bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyanthillium cinereum (little ironweed).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa , Acevedo-Rodríguez Pedro
Published: May 2021

C. cinereum is a cosmopolitan weed common in disturbed areas in tropical and subtropical regions of the world (Randall, 2012). It is a fast-growing, annual herb with the capacity to form dense patches in gardens, roadsides, waste grounds and pasture (Holm et al., 1997). Currently, this species is considered invasive in many islands in the Pacific Ocean (e.g. Hawaii, Fiji, French Polynesia and Micronesia), New Zealand, Singapore, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, Galápagos Islands, Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands (see distribution table for details; Chong et al., 2009; Chacon and Saborio, 2012; González-Torres et al., 2012; PIER, 2013).
Leonurus japonicus (honeyweed).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa , Acevedo-Rodríguez Pedro
Published: May 2021

Genetics: The chromosome number reported for L. japonicus is 2n=20 (Shatokhina, 2006). Reproductive Biology: Leonurus are nectar-yielding plants and most species are pollinated by insects. Flowers in L. japonicus are bisexual and zygomorphic (Teo and Pin, 2001; Pool, 2012). Physiology and Phenology: In China, L. japonicus has been reported flowering from June to September and fruiting from September to October (eFloras, 2014). However, in tropical regions of Asia and America, this species flowers throughout the year (Teo and Pin, 2001; Pool, 2012). Longevity: L. japonicus is an annual or biennial herb (Wagner et al., 1999). Environmental Requirements: L. japonicus grows in moist environments in temperate and tropical regions in areas from sea level to 3400 m. This species can grow in semi-shade areas, but it prefers to grow in areas with full sunlight exposure and soils with pH ranging from 4 to 8 (Teo and Pin, 2001).
Strawberry necrotic shock virus (strawberry necrotic shock virus).
Authors: Tzanetakis Ioannis E.
Published: May 2021

Strawberry necrotic shock virus (SNSV) was first established as a distinct species in 2004 and its incidence in areas around the world is ambiguous. There are several reports of Tobacco streak virus (TSV) infection of strawberry and Rubus before the classification of SNSV as a distinct species and at this point it is unclear whether those refer to TSV or SNSV. Of the more than 100 small fruit 'TSV' isolates tested, all but two strawberries were found to be infected with SNSV (Tzanetakis and Martin, unpublished) indicating that TSV is rather rare in berry crops; it is still to be verified in natural infections of Rubus. It should be assumed that the majority of TSV reports in strawberry and Rubus are actually reports of SNSV and therefore the virus should be considered to have a cosmopolitan distribution.
Galinsoga quadriradiata (shaggy soldier).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa , Acevedo-Rodríguez Pedro
Published: May 2021

G. quadriradiata is a fast-growing annual herb with the capacity to invade agricultural and other disturbed areas in most temperate and subtropical regions of the world (Kagima 2000; Vibrans, 2009; Kabuce and Priede, 2010; Madsen and Wersal, 2014). It is highly competitive and can spread quickly, often being the dominant species in a field. It is causing considerable economic impact in cropping systems, greenhouses, gardens and nurseries (Madsen and Wersal, 2014). In Europe, this species is recognized as a significant problem for many growers and farmers, including in commercial greenhouses, and its presence may reduce yields up to 10-50% in fields planted with vegetables and crops (Kabuce and Priede, 2010; Madsen and Wersal, 2014).
Sporobolus pyramidalis (giant rat's tail grass).
Authors: Palmer Bill
Published: May 2021

Sporobolus pyramidalis is a highly invasive tussock grass probably native to the African region. It is a grass of very low palatability and regarded in Australia as a very serious and declared weed. It is dispersed very easily by several mechanisms and once established it can quickly dominate existing pastures. Pastures dominated by this grass become unproductive and land values are adversely affected. Control on extensively grazed properties is problematic such that every effort must be made to prevent its introduction on to clean properties.
Hiptage benghalensis (hiptage).
Authors: Pasiecznik Nick
Published: May 2021

H. benghalensis has spread in the tropics after introduction as an ornamental from its native South and South-East Asia. It continues to be available as an ornamental and medicinal plant, and is therefore likely to spread further. This climbing vine is able to smother vegetation and produces wind-dispersed samaras to facilitate dissemination. H. benghalensis threatens the last remnants of lowland native forests in La Réunion and Mauritius and is also invasive in parts of Australia, and Hawaii and Florida, USA, where it is regulated.
Hydrilla verticillata (hydrilla).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa
Published: May 2021

H. verticillata is a submerged fast-growing aquatic herb. It has a highly effective survival strategy that makes it one of the most troublesome aquatic weeds of water bodies in the world. It has the potential to alter fishery populations, cause shifts in zooplankton communities and affect water chemistry. It forms dense masses, outcompeting native plants and interfering with many uses of waterways. It is readily dispersed by movement of plant fragments and can produce up to 6,000 tubers per m2. Tubers can remain viable for several days out of water or for over 4 years in undisturbed sediment. They are not impacted by most management activities, and a small percentage can sprout throughout the year making the species very difficult to manage or eradicate. It can be spread by water flow, waterfowl and recreational activities and is sold as an aquarium plant. Currently, this species is considered as one of the most aggressive invasive species in aquatic habitats. In the USA it has been listed as a Federal Noxious Weed since 1976, and is regarded as one of the worst invasive aquatic weed problems in Florida and much of the country. Its import is prohibited in Western Australia and Tasmania, and it is on the EPPO alert list.
Bactrocera musae (banana fruit fly).
Authors: Royer Jane
Published: May 2021

Bactrocera musae is native to northeast tropical Queensland, Australia and mainland Papua New Guinea. It is thought to have been introduced to some Papua New Guinea islands including Lihir and Manu. Early records from the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Indonesia are either unconfirmed or unreliable. B. musae is a pest of commercially grown bananas if not managed correctly and also infests native bananas. Females tend to lay eggs in bananas before they ripen. However, if the fruit is too immature the eggs do not develop. Under Australia's Interstate Certification Assurance, domestic trade of hard green Cavendish bananas is approved to manage the risk of fruit fly movement. Monitoring of population sizes can be carried out using methyl eugenol to trap adult males. Increased host fruit sampling can also determine breeding hotspots that can then be targeted with protein bait spray/insecticide mixture to kill females. Female flies are attracted to the protein baits as they require protein for egg maturation. Though the economic impact of this pest is high, the risk of international spread remains low due to the stage of maturity of the harvested fruit that is exported.
Intellectual Disability among Violent Repeat Offenders and Its Relation with Psychopathology and Self-Sufficiency
Authors: Verheijen Victoria B. M. , Segeren Menno W. , Fassaert Thijs , Grimbergen Christel
Published: May 2021

Despite the recognized importance of mild to borderline intellectual disability (MBID) among offender populations, there is insufficient understanding of its prevalence and associations with other social-psychiatric problems. Therefore this study investigated MBID prevalence and its relation with psychopathology and self-sufficiency problems (SSPs) in important life-domains among young adult violent repeat offenders ( N = 432) enrolled in a focused deterrence program in Amsterdam. Offenders participated voluntarily in a social psychiatric screening which included the Screener for Intellectual Disability and Learning Disorders (SCIL) to assess MBID, the Dutch version of the self-sufficiency matrix (SSM-D) to assess SSPs, and an assessment of the presence of psychiatric disorders according to DSM methodology. Results showed an MBID prevalence of 51.1%. Nearly all offenders presented with at least one psychiatric disorder (95.0%) and SSPs in multiple life-domains. Among MBID offenders, symptoms of mood- and anxiety disorders, substance dependency and higher variety in SSPs were more frequently observed than among non MBID offenders. These results indicate the importance of adapting communication and treatment programs to increase their responsivity to MBID offenders. Self-sufficiency problems, that may reflect shortcomings in adaptive functioning specifically among MBID offenders, can be considered criminogenic needs and should be targeted accordingly to reduce recidivism.
Random vibration fatigue analysis of a multi-material battery pack structure for an electric vehicle
Authors: Kim Hye-gyu , Kim Gyeong-chan , Ji Wooseok , Lee Yong Seok , Jang Sungbok , Shin Cheol Min
Published: May 2021

Battery-powered automobiles are emerging as a promising alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles in response to the internationally strengthening regulation on carbon dioxide emissions. Due to the heavy weight of the electric drive unit, the weight savings of the electric vehicles are often attempted on body structures by using lightweight materials such as fiber-reinforced composites with traditional metal alloys. In the present study, a new multi-material design of a battery pack structure is proposed and its performance is evaluated through random vibration fatigue tests. The fatigue tests are virtually performed on a full-scale finite element model of the battery pack. The virtual tests embody boundary and loading conditions required by a real industry specification. The vibration loading is specified in the form of a power spectral density and the fatigue analysis is conducted accordingly in frequency domain. The cumulative fatigue damage and lives of each component composing the batter pack structure are predicted. The present modeling approach could benefit the preliminary design of an automotive body structure because the performance evaluation on various prototypes can be efficiently conducted without a physical model.
Management Systems to Structure Continuous Quality Improvement
Authors: Zarbo Richard J
Published: May 2021

Objectives

This review describes the processes and effectiveness of the primary management systems that structure and sustain consistent behaviors and result in a transformed culture of continuous quality improvement (CQI) from top to bottom throughout the Henry Ford medical laboratory enterprise.

Methods

Through a 17-year focus to achieve a functional CQI enterprise, quality management systems were developed and continuously improved by teams of laboratory leaders, managers, and quality specialists to coordinate and standardize human efforts, and provide actionable knowledge and data to engage improvement efforts at all levels of work. Lean and ISO 15189 discipline and requirements were addressed in annual management review of functionality and effectiveness to close gaps and further refine the management systems.

Results

Improvements in the use and effectiveness of 4 management systems are illustrated.

Conclusions

The 4 primary management systems that provide structure and support transformation to a culture of CQI are the team leader, Plan-Do-Check-Act problem-solving, deviation management, and daily management systems. These management systems are designed to deepen the effectiveness of the continuous improvement culture by helping managers understand variation in the work they oversee and providing guidance for more effective employee engagement in the daily processes of quality improvement.
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Seroprevalence and Incidence and Growth of Ultrasound-Diagnosed Uterine Fibroids in a Large Population of Young African-American Women
Authors: Moore Kristen R , Harmon Quaker E , Baird Donna D
Published: May 2021

Reproductive tract infections have long been hypothesized to be risk factors for development of uterine fibroids, but few studies have investigated the issue. In our 2016 cross-sectional analysis from the Study of Environment, Lifestyle and Fibroids (2010–2018), a large Detroit, Michigan, community-based cohort study of 23- to 35-year-old African-American women with ultrasound fibroid screening, we found no association between a very prevalent reproductive tract infection, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), and fibroids. With prospective data from the cohort (ultrasounds performed every 20 months over 5 years), we examined HSV-2’s associations with fibroid incidence (among 1,208 women who were fibroid-free at baseline) and growth (among women with fibroids at baseline or diagnosed during the study). Using Cox proportional hazards models, we computed adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for fibroid incidence comparing HSV-2–seropositive women with HSV-2–seronegative women. The influence of HSV-2 infection on growth was assessed on the basis of the difference in fibroid size between successive ultrasounds (1,323 growth measures) using a linear mixed model, estimating the percent difference in growth scaled to 18 months. HSV-2 seropositivity was not associated with fibroid incidence (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.88, 95% confidence interval: 0.69, 1.12) or growth (estimated growth difference = 3.1%, 95% confidence interval: −5.8, 13.0). Women can be reassured that HSV-2 infection is unlikely to increase their risk of fibroid-related health problems, given these longitudinal measures.
A Pedigree and Clinical Analysis of 11β-Hydroxylase Deficiency with Homozygous Mutation of CYP11B1 Gene
Authors: Yi Ru-hai , Zhao Shu-hao , Yan Xiao-fang , Jiang Zhen , Yang Li-yong
Published: May 2021

Background

To analyze the clinical features and the mutation of CYP11B1 gene in a family with 11β-hydroxylase deficiency.

Methods

The clinical and laboratory tests data of the patient were collected. The complete sequences of CYP11B1 gene in the proband and potential mutations in other seven family members were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing technique.

Results

A 25-year female patient showed complicated clinical symptoms, comprising hypertension, heart failure, renal failure, and pulmonary infections. Laboratory results showed higher levels of 17α-hydoxy progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHS) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and lower levels of cortisol and potassium in serum. Additionally, a positive reaction in mid-dose dexamethasone suppression test and a significant enlargement of bilateral adrenal glands from computed tomography scan were exhibited in this patient. Furthermore, a homozygous c.1157C>T (p.Ala386Val) in exon 7 of the CYP11B1 gene was identified in this patient. Four family members (father, mother, maternal grandmother, and aunt of proband) were heterozygous of the same mutation.

Conclusion

11β-hydroxylase deficiency in this patient is caused by homozygous c.1157C>T (p.Ala386Val) in the CYP11B1 gene.
Evaluating the Quality of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses About Breast Augmentation Using AMSTAR
Authors: Yuan Morgan , Wu Jeremy , Austin Ryan E , Lista Frank , Ahmad Jamil
Published: May 2021

Background

Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries worldwide. Therefore, it is imperative to have evidence with high methodological quality to guide clinical decision making.

Objectives

To evaluate the methodological quality of the systematic reviews (SRs) focused on breast augmentation.

Methods

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews was performed. SRs that have a particular focus on breast augmentation and were published in the top 15 plastic and reconstructive surgery journals were included. Quality assessment was performed using a measurement tool to assess systematic reviews (AMSTAR). Study characteristics were extracted including journal and impact factor, year of publication, country affiliation of the corresponding author, reporting adherence to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, number of citations, and number of studies included.

Results

Among the 22 studies included for analysis, the mean AMSTAR score was moderate (5.55), with no SR achieving good quality (AMSTAR score of ≥9). There were no significant associations between AMSTAR score and journal impact factor, number of citations, year of publication, or number of included studies. Studies that reported adherence to PRISMA guidelines on average scored higher on the AMSTAR tool (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

The methodological quality of reviews about breast augmentation was found to be moderate, with no significant increase in studies or quality over time. Adherence to PRISMA guidelines and increased appraisal of SRs about breast augmentation using methodological assessment tools would further strengthen methodological quality and confidence in study findings.
Molecular and biochemical characteristics of inulosucrase InuBK from Alkalihalobacillus krulwichiae JCM 11691
Authors: Yokoi Ken-ji , Tsutsui Sosyu , Arakawa Gen-ya , Takaba Masakazu , Fujii Koichi , Kaneko Satoshi
Published: May 2021

Information about the inulosucrase of nonlactic acid bacteria is scarce. We found a gene encoding inulosucrase (inuBK) in the genome of the Gram-positive bacterium Alkalihalobacillus krulwichiae JCM 11691. The inuBK open reading frame encoded a protein comprising 456 amino acids. We expressed His-tagged InuBK in culture medium using a Brevibacillus system. The optimal pH and temperature of purified InuBK were 7.0-9.0 and 50-55 °C, respectively. The findings of high-performance anion-exchange chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and high-performance size-exclusion chromatography with multiangle laser light scattering showed that the polysaccharide produced by InuBK was an inulin with a molecular weight of 3806, a polydispersity index (PI) of 1.047, and fructosyl chain lengths with 3-27 degrees of polymerization. The size of InuBK was smaller than commercial inulins, and the PI of the inulin that it produced was lower.
A new method to accurately identify single nucleotide variants using small FFPE breast samples
Authors: Fortunato Angelo , Mallo Diego , Rupp Shawn M , King Lorraine M , Hardman Timothy , Lo Joseph Y , Hall Allison , Marks Jeffrey R , Hwang E Shelley , Maley Carlo C
Published: May 2021

Most tissue collections of neoplasms are composed of formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) excised tumor samples used for routine diagnostics. DNA sequencing is becoming increasingly important in cancer research and clinical management; however it is difficult to accurately sequence DNA from FFPE samples. We developed and validated a new bioinformatic pipeline to use existing variant-calling strategies to robustly identify somatic single nucleotide variants (SNVs) from whole exome sequencing using small amounts of DNA extracted from archival FFPE samples of breast cancers. We optimized this strategy using 28 pairs of technical replicates. After optimization, the mean similarity between replicates increased 5-fold, reaching 88% (range 0–100%), with a mean of 21.4 SNVs (range 1–68) per sample, representing a markedly superior performance to existing tools. We found that the SNV-identification accuracy declined when there was less than 40 ng of DNA available and that insertion–deletion variant calls are less reliable than single base substitutions. As the first application of the new algorithm, we compared samples of ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast to their adjacent invasive ductal carcinoma samples. We observed an increased number of mutations (paired-samples sign test, P < 0.05), and a higher genetic divergence in the invasive samples (paired-samples sign test, P < 0.01). Our method provides a significant improvement in detecting SNVs in FFPE samples over previous approaches.
Effects of hospital preference for endovascular repair on postoperative mortality after elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: analysis of the Dutch Surgical Aneurysm Audit
Authors: Lijftogt N , Vahl A C , Karthaus E G , van der Willik E M , Amodio S , van Zwet E W , Hamming J F ,   in collaboration with the Dutch Society of Vascular Surgery, the Steering Committee of the Dutch Surgical Aneurysm Audit, and the Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing
Published: May 2021

Background

Increased use of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and reduced open surgical repair (OSR), has decreased postoperative mortality after elective repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). The choice between EVAR or OSR depends on aneurysm anatomy, and the experience and preference of the vascular surgeon, and therefore differs between hospitals. The aim of this study was to investigate the current mortality risk difference (RD) between EVAR and OSR, and the effect of hospital preference for EVAR on overall mortality.

Methods

Primary elective infrarenal or juxtarenal aneurysm repairs registered in the Dutch Surgical Aneurysm Audit (2013–2017) were analysed. First, mortality in hospitals with a higher preference for EVAR (high-EVAR group) was compared with that in hospitals with a lower EVAR preference (low-EVAR group), divided by the median percentage of EVAR. Second, the mortality RD between EVAR and OSR was determined by unadjusted and adjusted linear regression and propensity-score (PS) analysis and then by instrumental-variable (IV) analysis, adjusting for unobserved confounders; percentage EVAR by hospital was used as the IV.

Results

A total of 11 997 patients were included. The median hospital rate of EVAR was 76.6 per cent. The overall mortality RD between high- and low-EVAR hospitals was 0.1 (95 per cent −0.5 to 0.4) per cent. The OSR mortality rate was significantly higher among high-EVAR hospitals than low-EVAR hospitals: 7.3 versus 4.0 per cent (RD 3.3 (1.4 to 5.3) per cent). The EVAR mortality rate was also higher in high-EVAR hospitals: 0.9 versus 0.7 per cent (RD 0.2 (−0.0 to 0.6) per cent). The RD following unadjusted, adjusted, and PS analysis was 4.2 (3.7 to 4.8), 4.4 (3.8 to 5.0), and 4.7 (4.1 to 5.3) per cent in favour of EVAR over OSR. However, the RD after IV analysis was not significant: 1.3 (−0.9 to 3.6) per cent.

Conclusion

Even though EVAR has a lower mortality rate than OSR, the overall effect is offset by the high mortality rate after OSR in hospitals with a strong focus on EVAR.
Indigenization without ‘Indigeneity’: Problematizing the Discourse of Indigenization of Social Work in China
Authors: Watermeyer Tsering Dolkar , Yan Miu Chung
Published: May 2021

While acknowledging mutual alignment in their critique of social work’s dominant Eurocentric lens, indigenous and indigenization of social work have thus far forged separate routes. Indigenous social work predominantly focuses on groups in the settler colonial states of North America and Australia where the term ‘indigenous’ as an official identity category is embraced by groups to signify their a priori territorial claims, traditional way of life, and distinct world views. Indigenization of social work, on the other hand, primarily deals with the effective transmission of praxis in non-western regions. Yet complex linkages between the two exist that impacts the trajectory of indigenization of social work. This article draws upon indigenous theorizing and transdisciplinary learning to examine the neglect of highly charged concepts such as ‘indigenous’ and relationally notions of indigeneity within the social work indigenization discourse in China. Further, grounding the analysis within the liminal sphere of China’s ethnic minorities, particularly the case of Tibet Autonomous Region, it presents a preliminary discussion on potential ways to conceptualize ways forward.
Social Workers and Disaster Management: An Aotearoa New Zealand Perspective
Authors: Hay Kathryn , Pascoe Katheryn Margaret
Published: May 2021

In many parts of the world, social workers have long supported disaster responses although in Aotearoa New Zealand, social work is not generally considered an essential component of disaster management. Promoting the development of safer, less vulnerable communities, is however a key activity for both social work and disaster management. The recent shift from a traditional focus on hazards to vulnerability and resilience consolidates the alignment and importance of social work within this field. This article reports the results of the first known survey of registered social workers in Aotearoa New Zealand and their involvement in disaster events. Additionally, the article highlights the perspectives of six disaster management professionals on the role of social workers in disaster management. The findings offer examples of social workers’ engagement in disaster work, the variable understanding of social work by disaster management personnel, and the importance of social work maintaining a positive public profile. Implications for future social work practice and education internationally as well as disaster management policy and practice are outlined.
Human platelet lysate biotherapy for traumatic brain injury: preclinical assessment
Authors: Nebie Ouada , Carvalho Kevin , Barro Lassina , Delila Liling , Faivre Emilie , Renn Ting-Yi , Chou Ming-Li , Wu Yu-Wen , Nyam-Erdene Ariunjargal , Chou Szu-Yi , Buée Luc , Hu Chaur-Jong , Peng Chih-Wei , Devos David , Blum David , Burnouf Thierry
Published: May 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) leads to major brain anatomopathological damages underlined by neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and progressive neurodegeneration, ultimately leading to motor and cognitive deterioration. The multiple pathological events resulting from TBI can be addressed not by a single therapeutic approach, but rather by a synergistic biotherapy capable of activating a complementary set of signalling pathways and providing synergistic neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and neurorestorative activities. Human platelet lysate might fulfil these requirements as it is composed of a plethora of biomolecules readily accessible as a TBI biotherapy.

In the present study, we tested the therapeutic potential of human platelet lysate using in vitro and in vivo models of TBI. We first prepared and characterized platelet lysate from clinical-grade human platelet concentrates. Platelets were pelletized, lysed by three freeze-thaw cycles, and centrifuged. The supernatant was purified by 56°C 30 min heat treatment and spun to obtain the heat-treated platelet pellet lysate that was characterized by ELISA and proteomic analyses. Two mouse models were used to investigate platelet lysate neuroprotective potential. The injury was induced by an in-house manual controlled scratching of the animals’ cortex or by controlled cortical impact injury. The platelet lysate treatment was performed by topical application of 60 µl in the lesioned area, followed by daily 60 µl intranasal administration from Day 1 to 6 post-injury.

Platelet lysate proteomics identified over 1000 proteins including growth factors, neurotrophins, and antioxidants. ELISA detected several neurotrophic and angiogenic factors at ∼1–50 ng/ml levels. We demonstrate, using two mouse models of TBI, that topical application and intranasal platelet lysate consistently improved mouse motor function in the beam and rotarod tests, mitigated cortical neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress in the injury area, as revealed by downregulation of pro-inflammatory genes and the reduction in reactive oxygen species levels. Moreover, platelet lysate treatment reduced the loss of cortical synaptic proteins. Unbiased proteomic analyses revealed that heat-treated platelet pellet lysate reversed several pathways promoted by both controlled cortical impact and cortical brain scratch and related to transport, postsynaptic density, mitochondria or lipid metabolism.

The present data strongly support, for the first time, that human platelet lysate is a reliable and effective therapeutic source of neurorestorative factors. Therefore, brain administration of platelet lysate is a therapeutical strategy that deserves serious and urgent consideration for universal brain trauma treatment.
Common molecular mechanisms ofSLC6A1variant-mediated neurodevelopmental disorders in astrocytes and neurons
Authors: Mermer Felicia , Poliquin Sarah , Rigsby Kathryn , Rastogi Anuj , Shen Wangzhen , Romero-Morales Alejandra , Nwosu Gerald , McGrath Patrick , Demerast Scott , Aoto Jason , Bilousova Ganna , Lal Dennis , Gama Vivian , Kang Jing-Qiong
Published: May 2021

Solute carrier family 6 member 1 (SLC6A1) is abundantly expressed in the developing brain even before the CNS is formed. Its encoded GABA transporter 1 (GAT-1) is responsible for the reuptake of GABA into presynaptic neurons and glia, thereby modulating neurotransmission. GAT-1 is expressed globally in the brain, in both astrocytes and neurons. The GABA uptake function of GAT-1 in neurons cannot be compensated for by other GABA transporters, while the function in glia can be partially replaced by GABA transporter 3. Recently, many variants in SLC6A1 have been associated with a spectrum of epilepsy syndromes and neurodevelopmental disorders, including myoclonic atonic epilepsy, childhood absence epilepsy, autism, and intellectual disability, but the pathomechanisms associated with these phenotypes remain unclear. The presence of GAT-1 in both neurons and astrocytes further obscures the role of abnormal GAT-1 in the heterogeneous disease phenotype manifestations. Here we examine the impact on transporter trafficking and function of 22 SLC6A1 variants identified in patients with a broad spectrum of phenotypes. We also evaluate changes in protein expression and subcellular localization of the variant GAT-1 in various cell types, including neurons and astrocytes derived from human patient induced pluripotent stem cells. We found that a partial or complete loss-of-function represents a common disease mechanism, although the extent of GABA uptake reduction is variable. The reduced GABA uptake appears to be due to reduced cell surface expression of the variant transporter caused by variant protein misfolding, endoplasmic reticulum retention, and subsequent degradation. Although the extent of reduction of the total protein, surface protein, and the GABA uptake level of the variant transporters is variable, the loss of GABA uptake function and endoplasmic reticulum retention is consistent across induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cell types, including astrocytes and neurons, for the surveyed variants. Interestingly, we did not find a clear correlation of GABA uptake function and the disease phenotypes, such as myoclonic atonic epilepsy versus developmental delay, in this study. Together, our study suggests that impaired transporter protein trafficking and surface expression are the major disease-associated mechanisms associated with pathogenic SLC6A1 variants. Our results resemble findings from pathogenic variants in other genes affecting the GABA pathway, such as GABAA receptors. This study provides critical insight into therapeutic developments for SLC6A1 variant-mediated disorders and implicates that boosting transporter function by either genetic or pharmacological approaches would be beneficial.
Expression of IGF-2 Receptor in the Auditory Cortex Improves the Precision of Recent Fear Memories and Maintains Detailed Remote Fear Memories Over Time
Authors: Concina Giulia , Renna Annamaria , Milano Luisella , Manassero Eugenio , Stabile Francesca , Sacchetti Benedetto
Published: May 2021

Traumatic memories may become less precise over time and lead to the development of fear responses to novel stimuli, a process referred to as time-dependent fear generalization. The conditions that cause the growth of fear generalization over time are poorly understood. Here, we found that, in male rats, the level of discrimination at the early time point contributes to determining whether fear generalization will develop with the passage of time or not, suggesting a link between the precision of recent memory and the stability of remote engrams. We also found that the expression of insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor in layer 2/3 of the auditory cortex is linked to the precision of recent memories and to the stability of remote engrams and the development of fear generalization over time. These findings provide new insights on the neural mechanisms that underlie the time-dependent development of fear generalization that may occur over time after a traumatic event.
Gut Resistome of Preschool Children After Prolonged Mass Azithromycin Distribution: A Cluster-randomized Trial
Authors: Arzika Ahmed M , Maliki Ramatou , Abdou Amza , Mankara Alio K , Harouna Abdoul N , Cook Catherine , Hinterwirth Armin , Worden Lee , Zhong Lina , Chen Cindi , Ruder Kevin , Zhou Zhaoxia , Lebas Elodie , O’Brien Kieran S , Oldenburg Catherine E , Le Victoria , Arnold Benjamin F , Porco Travis C , Keenan Jeremy D , Lietman Thomas M , Doan Thuy
Published: May 2021

We evaluated the gut resistome of children from communities treated with 10 twice-yearly azithromycin distributions. Although the macrolide resistance remained higher in the azithromycin arm, the selection of non-macrolide resistance observed at earlier time points did not persist. Longitudinal resistance monitoring should be a critical component of mass distribution programs.

Clinical trials registration

NCT02047981
The distance backbone of complex networks
Authors: Simas Tiago , Correia Rion Brattig , Rocha Luis M
Published: May 2021

Redundancy needs more precise characterization as it is a major factor in the evolution and robustness of networks of multivariate interactions. We investigate the complexity of such interactions by inferring a connection transitivity that includes all possible measures of path length for weighted graphs. The result, without breaking the graph into smaller components, is a distance backbone subgraph sufficient to compute all shortest paths. This is important for understanding the dynamics of spread and communication phenomena in real-world networks. The general methodology we formally derive yields a principled graph reduction technique and provides a finer characterization of the triangular geometry of all edges—those that contribute to shortest paths and those that do not but are involved in other network phenomena. We demonstrate that the distance backbone is very small in large networks across domains ranging from air traffic to the human brain connectome, revealing that network robustness to attacks and failures seems to stem from surprisingly vast amounts of redundancy.
Effects of elevated temperature andpCO2 on the respiration, biomineralization and photophysiology of the giant clamTridacna maxima
Authors: Brahmi Chloé , Chapron Leila , Le Moullac Gilles , Soyez Claude , Beliaeff Benoît , Lazareth Claire E , Gaertner-Mazouni Nabila , Vidal-Dupiol Jeremie
Published: May 2021

Many reef organisms, such as the giant clams, are confronted with global change effects. Abnormally high seawater temperatures can lead to mass bleaching events and subsequent mortality, while ocean acidification may impact biomineralization processes. Despite its strong ecological and socio-economic importance, its responses to these threats still need to be explored. We investigated physiological responses of 4-year-old Tridacna maxima to realistic levels of temperature (+1.5°C) and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) (+800 μatm of CO2) predicted for 2100 in French Polynesian lagoons during the warmer season. During a 65-day crossed-factorial experiment, individuals were exposed to two temperatures (29.2°C, 30.7°C) and two pCO2 (430 μatm, 1212 μatm) conditions. The impact of each environmental parameter and their potential synergetic effect were evaluated based on respiration, biomineralization and photophysiology. Kinetics of thermal and/or acidification stress were evaluated by performing measurements at different times of exposure (29, 41, 53, 65 days). At 30.7°C, the holobiont O2 production, symbiont photosynthetic yield and density were negatively impacted. High pCO2 had a significant negative effect on shell growth rate, symbiont photosynthetic yield and density. No significant differences of the shell microstructure were observed between control and experimental conditions in the first 29 days; however, modifications (i.e. less-cohesive lamellae) appeared from 41 days in all temperature and pCO2 conditions. No significant synergetic effect was found. Present thermal conditions (29.2°C) appeared to be sufficiently stressful to induce a host acclimatization response. All these observations indicate that temperature and pCO2 are both forcing variables affecting T. maxima’s physiology and jeopardize its survival under environmental conditions predicted for the end of this century.
Treatment of atrial fibrillation with doxapram: TASK-1 potassium channel inhibition as a novel pharmacological strategy
Authors: Wiedmann Felix , Beyersdorf Christoph , Zhou Xiao Bo , Kraft Manuel , Paasche Amelie , Jávorszky Natasa , Rinné Susanne , Sutanto Henry , Büscher Antonius , Foerster Kathrin I , Blank Antje , El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Li Xin , Lang Siegfried , Tochtermann Ursula , Kremer Jamila , Arif Rawa , Karck Matthias , Decher Niels , van Loon Gunther , Akin Ibrahim , Borggrefe Martin , Kallenberger Stefan , Heijman Jordi , Haefeli Walter E , Katus Hugo A , Schmidt Constanze
Published: May 2021

Aims

TASK-1 (K2P3.1) two-pore-domain potassium channels are atrial-specific and significantly up-regulated in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, contributing to AF-related electrical remodelling. Inhibition of TASK-1 in cardiomyocytes of AF patients was shown to counteract AF-related action potential duration shortening. Doxapram was identified as a potent inhibitor of the TASK-1 channel. In this study, we investigated the antiarrhythmic efficacy of doxapram in a porcine model of AF.

Methods and results

Doxapram successfully cardioverted pigs with artificially induced episodes of AF. We established a porcine model of persistent AF in domestic pigs via intermittent atrial burst stimulation using implanted pacemakers. All pigs underwent catheter-based electrophysiological investigations prior to and after 14 days of doxapram treatment. Pigs in the treatment group received intravenous administration of doxapram once per day. In doxapram-treated AF pigs, the AF burden was significantly reduced. After 14 days of treatment with doxapram, TASK-1 currents were still similar to values of sinus rhythm animals. Doxapram significantly suppressed AF episodes and normalized cellular electrophysiology by inhibition of the TASK-1 channel. Patch-clamp experiments on human atrial cardiomyocytes, isolated from patients with and without AF could reproduce the TASK-1 inhibitory effect of doxapram.

Conclusion

Repurposing doxapram might yield a promising new antiarrhythmic drug to treat AF in patients.
Prediction of right heart failure after left ventricular assist implantation: external validation of the EUROMACS right-sided heart failure risk score
Authors: Rivas-Lasarte Mercedes , Kumar Salil , Derbala Mohamed H , Ferrall Joel , Cefalu Matthew , Rashid Syed Muhammad Ibrahim , Joseph Denny T , Goldstein Daniel J , Jorde Ulrich P , Guha Ashrith , Bhimaraj Arvind , Suarez Erik E , Smith Sakima A , Sims Daniel B
Published: May 2021

Aims

Prediction of right heart failure (RHF) after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant remains a challenge. The EUROMACS right-sided heart failure (EUROMACS-RHF) risk score was proposed as a prediction tool for post-LVAD RHF but lacks from large external validation. The aim of our study was to externally validate the score.

Methods and results

From January 2007 to December 2017, 878 continuous-flow LVADs were implanted at three tertiary centres. We calculated the EUROMACS-RHF score in 662 patients with complete data. We evaluated its predictive performance for early RHF defined as either (i) need for short- or long-term right-sided circulatory support, (ii) continuous inotropic support for ≥14 days, or (iii) nitric oxide for ≥48 h post-operatively. Right heart failure occurred in 211 patients (32%). When compared with non-RHF patients, pre-operatively they had higher creatinine, bilirubin, right atrial pressure, and lower INTERMACS class (P < 0.05); length of stay and in-hospital mortality were higher. Area under the ROC curve for RHF prediction of the EUROMACS-RHF score was 0.64 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.60–0.68]. Reclassification of patients with RHF was significantly better when applying the EUROMACS-RHF risk score on top of previous published scores. Patients in the high-risk category had significantly higher in-hospital and 2-year mortality [hazard ratio: 1.64 (95% CI 1.16–2.32) P = 0.005].

Conclusion

In an external cohort, the EUROMACS-RHF had limited discrimination predicting RHF. The clinical utility of this score remains to be determined.
Left atrial appendage perforation during appendage angiography treated by percutaneous left atrial appendage closure: a case report
Authors: Champagne Catherine , Dognin Nicolas , Rodés-Cabau Josep , Champagne Jean
Published: May 2021

Background

Pericardial effusion is a common complication of percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure. Acute management is the cornerstone of pericardial effusion treatment and interrupting the intervention is often required.

Case summary

A 65-year-old man presented an acute 10 mm pericardial effusion following pigtail contrast appendage injection. A rapid Watchman Flex 24 mm (Boston Scientific) deployment permitted bleeding interruption. A needle pericardiocentesis was achieved in order to prevent any haemodynamical instability.

Discussion

This case report describes an atypical cause of pericardial effusion and a technique for bleeding control with LAA closure device deployment.
Epidemiology of cardiac implantable electronic device infections: incidence and risk factors
Authors: Han Hui-Chen , Hawkins Nathaniel M , Pearman Charles M , Birnie David H , Krahn Andrew D
Published: May 2021

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infection is a potentially devastating complication of CIED procedures, causing significant morbidity and mortality for patients. Of all CIED complications, infection has the greatest impact on mortality, requirement for re-intervention and additional hospital treatment days. Based on large prospective studies, the infection rate at 12-months after a CIED procedure is approximately 1%. The risk of CIED infection may be related to several factors which should be considered with regards to risk minimization. These include technical factors, patient factors, and periprocedural factors. Technical factors include the number of leads and size of generator, the absolute number of interventions which have been performed for the patient, and the operative approach. Patient factors include various non-modifiable underlying comorbidities and potentially modifiable transient conditions. Procedural factors include both peri-operative and post-operative factors. The contemporary PADIT score, derived from a large cohort of CIED patients, is useful for the prediction of infection risk. In this review, we summarize the key information regarding epidemiology, incidence and risk factors for CIED infection.
Chromosome-scale assembly of the Sparassis latifolia genome obtained using long-read and Hi-C sequencing
Authors: Yang Chi , Ma Lu , Xiao Donglai , Liu Xiaoyu , Jiang Xiaoling , Ying Zhenghe , Lin Yanquan
Published: May 2021

Sparassis latifolia is a valuable edible mushroom cultivated in China. In 2018, our research group reported an incomplete and low-quality genome of S. latifolia obtained by Illumina HiSeq 2500 sequencing. These limitations in the available genome have constrained genetic and genomic studies in this mushroom resource. Herein, an updated draft genome sequence of S. latifolia was generated by Oxford Nanopore sequencing and the high-through chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) technique. A total of 8.24 Gb of Oxford Nanopore long reads representing ∼198.08X coverage of the S. latifolia genome were generated. Subsequently, a high-quality genome of 41.41 Mb, with scaffold and contig N50 sizes of 3.31 and 1.51 Mb, respectively, was assembled. Hi-C scaffolding of the genome resulted in 12 pseudochromosomes containing 93.56% of the bases in the assembled genome. Genome annotation further revealed that 17.47% of the genome was composed of repetitive sequences. In addition, 13,103 protein-coding genes were predicted, among which 98.72% were functionally annotated. BUSCO assay results further revealed that there were 92.07% complete BUSCOs. The improved chromosome-scale assembly and genome features described here will aid further molecular elucidation of various traits, breeding of S. latifolia, and evolutionary studies with related taxa.
Comparative Population Genetics in the Human Gut Microbiome
Authors: Shoemaker William R , Chen Daisy , Garud Nandita R
Published: May 2021

Genetic variation in the human gut microbiome is responsible for conferring a number of crucial phenotypes like the ability to digest food and metabolize drugs. Yet, our understanding of how this variation arises and is maintained remains relatively poor. Thus, the microbiome remains a largely untapped resource, as the large number of coexisting species in the microbiome presents a unique opportunity to compare and contrast evolutionary processes across species to identify universal trends and deviations. Here we outline features of the human gut microbiome that, while not unique in isolation, as an assemblage make it a system with unparalleled potential for comparative population genomics studies. We consciously take a broad view of comparative population genetics, emphasizing how sampling a large number of species allows researchers to identify universal evolutionary dynamics in addition to new genes, which can then be leveraged to identify exceptional species that deviate from general patterns. To highlight the potential power of comparative population genetics in the microbiome, we reanalyze patterns of purifying selection across ∼40 prevalent species in the human gut microbiome to identify intriguing trends which highlight functional categories in the microbiome that may be under more or less constraint.