bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weekly vagal modulations and their associations with physical fitness and physical activity
Authors: Medeiros André R. , Leicht Anthony S. , Michael Scott , Boullosa Daniel
Published: October 2020

The root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) of R‐R intervals, the most robust vagal modulation parameter of heart rate variability (HRV), has been proposed as a marker of global health and training adaptations. The weekly averaging of RMSSD and its natural logarithm (LnRMSSD) has been adopted to enhance detection of training‐induced adaptations. We assessed measures of aerobic fitness, body composition, objective physical activity (PA), and daily LnRMSSD recordings during different conditions, such as supine rest, seated rest, standing and walking at 5 km/h, over a week in 34 healthy young individuals of both sexes (age: 22 ± 4 yr; body fatness: 20 ± 8%; estimated VO2max: 40 ± 8 mL·kg−1·min−1). The day‐to‐day reliability and agreement among LnRMSSD averages over 5, 4, 3, 2 and a single‐day value per condition were assessed, while correlations between LnRMSSD, aerobic fitness, body composition, and PA were also examined. Poor to good day‐to‐day reliability, and moderate to excellent agreement were observed for LnRMSSD recordings for diverse conditions with a minimum of two daily recordings in the supine condition, and three in the other conditions achieving excellent agreement for weekly HRV assessment. Several correlations between LnRMSSD, aerobic fitness, body composition, and PA were revealed, with stronger observed associations during walking. Utilisation of weekly HRV (average of 2–3 daily recordings), as described in the current study, may provide practitioners with a tool to assess weekly vagal modulations for health and performance purposes. Walking HRV recordings may be a practical alternative to other conditions for the investigation of cardiac autonomic function.
A novel voltage-clamp/dye uptake assay reveals saturable transport of molecules through CALHM1 and connexin channels
Authors: Gaete Pablo S. , Lillo Mauricio A. , López William , Liu Yu , Jiang Wenjuan , Luo Yun , Harris Andrew L. , Contreras Jorge E.
Published: October 2020

Large-pore channels permeable to small molecules such as ATP, in addition to atomic ions, are emerging as important regulators in health and disease. Nonetheless, their mechanisms of molecular permeation and selectivity remain mostly unexplored. Combining fluorescence microscopy and electrophysiology, we developed a novel technique that allows kinetic analysis of molecular permeation through connexin and CALHM1 channels in Xenopus oocytes rendered translucent. Using this methodology, we found that (1) molecular flux through these channels saturates at low micromolar concentrations, (2) kinetic parameters of molecular transport are sensitive to modulators of channel gating, (3) molecular transport and ionic currents can be differentially affected by mutation and gating, and (4) N-terminal regions of these channels control transport kinetics and permselectivity. Our methodology allows analysis of how human disease–causing mutations affect kinetic properties and permselectivity of molecular signaling and enables the study of molecular mechanisms, including selectivity and saturability, of molecular transport in other large-pore channels.
Twisted geometries coherent states for loop quantum gravity
Authors: Calcinari Andrea , Freidel Laurent , Livine Etera , Speziale Simone
Published: October 2020

We introduce a new family of coherent states for loop quantum gravity, inspired by the twisted geometry parametrization. We compute their peakedness properties and compare them with the heat-kernel coherent states. They show similar features for the area and the holonomy operators, but improved peakedness in the direction of the flux. At the gauge-invariant level, the new family is built from tensor products of coherent intertwiners. To study the peakedness of the holonomy operator, we introduce a new shift operator based on the harmonic oscillator representation associated with the twisted geometry parametrization. The new shift operator captures the components of the holonomy relevant to disentangle its action into a simple positive shift of the spins.
Coherence properties of highly-excited motional states of a trapped ion
Authors: Jarlaud V , Hrmo P , Joshi M K , Thompson R C
Published: October 2020

We present a study of the coherence properties of a variety of motional states of a single ion confined in a Penning ion trap. We demonstrate that the motion of the ion has a coherence time of the order of 1 s, using Ramsey interferometry. We introduce a technique for preparing the ion in an incoherent superposition of highly-excited motional states using a simple modification of optical sideband cooling. Coherent manipulation of these states allows measurements of optical and motional coherence to be carried out. We show that these highly-excited motional state superpositions have long coherence times despite the incoherent preparation of the states. Such states can be useful for sensitive motional dephasing measurements.
Structure-preserving electromagnetic–kinetic simulations of lower hybrid-wave injection and current drive
Authors: Zheng Jiangshan , Chen Junshi , Lu Fan , Xiao Jianyuan , An Hong , Shen Li
Published: October 2020

In this article, we present a first-principles electromagnetic–kinetic simulation of the slow-wave branch of the lower hybrid waves (LHWs) in electron–deuterium plasmas with real ion–electron mass ratios. Several models of two-dimensional slab configuration containing a grill antenna are constructed using different plasma parameters. Based on our recently developed fully kinetic charge-conservative electromagnetic non-canonical symplectic particle-in-cell method, we studied the coupling, propagation, absorption and current driving effect of LHWs in hot plasmas. The results for the coupling coefficient of the grill antenna, accessibility condition, and electron Landau damping rate show good agreement with theory and previous simulation. The long-term non-linear energy and current deposition of propagating LHWs are also presented, which show a decrement of heating and current-driving efficiency compared with the linear theoretical prediction. The collision effect between electrons and ions is shown to be important for actually driving the current. The relation between the density of the current generated and the amplitude of the LHW is given, which shows a qualitative agreement with the 1D theoretical prediction.
Modeling, design, and simulation of Schottky diodes based on ultrananocrystalline diamond composite films
Authors: Shaban Mahmoud
Published: October 2020

In this study, heterojunction diodes based on ultrananocrystalline diamond/hydrogenated amorphous carbon (UNCD/a-C:H) composite films, grown on Si substrates using the coaxial arc plasma deposition method, were modeled, characterized, and investigated. Calibrated material parameters, extracted from experimental analysis of nitrogen-doped (n-type) UNCD/a-C:H/p-type Si heterojunctions, were fed to the device model. Design of vertical geometry Pd/n-type UNCD/a-C:H Schottky diodes was proposed using a two-dimensional device simulator. Simulation results of diodes with field-plate termination exhibited a barrier height of 1 eV, turn-on voltage of 0.75 V, specific on-resistance (R
s,on) of 70 mΩ cm2, and breakdown voltage (V
BD) of 270 V. This corresponds to the power figure of merit (V
BD
2/R
s,on) of 1.04 MW cm−2. The results offer a promising potential of using nitrogen-doped UNCD/a-C:H in power electronics devices.
Anisotropy of flux pinning properties in superconducting (Li,Fe)OHFeSe thin films
Authors: Hänisch Jens , Huang Yulong , Li Dong , Yuan Jie , Jin Kui , Dong Xiaoli , Talantsev Evgeny , Holzapfel Bernhard , Zhao Zhongxian
Published: October 2020

The electrical transport properties of (Li,Fe)OHFeSe films have been investigated in detail. The sharply textured films, prepared by matrix-assisted hydrothermal epitaxy (MHE) on LaAlO3, show a zero-resistance critical temperature T
c of ∼42 K, J
c values well above 1 MA cm−2 at low temperatures, and a maximum pinning force density F
P of ∼100 GN m−3 at 4 K. The activation energy U
0 for thermal depinning of flux lines has been resolved for low magnetic fields, it agrees well with literature data. The coherence lengths and penetration depth were estimated via upper critical field B
c2 and self-field J
c, respectively, to be ξ
ab ∼ 2.7 nm, ξ
c = 0.24 nm, and λ
ab ∼ 160–200 nm. The layered crystal structure leads to highly anisotropic and two-dimensional electrical properties, including trapping and lock-in of vortices.
Combined synchrotron x-ray diffraction and NV diamond magnetic microscopy measurements at high pressure
Authors: Toraille Loïc , Hilberer Antoine , Plisson Thomas , Lesik Margarita , Chipaux Mayeul , Vindolet Baptiste , Pépin Charles , Occelli Florent , Schmidt Martin , Debuisschert Thierry , Guignot Nicolas , Itié Jean-Paul , Loubeyre Paul , Roch Jean-François
Published: October 2020

We report the possibility to simultaneously perform wide-field nitrogen-vacancy (NV) diamond magnetic microscopy and synchrotron x-ray diffraction measurements at high pressure. NV color centers are created on the culet of a diamond anvil which is integrated in a diamond anvil cell for static compression of the sample. The optically detected spin resonance of the NV centers is used to map the stray magnetic field produced by the sample magnetization. Using this combined scheme, the magnetic and structural behaviors can be simultaneously measured. As a proof-of-principle, we record the correlated α-Fe to ε-Fe structural and magnetic transitions of iron that occur here between 15 and 20 GPa at 300 K.
Artificial life in an exciton-polariton lattice
Authors: Banerjee R , Liew T C H
Published: October 2020

We show theoretically that a lattice of exciton-polaritons can behave as a life-like cellular automaton when simultaneously excited by a continuous wave coherent field and a time-periodic sequence of non-resonant pulses. This provides a mechanism of realizing a range of highly sought spatiotemporal structures under the same conditions, including: discrete, oscillating, and rotating solitons; breathers; soliton trains; guns; and chaotic behaviour. These structures can survive in the system indefinitely, despite the presence of dissipation and disorder, and allow universal computation.
Periodic permeable free convective 3-dimensional flow of a second grade fluid with slip effect
Authors: Latif A , Rana M A , Hussan M
Published: October 2020

This study addresses the development of a mathematical model and theoretical analysis of a free convective three-directional flow of an incompressible second-grade fluid through a highly porous medium bounded by a vertical infinite plate in slip flow regime subjected to a constant suction. The free stream velocity is rumored to be constant while permeability of the medium is presumed to be periodic. It is well known that the assumption of either time dependent or constant permeability of a porous medium leads to two-dimensional flows, of course, the flow comes to be three-dimensional due to variation in permeability of the porous medium. Approximate solutions of velocity and temperature fields, heat flux and skin friction are established by applying the regular perturbation technique. Results are discussed and visualized graphically in the light of physical parameters emerging in the mathematical model of the physical phenomenon with carefully selected and viable data. The significance of current study reveals that presence of slip parameter reduces the thickness of boundary layer causing the enhancement in the main flow velocity component. With increasing permeability parameter fluid velocity is decelerated whereas it is accelerated with increasing Grashof number. With increasing non-Newtonian parameter, a similar response is noted as for the permeability parameter. It is also noted that permeability parameter, Prandtl number, Grashof number and elastic parameter provide mechanism to control the skin friction. In addition, Reynolds number also plays a vital role to control the skin friction. Furthermore, Reynolds number significantly boosts the coefficient of heat transfer, and Prandtl number causes to reduce the thermal boundary layer thickness.
Electrical properties enhancement of Liquid and Polymer Gel based electrolytes used for DSSC applications
Authors: Abrol Shivani Arora , Bhargava Cherry , Sharma Pardeep Kumar
Published: October 2020

Electrolytes have been considered a major component of DSSC and play a vital role in determining the ionic conductivity and efficiency of the cell. Emphasis was laid on the confirming the conductivity upon fabrication of an electrolyte using in situ gelation process from a newfangled combination of Triiodide (KI/I2/Glacial acetic acid/distilled water) and gel-based polymer electrolyte (Gelator: PMMA/THF/PC/EC) in the ratio 8:2. The electrolyte portion so framed generated a photo conversion efficiency of 11.32% and a fill factor of 0.439. The conductivity of the sample characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy showed that the uniform tracks confirmed extreme ionic conductivity of the blend electrolyte which showed dependance on the layered movement of PMMA- co- THF- KI2/PC/EC based electrolyte system. Energy Dispersive x-ray Analysis (EDX) reports engrained the percentage weight proportions of conductive elements (C & O with a wt% of 65.48 and 30.18 in one spectrum and K & I with a wt% of 44.7 & 35.25 in another spectrum respectively). FTIR test analysis was performed to identify the functional groups of the PGE which identified the ionic conductivity of the sample, shown by the intensity of peak absorbance in the range 400–4000 cm−1. Further it was observed, the conductivity of the different concentrations of the liquid and gelator solution demonstrated an increase in exhibiting ionic conductivity and the same was depicted by the morphological studies that featured dark pores of the sample which were spread consistently indicating the amorphous nature of the material (at room temperature).
Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of Intraocular Mass-Like Lesions
Authors: Wang Minhua , Levy Gillian , Qin Xiaoyi , Adeniran Adebowale J , Cai Guoping
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy for intraocular mass-like lesions and its contributing factors.

Methods

Intraocular FNA cases were retrieved and reviewed along with histopathologic follow-ups, if available. The effects of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE), repeated biopsy, and adjunct immunocytochemical studies on cytologic diagnoses were analyzed.

Results

Of 72 FNA biopsies from 63 patients, nondiagnostic biopsy was seen in 17 cases (24%), whereas a definitive diagnosis was rendered in 39 cases (54%). The cytologic diagnoses correlated well with histopathologic follow-ups with a concordance rate of 61%. Almost all nondiagnostic biopsies (16/17, 94%) were seen in cases in which ROSE was not performed. Of the 7 patients in whom biopsy was repeated, a definitive diagnosis was rendered in 4 cases (57%). Immunocytochemistry was performed in the majority of cases with a malignant diagnosis, especially in metastatic tumors (75%).

Conclusions

Our data demonstrates that FNA is an effective tool for the diagnosis of intraocular tumors. ROSE, repeated biopsy, and adjunct immunocytochemistry can help reduce the nondiagnostic rate and/or enhance diagnosis of malignancy, further improving FNA diagnostic performance.
Management Policies for Invasive Alien Species: Addressing the Impacts Rather than the Species
Authors: García-Díaz Pablo , Cassey Phillip , Norbury Grant , Lambin Xavier , Montti Lía , Pizarro J Cristóbal , Powell Priscila A , Burslem David F R P , Cava Mário , Damasceno Gabriella , Fasola Laura , Fidelis Alessandra , Huerta Magdalena F , Langdon Bárbara , Linardaki Eirini , Moyano Jaime , Núñez Martín A , Pauchard Aníbal , Phimister Euan , Raffo Eduardo , Roesler Ignacio , Rodríguez-Jorquera Ignacio , Tomasevic Jorge A
Published: October 2020

Effective long-term management is needed to address the impacts of invasive alien species (IAS) that cannot be eradicated. We describe the fundamental characteristics of long-term management policies for IAS, diagnose a major shortcoming, and outline how to produce effective IAS management. Key international and transnational management policies conflate addressing IAS impacts with controlling IAS populations. This serious purpose–implementation gap can preclude the development of broader portfolios of interventions to tackle IAS impacts. We posit that IAS management strategies should directly address impacts via impact-based interventions, and we propose six criteria to inform the choice of these interventions. We review examples of interventions focused on tackling IAS impacts, including IAS control, which reveal the range of interventions available and their varying effectiveness in counteracting IAS impacts. As the impacts caused by IAS increase globally, stakeholders need to have access to a broader and more effective set of tools to respond.
Crossing the chasm: caution for use of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibition in patients with cardiogenic shock– a case report
Authors: Almazroa Loai , Mihajlovic Vesna , Lawler Patrick R. , Luk Adriana
Published: October 2020

Background

Vasoplegia has been reported in patients receiving angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We present a case of vasoplegic shock after initiation of ARNI in a hospitalized 65-year-old man recovering from cardiogenic shock (CS) and acute kidney injury (AKI).

Case summary

A 65-year-old man with HFrEF presented to a community hospital with CS with evidence of poor perfusion with a lactate of 5.6 mmol/L and creatinine (Cr) 125 µmol/L. He was treated with intravenous furosemide infusion. Subsequently, his lactate normalized but he developed an AKI with a Cr of 176 µmol/L. He was then started on ARNI and beta blockers. Over the next 24 h, he developed a vasoplegic shock necessitating multiple vasopressors and a transfer to a tertiary academic centre. With supportive therapy, his vasoplegic shock improved and he was discharged home.

Discussion

PARADIGM-HF found that the introduction of an ARNI in patients with ambulatory symptomatic HFrEF reduces the risk of death and heart failure hospitalization. Most recently, PIONEER-HF showed that ARNI reduced N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels at 4 and 8 weeks, without significantly different rates of medication-related adverse effects. However, thus far, no clinical trials have examined the role of ARNI in CS. Our case report highlights the risk of vasoplegic shock caused by initiation of ARNI in patients hospitalized with CS especially in whom renal and hepatic impairment is present.
Occlusal traits and longitudinal dental changes in children and adolescents with congenital or childhood onset myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Fontinha Clara , Engvall Monica , Sjögreen Lotta , Mårtensson Åsa , Ekström Anne-Berit , Kiliaridis Stavros
Published: October 2020

Background/objectives

This research aimed to study the malocclusions of children and adolescents with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), in respect to healthy individuals, and trace the occlusal changes that occurred in these individuals during growth.

Materials/methods

Thirty-six dental casts, from children and adolescents with DM1 living in western and southern Sweden, were compared with a control group of 50 healthy individuals. To identify potential changes in occlusal traits, 26 casts were assessed and followed-up over a median time of 9 years. Independent samples t-tests were used to compare the two groups and their changes over time. Paired samples t-tests tested changes over time within each group (P < 0.05).

Results

DM1 patients had a higher prevalence of anterior open bite, posterior crossbite, and Class III malocclusions. When compared to controls, patients presented smaller upper and lower intermolar as well as intercanine widths. In both groups, the individuals revealed longitudinal changes with a decrease in both upper and lower arch lengths and an increase on the palatal vault height. During the follow-up period, the prevalence of malocclusions remained almost the same, only significantly differing regarding the changes that occurred between groups referred to the upper intermolar width, which decreased among DM1 patients.

Conclusions/implications

In comparison to healthy controls, children and adolescents with DM1 have shown already at an early age a higher prevalence of both anterior open bite and posterior crossbite. These occlusal traits did not change with time apart from the upper narrow intermolar width, which further decreased with time.
Quality improvement in chronic care by self-audit, benchmarking and networking in general practices in South Tyrol, Italy: results from an interventional study
Authors: Piccoliori Giuliano , Mahlknecht Angelika , Abuzahra Muna E , Engl Adolf , Breitenberger Vera , Vögele Anna , Montalbano Carmelo , Sönnichsen Andreas
Published: October 2020

Background

Systematic strategies promoting quality of care in general practice are yet under-represented in several European countries.

Objective

This interventional study assessed whether a combined intervention (self-audit, benchmarking, quality circles) improved quality of care in Salzburg, Austria and South Tyrol, Italy. The present publication reports the Italian results.

Methods

We developed quality indicators for general practice in a consensus process based on pre-existing quality programmes. The indicators addressed diagnosis and treatment regarding eight common chronic conditions. A quality score comprising 91 indicators was calculated (0–5 points per indicator depending on fulfilment, maximum 455 points). We collected anonymous data from the electronic health records of the participating physicians in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used for pre-post analysis.

Results

Thirty-six GPs participated in the study. The median quality score increased significantly from 177.0 points at baseline to 272.0 points at the second follow-up (P = 0.000). Improvements concerned process and intermediate outcome indicators particularly between baseline and the first follow-up.

Conclusion

Performance was relatively low at baseline and improved considerably, mainly in the first study period. The intervention investigated in this study can serve as a model for future quality programmes. A customized electronic health record for the implementation of this intervention as well as standardized and consistent documentation by GPs is a prerequisite. Use of a limited set of quality indicators (QIs) and regular QI modification is probably advisable to increase the benefits. Long-term prospective studies should investigate the impact of QI-based interventions on end-result outcomes.
Developing the use of convolutional neural networking in benthic habitat classification and species distribution modelling
Authors: Fincham Jennifer I , Wilson Christian , Barry Jon , Bolam Stefan , French Geoffrey
Published: October 2020

Management of the marine environment is increasingly being conducted in accordance with an ecosystem-based approach, which requires an integrated approach to monitoring. Simultaneous acquisition of the different data types needed is often difficult, largely due to specific gear requirements (grabs, trawls, and video and acoustic approaches) and mismatches in their spatial and temporal scales. We present an example to resolve this using a convolutional neural network (CNN), using ad hoc multibeam data collected during multi-disciplinary surveys to predict the distribution of seabed habitats across the western English Channel. We adopted a habitat classification system, based on seabed morphology and sediment dynamics, and trained a CNN to label images generated from the multibeam data. The probability of the correct classification by the CNN varied per habitat, with accuracy above 60% for 85% of habitats in a training dataset. Statistical testing revealed that the spatial distribution of 57 of the 100 demersal fish and shellfish species sampled across the region during the surveys possessed a non-random relationship with the multibeam-derived habitats using CNN. CNNs, therefore, offer the potential to aid habitat mapping and facilitate species distribution modelling at the large spatial scales required under an ecosystem-based management framework.
Congenital atresia of the left main coronary artery: management of a 5-year-old child in extremis
Authors: Schmiady Martin , Kretschmar Oliver , Prêtre René , Dave Hitendu
Published: October 2020

Atresia of the left main coronary artery is a rare coronary anomaly. We describe the case of a 5-year-old child presenting in emergency in extremis. Clinical findings of haemodynamic collapse, malignant ventricular tachyarrhythmias and severe mitral regurgitation were indicative of a possible ischaemic aetiology. Surgical revascularization of the atretic left main coronary artery segment using an interposition autologous saphenous vein graft was successfully performed.
Early commercial experience with a newly designed balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve: 30-day outcomes and implications of preprocedural computed tomography
Authors: Schaefer Andreas , Plassmeier Fabienne , Schofer Niklas , Vogel Lukas , Ludwig Sebastian , Schneeberger Yvonne , Linder Matthias , Demal Till , Seiffert Moritz , Blankenberg Stefan , Reichenspurner Hermann , Westermann Dirk , Conradi Lenard
Published: October 2020

OBJECTIVES

We herein report a single-centre experience with the SAPIEN 3 Ultra balloon-expandable transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) system.

METHODS

Between March 2019 and January 2020, a total of 79 consecutive patients received transfemoral TAVI using the SAPIEN 3 Ultra device. Data were retrospectively analysed according to updated Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 definitions. Detailed analysis of multislice computed tomography data was conducted to identify potential predictors for permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation and residual paravalvular leakage (PVL) post TAVI.

RESULTS

Device success and early safety were 97.5% (77/79) and 94.9% (75/79) with resulting transvalvular peak/mean pressure gradients of 21.1 ± 8.2/10.9 ± 4.4 and PVL >mild in 0/79 patients (0%). Mild PVL was seen in 18.9% (15/79) of cases. Thirty-day mortality was 2.5% (2/79). The Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 adjudicated clinical end points disabling stroke, acute kidney injury and myocardial infarction occurred in 1.3% (1/79), 5.1% (4/79) and 0% (0/79) of patients. Postprocedural PPM implantation was necessary in 7.6% (6/79) of patients. Multislice computed tomography analysis revealed significantly higher calcium amounts of the right coronary cusp in patients in need for postprocedural PPM implantation and a higher eccentricity index in patients with postinterventional mild PVL.

CONCLUSIONS

First experience with this newly designed balloon-expandable-transcatheter heart valve demonstrates adequate 30-day outcomes and haemodynamic results with low mortality, low rates of PPM implantation and no residual PVL >mild. The herein-presented multislice computed tomography values with an elevated risk for PPM implantation and residual mild PVL may help to further improve outcomes with this particular transcatheter heart valve in TAVI procedures.
Emergency treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids in a patient taking aspirin and clopidogrel using a 1470 nm diode laser and the ELITE minimal invasive technique
Authors: Bachtsetzis Chris , Papaioannou Antigoni , Bekas Spyridon , Lazaridou Athina , Bachtsetzis George
Published: October 2020

A 74-year-old male patient, receiving anticoagulation treatment after previous angioplasty stenting for severe coronary artery disease, was admitted to the clinic with a 2-day rectal bleeding. Clinical examination followed by an urgent colonoscopy to exclude other potential reasons for his symptoms both confirmed the diagnosis of Grade III thrombosed hemorrhoids. Due to the acute presentation of the case along with the existing medication of the patient, the decision was made to treat the problem using the expert laser intrahemorrhoidal therapy technique, which is a diode laser minimally invasive operation without the need to stop any of the patient’s medication.
Temporal dynamics of QTL effects on vegetative growth inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Meyer Rhonda C , Weigelt-Fischer Kathleen , Knoch Dominic , Heuermann Marc , Zhao Yusheng , Altmann Thomas
Published: October 2020

We assessed early vegetative growth in a population of 382 accessions of Arabidopsis thaliana using automated non-invasive high-throughput phenotyping. All accessions were imaged daily from 7 d to 18 d after sowing in three independent experiments and genotyped using the Affymetrix 250k SNP array. Projected leaf area (PLA) was derived from image analysis and used to calculate relative growth rates (RGRs). In addition, initial seed size was determined. The generated datasets were used jointly for a genome-wide association study that identified 238 marker–trait associations (MTAs) individually explaining up to 8% of the total phenotypic variation. Co-localization of MTAs occurred at 33 genomic positions. At 21 of these positions, sequential co-localization of MTAs for 2–9 consecutive days was observed. The detected MTAs for PLA and RGR could be grouped according to their temporal expression patterns, emphasizing that temporal variation of MTA action can be observed even during the vegetative growth phase, a period of continuous formation and enlargement of seemingly similar rosette leaves. This indicates that causal genes may be differentially expressed in successive periods. Analyses of the temporal dynamics of biological processes are needed to gain important insight into the molecular mechanisms of growth-controlling processes in plants.
Plant functional trait variability and trait syndromes among wheat varieties: the footprint of artificial selection
Authors: Cantarel Amélie A M , Allard Vincent , Andrieu Bruno , Barot Sébastien , Enjalbert Jérôme , Gervaix Jonathan , Goldringer Isabelle , Pommier Thomas , Saint-Jean Sébastien , Le Roux Xavier
Published: October 2020

Although widely used in ecology, trait-based approaches are seldom used to study agroecosystems. In particular, there is a need to evaluate how functional trait variability among varieties of a crop species compares to the variability among wild plant species and how variety selection can modify trait syndromes. Here, we quantified 18 above- and below-ground functional traits for 57 varieties of common wheat representative of different modern selection histories. We compared trait variability among varieties and among Pooideae species, and analyzed the effect of selection histories on trait values and trait syndromes. For traits under strong selection, trait variability among varieties was less than 10% of the variability observed among Pooideae species. However, for traits not directly selected, such as root N uptake capacity, the variability was up to 75% of the variability among Pooideae species. Ammonium absorption capacity by roots was counter-selected for conventional varieties compared with organic varieties and landraces. Artificial selection also altered some trait syndromes classically reported for Pooideae. Identifying traits that have high or low variability among varieties and characterizing the hidden effects of selection on trait values and syndromes will benefit the selection of varieties to be used especially for lower N input agroecosystems.
Migration as Adaptation?
Authors: Vinke Kira , Bergmann Jonas , Blocher Julia , Upadhyay Himani , Hoffmann Roman
Published: October 2020

The discourse on climate change and migration has shifted from labelling migration merely as a consequence of climate impacts, to describing it as a form of human adaptation. This article explores the adaptation framing of the climate change and migration nexus and highlights its shortcomings and advantages. While for some groups, under certain circumstances migration can be an effective form of adaptation, for others it leads to increased vulnerabilities and a poverty spiral, reducing their adaptive capacities. Non-economic losses connected to a change of place further challenge the notion of successful adaptation. Even when migration improves the situation of a household, it may conceal the lack of action on climate change adaptation from national governments or the international community. Given the growing body of evidence on the diverse circumstances and outcomes of migration in the context of climate change, we distinguish between reactive and proactive migration and argue for a precise differentiation in the academic debate.
jMorp updates in 2020: large enhancement of multi-omics data resources on the general Japanese population
Authors: Tadaka Shu , Hishinuma Eiji , Komaki Shohei , Motoike Ikuko N , Kawashima Junko , Saigusa Daisuke , Inoue Jin , Takayama Jun , Okamura Yasunobu , Aoki Yuichi , Shirota Matsuyuki , Otsuki Akihito , Katsuoka Fumiki , Shimizu Atsushi , Tamiya Gen , Koshiba Seizo , Sasaki Makoto , Yamamoto Masayuki , Kinoshita Kengo
Published: October 2020

In the Tohoku Medical Megabank project, genome and omics analyses of participants in two cohort studies were performed. A part of the data is available at the Japanese Multi Omics Reference Panel (jMorp; https://jmorp.megabank.tohoku.ac.jp) as a web-based database, as reported in our previous manuscript published in Nucleic Acid Research in 2018. At that time, jMorp mainly consisted of metabolome data; however, now genome, methylome, and transcriptome data have been integrated in addition to the enhancement of the number of samples for the metabolome data. For genomic data, jMorp provides a Japanese reference sequence obtained using de novo assembly of sequences from three Japanese individuals and allele frequencies obtained using whole-genome sequencing of 8,380 Japanese individuals. In addition, the omics data include methylome and transcriptome data from ∼300 samples and distribution of concentrations of more than 755 metabolites obtained using high-throughput nuclear magnetic resonance and high-sensitivity mass spectrometry. In summary, jMorp now provides four different kinds of omics data (genome, methylome, transcriptome, and metabolome), with a user-friendly web interface. This will be a useful scientific data resource on the general population for the discovery of disease biomarkers and personalized disease prevention and early diagnosis.
Diabetes Modifies the Clinic Presentation of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Lago Alexsandro S , Lima Filipe R , Carvalho Augusto M , Sampaio Camilla , Lago Neuza , Guimarães Luiz H , Lago Jamile , Machado Paulo R L , Carvalho Lucas P , Arruda Sérgio , Carvalho Edgar M
Published: October 2020

Background

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) caused by L. braziliensis is characterized by 1 or multiple well-limited ulcerated lesions. Diabetes mellitus (DM) impairs neutrophil and monocyte function, and there is a report of vegetative lesions in a patient with both diseases in Morocco. Here we evaluate the influence of DM on clinical manifestations, immune response, and in the treatment of CL.

Methods

The participants were 36 DM patients with CL and 36 patients with CL without DM, matched by age and gender. The diagnosis of CL was performed by documentation of DNA of L. braziliensis by polymerase chain reaction in the lesion biopsy and histopathologic findings. All patients were treated with Glucantime (Sanofi-Aventis) 20 mg/kg of weight per day for 20 days.

Results

There was no difference in the majority of the clinical variables between the groups, and the cure rate in patients with CL and DM (67%) was similar to that observed in CL patients (56%; P ˃ .05). The most important finding was the documentation that 36% of the patients with DM and CL had atypical cutaneous lesions characterized by large superficial ulcers without defined borders. High levels of interferon-γ, tumor necrosis facor, and interleukin-1β were detected in the supernatants of mononuclear cells stimulated with Leishmania antigen in patients with DM and atypical CL. Moreover, while cure was observed in only 33% of the patients with DM and atypical CL lesions, it was observed in 85% of patients with typical lesions (P < .05).

Conclusions

DM modifies the clinical presentation of CL, enhances pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and impairs response to antimony therapy.
OccultTalaromyces marneffeiInfection Unveiled by the Novel Mp1p Antigen Detection Assay
Authors: Ly Vo Trieu , Thanh Nguyen Tat , Thu Nguyen Thi Mai , Chan Jasper , Day Jeremy N , Perfect John , Nga Cao Ngoc , Vinh Chau Nguyen Van , Le Thuy
Published: October 2020

Talaromyces marneffei causes fatal invasive mycosis in Southeast Asia. Diagnosis by culture has limited sensitivity and can result in treatment delay. We describe the use of a novel Mp1p enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to identify blood culture–negative talaromycosis, subsequently confirmed by bone marrow cultures. This EIA has the potential to speed diagnosis, enabling early therapy initiation.
Cladoceran body size distributions along temperature and trophic gradients in the conterminous USA
Authors: Beaver John R , Tausz Claudia E , Black Katherine M , Bolam Benjamin A
Published: October 2020

Body size is an important functional trait that can be indicative of ecosystem structure and constraints on growth. Both increasing temperatures and eutrophication of lakes have been associated with a shift toward smaller zooplankton taxa. This is important in the context of climate change, as most aquatic habitats are expected to warm over the coming decades. Our study uses data from over 1000 lakes surveyed across a range of latitudes (26–49°N) and surface temperatures (10–35°C) in the USA during the spring/summer of 2012 to characterize pelagic cladoceran body size distributions. We used univariate and multiple regression modeling to determine which environmental parameters were strongly correlated to cladoceran body size. A strong positive correlation was observed between cladoceran body size and latitude, while a strong negative correlation was observed between cladoceran body size and water temperature. The ratio of zooplankton to phytoplankton, as well as relative total biomass contributions by cladocerans, decreased as trophic state increased. Multiple regression identified temperature-related variables and water clarity as significantly affecting cladoceran body size. These observations demonstrate the dual threat of climate change and eutrophication on lake ecosystems and highlight potential changes in biogeographical patterns of zooplankton as lakes warm.
Mechanism of a methylxanthine drug theophylline-induced Ca2+ signaling and cytotoxicity in AML12 mouse hepatocytes
Authors: Sun Gwo-Ching , Liang Wei-Zhe
Published: October 2020

Theophylline is a methylxanthine drug used in therapy for respiratory diseases. However, the impact of theophylline on Ca2+ signaling has not been explored in liver cells. This study examined whether theophylline affected Ca2+ homeostasis and its related cytotoxicity in AML12 mouse hepatocytes. Cell viability was measured by the cell viability reagent (WST-1). Cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was measured by the Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent dye fura-2. Theophylline (25–125 μM) induced [Ca2+]i rises and cause cytotoxicity in AML12 cells. This cytotoxic response was reversed by chelation of cytosolic Ca2+ with BAPTA/AM. In Ca2+-free medium, treatment with the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor thapsigargin abolished theophylline-induced [Ca2+]i rises. Conversely, treatment with theophylline also abolished thapsigargin-induced [Ca2+]i rises. However, inhibition of PLC failed to alter theophylline-evoked [Ca2+]i rises. In Ca2+-containing medium, modulators of store-operated Ca2+ channels inhibited 30% of the [Ca2+]i rises, whereas the PKC modulators had no effect. Furthermore, theophylline-induced Ca2+ influx was confirmed by Mn2+-induced quench of fura-2 fluorescence. Together, in AML12 cells, theophylline caused Ca2+-associated cytotoxicity and induced Ca2+ entry through PLC-independent Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum and PKC-insensitive store-operated Ca2+ channels. BAPTA-AM with its protective effects may be a potential compound for prevention of theophylline-induced cytotoxicity.
Effects of Cover Crops on Population Reduction of Soybean Cyst Nematode (Heterodera glycines)
Authors: Acharya Krishna , Yan Guiping , Plaisance Addison
Published: October 2020

Microplot experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of cover crops on population reduction of a major soybean pest, soybean cyst nematode (SCN; Heterodera glycines Ichinohe) in 2016 and 2017. Ten crop species, including annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum L.), Austrian winter pea (Pisum sativum L. subsp. arvense), carinata (Brassica carinata A. Braun), faba bean (Vicia faba Roth), foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauvois), daikon radish (Raphanus sativus L.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), sweetclover (Melilotus officinalis L.), turnip (Brassica rapa subsp. rapa L.), and winter rye (Secale cereale L.), were planted along with susceptible soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr. ‘Barnes’) in soil naturally infested with each of two SCN populations (SCN103 and SCN2W) from two North Dakota soybean fields. Crops were grown in large plastic pots for 75 days in an outdoor environment (microplot). Soil samples were collected from each pot for nematode extraction and SCN eggs were counted to determine the final SCN egg density. The population reduction was determined for each crop and nonplanted natural soil (fallow). All of the tested crops and nonplanted natural soil had significantly (P < 0.0001) lower final population densities compared with susceptible soybean (Barnes). Also, a significant difference (P < 0.0001) was observed between the SCN population suppressions caused by cover crops versus the fallow treatment. All cover crops except Austrian winter pea, carinata, faba bean, and foxtail millet had consistently lower SCN egg numbers than in fallow in both years of the experiments. The average population reductions of SCN by the cover crops ranged from 44 to 67% in comparison with the initial population density, while the fallow had natural reductions from 4 to 24%. Annual ryegrass and daikon radish reduced SCN egg numbers to a greater extent than the other cover crops, with an average of 65 and 67% reduction of initial population density, respectively, from 2 years. The results suggested that cover crops reduced the SCN populations in external microplot conditions, and their use has great potential for improving SCN management in infested fields.
Physical Activity and Exercise in Women With Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jones Tamara L. , Sandler Carolina X. , Spence Rosalind R. , Hayes Sandra C.
Published: October 2020

(Abstracted from Gynecol Oncol 2020;158:803–811)

Treatment for epithelial ovarian cancer may involve debulking surgery, a carboplatin-paclitaxel chemotherapy combination, or more novel approaches such as immunotherapy. There is a significant body of evidence supporting an association between physical activity (PA) and improved quality of life (QOL), physical morbidity, fatigue, depression, and anxiety among patients diagnosed with cancer.
Progression to Type 2 Diabetes in Women With a Known History of Gestational Diabetes: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Vounzoulaki Elpida , Khunti Kamlesh , Abner Sophia C. , Tan Bee K. , Davies Melanie J. , Gillies Clare L.
Published: October 2020

(Abstracted from BMJ 2020;369:m1361)

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an established risk factor for the future development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Systematic reviews of studies that have highlighted the increased risk of developing T2DM after GDM are more than a decade old.
Botulinum Toxin Injection for Chronic Pelvic Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Luo Fang Yuan , Nasr-Esfahani Maryam , Jarrell John , Robert Magali
Published: October 2020

(Abstracted from Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2020; doi: 10.1111/aogs.13946)

The therapeutic benefits of botulinum toxin (BTX) in alleviating pain in several myofascial disorders such as focal dystonia and spasticity are well established. There is an expanding potential for benefits in chronic pelvic pain (CPP).
The Influence of an Opioid Use Disorder on Initiating Physical Therapy for Low Back Pain: A Retrospective Cohort
Authors: Magel John S. , Gordon Adam J. , Fritz Julie M. , Kim Jaewhan
Published: October 2020

Objectives:

Low back pain (LBP) is common among patients with an opioid use disorder (OUD). The extent to which patients with an OUD initiate physical therapy for LBP is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the association between a history of an OUD and initiation of physical therapy for LBP within 60 days of a primary care provider (PCP) visit for this condition.

Methods:

Claims from a single state-wide all payer claims database from June 30, 2013 and August 31, 2015 were used to establish a retrospective cohort of patients who consulted a PCP for a new episode of LBP. The outcome measure was patients who had at least 1 physical therapy claim within 60-days after the PCP visit. After propensity score matching on covariates, logistic regression was used to compare the outcome of patients with a history of an OUD to patients without an OUD.

Results:

Propensity score matching resulted in 1360 matched pairs of participants. The mean age was 47.2 years (15.9) and 55.9% were female. Compared to patients without an OUD, patients with an OUD were less likely to initiate physical therapy for LBP (adjusted odds ratio  = 0.65, 95% confidence intervals:0.49–0.85)

Conclusions:

After a visit to a PCP for a new episode of care for LBP, patients with a history of an OUD are less likely to initiate physical therapy.