bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of canine cognitive dysfunction with novel butyrylcholinesterase inhibitor
Authors: Zakošek Pipan Maja , Prpar Mihevc Sonja , Štrbenc Malan , Košak Urban , German Ilić Ilija , Trontelj Jurij , Žakelj Simon , Gobec Stanislav , Pavlin Darja , Majdič Gregor
Published: September 2021

Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is common in aged dogs and has many similarities with Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, like Alzheimer’s disease, CCD cannot be cured. In the present study, we treated dogs with CCD with our newly developed and characterized butyrylcholinesterase inhibitor (BChEi). Seventeen dogs were randomized into two groups (treated with BChEi and untreated) and followed for 6 months at regular check-ups. The dogs’ cognitive status was determined by a Canine Dementia Scale (CADES) questionnaire and two cognitive tests. In dogs with moderate cognitive impairment, treatment caused significant improvement in the clinical rating of cognitive abilities and the performance-based tests of cognitive functioning when compared to the untreated group (p < 0.001). Dogs treated with BChEi showed markedly improved cognitive function with enhanced quality of life. No side effects were observed in the treated dogs with moderate cognitive impairment. According to the results of this preliminary study, there is an indication that novel BChEi may be a promising drug for the treatment of CCD in dogs and may be an interesting candidate for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in humans. However, further clinical studies are needed to confirm this.
The β2Tubulin, Rad50-ATPase and enolase cis-regulatory regions mediate male germline expression in Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Khan Sher Afzal , Jakes Emma , Myles Kevin M. , Adelman Zach N.
Published: September 2021

Genetics-based pest management processes, including the sterile insect technique, are an effective method for the control of some pest insects. However, current SIT methods are not directly transferable to many important pest insect species due to the lack of genetic sexing strains. Genome editing is revolutionizing the way we conduct genetics in insects, including in Tribolium castaneum, an important genetic model and agricultural pest. We identified orthologues of β2Tubulin, Rad50-ATPase and enolase in T. castaneum. Using RT-PCR, we confirmed that these genes are predominantly expressed in the testis. PiggyBac-based transformation of T. castaneum cis-regulatory regions derived from Tc-β2t, Tc-rad50 or Tc-eno resulted in EGFP expression specifically in the T. castaneum testis. Additionally, we determined that each of these regulatory regions regulates EGFP expression in different cell types of the male gonad. Cis-regulatory regions from Tc-β2t produced EGFP expression throughout spermatogenesis and also in mature sperms; Tc-rad50 resulted in expression only in the haploid spermatid, while Tc-eno expressed EGFP in late spermatogenesis. In summary, the regulatory cis-regions characterized in this study are not only suited to study male gonadal function but could be used for development of transgenic sexing strains that produce one sex in pest control strategies.
The latitudinal dependence in the trend of snow event to precipitation event ratio
Authors: Shi Shangyong , Liu Guosheng
Published: September 2021

Precipitation phase is expected to shift from solid to liquid with temperature rising, which would in turn bring challenges to regional water resource management. Although in recent decades, consistent decreasing trends in the ratio of snowfall to precipitation rate in a warming climate have been found across multiple regions, a global view of the trends in the precipitation partitioning has not been established. In this study, we investigated the global trends of annual rain and snow frequency of occurrences and the ratio of number of snow events to number of precipitation events (SE/PE ratio) using land station and shipboard synoptic present weather reports from 1978 to 2019. Results show that when averaged over all qualified land stations and over the shipboard reports, both the annual rain frequency and snow frequency decrease over the 42 years. Over both land and ocean, the averaged SE/PE ratio has a significant decreasing trend. Moreover, the trend of SE/PE ratio shows a strong latitudinal dependence. At the mid- and low latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere, the SE/PE ratio has a decreasing trend. In contrast, at high latitudes, the SE/PE ratio has an increasing trend.
In situ delivery of biobutyrate by probiotic Escherichia coli for cancer therapy
Authors: Chiang Chung-Jen , Hong Yan-Hong
Published: September 2021

Butyrate has a bioactive function to reduce carcinogenesis. To achieve targeted cancer therapy, this study developed bacterial cancer therapy (BCT) with butyrate as a payload. By metabolic engineering, Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) was reprogrammed to synthesize butyrate (referred to as biobutyrate) and designated EcN-BUT. The adopted strategy includes construction of a synthetic pathway for biobutyrate and the rational design of central metabolism to increase the production of biobutyrate at the expense of acetate. With glucose, EcN-BUT produced primarily biobutyrate under the hypoxic condition. Furthermore, human colorectal cancer cell was administrated with the produced biobutyrate. It caused the cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase and induced the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway independent of p53. In the tumor-bearing mice, the injected EcN-BUT exhibited tumor-specific colonization and significantly reduced the tumor volume by 70%. Overall, this study opens a new avenue for BCT based on biobutyrate.
Comparing the efficacy of sinus irrigation with traditional Caldwell–Luc procedure following odontogenic cyst surgery involving the maxillary sinus
Authors: Gang Niu , JiaMin Chen , Ye Wu , FuPing Xie , HuanHuan Liu , LiSong Lin
Published: September 2021

A large maxillary odontogenic cyst could intrude into the maxillary sinus. The traditional approach following surgery for such a cyst is the Caldwell–Luc procedure. However, the traditional CDL procedure is associated with more complications and damage of the sinus mucosa. The purpose of this study was to assess a new method with easier operation, which not only prevented postoperative infection but also caused less damage to the maxillary sinus mucosa. A large odontogenic cyst in the maxillary sinus of 40 patients was diagnosed through radiographic imaging and postoperative histopathology. Twenty patients were treated with maxillary sinus saline irrigation after surgery, while 20 patients underwent the traditional Caldwell–Luc procedure. The therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by clinical examination and radiographic imaging; the longest follow-up was 36 months. The postoperative reaction was evaluated. There was a statistically significant difference in facial swelling, visual analog scale (VAS) and temperature elevation between the 2 groups. Sinus irrigation following large odontogenic cyst surgery involving the maxillary sinus can serve as an alternative to standard CDL and has the advantages of fewer complications, reduced trauma, restoration of the mucosa and more satisfactory results.
Nested pool testing strategy for the diagnosis of infectious diseases
Authors: Armendáriz Inés , Ferrari Pablo A. , Fraiman Daniel , Martínez José M. , Menzella Hugo G. , Ponce Dawson Silvina
Published: September 2021

The progress of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic requires the design of large-scale, cost-effective testing programs. Pooling samples provides a solution if the tests are sensitive enough. In this regard, the use of the gold standard, RT-qPCR, raises some concerns. Recently, droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) was shown to be 10–100 times more sensitive than RT-qPCR, making it more suitable for pooling. Furthermore, ddPCR quantifies the RNA content directly, a feature that, as we show, can be used to identify nonviable samples in pools. Cost-effective strategies require the definition of efficient deconvolution and re-testing procedures. In this paper we analyze the practical implementation of an efficient hierarchical pooling strategy for which we have recently derived the optimal, determining the best ways to proceed when there are impediments for the use of the absolute optimum or when multiple pools are tested simultaneously and there are restrictions on the throughput time. We also show how the ddPCR RNA quantification and the nested nature of the strategy can be combined to perform self-consistency tests for a better identification of infected individuals and nonviable samples. The studies are useful to those considering pool testing for the identification of infected individuals.
Altered fecal microbiota composition in individuals who abuse methamphetamine
Authors: Yang Yongde , Yu Xuan , Liu Xuebing , Liu Guangya , Zeng Kuan , Wang Gang
Published: September 2021

As a severe public health problem, methamphetamine (METH) abuse places a heavy burden on families and society. A growing amount of evidence has indicated communication between gut microbiota and the CNS in drug addiction, with associations to neural, endocrine and immune pathways. Thus, we searched for alterations in the gut microbiota and their potential effects in METH users through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A decreased Shannon index indicated lower bacterial diversity in the METH users than in the age-matched control group. The gut microbial community composition in the METH users was also altered, including reductions in Deltaproteobacteria and Bacteroidaceae abundances and increases in Sphingomonadales, Xanthomonadales, Romboutsia and Lachnospiraceae abundances. Moreover, the Fusobacteria abundance was correlated with the duration of METH use. Enterobacteriaceae, Ruminococcaceae, Bacteroides, and Faecalibacterium had statistically significant correlations with items related to the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia and to general psychopathology in the METH users, and all have previously been reported to be altered in individuals with psychotic syndromes, especially depression. Abstraction, one of the items of the cognitive assessment, was positively related to Blautia. These findings revealed alterations in the gut microbiota of METH users, and these alterations may play a role in psychotic syndrome and cognitive impairment. Although the mechanisms behind the links between these disorders and METH abuse are unknown, the relationships may indicate similarities in the pathogenesis of psychosis induced by METH abuse and other causes, providing a new paradigm for addiction and METH use disorder treatment.
Human age-declined saliva metabolic markers determined by LC–MS
Authors: Teruya Takayuki , Goga Haruhisa , Yanagida Mitsuhiro
Published: September 2021

Metabolites in human biofluids reflect individual physiological states influenced by various factors. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS), we conducted non-targeted, non-invasive metabolomics using saliva of 27 healthy volunteers in Okinawa, comprising 13 young (30 ± 3 year) and 14 elderly (76 ± 4 year) subjects. Few studies have comprehensively identified age-dependent changes in salivary metabolites. Among 99 salivary metabolites, 21 were statistically age-related. All of the latter decline in abundance with advancing age, except ATP, which increased 1.96-fold in the elderly, possibly due to reduced ATP consumption. Fourteen age-linked and highly correlated compounds function in a metabolic network involving the pentose-phosphate pathway, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, amino acids, and purines/pyrimidines nucleobases. The remaining seven less strongly correlated metabolites, include ATP, anti-oxidation-related glutathione disulfide, muscle-related acetyl-carnosine, N-methyl-histidine, creatinine, RNA-related dimethyl-xanthine and N-methyl-adenosine. In addition, glutamate and N-methyl-histidine are related to taste, so their decline suggests that the elderly lose some ability to taste. Reduced redox metabolism and muscle activity are suggested by changes in glutathione and acetyl-carnosine. These age-linked salivary metabolites together illuminate a metabolic network that reflects a decline of oral functions during human aging.
Effect of metal decoration on sulfur-based gas molecules adsorption on phosphorene
Authors: Wang Yonghu , Lei Shuangying , Gao Ran , Sun Xiaolong , Chen Jie
Published: September 2021

Based on first-principles calculation, the adsorption of sulfur-based gas molecules (H2S, SO2, SO3) on various metal-decorated phosphorenes is researched systematically. Eleven metals (Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ni, La, Tl) which can avoid the formation of clusters on the phosphorene are considered. Noticeably, all metal decorations can enhance the adsorption strength of phosphorene to sulfur-based gas molecules except for H2S on Tl-decorated phosphorene. Meanwhile, the adsorption energy (Eads) shows the trend of Eads(H2S) < Eads(SO2) < Eads(SO3) for the same metal decoration case. In addition, some metal-decorated phosphorene systems exhibit intriguing magnetic and electrical variation after sulfur-based gas molecule adsorptions, indicating that these systems are promising to be candidates for the detection and removal of sulfur-based gas molecules.
The effect of prepregnancy body mass index on maternal micronutrient status: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Yan , Cai Zixin , Zhang Jingjing
Published: September 2021

The relationship between prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and maternal micronutrient status is inconsistent and has not received sufficient attention. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of prepregnancy BMI on micronutrient levels in pregnant women. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for articles that contained information on micronutrient levels and prepregnancy BMI. A random-effects model was used to determine the association between prepregnancy BMI and maternal micronutrient status. Sixty-one eligible articles were eventually included, with 83,554 participants. Vitamin B12, folate, vitamin D, iron and ferritin were the main micronutrients evaluated in our meta-analysis. Prepregnancy obesity and overweight may lead to an increased risk of micronutrient deficiency, including vitamin B12, folate and vitamin D deficiency, while prepregnancy obesity or overweight may have no significant association with ferritin deficiency. Additionally, the results of the dose–response analyses demonstrated a possible significant inverse correlation between prepregnancy BMI and levels of micronutrient, except for iron and ferritin. Compared with women with normal weight, women who were overweight or obese prepregnancy have lower micronutrient concentrations and are more likely to exhibit micronutrient deficiency during pregnancy, which is harmful to both mothers and neonates.
Revealing quantum effects in highly conductive δ-layer systems
Authors: Mamaluy Denis , Mendez Juan P. , Gao Xujiao , Misra Shashank
Published: September 2021

Thin, high-density layers of dopants in semiconductors, known as δ-layer systems, have recently attracted attention as a platform for exploration of the future quantum and classical computing when patterned in plane with atomic precision. However, there are many aspects of the conductive properties of these systems that are still unknown. Here we present an open-system quantum transport treatment to investigate the local density of electron states and the conductive properties of the δ-layer systems. A successful application of this treatment to phosphorous δ-layer in silicon both explains the origin of recently-observed shallow sub-bands and reproduces the sheet resistance values measured by different experimental groups. Further analysis reveals two main quantum-mechanical effects: 1) the existence of spatially distinct layers of free electrons with different average energies; 2) significant dependence of sheet resistance on the δ-layer thickness for a fixed sheet charge density.
Chromatin remodeling due to degradation of citrate carrier impairs osteogenesis of aged mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Pouikli Andromachi , Parekh Swati , Maleszewska Monika , Nikopoulou Chrysa , Baghdadi Maarouf , Tripodi Ignacio , Folz-Donahue Kat , Hinze Yvonne , Mesaros Andrea , Hoey David , Giavalisco Patrick , Dowell Robin , Partridge Linda , Tessarz Peter
Published: September 2021

Aging is accompanied by a general decline in the function of many cellular pathways. However, whether these are causally or functionally interconnected remains elusive. Here, we study the effect of mitochondrial–nuclear communication on stem cell aging. We show that aged mesenchymal stem cells exhibit reduced chromatin accessibility and lower histone acetylation, particularly on promoters and enhancers of osteogenic genes. The reduced histone acetylation is due to impaired export of mitochondrial acetyl-CoA, owing to the lower levels of citrate carrier (CiC). We demonstrate that aged cells showed enhanced lysosomal degradation of CiC, which is mediated via mitochondrial-derived vesicles. Strikingly, restoring cytosolic acetyl-CoA levels either by exogenous CiC expression or via acetate supplementation, remodels the chromatin landscape and rescues the osteogenesis defects of aged mesenchymal stem cells. Collectively, our results establish a tight, age-dependent connection between mitochondrial quality control, chromatin and stem cell fate, which are linked together by CiC.
Solution NMR and racemic crystallography provide insights into a novel structural class of cyclic plant peptides
Authors: Payne Colton D. , Vadlamani Grishma , Hajiaghaalipour Fatemeh , Muhammad Taj , Fisher Mark F. , Andersson Håkan S. , Göransson Ulf , Clark Richard J. , Bond Charles S. , Mylne Joshua S. , Rosengren K. Johan
Published: September 2021

Larger members of the PawS-Derived family of cyclic plant peptides form complex structures. The graphical abstract shows the racemic crystal structure of the homodimeric PDP-23 as well as the solution NMR structure of PDP-24.
Influence of the particle size on selective 2-propanol gas-phase oxidation over Co3O4 nanospheres
Authors: Falk Tobias , Anke Sven , Hajiyani Hamidreza , Saddeler Sascha , Schulz Stephan , Pentcheva Rossitza , Peng Baoxiang , Muhler Martin
Published: September 2021

Co3O4 nanospheres with a preferential (110) surface orientation showed excellent catalytic properties in the selective gas-phase oxidation of 2-propanol. A preferential Mars–van Krevelen mechanism on the Co3O4(110) surface was identified by DFT + U.
The cooperative role of innocent ligand in N-heterocyclic carbene manganese catalyzed carbon dioxide hydrogenation
Authors: Jing Yaru , Liu Jiahao , Ye Zongren , Su Jiaqi , Liu Yan , Ke Zhuofeng
Published: September 2021

The concept of Lewis acidic π* cooperation was proposed for innocent CO ligand in NHC–Mn catalyzed CO2 hydrogenation by systematic DFT studies.
Efficient energy storage in mustard husk derived porous spherical carbon nanostructures
Authors: Pramanik Atin , Chattopadhyay Shreyasi , De Goutam , Mahanty Sourindra
Published: September 2021

Porous spherical carbon nanostructures derived from biomass waste showed promising energy storage potential.
Simultaneous phase control and carbon intercalation of MoS2 for electrochemical hydrogen evolution catalysis
Authors: Xu Jun , Cui Xinjiao , Fan Zhengwen , Zhu Xinxin , Guo Wei , Xie Zhizhong , Liu Dan , Qu Deyu , Tang Haolin , Li Junsheng
Published: September 2021

Carbon intercalated 1T-MoS2 (MoS2-2C) for efficiently electrocatalytic H2 evolution  is synthesized via a glucose-assisted approach, which not only stablizes the active 1T-MoS2 but also modifies the electronic structure of the in-plane sites.
Probing remdesivir nucleotide analogue insertion to SARS-CoV-2 RNA dependent RNA polymerase in viral replication
Authors: Romero Moises Ernesto , Long Chunhong , La Rocco Daniel , Keerthi Anusha Mysore , Xu Dajun , Yu Jin
Published: September 2021

RDV-TP initial binding to CoV-2 RdRp is stabilized by base stacking with template, with insertion facilitated by thermal fluctuations and without R555-phosphate interaction. The inserted RDV-TP and ATP are distinguished by T687 and D623 with sugar.
Tunable plasmonic gallium nano liquid metal from facile and controllable synthesis
Authors: Gao Xin , Fan Xingce , Zhang Jiuyang
Published: September 2021

This work demonstrates a facile “bottom-up” chemistry for Ga liquid metal (LM), which utilizes the classical galvanic replacement reaction to readily realize the synthesis of uniform Ga nano LM for plasmonic applications.
Antithrombogenic properties ofTulbaghia violaceaaqueous leaf extracts: assessment of platelet activation and whole blood clotting kinetics
Authors: Madike Lerato N. , Pillay M. , Popat Ketul C.
Published: September 2021

Tulbaghia violaceaplant extracts have been investigated for their potential therapeutic effects in the management of various ailments, among which are cardiovascular diseases, due to the wide range of phytocompounds that the plant possesses.
A multimodal analytical toolkit to resolve correlated reaction pathways: the case of nanoparticle formation in zeolites
Authors: O'Nolan Daniel , Zhao Haiyan , Chen Zhihengyu , Grenier Antonin , Beauvais Michelle L. , Newton Mark A. , Nenoff Tina M. , Chupas Peter J. , Chapman Karena W.
Published: September 2021

Multimodal in situ experimental data probing a complex reaction have been integrated via a multi-level analysis involving non-negative matrix factorization and correlation analysis. This strategy can be applied generally to multimodal experiments.
Enhancing functionalities of organic ultraviolet-visible phototransistors incorporating spiropyran-merocyanine photochromic materials
Authors: Wu Ren-Jie , Hsu Yueh-Ling , Chou Wei-Yang , Cheng Horng-Long
Published: September 2021

A photoexcited merocyanine molecule triggers several distinct photoresponse features of organic phototransistors, enabling distinction between ultraviolet light and visible light and realising an energy-saving optical synapse.
Efficient hydrogen production via sunlight-driven thermal formic acid decomposition over a porous film of molybdenum carbide
Authors: Lv Cuncai , Lou Pingping , Shi Chengcheng , Wang Ruining , Fu Yanhui , Gao Linjie , Wang Shufang , Li Yaguang , Zhang Chi
Published: September 2021

A porous Mo1.98C1.02 film exhibits efficient sunlight-driven thermal catalytic formic acid decomposition, and the H2 generation rate is about two orders of magnitude faster than that of the reported non-precious photocatalysts.
A Li3VO4micro/nanoscale anode with fast ion transportation for advanced lithium-ion batteries: a mini-review
Authors: Wang Miaomiao , Li Chunsheng , Sun Yan , Yang Chen , Li Lin , Zhu Zhu , Wang Didi , Li Yuanliang , Zhu Jiahao , Zhao Yuzhen , Chou Shulei
Published: September 2021

This review provides an in-depth discussion on key progress of Li3VO4as a promising anode material for LIBs with high electronic conductivity, fast ion transportation and controlled morphology, and highlights its large-scale application in future.
Role of Routine Peritoneal Biopsies During Risk Reducing Salpingo-Oophorectomy (RRSO)
Authors: Pross Therese , Karsten Maria Margarete , Blohmer Jens-Uwe , Speiser Dorothee
Published: September 2021

Objective The objective of this retrospective study was to assess the role of routine peritoneal biopsies during risk reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO).

Methods Data of 204 women who underwent RRSO between January 1, 2014 and February 20, 2020 at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte were retrospectively analyzed. RRSO was done according to the standard operating procedures of the German Consortium Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (GC-HBOC) with peritoneal washing and several peritoneal biopsies. Specimen collected during RRSO were analyzed using the protocol for Sectioning and Extensively Examining the FIMbria (SEE-FIM). Perioperative complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo-Classification.

Results 147 women who underwent RRSO had peritoneal biopsies and pelvic washing, 44 women had none of that. 123 patients (64.4%) carried a pathologic variant in gBRCA1, 53 (27.7%) carried a pathologic variant in gBRCA2. Histopathological evaluation identified four patients (2.1%) with pathological findings. Neither peritoneal biopsies nor pelvic washings revealed additional information after histological examination. There was no statistically significant difference in complication rate between the two groups. The mean surgery time for RRSO without peritoneal biopsies was 64.3 minutes compared to 77.8 minutes with peritoneal biopsies. That shows a statistically significant prolongation of 16% (13.5 minutes, p = 0.0383).

Conclusions The routine use of peritoneal biopsies during RRSO does not improve detection of occult ovarian cancer or STIC but prolongs the operation time significantly. By omitting peritoneal biopsies in RRSO not only perioperative risks are diminished but also costs could be reduced by shortening of surgery time as well as decreased number of pathological samples.
Epidemiologists’ ambivalence towards the epigenetics of social adversity
Authors: Romijn François , Louvel Séverine
Published: September 2021

This article studies how social epidemiologists get involved in research carried out on rodent models to explore the biological pathways underpinning exposure to social adversity in early life. We analyze their interdisciplinary exchanges with biologists in a social epigenetics project—i.e., in the experimental study of molecular alterations following social exposures. We argue that social epidemiologists are ambivalent regarding the use of non-human animal models on two levels: first, in terms of whether such models provide scientific evidence useful to social epidemiology, and second, regarding whether such models help promote their conception of public health. While they maintain expectations towards rodent experiments by elevating their functional value over their representational potential, they fear that their research will contribute to a public health approach that focuses on individual responsibility rather than the social causes of health inequalities. This interdisciplinary project demonstrates the difficulties encountered when research in social epigenetics engages with the complexities of laboratory experiments and social environments, as well as the conflicting sociopolitical projects stemming from such research.
Cavity and ground effects on a superconducting microstrip resonator
Authors: Lv Wei-Tao , Ding Jiang-Qiao , Zhi Qiang , Wang Zheng , Li Jing , Shi Sheng-Cai
Published: September 2021

Superconducting planar-transmission-line resonators play an increasingly important role in applications such as astronomical detection and circuit quantum electrodynamics. When measuring the transmission response of an array of resonators, however, one often observes some spurious resonances besides the intrinsic ones. In this letter, the effect of the cavity accommodating a half-wavelength superconducting microstrip resonator is investigated. An attenuation pole associated with the intrinsic resonance of the half-wavelength resonator is clearly observed and found to be resulted from the mutual coupling between the microstrip resonator and the cavity. In addition, it is demonstrated that adding a superconducting ground layer for such a microstrip resonator can avoid the frequency shift owing to an ever-present thin air gap between the microstrip resonator and the cavity and can also improve the Q factor of the microstrip resonator.
Analysis of current maternity leave policies for doctors in training
Authors: Hoffman Rebekah , Mullan Judy , Bonney Andrew
Published: September 2021

Objective This study reviewed the maternity leave policies in Australian general practice speciality training and compared them to hospital-based speciality training policies. Methods Nine general practice regional training organisations’ maternity leave policies were audited and compared to 11 Australian hospital speciality training maternity leave policies. Data pertaining to each component of Cheung’s health policy analysis tool were reviewed. Results Across all specialities there was a lack of evidence-informed policy design and evidence-based goal setting. Compared with other specialities, general practice was the only speciality where trainees did not receive paid maternity leave. Conclusions This study highlights the need to improve maternity leave policies in line with evidence and best practice for both general practice and hospital-based speciality registrars. What is known about the topic? There is an increasing number of females graduating from medical degrees and planning parenting and speciality medical training simultaneously. The balance of these two roles is dependent on the policies and protocols of the training providers, who need to ensure that parenting and a medical career are compatible. What does this paper add? This paper reports on the findings of an audit of the current maternity leave policies for general practice and hospital-based medical registrar trainees in Australia. It identifies key areas within the policies that need to be addressed. What are the implications for practitioners? This paper identifies that all policies lack evidence of being evidence based in their design. This audit has demonstrated that most policies do not meet the World Health Organization’s recommendations for maternity leave. Specifically, general practice trainees are the only doctors who do not have a policy that requires paid maternity leave. However, as the training of general practice registrars moves towards being undertaken by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, there is an opportunity for a review of this policy so that it becomes aligned with other Australian medical registrar training policies.
Nitrogen balance studies on pouch young Macropus rufus and M. giganteus (Marsupialia: Macropodidae): The utilisation of cows' milk and carbohydratefree milk replacers.
Authors: Walker D.M. , Vickery K.
Published: September 2021

Young Macropus rufus and M. giganteus, aged between 150 and 250 days were reared on two carbohydrate-free milk replacer diets (CF-25 and CF-35 containing, respectively, 25 0Jo and 35% of their total energy as protein). Cows' milk (26% protein energy) was given as a control diet. CF diets were offered to the joeys to provide a wide range of intakes of energy. Cows' milk was offered over a narrow range to avoid diarrhoea. Nitrogen balances over a 5 day collection period demonstrated the protein-sparing effect of the carbohydrate (lactose) in cows ' milk. At the same daily intakes of energy ( 430 kJ kg -0.73) the nitrogen balances of the joeys (mg N kg -0.73) were: CF-25 (n~l4), 195; CF-35 (n ~ l4), 408; cows' milk (n ~ 6), 421; while the daily liveweight changes (g kg -0.73) were: CF- 25, - 0.2; CF-35, +6.6; cows' milk, +11.2. The superior nitrogen balances of joeys given the cows' milk diet could be attributed to the presence of carbohydrate, since similar nitrogen balances could be obtained only with a carbohydrate-free diet if the protein content was raised by some 40% above that in cows' milk. However, the use of cows' milk as the sole feed for pouch young kangaroos is limited by its high content of lactose and the inevitable diarrhoea that follows when cows' milk is fed in amounts sufficient to give acceptable liveweight gains.
The chromosomes of five species of Phalanger (Marsupialia: Phalangeridae).
Authors: Donnellan S.C.
Published: September 2021

NA
Torpor in a pregnant echidna, Tachyglossus aculeatus (Monotremata: Tachyglossidae).
Authors: Geiser F. , Seymour R.S.
Published: September 2021

NA
Occurrence and outcome of polyoestry in wild western quolls, Dasyurus geoffroii (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae).
Authors: Soderquist T.R. , Serena M.
Published: September 2021

NA
Forage biomass and kangaroo populations (Marsupialia: Macropodidae) in summer and autumn at Hattah-Kulkyne National Park, Victoria.
Authors: Coulson G. , Norbury G. , Walters B.
Published: September 2021

NA
An observation of free-living Dusky Antechinuses, Antechinus swainsonii (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae) during the breeding season.
Authors: Monamy V.
Published: September 2021

NA
Morphology of the reproductive tract of a juvenile male Ross Seal, Ommatophoca rossii (Pinnipedia: Phocidae).
Authors: Tedman R.A.
Published: September 2021

NA
Conservation status of the Plains Rat Pseudomys australis (Rodentia: Muridae).
Authors: Breed W.G.
Published: September 2021

NA
Induction of parturient behaviour in possums (Marsupialia: Phalangeridae) and bandicoots (Marsupialia: Peramelidae).
Authors: Gemmell R.T. , McFayden A.S. , Rose R.W.
Published: September 2021

NA
Habitat relationships for two poorly known mammal species Pseudomys calabyi and Sminlhopsis sp. from the wet-dry tropics of the Northern Territory.
Authors: Woinarski J.C.Z.
Published: September 2021

Most records of Sminthopsis sp. and all records of Pseudomys calabyi are from gravelly hills with Eucalyplus dichromophloia and E. tintinnans woodland in Stage III of Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. This habitat is distinct from that used by other small dasyurids and pseudomyine rodents of this region. For P. calabyi it may offer the attraction of prolonged availability of fallen grass seeds. Both taxa have vicariants in the Kimberley, a pattern resembling that for many vertebrate species pairs of the more isolated sandstone massifs of the Kimberley and Arnhem Land area.
Aspects of the ecology of the mulgara, Dasycercus cristicauda (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae) in the Northern Territory.
Authors: Gibson D.F. , Cole J.R.
Published: September 2021

NA
A western mouse (Pseudomys occidentalis) from King George Sound, Western Australia.
Authors: Kitchener A.C.
Published: September 2021

NA
Predation by feral cats, Felis catus, on an endangered marsupial, the bridled nailtail wallaby, Onychogalea fraenata.
Authors: Horsup A. , Evans M.
Published: September 2021

NA
Behaviour of eastern barred bandicoots, Perameles gunnii (Marsupialia: Peramelidae), breeding in captivity.
Authors: Murphy J.A.
Published: September 2021

NA
Distribution and abundance of kangaroos (Marsupialia: Macropodidae) at the time of European contact: South Australia.
Authors: Barker R.D. , Caughley G.
Published: September 2021

Historical records, and the names of animals within Aboriginal languages, were analysed to compare the distribution and density of kangaroos at European contact with those of today. We gave up this attempt for the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Macropus giganteus, presently restricted to the extreme south-east of the state, because it was never differentiated historically from the Southern Grey Kangaroo, M. fuliginosus, which occurs right across the southern portion of the state. The historical distribution of the latter species, and of the Red Kangaroo, M. rufus, seems to have been similar to their distribution today. Past densities are difficult to extract from historical records and are not sufficiently reliable to justify comparison with present densities. We note however an apparent increase in density of 'kangaroos' in the mid-1800s.
Stability of trapped solutions of a nonlinear Schrödinger equation with a nonlocal nonlinear self-interaction potential
Authors: Charalampidis Efstathios G , Cooper Fred , Khare Avinash , Dawson John F , Saxena Avadh
Published: September 2021

This work focuses on the study of the stability of trapped soliton-like solutions of a (1 + 1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) in a nonlocal, nonlinear, self-interaction potential of the form

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]

κ

where κ is an arbitrary nonlinearity parameter. Although the system with κ = 1 (i.e. fully integrable case) was first reported by Yang (2018 Phys. Rev. E 98 042202), in the present work, we extend this model to the one in which κ is arbitrary. This allows us to compare the stability properties of the now trapped solutions to previously found solutions of the more usual NLSE with κ ≠ 1 which are moving soliton solutions. We show that there is a simple, one-component, nonlocal Lagrangian and corresponding action governing the dynamics of the system. Using a collective coordinate method derived from the action as well as assuming the validity of Derrick’s theorem, we find that these trapped solutions are stable for 0 < κ < 2 and unstable when κ > 2. At the critical value of κ, i.e. κ = 2, the solution can either collapse or blowup linearly in time when q
0 = 0, where q
0 is the center of the initial density ρ(x, t = 0) = ψ
⋆
ψ of the solution. For q
0 ≠ 0 the displaced solution collapses. When κ > 2 initial small displacements from the origin also lead to collapse of the wave function. This phenomenon is not seen in the usual NLSE.
Lysosomal dysfunction impairs mitochondrial quality control and is associated with neurodegeneration in TBCK encephaloneuronopathy
Authors: Tintos-Hernández Jesus A , Santana Adrian , Keller Kierstin N , Ortiz-González Xilma R
Published: September 2021

Biallelic variants in the TBCK gene cause intellectual disability with remarkable clinical variability, ranging from static encephalopathy to progressive neurodegeneration (TBCK-Encephaloneuronopathy). The biological factors underlying variable disease penetrance remain unknown. Since previous studies had suggested aberrant autophagy, we tested whether mitophagy and mitochondrial function are altered in TBCK−/− fibroblasts derived from patients exhibiting variable clinical severity. Our data show significant accumulation of mitophagosomes, reduced mitochondrial respiratory capacity and mitochondrial DNA content, suggesting impaired mitochondrial quality control. Furthermore, the degree of mitochondrial dysfunction correlates with a neurodegenerative clinical course. Since mitophagy ultimately depends on lysosomal degradation, we also examined lysosomal function. Our data show that lysosomal proteolytic function is significantly reduced in TBCK−/− fibroblasts. Moreover, acidifying lysosomal nanoparticles rescue the mitochondrial respiratory defects in fibroblasts, suggesting impaired mitochondrial quality control secondary to lysosomal dysfunction. Our data provide insight into the disease mechanisms of TBCK Encephaloneuronopathy and the potential relevance of mitochondrial function as a biomarker beyond primary mitochondrial disorders. It also supports the benefit of lysosomal acidification strategies for disorders of impaired lysosomal degradation affecting mitochondrial quality control.
Method Validation and Rapid Determination of Monosodium Glutamate in Various Food Products by HPLC–Fluorescence Detection and Method Optimization of HPLC–Evaporative Light Scattering Detection Approach without Derivatization
Authors: Soyseven Murat , Arli Göksel
Published: September 2021

In this study, an effective, simple and rapid high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using fluorescence (FLD) method was developed and validated for the determination of monosodium glutamate (MSG) in 57 various food samples. Besides, HPLC-Evaporate Light Scattering Detection (ELSD) method was carried out for determination of MSG without derivatization. MSG analysis was performed by derivatization with dansyl chloride at excitation 328, emission 530nm with fluorescence detector. HPLC-FLD method was carried out by using C18 (150 mm, 4.6 mm, 2.7 μm) column with the mobile phase consisting of (Water: Methanol:Glacial Acetic Acid)/(54:45:1,v/v/v). The column temperature was set at 25°C and the flow rate was set at 0.5 mL min−1 with an injection volume 20 μL. The results were linear (R2 = 0.9999) with very low quantification limits. The applied method was optimized and the validated parameters such as LOD, LOQ, accuracy, precision, linearity and robustness were calculated. The obtained results were statistically compared with each other. The validated HPLC-FLD method was successfully applied for the analysis of MSG in all of the food samples. Moreover, HPLC-ELSD method was optimized and successfully demonstrated for detect the MSG without derivatization.
Randomized Study of Rivaroxaban vs Placebo on Disease Progression and Symptoms Resolution in High-Risk Adults With Mild Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Ananworanich Jintanat , Mogg Robin , Dunne Michael W , Bassyouni Mohamed , David Consuela Vera , Gonzalez Erika , Rogalski-Salter Taryn , Shih Heather , Silverman Jared , Medema Jeroen , Heaton Penny
Published: September 2021

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection may be associated with a prothrombotic state, predisposing patients for a progressive disease course. We investigated whether rivaroxaban, a direct oral anticoagulant factor Xa inhibitor, would reduce coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) progression.

Methods

Adults (N = 497) with mild COVID-19 symptoms and at high risk for COVID-19 progression based on age, body mass index, or comorbidity were randomized 1:1 to either daily oral rivaroxaban 10 mg (N = 246) or placebo equivalent (N = 251) for 21 days and followed to day 35. Primary end points were safety and progression. Absolute difference in progression risk was assessed using a stratified Miettinen and Nurminen method.

Results

The study was terminated after 497 of the target 600 participants were enrolled due to a prespecified interim analysis of the first 200 participants that crossed the futility boundary for the primary efficacy end point in the intent-to-treat population. Enrollees were 85% aged <65 years; 60% female; 27% Hispanic, Black, or other minorities; and 69% with ≥2 comorbidities. Rivaroxaban was well tolerated. Disease progression rates were 46 of 222 (20.7%) in rivaroxaban vs 44 of 222 (19.8%) in placebo groups, with a risk difference of –1.0 (95% confidence interval, −6.4 to 8.4; P = .78).

Conclusions

We did not demonstrate an impact of rivaroxaban on disease progression in high-risk adults with mild COVID-19. There remains a critical public health gap in identifying scalable effective therapies for high-risk people in the outpatient setting to prevent COVID-19 progression.
Podocyturia in Fabry disease: a 10-year follow-up
Authors: Vujkovac Bojan , Srebotnik Kirbiš Irena , Keber Tajda , Cokan Vujkovac Andreja , Tretjak Martin , Radoš Krnel Sandra
Published: September 2021

Background

Fabry disease (FD) is a rare X-linked disorder of sphingolipid metabolism that results in chronic proteinuric nephropathy. Podocytes are one of the most affected renal cells and play an important role in the development and progression of kidney disease. Detached podocytes found in urine (podocyturia) are considered as a non-invasive early marker of kidney injury; however, the dynamics of podocyte loss remains unknown.

Methods

In this 10-year follow-up study, podocyturia and other renal clinical data were evaluated in 39 patients with FD. From 2009 to 2019, podocyturia was assessed in 566 fresh urine samples from 13 male and 26 female FD patients using immunocytochemical detection of podocalyxin.

Results

Podocyturia (number of podocytes per 100 mL of urine) was found in 311/566 (54.9%) of the samples, more frequently (68.9 ± 21.9% versus 50.6 ± 25.9%; P = 0.035) and with higher values (364 ± 286 versus 182 ± 180 number of podocytes per gram of creatinine (Cr) in urine; P = 0.020) in males compared with females. The mean number of assessed samples for each patient was 14.5 (range 3–40) and the frequency of samples with podocyturia ranged from 0% to 100% (median 57%). Podocyturia was already present in 42.9% of patients <20 years of age and in 89.5% of normoalbuminuric patients. Podocyturia correlated with albuminuria (urine albumin:Cr ratio) (r = 0.20, P < 0.001) and a higher incidence and values of podocyturia were observed in patients with lower estimated glomerular filtration rate.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that podocyturia is an early clinical event in the development of nephropathy. In addition, we found podocyturia to be a discontinuous event with wide variability.
Lagrangian Multiforms for Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (KP) and the Gelfand–Dickey Hierarchy
Authors: Sleigh Duncan , Nijhoff Frank W , Caudrelier Vincent
Published: September 2021

We present, for the first time, a Lagrangian multiform for the complete Kadomtsev–Petviashvili hierarchy—a single variational object that generates the whole hierarchy and encapsulates its integrability. By performing a reduction on this Lagrangian multiform, we also obtain Lagrangian multiforms for the Gelfand–Dickey hierarchy of hierarchies, comprising, among others, the Korteweg–de Vries and Boussinesq hierarchies.
Distribution, Dynamics, and Diversity of Questing Ticks in the Lower Midwest
Authors: Wojan Chris , Thrasher Thomas , Lacey Evan , Clay Keith
Published: September 2021

We investigated the spatiotemporal patterns of medically important tick species in southcentral Indiana in 2018 and 2019. In recent decades, both Amblyomma americanum (Acari: Ixodidae) (Linnaeus) and Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) (Say) have been expanding their ranges into the Midwest. We report updates to the status of A. americanum, I. scapularis, and Dermacentor variabilis (Acari: Ixodidae) (Say) across 13 counties in southern and south-central Indiana. We found more northerly establishment of A. americanum and more widespread establishment of I. scapularis than previously reported in the literature. We also provide the first report of Amblyomma maculatum (Acari: Ixodidae) (Koch) in Indiana. Using negative binomial regression, we observed significant spatial variation among sampling sites in A. americanum adults and nymphs, D. variabilis adults, and I. scapularis nymphs. Further, we found higher densities of A. americanum nymphs and I. scapularis adults in more forested areas as opposed to less forested, more developed areas. We did not find significant interannual variation in tick densities for any species. More southern sites featured higher densities of A. americanum adults and nymphs, D. variabilis adults, and I. scapularis nymphs than more northern sites. Seasonally, we observed the highest peaks in tick activity in the spring and early summer, but I. scapularis adults were most common in the early spring and fall. Average adult A. americanum and adult D. variabilis densities were positively correlated at our sites. Our results reflect the northward expansion of A. americanum in the Lower Midwest, as well as the increasing geographic prevalence of I. scapularis in the region.
A more sustainable urban future calls for action: the city of Lahti as European Green Capital 2021
Authors: MacGregor-Fors Ian , García-Arroyo Michelle , Kotze D Johan , Ojala Elina , Setälä Heikki , Vauramo Saara
Published: September 2021

In 2020, a small urban center from southern Finland, the City of Lahti, was awarded the 2021 European Green Capital, which recognizes and rewards local efforts that seek to improve the urban environment, together with its economy and the quality of life for its inhabitants, further posing ambitious goals for ecological improvement. In this commentary, we describe some of the key elements that made Lahti the 2021 European Green Capital, as well as some of the future plans for the city. We also highlight the importance of research-based knowledge as the foundation for achieving better outcomes in urban decision making.
Scattered seeding of CAR T cells in solid tumors augments anticancer efficacy
Authors: Li Hongjun , Wang Zejun , Ogunnaike Edikan A , Wu Qing , Chen Guojun , Hu Quanyin , Ci Tianyuan , Chen Zhaowei , Wang Jinqiang , Wen Di , Du Hongwei , Jiang Jie , Sun Jie , Zhang Xingcai , Dotti Gianpietro , Gu Zhen
Published: September 2021

Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR T) therapy was a milestone in the treatment of relapsed and refractory B cell malignancies. However, beneficial effects of CAR T cells have not been obtained in solid tumors yet. Herein, we implement a porous microneedle patch that accommodates CAR T cells and allows in situ penetration-mediated seeding of CAR T cells when implanted in the tumor bed or in the post-surgical resection cavity. CAR T cells loaded in the pores of the microneedle tips were readily escorted to the tumor in an evenly scattered manner without losing their activity. Such microneedle-mediated local delivery enhanced infiltration and immunostimulation of CAR T cells as compared to direct intratumoral injection. This tailorable patch offers a transformative platform for scattered seeding of living cells for treating a variety of tumors.