bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acquisition of object-robbing and object/food-bartering behaviours: a culturally maintained token economy in free-ranging long-tailed macaques
Authors: Leca Jean-Baptiste , Gunst Noëlle , Gardiner Matthew , Wandia I. Nengah
Published: January 2021

The token exchange paradigm shows that monkeys and great apes are able to use objects as symbolic tools to request specific food rewards. Such studies provide insights into the cognitive underpinnings of economic behaviour in non-human primates. However, the ecological validity of these laboratory-based experimental situations tends to be limited. Our field research aims to address the need for a more ecologically valid primate model of trading systems in humans. Around the Uluwatu Temple in Bali, Indonesia, a large free-ranging population of long-tailed macaques spontaneously and routinely engage in token-mediated bartering interactions with humans. These interactions occur in two phases: after stealing inedible and more or less valuable objects from humans, the macaques appear to use them as tokens, by returning them to humans in exchange for food. Our field observational and experimental data showed (i) age differences in robbing/bartering success, indicative of experiential learning, and (ii) clear behavioural associations between value-based token possession and quantity or quality of food rewards rejected and accepted by subadult and adult monkeys, suggestive of robbing/bartering payoff maximization and economic decision-making. This population-specific, prevalent, cross-generational, learned and socially influenced practice may be the first example of a culturally maintained token economy in free-ranging animals.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Existence and prevalence of economic behaviours among non-human primates'.
Impact of internal and external factors on prosocial choices in rhesus macaques
Authors: Sallet Jérôme , Emberton Andrew , Wood Jessica , Rushworth Matthew
Published: January 2021

While traditional economic models assume that agents are self-interested, humans and most non-human primates are social species. Therefore, many of decisions they make require the integration of information about other social agents. This study asks to what extent information about social status and the social context in which decisions are taken impact on reward-guided decisions in rhesus macaques. We tested 12 monkeys of varying dominance status in several experimental versions of a two-choice task in which reward could be delivered to self only, only another monkey, both the self and another monkey, or neither. Results showed dominant animals were more prone to make prosocial choices than subordinates, but only when the decision was between a reward for self only and a reward for both self and other. If the choice was between a reward for self only and a reward for other only, no animal expressed altruistic behaviour. Finally, prosocial choices were true social decisions as they were strikingly reduced when the social partner was replaced by a non-social object. These results showed that as in humans, rhesus macaques' social decisions are adaptive and modulated by social status and the cost associated with being prosocial.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Existence and prevalence of economic behaviours among non-human primates’.
Kibdelosporangium persicum sp. nov., a new member of the Actinomycetes from a hot desert in Iran
Authors: Safaei Nasim , Nouioui Imen , Mast Yvonne , Zaburannyi Nestor , Rohde Manfred , Schumann Peter , Müller Rolf , Wink Joachim
Published: January 2021

Isolate 4NS15T was isolated from a neglected arid habitat in Kerman, Iran. The strain showed 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity values of 98.9 % to the type strains of

Kibdelosporangium aridum

subsp.

aridum

,

Kibdelosporangium phytohabitans

and

Kibdelosporangium philippinense

and 98.6 % to the type strain

K. aridum

subsp.

largum

, respectively. Genome-based phylogenetic analysis revealed that isolate 4NS15T is closely related to

Kibdelosporangium aridum

subsp.

aridum

DSM 43828T. The digital DNA–DNA hybridization value between the genome sequences of 4NS15T and strain DSM 43828T is 29.8 %. Strain 4NS15T produces long chains of spores without a sporangium-like structure which can be distinguished from other

Kibdelosporangium

species. Isolate 4NS15T has a genome size of 10.35 Mbp with a G+C content of 68.1 mol%. Whole-cell hydrolysates of isolate 4NS15T are rich in meso-diaminopimelic acid and cell-wall sugars such as arabinose, galactose, glucose and ribose. Major fatty acids (>10 %) are C16 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0. The phospholipid profile contains diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylhydroxyethanolamine, aminolipid and glycoaminolipid. The predominant menaquinone is MK-9(H4). Based on its phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, isolate 4NS15T (NCCB 100701=CIP 111705=DSM 110728) merits recognition as representing a novel species of the genus

Kibdelosporangium

, for which the name Kibdelosporangium persicum sp. nov. is proposed.
MorphoHub: A Platform for Petabyte-Scale Multi-Morphometry Generation
Authors: Jiang Shengdian , Wang Yimin , Liu Lijuan , Zhao Sujun , Chen Mengya , Zhao Xuan , Xie Peng , Ding Liya , Ruan Zongcai , Dong Hong-Wei , Ascoli Giorgio A. , Hawrylycz Michael , Zeng Hongkui , Peng Hanchuan
Published: January 2021

Recent advances in neuroscience make the extraction of full neuronal morphology at whole brain dataset available. To produce quality morphometry at large scale, it is highly desirable but extremely challenging to efficiently handle petabyte-scale high-resolution whole brain imaging database. Here, we developed a multi-level method to produce high quality somatic, dendritic, axonal, and potential synaptic morphometry, which was made possible by utilizing necessary petabyte hardware and software platform to optimize both the data and workflow management. Our method also boosts data sharing and remote collaborative validation. We highlight a petabyte application dataset involving 62 whole mouse brains, from which we identified 50,233 somata of individual neurons, profiled the dendrites of 11,322 neurons, reconstructed the full 3-D morphology of more than one thousand neurons including their dendrites and full axons, and detected million scale putative synaptic sites derived from axonal boutons. Analysis and simulation of these data indicate the promise of this approach for modern large-scale morphology applications.
Dynamic adult tracheal plasticity drives stem cell adaptation to changes in intestinal homeostasis
Authors: Perochon Jessica , Yu Yachuan , Aughey Gabriel N. , Southall Tony D. , Cordero Julia B.
Published: January 2021

Coordination of stem cell function by local and niche-derived signals is essential to preserve adult tissue homeostasis and organismal health. The vasculature is a prominent component of multiple stem cell niches. However, its role in adult intestinal homeostasis remains largely understudied. Here, we uncover a previously unrecognised crosstalk between adult intestinal stem cells (ISCs) inDrosophilaand the vasculature-like tracheal system, which is essential for intestinal regeneration. Following damage to the intestinal epithelium, gut-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) activate tracheal HIF-1α and bidirectional FGF/FGFR signaling, leading to reversible remodelling of gut-associated terminal tracheal cells and ISC proliferation following damage. Unexpectedly, ROS-induced adult tracheal plasticity involves downregulation of the tracheal specification factortrachealess(trh) and upregulation of IGF2 mRNA-binding protein (IGF2BP2/Imp). Our results reveal a novel intestine/vasculature interorgan communication program, which is essential to adapt stem cells response to the proliferative demands of the intestinal epithelium.
A novel approach to the empirical characterization of learning in biological systems
Authors: Cohen Yarden , Cvitanović Predrag , Solla Sara A.
Published: January 2021

Learning to execute precise, yet complex, motor actions through practice is a trait shared by most organisms. Here we develop a novel experimental approach for the comprehensive investigation and characterization of the learning dynamics of practiced motion. Following the dynamical systems framework, we consider a high-dimensional behavioral space in which a trial-by-trial sequence of motor outputs defines a trajectory that converges to a fixed point - the desired motor output. In this scenario, details of the internal dynamics and the trial-by-trial learning mechanism cannot be disentangled from behavioral noise for nonlinear systems or even well estimated for linear systems with many parameters. To overcome this problem, we introduce a novel approach: the sporadic application of systematic target perturbations that span the behavioral space and allow us to estimate the linearized dynamics in the vicinity of the fixed point. The steady-state Lyapunov equation then allows us to identify the noise covariance. We illustrate the method by analyzing sequence-generating neural networks with either intrinsic or extrinsic noise, at time resolutions that span from spike timing to spiking rates. We demonstrate the utility of our approach in experimentally plausible and realizable settings and show that this method can fully characterize the linearized between-trials learning dynamics as well as extract meaningful internal properties of the unknown mechanism that drives the motor output within each trial. We then illustrate how the approach can be extended to nonlinear learning dynamics through a flexible choice of the basis and magnitude of perturbations.

Significance statement

Movement control ties brain activity to measurable external actions in real time, providing a useful tool for both neuroscientists interested in the emergence of stable behavior and biomedical engineers interested in the design of neural prosthesis and brain-machine interfaces. We approach the question of motor skill learning by introducing artificial errors through a novel perturbative scheme amenable to analytic examination in the linearized regime close to the desired behavior. Numerical simulations then demonstrate how to probe the learning dynamics in both linear and nonlinear systems. These findings stress the usefulness of analyzing responses to deliberately induced errors and the importance of properly designing such perturbation experiments. Our approach provides a novel generic tool for monitoring the acquisition of motor skills.
Trends in costs and prescribing for liothyronine and levothyroxine in England and wales 2011–2020
Authors: Stedman Michael , Taylor Peter , Premawardhana Lakdasa , Okosieme Onyebuchi , Dayan Colin , Heald Adrian H.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Recent prescribing policies in England and Wales have imposed significant restrictions on liothyronine prescribing in general practice driven by the prohibitive costs and uncertain benefits of liothyronine in the management of hypothyroidism. However, the impact of these policies on liothyronine usage and costs is still unclear.

Methods

Data were downloaded from the NHS monthly General Practice Prescribing Data in England and from the Comparative Analysis System for Prescribing Audit (CASPA) in Wales for 2011–2020. Trends over the period in amount and costs of levothyroxine and liothyronine prescribing were analysed.

Results

The total medication costs per year for England Wales for hypothyroidism rose from £60.8 million to £129.8 million in 2015–16 and have since reduced to £88.4 million. Levothyroxine prescriptions have been growing above the population growth rate at 0.7%/annum in England and 1.1% in Wales. The costs/patient/year for liothyronine rose from £550 to £3000 in 2015–16 and has since fallen to £2500. Use of liothyronine as a percentage of levothyroxine started to fall in 2015–16 at 7%/annum in England and 3% in Wales. Nevertheless, 0.5% of levothyroxine‐treated patients continue to receive liothyronine. All Clinical Commission Groups (CCGs) in England continue to have at least one liothyronine prescribing practice and 48.5% of English general practices prescribed liothyronine in 2019–20.

Conclusion

In spite of strenuous attempts to limit prescribing of liothyronine in general practice, a significant number of patients continue to receive this therapy. The price differential of liothyronine vs levothyroxine should be examined again in light of the continuing use of liothyronine.
Cytoplasmic granule formation by FUS‐R495X is attributable to arginine methylation in all Gly‐rich, RGG1 and RGG2 domains
Authors: Kawahara Daiki , Suzuki Toshiharu , Nakaya Tadashi
Published: January 2021

Many mutations in the fused in sarcoma (FUS) gene have been identified as genetic causative factors of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). As a certain number of mutants form aberrant cytoplasmic granules under specific conditions, granule forming ability of FUS is believed to be linked to the pathogenesis of ALS. However, molecular mechanisms underlying this property remain unclear. An ALS‐linked FUS mutant, R495X, shows extensive cytoplasmic localization and forms granules in neurons. In the present study, using R495X domain deletion constructs, we showed that deletion of any of Gly‐rich, RGG1 or RGG2 significantly suppressed granule formation. Furthermore, when neurons expressing EGFP‐R495X were treated with an arginine methylation inhibitor, the number of cells displaying R495X granules was significantly reduced. When FLAG‐tagged arginine N‐methyltransferase 8 (PRMT8) was co‐expressed with EGFP‐R495X to facilitate its methylation, the number of cells with granules was significantly increased. Collectively, these findings suggest that cytoplasmic granule formation by R495X is attributable to the arginine methylation in all Gly‐rich, RGG1 and RGG2 domains.
In vitro digestibility of rare sugar (D‐allulose) added pectin–soy protein gels
Authors: Ates Elif Gokcen , Ozvural Emin Burcin , Oztop Mecit H.
Published: January 2021

Confectionery gels are known to be high‐caloric products due their high sugar content. Changing their formulations by substituting the sugar with alternative natural sweeteners and functionalising them, the addition of proteins has gained attention. Understanding the rate of digestion of these products is also important for selecting the appropriate formulation. In this study, in vitro gastric digestion behaviour of the gels formulated with D‐allulose, a low‐calorie rare sugar, soy protein isolate (SPI) (1%, 2.5%) and pectin (4%) were examined. Digestion decreased the hardness of the gels (P < 0.05), but, at 2.5% SPI concentration. Moisture content of the samples increased after digestion and presence of SPI induced higher water uptake. At the end of 2 h of digestion, 1% soy protein isolate containing gels had the highest brix values showing that after a certain concentration, soy protein isolate governed the system due to improved soy protein–pectin interaction or due to improved gelation with Maillard reaction. NMR relaxometry experiments further confirmed the changes in the gels with the increase in T2 values. Power law model was fitted for the dissolution behaviour using the oBrix values of the digestion medium. Dissolution of sugar and the contribution of SPI to the gel network were clearly observed in SEM images. Results showed that these gels had the potential to slow down the emptying rate of stomach thus could lead to ‘fullness’ for a longer time.
Global biogeography and diversification of a group of brown seaweeds (Phaeophyceae) driven by clade‐specific evolutionary processes
Authors: Vieira Christophe , Steen Frédérique , D’hondt Sofie , Bafort Quinten , Tyberghein Lennert , Fernandez‐García Cindy , Wysor Brian , Tronholm Ana , Mattio Lydiane , Payri Claude , Kawai Hiroshi , Saunders Gary , Leliaert Frederik , Verbruggen Heroen , De Clerck Olivier
Published: January 2021

Aim

Historical processes that shaped current diversity patterns of seaweeds remain poorly understood. Using Dictyotales, a globally distributed order of brown seaweeds as a model, we test if historical biogeographical and diversification patterns are comparable across clades. Dictyotales contain some 22 genera, three of which, Dictyota, Lobophora and Padina, are exceptionally diverse. Specifically, we test whether the evolutionary processes that shaped the latitudinal diversity patterns in these clades are in line with the tropical conservatism, out‐of‐the‐tropics or diversification rate hypotheses.

Location

Global coastal benthic marine environments.

Taxon

Dictyotales (Phaeophyceae).

Methods

Species diversity was inferred using DNA‐based species delineation, addressing cryptic diversity and circumventing taxonomic problems. A six‐gene time‐calibrated phylogeny, distribution data of 3,755 specimens and probabilistic modelling of geographical range evolution were used to infer historical biogeographical patterns. The phylogeny was tested against different trait‐dependent models to compare diversification rates for different geographical units as well as different thermal affinities.

Results

Our results indicate that Dictyotales originated in the Middle Jurassic and reach a current peak of species diversity in the Central Indo‐Pacific. Ancestral range estimation points to a southern hemisphere origin of Dictyotales corresponding to the tropical southern Tethys Sea. Our results demonstrate that diversification rates were generally higher in tropical regions, but increased diversification rates in different clades are driven by different processes. Our results suggest that three major clades underwent a major diversification burst in the early Cenozoic, with Dictyota and Padina expanding their distribution into temperate regions while Lobophora retained a predominantly tropical niche.

Main conclusions

Our results are consistent with both the tropical conservatism hypothesis, in which clades originate and remain in the tropics (Lobophora), and the out‐of‐the‐tropics scenario, where taxa originate and expand towards the temperate regions while preserving their presence in the tropics (Dictyota, Padina).
Epidemiological and clinical aspects of Trichophyton mentagrophytes/Trichophyton interdigitale infections in the Zurich area: a retrospective study using genotyping
Authors: Klinger M. , Theiler M. , Bosshard P.P.
Published: January 2021

Background

Trichophyton mentagrophytes (formerly Arthroderma vanbreuseghemii) and its clonal offshoot Trichophyton interdigitale, which are leading causes of dermatophytoses, have recently been recognized as two separate species. Over the last 20 years, several internal transcribed spacer (ITS) genotypes of Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton interdigitale have been identified, some of which have specific characteristics and lead to typical clinical manifestations.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the current epidemiology of Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton interdigitale genotypes in Switzerland, particularly in the Zurich area.

Methods

Consecutive cases diagnosed by ITS sequencing between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analysed.

Results

A total of 81 Trichophyton mentagrophytes and 81 Trichophyton interdigitale cases were investigated. T. mentagrophytes infections clearly differed from T. interdigitale infections by affecting younger and more frequently female patients, targeting almost exclusively head and body rather than feet and toenails, leading to inflammatory dermatophytosis and often requiring a combination of systemic and topical treatment. Seven different T. mentagrophytes genotypes (II*, III, III*, IV, VII, VIII and XXVI) were observed, with genotype XXVI being discovered in this study. Genotype III occurred most frequently (56% of all T. mentagrophytes cases) and affected predominantly children. Genotypes III* and VII led to inflammatory tinea in most cases. Four strains that proved to be terbinafine resistant belonged to the ‘Indian genotype’ VIII, which mostly caused tinea glutealis and inguinalis.

Conclusion

Being able to distinguish between Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton interdigitale is of paramount importance as the two species cause different clinical presentations. In addition, ITS genotyping allows recognizing sources of infection and potential terbinafine resistance. The latter needs to be confirmed by resistance testing or by sequencing part of the squalene epoxidase (SQLE) gene.
Exploring changes in dietary intake, physical activity and body weight during chemotherapy in women with breast cancer: A Mixed‐Methods Study
Authors: de Kruif Anja JThCM , Westerman Marjan J. , Winkels Renate M. , Koster Marije S. , van der Staaij Irene M. , van den Berg Maaike M. G. A. , de Vries Jeanne H. M. , de Boer Michiel R. , Kampman Ellen , Visser Marjolein
Published: January 2021

Background

The present study aimed (i) to assess changes in dietary intake (DI), physical activity (PA) and body weight (BW) in breast cancer patients during chemotherapy; (ii) to describe how women explained, experienced and dealt with these potential changes; and (iii) to eventually develop lifestyle intervention strategies tailored to the women's personal needs during chemotherapy.

Methods

A longitudinal parallel mixed‐method design was used with quantitative assessment of changes in dietary intake (24‐h recall, Appetite, Hunger, Sensory Perception questionnaire), physical activity (Short Questionnaire to Assess Health‐enhancing physical activity, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory) and BW (dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry), in addition to qualitative interviews with 25 women about these potential changes during chemotherapy.

Results

Most women who perceived eating less healthily with low energy intake (EI) and being less active before diagnosis continued to do so during chemotherapy, according to quantitative measurements. They struggled to maintain sufficient energy intake. Despite a lower than average reported EI, they unexpectedly gained weight and explained that fatigue made them even more inactive during chemotherapy. Active women usually managed to stay active because exercise was very important to them and made them feel good, although they also suffered from the side‐effects of chemotherapy. They found more ways to deal with taste, smell and appetite problems than women with a lower energy intake.

Conclusions

The combination of the quantitative and qualitative data provided more insight into the changes in dietary intake, physical activity and BW during chemotherapy. The women's explanations showed why some women remain active and others need support to deal with changes in lifestyle factors such as healthy nutrition and fatigue.
How is clinical credibility defined in nursing? A concept mapping study
Authors: Cardwell Rachel , McKenna Lisa , Davis Jenny , Gray Richard
Published: January 2021

Aim

To develop a working definition of ‘clinical credibility’ in nursing science.

Methods

This is stage 2 of a registered report. Concept mapping methodology, 1. Preparation, 2. Generation of statements (brainstorming), 3. Structuring of statements (prioritising/clustering), 4. Representation of statements, 5. Interpretation of maps and 6. Utilisation of maps were used. Part 1 of our registered report followed the required items on the SPIRIT 2013 checklist. Part 2 was reporting the results of our study adhered to the STROBE reporting guidelines.

Results

Participants (n = 67) from three stakeholder groups participated in this study. Nursing students (n = 23), nurses and other healthcare professionals (n = 23), and patients (within the last 12 months) (n = 21).

Participants (n = 62) generated statements (n = 429) in response to the question: ‘What does clinical credibility mean to you?’. Following statement reduction, participants (n = 61) prioritised and clustered (n = 80) statements. The data were analysed using the concept mapping software, Ariadne. A visual ‘concept map’ was produced showing the importance and relationship of each statement as viewed by all participants. The final concept map had nine clusters. In order of importance these are as follows: 1. Safe practice, 2. Communication, 3. Patient‐centred care, 4. Accountable, 5. Professional practice, 6. Clinical competence, 7. Teaching attributes, 8. Contemporary expert and 9. Leadership. This study was undertaken over an eight‐month period.

Conclusion

Clinical credibility is not necessarily about contemporary clinical practice. It is a multidimensional construct of which current clinical practice is one element.
Financing an Agricultural Supply Chain with a Capital‐Constrained Smallholder Farmer in Developing Economies
Authors: Yi Zelong , Wang Yulan , Chen Ying‐Ju
Published: January 2021

We consider an agricultural supply chain consisting of a capital‐constrained smallholder farmer and an intermediary platform. The smallholder farmer sells agricultural products through the intermediary platform but lacks financial resources for planting. In addition to traditional bank financing (provided by a bank), the creditworthy intermediary platform can provide loans directly to the farmer (known as direct financing) or serve as a guarantor if the farmer's creditworthiness is insufficient to access bank loans (known as guarantor financing). We show that under guarantor and direct financing, the smallholder farmer's production level can be even higher than that in a centralized system. The farmer prefers direct financing when the production cost is low but the unit commission fee is sufficiently high. Otherwise, he prefers guarantor financing. The intermediary platform will encourage the farmer to resort to bank financing when the farmer's production cost is sufficiently high and the commission fee is low. Otherwise, it will provide direct financing. Guarantor financing makes the platform weakly worse off than direct financing and will be adopted only when the platform is also capital‐constrained. The involvement of the intermediary platform significantly improves the welfare of the farmer and the total profit of the supply chain. Moreover, the increased concern for social responsibility of the intermediary platform can lead to a win‐win‐win outcome for the farmer, the platform, and the whole supply chain.
Retailing with 3D Printing
Authors: Chen Li , Cui Yao , Lee Hau L.
Published: January 2021

Given the promise of three‐dimensional (3D) printing, also known as additive manufacturing, some innovative consumer goods companies have started to experiment with such a technology for on‐demand production. In this study, we consider two adoption cases of 3D printing in a dual‐channel (i.e., online and in‐store) retail setting, and evaluate its impact on a firm’s product offering, pricing, and inventory decisions. Our analysis uncovers the following effects of 3D printing. First, 3D printing at the factory has the substitution effect of technological innovation for online demands, as 3D printing replaces the traditional mode of production. Such technology substitution not only leads to increased product variety offered online, which allows the firm to charge a price premium for online customers, but also induces the firm to offer a smaller product variety and a reduced price in‐store. There is an additional environmental benefit when more customers are steered from the in‐store channel to the online channel. Second, when 3D printing is used in‐store as well, in addition to the substitution effect, the firm also achieves a structural effect due to the fundamental change in the supply chain structure. Since the in‐store demand is served in a build‐to‐order fashion, the firm achieves postponement benefits in inventory management. The environmental benefit is the most significant in this case. Moreover, using 3D printing in‐store will require a new supplier–retailer relationship. We find that cost‐sharing contracts can coordinate the supply chains where 3D printing is used in‐store and the supplier controls the raw material inventory.
Examination of age‐related changes of viscoelasticity in the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer using ultrasound elastography
Authors: Mizukoshi Koji , Kuribayashi Mari , Hirayama Kenya , Yabuzaki Jiro , Kurosumi Motonori , Hamanaka Yoshihiro
Published: January 2021

Background

Using ultrasound elastography, the present study aimed to measure the viscoelasticity in each skin layer and to determine the relationship between the measured value, age, and body mass index (BMI).

Materials and Methods

The present study included 77 Japanese women. We calculated the BMI and measured the facial cheek via elastography. With the use of the elastographic image, the dermis was divided into two layers, and the subcutaneous fat layer was divided into five equal sections according to the depth, ultimately obtaining seven layers. Furthermore, the thickness and viscoelasticity of each divided layer were measured.

Results

The analysis of echo images revealed that the thickness of the upper dermis layer decreased with age, whereas that of the subcutaneous fat layer tended to increase with age and BMI. As measured by elastography, the viscoelasticity of both the lower dermis and the upper subcutaneous fat layer decreased with age. As the BMI increased, the viscoelasticity of the lower subcutaneous layer also increased, but that of the upper subcutaneous layer decreased.

Conclusions

The present study revealed the relationship between aging and viscoelasticity in the lower dermis and the relationship between aging, BMI, and viscoelasticity in the upper subcutaneous fat layer.
Calcium carbonate scaling prevention by a green chemical inhibitor, gallic acid
Authors: Boumagoura Manel , Ghizellaoui Samira , Rhouati Salah , Cheap‐Charpentier Hélène , Horner Olivier
Published: January 2021

This work deals with the inhibition of the scaling capacity of Hamma Bouziane (HB) groundwater (Algeria). In this study, the scale inhibition efficiency of gallic acid on calcium carbonate formation was assessed using chronoamperometry and impedancemetry. Owing to its characteristics of non‐toxicity and biodegradability, gallic acid can be classified as a green inhibitor. The obtained results showed that the addition of 1 mg/L of gallic acid to HB water significantly slows down scale formation, while the total inhibition of CaCO3 deposition needed only 4 mg/L. Thus, gallic acid proved to be an effective scaling inhibitor at very low concentration. The formed deposit was analysed by X‐Ray Diffractometry and Scanning Electron Microscopy. The results revealed that the predominant crystal structure is a mixture of calcite and aragonite in the presence of an inhibitor.
Seven-Day Pedometer-Assessed Step Counts and Brain Volume: A Population-Based Observational Study
Authors: Moniruzzaman Mohammad , Kadota Aya , Shiino Akihiko , Fujiyoshi Akira , Ito Takahiro , Haidar Syaifullah Ali , Miyagawa Naoko , Kondo Keiko , Hisamatsu Takashi , Segawa Hiroyoshi , Tooyama Ikuo , Ueshima Hirotsugu , Miura Katsuyuki , _ _
Published: January 2021

Background: To investigate the association between step counts and brain volumes (BVs)—global and 6a prioriselected cognition-related regions of interest—in Japanese men aged 40–79 years.Methods: The authors analyzed data from 680 cognitively intact participants of the Shiga Epidemiological Study of Subclinical Atherosclerosis—a population-based observational study. Using multivariable linear regression, the authors assessed cross-sectional associations between 7-day step counts at baseline (2006–2008) and BVs at follow-up (2012–2015) for age-stratified groups (<60 y and ≥60 y).Results: In the older adults ≥60 years, step counts at baseline (per 1000 steps) were associated with total BV at follow-up (β = 1.42,P = .022) while adjusted for potential covariates. Regions of interest-based analyses yielded an association of step counts with both prefrontal cortexes (P < .05) in older adults, while the left entorhinal cortex showed marginally significant association (P = .05). No association was observed with hippocampus, parahippocampal, cingulum, and cerebellum. No association was observed in younger adults (<60 y).Conclusions: The authors found a positive association between 7-day step counts and BVs, including prefrontal cortexes, and left entorhinal cortex in apparently healthy Japanese men.
Reexamining the Energy Cost of Sedentary Behaviors From the 2011 Adult Compendium
Authors: Barnett Rachel K. , Greever Cory , Yagi Karen , Rhoan Brendan , Keadle Sarah Kozey
Published: January 2021

Background: This study reexamines the energy cost of lower intensity activities compared to the 2011 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities. Methods: Participants (n = 32, age = 35 [13.8] y, 16 females) wore a portable metabolic system (COSMED), during 5 different conditions: sitting quietly, watching TV, sitting while working, driving, and walking at 2.0 mph. The metabolic equivalent (MET) values (VO2 mL·kg−1·min−1/3.5 mL·kg−1·min−1) were calculated. Results: The mean (SD) MET value for driving (1.46 [0.24]) was significantly lower than the Adult Compendium value of 2.5 (P < .001). Driving and slow walking have similar Adult Compendium values, but driving METs were significantly lower than slow walking (P < .001). Driving was similar to sitting while working (1.32 [0.25] METs, P > .05) and yielded significantly higher MET values than quiet sitting (1.08 [0.23] METs, P < .001) and watching TV (1.12 [0.22] METs, P < .001), both of which were lower than their respective Adult Compendium MET values. Conclusion: Existing Adult Compendium METs are significantly higher than measured METs for driving, which more closely correspond to sedentary behaviors than slow walking. The TV and quiet sitting also differed from their Adult Compendium values, which should be updated to reflect these findings, given that researchers and practitioners rely on Adult Compendium MET values to estimate energy cost.
Utilizing the Variability of Practice in Physical Execution, Action Observation, and Motor Imagery: Similar or Dissimilar Mechanisms?
Authors: Fazeli Davoud , Taheri HamidReza , Kakhki Alireza Saberi
Published: January 2021

The simulation theory argues that physical execution, action observation, and imagery share similar underlying mechanisms. Accordingly, applying a high-level psychological variable (variability of practice) should have a similar effect on all three modes. To test this theory, a total of 90 right-handed students participated in this study and were randomly divided into variable versus constant groups in three practice conditions, including physical, observational, and imagery. After a pretest (10 random trials of the putting task), the participants completed 50 practice trials. The groups performed/observed/imagined the task in the variable (different distances to different goals) or constant (fixed distance and goal) practice conditions. Also, there was an extra variable group in the physical and observational conditions, deprived of watching the feedback from the action. The participants completed a retention test 24 hr after the training. The effect of practice variability was observed in physical and observational conditions, but was not seen in the imagery condition. The no-feedback groups did not perform significantly differently from the imagery groups. The reason could be the lack of actual visual feedback during imagery.
Discordant neutralizing antibody and T cell responses in asymptomatic and mild SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Reynolds Catherine J. , Swadling Leo , Gibbons Joseph M. , Pade Corinna , Jensen Melanie P. , Diniz Mariana O. , Schmidt Nathalie M. , Butler David K. , Amin Oliver E. , Bailey Sasha N. L. , Murray Sam M. , Pieper Franziska P. , Taylor Stephen , Jones Jessica , Jones Meleri , Lee Wing-Yiu Jason , Rosenheim Joshua , Chandran Aneesh , Joy George , Di Genova Cecilia , Temperton Nigel , Lambourne Jonathan , Cutino-Moguel Teresa , Andiapen Mervyn , Fontana Marianna , Smit Angelique , Semper Amanda , O’Brien Ben , Chain Benjamin , Brooks Tim , Manisty Charlotte , Treibel Thomas , Moon James C. ,   COVIDsortium investigators, Noursadeghi Mahdad ,   COVIDsortium immune correlates network, Altmann Daniel M. , Maini Mala K. , McKnight Áine , Boyton Rosemary J.
Published: January 2021

Understanding the nature of immunity following mild/asymptomatic infection with SARS-CoV-2 is crucial to controlling the pandemic. We analyzed T cell and neutralizing antibody responses in 136 healthcare workers (HCW) 16-18 weeks after United Kingdom lockdown, 76 of whom had mild/asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection captured by serial sampling. Neutralizing antibodies (nAb) were present in 89% of previously infected HCW. T cell responses tended to be lower following asymptomatic infection than in those reporting case-definition symptoms of COVID-19, while nAb titers were maintained irrespective of symptoms. T cell and antibody responses were sometimes discordant. Eleven percent lacked nAb and had undetectable T cell responses to spike protein but had T cells reactive with other SARS-CoV-2 antigens. Our findings suggest that the majority of individuals with mild or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection carry nAb complemented by multispecific T cell responses at 16-18 weeks after mild or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Step-Specific Adaptation and Trade-Off over the Course of an Infection by GASP Mutation Small Colony Variants
Authors: Faucher Christian , Mazana Vincent , Kardacz Marion , Parthuisot Nathalie , Ferdy Jean-Baptiste , Duneau David
Published: January 2021

Within-host evolution has been described in many bacterial diseases, and the genetic basis behind the adaptations has stimulated a lot of interest. Yet, the studied adaptations are generally focused on antibiotic resistance and rarely on the adaptation to the environment given by the host, and the potential trade-offs hindering adaptations to each step of the infection are rarely considered.
Experimental Human Challenge Defines Distinct Pneumococcal Kinetic Profiles and Mucosal Responses between Colonized and Non-Colonized Adults
Authors: Nikolaou Elissavet , Jochems Simon P. , Mitsi Elena , Pojar Sherin , Blizard Annie , Reiné Jesus , Solórzano Carla , Negera Edessa , Carniel Beatriz , Soares-Schanoski Alessandra , Connor Victoria , Adler Hugh , Zaidi Seher R. , Hales Caz , Hill Helen , Hyder-Wright Angie , Gordon Stephen B. , Rylance Jamie , Ferreira Daniela M.
Published: January 2021

Occurrence of lower respiratory tract infections requires prior colonization of the upper respiratory tract with a pathogen. Most bacterial infection and colonization studies have been performed in murine and
in vitro
models due to the current invasive sampling methodology of the upper respiratory tract, both of which poorly reflect the complexity of host-pathogen interactions in the human nose.
Signal Recognition Particle Suppressor Screening Reveals the Regulation of Membrane Protein Targeting by the Translation Rate
Authors: Zhao Liuqun , Cui Yanyan , Fu Gang , Xu Zixiang , Liao Xiaoping , Zhang Dawei
Published: January 2021

Inner membrane proteins (IMPs) are cotranslationally inserted into the inner membrane or endoplasmic reticulum by the signal recognition particle (SRP). Generally, the deletion of SRP can result in protein targeting defects in
Escherichia coli
.
Preserve a Voucher Specimen! The Critical Need for Integrating Natural History Collections in Infectious Disease Studies
Authors: Thompson Cody W. , Phelps Kendra L. , Allard Marc W. , Cook Joseph A. , Dunnum Jonathan L. , Ferguson Adam W. , Gelang Magnus , Khan Faisal Ali Anwarali , Paul Deborah L. , Reeder DeeAnn M. , Simmons Nancy B. , Vanhove Maarten P. M. , Webala Paul W. , Weksler Marcelo , Kilpatrick C. William
Published: January 2021

Despite being nearly 10 months into the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic, the definitive animal host for SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), the causal agent of COVID-19, remains unknown. Unfortunately, similar problems exist for other betacoronaviruses, and no vouchered specimens exist to corroborate host species identification for most of these pathogens.
Biogeography of the Relationship between the Child Gut Microbiome and Innate Immune System
Authors: Amenyogbe Nelly , Dimitriu Pedro , Smolen Kinga K. , Brown Eric M. , Shannon Casey P. , Tebbutt Scott J. , Cooper Phillip J. , Marchant Arnaud , Goetghebuer Tessa , Esser Monika , Finlay Brett B. , Kollmann Tobias R. , Mohn William W.
Published: January 2021

Both the gut microbiome and innate immunity are known to differ across biogeographically diverse human populations. The gut microbiome has been shown to directly influence systemic immunity in animal models.
Puf4 Mediates Post-transcriptional Regulation of Cell Wall Biosynthesis and Caspofungin Resistance in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Kalem Murat C. , Subbiah Harini , Leipheimer Jay , Glazier Virginia E. , Panepinto John C.
Published: January 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans
is an environmental fungus that causes pulmonary and central nervous system infections. It is also responsible for 15% of AIDS-related deaths.
New Provisional Function of OmpA from
Acinetobacter
sp. Strain SA01 Based on Environmental Challenges
Authors: Shahryari Shahab , Talaee Mahbubeh , Haghbeen Kamahldin , Adrian Lorenz , Vali Hojatollah , Shahbani Zahiri Hossein , Noghabi Kambiz Akbari
Published: January 2021

Acinetobacter
OmpA is known as a multifaceted protein with multiple functions, including emulsifying properties. Bioemulsifiers are surface-active compounds that can disperse hydrophobic compounds in water and help increase the bioavailability of hydrophobic hydrocarbons to be used by degrading microorganisms.
High-Ca boninitic melt inclusions in lavas of the Troodos ophiolite and a reappraisal of genetic relationships between different lava types
Authors: Hu Wen-Jun , Zhou Mei-Fu , Malpas John , Ren Zhong-Yuan
Published: January 2021

Boninites in many supra-subduction zone ophiolites are thought to mark the early stage of subduction. The Troodos ophiolite in Cyprus contains a variety of volcanic rocks including the lower pillow lavas and the boninite-bearing upper pillow lavas (UPL). Here we present major, trace element and Pb isotope data for melt inclusions in olivine from the UPL on the northern flank of the Troodos ophiolite. Melt inclusions hosted by high-Mg (Fo = 89.4–93.5) olivine grains have typical high-Ca boninitic compositions with high MgO (11.2–18.4 wt%) and SiO2 (51.2–55.0 wt%) and low TiO2 (0.2–0.6 wt%) contents, in line with the existence of boninites in the northern part of the ophiolite. The melt inclusions have trace element compositions similar to the Troodos boninitic lavas and can be regarded as representing the parental magma of the boninites. The boninitic magmas were derived from high-degrees of partial melting of a refractory source at 1400 °C and 1.5 GPa based on thermobarometers and phase equilibria. The melt inclusions have significantly variable Pb isotopic compositions (208Pb/206Pb = 2.059–2.122; 207Pb/206Pb = 0.828–0.862) and are enriched in fluid-mobile trace elements (e.g., U, Sr, and Pb), indicating that the refractory source was metasomatized by slab fluids. In comparison, recalculation of literature data suggests that the lower pillow lavas were derived from a less refractory and shallower source. We propose a subduction initiation model in which melting of two unique sources was needed to form the chemostratigraphy of lavas in the Troodos ophiolite.
Intracontinental extension and geodynamic evolution of the Paleoproterozoic Jiao-Liao-Ji belt, North China craton: Insights from coeval A-type granitic and mafic magmatism in eastern Liaoning Province
Authors: Liu Jian-Hui , Wang Xiang-Jian , Chen Hui
Published: January 2021

To better understand the origin and tectonic evolution of the Paleoproterozoic Jiao-Liao-Ji belt, North China craton, which have long been debated, we have conducted whole-rock geochemical and zircon U-Pb and Hf isotope analyses on Paleoproterozoic monzo(syeno)granitic gneisses and metamafic rocks from eastern Liaoning Province. The results indicate that these monzo(syeno)granitic gneisses and metamafic rocks formed concurrently at ca. 2.2–2.1 Ga. The monzo(syeno)granitic gneisses show geochemical features of A-type granites and were derived from dehydration melting of Archean tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) with minor involvement of coeval mantle-derived magma in an extensional setting. The metamafic rocks are geochemically similar to mid-ocean-ridge basalt; they were generated by partial melting of isotope-depleted asthenospheric mantle in an intracontinental extensional setting and experienced crustal and continental lithospheric mantle contamination and fractional crystallization. Based on this study and published geological evidence, we propose the following tectonic model for the origin and geodynamic evolution of the Jiao-Liao-Ji belt: (1) Generation of high-density eclogitized lower crust accompanied by formation of voluminous Archean TTGs in the Eastern block; (2) intracontinental extension driven by upwelling of an asthenospheric hotspot along the Jiao-Liao-Ji belt in period of 2.20–2.0 Ga; (3) convergent orogenic processes between the Longgang block and Nangrim block governed by gravity-driven subduction of high-density eclogitized lower crust at ca. 1.95–1.85 Ga; and (4) postorogenic extension caused by delamination of the orogenic root and subsequent hot asthenospheric upwelling. This tectonic model can well explain the origin and geodynamic evolution of the Paleoproterozoic Jiao-Liao-Ji belt.
Plutonic record of a caldera-forming silicic eruption: The shatter zone of the Cadillac Mountain granite, coastal Maine
Authors: Wiebe Robert A. , Kolzenburg Stephan , Rooyakkers Shane M. , Stix John
Published: January 2021

Although it is widely accepted that large silicic calderas are associated with voluminous synvolcanic intrusive complexes at depth, geological evidence for caldera-forming eruptions preserved in plutonic rocks has largely been elusive. Here, we document a rare example of such evidence in the Cadillac Mountain intrusive complex, Maine (USA), where erosion has revealed a remarkable marginal “shatter zone” that records evidence for a major caldera-forming eruption. This shatter zone, up to >1 km wide, is bounded by a steep ring fault at its outer margin, which grades inward into Cadillac Mountain granite. Its outer margins are characterized by intensely brecciated and deformed country rock injected by felsite veins, reflecting explosive fragmentation associated with eruptive decompression. This marginal facies grades inward to a chaotic mélange of variably rounded and remelted country rock blocks in granitic matrix, reflecting debris eroded from ring fault conduit walls and milled in an eruptive jet before collapsing onto crystal mush. Further inward, blocks up to 80 m in size were stoped from the collapsing chamber roof and settled onto strong mush. Textural and chemical variations in the shatter zone matrix reveal syneruptive ascent of distinct silicic and more mafic magma from depth, which was likely drawn through the highly permeable shatter zone toward areas of low pressure beneath active vents. The Cadillac Mountain shatter zone provides clear evidence for a major eruption preserved in the plutonic record and supports the origin of some granites as the cumulate roots of large silicic volcanic systems.