bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The gut microbiome in solid organ transplantation
Authors: Baghai Arassi Maral , Zeller Georg , Karcher Nicolai , Zimmermann Michael , Toenshoff Burkhard
Published: September 2020

Despite ground‐breaking advances in allogeneic transplantation, allograft rejection and immunosuppressant‐specific complications remain a major challenge in transplant medicine. Growing evidence suggests the human gut microbiome as a potential contributor to transplant outcome and patient health. After breakthrough findings in haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), the relevance of the microbiome in solid organ transplantation (SOT) is becoming increasingly clear. Here, we review the role of the microbiome in SOT focusing on its significance for transplant‐associated complications such as allograft rejection and infections, and highlight its potential impact on immunosuppressive treatment. Moreover, we shed light on the emerging role of the microbiome as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target and discuss current microbial intervention strategies. In addition, this review includes some practical considerations in designing clinical microbiome trials and offers some advice for the interpretation of the resulting data. Further investigation of the gut microbiome harbours countless clinical application possibilities and holds great promise of having a lasting impact on transplant medicine.
Simple 3,6‐disubstituted Carbazoles as Potential Hole Transport Materials: Photophysical, Electrochemical and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Keremane Kavya S. , Rao Rathnamala , Adhikari Airody Vasudeva
Published: October 2020

Developing effective and low‐cost organic hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) is crucial for the construction of high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and to promote their production in commercial ventures. In this context, we herein report the molecular design, synthesis and characterization of two novel D‐A‐D‐A‐D architectured 9‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐9H‐carbazoles, connecting the mono/dimethoxyphenyl substituted cyanovinylene sidearms symmetrically at 3rd and 6th positions of the carbazole heterocycle (CZ1‐2), as potential hole‐transporting materials (HTMs). The current work highlights their structural, photophysical, thermal, electrochemical and theoretical investigations, including their structure‐property correlation studies. Evidently, the optical studies showcased their excellent fluorescence ability due to their push–pull natured structure with extended π‐conjugation. Further, in‐depth solvatochromic studies demonstrated their intramolecular charge‐transfer (ICT)‐dominated optoelectronic behavior, supported by various correlation studies. Also, the optical results revealed that CZ1 and CZ2 display λabs and λemi in the order of 410–430 nm and 530–560 nm, respectively, with a bandgap in the range of 2.5–2.6 eV. Finally, their quantum chemical simulations have provided an insight into the predictions of their structural, molecular, electronic and optical parameters. Conclusively, the study furnishes a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in the structural modification of carbazole‐based HTMs for achieving better performance.
Material Requirements Planning Under Demand Uncertainty Using Stochastic Optimization
Authors: Thevenin Simon , Adulyasak Yossiri , Cordeau Jean‐François
Published: October 2020

Material Requirements Planning (MRP), a core component of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, is widely used by manufacturers to determine the production lot sizes of components. These lot sizes are typically computed based on deterministic and dynamic demand assumptions, while safety stocks, which hedge against demand uncertainty, are determined independently based on different assumptions. As the lot sizes and safety stocks are not determined simultaneously, sub‐optimal decisions are often used in practice. The critical impact of inventories and service levels in manufacturing motivates the study of stochastic optimization methods for MRP. In this study, we investigate stochastic optimization methods for MRP systems under demand uncertainty. A two‐stage and a multi‐stage model are proposed to deal with the static‐static and static‐dynamic decision frameworks, respectively. We first derive structural properties of the two‐stage and multi‐stage models to provide insights on the differences between the plans created with these two models. As multi‐stage stochastic programs are not convenient in real‐world applications, several practical enhancements are proposed. First, to address scalability issues, we employ heuristics in combination with advanced sampling methods. Second, to allow real‐time static‐dynamic decisions, we derive a policy from the solution of the multi‐stage model. Third, to deal with the dynamic‐dynamic decision framework, we employ a rolling horizon implementation. The effectiveness and performance of stochastic optimization for MRP are validated by numerical experiments, which demonstrate that the stochastic optimization approaches have the potential to generate significant cost savings compared to traditional methods for production planning and safety stocks determination.
Hydrogen peroxide potentiates defense system in presence of sulfur to protect chloroplast damage and photosynthesis of wheat under drought stress
Authors: Sehar Zebus , Jahan Badar , Masood Asim , Anjum Naser A. , Khan Nafees A.
Published: September 2020

The involvement of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) combined with sulfur (S) was studied in the protection of the photosynthetic performance of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under drought stress. The mechanisms of S‐assimilation, the activity of antioxidants, glucose sensitivity, water and osmotic relations and abscisic acid (ABA) content were the focus. The combined application of 50 μM H2O2 and 100 mg S kg−1 soil (sulfur) resulted in a marked increase in S‐assimilation and activity of antioxidant enzymes, with decreased glucose sensitivity and ABA content causing improvement in the structure and function of the photosynthetic apparatus under drought stress. The photosynthetic performance, pigment system (PS) II activity, and growth were improved conspicuously by H2O2 in the presence of S, as H2O2 induced S‐assimilation capacity, the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and GSH synthesis under drought stress. Our study shows that H2O2 is more effective in the reversal of drought stress in the presence of S through its influence on S‐assimilation, glucose sensitivity, and antioxidant system. These results provide evidence for the effectiveness of H2O2 in improving photosynthesis under drought stress in the presence of S.
Problems of ‘Religion’ in Japan: Part 2
Authors: Horii Mitsutoshi
Published: September 2020

This article problematizes the utilisation of the category ‘religion’ as an analytical concept in the Japanese context. For some decades, in Religious Studies, the idea of religion has been interrogated and the ideological function of the category ‘religion’ has become a subject of critical investigation. This kind of critical approach to ‘religion’ has been applied to many different contexts including Japan. Although there has been a significant development in the critical study of ‘religion’ in Japan, this article argues that the discourse of sui generis religion is still dominant in the academic subject area currently called ‘Japanese religion(s)’. This article critically examines the category of religion in recent works of scholars who claim to study ‘Japanese religion(s)’ and suggests abandoning the term as a category of analysis. This will help scholars to re‐imagine what they use to call ‘religion’, by enabling them to see what the idea of ‘religion’ formerly prevent them from seeing.
Prevalence and associated risk factors of drug‐resistant tuberculosis in Thailand: results from the fifth national anti‐tuberculosis drug resistance survey
Authors: Kamolwat P. , Nateniyom S. , Chaiprasert A. , Disratthakit A. , Mahasirimongkol S. , Yamada N. , Smithtikarn S.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To assess the prevalence and risk factors of drug‐resistant tuberculosis (TB), the fifth national anti‐TB drug resistance survey was conducted in Thailand.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted by stratified cluster sampling with probability proportional to size of TB cases from public health facilities in 100 clusters throughout Thailand from August 2017 to August 2018. Susceptibility testing of TB isolates to first‐ and second‐line anti‐TB drugs was performed on Löwenstein–Jensen medium using the indirect proportion method. Multiple imputation was done for handling missing data using Stata 16. The proportion of TB cases with drug resistance was determined. The odds ratio was used to evaluate risk factors associated with drug‐resistant TB.

Results

Among 1501 new TB and 69 previously treated TB cases, 14.0% [95% confidence interval (CI): 12.1–16.1] and 33.4% (95% CI: 23.6–44.8), respectively, had resistance to any anti‐TB drug. Multidrug‐resistant TB accounted for 0.8% (95% CI: 0.5–1.4) of new TB cases and 13.0% (95% CI: 6.5–24.4) of previously treated TB cases. Drug‐resistant TB was associated with prior TB treatment [odds ratio (OR), 2.9; 95% CI: 1.6–5.0], age at 45–54 years (OR, 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0–2.4), male (OR, 1.5; 95% CI: 1.0–2.1) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (OR, 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0–2.4).

Conclusions

The burden of drug‐resistant TB remains high in Thailand. Intensified prevention and control measures should be implemented to reduce the risks of drug‐resistant TB in high‐risk groups previously treated, especially individuals of late middle age, males and those with coinfection of TB and HIV.
Genome‐wide dissection of hybridization for fiber quality‐ and yield‐related traits in upland cotton
Authors: Geng Xiaoli , Sun Gaofei , Qu Yujie , Sarfraz Zareen , Jia Yinhua , He Shoupu , Pan Zhaoe , Sun Junling , Iqbal Muhammad S. , Wang Qinglian , Qin Hongde , Liu Jinhai , Liu Hui , Yang Jun , Ma Zhiying , Xu Dongyong , Yang Jinlong , Zhang Jinbiao , Li Zhikun , Cai Zhongmin , Zhang Xuelin , Zhang Xin , Zhou Guanyin , Li Lin , Zhu Haiyong , Wang Liru , Pang Baoyin , Du Xiongming
Published: September 2020

An evaluation of combining ability can facilitate the selection of suitable parents and superior F1 hybrids for hybrid cotton breeding, although the molecular genetic basis of combining ability has not been fully characterized. In the present study, 282 female parents were crossed with four male parents in accordance with the North Carolina II mating scheme to generate 1128 hybrids. The parental lines were genotyped based on restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing and 306 814 filtered single nucleotide polymorphisms were used for genome‐wide association analysis involving the phenotypes, general combining ability (GCA) values, and specific combining ability values of eight fiber quality‐ and yield‐related traits. The main results were: (i) all parents could be clustered into five subgroups based on population structure analyses and the GCA performance of the female parents had significant differences between subgroups; (ii) 20 accessions with a top 5% GCA value for more than one trait were identified as elite parents for hybrid cotton breeding; (iii) 120 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms, clustered into 66 quantitative trait loci, such as the previously reported Gh_A07G1769 and GhHOX3 genes, were found to be significantly associated with GCA; and (iv) identified quantitative trait loci for GCA had a cumulative effect on GCA of the accessions. Overall, our results suggest that pyramiding the favorable loci for GCA may improve the efficiency of hybrid cotton breeding.
Changes in intracellular NAD status affect stomatal development in an abscisic acid‐dependent manner
Authors: Feitosa‐Araujo Elias , da Fonseca‐Pereira Paula , Pena Mateus M. , Medeiros David B. , Perez de Souza Leonardo , Yoshida Takuya , Weber Andreas P. M. , Araújo Wagner L. , Fernie Alisdair R. , Schwarzländer Markus , Nunes‐Nesi Adriano
Published: September 2020

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) plays a central role in redox metabolism in all domains of life. Additional roles in regulating posttranslational protein modifications and cell signaling implicate NAD as a potential integrator of central metabolism and programs regulating stress responses and development. Here we found that NAD negatively impacts stomatal development in cotyledons of Arabidopsis thaliana. Plants with reduced capacity for NAD+ transport from the cytosol into the mitochondria or the peroxisomes exhibited reduced numbers of stomatal lineage cells and reduced stomatal density. Cotyledons of plants with reduced NAD+ breakdown capacity and NAD+‐treated cotyledons also presented reduced stomatal number. Expression of stomatal lineage‐related genes was repressed in plants with reduced expression of NAD+ transporters as well as in plants treated with NAD+. Impaired NAD+ transport was further associated with an induction of abscisic acid (ABA)‐responsive genes. Inhibition of ABA synthesis rescued the stomatal phenotype in mutants deficient in intracellular NAD+ transport, whereas exogenous NAD+ feeding of aba‐2 and ost1 seedlings, impaired in ABA synthesis and ABA signaling, respectively, did not impact stomatal number, placing NAD upstream of ABA. Additionally, in vivo measurement of ABA dynamics in seedlings of an ABA‐specific optogenetic reporter − ABAleon2.1 − treated with NAD+ showed increases in ABA content suggesting that NAD+ impacts on stomatal development through ABA synthesis and signaling. Our results demonstrate that intracellular NAD+ homeostasis as set by synthesis, breakdown and transport is essential for normal stomatal development, and provide a link between central metabolism, hormone signaling and developmental plasticity.
Evaluation of the WHO global database on blood safety
Authors: Kanagasabai Udhayashankar , Selenic Dejana , Chevalier Michelle S. , Drammeh Bakary , Qualls Michael , Shiraishi Ray W. , Bock Naomi , Benech Irene , Mili Fatima D.
Published: September 2020

Objective

While the Global Database on Blood Safety (GDBS) helps to monitor the status of adequate and safe blood availability, its presence alone does not serve as a solution to existing challenges. The objective of this evaluation was to determine the GDBS usefulness in improving the availability of adequate safe blood and its ability to function as a surveillance system.

Methods

The GDBS was evaluated using methods set out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines for assessing surveillance systems. Six recommended tasks were used to evaluate if the GDBS met the requirements of a surveillance system in a public health context.

Results

The majority of stakeholders engaged with GDBS found it was unique and useful. The GDBS answered all six questions essential for determining a blood safety surveillance system’s usefulness. The GDBS fully met the needs to six of the eleven attributes used for evaluating the usefulness of a surveillance system.

Conclusion

The GDBS is a unique global activity that provides vital data on safety of blood transfusion services across countries and regions. However, aspects of the GDBS such as timeliness of reporting and improvement of WHO Member States national blood information systems could enhance its effectiveness and potential to serve as a global surveillance system for blood safety.
Blood supply sufficiency and safety management in Iran during the COVID‐19 outbreak
Authors: Maghsudlu Mahtab , Eshghi Peyman , Amini Kafi‐Abad Sedigheh , Sedaghat Abbas , Ranjbaran Hossein , Mohammadi Saeed , Tabatabai Seyed Morteza
Published: September 2020

Background

COVID‐19 first appeared in Iran on 19 February 2020, and then spread rapidly over the country. In this article, we review the action plan of the Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization with respect to this disease.

Method and materials

We collected data on blood donations and RBC inventory for the first 8 weeks of the outbreak. We also evaluated the trend of blood donations and RBC inventory and compared them with the data of the past year. We include a summary of actions taken by the National Committee on Management of COVID‐19 outbreak.

Results

Blood donations decreased from 33 275 to 23 465 units during the first 2 weeks of the outbreak with a corresponding decrease in the RBC inventory. But after that, donations gradually increased from 23 465 to 29 665 units. RBC inventory levels improved at the same time. Then, the Iranian New Year’s holiday resulted in another downward trend. After the holiday, blood donations revived, along with the RBC inventory.

Discussion

Although it appears that this virus cannot be transmitted through transfusion, changes in lifestyle had a significant impact on reducing blood supply. Following implemented measures, we saw an upward trend in blood donations and an adequate supply of RBC units in blood centres, helped by a reduction in demand by hospitals. Blood centres need to be more prepared to manage future viral disasters, especially in case of transfusion‐transmissible infections.
Local intertwining relation for metaplectic groups
Authors: Ishimoto Hiroshi
Published: October 2020

In an earlier paper of Wee Teck Gan and Gordan Savin, the local Langlands correspondence for metaplectic groups over a nonarchimedean local field of characteristic zero was established. In this paper, we formulate and prove a local intertwining relation for metaplectic groups assuming the local intertwining relation for non-quasi-split odd special orthogonal groups.
Physiological sex differences affect the integrative response to exercise: acute and chronic implications
Authors: Ansdell Paul , Thomas Kevin , Hicks Kirsty M. , Hunter Sandra K. , Howatson Glyn , Goodall Stuart
Published: October 2020

New Findings

What is the topic of this review?

We review sex differences within physiological systems implicated in exercise performance; specifically, how they integrate to determine metabolic thresholds and fatigability. Thereafter, we discuss the implications that these sex differences might have for long‐term adaptation to exercise.

What advances does it highlight?

The review collates evidence from recent physiological studies that have investigated sex as a biological variable, demonstrating that the physiological response to equivalent ‘dosages’ of exercise is not the same in males and females; thus, highlighting the need to research diversity in physiological responses to interventions.

The anatomical and physiological differences between males and females are thought to determine differences in the limits of human performance. The notion of studying sex as a biological variable has recently been emphasized in the biosciences as a vital step in enhancing human health. In this review, we contend that the effects of biological sex on acute and chronic responses must be studied and accounted for when prescribing aerobic exercise, much like any intervention targeting the optimization of physiological function. Emerging evidence suggests that the response of physiological systems to exercise differs between males and females, potentially mediating the beneficial effects in healthy and clinical populations. We highlight evidence that integrative metabolic thresholds during exercise are influenced by phenotypical sex differences throughout many physiological systems. Furthermore, we discuss evidence that female skeletal muscle is more resistant to fatigue elicited by equivalent dosages of high‐intensity exercise. How the different acute responses affect the long‐term trainability of males and females is considered, with discussion about tailoring exercise to the characteristics of the individual presented within the context of biological sex. Finally, we highlight the influence of endogenous and exogenous sex hormones on physiological responses to exercise in females. Sex is one of many mediating influences on the outcomes of exercise, and with careful experimental designs, physiologists can advance the collective understanding of diversity in physiology and optimize outcomes for both sexes.
Ultrafast ultrasound coupled with cervical magnetic stimulation for non‐invasive and non‐volitional assessment of diaphragm contractility
Authors: Poulard Thomas , Dres Martin , Niérat Marie‐Cécile , Rivals Isabelle , Hogrel Jean‐Yves , Similowski Thomas , Gennisson Jean‐Luc , Bachasson Damien
Published: September 2020

Key points

 Twitch transdiaphragmatic pressure elicited by cervical magnetic stimulation of the phrenic nerves is a fully non‐volitional method for assessing diaphragm contractility in humans, yet it requires invasive procedures such as oesophageal and gastric catheter balloons.

 Ultrafast ultrasound enables a very high frame rate allowing the capture of transient events, such as muscle contraction elicited by nerve stimulation (twitch). Whether indices derived from ultrafast ultrasound can be used as an alternative to the invasive measurement of twitch transdiaphragmatic pressure is unknown.

 Our findings demonstrate that maximal diaphragm tissue velocity assessed using ultrafast ultrasound following cervical magnetic stimulation is reliable, sensitive to change in cervical magnetic stimulation intensity, and correlates to twitch transdiaphragmatic pressure.

 This approach provides a novel fully non‐invasive and non‐volitional tool for the assessment of diaphragm contractility in humans.

Measuring twitch transdiaphragmatic pressure (Pdi,tw) elicited by cervical magnetic stimulation (CMS) is considered as a reference method for the standardized evaluation of diaphragm function. Yet, the measurement of Pdi requires invasive oesophageal and gastric catheter‐balloons. Ultrafast ultrasound is a non‐invasive imaging technique enabling frame rates high enough to capture transient events such as evoked muscle contractions. This study investigated relationships between indices derived from ultrafast ultrasound and Pdi,tw, and how these indices might be used to estimate Pdi,tw. CMS was performed in 13 healthy volunteers from 30% to 100% of maximal stimulator intensity in units of 10% in a randomized order. Pdi,tw was measured and the right hemidiaphragm was imaged using a custom ultrafast ultrasound sequence with 1 kHz framerate. Maximal diaphragm axial velocity (Vdi,max) and diaphragm thickening fraction (TFdi,tw) were computed. Intra‐session reliability was assessed. Repeated‐measures correlation (R) and Spearman correlation coefficients (ρ) were used to assess relationships between variables. Intra‐session reliability was strong for Pdi,tw and Vdi,max and moderate for TFdi,tw. Vdi,max correlated with Pdi,tw in all subjects (0.64 < ρ < 1.00, R = 0.75; all P < 0.05). TFdi,tw correlated with Pdi,tw in eight subjects only (0.85 < ρ < 0.93, R = 0.69; all P < 0.05). Coupling ultrafast ultrasound and CMS shows promise for the non‐invasive and fully non‐volitional assessment of diaphragm contractility. This approach opens up the prospect of both diagnosis and follow‐up of diaphragm contractility in clinical populations.
Tailoring Surface Hydrophobicity of Commercial Polyimide by Laser-Induced Nanocarbon Texturing
Authors: Abdulhafez Moataz , McComb Angela J. , Bedewy Mostafa
Published: September 2020

The growth of laser-induced nanocarbons, referred to here as laser-induced nanocarbon (LINC) for short, directly on polymeric surfaces is a promising route toward surface engineering of commercial polymers. This paper aims to demonstrate how this new approach can enable achieving varied surface properties based on tuning the nanostructured morphology of the formed graphitic material on commercial polyimide (Kapton) films. We elucidate the effects of tuning laser processing parameters on the achieved nanoscale morphology and the resulting surface hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity. Our results show that by varying lasing power, rastering speed, laser spot size, and line-to-line gap sizes, a wide range of water contact angles are possible, i.e., from below 20 deg to above 110 deg. Combining water contact angle measurements from an optical tensiometer with LINC surface characterization using optical microscopy, electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy enables building the process–structur–property relationship. Our findings reveal that both the value of contact angle and the anisotropic wetting behavior of LINC on polyimide are dependent on their hierarchical surface nanostructure which ranges from isotropic nanoporous morphology to fibrous morphology. Results also show that increasing gap sizes lead to an increase in contact angles and thus an increase in the hydrophobicity of the surface. Hence, our work highlight the potential of this approach for manufacturing flexible devices with tailored surfaces.
Notes on fossil Bdelloidea 1: the first snout mite (Acariformes: Bdellidae: Odontoscirinae) from the Cretaceous amber of Myanmar

Authors: Porta Andrés O. , Proud Daniel N. , Michalik Peter , Hernandes Fabio Akashi
Published: October 2020

A protonymph of the snout mite genus Odontoscirus Thor, 1913, O. cretacico sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Cretaceous amber of Myanmar is described and illustrated, constituting the earliest fossil species described of the family Bdellidae (ca. 99 Ma). After reexamining the literature and recollected specimens from type localities, we conclude that the following five recent species do not belong to the genus Biscirus and should be transferred to Odontoscirus: O. anomalicornis (Berlese 1916) comb. nov., O. symmetricus (Kramer 1898) comb. nov., O. uncinatus (Kramer 1898) comb. nov., O. norvegicus (Thor 1905) comb. nov., and O. insularis (Willmann 1939) comb. nov. The implications of the fossil record of the family is discussed.
Feather mites of the new genus Bernierinyssus gen. n. (Acariformes: Pteronyssidae) from endemic Malagasy warblers (Passeriformes: Bernieridae)—a lineage showing symbiotic cospeciation with their avian hosts

Authors: Mironov S. V. , Klimov P. B. , Block N. L. , Oconnor B. M
Published: October 2020

A new feather mite genus Bernierinyssus gen. n. (Analgoidea: Pteronyssidae), associated with endemic Malagasy warblers (Passeriformes: Bernieridae), is proposed based on morphological evidence and DNA sequence data. Within this genus, we detected six mite species, including five new species described here: Bernierinyssus angulatus sp. n. from Crossleyia xanthophrys, B. bernieriae sp. n. from Bernieria madagascariensis, B. bifenestratus sp. n. from Hartertula flavoviridis, B. randiae sp. n. from Randia pseudozosterops, B. xanthomixis sp. n. from Xanthomixis zosterops (type host) and X. cinereiceps, and B. oxylabis (Mironov and Wauthy 2005) comb. n. (transferred from Pteronyssoides Hull). Phylogenetic relationships of these mites were nearly perfectly congruent with those of their hosts, indicating that ancestral Bernierinyssus probably co-dispersed to Madagascar on the common ancestor of Malagasy warblers and then cospeciated with their hosts. Species of Bernierinyssus are well-delimited based on several lines of evidence: morphology (clear among-specific differences in discrete characters), host associations (one mite species per one host species, except for B. xanthomixis), genetic distances (large COX1 barcoding gap between among- and within-species K2P distances: 8.22¨C12.38% vs 0¨C2.9%, respectively), and molecular phylogenetics (all species are well-supported, monophyletic clades). Our study suggests that species of the genus Bernierinyssus have evolved slower than their avian hosts or co-associated feather lice. Despite the discordance in the mitochondrial DNA evolutionary rates, speciation events in mites largely corresponded to bird species divergences, resulting in a nearly perfect correlation between mite and bird species richness (Eichler's Rule). The mite B. xanthomixis was associated with two avian species, but still formed two distinct shallow lineages (COX1 distance: 1.65%) separated by the host species. The nearly strict host-specificity pattern found in Bernierinyssus contrasts with that of continental feather mites, which tend to be less host-specific and have nearly equal proportions of single-host vs multi-host species.
Low-cost spectrum analyzer for trouble shooting noise sources in scanning probe microscopy
Authors: McQuillan Nicholas M. , Larson Amanda M. , Sykes E. Charles H.
Published: October 2020

Scanning probe microscopes are notoriously sensitive to many types of external and internal interferences including electrical, mechanical, and acoustic noise. Sometimes noise can even be misinterpreted as real features in the images. Therefore, quantification of frequency and magnitude of any noise is the key to discover the source and eliminate it from the system. While commercial spectrum analyzers are perfect for this task, they are rather expensive and not always available. We present a simple, cost-effective solution in the form of an audio output from the instrument coupled to a smart phone spectrum analyzer application. Specifically, the scanning probe signal, e.g., the tunneling current of a scanning tunneling microscope, is fed to the spectrum analyzer which Fourier transforms the time domain acoustic signal into the frequency domain. When the scanning probe is in contact with the sample, but not scanning, the output is a spectrum containing both the amplitude and frequency of any periodic noise affecting the microscope itself, enabling troubleshooting to begin.
The Influence of Recruitment Age and Anthropometric and Physical Characteristics on the Development Pathway of English Academy Football Players
Authors: Noon Mark R. , Eyre Emma L.J. , Ellis Matthew , Myers Tony D. , Morris Rhys O. , Mundy Peter D. , Penny Ryan , Clarke Neil D.
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To investigate the influence of recruitment age on retention and release across the development pathway and to explore the influence of anthropometric and physical characteristics on retention and release at different ages throughout the development pathway and the likelihood of obtaining a professional contract. Methods: Following receipt of ethics approval, a cross-sectional study tracking 4 cohorts of players over 5 years assessed 76 male youth football players (11–16 y) from an English football academy on 3 occasions annually in anthropometry, countermovement jump height, and linear (30 and 15 m) and multidirectional sprint time. Players were categorized based on their start and release date. Results: Starting early (ie, before U12) in an academy was a key indicator of obtaining a professional contract, representing 87% of the players signed. Bayesian regression models suggest that the majority of differences in physical characteristics between players that were released and retained are trivial, small, and/or uncertain. Players who attained a professional contract at 18 had slower 15- and 30-m sprint times at U13 to U15 (P > 0 = .87–.99), slower multidirectional sprint times at U14 (P > 0 = .99), and lower countermovement jump height at U13 to U16 (P > 0 = .88–.99) compared with players who did not gain a contract. Conclusion: Players recruited early have an increased likelihood of gaining a professional contract. Physical assessments lack utility when used in isolation as a talent-identification tool.
“If You Ain’t First, You’re Last!” Understanding Identity Threat, Team Identification, and Advertisement Messages When Your Favorite Team Loses
Authors: Kwak Dae Hee , Pradhan Sean
Published: October 2020

Three experiments explore how sport consumers respond to sponsor advertisements featuring a team that lost a pivotal game. Drawing from social identity and appraisal theories, the authors hypothesize and find that high identifiers experience stronger negative emotions but less identity threat than low identifiers following their favorite team’s loss. When an advertisement features the losing team, low identifiers show less favorable evaluations toward the brand, whereas high identifiers report more favorable assessments. The results demonstrate that the tendency to hide and escape from the source of threat (losing team) among low identifiers is evidenced in processing marketing communications, whereas high identifiers display more positive evaluations toward the brand when the advertisement acknowledged the loss. The study findings provide implications for sponsors to consider different messaging strategies depending on the level of team identification with the losing team.
Gene regulatory networks controlling vertebrate retinal regeneration
Authors: Hoang Thanh , Wang Jie , Boyd Patrick , Wang Fang , Santiago Clayton , Jiang Lizhi , Yoo Sooyeon , Lahne Manuela , Todd Levi J. , Jia Meng , Saez Cristian , Keuthan Casey , Palazzo Isabella , Squires Natalie , Campbell Warren A. , Rajaii Fatemeh , Parayil Trisha , Trinh Vickie , Kim Dong Won , Wang Guohua , Campbell Leah J. , Ash John , Fischer Andy J. , Hyde David R. , Qian Jiang , Blackshaw Seth
Published: October 2020

Unlocking retinal regeneration in mice

Zebrafish can regenerate damaged retinal tissue, but mice cannot. Hoang
et al.
found that tracking changes in gene expression and chromatin accessibility upon injury revealed clues as to why retinal glial cells in zebrafish could generate new neurons but the same cell type in mice could not. In zebrafish, activated Müller glial cells shift into a proliferative phase, whereas in mice, a genetic network returns the glial cells to quiescence. A few transcription factors enforce quiescence in the mouse, and disruption of these allowed Müller glia to proliferate and generate new neurons after retinal injury.

Science
, this issue p.
eabb8598
c-di-AMP Accumulation Impairs Muropeptide Synthesis in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Massa Steven M. , Sharma Amar Deep , Siletti Cheta , Tu Zepeng , Godfrey Jared J. , Gutheil William G. , Huynh TuAnh N.
Published: October 2020

The bacterial second messenger c-di-AMP is produced by a large number of bacteria and conditionally essential to many species. Conversely, c-di-AMP accumulation is also toxic to bacterial physiology and pathogenesis, but its mechanisms are largely undefined. We found that in
Listeria monocytogenes
, elevated c-di-AMP levels diminished muropeptide synthesis and increased susceptibility to cell wall-targeting antimicrobials. Cell wall defects might be an important mechanism for attenuated virulence in bacteria with high c-di-AMP levels.
Variability in Zinc Concentration among Mueller-Hinton Broth Brands: Impact on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing
Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Bilinskaya Anastasia , Buckheit Douglas J. , Gnoinski Michael , Asempa Tomefa E. , Nicolau David P.
Published: October 2020

Zinc concentrations in cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth (caMHB) from different manufacturers have been found to differ. Here, we evaluated the impact of utilizing different brands and lots of commercially available caMHB on the classification of the antimicrobial susceptibility of metallo-β-lactamase (MBL)-harboring
Enterobacteriaceae
. We also evaluated the addition of EDTA to caMHB as a means of achieving zinc-limited media. Fifteen clinical
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates (harboring NDM [
n
 = 7], VIM [
n
 = 3], IMP [
n
 = 2], or KPC [
n
 = 3]) and nine different commercial lots from three caMHB manufacturers (Becton, Dickinson; Oxoid; and Sigma-Aldrich) were utilized.
Whole-Genome Sequences of Antibiotic-Resistant Aeromonas caviae Strains Isolated from Treated Wastewater
Authors: Jałowiecki Łukasz , Płaza Grażyna , Nowrotek Monika
Published: September 2020

The presented data provide new information on antibiotic resistance and virulence genes in the genomes of
Aeromonas caviae
strains TW-2 and TW-6, isolated from treated wastewater. The results confirm the presence of multi-antibiotic-resistant
Aeromonas caviae
strains with virulence properties as “high-risk isolates” in treated wastewater.
Rare broncho-pulmonary arterial fistula in a healthy 9-year-old girl
Authors: Avdimiretz Nicholas , Glicksman Amy , Dell Sharon , John Philip , Moraes Theo J
Published: October 2020

A 9-year-old previously well girl presented with multiple episodes of large volume haemoptysis and right sided consolidation. She continued to have haemoptysis despite intravenous antibiotics. CT chest suggested a right mainstem endobronchial lesion; this was not seen on bronchoscopy where an extensive blood clot was removed. Distal flexible bronchoscopy could not identify the source of bleeding. CT angiogram revealed a broncho-pulmonary arterial fistula, a rare cause of haemoptysis in children. Endovascular embolisation resulted in short-term symptom resolution; however, haemoptysis recurred months later, leading to re-embolisation. This case highlights a stepwise approach to the workup of large volume haemoptysis.
Incidence and seasonality of type 1 diabetes: a population-based 3-year cohort study using the National Database in Japan
Authors: Nishioka Yuichi , Noda Tatsuya , Okada Sadanori , Myojin Tomoya , Kubo Shinichiro , Higashino Tsuneyuki , Ishii Hitoshi , Imamura Tomoaki
Published: September 2020

Introduction

To investigate the incidence of type 1 diabetes by age group (0–19, 20–39, 40–59, ≥60 years) in Japan and whether there is seasonality in this incidence.

Research design and methods

The incidence of type 1 diabetes from September 2014 to August 2017 was estimated using 2013–2018 data from the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Check-ups of Japan. The incidence rate was analyzed using Tango’s Index and the self-controlled case series method.

Results

Overall, 10 400 of the 79 175 553 included individuals were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The incidence of type 1 diabetes from September 2014 to August 2017 was 4.42/100 000 person-years. The incidence rates for men aged 0–19, 20–39, 40–59, and ≥60 years were 3.94, 5.57, 5.70, and 3.48, respectively. Among women, the incidence rates for the same age ranges were 5.22, 4.83, 4.99, and 3.31, respectively. Tango’s index showed that the incidence rate of type 1 diabetes was significantly associated with seasons among those aged 0–19 years. Further, the self-controlled case series method showed a significant interaction between age and season, with the incidence of type 1 diabetes being higher in spring for patients younger than 20 years of age.

Conclusions

In Japan, men aged 40–59 years and women aged 0–19 years are the groups with the highest incidence of type 1 diabetes. Further, the incidence of younger-onset diabetes in Japan was higher in spring (from March to May).
Metabolic and energetic benefits of microRNA-22 inhibition
Authors: Thibonnier Marc , Esau Christine , Ghosh Sujoy , Wargent Edward , Stocker Claire
Published: October 2020

Introduction

We previously demonstrated in primary cultures of human subcutaneous adipocytes and in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity that specific microRNA-22-3p antagomirs produce a significant reduction of fat mass and an improvement of several metabolic parameters. These effects are related to the activation of target genes such asKDM3A,KDM6B,PPARA,PPARGC1BandSIRT1involved in lipid catabolism, thermogenesis, insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis.

Research design and methods

We now report a dedicated study exploring over the course of 3 months the metabolic and energetic effects of subcutaneous administration of our first miR-22-3p antagomir drug candidate (APT-110) in adult C57BL/6 male mice. Body composition, various blood parameters and energy expenditure were measured at several timepoints between week 12 and week 27 of age.

Results

Weekly subcutaneous injections of APT-110 for 12 weeks produced a sustained increase of energy expenditure as early as day 11 of treatment, a significant fat mass reduction, but no change of appetite nor physical activity. Insulin sensitivity as well as circulating glucose, cholesterol and leptin were improved. There was a dramatic reduction of liver steatosis after 3 months of active treatment. RNA sequencing revealed an activation of lipid metabolism pathways in a tissue-specific manner.

Conclusions

These original findings suggest that microRNA-22-3p inhibition could lead to a potent treatment of fat accumulation, insulin resistance, and related complex metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Intraoperative visualisation and treatment of salivary glands in Sjögren’s syndrome by contrast-enhanced ultrasound sialendoscopy (CEUSS): protocol for a phase I single-centre, single-arm, exploratory study
Authors: Karagozoglu K Hakki , Helder Marco , Bot Joseph , Kamp Otto , Forouzanfar Tim , Brand Henk S , Cha Seunghee , Weisman Gary , Bartelink Imke , Vissink Arjan , Jager Derk Hendrik Jan
Published: September 2020

Introduction

We established a promising sialendoscopic treatment for in vivo enhancement of salivation in salivary glands affected by Sjögren’s syndrome (SS). In this technique, the ducts of the salivary glands are irrigated with saline and steroids. This allows for dilatation of ductal strictures and removal of debris. Unfortunately, it is not possible to assess the delivery and penetration of saline or medications in the ductal system and parenchyma. To address this problem, we will conduct contrast-enhanced ultrasound sialendoscopy (CEUSS) using sulphur hexafluoride microbubbles. To the best of our knowledge, microbubbles have never been used for the treatment of salivary glands in SS. It is, therefore, imperative to test this application for its safety and feasibility.

Methods and analysis

A single-arm phase I study will be performed in 10 SS patients. Under local anaesthesia, ultrasound (US) guided infusion of the parotid and submandibular glands with microbubbles will be performed. Continuous US imaging will be used to visualise the glands, including the location of strictures and occlusions. Main outcomes will be the evaluation of safety and technical feasibility of the experimental treatment. Secondary outcomes will consist of determinations of unstimulated whole mouth saliva flow, stimulated whole mouth saliva flow, stimulated parotid saliva flow, clinical oral dryness, reported pain, xerostomia, disease activity, salivary cytokine profiles and clinical SS symptoms. Finally, salivary gland topographical alterations will be evaluated by US.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee of the Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (NL68283.029.19). data will be presented at national and international conferences and published in a peer-reviewed journal. The study will be implemented and reported in line with the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials’ statement.

Trial registration numbers

The Netherlands Trial Register: NL7731, MREC Trial Register: NL68283.029.19; Pre-results.
Dancing to improve balance control, cognitive-motor functions and quality of life after stroke: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Morice Emmanuel , Moncharmont Julien , Jenny Clémentine , Bruyneel Anne-Violette
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Dance is an intrinsically motivating activity that includes social interaction, stimulation through music, the pleasure of moving despite pathology-induced motor limitations, and it also has good perceived benefits among participants. Feeling pleasure while moving is essential to finding the motivation to engage in a rehabilitation programme. It is, therefore, urgent to provide persons in a poststroke situation with motivating physical activity opportunities. Very few studies have examined dance in a stroke context, while it is highly adapted and effective for other chronic conditions.

Our primary objective is to assess the effects of dance programme on patients’ balance control after stroke. Our secondary objective is to investigate the effects of dance on cognitive function, strength, coordination, functional status, balance confidence, quality of life, motivation and adherence. Our hypothesis is that dance increases balance and motor capacities, and improves poststroke quality of life, adherence and motivation.

Methods and analysis

Forty-eight subjects with stroke in subacute phase will be randomised into two groups: (1) intervention (dance and standard rehabilitation) and (2) control (standard rehabilitation). Before intervention, stroke severity, cognitive abilities and motor capacities will be assessed. Two baseline tests will be planned to evaluate the stability of individuals. Participants will attend a weekly 60-min dance class for 6 weeks. Cognitive and motor functions (balance, lower-limbs strength, coordination and motor level), quality of life (Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale) will be measured at weeks 4 and 6 in both groups. Participant satisfaction with regard to dance will be tested, as well as adherence and adverse effects.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been granted by the Swiss Ethics Committee of the CER Vaud (2019-01467). Outcomes will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04120467.
Effect of maintaining supervised gym- and home-based exercises on the seasonal variations of metabolic outcomes in overweight and obese Japanese adults
Authors: Honda Hiroto , Igaki Makoto , Komatsu Motoaki , Tanaka Shin-ichiro
Published: October 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to examine whether maintaining supervised gym- and home-based exercises for an extended time of period could decrease seasonal variations of metabolic outcomes in overweight and obese Japanese adults.

Methods

This retrospective study recruited 54 overweight and obese outpatients who started exercising in 2006–2010 and analysed their metabolic outcomes for 5 years from March 2011 to February 2016. In this group, 26 participants performed moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (MIAE) for 30–40 min/day for at least 2 days/week, supervised by physical therapists at a hospital gym (GYM) during the observation period. Conversely, 28 participants were asked to perform MIAE by themselves at or around their homes (HOME) for the same duration.

Results

The body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values in winter were higher than those in other seasons in the HOME group but not in the GYM group. The annual ranges of BMI, waist circumference, fasting plasma glucose and HOMA-IR in the GYM group were smaller than those in the HOME group.

Conclusion

Maintaining supervised gym-based exercise, as opposed to home-based exercise, may decrease seasonal variations of some metabolic outcomes in overweight and obese Japanese adults.