bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A stochastic model to reproduce the star formation history of individual galaxies in hydrodynamic simulations
Authors: Wang Yang , Napolitano Nicola R , Cui Weiguang , Li Xiao-Dong , Knebe Alexander , Power Chris , Pearce Frazer , Tang Lin , Yepes Gustavo , Kang Xi
Published: July 2022

The star formation history (SFH) of galaxies is critical for understanding galaxy evolution. Hydrodynamical simulations enable us to precisely reconstruct the SFH of galaxies and establish a link to the underlying physical processes. In this work, we present a model to describe individual galaxies’ SFHs from three simulations: TheThreeHundred, Illustris-1, and TNG100-1. This model divides the galaxy SFH into two distinct components: the ‘main sequence’ and the ‘variation’. The ‘main sequence’ part is generated by tracing the history of the SFR − M* main sequence of galaxies across time. The ‘variation’ part consists of the scatter around the main sequence, which is reproduced by fractional Brownian motions. We find that: (1) the evolution of the main sequence varies between simulations; (2) fractional Brownian motions can reproduce many features of SFHs; however, discrepancies still exist; and (3) the variations and mass-loss rate are crucial for reconstructing the SFHs of the simulations. This model provides a fair description of the SFHs in simulations. On the other hand, by correlating the fractional Brownian motion model to simulation data, we provide a ’standard’ against which to compare simulations.
Implications of the cosmological 21-cm absorption profile for high-redshift star formation and deep JWST surveys
Authors: Mittal Shikhar , Kulkarni Girish
Published: July 2022

Apart from its anomalously large depth, the cosmological 21-cm absorption signal measured by the EDGES collaboration also has a shape that is distinctly different from theoretical predictions. Models with non-traditional components such as super-adiabatic baryonic cooling or an excess radio background (ERB) explain the depth of the observed profile, but still conspicuously fail to explain its shape. In this paper, we quantify the requirements imposed by the EDGES measurement on sources of Ly α and X-ray photons in the presence of ERB at cosmic dawn. In extreme cases, the Ly α and X-ray emissivities require to be enhanced by up to an order of magnitude relative to traditional models. Furthermore, this enhancement needs to be active only for a short duration. We find that under conventional assumptions for the cosmic star formation rate density (SFRD), standard stellar populations are incapable of meeting these conditions. Only highly unusual models of massive metal-free stars seem to provide a possible mechanism. Conversely, if the sources of Ly α and X-ray photons are compelled to have standard properties, the EDGES measurement puts strong demands on the cosmic SFRD. This provides interesting falsifiable predictions for high-redshift galaxy surveys enabled by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). We derive predictions for galaxy UV luminosity functions and number densities, and show that a deep JWST survey with a limiting UV magnitude of mUV, lim = 32 would potentially be able to rule out the predictions enforced by the EDGES measurement.
Unmasking the mammalian SET domain-containing protein 4
Authors: Wang Yuan , Shen Zhiyuan
Published: July 2022

SET domain-containing protein 4 (SETD4) is a member of a unique class of protein lysine methyltransferases. Here, we introduce the basic features of SETD4 and summarize the key findings from recent studies with emphases on its roles in tissue development and tumorigenesis, and its methylation substrates. SETD4 is expressed in stem/progenitor cells. Ablation of Setd4+ cells impedes the repopulation of acinar cells after pancreatic injury. Setd4 deletion in mice promotes the recovery of radiation-induced bone marrow (BM) failure by boosting the function of BM niche, facilitates the generation of endothelial cells and neovascularization of capillary vessels in the heart, enhances the proliferation of BM mesenchymal stem cells and disrupts the TLR4 signaling in BM-derived macrophages. SETD4 expression is also associated with the maintenance of quiescent breast cancer stem cells. While mouse Setd4 knockout delays radiation-induced T-lymphoma formation, elevated SETD4 expression has been observed in some proliferative cancer cells and is associated with a pro-survival potential. Oncogenic fusions of SETD4 have also been identified in cancer, albeit rare. In addition, SETD4 methylates lysine-570 in the C-terminal globular domain of KU70, which enables KU70 translocation to cytoplasm to suppress apoptosis.
Quantification of mutant–allele expression at isoform level in cancer from RNA-seq data
Authors: Deng Wenjiang , Mou Tian , Pawitan Yudi , Vu Trung Nghia
Published: July 2022

Even though the role of DNA mutations in cancer is well recognized, current quantification of the RNA expression, performed either at gene or isoform level, typically ignores the mutation status. Standard methods for estimating allele-specific expression (ASE) consider gene-level expression, but the functional impact of a mutation is best assessed at isoform level. Hence our goal is to quantify the mutant–allele expression at isoform level. We have developed and implemented a method, named MAX, for quantifying mutant–allele expression given a list of mutations. For a gene of interest, a mutant reference is constructed by incorporating all possible mutant versions of the wild-type isoforms in the transcriptome annotation. The mutant reference is then used for the RNA-seq reads mapping, which in principle works similarly for any quantification tool. We apply an alternating EM algorithm to the read-count data from the mapping step. In a simulation study, MAX performs well against standard isoform-quantification methods. Also, MAX achieves higher accuracy than conventional gene-based ASE methods such as ASEP. An analysis of a real dataset of acute myeloid leukemia reveals a subgroup of NPM1-mutated patients responding well to a kinase inhibitor. Our findings indicate that quantification of mutant–allele expression at isoform level is feasible and has potential added values for assessing the functional impact of DNA mutations in cancers.
Screening recommendation adherence among first-degree relatives of individuals with colorectal cancer
Authors: Fiala Mark A
Published: July 2022

A first-degree relative (FDR) with colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most important risk factors for the disease. Adherence to CRC screening recommendations can help mitigate this risk; however, adherence has historically been low. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with CRC screening. The study used data from the 2015 National Health Interview Survey. CRC screening rates were compared between FDRs and their peers without a family history of CRC. Participants were considered to be adherent if they had undergone any of the following: fecal immunochemical test within the prior 1 year, sigmoidscopy or computed tomography colongraphy within 5 years, or colonoscopy within 10 years. The analysis included 11,381 participants age 50–75 at time of survey. Overall, 62% of participants were adherent to screening recommendations. Seventy-six percent of FDRs of individuals with CRC were adherent to guidelines; they were 86% more likely to be adherent than their peers. Race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic variables were all associated with adherence. Models were largely similar between FDRs of individuals with CRC and the general public. Nearly one-quarter of FDRs of individuals with CRC are not adherent to screening recommendations. Further outreach is needed for members of minority races and the Hispanic community and additional efforts are needed to increase the accessibility of CRC screening for those with more limited finances and the uninsured.
Childcare and Mothers’ Labor Market Outcomes in Lower- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Halim Daniel , Perova Elizaveta , Reynolds Sarah
Published: July 2022

Improving women's labor force participation and the quality of their employment can boost economic growth and support poverty and inequality reduction; thus, it is highly pertinent for the development agenda. However, existing systematic reviews on female labor market outcomes and childcare, which can arguably improve these outcomes, are focused on developed countries. We review 22 studies which plausibly identify the causal impact of institutional childcare on maternal labor market outcomes in lower-and-middle income countries. All but one study finds positive impacts on the extensive or intensive margin of maternal labor market outcomes, which aligns with findings from developed countries. We further analyze aspects of childcare design, including hours, ages of children, coordination with other childcare services that may increase the impacts on maternal labor market outcomes. We conclude with a discussion of directions for future research.
Identification and Prevalence of Seedborne Botrytis spp. in Dry Pea, Lentil, and Chickpea in Montana
Authors: Moparthi Swarnalatha , Parikh Lipi P. , Gunnink Troth Erin E. , Burrows Mary E.
Published: July 2022

Botrytis spp. cause gray mold and are significant pathogens of pulse crops (dry pea, lentil, and chickpea). Seedling infection can result in plant stunting and death. In this study, 100 Botrytis isolates were recovered from pulse crop seed samples that were submitted to the Regional Pulse Crop Diagnostic Laboratory at Montana State University. Nine Botrytis spp. were found to be associated with pulse seeds in Montana based on a combination of cultural characteristics; the amplification of partial sequences of the G3PDH, HSP60, and RPB2 genes; and phylogenetic analysis. Botrytis cinerea (n = 54) was the predominant species, followed by B. euroamericana (n = 22) and B. prunorum (n = 11). There were a few isolates of B. mali and five novel Botrytis spp. that included one cryptic species. To determine the pathogenicity and aggressiveness of the isolates, dry pea cultivar Lifter, lentil cultivar Richlea, and chickpea cultivar Sierra, detached leaves were inoculated using mycelial plugs. Lesion diameter produced by Botrytis isolates on three hosts differed (P < 0.05). Aggressiveness of B. cinerea was high in all three hosts and varied among the tested isolates. Spore inoculations were conducted on greenhouse-grown dry pea, lentil and chickpea plants using one sporulating isolate each of B. cinerea, B. prunorum, and Botrytis sp. 1. Results indicated that these isolates were pathogenic on the tested hosts. This study illustrates that many species of Botrytis are associated with pulse crop seed in Montana and can be aggressive on multiple crops, which may have implications for disease management.
CHCHD2 maintains mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system stability and protects against mitochondrial dysfunction in an experimental model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lu Lin , Mao Hengxu , Zhou Miaomiao , Lin Yuwan , Dai Wei , Qiu Jiewen , Xiao Yousheng , Mo Mingshu , Zhu Xiaoqin , Wu Zhuohua , Pei Zhong , Guo Wenyuan , Xu Pingyi , Chen Xiang
Published: July 2022

Background:

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's dementia. Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the pathology of PD. Coiled-coil-helix-coiled-coil-helix domain-containing 2 (CHCHD2) was identified as associated with autosomal dominant PD. However, the mechanism of CHCHD2 in PD remains unclear.

Methods:

Short hairpin RNA (ShRNA)-mediated CHCHD2 knockdown or lentivirus-mediated CHCHD2 overexpression was performed to investigate the impact of CHCHD2 on mitochondrial morphology and function in neuronal tumor cell lines represented with human neuroblastoma (SHSY5Y) and HeLa cells. Blue-native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and two-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-PAGE analysis were used to illustrate the role of CHCHD2 in mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS). Co-immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting were used to address the interaction between CHCHD2 and Mic10. Serotype injection of adeno-associated vector-mediated CHCHD2 and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) administration were used to examine the influence of CHCHD2 in vivo.

Results:

We found that the overexpression of CHCHD2 can protect against methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibit the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the MPTP-induced mouse model. Furthermore, we identified that CHCHD2 interacted with Mic10, and overexpression of CHCHD2 can protect against MPP+-induced MICOS impairment, while knockdown of CHCHD2 impaired the stability of MICOS.

Conclusion:

This study indicated that CHCHD2 could interact with Mic10 and maintain the stability of the MICOS complex, which contributes to protecting mitochondrial function in PD.
Percutaneous local tumor ablation vs. stereotactic body radiotherapy for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Dongjie , Zhao Man , Xiang Xiaoyong , Liang Jun
Published: July 2022

Background:

Percutaneous local tumor ablation (LTA) and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) have been regarded as viable treatments for early-stage lung cancer patients. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of LTA with SBRT for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods:

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, Ovid, Google scholar, CNKI, and CBMdisc were searched to identify potential eligible studies comparing the efficacy and safety of LTA with SBRT for early-stage NSCLC published between January 1, 1991, and May 31, 2021. Hazard ratios (HRs) or odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were applied to estimate the effect size for overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), locoregional progression (LP), and adverse events.

Results:

Five studies with 22,231 patients were enrolled, including 1443 patients in the LTA group and 20,788 patients in the SBRT group. The results showed that SBRT was not superior to LTA for OS (HR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.87–1.22, P = 0.71). Similar results were observed for PFS (HR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.71–1.67, P = 0.71) and LP (HR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.25–1.77, P = 0.70). Subgroup analysis showed that the pooled HR for OS favored SBRT in patients with tumors sized >2 cm (HR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.14–1.53, P = 0.0003), whereas there was no significant difference in patients with tumors sized ≤2 cm (HR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.64–1.35, P = 0.70). Moreover, no significant differences were observed for the incidence of severe adverse events (≥grade 3) (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 0.63–6.07, P = 0.25) between the LTA group and SBRT group.

Conclusions:

Compared with SBRT, LTA appears to have similar OS, PFS, and LP. However, for tumors >2 cm, SBRT is superior to LTA in OS. Prospective randomized controlled trials are required to determine such findings.

INPLASY Registration Number:

INPLASY202160099
Epidemiology of urticaria in China: a population-based study
Authors: Li Jiaqing , Mao Dandan , Liu Shuoshuo , Liu Ping , Tian Jing , Xue Chenhong , Liu Xiaojing , Qi Ruiqun , Bai Bingxue , Nie Jianjun , Ye Siqi , Wang Yu , Li Yuye , Sun Qing , Tao Juan , Guo Shuping , Fang Hong , Wang Jianqin , Mu Qiri , Liu Quanzhong , Ding Yan , Zhang Jianzhong
Published: July 2022

Background:

Urticaria is a common skin disease characterized by episodes of wheals, and it has a negative effect on patients’ quality of life. Large-scale population-based epidemiological studies of urticaria are scarce in China. The aim of this survey was to determine the prevalence, clinical forms, and risk factors of urticaria in the Chinese population.

Methods:

This survey was conducted in 35 cities from 31 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities of China. Two to three communities in each city were selected in this investigation. Participants completed questionnaires and received dermatological examinations. We analyzed the prevalence, clinical forms, and risk factors of urticaria.

Results:

In total, 44,875 questionnaires were distributed and 41,041 valid questionnaires were collected (17,563 male and 23,478 female participants). The lifetime prevalence of urticaria was 7.30%, with 8.26% in female and 6.34% in male individuals (P < 0.05). The point prevalence of urticaria was 0.75%, with 0.79% in female and 0.71% in male individuals (P < 0.05). Concomitant angioedema was found in 6.16% of patients. Adults had a higher prevalence of urticaria than adolescents and children. Living in urban areas, exposure to pollutants, an anxious or depressed psychological status, a personal and family history of allergy, thyroid diseases, and Helicobacter pylori infection were associated with a higher prevalence of urticaria. Smoking was correlated with a reduced risk of urticaria.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that the lifetime prevalence of urticaria was 7.30% and the point prevalence was 0.75% in the Chinese population; women had a higher prevalence of urticaria than men. Various factors were correlated with urticaria.
Pharmacokinetic Model Based on Stochastic Simulation and Estimation for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Tacrolimus in Korean Adult Transplant Recipients
Authors: Choi Suein , Hong Yunjeong , Jung Sook-Hyun , Kang Gaeun , Ghim Jong-Ryul , Han Seunghoon
Published: July 2022

Background:

Tacrolimus shows high variability in inter- and intraindividual pharmacokinetics (PK); therefore, it is important to develop an appropriate model for accurate therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) procedures. This study aimed to develop a pharmacokinetic model for tacrolimus that can be used for TDM procedures in Korean adult transplant recipients by integrating published models with acquired real-world TDM data and evaluating clinically meaningful covariates.

Methods:

Clinical data of 1829 trough blood samples from 269 subjects were merged with simulated data sets from published models and analyzed using a nonlinear mixed-effect model. The stochastic simulation and estimation (SSE) method was used to obtain the final parameter estimates.

Results:

The final estimated values for apparent clearance, the volume of distribution, and absorption rate were 21.2 L/h, 510 L, and 3.1/h, respectively. The number of postoperative days, age, body weight, and type of transplant organs were the major clinical factors affecting tacrolimus PK.

Conclusions:

A tacrolimus PK model that can incorporate published PK models and newly collected data from the Korean population was developed using the SSE method. Despite the limitations in model development owing to the nature of TDM data, the SSE method was useful in retrieving complete information from the TDM data by integrating published PK models while maintaining the variability of the model.
Spindle Cell/Sclerosing Rhabdomyosarcoma of the Orbit
Authors: Proia Alan D.
Published: July 2022

A 3-year-old boy developed proptosis over 3 weeks. CT and MRI disclosed a 3.2 × 1.9 cm soft-tissue mass of the right extraconal and intraconal orbit with sphenoid bone erosion. After debulking through an upper eyelid crease incision, the tumor was diagnosed as a spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcoma. DNA sequencing was negative for an L122R mutation in MyoD1. Spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcoma is an uncommon variant of this neoplasm, and only 2 patients with orbital tumors have been reported in 2 case series. Spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcomas confined to the orbit are considered to have an excellent prognosis when treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Diagnosis and treatment planning rely on histology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular analysis.
Factors Associated With New Sexual Partnerships During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey of Online Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Platform Users
Authors: Hamill Matthew M. , Yu Tong , Armington Gretchen S. , Hsieh Yu-Hsiang , Manabe Yukari C. , Melendez Johan H.
Published: July 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has coincided with an explosion of online platforms for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) testing using self-collected, mail-in specimens. Reports on the effect of COVID-19–associated restrictions on sexual behaviors have been mixed, but STI transmissions have continued during the pandemic. We sought to understand the pandemic impact on sexual habits associated with STIs among IWantTheKit users.

Methods

Users of IWantTheKit, a free, online STI testing platform, were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to describe survey responses. Associations with reports of new sex partnerships were explored as a marker of STI risk. Descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze individual characteristics and reported behaviors associated with self-reported new sexual partnerships during the first 2 COVID-19 pandemic waves.

Results

Of the 3462 users of the online STI testing platform between June 2020 and February 2021, 1088 (31.4%) completed the online survey; 705 (66.2%) of 1065 reported a new sex partner. One-quarter met their sex partners using apps. Overall, 10% were symptomatic and almost 18% were concerned that their partner had an STI. White race in men (odds ratio, 1.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–3.16), women younger than 25 years (odds ratio, 1.85; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–3.14), and increased condom use in both men and women were significantly associated with reports of new sexual partnerships in adjusted analysis.

Conclusions

Despite pandemic restrictions on social gatherings, new sexual partnerships were common in this population, associated with common risk factors, and may help to explain ongoing STI transmission.
Investigation of the 12-month efficacy and safety of low-dose mifepristone in the treatment of painful adenomyosis
Authors: Chen Shu-Yi , Zhao Meng-Dan , Sun Wen-Ting , Zhu Li-Bo , Zhang Xin-Mei
Published: July 2022

Objective:

To study the 12-month effects and possible mechanisms of low-dose mifepristone in the treatment of adenomyosis.

Methods:

Patients included in this retrospective study had painful adenomyosis and previously received 5 mg mifepristone daily (group A, n = 45) or 5 mg mifepristone daily with a poor-effect levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (group B, n = 13) for 12 months. Uterine size, serum CA125 levels, estradiol levels, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, endometrial thickness, and hemoglobin levels were compared before and after treatment and investigated again at 3 to 6 months after drug withdrawal. Another 8 patients with adenomyosis (group C, n = 8) who underwent surgery for severe dysmenorrhea during the same period were only used as a control group for immunohistochemical research. Endometrial biopsy results and expression of nerve growth factor (NGF), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and nuclear-associated antigen Ki-67 (Ki-67) in endometrial tissues and adenomyotic lesions were also analyzed.

Results:

The VAS scores in both experimental groups at all time points during treatment and follow-up were significantly lower (P <0.001) than those before treatment. The uterine size was significantly reduced, and endometrial thickness was distinctly thicker after 12 months of treatment than that before treatment in group A receiving 5 mg/d mifepristone. The immunohistochemical expression of NGF and COX-2 decreased in both eutopic and ectopic endometrium after treatment, whereas that of Ki-67 slightly increased in eutopic endometrium after treatment and rapidly recovered to the baseline value after stopping mifepristone. There were no signs of hyperplasia, atypical hyperplasia, or malignancy in the endometrial biopsies.

Conclusions:

The results suggested that a daily dose of 5 mg mifepristone for 12 months down-regulated the expression of NGF and COX-2 and was effective in treating painful adenomyosis with few side effects.
Comparing Minimally Invasive Sacrocolpopexy With Vaginal Uterosacral Ligament Suspension: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study Through the Fellows' Pelvic Research Network
Authors: Noor Nabila , Bastawros Dina , Florian-Rodriguez Marian E. , Hobson Deslyn , Eto Chidimma , Lozo Svjetlana , Lavelle Erin , Antosh Danielle , Hacker Michele R. , Elkadry Eman , Von Bargen Emily
Published: July 2022

Importance

Comparing one-year surgical outcomes of two widely used surgical procedures for apical suspension.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to compare anatomic outcomes after minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy (MISC) and vaginal uterosacral ligament suspension (vUSLS).

Study Design

This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study through the Fellows' Pelvic Research Network. Patients with ≥ stage II pelvic organ prolapse (POP) who underwent MISC or vUSLS from January 2013 to January 2016, identified through the Current Procedural Terminology codes, with 1 year or longer postoperative data were included. Patients with prior POP surgery or history of connective tissue disorders were excluded. Anatomic success was defined as Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System measurements: Ba/Bp ≤ 0 or C ≤ -TVL/2. Data were compared using χ2 or Fisher exact tests. Continuous data were compared using Wilcoxon rank sum test.

Results

Three hundred thirty-seven patients underwent MISC (171 laparoscopic, 166 robotic) and 165 underwent vUSLS. The MISC group had longer operative time (205.9 minutes vs 187.5 minutes, P = 0.006) and lower blood loss (77.8 mL vs 187.4 mL; P < 0.001). Two patients (0.6%) in the MISC group had mesh exposure requiring surgical excision. Permanent suture exposure was higher after vUSLS (6.1%). At 1 year, anatomic success was comparable in the apical (322 [97%] MISC vs 160 [97%] vUSLS, P = 0.99) and posterior compartments (326 [97.6%] MISC vs 164 [99.4%] vUSLS; P = 0.28). Anterior compartment success was higher in the MISC group (328 [97.9%] vs 156 [94.9%], P = 0.04) along with longer total vaginal length (9.2 ± 1.8 vs 8.4 ± 1.5, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

At 1 year, patients who underwent MISC or vUSLS had similar apical support. Low rates of mesh and suture exposures, less anterior recurrence, and longer TVL were noted after MISC.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Telemedicine Versus In-Person Office Visits for the Follow-Up of Overactive Bladder
Authors: Mossack Spencer , Inoyatov Igor , Fonseca Philip , Du Chris , Lee Edwin , Ruan Heng , Kim Jason
Published: July 2022

IMPORTANCE

Overactive bladder is a condition that may be ideally suited for the use of telemedicine because initial treatment options are behavioral modification and pharmacotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate if there was an overall difference in patient follow-up rates between telemedicine and in-person visits.

STUDY DESIGN

New patients presenting with overactive bladder from July 2020 to March 2021 were randomized into telemedicine and in-person visits groups. A prospective database was maintained to compare follow-up rates, satisfaction rates, and time commitment.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients were randomized, 23 to the telemedicine group and 25 to the in-person visits group. There was no significant difference in follow-up rates between the telemedicine and in-person follow-up groups at 30 days (39% vs 28%, P = 0.41), 60-days (65% vs 56% P = 0.51) or 90 days (78% vs 60%, P = 0.17). There was no significant difference in satisfaction rates between the 2 groups. There was a significant difference between the average telemedicine visit time and in-person visit time (12.1 ± 6.9 minutes vs 22.8 ± 17.1 minutes; P = 0.02). For in-person visits, the average travel time was 49 minutes (interquartile range, 10–90 minutes) and average miles traveled was 22.1 miles (interquartile range, 10–70 miles).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in follow-up or satisfaction rates between telemedicine and in-person visits. Telemedicine visits took half the length of time compared with in-person visits. On average, patients in the telemedicine group saved approximately 1 hour per follow-up visit. Telemedicine visits save both the health care provider and patient significant amounts of time without sacrificing patient satisfaction and follow-up rates.
CCAAT/Enhancer-binding Protein Homologous Protein Promotes ROS-mediated Liver Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting Mitophagy in Hepatocytes
Authors: Zhou Shun , Rao Zhuqing , Xia Yongxiang , Wang Qi , Liu Zheng , Wang Ping , Cheng Feng , Zhou Haoming
Published: July 2022

Background.

Liver ischemia and reperfusion (IR) injury represent a major risk factor in both partial hepatectomy and liver transplantation. CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) is a key regulator of cell death, its precise molecular basis in regulating hepatocyte death during liver IR has not been delineated.

Methods.

Hepatocellular CHOP deficient mice were generated by bone marrow chimera models using global CHOP knockout mice. Liver partial warm ischemia model and hypoxia/reoxygenation model of primary hepatocytes were applied. Liver injury and mitophagy-related signaling pathways were investigated. IR-stressed patient liver tissues and serum samples were analyzed as well.

Results.

Mice with hepatocellular CHOP deficiency exhibited alleviated cell death, decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression, and enhanced mitophagy in hepatocytes after IR, confirmed by in vitro studies of hepatocytes after hypoxia/reoxygenation. Mitochondria ROS scavenge by Mito TEMPO effectively attenuated hepatocyte death and liver IR injury of wild-type mice, whereas no significant effects were observed in hepatocellular CHOP-deficient mice. CHOP depletion upregulated dynamin-related protein 1 and Beclin-1 activation in the mitochondria of hepatocytes leading to enhanced mitophagy. Following IR, increased CHOP expression and impaired mitophagy activation were observed in the livers of patients undergoing hepatectomy. N-acetyl cysteine pretreatment significantly improved the liver function of patients after surgery.

Conclusions.

IR-induced CHOP activation exacerbates ROS-mediated hepatocyte death by inhibiting dynamin-related protein 1–Beclin-1–dependent mitophagy.
Hadza hunter–gatherers with greater exposure to other cultures share more with generous campmates
Authors: Smith Kristopher M. , Mabulla Ibrahim A. , Apicella Coren L.
Published: July 2022

Humans are motivated to compete for access to valuable social partners, which is a function of their willingness to share and ability to generate resources. However, relative preferences for each trait should be responsive to socioecological conditions. Here, we test the flexibility of partner choice psychology among Hadza hunter–gatherers of Tanzania. Ninety-two Hadza ranked their campmates on generosity and foraging ability and then shared resources with those campmates. We found Hadza with greater exposure to other cultures shared more with campmates ranked higher on generosity, whereas Hadza with lower exposure showed a smaller preference for sharing with generous campmates. This moderating effect was specific to generosity—regardless of exposure, Hadza showed only a small preference for sharing with better foragers. We argue this difference in preferences is due to high exposure Hadza having more experience cooperating with others in the absence of strong norms of sharing, and thus are exposed to greater variance in willingness to cooperate among potential partners increasing the benefits of choosing partners based on generosity. As such, participants place a greater emphasis on choosing more generous partners, highlighting the flexibility of partner preferences.
Sauropod dinosaur teeth from the lower Upper Cretaceous Winton Formation of Queensland, Australia and the global record of early titanosauriforms
Authors: Poropat Stephen F. , Frauenfelder Timothy G. , Mannion Philip D. , Rigby Samantha L. , Pentland Adele H. , Sloan Trish , Elliott David A.
Published: July 2022

The Upper Cretaceous Winton Formation of Queensland, Australia, has produced several partial sauropod skeletons, but cranial remains—including teeth—remain rare. Herein, we present the first description of sauropod teeth from this formation, based on specimens from three separate sites. An isolated tooth and a dentary fragment from theDiamantinasaurus matildaetype locality are considered to be referable to that titanosaurian taxon. A single tooth from theD. matildaereferred specimen site is similarly regarded as being part of that individual. Seventeen teeth from a new site that are morphologically uniform, and similar to the teeth from the twoDiamantinasaurussites, are assigned to Diamantinasauria. All sauropod teeth recovered from the Winton Formation to date are compressed-cone-chisel-shaped, have low slenderness index values (2.00–2.88), are lingually curved at their apices, mesiodistally convex on their lingual surfaces, and lack prominent carinae and denticles. They are markedly different from the chisel-like teeth of derived titanosaurs, more closely resembling the teeth of early branching members of the titanosauriform radiation. This provides further support for a ‘basal’ titanosaurian position for Diamantinasauria. Scanning electron microscope microwear analysis of the wear facets of several teeth reveals more scratches than pits, implying that diamantinasaurians were mid-height (1–10 m) feeders. With a view to assessing the spatio-temporal distribution of sauropod tooth morphotypes before and after deposition of the Winton Formation, we provide a comprehensive continent-by-continent review of the early titanosauriform global record (Early to early Late Cretaceous). This indicates that throughout the Early–early Late Cretaceous, sauropod faunas transitioned from being quite diverse at higher phylogenetic levels and encompassing a range of tooth morphologies at the start of the Berriasian, to faunas comprising solely titanosaurs with limited dental variability by the end-Turonian. Furthermore, this review highlights the different ways in which this transition unfolded on each continent, including the earliest records of titanosaurs with narrow-crowned teeth on each continent.
More bones ofLeptoptilos robustusfrom Flores reveal new insights into giant marabou stork paleobiology and biogeography
Authors: Meijer Hanneke J. M. , Sutikna Thomas , Wahyu Saptomo E. , Tocheri Matthew W.
Published: July 2022

Liang Bua (Flores, Indonesia) has yielded remains of a faunal community that included small-bodied and small-brained hominins, dwarf proboscideans, Komodo dragons, vultures and giant marabou storks (Leptoptilos robustus). Previous research suggested thatL. robustusevolved from a smallerLeptoptilosdubius-like Middle Pleistocene ancestor and may have been flightless. However, analyses of this species' considerably expanded hypodigm (n= 43, MNI = 5), which includes 21 newly discovered bones described here for the first time, reveals that the wing bones ofL. robustuswere well-developed and this species was almost certainly capable of active flight. Moreover,L. robustusbones are broadly similar toLeptoptilos falconeriremains from sites in Africa and Eurasia, and its overall size range is comparable to fossils attributed toL. falconeriand similar specimens, as well as those ofLeptoptilos lüi(China) andLeptoptilos titan(Java). This suggests that a Pleistocene dispersal ofL. falconeriinto Island Southeast Asia may have given rise to populations of giant marabou storks in this region. AsL. robustusandL. titanare the most recent known representatives of these once plentiful giant marabou storks, Island Southeast Asia likely acted as a refugium for the last surviving members of this lineage.
The generalized Hashin–Shtrikman approach to Al/nano-TiC composite
Authors: Cherkaev Andrej , Mityushev Vladimir , Rylko Natalia , Kurtyka Pawel
Published: July 2022

The Hashin–Shtrikman approach is generalized and applied to a class of two-phase two-dimensional random macroscopically isotropic composites. The classic theory of the coated Hashin–Shtrikman assemblage (HSA) is extended to inhomogeneous complicated geometric structures. The first model is developed to the inhomogeneous core. The second model is constructed by introduction of the coating envelope considered as an HSA in another scale. The simulation explicitly demonstrates the dependence of the macroscopic properties of nanocomposites manufactured by Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis in Bath on their geometrical structure. The models can be applied to optimal design problems to control the composite crystallization and solidification process by adding the moderator.
Predation shifts coevolution toward higher host contact rate and parasite virulence
Authors: Walsman Jason C. , Cressler Clayton E.
Published: July 2022

Hosts can avoid parasites (and pathogens) by reducing social contact, but such isolation may carry costs, e.g. increased vulnerability to predators. Thus, many predator–host–parasite systems confront hosts with a trade-off between predation and parasitism. Parasites, meanwhile, evolve higher virulence in response to increased host sociality and consequently, increased multiple infections. How does predation shift coevolution of host behaviour and parasite virulence? What if predators are selective, i.e. predators disproportionately capture the sickest hosts? We answer these questions with an eco-coevolutionary model parametrized for a Trinidadian guppy–Gyrodactylusspp. system. Here, increased predation drives host coevolution of higher grouping, which selects for higher virulence. Additionally, higher predator selectivity drives the contact rate higher and virulence lower. Finally, we show how predation and selectivity can have very different impacts on host density and prevalence depending on whether hosts or parasites evolve, or both. For example, higher predator selectivity led to lower prevalence with no evolution or only parasite evolution but higher prevalence with host evolution or coevolution. These findings inform our understanding of diverse systems in which host behavioural responses to predation may lead to increased prevalence and virulence of parasites.
Occupancy winners in tropical protected forests: a pantropical analysis
Authors: Semper-Pascual Asunción , Bischof Richard , Milleret Cyril , Beaudrot Lydia , Vallejo-Vargas Andrea F. , Ahumada Jorge A. , Akampurira Emmanuel , Bitariho Robert , Espinosa Santiago , Jansen Patrick A. , Kiebou-Opepa Cisquet , Moreira Lima Marcela Guimarães , Martin Emanuel H. , Mugerwa Badru , Rovero Francesco , Salvador Julia , Santos Fernanda , Uzabaho Eustrate , Sheil Douglas
Published: July 2022

The structure of forest mammal communities appears surprisingly consistent across the continental tropics, presumably due to convergent evolution in similar environments. Whether such consistency extends to mammal occupancy, despite variation in species characteristics and context, remains unclear. Here we ask whether we can predict occupancy patterns and, if so, whether these relationships are consistent across biogeographic regions. Specifically, we assessed how mammal feeding guild, body mass and ecological specialization relate to occupancy in protected forests across the tropics. We used standardized camera-trap data (1002 camera-trap locations and 2–10 years of data) and a hierarchical Bayesian occupancy model. We found that occupancy varied by regions, and certain species characteristics explained much of this variation. Herbivores consistently had the highest occupancy. However, only in the Neotropics did we detect a significant effect of body mass on occupancy: large mammals had lowest occupancy. Importantly, habitat specialists generally had higher occupancy than generalists, though this was reversed in the Indo-Malayan sites. We conclude that habitat specialization is key for understanding variation in mammal occupancy across regions, and that habitat specialists often benefit more from protected areas, than do generalists. The contrasting examples seen in the Indo-Malayan region probably reflect distinct anthropogenic pressures.
Body condition, skin bacterial communities and disease status: insights from the first release trial of the limosa harlequin frog,Atelopus limosus
Authors: Estrada Angie , Medina Daniel , Gratwicke Brian , Ibáñez Roberto , Belden Lisa K.
Published: July 2022

Many endangered amphibian species survive in captive breeding facilities, but there have been few attempts to reintroduce captive-born individuals to rebuild wild populations. We conducted a soft-release trial of limosa harlequin frogs,Atelopus limosus,which are highly susceptible to the amphibian chytrid fungusBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd), to understand changes associated with the transition from captivity to the wild. Specifically, we assessed changes in body condition, skin-associated bacterial communities and disease status after release. Frogs were housed individually in field mesocosms and monitored for 27 days. Body condition did not significantly change in the mesocosms, and was similar to, or higher than, that of wild conspecifics at day 27. The skin bacteria of captive-born frogs, based on 16S rRNA gene amplicons, became similar to that of wild conspecifics after 27 days in mesocosms. Prevalence of Bd in wild conspecifics was 13–27%, and 15% of theA. limosusin mesocosms became infected with Bd, but no mortality of infected frogs was observed. We conclude that mesocosms are suitable for systematically and repeatedly monitoring amphibians during release trials, and that body condition, the skin microbiome, and Bd status can all change within one month of placement of captive-born individuals back into the wild.
The development of sex differences in song in a tropical duetting wren
Authors: Levin Rachel N. , Paris Tanya I. , Bester-Meredith Janet K.
Published: July 2022

The study of song development has focused on temperate zone birds in which typically only males sing. In the bay wren,
Cantorchilus nigricapillu
s, both sexes sing, performing precisely timed, female-initiated duets in which birds alternate sex-specific song phrases. We investigated the development of these sex differences by collecting bay wren eggs and nestlings, and hand-raising them in individual acoustic isolation chambers. Each bird was tutored with either monophonic or stereophonic recordings of bay wren duets or heard no song. As adults, each tutored bird sang repertoires of complete duets, singing both male and female phrases. In addition, some birds sang only the male or female part of some duets to which they were exposed. Mono-tutored birds showed no sex-specificity in these solo songs, whereas stereo-tutored birds only sang solos consistent with their sex. In addition, stereo-tutored birds acquired songs over a longer period than did mono-tutored birds, and stereo-tutored females showed more sex-specificity than did males during early song production. Finally, we observed that tutored and acoustically isolated birds of both sexes invented male-like songs, whereas only males invent songs in the wild. These results reveal the relative roles of environmental versus innate influences in the development of sex-specific song in this species.
Reality and illusion: the assessment of angular separation of multi-modal signallers in a duetting bird
Authors: Ręk Paweł , Magrath Robert D.
Published: July 2022

The spatial distribution of cooperating individuals plays a strategic role in territorial interactions of many group-living animals, and can indicate group cohesion. Vocalizations are commonly used to judge the distribution of signallers, but the spatial resolution of sounds is poor. Many species therefore accompany calls with movement; however, little is known about the role of audio-visual perception in natural interactions. We studied the effect of angular separation on the efficacy of multimodal duets in the Australian magpie-lark,
Grallina cyanoleuca
. We tested specifically whether conspicuous wing movements, which typically accompany duets, affect responses to auditory angular separation. Multimodal playbacks of duets using robotic models and speakers showed that birds relied primarily on acoustic cues when visual and auditory angular separations were congruent, but used both modalities to judge separation between the signallers when modalities were spatially incongruent. The visual component modified the effect of acoustic separation: robotic models that were apart weakened the response when speakers were together, while models that were together strengthened responses when speakers were apart. Our results show that responses are stronger when signallers are together, and suggest that males were are able to bind information cross-modally on the senders' spatial location, which is consistent with a multisensory illusion.
Mice selected for a high basal metabolic rate evolved larger guts but not more efficient mitochondria
Authors: Brzęk Paweł , Roussel Damien , Konarzewski Marek
Published: July 2022

Intra-specific variation in both the basal metabolic rate (BMR) and mitochondrial efficiency (the amount of ATP produced per unit of oxygen consumed) has profound evolutionary and ecological consequences. However, the functional mechanisms responsible for this variation are not fully understood. Mitochondrial efficiency is negatively correlated with BMR at the interspecific level but it is positively correlated with performance capacity at the intra-specific level. This discrepancy is surprising, as theories explaining the evolution of endothermy assume a positive correlation between BMR and performance capacity. Here, we quantified mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation activity and efficiency in two lines of laboratory mice divergently selected for either high (H-BMR) or low (L-BMR) levels of BMR. H-BMR mice had larger livers and kidneys (organs that are important predictors of BMR). H-BMR mice also showed higher oxidative phosphorylation activity in liver mitochondria but this difference can be hypothesized to be a direct effect of selection only if the heritability of this trait is low. However, mitochondrial efficiency in all studied organs did not differ between the two lines. We conclude that the rapid evolution of BMR can reflect changes in organ size rather than mitochondrial properties, and does not need to be accompanied obligatorily by changes in mitochondrial efficiency.
Insects allocate eggs adaptively according to plant age, stress, disease or damage
Authors: Jones Lachlan C.
Published: July 2022

Most herbivorous insects can only survive on a small subset of the plant species in its environment. Consequently, adult females have evolved sophisticated sensory recognition systems enabling them to find and lay eggs on plants supporting offspring development. This leads to the preference–performance or ‘mother knows best’ hypothesis that insects should be attracted to host plants that confer higher offspring survival. Previous work shows insects generally select plant species that are best for larval survival, although this is less likely for crops or exotic host plants. Even within a species, however, individual plants can vary greatly in potential suitability depending on age, access to water or nutrients or attack by pathogens or other herbivores. Here, I systematically review 71 studies on 62 insect species testing the preference–performance hypothesis with sets of plants varying in age, stress, fungal/microbial infection or herbivore damage. Altogether, 77% of insects tested with a native host (
N
= 43) allocated their eggs to plants best for offspring development, as did 64% (
N
= 22) of insects tested with an exotic host. Results were similar across plant age, stress, disease and damage categories. These findings show adaptive maternal behaviour in insects occurs for both host species and variation among individual plants.