bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using experimental trials to improve translocation protocols for a cryptic, endangered passerine
Authors: Mitchell William F. , Boulton Rebecca L. , Ireland Luke , Hunt Thomas J. , Verdon Simon J. , Olds Liberty G. M. , Hedger Chris , Clarke Rohan H.
Published: May 2021

When key ecological information is lacking, conservation translocations should be conducted within an adaptive, experimental framework to maximise knowledge gained and to increase the probability of success. Here we investigated whether timing of release or composition of release groups influenced indices of success during a trial reintroduction of the mallee emu-wren, Stipiturus mallee, to Ngarkat Conservation Park, South Australia. We translocated cohorts of 40 and 38 birds in the Austral autumn and spring of 2018 respectively. We released individuals in small groups, comprising either familiar or unfamiliar birds, and intensively monitored all treatments for 2 weeks post-release to quantify short-term survival and dispersal. We used occupancy modelling to assess persistence of the translocated population for 2 years following releases. We also monitored source populations to assess the impact of removals. Mallee emu-wrens released in spring were more likely to remain at the release site and attempt breeding. Familiarity within a release group did not influence short-term survival. Mallee emu-wren occupancy at the release sites declined following releases and by July 2019 (12–15 months after release), we could no longer detect any emu-wrens. Density at source populations was lower 12 months after removal compared with pre-harvest levels, though these differences were not significant. Despite the failure to establish a population, we gained valuable management insights regarding both the focal species, and translocation practice more broadly. Timing of release can influence short-term indices of success. Spring releases should be considered priority actions in future mallee emu-wren translocations.
Landlocked with closed borders: Armenia’s problem of access to the sea
Authors: Zakaryan Tigran
Published: May 2021

Closed borders have enormously detrimental effects on landlocked economies which already face challenging constraints to connectivity. Due to the closed border with Turkey, Armenia has limited potential to develop favourable transit routes and to expand market access. This article presents a legal and political outline of the Turkish closure of the border. It examines the closure’s impact on the Turkish-Armenian presence in regional integration frameworks, and illustrates the limitations of Armenia’s available transit options.
Electric and thermal transport properties of topological insulator candidate LiMgBi*
Authors: OuYang Hao , Dong Qing-Xin , Huang Yi-Fei , Xiang Jun-Sen , Zhang Li-Bo , Li Chen-Sheng , Sun Pei-Jie , Ren Zhi-An , Chen Gen-Fu
Published: May 2021

We report the transport properties of a topological insulator candidate, LiMgBi. The electric resistivity of the title compound exhibits a metal-to-semiconductor-like transition at around 160 K and tends to saturation below 50 K. At low temperatures, the magnetoresistance is up to ∼260 % at 9 T and a clear weak antilocalization effect is observed in the low magnetic-field region. The Hall measurement reveals that LiMgBi is a multiband system, where hole-type carriers (n
h ∼ 1018 cm−3) play a major role in the transport process. Remarkably, LiMgBi possess a large Seebeck coefficient ∼440 μV/K) and a moderate thermal conductivity at room temperature, which indicate that LiMgBi is a promising candidate in thermoelectric applications.
Fuzzy modelling of combustion efficiency and control of excess air flow case study: 320-MW steam unit/Isfahan Power Plant/Iran
Authors: Kermani Ahmad , Kargar Seyed Mohamad
Published: May 2021

One of the most critical factors affecting boiler efficiency and hazardous-gas-emission reduction is the volume of excess air mixed with fuel. A knowledge-based approach is proposed to model the efficiency of a 320-MW natural-gas-fired steam power plant in Isfahan, Iran by applying fuzzy-modelling techniques to control the boiler efficiency. This model is based on fuel and air entering the boiler. First, the fuzzy-model structure is identified by applying the fuzzy rules obtained from an experienced human operator. The proposed method is then optimized using a genetic algorithm to increase the fuzzy-model accuracy. The results indicate that, by applying a genetic algorithm, the precision of the proposed fuzzy model increases. The error between the actual efficiency of the plant and the output efficiency of the proposed model is low. This model is developed by applying the fuzzy rules and modelling-related calculations. Finally, to optimize the efficiency of the boiler, a fuzzy proportional-integral controller is designed. The closed-loop control simulations are run by applying both the proposed controller and the manual controller to demonstrate the influence of the suggested method. The simulation outcomes indicate that the recommended controller adjusts the excess-air percentage correctly and increases the unit efficiency by 0.70%, significantly reducing fuel consumption.
Populism and Social Polarization in European Democracies
Authors: Ginsburgh Victor , Perelman Sergio , Pestieau Pierre
Published: May 2021

The objective of this article is to explain populist attitudes that are prevailing in a number of European democracies. Populist attitudes usually lead to social protests and populist votes. We capture the populist wave by relying on values that are traditionally viewed as populist—such as distrust of institutions and neighbors, rejection of migrations, and strong preferences for law and order—rather than on voting behavior. Our study covers the period 2004–2018 and 25 European countries for which we match aggregated indicators of populist values and social polarization based on ESS and SILC survey micro-data. We show that social polarization varies dramatically across European regions, but at the same time, some convergence is observed. Our estimations confirm, in most cases, a positive and statistically significant relation between social polarization and populist attitudes. (JEL codes: D63 and I30)
Trophic niche changes associated with the eradication of invasive mammals in an insular lizard: an assessment using isotopes
Authors: Nunes Sara F , Mota-Ferreira Mário , Sampaio Marta , Andrade Joana , Oliveira Nuno , Rebelo Rui , Rocha Ricardo
Published: May 2021

Invasive species are a major threat to island biodiversity, and their eradications have substantially contributed to the conservation of island endemics. However, the consequences of eradications on the trophic ecology of native taxa are largely unexplored. Here, we used the eradication of invasive black rats Rattus rattus and European rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus from the Berlenga Island, in the western coast of Portugal, as a whole-ecosystem experiment to investigate the effects of the eradication of invasive mammals on the trophic niche and body dimensions of the island-restricted Berlenga wall lizard Podarcis carbonelli berlengensis over a 2-year period. Our results suggest an expansion of the isotopic niche and an intensification of the sexual dimorphism of the lizard following mammal eradication. Additionally, we found considerable variability in isotopic niche across the island and detected evidence of sex-specific and season-modulated nutritional requirements of this threatened reptile. Our findings support that the eradication of 2 of the planet’s most problematic invasive vertebrates led to changes in the lizard trophic niche and sexual dimorphism in just 2 years. This suggests that the ecological pressures—for example, prey availability and habitat structure—to which lizards are exposed have substantially changed post-eradication. Our study emphasizes the scientific value of island eradications as experiments to address a wide range of ecological questions and adds to the increasing body of evidence supporting substantial conservation gains associated with these restoration interventions.
Ecophysiology of egg rejection in hosts of avian brood parasites: new insights and perspectives
Authors: Ruiz-Raya Francisco
Published: May 2021

Egg rejection is the most effective and widespread defense used by host species to counteract the extreme fitness costs frequently imposed by obligate avian brood parasites. Yet, the proximate mechanisms underlying between- and within-individual variation in host responses remain poorly explored. Emerging evidence suggests that egg rejection is dependent on individual physiological states, and draws attention to the role of hormones as mediators of flexible antiparasitic responses. In this perspective article, I outline recent advances in our understanding of the proximate factors that mediate egg rejection. I also point out some areas where knowledge remains still lacking, especially those related to the development and maintenance of effective cognitive functions, the potential role of oxidative stress, immunological state, and developmental stressors. I propose new hypotheses that stimulate future research on behavioral host responses toward brood parasitism.
Coronary artery ectasia in a child after arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries and suspected multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with COVID-19: a case report
Authors: Sobh Mohamed , Jensen-Kondering Ulf , Voges Inga , Boroni Grazioli Simona Boroni
Published: May 2021

Background

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) with features resembling Kawasaki disease has been reported in association with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Case summary

We report the rare case of a 22 months old boy with a history of operated simple transposition of the great arteries (TGA), who developed features of MIS-C likely to be associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) infection and involving the coronary arteries. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging and cardiac catheterization showed long-distance ectasia of both coronary arteries after their origins and an origin stenosis of the right coronary artery with a perfusion defect. The patient was treated with oral anticoagulation together with antiplatelet therapy and remains under careful monitoring.

Discussion

This rare case demonstrates that also patients with TGA after the arterial switch operation (ASO) can develop coronary artery dilatation in association with MIS-C. The most interesting finding in this patient was that the origins of the reimplanted coronary arteries were not dilated. We speculate that scar tissue formation in the area of coronary artery transfer after ASO has prevented proximal coronary artery dilation.
Severe tricuspid bioprosthetic valve stenosis as an unusual cause of pulmonary embolism: a case report
Authors: Naser Jwan A , Arghami Arman , Eleid Mackram F , Pislaru Sorin V
Published: May 2021

Background 

Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis (TS) is an uncommon and frequently under-diagnosed condition. Although the resulting right heart failure symptoms are well-known, the associated thrombogenic potential is under-recognized.

Case summary 

A 44-year-old woman with bioprosthetic tricuspid valve (TV) replacement in 2001 was referred for urgent consultation due to acute worsening of dyspnoea and severe swelling and pain in her left arm and neck. She was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation 6 months before the presentation and was found to have right atrial (RA) thrombus with pulmonary embolism and extensive retrograde venous extension 1 month prior. Review of studies done at her local institution revealed 10 mmHg mean gradient (MG) across the bioprosthetic TV that was only reported as mild–moderate TS. Echocardiography done at our instruction confirmed suspicion of severe TS with calcified immobile leaflets. Computed tomography showed persistent RA thrombus and therefore surgical replacement of the TV was undertaken. Subsequently, patient’s dyspnoea rapidly improved.

Discussion 

Progressive dyspnoea and symptoms of right heart failure in a patient with a history of bioprosthetic TV replacement should be investigated for prosthetic valve dysfunction. Due to its rarity, TS diagnosis can be overlooked on routine echocardiography. In our patient, despite a measured MG of 10 mmHg, the presence of critical TS was not initially recognized. As TS is associated with increased thrombogenic potential and given the rare occurrence of in situ RA thrombosis, physicians must have a high index of suspicion for TS in the appropriate clinical context.
How to Illegalize Past Injustice: Reinterpreting the Rules of Intertemporality
Authors: von Arnauld Andreas
Published: May 2021

Attempts to legally tackle cases of historical injustice are often confronted with the problem that the events in question were not considered illegal at their time and that, in general, legal rules should not be applied retroactively. The present article suggests a conceptual framework to carefully stretch the dogmas of intertemporal law by introducing, via ethical principles as part of positive law of the time, contemporary contestation of inhumane actions and practices. Even though such contestation might not yet be enough to overturn a widely shared apologetic view among lawyers and states, it is argued that the violation of ethical-legal principles as such should give rise to a duty to give satisfaction under the law of state responsibility. In most cases of historical injustice brought to court, members of victimized groups aim at acknowledgment of their plight and at a reappraisal of the past that includes their experiences. In line with this objective, the present article makes a special case for a state obligation to negotiate with the victims of historical injustice or their descendants.
Toxicity and membrane perturbation properties of the ribotoxin-like protein Ageritin
Authors: Lampitella Erosantonio , Landi Nicola , Oliva Rosario , Gaglione Rosa , Bosso Andrea , De Lise Federica , Ragucci Sara , Arciello Angela , Petraccone Luigi , Pizzo Elio , Del Vecchio Pompea , Di Maro Antimo
Published: May 2021

Ageritin is the prototype of a new ribotoxin-like protein family, which has been recently identified also in basidiomycetes. The protein exhibits specific RNase activity through the cleavage of a single phosphodiester bond located at sarcin/ricin loop of the large rRNA, thus inhibiting protein biosynthesis at early stages. Conversely to other ribotoxins, its activity requires the presence of divalent cations. In the present study, we report the activity of Ageritin on both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells showing that the protein has a prominent effect on cancer cells viability and no effects on eukaryotic and bacterial cells. In order to rationalize these findings, the ability of the protein to interact with various liposomes mimicking normal, cancer and bacterial cell membranes was explored. The collected results indicate that Ageritin can interact with DPPC/DPPS/Chol vesicles, used as a model of cancer cell membranes, and with DPPC/DPPG vesicles, used as a model of bacterial cell membranes, suggesting a selective interaction with anionic lipids. However, a different perturbation of the two model membranes, mediated by cholesterol redistribution, was observed and this might be at the basis of Ageritin selective toxicity towards cancer cells.
Knockdown of insulin-like growth factor 2 gene disrupts mitochondrial functions in the liver
Authors: Gui Weiwei , Zhu Yiyi , Sun Shuiya , Zhu Weifen , Tan Bowen , Zhao Hanxin , Shang Chengxin , Zheng Fenping , Lin Xihua , Li Hong
Published: May 2021

Even though insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) has been reported to be overexpressed in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), its role in the progression of NAFLD and the potential mechanism remain largely unclear. Using in vitro models, we found that IGF2 was the key overexpressed gene in steatosis, suggesting a possible association between IGF2 and NAFLD. Interestingly, loss-of-function experiments revealed that inhibition of IGF2 protein impaired mitochondrial biogenesis and respiration. It additionally disrupted the expression changes of mitochondrial fusion and fission-related proteins necessary in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis. Consistently, IGF2 knockdown reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential and increased the production of reactive oxygen species. Mechanistically, IGF2 regulates mitochondrial functions by modulating the expression of SIRT1 and its downstream gene PGC1α. This research opens a new Frontier on the role of IGF2 in energy metabolism, which potentially participates in the development of NAFLD. As such, IGF2 is a potential therapeutic target against NAFLD.
Amelioration of cyclophosphamide toxicity via modulation of metabolizing enzymes by avocado (Persea americana) extract
Authors: Motawi Tarek Mohamed Kamal , William Mira Magdy , Nooh Mohammed Mostafa , Abd-Elgawad Hanan Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is highly effective in treating several human tumours and autoimmune disorders; but, it triggers deleterious side effects. Avocado, Persea americana (Mill.), is a widely consumed fruit with pronounced nutritional and medicinal value. Though many studies examined the protective mechanisms of natural products against CPA toxicity, almost none investigated the modulation of CPA metabolism as a potential underlying mechanism for protection. Here, we investigated the modulating effect of avocado extract (AE) on certain CPA metabolizing enzymes and its correlation with the extent of CPA-induced pulmonary toxicity and urotoxicity.

Methods

Rats received oral AE (0.9 g/kg body weight/day) 7 days before a single CPA injection (150 mg/kg body weight) and continued AE intake for 2, 7 or 28 days to study three phases of CPA-induced urotoxicity and pulmonary toxicity.

Key findings

CPA acutely elevated then reduced hepatic microsomal cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) content and significantly suppressed bladder and lung glutathione-S-transferase activity. Furthermore, CPA elevated lung myeloperoxidase activity, DNA content and hydroxyproline level and bladder blood content. AE ameliorated CPA-induced derangements through suppression of CYP2B6 and myeloperoxidase and augmentation of glutathione-S-transferase activity in CPA-treated rats.

Conclusions

AE modulation of CPA metabolizing enzymes and potential anti-inflammatory effect may mitigate CPA-induced toxicity.
Coupled macro-spin model with two variables for polarity reversals in the Earth and the Sun
Authors: Kunitomo Ariyoshi , Nakamichi Akika , Hara Tetsuya
Published: May 2021

Geomagnetism is extremely complex and straightforward magnetohydrodynamics simulations are still unable to reveal all its dynamics. Recently, a simple macro-spin model for geomagnetism has been suggested. This model is based on the idea that geomagnetism can be described by interactions with many local dynamo elements (macro-spins). This model can reproduce some complex features of geomagnetism by solving a simple set of ordinary differential equations with a minimal number of variables. In this paper, we complete this macro-spin model by considering the full set of variables in three dimensions. Utilizing this model, we can address several basic features of geomagnetism which could not be described in the previous minimal model: migration of the north and south magnetic poles, a precise comparison of the detailed surface distribution of magnetic fields with the observed data, etc. Moreover, by applying this model to solar magnetism, we can reproduce the periodic polarity reversals and the power index of the power spectrum from this complete spin model. Finally, we elucidate the statistical properties of pole migration.
Sodium buffered formic acid concentration and feed pH is stable over a 3-month period
Authors: Huss A R , Jones C K , Stark C R , Fleming S A , Dilger R N , Jendza J A
Published: May 2021

Promoting feed hygiene with organic acids is an effective method to prevent foodborne illnesses from bacterial infection. The stability and acidification of mash and pelleted feed with sodium buffered formic acid was investigated. The acid product was incorporated to reach total formate inclusion levels of 0, 6, or 12 g/kg for swine nursery feed; 0, 4, or 9 g/kg for swine finishing feed; and 0, 3, or 6 g/kg for broiler grower feed. Samples were analyzed for total formate and pH on d 4, 32, 60, or 88 post-manufacturing. The concentration of formate remained stable across an 88-d period (P < 0.01). Treatment with the formic acid product decreased feed pH with increasing inclusion levels (all P < 0.01). Within each inclusion level of acid and across time, pH tended to increase in pelleted feed and decrease in mash feeds (all P < 0.01); however, these changes were small (0.1 units pH). These data suggest that sodium buffered formic acid can be applied to both mash and pelleted feed to provide continuous acidification over a 3-month period.
Experience and Education in Residency Training: Capturing the Resident Experience by Mapping Clinical Data
Authors: Rhee David W. , Chun Jonathan W. , Stern David T. , Sartori Daniel J.
Published: May 2021

Problem

Internal medicine training programs operate under the assumption that the 3-year residency training period is sufficient for trainees to achieve the depth and breadth of clinical experience necessary for independent practice; however, the medical conditions to which residents are exposed in clinical practice are not easily measured. As a result, residents’ clinical educational experiences are poorly understood.

Approach

A crosswalk tool (a repository of International Classification of Diseases [ICD]-10 codes linked to medical content areas) was developed to query routinely collected inpatient principal diagnosis codes and translate them into an educationally meaningful taxonomy. This tool provides a robust characterization of residents’ inpatient clinical experiences.

Outcomes

This pilot study has provided proof of principle that the crosswalk tool can effectively map 1 year of resident-attributed diagnosis codes to both the broad content category level (e.g., “cardiovascular disease”) and to the more specific condition category level (e.g., “myocardial disease”). The authors uncovered content areas in their training program that are overrepresented and some that are underrepresented relative to material on the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Exam.

Next Steps

The crosswalk tool introduced here translated residents’ patient care activities into discrete, measurable educational content and enabled 1 internal medicine residency program to characterize residents’ inpatient educational experience with a high degree of resolution. Leaders of other programs seeking to profile the clinical exposure of their trainees may adopt this strategy. Such clinical content mapping drives innovation in the experiential curriculum, enables comparison across practice sites, and lays the groundwork to test associations between individual clinical exposure and competency-based outcomes, which, in turn, will allow medical educators to draw conclusions regarding how clinical experience reflects clinical competency.
A Multicenter Observational Study Evaluating Outcomes Associated With Antibiotic Combination Versus Monotherapy in Patients With Septic Shock
Authors: Torisson Gustav , Bruun Madsen Martin , Schmidt Davidsen Agnes , Perner Anders , Lipman Jeffrey , Dulhunty Joel , Sjövall Fredrik
Published: May 2021

Objectives:

To explore the association between antibiotic combination therapy and in-hospital mortality in patients with septic shock in two tertiary ICUs in different countries.

Design:

Retrospective observational study.

Setting:

ICUs of two tertiary hospitals, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, and Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Patients:

Adult patients with antibiotic treatment greater than or equal to 72 hours and vasopressor therapy greater than or equal to 24 hours.

Intervention:

Combination versus mono antibiotic therapy.

Measurements and Main Results:

Combination antibiotic therapy was defined as receiving two or more antibiotics from different classes, started within 12 hours of each other and with an overlapping duration of greater than or equal to 12 hours. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed comparing combination antibiotic therapy versus antibiotic monotherapy on in-hospital mortality. The analysis was adjusted for age, gender, centre, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, and chronic health evaluation. In total, 1,667 patients were included with 953 (57%) receiving combination therapy. Patients given combination therapy were older (60 ± 16 vs 56 ± 18), more likely admitted to Rigshospitalet (58% vs 16%), and had a higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (26 ± 8 vs 23 ± 8). Combination therapy was associated with an increased mortality in univariate analysis (odds ratio = 1.33; 95% CI, 1.07–1.66); however, there was no significant association in the adjusted analysis (odds ratio = 0.88; 95% CI, 0.68–1.15).

Conclusions:

In this retrospective study, no association was found between use of combination therapy and in-hospital mortality. The large differences between centers probably reflect local traditions and lack of definitive evidence.
Description of Clavibacter zhangzhiyongii sp. nov., a phytopathogenic actinobacterium isolated from barley seeds, causing leaf brown spot and decline
Authors: Tian Qian , Chuan Jiacheng , Sun Xianchao , Zhou Aiguo , Wang Li , Zou Jixing , Zhao Wenjun , Li Xiang
Published: May 2021

Clavibacter michiganensis

is a Gram-stain-positive bacterium with eight subspecies, five of which have been redefined as different species on the basis of their genome sequence data. On the basis of the results of phylogenetic analysis of dnaA gene sequences, strains of members of the genus

Clavibacter

isolated from barley have been grouped in a separate clade from other species and subspecies of the genus

Clavibacter

. In this study, the biochemical, physiological, fatty acids and genetic characteristics of strains DM1T and DM3, which represented the barley isolates, were examined. On the basis of results from multi-locus sequence typing and other biochemical and physiological features, including colony colour, carbon source utilisation and enzyme activities, DM1T and DM3 are categorically differentiated from the aforementioned eight species and subspecies of the genus

Clavibacter

. Moreover, the results of genomic analysis reveal that the DNA G+C contents of DM1T and DM3 are 73.7 and 73.5 %, respectively, and the average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between DM1T and DM3 and other species and subspecies range from 90.4 to 92.0 %. The ANI value between DM1T and DM3 is 98.0 %. These results indicate that DM1T and DM3 are distinct from other known species and subspecies of the genus

Clavibacter

. Therefore, we propose a novel species, C. zhangzhiyongii, with DM1T (=CFCC 16553 T=LMG 31970T) as the type strain.
Streptococcus pneumoniae, S. pyogenes and S. agalactiae membrane phospholipid remodelling in response to human serum
Authors: Joyce Luke R. , Guan Ziqiang , Palmer Kelli L.
Published: May 2021

Streptococcus pneumoniae

,

S. pyogenes

(Group A

Streptococcus

; GAS) and

S. agalactiae

(Group B

Streptococcus

; GBS) are major aetiological agents of diseases in humans. The cellular membrane, a crucial site in host–pathogen interactions, is poorly characterized in streptococci. Moreover, little is known about whether or how environmental conditions influence their lipid compositions. Using normal phase liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization MS, we characterized the phospholipids and glycolipids of

S. pneumoniae

, GAS and GBS in routine undefined laboratory medium, streptococcal defined medium and, in order to mimic the host environment, defined medium supplemented with human serum. In human serum-supplemented medium, all three streptococcal species synthesize phosphatidylcholine (PC), a zwitterionic phospholipid commonly found in eukaryotes but relatively rare in bacteria. We previously reported that

S. pneumoniae

utilizes the glycerophosphocholine (GPC) biosynthetic pathway to synthesize PC. Through substrate tracing experiments, we confirm that GAS and GBS scavenge lysoPC, a major metabolite in human serum, thereby using an abbreviated GPC pathway for PC biosynthesis. Furthermore, we found that plasmanyl-PC is uniquely present in the GBS membrane during growth with human serum, suggesting GBS possesses unusual membrane biochemical or biophysical properties. In summary, we report cellular lipid remodelling by the major pathogenic streptococci in response to metabolites present in human serum.
Development of fermented beverage using corn silk and mulberry leaf extracts
Authors: Oh Se-Woong , Hong Jae-Hoon
Published: May 2021

The qualitative changes of the fermented beverage prepared from corn silk (Zea mays L.) and mulberry leaf (Morus alba) extracts were investigated. The thickness of cellulose was 7.17-8.30 mm after 15 days of fermentation. Moreover, the pH significantly decreased to 3.68-3.93 (p<0.05) and the total acidity increased significantly to 3.41-3.77% (p<0.05), indicating Gluconacetobacter xylinus fermentation activity. The total flavonoid and phenol contents were 37.42-164.65 μg/mL and 138.67-620.17 μg/mL, respectively. The DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging and reducing powers were 23.87-69.39%, 59.92-75.68% and 27.27-82.33%, respectively. Corn silk showed antimicrobial activity for all test strains, especially Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, Bacillus coagulans and Escherichia coli. In addition, although antidiabetic activity of the fermented beverage (22.51-33.66%) was lower than that of acarbose control, the fermented beverage may prove to be a natural alternative. There was no observable synergy between the active ingredients in the beverage. Further, mulberry leaf had a significantly higher contribution to the total flavonoid and phenol contents, as well as the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities, compared to corn silk. The results of the study confirmed the functional characteristics of the novel fermented beverage. Further evaluation is needed for the analysis of sensory characteristics of the novel fermented beverage.
Disentangling heterogeneity of psychosis expression in the general population: sex-specific moderation effects of environmental risk factors on symptom networks
Authors: Betz Linda T. , Penzel Nora , Rosen Marlene , Bhui Kamaldeep , Upthegrove Rachel , Kambeitz Joseph
Published: May 2021

Background

Psychosis expression in the general population may reflect a behavioral manifestation of the risk for psychotic disorder. It can be conceptualized as an interconnected system of psychotic and affective experiences; a so-called ‘symptom network’. Differences in demographics, as well as exposure to adversities and risk factors, may produce substantial heterogeneity in symptom networks, highlighting potential etiological divergence in psychosis risk.

Methods

To explore this idea in a data-driven way, we employed a novel recursive partitioning approach in the 2007 English National Survey of Psychiatric Morbidity survey (N = 7,242). We sought to identify ‘network phenotypes’ by explaining heterogeneity in symptom networks through potential moderators, including age, sex, ethnicity, deprivation, childhood abuse, separation from parents, bullying, domestic violence, cannabis use, and alcohol.

Results

Sex was the primary source of heterogeneity in symptom networks. Additional heterogeneity was explained by interpersonal trauma (childhood abuse, domestic violence) in women and domestic violence, cannabis use, ethnicity in men. Among women, especially those exposed to early interpersonal trauma, an affective loading within psychosis may have distinct relevance. Men, particularly those from minority ethnic groups, demonstrated a strong network connection between hallucinatory experiences and persecutory ideation.

Conclusion

Symptom networks of psychosis expression in the general population are highly heterogeneous. The structure of symptom networks seems to reflect distinct sex-related adversities, etiologies, and mechanisms of symptom-expression. Disentangling the complex interplay of sex, minority ethnic group status, and other risk factors may help optimize early intervention and prevention strategies in psychosis.
Short-Duration RAGE Antagonism Transiently Disrupts Tendon Homeostasis and does not Alter Diabetic Tendon Healing
Authors: Nichols Anne E. C. , Muscat Samantha N. , Loiselle Alayna E.
Published: May 2021

Obesity and type II Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) have substantial pathological effects on tendon homeostasis, including loss of collagen organization and increased risk of tendon rupture. Moreover, following rupture or acute injury, the healing process is impaired by T2DM. We have previously demonstrating that restoring normal metabolic function in a murine model of obesity/ T2DM is insufficient to blunt or reverse the progression of diabetic tendinopathy, indicating the need for identification of novel therapeutic approaches to both maintain tendon homeostasis, and to improve the healing process. RAGE, the Receptor for Advanced Glycation Endproducts has been implicated as a key driver of several diabetic pathologies. We have demonstrated that pharmacological antagonism of RAGE is sufficient to partially improve tendon healing in non-diabetic animals. Therefore, in the current study we tested the efficacy of blunted RAGE signaling, via treatment with a RAGE Antagonist Peptide (RAP), to improve tendon healing in the context of T2DM. While our study did not find a beneficial effect of short-term RAP treatment on the healing process of T2DM mice, we did identify several important challenges brought about by this model of diet-induced obesity and T2DM. Both high fat (HFD) and low fat diet (LFD) feeding shifted the temporal molecular profile of healing compared to standard laboratory chow fed mice. Moreover, RAP treatment resulted in a transient disruption in homeostasis in the contralateral control tendons of both HFD and LFD mice, and this was due to a potential interaction with the systemic response to tendon injury as this response was not observed in HFD and LFD fed mice that did not undergo tendon repair surgery. Collectively, these data highlight the complications associated with models of diet induced obesity, and the lean control diets that should be considered in future studies.
Optimal Chemotherapy Scheduling for Non-Genetic Drug Resistance
Authors: Paryad-Zanjani Sasan , Saint-Antoine Michael M. , Singh Abhyudai
Published: May 2021

One of the most difficult challenges in cancer therapy is the emergence of drug resistance within tumors. Sometimes drug resistance can emerge as the result of mutations and Darwinian selection. However, recently another phenomenon has been discovered, in which tumor cells switch back and forth between drug-sensitive and pre-resistant states. Upon exposure to the drug, sensitive cells die off, and pre-resistant cells become locked in to a state of permanent drug resistance. In this paper, we explore the implications of this transient state switching for therapy scheduling. We propose a model to describe the phenomenon and estimate parameters from experimental melanoma data. We then compare the performance of continuous and alternating drug schedules, and use sensitivity analysis to explore how different conditions affect the efficacy of each schedule. We find that for our estimated parameters, a continuous therapy schedule is optimal. However we also find that an alternating schedule can be optimal for other, hypothetical parameter sets, depending on the difference in growth rate between pre-drug and post-drug cells, the delay between exposure to the drug and emergence of resistance, and the rate at which pre-resistant cells become resistant relative to the rate at which they switch back to the sensitive state.
Background rates of five thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndromes of special interest for COVID-19 vaccine safety surveillance: incidence between 2017 and 2019 and patient profiles from 25.4 million people in six European countries
Authors: Burn Edward , Li Xintong , Kostka Kristin , Morgan Stewart Henry , Reich Christian , Seager Sarah , Duarte-Salles Talita , Fernandez-Bertolin Sergio , Aragón María , Reyes Carlen , Martinez-Hernandez Eugenia , Marti Edelmira , Delmestri Antonella , Verhamme Katia , Rijnbeek Peter , Horban Scott , Morales Daniel R , Prieto-Alhambra Daniel
Published: May 2021

Background

Thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) has been reported among individuals vaccinated with adenovirus-vectored COVID-19 vaccines. In this study we describe the background incidence of TTS in 6 European countries.

Methods

Electronic medical records from France, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom informed the study. Incidence rates of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and stroke, all with concurrent thrombocytopenia, were estimated among the general population between 2017 to 2019. A range of additional adverse events of special interest for COVID-19 vaccinations were also studied in a similar manner.

Findings

A total of 25,432,658 individuals were included. Background rates ranged from 1.0 (0.7 to 1.4) to 8.5 (7.4 to 9.9) per 100,000 person-years for DVT with thrombocytopenia, from 0.5 (0.3 to 0.6) to 20.8 (18.9 to 22.8) for PE with thrombocytopenia, from 0.1 (0.0 to 0.1) to 2.5 (2.2 to 2.7) for SVT with thrombocytopenia, and from 0.2 (0.0 to 0.4) to 30.9 (28.6 to 33.3) for stroke with thrombocytopenia. CVST with thrombocytopenia was only identified in one database, with incidence rate of 0.1 (0.1 to 0.2) per 100,000 person-years. The incidence of TTS increased with age, with those affected typically having more comorbidities and greater medication use than the general population. TTS was also more often seen in men than women. A sizeable proportion of those affected were seen to have been taking antithrombotic and anticoagulant therapies prior to their TTS event.

Interpretation

Although rates vary across databases, TTS has consistently been seen to be a very rare event among the general population. While still very rare, rates of TTS are typically higher among older individuals, and those affected were also seen to generally be male and have more comorbidities and greater medication use than the general population.

Funding

This study was funded by the European Medicines Agency (EMA/2017/09/PE Lot 3).
Unsupervised weights selection for optimal transport based dataset integration
Authors: Fouché Aziz , Zinovyev Andrei
Published: May 2021

A formulation of the dataset integration problem describes the task of aligning two or more empirical distributions sampled from sources of the same kind, so that records of similar object end up close to one another. We propose a variant of the optimal transport (OT)- and Gromov-Wasserstein (GW)-based dataset integration algorithm introduced in SCOT [Demetci et al., 2020]. We formulate a constrained quadratic program to adjust sample weights before OT or GW so that weighted point density is close to be uniform over the point cloud, for a given kernel. We test this method with one synthetic and two real-life datasets from single-cell biology. Weights adjustment allows distributions with similar effective supports but different local densities to be reliably integrated, which is not always the case with the original method. This approach is entirely unsupervised, scales well to thousands of samples and does not depend on dimensionality of the ambient space, which makes it efficient for the analysis of single-cell datasets in biology. We provide an open-source implementation of this method in a Python package, woti.
Neutralization potential of Covishield vaccinated individuals sera against B.1.617.1
Authors: Yadav Pragya D. , Sapkal Gajanan N. , Abraham Priya , Deshpande Gururaj , Nyayanit Dimpal A , Patil Deepak Y. , Gupta Nivedita , Sahay Rima R. , Shete Anita M. , Kumar Sanjay , Panda Samiran , Bhargava Balram
Published: May 2021

Covishield comprises the larger proportion in the vaccination program in India. Hence, it is of utmost importance to understand neutralizing capability of vaccine against the B.1.617.1 variant which is considered to responsible for surge of the cases in India. The neutralizing-antibody (NAb) titer against B.1.167.1 and prototype B.1 variant (D614G) was determined of the vaccine sera (4 weeks after second dose) of COVID-19 naïve subjects (n=43) and COVID-19 recovered subjects (n=18). The results demonstrated that sera of COVID-19 recovered subjects (n=18) who received two doses of Covishield have higher NAb response compared to the COVID-19 naive with a significant difference (p<0.0001) in NAb titer against B.1 and B.1.617.1 In-spite of reduction in the neutralizing titer against B.1.617.1 variant; Covishield vaccine-induced antibodies are likely to be protective to limit the severity and mortality of the disease in the vaccinated individuals.
The Drosophila gene smoke alarm regulates nociceptor-epidermis interactions and thermal nociception behavior
Authors: Mauthner Stephanie E. , Fisher Katherine H. , Tracey W. Daniel
Published: May 2021

The detection and processing of noxious sensory input depends on the proper growth and function of nociceptor sensory neurons in the peripheral nervous system. In Drosophila melanogaster, the class IV (cIV) multidendritic dendritic arborization (md-da) neurons detect noxious stimuli through their highly branched dendrites that innervate the epidermis of the larval body wall. Here, we describe requirements of a previously uncharacterized gene named smoke alarm (smal), a discoidin domain receptor, in cIV md-da dendrite morphogenesis and nociception behavior. We find that smal mutant larvae exhibit thermal hyperalgesia that is fully rescued with a BAC transgene containing smal. Consistent with this phenotype, a smal reporter gene was expressed in nociceptors and other peripheral sensory neurons. Smal::GFP protein localized to punctate structures throughout the cIV md-da neurons. We further show that smal loss-of-function results in reduced nociceptor dendrite branching. Interestingly, mammalian homologues of smal act as collagen receptors, and we find that smal mutant dendrites showed an increase in epidermal cell ensheathment relative to animals that are wild type for smal. Based on this phenotype we propose that Smal protein function is required for attachment of dendrites to the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the loss of this activity results in thermal hyperalgesia.
Perception of soft materials relies on physics-based object representations: Behavioral and computational evidence
Authors: Bi Wenyan , Shah Aalap D. , Wong Kimberly W. , Scholl Brian , Yildirim Ilker
Published: May 2021

When encountering objects, we readily perceive not only low-level properties (e.g., color and orientation), but also seemingly higher-level ones – including aspects of physics (e.g., mass). Perhaps nowhere is this contrast more salient than in the perception of soft materials such as cloths: the dynamics of these objects (including how their three-dimensional forms vary) are determined by their physical properties such as stiffness, elasticity, and mass. Here we hypothesize that the perception of cloths and their physical properties must involve not only image statistics, but also abstract object representations that incorporate ”intuitive physics”. We provide behavioral and computational evidence for this hypothesis. We find that humans can visually match the stiffness of cloths with unfamiliar textures from the way they undergo natural transformations (e.g. flapping in the wind) across different scenarios. A computational model that casts cloth perception as mental physics simulation explains important aspects of this behavior.
Revisiting stacking interactions in tetrathiafulvalene and selected derivatives using tight-binding quantum chemical calculations and local coupled-cluster method
Authors: Zheng Kang , Li Danping , Jiang Liu , Li Xiaowei , Xie Changjian , Feng Ling , Qin Jie , Qian Shaosong , Pang Qiuxiang
Published: May 2021

The engineering of supramolecular architectures needs accurate descriptions of the intermolecular interactions in crystal structures. Tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) is an effective building block used in the construction of promising functional materials. The parallel packing of the neutral TTF–TTF system was studied previously using the high-level quantum chemical method, advancing it as a valuable model system. The recently developed tight-binding quantum chemical method GFN2-xTB and local coupled-cluster method DLPNO-CCSD(T) were used to investigate the stacking interactions of TTF and selected derivatives deposited in the Cambridge Structural Database. Using the interaction energy of the TTF–TTF dimer calculated at the CCSD(T)/CBS level as the reference, the accuracies of the two methods are investigated. The energy decomposition analysis within the DLPNO-CCSD(T) framework reveals the importance of dispersion interaction in the TTF-related stacking systems. The dispersion interaction density plot vividly shows the magnitude and distribution of the dispersion interaction, providing a revealing insight into the stacking interactions in crystal structures. The results show that the GFN2-xTB and DLPNO-CCSD(T) methods could achieve accuracy at an affordable computational cost, which would be valuable in understanding the nature of parallel stacking in supramolecular systems.