bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supergene origin and maintenance in Atlantic cod
Authors: Matschiner Michael , Barth Julia Maria Isis , Tørresen Ole Kristian , Star Bastiaan , Baalsrud Helle Tessand , Brieuc Marine Servane Ono , Pampoulie Christophe , Bradbury Ian , Jakobsen Kjetill Sigurd , Jentoft Sissel
Published: February 2022

Supergenes are sets of genes that are inherited as a single marker and encode complex phenotypes through their joint action. They are identified in an increasing number of organisms, yet their origins and evolution remain enigmatic. In Atlantic cod, four megabase-scale supergenes have been identified and linked to migratory lifestyle and environmental adaptations. Here we investigate the origin and maintenance of these four supergenes through analysis of whole-genome-sequencing data, including a new long-read-based genome assembly for a non-migratory Atlantic cod individual. We corroborate the finding that chromosomal inversions underlie all four supergenes, and we show that they originated at different times between 0.40 and 1.66 million years ago. We reveal gene flux between supergene haplotypes where migratory and stationary Atlantic cod co-occur and conclude that this gene flux is driven by gene conversion, on the basis of an increase in GC content in exchanged sites. Additionally, we find evidence for double crossover between supergene haplotypes, leading to the exchange of an ~275 kilobase fragment with genes potentially involved in adaptation to low salinity in the Baltic Sea. Our results suggest that supergenes can be maintained over long timescales in the same way as hybridizing species, through the selective purging of introduced genetic variation.
The role of antibody responses against glycans in bioprosthetic heart valve calcification and deterioration
Authors: Senage Thomas , Paul Anu , Le Tourneau Thierry , Fellah-Hebia Imen , Vadori Marta , Bashir Salam , Galiñanes Manuel , Bottio Tomaso , Gerosa Gino , Evangelista Arturo , Badano Luigi P. , Nassi Alberto , Costa Cristina , Cesare Galli , Manji Rizwan A. , Cueff de Monchy Caroline , Piriou Nicolas , Capoulade Romain , Serfaty Jean-Michel , Guimbretière Guillaume , Dantan Etienne , Ruiz-Majoral Alejandro , Coste du Fou Guénola , Leviatan Ben-Arye Shani , Govani Liana , Yehuda Sharon , Bachar Abramovitch Shirley , Amon Ron , Reuven Eliran Moshe , Atiya-Nasagi Yafit , Yu Hai , Iop Laura , Casós Kelly , Kuguel Sebastián G. , Blasco-Lucas Arnau , Permanyer Eduard , Sbraga Fabrizio , Llatjós Roger , Moreno-Gonzalez Gabriel , Sánchez-Martínez Melchor , Breimer Michael E. , Holgersson Jan , Teneberg Susann , Pascual-Gilabert Marta , Nonell-Canals Alfons , Takeuchi Yasuhiro , Chen Xi , Mañez Rafael , Roussel Jean-Christian , Soulillou Jean-Paul , Cozzi Emanuele , Padler-Karavani Vered
Published: February 2022

Bioprosthetic heart valves (BHVs) are commonly used to replace severely diseased heart valves but their susceptibility to structural valve degeneration (SVD) limits their use in young patients. We hypothesized that antibodies against immunogenic glycans present on BHVs, particularly antibodies against the xenoantigens galactose-α1,3-galactose (αGal) andN-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc), could mediate their deterioration through calcification. We established a large longitudinal prospective international cohort of patients (n = 1668, 34 ± 43 months of follow-up (0.1–182); 4,998 blood samples) to investigate the hemodynamics and immune responses associated with BHVs up to 15 years after aortic valve replacement. Early signs of SVD appeared in <5% of BHV recipients within 2 years. The levels of both anti-αGal and anti-Neu5Gc IgGs significantly increased one month after BHV implantation. The levels of these IgGs declined thereafter but anti-αGal IgG levels declined significantly faster in control patients compared to BHV recipients. Neu5Gc, anti-Neu5Gc IgG and complement deposition were found in calcified BHVs at much higher levels than in calcified native aortic valves. Moreover, in mice, anti-Neu5Gc antibodies were unable to promote calcium deposition on subcutaneously implanted BHV tissue engineered to lack αGal and Neu5Gc antigens. These results indicate that BHVs manufactured using donor tissues deficient in αGal and Neu5Gc could be less prone to immune-mediated deterioration and have improved durability.
Survey of rodent-borne pathogens in Singapore reveals the circulation of Leptospira spp., Seoul hantavirus, and Rickettsia typhi
Authors: Griffiths Jane , Yeo Hui Ling , Yap Grace , Mailepessov Diyar , Johansson Patrik , Low Hwee Teng , Siew Chern-Chiang , Lam Patrick , Ng Lee Ching
Published: February 2022

Rodents living alongside humans increases the probability of encounter and also the transmission of rodent-borne diseases. Singapore’s cosmopolitan urban landscape provides a perfect setting to study the prevalence of four rodent-borne pathogens: Seoul hantavirus (SEOV),Leptospiraspecies,Rickettsia typhiandYersinia pestis, and identify the potential risk factors which may influence rodent density and transmission of rodent-borne diseases. A total of 1143 rodents were trapped from 10 unique landscape structures throughout Singapore. Real-time quantitative Polymerase Chain Reactions were used to detect pathogenic and intermediateLeptospiraspp. andYersinia pestis, whereas the seroprevalence of SEOV andR. typhiwere analysed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Immunofluorescence Assay respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between prevalence of infection in rodent reservoirs and risk factors. Most of the rodents were caught in public residential developments (62.2%). Among the tested rodents, 42.4% were infected withLeptospiraspp., while 35.5% and 32.2% were seropositive for SEOV andR. typhirespectively, whereasYersinia pestiswas not detected. Furthermore, risk factors including habitat, species, gender, and weight of rodents, influenced prevalence of infection to a varying extent. This study highlights the presence ofLeptospiraspp., SEOV andR. typhiin Singapore’s rodent population, suggesting the need for effective rodent management and sanitation strategies to prevent further circulation and transmission to humans.
Quantifying NFT-driven networks in crypto art
Authors: Vasan Kishore , Janosov Milán , Barabási Albert-László
Published: February 2022

The evolution of the art ecosystem is driven by largely invisible networks, defined by undocumented interactions between artists, institutions, collectors and curators. The emergence of cryptoart, and the NFT-based digital marketplace around it, offers unprecedented opportunities to examine the mechanisms that shape the evolution of networks that define artistic practice. Here we mapped the Foundation platform, identifying over 48,000 artworks through the associated NFTs listed by over 15,000 artists, allowing us to characterize the patterns that govern the networks that shape artistic success. We find that NFT adoption by both artists and collectors has undergone major changes, starting with a rapid growth that peaked in March 2021 and the emergence of a new equilibrium in June. Despite significant changes in activity, the average price of the sold art remained largely unchanged, with the price of an artist’s work fluctuating in a range that determines his or her reputation. The artist invitation network offers evidence of rich and poor artist clusters, driven by homophily, indicating that the newly invited artists develop similar engagement and sales patterns as the artist who invited them. We find that successful artists receive disproportional, repeated investment from a small group of collectors, underscoring the importance of artist–collector ties in the digital marketplace. These reproducible patterns allow us to characterize the features, mechanisms, and the networks enabling the success of individual artists, a quantification necessary to better understand the emerging NFT ecosystem.
Standardised bioassays reveal that mosquitoes learn to avoid compounds used in chemical vector control after a single sub-lethal exposure
Authors: Sougoufara Seynabou , Yorkston-Dives Hanna , Aklee Nurul Masyirah , Rus Adanan Che , Zairi Jaal , Tripet Frederic
Published: February 2022

Vector-borne diseases are worldwide public health issues. Despite research focused on vectorial capacity determinants in pathogen transmitting mosquitoes, their behavioural plasticity remains poorly understood. Memory and associative learning have been linked to behavioural changes in several insect species, but their relevance in behavioural responses to pesticide vector control has been largely overlooked. In this study, female Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciastus were exposed to sub-lethal doses of 5 pesticide compounds using modified World Health Organization (WHO) tube bioassays. Conditioned females, subsequently exposed to the same pesticides in WHO tunnel assays, exhibited behavioural avoidance by forgoing blood-feeding to ensure survival. Standardized resting site choice tests showed that pre-exposed females avoided the pesticides smell and choose to rest in a pesticide-free compartment. These results showed that, following a single exposure, mosquitoes can associate the olfactory stimulus of pesticides with their detrimental effects and subsequently avoid pesticide contact. Findings highlight the importance of mosquito cognition as determinants of pesticide resistance in mosquito populations targeted by chemical control.
Optimizing planting density and nitrogen application to enhance profit and nitrogen use of summer maize in Huanghuaihai region of China
Authors: Zhang HaiYan , Zhang ChengRan , Sun Peng , Jiang XuWen , Xu GuangHai , Yang JinZhong
Published: February 2022

Low planting density and irrational nitrogen (N) fertilization are two common practices in conventional cropping of smallholder maize production in Huanghuaihai region of China. A 2-year field experiment was carried out to study the effects of N application and planting density on maize phenology, dry matter accumulation, profit, yield, N uptake and efficiency indices. The experiments included three N application levels (120 kg ha−1, N1; 180 kg ha−1, N2; 240 kg ha−1, N3) and three planting densities (60,000 plants ha−1, D1; 75,000 plants ha−1, D2; 90,000 plants ha−1, D3). Increasing N input and planting density delayed the physiological maturity and enhanced dry matter accumulation. Comparing with the traditional N3 level, grain yield and profit were kept stable at N2 level and decreased at N1 level, partial factor productivity of applied N (PFPN) and nitrogen efficiency ratio (NER) were increased with the decreasing of N level. Comparing with the traditional D1 density, grain yield, profit and PFPN were increased at D2 density and then kept stable at D3 density, NER was kept stable at D2 density and then decreased at D3 density. Based on the predicted maximum profit, the optimal combinations of N application and planting density were 199 kg ha−1 and 81,081 plants ha−1 in 2017, and 205 kg ha−1 and 84,782 plants ha−1 in 2018. The two optimal combinations had an increase of 17.6% for grain yield, 39.8% for PEPN, 3.6% for NRE than the traditional N3D1 treatment. Therefore, an appropriate combination of increased planting density with reduced N application could enhance profit and nitrogen use of summer maize in Huanghuaihai region of China.
Experimental evidence of the effect of financial incentives and detection on dishonesty
Authors: Kaushik Mehak , Singh Varsha , Chakravarty Sujoy
Published: February 2022

We revisit two fundamental motivations of dishonesty: financial incentives and probability of detection. We use an ability-based real effort task in which participants who are college students in India can cheat by over reporting the number of puzzles they could solve in a given period of time. The puzzles are all unsolvable and this fact is unknown to participants. This design feature allows us to obtain the distribution of cheating outcomes at the individual level. Controlling for participant attributes, we find that introducing piece-rate financial incentives lowers both the likelihood and magnitude of cheating only for individuals with a positive probability of detection. On the other hand, a decrease in the probability of detection to zero increases magnitude of cheating only for individuals receiving piece-rate incentives. Moreover, we observe that participants cheat significantly even in the absence of piece-rate incentives indicating that affective benefits may determine cheating. Finally, an increase in own perceived wealth status vis-à-vis one’s peers is associated with a higher likelihood of cheating while feeling more satisfied with one’s current economic state is associated with a lower magnitude of cheating.
Diversity of rice rhizosphere microorganisms under different fertilization modes of slow-release fertilizer
Authors: Chen Yulin , Tu Panfeng , Yang Yibin , Xue Xinhai , Feng Zihui , Dan Chenxin , Cheng Fengxian , Yang Yifan , Deng Lansheng
Published: February 2022

The application of slow-release fertilizer is an effective way to satisfy the demand for nutrients of crops. The objective of present study was to investigate the microbial community characteristics in rice rhizosphere soil under different fertilization modes of slow-release fertilizer. Three fertilization modes of slow-release fertilizer, i.e., (CK) manually broadcasted on the soil surface at 300 kg·ha−1 before transplanting and then same fertilizer rate was applied at the same way one week after transplanting; (SF) 10 cm depth mechanized placement at 600 kg·ha−1 during the transplanting; (DSF) 10 cm depth mechanized placement at 480 kg·ha−1 during the transplanting, were adopt in the field experiment. The results showed that SF and DSF treatments promoted richness (ACE and Chao1 values) and diversity (Shannon value) of rice rhizosphere microorganisms compared with CK treatment. Compared with CK, SF treatment increased relative abundances of Planctomycetes and decreased relative abundance of Nitrospirae, DSF treatments increased relative abundances of Deltaproteobacteria. Moreover, higher relative abundances of Paenibacillus and Sphingomonas were recorded in DSF treatment than CK. In addition, the partial factor productivity (PFP) deep placement of slow-release fertilizer treatment was significantly higher than that of CK treatment. DSF treatment increased the yield by 16.61% compared with CK treatment while reducing fertilizer input by 20%. In conclusion, compared with broadcasting, deep placement of slow-release fertilizer could improve the structure, distribution, and diversity of the microbial community in rice rhizosphere soil, and increase the utilization rate of fertilizers, and increase rice yield.
Effects of pitch and musical sounds on body-representations when moving with sound
Authors: Ley-Flores Judith , Alshami Eslam , Singh Aneesha , Bevilacqua Frédéric , Bianchi-Berthouze Nadia , Deroy Ophelia , Tajadura-Jiménez Ana
Published: February 2022

The effects of music on bodily movement and feelings, such as when people are dancing or engaged in physical activity, are well-documented—people may move in response to the sound cues, feel powerful, less tired. How sounds and bodily movements relate to create such effects? Here we deconstruct the problem and investigate how different auditory features affect people’s body-representation and feelings even when paired with the same movement. In three experiments, participants executed a simple arm raise synchronised with changing pitch in simple tones (Experiment 1), rich musical sounds (Experiment 2) and within different frequency ranges (Experiment 3), while we recorded indirect and direct measures on their movement, body-representations and feelings. Changes in pitch influenced people’s general emotional state as well as the various bodily dimensions investigated—movement, proprioceptive awareness and feelings about one’s body and movement. Adding harmonic content amplified the differences between ascending and descending sounds, while shifting the absolute frequency range had a general effect on movement amplitude, bodily feelings and emotional state. These results provide new insights in the role of auditory and musical features in dance and exercise, and have implications for the design of sound-based applications supporting movement expression, physical activity, or rehabilitation.
Concomitant KRAS mutations attenuate sensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer cells to KRAS G12C inhibition
Authors: Vaclova Tereza , Chakraborty Atanu , Sherwood James , Ross Sarah , Carroll Danielle , Barrett J. Carl , Downward Julian , de Bruin Elza C.
Published: February 2022

The development of covalent inhibitors against KRAS G12C represents a major milestone in treatment of RAS-driven cancers, especially in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), where KRAS G12C is one of the most common oncogenic driver. Here we investigated if additional KRAS mutations co-occur with KRAS G12C (c.34G>T) in NSCLC tumours and if such mutation co-occurrence affects cellular response to G12C-specific inhibitors. Analysis of a large cohort of NSCLC patients whose tumours harboured KRAS mutations revealed co-occurring KRAS mutations in up to 8% of tumours with the KRAS c.34G>T mutation. KRAS c.35G>T was the most frequently co-occurring mutation, and could occur on the same allele (in cis) translating to a single mutant KRAS G12F protein, or on the other allele (in trans), translating to separate G12C and G12V mutant proteins. Introducing KRAS c.35G>T in trans in the KRAS G12C lung cancer model NCI-H358, as well as the co-occurrence in cis in the KRAS G12F lung cancer model NCI-H2291 led to cellular resistance to the G12C-specific inhibitor AZ’8037 due to continuing active MAPK and PI3K cascades in the presence of the inhibitor. Overall, our study provides a comprehensive assessment of co-occurring KRAS mutations in NSCLC and in vitro evidence of the negative impact of co-occurring KRAS mutations on cellular response to G12C inhibitors, highlighting the need for a comprehensive KRAS tumour genotyping for optimal patient selection for treatment with a KRAS G12C inhibitor.
Differential exhumation of cratonic and non-cratonic lithosphere revealed by apatite fission-track thermochronology along the edge of the São Francisco craton, eastern Brazil
Authors: Fonseca Ana , Cruz Simone , Novo Tiago , He Zhiyuan , De Grave Johan
Published: February 2022

Lithosphere of cratons and orogens generally reacts differently to tectonic events. Although these differences are mostly clear during the orogenic phases, understanding how they respond to tectonic reactivation is still challenging. Here, we report the first detailed apatite fission-track (AFT) study pinpointing the gradual transition between cratonic and orogenic lithosphere, using the case study of the São Francisco craton (SFC) and the adjacent Araçuaí-West Congo Orogen (AWCO), eastern Brazil. The collision that built the AWCO partially affected the inherited rift structures of the Paramirim Aulacogen, embedded in the São Francisco-Congo paleocontinent. Our data reveal a differential Phanerozoic exhumation between closely interspaced areas affected and not affected by the AWCO deformation. Samples from the SFC present slow and protracted basement cooling during the Phanerozoic, while samples from the orogen display rapid exhumation since the Eocene. An intermediate ~ N–S zone of c.40 km shows lower magnitude basement cooling during the Cenozoic, possibly because the propagation of AWCO deformation decreases towards the craton interior. Within the orogen, the Rio Pardo salient is the main reactive structure and probably results from the deformation of a master fault, inherited from its precursor rift. Here, we show how the magnitude of Phanerozoic denudation may be deeply associated with previous events of lithosphere weakening.
Evaluation of domain generalization and adaptation on improving model robustness to temporal dataset shift in clinical medicine
Authors: Guo Lin Lawrence , Pfohl Stephen R. , Fries Jason , Johnson Alistair E. W. , Posada Jose , Aftandilian Catherine , Shah Nigam , Sung Lillian
Published: February 2022

Temporal dataset shift associated with changes in healthcare over time is a barrier to deploying machine learning-based clinical decision support systems. Algorithms that learn robust models by estimating invariant properties across time periods for domain generalization (DG) and unsupervised domain adaptation (UDA) might be suitable to proactively mitigate dataset shift. The objective was to characterize the impact of temporal dataset shift on clinical prediction models and benchmark DG and UDA algorithms on improving model robustness. In this cohort study, intensive care unit patients from the MIMIC-IV database were categorized by year groups (2008–2010, 2011–2013, 2014–2016 and 2017–2019).
Tasks were predicting mortality, long length of stay, sepsis and invasive ventilation. Feedforward neural networks were used as prediction models. The baseline experiment trained models using empirical risk minimization (ERM) on 2008–2010 (ERM[08–10]) and evaluated them on subsequent year groups. DG experiment trained models using algorithms that estimated invariant properties using 2008–2016 and evaluated them on 2017–2019. UDA experiment leveraged unlabelled samples from 2017 to 2019 for unsupervised distribution matching. DG and UDA models were compared to ERM[08–16] models trained using 2008–2016. Main performance measures were area-under-the-receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUROC), area-under-the-precision-recall curve and absolute calibration error. Threshold-based metrics including false-positives and false-negatives were used to assess the clinical impact of temporal dataset shift and its mitigation strategies. In the baseline experiments, dataset shift was most evident for sepsis prediction (maximum AUROC drop, 0.090; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.080–0.101). Considering a scenario of 100 consecutively admitted patients showed that ERM[08–10] applied to 2017–2019 was associated with one additional false-negative among 11 patients with sepsis, when compared to the model applied to 2008–2010. When compared with ERM[08–16], DG and UDA experiments failed to produce more robust models (range of AUROC difference, − 0.003 to 0.050). In conclusion, DG and UDA failed to produce more robust models compared to ERM in the setting of temporal dataset shift. Alternate approaches are required to preserve model performance over time in clinical medicine.
A novel method for single-cell data imputation using subspace regression
Authors: Tran Duc , Tran Bang , Nguyen Hung , Nguyen Tin
Published: February 2022

Recent advances in biochemistry and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) have allowed us to monitor the biological systems at the single-cell resolution. However, the low capture of mRNA material within individual cells often leads to inaccurate quantification of genetic material. Consequently, a significant amount of expression values are reported as missing, which are often referred to as dropouts. To overcome this challenge, we develop a novel imputation method, named single-cell Imputation via Subspace Regression (scISR), that can reliably recover the dropout values of scRNA-seq data. The scISR method first uses a hypothesis-testing technique to identify zero-valued entries that are most likely affected by dropout events and then estimates the dropout values using a subspace regression model. Our comprehensive evaluation using 25 publicly available scRNA-seq datasets and various simulation scenarios against five state-of-the-art methods demonstrates that scISR is better than other imputation methods in recovering scRNA-seq expression profiles via imputation. scISR consistently improves the quality of cluster analysis regardless of dropout rates, normalization techniques, and quantification schemes. The source code of scISR can be found on GitHub athttps://github.com/duct317/scISR.
Lower multisensory temporal acuity in individuals with high schizotypal traits: a web-based study
Authors: Marsicano Gianluca , Cerpelloni Filippo , Melcher David , Ronconi Luca
Published: February 2022

Natural events are often multisensory, requiring the brain to combine information from the same spatial location and timing, across different senses. The importance of temporal coincidence has led to the introduction of the temporal binding window (TBW) construct, defined as the time range within which multisensory inputs are highly likely to be perceptually bound into a single entity. Anomalies in TBWs have been linked to confused perceptual experiences and inaccurate filtering of sensory inputs coming from different environmental sources. Indeed, larger TBWs have been associated with disorders such as schizophrenia and autism and are also correlated to a higher level of subclinical traits of these conditions in the general population. Here, we tested the feasibility of using a web-based version of a classic audio-visual simultaneity judgment (SJ) task with simple flash-beep stimuli in order to measure multisensory temporal acuity and its relationship with schizotypal traits as measured in the general population. Results show that: (i) the response distribution obtained in the web-based SJ task was strongly similar to those reported by studies carried out in controlled laboratory settings, and (ii) lower multisensory temporal acuity was associated with higher schizotypal traits in the “cognitive-perceptual” domains. Our findings reveal the possibility of adequately using a web-based audio-visual SJ task outside a controlled laboratory setting, available to a more diverse and representative pool of participants. These results provide additional evidence for a close relationship between lower multisensory acuity and the expression of schizotypal traits in the general population.
The impact of COVID-19 stressors on psychological distress and suicidality in a nationwide community survey in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Chia-Yi , Lee Ming-Been , Huong Pham Thi Thu , Chan Chia-Ta , Chen Chun-Yin , Liao Shih-Cheng
Published: February 2022

COVID-19 stressors and psychological stress response are important correlates of suicide risks under the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of COVID-19 stress, its impact on mental health and associated risk factors among the general population during the outbreak of COVID-19 in July 2020 throughout Taiwan. A nationwide population-based survey was conducted using a computer-assisted telephone interview system with a stratified, proportional randomization method for the survey. The questionnaire comprised demographic variables, psychological distress assessed by the five-item Brief Symptom Rating Scale and independent psychosocial variables including COVID-19 stressors, loneliness, suicidality, and health-related self-efficacy. In total, 2094 respondents completed the survey (female 51%). The COVID-19 stress was experienced among 45.4% of the participants, with the most prevalent stressors related to daily life and job/financial concerns. Higher levels of suicidality, loneliness, and a lower level of self-efficacy had significantly higher odds of having COVID-19 stress. The structural equation model revealed that COVID-19 stress was moderately associated with psychological distress and mediated by other psychosocial risk factors. The findings call for more attention on strategies of stress management and mental health promotion for the public to prevent larger scales of psychological consequences in future waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whole-transcriptome analysis and construction of an anther development-related ceRNA network in Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris L. ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Shi Fengyan , Pang Zhijin , Liu Chuanhong , Zhou Li , Tan Chong , Ren Jie , Ye Xueling , Feng Hui , Liu Zhiyong
Published: February 2022

Anther development is precisely regulated by a complex gene network, which is of great significance to plant breeding. However, the molecular mechanism of anther development in Chinese cabbage is unclear. Here, we identified microRNAs (miRNAs), mRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) related to anther development in Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestrisL. ssp.pekinensis) to construct competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks and provide valuable knowledge on anther development. Using whole-transcriptome sequencing, 9055, 585, 1344, and 165 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), lncRNAs (DElncRNAs), and circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) were identified, respectively, in the anthers of Chinese cabbage compared with those in samples of the vegetative mass of four true leaves. An anther-related ceRNA regulatory network was constructed using miRNA targeting relationships, and 450 pairs of ceRNA relationships, including 97 DEmiRNA–DEmRNA, 281 DEmiRNA–DElncRNA, and 23 DEmiRNA–DEcircRNA interactions, were obtained. We identified important genes and their interactions with lncRNAs, circRNAs, and miRNAs involved in microsporogenesis, tapetum and callose layer development, pollen wall formation, and anther dehiscence. We analyzed the promoter activity of six predominant anther expression genes, which were expressed specifically in the anthers ofArabidopsis thaliana, indicating that they may play an important role in anther development of Chinese cabbage. This study lays the foundation for further research on the molecular mechanisms of anther growth and development in Chinese cabbage.
Extracellular degradation of a polyurethane oligomer involving outer membrane vesicles and further insights on the degradation of 2,4-diaminotoluene in Pseudomonas capeferrum TDA1
Authors: Puiggené Òscar , Espinosa María José Cárdenas , Schlosser Dietmar , Thies Stephan , Jehmlich Nico , Kappelmeyer Uwe , Schreiber Stephan , Wibberg Daniel , Kalinowski Joern , Harms Hauke , Heipieper Hermann J. , Eberlein Christian
Published: February 2022

The continuing reports of plastic pollution in various ecosystems highlight the threat posed by the ever-increasing consumption of synthetic polymers. Therefore, Pseudomonas capeferrum TDA1, a strain recently isolated from a plastic dump site, was examined further regarding its ability to degrade polyurethane (PU) compounds. The previously reported degradation pathway for 2,4-toluene diamine, a precursor and degradation intermediate of PU, could be confirmed by RNA-seq in this organism. In addition, different cell fractions of cells grown on a PU oligomer were tested for extracellular hydrolytic activity using a standard assay. Strikingly, purified outer membrane vesicles (OMV) of P. capeferrum TDA1 grown on a PU oligomer showed higher esterase activity than cell pellets. Hydrolases in the OMV fraction possibly involved in extracellular PU degradation were identified by mass spectrometry. On this basis, we propose a model for extracellular degradation of polyester-based PUs by P. capeferrum TDA1 involving the role of OMVs in synthetic polymer degradation.
Crop–livestock integration enhanced soil aggregate-associated carbon and nitrogen, and phospholipid fatty acid
Authors: Bansal Sangeeta , Chakraborty Poulamee , Kumar Sandeep
Published: February 2022

Integrated crop–livestock (ICL) production enhances diversification and provides ecosystem benefits by improving nutrient cycling and energy efficiency, thus, increasing overall farm productivity. However, a detailed study is needed to understand the influence of crop diversification and grazing animals on soil aggregation and associated carbon (C) and nitrogen (N), and microbial properties, especially compared with a grazed native pasture. We investigated the soil aggregate size distribution and associated C and N fractions, glomalin-related soil protein, and soil phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) to understand the collective influence of livestock grazing of crop residue and cover crops (CC) and compared it with native pasture and non-grazed traditional production systems. The study was conducted in South Dakota at four different locations consisting of three long-term (> 30 years) on-farm sites: 1 (Salem), 2 (Bristol), 3 (Bristol) with three treatments that included ICL (corn,Zea MaysL.-soybean,Glycine maxL.-oats,Avena sativaL.-CC with cattle grazing); natural ecosystem (NE) or native pasture; and control (CNT) (corn–soybean-without grazing or CC). Experimental site 4 (Beresford) with study duration of 3-year consisted of oats, oats with CC, oats with CC + grazing, and grazed pasture mix. Soil samples were collected from 0 to 5 cm depth at all four sites in summer 2019. Data showed that at sites 1 and 2, ICL had significantly (P ≤ 0.5) greater fractionation of 0.053–0.25 mm and > 4 mm aggregates compared with NE and CNT. At site 1, ICL showed significantly higher soil organic carbon (SOC, 36–49%) and higher nitrogen (33–44%) in > 4 mm aggregates than NE and CNT. At site 2, ICL had 32–41% higher SOC than NE and CNT for 0.25–0.5 mm aggregates. At site 1, NE enhanced total phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA), total bacterial biomass, gram (+), gram (−) bacteria than CNT, however, it did not vary significantly than ICL. Grazed pasture mix at site 4 had higher total PLFA (40.81 nmol g−1soil) than the other treatments. The principal components 1 and 2 accounted for 33% and 22% of the variation, respectively, where the majority of the microbial compositions and aggregate-associated C and N were influenced by ICL and NE compared with corn–soybean without grazing or short-term oats/CC/grazing treatments. Integrated crop–livestock system and NE enhanced C and N concentrations in macroaggregates as well as in microaggregates. It is concluded that ICL and NE systems are sustainable prospects in enhancing overall soil health. Integrating crop and livestock improved physicochemical and microbial properties compared to the traditional corn–soybean system.
Characterization of acquired anemia in children by iron metabolism parameters
Authors: Ben-David Yael , Koren Ariel , Colodner Raul , Levin Carina
Published: February 2022

Inflammatory states are associated with anemia of chronic disease and acute infection. Hepcidin, a regulator of iron metabolism, is involved in iron pathophysiology during inflammation. We investigated biochemical characteristics in children with anemia from different causes. Four patient groups (n = 38; mean age: 12.44 ± 4.35 years) were studied: (1) inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, 10 patients); (2) iron deficiency anemia (IDA, 12); (3) celiac disease (CD, 8); (4) acute infection (AI, 8). Laboratory measurements were evaluated at diagnosis: blood count, serum iron, transferrin, ferritin, vitamin B12, folic acid, CRP, erythropoietin, hepcidin and soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR). IDA patients had the lowest Hgb (6.9 ± 1.7 g/dL), MCV (63.2 ± 7.2 fL), iron (16.8 ± 13.5 µg/dL), ferritin (4.5 ± 4.5 ng/mL) and hepcidin (3.1 ± 0.8 ng/mL) values, and the highest transferrin and sTfR values. AI patients had the highest ferritin (156.2 ± 124.5 ng/mL), CRP (144.6 ± 94 mg/L) and hepcidin (74.67 ± 12.3 ng/ml) values. Overall, hepcidin levels correlated with CRP and with ferritin (r = 0.83 and 0.85, respectively). Elucidating specific etiology-related biochemical profiles in pediatric patients with anemia from different causes using a combination of laboratory biomarkers, including hepcidin, can help physicians treat the anemia.
Non contrast enhanced volumetric histology of blood clots through high resolution propagation-based X-ray microtomography
Authors: Saghamanesh Somayeh , Dumitriu LaGrange Daniela , Reymond Philippe , Wanke Isabel , Lövblad Karl-Olof , Neels Antonia , Zboray Robert
Published: February 2022

We have demonstrated the capability of laboratory propagation-based microtomography (miroCT) in non-destructive 3D virtual histopathology of human blood clots without any contrast agent. The volumetric information are valuable to understand the mechanical properties of clots which are crucial in selecting the most efficient mechanical thrombectomy method for clot extraction. Different clot types retrieved by mechanical thrombectomy from patient victims of acute ischemic stroke were evaluated through propagation-based microCT. The results were correlated with high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, confirming detected cellular and fibrillary structures. Calcifications appeared as glassy opacity areas with relatively intense signal on microCT images, also proved by energy-dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Hyperintense regions on the microCT corresponded to individual or compact aggregates of red blood cells, whereas fibrin dominated volumes appeared at consistently moderate to low normalized microCT values. Red blood cell shapes and sizes are consistent with the SEM observations. Together with other potential parameters, 3D porosity distribution and volume fraction of structures can be easily measured by microCT data. Further development of automated post-processing techniques for X-ray propagation-based micro/nanoCT, also based on machine learning algorithms, can enable high throughput analysis of blood clot composition and their 3D histological features on large sample cohorts.
Longitudinal associations between domains of flourishing
Authors: Chen Ying , Weziak-Bialowolska Dorota , Lee Matthew T. , Bialowolski Piotr , McNeely Eileen , VanderWeele Tyler J.
Published: February 2022

The longitudinal interrelationships between domains of human well-being or flourishing remain understudied empirically. While different aspects of flourishing may be sought as their own end, it is also the case that well-being in one domain may influence well-being in other domains. Using longitudinal data form a sample of employees from a large national employer in the United States (N = 1209, mean age = 43.52 years, age range 20–74 years), this study examined the temporal associations between various domains of flourishing, based on a 40-item index that assessed six domains of flourishing. These domains include emotional health, physical health, meaning and purpose, character strengths, social connectedness, and financial security. A set of linear regression models were used to regress subsequent composite flourishing on flourishing domain-specific scores at baseline. The results indicated that all domains were each independently associated with greater composite flourishing subsequently. The strongest and most robust links were observed for meaning and purpose (β = 0.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.13, 0.25), social connectedness (β = 0.17, 95% CI 0.12, 0.22), and financial security (β = 0.32, 95% CI 0.28, 0.37). Further analyses that regressed subsequent composite flourishing on individual item indicators at baseline suggested that, out of all 40 items, one item under the character domain “I always act to promote good in all circumstances, even in difficult and challenging situations” and one item in the physical health domain (“Based on my past health, I expect to be healthy long into the future”) had the most robust association with subsequent composite flourishing. Implications of these results for understanding the constituents of a flourishing life and for refinement of the flourishing assessments are discussed.
Blood pressure and mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Lee Chung-woo , Lee Joo Kyung , Choi Yeon Joo , Kim Hyunjin , Han Kyungdo , Jung Jin-hyung , Kim Do Hoon , Park Joo-Hyun
Published: February 2022

Revascularization procedures, including percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), for coronary artery disease (CAD) are increasingly performed in Korea. However, studies on blood pressure control targets in these patients remain insufficient. To assess the relationship between baseline blood pressure and all-cause mortality in CAD patients who underwent PCI. A population-based retrospective cohort study based on the national claims database of the Korean National Health Insurance System, which represents the entire Korean population. A total 38,330 patients with a history of PCI for CAD between 2005 and 2008 were recruited and followed up for all-cause mortality until December 31, 2017. Baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured, and they were classified into eight SBP and DBP groups each. The hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause mortality were measured for each group. The pattern of SBP and DBP in this population followed a J-curve relationship for all-cause mortality, with the nadir point at 119 and 74 mmHg, respectively. In subjects aged > 60 years, high SBP (≥ 160 mmHg) and high DBP (≥ 90 mmHg) were significantly related to death. Moreover, in subjects aged > 60 years, low DBP (< 70 mmHg) was significantly related to mortality. There is a J-curve relationship between baseline blood pressure and all-cause mortality in patients who underwent PCI, and intensive lowering of blood pressure may be beneficial for these patients. However, the elderly population needs more attention as excessive BP lowering, particularly DBP, could instead increase the risk of death.
Effects of long-term Tai-Chi Chuan practice on whole-body balance control during obstacle-crossing in the elderly
Authors: Kuo Chien-Chung , Chen Sheng-Chang , Chen Tsan-Yang , Ho Tsung-Jung , Lin Jaung-Geng , Lu Tung-Wu
Published: February 2022

Older people are subject to an increased risk of falling compared to the young, especially during obstacle negotiation. This study aimed to quantify the effects of long-term Tai-Chi Chuan (TCC) practice on the balance control during obstacle-crossing in older people in terms of the inclination angles (IA) of the body’s centre of mass (COM) relative to the centre of pressure (COP), and the rate of change of IA (RCIA). Fifteen healthy older adults who had practised TCC for at least 13 years and 15 healthy controls without any experience in TCC performed obstacle-crossing in a gait laboratory. The TCC group showed significantly greater leading and trailing toe-obstacle clearances but smaller trailing stride lengths when compared to controls. In the sagittal plane, the TCC group showed significantly smaller average anterior IA when the COM was anterior to the COP but greater average posterior IA when the COM was posterior to the COP, with significantly smaller average and peak RCIA over the crossing cycle. Long-term TCC practitioners showed an obstacle-crossing technique for less risk of tripping and better balance control, as indicated respectively by significantly increased toe-obstacle clearances and more posterior COM position relative to the COP with smaller anterior IA and RCIA during leading crossing and greater posterior IA and frontal RCIA at trailing-toe crossing. These benefits appeared to be related to the main features of TCC movements that emphasized maintaining balance during single-leg support and keeping the body weight on the trailing limb during the slow weight-shifting of double-limb support.
Microstructural changes of white matter fiber tracts induced by insular glioma revealed by tract-based spatial statistics and automatic fiber quantification
Authors: Wang Xiangdong , Zhou Chunyao , Wang Yinyan , Wang Lei
Published: February 2022

Gliomas typically grow along white matter fiber tracts, yet their invasion patterns remain unclear. This study assessed the effect of insular glioma on large white matter fiber tracts and the microstructural subcortical changes associated with clinical outcomes in patients with insular glioma. Twenty-five patients with insular glioma were enrolled and divided into left and right groups according to tumor lateralization. The control group comprised 14 healthy volunteers. Subjects in both the glioma and control groups underwent diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging at 3.0 T. The characteristics of white matter fiber bundles were analyzed using tract-based spatial statistics and automatic fiber quantification. Both Automatic Fiber Quantification and Tract-Based Spatial Statistics revealed that patients with insular glioma had significantly lower fractional anisotropy (FA) values in the inferior frontal-occipital fasciculus and uncinate fasciculus ipsilateral to the tumor, than the controls. Fractional anisotropy associated with mean diffusivity values several large fiber tracts showed potential on tumor-grade distinguishing. Diffusion metrics can sensitively detect microstructural changes in tumor progression. Insular glioma significantly affects the microstructure of white matter fibers proximal to the tumor. The range of white matter fiber bundles affected differs according to the grade of the glioma. These changes are mainly associated with early-stage tumor invasion.
Amyloid-β42 stimulated hippocampal lactate release is coupled to glutamate uptake
Authors: Hascup Erin R. , Sime Lindsey N. , Peck Mackenzie R. , Hascup Kevin N.
Published: February 2022

Since brain glucose hypometabolism is a feature of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression, lactate utilization as an energy source may become critical to maintaining central bioenergetics. We have previously shown that soluble amyloid-β (Aβ)42 stimulates glutamate release through the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) and hippocampal glutamate levels are elevated in the APP/PS1 mouse model of AD. Accordingly, we hypothesized that increased glutamate clearance contributes to elevated extracellular lactate levels through activation of the astrocyte neuron lactate shuttle (ANLS). We utilized an enzyme-based microelectrode array (MEA) selective for measuring basal and phasic extracellular hippocampal lactate in male and female C57BL/6J mice. Although basal lactate was similar, transient lactate release varied across hippocampal subregions with the CA1 > CA3 > dentate for both sexes. Local application of Aβ42 stimulated lactate release throughout the hippocampus of male mice, but was localized to the CA1 of female mice. Coapplication with a nonselective glutamate or lactate transport inhibitor blocked these responses. Expression levels of SLC16A1, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) A, and B were elevated in female mice which may indicate compensatory mechanisms to upregulate lactate production, transport, and utilization. Enhancement of the ANLS by Aβ42-stimulated glutamate release during AD progression may contribute to bioenergetic dysfunction in AD.
Effectiveness of amiodarone versus digitalis for heart rate control in critically ill patients with new-onset atrial fibrillation
Authors: Gillmann Hans-Joerg , Busche Philipp , Leffler Andreas , Stueber Thomas
Published: February 2022

New-onset of atrial fibrillation (NOAF) in critically ill patients is the most common acute cardiac dysrhythmia, but evidence-based data regarding treatment strategies are scarce. In this retrospective monocentric study, we compared effectiveness of amiodarone versus digitalis for heart rate control in critically ill patients with new-onset of atrial fibrillation. We identified a total of 209 patients for the main analysis. Amiodarone as compared to digitalis was associated with a clinically relevant faster time to heart rate control < 110 bpm (2 h (IQR: 1 h to 6 h) versus 4 h (2 h to 12 h); p = 0.003) and longer durations of sinus rhythm during the first 24 h of treatment (6 h (IQR: 6 h to 22 h) versus 0 h (IQR: 0 h to 16 h); p < 0.001). However, more bradycardic episodes occurred in association with amiodarone than with digitalis (7.7% versus 3.4%; p = 0.019). Use of amiodarone was associated with an increase of noradrenalin infusion rate compared to digitalis (23.9% versus 12.0%; p = 0.019). Within the tertile of patients with the highest CRP measurements, amiodarone treated patients presented with a higher decrease in heart rate than digoxin treated patients. Clinical trials comparing different NOAF treatment strategies are much needed and should report on concomitant sympathetic activity and inflammatory status.