bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic characterization of local Peranakan Etawa goat reared in Polman regency, West Sulawesi
Authors: Rahim L , Bugiwati S R A , Dagong M I A
Published: June 2020

Goats are one of the mainstay commodities for farmers in rural areas, especially in several development centers in the West Sulawesi region, Indonesia. Generally the local goats that are kept are Kacang goats which are the type of meat production, but since the introduction of the Etawa breed most of the goat population that is currently being kept is from the Peranakan Etawa (PE) goat which is a cross between Kacang and Etawa goats which later develop into dual-purpose goats (meat and milk). The purpose of this study was to characterize the phenotypic (qualitative and quantitative) properties of Peranakan Etawa (PE) goats which were maintained by communities in the West Sulawesi region, Indonesia. This study used a survey method by identifying the qualitative and quantitative performance of the PE goat population. Characterization activities carried out were to identify the performance criteria of qualitative traits which included the characteristics of coat color, horn and ear shape and quantitative properties such as body weight, height, body length and chest circumference and chest width. A total of 113 goats (111 females and 2 male Peranakan Etawa breeds) were selected to be used as samples from the existing goat population. Peranakan Etawa breeding performance based on morphometric data included the characteristics of shoulder height (67.98 ± 5.61 cm), back height (71.34 ± 5.73 cm), body length (71.70 ± 6.46 cm), chest circumference (72.19 ± 6.46 cm), chest width (15.41 ± 1.86 cm) and body weight (33.04 ± 6.09 kg). The qualitative and quantitative performance of Etawa breeds in West Sulawesi is very diverse and need genetic improvement to meet Indonesia National Quality Standards (SNI).
Phenotype characteristics of Gaga chicken from Sidrap regency, South Sulawesi
Authors: Bugiwati S R A , Syakir A , Dagong M I A
Published: June 2020

This study aims to determine the qualitative characteristics of Gaga chickens in Baranti and Pancarijang District, Sidrap Regency. A total of 170 adult Gaga chickens (115 male and 55 female) were used as samples, which were taken by purposive sampling. Qualitative traits observed were feather color, feather color pattern, feather flicker, shank color, comb shape, lobe and eye color. Data were then tabulated based on sex and analyzed statistically descriptive. The results showed that the qualitative trait phenotypes in males and females were dominated by the color feathers in the color category (ii) and recessive in the white color category (I_). The qualitative traits of the male Gaga chicken feather pattern are predominantly wild feather patterns (e+), whereas in females are dominated by black feather patterns (E_). The shape of the single comb and red lobe color is dominant in the Gaga chicken found in Baranti and Pancarijang. While eye color and shank color have phenotypic frequencies that are still very diverse.
Identification performance of quantitative traits of Marica goats in Maros and Jeneponto regencies
Authors: Septiyawan G A , Bugiwati S R A , Dagong M I A
Published: June 2020

Utilization of local goats in Indonesia that have good genetic potential cannot be characterized and utilized optimally even though the population has been successfully used. The Marica goat is one of Indonesia’s original endemic goats found in Maros and Jeneponto regencies, South Sulawesi province. Currently Marica goats are hard to find, so the total population is unknown. Marica goat for conservation purposes as native goats South Sulawesi it takes information about the character or the morphology of Marica goat. The research material is 51 head of Marica goats and 65 head of Kacang goats aged around 2-3 years. The data obtained were processed descriptively, calculated average values, standard deviation values, coefficient of variation values, and independent t tests. The result of the identification of quantitative traits is that the body dimensions tend to be smaller than those of Kacang goat. Marica goats and Kacang goats have a high level of homogeneity (CV<20%).
Effect of probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei on hematology and relative weight of lymphoid organs of broiler
Authors: Hidayat M N , Malaka R , Agustina L , Pakiding W
Published: June 2020

One alternative approach can be done to replace the antibiotic growth promotant function (AGP) in broiler, which is the use of probiotic microorganisms. The aim of this study was to look at the effects of probiotics on Lactobacillus paracasei on hematological conditions and lymphoid organs. This study used a completely randomized design consisting of 4 treatments with 5 replications, each replication using 4 broiler chickens. Treatment consists of controls (0 mL/day), probiotics 1 mL/day, probiotics 3 mL/day, and probiotics 5 mL/day. The probiotics used in this study, namely Lactobacillus paracasei (5.8 x 107 CFU/mL) were given through drinking water. The results showed that the treatment had no significant effect (p>0.05) on the number of erythrocytes, hematocrit percentage, hemoglobin level, number of leucocytes, and erythrocyte index. Likewise, treatment had no significant effect (p>0.05) on the relative weights of bursa fabricius, thymus, and spleen exchanges. The values shown in hematology parameters are all within the normal range. Whereas in the lymphoid organ parameters there is a tendency for the relative weight of lymphoid organs to be greater in the treatment of Lactobacillus paracasei than in controls. Probiotics Lactobacillus paracasei used in this study did not respond poorly to hematological features and can be used as an immunomodulator in broilers.
Production of black soldier flies (Hermetia illucen) maggot to the chicken feces media level
Authors: Mahmud A T B A , Santi  , Rahardja DP , Bugiwati RRSRA , Sari DK
Published: June 2020

In addition to having high nutrition, Hermetia illucens maggot also has fulfilling nutrients to be used as poultry feed ingredients. The aim of this research was to obtain high H. illucens maggot production and as quality feed. This study was designed using a completely randomized design with four treatments of the media type and three replications. In total, 12 treatment combinations were produced, i.e. 4×3 experimental units. P0: 100% tofu waste, P1: 50% tofu waste and 50% chicken feces, P2: 75% tofu waste and 25% chicken feces, P3: 25% tofu waste and 75% chicken feces. The results obtained were chicken feces media at different levels significantly affected (p<0.05) the dry matter, crude protein, crude fat, and crude fiber level of black soldier flies (H. illucens) maggot. The highest dry matter and crude protein level were on P1 and lowest were on P3. The crude fat level of P0 was significantly higher than P2 and P3 but equal to P1. Crude fiber level of P0 was significantly lower than P2 and was not significantly different from P1 and P3. In conclusion, media that had high production was found in P1 with the high dry matter, crude protein and crude fat levels, and low crude fiber level.
Carcass percentage and digestive organs development of broilers fed diets containing organic selenium and fermented selenium-rich feedstuffs
Authors: Mozin S , Hatta U , Sarjuni S , Toana N M , Gobel M , Sundu B
Published: June 2020

Fermentation has been practiced to bio convert inorganic substances into more readily available nutrients. Selenium is an important trace mineral functioning to improve growth and health status. A study was carried out to determine the carcass percentage and organ development of broilers fed fermented diets with the addition of selenium. Rice bran from the local market was purchased and finely ground. One kg rice bran added with 1 g sodium selenite as source of selenium (Se) was autoclaved for 20 minutes at 20 psi. The autoclaved rice bran was added with distilled water up to 80% moisture concentration. The autoclaved mixture was incubated with two different fungi (Aspergillus niger and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) for 120 hours to produce fermented rice bran with A. niger (FRBAN) and fermented rice bran with S. cerevisiae (FRBSC). The study used 140 day-old-chicks as experimental animals. The birds were kept in cages for 6 weeks and fed 5 different diets ad-libitum. The treatments were control basal diet (T-1), control + 0.4 ppm Se (sodium selenite; T-2), control basal diet + 0.4 ppm Se from Selplex commercial feed additive rich in Se (T-3), control diet + 0.4 ppm Se derived from FRBSC (T-4) and control basal diet + 0.4 Se derived from FRBAN (T-5). A completely randomized design was adopted in this study with 5 treatments and 4 replications. Results of the study indicate that percentages of liver, gizzard, and carcass were lower in birds fed diets containing sodium selenite. Shorter relative length and diameter of the small intestine were also found in the birds offered the sodium selenite – supplemented diet. The percentages of abdominal fat and breast muscle were not affected by treatment diets. In conclusion, the addition of Se in the form of sodium selenite negatively affected percentages of the liver, gizzard, carcass and digestive tract dimensions. Fermentation of rice bran containing sodium selenite could minimize the detrimental effect of inorganic selenium.
Legal aspects in development of beef cattle in South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Hamzah  , Yusuf M
Published: June 2020

Development of livestock, especially beef cattle is intended to achieve a high rate of production in order to accomplish the need of food that comes from animal. On the side of technology, livestock production has long been developed to increase the production, quality and the other reasons, however non-technical reasons are also affecting the livestock production. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explain the legal aspect of non-technical reason of cattle development, especially Bali cattle in South Sulawesi. In development of these livestock, mostly are raised by small holder farms system, whereas those cattle are raising in extensive system including housing and feeding system with very small livestock technology applied. The most two non-technical problems that limits the development of cattle even reduced the population are stealing the cattle and slaughtering of pregnant cows. These two problems are significantly inhibits the development of cattle population as well as sustainability. Efforts to cope the problems have been conducted by the government as well as in cooperation with national security. Regulation that related to the problems have also been made by the government, however it seems that several obstacles in application of this regulation. Therefore, it can be concluded that legal aspect that affecting the development of beef cattle in South Sulawesi is still need special attention for its application and supervision.
Government support for the development of the UPSUS SIWAB program in Soppeng Regency
Authors: Sirajuddin S N , Siregar A R , Sessu A T , Haeruddin  , Syastiawan A
Published: June 2020

The special effort program for pregnant catle breeders is aimed at increasing the population of cattle continuously by maximizing the potential of broodstock cattle in producing children, improving the quality / genetic of Bali cattle to realize the government’s commitment in pursuing beef self-sufficiency in Indonesia. This study aimed to determine the form of Soppeng district government support for the SIWAB UPSUS Program. This research was conducted in Soppeng Regency. The study was conducted in March to April 2019 in Soppeng District, Liliriaja District. The types of data that will be used in this study are secondary and primary data. Data analysis is statistically descriptive. The results showed that the local government supported the implementation of SIWAB UPSUS but the incentives for inseminators were still low
Some factors affecting the demand for horse meat
Authors: Amir R , Lestari V S , Sirajuddin S N
Published: June 2020

Meat horse was one source of animal protein. The aim of this research was to know some factors affecting the demand for horse meat. This research was conducted in 2018 in Bone regency. Total respondent was 50 persons who purchased horse meat at Tanabatue market and Parigi market. Data were collected through observation and interviews by using a questionnaire. The quantity of horse meat was the dependent variable, while income, family number, age, and education level were independent variables. The linear regression result showed that the adjusted R2was 0.719. Simultaneously, all independent variables significantly affected the demand for horse meat (p<0.05). Partially, only income significantly affected the demand for horse meat (p<0.05).
The farmer competency that doing partnership systems (Teseng) in beef cattle business at Bone regency, South Sulawesi province, Indonesia
Authors: Rohani S , Siregar A R , Rasyid T G , Aminawar M , Darwis M
Published: June 2020

One form of support for developing a beef cattle business in Bone regency is a partnership system (Teseng). This Teseng system is a partnership system by providing capital in the form of beef cattle to be maintained and developed by farmers who have competence in the management of beef cattle business. This study aims to determine the competency of farmers who carry out the Teseng system in beef cattle business. The research sample of 150 farmers was done in a simple random sampling. Data collection was carried out through interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that the competency of farmers knowledge in the management of beef cattle business which included the selection of seeds, housing, feeding, health management, reproductive systems, and marketing of livestock carrying out the Teseng system in beef cattle business in Bone Regency is in the good category. And the managerial competence of farmers in the management of beef cattle business which includes competency in planning and evaluating livestock business is in the good category.
Participation of farmers in extension of beef cattle farming in Barru District, Barru Regency
Authors: Amrullah  , Rasyid T G , Siregar A R , Aminawar M , Darwis M
Published: June 2020

One of the efforts to maintain and develop beef cattle farming is extension. Extension has an important role in the development of farmers. Extension is expected to lead to changes in the knowledge, attitudes, and skills of farmers so that they are able to raise livestock and try better and more profitable livestock. This study aims to determine the level of participation of farmers in extension of beef cattle farming. The sampling technique was carried out by simple random sampling of 90 cattle farmers in ten villages in Barru District. Data collection was carried out through interviews with the help of questionnaires analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that the level of farmer participation in beef cattle farming extension was in the high category at the level of planning and implementation, while at the evaluation level it was in the medium category.
The effect of upstream production on corn supply chain sustainability as broiler feed
Authors: Rasyid I , Hasan S , Hastang  , Salman D
Published: June 2020

The study aimed to identify the scheme of farmer productive factors that may give an impact on the supply chain sustainability as the upstream feedstuffs producers to satisfy the feedstuffs demand of the broiler feed industry. Collected data were analysed using descriptive statistic. This study was categorized as a descriptive quantitative study. The results of the study showed that one effective productive factor from the farmer respondents was corn farming experience. On the other hand, other productive factors including land area, corn Sheller and dryer facilities and agricultural capital were not prominent. Therefore, in order to sustain the corn supply chain from the farmers or upstream supply chain, the primary factors that should be fulfilled included the agricultural capital, land area, and corn Sheller and dryer. The productive factors of agricultural capital, land area, and corn Sheller and dryer, as well as the knowledge in farming, were determining in sustaining the corn supply chain sustainability to fulfil the demand of either final consumer or broiler feed industry.
Sustainable flying fish (hirundichthys oxycephalus) fishing with a drift gillnet in Makassar Strait, Indonesia
Authors: Najamuddin  , Assir A , Palo M , Asni A
Published: June 2020

Flying fish is an important economic fish that many hunted fishermen, especially their roes. As a result, flying fish populations in the Makassar Strait was already experience high exploitation pressures. Gill nets were the dominant fishing gear with the net mesh size were varying depending on the season. The study aimed to compare the capture capability of gill nets with three different mesh sizes. The study used a field experimental approach to obtain gill nets selectivity on flying fish catch. Variables observed include different net mesh sizes (1, 1.25, and 1.5- inches), number, weight, and a fork length of flying fish catches. Data were analyzed using variance tests to compare treatments. The fish catch data shows that the highest fish catches were 1.25-inch, and the rest 1 inches and 1.5 inches. The results of the statistical test show that the number of catch fish is highly significant different (P<0.05) on the mesh size of 1-inch, 1.25- inches, and 1.5- inches. There was an indication that flying fishes getting smaller, which is indicated by most of the fish catches, pass the length at the first maturity size. Gillnet of 1.25-inch mesh size should be used to maintain the sustainability of the flying fish population.
Biofertilizer as a tool for soil fertility management in changing climate
Authors: Singh B , Upadhyay A K , Al-Tawaha T W , Al-Tawaha A R , Sirajuddin S N
Published: June 2020

Many biotic and abiotic factors affect agriculture production worldwide. Bio-fertilisers of microbial origin can be a good option for sustaining productivity with more environment-friendly and integrated nutrient management approach. They have been advanced to use the naturally occurring nutrient mobility mechanisms, which promotes soil fertility and results in improved crop production.
Typology of movement patterns of duck farmers moving in Pinrang regency, Indonesia
Authors: Kasim K , Salman D , Siregar A R , Rahmawati  , Nadja A , Hastang
Published: June 2020

The characteristics of the process of moving duck breeding carried out by the moving duck farmers in Pinrang regency, one of which can be seen through its movement cycle. The dynamics of movement are based on the time of harvest. This study aims to analyze the typology of the movement patterns to moving ducks in Pinrang regency based on the distance of movement. This study uses a qualitative method with a case study of moving duck farmers in Pinrang regency. The comparative analysis is applied in looking at the cycle of movement patterns based on distance. The results showed that the movement patterns of moving duck farmers can be classified into the movement pattern of short-distance, medium-distance and long-distance where these three patterns have their characteristics based on indicators of distance traveled in one year, number of ducks transported during the movement, number the location occupied for duck grazing, the type used by conveyance, and the form of product as a result of the livelihood obtained.
Dynamic actin cross-linking governs the cytoplasm’s transition to fluid-like behavior
Authors: Chaubet Loïc , Chaudhary Abdullah R. , Heris Hossein K. , Ehrlicher Allen J. , Hendricks Adam G.
Published: June 2020

Cells constantly adapt their mechanics in response to mechanical and biochemical cues to migrate, divide, and organize into tissues. We developed new methods to probe the viscoelasticity of the cytoplasm and found that the binding kinetics of proteins that cross-link actin filaments control the transition from an elastic to a fluid-like network.
Reverse-engineering forces responsible for dynamic clustering and spreading of multiple nuclei in developing muscle cells
Authors: Manhart Angelika , Azevedo Mafalda , Baylies Mary , Mogilner Alex
Published: June 2020

During Drosophila muscle development, multiple nuclei transition from being clustered together, to splitting into two smaller clusters, to spreading along the cell length. Computational screening reveals that initial short-ranged internuclear attraction and final long-ranged repulsion, overlapping in time, are responsible for the nuclear dynamics.
Early and nonredundant functions of dynamin isoforms in clathrin-mediated endocytosis
Authors: Bhave Madhura , Mettlen Marcel , Wang Xinxin , Schmid Sandra L.
Published: June 2020

We use state-of-the-art quantitative total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy to study the isoform-specific functions of dynamin-1 (Dyn1) and dynamin-2 (Dyn2), as well as domain-swap Dyn1/Dyn2 chimeras during early and late stages of clathrin-mediated endocytosis.
Change Over Time in Australian Newspaper Reporting of Drinking During Pregnancy: A Content Analysis (2000–2017)
Authors: Cook Megan , Leggat Geoffrey , Pennay Amy
Published: June 2020

Aims

This paper analyses the content of news media messages on drinking during pregnancy in Australia over an 18-year period to understand whether and how the nature of messages communicated to women has changed over time.

Methods

Factiva was used to search Australian newspapers from 2000 to 2017, resulting in a sample of 1394 articles from the 18 major national and state-based newspapers. Content analysis of articles was undertaken, and Poisson regression analysis was used to assess changes over time.

Results

The largest number of articles on drinking during pregnancy was published in 2007. Themes that significantly increased over time included Harms to the Child (from 0.97% in 2008 to 29.69% in 2015) and Prevention Initiatives (from 0% in 2005 to 12.50% in 2017). Articles endorsing women not consuming alcohol during pregnancy significantly increased over time (from 20.69% in 2001 to 53.78% in 2013), matched by a decreasing trend in the proportion of articles presenting mixed advice (from 15.93% in 2009 to 0% in 2017). The largest number of articles adopted no position in relation to women’s consumption.

Conclusions

A stronger abstinence message during pregnancy has been communicated through Australian newspaper media over time. The mixed messaging and large number of articles not endorsing a position on consumption may reflect the inconclusiveness of the evidence on harms from low to moderate levels of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Opportunities remain for researchers to work with public health advocates to disseminate balanced messages based on evidence-based research.
Rapid epistatic mixed-model association studies by controlling multiple polygenic effects
Authors: Wang Dan , Tang Hui , Liu Jian-Feng , Xu Shizhong , Zhang Qin , Ning Chao
Published: June 2020

We have developed a rapid mixed model algorithm for exhaustive genome-wide epistatic association analysis by controlling multiple polygenic effects. Our model can simultaneously handle additive by additive epistasis, dominance by dominance epistasis and additive by dominance epistasis, and account for intrasubject fluctuations due to individuals with repeated records. Furthermore, we suggest a simple but efficient approximate algorithm, which allows the examination of all pairwise interactions in a remarkably fast manner of linear with population size. Simulation studies are performed to investigate the properties of REMMAX. Application to publicly available yeast and human data has showed that our mixed model-based method has similar performance with simple linear model on computational efficiency. It took less than 40 h for the pairwise analysis of 5000 individuals genotyped with roughly 350 000 SNPs with five threads on Intel Xeon E5 2.6 GHz CPU.

Availability and implementation

Source codes are freely available at https://github.com/chaoning/GMAT.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Position Review: Functional Selectivity in Mammalian Olfactory Receptors
Authors: Ache Barry W
Published: June 2020

There is increasing appreciation that G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) can initiate diverse cellular responses by activating multiple G proteins, arrestins, and other biochemical effectors. Structurally different ligands targeting the same receptor are thought to stabilize the receptor in multiple distinct active conformations such that specific subsets of signaling effectors are engaged at the exclusion of others, creating a bias toward a particular outcome, which has been referred to as ligand-induced selective signaling, biased agonism, ligand-directed signaling, and functional selectivity, among others. The potential involvement of functional selectivity in mammalian olfactory signal transduction has received little attention, notwithstanding the fact that mammalian olfactory receptors comprise the largest family of mammalian GPCRs. This position review considers the possibility that, although such complexity in G-protein function may have been lost in the specialization of olfactory receptors to serve as sensory receptors, the ability of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) to function as signal integrators and growing appreciation that this functionality is widespread in the receptor population suggest otherwise. We pose that functional selectivity driving 2 opponent inputs have the potential to generate an output that reflects the balance of ligand-dependent signaling, the direction of which could be either suppressive or synergistic and, as such, needs to be considered as a mechanistic basis for signal integration in mammalian ORNs.
Not All Emotions Are Equal: Fear Chemosignals Lower Awareness Thresholds Only for Fearful Faces
Authors: Silva Fábio , Gomes Nuno , Korb Sebastian , Semin Gün R
Published: June 2020

Exposure to body odors (chemosignals) collected under different emotional states (i.e., emotional chemosignals) can modulate our visual system, biasing visual perception. Recent research has suggested that exposure to fear body odors, results in a generalized faster access to visual awareness of different emotional facial expressions (i.e., fear, happy, and neutral). In the present study, we aimed at replicating and extending these findings by exploring if these effects are limited to fear odor, by introducing a second negative body odor—that is, disgust. We compared the time that 3 different emotional facial expressions (i.e., fear, disgust, and neutral) took to reach visual awareness, during a breaking continuous flash suppression paradigm, across 3 body odor conditions (i.e., fear, disgust, and neutral). We found that fear body odors do not trigger an overall faster access to visual awareness, but instead sped-up access to awareness specifically for facial expressions of fear. Disgust odor, on the other hand, had no effects on awareness thresholds of facial expressions. These findings contrast with prior results, suggesting that the potential of fear body odors to induce visual processing adjustments is specific to fear cues. Furthermore, our results support a unique ability of fear body odors in inducing such visual processing changes, compared with other negative emotional chemosignals (i.e., disgust). These conclusions raise interesting questions as to how fear odor might interact with the visual processing stream, whilst simultaneously giving rise to future avenues of research.
The Safety of Delayed Versus Immediate Antibiotic Prescribing for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: van Staa Tjeerd Pieter , Palin Victoria , Brown Benjamin , Welfare William , Li Yan , Ashcroft Darren M
Published: June 2020

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical safety of delayed antibiotic prescribing for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), which is recommended in treatment guidelines for less severe cases.

Methods

Two population-based cohort studies used the English Clinical Practice Research Databank and Welsh Secure Anonymized Information Linkage, containing electronic health records from primary care linked to hospital admission records. Patients with URTI and prescriptions of amoxicillin, clarithromycin, doxycycline, erythromycin, or phenoxymethylpenicillin were identified. Patients were stratified according to delayed and immediate prescribing relative to URTI diagnosis. Outcome of interest was infection-related hospital admission after 30 days.

Results

The population included 1.82 million patients with an URTI and antibiotic prescription; 91.7% had an antibiotic at URTI diagnosis date (immediate) and 8.3% had URTI diagnosis in 1–30 days before (delayed). Delayed antibiotic prescribing was associated with a 52% increased risk of infection-related hospital admissions (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% confidence interval, 1.43–1.62). The probability of delayed antibiotic prescribing was unrelated to predicted risks of hospital admission. Analyses of the number needed to harm showed considerable variability across different patient groups (median with delayed antibiotic prescribing, 1357; 2.5% percentile, 295; 97.5% percentile, 3366).

Conclusions

This is the first large population-based study examining the safety of delayed antibiotic prescribing. Waiting to treat URTI was associated with increased risk of hospital admission, although delayed antibiotic prescribing was used similarly between high- and low-risk patients. There is a need to better target delayed antibiotic prescribing to URTI patients with lower risks of complications.
Outcomes of Reflex Cryptococcal Antigen (CrAg) Screening in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-Positive Patients With CD4 Counts of 100–200 Cells/µL in Botswana
Authors: Tenforde Mark W , Milton Thandi , Rulaganyang Ikanyeng , Muthoga Charles , Tawe Leabaneng , Chiller Tom , Greene Gregory , Jordan Alexander , Williams Christopher G , Owen Leah , Leeme Tshepo B , Boose Amber , Ngidi Julia , Mine Madisa , Jarvis Joseph N
Published: June 2020

Increasing the CD4-count threshold for cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening from ≤100 to ≤200 cells/µL resulted in a 3-fold increase in numbers screened. CrAg-prevalence was 3.5% at CD4 101–200 and 6.2% ≤100 cells/µL. Six-month mortality was 21.4% (9/42) in CrAg-positive CD4 ≤100 cells/µL and 3.2% (1/31) in CrAg-positive CD4 101–200 cells/µL.
Classical monocyte transcriptomes reveal significant anti-inflammatory statin effect in women with chronic HIV
Authors: Ehinger Erik , Ghosheh Yanal , Pramod Akula Bala , Lin Juan , Hanna David B , Mueller Karin , Durant Christopher P , Baas Livia , Qi Qibin , Wang Tao , Buscher Konrad , Anastos Kathryn , Lazar Jason M , Mack Wendy J , Tien Phyllis C , Cohen Mardge H , Ofotokun Igho , Gange Stephen , Heath Sonya L , Hodis Howard N , Tracy Russell P , Landay Alan L , Kaplan Robert C , Ley Klaus
Published: June 2020

Aims

During virally suppressed chronic HIV infection, persistent inflammation contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), a major comorbidity in people living with HIV (LWH). Classical blood monocytes (CMs) remain activated during antiretroviral therapy and are a major source of pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic factors that contribute to atherosclerotic plaque development and instability.

Methods and results

Here, we identify transcriptomic changes in circulating CMs in peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples from participants of the Women’s Interagency HIV Study, selected by HIV and subclinical CVD (sCVD) status. We flow-sorted CM from participants of the Women’s Interagency HIV Study and deep-sequenced their mRNA (n = 92). CMs of HIV+ participants showed elevated interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and IL-12β, overlapping with many transcripts identified in sCVD+ participants. In sCVD+ participants LWH, those reporting statin use showed reduced pro-inflammatory gene expression to a level comparable with healthy (HIV−sCVD−) participants. Statin non-users maintained an elevated inflammatory profile and increased cytokine production.

Conclusion

Statin therapy has been associated with a lower risk of cardiac events, such as myocardial infarction in the general population, but not in those LWH. Our data suggest that women LWH may benefit from statin therapy even in the absence of overt CVD.
Short- and long-term treatment with TNF-α inhibits the induction of osteoblastic differentiation in cyclic tensile-stretched periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Papadopoulou Adamantia , Cantele Aurelie , Koletsi Despina , Eliades Theodore , Kletsas Dimitris
Published: June 2020

Background

Cyclic tensile stretching (CTS) induces osteoblastic differentiation of periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLF). On the other hand, increased concentrations of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) are found in inflammatory conditions, leading to periodontal disease and tooth loss. Accordingly, our aim was to investigate the short- and long-term effect of TNF-α on the response of human PDLF to CTS and its implication on osteoblastic differentiation.

Methods

PDLF were either pre-incubated for 4 hours or were repeatedly exposed to TNF-α for up to 50 days and then subjected to CTS. Gene expression was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was monitored by western analysis and cell proliferation by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation. Intracellular reactive oxygen species were determined by the 2´, 7´-dichlorofluorescein-diacetate assay and osteoblastic differentiation by Alizarin Red-S staining after an osteo-inductive period of 21 days.

Results

CTS of PDLF induced an immediate upregulation of the c-fos transcription factor and, further downstream the overexpression of alkaline phosphatase and osteopontin, two major osteoblast marker genes. A 4-hour pre-incubation with TNF-α repressed these effects. Similarly, long-term propagation of PDLF along with TNF-α diminished their osteoblastic differentiation capacity and suppressed cells’ CTS-elicited responses. The observed phenomena were not linked with TNF-α-induced premature senescence or oxidative stress. While CTS induced the activation of MAPKs, involved in mechanotransduction, TNF-α treatment provoked a small delay in the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase.

Conclusion

Increased concentrations of TNF-α, such as those recorded in many inflammatory diseases, suppress PDLF’s immediate responses to mechanical forces compromising their osteoblastic differentiation potential, possibly leading to tissue’s impaired homeostasis.
Effect of Thyroid Hormone Therapy on Fatigability in Older Adults With Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Nested Study Within a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Stuber Mirah J , Moutzouri Elisavet , Feller Martin , Del Giovane Cinzia , Bauer Douglas C , Blum Manuel R , Collet Tinh-Hai , Gussekloo Jacobijn , Mooijaart Simon P , McCarthy Vera J C , Aujesky Drahomir , Westendorp Rudi , Stott David J , Glynn Nancy W , Kearney Patricia M , Rodondi Nicolas
Published: June 2020

Background

Fatigue often triggers screening for and treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism. However, data on the impact of levothyroxine on fatigue is limited and previous studies might not have captured all aspects of fatigue.

Method

This study is nested within the randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter TRUST trial, including community-dwelling participants aged ≥65 and older, with persistent subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH 4.60–19.99 mIU/L, normal free thyroxine levels) from Switzerland and Ireland. Interventions consisted of daily levothyroxine starting with 50 μg (25 μg if weight <50 kg or known coronary heart diseases) together with dose adjustments to achieve a normal TSH and mock titration in the placebo group. Main outcome was the change in physical and mental fatigability using the Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale over 1 year, assessed through multivariable linear regression with adjustment for country, sex, and levothyroxine starting dose.

Results

Among 230 participants, the mean ± standard deviation (SD) TSH was 6.2 ± 1.9 mIU/L at baseline and decreased to 3.1 ± 1.3 with LT4 (n = 119) versus 5.3 ± 2.3 with placebo (n = 111, p < .001) after 1 year. After adjustment we found no between-group difference at 1 year on perceived physical (0.2; 95% CI −1.8 to 2.1; p = .88), or mental fatigability (−1.0; 95% CI −2.8 to 0.8; p = .26). In participants with higher fatigability at baseline (≥15 points for the physical score [n = 88] or ≥13 points for the mental score [n = 41]), the adjusted between-group differences at 1 year were 0.4 (95% CI −3.6 to 2.8, p = .79) and −2.2 (95% CI −8.8 to 4.5, p = .51).

Conclusions

Levothyroxine in older adults with mild subclinical hypothyroidism provides no change in physical or mental fatigability.
Localization and coalescence of seismicity before large earthquakes
Authors: Ben-Zion Yehuda , Zaliapin Ilya
Published: June 2020

We examine localization processes of low magnitude seismicity in relation to the occurrence of large earthquakes using three complementary analyses: (i) estimated production of rock damage by background events, (ii) evolving occupied fractional area of background seismicity and (iii) progressive coalescence of individual earthquakes into clusters. The different techniques provide information on different time scales and on the spatial extent of weakened damaged regions. Techniques (i) and (ii) use declustered catalogues to avoid the occasional strong fluctuations associated with aftershock sequences, while technique (iii) examines developing clusters in entire catalogue data. We analyse primarily earthquakes around large faults that are locked in the interseismic periods, and examine also as a contrasting example seismicity from the creeping Parkfield section of the San Andreas fault. Results of analysis (i) show that the M > 7 Landers 1992, Hector Mine 1999, El Mayor-Cucapah 2010 and Ridgecrest 2019 main shocks in Southern and Baja California were preceded in the previous decades by generation of rock damage around the eventual rupture zones. Analysis (ii) reveals localization (reduced fractional area) 2–3 yr before these main shocks and before the M > 7 Düzce 1999 earthquake in Turkey. Results with technique (iii) indicate that individual events tend to coalesce rapidly to clusters in the final 1–2 yr before the main shocks. Corresponding analyses of data from the Parkfield region show opposite delocalization patterns and decreasing clustering before the 2004 M6 earthquake. Continuing studies with these techniques, combined with analysis of geodetic data and insights from laboratory experiments and model simulations, might improve the ability to track preparation processes leading to large earthquakes.
Improved approach for stress drop estimation and its application to an induced earthquake sequence in Oklahoma
Authors: Chen X , Abercrombie R E
Published: June 2020

We calculate source parameters for fluid-injection induced earthquakes near Guthrie, Oklahoma, guided by synthetic tests to quantify uncertainties. The average stress drop during an earthquake is a parameter fundamental to ground motion prediction and earthquake source physics, but it has proved hard to measure accurately. This has limited our understanding of earthquake rupture, as well as the spatio-temporal variations of fault strength. We use synthetic tests based on a joint spectral-fitting method to define the resolution limit of the corner frequency as a function of the maximum frequency of usable signal, for both individual spectra and the average from multiple stations. Synthetic tests based on stacking analysis find that an improved stacking approach can recover the true input stress drop if the corner frequencies are within the resolution limit defined by joint spectral-fitting. We apply the improved approach to the Guthrie sequence, using different wave types and signal-to-noise criteria to understand the stability of the calculated stress drop values. The results suggest no systematic scaling relationship of stress drop for M ≤ 3.1 earthquakes, but larger events (M ≥ 3.5) tend to have higher average stress drops. Some robust spatio-temporal variations can be linked to the triggering processes and indicate possible stress heterogeneity within the fault zone. Tight clustering of low stress drop events at the beginning stage of the sequence suggests that pore pressure influences earthquake source processes. Events at shallow depth have lower stress drop compared to deeper events. The largest earthquake occurred within a cluster of high stress drop events, likely rupturing a strong asperity.
Exact extrapolation and immersive modelling with finite-difference injection
Authors: van Manen Dirk-Jan , Li Xun , Vasmel Marlies , Broggini Filippo , Robertsson Johan
Published: June 2020

In numerical modelling of wave propagation, the finite-difference (FD) injection method enables the re-introduction of simulated wavefields in model subdomains with machine precision, enabling the efficient calculation of waveforms after localized model alterations. By rewriting the FD-injection method in terms of sets of equivalent sources, we show how the same principles can be applied to achieve on-the-fly wavefield extrapolation using Kirchhoff–Helmholtz (KH)-like integrals. The resulting extrapolation methods are numerically exact when used in conjunction with FD-computed Green’s functions. Since FD injection only relies on the linearity of the wave equation and compactness of FD stencils in space, the methods can be applied to both staggered and non-staggered discretizations with arbitrary-order spatial operators. Examples for both types of discretizations show how these extrapolators can be used to truncate models with exact absorbing or immersive boundary conditions. Such immersive modelling involves the evaluation of KH-type extrapolation and representation integrals in the same simulation, which include the long-range interactions missing from conventional FD injection.
Temple syndrome and Kagami-Ogata syndrome: clinical presentations, genotypes, models and mechanisms
Authors: Prasasya Rexxi , Grotheer Kristen V , Siracusa Linda D , Bartolomei Marisa S
Published: June 2020

Temple syndrome (TS) and Kagami-Ogata syndrome (KOS) are imprinting disorders caused by absence or overexpression of genes within a single imprinted cluster on human chromosome 14q32. TS most frequently arises from maternal UPD14 or epimutations/deletions on the paternal chromosome, whereas KOS most frequently arises from paternal UPD14 or epimutations/deletions on the maternal chromosome. In this review, we describe the clinical symptoms and genetic/epigenetic features of this imprinted region. The locus encompasses paternally expressed protein-coding genes (DLK1, RTL1 and DIO3) and maternally expressed lncRNAs (MEG3/GTL2, RTL1as and MEG8), as well as numerous miRNAs and snoRNAs. Control of expression is complex, with three differentially methylated regions regulating germline, placental and tissue-specific transcription. The strong conserved synteny between mouse chromosome 12aF1 and human chromosome 14q32 has enabled the use of mouse models to elucidate imprinting mechanisms and decipher the contribution of genes to the symptoms of TS and KOS. In this review, we describe relevant mouse models and highlight their value to better inform treatment options for long-term management of TS and KOS patients.
Evolution of the Dentition in Holocephalans (Chondrichthyes) Through Tissue Disparity
Authors: Johanson Zerina , Manzanares Esther , Underwood Charlie , Clark Brett , Fernandez Vincent , Smith Moya
Published: June 2020

The Holocephali is a major group of chondrichthyan fishes, the sister taxon to the sharks and rays (Elasmobranchii). However, the dentition of extant holocephalans is very different from that of the elasmobranchs, lacking individual tooth renewal, but comprising dental plates made entirely of self-renewing dentine. This renewal of all tissues occurs at the postero-lingual plate surface, as a function of their statodont condition. The fossil record of the holocephalans illuminates multiple different trends in the dentition, including shark-like teeth through to those with dentitions completely lacking individual teeth. Different taxa illustrate developmental retention of teeth but with fusion in their serial development. Dentine of different varieties comprises these teeth and composite dental plates, whose histology includes vascularized tubes within coronal dentine, merging with basal trabecular dentine. In this coronal vascularized dentine, extensive hypermineralization forms a wear resistant tissue transformed into a variety of morphologies. Through evolution, hypermineralized dentine becomes enclosed within the trabecular dentine, and specialized by reduction into specific zones within a composite dental plate, with these increasing in morphological disparity, all reflecting loss of defined teeth but retention of dentine production from the inherited developmental package.
Clinical Outcomes and Immunologic Characteristics of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Ho Hsi-en , Peluso Michael J , Margus Colton , Matias Lopes Joao Pedro , He Chen , Gaisa Michael M , Osorio Georgina , Aberg Judith A , Mullen Michael P
Published: June 2020

We performed a retrospective study of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH). PWH with COVID-19 demonstrated severe lymphopenia and decreased CD4+ T cell counts. Levels of inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, D-dimer, interleukin 6, interleukin 8, and tumor necrosis factor α were commonly elevated. In all, 19 of 72 hospitalized individuals (26.4%) died and 53 (73.6%) recovered. PWH who died had higher levels of inflammatory markers and more severe lymphopenia than those who recovered. These findings suggest that PWH remain at risk for severe manifestations of COVID-19 despite antiretroviral therapy and that those with increased markers of inflammation and immune dysregulation are at risk for worse outcomes.
Monitoring via the Courts: Judicial Oversight and Police Violence in India
Authors: Hu Shengkuo , Conrad Courtenay R
Published: June 2020

Can the creation of court-mandated accountability institutions improve human rights? In this article, we investigate the extent to which court-ordered accountability institutions decrease government repression in the form of police violence. We argue that the creation of regional bodies to which citizens report allegations of police abuse provides “fire-alarm” oversight by which police officers can be monitored for abuses of power. To test the implications of our theory, we take advantage of variance in the implementation of Prakash Singh and Others v. Union of India and Others, a 2006 judgment by the Supreme Court of India requiring states and districts to establish local Police Complaints Authorities (PCAs). Using a difference-in-difference design, we show the implementation of state PCAs to be associated with statistically and substantively significant decreases in human rights violations by Indian police officers.