bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prostate‐specific antigen nadir and testosterone level at prostate‐specific antigen failure following radiation and androgen suppression therapy for unfavorable‐risk prostate cancer and the risk of all‐cause and prostate cancer–specific mortality
Authors: Bitterman Danielle S. , Chen Ming‐Hui , Wu Jing , Renshaw Andrew A. , Loffredo Marian , Kantoff Philip W. , Small Eric J. , D'Amico Anthony V.
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Although both PSA nadir (PSAn) and testosterone levels at PSA failure are known prognostic factors in men undergoing radiation therapy (RT) and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for unfavorable‐risk prostate cancer (PC), it is unclear whether their prognostic significance is independent or overlapping.

METHODS

Seventy‐five men treated with RT with or without 6 months of ADT for unfavorable‐risk nonmetastatic PC enrolled in 2 prospective clinical trials between 1986 and 2001 formed the study cohort. Competing risks and Cox multivariable regression were used to assess whether low versus normal serum testosterone at the time of PSA failure and higher PSAn after initial therapy were independently associated with the risk of PC‐specific (PCSM) and all‐cause mortality (ACM) adjusting for PC prognostic factors.

RESULTS

After a median follow‐up of 15.34 years (interquartile range, 6.66‐16.88 years), there were 53 deaths (73.3%): 30 (56.6%) were from PC. Low testosterone at PSA failure was significantly associated with an increased risk of PCSM (adjusted HR [AHR], 7.77; 95% CI, 1.14‐52.99;P = .04) and ACM (AHR, 3.01; 95% CI, 1.01‐8.96;P = .05), as was higher PSAn (PCSM AHR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01‐1.05;P < .01; ACM AHR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.07;P < .01), although the prognostic significance of PSAn was only noted in men with a normal testosterone at PSA failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Low testosterone level at PSA failure in high‐risk patients with PC treated with RT is associated with increased PCSM and ACM risk. In men with normal testosterone levels at the time of PSA failure, an elevated PSAn was associated with worse PCSM and ACM risk.

LAY SUMMARY

This study investigates whether the prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) nadir and normal versus low testosterone at the time of PSA failure provide mutually exclusive or overlapping prognostic information following treatment with radiation and androgen deprivation therapy for unfavorable‐risk patients with prostate cancer using data from 2 prospective clinical trials. It was found that both provided prognostic information; however, higher PSA nadir was only found to be of prognostic significance in men with normal testosterone levels at PSA failure.
The FBXW7‐NOTCH interactome: A ubiquitin proteasomal system‐induced crosstalk modulating oncogenic transformation in human tissues
Authors: Kar Rohan , Jha Saurabh Kumar , Ojha Shreesh , Sharma Ankur , Dholpuria Sunny , Raju Venkata Sita Rama , Prasher Parteek , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar , Gupta Gaurav , Kumar Singh Sachin , Paudel Keshav Raj , Hansbro Philip M. , Kumar Singh Sandeep , Ruokolainen Janne , Kesari Kavindra Kumar , Dua Kamal , Jha Niraj Kumar
Published: April 2021

Background

Ubiquitin ligases or E3 ligases are well programmed to regulate molecular interactions that operate at a post‐translational level. Skp, Cullin, F‐box containing complex (or SCF complex) is a multidomain E3 ligase known to mediate the degradation of a wide range of proteins through the proteasomal pathway. The three‐dimensional domain architecture of SCF family proteins suggests that it operates through a novel and adaptable “super‐enzymatic” process that might respond to targeted therapeutic modalities in cancer.

Recent findings

Several F‐box containing proteins have been characterized either as tumor suppressors (FBXW8, FBXL3, FBXW8, FBXL3, FBXO1, FBXO4, and FBXO18) or as oncogenes (FBXO5, FBXO9, and SKP2). Besides, F‐box members like βTrcP1 and βTrcP2, the ones with context‐dependent functionality, have also been studied and reported. FBXW7 is a well‐studied F‐box protein and is a tumor suppressor. FBXW7 regulates the activity of a range of substrates, such as c‐Myc, cyclin E, mTOR, c‐Jun, NOTCH, myeloid cell leukemia sequence‐1 (MCL1), AURKA, NOTCH through the well‐known ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS)‐mediated degradation pathway. NOTCH signaling is a primitive pathway that plays a crucial role in maintaining normal tissue homeostasis. FBXW7 regulates NOTCH protein activity by controlling its half‐life, thereby maintaining optimum protein levels in tissue. However, aberrations in the FBXW7 or NOTCH expression levels can lead to poor prognosis and detrimental outcomes in patients. Therefore, the FBXW7‐NOTCH axis has been a subject of intense study and research over the years, especially around the interactome's role in driving cancer development and progression. Several studies have reported the effect of FBXW7 and NOTCH mutations on normal tissue behavior. The current review attempts to critically analyze these mutations prognostic value in a wide range of tumors. Furthermore, the review summarizes the recent findings pertaining to the FBXW7 and NOTCH interactome and its involvement in phosphorylation‐related events, cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis.

Conclusion

The review concludes by positioning FBXW7 as an effective diagnostic marker in tumors and by listing out recent advancements made in cancer therapeutics in identifying protocols targeting the FBXW7‐NOTCH aberrations in tumors.
A Simple Method for Creating a High‐Content Microscope for Imaging Multiplexed Tissue Microarrays
Authors: Abtahi Shabnam , Gliksman Neal R. , Heneghan John F. , Nilsen Steven P. , Muhlich Jeremy L. , Copeland Jay , Rozbicki Emil , Allan Chris , Dudeja Pradeep K. , Turner Jerrold R.
Published: April 2021

High‐throughput, high‐content imaging technologies and multiplex slide scanning have become widely used. Advantages of these approaches include the ability to archive digital copies of slides, review slides as teams using virtual microscopy software, and standardize analytical approaches. The cost and hardware and software inflexibility of dedicated slide scanning devices can, however, complicate implementation. Here, we describe a simple method that allows any microscope to be used for slide scanning. The only requirements are that the microscope be equipped with a motorized filter turret or wheels (for multi‐channel fluorescence) and a motorized xyz stage. This example uses MetaMorph software, but the same principles can be used with any microscope control software that includes a few standard functions and allows programming of simple command routines, or journals. The series of journals that implement the method perform key functions, including assistance in defining an unlimited number of regions of interest (ROI) and imaging parameters. Fully automated acquisition is rapid, taking less than 3 hr to image fifty 2.5‐mm ROIs in four channels. Following acquisition, images can be easily stitched and displayed using open‐source or commercial image‐processing and virtual microscope applications. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Hardware and software configuration

Basic Protocol 2: Create a preliminary scan

Basic Protocol 3: Select, save, and position ROIs

Basic Protocol 4: Determine and set autofocus parameters

Basic Protocol 5: Acquire tiled images

Basic Protocol 6: Review the scans

Basic Protocol 7: Reimage ROIs as needed

Basic Protocol 8: Stitch, stack, and assemble images

Basic Protocol 9: Repeat scanning for multiplex immunostaining or background subtraction
Putative genes for resistance to gray leaf spot of maize based on genomic resequencing using recombinant inbred lines
Authors: Xu Wenbo , Liu Li , Bi Yaqi , Zhang Yudong , Han Guangyu , Pillay Michael , Kang Manjit S. , Wang Yunyue , Fan Xingming
Published: April 2021

Gray leaf spot (GLS) of maize (Zea mays L.), caused by Cercospora spp., inflicts serious yield losses. Four recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were developed from the [(YML32×Q11) × Q11] backcross population. Two flanking markers, GZ204 and IDP5, defining quantitative trait locus (QTL) qRgls1 for resistance to GLS, were detected in three RILs (RL1_1, RL1_2, and RL2_1) but not in RL2_2. This QTL is located on chromosome 8 in bin 8.02. The field resistance of RL2_2 was, however, similar to that of RL1_1 and RL1_2. The RL2_2 was found to possess a unique DNA segment (Zm00001d008467) that was not found in the other three RILs. We tested the hypothesis that Zm00001d008467 is a candidate gene associated with resistance to GLS. Sequencing showed that clean read counts for RL1_1, RL1_2, RL2_1, and RL2_2 were different and that single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)/Exonic SNPs in RL1_1, RL1_2, RL2_1, and RL2_2 were 4908618/14042, 2423243/10668, 4512193/12577, and 2321974/6731, respectively. Results revealed that one of the three exclusive extron nonsynonymous SNPs (Zm00001d008467_T003) had caused a change in a protein that is a wall‐associated non–arginine‐aspartate (non‐RD) receptor‐like kinase. This protein is suspected to trigger resistance to GLS. Our results confirm that Zm00001d008467 is a candidate gene, located in chromosome 8 in bin 8.02, that is associated with GLS resistance. We concluded that the exclusive extron nonsynonymous SNPs in the QTL that had changed the structure and function of the coding protein was responsible for the GLS resistance in RIL2_2 in the absence of resistance QTL qRgls1.
A twice boost nine‐level switched‐capacitor multilevel (2B‐9L‐SCMLI) inverter with self‐voltage balancing capability
Authors: Kumari Manita , Siddique Marif Daula , Sarwar Adil , Mekhilef Saad , Tariq Mohd
Published: April 2021

The research on the multilevel inverter structures has been focused on reducing the number of voltage sources and the components while obtaining voltage boosting in the output voltage. A lesser number of components would ensure lesser cost while higher boosting ability increases its application potential. Based on these features, the paper presents a new topology for switched‐capacitor multi‐level inverter (SCMLI), which can produce an output voltage waveform of nine levels with a voltage boosting of twice the input voltage employing a single dc voltage source, three capacitors, and 11 power switches. The operation of switches, capacitors with a self‐charge balancing modulation scheme, and a voltage source for producing nine‐level boosted output voltage make this topology useful, and it is capable of supplying different types of load with efficiency above 97%. The simulation results and the hardware results are provided to verify the satisfactory operation of the proposed topology.
Frontotemporal dementia subtypes based on behavioral inhibition deficits
Authors: Godefroy Valérie , Tanguy Delphine , Bouzigues Arabella , Sezer Idil , Ferrand‐Verdejo Johan , Azuar Carole , Bendetowicz David , Carle Guilhem , Rametti‐Lacroux Armelle , Bombois Stéphanie , Cognat Emmanuel , Jannin Pierre , Morandi Xavier , Ber Isabelle Le , Levy Richard , Batrancourt Bénédicte , Migliaccio Raffaella
Published: April 2021

Introduction

We aimed to investigate phenotypic heterogeneity in the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) through assessment of inhibition deficits.

Methods

We assessed occurrences of 16 behavioral inhibition deficits from video recordings of 15 bvFTD patients (early stage) and 15 healthy controls (HC) in an ecological setting. We extracted dimensions of inhibition deficit and analyzed their correlations with cognitive and clinical measures. Using these dimensions, we isolated patient clusters whose atrophy patterns were explored.

Results

After identifying two patterns of inhibition deficit (compulsive automatic behaviors and socially unconventional behaviors), we isolated three behavioral clusters with distinct atrophy patterns. BvFTD‐G0 (N = 3), an outlier group, showed severe behavioral disturbances and more severe ventromedial prefrontal cortex/orbitofrontal cortex atrophy. Compared to bvFTD‐G1 (N = 6), bvFTD‐G2 (N = 6) presented higher anxiety and depression along with less diffuse atrophy especially in midline regions.

Discussion

Identifying clinico‐anatomical profiles through behavior observation could help to stratify bvFTD patients for adapted treatments.
Cooperative care and the evolution of the prelinguistic vocal learning
Authors: Varella Thiago T. , Ghazanfar Asif A.
Published: April 2021

The development of the earliest vocalizations of human infants is influenced by social feedback from caregivers. As these vocalizations change, they increasingly elicit such feedback. This pattern of development is in stark contrast to that of our close phylogenetic relatives, Old World monkeys and apes, who produce mature‐sounding vocalizations at birth. We put forth a scenario to account for this difference: Humans have a cooperative breeding strategy, which pressures infants to compete for the attention from caregivers. Humans use this strategy because large brained human infants are energetically costly and born altricial. An altricial brain accommodates vocal learning. To test this hypothetical scenario, we present findings from New World marmoset monkeys indicating that, through convergent evolution, this species adopted a largely identical developmental system—one that includes vocal learning and cooperative breeding.
Herbivore‐induced defenses are not under phylogenetic constraints in the genusQuercus(oak): Phylogenetic patterns of growth, defense, and storage
Authors: Perkovich Cynthia , Ward David
Published: April 2021

The evolution of plant defenses is often constrained by phylogeny. Many of the differences between competing plant defense theories hinge upon the differences in the location of meristem damage (apical versus auxiliary) and the amount of tissue removed. We analyzed the growth and defense responses of 12Quercus(oak) species from a well‐resolved molecular phylogeny using phylogenetically independent contrasts. Access to light is paramount for forest‐dwelling tree species, such as many members of the genusQuercus. We therefore predicted a greater investment in defense when apical meristem tissue was removed. We also predicted a greater investment in defense when large amounts of tissue were removed and a greater investment in growth when less tissues were removed. We conducted five simulated herbivory treatments including a control with no damage and alterations of the location of meristem damage (apical versus auxiliary shoots) and intensity (25% versus 75% tissue removal). We measured growth, defense, and nutrient re‐allocation traits in response to simulated herbivory. Phylomorphospace models were used to demonstrate the phylogenetic nature of trade‐offs between characteristics of growth, chemical defenses, and nutrient re‐allocation. We found that growth–defense trade‐offs in control treatments were under phylogenetic constraints, but phylogenetic constraints and growth–defense trade‐offs were not common in the simulated herbivory treatments. Growth–defense constraints exist within theQuercusgenus, although there are adaptations to herbivory that vary among species.
A method to evaluate body length of live aquatic vertebrates using digital images
Authors: Arismendi Ivan , Bury Gwen , Zatkos Lauren , Snyder Jeff , Lindley David
Published: April 2021

Traditional methods to measure body lengths of aquatic vertebrates rely on anesthetics, and extended handling times. These procedures can increase stress, potentially affecting the animal's welfare after its release. We developed a simple procedure using digital images to estimate body lengths of coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii) and larval coastal giant salamander (Dicamptodon tenebrosus). Images were postprocessed using ImageJ2. We measured more than 900 individuals of these two species from 200 pool habitats along 9.6 river kilometers. The percent error (mean ± SE) of our approach compared to the use of a traditional graded measuring board was relatively small for all length metrics of the two species. Total length of trout was −2.2% ± 1.0. Snout–vent length and total length of larval salamanders was 3.5% ± 3.3 and −0.6% ± 1.7, respectively. We cross‐validated our results by two independent observers that followed our protocol to measure the same animals and found no significant differences (p > .7) in body size distributions for all length metrics of the two species. Our procedure provides reliable information of body size reducing stress and handling time in the field. The method is transferable across taxa and the inclusion of multiple animals per image increases sampling efficiency with stored images that can be reviewed multiple times. This practical tool can improve data collection of animal size over large sampling efforts and broad spatiotemporal contexts.
A coherent, representative, and bioregional marine reserve network shows consistent change in rocky reef fish assemblages
Authors: Knott N. A. , Williams J. , Harasti D. , Malcolm H. A. , Coleman M. A. , Kelaher B. P. , Rees M. J. , Schultz A. , Jordan A.
Published: April 2021

Worldwide, several countries have established coherent, representative, and large‐scale networks of marine reserves to conserve biodiversity. Very few have, however, published systematic assessments of the ecological responses to this network protection, hindering broad understanding of their generality, utility, and efficacy. We present data collected from systematic sampling of rocky reef fish assemblages at sites across a network of 27 no‐take marine reserve areas (NTMR) and 27 partially protected areas (PPA) nested within multiple marine parks (regional networks) across three Australian bioregions spanning >1000 km of coastline (7° latitude) to test the generality of ecological change across this network. We also sampled 18 reference areas (outside of the marine parks) to provide an independent assessment of potential NTMR effects and also to assess whole marine park effects. Baited remote underwater video (BRUV) was used to sample fishes between depths of 20–40 m over austral winters in four years (2010, 2011, 2015, and 2016). Despite substantial bioregional differences in fish assemblages, large and consistent effects of NTMR protection were detected across all bioregions for a key commercially and recreationally harvested species, Chrysophrys auratus (pink snapper). There were substantial increases in relative abundance of C. auratus in NTMR compared with fished zones through time (effect sizes >150%). The wider assemblage of targeted fish (excluding C. auratus) only showed relatively small effects of protection (~11%) with trends observed for site‐attached wrasses (labrids) and planktivores (e.g., commercially fished Scorpis lineolata) that are recreationally and commercially harvested. Furthermore, the relative abundance of non‐target or by‐catch species generally did not differ among management zones across the bioregional network. These results highlight how NTMR can be used to assess the ecological effects of fishing and wider environmental management, and can be incorporated into ecosystem‐based management for reef species more generally. Importantly, the provision of robust evidence of the performance and generality of NTMR over large‐spatial scales (e.g., bioregions) provides greater confidence in the expected outcomes from marine reserve networks as a conservation management approach.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Physical Properties of Pyrene‐Naphthalimide Derivatives as Emissive Materials for Electroluminescent Devices
Authors: Boonnab Sumita , Chaiwai Chaiyon , Nalaoh Phattananawee , Manyum Thanaporn , Namuangruk Supawadee , Chitpakdee Chirawat , Sudyoadsuk Taweesak , Promarak Vinich
Published: April 2021

A series of axially linked pyrene‐naphthalimide fluorophores (N2Py, N4Py, and BNPy) bearing a different number of 1,8‐naphthalimide units substituted on pyrene and bis‐pyrene cores were designed and synthesized using palladium‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions in a stepwise synthetic manner. These molecules were chemically characterized, and their photoelectric properties were explored by spectroscopy, electrochemical and theoretical studies. They exhibited push‐pull characteristics with intense fluorescence in solutions, strong solvatochromic behaviors, good thermal and electrochemical stabilities. N2Py, N4Py, and BNPy were successfully applied as emitters in solution‐processed OLED devices, which resulted in blue‐green emissions with promising device performance. Particularly, the BNPy‐based device achieved the best EL results with a maximum brightness of 3389 cd m−2, a maximum EQE of 3.98 %, a maximum LE of 3.22 cd A−1, and a low turn‐on voltage of 3.2 V.
Label‐free Electrochemical Immunosensor for Sensitive Detection of Rheumatoid Arthritis Biomarker Anti‐CCP‐ab
Authors: Ma Jing , Li Dai , Sun Bolu , Hou Xiaohui , Zhang‐Peng Xinru , Li Wen , Zhang Yan , Hu Fangdi , Shi Xiaofeng
Published: April 2021

The accurate and sensitive analysis of rheumatoid arthritis(RA) trace biomarkers is essential for early warning and diagnosis of RA, while anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (anti‐CCP‐ab) is a specific one. In this study, a simple label‐free electrochemical immunosensor for the detection of anti‐CCP‐ab was constructed with nitrogen‐doped graphene (N−G) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The proposed non‐enzyme immunosensor had exhibited high specificity, selectivity, and stability in the linear calibration curve range from 0.125∼2000 pg mL‐1 and has been successfully used in the detection of anti‐CCP‐ab in human serum, providing a new idea for the early diagnosis of RA.
Variations in rill morphology on unpaved road surfaces and their controlling factors
Authors: Cao Longxi , Wang Yi , Li Yu , Li Xin
Published: April 2021

Rills play important roles in hillslope soil loss as both sediment sources and concentrated flow routes. The construction of unpaved roads in hilly regions changes the underlying surface conditions and leads to unique rill development. Via a terrestrial laser scanning‐aided field survey of eight typical unpaved road segments in the hilly red soil region of China, road surface rill morphology was quantified in detail based on 0.05 m‐resolution digital elevation models. The results illustrated that the rill network on a road segment was mainly composed of one major rill. The average rill network bifurcation ratio was 5.04, and the ratio was closely correlated with road surface area. Rill width and cross‐sectional area (CSA) generally increased along roads, and ephemeral gullies formed in the lower part of some road segments. Slope length, gradient and surface roughness of the underlying road were closely related to the rill morphology factors. The winding roads exhibited higher rill widths, depths and CSAs in straight or highly curved road segments than in other segments. Intergraded factors composed of slope length and gradient were proposed to establish prediction equations for rill and gully CSA. The critical slope gradient and length for rill initiation were negatively related to each other, and the average critical slope was 7.4%. Similarly, the positions of the peak CSA were determined by a function of slope gradient and contributing road length (L = 46.98/sin[S] − 174.3). These results can help guide the prediction of road surface rill soil loss and the design of conservation treatments.
An efficient quasi‐Newton method for three‐dimensional steady free surface flow
Authors: Demeester Toon , van Brummelen E. Harald , Degroote Joris
Published: April 2021

In this article, we introduce the Free surface Quasi‐Newton method with Least‐Squares and Surrogate (FreQ‐LeSS) to solve steady free surface flows, as encountered in, for example, marine applications. The method has two important advantages over other methods. First of all it is fast thanks to the efficient iterative scheme based on quasi‐Newton iterations that make use of an advanced surrogate model. Second, it has good compatibility because it poses no special requirements on the flow solver that is called in the algorithm. The excellent convergence speed of the FreQ‐LeSS method is demonstrated for a shallowly submerged submarine: good quality wave patterns are obtained in few iterations. These results match with ISIS‐CFD, validating the FreQ‐LeSS method. The total cost of solving this steady free surface problem is only a few times that of solving a steady single‐phase flow with fixed free surface position. We conclude that FreQ‐LeSS promises to be much faster than the two‐phase time‐stepping methods typically used to solve these problems, and provides a sharper interface at the same time thanks to the fitting approach. In the present work, we restrict ourselves to problems without surface‐penetrating objects, to avoid the associated complications related to the contact‐line motion.
Formation of biogenic amines in fish: Dietary intakes and health risk assessment
Authors: El‐Ghareeb Waleed Rizk , Elhelaly Abdelazim Elsayed , Abdallah Karima Mohamed Eissa , El‐Sherbiny Heba Mohamed M , Darwish Wageh Sobhy
Published: April 2021

Biogenic amines (BAs) are toxicants that are produced during the proteolytic activities of some microorganisms, or naturally during the metabolism of their precursor amino acids. The objective of this study was to estimate the formed BAs in six types of fish retailed in Egypt including tilapia, mullet, mackerel, sardine, herring, and tuna. In addition, total mesophilic (TMC) and total psychrophilic (TPsC) bacterial counts were investigated. Furthermore, the estimated daily intakes (EDI) of BAs via the ingestion of various types of fish in Egypt were calculated, and their potential health risks were discussed. The achieved results indicated the formation of histamine (HIS), tyramine (TYR), cadaverine (CAD), putrescine, spermine, and spermidine at different concentrations. Tilapia had the lowest concentration levels for the different BAs. In contrast, mackerel and tuna had the highest concentrations of BAs. Total biogenic amines (TBAs) showed significant positive correlations with TMC in the examined fish species. The recorded EDI values of the different BAs in the current study would not have adverse effects, except for mackerel and tuna. Excessive consumption of fish contaminated with BA might have serious health hazards such as symptoms of histamine poisoning, including rashes, flushing, palpitations, and asthma. Therefore, the adoption of strict hygienic measures during the processing, storage, and distribution of fish is highly recommended to reduce the formation of BAs in fish.
Unintended consequences of promotions: Importance of annual incentives for performance management systems
Authors: Dutta Debolina , Kumar Kunal Kamal , Mishra Sushanta Kumar
Published: April 2021

With increased globalization, multinational enterprises (MNEs) have become pervasive in emerging economies such as India. Given that employee performance is multidimensional and culture‐bound, the management of performance in MNEs is very critical for the successful implementation of their business strategy. We focus on promotions and incentives as they are considered the two crucial aspects of any performance management system. Based on a multisource, temporal study spanning over 19 months, we tested the interaction effect of promotion and annual incentive on employee outcomes. We conducted interviews of 15 senior officers in phase 2 to understand the inconsistencies in our findings. The contribution of the study to industry and academia are discussed.
Impact of whole‐body versus nose‐only inhalation exposure systems on systemic, respiratory, and cardiovascular endpoints in a 2‐month cigarette smoke exposure study in the ApoE−/− mouse model
Authors: Kogel Ulrike , Wong Ee Tsin , Szostak Justyna , Tan Wei Teck , Lucci Francesco , Leroy Patrice , Titz Bjoern , Xiang Yang , Low Tiffany , Wong Sin Kei , Guedj Emmanuel , Ivanov Nikolai V. , Schlage Walter K. , Peitsch Manuel C. , Kuczaj Arkadiusz , Vanscheeuwijck Patrick , Hoeng Julia
Published: April 2021

Cigarette smoking is one major modifiable risk factor in the development and progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cardiovascular disease. To characterize and compare cigarette smoke (CS)‐induced disease endpoints after exposure in either whole‐body (WB) or nose‐only (NO) exposure systems, we exposed apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice to filtered air (Sham) or to the same total particulate matter (TPM) concentration of mainstream smoke from 3R4F reference cigarettes in NO or WB exposure chambers (EC) for 2 months. At matching TPM concentrations, we observed similar concentrations of carbon monoxide, acetaldehyde, and acrolein, but higher concentrations of nicotine and formaldehyde in NOEC than in WBEC. In both exposure systems, CS exposure led to the expected adaptive changes in nasal epithelia, altered lung function, lung inflammation, and pronounced changes in the nasal epithelial transcriptome and lung proteome. Exposure in the NOEC caused generally more severe histopathological changes in the nasal epithelia and a higher stress response as indicated by body weight decrease and lower blood lymphocyte counts compared with WB exposed mice. Erythropoiesis, and increases in total plasma triglyceride levels and atherosclerotic plaque area were observed only in CS‐exposed mice in the WBEC group but not in the NOEC group. Although the composition of CS in the breathing zone is not completely comparable in the two exposure systems, the CS‐induced respiratory disease endpoints were largely confirmed in both systems, with a higher magnitude of severity after NO exposure. CS‐accelerated atherosclerosis and other pro‐atherosclerotic factors were only significant in WBEC.
Effect of heparinization on promoting angiogenesis of decellularized kidney scaffolds
Authors: Zhou Lebin , Wang Zhiyi , Wang Zhibin , Zhu Junyi , Feng Yulu , Zhang Deming , Shen Chenfang , Ye Xiaoting , Zhu Jieyang , Wei Peng , Mei Jin , Zhang Jianse
Published: April 2021

Native decellularized extracellular matrix provides an adequate platform for tissues and organs and promotes the development of organogenesis and tissue remodeling. However, thrombosis poses a great challenge that hinders the transplantation for a substantial organ in vivo. Therefore, anticoagulation and re‐reendothelialization of organ biological scaffolds are the primary concerns to be addressed before orthotopic transplantation. Herein, a heparinized decellularized kidney scaffold (HEP‐DKSs) was prepared using end‐point attachment technology, followed by binding the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to greatly improve the hemocompatibility and angiogenesis of DKSs. Based on the anticoagulant, co‐culture of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and subcapsular transplantation of kidney experiments, HEP‐VEGF‐DKSs are shown to reduce platelet adhesion, which is crucial for subsequent vascularization and slow release of heparin and VEGF, suggesting its ability of improve neovascularization. Taken together, these data indicated an optimal anticoagulation function of HEP‐VEGF‐DKSs and the potential of vascularization for regeneration of whole decellularized kidney.
Postpartum during COVID‐19 pandemic: Portuguese mothers' mental health, mindful parenting, and mother–infant bonding
Authors: Fernandes Daniela V. , Canavarro Maria C. , Moreira Helena
Published: April 2021

Background

Millions of people worldwide have been diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), which has impacted maternal mental health and mother–infant relationships during the postpartum period.

Objectives

To explore how mothers' anxious and depressive symptoms, parenting stress, mindful parenting, and mother–infant bonding vary as a function of the moment of the baby's birth (pre‐COVID‐19 or post‐COVID‐19) and to examine the contribution of those variables to mother–infant bonding.

Methods

The sample was recruited online and comprises 567 mothers (18–46 years) with an infant aged between 0 and 12 months old.

Results

Approximately 27.5% of the mothers presented clinically significant levels of anxious and depressive symptoms. Mothers who gave birth during the COVID‐19 pandemic presented lower levels of Emotional Awareness of the Child and a more impaired mother–infant bonding than mothers who gave birth before the pandemic started. Approximately 49% of the mother–infant bonding variance was explained by parenting stress and by several dimensions of mindful parenting.

Conclusion

Our findings provide important insights into the impact of COVID‐19 on maternal mental health and parenting.
How Outward Bound co‐instructor relationships create a context for emotional support during stressful course situations
Authors: McGovern Gina
Published: April 2021

Youth program leaders may experience considerable stress when they encounter emotionally demanding situations in their work. This stress can negatively affect their well‐being or interfere with their ability to provide meaningful experiences for youth. Using Outward Bound (OB) youth expedition courses as a context, this study examined how co‐instructors provided emotional support to instructors during stressful situations. Qualitative analysis of 31 OB instructor interviews showed co‐instructors used three strategies: allowing instructors to momentarily exit the situation, validating instructors' emotions, and reframing negative situations. In addition, certain relationship factors facilitated the provision of support: building holistic relationships, establishing open communication patterns, and conveying commitment. The findings suggest that these factors increased instructors' perception of support availability, which facilitated them receiving support. This study makes a strong case for the value of co‐worker relationships as a source of support for individuals in occupations where they experience emotionally stressful work situations.
Detection of Escherichia coli using luminometer with pyruvate kinase
Authors: Liu Huaiqun , Shen Yuanyuan , Zhao Peng , Liu Yuxin
Published: April 2021

Portable and quantitative detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) has the potential to reform clinical diagnostics, food safety, and environmental monitoring. At present, most commercial devices used for pathogen detection have disadvantages such as expensive, highly complex operations, or limited detection specificity. Using the common luminometer and the properties of pyruvate kinase utilizing phosphoenolpyruvate to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), we have developed a method that could specifically quantify E. coli. The system is based on a sandwich hybridization procedure wherein both oligonucleotide probes recognize each end of the target of pathogenic 16S rRNAs segment. The detection probe DNA‐conjugated pyruvate kinase can link ATP production to the detection of pathogenic nucleic acid in the samples. The luminometer‐based system is capable of detecting E. coli with single bacteria resolution. The platform should be easily used to the detection of many other toxic analytes through the application of suitable functional‐DNA recognition elements.
Palaeolithic archaeology of the Bytham River: human occupation of Britain during the early Middle Pleistocene and its European context
Authors: Davis Rob , Ashton Nick , Hatch Marcus , Hoare Peter G. , Lewis Simon G.
Published: April 2021

The Early and early Middle Pleistocene archaeological record in Britain from c. 900 to 500 ka marks a critical shift in human occupation of northwest Europe, from occasional pioneer populations with simple core and flake technology to more widespread occupation associated with the appearance of Acheulean technology. Key to understanding this record are the fluvial deposits of the extinct Bytham River in central East Anglia, where a series of Lower Palaeolithic sites lie on a 15 km stretch of the former river. In this paper we present the results of new fieldwork and a reanalysis of historical artefact collections of handaxes and scrapers to: 1) establish the chronostratigraphic context of the Bytham archaeological record; 2) examine variability in lithic artefact typology and technology through time; and 3) explore the implications for understanding variation in lithic technology in the European record. Six phases of occupation of Britain are identified from at least marine isotope stage (MIS) 21 to MIS 13, with the last three phases characterised by distinctive lithic technology. We argue that this relates to the discontinuous occupation of Britain, where each phase represents the arrival of new groups derived from different European populations with distinctive material culture.
Cognitive Processing Therapy for Substance‐Involved Sexual Assault: Does an Account Help or Hinder Recovery?
Authors: Jaffe Anna E. , Kaysen Debra , Smith Brian N. , Galovski Tara , Resick Patricia A.
Published: April 2021

Sexual assault (SA) often occurs in the context of substances, which can impair the trauma memory and contribute to negative cognitions like self‐blame. Although these factors may affect posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment, outcomes for substance‐involved SA have not been evaluated or compared with other types of SA. As such, we conducted a secondary analysis of a dismantling trial for cognitive processing therapy (CPT), focusing on 58 women with an index trauma of SA that occurred since age 14. Women who experienced a substance‐involved SA (n = 21) were compared with those who experienced a non–substance‐involved SA (n = 37). Participants were randomized to CPT, CPT with written account (CPT+A), or written account only (WA). Regressions controlling for pretreatment symptom levels revealed no differences by SA type in PTSD severity at posttreatment. At 6‐month follow‐up, substance‐involved SA was associated with more severe residual PTSD severity than non–substance‐involved SA, with no significant differences by treatment condition. Among participants in the substance‐involved SA group, the largest effect for reduced PTSD symptom severity from pretreatment to follow‐up emerged in the CPT condition, d = −2.02, with reductions also observed in the CPT+A, d = −0.92, and WA groups, d = −1.23. Although more research in larger samples is needed, these preliminary findings suggest that following substance‐involved SA, a cognitive treatment approach without a trauma account may facilitate lasting change in PTSD symptoms. We encourage replications to better understand the relative value of cognitive and exposure‐based treatment for PTSD following substance‐involved SAs.
Prioritizing Conservation of Coastal Ponds for Wintering Redheads
Authors: Ballard Bart M. , Lange Corey J. , James J. Dale , Wilson Barry C. , Collins Daniel P. , Vonbank Jay A.
Published: April 2021

The Laguna Madres of Texas, USA, and Tamaulipas, Mexico, are the most important wintering areas for redheads (Aythya americana) as most of the continental population winters in these lagoons. Redheads forage in the saline waters of the Laguna Madre and make daily flights to coastal freshwater ponds on the adjacent mainland to drink. The abundance and spatial distribution of coastal ponds varies depending on precipitation and can influence the foraging pressure on adjacent seagrass meadows. We conducted weekly aerial surveys to monitor coastal pond use by wintering redheads from mid‐October through mid‐March along the entire length of the Laguna Madre of Texas, during 2000–2003 and in 2012–2014. We developed 3 parameters to provide a measure of biological value of each coastal pond to redheads: amount of foraging habitat within 10 km of each pond, water permanence of the pond, and the potential to distribute redheads if inundated. During 101 aerial surveys across 5 years of study, we identified 140 coastal ponds that were used by redheads. We developed a prioritization scheme to identify wetlands that remain inundated in all years and targeted them for conservation protection. We identified those coastal ponds that, if enhanced through increasing their water permanence, would provide additional drinking sites during dry years and help distribute redheads on more foraging habitat, thereby reducing potential overgrazing on seagrass meadows. We identified 3,624 ha of foraging habitat (21.5% of all foraging habitat) in the lower Laguna Madre that had no coastal ponds within a 10‐km radius and, thus, was proximal to potential areas for coastal pond creation. Our results provide guidance for resource managers to protect, enhance, or create coastal ponds to reduce foraging pressure on seagrass meadows in the Laguna Madre and help sustain future populations of wintering redheads. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Role of human and structural capital on performance through human resource practices in Indian microfinance institutions: A mediated moderation approach
Authors: Barpanda Saswat
Published: April 2021

Although much has been written about the effects of human capital (HC) on firm performance, little attention has been paid to the interactive effect of HC and structural capital (SC) on performance through human resource practices (HRPs). The population of this study is consisting of Indian microfinance organizations. Nonetheless, in the process of bringing financial stability which is critical for MFIs to expand their outreach, they sometimes gradually tend to drift from their social mission. Keeping the mission drift in mind, performance is understood in terms of both financial and social performance. The structural model has been tested using partial least squares (PLS) as the statistical tool. The results show that HC and SC have a significant impact on performance. Further, the finding of this research shows a mediated moderation of HRP and SC to performance. This implied organization of assorted combinations of HC and SC would have distinct HRPs or organization of varied HC would have diverse HRPs and organization of discrete SC would process HRPs differently and thus resulting in different level of performance.
Analysis of sediment accessibility and availability concepts based on sediment connectivity throughout a watershed
Authors: Najafi Saeed , Sadeghi Seyed Hamidreza , Heckmann Tobias
Published: April 2021

The identification of the degree of linkage between sediment source and sink areas and also the channel network allows for prioritizing areas for sediment control measures at the watershed scale. The present study was therefore planned to investigate sediment connectivity based on structural and functional aspects. To that end, the index of connectivity (IC) and sediment delivery ratio (SDR), respectively, were calculated based on the approaches of Borselli, Cassi, & Torri (2008) and a sediment contribution area (SCA) representing structural and functional sediment indices of connectivity. Results showed that high structural connectivity in an area does not necessarily result in high transportation of sediment, since structural connectivity only reflects the potential for sediment transfer between specific source and sink areas. We name this potential movement as sediment accessibility. Meanwhile, high functional sediment connectivity occurs only where soil erosion processes are actively eroding sediment, and consequently we name this condition as sediment availability. Therefore, four sediment connectivity states can occur: (a) sediment availability and sediment accessibility (SASA); (b) sediment availability and sediment inaccessibility (SASIA); (c) sediment unavailability and sediment accessibility (SUASA); and (d) sediment unavailability and sediment inaccessibility (SUASIA). From the application of this concept in the Taham representative watershed in Zanjan Province, Iran, there was a consistency between both structural and functional connectivity in seven subwatersheds within the study area, with one exception with higher sediment availability than sediment accessibility. Such information in combination with a sediment fingerprinting approach assists managers to plan appropriate approaches for achieving the desired sediment (dis)connectivity.
Historical review of faba bean improvement in western Canada
Authors: Khazaei Hamid , Hawkins Glen , Vandenberg Albert
Published: April 2021

Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) was considered a minor crop in the Canadian prairies until recently, but its potential for cultivation is increasing due to its positive environmental impact and economic value. This review provides a historical summary of faba bean improvement in western Canada. Although traditional breeding methods have proved useful, in the last decade, faba bean improvement has benefited from advances in genetics, biochemistry and molecular breeding tools. The overall breeding goal is to develop high yielding germplasm with improved agronomic characteristics that will be of economic value to the emerging faba bean sectors, including the plant protein industry. To maximize value and acceptance by producers, processors and the food industry as a source of protein and dietary fibre, future faba bean varieties need to be high‐yielding, have diverse seed size classes, disease resistance, genetically low vicine–convicine concentration, and have wider adaptation to different agro‐ecological zones of Canada. The experiences over the last 40 years of faba bean improvement in western Canada may be useful to other breeding programmes globally located in regions with similar agroecology. In the past 10–15 years, faba bean genetic development in Canada has benefited greatly from research and development interactions with most of the faba bean research programmes in northern Europe.
Clinical heterogeneity and intrafamilial variability of Joubert syndrome in two siblings with CPLANE1 variants
Authors: Zhang Xiujuan , Shen Yue , Li Ping , Cai Ruikun , Lu Chao , Li Qian , Chen Cuixia , Yu Yufei , Cheng Tingting , Wang Xian , Luo Minna , Cao Muqing , Cao Zongfu , Ma Xu
Published: April 2021

Background

Joubert syndrome (JBTS) is a rare genetic disorder that is characterized by midbrain‐hindbrain malformations. Multiple variants in genes that affect ciliary function contribute to the genetic and clinical heterogeneity of JBTS and its subtypes. However, the correlation between genotype and phenotype has not been elucidated due to the limited number of patients available.

Methods

In this study, we observed different clinical features in two siblings from the same family. The older sibling was classified as a pure JBTS patient, whereas her younger sibling displayed oral‐facial‐digital defects and was therefore classified as an oral‐facial‐digital syndrome type VI (OFD VI) patient. Next, we performed human genetic tests to identify the potential pathogenic variants in the two siblings.

Results

Genetic sequencing indicated that both siblings harbored compound heterozygous variants of a missense variant (c.1067C>T, p.S356F) and a frameshift variant (c.8377_8378del, p.E2793Lfs*24) in CPLANE1 (NM_023073.3).

Conclusion

This study reports that two novel CPLANE1 variants are associated with the occurrence of JBTS and OFD VI. These results help elucidate the intrafamilial phenotypic variability associated with CPLANE1 variants.
Sharp lifespan estimates for subcritical generalized semilinear Tricomi equations
Authors: Sun Yaqing
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we investigate the Cauchy problem of the subcritical semilinear generalized Tricomi equations with dimension n ≥ 3. Under the assumption that the initial data are smooth and compactly supported, the Cauchy problem is shown to be locally well‐posed and the lower bound estimate of the lifespan is established. We also obtain the upper bound of the lifespan with the same scale; hence, the sharp lifespan is determined. The proof is based on the improved versions of the weighted Strichartz estimates.