bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies-Associated Vasculitis Overlap Syndrome
Authors: Hounoki Hiroyuki , Shinoda Koichiro , Matsui Atsushi , Okumura Maiko , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Kakeshita Kota , Yamazaki Hidenori , Koike Tsutomu , Makino Teruhiko , Tobe Kazuyuki
Published: January 2021

An overlap of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies- (ANCA-) associated vasculitis (AAV) is extremely rare: approximately 40 cases have been reported to date. A literature review indicates that they are more common in women in their forties, and simultaneous onset has been reported in 69% of cases. In addition, both lupus nephritis and ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis were observed on renal biopsy. This report presents the case of a 35-year-old woman with an 8-month history of polyarthralgia who was admitted to our hospital. She was diagnosed with SLE due to typical clinical presentation of the disease: polyarthritis, lymphocytopenia, hypocomplementemia, presence of antinuclear and anti-dsDNA antibodies, and proteinuria. However, purpura were scattered, and the titer of antimyeloperoxidase-antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (MPO-ANCA) was high. A skin biopsy revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis that involved poor immune complex deposition. A renal biopsy showed necrotizing glomerulonephritis with cellular and fibrocellular crescent formation that involved deposition of IgM and C3c only in the mesangial area and the peripheral capillaries. Additionally, no electron-dense deposits were observed under electron microscopy. These pathological findings were consistent with AAV rather than with SLE. Therefore, we finally diagnosed the patient with both SLE and microscopic polyangiitis. After treatment with methylprednisolone and intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapies, renal function improved and MPO-ANCA levels decreased. In cases of suspected overlap between SLE and AAV, appropriate diagnosis and treatment are important.
Metastatic Adenocarcinoma of the Lung Presenting as a Soft Tissue Mass
Authors: Yglesias B. , Brooker M. , DeVito R. , Swiger A.
Published: January 2021

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, with more than 230,000 new cases, and approximately 150,000 deaths estimated for 2018. Lung cancer most commonly metastasizes to the brain, liver, lungs, bone, and adrenal system; however, there have been several cases of spread to soft tissues, with an incidence rate of approximately 0.75-9%. The objective of this case report is to highlight an unusual presentation of metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung. In this case report, patient presented with a

3
×
3

 cm soft tissue mass on the back. The mass was slowly growing but had become more painful and wished to have it excised. Preoperatively, the mass was suspected to be a sebaceous cyst but intraoperatively had deep attachments and other suspicious findings. Pathology had a positive immunoprofile for metastatic adenocarcinoma favoring a lung primary. Given this presentation of metastases, the prognosis is poor with a survival time decreasing to around 5 months. Overall, this case reinforces the importance of sending all soft tissue masses for final pathology with accurate labeling and the importance of immunohistochemical testing in aiding the identification of the primary.
A Compact FPGA‐Based Accelerator for Curve‐Based Cryptography in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Morales-Sandoval Miguel , Flores Luis Armando Rodriguez , Cumplido Rene , Garcia-Hernandez Jose Juan , Feregrino Claudia , Algredo Ignacio
Published: January 2021

The main topic of this paper is low‐cost public key cryptography in wireless sensor nodes. Security in embedded systems, for example, in sensor nodes based on field programmable gate array (FPGA), demands low cost but still efficient solutions. Sensor nodes are key elements in the Internet of Things paradigm, and their security is a crucial requirement for critical applications in sectors such as military, health, and industry. To address these security requirements under the restrictions imposed by the available computing resources of sensor nodes, this paper presents a low‐area FPGA‐prototyped hardware accelerator for scalar multiplication, the most costly operation in elliptic curve cryptography (ECC). This cryptoengine is provided as an enabler of robust cryptography for security services in the IoT, such as confidentiality and authentication. The compact property in the proposed hardware design is achieved by implementing a novel digit‐by‐digit computing approach applied at the finite field and curve level algorithms, in addition to hardware reusing, the use of embedded memory blocks in modern FPGAs, and a simpler control logic. Our hardware design targets elliptic curves defined over binary fields generated by trinomials, uses fewer area resources than other FPGA approaches, and is faster than software counterparts. Our ECC hardware accelerator was validated under a hardware/software codesign of the Diffie‐Hellman key exchange protocol (ECDH) deployed in the IoT MicroZed FPGA board. For a scalar multiplication in the sect233 curve, our design requires 1170 FPGA slices and completes the computation in 128820 clock cycles (at 135.31 MHz), with an efficiency of 0.209 kbps/slice. In the codesign, the ECDH protocol is executed in 4.1 ms, 17 times faster than a MIRACL software implementation running on the embedded processor Cortex A9 in the MicroZed. The FPGA‐based accelerator for binary ECC presented in this work is the one with the least amount of hardware resources compared to other FPGA designs in the literature.
Designing an Intuitionistic Fuzzy Network Data Envelopment Analysis Model for Efficiency Evaluation of Decision-Making Units with Two-Stage Structures
Authors: Javaherian Nafiseh , Hamzehee Ali , Sayyadi Tooranloo Hossein
Published: January 2021

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is a powerful tool for evaluating the efficiency of decision-making units for ranking and comparison purposes and to differentiate efficient and inefficient units. Classic DEA models are ill-suited for the problems where decision-making units consist of multiple stages with intermediate products and those where inputs and outputs are imprecise or nondeterministic, which is not uncommon in the real world. This paper presents a new DEA model for evaluating the efficiency of decision-making units with two-stage structures and triangular intuitionistic fuzzy data. The paper first introduces two-stage DEA models, then explains how these models can be modified with intuitionistic fuzzy coefficients, and finally describes how arithmetic operators for intuitionistic fuzzy numbers can be used for a conversion into crisp two-stage structures. In the end, the proposed method is used to solve an illustrative numerical example.
Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy following Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus and Steroid-Related Intraocular Pressure Spike
Authors: Yuan Po Hsiang , Micieli Jonathan A.
Published: January 2021

A 61-year-old woman presented with sudden vision loss from a left anterior optic neuropathy in the context of severely elevated intraocular pressure after starting topical steroids for anterior uveitis related to herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). The strong temporal relationship between the vision loss and elevated IOP suggested the vision loss was related to nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Anterior chamber paracentesis did not detect varicella zoster virus (VZV) and magnetic resonance imaging of the orbits was normal. Her vision remained stable and the optic disc edema resolved within 3 months. The occurrence of NAION following an acute elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) is well-documented in the context of surgical procedures, glaucoma, uveitis and trauma. This case indicates that not every optic neuropathy in close temporal relationship with HZO is directly attributable to the virus. NAION may also occur after steroid-related IOP spikes and ophthalmologists should ensure that patients on topical steroids are closely monitored for ocular complications.
Retinal Hemangioblastoma with Extraocular Extension: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Kumari Namita , Das Sima , Bhaduri Anirban , Gandhi Arpan
Published: January 2021

Retinal hemangioblastoma (RH) is the earliest and most common clinical manifestation in Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. RH can also present in isolation without any evidence of VHL. Clinical course of RH can be stationary or progress to exudation and chronic retinal detachment requiring surgical intervention. We report 3 cases of aggressive RH with extraocular extension in young males causing painful blind eye requiring enucleation. Two of our cases were bilateral involvement and had systemic manifestations of VHL. The third patient had unilateral involvement with no systemic evidence of VHL. This manifestation of RH is rarely reported. Two of our patients with VHL had early manifestations of RH and had undergone multiple cryotherapy sessions as well as retinal detachment surgery for exudative retinal detachment. This differential should be considered in vascular lesion arising from intraocular structures especially in diagnosed patients of VHL. The cases also highlight the aggressive behaviour and long-term progression of RH in some patients despite early treatment.
A Financial Theory Perspective of the Metrics Employed to Measure Value in the “Value in Healthcare” Methodologies
Authors: Pinto dos Santos José Miguel , Bernardes de Oliveira Sandra
Published: January 2021

Background: Value in healthcare is becoming an important paradigm in the drafting of health policies, the management of healthcare institutions, the financing of healthcare provision, and the choice of technologies in healthcare delivery. Several different metrics have been proposed and are currently used by academics and practitioners in this field. Summary: There are many challenges, both ethical and methodological, in the attempt to measure value in healthcare. One arises from the close relationship between health and life. Although it is generally regarded that human life should not be subject to monetary valuation, several human activities, namely work, are currently valued. This allows for the valuation of health as it impacts on these human activities. Other challenges are measuring health benefits and costs. Several metrics have been proposed in the literature and are used in practice. The purpose of this paper is to appraise, from the perspective of modern financial theory, several metrics used for determining value in healthcare. Key Messages: Most metrics used to determine value in healthcare do not reflect the concept of value used in modern financial theory. They rely mostly on accounting concepts such as costs, not in a prospective cash-flow perspective. Some adjustments need to be made to bring them into step with the financial theory of value.
Ser historiador das relações internacionais. Diálogos com as escolas francesa e italiana
Authors: Moreli Alexandre , Patti Carlo
Published: January 2021

O percurso do professor Amado Cervo alinha-se à construção de um perfil internacionalizado, que experimentou diversas colaborações e alimentou múltiplas influências. Pretendemos, neste texto, relembrar essas circulações e apropriações evocando duas tradições historiográficas caras ao professor Cervo: a francesa e a italiana. Buscamos, assim, mapear uma tradição partilhada de pesquisa sobre a história das relações internacionais, apresentando brevemente aos leitores o estado da arte hoje resultante.
Discutindo conceitos para uma escola brasileira de relações internacionais: um debate epistemológico - Audrey Alejandro e as formulações de Amado Cervo
Authors: Campos André Sanches Siqueira , Vigevani Tullo
Published: January 2021

Este artigo parte de uma proposta de resenha do livro Western Dominance in International Relations? The Internationalisation of IR in Brazil and India, escrito por Audrey Alejandro. Nosso objetivo é discutir suas ideias sobre a possibilidade da internacionalização da produção do conhecimento das ciências sociais do Sul Global, particularmente da teoria de Relações Internacionais (RI), não ser condicionada pelo domínio Ocidental. Paradoxalmente, para ela, a reprodução dos discursos críticos e anti-eurocêntricos reforçam a própria teorização eurocêntrica que vem sendo criticada. Nesse sentido, a contribuição intelectual de Amado Cervo sobre a relação entre conceitos e teorias no ensino das relações internacionais no Brasil colabora para dialogar com o paradoxo levantado por Alejandro. Neste artigo, colocamos o debate de ambos os autores em perspectiva analítica e comparativa. Se para Alejandro, a ideia de uma teoria brasileira (e indiana) não é explícita, ao mesmo tempo sugere existirem elementos importantes para sua existência. De acordo com a interpretação de Amado Cervo, concluímos que teoria tem uso instrumental, mas isso não elimina a necessidade de fundar teorias explicativas, diferentemente do que ele sugere. Ao mesmo tempo, reconhecemos a importância dos conceitos formados a partir da história cognitiva. No que se refere a uma teoria brasileira de RI, afirmamos que a resposta de Alejandro seria intermediária, não há um corpo teórico pleno, mas há bons fundamentos para avançar.
The Long Noncoding RNA RP11-728F11.4 Promotes Atherosclerosis
Authors: Dong Xian-Hui , Lu Zhi-Feng , Kang Chun-Min , Li Xue-Heng , Haworth Kim E. , Ma Xin , Lu Jing-Bo , Liu Xue-Hui , Fang Fu-Chun , Wang Claire S. , Ye John H. , Zheng Lei , Wang Qian , Ye Shu , Hu Yan-Wei
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Noncoding RNAs are emerging as important players in gene regulation and cardiovascular diseases. Their roles in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis are not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the role played by a previously uncharacterized long noncoding RNA, RP11-728F11.4, in the development of atherosclerosis and the mechanisms by which it acts.

Approach and Results:

Expression microarray analysis revealed that atherosclerotic plaques had increased expression of RP11-728F11.4 as well as the cognate gene
FXYD6
(FXYD domain containing ion transport regulator 6), which encodes a modulator of Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase. In vitro experiments showed that RP11-728F11.4 interacted with the RNA-binding protein EWSR1 (Ewings sarcoma RNA binding protein-1) and upregulated
FXYD6
expression. Lentivirus-induced overexpression of RP11-728F11.4 in cultured monocytes-derived macrophages resulted in higher Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase activity, intracellular cholesterol accumulation, and increased proinflammatory cytokine production. The effects of RP11-728F11.4 were enhanced by siRNA-mediated knockdown of EWSR1 and reduced by downregulation of FXYD domain containing ion transport regulator 6. In vivo experiments in apoE knockout mice fed a Western diet demonstrated that RP11-728F11.4 increased proinflammatory cytokine production and augmented atherosclerotic lesions.

Conclusions:

RP11-728F11.4 promotes atherosclerosis, with an influence on cholesterol homeostasis and proinflammatory molecule production, thus representing a potential therapeutic target.

Graphic Abstract:

A graphic abstract is available for this article.
Development of a new in vivo protocol through soil inoculation to investigate sugar beet resistance towards Ditylenchus dipsaci penetration
Authors: Storelli Alan , Keiser Andreas , Kiewnick Sebastian , Daub Matthias , Mahlein Anne-Katrin , Beyer Werner , Schumann Mario
Published: January 2021

The stem nematode, Ditylenchus dipsaci, causes severe damage in sugar beet. To date, nematode inoculation through the leaf axil has been used as the standard method to investigate D. dipsaci interaction with sugar beet under in vivo conditions. To get as close as possible to field conditions, we established a new screening mechanism to perform soil inoculation. The most suitable inoculation time point, inoculum level and positioning on sugar beet, as well as rearing process on carrots, were determined. At a 15:8°C day:night temperature regime, penetration rates of D. dipsaci were at maximum following soil inoculation at plant emergence. Up to 115 nematodes penetrated sugar beet seedlings 22 days post-planting with an inoculum level of 1000 nematodes into the soil at plant emergence. Ditylenchus dipsaci penetration rate was higher in plants with soil inoculation than with inoculation on to the leaf axil. High soil moisture increased nematode migration into seedlings when D. dipsaci inoculation was carried out in four holes 1 cm from the plant base. Rearing the nematodes for 35 days at 20°C on carrot discs resulted in an infective inoculum containing up to 50% eggs. We recommend a soil inoculation of 1000 freshly extracted nematodes per pot at plant emergence. The nematode suspension has to be previously reared for 35 days on carrot discs to obtain active D. dipsaci inoculum. This system will allow for the selection of suitable sugar beet genotypes that suppress nematode penetration, in support of breeding for resistance against D. dipsaci.
A new and intriguing brown-spored Leucocoprinus species

Authors: SUAREZ JUAN M. , GOTTLIEB ALEXANDRA M. , LECHNER BERNARDO E.
Published: January 2021

Leucocoprinus brunneosporus sp. nov., collected at the Santa Catalina Reserve (Buenos Aires, Argentina), is proposed as a new species. We performed separate phylogenetic analyses of the nuclear rDNA large subunit (28S) and the complete nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) to establish the placement of the new species in the phylogeny of the Agaricaceae. This new species has a macromorphology similar to that of Lc. birnbaumii, but the spore print is light brown. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the macro- and microscopic characters are provided.
Pseudopyricularia hedjaroudii sp. nov. (Pyriculariaceae, Magnaporthales): a novel species from Iran

Authors: GHORBANI GOLZAR , PORDEL ADEL , JAVAN-NIKKHAH MOHAMMAD
Published: January 2021

In a survey of pyricularia-like fungi on different plants, especially on sedges in the north of Iran, we identified two typical isolates characteristics of the genus Pseudopyricularia. Phylogeny analysis based on DNA sequences of internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS-rDNA), the largest subunit of the RNA polymerase II (RPB1), calmodulin (CAL), and large subunit of the ribosomal RNA (LSU) gene regions, and morphological criteria confirmed the new species of Pseudopyricularia. Pseudopyricularia hedjaroudii sp. nov., isolated from the leaves of Cyperus sp., is described and illustrated. Conidia of the Ps. hedjaroudii are obclavate, obpyriform, and 1-septate distinct from other allied species in size and shape.
The Isometopinae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae) of India and Sri Lanka: A Review of the Subfamily, with Descriptions of Six New Species
Authors: YESHWANTH H.M. , CHÉROT F. , HENRY T.J.
Published: January 2021

The subfamily Isometopinae (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae) from India and Sri Lanka is reviewed. Nine genera and seventeen species are recorded from both countries, keyed, illustrated, and diagnosed. Six species are described as new: Astroscopometopus hesaraghattaensis, n. sp., Isometopus webbi, n. sp. and Isometopus wolskii, n. sp., Isometopidea viraktamathi, n. sp., Myiomma belavadii, n. sp., and Myiomma ramamurthyi, n. sp. Alcecoris periscopus McAtee and Malloch 1924, Isometopus yoshizawai Yasunaga & Duwal, 2006 and Paloniella parallela Yasunaga & Hayashi, 2002 are reported for the first time from India.
A new species of Liolaemus (Reptilia: Squamata) of the Liolaemus capillitas clade (Squamata, Liolaemini, Liolaemus elongatus-kriegi group) from Sierra de Velasco, La Rioja Province, Argentina
Authors: AVILA LUCIANO JAVIER , VRDOLJAK JUAN ESTEBAN , MEDINA CINTIA DÉBORA , MASSINI JUAN GARCÍA , PEREZ CRISTIAN HERNÁN FULVIO , SITES JACK W. JR. , MORANDO MARIANA
Published: January 2021

A new species of the Liolaemus capillitas clade is described. Liolaemus galactostictos sp. nov. differs from other members of its group by a combination of morphological and molecular traits, in particular its black dorsal coloration pattern not found in any other Liolaemus species. Liolaemus galactostictos sp. nov. is only known from its type locality. This new species is found in rocky fields surrounded by grasslands on the top of the Velasco Mountains, a ¨sky island environment¨, in northwestern Argentina. As well as other members of its clade this species seems to be strictly saxicolous, viviparous and feeds on insects.
Minoa lutea Schwingenschuss, 1954 (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Larentiinae) recognized as bona species
Authors: RAJAEI HOSSEIN , GELBRECHT JÖRG , SCHULZ NATHALIE , HAUSMANN AXEL
Published: January 2021

The species Minoa murinata (Scopoli, 1763) sensu lato is examined throughout its distribution range. Specimens from central Europe (Germany, Italy, France) are compared with those from Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia and newly collected specimens from eastern Turkey, Armenia, Georgia and Russia. The study is based on a combination of behavioural observations, morphological characters (size, wing coloration, structure of male and female genitalia) as well as genetic data (DNA barcoding). The taxon Minoa murinata var. monochroaria Herrich-Schäffer, 1848 is downgraded from subspecies rank to synonymy of M. murinata. Morphological study of the populations from eastern Turkey, Armenia, Georgia and Russia confirm the taxon Minoa murinata f./ssp. lutea Schwingenschuss, 1954 as a bona species. It is herewith upgraded from synonymy of M. murinata to species level. The results of DNA barcoding are discussed. Wing pattern, male and female genitalia of both species are illustrated.
Entrainment and Its Dependency on Environmental Conditions and Convective Organization in Convection-Permitting Simulations
Authors: Becker Tobias , Hohenegger Cathy
Published: January 2021

In this study, we estimate bulk entrainment rates for deep convection in convection-permitting simulations, conducted over the tropical Atlantic Ocean, encompassing parts of Africa and South America. We find that, even though entrainment rates decrease with height in all regions, they are, when averaging between 600 and 800 hPa, generally higher over land than over ocean. This is so because, over Amazonia, shallow convection causes an increase of bulk entrainment rates at lower levels and because, over West Africa, where entrainment rates are highest, convection is organized in squall lines. These squall lines are associated with strong mesoscale convergence, causing more intense updrafts and stronger turbulence generation in the vicinity of updrafts, increasing the entrainment rates. With the exception of West Africa, entrainment rates differ less across regions than across different environments within the regions. In contrast to what is usually assumed in convective parameterizations, entrainment rates increase with environmental humidity. Furthermore, over ocean, they increase with static stability, while over land, they decrease. In addition, confirming the results of a recent idealized study, entrainment rates increase with convective aggregation, except in regions dominated by squall lines, like over West Africa.
Optimal Design of Novel Electromagnetic-Ring Active Balancing Actuator with Radial Excitation
Authors: Pan Xin , He Xiaotian , Wu Haiqi , Ju Chuanlong , Jiang Zhinong , Gao Jinji
Published: January 2021

Imbalance vibration is a typical failure mode of rotational machines and has significant negative effects on the efficiency, accuracy, and service life of equipment. To automatically reduce the imbalance vibration during the operational process, different types of active balancing actuators have been designed and widely applied in actual production. However, the existing electromagnetic-ring active balancing actuator is designed based on an axial excitation structure which can cause structural instability and has low electromagnetic driving efficiency. In this paper, a novel radial excitation structure and the working principle of an electromagnetic-ring active balancing actuator with a combined driving strategy are presented in detail. Then, based on a finite element model, the performance parameters of the actuator are analyzed, and reasonable design parameters are obtained. Self-locking torque measurements and comparative static and dynamic experiments are performed to validate the self-locking torque and driving efficiency of the actuator. The results indicate that this novel active balancing actuator has sufficient self-locking torque, achieves normal step rotation at 2000 r/min, and reduces the driving voltage by 12.5%. The proposed novel balancing actuator using radial excitation and a combination of permanent magnets and soft-iron blocks has improved electromagnetic efficiency and a more stable and compact structure.
Mechanism of hERG inhibition by gating-modifier toxin, APETx1, deduced by functional characterization
Authors: Matsumura Kazuki , Shimomura Takushi , Kubo Yoshihiro , Oka Takayuki , Kobayashi Naohiro , Imai Shunsuke , Yanase Naomi , Akimoto Madoka , Fukuda Masahiro , Yokogawa Mariko , Ikeda Kazuyoshi , Kurita Jun-ichi , Nishimura Yoshifumi , Shimada Ichio , Osawa Masanori
Published: January 2021

Background

Human ether-à-go-go-related gene potassium channel 1 (hERG) is a voltage-gated potassium channel, the voltage-sensing domain (VSD) of which is targeted by a gating-modifier toxin, APETx1. APETx1 is a 42-residue peptide toxin of sea anemone Anthopleura elegantissima and inhibits hERG by stabilizing the resting state. A previous study that conducted cysteine-scanning analysis of hERG identified two residues in the S3-S4 region of the VSD that play important roles in hERG inhibition by APETx1. However, mutational analysis of APETx1 could not be conducted as only natural resources have been available until now. Therefore, it remains unclear where and how APETx1 interacts with the VSD in the resting state.

Results

We established a method for preparing recombinant APETx1 and determined the NMR structure of the recombinant APETx1, which is structurally equivalent to the natural product. Electrophysiological analyses using wild type and mutants of APETx1 and hERG revealed that their hydrophobic residues, F15, Y32, F33, and L34, in APETx1, and F508 and I521 in hERG, in addition to a previously reported acidic hERG residue, E518, play key roles in the inhibition of hERG by APETx1. Our hypothetical docking models of the APETx1-VSD complex satisfied the results of mutational analysis.

Conclusions

The present study identified the key residues of APETx1 and hERG that are involved in hERG inhibition by APETx1. These results would help advance understanding of the inhibitory mechanism of APETx1, which could provide a structural basis for designing novel ligands targeting the VSDs of KV channels.
Nutrient-imbalanced conditions shift the interplay between zooplankton and gut microbiota
Authors: Li Yingdong , Xu Zhimeng , Liu Hongbin
Published: January 2021

Background

Nutrient stoichiometry of phytoplankton frequently changes with aquatic ambient nutrient concentrations, which is mainly influenced by anthropogenic water treatment and the ecosystem dynamics. Consequently, the stoichiometry of phytoplankton can markedly alter the metabolism and growth of zooplankton. However, the effects of nutrient-imbalanced prey on the interplay between zooplankton and their gut microbiota remain unknown. Using metatranscriptome, a 16 s rRNA amplicon-based neutral community model (NCM) and experimental validation, we investigated the interactions between Daphnia magna and its gut microbiota in a nutrient-imbalanced algal diet.

Results

Our results showed that in nutrient-depleted water, the nutrient-enriched zooplankton gut stimulated the accumulation of microbial polyphosphate in fecal pellets under phosphorus limitation and the microbial assimilation of ammonia under nitrogen limitation. Compared with the nutrient replete group, both N and P limitation markedly promoted the gene expression of the gut microbiome for organic matter degradation but repressed that for anaerobic metabolisms. In the nutrient limited diet, the gut microbial community exhibited a higher fit to NCM (R2 = 0.624 and 0.781, for N- and P-limitation, respectively) when compared with the Control group (R2 = 0.542), suggesting increased ambient-gut exchange process favored by compensatory feeding. Further, an additional axenic grazing experiment revealed that the growth of D. magna can still benefit from gut microbiota under a nutrient-imbalanced diet.

Conclusions

Together, these results demonstrated that under a nutrient-imbalanced diet, the microbes not only benefit themselves by absorbing excess nutrients inside the zooplankton gut but also help zooplankton to survive during nutrient limitation.
Changes in plastid biogenesis leading to the formation of albino regenerants in barley microspore culture
Authors: Gajecka Monika , Marzec Marek , Chmielewska Beata , Jelonek Janusz , Zbieszczyk Justyna , Szarejko Iwona
Published: January 2021

Background

Microspore embryogenesis is potentially the most effective method of obtaining doubled haploids (DH) which are utilized in breeding programs to accelerate production of new cultivars. However, the regeneration of albino plants significantly limits the exploitation of androgenesis for DH production in cereals. Despite many efforts, the precise mechanisms leading to development of albino regenerants have not yet been elucidated. The objective of this study was to reveal the genotype-dependent molecular differences in chloroplast differentiation that lead to the formation of green and albino regenerants in microspore culture of barley.

Results

We performed a detailed analysis of plastid differentiation at successive stages of androgenesis in two barley cultivars, ‘Jersey’ and ‘Mercada’ that differed in their ability to produce green regenerants. We demonstrated the lack of transition from the NEP-dependent to PEP-dependent transcription in plastids of cv. ‘Mercada’ that produced mostly albino regenerants in microspore culture. The failed NEP-to-PEP transition was associated with the lack of activity of Sig2 gene encoding a sigma factor necessary for transcription of plastid rRNA genes. A very low level of 16S and 23S rRNA transcripts and impaired plastid translation machinery resulted in the inhibition of photomorphogenesis in regenerating embryos and albino regenerants. Furthermore, the plastids present in differentiating ‘Mercada’ embryos contained a low number of plastome copies whose replication was not always completed. Contrary to ‘Mercada’, cv. ‘Jersey’ that produced 90% green regenerants, showed the high activity of PEP polymerase, the highly increased expression of Sig2, plastid rRNAs and tRNAGlu, which indicated the NEP inhibition. The increased expression of GLKs genes encoding transcription factors required for induction of photomorphogenesis was also observed in ‘Jersey’ regenerants.

Conclusions

Proplastids present in microspore-derived embryos of albino-producing genotypes did not pass the early checkpoints of their development that are required for induction of further light-dependent differentiation of chloroplasts. The failed activation of plastid-encoded RNA polymerase during differentiation of embryos was associated with the genotype-dependent inability to regenerate green plants in barley microspore culture. The better understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying formation of albino regenerants may be helpful in overcoming the problem of albinism in cereal androgenesis.
The association between self-management ability and malnutrition-inflammation-atherosclerosis syndrome in peritoneal dialysis patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Zehui , Fang Junyan , Song Ahui , Tong Yan , Deng Hai , Wei Shan , Ji Ouyang , Hu Chun , Li Pu , Zhang Chunli , Liu Yingli
Published: January 2021

Background

The relationship between malnutrition-inflammation-atherosclerosis syndrome (MIAS) and self-management ability has not been previously revealed even though both play an important role in the management of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

Methods

In total, 93 patients were enrolled in this study. A self-management questionnaire was used for the evaluation of self-management ability. The identification of MIAS was based on one or more of the following three conditions: C-reactive protein (CRP)≥10 mg/L, malnutrition–inflammation score (MIS)> 7, and the presence of atherosclerosis-related medical records. The possible association between different self-management abilities and MIAS was analyzed with a Spearman correlation analysis.

Results

There were 40 (43.0%) patients in the atherosclerosis group, and 38 (40.9%), 38 (40.9%), 10 (10.8%), and 7 (7.5%) patients in the MIAS0, MIAS1, MIAS2, and MIAS3 groups, respectively. The group with a score above the mean score of the Dialysis Effect Evaluation and Monitoring dimension had a fewer number of hospitalizations, higher albumin levels, lower MIS scores, a lower level of IL-6, and a lower number of MIAS factors. The Pearson and Spearman correlation analyses also revealed that this dimension was negatively correlated with the MIAS, MIS, IL-6, BNP, number of hospitalizations, and age and positively associated with albumin and prealbumin.

Conclusion

The Dialysis Effect Evaluation and Monitoring dimension of the self-management scale for PD patients is closely linked to the MIAS, and a better dialysis effect evaluation and monitoring capacity results in a decreased likelihood of exposure to malnutrition and inflammation.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2000035525 (http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=58110), registered August 13, 2020.
Adverse effects of pre-pregnancy maternal underweight on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes in a freeze-all policy
Authors: Tang Shengluan , Huang Jialyu , Lin Jiaying , Kuang Yanping
Published: January 2021

Background

Underweight and overweight may affect reproduction and interfere with treatment of infertility. In the present retrospective analysis, we sought to evaluate the effect of low body mass index (BMI) on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes in frozen–thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

Methods

This study involved 8755 FET cycles in a single IVF center during the period from January 2009 to December 2018. Both pregnancy and perinatal outcomes were assessed in women who were underweight, normal weight, and overweight as defined based on a respective BMI < 18.5 kg/m2, ≥ 18.5 BMI < 24.9 kg/m2, and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2.

Results

Being underweight was linked to reduced implantation rates as compared to a normal weight (33.56% vs. 37.26%). Similarly, when comparing outcomes in underweight women to those in normal weight women, rates of clinical pregnancy (48.14% vs. 53.85%) and ongoing pregnancy (43.04% vs. 50.47%) were reduced. Rates of miscarriage were markedly reduced in the normal weight group relative to the overweight group (10.73% vs. 13.37%). Perinatal outcomes were largely comparable for all groups, with the exception of very low birth weight rates (normal weight:0.58% vs. overweight: 2.03%), very small for gestational age rates (normal weight:1.31% vs. overweight:3.55%) and very preterm delivery rates (normal weight:0.82% vs. overweight: 2.03%), which were significantly elevated for overweight mothers.

Conclusions

These results indicate that being underweight is linked to negative pregnancy outcomes when undergoing FET-based IVF.
Counselling and psychotherapy service use in Chinese sexual minority populations: a nationwide survey
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Wilson Amanda , Hu Zhishan , Lu Li , Li Wengao , Peng Ke , Wu Lijuan , Xin Ying , Drescher Jack , Ou Jianjun , Chen Runsen
Published: January 2021

Background

This study investigated the prevalence and factors associated with counselling and psychotherapy service use among Chinese sexual minority populations.

Methods

A nationwide cross-sectional study was performed using snowball sampling method, which led to the inclusion of 18,193 participants. Participants’ sociodemographic background, clinical, and psychological data were gathered. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore any associated factors.

Results

There were 2007 participants who had used counselling and psychotherapy service out of the total population. Among those who had used psychotherapy services, 80.2% participants perceived discrimination, 1.1% reported that they had been refused treatment by a counsellor and/or psychotherapist, 1.6% had experienced verbal harassment, and 8.4% reported that their counsellor and/or psychotherapist lacked knowledge and experience in treating sexual minorities. In addition, regression analyses indicated that those who were divorced/widowed, had religious beliefs, and those who had experienced discrimination, verbal harassment, and rejection for treatment by health professionals all had an increased likelihood of utilising counselling and psychotherapy service.

Conclusions

Service providers and policy makers in China should improve the quality and availability of counselling and psychotherapy services to address the mental health needs of sexual minority populations.
Antibiotic treatment in acute exacerbation of COPD: patient outcomes with amoxicillin vs. amoxicillin/clavulanic acid—data from 43,636 outpatients
Authors: Bagge Kristian , Sivapalan Pradeesh , Eklöf Josefin , Hertz Frederik Böetius , Andersen Christian Østergaard , Hansen Ejvind Frausing , Jarløv Jens Otto , Jensen Jens-Ulrik Stæhr
Published: January 2021

Background

For antibiotic treatment of Acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) the National guidelines in Denmark recommend either first choice amoxicillin 750 mg TID (AMX) or amoxicillin with clavulanic acid 500 mg/125 mg TID (AMC). Addition of clavulanic acid offers a broader spectrum; opposite, AMX alone in a higher dose may offer more time above MIC. The aim of this study was to determine which of these regimens is associated with better outcome.

Methods

The Danish Registry of COPD (DrCOPD), a nationwide outpatient COPD registry, was crosslinked with medication data and hospital contacts. The first prescription of AMX or AMC after inclusion in DrCOPD was used as exposure variable. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the risk of hospitalization or death (combined) within 30 days and other endpoints.

Results

For the first treatment of AECOPD 12,915 received AMX, and 30,721 patients received AMC. AMX was associated with a decreased risk of pneumonia hospitalization or death (aHR 0.6, 95% CI 0.5–0.7; p < 0.0001) compared to AMC.

Conclusion

In AECOPD, empirically adding clavulanic acid to amoxicillin is not associated with a better outcome; it seems safe for these patients to be treated with amoxicillin alone.
Analysis of viral load in different specimen types and serum antibody levels of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Li Ling , Tan Chianru , Zeng Jia , Luo Chen , Hu Shi , Peng Yanke , Li Wenjuan , Xie Zhixiong , Ling Yueming , Zhang Xuejun , Deng E. , Xu Haixia , Wang Jue , Xie Yudi , Zhou Yaling , Zhang Wei , Guo Yong , Liu Zhong
Published: January 2021

Background

COVID-19 has caused a global pandemic and the death toll is increasing. However, there is no definitive information regarding the type of clinical specimens that is the best for SARS-CoV-2 detection, the antibody levels in patients with different duration of disease, and the relationship between antibody level and viral load.

Methods

Nasopharyngeal swabs, anal swabs, saliva, blood, and urine specimens were collected from patients with a course of disease ranging from 7 to 69 days. Viral load in different specimen types was measured using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Meanwhile, anti-nucleocapsid protein (anti-N) IgM and IgG antibodies and anti-spike protein receptor-binding domain (anti-S-RBD) IgG antibody in all serum samples were tested using ELISA.

Results

The positive detection rate in nasopharyngeal swab was the highest (54.05%), followed by anal swab (24.32%), and the positive detection rate in saliva, blood, and urine was 16.22%, 10.81%, and 5.41%, respectively. However, some patients with negative nasopharyngeal swabs had other specimens tested positive. There was no significant correlation between antibody level and days after symptoms onset or viral load.

Conclusions

Other specimens could be positive in patients with negative nasopharyngeal swabs, suggesting that for patients in the recovery period, specimens other than nasopharyngeal swabs should also be tested to avoid false negative results, and anal swabs are recommended. The antibody level had no correlation with days after symptoms onset or the viral load of nasopharyngeal swabs, suggesting that the antibody level may also be affected by other factors.
Global knockdown of glutamate decarboxylase 67 elicits emotional abnormality in mice
Authors: Miyata Shigeo , Kakizaki Toshikazu , Fujihara Kazuyuki , Obinata Hideru , Hirano Touko , Nakai Junichi , Tanaka Mika , Itohara Shigeyoshi , Watanabe Masahiko , Tanaka Kenji F. , Abe Manabu , Sakimura Kenji , Yanagawa Yuchio
Published: January 2021

Reduced expression of glutamate decarboxylase 67 (GAD67), encoded by the Gad1 gene, is a consistent finding in postmortem brains of patients with several psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. The dysfunction of GAD67 in the brain is implicated in the pathophysiology of these psychiatric disorders; however, the neurobiological consequences of GAD67 dysfunction in mature brains are not fully understood because the homozygous Gad1 knockout is lethal in newborn mice. We hypothesized that the tetracycline-controlled gene expression/suppression system could be applied to develop global GAD67 knockdown mice that would survive into adulthood. In addition, GAD67 knockdown mice would provide new insights into the neurobiological impact of GAD67 dysfunction. Here, we developed Gad1tTA/STOP−tetO biallelic knock-in mice using Gad1STOP−tetO and Gad1tTA knock-in mice, and compared them with Gad1+/+ mice. The expression level of GAD67 protein in brains of Gad1tTA/STOP−tetO mice treated with doxycycline (Dox) was decreased by approximately 90%. The GABA content was also decreased in the brains of Dox-treated Gad1tTA/STOP−tetO mice. In the open-field test, Dox-treated Gad1tTA/STOP−tetO mice exhibited hyper-locomotor activity and decreased duration spent in the center region. In addition, acoustic startle responses were impaired in Dox-treated Gad1tTA/STOP−tetO mice. These results suggest that global reduction in GAD67 elicits emotional abnormalities in mice. These GAD67 knockdown mice will be useful for elucidating the neurobiological mechanisms of emotional abnormalities, such as anxiety symptoms associated with psychiatric disorders.
The immunomodulatory effects of endocrine therapy in breast cancer
Authors: Huang Huanhuan , Zhou Jun , Chen Hailong , Li Jiaxin , Zhang Chao , Jiang Xia , Ni Chao
Published: January 2021

Endocrine therapies with SERMs (selective estrogen receptor modulators) or SERDs (selective estrogen receptor downregulators) are standard therapies for patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. Multiple small molecule inhibitors targeting the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway or CDK4/6 have been developed to be used in combination with anti-estrogen drugs to overcome endocrine resistance. In addition to their direct antitumor effects, accumulating evidence has revealed the tumor immune microenvironment (TIM)-modulating effects of these therapeutic strategies, which have not been properly acknowledged previously. The immune microenvironment of breast tumors plays a crucial role in tumor development, metastasis and treatment response to endocrine therapy and immunotherapy. Therefore, in our current work, we comprehensively review the immunomodulatory effect of endocrine therapy and discuss its potential applications in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors in breast cancer treatment.
Implementation of podiatry telephone appointments for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases
Authors: Palmer J. L. , Siddle H. J. , Redmond A. C. , Alcacer‐Pitarch B.
Published: January 2021

Background

Foot health problems are common in the general population, and particularly so in people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders (RMD). Several clinical guidelines state that people with RMDs should have access to foot health services, although service capacity is often limited. The current COVID‐19 pandemic has increased the need for alternative ways to provide patient care. The aim of this clinical audit was to review a newly implemented telephone follow‐up appointment service conducted within the Rheumatology Podiatry Department in Leeds, UK.

Methods

Fifty‐eight patients attending the Rheumatology Podiatry Department at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust were contacted by telephone approximately 6–8 weeks following initial intervention. During the telephone consultation, all patients were asked pre‐defined questions relating to their symptoms, intervention efficacy, the need for further appointments and their preference for the type of consultation. To assess the cost of the telephone consultation the number of attempts needed in order to make successful contact, the duration of the call and the number of telephone follow‐up appointments completed in a working day were also recorded.

Results

Twenty‐five patients (43%) were successfully contacted within the 6–8 weeks stipulated time frame and were included in the analysis. Of the 25 contacted, twelve (48%) patients were successfully contacted on the first attempt. Ten (40%) were successfully contacted on the second attempt. The remaining three patients (12%) required 3 or more attempts to make successful contact. Telephone consultations were estimated not to last longer than 10 min, including notes screening and documentation. Eleven patients (44%) reported an improvement in their symptoms, thirteen (52%) reported no change and one patient (4%) reported their symptoms to be worse.

Conclusion

Telephone follow‐up consultations may be a potentially cost‐effective alternative to face‐to‐face appointments when implemented in a Rheumatology Podiatry Department, and provide an alternative way of providing care, especially when capacity for face‐to‐face contact is limited. The potential cost saving and efficiency benefits of this service are likely to be enhanced when telephone consultations are pre‐arranged with patients.
Serum D-dimer level as a biomarker for identifying patients with isolated injury to prevent unnecessary whole-body computed tomography in blunt trauma care
Authors: Nakama Rakuhei , Yamamoto Ryo , Izawa Yoshimitsu , Tanimura Keiichi , Mato Takashi
Published: January 2021

Background

Unnecessary whole-body computed tomography (CT) may lead to excess radiation exposure. Serum D-dimer levels have been reported to correlate with injury severity. We examined the predictive value of serum D-dimer level for identifying patients with isolated injury that can be diagnosed with selected-region CT rather than whole-body CT.

Methods

This single-center retrospective cohort study included patients with blunt trauma (2014–2017). We included patients whose serum D-dimer levels were measured before they underwent whole-body CT. “Isolated” injury was defined as injury with Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) score ≤ 5 to any of five regions of interest or with AIS score ≤ 1 to other regions, as revealed by a CT scan. A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was drawn for D-dimer levels corresponding to isolated injury; the area under the ROC (AUROC) was evaluated. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for several candidate cut-off values for serum D-dimer levels.

Results

Isolated injury was detected in 212 patients. AUROC was 0.861 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.815–0.907) for isolated injury prediction. Serum D-dimer level ≤ 2.5 μg/mL was an optimal cutoff value for predicting isolated injury with high specificity (100.0%) and positive predictive value (100.0%). Approximately 30% of patients had serum D-dimer levels below this cutoff value.

Conclusion

D-dimer level ≤ 2.5 μg/mL had high specificity and high positive predictive value in cases of isolated injury, which could be diagnosed with selected-region CT, reducing exposure to radiation associated with whole-body CT.