determinants of regulation.
Crustal Thermal Structure and Exhumation Rates in the Southern Alps Near the Central Alpine Fault, New Zealand
Authors: Michailos Konstantinos , Sutherland Rupert , Townend John , Savage Martha K.
Published: July 2020

We investigate orogenic uplift rates and the thermal structure of the crust in the hanging wall of the Alpine Fault, New Zealand, using the hypocenters of 7,719 earthquakes that occurred in the central Southern Alps between late 2008 and early 2017, and previously published thermochronological data. We assume that the base of the seismogenic zone corresponds to a brittle‐ductile transition at some fixed temperature, which we estimate by fitting the combined thermochronological data and distribution of seismicity using a multi‐1‐D approach. We find that exhumation rates vary from 1 to 8 mm/yr, with maximum values observed in the area of highest topography near Aoraki/Mount Cook, a finding consistent with previous geologic and geodetic analyses. We estimate the temperature of the brittle‐ductile transition beneath the Southern Alps to be 410–430°C, which is higher than expected for Alpine Fault rocks whose bulk lithology is likely dominated by quartz. The high estimated temperatures at the base of the seismogenic zone likely reflect the unmodeled effects of high fluid pressures or strain rates.
Geomagnetic Deviation of Relativistic Electron Beams Producing Terrestrial Gamma Ray Flashes
Authors: Celestin Sebastien , Berge Nini L. , Mailyan Bagrat G. , Briggs Michael S.
Published: July 2020

In this work, we investigate the effect of the geomagnetic field on terrestrial gamma ray flashes (TGFs). Although this effect should be relatively weak for a single event, for example compared to the effect of the electric field orientation in the source region, it must be systematically present. Indeed, we show that a statistically significant excess of TGFs is detected to the east of their presumed lightning source by Fermi‐Gamma‐ray Burst Monitor (GBM). The corresponding eastward deviation is found to be likely greater than 0.1° in longitude, which is consistent with the expected effect of the geomagnetic field on relativistic runaway electron beams producing TGFs. Using analytical and numerical means, we show that the geomagnetic deviation can be used to estimate the magnitude of the electric field in TGF source regions. The electric field magnitudes we obtain are consistent with those necessary to drive relativistic runaway electron avalanches (RREAs).
Modelling the dynamics of Pine Wilt Disease with asymptomatic carriers and optimal control
Authors: Khan Muhammad Altaf , Ahmed L. , Mandal Prashanta Kumar , Smith Robert , Haque Mainul
Published: July 2020

Pine wilt disease is a lethal tree disease caused by nematodes carried by pine sawyer beetles. Once affected, the trees are destroyed within a few months, resulting in significant environmental and economic losses. The role of asymptomatic carrier trees in the disease dynamics remains unclear. We developed a mathematical model to investigate the effect of asymptomatic carriers on the long-term outcome of the disease. We performed a stability and sensitivity analysis to identify key parameters and used optimal control to examine several intervention options. Our model shows that, with the application of suitable controls, the disease can be eliminated in the vector population and all tree populations except for asymptomatic carriers. Of the possible controls (tree injection, elimination of infected trees, insecticide spraying), we determined that elimination of infected trees is crucial. However, if the costs of insecticide spraying increase, it can be supplemented (although not replaced entirely) by tree injection, so long as some spraying is still undertaken.
Structure-based designing efficient peptides based on p53 binding site residues to disrupt p53-MDM2/X interaction
Authors: Rasafar Nasim , Barzegar Abolfazl , Mehdizadeh Aghdam Elnaz
Published: July 2020

MDM2 and MDMX are known as overexpressed oncoproteins in several wild-type p53 cancer cells. The development of potent and dual antagonist peptides for p53-MDM2/X is a continuous challenge. In this study, we intended to investigate the pivotal structural points respecting the development of potent and dual inhibitors of MDM2/X. Correspondingly, MD simulation was performed on the experimentally confirmed peptides, comprising p53, pDI, pDIQ, PMI, and computationally screened mutant pDI and pDIQ. A follow-up secondary structure analysis showed the last three C-terminal residues provide the helicity reservation of peptides bound to MDM2/X. Furthermore, a delicate residue-residue examination displayed Met 11 and Ser12 in the modified peptides contribute significantly to dual inhibition of MDM2/X. Additionally, the peptides_MDM2/X complexes’ ΔGbinding extracted by the umbrella sampling method were in agreement with the pattern of their experimental affinity values. It was concluded the screened pDI mutants were considered as suitable anti-MDM2/X peptides, and the data obtained could be exploited as the theoretical structure-based guide for rational peptide design. Taking account of results, the suitable C-terminal residues of p53-based peptides especially Met11, and Ser12, as well as higher umbrella sampling, generated ΔGbinding to MDM2/X would be considered as the positive structural markers of a promising anti-cancer agent.
Immunization against leukemia inhibitory factor and its receptor suppresses tumor formation of breast cancer initiating cells in BALB/c mouse
Authors: Ghanei Zahra , Mehri Nahid , Jamshidizad Abbas , Joupari Morteza Daliri , Shamsara Mehdi
Published: July 2020

Immunotherapy is a promising approach for specific targeting of cancer cells. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) regulates several features of cancers and cancer stem cells (CSCs) through binding to LIF receptor (LIFR). In this study, we investigated the consensus of LIF and LIFR immunization on the growth of mouse mammary tumors. For this purpose, mouse LIF and LIFR were designed as truncated proteins, expressed in E. coli and then injected to mice as individual and mixed antigens. The results showed the production of neutralizing antibodies and secretion of interferon-γ and interleukin-2 in response to immunization. In continue, the immunized mice were subjected for tumor formation challenge by inoculation of the breast CSCs derived from MC4-L2 cells. Development of the breast tumors was observed in all the control mice, while the tumors appeared in 75% of animals in the LIF group. LIFR injection, individually or in combination with LIF, strongly inhibited the tumor growth to only 25% of the mice. Moreover, a delay in tumor appearance was observed in the immunized mice compared to the controls. Immunostaining of the tumor sections confirmed the expression of LIF and LIFR. In conclusion, LIF and LIFR might be effective targets for immunotherapy of the tumors that express these proteins.
Magnetosomes could be protective shields against metal stress in magnetotactic bacteria
Authors: Muñoz D. , Marcano L. , Martín-Rodríguez R. , Simonelli L. , Serrano A. , García-Prieto A. , Fdez-Gubieda M. L. , Muela A.
Published: July 2020

Magnetotactic bacteria are aquatic microorganisms with the ability to biomineralise membrane-enclosed magnetic nanoparticles, called magnetosomes. These magnetosomes are arranged into a chain that behaves as a magnetic compass, allowing the bacteria to align in and navigate along the Earth’s magnetic field lines. According to the magneto-aerotactic hypothesis, the purpose of producing magnetosomes is to provide the bacteria with a more efficient movement within the stratified water column, in search of the optimal positions that satisfy their nutritional requirements. However, magnetosomes could have other physiological roles, as proposed in this work. Here we analyse the role of magnetosomes in the tolerance ofMagnetospirillum gryphiswaldenseMSR-1 to transition metals (Co, Mn, Ni, Zn, Cu). By exposing bacterial populations with and without magnetosomes to increasing concentrations of metals in the growth medium, we observe that the tolerance is significantly higher when bacteria have magnetosomes. The resistance mechanisms triggered in magnetosome-bearing bacteria under metal stress have been investigated by means of x-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES). XANES experiments were performed both on magnetosomes isolated from the bacteria and on the whole bacteria, aimed to assess whether bacteria use magnetosomes as metal storages, or whether they incorporate the excess metal in other cell compartments. Our findings reveal that the tolerance mechanisms are metal-specific: Mn, Zn and Cu are incorporated in both the magnetosomes and other cell compartments; Co is only incorporated in the magnetosomes, and Ni is incorporated in other cell compartments. In the case of Co, Zn and Mn, the metal is integrated in the magnetosome magnetite mineral core.
A synthetic retinoic acid receptor agonist Am80 ameliorates renal fibrosis via inducing the production of alpha-1-acid glycoprotein
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Bi Jing , Murata Ryota , Fujimura Rui , Nishida Kento , Imafuku Tadashi , Nakamura Yuka , Maeda Hitoshi , Mukunoki Ayumi , Takeo Toru , Nakagata Naomi , Kurauchi Yuki , Katsuki Hiroshi , Tanaka Motoko , Matsushita Kazutaka , Fukagawa Masafumi , Maruyama Toru
Published: July 2020

Renal fibrosis is a major factor in the progression of chronic kidney disease and the final common pathway of kidney injury. Therefore, the effective therapies against renal fibrosis are urgently needed. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of Am80, a synthetic retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonist, in the treatment of renal interstitial fibrosis using unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice. The findings indicate that Am80 treatment suppressed renal fibrosis and inflammation to the same degree as the naturally-occuring retinoic acid, all-trans retinoic acid (atRA). But the adverse effect of body weight loss in Am80-treated mice was lower compared to the atRA treatment. The hepatic mRNA levels of alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), a downstream molecule of RAR agonist, was increased following administration of Am80 to healthy mice. In addition, increased AGP mRNA expression was also observed in HepG2 cells and THP-1-derived macrophages that had been treated with Am80. AGP-knockout mice exacerbated renal fibrosis, inflammation and macrophage infiltration in UUO mice, indicating endogenous AGP played an anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory role during the development of renal fibrosis. We also found that no anti-fibrotic effect of Am80 was observed in UUO-treated AGP-knockout mice whereas atRA treatment tended to show a partial anti-fibrotic effect. These collective findings suggest that Am80 protects against renal fibrosis via being involved in AGP function.
Prothrombotic fibrin clot properties associated with NETs formation characterize acute pulmonary embolism patients with higher mortality risk
Authors: Ząbczyk Michał , Natorska Joanna , Janion-Sadowska Agnieszka , Metzgier-Gumiela Agnieszka , Polak Mateusz , Plens Krzysztof , Janion Marianna , Skonieczny Grzegorz , Mizia-Stec Katarzyna , Undas Anetta
Published: July 2020

Venous thromboembolism is associated with formation of denser fibrin clots resistant to lysis. We investigated whether prothrombotic plasma clot properties are associated with the severity of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). We enrolled 126 normotensive acute PE patients (aged 58 ± 14 years) and 25 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Plasma fibrin clot permeability (Ks), clot lysis time (CLT), endogenous thrombin potential (ETP), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and citrullinated histone H3 (citH3) were evaluated on admission. PE patients compared to controls had 370% higher citH3 levels, 41% higher ETP, 16.5% reduced Ks, and 25.6% prolonged CLT. Patients with intermediate-high (n = 29) and intermediate-low (n = 77) PE mortality risk had reduced Ks and prolonged CLT, increased PAI-1 and ETP as compared to low-risk PE (n = 20) patients. Prolonged CLT was predicted by PAI-1 and citH3, while low Ks by C-reactive protein. During a 12-month follow-up 9 (7.1%) patients who had 24% higher ETP, 45% higher citH3 levels, and 18% prolonged CLT at baseline died. High ETP combined with elevated citH3 levels and prolonged CLT was associated with eightfold increased risk of PE-related death. Prothrombotic fibrin clot properties and enhanced neutrophil extracellular traps formation are associated with higher early mortality risk in acute PE patients, which suggests a prognostic role of these biomarkers.
Nanostructured iron oxides stabilized by chitosan: using copper to enhance degradation by a combined mechanism
Authors: Caetano Aline Aparecida , Chagas Pricila Maria Batista , Vieira Sara Silveira , Moratta Thais Fernandes , Terra Júlio C. S. , Ardisson José Domingos , Guimarães Iara Do Rosário
Published: July 2020

The H2O2 decomposition profile suggests a combined mechanism. Spherical-shaped materials were synthesized and facilitated the reuse process.
Frontline Interventions: Considerations for Modifying Fluids and Foods for Management of Feeding and Swallowing Disorders Across the Life Span
Authors: Gosa Memorie M. , Dodrill Pamela , Robbins JoAnne
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Individuals with dysphagia across the age continuum may require dietary modifications of fluids and foods for safe and adequate oral intake. Considerations of this frontline intervention are presented in this clinical forum dedicated to the discussion of dysphagia.

Method

This clinical focus article reviews the technical challenges of providing modified fluids and foods across the life span as well as the literature specific to its origins, efficacy, challenges and solutions to standardization, and the methods for ensuring quality service delivery.

Conclusion

Dietary modification is an often-used method of dysphagia management that presents unique challenges to the clinician for successful application. Speech-language pathologists in clinical practice across all settings must remain dedicated to evidence-based practice as they navigate service delivery of this strategy to individuals with dysphagia across the life span.
Using PCAand one‐stage detectors for real‐time forest fire detection
Authors: Wu Shixiao , Guo Chengcheng , Yang Jianfeng
Published: July 2020

This study investigated the potential for using principal component analysis (PCA) to improve real‐time forest fire detection with popular algorithms, such as YOLOv3 and SSD. Before YOLOv3/SSD training, the authors utilised PCA to extract features. Results showed that PCA with YOLOv3 increased the mean average precision (mAP) by 7.3%. PCA with SSD increased the mAP by 4.6%. These results suggest that PCA to be a robust tool for improving different objective detection networks.
Study on intelligent control of yaw stability of electric vehicle with in‐wheel motors
Authors: Zhang Yong , Ou Jian , Yang Echuan , Yang Shen , Meng Tian
Published: July 2020

In order to improve yaw stability of electric vehicles with in‐wheel motors, a yaw moment fuzzy control method based on yaw rate and side‐slip angle is designed. A hierarchical control structure was set up. The upper layer is motion tracking layer, it obtains required additional yaw moment based on the fuzzy control theory according to current status feedback of vehicle and ideal status of reference model. The lower layer is a torque distribution layer that uses the weighted least squares method to optimise moment distribution by adopting an in‐wheel motors/hydraulic brake system combined control strategy, with full consideration of all restraints. A rapid control prototype test bench is designed based on dSPACE system, simulation experiments were conducted under typical test work conditions. The simulation result shows that compared with even torque distribution and the optimal torque distribution involving the motor only, the optimal torque distribution control strategy of the combined in‐wheel motor and the hydraulic braking system can effectively improve the stability of wheel‐motor driven electric vehicles.
Recovering Quality of Life: Deutsche Übersetzung eines
Fragebogens zur Erfassung der gesundheitsbezogenen Lebensqualität von
Menschen mit psychischen Erkrankungen
Authors: Grochtdreis Thomas , König Hans-Helmut , Dams Judith
Published: July 2020

Ziel der Studie Ziel dieser Arbeit war es, den
Selbstbeurteilungsfragebogen „Recovering Quality of Life
(ReQoL)“ zur Messung der gesundheitsbezogenen Lebensqualität
von Menschen mit psychischen Erkrankungen in die deutsche Sprache zu
übersetzen.

Methodik Die Übersetzung des Fragebogens in die deutsche
Sprache erfolgte durch 2 voneinander unabhängige qualifizierte
Übersetzer. Diskrepanzen in der Bedeutung und Terminologie wurden
durch den Vergleich einer Rückübersetzung mit der
Originalversion ermittelt. Die deutsche Übersetzung des Fragebogens
wurde mit 5 Patienten mit psychischen Erkrankungen vorgetestet.

Ergebnisse Die Übersetzung einiger englischer Formulierungen
des Fragebogens in die deutsche Sprache gestaltete sich,
hauptsächlich aufgrund sprachlicher und kultureller Unterschiede,
schwierig. Durch eine Expertendiskussion der Übersetzung und einen
Pretest mit psychisch erkrankten Patienten konnten geeignete Formulierungen
gefunden werden.

Schlussfolgerung Es liegt eine deutsche Version des
Selbstbeurteilungsfragebogens ReQoL vor, um die gesundheitsbezogene
Lebensqualität von Menschen mit psychischen Erkrankungen zu
erfassen.
The cutting depth required to control calotrope (Calotropis procera) plants using mechanical techniques
Authors: Campbell Shane , Roden Laura , O'Donnell Christopher , Perkins Melinda
Published: July 2020

Calotrope (Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T. Aiton) is an exotic woody weed that has invaded northern Australia’s rangelands since being introduced in the early 1900s. To expand the range of control options beyond herbicide-based methods, we undertook a stem/root cutting experiment that helped quantify the potential for using mechanical control techniques. Individual, medium-sized (1.72±0.03m high) calotrope plants were cut off at ground level (0cm) or below ground (10 or 20cm) using either a pruning saw or mattock respectively. All calotrope plants cut at ground level reshot vigorously. After four months they had more than twice the number of stems (7.4±0.54) of the uncut control plants and by 12 months they were only 26cm shorter than the control plants. In contrast, all plants cut at 10 or 20cm below ground were killed. Some mortality also started occurring in the control and ground level (0cm) treatments after eight months, but appeared to be associated with a dieback phenomenon. Nevertheless, the results demonstrate the potential to use equipment that severs the root system below ground, such as blade ploughs and cutter bars. A subsequent stick raking demonstration achieved moderate plant mortality (72%) after 13 months, yet produced a six-fold increase in original plant density as a result of new seedling emergence. This finding supports the view that mechanical disturbance will often promote seedling recruitment, and land managers need to have the capacity to undertake follow-up control practices to avoid exacerbating the problem.
Translocation is not a viable conflict-resolution tool for a large fossorial mammal, Lasiorhinus latifrons
Authors: O'Brien Casey , Sparrow Elisa , Dibben Ron , Ostendorf Bertram , Taggart David
Published: July 2020

Abstract ContextThe translocation of southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons) has been suggested as a management tool to alleviate conflicts with the agricultural sector because of the damages caused by their burrowing activity. Translocation is widely used for removing problem animals from conflict areas, but its effectiveness is rarely adequately evaluated and often fails to resolve conflicts. Furthermore, translocations often result in low survival, extensive movement, and the non-establishment of translocated animals. AimsThe present study assessed the viability of translocation as a damage-mitigation tool for L. latifrons, by examining the (1) capture success of L. latifrons, (2) survival and establishment of translocated L. latifrons, and (3) reduction of L. latifrons activity at source sites. MethodsThirteen L. latifrons individuals were translocated from conflict zones on agricultural properties and released on a private grazing property >60km from capture sites. The behaviour of translocated L. latifrons individuals was monitored using GPS and/or VHF technology, and compared with that of 12 resident animals. Motion-sensor cameras monitored the source sites to determine recolonisation rates. Key resultsThe capture and removal of problem individuals were time-intensive and infeasible on a large scale. Post-release mortality was not observed, although nine translocated and nine resident L. latifrons individuals went missing soon after release. Translocated (n=4) L. latifrons displayed high site fidelity, but initially ranged further than residents (n=6), before settling into similar behaviour patterns. Lasiorhinus latifrons activity was not reduced at the source sites, with neighbouring wombats recolonising warrens within 1–2 weeks. ConclusionsTranslocation is not a suitable human–wombat conflict mitigation tool but may prove useful for restoring declining populations. ImplicationsThese findings support the growing body of evidence that translocating problem animals is not suitable for resolving conflicts and alternative methods such as the use of deterrents may be more appropriate.
Methanobrevibacter smithii Archaemia in Febrile Patients With Bacteremia, Including Those With Endocarditis
Authors: Drancourt Michel , Djemai Kenza , Gouriet Frédérique , Grine Ghiles , Loukil Ahmed , Bedotto Marielle , Levasseur Anthony , Lepidi Hubert , Bou-Khalil Jacques , Khelaifia Saber , Raoult Didier
Published: July 2020

Background

The spectrum of infections caused by methanogens remains to be described. We searched for methanogens in the blood of febrile patients using specific tools.

Methods

Blood culture samples routinely collected in patients with fever were prospectively screened by specific PCR assays for methanogens. Positive samples were observed by autofluorescence and electron microscopy, analyzed by metagenomics and cultured using previously developed methods. Blood culture bottles experimentally inoculated were used as controls. The presence of methanogens in vascular and cardiac tissues was assessed by indirect immunofluorescence, fluorescent in situ hybridization and PCR-based investigations.

Results

PCR detection attempted in 7,716 blood samples, was negative in all 1,312 aerobic bottles and 810 bacterial culture-negative anaerobic bottles. PCRs were positive in 27/5,594 (0.5%) bacterial culture-positive anaerobic bottles collected from 26 patients. Sequencing confirmed Methanobrevibacter smithii associated with staphylococci in 14 patients, Enterobacteriaceae in nine patients and streptococci in three patients. Metagenomics confirmed M. smithii in five samples, and M. smithii was isolated in broth from two samples; the genomes of these two isolates were sequenced. Blood cultures experimentally inoculated with Enterobacteriaceae, Staphylococcus epidermidis or Staphylococcus hominis yielded hydrogen, but no methane, authentifying observational data. Three patients diagnosed with infectious mitral endocarditis, were indisputably diagnosed by microscopy, PCR-based detections and culture: we showed M. smithii microscopically and by a specific PCR followed by sequencing method in two of three cardiovascular tissues.

Conclusions

Using appropriate laboratory methods, M. smithii is demonstrated as causing archaemia and endocarditis in febrile patients who are coinfected by bacteria.
Implementation of coronary computed tomography angiography as nationally recommended first-line test in patients with suspected chronic coronary syndrome: impact on the use of invasive coronary angiography and revascularization
Authors: Nissen Louise , Winther Simon , Schmidt Morten , Rønnow Sand Niels Peter , Urbonaviciene Grazina , Zelechowski Marek Wojciech , Christensen Martin Kirk , Busk Martin , Lambrechtsen Jess , Diederichsen Axel , Elpert Frank-Peter , Grove Erik Lerkevang , Bøtker Hans Erik , Bøttcher Morten
Published: July 2020

Aims 

To investigate the impact of applying coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), as the recommended first-line diagnostic test in patients with suspected chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) on the use of invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and revascularization practice.

Methods and results 

We included all patients undergoing a first-time CCTA (n = 53555) and first-time ICA (n = 41451) from 2008 to 2017 due to suspected CCS in Western Denmark (3.3 million inhabitants). The number of CCTA procedures increased from 352 (2008) to 7739 (2017) (2098%), ICA examinations declined from 4538 to 3766 (17%). The average proportion of no- or non-obstructive coronary artery disease by CCTA was 77.5%. Referral to ICA after CCTA occurred in 16.9% of patients in 2008–10 vs. 13.9% in 2014–17 (P < 0.0001). Revascularization in patients referred to ICA after CCTA increased from 33.8% in 2008–10 vs. 44.4% in 2014–17 (P < 0.0001). The revascularization proportion in patients undergoing ICA with no preceding CCTA was 32.3% in 2008–10 vs. 33.3% in (2014–17) (P = 0.1063). Stratified by age, the overall revascularization proportion increased in the younger age groups and was unchanged or decreased in older age groups: <50 years: 60% increase, 50–59 years: 33% increase, 60–69 years: 0%, and >70 years: 9.5% decrease.

Conclusion 

The introduction of CCTA as a first-line diagnostic test in patients with suspected CCS does not associate with increased use of invasive angiography and seems to have facilitated a more appropriate revascularization practice.
Long non-coding RNA ABHD11-AS1 boosts gastric cancer development by regulating miR-361-3p/PDPK1 signalling
Authors: Xin Hairong , Yan Zhifeng , Cao Jie
Published: July 2020

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers in gastrointestinal malignant tumours. Long non-coding RNAs were widely reported to play a significant role in the regulation of occurrence or development of tumours. Bioinformatics analysis and a wide range of experiments were conducted to explore the expression status, specific function and molecular mechanism of long non-coding RNA ABHD11 antisense RNA 1 (ABHD11-AS1). ABHD11-AS1 knockdown repressed cell proliferation but enhanced cell apoptosis in function. We proved that miR-361-3p directly combines with the 3′wUTR of PDPK2 and ABHD11-AS1 cooperated with miR-361-3p to modulate PDPK2 mRNA and protein levels. Rescue assays confirmed that the miR-361-3p silence reversed the suppressive effect of ABHD11-AS1 deficiency. In summary, ABHD11-AS1 boosts GC development by regulating miR-361-3p/PDPK1 signalling.
Optimizing actigraphic estimates of polysomnographic sleep features in insomnia disorder
Authors: te Lindert Bart H W , van der Meijden Wisse P , Wassing Rick , Lakbila-Kamal Oti , Wei Yishul , Van Someren Eus J W , Ramautar Jennifer R
Published: July 2020

Study Objectives

Actigraphy is a useful tool for estimating sleep, but less accurately distinguishes sleep and wakefulness in patients with insomnia disorder (ID) than in good sleepers. Specific algorithm parameter settings have been suggested to improve the accuracy of actigraphic estimates of sleep onset or nocturnal sleep and wakefulness in ID. However, a direct comparison of how different algorithm parameter settings affect actigraphic estimates of sleep features has been lacking. This study aimed to define the optimal algorithm parameter settings for actigraphic estimates of polysomnographic sleep features in people suffering from ID and matched good sleepers.

Methods

We simultaneously recorded actigraphy and polysomnography without sleep diaries during 210 laboratory nights of people with ID (n = 58) and matched controls (CTRL) without sleep complaints (n = 56). We analyzed cross-validation errors using 150 algorithm parameter configurations and Bland–Altman plots of sleep features using the optimal settings.

Results

Optimal sleep onset latency and total sleep time (TST) errors were lower in CTRL (8.9 ± 2.1 and 16.5 ± 2.1 min, respectively) than in ID (11.7 ± 0.8 and 29.1 ± 3.4 min). The sleep–wake algorithm, a period duration of 5 min, and a wake sensitivity threshold of 40 achieved optimal results in ID and near-optimal results in CTRL. Bland–Altman plots were nearly identical for ID and controls for all common all-night sleep features except for TST.

Conclusion

This systematic evaluation shows that actigraphic sleep feature estimation can be improved by using uncommon parameter settings. One specific parameter setting provides (near-)optimal estimation of sleep onset and nocturnal sleep across ID and controls.