bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age-dependent modulation of bone metabolism in zebrafish scales as new model of male osteoporosis in lower vertebrates
Authors: Carnovali Marta , Banfi Giuseppe , Mariotti Massimo
Published: September 2020

After middle age, in human bone, the resorption usually exceeds formation resulting in bone loss and increased risk of fractures in the aged population. Only few in vivo models in higher vertebrates are available for pathogenic and therapeutic studies about bone aging. Among these, male Danio rerio (zebrafish) can be successfully used as low vertebrate model to study degenerative alterations that affect the skeleton during aging, reducing the role of sex hormones.

In this paper, we investigated the early bone aging mechanisms in male zebrafish (3, 6, 9 months old) scales evaluating the physiological changes and the effects of prednisolone, a pro-osteoporotic drug.

The results evidentiated an age-dependent reduction of the mineralization rate in the fish scales, as highlighted by growing circle measurements. Indeed, the osteoblastic ALP activity at the matrix deposition site was found progressively downregulated.

The higher TRAP activity was found in 63% of 9-month-old fish scales associated with resorption lacunae along the scale border. Gene expression analysis evidentiated that an increase of the tnfrsf1b (homolog of human rank) in aging scales may be responsible for resorption stimulation.

Interestingly, prednisolone inhibited the physiological growth of the scale and induced in aged scales a more significant bone resorption compared with untreated fish (3.8% vs 1.02%). Bone markers analysis shown a significant reduction of ALP/TRAP ratio due to a prednisolone-dependent stimulation of tnfsf11 (homolog of human rankl) in scales of older fish.

The results evidentiated for the first time the presence of a senile male osteoporosis in lower vertebrate. This new model could be helpful to identify the early mechanisms of bone aging and new therapeutic strategies to prevent age-related bone alterations in humans.
Training general practitioners to improve evidence-based drug treatment of patients with heart failure: a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Valk M. J. M. , Hoes A. W. , Mosterd A. , Landman M. A. , Zuithoff N. P. A. , Broekhuizen B. D. L. , Rutten F. H.
Published: September 2020

Aims

To assess whether a single training session for general practitioners (GPs) improves the evidence-based drug treatment of heart failure (HF) patients, especially of those with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

A cluster randomised controlled trial was performed for which patients with established HF were eligible. Primary care practices (PCPs) were randomised to care-as-usual or to the intervention group in which GPs received a half-day training session on HF management. Changes in HF medication, health status, hospitalisation and survival were compared between the two groups. Fifteen PCPs with 200 HF patients were randomised to the intervention group and 15 PCPs with 198 HF patients to the control group. Mean age was 76.9 (SD 10.8) years; 52.5% were female. On average, the patients had been diagnosed with HF 3.0 (SD 3.0) years previously. In total, 204 had HFrEF and 194 HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In participants with HFrEF, the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers decreased in 6 months in both groups [5.2%; (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.0–10.0)] and 5.6% (95% CI 2.8–13.4)], respectively [baseline-corrected odds ratio (OR) 1.07 (95% CI 0.55–2.08)], while beta-blocker use increased in both groups by 5.2% (95% CI 2.0–10.0) and 1.1% (95% CI 0.2–6.3), respectively [baseline-corrected OR 0.82 (95% CI 0.42–1.61)]. For health status, hospitalisations or survival after 12–28 months there were no significant differences between the two groups, also not when separately analysed for HFrEF and HFpEF.

Conclusion

A half-day training session for GPs does not improve drug treatment of HF in patients with established HF.
Bandwidth-tunable optical filter based on microring resonator and MZI with Fano resonance
Authors: Li Xia , Shen Chen , Yu Xiaohan , Zhang Yanqiong , Chen Chao , Zhang Xiaoxu
Published: September 2020

A bandwidth-tunable optical filter is fabricated by combining Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) and microring resonator. Both bandwidth red-shift and blue-shift are observed in the experiment. The bandwidth can be tuned from 0.46 to 3.09 nm by controlling two phase shifters. The device also shows an extinction ratio higher than 25 dB. Potential applications are integrated optical signal processing such as reconfigurable filtering and channel selecting in wavelength division multiplexer.
The Entrepreneurial University: How to Develop the Entrepreneurial Orientation of Academia
Authors: Feola Rosangela , Parente Roberto , Cucino Valentina
Published: September 2020

In the last years, universities have assumed a prominent role in the science and technology-based economic development. The concept of entrepreneurial university, a key concept in the triple helix model developed by Etzkowitz, identifies the evolution of the university role with the addition to the traditional missions of university (education and research) of a third mission that is to contribute to the economic development through the transfer of research results from the laboratory to the economic system. The objective of the research is to analyze how universities are implementing this new mission and investigate factors affecting their entrepreneurial orientation. More specifically, our paper aims to investigate the existence of a relationship among the entrepreneurial orientation of university and some factors representing the internal and external context in which the university is involved.
Host Mitochondrial Requirements of Cytomegalovirus Replication
Authors: Monk Chandler H. , Zwezdaryk Kevin J.
Published: September 2020

Purpose of Review

Metabolic rewiring of the host cell is required for optimal viral replication. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has been observed to manipulate numerous mitochondrial functions. In this review, we describe the strategies and targets HCMV uses to control different aspects of mitochondrial function.

Recent Findings

The mitochondria are instrumental in meeting the biosynthetic and bioenergetic needs of HCMV replication. This is achieved through altered metabolism and signaling pathways. Morphological changes mediated through biogenesis and fission/fusion dynamics contribute to strategies to avoid cell death, overcome oxidative stress, and maximize the biosynthetic and bioenergetic outputs of mitochondria.

Emerging data suggests that cytomegalovirus relies on intact, functional host mitochondria for optimal replication. HCMV large size and slow replication kinetics create a dependency on mitochondria during replication. Targeting the host mitochondria is an attractive antiviral target.
The Materiality of Odors: Experiencing Church Burials and the Urban Environment in Early Modern Northern Sweden
Authors: Kallio-Seppä Titta , Tranberg Annemari
Published: September 2020

Archaeological material from early modern Sweden reveals that material and social meaning was intertwined in townscape odors; that is, odors and their association with unhygienic conditions affected the physical structure of the town, its material culture, and different traditions in the use of “townspace.” During the latter half of the 18th century, the town of Oulu suffered from unpleasant smells related to ponds and wet areas, and the odor of decomposing flesh from under-floor church burials greeted church visitors, despite the tradition of placing fragrant plants inside coffins. In the 18th century the town underwent deliberate changes: the ponds were drained and filled, burials under the church floor were prohibited, and one of the first graveyards located outside the town and separate from the church was constructed. These actions to change the town’s “smellscape” reflect emergent notions of regularity and cleanliness related to the Age of Enlightenment.
Sexual Dysfunction Among Young Adults in Sweden—A Population-Based Observational Study
Authors: Ljungman Lisa , Lampic Claudia , Wettergren Lena
Published: September 2020

Introduction

There is a lack of studies using validated instruments to investigate prevalence and predictors of sexual dysfunction among young adults.

Aim

This population-based observational study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of sexual dysfunction in young adults in Sweden and to compare sexual function in women and men.

Methods

A random sample of the general population aged 19-40 years, identified via the Swedish population registry, was approached with a postal survey. A total of 819 individuals participated, 493 women (51% response) and 326 men (34% response). Predictors of sexual dysfunction were identified by multivariable logistic binary regression analyses.

Main outcome measure

Sexual function and satisfaction were assessed using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Sexual Function and Satisfaction measure, version 2.0.

Results

Among the women, 53% reported at least one sexual dysfunction; the corresponding figure for men was 31%. The most common sexual dysfunction in women was low sexual interest (reported by 32%), whereas low satisfaction with sex life was the most common dysfunction in men (reported by 17%). Men reported a higher level of sexual interest and orgasm ability than women, whereas women reported a higher level of orgasm pleasure than men. Regression models showed that in both women and men, having a partner was related to lower risk of dysfunction in the domains satisfaction with sex life and orgasm pleasure. Having children was related to low interest in sex in women, whereas it was related to dissatisfaction with sex life in men. Being born outside of Sweden predicted sexual dysfunction in both women and men, as did experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

Sexual dysfunction is common in young adults, particularly in women. Risk factors of sexual dysfunction include not having a partner, having children, being an immigrant, and reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Target Estimation and Adjustment Weighting for Survey Nonresponse and Sampling Bias
Authors: Caughey Devin , Berinsky Adam J. , Chatfield Sara , Hartman Erin , Schickler Eric , Sekhon Jasjeet S.
Published: September 2020

We elaborate a general workflow of weighting-based survey inference, decomposing it into two main tasks. The first is the estimation of population targets from one or more sources of auxiliary information. The second is the construction of weights that calibrate the survey sample to the population targets. We emphasize that these tasks are predicated on models of the measurement, sampling, and nonresponse process whose assumptions cannot be fully tested. After describing this workflow in abstract terms, we then describe in detail how it can be applied to the analysis of historical and contemporary opinion polls. We also discuss extensions of the basic workflow, particularly inference for causal quantities and multilevel regression and poststratification.
Strengthening the EU’s Response Capacity to Health Emergencies: Insights from EU Crisis Management Mechanisms
Authors: BEAUSSIER Anne-Laure , CABANE Lydie
Published: September 2020

What could a European Union (EU) response mechanism to health emergencies look like in the context of a more integrated Health Union? Despite an increased EU role in the preparedness, monitoring and coordination of health emergencies over the past two decades, Member States’ responses to the first wave of COVID-19 were surprisingly uncoordinated. In light of calls to improve cooperation regarding future health emergencies, this article discusses the creation of EU surveillance, preparedness and response mechanisms for health emergencies. Using insights from previous research and secondary literature, we highlight gaps in the existing serious cross-border health threats regulatory framework and discuss opportunities for further EU action. Based on a comparison with other EU crisis management mechanisms (the Banking Union, risk preparedness in the electricity sector and food safety), we discuss different crisis decision-making and coordination models and their potential applicability to the health sector. We then formulate several propositions to strengthen Decision 1082/2013/EU on serious cross-border health threats to streamline ex ante pandemic preparedness and organise emergency responses.
Periodic points for amenable group actions on uniquely arcwise connected continua
Authors: SHI ENHUI , YE XIANGDONG
Published: September 2020

We show that any action of a countable amenable group on a uniquely arcwise connected continuum has a periodic point of order$\leq 2$.
Use of viral DNA surrogate markers to study routes of transmission of healthcare-associated pathogens
Authors: Thakur Manish , Alhmidi Heba , Cadnum Jennifer L. , Jencson Annette L. , Bingham Jessica , Wilson Brigid M. , Donskey Curtis J.
Published: September 2020

Background:

The hands of healthcare personnel are the most important source for transmission of healthcare-associated pathogens. The role of contaminated fomites such as portable equipment, stethoscopes, and clothing of personnel in pathogen transmission is unclear.

Objective:

To study routes of transmission of cauliflower mosaic virus DNA markers from 31 source patients and from environmental surfaces in their rooms.

Design:

A 3-month observational cohort study.

Setting:

A Veterans’ Affairs hospital.

Methods:

After providing care for source patients, healthcare personnel were observed during interactions with subsequent patients. Putative routes of transmission were identified based on recovery of DNA markers from sites of contact with the patient or environment. To assess plausibility of fomite-mediated transmission, we assessed the frequency of transfer of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from the skin of 25 colonized patients via gloved hands versus fomites.

Results:

Of 145 interactions involving contact with patients and/or the environment, 41 (28.3%) resulted in transfer of 1 or both DNA markers to the patient and/or the environment. The DNA marker applied to patients’ skin and clothing was transferred most frequently by stethoscopes, hands, and portable equipment, whereas the marker applied to environmental surfaces was transferred only by hands and clothing. The percentages of MRSA transfer from the skin of colonized patients via gloved hands, stethoscope diaphragms, and clothing were 52%, 40%, and 48%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Fomites such as stethoscopes, clothing, and portable equipment may be underappreciated sources of pathogen transmission. Simple interventions such as decontamination of fomites between patients could reduce the risk for transmission.
Identification of prosthetic hip and knee joint infections using administrative databases—A validation study
Authors: Kandel Christopher E. , Jenkinson Richard , Widdifield Jessica , Hansen Bettina E. , Davey J. Roderick , Muller Matthew P. , Daneman Nick , McGeer Allison
Published: September 2020

Objective:

To determine whether combinations of diagnosis and procedures codes can improve the detection of prosthetic hip and knee joint infections from administrative databases.

Design:

We performed a validation study of all readmissions from January 1, 2010, until December 31, 2016, following primary arthroplasty comparing the diagnosis and procedure codes obtained from an administrative database based upon the International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) to the reference standard of chart review.

Setting:

Four tertiary-care hospitals in Toronto, Canada, from 2010 to 2016.

Participants:

Individuals who had a primary arthroplasty were identified using procedure codes.

Intervention:

Chart review of readmissions identified the presence of a prosthetic joint infection and, if present, the surgical procedure performed.

Results:

Overall, 27,802 primary arthroplasties were performed. Among 8,844 readmissions over a median follow-up of 669 days (interquartile range, 256–1,249 days), a PJI was responsible for or present in 586 of 8,844 (6.6%). Diagnosis codes alone exhibited a sensitivity of 0.88 (95% CI, 0.85–0.92) and positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.74–0.82) for detecting a PJI. Combining a PJI diagnosis code with procedure codes for an arthroplasty and the insertion of a peripherally inserted central catheter improved detection: sensitivity was 0.92 (95% CI, 0.88–0.94) and PPV was 0.78 (95% CI, 0.74–0.82). However, procedure codes were unable to identify the specific surgical approach to PJI treatment.

Conclusions:

Compared to PJI diagnosis codes, combinations of diagnosis and procedure codes improve the detection of a PJI in administrative databases.
Hepatoblastoma diagnosed in infancy occurring in single-ventricle patients: a case series
Authors: Windom McAllister O. , Campbell M. Jay
Published: September 2020

Hepatoblastoma is the most common primary liver tumour in children; however, there are no reported incidences in the single-ventricle congenital heart disease population. We present three cases in patients with single-ventricle heart disease with a mean age at diagnosis of 19.7 (±4) months. The diagnosis was made prior to Fontan completion in all three cases. These represent the only documented hepatoblastoma cases in single-ventricle patients.
Effectiveness of a housing support team intervention with a recovery-oriented approach on hospital and emergency department use by homeless people with severe mental illness: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Tinland A. , Loubière S. , Boucekine M. , Boyer L. , Fond G. , Girard V. , Auquier P.
Published: September 2020

Aims

Many people who are homeless with severe mental illnesses are high users of healthcare services and social services, without reducing widen health inequalities in this vulnerable population. This study aimed to determine whether independent housing with mental health support teams with a recovery-oriented approach (Housing First (HF) program) for people who are homeless with severe mental disorders improves hospital and emergency department use.

Methods

We did a randomised controlled trial in four French cities: Lille, Marseille, Paris and Toulouse. Participants were eligible if they were 18 years or older, being absolutely homeless or precariously housed, with a diagnosis of schizophrenia (SCZ) or bipolar disorder (BD) and were required to have a high level of needs (moderate-to-severe disability and past hospitalisations over the last 5 years or comorbid alcohol or substance use disorder). Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to immediate access to independent housing and support from the Assertive Community Treatment team (social worker, nurse, doctor, psychiatrist and peer worker) (HF group) or treatment as usual (TAU group) namely pre-existing dedicated homeless-targeted programs and services. Participants and interviewers were unmasked to assignment. The primary outcomes were the number of emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalisation admissions and inpatient days at 24 months. Secondary outcomes were recovery (Recovery Assessment Scale), quality of life (SQOL and SF36), mental health symptoms, addiction issues, stably housed days and cost savings from a societal perspective. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed.

Results

Eligible patients were randomly assigned to the HF group (n= 353) or TAU group (n= 350). No differences were found in the number of hospital admissions (relative risk (95% CI), 0.96 (0.76–1.21)) or ED visits (0.89 (0.66–1.21)). Significantly less inpatient days were found for HFv.TAU (0.62 (0.48–0.80)). The HF group exhibited higher housing stability (difference in slope, 116 (103–128)) and higher scores for sub-dimensions of S-QOL scale (psychological well-being and autonomy). No differences were found for physical composite score SF36, mental health symptoms and rates of alcohol or substance dependence. Mean difference in costs was €-217 per patient over 24 months in favour of the HF group. HF was associated with cost savings in healthcare costs (RR 0.62(0.48–0.78)) and residential costs (0.07 (0.05–0.11)).

Conclusion

An immediate access to independent housing and support from a mental health team resulted in decreased inpatient days, higher housing stability and cost savings in homeless persons with SCZ or BP disorders.
Closed-loop-Systeme – Update 2020
Authors: Melmer Andreas , Tripyla Afroditi , Herzig David , Laimer Markus , Stettler Christoph , Bally Lia
Published: September 2020

Zusammenfassung. Mit dem künstlichen Pankreas (auch closed-loop-System genannt) wird der jahrzehntelange Traum einer automatisierten Insulindosierung Realität. Das System steuert die subkutane Insulinzufuhr automatisch anhand eines Kontrollalgorithmus, der Bezug nimmt auf die aktuelle Glukosekonzentration. Closed-loop-Systeme werden seit 2011 bei Patienten mit Typ-1-Diabetes in klinischen Studien getestet. Dabei konnten gegenüber der konventionellen Pumpentherapie deutliche Reduktionen von Über- und Unterzuckerungen sowie eine geringere Blutzuckervariabilität erreicht werden. Im Jahre 2016 wurde das erste hybrid-closed-loop-System zur Therapie des Typ-1-Diabetes von den amerikanischen Behörden zugelassen. Hybrid-closed-loop-Systeme arbeiten noch nicht vollautomatisch. Nutzer müssen bei der Insulindosierung für Mahlzeiten und Korrekturen aktiv mitwirken. Herausforderungen wie der verzögerte Wirkungseintritt subkutan verabreichten Insulins und das Tragen einer Vielzahl medizinischer Geräte am Körper bleiben weiterhin bestehen. Die folgende Übersichtsarbeit illustriert den aktuellen Stand der Entwicklung von closed-loop-Systemen in der Diabetestherapie. Dabei wird auf das Therapie-Konzept, die einzelnen technischen Komponenten, die Evidenzlage sowie auf heute oder in naher Zukunft verfügbare Systeme eingegangen.
Update: Neue Therapieformen des Diabetes mellitus Typ 2
Authors: Fischli Stefan
Published: September 2020

Zusammenfassung. Die Behandlung des Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 hat in den letzten Jahren grundlegende Änderungen erfahren. Neue Präparate mit fehlendem Hypoglykämiepotenzial und gewichtsreduzierendem Effekt wurden zugelassen. In grossen Studien konnten die protektiven Eigenschaften von GLP-1-Rezeptoragonisten und SGLT-2-Hemmer auf die kardiovaskuläre Morbidität und Mortalität gezeigt werden. Die neuen Erkenntnisse schlagen sich in Änderungen in der Behandlungsstrategie nieder: Typ-2-Diabetiker mit Herz- / Kreislauf-Erkrankungen oder einem hohen kardiovaskulären Risiko werden primär mit Substanzen behandelt, die einen Benefit in Bezug auf die Risikoreduktion gezeigt haben. SGLT-2-Inhibitoren wirken durch direkten Angriff auf die Nierenphysiologie nephroprotektiv und können den Verlauf einer diabetischen Nephropathie günstig beeinflussen. Der vorliegende Artikel stellt in einem Überblick Wirkmechanismen und Charakteristika der neueren Antidiabetika (DPPIV-Hemmer, GLP-1-Rezeptoragonisten, SGLT-2-Hemmer) vor und leitet dann über zu den praktischen Aspekten bei der Behandlung von Personen mit Typ-2-Diabetes.
Armut als pflegerisches Phänomen in der Eingliederungshilfe
Authors: Scholl Ilka , Schulz Michael
Published: September 2020

Zusammenfassung. Armut wirkt als Verstärker von exkludierenden Faktoren und psychischem Wohlbefinden, was insbesondere Menschen mit wesentlichen seelischen Behinderungen trifft. Die Beziehungsgestaltung in der Langzeitversorgung wird somit zu einem Drahtseilakt. Der Artikel befasst sich mit Armut von Betroffenen und der Rolle der psychiatrischen Pflege in der Eingliederungshilfe Wohnen.
Geophysical Observations of Phobos Transits by InSight
Authors: Stähler S. C. , Widmer‐Schnidrig R. , Scholz J.‐R. , van Driel M. , Mittelholz A. , Hurst K. , Johnson C. L. , Lemmon M. T. , Lognonné P. , Lorenz R. D. , Müller N. T. , Pou L. , Spiga A. , Banfield D. , Ceylan S. , Charalambous C. , Clinton J. , Giardini D. , Nimmo F. , Panning M. , Zürn W. , Banerdt W. B.
Published: September 2020

Since landing on Mars, the NASA InSight lander has witnessed eight Phobos and one Deimos transits. All transits could be observed by a drop in the solar array current and the surface temperature, but more surprisingly, for several ones, a clear signature was recorded with the seismic sensors and the magnetometer. We present a preliminary interpretation of the seismometer data as temperature‐induced local deformation of the ground, supported by terrestrial analog experiments and finite‐element modeling. The magnetic signature is most likely induced by changing currents from the solar arrays. While the observations are not fully understood yet, the recording of transit‐related phenomena with high sampling rate will allow more precise measurements of the transit times, thus providing additional constraints for the orbital parameters of Phobos. The response of the seismometer can potentially also be used to constrain the thermoelastic properties of the shallow regolith at the landing site.
Regional and Sectoral Sources for Black Carbon Over South China in Spring and Their Sensitivity to East Asian Summer Monsoon Onset
Authors: Fang Chenwei , Zhu Bin , Pan Chen , Yun Xiao , Ding Deping , Tao Shu
Published: September 2020

Besides local emissions, biomass burning (BB) emissions in peninsula Southeast Asia (PSEA) and domestic anthropogenic emissions in North China (NC) are also significant black carbon (BC) sources over South China (SC) in spring. Meanwhile, the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) is established with the wind field reversal, influencing the region‐based contributions to BC over SC. Herein, BC sources for SC were tracked by region and by sector using the Community Earth System Model with a BC‐tagging technique. During the spring of 2000–2014, 27% of BC surface concentration (BCS) and 64% of BC column burden (BCC) over SC stems from nonlocal sources. BC from NC is mainly transported below 850 hPa. It is the dominant nonlocal contribution to BCS (17%) and largely composed of residential and industrial sectors. Nonlocal emissions inside and outside China contribute 28% and 36% to BCC, respectively. Generally transported above 850 hPa, BC from PSEA is the largest nonlocal contributor (20%) to BCC and contributes 80% of BCC in BB sector. Additionally, the interannual variation in EASM onset times bring a maximum of −5% to +7%/−2% to +7% variation in BCC/BCS. The BC outflow/inflow contributed from NC dominates the BC decrease/increase over SC with southerly/northerly wind anomaly induced by early/late EASM onset, yet regional transport from PSEA contributes minor BC changes. The simulated BC is significantly positively correlated with the varying EASM onset times, but not with emissions, indicating the decisive role of meteorology in the interannual variation of BC over SC during springtime.
Porphyromonas gingivalis disrupts vascular endothelial homeostasis in a TLR-NF-κB axis dependent manner
Authors: Xie Mengru , Tang Qingming , Yu Shaoling , Sun Jiwei , Mei Feng , Zhao Jiajia , Chen Lili
Published: September 2020

Cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Vascular endothelial dysfunction is viewed as the initial step of most cardiovascular diseases. Many studies have indicated that periodontal pathogens, especially Porphyromonas gingivalis, are closely correlated with vascular endothelial homeostasis, but the function of P. gingivalis and the underlying mechanisms are still elusive. To illuminate the effects and elucidate the mechanisms of P. gingivalis on endothelial structural integrity, we developed P. gingivalis infection models in vivo and in vitro. Endothelial cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis were detected. Here, we showed that P. gingivalis can impair endothelial integrity by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing endothelial mesenchymal transformation and apoptosis of endothelial cells, which reduce the cell levels and cause the endothelium to lose its ability to repair itself. A mechanistic analysis showed that TLR antagonist or NF-κB signalling inhibitor can largely rescue the damaged integrity of the endothelium caused by P. gingivalis, suggesting that TLR-NF-κB signalling plays a vital role in vascular endothelial homeostasis destroyed by P. gingivalis. These results suggest a potential intervention method for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Transcription tipping points for T follicular helper cell and T-helper 1 cell fate commitment
Authors: Sheikh Amania A. , Groom Joanna R.
Published: September 2020

During viral infection, immune cells coordinate the induction of inflammatory responses that clear infection and humoral responses that promote protection. CD4+T-cell differentiation sits at the center of this axis. Differentiation toward T-helper 1 (Th1) cells mediates inflammation and pathogen clearance, while T follicular helper (Tfh) cells facilitate germinal center (GC) reactions for the generation of high-affinity antibodies and immune memory. While Th1 and Tfh differentiation occurs in parallel, these CD4+T-cell identities are mutually exclusive, and progression toward these ends is determined via the upregulation of T-bet and Bcl6, respectively. These lineage-defining transcription factors act in concert with multiple networks of transcriptional regulators that tip the T-bet and Bcl6 axis in CD4+T-cell progenitors to either a Th1 or Tfh fate. It is now clear that these transcriptional networks are guided by cytokine cues that are not only varied between distinct viral infections but also dynamically altered throughout the duration of infection. Thus, multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors combine to specify the fate, plasticity, and function of Th1 and Tfh cells during infection. Here, we review the current information on the mode of action of the lineage-defining transcription factors Bcl6 and T-bet and how they act individually and in complex to govern CD4+T-cell ontogeny. Furthermore, we outline the multifaceted transcriptional regulatory networks that act upstream and downstream of Bcl6 and T-bet to tip the differentiation equilibrium toward either a Tfh or Th1 fate and how these are impacted by dynamic inflammatory cues.
A robust and tunable halogen bond organocatalyzed 2-deoxyglycosylation involving quantum tunneling
Authors: Xu Chunfa , Rao V. U. Bhaskara , Weigen Julia , Loh Charles C. J.
Published: September 2020

The development of noncovalent halogen bonding (XB) catalysis is rapidly gaining traction, as isolated reports documented better performance than the well-established hydrogen bonding thiourea catalysis. However, convincing cases allowing XB activation to be competitive in challenging bond formations are lacking. Herein, we report a robust XB catalyzed 2-deoxyglycosylation, featuring a biomimetic reaction network indicative of dynamic XB activation. Benchmarking studies uncovered an improved substrate tolerance compared to thiourea-catalyzed protocols. Kinetic investigations reveal an autoinductive sigmoidal kinetic profile, supporting an in situ amplification of a XB dependent active catalytic species. Kinetic isotopic effect measurements further support quantum tunneling in the rate determining step. Furthermore, we demonstrate XB catalysis tunability via a halogen swapping strategy, facilitating 2-deoxyribosylations of D-ribals. This protocol showcases the clear emergence of XB catalysis as a versatile activation mode in noncovalent organocatalysis, and as an important addition to the catalytic toolbox of chemical glycosylations.
Publisher Correction: Long-range spatio-temporal correlations in multimode fibers for pulse delivery
Authors: Xiong Wen , Hsu Chia Wei , Cao Hui
Published: September 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Functional parcellation of the default mode network: a large-scale meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Shaoming , Tepfer Lindsey J. , Taren Adrienne A. , Smith David V.
Published: September 2020

The default mode network (DMN) consists of several regions that selectively interact to support distinct domains of cognition. Of the various sites that partake in DMN function, the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), temporal parietal junction (TPJ), and medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) are frequently identified as key contributors. Yet, it remains unclear whether these subcomponents of the DMN make unique contributions to specific cognitive processes and health conditions. To address this issue, we applied a meta-analytic parcellation approach used in prior work. This approach used the Neurosynth database and classification methods to quantify the association between PCC, TPJ, and MPFC activation and specific topics related to cognition and health (e.g., decision making and smoking). Our analyses replicated prior observations that the PCC, TPJ, and MPFC collectively support multiple cognitive functions such as decision making, memory, and awareness. To gain insight into the functional organization of each region, we parceled each region based on its coactivation pattern with the rest of the brain. This analysis indicated that each region could be further subdivided into functionally distinct subcomponents. Taken together, we further delineate DMN function by demonstrating the relative strengths of association among subcomponents across a range of cognitive processes and health conditions. A continued attentiveness to the specialization within the DMN allows future work to consider the nuances in sub-regional contributions necessary for healthy cognition, as well as create the potential for more targeted treatment protocols in various health conditions.
A partial least squares analysis of functional status, disability, and quality of life after surgical decompression for degenerative cervical myelopathy
Authors: Badhiwala Jetan H. , Khan Omar , Wegner Adam , Jiang Fan , Wilson Jamie R. F. , Morgan Benjamin R. , Ibrahim George M. , Wilson Jefferson R. , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: September 2020

Previous studies aimed at identifying predictors of clinical outcomes following surgical decompression for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) are limited by multicollinearity among predictors, whereby the high degree of correlation between covariates precludes detection of potentially significant findings. We apply partial least squares (PLS), a data-driven approach, to model multi-dimensional variance and dissociate patient phenotypes associated with functional, disability, and quality of life (QOL) outcomes in DCM. This was a post-hoc analysis of DCM patients enrolled in the prospective, multi-center AOSpine CSM-NA/CSM-I studies. Baseline clinical covariates evaluated as predictors included demographic (e.g., age, sex), clinical presentation (e.g., signs and symptoms), and treatment (e.g., surgical approach) characteristics. Outcomes evaluated included change in functional status (∆mJOA), disability (∆NDI), and QOL (∆SF-36) at 2 years. PLS was used to derive latent variables (LVs) relating specific clinical covariates with specific outcomes. Statistical significance was estimated using bootstrapping. Four hundred and seventy-eight patients met eligibility criteria. PLS identified 3 significant LVs. LV1 indicated an association between presentation with hand muscle atrophy, treatment by an approach other than laminectomy alone, and greater improvement in physical health-related QOL outcomes (e.g., SF-36 Physical Component Summary). LV2 suggested the presence of comorbidities (respiratory, rheumatologic, psychological) was associated with lesser improvements in functional status post-operatively (i.e., mJOA score). Finally, LV3 reflected an association between more severe myelopathy presenting with gait impairment and poorer mental health-related QOL outcomes (e.g., SF-36 Mental Component Summary). Using PLS, this analysis uncovered several novel insights pertaining to patients undergoing surgical decompression for DCM that warrant further investigation: (1) comorbid status and frailty heavily impact functional outcome; (2) presentation with hand muscle atrophy is associated with better physical QOL outcomes; and (3) more severe myelopathy with gait impairment is associated with poorer mental QOL outcomes.
Bacillus licheniformis strain POT1 mediated polyphenol biosynthetic pathways genes activation and systemic resistance in potato plants against Alfalfa mosaic virus
Authors: Abdelkhalek Ahmed , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Behiry Said I.
Published: September 2020

Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) is a worldwide distributed virus that has a very wide host range and causes significant crop losses of many economically important crops, including potato (Solanum tuberosumL.). In this study, the antiviral activity ofBacillus licheniformisstrain POT1 against AMV on potato plants was evaluated. The dual foliar application of culture filtrate (CF), 24 h before and after AMV-inoculation, was the most effective treatment that showed 86.79% reduction of the viral accumulation level and improvement of different growth parameters. Moreover, HPLC analysis showed that a 20 polyphenolic compound was accumulated with a total amount of 7,218.86 and 1606.49 mg/kg in POT1-treated and non-treated plants, respectively. Additionally, the transcriptional analysis of thirteen genes controlling the phenylpropanoid, chlorogenic acid and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways revealed that most of the studied genes were induced after POT1 treatments. The stronger expression level ofF3H, the key enzyme in flavonoid biosynthesis in plants, (588.133-fold) andAN2, anthocyanin 2 transcription factor, (97.005-fold) suggested that the accumulation flavonoid, especially anthocyanin, might play significant roles in plant defense against viral infection. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis showed that pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione is the major compound in CF ethyl acetate extract, that is suggesting it acts as elicitor molecules for induction of systemic acquired resistance in potato plants. To our knowledge, this is the first study of biological control of AMV mediated by PGPR in potato plants.
Selective nitrate removal from aqueous solutions by a hydrotalcite-like absorbent FeMgMn-LDH
Authors: Zhou Hongguang , Tan Youlin , Gao Wei , Zhang Yue , Yang Yanmei
Published: September 2020

FeMgMn-LDH, a type of potential environmental remediation material, has been synthesized via a co-precipitation method, and its adsorption characteristics for nitrate were investigated in this study. It’s shown that the prepared FeMgMn-LDH is a promising adsorbent for anions removal, which has high buffer capacity (final pH remained between 9 and 10) and high reversibility, and can remove nitrate ions selectively though an anion-sieve effect. The maximum amount of nitrate adsorption is 10.56 N-mg g−1 at 25 ℃. The removal rate of nitrate ions can reach 86.26% with the adsorbent dose of 5 g/L in a real water. The competition order of coexisting anions on nitrate adsorption by FeMgMn-LDH is CO32− > PO43− > SO42−. The negative values of ΔG0 (from − 27.796 to − 26.426 kJ mol−1) and ΔH0 (− 6.678 kJ mol−1) indicate that the nitrate adsorption process on the FeMgMn-LDH is spontaneous and exothermic. The main adsorption mechanisms of nitrate removal from aqueous solutions by FeMgMn-LDH are electrostatic attraction and ion exchange.
Determination of anodal tDCS intensity threshold for reversal of corticospinal excitability: an investigation for induction of counter-regulatory mechanisms
Authors: Hassanzahraee Maryam , Nitsche Michael A. , Zoghi Maryam , Jaberzadeh Shapour
Published: September 2020

Transcranial direct current stimulation is applied to modulate activity, and excitability of the brain. Basically, LTP-like plasticity is induced when anodal tDCS (a-tDCS) is applied over the primary motor cortex. However, it has been shown that specific parameters of a-tDCS can induce a plasticity reversal. We aimed to systematically assess the intensity threshold for reversal of the direction of plasticity induced by a-tDCS, monitored by corticospinal excitability (CSE), and explored mechanisms regulating this reversal. Fifteen healthy participants received a-tDCS in pseudo-random order for 26 min with four intensities of 0.3, 0.7, 1, and 1.5 mA. To measure CSE changes, single-pulse TMS was applied over the left M1, and motor evoked potentials of a contralateral hand muscle were recorded prior to a-tDCS, immediately and 30-min post-intervention. Paired-pulse TMS was used to evaluate intracortical excitation and inhibition. CSE increased significantly following a-tDCS with an intensity of 0.7 mA; however, the expected effect decreased and even reversed at intensities of 1 and 1.5 mA. ICF was significantly increased while SICI and LICI decreased at 0.7 mA. On the other hand, a significant decrease of ICF, but SICI and LICI enhancement was observed at intensities of 1, and 1.5 mA. The present findings show an intensity threshold of ≥ 1 mA for 26 min a-tDCS to reverse LTP- into LTD-like plasticity. It is suggested that increasing stimulation intensity, with constant stimulation duration, activates counter-regulatory mechanisms to prevent excessive brain excitation. Therefore, stimulation intensity and plasticity induced by a-tDCS might non-linearly correlate in scenarios with prolonged stimulation duration.
Publisher Correction: Establishing magneto-structural relationships in the solid solutions of the skyrmion hosting family of materials: GaV4S8−ySey
Authors: Štefančič Aleš , Holt Samuel J. R. , Lees Martin R. , Ritter Clemens , Gutmann Matthias J. , Lancaster Tom , Balakrishnan Geetha
Published: September 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The electrophysiological underpinnings of variation in verbal working memory capacity
Authors: Pavlov Yuri G. , Kotchoubey Boris
Published: September 2020

Working memory (WM) consists of short-term storage and executive components. We studied cortical oscillatory correlates of these two components in a large sample of 156 participants to assess separately the contribution of them to individual differences in WM. The participants were presented with WM tasks of above-average complexity. Some of the tasks required only storage in WM, others required storage and mental manipulations. Our data indicate a close relationship between frontal midline theta, central beta activity and the executive components of WM. The oscillatory counterparts of the executive components were associated with individual differences in verbal WM performance. In contrast, alpha activity was not related to the individual differences. The results demonstrate that executive components of WM, rather than short-term storage capacity, play the decisive role in individual WM capacity limits.
Emission of single photons in the weak coupling regime of the Jaynes Cummings model
Authors: Noh Changsuk
Published: September 2020

A recently proposed variant of an unconventional photon blockade scheme is studied for a single emitter weakly coupled to a resonator mode. By controlling two weak coherent fields driving the emitter and the resonator mode, a strongly nonclassical output field is obtained, which is not only antibunched, but has vanishing higher photon number coincidences. For a given set of system parameters, the frequencies and strengths of the driving fields that yield such an output are given.
Nanotomographic evaluation of precipitate structure evolution in a Mg–Zn–Zr alloy during plastic deformation
Authors: Zeller-Plumhoff Berit , Robisch Anna-Lena , Pelliccia Daniele , Longo Elena , Slominska Hanna , Hermann Alexander , Krenkel Martin , Storm Malte , Estrin Yuri , Willumeit-Römer Regine , Salditt Tim , Orlov Dmytro
Published: September 2020

Magnesium and its alloys attract increasingly wide attention in various fields, ranging from transport to medical solutions, due to their outstanding structural and degradation properties. These properties can be tailored through alloying and thermo-mechanical processing, which is often complex and multi-step, thus requiring in-depth analysis. In this work, we demonstrate the capability of synchrotron-based nanotomographic X-ray imaging methods, namely holotomography and transmission X-ray microscopy, for the quantitative 3D analysis of the evolution of intermetallic precipitate (particle) morphology and distribution in magnesium alloy Mg–5.78Zn–0.44Zr subjected to a complex multi-step processing. A rich history of variation of the intermetallic particle structure in the processed alloy provided a testbed for challenging the analytical capabilities of the imaging modalities studied. The main features of the evolving precipitate structure revealed earlier by traditional light and electron microscopy methods were confirmed by the 3D techniques of synchrotron-based X-ray imaging. We further demonstrated that synchrotron-based X-ray imaging enabled uncovering finer details of the variation of particle morphology and number density at various stages of processing—above and beyond the information provided by visible light and electron microscopy.
Social efficiency deficit deciphers social dilemmas
Authors: Arefin Md. Rajib , Kabir K. M. Ariful , Jusup Marko , Ito Hiromu , Tanimoto Jun
Published: September 2020

What do corruption, resource overexploitation, climate inaction, vaccine hesitancy, traffic congestion, and even cancer metastasis have in common? All these socioeconomic and sociobiological phenomena are known as social dilemmas because they embody in one form or another a fundamental conflict between immediate self-interest and long-term collective interest. A shortcut to the resolution of social dilemmas has thus far been reserved solely for highly stylised cases reducible to dyadic games (e.g., the Prisoner’s Dilemma), whose nature and outcome coalesce in the concept of dilemma strength. We show that a social efficiency deficit, measuring an actor’s potential gain in utility or fitness by switching from an evolutionary equilibrium to a social optimum, generalises dilemma strength irrespective of the underlying social dilemma’s complexity. We progressively build from the simplicity of dyadic games for which the social efficiency deficit and dilemma strength are mathematical duals, to the complexity of carcinogenesis and a vaccination dilemma for which only the social efficiency deficit is numerically calculable. The results send a clear message to policymakers to enact measures that increase the social efficiency deficit until the strain between what is and what could be incentivises society to switch to a more desirable state.
Persistent dark states in anisotropic central spin models
Authors: Villazon Tamiro , Claeys Pieter W. , Pandey Mohit , Polkovnikov Anatoli , Chandran Anushya
Published: September 2020

Long-lived dark states, in which an experimentally accessible qubit is not in thermal equilibrium with a surrounding spin bath, are pervasive in solid-state systems. We explain the ubiquity of dark states in a large class of inhomogeneous central spin models using the proximity to integrable lines with exact dark eigenstates. At numerically accessible sizes, dark states persist as eigenstates at large deviations from integrability, and the qubit retains memory of its initial polarization at long times. Although the eigenstates of the system are chaotic, exhibiting exponential sensitivity to small perturbations, they do not satisfy the eigenstate thermalization hypothesis. Rather, we predict long relaxation times that increase exponentially with system size. We propose that this intermediate chaotic but non-ergodic regime characterizes mesoscopic quantum dot and diamond defect systems, as we see no numerical tendency towards conventional thermalization with a finite relaxation time.