bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanded SEIRCQ Model Applied to COVID-19 Epidemic Control Strategy Design and Medical Infrastructure Planning
Authors: Grzybowski J. M. V. , da Silva R. V. , Rafikov M.
Published: August 2020

The rapid spread of COVID-19 has demanded a quick response from governments in terms of planning contingency efforts that include the imposition of social isolation measures and an unprecedented increase in the availability of medical services. Both courses of action have been shown to be critical to the success of epidemic control. Under this scenario, the timely adoption of effective strategies allows the outbreak to be decelerated at early stages. The objective of this study is to present an epidemic model specially tailored for the study of the COVID-19 epidemics, and the model is aimed at allowing the integrated study of epidemic control strategies and dimensioning of the required medical infrastructure. Along with the theoretical model, a case study with three prognostic scenarios is presented for the first wave of the epidemic in the city of Manaus, the capital city of Amazonas state, Brazil. Although the temporary collapse of the medical infrastructure is hardly avoidable in the state-of-affairs at this time (April 2020), the results show that there are feasible control strategies that could substantially reduce the overload within reasonable time. Furthermore, this study delivers and presents an intuitive, straightforward, free, and open-source online platform that allows the direct application of the model. The platform can hopefully provide better response time and clarity to the planning of contingency measures.
Multiagent Collaborative Governance for Targeted Poverty Alleviation from the Perspective of Stakeholders
Authors: Zhang Na , Zhang XiangXiang , Lei Ming , Yang Yingjie
Published: August 2020

As a social problem involving a wide range of objects, targeted poverty alleviation governance needs to clearly define stakeholders and identify their behaviour choices, so as to seek a multiagent collaborative governance strategy, and strive to jointly promote the realization of a targeted poverty alleviation goals in an atmosphere to win-win cooperation and benefit sharing. By constructing a three-subject evolutionary game model of local government, social organization, and poverty group in the process of targeted poverty alleviation, this paper discusses the influence of their behavioural decisions on multisubject collaborative governance of targeted poverty alleviation and selects samples to carry out simulation experiments on the model. The results show that, first, superior government support has little effect on the evolution of tripartite competition, and the conclusion is inconsistent with the general cognition. However, the enhancement of support from local governments and social organizations can effectively promote the transformation of the willingness of the poor groups to cooperate. Second, a modest increase in the punishment of social organizations and poor groups can have a binding effect on the behavioural strategy choices of both sides and ultimately promote the process of targeted poverty alleviation. Third, the increase in the benefits of social organizations and poor groups can significantly improve the willingness of both sides to cooperate, so the “endogenous driving force” of the poor groups should be enhanced to achieve the Pareto optimal state of targeted poverty alleviation.
Tracheal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treated with Tracheal Resection and Anastomosis in a Cat
Authors: Miller Zachary A. , Padgett Sheldon , Terreros Alex , Pearce Emily
Published: August 2020

A 10-year-old male castrated domestic shorthair cat presented for a suspected tracheal mass. Radiographs confirmed an intraluminal tracheal mass. Tracheal resection and anastomosis of 5 tracheal rings was performed with minimal, mild intraoperative complications and no postoperative complications. Histopathology of the tracheal mass revealed a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with incomplete margins both cranially and caudally. Further treatment, including surgical revision, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, was recommended. At the time of publication, no further treatment has been initiated, and a scheduled consultation with the oncologist has been canceled. The cat is doing well at home with no reported signs of recurrence 120 days postoperatively. This is the first report of a cat with a tracheal SCC to be treated with a tracheal resection and anastomosis and only the third feline tracheal SCC to be treated in the veterinary literature.
A Damage Constitutive Model of Rock under Hydrochemical Cyclic Invasion
Authors: Sun Lunan , Zhang Yu , Qin Zhe , Wang Tengfei , Zhang Sheng
Published: August 2020

In order to analyze the stability of water‐related materials, the deterioration and damage of rock strength due to circulating water intrusion in an open tailings pond were studied. Uniaxial compression tests were carried out for rocks under different hydrochemical environments and varying numbers of invasion cycles. Results show that, with increasing number of cycle times, rock peak strength and elastic modulus gradually decrease and the acidity and alkalinity of the soaking solution also degrades rock strength. The curve of the number of cycles, acidity, alkalinity, peak strength, and elastic modulus is fit numerically. Based on the principle of damage mechanics, a hydraulic‐chemistry‐mechanics (HCM) coupling damage variable is defined. Based on the theory of microbody strength distribution, the constitutive equation for rock damage under the coupled effect of water chemistry and cyclic water invasion is established. The results verify the validity of the established damage constitutive model.
A Dynamic Risk Assessment Method for Deep-Buried Tunnels Based on a Bayesian Network
Authors: Wang Yan , Su Jie , Zhang Sulei , Guo Siyao , Zhang Peng , Du Mingqing
Published: August 2020

In view of the shortcomings in the risk assessment of deep-buried tunnels, a dynamic risk assessment method based on a Bayesian network is proposed. According to case statistics, a total of 12 specific risk rating factors are obtained and divided into three types: objective factors, subjective factors, and monitoring factors. The grading criteria of the risk rating factors are determined, and a dynamic risk rating system is established. A Bayesian network based on this system is constructed by expert knowledge and historical data. The nodes in the Bayesian network are in one-to-one correspondence with the three types of influencing factors, and the probability distribution is determined. Posterior probabilistic and sensitivity analyses are carried out, and the results show that the main influencing factors obtained by the two methods are basically the same. The constructed dynamic risk assessment model is most affected by the objective factor rating and monitoring factor rating, followed by the subjective factor rating. The dynamic risk rating is mainly affected by the surrounding rock level among the objective factors, construction management among the subjective factors, and arch crown convergence and side wall displacement among the monitoring factors. The dynamic risk assessment method based on the Bayesian network is applied to the No. 3 inclined shaft of the Humaling tunnel. According to the adjustment of the monitoring data and geological conditions, the dynamic risk rating probability of level I greatly decreased from 81.7% to 33.8%, the probability of level II significantly increased from 12.3% to 34.0%, and the probability of level III increased from 5.95% to 32.2%, which indicates that the risk level has risen sharply. The results show that this method can effectively predict the risk level during tunnel construction.
Karst Water Pressure’s Varying Rule and Its Response to Overlying Strata Movement in Coal Mine
Authors: Hao Jian , Bian Hua , Chen Anfa , Lin Jiahui , Xu Dongjing
Published: August 2020

Karst water is widespread throughout China and is heavily influenced by complex geological conditions, and floor inrush of karst waters associated with coal seams is the second most common coal mine disaster in China. Due to the limitation of precision and cost of geophysical exploration technology, the volume and pressure of karst water are challenging to measure, especially during the mining process. Therefore, predicting karst pressure’s response to mining is critical for determining the mechanism of water inrush. Here, closed karst water pressure (CKWP) response to mining was studied in an innovative physical simulation experiment. In the simulation experiment, a capsule and a pipe were designed to reflect CKWP and the water level. In the experiment, the vertical stress and karst water level were monitored throughout the process of an advancing coal panel. Monitoring results show that the range of the abutment pressure was about 40 cm, and the peak coefficient value was about 2. When the working face is far away from the water capsule, the stress and water column near the water capsule have no obvious change. With the working face 10 cm from the water capsule, the stress and water column height increased significantly. When the working face was right above the water capsule, the stress and water column rose sharply and reached the maximum value. When the working face advanced beyond the water capsule, the stress and water column height declined. Through establishing a structural mechanics model, the karst water system underneath the working face is assumed to be a hydraulic press. Accordingly, the compressed area was assumed to be a piston. The karst water pressure increases sharply, while the piston is compressed, increasing water inrush risk. This discovery may help determine the water inrush mechanism from a novel point of view.
Research on HOV Lane Priority Dynamic Control under Connected Vehicle Environment
Authors: Zhou Guiliang , Mao Lina , Hu Pengsen , Sun Feng , Bao Xu
Published: August 2020

The optimization of high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane management can better improve the efficiency of road resources. This paper first summarized the current research on HOV lane implementation and analyzed and identifies the threshold of setting road HOV lane dynamic control under the connected vehicle environment. Then, the HOV lane priority dynamic control process was determined, and the operating efficiency and energy consumption evaluation method was proposed. Moreover, a case study in Wuxi City, China, was carried out. The results showed that, after implementing the HOV lane priority dynamic control, the total mileage of road network vehicles was saved by 4.93%, the average travel time per capita was reduced by 4.27%, and the total energy-saving rate of road network travel was 21.96%.
Differentiating Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells into Renal Cells: A New Approach to Treat Kidney Diseases
Authors: de Carvalho Ribeiro Patrícia , Oliveira Lucas Felipe , Filho Mario Abbud , Caldas Heloisa Cristina
Published: August 2020

Renal disease is a major issue for global public health. Despite some progress in supportive care, the mortality rates among patients with this condition remain alarmingly high. Studies in pursuit of innovative strategies to treat renal diseases, especially stimulating kidney regeneration, have been developed. In this field, stem cell-based therapy has been a promising area. Induced pluripotent stem cell-derived renal cells (iPSC-RCs) represent an interesting source of cells for treating kidney diseases. Advances in regenerative medicine using iPSC-RCs and their application to the kidney are discussed in this review. Furthermore, the way differentiation protocols of induced pluripotent stem cells into renal cells may also be applied for the generation of kidney organoids is also described, contributing to studies in renal development, kidney diseases, and drug toxicity tests. The translation of the differentiation methodologies into animal model studies and the safety and feasibility of renal differentiated cells as a treatment for kidney injury are also highlighted. Although only few studies were published in this field, the results seem promising and support the use of iPSC-RCs as a potential therapy in the future.
Association of TLR-2 Gene Polymorphisms with the Risk of Periodontitis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shan Chao , Aisaiti Abasijiang , Wu Zhong Peng , Wang Ting Ting , Zhao Jin
Published: August 2020

Background. Periodontitis is a kind of chronic infectious disease, affecting the health of billions of people. In recent years, a number of studies have shown that multiple immune gene polymorphisms are associated with the susceptibility to periodontitis, among which TLR-2 plays a critical role in periodontitis. But most of the studies reported TLR-2 gene polymorphism and susceptibility to periodontitis are not consistent. Therefore, we included all eligible studies in our study for further meta-analysis. Methods. We used electronic databases, including CNKI, PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases, and relevant research published through June, 2020. Selecting studies involved case-control trials. For all eligibility studies, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) are provided or can be calculated from the study data. The size of the combined effect was calculated using STATA 15.0. Results. Our meta-analysis included 14 articles representing 18 case-control studies with a total of 3873 cases and 3438 control subjects. Significant association was found between periodontitis and TLR-2 rs1898830 polymorphism under the allelic model (A allele vs. G allele: p=0.014, OR=1.208, 95% CI: 1.039-1.406), recessive model (GG vs. GA+AA: p=0.028, OR=0.755, 95% CI: 0.588-0.970), and codominant model (GG VS. AA: p=0.014, OR=0.681, 95% CI: 0.501-0.925). In subgroup analysis, TLR-2 rs5743708 polymorphism was associated with periodontitis risk in Asians under an allelic model (G allele vs. A allele: p=0.017, OR=12.064, 95% CI: 1.570-92.688), dominant model (GA+AA vs.GG: p=0.016, OR=0.08, 95% CI: 0.010-0.620), and codominant model (GA VS. GG: p=0.016, OR=1.026, 95% CI: 0.821-1.282). Conclusion. The TLR-2 rs1898830, rs5743708 polymorphism may be associated with susceptibility to periodontitis. In the future, genome-wide approaches and large-scale, multiethnic case-control trials are still needed.
‘This Web Page Should Not Exist’
Authors: Plesničar Mojca M. , Šarf Pika
Published: August 2020

As the number of migrants crossing Slovenia on their way towards central Europe rose dramatically in 2015, social media were commonly used to express fear and hatred towards the migrants. Zlovenija, a Tumblr page with a wordplay on “evil” and “Slovenia”, collected and re-published individual Facebook posts, their authors’ names and profile pictures, thus exposing their brutality in an attempt to condemn such discourse. Some of the posts were even printed and disseminated across the capital. The authors of the Facebook posts could request to be removed from Zlovenija, as long as they deleted their original post and briefly explained why they changed their mind. Many did so. Their explanations, sincere or insincere, substituted the original posts and Zlovenija stopped actively posting in 2016, which also coincided with the end of the acute phase of the migrant crisis. The response of the public was quick, but far from uniform with some praising the page and others strongly condemning it. Zlovenija’s approach was controversial and it immediately raised questions of both its legality as well as its legitimacy. In this chapter, we aim to explore Zlovenija's repercussions for the Slovenian public. We thus firstly analyse the original posts published on Zlovenija, the explanations that substituted the original posts. We explore Zlovenija’s motivation and logic through an interview with the author(s) of Zlovenija, and its impact through an analysis of the response of the wider public online. We then juxtapose these findings to the legal framework of the phenomena and critically assess the assertion that Zlovenija was no better than the original wrongdoers it was trying to expose. In fact, we discuss how by exposing and denouncing the evil in the original posts Zlovenija motivated responsibility and fostered public debate; however, the method it used was extreme and its use seems tremendously problematic in a modern democratic society.
Doxing as Audience Vigilantism against Hate Speech
Authors: Douglas David M.
Published: August 2020

Doxing is the public release of personally identifiable information, and may be used as a tool for activism by removing the anonymity of individuals whose actions or stated beliefs harm others or undermine social cohesion. In this chapter I describe how doxing that deanomynises proponents of hate speech is a form of audience vigilantism. I argue that it is a defensible means of combating hate speech if it has the purpose of beginning a process of deradicalizing the identified individuals through reintegrative shaming. Such doxing must be motivated by a legitimate social need (in that they can be justified using premises and evidence acceptable to all in society),and must remain within socially tolerable bounds (in that it does not lead to physical harm, it is not indiscriminate, and is in response to injustices that are in principle recognisable to those who are not affected by it). I refer to several instances of doxing relating to proponents of hate speech to illustrate my argument and to demonstrate the importance of the legitimate social need and socially tolerable bounds criteria.
More Eyes on Crime?
Authors: Young Sarah
Published: August 2020

The “Mugshot of the Day” (MotD) program, run by Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) in Phoenix, AZ, from 2011 to 2016, allowed the public to vote daily on a favorite mugshot which elevated the top photos to the Office’s leaderboard and often resulted in the increased visibility of female arrestees. I argue that by doing this, MCSO used the exigency of entertainment on participatory platforms to temporarily coalesce a group of digital vigilantes into being, in order to weaponise visibility. Making this claim is complicated, however, and requires not only that online mugshot consumers can be viewed as digital vigilantes, but also the belief that entertainment can facilitate this role and that there can be a relationship between the state and digital vigilantism (DV). Overall, this claim and discussion is beneficial because it not only identifies who digital vigilantes can target but it also contributes to evolving definitions of who can, and how one participates, in vigilantism in a digital world.
Skill of Seasonal Rainfall and Temperature Forecasts for East Africa
Authors: Young Hannah R. , Klingaman Nicholas P.
Published: August 2020

Skillful seasonal forecasts can provide useful information for decision-makers, particularly in regions heavily dependent on agriculture, such as East Africa. We analyze prediction skill for seasonal East African rainfall and temperature one to four months ahead from two seasonal forecasting systems: the U.S. National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Coupled Forecast System Model, version 2 (CFSv2), and the Met Office (UKMO) Global Seasonal Forecast System, version 5 (GloSea5). We focus on skill for low or high temperature and rainfall, below the 25th or above the 75th percentile, respectively, as these events can have damaging effects in this region. We find skill one month ahead for both low and high rainfall from CFSv2 for December–February in Tanzania, and from GloSea5 for September–November in Kenya. Both models have higher skill for temperature than for rainfall across Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, with skill two months ahead in some cases. Performance for rainfall and temperature change in the two models during certain El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean dipole (IOD) phases, the impacts of which vary by country, season, and sometimes by model. While most changes in performance are within the range of uncertainty due to the relatively small sample size in each phase, they are significant in some cases. For example, La Niña lowers performance for Kenya September–November rainfall in CFSv2 but does not affect skill in GloSea5.
A Comparison of Tropical Cyclone Genesis Forecast Verification from Three Global Forecast System (GFS) Operational Configurations
Authors: Halperin Daniel J. , Penny Andrew B. , Hart Robert E.
Published: August 2020

Operational forecasting of tropical cyclone (TC) genesis has improved in recent years but still can be a challenge. Output from global numerical models continues to serve as a primary source of forecast guidance. Bulk verification statistics (e.g., critical success index) of TC genesis forecasts indicate that, overall, global models are increasingly able to predict TC genesis. However, as global model configurations are updated, TC genesis verification statistics will change. This study compares operational and retrospective forecasts from three configurations of NCEP’s Global Forecast System (GFS) to quantify the impact of model upgrades on TC genesis forecasts. First, bulk verification statistics from a homogeneous sample of model initialization cycles during the period 2013–14 are compared. Then, composites of select output fields are analyzed in an attempt to identify any key differences between hit and false alarm events. Bulk statistics indicate that TC genesis forecast performance decreased with the implementation of the 2015 version of the GFS, but then modestly recovered with the 2016 version of the model. In addition, the composite analysis suggests that false alarm forecasts in the 2015 version of the GFS may have been the result of inaccurately forecasting the location and/or strength of upper-level troughs poleward of the TC. There is also evidence of convective feedbacks occurring, such as ridging above the low-level circulation and upper-level convective outflow that were too strong, in this same set of false alarm forecasts. Overall, analyzing retrospective forecasts can assist forecasters in determining the strengths and weaknesses associated with a new configuration of a global model with respect to TC genesis.
The Postcricoid Cushion: An Unusual and Surgically Treatable Cause of Infant Aspiration
Authors: Jones Joel W. , Fiorillo Caitlin E. , Clark Christine , Bauman Nancy
Published: August 2020

Objectives:

To highlight the importance of recognizing the postcricoid cushion as a surgically treatable cause of newborn aspiration in select cases unresponsive to conservative measures.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed on a single case of neonatal aspiration at a tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Results:

Resolution of aspiration was achieved in an otherwise healthy six-week old term infant following ablation of a postcricoid cushion using microlaryngeal instrumentation and coblation. Prior airway and swallowing evaluations, along with a trial of reflux therapy and pacing of feeds, preceded the surgical excision, successfully avoiding gastrostomy tube placement.

Conclusions:

Otolaryngology consults for neonatal dysphagia and aspiration are challenging. The postcricoid cushion is considered an anatomic variant that can engorge with crying. When large, it can prevent feeds from entering the esophagus and lead to pooling and aspiration. The postcricoid cushion is evident on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy, but without a vigilant eye may be easily overlooked. This single case report suggests that surgical ablation may be effective management in select cases after ruling out concomitant aerodigestive pathology and neurodevelopmental causes of aspiration and only after conservative therapy has failed. A video demonstrating the surgical ablation is included.
Neonatal Lateral Epiglottic Defects
Authors: Peterson Joseph D. , Goyal Vinay , Puricelli Michael D. , Thatcher Aaron , Smith Richard J.
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Multiple congenital abnormalities of the epiglottis have been reported and iatrogenic injuries to the larynx and subglottis are well known. We present a new pattern of defect not previously reported in the literature.

Methods:

Epiglottic abnormalities at two institutions are reviewed. Cases of defects involving the lateral aspect of the epiglottis and aryepiglottic fold are identified. A literature review of known epiglottic defects is performed.

Results:

Two children possessing lateral notch injuries at the aryepiglottic attachment to the epiglottis are described. Both children have a history of multiple laryngeal instrumentation attempts and prolonged intubation. Both have swallowing difficulties and are gastrostomy dependent. Congenital epiglottic defects include aplasia and midline bifidity, however, no lateral congenital epiglottic defects have been reported.

Conclusion:

Epiglottic defects, while rare, should be part of the differential for children with aspiration and feeding difficulties. A new pattern of defect is described and iatrogenic etiology proposed.
A homogeneous extended state estimator-based super-twisting sliding mode compensator for matched and unmatched uncertainties
Authors: Goel Ankur , Mobayen Saleh , Fekih Afef
Published: August 2020

In this research work, an output tracking problem of a kind of nonlinear motion control systems influenced by exogenous uncertainties using second-order super-twisting sliding mode control is studied. It is shown that when second-order super-twisting sliding mode control is implemented with finite-time convergent homogeneous extended state observer, the second-order sliding mode is achieved on the selected sliding manifold with efficient disturbance attenuation from the output. The presented control structure is tested on the air-gap control of an electromagnetic levitation suspension system using MATLAB platform. The observations prove the efficacy of the proposed algorithm providing excellent robust control efficiency along with precise attenuation of various disturbances.
Legal Violence, Health, and Access to Care: Latina Immigrants in Rural and Urban Kansas
Authors: Cervantes Andrea Gómez , Menjívar Cecilia
Published: August 2020

Using interviews and ethnography started in 2016 in rural and urban Kansas, we examine the consequences of an amplified immigration enforcement combined with a local limited health care infrastructure that reproduce legal violence manifesting on Latina immigrants’ health, access to care, and community participation. We highlight the conditions rooted in place that generate short- and long-term negative impacts for Latina immigrants’ health. Fear and anxiety about the deportation of themselves and their family members make them ill and also generate apprehension about contacting medical institutions, driving, and spending time in public spaces. These circumstances coalesce in women’s lives to block access to medical care and undermine women’s roles in their communities. Following gendered expectations, women turn to their informal networks to seek health care for their families. In the context that the enforcement regime has created, these ties can turn exploitative.
Reconsidering the GAVeCeLT Consensus on catheter-related thrombosis, 13 years later
Authors: Pinelli Fulvio , Balsorano Paolo , Mura Benedetta , Pittiruti Mauro
Published: August 2020

Catheter-related thrombosis represents one of the most common complications following central venous access insertion. Despite the amount of available studies, many aspects surrounding catheter-related thrombosis remain controversial. Thirteen years ago, the Italian Study Group for Long Term Central Venous Access (GAVeCeLT) developed a nationwide Consensus in order to clarify some key aspects on this topic. Despite most of them still remain valid, however, knowledge around catheter-related thrombosis has greatly evolved over the last decade, with a natural evolution in terms of catheter technologies, insertion techniques, and management bundles. Aims of this editorial are to readdress conclusions of the 2007 GAVeCeLT Consensus in the light of the new relevant evidences that have been added in the last 13 years and to analyze some unsolved issues that still remain debated.
The acoustic characteristics of the “Dives in Misericordia” Church in Rome
Authors: Ciaburro Giuseppe , Iannace Gino , Trematerra Amelia , Lombardi Ilaria , Abeti Maurizio
Published: August 2020

This paper discusses the acoustic characteristics of the “Dives in Misericordia” Church in Rome. The church was designed by architect Richard Meier and opened in 2003. It was made entirely of white concrete and consists of three septa with a double curve shaped like a sail. The nave roof is glass. The volume is approximately 14.000 cubic meters. The highest measuring is approximately 26 m. the width of the nave is 19.5 m, while the maximum width is 29.5 m, while the internal length is 32.0 m, while the total length is 45.6 m. It can seat approximately 240 people. The acoustic measurements were taken by placing a microphone at different points of the nave (the area occupied by the audience), with the sound source being placed on the altar. It was therefore possible to obtain a spatial distribution of the average acoustic characteristics inside the church. At a frequency of 1000 Hz, the average values of the reverberation time is about 10 s. In its current configuration, the church is neither suitable for understanding speech nor listening to music. A 3D virtual model was created and with the help of the building acoustics software it was possible to study the sound field inside the church. The possibility to carry out an appropriate acoustic correction was analyzed, in order to reduce the values of the reverberation time, by pacing on a side wall of the church an adequate number of sound-absorbing polyester panels.
‘Everybody needs friends’: Emotions, social networks and digital media in the friendships of international students
Authors: Sinanan Jolynna , Gomes Catherine
Published: August 2020

The importance of kin relations and neighbourhoods has received considerable attention in research on transnational migration. Further, research in transnational families and digital media highlights the strategies for maintaining family relationships By contrast, research on friendship is currently limited and, more so, the centrality of the emotional aspects of friendships as intimacy as well as networks of support has received less attention, particularly from a culturally comparative perspective. Drawing on qualitative research in Melbourne ( n = 59) and Singapore ( n = 61), this article examines the ways in which international students invest in developing friendships with other international students based on shared circumstances in the cities in which they are living and studying. The article contributes to fields of literature in transnational migration and cross-cultural perspectives towards friendship and argues that the kinds of friendship forged by the experiences of international students are significant for capturing an aspect of the diversity of migrant relationships.
Airway mechanical compression: its role in asthma pathogenesis and progression
Authors: Veerati Punnam Chander , Mitchel Jennifer A. , Reid Andrew T. , Knight Darryl A. , Bartlett Nathan W. , Park Jin-Ah , Grainge Chris L.
Published: August 2020

The lung is a mechanically active organ, but uncontrolled or excessive mechanical forces disrupt normal lung function and can contribute to the development of disease. In asthma, bronchoconstriction leads to airway narrowing and airway wall buckling. A growing body of evidence suggests that pathological mechanical forces induced by airway buckling alone can perpetuate disease processes in asthma. Here, we review the data obtained from a variety of experimental models, includingin vitro,ex vivoandin vivoapproaches, which have been used to study the impact of mechanical forces in asthma pathogenesis. We review the evidence showing that mechanical compression alters the biological and biophysical properties of the airway epithelium, including activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor pathway, overproduction of asthma-associated mediators, goblet cell hyperplasia, and a phase transition of epithelium from a static jammed phase to a mobile unjammed phase. We also define questions regarding the impact of mechanical forces on the pathology of asthma, with a focus on known triggers of asthma exacerbations such as viral infection.
The MC4R SNPs, their haplotypes and gene-environment interactions on the risk of obesity
Authors: Wei Bi-Liu , Yin Rui-Xing , Liu Chun-Xiao , Deng Guo-Xiong , Guan Yao-Zong , Zheng Peng-Fei
Published: August 2020

Background

Little is known about the correlation between the melanocortin 4 receptor gene (MC4R) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the risk of obesity. This research sought to test the MC4R rs17782313, rs476828 and rs12970134 SNPs, their haplotypes and gene-environment interactions on the risk of obesity in the Maonan ethnic group, an isolated minority in China.

Methods

A case-control study comprised of 1836 participants (obesity group, 858; and control group, 978) was conducted. Genotypes of the three SNPs were determined by the next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology.

Results

The genotypic frequencies of the three SNPs were different between the obesity and control groups (P <  0.05 for all). The minor allelic frequency of the MC4R rs17782313C, rs476828C and rs12970134A was higher in obesity than in control groups (13.8% vs. 8.3%, P <  0.001, 17.1% vs. 10.9%, P <  0.001; and 15.5% vs. 11.5%, P <  0.001; respectively). Additionally, the dominant model of rs17782313 and rs476828 SNPs revealed an increased morbidity function on the risk of obesity (P <  0.05). A correlation between SNP-environment and the risk of obesity was also observed. The rs17782313C-rs476828C-rs12970134A haplotype was associated with high risk of obesity (OR = 1.796, 95% CI = 1.447–2.229), whereas the rs17782313T-rs476828T-rs12970134G and rs17782313T-rs476828T-rs12970134A haplotypes were associated with low risk of obesity (OR = 0.699, 95% CI = 0.586–0.834 and OR = 0.620, 95% CI = 0.416–0.925; respectively). The interactions between haplotype and waist circumference on the risk of obesity were also noted.

Conclusions

We discovered that the MC4R rs17782313, rs476828 and rs12970134 SNPs and their haplotypes were associated with the risk of obesity in the Chinese Maonan population.
A catechol-type lignan and neolignans are specifically present in the seed coat of tung trees
Authors: Suzuki Toshisada , Onishi Yuma , Katagi Ayako , Kim Tae-Wook , Katayama Takeshi
Published: August 2020

The tung tree produces large seeds with approximately 40–50% of their composition consisting of non-edible oil. α-Eleostearic acid makes up about 80% of tung oil, while linoleic acid and oleic acid make up 7 and 6%, respectively. The oil is readily oxidized due to the three, conjugated double bonds in α-eleostearic acid; however, it is stable inside the tung seed, which is expected to contain strong antioxidative compounds that protect the oil from oxidation. Previously, we isolated and identified a catechol-type lignan (3,3′-bisdemethylpinoresinol) and neolignans (isoamericanol A and americanol A) from the seeds of tung tree fruits that exhibited strong antioxidative activity, similar to that of Trolox. In this study, we show that the catechol-type lignan and neolignans are specifically present in the seed coat of the tung tree fruit seeds. The lignans were not detected in any other tissue, such as the pericarp, bark, leaves, or wood of the tree. The lignan content was determined in each developmental stage of the fruit, and the amount of the three lignans in the tung seeds was the highest in the green mature stage. This was likely because the amount of tung oil was also at its highest during this stage, and the oil composition was stable. Our results indicate that the catechol-type lignan and neolignans are located within the seed coat of the tung tree fruit seeds, where they protect the oil in the endosperm from autoxidation and polymerization processes.
Effects of HPV16 E6 protein on Daxx-induced apoptosis in C33A cells
Authors: Tang Shuangyang , Ding Shuang , Yu Lan , Shen Haiyan , Wan Yanping , Wu Yimou
Published: August 2020

Aims

Daxx is a highly conserved nuclear protein with an important role in transcription, apoptosis and other cell processes. We investigated the role of HPV16 E6 in Daxx-induced apoptosis through their interactions in C33A cells.

Methods

The binding of HPV16 E6 and Daxx was confirmed in C33A cells using co-immunoprecipitation and indirect immunofluorescence assays. Quantitative PCR and western blotting were performed to determine the RNA and protein expressions of Daxx, respectively. Automatic cell count and MTT assays were performed to investigate the proliferation of C33A cells. The apoptosis rate of C33A cells was determined via flow cytometry using Annexin V-FITC/PI staining. The relative activity of caspase-8 was tested using ELISA.

Results

HPV16 E6 can bind with Daxx and cause its translocation in C33A cells. The transfected HPV16 E6 can cause a decrease in relative quantification for Daxx in Daxx-overexpressing cells. After Daxx transfection, cell proliferation was found to decrease sharply and cell apoptosis to increase sharply. However, when HPV16 E6 was co-transfected with Daxx, this decrease and increase both became gentle. Similarly, HPV16 E6 made the Daxx-induced increase in caspase-8 activity milder.

Conclusions

HPV16 E6 is involved in inhibiting apoptosis through deregulation of Daxx-induced caspase-8 activities.
Recurrent sequence evolution after independent gene duplication
Authors: A. von der Dunk Samuel H. , Snel Berend
Published: August 2020

Background

Convergent and parallel evolution provide unique insights into the mechanisms of natural selection. Some of the most striking convergent and parallel (collectively recurrent) amino acid substitutions in proteins are adaptive, but there are also many that are selectively neutral. Accordingly, genome-wide assessment has shown that recurrent sequence evolution in orthologs is chiefly explained by nearly neutral evolution. For paralogs, more frequent functional change is expected because additional copies are generally not retained if they do not acquire their own niche. Yet, it is unknown to what extent recurrent sequence differentiation is discernible after independent gene duplications in different eukaryotic taxa.

Results

We develop a framework that detects patterns of recurrent sequence evolution in duplicated genes. This is used to analyze the genomes of 90 diverse eukaryotes. We find a remarkable number of families with a potentially predictable functional differentiation following gene duplication. In some protein families, more than ten independent duplications show a similar sequence-level differentiation between paralogs. Based on further analysis, the sequence divergence is found to be generally asymmetric. Moreover, about 6% of the recurrent sequence evolution between paralog pairs can be attributed to recurrent differentiation of subcellular localization. Finally, we reveal the specific recurrent patterns for the gene families Hint1/Hint2, Sco1/Sco2 and vma11/vma3.

Conclusions

The presented methodology provides a means to study the biochemical underpinning of functional differentiation between paralogs. For instance, two abundantly repeated substitutions are identified between independently derived Sco1 and Sco2 paralogs. Such identified substitutions allow direct experimental testing of the biological role of these residues for the repeated functional differentiation. We also uncover a diverse set of families with recurrent sequence evolution and reveal trends in the functional and evolutionary trajectories of this hitherto understudied phenomenon.
Comparative gene expression profiling between optic nerve and spinal cord injury in Xenopus laevis reveals a core set of genes inherent in successful regeneration of vertebrate central nervous system axons
Authors: Belrose Jamie L. , Prasad Aparna , Sammons Morgan A. , Gibbs Kurt M. , Szaro Ben G.
Published: August 2020

Background

The South African claw-toed frog,Xenopus laevis, is uniquely suited for studying differences between regenerative and non-regenerative responses to CNS injury within the same organism, because some CNS neurons (e.g., retinal ganglion cells after optic nerve crush (ONC)) regenerate axons throughout life, whereas others (e.g., hindbrain neurons after spinal cord injury (SCI)) lose this capacity as tadpoles metamorphose into frogs. Tissues from these CNS regions (frog ONC eye, tadpole SCI hindbrain, frog SCI hindbrain) were used in a three-way RNA-seq study of axotomized CNS axons to identify potential core gene expression programs for successful CNS axon regeneration.

Results

Despite tissue-specific changes in expression dominating the injury responses of each tissue, injury-induced changes in gene expression were nonetheless shared between the two axon-regenerative CNS regions that were not shared with the non-regenerative region. These included similar temporal patterns of gene expression and over 300 injury-responsive genes. Many of these genes and their associated cellular functions had previously been associated with injury responses of multiple tissues, both neural and non-neural, from different species, thereby demonstrating deep phylogenetically conserved commonalities between successful CNS axon regeneration and tissue regeneration in general. Further analyses implicated the KEGG adipocytokine signaling pathway, which links leptin with metabolic and gene regulatory pathways, and a novel gene regulatory network with genes regulating chromatin accessibility at its core, as important hubs in the larger network of injury response genes involved in successful CNS axon regeneration.

Conclusions

This study identifies deep, phylogenetically conserved commonalities between CNS axon regeneration and other examples of successful tissue regeneration and provides new targets for studying the molecular underpinnings of successful CNS axon regeneration, as well as a guide for distinguishing pro-regenerative injury-induced changes in gene expression from detrimental ones in mammals.
Effect of phosphorus supply on root traits of two Brassica oleracea L. genotypes
Authors: Pongrac Paula , Castillo-Michel Hiram , Reyes-Herrera Juan , Hancock Robert D. , Fischer Sina , Kelemen Mitja , Thompson Jacqueline A. , Wright Gladys , Likar Matevž , Broadley Martin R. , Vavpetič Primož , Pelicon Primož , White Philip J.
Published: August 2020

Background

Phosphorus (P) deficiency limits crop production worldwide. Crops differ in their ability to acquire and utilise the P available. The aim of this study was to determine root traits (root exudates, root system architecture (RSA), tissue-specific allocation of P, and gene expression in roots) that (a) play a role in P-use efficiency and (b) contribute to large shoot zinc (Zn) concentration in Brassica oleracea.

Results

Two B. oleracea accessions (var. sabellica C6, a kale, and var. italica F103, a broccoli) were grown in a hydroponic system or in a high-throughput-root phenotyping (HTRP) system where they received Low P (0.025 mM) or High P (0.25 mM) supply for 2 weeks. In hydroponics, root and shoot P and Zn concentrations were measured, root exudates were profiled using both Fourier-Transform-Infrared spectroscopy and gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry and previously published RNAseq data from roots was re-examined. In HTRP experiments, RSA (main and lateral root number and lateral root length) was assessed and the tissue-specific distribution of P was determined using micro-particle-induced-X-ray emission. The C6 accession had greater root and shoot biomass than the F103 accession, but the latter had a larger shoot P concentration than the C6 accession, regardless of the P supply in the hydroponic system. The F103 accession had a larger shoot Zn concentration than the C6 accession in the High P treatment. Although the F103 accession had a larger number of lateral roots, which were also longer than in the C6 accession, the C6 accession released a larger quantity and number of polar compounds than the F103 accession. A larger number of P-responsive genes were found in the Low P treatment in roots of the F103 accession than in roots of the C6 accession. Expression of genes linked with “phosphate starvation” was up-regulated, while those linked with iron homeostasis were down-regulated in the Low P treatment.

Conclusions

The results illustrate large within-species variability in root acclimatory responses to P supply in the composition of root exudates, RSA and gene expression, but not in P distribution in root cross sections, enabling P sufficiency in the two B. oleracea accessions studied.
Patterns of urinary albumin and IgM associate with markers of vascular ageing in young to middle-aged individuals in the Malmö offspring study
Authors: Swärd Per , Tofik Rafid , Bakoush Omran , Torffvit Ole , Nilsson Peter M. , Christensson Anders
Published: August 2020

Background

Increased urinary excretion of IgM and low-grade albuminuria are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between urinary IgM, albuminuria, and vascular parameters reflecting arterial structure and function.

Methods

Subjects of the present study were from the Malmö Offspring study (MOS) cohort, and included 1531 offspring (children and grand-children) to first-generation subjects that participated in the Malmö Diet Cancer-Cardiovascular Arm study cohort. At baseline, technical measurements of arterial stiffness (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity; c-f PWV), carotid arterial morphology, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure recordings, ankle-brachial-index (ABI), and evaluation of endothelial function (reactive hyperemia index, RHI) were performed. Urinary (U) IgM, U-albumin, and U-creatinine were measured. Multivariate adjusted logistic regression was used to test whether U-IgM excretion and increasing urinary albumin excretion were related to vascular parameters.

Results

Detectable U-IgM was independently associated with higher systolic blood pressure, odds ratio (OR) 1.021, 95% confidence interval (CI, 1.003–1.039), p = 0.025 and lower ABI; ABI dx: OR 0.026, 95% CI (0.002–0.381), p = 0.008, ABI sin: OR 0.040, 95% CI (0.003–0.496), p = 0.012. Low-grade albuminuria was independently associated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure, aortic blood pressure, the c-f PWV and the number of carotid intima plaques (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In young to middle-aged, mostly healthy individuals, increased U-IgM excretion and low-grade albuminuria are associated with adverse vascular parameters. Increased U-IgM excretion may reflect subclinical peripheral atherosclerosis, whereas increased U-albumin excretion is associated with a wide range of cardiovascular abnormalities. This may reflect different pathophysiological mechanisms.