bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the functional assessment of cancer therapy–bone marrow transplant (FACT-BMT) quality of life questionnaire in patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Yildiz Kabak Vesile , Demircioglu Arzu , Aladag Elifcan , Karahan Sevilay , Goker Hakan , Atasavun Uysal Songul , Duger Tulin
Published: July 2021

Objective

The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Bone Marrow Transplant Version 4 (FACT-BMT) is a widely used instrument to assess quality of life in individuals treated with bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Our aim was to determine the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the FACT-BMT in patients undergoing BMT.

Method

Patients between the age of 20 and 65 years and who had undergone BMT at least 3 months before the study were included. Validity was determined using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. To determine convergent validity, the European Cancer Research and Treatment Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire–Cancer30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI), and the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance score were used. Cronbach's alpha, intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), and item-total correlation (ITC) values were calculated to assess the reliability of the FACT-BMT.

Results

Totally, 114 patients (F/M: 47/67) treated with BMT (mean age: 49.50 ± 12.50 years) were included. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis revealed that the FACT-BMT and the Bone Marrow Transplantation Subscale (BMTS) had sufficient fit. The FACT-BMT was moderately to strongly correlated with the EORTC QLQ-C30, the BFI, and the ECOG performance score (p < 0.001). Cronbach's alpha and ICC values of the FACT-BMT were acceptable (0.925 and 0.956, respectively). The ITC values of each item of the FACT-BMT were also acceptable (ranged from 0.296 to 0.737). Patients undergoing autologous BMT had a significantly higher BMTS score than those undergoing allogeneic BMT (p < 0.05).

Significance of results

The Turkish version of the FACT-BMT is valid, reliable, and sensitive to changes in quality of life in patients undergoing BMT.
Internal democracy in populist right parties: the process of party policy development in the Alternative for Germany
Authors: Kamenova Valeriya
Published: July 2021

For the past decade, populist left- and right-wing parties have been on the rise in Europe. Yet, there are only a few studies on the internal organizational dynamics of these parties. Drawing on a new and unique data from fieldwork observations and interviews with party members from the Alternative for Germany (AfD), this article examines the internal democratic mechanisms in policy formation. The AfD displays a high degree of internal participation – an important but contrasting addition to the comparative research on radical right parties, which fail to sustain a democratic internal organization and consistently adopt mechanisms to centralize power in the leadership. The findings from this field research suggest that populist parties may actually engage in meaningful intra-party democracy and internal deliberative practices to invigorate the connections between citizens and their party representatives.
Additional Protocol II: Elevating the minimum threshold of intensity?
Authors: Bradley Martha M.
Published: July 2021

This paper examines the notion of intensity in the context of common Article 3 and Additional Protocol II (AP II) to the Geneva Conventions in order to establish whether AP II demands a different intensity threshold from the minimum threshold of intensity contemplated in common Article 3. The paper considers the question of whether the inclusion of the term “sustained” in the phrase “sustained and concerted military operations” intrinsic to the threshold in Article 1(1) of AP II introduces a temporal requirement in addition to mere protracted armed violence. The paper argues that the inclusion of the term “sustained” in Article 1(1) of AP II potentially demands prolonged protracted armed violence. The research aims to contribute to the existing literature on the notion of intensity demanded by the scope of application inherent in AP II through an interrogation of the phrase “sustained” military operations by employing the rules of treaty interpretation and by examining relevant case law and scholarly debate. In this way, the author hopes to contribute towards filling a lacuna with regard to the minimum threshold for intensity in the context of treaty law concerned with the classification of non-international armed conflicts.
A Misconception About the Hardy–Weinberg Law
Authors: Stark Alan E.
Published: July 2021

The Hardy–Weinberg law of population genetics is usually associated with the notion of random mating of parents. A numerical example for a triallelic autosomal locus shows that an uncountable set of mating combinations can maintain Hardy–Weinberg proportions. Therefore, one cannot infer random mating in a population from the observation of Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The mating system which ensures that the genotypic distribution of offspring is the same as that of the parents is specified.
L’éducation thérapeutique du patient cérébrovasculaire : évidence scientifique, application pratique
Authors: Morin Diane , Rémillard Suzette , Salerno Alexander , Michel Patrik
Published: July 2021

Résumé. L’Accident vasculaire cérébral (AVC) est un évènement soudain et brutal qui bouleverse tous les aspects de la vie quotidienne. Le patient et les proches devront développer des compétences d’autogestion de cette maladie chronique sur le long terme, en gérant les facteurs de risque, la modification du style de vie et les conséquences. Ces dernières années, des études randomisées ont démontré l’efficacité de l’Education thérapeutique du patient (ETP) et de plusieurs interventions modifiant le style de vie après un AVC. Nous résumons ces connaissances scientifiques et décrivons les aspects pratiques de la mise en œuvre d’un programme d’ETP dans une unité cérébrovasculaire, une démarche indispensable dans le traitement et le suivi des patients cérébrovasculaires.
Atherosklerose der intrakraniellen Arterien und der extrakraniellen Karotis
Authors: Krasteva Marina P. , Müller Mandy D. , Pilgram-Pastor Sara M. , Heldner Mirjam R.
Published: July 2021

Zusammenfassung. Intrakranielle atherosklerotische Stenosen sind die häufigste Ursache von ischämischen Hirnschlägen weltweit. Drei Behandlungsverfahren stehen heutzutage für Patienten mit intrakraniellen atherosklerotischen Stenosen zur Verfügung: Das beste konservative Management (bestehend aus Medikamenten, einer optimalen Einstellung vaskulärer Risikofaktoren und einem gesunden Lebensstil), die endovaskuläre Therapie und die chirurgische Therapie. Bei asymptomatischen intrakraniellen atherosklerotischen Stenosen wird aktuell ein bestes konservatives Management empfohlen, ebenso in der Regel bei Patienten mit symptomatischen intrakraniellen atherosklerotischen Stenosen. Ausgewählte Patienten können aber von einer zusätzlichen endovaskulären Therapie profitieren, bspw. wenn sie trotz bestem konservativen Management wiederholte Hirninfarkte im Gefässterritorium der Stenose zeigen. In seltenen Fällen kann auch ein chirurgisches Vorgehen in Frage kommen. Bei Patienten mit symptomatischer extrakranieller atherosklerotischer Karotisstenose konnte wiederholt gezeigt werden, dass die Behandlung mittels Karotisendarterektomie (CEA) ein tieferes Sterblichkeits- und Hirnschlagrisiko aufweist als die Behandlung mittels endovaskulärer Therapie (CAS). Insbesondere bei Patienten im Alter von über 70 Jahren sollte aktuell in der Regel eine CEA dem CAS vorgezogen werden, da das Risiko innerhalb von 30 Tagen nach Behandlung zu versterben oder einen Hirnschlag zu erleiden bei Patienten, welche mit einem CAS behandelt werden praktisch doppelt so hoch liegt, wie bei Patienten, die mittels CEA behandelt werden. Die Studienergebnisse, welche modernisierte Techniken und Devices verwenden, bleiben abzuwarten. Aktuell bleibt es unklar, ob Patienten mit asymptomatischer extrakranieller atherosklerotischer Karotisstenose unter bester konservativer Therapie überhaupt von einer invasiven Therapie im Sinne einer CEA oder eines CAS profitieren.
Automated Identification of Current Sheets—A New Tool to Study Turbulence and Intermittency in the Solar Wind
Authors: Khabarova Olga , Sagitov Timothy , Kislov Roman , Li Gang
Published: July 2021

We propose a new method of the automated identification of current sheets (CSs) that represents a formalization of the visual inspection approach employed in case studies. CSs are often identified by eye via the analysis of characteristic changes in the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) and plasma parameters. Known visual and semi‐automated empirical methods of CS identification are exact but do not allow a comprehensive statistical analysis of CS properties. Existing automated methods partially solve this problem. Meanwhile, these methods suggest an analysis of variations of the IMF and its direction only. In our three‐parameter empirical method, we employ both the solar wind plasma and IMF parameters to identify CSs of various types. Derivatives of the IMF strength, the plasma beta and the ratio of the Alfvén speed VA to the solar wind speed V taken with the one‐second cadence are used. We find that the CS daily rate R correlates with the solar wind temperature T rather than with V and is proportional to the sum of the kinetic and thermal energy density ∼V2(N+5N′)+10T(N + N′), where N′ = 2 cm−3 is the background level of the solar wind density N. Maxima of R are associated with stream/corotating interaction regions and interplanetary mass ejection sheaths. A multiyear list of CSs identified at 1 AU can be found at https://csdb.izmiran.ru.
Rationalizing the Differences Among Hydraulic Relationships Using a Process‐Based Model
Authors: Xu Fan , Coco Giovanni , Townend Ian , Guo Leicheng , He Qing , Zhao Kun , Zhou Zeng
Published: July 2021

The use of power law forms to describe hydraulic geometry is a classic subject with a history of over 70 years. Two distinct forms of power laws have been proposed: at‐a‐station hydraulic geometry (AHG) and downstream hydraulic geometry (DHG). Although the utility of these semiempirical expressions is widely recognized, they remain poorly understood in terms of the mechanisms underlying the differences between AHG and DHG, as well as the variability among different systems. In this study, we attempt to address these basic issues. Two hypotheses are proposed: (a) the different geomorphic relationships represented by AHG and DHG result from the control of lateral adjustment of the bank and flow turbulence over short and long timescales, respectively; and (b) the systematic variability of the AHG and DHG exponents is related to the description of the frictional resistance. These two hypotheses are embedded in our theoretical models and lead to explicit functional forms for AHG and DHG. The verification of our hypotheses is based on a large data set consisting of over 550 b‐f‐m exponents and 120 power law hydraulic relations. The analysis highlights the role of uncertainties in data acquisition and theoretical/statistical explanations. In addition, the theoretical expressions of AHG also provide an explanation of at‐many‐stations hydraulic geometry (AMHG) in a physical sense. Overall, our work provides new insights into the fundamental theory of power laws and hydraulic geometry.
Gambling With the Climate: How Risky of a Bet Are Natural Climate Solutions?
Authors: Anderegg William R. L.
Published: July 2021

Key Points

Forests may help climate mitigation if they can store carbon for centuries

Climate‐driven disturbances may greatly undermine these aims in California

Multi‐disciplinary and open research is urgently needed to inform policy
Global Survey of Electron Precipitation due to Hiss Waves in the Earth’s Plasmasphere and Plumes
Authors: Ma Q. , Li W. , Zhang X. ‐J. , Bortnik J. , Shen X. ‐C. , Connor H. K. , Boyd A. J. , Kurth W. S. , Hospodarsky G. B. , Claudepierre S. G. , Reeves G. D. , Spence H. E.
Published: July 2021

We present a global survey of energetic electron precipitation from the equatorial magnetosphere due to hiss waves in the plasmasphere and plumes. Using Van Allen Probes measurements, we calculate the pitch angle diffusion coefficients at the bounce loss cone, and evaluate the energy spectrum of precipitating electron flux. Our ∼6.5‐year survey shows that, during disturbed times, hiss inside the plasmasphere primarily causes the electron precipitation at L > 4 over 8 h < MLT < 18 h, and hiss waves in plumes cause the precipitation at L > 5 over 8 h < MLT < 14 h and L > 4 over 14 h < MLT < 20 h. The precipitating energy flux increases with increasing geomagnetic activity, and is typically higher in the plasmaspheric plume than the plasmasphere. The characteristic energy of precipitation increases from ∼20 keV at L = 6–∼100 keV at L = 3, potentially causing the loss of electrons at several hundred keV.
Episodicity and Migration of Low Frequency Earthquakes Modeled With Fast Fluid Pressure Transients in the Permeable Subduction Interface
Authors: Farge Gaspard , Jaupart Claude , Shapiro Nikolai M.
Published: July 2021

In many subduction zones, the plate interface hosts intermittent, low‐frequency, low‐magnitude seismic tremor and low‐frequency earthquakes (LFEs). Seismic activity clusters in episodic bursts that migrate along the fault zone in complex ways. Geological structures in fossil tremor source regions testify to large and pervasive variations of fluid pressure and permeability. Here, we explore the potential of fluid pressure transients in a permeable subduction interface to trigger seismic sources and induce interactions between them. We show how variations of pore pressure and permeability can act in tandem to generate tremor‐like patterns. The core feature of the model is that low‐permeability plugs behave as elementary fault‐valves. In a mechanism akin to erosive bursts and deposition events documented in porous media, valve permeability opens and closes in response to the local fluid pressure distribution. The rapid pressure release and/or mechanical fracturing associated with valve opening acts as the source of an LFE‐like event. Valves interact constructively, leading to realistic, tremor‐like patterns: cascades, synchronized bursts, and migrations of activity along the channel, on both short and long time and space scales. Our model predicts that the input fluid flux is a key control on activity occurrence and behavior. Depending on its value, the subduction interface can be seismically quiescent or active, and seismicity can be strongly time‐clustered, quasi‐periodic or almost random in time. This model allows new interpretations of low frequency seismic activity in terms of effective fluid flux and fault‐zone permeability.
Compact Lightning Strokes in Winter Thunderstorms
Authors: Wu Ting , Wang Daohong , Takagi Nobuyuki
Published: July 2021

With the observation of a 14‐site Fast Antenna Lightning Mapping Array in the Hokuriku region of Japan, we identified a special type of lightning stroke called “compact stroke” in winter thunderstorms. A compact stroke starts with a fast downward negative leader followed by a “compact return stroke.” Compact strokes have the following characteristics that are not seen in normal lightning strokes: (a) Durations of preceding discharges (defined as the time difference between the return stroke and the start of the flash) are generally smaller than 200 μs. (b) Most compact strokes are inferred to be produced in small gaps between mountain tops and negative charge regions in winter thunderstorms. (c) Channel lengths of compact strokes are estimated to be shorter than 600 m with an average of about 300 m. (d) Characteristics of electric field change waveforms of compact return strokes are closely related with durations of preceding discharges. (e) Peak currents of compact return strokes increase with increasing channel lengths. It seems that elevations of mountain surfaces where compact strokes occur are comparable to the altitude of the lower positive charge region, so we speculate that the mountain surface and the near‐surface space carry positive charges when a storm is overhead and are virtually the lower positive charge region of a normal tripole structure. As a result, compact strokes are confined between the main negative and lower positive charge regions, and small pulses with short durations preceding compact return strokes are produced by downward negative leaders corresponding to the preliminary breakdown stage.
Strain Partitioning and Interseismic Fault Behavior Along the Caribbean‐South American Transform Plate Boundary
Authors: Higgins M. , La Femina P. C. , Weber J. C. , Geirsson H. , Ryan G. A. , Wauthier C.
Published: July 2021

We combine Global Positioning System and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) data to characterize the interseismic behavior (i.e., locked or creeping), and strain partitioning for the faults along the Caribbean‐South American transform plate boundary. Interseismic strain is distributed mainly on three faults, the San Sebastian, El Pilar, and Central Range faults, but partitioning occurs across multiple faults in the west (San Sebastian and La Victoria faults) and east (Sub‐Tobago Terrane, Central Range, and South Coast faults). In northern Venezuela, slip is partitioned on the San Sebastian (16.4 ± 1.7 mm/yr) and La Victoria (4.3 ± 0.9 mm/yr) faults. In north‐eastern Venezuela, the El Pilar fault accommodates slip at a rate of 18.6 ± 1.8 mm/yr. In Trinidad and Tobago, slip is partitioned between the Sub‐Tobago Terrane (3.0 ± 0.1 mm/yr), Central Range (14.5 ± 2.0 mm/yr), and South Coast (3.0 ± 0.1 mm/yr) faults. The La Victoria, San Sebastian, the western El Pilar segment, and Sub‐Tobago Terrane faults are locked to depths of 16.2 ± 4.0 km, 7.7 ± 5.2 km, 6.7 ± 2.8 km, and 8.0 ± 0.2 km, respectively. The eastern segment of the El Pilar, the Central Range, and the South Coast faults all creep. Our new InSAR results indicate that the entire Central Range Fault is creeping. The locked western segment of this transform plate boundary is capable of producing a Mw 8 earthquake, which is a significant finding regarding seismic hazard and risk.
Correlative optical photothermal infrared and X-ray fluorescence for chemical imaging of trace elements and relevant molecular structures directly in neurons
Authors: Gustavsson Nadja , Paulus Agnes , Martinsson Isak , Engdahl Anders , Medjoubi Kadda , Klementiev Konstantin , Somogyi Andrea , Deierborg Tomas , Borondics Ferenc , Gouras Gunnar K. , Klementieva Oxana
Published: July 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, costing about 1% of the global economy. Failures of clinical trials targeting amyloid-β protein (Aβ), a key trigger of AD, have been explained by drug inefficiency regardless of the mechanisms of amyloid neurotoxicity, which are very difficult to address by available technologies. Here, we combine two imaging modalities that stand at opposite ends of the electromagnetic spectrum, and therefore, can be used as complementary tools to assess structural and chemical information directly in a single neuron. Combining label-free super-resolution microspectroscopy for sub-cellular imaging based on novel optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) and synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence (S-XRF) nano-imaging techniques, we capture elemental distribution and fibrillary forms of amyloid-β proteins in the same neurons at an unprecedented resolution. Our results reveal that in primary AD-like neurons, iron clusters co-localize with elevated amyloid β-sheet structures and oxidized lipids. Overall, our O-PTIR/S-XRF results motivate using high-resolution multimodal microspectroscopic approaches to understand the role of molecular structures and trace elements within a single neuronal cell.
New transitional fossil from late Jurassic of Chile sheds light on the origin of modern crocodiles
Authors: Novas Fernando E. , Agnolin Federico L. , Lio Gabriel L. , Rozadilla Sebastián , Suárez Manuel , de la Cruz Rita , de Souza Carvalho Ismar , Rubilar-Rogers David , Isasi Marcelo P.
Published: July 2021

We describe the basal mesoeucrocodylianBurkesuchus mallingrandensisnov. gen. et sp.,from the Upper Jurassic (Tithonian) Toqui Formation of southern Chile. The new taxon constitutes one of the few records of non-pelagic Jurassic crocodyliforms for the entire South American continent.Burkesuchuswas found on the same levels that yielded titanosauriform and diplodocoid sauropods and the herbivore theropodChilesaurus diegosuarezi, thus expanding the taxonomic composition of currently poorly known Jurassic reptilian faunas from Patagonia.Burkesuchuswas a small-sized crocodyliform (estimated length 70 cm), with a cranium that is dorsoventrally depressed and transversely wide posteriorly and distinguished by a posteroventrally flexed wing-like squamosal. A well-defined longitudinal groove runs along the lateral edge of the postorbital and squamosal, indicative of a anteroposteriorly extensive upper earlid. Phylogenetic analysis supportsBurkesuchusas a basal member of Mesoeucrocodylia. This new discovery expands the meagre record of non-pelagic representatives of this clade for the Jurassic Period, and together withBatrachomimus, from Upper Jurassic beds of Brazil, supports the idea that South America represented a cradle for the evolution of derived crocodyliforms during the Late Jurassic.
Generation and first characterization of TRDC-knockout pigs lacking γδ T cells
Authors: Petersen Bjoern , Kammerer Robert , Frenzel Antje , Hassel Petra , Dau Tung Huy , Becker Roswitha , Breithaupt Angele , Ulrich Reiner Georg , Lucas-Hahn Andrea , Meyers Gregor
Published: July 2021

The TRDC-locus encodes the T cell receptor delta constant region, one component of the γδ T cell receptor which is essential for development of γδ T cells. In contrast to peptide recognition by αβ T cells, antigens activating γδ T cells are mostly MHC independent and not well characterized. Therefore, the function of γδ T cells and their contribution to protection against infections is still unclear. Higher numbers of circulating γδ T cells compared to mice, render the pig a suitable animal model to study γδ T cells. Knocking-out the porcine TRDC-locus by intracytoplasmic microinjection and somatic cell nuclear transfer resulted in healthy living γδ T cell deficient offspring. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that TRDC-KO pigs lack γδ T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and spleen cells. The composition of the remaining leucocyte subpopulations was not affected by the depletion of γδ T cells. Genome-wide transcriptome analyses in PBMC revealed a pattern of changes reflecting the impairment of known or expected γδ T cell dependent pathways. Histopathology did not reveal developmental abnormalities of secondary lymphoid tissues. However, in a vaccination experiment the KO pigs stayed healthy but had a significantly lower neutralizing antibody titer as the syngenic controls.
CRISPR/Cas-9 mediated knock-in by homology dependent repair in the West Nile Virus vector Culex quinquefasciatus Say
Authors: Purusothaman Deepak-Kumar , Shackleford Lewis , Anderson Michelle A. E. , Harvey-Samuel Tim , Alphey Luke
Published: July 2021

Culex quinquefasciatusSay is a mosquito distributed in both tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a night-active, opportunistic blood-feeder and vectors many animal and human diseases, including West Nile Virus and avian malaria. Current vector control methods (e.g. physical/chemical) are increasingly ineffective; use of insecticides also imposes hazards to both human and ecosystem health. Advances in genome editing have allowed the development of genetic insect control methods, which are species-specific and, theoretically, highly effective. CRISPR/Cas9 is a bacteria-derived programmable gene editing tool that is functional in a range of species. We describe the first successful germline gene knock-in by homology dependent repair inC. quinquefasciatus. Using CRISPR/Cas9, we integrated an sgRNA expression cassette and marker gene encoding a fluorescent protein fluorophore (Hr5/IE1-DsRed, Cq7SK-sgRNA) into the kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (kmo) gene. We achieved a minimum transformation rate of 2.8%, similar to rates in other mosquito species. Precise knock-in at the intended locus was confirmed. Insertion homozygotes displayed a white eye phenotype in early-mid larvae and a recessive lethal phenotype by pupation. This work provides an efficient method for engineeringC. quinquefasciatus, providing a new tool for developing genetic control tools for this vector.
Pelagic organisms avoid white, blue, and red artificial light from scientific instruments
Authors: Geoffroy Maxime , Langbehn Tom , Priou Pierre , Varpe Øystein , Johnsen Geir , Le Bris Arnault , Fisher Jonathan A. D. , Daase Malin , McKee David , Cohen Jonathan , Berge Jørgen
Published: July 2021

In situ observations of pelagic fish and zooplankton with optical instruments usually rely on external light sources. However, artificial light may attract or repulse marine organisms, which results in biased measurements. It is often assumed that most pelagic organisms do not perceive the red part of the visible spectrum and that red light can be used for underwater optical measurements of biological processes. Using hull-mounted echosounders above an acoustic probe or a baited video camera, each equipped with light sources of different colours (white, blue and red), we demonstrate that pelagic organisms in Arctic and temperate regions strongly avoid artificial light, including visible red light (575–700 nm), from instruments lowered in the water column. The density of organisms decreased by up to 99% when exposed to artificial light and the distance of avoidance varied from 23 to 94 m from the light source, depending on colours, irradiance levels and, possibly, species communities. We conclude that observations from optical and acoustic instruments, including baited cameras, using light sources with broad spectral composition in the 400–700 nm wavelengths do not capture the real state of the ecosystem and that they cannot be used alone for reliable abundance estimates or behavioural studies.
Autoantibody profiles and clinical association in Thai patients with autoimmune retinopathy
Authors: Pawestri Aulia Rahmi , Arjkongharn Niracha , Suvannaboon Ragkit , Tuekprakhon Aekkachai , Srimuninnimit Vichien , Udompunthurak Suthipol , Atchaneeyasakul La-ongsri , Koolvisoot Ajchara , Trinavarat Adisak
Published: July 2021

Autoimmune retinopathy (AIR) is a rare immune-mediated inflammation of the retina. The autoantibodies against retinal proteins and glycolytic enzymes were reported to be involved in the pathogenesis. This retrospective cohort study assessed the antiretinal autoantibody profiles and their association with clinical outcomes of AIR patients in Thailand. We included 44 patients, 75% were females, with the overall median age of onset of 48 (17–74, IQR 40–55.5) years. Common clinical presentations were nyctalopia (65.9%), blurred vision (52.3%), constricted visual field (43.2%), and nonrecordable electroretinography (65.9%). Underlying malignancy and autoimmune diseases were found in 2 and 12 female patients, respectively. We found 41 autoantibodies, with anti-α-enolase (65.9%) showing the highest prevalence, followed by anti-CAII (43.2%), anti-aldolase (40.9%), and anti-GAPDH (36.4%). Anti-aldolase was associated with male gender (P = 0.012, OR 7.11, 95% CI 1.54–32.91). Anti-CAII showed significant association with age of onset (P = 0.025, 95% CI − 17.28 to − 1.24), while anti-α-enolase (P = 0.002, OR 4.37, 95% CI 1.83–10.37) and anti-GAPDH (P = 0.001, OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.32–2.64) were significantly associated with nonrecordable electroretinography. Association between the antibody profiles and clinical outcomes may be used to direct and adjust the treatment plans and provide insights in the pathogenesis of AIR.
Conversion from epithelial to partial-EMT phenotype by Fusobacterium nucleatum infection promotes invasion of oral cancer cells
Authors: Shao Wenhua , Fujiwara Natsumi , Mouri Yasuhiro , Kisoda Satoru , Yoshida Kayo , Yoshida Kaya , Yumoto Hiromichi , Ozaki Kazumi , Ishimaru Naozumi , Kudo Yasusei
Published: July 2021

The ability of cancer cells to undergo partial-epithelial mesenchymal transition (p-EMT), rather than complete EMT, poses a higher metastatic risk. Although Fusobacterium nucleatum mainly inhabits in oral cavity, attention has been focused on the F. nucleatum involvement in colorectal cancer development. Here we examined the p-EMT regulation by F. nucleatum in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. We cultured OSCC cells with epithelial, p-EMT or EMT phenotype with live or heat-inactivated F. nucleatum. Expression of the genes involved in epithelial differentiation, p-EMT and EMT were examined in OSCC cells after co-culture with F. nucleatum by qPCR. Cell growth and invasion of OSCC cells were also examined. Both live and heat-inactivated F. nucleatum upregulated the expression of p-EMT-related genes in OSCC cells with epithelial phenotype, but not with p-EMT or EMT phenotype. Moreover, F. nucleatum promoted invasion of OSCC cells with epithelial phenotype. Co-culture with other strains of bacteria other than Porphyromonas gingivalis did not alter p-EMT-related genes in OSCC cells with epithelial phenotype. F. nucleatum infection may convert epithelial to p-EMT phenotype via altering gene expression in OSCC. Oral hygiene managements against F. nucleatum infection may contribute to reduce the risk for an increase in metastatic ability of OSCC.
Role of MCP-1 and IL-8 in viral anterior uveitis, and contractility and fibrogenic activity of trabecular meshwork cells
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Choi Jin A. , Ju Hyun-hee , Kim Ju-Eun , Paik Soon-Young , Rao Ponugoti Vasantha
Published: July 2021

The inflammatory chemokines, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 and IL-8, are produced by normal trabecular meshwork cells (TM) and elevated in the aqueous humor of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and hypertensive anterior uveitis associated with viral infection. However, their role in TM cells and aqueous humor outflow remains unclear. Here, we explored the possible involvement of MCP-1 and IL-8 in the physiology of TM cells in the context of aqueous outflow, and the viral anterior uveitis. We found that the stimulation of human TM cells with MCP-1 and IL-8 induced significant increase in the formation of actin stress fibers and focal adhesions, myosin light chain phosphorylation, and the contraction of TM cells. MCP-1 and IL-8 also demonstrated elevation of extracellular matrix proteins, and the migration of TM cells. When TM cells were infected with HSV-1 and CMV virus, there was a significant increase in cytoskeletal contraction and Rho-GTPase activation. Viral infection of TM cells revealed significantly increased expression of MCP-1 and IL-8. Taken together, these results indicate that MCP-1 and IL-8 induce TM cell contractibility, fibrogenic activity, and plasticity, which are presumed to increase resistance to aqueous outflow in viral anterior uveitis and POAG.
Prevalence and predictors of scar contracture-associated re-hospitalisation among burn inpatients in China
Authors: Zhu Zhe , Kong Weishi , Wang Haibo , Xiao Yongqiang , Shi Ying , Gan Lanxia , Sun Yu , Tang Hongtai , Xia Zhaofan
Published: July 2021

Scar contracture, a common destructive complication causing increased re-hospitalisation rate of burn survivors and aggravated burden on the medical system, may be more seriously in Chinese population because of their higher susceptibility to scar formation. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of scar contracture-associated re-hospitalisation among Chinese burn inpatients. This cross-sectional study screened burn inpatients hospitalised during 2013 to 2018 through the Hospital Quality Monitoring System database, among whom re-hospitalised for scar contracture were identified. Variables including sex, age, occupations, burn area, burn site and surgical treatment were analysed. Potential predictors of scar contracture-associated re-hospitalisation among burn inpatients were determined by univariate regression analyses. Of the 220,642 burn inpatients, 2146 (0.97%) were re-hospitalised for scar contracture. The re-hospitalised inpatients were predominantly men and blue-collar workers, showing younger median age at the time of burns, larger burn sizes, and higher percentage of surgical treatment compared other burn inpatients. Significant univariate predictors of scar contracture-associated re-hospitalisation included male sex, age < 50 years, blue-collar work, ≥ 40% total body superficial area burned, inhalation injured, and surgical treatment. Scar contracture is an intractable complication and a significant factor to increase re-hospitalisation rate among Chinese burn inpatients.
Physical mechanisms driving the reversible aggregation of Staphylococcus aureus and response to antimicrobials
Authors: Burel Céline , Dreyfus Rémi , Purevdorj-Gage Laura
Published: July 2021

Formation of non-sessile, auto-aggregated cells of Staphylococcus aureus contributes to surface colonization and biofilm formation, hence play a major role in the early establishment of infection and in tolerance to antimicrobials. Understanding the mechanism of aggregation and the impact of aggregation on the activity of antimicrobials is crucial in achieving a better control of this important pathogen. Previously linked to biological phenomena, physical interactions leading to S. aureus cellular aggregation and its protective features against antimicrobials remain unraveled. Herein, in-vitro experiments coupled with XDLVO simulations reveal that suspensions of S. aureus cells exhibit rapid, reversible aggregation (> 70%) in part controlled by the interplay between cellular hydrophobicity, surface potential and extracellular proteins. Changing pH and salt concentration in the extracellular media modulated the cellular surface potential but not the hydrophobicity which remained consistent despite these variations. A decrease in net cellular negative surface potential achieved by decreasing pH or increasing salt concentrations, caused attractive forces such as the hydrophobic and cell–protein interactions to prevail, favoring immediate aggregation. The aggregation significantly increased the tolerance of S. aureus cells to quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC). The well-dispersed cell population was completely inactivated within 30 s whereas its aggregated counterpart required more than 10 min.
Alpha and beta diversity patterns of macro-moths reveal a breakpoint along a latitudinal gradient in Mongolia
Authors: Enkhtur Khishigdelger , Brehm Gunnar , Boldgiv Bazartseren , Pfeiffer Martin
Published: July 2021

Little is known about the diversity and distribution patterns of moths along latitudinal gradients. We studied macro-moths in Mongolia along an 860 km latitudinal climatic gradient to gain knowledge on community composition, alpha, beta, and gamma diversity as well as underlying factors, which can be used as baseline information for further studies related to climate change. We identified 236 species of moths of ten families. Our study shows that the diversity of moths increased with the latitude, i.e., low species richness in the south and higher richness in the north. Moth community composition changed along the gradient, and we revealed a breakpoint of beta diversity that divided grassland and desert communities. In the desert, beta diversity was driven by species loss (i.e., nestedness), and few tolerant species existed with high abundance. In contrast, in the grassland, beta diversity was driven by species replacement with more unique species, (i.e., species which occurred only in one site). We found the lowest species diversity in the transitional zones dominated by few generalist species such as Agrotis ripae and Anarta trifolii. Low precipitation and an increasing number of grazing goats are drivers of species loss. We suggest different conservation strategies regarding the contrasting patterns of beta diversity in desert and grassland.
Discomfort-related changes of call rate and acoustic variables of ultrasonic vocalizations in adult yellow steppe lemmings Eolagurus luteus
Authors: Klenova Anna V. , Volodin Ilya A. , Ilchenko Olga G. , Volodina Elena V.
Published: July 2021

Potential of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) to reflect a degree of discomfort of a caller is mostly investigated in laboratory rats and mice but poorly known in other rodents. We examined 36 (19 male, 17 female) adult yellow steppe lemmings Eolagurus luteus for presence of USVs during 8-min experimental trials including 2-min test stages of increasing discomfort: isolation, touch, handling and body measure. We found that 33 of 36 individuals vocalized at isolation stage, i.e., without any human impact. For 14 (6 male and 8 female) individuals, a repeated measures approach revealed that increasing discomfort from isolation to handling stages resulted in increase of call power quartiles and fundamental frequency, whereas call rate remained unchanged. We discuss that, in adult yellow steppe lemmings, the discomfort-related changes of USV fundamental frequency and power variables follow the same common rule as the audible calls of most mammals, whereas call rate shows a different trend. These data contribute to research focused on searching the universal acoustic cues to discomfort in mammalian USVs.
Comparison of the modulatory effects of three structurally similar potential prebiotic substrates on an in vitro multi-species oral biofilm
Authors: Verspecht Tim , Van Holm Wannes , Boon Nico , Bernaerts Kristel , Daep Carlo A. , Zayed Naiera , Quirynen Marc , Teughels Wim
Published: July 2021

Previous research identified potential prebiotic substrates for oral health like the structural analogues N-acetyl-d-mannosamine (NADM) and N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (NADG). The main hypothesis of the current study was twofold. Firstly, it was hypothesized that the modulatory effects of NADM are not limited to changes in multi-species oral biofilm composition, but also include effects on metabolism, virulence, and inflammatory potential. Secondly, the presence and orientation of their N-acetyl group could play a role. Therefore, a comparison was made between the effects of NADM, NADG and d-(+)-mannose on multi-species oral biofilms. Besides a beneficial compositional shift, NADM-treated biofilms also showed an altered metabolism, a reduced virulence and a decreased inflammatory potential. At a substrate concentration of 1 M, these effects were pronounced for all biofilm aspects, whereas at ~ 0.05 M (1%(w/v)) only the effects on virulence were pronounced. When comparing between substrates, both the presence and orientation of the N-acetyl group played a role. However, this was generally only at 1 M and dependent on the biofilm aspect. Overall, NADM was found to have different effects at two concentrations that beneficially modulate in vitro multi-species oral biofilm composition, metabolism, virulence and inflammatory potential. The presence and orientation of the N-acetyl group influenced these effects.
Controllable fabrication of polymeric nanowires by NIL technique and self-assembled AAO template for SERS application
Authors: Li Dongjing , Wu Aixia , Wan Qing , Li Zeping
Published: July 2021

A controllable strategy to fabricate the polymeric nanowires with high throughput and low cost is developed by using the thermal nanoimprint lithography (NIL) technique and self-assembled anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template. The length of polymeric nanowires can be controlled by adjusting the duration of thermal NIL. A fill mechanism of thermoplastic intermediate polymer stamp (IPS) polymer pressed into the AAO nanopores is closely studied. The as-prepared IPS polymeric nanowire-based Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)-active substrate exhibits a remarkable reproducibility. The effective adsorption of the R6G as probe molecule near to hotspots generated at 3D vertically aligned polymeric nanowire SERS active substrates shows extraordinary enhancement of Raman signal with an enhancement factor (EF) of 105–106. The present strategy is of great guiding significance to broaden the use of thermal NIL technique and AAO template for the fabrication of other nanomaterials, especially for the flexible and transparent polymer-based nanomaterials.
Inkjet-printed fully customizable and low-cost electrodes matrix for gesture recognition
Authors: Rosati Giulio , Cisotto Giulia , Sili Daniele , Compagnucci Luca , De Giorgi Chiara , Pavone Enea Francesco , Paccagnella Alessandro , Betti Viviana
Published: July 2021

The use of surface electromyography (sEMG) is rapidly spreading, from robotic prostheses and muscle computer interfaces to rehabilitation devices controlled by residual muscular activities. In this context, sEMG-based gesture recognition plays an enabling role in controlling prosthetics and devices in real-life settings. Our work aimed at developing a low-cost, print-and-play platform to acquire and analyse sEMG signals that can be arranged in a fully customized way, depending on the application and the users’ needs. We produced 8-channel sEMG matrices to measure the muscular activity of the forearm using innovative nanoparticle-based inks to print the sensors embedded into each matrix using a commercial inkjet printer. Then, we acquired the multi-channel sEMG data from 12 participants while repeatedly performing twelve standard finger movements (six extensions and six flexions). Our results showed that inkjet printing-based sEMG signals ensured significant similarity values across repetitions in every participant, a large enough difference between movements (dissimilarity index above 0.2), and an overall classification accuracy of 93–95% for flexion and extension, respectively.
BCG therapy is associated with long-term, durable induction of Treg signature genes by epigenetic modulation
Authors: Keefe Ryan C. , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Tran Lisa , Nelson Kacie , Ng Nathan , Kühtreiber Willem M. , Faustman Denise L.
Published: July 2021

Induction of immunosuppressive T-regulatory cells (Tregs) is a desirable goal in autoimmunity, and perhaps other immune diseases of activation. One promising avenue is with the bacille-calmette-guérin (BCG) vaccine in autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D). Its administration is associated with gradual clinical improvements in human autoimmunity over a 2–3 year post-vaccination period. We hypothesize that those improvements, and their unusually long time course to fully materialize, are partially attributable to BCG’s induction of Tregs. Here we report on a 3 year-long longitudinal cohort of T1Ds and examine the mechanism by which Treg induction occurs. Using the Human Infinium Methylation EPIC Bead Chip, we show that BCG vaccination is associated with gradual demethylation of most of 11 signature genes expressed in highly potent Tregs: Foxp3, TNFRSF18, CD25, IKZF2, IKZF4, CTLA4, TNFR2, CD62L, Fas, CD45 and IL2; nine of these 11 genes, by year 3, became demethylated at the majority of CpG sites. The Foxp3 gene was studied in depth. At baseline Foxp3 was over-methylated compared to non-diabetic controls; 3 years after introduction of BCG, 17 of the Foxp3 gene’s 22 CpG sites became significantly demethylated including the critical TSDR region. Corresponding mRNA, Treg expansion and clinical improvement supported the significance of the epigenetic DNA changes. Taken together, the findings suggest that BCG has systemic impact on the T cells of the adaptive immune system, and restores immune balance through Treg induction.
Optical investigations and photoactive solar energy applications of new synthesized Schiff base liquid crystal derivatives
Authors: Alamro Fowzia S. , Gomha Sobhi M. , Shaban Mohamed , Altowyan Abeer S. , Abolibda Tariq Z. , Ahmed Hoda A.
Published: July 2021

New homologues series of liquid crystalline materials namely, (E)-3-methoxy-4-[(p-tolylimino)methyl]phenyl 4-alkloxybenzoates (I-n), were designed and evaluated for their mesomorphic and optical behavior. The prepared series constitutes three members that differ from each other by the terminally attached alkoxy chain group, these vary between 6 and 12 carbons. A laterally OCH3 group is incorporated into the central benzene ring in meta position with respect to the ester moiety. Mesomorphic characterizations of the prepared derivatives are conducted using differential scanning-calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical-microscopy (POM). Molecular structures were elucidated by elemental analyses and NMR spectroscopy. DSC and POM investigations revealed that all the synthesized derivatives are purely nematogenic exhibiting only nematic (N) mesophase, except for the longest chain derivative (I-12) that is dimorphic possesses smectic A and N phases. Moreover, all members of the group have a wide mesomorphic range with high thermal nematic stability. A comparative study was established between the present derivative (I-6) and their previously prepared isomer. The results indicated that the location exchange of the polar compact group (CH3) influences the N mesophase stability and range. The electrical measurements revealed that all synthesized series I-n show Ohmic behaviors with effective electric resistances in the GΩ range. Under white light illumination, the effective electric conductivity for the compound I-8 is five times that obtained in dark conditions. This derivative also showed two direct optical band gaps in the UV and visible light range. In addition, I-6 has band energy gaps of values 1.07 and 2.79 eV, which are suitable for solar energy applications.
Marginal metallic state at a fractional filling of ’8/5’ and ’4/3’ of Landau levels in the GaAs/AlGaAs 2D electron system
Authors: Mani R. G. , Wijewardena U. K. , Nanayakkara T. R. , Kriisa Annika , Reichl C. , Wegscheider W.
Published: July 2021

A metallic state with a vanishing activation gap, at a filling factor $$\nu = 8/5$$

ν
=
8
/
5

in the untilted specimen with $$n= 2 \times 10^{11} cm^{-2}$$

n
=
2
×

10
11

c

m

-
2

, and at $$\nu = 4/3$$

ν
=
4
/
3

at $$n=1.2 \times 10^{11} cm^{-2}$$

n
=
1.2
×

10
11

c

m

-
2

under a $$\theta = 66^{0}$$

θ
=

66
0

tilted magnetic field, is examined through a microwave photo-excited transport study of the GaAs/AlGaAs 2 dimensional electron system (2DES). The results presented here suggest, remarkably, that at the possible degeneracy point of states with different spin polarization, where the 8/5 or 4/3 FQHE vanish, there occurs a peculiar marginal metallic state that differs qualitatively from a quantum Hall insulating state and the usual quantum Hall metallic state. Such a marginal metallic state occurs most prominently at $$\nu =8/5$$

ν
=
8
/
5

, and at $$\nu =4/3$$

ν
=
4
/
3

under tilt as mentioned above, over the interval $$1 \le \nu \le 2$$

1
≤
ν
≤
2

, that also includes the $$\nu = 3/2$$

ν
=
3
/
2

state, which appears perceptibly gapped in the first instance.