bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hand-Wing Index as a surrogate for dispersal ability: the case of the Emberizoidea (Aves: Passeriformes) radiation
Authors: Arango Axel , Pinto-Ledezma Jesús , Rojas-Soto Octavio , Lindsay Andrea M , Mendenhall Chase D , Villalobos Fabricio
Published: July 2022

Measuring the dispersal ability of birds is particularly challenging and thus researchers have relied on the extended use of morphological proxies as surrogates for such ability. However, few studies have tested the relationship between morphological proxies and other dispersal-related traits. In this study, we test the relationship of the most commonly used morphological proxy for dispersal—the Hand-Wing Index (HWI)—with traits highly associated with dispersal abilities, such as geographic range size, migratory behaviour and migratory distances. We used the Emberizoidea superfamily to evaluate these relationships and measured the HWI of 2520 individuals from 431 species (almost half of all the species in the superfamily). We first estimated the phylogenetic signal of HWI and searched for the best evolutionary model to explain its variation. We then performed PGLS analyses to assess the relationships between HWI and dispersal abilities. Our results showed that HWI has a strong phylogenetic signal and is positively related to dispersal abilities. Our findings support the use of HWI as a viable morphological proxy for dispersal in birds.
G protein-coupled estrogen receptor promotes acrosome reaction via regulation of Ca2+ signaling in mouse sperm
Authors: Gao Dong-Dong , Lan Chong-Feng , Cao Xiao-Nian , Chen Lei , Lei Tian-Lun , Peng Lei , Xu Jia-Wen , Qiu Zhuo-Er , Wang Long-Long , Sun Qing , Huang Zi-Yang , Zhu Yun-Xin , Zhou Wen-Liang , Zhang Yi-Lin
Published: July 2022

G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), a seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor, mediates the rapid pre-genomic signaling actions of estrogen and derivatives thereof. The expression of GPER is extensive in mammal male reproductive system. However, the functional role of GPER in mouse sperm has not yet been well recognized. This study revealed that GPER was expressed at the acrosome and the mid-flagellum of the mouse sperm. The endogenous GPER ligand 17β-estradiol and the selective GPER agonist G1 increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in mouse sperm, which could be abolished by G15, an antagonist of GPER. In addition, the G1-stimulated Ca2+ response was attenuated by interference with the phospholipase C (PLC) signaling pathways or by blocking the cation channel of sperm (CatSper). Chlortetracycline staining assay showed that the activation of GPER increased the incidence of acrosome-reacted sperm. Conclusively, GPER was located at the acrosome and mid-flagellum of the mouse sperm. Activation of GPER triggered the elevation of [Ca2+]i through PLC-dependent Ca2+ mobilization and CatSper-mediated Ca2+ influx, which promoted the acrosome reaction of mouse sperm.
Gestational diabetes mellitus suppresses fetal testis development in mice
Authors: Mo Jia-Ying , Yan Yi-Shang , Lin Zhong-Liang , Liu Rui , Liu Xuan-Qi , Wu Hai-Yan , Yu Jia-En , Huang Yu-Tong , Sheng Jian-Zhong , Huang He-Feng
Published: July 2022

The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing rapidly. In addition to the metabolic disease risks, GDM might increase the risks of cryptorchidism in children. However, its mechanism involved in abnormalities of the male reproductive system is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to study the effects of GDM on the development of mouse fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) and Sertoli cells (SCs). Pregnant mice were treated on gestational days 6.5 and 12.5 with streptozotocin (100 mg/kg) or vehicle (sodium citrate buffer). Leydig cell and SC development and functions were evaluated by investigating serum testosterone levels, cell number and distribution, genes, and protein expression. GDM decreased serum testosterone levels, the anogenital distance, and the level of desert hedgehog in SCs of testes of male offspring. FLC number was also decreased in testes of GDM offspring by delaying the commitment of stem Leydig cells into the Leydig cell lineage. RNA-seq showed that FOXL2, RSPO1/β-catenin signaling was activated and Gsk3β signaling was inhibited in GDM offspring testis. In conclusion, GDM disrupted reproductive tract and testis development in mouse male offspring via altering genes related to development.
A parallel evaluation of short- and mid-term changes of ambulatory blood pressure in kidney transplant recipients and kidney donors
Authors: Xagas Efstathios , Sarafidis Pantelis A , Theodorakopoulou Marieta P , Alexandrou Maria Eleni , Korogiannou Maria , Argyris Antonis , Protogerou Athanase , Boletis Ioannis N , Marinaki Smaragdi
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Kidney transplantation (KTx) is associated with improved blood pressure (BP) levels for kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) without evoking significant changes in donors. However, there is a paucity of studies offering simultaneous detailed evaluation of BP profiles over time in transplant donor–recipient pairs. The aim of the present study was the parallel evaluation of ambulatory BP levels and trajectories in KTRs and their respective living kidney donors in the short and mid-term following KTx.

Methods

The study enrolled 40 prospective adult KTRs and their 40 respective donors. All participants were evaluated with 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring (Mobil-O-Graph NG device) at three time points: baseline (1 month before KTx), 3 months and 12 months after KTx.

Results

In KTRs, 3-month 24-h systolic BP (SBP) was marginally reduced and 12-month 24-h SBP significantly reduced compared with baseline [131.9 ± 13.3 versus 126.4 ± 11.9 mmHg (P = .075) and 123.9 ± 10.3 mmHg (P = .009),  respectively]. At both the 3- and 12-month time points, 24-h diastolic BP (DBP) was significantly reduced [86.7 ± 11.5 versus 82.2 ± 8.1 mmHg (P = .043) and 80.3 ± 8.5 mmHg (P = .009)]. Similar observations were made for day- and night time SBP and DBP. Repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant gradual decrease over time in mean 24-h SBP [F(1.463, 39.505) = 3.616; P = .049, partial η2 = 0.118] and DBP [F(1.374, 37.089) = 11.34; P = .055, partial η2 = 0.116]. In contrast, in kidney donors, 24-h SBP [118.5 ± 11.6 versus 118.2 ± 12.8 mmHg (P = .626) and 119.2 ± 11.4 mmHg (P = .748)] and DBP did not change at 3 or 12 months compared with baseline; repeated measures ANOVA showed no differences in the mean 24-h SBP and DBP levels over time. The number of antihypertensive agents decreas in KTRs and remained stable in donors.

Conclusions

KTx reduces ambulatory BP levels and trajectories in KTRs at 3 months and further so at 12 months post-surgery. Kidney donation does not affect the ambulatory BP levels and trajectories of donors at the same intervals.
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1-Alpha Stabilizers in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Oxygen as a Novel IBD Therapy?
Authors: Bhat Shubha , Rieder Florian
Published: July 2022

Despite the significant advances in the medical armamentarium for inflammatory bowel diseases [IBD], current treatment options have notable limitations. Durable remission rates remain low, loss of response is common, administration routes are largely parenteral for novel biologics, and medication safety remains a concern. This explains an ongoing unmet need for safe medications with novel mechanisms of action that are administered orally. In line with these criteria, hypoxia-inducible factor [HIF]-1α stabilizers, acting via inhibition of prolyl hydroxylase enzymes, are emerging as an innovative therapeutic strategy. We herein review the mechanism of action and available clinical data for HIF-1α stabilizers and their potential place in the future IBD treatment algorithm.
Monopsony Power and Wages: Evidence from the Introduction of Serfdom in Denmark
Authors: Gary Kathryn , Jensen Peter Sandholt , Olsson Mats , Radu Cristina Victoria , Severgnini Battista , Sharp Paul
Published: July 2022

We exploit a large historical shock to the Danish labour market to provide evidence of how restrictions on labour mobility increase monopsony power and thereby reduce wages. By severely limiting the possibility of the rural population to work beyond their place of birth, the reintroduction of serfdom in 1733 aimed to increase monopsony power and secure cheaper labour in the countryside. Using a unique data source based on the archives of estates from the eighteenth century, we test whether serfdom affected the wages of farmhands more strongly than other groups in the labour market, and results based on a difference-in-differences approach reveal evidence consistent with a strong negative effect following its introduction. This is confirmed when we use a different control group from the Swedish province of Scania. We also investigate whether one mechanism was that boys with rural backgrounds were prevented from taking up apprenticeships in towns and find suggestive evidence that this was indeed the case.
Swinging calcified amorphous tumour in the ascending aorta
Authors: Sokolowski Caleb , Baciewicz Frank
Published: July 2022

A 70-year-old woman with heart failure and end-stage renal disease on dialysis was found to have a 2.9 cm × 0.9 cm swinging mass attached to the posterior wall of the ascending aorta, 3 cm above the aortic valve. Due to the risk of embolization, she underwent an aortotomy and mass excision. The mass had extensive calcifications with degenerative changes and no evidence of malignancy. This represents an exceedingly rare location for a calcified amorphous tumour. Our review adds to the literature establishing the proximal aorta as a characterized location for a calcified amorphous tumour and provides a treatment approach to prevent embolization.
Sutureless and rapid deployment versus sutured aortic valve replacement: a propensity-matched comparison from the Sutureless and Rapid Deployment International Registry
Authors: Berretta Paolo , Andreas Martin , Meuris Bart , Langenaeken Tom , Solinas Marco , Concistrè Giovanni , Kappert Utz , Arzt Sebastian , Santarpino Giuseppe , Nicoletti Anna , Misfeld Martin , Borger Michael A , Savini Carlo , Gliozzi Gregorio , Albertini Alberto , Mikus Elisa , Fischlein Theodor , Kalisnik Jurij , Martinelli Gian Luca , Cotroneo Attilio , Mignosa Carmelo , Ricasoli Alessandro , Yan Tristan , Laufer Ghunter , Di Eusanio Marco
Published: July 2022

OBJECTIVES

To compare procedural and in-hospital outcomes of patients undergoing sutureless (Perceval, Livanova PLC, London, UK) and rapid deployment (Intuity Elite, Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA, USA) aortic valve replacement (group 1) versus sutured aortic valve replacement (group 2).

METHODS

Patients receiving isolated aortic valve replacement between 2014 and 2020 were analysed using data from the Sutureless and Rapid Deployment International Registry. Patients in group 1 and group 2 were propensity-score matched in a 1:1 ratio.

RESULTS

A total of 7708 patients were included in the study. After matching, 2 groups of 2643 each were created. Patients in group 1 were more likely to undergo minimally invasive approaches and were associated with shorter operative times when compared with group 2. Overall in-hospital mortality was similar between groups. While an increased risk of stroke was observed in group 1 in the first study period (2014–2016; relative risk 3.76, P < 0.001), no difference was found in more recent year period (relative risk 1.66, P = 0.08; P for heterogeneity 0.003). Group 1 was associated with reduced rates of postoperative low cardiac output syndrome, atrial fibrillation and mild aortic regurgitation. New pacemaker implant was three-fold higher in group 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings showed significant differences in procedural and clinical outcomes between the study groups. These results suggest that sutureless and rapid deployment aortic valve replacement should be considered as part of a comprehensive valve programme. The knowledge of the respective post-aortic valve replacement benefits for different valve technologies may result in patient-tailored valve selection with improved clinical outcomes.
The activity and functions of soil microbial communities in the Finnish sub-Arctic vary across vegetation types
Authors: Viitamäki Sirja , Pessi Igor S , Virkkala Anna-Maria , Niittynen Pekka , Kemppinen Julia , Eronen-Rasimus Eeva , Luoto Miska , Hultman Jenni
Published: July 2022

Due to climate change, increased microbial activity in high-latitude soils may lead to higher greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, microbial GHG production and consumption mechanisms in tundra soils are not thoroughly understood. To investigate how the diversity and functional potential of bacterial and archaeal communities vary across vegetation types and soil layers, we analyzed 116 soil metatranscriptomes from 73 sites in the Finnish sub-Arctic. Meadow soils were characterized by higher pH and lower soil organic matter (SOM) and carbon/nitrogen ratio. By contrast, dwarf shrub-dominated ecosystems had higher SOM and lower pH. Although Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria and Planctomycetes were dominant in all communities, there were significant differences at the genus level between vegetation types; plant polymer-degrading groups were more active in shrub-dominated soils than in meadows. Given that climate-change scenarios predict the expansion of shrubs at high latitudes, our results indicate that tundra soil microbial communities harbor potential decomposers of increased plant litter, which may affect the rate of carbon turnover in tundra soils. Additionally, transcripts of methanotrophs were detected in the mineral layer of all soils, which may moderate methane fluxes. This study provides new insights into possible shifts in tundra microbial diversity and activity due to climate change.
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated point mutations improve α-amylase secretion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Wang Yanyan , Li Xiaowei , Chen Xin , Siewers Verena
Published: July 2022

The rapid expansion of the application of pharmaceutical proteins and industrial enzymes requires robust microbial workhorses for high protein production. The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an attractive cell factory due to its ability to perform eukaryotic post-translational modifications and to secrete proteins. Many strategies have been used to engineer yeast platform strains for higher protein secretion capacity. Herein, we investigated a line of strains that have previously been selected after UV random mutagenesis for improved α-amylase secretion. A total of 42 amino acid altering point mutations identified in this strain line were reintroduced into the parental strain AAC to study their individual effects on protein secretion. These point mutations included missense mutations (amino acid substitution), nonsense mutations (stop codon generation), and frameshift mutations. For comparison, single gene deletions for the corresponding target genes were also performed in this study. A total of 11 point mutations and seven gene deletions were found to effectively improve α-amylase secretion. These targets were involved in several bioprocesses, including cellular stresses, protein degradation, transportation, mRNA processing and export, DNA replication, and repair, which indicates that the improved protein secretion capacity in the evolved strains is the result of the interaction of multiple intracellular processes. Our findings will contribute to the construction of novel cell factories for recombinant protein secretion.
Exploring the Association Between Affect and Leisure Activity Engagement in Black Adults
Authors: Sardina Angie L , Mahlobo Christa T , Gamaldo Alyssa A , Allaire Jason C , Whitfield Keith E
Published: July 2022

Objectives

This study examined engagement levels across various domains of leisure activities in community-dwelling Black adults (age range = 50–80 years) and variability in daily leisure activity engagement and positive affect (PA; positive emotions or mood) and negative affect (NA; negative emotions or mood). Additionally, we explored whether PA and NA were associated with leisure activity engagement and whether these associations varied by sociodemographics.

Methods

Fifty adults (78% women; mean education = 11.62 years, standard deviation = 2.4) reported affect and leisure activity engagement over 8 occasions (2–3 weeks).

Results

Participants averaged 3 leisure activities/day with more engagement in watching television (news), walking, reading, and visiting others. Multilevel models identified significant within-person variation across domains of leisure activity engagement. A significant main effect was observed between daily NA and reduced social activity engagement. A significant interaction between NA and education was further illustrated on those occasions when NA was higher than usual, social and total leisure activity engagement tended to be lower, particularly for adults with ≤10 years of education. A significant interaction between NA and education was observed for entertainment activities. However, results indicated adults with ≥14 years of education, and a mean NA above the sample average, tended to engage in more entertainment activities. Finally, a significant interaction between PA and age was observed indicating adults aged ≥73 had a greater social engagement, particularly when daily PA was heightened.

Discussion

Results demonstrate within-person changes in the types of leisure engagement among Black adults. Potential factors related to these changes may result from interconnections between affect and demographic factors (age and education).
Unpacking multi-level governance of antimicrobial resistance policies: the case of Guangdong, China
Authors: Chan Olivia Sinn Kay , Wernli Didier , Liu Ping , Tun Hein Min , Fukuda Keiji , Lam Wendy , Xiao YongHong , Zhou Xudong , Grépin Karen A
Published: July 2022

Against the backdrop of universal healthcare coverage and pre-existing policies on antimicrobial use, China has adopted a state-governed, multi-level, top-down policy governance approach around an antimicrobial resistance (AMR) national action plan (NAP). The Plan relies on tightening control over antimicrobial prescription and use in human and animal sectors. At the same time, medical doctors and veterinarians operate in an environment of high rates of infectious diseases, multi-drug resistance and poor livestock husbandry. In exploring the way that policy responsibilities are distributed, this study aims to describe how Guangdong as a province adopts national AMR policies in a tightly controlled public policy system and an economy with high disparity. We draw on an analysis of 225 AMR-relevant Chinese policy documents at the national and sub-national levels. We adopt a multi-level governance perspective and apply a temporal sequence framework to identify and analyse documents. To identify policy detail, we conducted keyword analysis using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) on policies that conserve antimicrobials. We also identify pre-existing medical and public policies associated with AMR. Our findings highlight the emphasis and policies around antimicrobial use regulation to address AMR in China.
The Risk of Serious Infections Before and After Anti-TNF Therapy in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Holmgren Johanna , Fröborg Anna , Visuri Isabella , Halfvarson Jonas , Hjortswang Henrik , Karling Pontus , Myrelid Pär , Olén Ola ,   The SWIBREG study group, Olsson Malin , Bengtsson Jonas , Strid Hans , Andersson Marie , Jäghult Susanna , Eberhardson Michael , Nordenvall Caroline , Björk Jan , Fagerberg Ulrika L , Rejler Martin , Block Mattias , Angenete Eva , Hellström Per M , Ludvigsson Jonas F , Grip Olof
Published: July 2022

Background

Serious infections have been observed in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on anti-TNF use—but to what extent these infections are due to anti-TNF or the disease activity per se is hard to disentangle. We aimed to describe how the rates of serious infections change over time both before and after starting anti-TNF in IBD.

Methods

Inflammatory bowel disease patients naïve to anti-TNF treatment were identified at 5 centers participating in the Swedish IBD Quality Register, and their medical records examined in detail. Serious infections, defined as infections requiring in-patient care, the year before and after the start of anti-TNF treatment were evaluated.

Results

Among 980 patients who started their first anti-TNF therapy between 1999 and 2016, the incidence rate of serious infections was 2.19 (95% CI,1.43-3.36) per 100 person years the year before and 2.11 (95% CI, 1.33-3.34) per 100 person years 1 year after treatment start. This corresponded to an incidence rate ratio 1 year after anti-TNF treatment of 0.97 (95% CI, 0.51-1.84). Compared with before anti-TNF therapy, the incidence of serious infection was significantly decreased more than 1 year after treatment (incidence rate ratio 0.56; 95% CI, 0.33-0.95; P = .03).

Conclusions

In routine clinical practice in Sweden, the incidence rate of serious infection among IBD patients did not increase with anti-TNF therapy. Instead, serious infections seemed to decrease more than 1 year after initiation of anti-TNF treatment.
Preovulatory follicular fluid and serum metabolome profiles in lactating beef cows with thin, moderate, and obese body condition
Authors: Horn Emma J , Read Casey C , Edwards J Lannett , Schrick F Neal , Rhinehart Justin D , Payton Rebecca R , Campagna Shawn R , Klabnik Jessica L , Clark Hannah M , Myer Phillip R , McLean Kyle J , Moorey Sarah E
Published: July 2022

Extremes in body condition reduce fertility and overall productivity in beef cattle herds, due in part to altered systemic metabolic conditions that influence the intrafollicular and uterine environment. Follicular fluid and serum metabolome profiles are influenced by body composition in women and dairy cattle; however, such information is lacking in beef cattle. We hypothesized that body condition score (BCS)-related alterations in the metabolome of preovulatory follicular fluid and serum may influence oocyte maturation while impacting the oviductal or uterine environment. Therefore, we performed a study with the objective to determine the relationship between BCS and the metabolome of follicular fluid and serum in lactating beef cattle. We synchronized the development of a preovulatory follicle in 130 cows of varying BCS. We collected blood and performed transvaginal follicle aspirations to collect follicular fluid from the preovulatory follicle ~18 h after gonadotropin-releasing hormone administration to stimulate the preovulatory gonadotropin surge. We then selected follicular fluid and serum samples from cows with BCS 4 (Thin; n = 14), BCS 6 (Moderate; n = 18), or BCS >8 (Obese; n = 14) for ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. We identified differences in the follicular fluid or serum of thin, moderate, and obese animals based on multiple linear regression. MetaboAnalyst 5.0 was used for enrichment analysis of significant metabolites. We identified 38 metabolites in follicular fluid and 49 metabolites in serum. There were no significant differences in follicular fluid metabolite content among BCS classifications. There were 5, 22, and 1 serum metabolites differentially abundant between thin-obese, moderate-thin, and moderate-obese classifications, respectively (false discovery rate [FDR] < 0.10). These metabolites were enriched in multiple processes including “arginine biosynthesis,” “arginine/proline metabolism,” and “D-glutamine/D-glutamate metabolism” (FDR < 0.04). Pathways enriched with serum metabolites associated with BCS indicate potentially increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) in serum of thin cows. ROS crossing the blood follicular barrier may negatively impact the oocyte during oocyte maturation and contribute to the reduced pregnancy rates observed in thin beef cows.
Copy number variation of ZNF280BY across eight sheep breeds and its association with testicular size of Hu sheep
Authors: Pei Shengwei , Xu Haiyue , Wang Li , Li Fadi , Li Wanhong , Yue Xiangpeng
Published: July 2022

ZNF280BY, a bovid-specific Y chromosome gene, was firstly found to be highly expressed in bovine testis, indicating that it may play important roles in testicular development and male fertility. In this study, we firstly cloned the full-length cDNA of ovine ZNF280BY containing 1,993 bp, and with a 1,632 bp open reading frame. ZNF280BY was predominantly expressed in the testis, and its expression level was significantly higher in large testis than in small testis in Hu sheep at 6 months of age. In addition, the expression level of ZNF280BY significantly increased during testicular development, showing the highest expression level at 12 mo of age. ZNF280BY showed copy number variation (CNV) in 723 rams from eight sheep breeds, ranging from 17 to 514 copies, with a median copy number of 188. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the CNV of ZNF280BY was negatively correlated with testis size in Hu sheep. Furthermore, its mRNA expression level in testis had no significant correlation with the CNV but was significantly correlated with testis size. This study concluded that the expression of ZNF280BY was closely related to testicular development, and the CNV of ZNF280BY could be used as an important genetic marker to evaluate the ram reproductive capacity at an early stage in Hu sheep.
The effect of standardized ileal digestible isoleucine:lysine in diets containing 20% dried distillers grains with solubles on finishing pig performance and carcass characteristics
Authors: Clizer David A , Tostenson Blair J , Tauer Sam K , Samuel Ryan S , Cline Paul M
Published: July 2022

In order to determine the standardized ileal digestible (SID) Ile:Lys requirement in finishing diets containing 20% DDGS, a 56-d study was conducted utilizing 2,268 pigs (DNA 600 x Topigs Norsvin 70, initially 82.3 kg). A total of six dietary treatments were fed, including a standard corn-soybean meal (SBM) diet and five diets containing 20% DDGS with SID Ile:Lys ratios of 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, and 75%. Dietary treatments were assigned to pens, incompletely balancing for previous treatment, with each treatment being replicated 14 times. Pair-wise comparisons were used to evaluate the impact of dietary treatment on performance and carcass traits, whereas single degree of freedom orthogonal polynomials were used to evaluate dose response of SID Ile:Lys in 20% DDGS diets. Increasing the SID Ile:Lys ratio in diets containing 20% DDGS did not impact pig growth performance criteria in a quadratic or linear fashion (P ≥ 0.18). However, increasing the SID Ile:Lys ratio in 20% DDGS diets resulted in decreased back fat (BF; Quadratic, P = 0.01), increased loin depth (Quadratic, P = 0.03), and tended to increase percent lean (Quadratic, P = 0.07) with optimal carcass parameters occurring when 65% SID Ile:Lys was supplied in 20% DDGS diets. Pigs fed the corn-SBM diet had a similar final body weight (BW; P = 0.26) and cumulative average daily gain (ADG; P = 0.12) compared to pigs fed a 20% DDGS diet containing 70% SID Ile:Lys ratio and 3% greater cumulative average daily feed intake (ADFI) compared to pigs receiving diets with SID Ile:Lys ratios of 65% and 75% (P ≤ 0.01). In conclusion, these results suggest that when feeding 20% DDGS in late finishing swine diets, a SID Ile:Lys ratio of 70% should be utilized when attempting to achieve similar overall growth performance relative to a corn-SBM diet.
Weighing cosmic structures with clusters of galaxies and the intergalactic medium
Authors: Esposito Matteo , Iršič Vid , Costanzi Matteo , Borgani Stefano , Saro Alexandro , Viel Matteo
Published: July 2022

We present an analysis aimed at combining cosmological constraints from number counts of galaxy clusters identified through the Sunyaev–Zeldovich effect, obtained with the South Pole Telescope (SPT), and from Lyman α spectra obtained with the MIKE/HIRES and X-shooter spectrographs. The SPT cluster analysis relies on mass calibration based on weak lensing measurements, while the Lyman α analysis is built over mock spectra extracted from hydrodynamical simulations. The resulting constraints exhibit a tension (∼3.3σ) between the low σ8 values preferred by the low-redshift cluster data, $\sigma _8=0.74 ^{+0.03}_{-0.04}$, and the higher one preferred by the high-redshift Lyman α data, $\sigma _8=0.91 ^{+0.03}_{-0.03}$. We present a detailed analysis to understand the origin of this tension and to establish whether it arises from systematic uncertainties related to the assumptions underlying the analyses of cluster counts and/or Lyman α forest. We found this tension to be robust with respect to the choice of modelling of the IGM, even when including possible systematics from unaccounted sub-Damped Lyman α (DLA) and Lyman-limit systems (LLS) in the Lyman α data. We conclude that to solve this tension would require a large bias on the cluster mass estimate, or large unaccounted errors on the Lyman α mean fluxes. Our results have important implications for future analyses based on cluster number counts from future large photometric surveys (e.g. Euclid and LSST) and on larger samples of high-redshift quasar spectra (e.g. DESI and WEAVE surveys). If confirmed at the much higher statistical significance reachable by such surveys, this tension could represent a significant challenge for the standard ΛCDM paradigm.
Sympatric Recombination in Zoonotic Cryptosporidium Leads to Emergence of Populations with Modified Host Preference
Authors: Wang Tianpeng , Guo Yaqiong , Roellig Dawn M , Li Na , Santín Mónica , Lombard Jason , Kváč Martin , Naguib Doaa , Zhang Ziding , Feng Yaoyu , Xiao Lihua
Published: July 2022

Genetic recombination plays a critical role in the emergence of pathogens with phenotypes such as drug resistance, virulence, and host adaptation. Here, we tested the hypothesis that recombination between sympatric ancestral populations leads to the emergence of divergent variants of the zoonotic parasite Cryptosporidium parvum with modified host ranges. Comparative genomic analyses of 101 isolates have identified seven subpopulations isolated by distance. They appear to be descendants of two ancestral populations, IIa in northwestern Europe and IId from southwestern Asia. Sympatric recombination in areas with both ancestral subtypes and subsequent selective sweeps have led to the emergence of new subpopulations with mosaic genomes and modified host preference. Subtelomeric genes could be involved in the adaptive selection of subpopulations, while copy number variations of genes encoding invasion-associated proteins are potentially associated with modified host ranges. These observations reveal ancestral origins of zoonotic C. parvum and suggest that pathogen import through modern animal farming might promote the emergence of divergent subpopulations of C. parvum with modified host preference.
Large-scale genome editing based on high-capacity adenovectors and CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases rescues full-length dystrophin synthesis in DMD muscle cells
Authors: Tasca Francesca , Brescia Marcella , Wang Qian , Liu Jin , Janssen Josephine M , Szuhai Karoly , Gonçalves Manuel A F V
Published: July 2022

Targeted chromosomal insertion of large genetic payloads in human cells leverages and broadens synthetic biology and genetic therapy efforts. Yet, obtaining large-scale gene knock-ins remains particularly challenging especially in hard-to-transfect stem and progenitor cells. Here, fully viral gene-deleted adenovector particles (AdVPs) are investigated as sources of optimized high-specificity CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases and donor DNA constructs tailored for targeted insertion of full-length dystrophin expression units (up to 14.8-kb) through homologous recombination (HR) or homology-mediated end joining (HMEJ). In muscle progenitor cells, donors prone to HMEJ yielded higher CRISPR-Cas9-dependent genome editing frequencies than HR donors, with values ranging between 6% and 34%. In contrast, AdVP transduction of HR and HMEJ substrates in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) resulted in similar CRISPR-Cas9-dependent genome editing levels. Notably, when compared to regular iPSCs, in p53 knockdown iPSCs, CRISPR-Cas9-dependent genome editing frequencies increased up to 6.7-fold specifically when transducing HMEJ donor constructs. Finally, single DNA molecule analysis by molecular combing confirmed that AdVP-based genome editing achieves long-term complementation of DMD-causing mutations through the site-specific insertion of full-length dystrophin expression units. In conclusion, AdVPs are a robust and flexible platform for installing large genomic edits in human cells and p53 inhibition fosters HMEJ-based genome editing in iPSCs.
Acetaldehyde makes a distinct mutation signature in single-stranded DNA
Authors: Vijayraghavan Sriram , Porcher Latarsha , Mieczkowski Piotr A , Saini Natalie
Published: July 2022

Acetaldehyde (AA), a by-product of ethanol metabolism, is acutely toxic due to its ability to react with various biological molecules including DNA and proteins, which can greatly impede key processes such as replication and transcription and lead to DNA damage. As such AA is classified as a group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Previous in vitro studies have shown that AA generates bulky adducts on DNA, with signature guanine-centered (GG→TT) mutations. However, due to its weak mutagenicity, short chemical half-life, and the absence of powerful genetic assays, there is considerable variability in reporting the mutagenic effects of AA in vivo. Here, we used an established yeast genetic reporter system and demonstrate that AA treatment is highly mutagenic to cells and leads to strand-biased mutations on guanines (G→T) at a high frequency on single stranded DNA (ssDNA). We further demonstrate that AA-derived mutations occur through lesion bypass on ssDNA by the translesion polymerase Polζ. Finally, we describe a unique mutation signature for AA, which we then identify in several whole-genome and -exome sequenced cancers, particularly those associated with alcohol consumption. Our study proposes a key mechanism underlying carcinogenesis by acetaldehyde—mutagenesis of single-stranded DNA.
Butterfly glioblastoma: Clinical characteristics, treatment strategies and outcomes in a population-based cohort
Authors: Bjorland Line Sagerup , Dæhli Kurz Kathinka , Fluge Øystein , Gilje Bjørnar , Mahesparan Rupavathana , Sætran Hege , Ushakova Anastasia , Farbu Elisabeth
Published: July 2022

Background

Butterfly glioblastoma is a rare subgroup of glioblastoma with a bihemispheric tumor crossing the corpus callosum, and is associated with a dismal prognosis. Prognostic factors are previously sparsely described and optimal treatment remains uncertain. We aimed to analyze clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and outcomes from butterfly glioblastoma in a real-world setting.

Methods

This retrospective population-based cohort study included patients diagnosed with butterfly glioblastoma in Western Norway between 01/01/2007 and 31/12/2014. We enrolled patients with histologically confirmed glioblastoma and patients with a diagnosis based on a typical MRI pattern. Clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records. Molecular and MRI volumetric analyses were retrospectively performed. Survival analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

Among 381 patients diagnosed with glioblastoma, 33 patients (8.7%) met the butterfly glioblastoma criteria. Median overall survival was 5.5 months (95% CI 3.1–7.9) and 3-year survival was 9.1%. Hypofractionated radiation therapy with or without temozolomide was the most frequently used treatment strategy, given to 16 of the 27 (59.3%) patients receiving radiation therapy. Best supportive care was associated with poorer survival compared with multimodal treatment [adjusted hazard ratio 5.11 (95% CI 1.09–23.89)].

Conclusion

Outcome from butterfly glioblastoma was dismal, with a median overall survival of less than 6 months. However, long-term survival was comparable to that observed in non-butterfly glioblastoma, and multimodal treatment was associated with longer survival. This suggests that patients with butterfly glioblastoma may benefit from a more aggressive treatment approach despite the overall poor prognosis.
Open-environment machine learning
Authors: Zhou Zhi-Hua
Published: July 2022

Conventional machine learning studies generally assume close-environment scenarios where important factors of the learning process hold invariant. With the great success of machine learning, nowadays, more and more practical tasks, particularly those involving open-environment scenarios where important factors are subject to change, called open-environment machine learning in this article, are present to the community. Evidently, it is a grand challenge for machine learning turning from close environment to open environment. It becomes even more challenging since, in various big data tasks, data are usually accumulated with time, like streams, while it is hard to train the machine learning model after collecting all data as in conventional studies. This article briefly introduces some advances in this line of research, focusing on techniques concerning emerging new classes, decremental/incremental features, changing data distributions and varied learning objectives, and discusses some theoretical issues.
How abiotic stress-induced socialization leads to the formation of massive aggregates in Chlamydomonas
Authors: de Carpentier Félix , Maes Alexandre , Marchand Christophe H , Chung Céline , Durand Cyrielle , Crozet Pierre , Lemaire Stéphane D , Danon Antoine
Published: July 2022

Multicellular organisms implement a set of reactions involving signaling and cooperation between different types of cells. Unicellular organisms, on the other hand, activate defense systems that involve collective behaviors between individual organisms. In the unicellular model alga Chlamydomonas (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii), the existence and the function of collective behaviors mechanisms in response to stress remain mostly at the level of the formation of small structures called palmelloids. Here, we report the characterization of a mechanism of abiotic stress response that Chlamydomonas can trigger to form massive multicellular structures. We showed that these aggregates constitute an effective bulwark within which the cells are efficiently protected from the toxic environment. We generated a family of mutants that aggregate spontaneously, the socializer (saz) mutants, of which saz1 is described here in detail. We took advantage of the saz mutants to implement a large-scale multiomics approach that allowed us to show that aggregation is not the result of passive agglutination, but rather genetic reprogramming and substantial modification of the secretome. The reverse genetic analysis we conducted allowed us to identify positive and negative regulators of aggregation and to make hypotheses on how this process is controlled in Chlamydomonas.
Nambu mechanics viewed as a Clebsch parameterized Poisson algebra: Toward canonicalization and quantization
Authors: Yoshida Zensho
Published: July 2022

In his pioneering paper [Phys. Rev. E 7, 2405 (1973)], Nambu proposed the idea of multiple Hamiltonian systems. The explicit example examined there is equivalent to the $\mathfrak {so}(3)$ Lie–Poisson system, which represents noncanonical Hamiltonian dynamics with a Casimir; the Casimir corresponds to the second Hamiltonian of Nambu’s formulation. The vortex dynamics of an ideal fluid, while it is infinite dimensional, has a similar structure, in which the Casimir is the helicity. These noncanonical Poisson algebras are derived by the reduction, i.e., restricting the phase space to some submanifold embedded in the canonical phase space. We may reverse the reduction to canonicalize some Nambu dynamics, i.e., view the Nambu dynamics as the subalgebra of a larger canonical Poisson algebra. Then, we can invoke the standard corresponding principle for quantizing the canonicalized system. The inverse of the reduction, i.e., representing the noncanonical variables by some canonical variables may be called “Clebsch parameterization” following the fluid mechanical example.
Learning from public health practice: the development of a library of community-centered practice examples
Authors: South Jane , Mapplethorpe Tom , Gledhill Rachel , Marsh Wendy , Stansfield Jude , Evans Sian , Mancini Michelle , Outhwaite Helen
Published: July 2022

Background

Valuable learning derived from public health practice can be captured through practice-based case studies, also known as practice examples. Practice examples of participatory interventions supplement the evidence base by providing information on the complexities of implementation in communities. This paper reports on a Public Health England project to build a bank of community-centered practice examples based on robust processes of collection and curation.

Methods

The multidisciplinary project had three phases: (i) development and piloting a process to collect practice examples, (ii) refining review processes and gathering further examples via national and regional teams (iii) maintenance of an accessible collection on the library platform.

Results

The project resulted in a searchable collection of 55 practice examples illustrating participatory approaches in public health practice. The collection shows diversity in terms of settings, population, focus and type of approach used to work with communities. A secondary outcome was the development of generic guidance and templates for further collections on public health topics.

Conclusions

This project illustrates how information on the implementation of community-centered approaches in real-life contexts can be gathered and disseminated through a transferable process. Having collections of practice examples supports knowledge exchange in public health as learning is shared.
Information Acquisition, Uncertainty Reduction, and Pre-Announcement Premium in China
Authors: Guo Rui , Jia Dun , Sun Xi
Published: July 2022

We examine the stock market returns in an environment in which the dates of the central bank’s information supply through public announcements are not prescheduled. We document that positive excess returns are accumulated as early as 3 days before China’s central bank releases the monthly data of monetary aggregates, which may be announced either early or late in a month. In particular, this pre-announcement premium exists only when an announcement arrives late in an announcement cycle. We provide a theoretical framework in which the degree of information acquisition in the market increases as the date approaches the end of an announcement cycle while investors are still waiting for the arrival of an announcement, a hypothesis that receives strong empirical support. We show that the information acquisition channel highlighted in Ai, Bansal, and Han (2022) explains the uncertainty reduction and the positive risk premium before monetary announcements in China.
Shared Satisfaction among Residents Living in Multiracial Neighborhoods
Authors: Bader Michael D M
Published: July 2022

Multiracial neighborhood integration has become more common in U.S. metropolitan areas over the past three decades. This article takes up the question: are residents satisfied living in multiracial neighborhoods? Traditional theories of racial change predict low levels of satisfaction in these neighborhoods, while newer studies question that prediction. The article uses data representing all residents of multiracial neighborhoods in the Washington, DC, area to study neighborhood satisfaction in multiracial neighborhoods. The analysis finds evidence of shared satisfaction among residents regardless of race: large and equal shares of each racial group were satisfied. White residents were less satisfied than white residents of neighborhoods elsewhere in the metropolitan region, but were unlikely to perceive neighborhood decline. The shared satisfaction among residents of all races and the lack of racial antipathy to change among white residents suggests that multiracial neighborhoods offer sites to promote racial equity.
Distal Clavicle Autograft in Fractures of the Proximal Humerus: Surgical Technique
Authors: de Mello Ribeiro Pinto Gustavo , Chauke Rezende Rodrigo , Nabuco Dantas Cristiano , Costa de Oliveira Campos Marcelo , Albuquerque Lemgruber Kropf Leandro
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

The surgical treatment of the proximal humerus fractures is challenging because of various presentations, especially in osteoporotic bones. The use of fixed-angle locked plates combined with grafts increases the fixation stability and healing rate. This study aims to describe a novel option of autogenous bone graft from the distal clavicle in the treatment of the proximal humerus fracture.

Materials and Methods:

This is a descriptive study of a novel technique including patients undergoing surgical treatment of the proximal humerus fracture with locked plates and autograft from the distal clavicle.

Results:

A total of 3 female patients underwent treatment in the last year, and there are no complications reported. All fractures remained stable without varus collapse of the humeral head.

Conclusion:

We are the first to describe the use of the distal clavicle as an option of autograft for the treatment of the proximal humerus fractures. This technique has low morbidity and complexity, easy reproduction and low cost and can be harvested in the same donor region as the operative site.
Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Rural Adults
Authors: Johansson Patrik , Rowland Sheri A. , Schulz Paula S. , Struwe Leeza , Hebert Luciana , Brueggemann Grant , Zimmerman Lani
Published: July 2022

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction programs led by a nurse/community health worker team are effective in urban settings. This strategy has not been adequately tested in rural settings.

Objective

A pilot study was conducted to examine the feasibility of implementing an evidence-based CVD risk reduction intervention adapted to a rural setting and evaluate the potential impact on CVD risk factors and health behaviors.

Methods

A 2-group, experimental, repeated-measures design was used; participants were randomized to a standard primary care group (n = 30) or an intervention group (n = 30) where a registered nurse/community health worker team delivered self-management strategies in person, by phone, or by videoconferencing. Outcomes were measured at baseline and at 3 and 6 months. A sample of 60 participants was recruited and retained in the study.

Results

In-person (46.3%) and telephone (42.3%) meetings were used more than the videoconferencing application (9%). Mean change at 3 months differed significantly between the intervention and control groups for CVD risk (−1.0 [95% confidence interval (CI), −3.1 to 1.1] vs +1.4 [95% CI, −0.4 to 3.3], respectively), total cholesterol (−13.2 [95% CI, −32.1 to 5.7.] vs +21.0 [95% CI, 4.1–38.1], respectively), and low-density lipoprotein (−11.5 [95% CI, −30.8 to 7.7] vs +19.6 [95% CI, 1.9–37.2], respectively). No between-group differences were seen in high-density lipoprotein, blood pressure, or triglycerides.

Conclusions

Participants receiving the nurse/community health worker–delivered intervention improved their risk CVD profiles, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein levels at 3 months. A larger study to explore the intervention impact on CVD risk factor disparities experienced by rural populations is warranted.