bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior Petrosal Approach for Enlarging Previously Radiated Recurrent Trigeminal Schwannoma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Rinaldo Lorenzo , Patel Neil S , Driscoll Colin L W , Link Michael J
Published: April 2021

Trigeminal nerve schwannomas (TNSs) are rare lesions that typically present with symptoms of trigeminal neuropathy or other cranial nerve palsies. These lesions classically have a dumbbell shape, with an anterior component within Meckel's cave and posterior component extending into the posterior fossa through the porus trigeminus. Surgical resection of TNSs can often be achieved via an extradural subtemporal approach to Meckel's cave without an anterior petrousectomy, even for tumors with a significant posterior fossa component, as the tumor often erodes a portion of the petrous apex.
1
We present the case of a 53-yr-old female presenting to our institution with complete trigeminal neuropathy secondary to a right-sided, previously resected and radiated TNS. Serial imaging demonstrated an interval growth of significant residual tumor despite multiple adjuvant therapies, and, thus, the patient was recommended to undergo additional surgical resection. The lesion was approached through a right-sided subtemporal approach to Meckel's cave,
2
with a plan to utilize an anterior petrousectomy only if difficulty resecting the posterior fossa component of the tumor was encountered. Intraoperatively, the posterior fossa component was found to be densely adherent to the adjacent brainstem, likely secondary to prior surgery and radiation therapy, and, thus, an anterior petrousectomy was performed. Postoperatively, the patient had stable trigeminal neuropathy without any new neurological deficits and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed a gross total resection. In the accompanying video, we hope to demonstrate the steps and nuances of both the subtemporal approach to accessing Meckel's cave and anterior petrousectomy when employed for the resection of TNSs.

The patient in question provided formal consent for the making of this video.
Unexpected Decrease in Shunt Surgeries Performed during the Shelter-in-Place Period of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Laxpati Nealen , Bray David P , Wheelus Jennifer , Hamilton Kimberly , Boydston William , Reisner Andrew , Sawvel Michael , Chern Joshua J
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

It is expected that the incidence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt malfunctions would remain unchanged during the shelter-in-place period related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the number of shunt surgeries performed in a single institution during this time interval in comparison to equivalent periods in past years.

METHODS

The numbers of elective and emergent/urgent shunt surgeries performed at a single institution were queried for a 28-d period starting on the third Monday of March, between years 2015 and 2020. These were further stratified by how they presented as well as the type of surgery performed.

RESULTS

During the 28-d period of interest, in the years between 2015 and 2020, there was a steady increase in the number of shunt surgeries performed, with a maximum of 64 shunt surgeries performed in 2019. Of these, approximately 50% presented in urgent fashion in any given year. In the 4-wk period starting March 16, 2020, a total of 32 shunt surgeries were performed, with 15 of those cases presenting from the outpatient setting in emergent/urgent fashion. For the surgeries performed, there was a statistically significant decrease in the number of revision shunt surgeries performed.

CONCLUSION

During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, there was an unexpected decrease in the number of shunt surgeries performed, and particularly in the number of revision surgeries performed. This suggests that an environmental factor related to the pandemic is altering the presentation rate of shunt malfunctions.
A MODEL FOR EVALUATING THE USE OF IMAGING IN IMAGE-GUIDED INTERVENTIONAL PROCEDURES—POSSIBLE IMPLICATIONS ON OPTIMISATION OF RADIATION PROTECTION
Authors: Lundh C , Ivarsson J , Falkenberg M , Båth M , Almén A
Published: April 2021

The present study focuses on introducing the concept of optimisation and proposing a model, including evaluation of image quality, to be used in the clinical routines where image-guided intervention is being performed. The overall aim of the study was to develop a model for evaluating the use of imaging in X-ray-guided interventional procedures and its possible implications on optimisation of radiation protection. In the search for an adequate evaluation model, data from endovascular interventions of the aorta (EVAR procedures) were used. The procedure was schematically described in steps. Every imaging event was connected to the steps in the medical procedure and was also described with the purpose of the imaging event. Available technical, as well as procedural parameters, were studied and analysed. Data were collected from the X-ray equipment for 70 EVAR procedures and, out of these, 12 procedures were randomly selected to be recorded on video to understand the procedure better. It was possible to describe the EVAR procedures in a general way with explanations of the clinical purpose connected to each imaging event. Possible quality parameters of the procedure were identified for the imaging events (radiation dose, image quality). The model method still needs to be refined and will then be applied to clinical data and to other clinical procedures to test the validity.
The more the merrier? Inventor team size, diversity, and innovation quality
Authors: Hu Die , She Maoyan , Ye Lingfeng , Wang Zhiwei
Published: April 2021

Although teamwork shows stronger innovation ability than individuals and this advantage has been increasing over time, the negative effects of larger teams also appear as the number of inventor members increases. This study discusses the double-edged sword role of inventor teams in innovation quality at two extremes: the high quality and the low quality. We argue that, inventor team size influences innovation quality because diversity works in the evolutionary process of innovation, but different types of diversity play distinct moderating roles in these relationships. Using patent data from the US pharmaceutical industry, empirical results show that there is an inverted U-shape relationship between inventor team size and high-quality innovation, and a negative relationship between inventor team size and low-quality innovation. These relationships are moderated at different degree by technological and geographic diversity. Our findings contribute to existing literature of innovation and also provide meaningful implications for innovation management.
The “Stuff” of Class: How Property Rules in Preschool Reproduce Class Inequality
Authors: Stockstill Casey
Published: April 2021

How does access to property shape children’s experiences of institutions? Can access to property in preschool counter class inequality? Using two years of ethnographic data from a preschool serving middle-class, white children and a preschool serving poor children of color, I explore how access to and control over objects such as toys shapes children’s school experiences. I found that preschools created different experiences of property: precarious property and protected property. Poor children of color experienced precarious property: personal objects were forbidden at school due to the risk of theft or loss. Teachers’ loose supervision meant that children sometimes had classroom toys taken by peers. In contrast, middle-class, white children experienced protected property; teachers’ rules encouraged children to bring some personal property, which was kept safe at school. Teachers’ close supervision also allowed children to securely enjoy classroom toys. These property rules meant that white, middle-class preschoolers could assert individuality and control through property. Meanwhile, poor preschoolers of color had limited school-sponsored opportunities to assert individuality through personal property. I argue that property rules at preschool can reproduce class inequality.
Universal Primers for Rapid Detection of Six Pospiviroids in Solanaceae Plants Using One-Step Reverse-Transcription PCR and Reverse-Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification
Authors: Tseng Yi-Wen , Wu Chien-Fu , Lee Chia-Hwa , Chang Chung-Jan , Chen Yuh-Kun , Jan Fuh-Jyh
Published: April 2021

A number of viruses and viroids infect solanaceous plants causing severe yield losses. Several seed-borne viroids are listed as quarantine pathogens in many countries. Among them, columnea latent viroid, pepper chat fruit viroid, potato spindle tuber viroid, tomato apical stunt viroid, tomato chlorotic dwarf viroid, and tomato planta macho viroid are of major concerns. The objective of this study was to design and test universal primers that could be used to detect six viroids in solanaceous plants using one-step reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP). Results revealed that a pair of degenerate primers could be used in a one-step RT-PCR to amplify six pospiviroids from Solanaceae seeds and plants. Moreover, five primers were designed and used in RT-LAMP to amplify six pospiviroids. The minimal concentration of viroid RNA required for a successful detection varied, ranging from 1 fg to 10 ng, depending on the species of viroid and detection method. In general, RT-LAMP was more sensitive than RT-PCR, but both assays were rapid and highly sensitive tools to detect six pospiviroids. Detection methods in use for these viroids require at least two different sets of primers. The assays developed in this research could facilitate the ability to screen a large number of solanaceous plants and seeds intended for import and export.
Norepinephrine-Induced Peripheral Ischemia Leading to Gangrene: A Case Series
Authors: Wilson Michael , Schafer Kristin , Goldschmidt Eric , Wu Benita , Simman Richard
Published: April 2021

Norepinephrine is used in the acute care setting to establish and maintain hemodynamic stability in patients with hypotension. Although it is often a lifesaving medication, norepinephrine may lead to profound vascular insufficiency in the extremities, resulting in dry gangrene and skin necrosis. The purpose of this article is to present a case series of skin complications related to treatment with norepinephrine and review the pathophysiology behind these complications. The authors also explore risk stratification as it relates to history and clinical presentation with subsequent focus on contingencies to mitigate the adverse effects of vasoconstriction on peripheral tissues.
Impact of montelukast as add on treatment to the novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19): protocol for an investigator-initiated open labeled randomized controlled pragmatic trial
Authors: Tavares Margarida , Farraia Mariana , Silva Susana , Ribeiro Ana Margarida , Severo Milton , Paciência Inês , Ribeiro Raquel , Hespanhol Venceslau , Guimarães João Tiago , Almeida Jorge , Magro Fernando , Sarmento António , Oliveira Ana Marta , Moreira André
Published: April 2021

Background:

Montelukast, a safe drug widely use in asthmatic patients, may be an adjuvant in the treatment of Covid-19, either by improving lung injury and inflammation, or by acting as an anti-viral drug. We aim to assess the efficacy and safety of montelukast as add-on treatment in patients with Covid-19.

Methods:

We propose a randomized, controlled, parallel, open-label trial involving 160 hospitalized adult patients with confirmed Covid-19. Patients will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either montelukast 10 mg, once a day for 14 days, in addition to standard of care (SoC), or SoC alone. SoC will follow the best practice for treating these patients, according to updated recommendations. The primary outcome is time to recovery. Participants will be assessed using diary cards to capture data on treatment-related improvements in an 8-point ordinal scale. Secondary endpoints will include changes in respiratory and inflammatory parameters, and adverse events. This phase IV clinical trial will take place at the University Hospital of São João, Porto. EudraCT number: 2020-001747-21.

Results:

This study intends to generate scientific evidence on efficacy and safety of montelukast as add-on treatment in Covid-19. The results will be essential to improve clinical outcomes which remains to be determined.

Conclusion:

Montelukast has been suggested as a potential drug with 2 main actions on Covid-19. The validation of montelukast as an adjuvant treatment may improve lung injury, inflammation, and symptoms leading to a better prognosis. The use of this drug may fulfil the existing gap on therapeutic options.
Migratory connectivity then and now: a northward shift in breeding origins of a long-distance migratory bird wintering in the tropics
Authors: Gómez Camila , Hobson Keith A. , Bayly Nicholas J. , Rosenberg Kenneth V. , Morales-Rozo Andrea , Cardozo Paula , Cadena Carlos Daniel
Published: April 2021

Temporal variation in the connectivity of populations of migratory animals has not been widely documented, despite having important repercussions for population ecology and conservation. Because the long-distance movements of migratory animals link ecologically distinct and geographically distant areas of the world, changes in the abundance and migratory patterns of species may reflect differential drivers of demographic trends acting over various spatial scales. Using stable hydrogen isotope analyses (
δ
2
H) of feathers from historical museum specimens and contemporary samples obtained in the field, we provide evidence for an approximately 600 km northward shift over 45 years in the breeding origin of a species of songbird of major conservation concern (blackpoll warbler,
Setophaga striata
) wintering in the foothills of the eastern Andes of Colombia. Our finding mirrors predictions of range shifts for boreal-breeding species under warming climate scenarios and habitat loss in the temperate zone, and underscores likely drivers of widespread declines in populations of migratory birds. Our work also highlights the value of natural history collections to document the effects of global change on biodiversity.
The under-investigated wild side ofEscherichia coli: genetic diversity, pathogenicity and antimicrobial resistance in wild animals
Authors: Lagerstrom Katherine M. , Hadly Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2021

A striking paucity of information exists onEscherichia coliin wild animals despite evidence that they harbour pathogenic and antimicrobial-resistantE. coliin their gut microbiomes and may even serve as melting pots for novel genetic combinations potentially harmful to human health. Wild animals have been implicated as the source of pathogenicE. colioutbreaks in agricultural production, but a lack of knowledge surrounding the genetics ofE. coliin wild animals complicates source tracking and thus contamination curtailment efforts. As human populations continue to expand and invade wild areas, the potential for harmful microorganisms to transfer between humans and wildlife increases. Here, we conducted a literature review of the small body of work onE. coliin wild animals. We highlight the geographic and host taxonomic coverage to date, and in each, identify significant gaps. We summarize the current understanding ofE. coliin wild animals, including its genetic diversity, host and geographic distribution, and transmission pathways within and between wild animal and human populations. The knowledge gaps we identify call for greater research efforts to understand the existence ofE. coliin wild animals, especially in light of the potentially strong implications for global public health.
Antibody Response after First-dose of ChAdOx1-nCOV (Covishield™®) and BBV-152 (Covaxin™®) amongst Health Care Workers in India: Preliminary Results of Cross-sectional Coronavirus Vaccine-induced Antibody Titre (COVAT) study
Authors: Singh Awadhesh Kumar , Phatak Sanjeev Ratnakar , Singh Nagendra Kumar , Gupta Arvind , Sharma Arvind , Bhattacharjee Kingshuk , Singh Ritu
Published: April 2021

Background

Two vaccines are currently being administered in India to prevent the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We assessed the humoral immune response after the first dose of two vaccines ChAdOx1-nCOV (Covishield™) and BBV-152 (Covaxin™) in Indian health care workers (HCW).

Methods

This ongoing, Pan-India, Cross-sectional, Coronavirus Vaccine-induced Antibody Titre (COVAT) study is being conducted amongst HCW, with or without past history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike binding antibody is being assessed quantitatively at four timepoints between 21 days or more after the first dose to 6 months after the second dose. Primary aim is to analyze antibody response following each dose of both vaccines and its correlation to age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and comorbidities. Here we report the preliminary results of anti-spike antibody response after the first dose.

Results

Amongst the 552 HCW (325 Male, 227 Female), 456 and 96 received first dose of Covishield and Covaxin respectively. Overall, 79.3% showed seropositivity after the first dose. Responder rate and median (IQR) rise in anti-spike antibody was significantly higher in Covishield vs. Covaxin recipient (86.8 vs. 43.8%; 61.5 vs. 6 AU/ml; both p<0.001). This difference persisted in propensity-matched (age, sex and BMI) analysis in 172 subjects. No difference was observed with age, gender and BMI. History of hypertension had lower responder rate (65.7 vs. 82.3%, p=0.001). Covishield recipient had more adverse event vs. Covaxin arm (46.7 vs. 31.2%, p=0.006). Presence of comorbidities, past SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine types used were independent predictors for seropositivity after the first dose, in multiple logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions

While both vaccines elicited immune response, seropositivity rates to anti-spike antibody were significantly higher in Covishield recipient compared to Covaxin after the first dose. Ongoing COVAT study will further enlighten the immune response between two vaccines after the second dose.

Highlights

This study evaluated the humoral antibody response of two SARS-CoV-2 vaccines Covishield™ and Covaxin™ in Indian health-care workers.

Both vaccines showed seropositivity to anti-spike antibody, 21 days or more after the first dose.

Responder rates were higher in Covishield recipient compared to Covaxin in propensity-matched cohorts.

Past SARS-CoV-2 infection, presence of comorbidities and vaccine type received were independent predictors of antibody response after the first dose.
Critical Care Resources and Disaster Preparedness Survey 2020
Authors: Finfer Simon , Hammond Naomi , Vijayaraghavan Bharath Kumar Tirupakuzhi , Ling Lowell , Thwaites Louise , Abbenbroek Brett
Published: April 2021

Aim

To investigate critical care resourcing and the clinical management of sepsis in lower-middle income, upper-middle income and high income countries across the Asia Pacific region.

Background

Sepsis is a time-critical complex condition that requires evidence-based care delivered by appropriate levels of well trained, qualified and experienced staff supported by proactive organisational and quality processes, sophisticated technologies and reliable infrastructure. In 2017, the estimated sepsis incidence in the Asia Pacific region ranged from 120 to 200 per 100,000 population in Australia and New Zealand to 2500 to 3400 per 100,000 population in India. Currently, there is limited information on the organisational structures, human resources, clinical standards, laboratory support and the therapeutic options available in the Asia Pacific region to treat sepsis.

Method

Prospective electronic survey.

Results

Representatives of 59 hospitals from 15 countries responded. Provision of critical care and the management of sepsis varied considerably between lower-middle income, upper-middle income and high income countries. Specific differences include nurse to patient ratios and availability of allied health services.

Conventional organ support modalities such as mechanical ventilation and non-invasive ventilation were commonly available. Even advanced life support like extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was available in at least 60% of surveyed ICUs. However, in contrast, essential monitoring devices including EtCO2 were not universally available.

Lower-middle income countries had considerably lower provisions for isolation and surge capacity to support pandemic and disaster management, though basic personal protective equipment was widely available.

A majority of ICUs used the Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines or the adapted version for lower-middle income countries, though only 21% of ICUs in lower-middle income countries used the adapted version. While essential antimicrobials were accessible across most ICUs, availability of reserve antibiotics was limited.

Conclusion

The disparities identified in this survey inform healthcare workers and health services, policy makers and governments on the priorities for action to improve the delivery of critical care and sepsis outcomes in this region.
Probability and Estimated Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Transmission in the Air Travel System: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pang Jenna K. , Jones Stephen P. , Waite Lindsay L. , Olson Nels A. , Atmur Robert J. , Cummins Joshua J.
Published: April 2021

As an emerging virus, SARS-CoV-2 and the risk of transmission during air travel is of high interest. This paper estimates the probability of an infectious index passenger in the air travel system transmitting the SARS-CoV-2 virus to a fellow passenger during air travel. Literature was reviewed from May–September 2020 to identify COVID-19 cases related to the air travel system. The studies were limited to publicly available literature for passengers starting in January 2020; studies on other persons such as flight crews were not reviewed. A novel quantitative approach was developed to estimate air travel transmission risk that considers secondary cases, the overall air travel passenger population, and two correction factors for asymptomatic transmission and underreporting. There were at least 2866 index infectious passengers documented to have passed through the air travel system in a 1.4 billion passenger population. With correction factors, the global risk of transmission during air travel is 1:1.7 million. Uncertainty in the correction factors and a 95% credible interval indicate risk ranges from 1 case for every 712,000 travelers to 1 case for every 8 million travelers. The risk of COVID-19 transmission on an aircraft is low, even with infectious persons onboard.
First record of ‘tail-belting’ in two species of free-ranging rodents (Apodemus flavicollis and Apodemus agrarius): Adaptation to prevent frostbite?
Authors: Stryjek Rafal , Parsons Michael H. , Bebas Piotr
Published: April 2021

Rodents are among the most successful mammals because they have the ability to adapt to a broad range of environmental conditions. Here, we present the first record of a hitherto unknown thermal adaptation to low temperatures that repeatedly occurred in two species of non-commensal rodents (Apodemus flavicollisandApodemus agrarius) between January 16 and February 11, 2021. The classic rodent literature implies that rodents prevent heat loss via a broad range of behavioral adaptations including sheltering, sitting on their tails, curling into a ball, or huddling with conspecifics. Yet, we have repeatedly observed an undescribed behavior which we refer to as “tail-belting”. The behavior was performed during the lowest temperatures, whereby animals - which were attracted out of their over-wintering burrows for a highly-palatable food reward - lift and curl the tail medially, before resting it on the dorsal, medial rump while feeding or resting between feeding bouts. We documented 115 instances of the tail-belting behavior; 38 inApodemus agrarius, and 77 inApodemus flavicollis. InA. flavicollis, this behavior was only observed below −6.9C, and occurred more often than inA. Agrarius. The latter only demonstrated the behavior below −9.5C. We further detail the environmental conditions under which the behavior is performed, and provide possible functions. We then set several directions for future research in this area.
Imatinib mesylate induces necroptotic cell death and impairs autophagic flux in human cardiac progenitor cells
Authors: Walmsley Robert , Steele Derek S. , Ellison-Hughes Georgina M. , Smith Andrew J.
Published: April 2021

The receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate has improved patient cancer survival rates but has been linked to long-term cardiotoxicity. This study investigated the effects of imatinib on cell viability, apoptosis, autophagy and necroptosis in human cardiac progenitor cells in vitro. After 24 hours, imatinib significantly reduced cell viability (75.9±2.7% vs._100.0±0.0%, n=5, p<0.05) at concentrations comparable to peak plasma levels (10 µM). Further investigation showed no increase in caspase 3 or 7 activation. Imatinib also significantly reduced the fluorescence of cells stained with TMRM (74.6±6.5% vs. 100.0±0.0%, n=5, p<0.05), consistent with mitochondrial depolarization. Imatinib increased lysosome and autophagosome content relative to the control, as indicated by changes in acridine orange fluorescence (46.0±5.4% vs. 9.0±3.0, n=7, p<0.001) and expression of LAMP2 (2.4±0.3 fold, n=3, p<0.05) after 24 hours treatment. Although imatinib increased the expression of proteins associated with autophagy, it also impaired the autophagic flux, as demonstrated by the proximity ligation assay staining for LAMP2 (lysosome marker) and LC3II (autophagosome marker), with control cells showing 11.3±2.1 puncta per cell and 48 hours of imatinib treatment reducing the visible puncta to 2.7±0.7 per cell (n=10, p<0.05). Cell viability was partially recovered by autophagosome inhibition by wortmannin, with a 91.8±8.2% (n=5, p>0.05) increase in viability after imatinib and wortmannin co-treatment. Imatinib-induced necroptosis was associated with an 8.5±2.5-fold increase in activation of mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase. Imatinib-induced toxicity was rescued by RIP1 inhibition relative to the control; 88.6±3.0% vs. 100.0±0.0% (n=4, p>0.05). In summary, imatinib applied to human cardiac progenitor cells depolarizes mitochondria and induces cell death through necroptosis, which can be recovered by inhibition of RIP1, with an additional partial role for autophagy in the cell death pathway. These data provide two possible targets for co-therapies to address imatinib-induced long-term cardiotoxicity.
Adipose mitochondrial metabolism controls body growth by modulating cytokine and insulin signaling
Authors: Sriskanthadevan-Pirahas Shrivani , Turingan Michael J , Chahal Joel S , Thorson Erin , Grewal Savraj S
Published: April 2021

Animals need to adapt their growth to fluctuations in nutrient availability to ensure proper development and survival. These adaptations often rely on specific nutrient-sensing tissues and their control of whole-body physiology through inter-organ communication. While the signaling mechanisms that underlie this communication are well studied, the contributions of metabolic alterations in the nutrient-sensing tissues are less clear. Here, we show how reprogramming of adipose mitochondrial metabolism controls whole-body growth inDrosophilalarvae. We find that dietary nutrients alter fat body mitochondrial morphology to lower their bioenergetic activity, which we see can rewire fat body glucose metabolism. Strikingly, we find that genetic reduction of mitochondrial bioenergetics just in the fat body is sufficient to accelerate body growth and development. These growth effects are caused by inhibition of the fat-derived adipokine, TNFα/Eiger, which leads to enhanced systemic insulin signaling, the main hormonal stimulator of body growth. Our work reveals how reprogramming of mitochondrial metabolism in one nutrient-sensing tissue is able to couple whole body growth to nutrient availability.
Associations between Infant-Mother Physiological Synchrony and 4- to 6-Month-Old Infants’ Emotion Regulation
Authors: Abney Drew H. , daSilva Elizabeth B. , Bertenthal Bennett I.
Published: April 2021

In this study we assessed whether physiological synchrony between infants and mothers contributes to infants’ emotion regulation following a mild social stressor. Infants between 4- to 6-months of age and their mothers were tested in the Face-to-Face-Still-Face paradigm, and were assessed for behavioral and physiological self-regulation during and following the stressor. Physiological synchrony was calculated from a continuous measure of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) enabling us to cross-correlate the infants’ and mothers’ RSA responses. Without considering physiological synchrony, the evidence suggested that infants’ distress followed the prototypical pattern of increasing during the Still Face episode and then decreasing during the Reunion episode. Once physiological synchrony was added to the model, we observed that infants’ emotion regulation improved if mother-infant synchrony was positive, but not if it was negative. This result was qualified further by whether or not infants suppressed their RSA response during the Still Face episode. In sum, these findings highlight how individual differences in infants’ physiological responses contribute significantly to their self-regulation abilities.
P5A-ATPase controls the ER translocation of Wnt in neuronal migration
Authors: Li Tingting , Yang Xiaoyan , Feng Zhigang , Nie Wang , Zou Yan
Published: April 2021

Wnt family are conserved secretory proteins required for developmental patterning and tissue homeostasis. The mechanisms underlying intracellular maturation and intercellular signal transduction of Wnt proteins have been extensively studied. However, how Wnt is targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) for processing and secretion remains elusive. Here we report that CATP-8/P5A-ATPase directs neuronal migration non-cell autonomously inC. elegansby regulating EGL-20/Wnt biogenesis. CATP-8 functions as a translocase to translocate EGL-20/Wnt nascent polypeptide into the ER by interacting with the hydrophobic core region of EGL-20 signal sequence. Such regulation of Wnt biogenesis by P5A-ATPase is conserved in human cells. These findings reveal physiological roles of P5A-ATPase in neural development and identify Wnt proteins as direct substrates of P5A-ATPase for ER translocation.
Intermittent Fasting Enhances Hippocampal Npy Expression to Promote Neurogenesis Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Cao Shuqiang , Li Manrui , Sun Yuwen , Yang Wenjie , Dai Hao , Guo Yadong , Ye Yi , Wang Zheng , Xie Xiaoqi , Chen Xiameng , Liang Weibo
Published: April 2021

Interventions for preventing cognitive dysfunction post traumatic brain injury (TBI) is limited. Given that adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) after brain injury contributes to cognitive recovery, and that the AHN is potentially affected by nutritional factors, we asked whether fasting could promote AHN and thus ameliorates cognitive defects after TBI. Here we show that a one-month intermittent fasting (IF) regimen enhanced proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of hippocampus 3 days post TBI, as well as improved cognitive performance in Morris water maze (MWM) test. Furthermore, an increase in hippocampal Npy expression was detected in IF group after injury, compared to the mice fed ad libitum (AL), and locally knock-down of Npy in vivo attenuated the aforementioned effects of IF in TBI. These findings suggest that IF promotes AHN following TBI by a mechanism involving enhancement of Npy expression, which may offer novel interventions that might prevent cognitive dysfunction caused by injury.
Adolescent Binge Drinking is Associated with Accelerated Decline of Gray Matter Volume
Authors: Infante M.A. , Zhang Y. , Brumback T. , Brown S.A. , Colrain I.M. , Baker F.C. , Clark D.B. , Goldston D. , Nagel B.J. , Nooner K.B. , Zhao Q. , Pohl K.M. , Sullivan E.V. , Pfefferbaum A. , Tapert S.F. , Thompson W.K.
Published: April 2021

The age- and time-dependent effects of binge-drinking on adolescent brain development have not been well characterized even though binge drinking is a health crisis among adolescents. The impact of binge drinking on gray matter volume development was examined using longitudinal data from the National Consortium on Alcohol and NeuroDevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA). Non-binge drinkers (n=177) were matched to binge drinkers (n=164) on potential confounders. Number of binge drinking episodes in the past year was linked to decreased volumes for total gray matter, frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes (ps<.001). Interactions of binge drinking episodes and age demonstrated stronger effects in younger subjects for total gray matter, frontal, temporal, and occipital lobes (ps<.001). Subsequent models included binge drinking coded in multiple ways. Models sensitive to number of episodes and temporal proximity to outcomes provided the best fits. Declines in gray matter volume association with binge drinking are potentially related to changes in cognition frequently reported among binge drinking adolescents. Results underscore the potential importance of delaying initiation of binge drinking and provide evidence for a dose-response relationship of binge drinking to gray matter decline. Temporally proximal binge drinking was associated more strongly with gray matter decline, suggesting the potential for recovery.
The RNA-binding protein RBP42 regulates cellular energy metabolism in mammalian-infectiveTrypanosoma brucei
Authors: Das Anish , Liu Tong , Li Hong , Husain Seema
Published: April 2021

RNA-binding proteins are key players in coordinated post-transcriptional regulation of functionally related genes, defined as RNA regulons. RNA regulons play particularly critical roles in parasitic trypanosomes, which exhibit unregulated co-transcription of long arrays of unrelated genes. In this report, we present a systematic analysis of an essential RNA-binding protein, RBP42, in the mammalian-infective slender bloodstream form of African trypanosome, and we show that RBP42 is a key regulator of parasite’s central carbon and energy metabolism. Using individual-nucleotide resolution UV cross-linking and immunoprecipitation (iCLIP) to identify genome-wide RBP42-RNA interactions, we show that RBP42 preferentially binds within the coding region of mRNAs encoding core metabolic enzymes. Using global quantitative transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, we also show that loss of RBP42 reduces the abundance of target mRNA-encoded proteins, but not target mRNA, suggesting a plausible role of RBP42 as a positive regulator of target mRNA translation. Analysis reveals significant changes in central carbon metabolic intermediates following loss of RBP42, further supporting its critical role in cellular energy metabolism.
Visual Thalamocortical Mechanisms of Waking State Dependent Activity and Alpha Oscillations
Authors: Nestvogel Dennis B. , McCormick David A.
Published: April 2021

The brain exhibits distinct patterns of recurrent activity closely related to the behavioral state of the animal. The neural mechanisms that underlie state-dependent activity in the awake animal are incompletely understood. Here, we demonstrate that two types of state-dependent activity - rapid arousal/movement related signals and a 3-5 Hz alpha-like rhythm - in the primary visual cortex (V1) of mice strongly correlate with activity in the visual thalamus. Inactivation of V1 does not interrupt arousal/movement related signals in most visual thalamic neurons, but it abolishes the 3-5 Hz oscillation. Silencing of the visual thalamus similarly eradicates the alpha-like rhythm and perturbs arousal/movement-related activation in V1. Finally, we observed that whisker movement or locomotion is not required for rapid increases in cortical activation. Our results indicate that thalamocortical interactions together with cell-intrinsic properties of thalamocortical cells play a crucial role in shaping state-dependent activity in V1 of the awake animal.

Highlights

Whisker movements correlate with rapid synaptic activation in V1 and visual thalamus

Silencing of V1 does not abolish movement related activation in most dLGN or LP cells

Silencing of visual thalamus strongly reduces movement related activation in V1

Thalamocortical interactions generate state-dependent alpha frequency oscillation

Visual thalamic cells exhibit LTS firing during alpha oscillation in the awake mouse
Profiling single-cell histone modifications using indexing chromatin immunocleavage sequencing
Authors: Ku Wai Lim , Pan Lixia , Cao Yaqiang , Gao Weiwu , Zhao Keji
Published: April 2021

Recently, multiple single-cell assays were developed for detecting histone marks at the single-cell level. These techniques are either limited by the low cell throughput or sparse reads which limit their applications. To address these problems, we introduce indexing single-cell immunocleavage sequencing (iscChIC-seq), a multiplex indexing method based on TdT terminal transferase and T4 DNA ligase-mediated barcoding strategy and single-cell ChIC-seq, which is capable of readily analyzing histone modifications across tens of thousands of single cells in one experiment. Application of iscChIC-seq to profiling H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 in human white blood cells (WBCs) enabled successful detection of more than 10,000 single cells for each histone modification with 11 K and 45 K nonredundant reads per cell, respectively. Cluster analysis of these data allowed identification of monocytes, T cells, B cells, and NK cells from WBCs. The cell types annotated from H3K4me3 single-cell data are specifically correlated with the cell types annotated from H3K27me3 single-cell data. Our data indicate that iscChIC-seq is a reliable technique for profiling histone modifications in a large number of single cells, which may find broad applications in studying cellular heterogeneity and differentiation status in complex developmental and disease systems.
Viral diversity in Phytophthora cactorum population infecting strawberry
Authors: Poimala Anna , Parikka Päivi , Hantula Jarkko , Vainio Eeva J.
Published: April 2021

Eighty‐eight Phytophthora cactorum strains isolated from crown or leather rot of strawberry in 1971–2019 were screened for viruses using RNA‐seq and RT‐PCR. Remarkably, all but one isolate were virus‐infected, most of them harbouring more than one virus of different genera or species. The most common virus occurring in 94% of the isolates was the Phytophthora cactorum RNA virus 1 (PcRV1) resembling members of Totiviridae. Novel viruses related to members of Endornaviridae, named Phytophthora cactorum alphaendornaviruses 1‐3 (PcAEV1‐3), were found in 57% of the isolates. Four isolates hosted viruses with affinities to Bunyaviridae, named Phytophthora cactorum bunyaviruses 1‐3 (PcBV1‐3), and a virus resembling members of the proposed genus ‘Ustivirus’, named Phytophthora cactorum usti‐like virus (PcUV1), was found in a single isolate. Most of the virus species were represented by several distinct strains sharing ≥81.4% aa sequence identity. We found no evidence of spatial differentiation but some temporal changes in the P. cactorum virus community were observed. Some isolates harboured two or more closely related strains of the same virus (PcAEV1 or PcRV1) sharing 86.6%–96.4% nt identity in their polymerase sequence. This was surprising as viruses with such a high similarity are typically mutually exclusive.
Effect of pasteurisation, homogenisation and freeze‐drying on bovine and buffalo milk fat triacylglycerols profile
Authors: Ali Abdelmoneim H , Wei Wei , Khalifa Salah A , Zhang Xinghe , Wang Xingguo
Published: April 2021

Milk fat triacylglycerols (TAGs) analysis is considered to be a challenging task; considerable numbers of fatty acyl moieties form one of the most complicated natural fats, with potentially thousands of molecular species of TAGs. Herein, TAGs fingerprinting of raw and processed bovine and buffalo milk was carried out using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Firstly, milk samples were subjected to pasteurisation, homogenisation and freeze‐drying, and the TAGs profile was then analysed. Palmitic, oleic, myristic and stearic were the predominant fatty acids detected. The results revealed that the TAG profile was not significantly influenced by the applied technological treatments. Bovine milk TAGs exhibited 28–54 total acyl carbons, with 0–5 double bonds at 80 different retention times. However, buffalo milk TAGs possessed 26–54 total acyl carbon number containing 0–4 double bonds at 84 different retention times. The findings of this study could offer valuable knowledge to the field of dairy technology.
Challenges to the co‐management of biodiversity in a reflexive modernity
Authors: Bardsley Douglas K , Bardsley Annette M , Moskwa Emily , Weber Delene , Robinson Guy M
Published: April 2021

The marginalisation of people from natural areas has dominated conservation approaches in post‐colonial societies such as Australia. Yet the approach is limited, in part because people are also excluded from co‐managing their local environments, an effect that raises important questions about the future of conservation in a reflexive era where account must also be taken of how to manage risks such as bushfires. To address the complexity of social processes that influence conservation, new forms of co‐management between governments and community stakeholders are evolving but do not always achieve their participatory aims. In this article, discrepancies between perceptions of conservation governance and the responsibilities and activities of the South Australian Government are examined by reference to original research involving a residential survey and a follow‐up focus group discussion with local community and non‐profit environmental organisations. Findings suggest that local environmental groups are knowledge‐rich and strong relationships exist between local conservation actors and government officers, but those partnerships receive only limited support. In addition, opportunities for co‐management between government and non‐governmental environmental organisations are hindered by insufficient acknowledgement within government of the importance of unique, actionable local knowledge; an inability to effectively coordinate activities across and between government and non‐government actors; and an unwillingness to engage with stakeholders in a manner that develops and maintains trust.
Metabolic responses in neonatal sepsis—A systematic review of human metabolomic studies
Authors: Bjerkhaug Aline U. , Granslo Hildegunn Norbakken , Klingenberg Claus
Published: April 2021

Aim

To systematically review human metabolomic studies investigating metabolic responses in septic neonates.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane library up to the 1st of January 2021. We included studies that assessed neonatal sepsis and the following outcomes; (1) change in the metabolism compared to healthy neonates and/or (2) metabolomics compared to traditional diagnostic tools of neonatal sepsis. The screened abstracts were independently considered for eligibility by two researchers. PROSPERO ID: CRD42020164454.

Results

The search identified in total 762 articles. Fifteen articles were assessed for eligibility. Four studies were included, with totally 78 neonates. The studies used different diagnostic criteria and had between 1 and 16 sepsis cases. All studies with bacterial sepsis found alterations in the glucose and lactate metabolism, reflecting possible redistribution of glucose consumption from mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation to the lactate and pentose phosphate pathway. We also found signs of increased oxidative stress and fatty acid oxidation in sepsis cases.

Conclusion

We found signs of metabolomic signatures in neonatal sepsis. This may lead to better understanding of sepsis pathophysiology and detection of new candidate biomarkers. Results should be validated in large‐scale multicentre studies.
Parents want Swedish child health services to focus more on motor development and practical advice
Authors: Lång Christina , Tell Johanna , Johansen Kine
Published: April 2021

Aim

Parents’ experiences and expectations are key to developing evidence‐based approaches that respond to family needs. However, little is known about how parents regard the motor assessments in well‐child surveillance and what they need to support their child's motor development. This study explored their experiences.

Methods

We conducted 11 semi‐structured interviews with Swedish‐speaking parents whose children had been referred to a physiotherapist by child health services (CHS) before 18 months of age. Consecutive sampling was conducted from March to November 2018. The data were analysed using systematic text condensation.

Results

The three themes that emerged were that that parents liked the CHS setting, but had concerns about the lack of focus on motor development during routine health visits and wanted more dialogue about this area. The parents said that the assessments varied considerably and that their concerns were not always taken seriously. They wanted to know more about the professionals’ observations, how their child was expected to develop and what they could do to support their motor development.

Conclusion

Parents wanted a greater focus on motor development during routine health visits. This included advice on how they could support their child's development.
Rifampicin induces the bone form of alkaline phosphatase in humans
Authors: Nabil Heba , Kummu Outi , Lehenkari Petri , Rysä Jaana , Risteli Juha , Hakkola Jukka , Hukkanen Janne
Published: April 2021

Pregnane X receptor (PXR) is a xenobiotic‐sensing nuclear receptor that regulates drug metabolism in the liver and intestine. In our clinical trials on healthy volunteers to discover novel metabolic functions of PXR activation, we observed that rifampicin, a well‐established ligand for human PXR, 600 mg daily for a week, increased the plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) significantly compared with the placebo. Further analysis with lectin affinity electrophoresis revealed that especially the bone form of ALP was elevated. To investigate the mechanism(s) of bone ALP induction, we employed osteoblast lineage differentiated from human primary bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stromal cells. Rifampicin treatment increased ALP activity and mRNA level of bone biomarker genes (ALP, MGP, OPN and OPG). PXR expression was detected in the cells, but the expression was very low compared with the human liver. To further investigate the potential role of PXR in the ALP induction, we treated mice and rats with a rodent PXR ligand pregnenolone 16α‐carbonitrile (PCN). However, PCN treatment did not increase plasma ALP activity or bone ALP mRNA expression. In conclusion, rifampicin treatment induces the bone form of ALP in the serum of healthy human volunteers. Further studies are required to establish the mechanism of this novel finding.