bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topological data analysis of zebrafish patterns
Authors: McGuirl Melissa R. , Volkening Alexandria , Sandstede Björn
Published: February 2020

Self-organized pattern behavior is ubiquitous throughout nature, from fish schooling to collective cell dynamics during organism development. Qualitatively these patterns display impressive consistency, yet variability inevitably exists within pattern-forming systems on both microscopic and macroscopic scales. Quantifying variability and measuring pattern features can inform the underlying agent interactions and allow for predictive analyses. Nevertheless, current methods for analyzing patterns that arise from collective behavior capture only macroscopic features or rely on either manual inspection or smoothing algorithms that lose the underlying agent-based nature of the data. Here we introduce methods based on topological data analysis and interpretable machine learning for quantifying both agent-level features and global pattern attributes on a large scale. Because the zebrafish is a model organism for skin pattern formation, we focus specifically on analyzing its skin patterns as a means of illustrating our approach. Using a recent agent-based model, we simulate thousands of wild-type and mutant zebrafish patterns and apply our methodology to better understand pattern variability in zebrafish. Our methodology is able to quantify the differential impact of stochasticity in cell interactions on wild-type and mutant patterns, and we use our methods to predict stripe and spot statistics as a function of varying cellular communication. Our work provides an approach to automatically quantifying biological patterns and analyzing agent-based dynamics so that we can now answer critical questions in pattern formation at a much larger scale.
HIV-1 uncoats in the nucleus near sites of integration
Authors: Burdick Ryan C. , Li Chenglei , Munshi MohamedHusen , Rawson Jonathan M. O. , Nagashima Kunio , Hu Wei-Shau , Pathak Vinay K.
Published: February 2020

Significance

For several decades, retroviral core uncoating has been thought to occur in the cytoplasm in coordination with reverse transcription, and while some recent studies have concluded that HIV-1 uncoating occurs at the nuclear envelope during nuclear import, none have concluded that uncoating occurs in the nucleus. Here, we developed methods to study HIV-1 uncoating by direct labeling and quantification of the viral capsid protein associated with infectious viral cores that produced transcriptionally active proviruses. We find that infectious viral cores in the nuclei of infected cells are largely intact and uncoat near their integration sites just before integration. These unexpected findings fundamentally change our understanding of HIV-1 postentry replication events.
Oil and gas companies invest in legislators that vote against the environment
Authors: Goldberg Matthew H. , Marlon Jennifer R. , Wang Xinran , van der Linden Sander , Leiserowitz Anthony
Published: February 2020

Do campaign contributions from oil and gas companies influence legislators to vote against the environment, or do these companies invest in legislators that have a proven antienvironmental voting record? Using 28 y of campaign contribution data, we find that evidence consistently supports the investment hypothesis: The more a given member of Congress votes against environmental policies, the more contributions they receive from oil and gas companies supporting their reelection.
Capillary transfer of soft films
Authors: Zhang Yue , Yin Mengtian , Baek Yongmin , Lee Kyusang , Zangari Giovanni , Cai Liheng , Xu Baoxing
Published: February 2020

Significance

Soft films are the basis for an entire class of wearable technologies in flexible electronics and biomedical devices. The capillary transfer approach reported here establishes a rational route for the fast transfer of soft films from liquid onto a solid substrate in a well-defined order that allows achieving deterministic assembly of structures with complex layouts and patterns for applications in the fabrication of flexible electronics, surface wetting structures, and optical devices. The developed theoretical models along with validations from extensive experiments and computational analysis provide a fundamental understanding of solid-liquid interactions in response to external mechanical stimuli that can be leveraged in the exploration of emerging fabrication and self-assembly technologies with a broad scope of materials and liquid environments.
Caloric test versus video head impulse test in vestibular neuritis patients
Authors: Mekki S. , Mohamed W. , Omar S. , Gad N.
Published: February 2020

Background

The caloric test and the video head impulse test (vHIT) are diagnostic tools to examine vestibular neuritis (VN) patients through assessing the function of the semicircular canals. Both tests assess the vestibular ocular reflex (VOR) with major differences between them as regards stimulus characteristics, frequency, methodology and function examined. The caloric test is the gold standard test in VOR assessment. The vHIT assesses the same reflex (VOR) by using a video-assisted examination of the impulsive manoeuvre.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the presence or absence of agreement between both vHIT and the caloric test in VN patients.

Design

A case-control study was conducted in Audiovestibular unit, Department of ENT, Zagazig University Hospitals. About 24 patients with VN were included. Both vHIT and the caloric test were done on two consecutive days. We assessed the agreement between these two tests.

Results

Horizontal gain asymmetry (GA) with the canal paresis. There was a slight agreement between both tests.

Conclusions

The VHIT and the caloric test stimulate different frequencies of VOR. They are complementary rather than being alternatives in the diagnosis of peripheral VN.
Fission and fusion machineries converge at ER contact sites to regulate mitochondrial morphology
Authors: Abrisch Robert G. , Gumbin Samantha C. , Wisniewski Brett Taylor , Lackner Laura L. , Voeltz Gia K.
Published: February 2020

The steady-state morphology of the mitochondrial network is maintained by a balance of constitutive fission and fusion reactions. Disruption of this steady-state morphology results in either a fragmented or elongated network, both of which are associated with altered metabolic states and disease. How the processes of fission and fusion are balanced by the cell is unclear. Here we show that mitochondrial fission and fusion are spatially coordinated at ER membrane contact sites (MCSs). Multiple measures indicate that the mitochondrial fusion machinery, Mitofusins, accumulate at ER MCSs where fusion occurs. Furthermore, fission and fusion machineries colocalize to form hotspots for membrane dynamics at ER MCSs that can persist through sequential events. Because these hotspots can undergo fission and fusion, they have the potential to quickly respond to metabolic cues. Indeed, we discover that ER MCSs define the interface between polarized and depolarized segments of mitochondria and can rescue the membrane potential of damaged mitochondria by ER-associated fusion.
Focus on recent, present and future Arctic and boreal productivity and biomass changes
Authors: Tømmervik Hans , Forbes Bruce C
Published: February 2020

The reduction of cold temperature constraints on photosynthesis in recent decades has led to extended growing seasons and increased plant productivity (greening) in significant parts of Polar, Arctic and Boreal regions, here called northern lands. However, most territories within these regions display stable productivity in recent years. Smaller portions of Arctic and Boreal regions show reduced productivity (browning). Summer drought and wildfires are the best documented drivers causing browning of continental areas. Yet factors like winter warming events dampening the greening effect of more maritime regions have remained elusive, least monitored and least understood. A Norway-US network project called ArcticBiomass was launched in 2013 to further reveal both positive and negative effects of climate change on biomass in Arctic and Boreal regions. This focus collection named Focus on Recent, Present and Future Arctic and Boreal Productivity and Biomass Changes includes 24 articles and is an important outcome of this work and addresses recent changes in phenology, biomass and productivity and the mechanisms. These mechanisms include former human interactions (legacies) and drivers that control such changes (both greening and browning), along with consequences for local, regional and global scale processes. We complete our synthesis by stressing remaining challenges and knowledge gaps, and provide an outlook on future needs and research questions in the study of climate and human driven interactions in terrestrial Arctic and Boreal ecosystems.
Degradation of PVC Waterproofing Membrane containing Plasticizers
Authors: Novotný Marek
Published: February 2020

Durability and repairability are one of the basic conditions for the economically efficient use of building materials. The actual lifetime of PVC waterproofing membrane is not only affected by the ageing of the materials, but also by the ageing of the joints. Thus, a significant phenomenon in the evaluation of the lifetime of roof cladding is its realisation - welding. Plasticizers are used for the production of PVC waterproofing membrane. The migration of the plasticizers and the quantity of non-combustible residues (fillers) influence the service life (durability) and the possibility of subsequent repair. Methods used to determine the quantity of non-combustible residues and quantity of plasticizers are described in the paper. Samples were taken from roofs with degrading roofing layer. Based on the results, the lifetime of the PVC waterproofing membrane was determined in dependence on the plasticizers.
Smart Green Bridge - Wildlife Crossing Bridges of New Generation
Authors: Žák Jaroslav , Kraus Michal , Machová Petra , Plachý Jan
Published: February 2020

The research content of the paper is focused on landscape-vegetation and technical-economic optimization of vegetation elements of buildings. The length of the motorway in the Czech Republic has increased approximately three times since 1995. Road transport infrastructure is constantly growing. Ensuring the passage of important transport structures for fauna is an objective requirement. The function of migration corridors is ensured by wildlife crossing bridge. These constructions are currently based on concrete and steel, which is not only environmentally friendly but also presents several other problems. The paper presents the idea of a new smart solution for wildlife crossing bridge. Smart Green Bridge is based on principles and technologies following the sustainable development such as the use of load-bearing timber structures, extensive greenery of about 100 mm thickness, vertical greenery, self-guiding vertical and horizontal irrigation systems, photovoltaic panels, battery energy storage and next.
Application of Modeling Processes and 3D Print on Casting Molds for Concrete Furniture
Authors: Šál Jiří , Dědič Martin
Published: February 2020

The paper describes the practical use of modeling processes and 3D printing for the production of furniture, decorative and other objects. Using 3D modeling and printing on a 3D printer, it is possible to create a mold and subsequent product with a much more complex shape than would be possible with hand-made formwork or mold, or at least much simpler. Demonstration of applicability of these molds was carried out by an experimental method when the molds were poured out by cement or concrete from the fine aggregate. The forms themselves were formed from PLA filament. Experiments have shown the usability of such molds for complex concrete elements. These forms can be reused. Damage to the molds occurred during handling or cleaning, i.e. rough handling. During the filling itself and the process of cement hydration, they were not damaged. For a longer mold life, it is necessary to print in a larger percentage of filling, which, however, makes the mold more expensive. The durability of molds and better formwork is obtained by using formwork oil.
Extraordinary Hall balance in ultrathin SrRuO3 bilayers
Authors: van Thiel T C , Groenendijk D J , Caviglia A D
Published: February 2020

The correlated 4d transition metal oxide SrRuO3 (SRO) features an anomalous Hall effect that originates from momentum-space sources of Berry curvature and depends sensitively on the magnetization. Here, we exploit this sensitivity and realize an epitaxial extraordinary Hall balance device, consisting of two ultrathin layers of SRO, separated by an insulating SrTiO3 (STO) spacer. Our results highlight the potential of ultrathin SRO in the realization of oxide-based spintronic devices.
In-Depth Study of a Nosocomial Outbreak Caused by Extensively Drug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Using Whole Genome Sequencing Coupled With a Polymerase Chain Reaction Targeting Strain-Specific Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms
Authors: Acosta Fermín , Fernández-Cruz Ana , Maus Sandra R , Sola-Campoy Pedro J , Marín Mercedes , Cercenado Emilia , Sierra Olalla , Muñoz Patricia , García de Viedma Darío , Pérez-Lago Laura
Published: February 2020

In 2013–2014, an outbreak involving 14 patients infected by an extensively drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was detected in a hospital in Madrid, Spain. Our objective was to evaluate an alternative strategy for investigating the outbreak in depth by means of molecular and genomic approaches. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was applied as a first-line approach, followed by a more refined whole genome sequencing analysis. Single nucleotide polymorphisms identified by whole genome sequencing were used to design a specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for screening unsuspected cases infected by the outbreak strain. Whole genome sequencing alerted us to the existence of greater genetic diversity than was initially assumed, splitting the PFGE-associated outbreak isolates into 4 groups, 2 of which represented coincidental transmission unrelated to the outbreak. A multiplex allele-specific PCR targeting outbreak-specific single nucleotide polymorphisms was applied to 290 isolates, which allowed us to identify 25 additional cases related to the outbreak during 2011–2017. Whole genome sequencing coupled with an outbreak-strain-specific PCR enabled us to markedly redefine the initial picture of the outbreak by 1) ruling out initially suspected cases, 2) defining likely independent coincidental transmission events, 3) predating the starting point of the outbreak, 4) capturing new unsuspected cases, and 5) revealing that the outbreak was still active.
Circulating let-7g-5p and miR-191-5p Are Independent Predictors of Chronic Kidney Disease in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Berillo Olga , Huo Ku-Geng , Fraulob-Aquino Júlio C , Richer Chantal , Briet Marie , Boutouyrie Pierre , Lipman Mark L , Sinnett Daniel , Paradis Pierre , Schiffrin Ernesto L
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Hypertension (HTN) is associated with target organ damage such as cardiac, vascular, and kidney injury. Several studies have investigated circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers of cardiovascular disease, but few have examined them as biomarker of target organ damage in HTN. We aimed to identify circulating miRNAs that could serve as biomarkers of HTN-induced target organ damage using an unbiased approach.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Fifteen normotensive subjects, 16 patients with HTN, 15 with HTN associated with other features of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), and 16 with HTN or chronic kidney disease (CKD) were studied. Circulating RNA extracted from platelet-poor plasma was used for small RNA sequencing. Differentially expressed (DE) genes were identified with a threshold of false discovery rate <0.1. DE miRNAs were identified uniquely associated with HTN, MetS, or CKD. However, only 2 downregulated DE miRNAs (let-7g-5p and miR-191-5p) could be validated by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Let-7g-5p was associated with large vessel stiffening, miR-191-5p with MetS, and both miRNAs with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and neutrophil and lymphocyte fraction or number and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. Using the whole population, stepwise multiple linear regression generated a model showing that let-7g-5p, miR-191-5p, and urinary albumin/creatinine ratio predicted eGFR with an adjusted R2 of 0.46 (P = 8.5e−7).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified decreased circulating let-7g-5p and miR-191-5p as independent biomarkers of CKD among patients with HTN, which could have pathophysiological and therapeutic implications.
Predictors of Readmission Following Outpatient Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Hansen Emmanuel Mangkornkaew , Mejldal Anna , Nielsen Anette Søgaard
Published: February 2020

Aims

To identify predictors of readmission to outpatient treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) with a view to identifying underlying mechanisms for preventing relapse.

Methods

A consecutive clinical cohort of 2130 AUD outpatients treated between 1 January 2006 and 1 June 2016 was studied. Data were collected by means of the Addiction Severity Index upon treatment entry and at discharge. Outcome measures were readmission to outpatient treatment and time to readmission. Potential predictors were tested for significance using Cox Proportional Hazards multivariate analysis.

Results

A total of 22% were readmitted during the follow-up time. Patients readmitted within 1 year of treatment conclusion differed significantly from those not readmitted on age, cohabitation status and completion status of index treatment. Significant predictors of readmission during follow-up time were younger age (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.99, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.98–1.00), history of psychiatric illness (HR = 1.24, 95% CI, 1.02–1.50), drop-out from index treatment (HR = 1.41, 95% CI, 1.15–1.72) and length of index treatment (HR = 1.02, 95% CI, 1.00–1.04).

Conclusion

Premature drop-out from treatment, a history of psychiatric illness, younger age and longer treatment episodes appear to be the most important predictors of readmission.
What’s the Matter with Ohio? Liberal Democracy and the Challenge of Irrationality
Authors: Huehls Mitchum
Published: February 2020

This essay mines 100 years of fiction about the irrationalities of small-town Ohio to ask whether liberal democracy can accommodate irrationality or is required, because of its double commitment to equality and liberty, to exclude it. Reading novels from Sherwood Anderson, William Gass, and Stephen Markley, I trace a trajectory from the late nineteenth century of Anderson’s Winesburg, Ohio (1919), when irrationality partially grounded liberal community, to the twenty-first century of Markley’s Ohio (2018), when the irrationalities of violence, addiction, racism, and abuse constitute what I call “piteous solidarity,” a form of solidarity grounded on our shared inhumanity. I conclude by speculating that such piteous solidarity might represent “the mobilization of common affects in defense of equality and social justice” that Chantal Mouffe has recently argued is necessary for constituting the “we” of a left populism.
rMSIproc: an R package for mass spectrometry imaging data processing
Authors: Ràfols Pere , Heijs Bram , del Castillo Esteban , Yanes Oscar , McDonnell Liam A , Brezmes Jesús , Pérez-Taboada Iara , Vallejo Mario , García-Altares María , Correig Xavier
Published: February 2020

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) can reveal biochemical information directly from a tissue section. MSI generates a large quantity of complex spectral data which is still challenging to translate into relevant biochemical information. Here, we present rMSIproc, an open-source R package that implements a full data processing workflow for MSI experiments performed using TOF or FT-based mass spectrometers. The package provides a novel strategy for spectral alignment and recalibration, which allows to process multiple datasets simultaneously. This enables to perform a confident statistical analysis with multiple datasets from one or several experiments. rMSIproc is designed to work with files larger than the computer memory capacity and the algorithms are implemented using a multi-threading strategy. rMSIproc is a powerful tool able to take full advantage of modern computer systems to completely develop the whole MSI potential.

Availability and implementation

rMSIproc is freely available at https://github.com/prafols/rMSIproc.

Contact

pere.rafols@urv.cat

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The 1983 Strike-Hard Campaign in China: a Moral Panic?
Authors: Dai Mengliang
Published: February 2020

Though more than three decades have passed since the launch of Strike Hard in 1983, its impact on crimes remains. Most of the literature on the campaign so far has been theoretically and methodologically limited. Using historical materials and interview data, this paper establishes an integrated theoretical framework and aims at investigating whether and how a moral panic was constructed. This study argues that the top leader played a decisive role in engineering the moral panic during the 1983 Strike Hard operated through a top-down approach under the Chinese political structure. In short, exploring events from the perspective of moral panic, this study gives a deep insight into the Chinese criminal justice system in response to crimes.
Simultaneous Quantitative Analysis of Multiple Biotransformation Products of Xian-Ling-Gu-Bao, a Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription, with Rat Intestinal Microflora by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography Tandem Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Tang Xi-Yang , Gao Meng-Xue , Xiao Hui-Hui , Yun Wei-Jing , Dai Yi , Yao Zhi-Hong , Wong Man-Sau , Yao Xin-Sheng
Published: February 2020

Xian-Ling-Gu-Bao (XLGB), a famous traditional Chinese medicine prescription consisted of six herbal medicines, was used for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in China. As an oral formulation, the multiple components contained in XLGB were inevitably biotransformed by the intestinal microflora before absorption via the gastrointestinal tract. However, the dynamic profiles of biotransformation products of XLGB remain unknown. In this paper, a rapid and sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method was developed for the simultaneous quantitative analysis of multiple biotransformation products of XLGB with rat intestinal microflora. For 10 selected quantitative compounds, all calibration curves revealed good linearity (r2 > 0.99) within the sampling ranges considered. The whole intra- and inter-day precisions (as relative standard deviation) of all analytes were <13.5%, and the accuracies (as relative error) were in the range from −11.3 to 11.2%. The lower limits of quantification were 20, 10, 5, 20, 2, 2, 2, 5, 2 and 2 ng/mL for sweroside, timosaponin BII, epimedin C, asperosaponin VI, psoralen, isobavachin, icariside II, timosaponin AIII, isobavachalcone and icaritin, respectively. The matrix effects, extraction recoveries and stabilities were all satisfactory. Meanwhile, dynamic profiles of 21 additional biotransformation products were also monitored by their area-time curves. The analytical method was successfully applied to describe dynamic profiles of 31 biotransformation products of XLGB and the recipes with removal of a definite composed herbal medicine (Anemarrhenae Rhizoma or Rehmanniae Radix).
Testing a key assumption of using drones as frightening devices: Do birds perceive drones as risky?
Authors: Egan Conor C , Blackwell Bradley F , Fernández-Juricic Esteban , Klug Page E
Published: February 2020

Wildlife managers have recently suggested the use of unmanned aircraft systems or drones as nonlethal hazing tools to deter birds from areas of human-wildlife conflict. However, it remains unclear if birds perceive common drone platforms as threatening. Based on field studies assessing behavioral and physiological responses, it is generally assumed that birds perceive less risk from drones than from predators. However, studies controlling for multiple confounding effects have not been conducted. Our goal was to establish the degree to which the perception of risk by birds would vary between common drone platforms relative to a predator model when flown at different approach types. We evaluated the behavioral responses of individual Red-winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) to 3 drone platforms: a predator model, a fixed-wing resembling an airplane, and a multirotor, approaching either head-on or overhead. Blackbirds became alert earlier (by 13.7 s), alarm-called more frequently (by a factor of 12), returned to forage later (by a factor of 4.7), and increased vigilance (by a factor of 1.3) in response to the predator model compared with the multirotor. Blackbirds also perceived the fixed-wing as riskier than the multirotor, but less risky than the predator model. Overhead approaches mostly failed to elicit flight in blackbirds across all platform types, and no blackbirds took flight in response to the multirotor at either overhead or head-on approaches. Our findings demonstrate that birds perceived drones with predatory characteristics as riskier than common drone models (i.e. fixed-wing and multirotor platforms). We recommend that drones be modified with additional stimuli to increase perceived risk when used as frightening devices, but avoided if used for wildlife monitoring.
Pathobiology of pulmonary artery hypertension: role of long non-coding RNAs
Authors: Zahid Kashif Rafiq , Raza Umar , Chen Jidong , Raj Usha J , Gou Deming
Published: February 2020

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a disease with complex pathobiology, significant morbidity and mortality, and remains without a cure. It is characterized by vascular remodelling associated with uncontrolled proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, endothelial cell proliferation and dysfunction, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, leading to narrowing of the vascular lumen, increased vascular resistance and pulmonary arterial pressure, which inevitably results in right heart failure and death. There are multiple molecules and signalling pathways that are involved in the vascular remodelling, including non-coding RNAs, i.e. microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). It is only in recent years that the role of lncRNAs in the pathobiology of pulmonary vascular remodelling and right ventricular dysfunction is being vigorously investigated. In this review, we have summarized the current state of knowledge about the role of lncRNAs as key drivers and gatekeepers in regulating major cellular and molecular trafficking involved in the pathogenesis of PAH. In addition, we have discussed the limitations and challenges in translating lncRNA research in vivo and in therapeutic applications of lncRNAs in PAH.
Mortality in trials on transcatheter aortic valve implantation versus surgical aortic valve replacement: a pooled meta-analysis of Kaplan–Meier-derived individual patient data
Authors: Barili Fabio , Freemantle Nicholas , Pilozzi Casado Alberto , Rinaldi Mauro , Folliguet Thierry , Musumeci Francesco , Gerosa Gino , Parolari Alessandro
Published: February 2020

OBJECTIVES

This meta-analysis of Kaplan–Meier-estimated individual patient data was designed to evaluate the effects of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) on the long-term all-cause mortality rate, to examine the potential time-varying effect and to model their hazard ratios (HRs) over time. Moreover, we sought to compare traditional meta-analytic tools and estimated individual patient data meta-analyses.

METHODS

Trials comparing TAVI versus SAVR were identified through Medline, Embase, Cochrane databases and specialist websites. The primary outcome was death from any cause at follow-up. Enhanced secondary analyses of survival curves were performed estimating individual patient time-to-event data from published Kaplan–Meier curves. Treatments were compared with the random effect Cox model in a landmark framework and fully parametric models.

RESULTS

We identified 6 eligible trials that included 6367 participants, randomly assigned to undergo TAVI (3252) or SAVR (3115). According to the landmark analysis, the incidence of death in the first year after implantation was significantly lower in the TAVI group [risk-profile stratified HR 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.73–0.99; P = 0.04], whereas there was a reversal of the HR after 40 months (risk-profile stratified HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.01–1.68; P = 0.04) favouring SAVR over TAVI. This time-varying trend of HRs was also confirmed by a fully parametric time-to-event model. Traditional meta-analytic tools were shown to be biased because they did not intercept heterogeneity and the time-varying effect.

CONCLUSIONS

The mortality rates in trials of TAVI versus SAVR are affected by treatments with a time-varying effect. TAVI is related to better survival in the first months after implantation whereas, after 40 months, it is a risk factor for all-cause mortality.
Conducting a Community-Based ESOL Programme Needs Analysis
Authors: Feuerherm Emily , Oshio Toko
Published: February 2020

This article traces a community-based participatory action research (CBPAR) project which engaged local non-profits and the immigrant community in Flint, Michigan, USA, to identify areas for growth in support of local immigrant-background residents. Collaborative data-gathering began in 2015 with the creation of a community asset map which outlined existing services available to immigrants, as well as potential areas for growth. This was followed by a series of linguistically and culturally sensitive focus groups with immigrant-background participants. The use of CBPAR was foundational to this study because it engaged the local community in the needs analysis process and resulted in the development of grassroots ESOL programming. The article outlines steps and recommendations for community-based participatory ESOL needs analysis that can be applied to other geographical regions and ESOL programmes.
Science in support of ecologically sound decommissioning strategies for offshore man-made structures: taking stock of current knowledge and considering future challenges
Authors: Birchenough Silvana N R , Degraer Steven
Published: February 2020

The blue growth agenda has spurred an accelerating exploitation and continued development of the coastal and marine environment. This is also driven by the increasing need to generate renewable energy. In most cases, this has resulted in a large number of man-made structures (MMSs) across several soft sediment environments. The nature of these structures ranges from oil and gas installations to harbour walls, anchored buoys, pipelines and offshore wind farms. These structures host fouling communities that are often new to offshore regions, potentially serving as stepping stones for range-expanding (non-indigenous) species and providing habitat and shelter for a variety of marine species. The altered local biodiversity also affects biological and biogeochemical processes from the water column to the seafloor, either directly (e.g. scouring, organic matter export from piles) or indirectly (e.g. closure or displacement of fisheries) and, hence, ecosystem functioning at various spatial and temporal scales. A proper understanding of the effects of artificial hard substrate and the consequences of its removal (e.g. through decommissioning) to marine biodiversity has yet to develop to maturity. This themed article set contributes to the scientific knowledge base on the impacts of MMSs on marine ecosystems with the specific aim to fertilize and facilitate an evidence-based debate over decommissioning. This discussion will become ever more vital to inform marine spatial planning and future policy decisions on the use and protection of marine resources.
A Vanishing Associated With Irregular MSP Fields
Authors: Chang Huai-Liang , Li Jun
Published: February 2020

In [ 7] and [ 8], the notion of Mixed-Spin-P (MSP) fields is introduced and their ${\mathbb{C}}^\ast $-equivariant moduli space ${{\mathcal{W}}}_{g,\gamma ,{\textbf d}}$ is constructed. In this paper, we prove a vanishing of a class of localization terms in $[(\mathcal{W}_{g,\gamma ,\mathbf{d}})^{\mathbb{C}^*}]^{\textrm{vir}}$, which implies the only quintic FJRW invariants that contribute to the relations derived from the theory of MSP fields are those with pure insertions $2/5$. It is critical in a proof of BCOV Feynman sum formula for quintic Calabi–Yau three-folds.
The Adjuvanted Recombinant Zoster Vaccine in Adults Aged ≥65 Years Previously Vaccinated With a Live-Attenuated Herpes Zoster Vaccine
Authors: Dagnew Alemnew F , Klein Nicola P , Hervé Caroline , Kalema George , Di Paolo Emmanuel , Peterson James , Salaun Bruno , Schuind Anne
Published: February 2020

Background

Efficacy of the live-attenuated herpes zoster (HZ) vaccine (ZVL) wanes substantially over time. We evaluated immunogenicity and safety of the adjuvanted recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) in previous ZVL recipients.

Methods

Adults aged ≥65 years who were previously vaccinated with ZVL ≥5 years earlier (n = 215) were group-matched with ZVL-naive individuals (n = 215) and vaccinated with RZV. Glycoprotein E (gE)–specific humoral and cell-mediated immune responses and the correlation between them, polyfunctional gE-specific CD4 T-cell responses, safety, and confirmed HZ cases were assessed.

Results

Through 12 months after dose 2, anti-gE antibody concentrations, gE-specific CD4 T-cell frequencies, and activation marker profiles were similar between groups. Safety outcomes were also similar. No HZ episodes were confirmed.

Conclusions

RZV induced strong humoral and polyfunctional cell-mediated immune responses that persisted above prevaccination levels through 1 year after dose 2 in adults aged ≥65 years irrespective of previous ZVL vaccination. The RZV safety profile was not affected.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT02581410.
JUND-dependent up-regulation of HMOX1 is associated with cisplatin resistance in muscle-invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Peng Ye , Chen Yongjie , Chen Shiwei , Wang Jiaolian , Jiang Cheng , Hou Wugang , Xu Chun
Published: February 2020

The standard-of-care for metastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is platinum-based chemotherapy regimens. Acquired resistance that occurs frequently through unidentified mechanisms, however, remains the major obstacle for implementing therapeutic effectiveness. Here, using data mining and analysis on clinical samples, we show that expression of JUND, a core component of activator protein-1 family, was significantly induced in cisplatin (CDDP)-resistant MIBC. Accumulation of nuclear JUND was associated with low post-chemotherapy survival in MIBC patients. In both genetically engineered cell models and murine xenograft models, we provided evidence that bladder cancer (BC) cells with excessive JUND expression were less responsive to CDDP treatment. This CDDP resistance was further demonstrated to be mediated, at least in part, by transactivation of HMOX1 [the gene encoding heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1)], one of the most important antioxidant signalling pathways of cell adaptation to stress. One mutation within the HMOX1 promoter successfully abolished oxidative stress-enhanced and JUND-driven HMOX1 promoter activation, suggesting that this unique site synergized for maximal HO-1 induction in CDDP-challenged BC cells. Overall, our data highlight an indispensible role of JUND, both as a target as a modifier of the oxidative stress signalling, in conferring an adaptive response during the pathogenesis of CDDP resistance in MIBC.
Growth, mortality, ovarian maturity, and exploitation of the Guinea shrimp, Holthuispenaeopsis atlantica (Balss, 1914) (Decapoda: Dendrobranchiata: Penaeidae) in inshore waters of Ghana, West Africa
Authors: Okpei Paulina , Aggrey-Fynn Joseph , Okyere Isaac
Published: February 2020

The Guinea shrimp, Holthuispenaeopsis (= Parapenaeopsis) atlantica (Balss, 1914) is exploited by traditional and commercial fisheries in the Gulf of Guinea, West Africa. We assessed growth, mortality, ovarian maturity, and exploitation of the population of the species in inshore waters of Ghana as a contribution of filling the knowledge gap on the species. Samples were obtained from fish landing sites from three different coastal towns in Ghana from October, 2017 to May, 2018. Length-frequency data were used to estimate growth, mortality and exploitation ratio. The modal class for males was 6.0–6.9 cm total length (TL) and 9.0–9.9 cm TL in females. The length and weight relationship established that growth in both sexes was negatively allometric. The estimated growth parameters from the length frequency data fitted with the von Bertalanffy growth function were asymptotic length (L∞) of 10.08 cm for males and 15.4 cm for females. The growth constant (K) was calculated as 0.99 yr–1 for males and 0.89 yr–1 for females. The mean length-at-first capture (Lc) was found to be lower than the mean length at sexual maturity (Lm). The sex ratio showed a preponderance of females over males throughout the period, with 76.21% females. The total mortality rate (Z) for males was more than for females. The estimated natural mortality was 2.32 yr−1 for males and 1.93 yr−1 for females (M) whiles ﬁshing mortality (F) rate was 1.22 yr−1 for males and 1.46 yr−1 for females. The exploitation ratio showed the stocks were not over-exploited. The estimated population parameters of the species obtained should be significant for the sustainable management of this resource.
Mortality of Different Stages of Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) at Three Temperatures in Controlled Atmosphere of High Nitrogen
Authors: Huang Yilin , Wang Dianxuan , Jian Fuji , Jayas Digvir S , Chen Chuqiao , Wang Dingyue
Published: February 2020

The lethal exposure time to controlled atmospheres of high nitrogen at stored grain temperatures is an important information for control of stored-product insects. The mortality of 1-d-old egg, 1-wk-old (first or second instar) larva, 3-wk-old (fourth or fifth instar) larva, and 1-d-old pupa of Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) was determined at 18 ± 1, 23 ± 1, and 28 ± 1°C in 98% N2 mixed with air. At 18°C, the lethal exposure times to achieve 100% mortality were 12.7 ± 0.7, 16.3 ± 0.3, 19.7 ± 0.7, and 14.7 ± 0.7 d for 1-d-old egg, 1-wk-old larva, 3-wk-old larva, and 1-d-old pupa, respectively. Temperature had significant effect on the lethal exposure time, and increase of the temperature significantly decreased the lethal exposure time. The order of the insect stages from the highest to lowest for LT50 values was follows: 3-wk-old larva > 1-wk-old larva > 1-d-old pupa ≥ 1-d-old egg. The minimum lethal exposure times required to kill all stages of P. interpunctella were about 20, 16, and 12 d at 18, 23, and 28°C, respectively.
A Real-Time PCR Assay for Rapid Identification of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Zink Frida A , Tembrock Luke R , Timm Alicia E , Gilligan Todd M
Published: February 2020

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick), is a highly destructive pest of tomatoes, causing damage to leaves, stalks, buds, and fruits. Native to South America, T. absoluta is now found throughout Europe, South Asia, Africa, parts of Central America, and the Caribbean. Adults are small, with a wingspan of approximately one cm and lack distinctive markings, making morphological identification difficult. Larvae are also difficult to identify and resemble those of many other gelechiids. Due to the extensive time spent and expertise required for morphological identification, and the imminent threat to the North American tomato crop, we have developed a rapid molecular test for discriminating individual specimens of T. absoluta using a probe-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. The assay is able to quickly distinguish T. absoluta from similar-sized moth specimens that are attracted to T. absoluta pheromone lures in the United States and is also able to identify larvae of T. absoluta. Decreased identification time for this critical pest will lead to more rapid identification at ports of entry and allow for more efficient trap screening for domestic monitoring programs.
Effect of Treatment With 3-Octylthio-1,1,1-Trifluoropropan-2-One in the Diamondback Moth (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) to the Toxicity of Diafenthiuron, Indoxacarb, and Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Huang Jingfei , Tian Sufen , Ren Ke , Chen Yong , Lin Shuo , Chen Yixin , Tian Houjun , Zhao Jianwei , Wang Changfang , Wei Hui , Gu Xiaojun
Published: February 2020

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), is a worldwide insect pest of cruciferous crops. Although insecticides have long been used for its control, diamondback moth rapidly evolves resistance to almost any insecticide. In insects, juvenile hormone (JH) is critically involved in almost all biological processes. The correct activity of JH depends on the precise regulation of its titer, and juvenile hormone esterase (JHE) is the key regulator. Thus, JH and JHE have become important targets for new insecticide development. Trifluoromethyl ketones are specific JHE inhibitors, among which 3-octylthio-1,1,1-trifluoropropan-2-one (OTFP) has the highest activity. The interaction effects between pretreatment with or combination of OTFP and the insecticides diafenthiuron, indoxacarb, and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) were investigated in diamondback moth larvae to determine OTFP’s potential as an insecticide synergist. In third-instar larvae, both pretreatment and combination treatment with OTFP decreased or antagonized the toxicities of diafenthiuron, indoxacarb, and Bt at all set concentrations. In fourth-instar larvae, combination treatment with OTFP decreased or antagonized the toxicities of diafenthiuron and indoxacarb at all set concentrations. However, it increased or synergized the toxicity of Bt at lower concentrations despite the limited effect at higher concentrations. Our results indicated that the effect of OTFP on the toxicities of insecticides varied with the type and concentration, larval stage, and treatment method. These findings contribute to the better use of OTFP in diamondback moth control.
Trunk Refugia: A Simple, Inexpensive Method for Sampling Tree Trunk Arthropods
Authors: Salman Ibrahim N A , Ferrante Marco , Möller Daniella M , Gavish-Regev Efrat , Lubin Yael
Published: February 2020

Trees host a large share of the global arthropod diversity. Several methodologies have been described to sample arthropods from trees, ranging from active sampling techniques (e.g., visual searching, beating, or shaking the branches) to passive sampling devices. The majority of these collection techniques are destructive, and do not specifically target the tree trunk arthropod fauna. Here, we describe an alternative sampling method called trunk refugia (TR). TR are cylindrical shelters made of corrugated cardboard that can be secured to trees using string, and can remain exposed for varying time periods. These refugia are inexpensive, easy to use, and suitable to monitor a diverse array of insects and arachnids. Moreover, TR are nonlethal sampling tools, and allow collecting live individuals for behavioral studies or for rearing.
Regional-scale variation on Dromiciops gliroides occurrence, abundance, and activity patterns along a habitat disturbance gradient
Authors: Rodríguez-Gómez Gloria B , Fontúrbel Francisco E
Published: February 2020

Habitat structure may have a significant influence on the occurrence, abundance, and activity patterns of forest mammals. However, anthropogenic habitat disturbance changes habitat structure, which may alter those patterns of activity. We assessed occurrence, relative abundance, and activity patterns of Dromiciops gliroides, an arboreal marsupial endemic to the temperate rainforests of southern South America, contrasting four forest conditions at a regional scale: old-growth, second-growth, and logged forests, and abandoned exotic plantations. We conducted a camera-trap assessment in two consecutive austral summers across most of the Chilean range of D. gliroides, and compared habitat structure along a disturbance gradient. All structural features assessed differed among forest conditions. Dromiciops gliroides was present in all forest conditions, but its abundance decreased and activity got narrower as disturbance increased, being significantly lower in the exotic plantations. Activity patterns were variable among forest conditions and months, and were significantly more restricted temporally at exotic plantations. Although D. gliroides is tolerant to habitat disturbance, we show that structural alteration results in lower abundances and narrower activity patterns.
Contraceptive counselling: an essential travel medicine service
Authors: Martins Summer L , Boraas Christy M
Published: February 2020

Non-physician healthcare practitioners are increasingly providing pre-travel care, including completing risk assessments and prescribing medications and vaccines. While this increases pre-travel care access, the quality of this care must be ensured. Doing so requires translation of existing prescribing competencies and best practices in competence development into policies regulating pre-travel care.
Transcriptional analysis of arogenate dehydratase genes identifies a link between phenylalanine biosynthesis and lignin biosynthesis
Authors: El-Azaz Jorge , de la Torre Fernando , Pascual María Belén , Debille Sandrine , Canlet Francis , Harvengt Luc , Trontin Jean-François , Ávila Concepción , Cánovas Francisco M
Published: February 2020

Biogenesis of the secondary cell wall in trees involves the massive biosynthesis of the phenylalanine-derived polymer lignin. Arogenate dehydratase (ADT) catalyzes the last, and rate-limiting, step of the main pathway for phenylalanine biosynthesis. In this study, we found that transcript levels for several members of the large ADT gene family, including ADT-A and ADT-D, were enhanced in compression wood of maritime pine, a xylem tissue enriched in lignin. Transcriptomic analysis of maritime pine silenced for PpMYB8 revealed that this gene plays a critical role in coordinating the deposition of lignin with the biosynthesis of phenylalanine. Specifically, it was found that ADT-A and ADT-D were strongly down-regulated in PpMYB8-silenced plants and that they were transcriptionally regulated through direct interaction of this transcription factor with regulatory elements present in their promoters. Another transcription factor, PpHY5, exhibited an expression profile opposite to that of PpMYB8 and also interacted with specific regulatory elements of ADT-A and ADT-D genes, suggesting that it is involved in transcriptional regulation of phenylalanine biosynthesis. Taken together, our results reveal that PpMYB8 and PpHY5 are involved in the control of phenylalanine formation and its metabolic channeling for lignin biosynthesis and deposition during wood formation in maritime pine.