bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reductions in mortality resulting from COVID-19 quarantine measures in China
Authors: Shen Junjie , Wang Congju , Dong Chen , Tang Zaixiang , Sun Hongpeng
Published: December 2020

Background

To explore the impact of quarantine measures on the cause of death.

Methods

We use time series analysis with the data from death cause surveillance database of Suzhou from January 2017 to December 2019 to estimate the expected deaths from January to June 2020 and compare these expected deaths with the reported numbers of deaths.

Results

After the implementation of epidemic prevention measures in Suzhou in the first 3 months, overall number of all-cause deaths declined for 5.36, 7.54 and 7.02% compared with predicted numbers. The number of deaths from respiratory causes and traffic accidents declined shapely by 30.1 and 26.9%, totally. When quarantine measures were released (April–June), however, the observed numbers of total deaths exceeded the predicted deaths. People aged over 70 accounted for 91.6% of declined death number in respiratory causes and people aged over 60 accounted for 68.0% of declined death number in traffic accidents. Women over the age of 80 benefited the most from respiratory prevention (accounts for 41% of all reductions), whereas women aged over 60 benefited the most from traffic control (44%).

Conclusions

Overall, the whole population benefited from the epidemic prevention measures especially elderly females. This study is a useful supplement to encourage the government to develop regular preventive measures under the era of normalized epidemic.
Characterization of cyanobacteria isolated from thermal muds of Balaruc-Les-Bains (France) and description of a new genus and speciesPseudo-chroococcus couteii
Authors: Duval C. , Hamlaoui S. , Piquet B. , Toutirais G. , Yéprémian C. , Reinhardt A. , Duperron S. , Marie B. , Demay J. , Bernard C.
Published: December 2020

Cyanobacteria are able to synthesize a high diversity of natural compounds that account for their success in the colonization of a variety of ecological niches. Many of them have beneficial properties. The mud from the thermal baths of Balaruc-Les-Bains, one of the oldest thermal baths in France, has long been recognized as a healing treatment for arthro-rheumatic diseases. To characterize the cyanobacteria living in these muds and the metabolites they potentially produce, several strains were isolated from the water column and biofilms of the retention basin and analyzed using a polyphasic approach. Morphological, ultrastructural and molecular (16S rRNA gene and 16S-23S ITS region sequencing) methods were employed to identify nine cyanobacterial strains belonging to the orders Chroococcales, Synechococcales, Oscillatoriales and Nostocales. The combination of morphological and genetic characteristics supported the description of a new genus and species with the type species asPseudo-chroococcus couteii. The high taxonomic diversity in the muds of the thermal baths of Balaruc-Les-Bains along with literature reports of the potential for bioactive metabolite synthesis of these taxa allowed us to hypothesize that some of the metabolites produced by these strains could contribute to the therapeutic properties of the muds from Thermes de Balaruc-Les-Bains.
Praja1 ubiquitin ligase facilitates degradation of polyglutamine proteins and suppresses polyglutamine-mediated toxicity
Authors: Ghosh Baijayanti , Karmakar Susnata , Prasad Mohit , Mandal Atin K.
Published: December 2020

A network of chaperones and ubiquitin ligases sustain intracellular proteostasis, and is integral in preventing aggregation of misfolded proteins associated with various neurodegenerative diseases. Using cell-based studies of polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases: Spinocerebellar ataxia Type 3 (SCA3) and Huntington’s disease (HD), we aimed to identify crucial ubiquitin ligases that protect against polyQ aggregation. We report here that Praja1 (PJA1), a Ring-H2 ubiquitin ligase abundantly expressed in the brain is diminished when polyQ repeat proteins (Ataxin-3/Huntingtin) are expressed in cells. PJA1 interacts with polyQ proteins and enhances their degradation resulting in reduced aggregate formation. Down-regulation of PJA1 in neuronal cells increases polyQ protein levels vis-a-vis their aggregates rendering the cells vulnerable to cytotoxic stress. Finally, PJA1 suppresses polyQ toxicity in yeast and rescues eye degeneration in transgenicDrosophilamodel of SCA3. Thus, our findings establish PJA1 as a robust ubiquitin ligase of polyQ proteins and induction of which might serve as an alternative therapeutic strategy in handling cytotoxic polyglutamine aggregates.
Identification of a Golgi-localized peptide reveals a minimal Golgi targeting motif
Authors: Navarro Alexandra P. , Cheeseman Iain M.
Published: December 2020

Prior work has identified signal sequences and motifs that are necessary and sufficient to target proteins to specific subcellular regions and organelles such as the plasma membrane, nucleus, Endoplasmic Reticulum, and mitochondria. In contrast, minimal sequence motifs that are sufficient for Golgi localization remain largely elusive. In this work, we identified a 37 amino acid alternative open reading frame (altORF) within the mRNA of the centromere protein, CENP-R. This altORF peptide localizes specifically to the cytoplasmic surface of the Golgi apparatus. Through mutational analysis, we identify a minimal 10 amino acid sequence and a critical cysteine residue that are necessary and sufficient for Golgi localization. Pharmacological perturbations suggest that this peptide is modified through palmitoylation to promote its localization. Together, our work defines a minimal sequence that is sufficient for Golgi targeting and provide a valuable Golgi marker for live cell imaging.
Exposure of mammary cells to lipid activates gene expression changes associated with ER-negative breast cancer via chromatin remodeling
Authors: Yadav Shivangi , Virk Ranya , Chung Carolina H , Van Derway David , Chen Duojiao , Burdett Kirsten , Gao Hongyu , Zeng Zexian , Ranjan Manish , Cottone Gannon , Xuei Xiaoling , Chandrasekaran Sriram , Backman Vadim , Chatterton Robert , Khan Seema Ahsan , Clare Susan E
Published: December 2020

Improved understanding of local breast biology that favors the development of estrogen receptor negative (ER-) breast cancer (BC) would foster better prevention strategies. We have previously shown that overexpression of specific lipid metabolism genes is associated with the development of ER- BC. We now report results of exposure of MCF-10A cells and mammary organoids to representative medium- and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. This exposure caused a dynamic and profound change in gene expression, accompanied by changes in chromatin packing density, chromatin accessibility and histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs). We identified 38 metabolic reactions that showed significantly increased activity, including reactions related to one-carbon metabolism. Among these reactions are those that produce S-adenosyl-L-methionine for histone PTMs. Utilizing both anin-vitromodel and samples from women at high risk for ER- BC, we show that lipid exposure engenders gene expression, signaling pathway activation, and histone marks associated with the development of ER- BC.
(R)-1-hydroxy-2-aminoethylphosphonate ammonia-lyase, a new PLP-dependent enzyme involved in bacterial phosphonate degradation
Authors: Zangelmi Erika , Stanković Toda , Malatesta Marco , Acquotti Domenico , Pallitsch Katharina , Peracchi Alessio
Published: December 2020

Phosphonates contain a particularly stable carbon-phosphorus bond, yet a number of microorganisms possess pathways to degrade these molecules and use them as source of phosphorus. One example is the widespread hydrolytic route for the breakdown of 2-aminoethylphosphonate (AEP). In this pathway, the aminotransferase PhnW initially converts AEP into phosphonoacetaldehyde (PAA), which is then cleaved by the hydrolase PhnX to yield acetaldehyde and phosphate.

This work focuses on a novel enzyme (hereby termed PbfA), which is often encoded in bacterial gene clusters containing thephnW-phnXcombination. Although PbfA is annotated as a transaminase, we report that it catalyzes an elimination reaction on the naturally occurring compound(R)-1-hydroxy-2-aminoethylphosphonate (R-HAEP). The reaction releases ammonia and generates PAA, which can be subsequently hydrolyzed by PhnX. Overall, the PbfA reaction represents a frequent accessory branch in the hydrolytic pathway for AEP degradation, which expands the scope and versatility of the pathway itself.
Regulatory elements can be essential for maintaining broad chromatin organization and cell viability
Authors: Liu Ying , Ding Bo , Zheng Lina , Xu Ping , Liu Zhiheng , Chen Zhao , Wu Peiyao , Zhao Ying , Pan Qian , Guo Yu , Wang Wei , Wei Wensheng
Published: December 2020

Increasing evidence shows that promoters and enhancers could be related to 3D chromatin structure, thus affecting cellular functions. Except for functioning through the canonical chromatin loops formed by promoters and enhancers, their roles in maintaining broad chromatin organization have not been well studied. Here, we focused on the active promoters/enhancers (referred to as hotspots) predicted to form many 3D contacts with other active promoters/enhancers, and identified dozens of loci critical for cell survival. While the essentiality of hotspots is not resulted from their association with essential genes, deletion of an essential hotspot could lead to change of broad chromatin organization and expressions of distal genes. We demonstrated that multiple affected genes that are individually non-essential could have synergistic effects to cause cell death.
Plastic-degrading potential across the global microbiome correlates with recent pollution trends
Authors: Zrimec Jan , Kokina Mariia , Jonasson Sara , Zorrilla Francisco , Zelezniak Aleksej
Published: December 2020

Poor recycling has accumulated millions of tons of plastic waste in terrestrial and marine environments. While biodegradation is a plausible route towards sustainable management of plastic waste, the global diversity of plastic-degrading enzymes remains poorly understood. Taking advantage of global environmental DNA sampling projects, here we construct HMM models from experimentally-verified enzymes and mine ocean and soil metagenomes to assess the global potential of microorganisms to degrade plastics. By controlling for false positives using gut microbiome data, we compile a catalogue of over 30,000 non-redundant enzyme homologues with the potential to degrade 10 different plastic types. While differences between the ocean and soil microbiomes likely reflect the base compositions of these environments, we find that ocean enzyme abundance might increase with depth as a response to plastic pollution and not merely taxonomic composition. By obtaining further pollution measurements, we reveal that the abundance of the uncovered enzymes in both ocean and soil habitats significantly correlates with marine and country-specific plastic pollution trends. Our study thus uncovers the earth microbiome’s potential to degrade plastics, providing evidence of a measurable effect of plastic pollution on the global microbial ecology as well as a useful resource for further applied research.
Alliance discrepancies in home‐based family treatment: occurrence, development and the therapist’s perspective
Authors: Welmers‐van de Poll M.J. , Stams G.J.J.M. , Akker A.L. van den , Overbeek G.
Published: December 2020

In family treatment, building and evaluating multiple alliances with family members is complex. We investigated the occurrence and development of discrepancies between therapists' alliances with different family members, and therapists’ evaluation of these multiple alliances and discrepancies. Participants were 92 parents and 61 children and adolescents from 61 families receiving home‐based family treatment. Family members, therapists, and observers reported early and mid‐treatment alliance. We found significant discrepancies, with strongest alliances with mothers, followed by fathers, and then youths. Differences became smaller during treatment. Therapist‐reports yielded similar discrepancies as compared to client self‐reports and observer‐reports. At T1, the correlation between therapist‐ and client self‐reports was moderate and significant for alliances with mothers, but insignificant for alliances with fathers and youths. At T2, these correlations were large for alliances with mothers and fathers, but not for youths. Our findings demonstrate that therapists have stronger alliances and are more congruent in their alliance perspective with parents (especially mothers) versus youths.

Practitioner points

Our findings demonstrate that in family treatment, differences in alliances between therapists and family members are the rule rather than the exception

In family treatment therapists tend to have stronger alliances and be more congruent in their alliance perspective with parents (especially mothers) than with children and adolescents

Awareness that building alliances with some family members demands an extra effort might enhance the process of building and balancing multiple alliances in family treatment

Therapists could seek family members’ feedback on the alliance to gain a more shared perspective, paying particular attention to young people’s feedback
Pathways from origins to destinations: Stability and change in the roles of cognition, private schools and educational attainment
Authors: Sullivan Alice , Parsons Samantha , Ploubidis George , Green Francis , Wiggins Richard D.
Published: December 2020

While much attention has been devoted to measuring levels of social mobility over time, less attention has been given to the possibility of changing pathways to social mobility. This paper examines pathways from social origins to socio‐economic destinations in midlife for two British cohorts, born in 1958 and 1970 respectively, using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). We address the roles of cognitive attainment, private schooling and educational attainment in mediating the link between social origins and destinations. Have these mechanisms become more or less important over time, in a context of structural change in the state schooling system and educational expansion? We find that private schools displayed greater academic selectivity and an increased link to high levels of educational attainment for the younger cohort. Essentially, private schools adapted to changing circumstances, becoming more academically selective and less socially selective, and more focused on educational credentials. Childhood social origins were less strongly linked to childhood cognitive scores in the younger cohort, but cognitive scores were also more weakly linked to educational attainment for this cohort. We also find a decreased association between social origins and educational attainment for the younger cohort. While the finding that educational inequalities weakened over this time period is positive, the lack of a corresponding reduction in the overall link between social origins and destinations suggests that reducing educational inequalities was not sufficient to increase social mobility when accompanied by countervailing changes in the role of private schools.
Zingiber zerumbet L. essential oil‐based chitosan nanoemulsion as an efficient green preservative against fungi and aflatoxin B1 contamination
Authors: Deepika  , Singh Akanksha , Chaudhari Anand Kumar , Das Somenath , Dubey Nawal Kishore
Published: December 2020

The present study envisages the potential application of chitosan‐coated Zingiber zerumbet essential oil nanoemulsion (ZEO‐CsNE) as green antimicrobial preservative against Aspergillus flavus, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), and lipid peroxidation of stored functional foods. GC‐MS analysis of ZEO exhibited the abundance of cis‐geraniol (15.53%) as the major component. ZEO‐CsNE showed biphasic release profile during in vitro release study conducted for 10 days. The ZEO‐CsNE inhibited the growth of A. flavus (strain AF‐LHP‐SH1) and AFB1 production at 1.0 and 0.8 µL/mL, respectively. Interestingly, considerable reduction in ergosterol biosynthesis followed by enhanced leakage of vital cellular contents and methylglyoxal inhibition represents novel antifungal and antiaflatoxigenic mechanism of action, respectively. Further, ZEO‐CsNE inhibited lipid peroxidation and AFB1 production in postharvest Salvia hispanica seeds during in situ trial and presented favorable safety profile (median lethal dose [LD50] = 29,114 µL/kg) for male mice. Based on overall observations, ZEO‐CsNE could be recommended as a green antimicrobial substitute of synthetic preservatives for in vitro and in situ protection of functional food samples.

Practical Application

Food industries are facing enormous amount of burden coming from fungal and aflatoxin contamination that can cause severe adverse effects to humans. Essential oils (EOs) are well known for their food preservative efficacy; however, some limitations such as oxidative instability in open system may limit their application directly into food system. The encapsulation of the EOs into polymeric matrix could provide a barrier that will protect the EOs from degradation. This research could provide a basis for utilization of EO after encapsulation into chitosan nanoemulsion for industrial‐scale application for preservation of stored functional foods from fungal and aflatoxin contamination.
Sequencing platform shifts provide opportunities but pose challenges for combining genomic data sets
Authors: De‐Kayne Rishi , Frei David , Greenway Ryan , Mendes Sofia L. , Retel Cas , Feulner Philine G. D.
Published: December 2020

Technological advances in DNA sequencing over the last decade now permit the production and curation of large genomic data sets in an increasing number of nonmodel species. Additionally, these new data provide the opportunity for combining data sets, resulting in larger studies with a broader taxonomic range. Whilst the development of new sequencing platforms has been beneficial, resulting in a higher throughput of data at a lower per‐base cost, shifts in sequencing technology can also pose challenges for those wishing to combine new sequencing data with data sequenced on older platforms. Here, we outline the types of studies where the use of curated data might be beneficial, and highlight potential biases that might be introduced by combining data from different sequencing platforms. As an example of the challenges associated with combining data across sequencing platforms, we focus on the impact of the shift in Illumina's base calling technology from a four‐channel system to a two‐channel system. We caution that when data are combined from these two systems, erroneous guanine base calls that result from the two‐channel chemistry can make their way through a bioinformatic pipeline, eventually leading to inaccurate and potentially misleading conclusions. We also suggest solutions for dealing with such potential artefacts, which make samples sequenced on different sequencing platforms appear more differentiated from one another than they really are. Finally, we stress the importance of archiving tissue samples and the associated sequences for the continued reproducibility and reusability of sequencing data in the face of ever‐changing sequencing platform technology.
Metalloids in plants: A systematic discussion beyond description
Authors: Parveen Nishat , Berni Roberto , Sudhakaran Sreeja , Bhat Javaid A. , Shinde Suhas , Ramawat Naleeni , Singh Vijay P. , Sahi Shivendra , Deshmukh Rupesh , Chauhan Devendra K. , Tripathi Durgesh Kumar
Published: December 2020

Metalloids represent a wide range of elements with intermediate physiochemical properties between metals and non‐metals. Many of the metalloids, like boron, selenium, and silicon are known to be essential or quasi‐essential for plant growth. In contrast, metalloids viz. arsenic and germanium are toxic to plant growth. The toxicity of metalloids largely depends on their concentration within the living cells. Some elements, at low concentration, may be beneficial for plant growth and development; however, when present at high concentration, they often exert negative effects. In this regard, understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the uptake of metalloids by roots, their subsequent transport to different tissues and inter/intra‐cellular redistribution has great importance. The mechanisms of metalloids' uptake have been well studied in plants. Also, various transporters, as well as membrane channels involved in these processes, have been identified. In this review, we have discussed in detail the aspects concerning the positive/negative effects of different metalloids on plants. We have also provided a thorough account of the uptake, transport, and accumulation, along with the molecular mechanisms underlying the response of plants to these metalloids. Additionally, we have brought up the previous theories and debates about the role and effects of metalloids in plants with insightful discussions based on the current knowledge.
Directly converted astrocytes retain the ageing features of the donor fibroblasts and elucidate the astrocytic contribution to human CNS health and disease
Authors: Gatto Noemi , Dos Santos Souza Cleide , Shaw Allan C. , Bell Simon M. , Myszczynska Monika A. , Powers Samantha , Meyer Kathrin , Castelli Lydia M. , Karyka Evangelia , Mortiboys Heather , Azzouz Mimoun , Hautbergue Guillaume M. , Márkus Nóra M. , Shaw Pamela J. , Ferraiuolo Laura
Published: December 2020

Astrocytes are highly specialised cells, responsible for CNS homeostasis and neuronal activity. Lack of human in vitro systems able to recapitulate the functional changes affecting astrocytes during ageing represents a major limitation to studying mechanisms and potential therapies aiming to preserve neuronal health. Here, we show that induced astrocytes from fibroblasts donors in their childhood or adulthood display age‐related transcriptional differences and functionally diverge in a spectrum of age‐associated features, such as altered nuclear compartmentalisation, nucleocytoplasmic shuttling properties, oxidative stress response and DNA damage response. Remarkably, we also show an age‐related differential response of induced neural progenitor cells derived astrocytes (iNPC‐As) in their ability to support neurons in co‐culture upon pro‐inflammatory stimuli. These results show that iNPC‐As are a renewable, readily available resource of human glia that retain the age‐related features of the donor fibroblasts, making them a unique and valuable model to interrogate human astrocyte function over time in human CNS health and disease.
SPATA4 improves aging‐induced metabolic dysfunction through promotion of preadipocyte differentiation and adipose tissue expansion
Authors: Li Zhongchi , Xu Kang , Zhao Sen , Guo Yannan , Chen Huiling , Ni Jianquan , Liu Qingfei , Wang Zhao
Published: December 2020

Spermatogenesis‐associated protein 4 (SPATA4) is conserved across multiple species. However, the function of this gene remains largely unknown. In this study, we generated Spata4 transgenic mice to explore tissue‐specific function of SPATA4. Spata4 overexpression mice displayed increased subcutaneous fat tissue compared with wild‐type littermates at an old age, while this difference was not observed in younger mice. Aging‐induced ectopic fat distribution, inflammation, and insulin resistance were also significantly attenuated by SPATA4. In vitro, SPATA4 promoted preadipocyte differentiation through activation of the ERK1/2 and C/EBPβ pathway and increased the expression of adipokines. These data suggest SPATA4 can regulate lipid accumulation in a tissue‐specific manner and improve aging‐induced dysmetabolic syndromes. Clarifying the mechanism of SPATA4 functioning in lipid metabolism might provide novel therapeutic targets for disease interventions.
Evaluation of 3 different treatment modalities for conservative management of attrited, sensitive molar teeth – A preliminary 12‐week report
Authors: Vishanth Subashri , Sherwood I Anand , Gutmann James L , Murugadoss Vaanjay , Prince Ernest
Published: December 2020

Management of symptomatic attrited molar teeth presents various challenges. Aim of the study was to manage and evaluate the outcome of sensitive, attrited molar teeth using three different treatment options, including bioglass‐containing desensitising toothpaste, Gluma desensitiser and coronal a pulpotomy using a calcium silicate‐based product, Biodentine. A total of 61 attrited molar teeth, for which the patients had expressed tooth sensitivity, were included. Depending on the pulp status, treatment groups were allotted using block randomisation. Post‐treatment sensitivity was assessed at 48 h, 4 and 12 weeks using 10‐point visual analog scale (VAS) and Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale (SCASS). Data were analysed using non‐parametric statistical tests. Pulpotomies achieved significantly the least post‐treatment sensitivity scores at all scheduled recalls. This interim 12‐week report on management concludes that a pulpotomy, using Biodentine, was able to achieve significantly higher number of asymptomatic teeth when compared to other treatment choices.
Effect of different irrigation protocols for applications in regenerative endodontics on mechanical properties of root dentin
Authors: Elnaggar Semha E. , El Backly Rania M. , Zaazou Ashraf Mamdouh , Morsy Elshabrawy Sonia , Abdallah Amr Ahmed
Published: December 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of NaOCl with and without passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) on mechanical properties of human dentin for applications in regenerative endodontics (RE). Sixty single‐rooted teeth were sectioned into 2 halves (n = 120). Dentin bars were produced from one half for flexural strength and the other half was used for microhardness. Specimens were randomly assigned into 10 groups: G1 and G2 (control): distilled water for 30 and 60 min, respectively; G3: 1.5%NaOCl for 30 min; G4:1.5%NaOCl for 60 min; G5: 1.5%NaOCl + PUI for 30 min; G6: 1.5%NaOCl + PUI for 60 min; G7: 5.25%NaOCl for 30 min; G8: 5.25%NaOCl for 60 min; G9: 5.25%NaOCl + PUI for 30 min; G10: 5.25%NaOCl + PUI for 60 min. An increase in NaOCl concentration showed highly significant reduction in mechanical properties. There was no significant difference between 1.5% NaOCl and control group except for specimens treated with PUI for 60 min. NaOCl in concentrations recommended for RE did not have a significant effect on mechanical properties of dentin. However, PUI with increased irrigation time might have an effect even with low NaOCl concentration.
Seasonal variations in the morphology of the seminal vesicles of the African straw‐coloured fruit bat (Eidolon helvum)
Authors: Abiaezute Clifford Nwabugwu , Nwaogu Innocent Chima , Obidike Ikechukwu Reginald , Igwebuike Udensi Maduabuchi
Published: December 2020

The study investigated seasonal changes in the morphology of the seminal vesicles of Eidolon helvum in a typical African tropical environment. Seminal vesicles of forty‐eight bats were examined during the early rainy, late rainy and peak dry seasons, using gross anatomical, histological and ultrastructural techniques. The interlobular connective tissue septa from the external capsule demarcated the glandular parenchyma into numerous lobules of tubulo‐alveolar glands. A simple cuboidal epithelium of mono‐ or bi‐nucleated cuboidal cells lined the glandular mucosa during the rainy season. This was replaced by a bistratified cuboidal epithelium, whose upper layer of cells showed evidence of degeneration, during the dry season. The PAS‐positive secretory products appeared to be numerous during the rainy season, but few and clumped together during the dry season. The mean gross weight, interlobular septal thickness, acini diameter and epithelial height of the glands varied significantly with season. Ultrastructural features of the secretory cells during the rainy season showed well‐developed cytoplasmic organelles, numerous electron lucid secretory vesicles and electron‐dense granules. Secretory epithelial cells of the seminal vesicles are very active during the rainy season, while regeneration of degenerated epithelium in preparation for the next reproductive cycle occurs during the dry season.
The World We (Re)Build: An Ethnography of the Future
Authors: Willow Anna J.
Published: December 2020

This essay directs the theoretical energy of the emerging anthropology of the future genre toward the essential task of generating new anthropological prospects for making positive world contributions. Embracing visioning as a promising ethnographic technique, I develop an ethnography of the future drawn from central Ohio Transition participants’ prefigurative actions and descriptions of desirable futures. I suggest that temporal imaginings have very real effects on the world we ultimately (re)build and outline anthropology’s roles in the future‐making process.
Methyl‐beta cyclodextrin and creatine work synergistically under hypoxic conditions to improve the fertilization ability of boar ejaculated sperm
Authors: Umehara Takashi , Tsujita Natsumi , Goto Masaaki , Tonai Shingo , Nakanishi Tomoya , Yamashita Yasuhisa , Shimada Masayuki
Published: December 2020

Although successful fertilization is completed by only 150 sperm in the pig oviduct, more than 50,000 sperms are required to achieve a fertilization rate of more than 70% by pig in vitro fertilization (IVF). In this study, to improve the efficiency of pig IVF, the effects of hypoxic conditions and treatment with creatine and methyl‐beta cyclodextrin (MβCD) on the glycolytic pathway were investigated. Under low O2 conditions, zig‐zag motility was strongly induced within 30 min; however, the induction disappeared at 60 min. Although caffeine suppressed zig–zag motility under low O2 conditions, creatine induced and sustained zig–zag motility until 120 min. Additionally, pretreatment with MβCD for 15 min greatly enhanced zig–zag motility via ATP production in sperm incubated with creatine under low O2 conditions. Sperm pretreated with MβCD were used for IVF in medium containing creatine under low O2 conditions. A fertilization rate of approximately 70% was achieved with only 1.0 x 104 sperms/mL, and there were few polyspermic embryos. Therefore, our novel method was beneficial for efficient production of pig embryos in vitro. Moreover, the zig–zag motility may be a novel movement which boar capacitated sperm exhibit in the culture medium.
Penile amputation and pre‐scrotal urethrostomy in a male guinea pig (Cavia porcellus)
Authors: Doneley RJT
Published: December 2020

Male guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus), especially older animals, are prone to urethritis and posthitis. Severe, chronic balanoposthitis/posthitis can result in fibrosis, localised infection and the deposition of mineralised plaques in the prepuce. Severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as penile amputation and urethrostomy, to achieve resolution.
Clinical and biological features of B‐cell neoplasms with CDK6 translocations: an association with a subgroup of splenic marginal zone lymphomas displaying frequent CD5 expression, prolymphocytic cells, and TP53 abnormalities
Authors: Gailllard Baptiste , Cornillet‐Lefebvre Pascale , Le Quoc‐Hung , Maloum Karim , Pannetier Mélanie , Lecoq‐Lafon Carinne , Grange Béatrice , Jondreville Ludovic , Michaux Lucienne , Nadal Nathalie , Ittel Antoine , Luquet Isabelle , Struski Stéphanie , Lefebvre Christine , Gaillard Jean‐Baptiste , Lafage‐Pochitaloff Marina , Balducci Estelle , Penther Dominique , Barin Carole , Collonge‐Rame Marie Agnès , Jimenez‐Poquet Mélanie , Richebourg Steven , Lemaire Pierre , Defasque Sabine , Radford‐Weiss Isabelle , Bidet Audrey , Susin Santos A. , Nguyen‐Khac Florence , Chapiro Elise ,   the Groupe Francophone de Cytogénétique Hématologique
Published: December 2020

A translocation involving the cyclin‐dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) gene [t(CDK6)] is a rare but recurrent abnormality in B‐cell neoplasms. To further characterise this aberration, we studied 57 cases; the largest series reported to date. Fluorescence in situ hybridisation analysis confirmed the involvement of CDK6 in all cases, including t(2;7)(p11;q21) immunoglobulin kappa locus (IGK)/CDK6 (n = 51), t(7;14)(q21;q32) CDK6/immunoglobulin heavy locus (IGH) (n = 2) and the previously undescribed t(7;14)(q21;q11) CDK6/T‐cell receptor alpha locus (TRA)/T‐cell receptor delta locus (TRD) (n = 4). In total, 10 patients were diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis or small lymphocytic lymphoma, and 47 had small B‐cell lymphoma (SmBL) including 36 cases of marginal zone lymphoma (MZL; 34 splenic MZLs, one nodal MZL and one bronchus‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma). In all, 18 of the 26 cytologically reviewed cases of MZL (69%) had an atypical aspect with prolymphocytic cells. Among the 47 patients with MZL/SmBL, CD5 expression was found in 26 (55%) and the tumour protein p53 (TP53) deletion in 22 (47%). The TP53 gene was mutated in 10/30 (33%); the 7q deletion was detected in only one case, and no Notch receptor 2 (NOTCH2) mutations were found. Immunoglobulin heavy‐chain variable‐region (IGHV) locus sequencing revealed that none harboured an IGHV1‐02*04 gene. Overall survival was 82% at 10 years and not influenced by TP53 aberration. Our present findings suggest that most t(CDK6)+ neoplasms correspond to a particular subgroup of indolent marginal zone B‐cell lymphomas with distinctive features.
The effects of a ‘pretend play‐based training’ designed to promote the development of emotion comprehension, emotion regulation, and prosocial behaviour in 5‐ to 6‐year‐old Swiss children
Authors: Richard Sylvie , Baud‐Bovy Gabriel , Clerc‐Georgy Anne , Gentaz Edouard
Published: December 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a pretend play‐based training designed to promote the development of socio‐emotional competences. 79 children aged 5 to 6 years were evaluated before and after a pretend play‐based training. The experimental group (39 children) received this programme on emotion comprehension, negative emotion regulation, and prosocial behaviour one hour a week for eleven weeks during class hours, while the control group (40 children) received no specific intervention. The programme was implemented by 5 teachers. The results show improvements in the ability to understand emotions in children who benefited from the training. These findings are discussed in the broader context of using this form of play as a privileged pedagogical tool to allow children to develop these competences.
A novel temporal‐predominant neuro‐astroglial tauopathy associated with TMEM106B gene polymorphism in FTLD/ALS‐TDP
Authors: Llibre‐Guerra Jorge J. , Lee Suzee E. , Suemoto Claudia K. , Ehrenberg Alexander J. , Kovacs Gabor G. , Karydas Anna , Staffaroni Adam , Franca Resende Elisa De Paula , Kim Eun‐Joo , Hwang Ji‐Hye , Ramos Eliana Marisa , Wojta Kevin J. , Pasquini Lorenzo , Pang Shirley Yin‐Yu , Spina Salvatore , Allen Isabel E. , Kramer Joel , Miller Bruce L. , Seeley William W. , Grinberg Lea T.
Published: December 2020

Polymorphisms in TMEM106B, a gene on chromosome 7p21.3 involved in lysosomal trafficking, correlates to worse neuropathological, and clinical outcomes in frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with TDP‐43 inclusions. In a small cohort of C9orf72 expansion carriers, we previously found an atypical, neuroglial tauopathy in cases harboring a TMEM106B rs1990622 A/A genotype. To test whether TMEM106B genotype affects the risk of developing atypical tauopathy under a recessive genotype model (presence versus absence of two major alleles: A/A vs. A/G and G/G). We characterized the atypical tauopathy neuropathologically and determined its frequency by TMEM106B rs1990622 genotypes in 90 postmortem cases with a primary diagnosis of FTLD/ALS‐TDP [mean age at death 65.5 years (±8.1), 40% female]. We investigated the effect of this new atypical tauopathy on demographics and clinical and neuropsychological metrics. We also genotyped TMEM106B in an independent series with phenotypically similar cases. Sixteen cases (16/90, 17.7 %) showed the temporal‐predominant neuro‐astroglial tauopathy, and 93.7% of them carried an A/A genotype (vs. ~35% in a population cohort). The odds ratio of FTLD/ALS‐TDP individuals with the A/A genotype showing neuro‐astroglial tauopathy was 13.9. Individuals with this tauopathy were older at onset (p = 0.01). The validation cohort had a similarly high proportion of rs1990622 A/A genotype. TDP‐43 and tau changes co‐occur in a subset of neurons. Our data add to the growing body of evidence that TMEM106B polymorphisms may modulate neurodegeneration. A distinctive medial temporal predominant, 4‐repeat, neuro‐astroglial tauopathy strongly correlates to TMEM106B A/A genotype in FTLD/ALS‐TDP cases.
Determinants of dental prosthetic treatment need: A birth cohort study
Authors: Chisini Luiz Alexandre , Sarmento Hugo Ramalho , Collares Kauê , Horta Bernardo Lessa , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Correa Marcos Britto
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To estimate the incidence of the need for a dental prosthesis during early adulthood and its association with socioeconomic and oral disorder trajectories.

Methods

In 1982, in the city of Pelotas, all live births (n = 5914) and their mothers were assessed. A representative sample of this cohort study was examined for oral health conditions at 15, 24 and 31 years (Oral Health Study–OHS). The need for a dental prosthesis was assessed at 24 and 31 years of age, and variables of interest (gender, skin colour, socioeconomic status (SES), use of dental services, caries and periodontal disease) were collected from different waves of this cohort. Longitudinal association between outcome and variables of interest was assessed using multilevel mixed models.

Results

A total of 539 individuals were assessed in 2013 (60.7% response rate). The need for a dental prosthesis was 28.9% at 24 years. (95% CI 24.9‐33.2) and 49.0% at 31 years (95% CI 44.7‐53.3). Risk of presenting with a need for a dental prosthesis was higher in users of public services. Downwardly mobile and lower SES trajectory groups presented a higher risk of the need for a dental prosthesis. High‐risk caries trajectory group showed a higher risk of presenting with the need for a dental prosthesis from 24 to 31 years.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that the need for dental prosthesis from 24 to 31 years old was determined by trajectories of exposure during the life cycle, reinforcing that tackling socioeconomic inequalities at any stage of life can have an effect on an individual's oral health.
Upregulation of spinal ASIC1 by miR‐485 mediates enterodynia in adult offspring rats with prenatal maternal stress
Authors: Xu Xue , Li Yong‐Chang , Wu Yan‐Yan , Xu Yu‐Cheng , Weng Rui‐Xia , Wang Cai‐Lin , Zhang Ping‐An , Zhang Ying , Xu Guang‐Yin
Published: December 2020

Aims

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disease characterized by abdominal pain. Our recent study has shown that the acid‐sensitive ion channel 1 (ASIC1) in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is involved in stomachache of adult offspring rats subjected with prenatal maternal stress (PMS). MiR‐485 is predicted to target the expression of ASIC1. The aim of the present study was designed to determine whether miR‐485/ASIC1 signaling participates in enterodynia in the spinal dorsal horn of adult offspring rats with PMS.

Methods

Enterodynia was measured by colorectal distension (CRD). Western blotting, qPCR, and in situ hybridization were performed to detect the expression of ASICs and related miRNAs. Spinal synaptic transmission was also recorded by patch clamping.

Results

PMS offspring rats showed that spinal ASIC1 protein expression and synaptic transmission were significantly enhanced. Administration of ASICs antagonist amiloride suppressed the synaptic transmission and enterodynia. Besides, PMS induced a significant reduction in the expression of miR‐485. Upregulating the expression markedly attenuated enterodynia, reversed the increase in ASIC1 protein and synaptic transmission. Furthermore, ASIC1 and miR‐485 were co‐expressed in NeuN‐positive spinal dorsal horn neurons.

Conclusions

Overall, these data suggested that miR‐485 participated in enterodynia in PMS offspring, which is likely mediated by the enhanced ASIC1 activities.
Grants for Whom and Why? The Politics of Allocation of Transfers in Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Jorge L D. , Alves Alexandre F. , Caldeira Emilie
Published: December 2020

This study discusses political and electoral reasons for the allocation of intergovernmental transfers in a federal state. We tested the influence of political alignment with the federal government and deputies, and the effects of elections and changes in alliance status upon Brazilian discretionary transfers. We performed a panel data analysis encompassing 2,856 municipalities from 1999 to 2011. The results suggest that the federal government buys support in Congress by awarding grants to deputies. Moreover, the alignment between the municipal and federal chief executives is central to the allocation of grants, and a negative correlation exists when the mayor is affiliated with an opposition party and when an opposition deputy has a strong support base within the municipality. Furthermore, changes in alliance status between the budget‐voting and budget‐implementation stages influence the number of transfers. The federal government also increased the allocation of grants in years featuring municipal and federal elections, particularly the latter.
‘Sea of blood’: the intended and unintended effects of criminalising humanitarian volunteers assisting migrants in distress at sea
Authors: Gordon Eleanor , Larsen Henrik Kjellmo
Published: December 2020

This paper investigates the impact of the recent criminalisation of humanitarian actors engaged in the search for and rescue of migrants in distress in the Mediterranean Sea, focusing on the impact on the motivation and engagement of humanitarian volunteers in Greece. It argues that criminalisation is aimed at reducing search and rescue (SAR) activities and thus removing perceived ‘pull factors’ for migrants. The paper locates this phenomenon within the broader trend of policing and punishing those who assist migrants in order to deter them and prevent others from engaging in such endeavours. It finds that efforts to criminalise can have the unintended effects of encouraging and mobilising volunteers, as well as generating public attention and support for migrants. However, the negative consequences of criminalisation are far‐reaching, including contributing to a high mortality rate among those crossing the Mediterranean without SAR capabilities and the heightened risk of violence against migrants and those who help them.
Genetic causes of haemophilia in women and girls
Authors: Miller Connie H. , Bean Christopher J.
Published: December 2020

Women and girls reported as “haemophilic females” may have complex genetic causes for their haemophilia phenotype. In addition, women and girls may have excessive bleeding requiring treatment simply because they are heterozygous for haemophilia alleles. While severe and moderate haemophilia are rare in females, 16% of patients with mild haemophilia A and almost one‐quarter of those with mild haemophilia B seen in U.S. haemophilia treatment centres are women and girls. A phenotypic female with a low level of factor VIII or factor IX may be classified into one of the following categories of causality: homozygosity (two identical haemophilia alleles), compound heterozygosity (two different haemophilia alleles), hemizygosity (one haemophilia allele and no normal allele), heterozygosity (one haemophilia allele and one normal allele), genetic causes other than haemophilia and non‐genetic causes. Studies required for classification may include coagulation parameters, F8 or F9 sequencing, F8 inversion testing, multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification, karyotyping and X chromosome inactivation studies performed on the patient and parents. Women and girls who are homozygous, compound heterozygous or hemizygous clearly have haemophilia, as they do not have a normal allele. Heterozygous women and girls with factor levels below the haemostatic range also meet the definitions used for haemophilia treatment.
Managing women‐specific bleeding in inherited bleeding disorders: A multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Mauser‐Bunschoten Eveline P. , Kadir Rezan A. , Laan Ellen T. M. , Elfvinge Petra , Haverman Lotte , Teela Lorynn , Degenaar Manon E. L. , Fransen van de Putte Dietje E. , D'Oiron Roseline , van Galen Karin P. M.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Multidisciplinary management of women‐specific bleeding is important to preserve quality of life, healthy reproduction and social participation of women and girls with bleeding disorders (WBD).

Aim

To support appropriate multidisciplinary care for WBD in haemophilia treatment centres.

Methods

Two case examples are presented and management issues discussed from different health care perspectives, including the nurse, patient, psychologist, gynaecologist, geneticist, psychosexual therapist and haematologist.

Results

Woman with bleeding disorders may experience heavy menstruation from menarche onwards. This has a physical and psychosocial impact requiring a multidisciplinary approach. If a woman with an inherited bleeding disorder desires to become pregnant, preconception counselling is essential, to discuss genetic diagnosis, state of the art treatment options for the bleeding disorder in question and possible choices to prevent having an affected child, as well as maternal bleeding risks during conception, delivery and the post‐partum period.

Conclusion

Adequate management and good education of WBD requires a patient‐centred multidisciplinary approach with experienced specialists in a haemophilia treatment centre.
The new kid on the block: Perceived contributions and pitfalls of private higher education in Ethiopia
Authors: Tamrat Wondwosen , Fetene Getnet Tizazu
Published: December 2020

Over the last few decades, the active promotion of or government acquiescence in a surge of private higher education (PHE) has become a common phenomenon globally. This study examines the specific contributions and pitfalls of private higher education institutions (PHEIs) using questionnaires, interviews and documentary analysis as data gathering tools. The findings reveal that private higher education is perceived as having significant contributions to make in addressing the wider demands of access and gender parity, and local and economic development. However, the sector is equally liable to a wide range of pitfalls related to its poor image, substandard quality, illicit behaviour and prohibitive regulations. It argues that if the current deficiencies of the sector are to be addressed in a meaningful way, more needs to be done in terms of enhancing the capacity of institutions, enforcing the rule of law and engendering public support through improved delivery and image.