bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The F-box protein gene
exo
-
1
is a target for reverse engineering enzyme hypersecretion in filamentous fungi
Authors: Gabriel Raphael , Thieme Nils , Liu Qian , Li Fangya , Meyer Lisa T. , Harth Simon , Jecmenica Marina , Ramamurthy Maya , Gorman Jennifer , Simmons Blake A. , McCluskey Kevin , Baker Scott E. , Tian Chaoguang , Schuerg Timo , Singer Steven W. , Fleißner André , Benz J. Philipp
Published: June 2021

Significance

Lignocellulose-based biorefinery relies on plant cell wall degrading enzymes. Current genome editing methods can create fungal enzyme hypersecreter strains by design. However, the identification of candidate genes for targeted engineering of this trait remains a bottleneck, and the necessity of specific inducer molecules further complicates production. By the resequencing of a classical hypersecreting
Neurospora crassa
mutant, we uncovered that mutation of a gene encoding an F-box protein (
exo
-
1
) causes inducer-independent hypersecretion of amylases, invertase, and pectinases. Systems biology and genetic studies of Δ
exo
-
1
shed light on the regulation of enzyme secretion in filamentous fungi, allowing targeted reverse engineering of industrially employed fungi, such as
Myceliophthora thermophila
, demonstrating the power of classical mutants in combination with modern sequencing and omics technologies.
Cellular nucleic acid–binding protein is essential for type I interferon–mediated immunity to RNA virus infection
Authors: Chen Yongzhi , Lei Xuqiu , Jiang Zhaozhao , Fitzgerald Katherine A.
Published: June 2021

Significance

Infections due to RNA viruses pose a substantial threat to human health around the globe. A better understanding of how the immune system controls RNA virus infection is critical for developing new treatments and vaccines. Here, we demonstrated that CNBP was required to control RNA virus infection through regulating the production of type I IFNs. Overall, we discovered an important role for CNBP in regulating innate immune responses and defined the underlying mechanisms, which suggest that CNBP might be a therapeutic target in controlling viral infections and inflammatory diseases.
Comparison of strength, stress corrosion cracking and microstructure of new generation 7000 series aluminium alloys
Authors: Yuan Dingling , Tan Liang , Chen Kanghua , Chen Songyi , Xie Peng , Jiao Huibin
Published: June 2021

The strength, stress corrosion cracking (SCC), and microstructure of four typical new generation 7000 series aluminium alloys (AA7037, AA7097, AA7056, and AA7085) under three-stage aging heat treatment have been investigated. The results showed that AA7085 exhibited the highest SCC resistance while AA7037 displayed the lowest SCC resistance. In addition, AA7056 presented the higher strength and SCC resistance compared with AA7037. The more susceptible to SCC of new generation 7000 series aluminium alloys was mainly ascribed to the high Zn and low Cu content in grain boundary precipitates. The results provided a new insight for the composition design of new generation 7000 series aluminium alloys.
CYRI-A limits invasive migration through macropinosome formation and integrin uptake regulation
Authors: Le Anh Hoang , Yelland Tamas , Paul Nikki R. , Fort Loic , Nikolaou Savvas , Ismail Shehab , Machesky Laura M.
Published: June 2021

The Scar/WAVE complex drives actin nucleation during cell migration. Interestingly, the same complex is important in forming membrane ruffles during macropinocytosis, a process mediating nutrient uptake and membrane receptor trafficking. Mammalian CYRI-B is a recently described negative regulator of the Scar/WAVE complex by RAC1 sequestration, but its other paralogue, CYRI-A, has not been characterized. Here, we implicate CYRI-A as a key regulator of macropinosome formation and integrin internalization. We find that CYRI-A is transiently recruited to nascent macropinosomes, dependent on PI3K and RAC1 activity. CYRI-A recruitment precedes RAB5A recruitment but follows sharply after RAC1 and actin signaling, consistent with it being a local inhibitor of actin polymerization. Depletion of both CYRI-A and -B results in enhanced surface expression of the α5β1 integrin via reduced internalization. CYRI depletion enhanced migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent growth in 3D. Thus, CYRI-A is a dynamic regulator of macropinocytosis, functioning together with CYRI-B to regulate integrin trafficking.
Topological Knots in Quantum Spin Systems
Authors: Yang X. M. , Jin L. , Song Z.
Published: June 2021

Knot theory provides a powerful tool for understanding topological matters in biology, chemistry, and physics. Here knot theory is introduced to describe topological phases in a quantum spin system. Exactly solvable models with long-range interactions are investigated, and Majorana modes of the quantum spin system are mapped into different knots and links. The topological properties of ground states of the spin system are visualized and characterized using crossing and linking numbers, which capture the geometric topologies of knots and links. The interactivity of energy bands is highlighted. In gapped phases, eigenstate curves are tangled and braided around each other, forming links. In gapless phases, the tangled eigenstate curves may form knots. Our findings provide an alternative understanding of phases in the quantum spin system, and provide insights into one-dimension topological phases of matter.
Space-Curved Resonant Line Solitons in a Generalized (2 + 1)-Dimensional Fifth-Order KdV System
Authors: Qi Zequn , Zhang Zhao , Li Biao
Published: June 2021

On the basis of N-soliton solutions, space-curved resonant line solitons are derived via a new constraint proposed here, for a generalized (2+1)-dimensional fifth-order KdV system. The dynamic properties of these new resonant line solitons are studied in detail. We then discuss the interaction between a resonance line soliton and a lump wave in greater detail. Our results highlight the distinctions between the generalized (2+1)-dimensional fifth-order KdV system and the classical type.
Multi-Electron Transfer of Ar+ Colliding with Ne Atoms Based on a Time-Dependent Density-Functional Theory
Authors: Qin Shuai , Gao Cong-Zhang , Yu Wandong , Qu Yi-Zhi
Published: June 2021

The multi-electron capture and loss cross-sections of Ar+–Ne collisions are calculated at absolute energies in the few-keV/a.u. regime. The calculations are performed using a novel inverse collision framework, in the context of a time-dependent density functional theory, combined with molecular dynamics. The extraction of the capture and loss probabilities is based on the particle-number projection technique, originating from nuclear physics, but validly extended to represent many-electron systems. Good agreement between experimental and theoretical data is found, which clearly reveals the non-negligible post-collision decay of the projectile’s electrons, providing further evidence for the applicability of the approach to complex many-electron collision systems.
Broadband Sheet Parametric Oscillator for χ
(2) Optical Frequency Comb Generation via Cavity Phase Matching
Authors: Ni Xin , Jia Kunpeng , Wang Xiaohan , Liu Huaying , Guo Jian , Huang Shu-Wei , Yao Baicheng , Sernicola Nicolò , Wang Zhenlin , Lv Xinjie , Zhao Gang , Xie Zhenda , Zhu Shi-Ning
Published: June 2021

We demonstrate a broadband optical parametric oscillation, using a sheet cavity, via cavity phase-matching. A 21.2 THz broad comb-like spectrum is achieved, with a uniform line spacing of 133.0 GHz, despite a relatively large dispersion of 275.4 fs2/mm around 1064 nm. With 22.6% high slope efficiency, and 14.9 kW peak power handling, this sheet optical parametric oscillator can be further developed for χ
(2) comb.
Existence of radial solutions in the Chern–Simons–Higgs model with its

N=2

SUSY extension
Authors: Huang Hsin-Yuan , Kao Hsien-Chung
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we study a system of elliptic equations in

R

2

which arises from the abelian Chern–Simons–Higgs theory and its

N
=
2

SUSY extension. This system is expected to have three types of solutions: topological solutions, mixed type solutions and non-topological solutions. We establish the existence of the radial solutions of these three types.
Atomistic modelling of near-crack-tip plasticity
*
Authors: Buze Maciej
Published: June 2021

An atomistic model of near-crack-tip plasticity on a square lattice under anti-plane shear kinematics is formulated and studied. The model is based upon a new geometric and functional framework of a lattice manifold complex, which ensures that the crack surface is fully taken into account, while preserving the crucial notion of duality. As a result, existence of locally stable equilibrium configurations containing both a crack opening and dislocations is established. Notably, with the boundary in the form of a crack surface accounted for, no minimum separation between a dislocation core and the crack surface or the crack tip is required. The work presented here constitutes a foundation for several further studies aiming to put the phenomenon of near-crack-tip plasticity on a rigorous footing.
Generation of domain-wall solitons in an anomalous dispersion fiber ring laser*
Authors: Zhang Wen-Yan , Yang Kun , Geng Li-Jie , Liu Nan-Nan , Hao Yun-Qi , Xian Tian-Hao , Zhan Li
Published: June 2021

We report experimental observations performed using a net anomalous dispersion Er-doped fiber ring laser without polarization-selective elements, highlighting the domain-wall solitary pulses generated under the incoherent polarization coupling. By adjusting the pump power and the polarization state appropriately, bright and dark solitons can stably co-exist in the cavity, both centered at 1562.16 nm with a 3-dB spectral width of ∼ 0.15 nm and a repetition rate of 3.83 MHz. Moreover, the 0.8 mm long thulium-doped fiber (TDF) facilitated the mode-locking and self-starting of the laser. This is the first demonstration of a laser being used to generate bright and dark solitons synchronously while using TDF as the saturable absorber (SA). Except possessing the all-fiber structure, the laser exhibits good stability, which may have a significant influence on improvement of the pulse-laser design, and may broaden practical applications in optical sensing, optical communication, and soliton multiplexed systems.
A 4H-SiC merged P–I–N Schottky with floating back-to-back diode
Authors: Chen Wei-Zhong , Qin Hai-Feng , Xu Feng , Wang Li-Xiang , Huang Yi , Han Zheng-Sheng
Published: June 2021

A novel 4H-SiC merged P–I–N Schottky (MPS) with floating back-to-back diode (FBD), named FBD-MPS, is proposed and investigated by the Sentaurus technology computer-aided design (TCAD) and analytical model. The FBD features a trench oxide and floating P-shield, which is inserted between the P+/N– (PN) junction and Schottky junction to eliminate the shorted anode effect. The FBD is formed by the N-drift/P-shield/N-drift and it separates the PN and Schottky active region independently. The FBD reduces not only the V
turn to suppress the snapback effect but also the V
on at bipolar operation. The results show that the snapback can be completely eliminated, and the maximum electric field (E
max) is shifted from the Schottky junction to the FBD in the breakdown state.
Magnetic dynamics of two-dimensional itinerant ferromagnet Fe3GeTe2
*
Authors: Ni Lijun , Chen Zhendong , Li Wei , Lu Xianyang , Yan Yu , Zhang Longlong , Yan Chunjie , Chen Yang , Gu Yaoyu , Li Yao , Zhang Rong , Zhai Ya , Liu Ronghua , Yang Yi , Xu Yongbing
Published: June 2021

Among the layered two-dimensional ferromagnetic materials (2D FMs), due to a relatively high T
C, the van der Waals (vdW) Fe3GeTe2 (FGT) crystal is of great importance for investigating its distinct magnetic properties. Here, we have carried out static and dynamic magnetization measurements of the FGT crystal with a Curie temperature T
C ≈ 204 K. The M–H hysteresis loops with in-plane and out-of-plane orientations show that FGT has a strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy with the easy axis along its c-axis. Moreover, we have calculated the uniaxial magnetic anisotropy constant (K
1) from the SQUID measurements. The dynamic magnetic properties of FGT have been probed by utilizing the high sensitivity electron-spin-resonance (ESR) spectrometer at cryogenic temperatures. Based on an approximation of single magnetic domain mode, the K
1 and the effective damping constant (α
eff) have also been determined from the out-of-plane angular dependence of ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) spectra obtained at the temperature range of 185 K to T
C. We have found large magnetic damping with the effective damping constant α
eff ∼ 0.58 along with a broad linewidth (Δ H
pp > 1000 Oe at 9.48 GHz, H ∥ c-axis). Our results provide useful dynamics information for the development of FGT-based spintronic devices.
Retraction: Islamic diffusion in the countries of the Arctic region: the processes of Muslim migration to Scandinavian countries in the context of the transforming Islamic world (IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ. Sci.
302 012070)
Authors: Kulik S V , Yu Eidemiller K , Biktimirova R R , Vanicheva M N
Published: June 2021

IOP Publishing Limited ("IOPP") is retracting this paper following an investigation which resulted from a reader complaint. The paper makes a number of unsubstantiated claims and, in the opinion of IOPP, lacks scientific rigour, clarity and objectivity. Although the paper was subject to peer review via the conference organisers, unfortunately these issues were not identified on this occasion. IOPP also has concerns regarding the discriminatory tone and sentiment of the paper, which are not appropriate in a scientific journal.

IOPP expresses its thanks to the readers and independent advisors who have shared their thoughts regarding this paper during the course of the investigation.

Retraction published: 24 June 2021
Features of the organic-mineral intumescent paints structure formation for wooden constructions fire protection
Authors: Guzii S , Kurska T , Otrosh Y , Balduk P , Ivanov Y
Published: June 2021

The paper presents the results describing the features of the organic-mineral paints structure formation of the intumescent type for wooden structures fire protection. On the research basis a diagram of the coke formation process has been developed. It is shown that the introduction of titanium oxide and aluminum hydroxide in an amount of 5% promotes the ordering of the foam layer structure, an increase in its thermal stability and the achievement of the highest value of the swelling coefficient – up to 47, which is 1.7 times higher than the values of the swelling coefficient of the base composition. It was found that at 700 °C the formation of refractory compounds of the type TiP2O7, Mg3(PO4)2, AlPO4 occurs, which prevent the burnout of the formed coke foam and increase its strength and heat resistance. On the basis of the main provisions of fuzzy mathematics and data from physicochemical studies, a model of the mechanism of structure and coke formation and control of this process is proposed.
Change in effective viscosity and level of synergism of cement-containing mechanoactivated suspension
Authors: Ksonshkevych L , Barabash I , Streltsov K , Krantovska O
Published: June 2021

The article considers the influence of prescription factors (ground chamot, superplasticizer C-3) on the change of the effective viscosity of mechanically activated cement-containing suspensions used in the technology of lightweight concrete mixtures. The synergistic effect of reducing the viscosity of cement-containing suspensions during their activation in high-speed mixers of turbulent type in the presence of C-3 was revealed. Optimized modes of mechanical activation of suspensions that provide the maximum reduction of their effective viscosity.
Evaluation of the efficiency of using solar energy in the production of building composites
Authors: Plit A , Zavoloka M , Shynkevych O , Vinnichenko V
Published: June 2021

The results of research of speed of set of durability of fine-grained concrete are in-process presented on a compression which hardened in solar chamber of cyclic action. The analysis of existent types of industrial solar chambers is conducted and basic structural elements are considered. Resulted calculation of thermal balance of solar chambers. Experiments are conducted on compositions of fine-grained concrete on cement astringent with the use of additions of superplasticizers of firm MC - Bauchemie: MC - PowerFlow 3100 and MC - PowerFlow 2695. After self-control in solar chamber of cyclic action durability was determined determined at the different terms of hardening. The comparative analysis of results of durability is conducted on the compression of concrete in solar chamber and chamber of the normal hardening.
The James brand
Authors: Mizruchi Susan L.
Published: June 2021

‘The James brand’ examines how, during the period when he was introducing his brand to an Anglo-American public, Henry James honed his signature subject: plotting the fates of Americans abroad. If James was not the inventor of the international novel, he was certainly one of its most important proponents and developers. The first of James’s international novels, The American (1877), focuses on the mind of a woman; Portrait of a Lady (1881) reveals it to be an ideal register for the deep psychological transformations that became his trademark. James also wrote a major essay on literary criticism during this period, “The Art of Fiction” (1884).
Masterpieces
Authors: Mizruchi Susan L.
Published: June 2021

‘Masterpieces’ focuses on three of Henry James’s novels that are generally considered his greatest: The Ambassadors (1902), The Wings of the Dove (1903), and The Golden Bowl (1904). The Ambassadors is a meditation on the nature of ambition, destiny, and what makes a life meaningful. The Wings of the Dove deals with illness and suffering, and the moral conundrum presented by a dying girl possessed of great wealth she cannot enjoy, and her needy friends who seek to inherit it. The Golden Bowl is about the institutions of marriage and family, and how they are disrupted by passion. The chapter also examines James’s travel narrative, The American Scene (1907).
1. Monsters
Authors: Jones Darryl
Published: June 2021

‘Monsters’ discusses the concept of taboo, and the violation of taboos, looking at the meaning of one of the most powerful of all taboos, cannibalism. Monsters are fundamental to our ideas of horror. The word ‘monster’ shares an etymology with the word ‘demonstrate’: it is something that is shown—as a portent, a warning, an omen, or an atrocity. Two of the most important horror monsters, the vampire and the zombie, appear in a variety of cultural and political contexts. What is the attraction in creating fascinating monsters which want to consume us?
3. Horror and the body
Authors: Jones Darryl
Published: June 2021

‘Horror and the body’ looks at the variety of ways in which the human body is figured, refigured, and disfigured in horror, opening with an analysis of the history and meaning of bodily transformation and metamorphosis, beginning in the ancient world. What is meant by beast transformations? In this respect, the werewolf has an important role in horror culture. ‘Body horror’ refers the use of the transformation and disfigurement of the body in often graphic ways, and often to radical ends. There is also the notion of ‘torture porn’, which focusses on the spectacle of the body in pain. This raises interesting ethical issues.
Public health
Authors: Slack Paul
Published: June 2021

‘Public health’ addresses plague policies and the notions of public health they embodied. The particular character of plague epidemics undoubtedly made its own contribution to the ways in which it was combated. It evidently came from outside, and its chief victims were the poor and disadvantaged—people with little political influence who seemed in need of control for other reasons. Surveillance and segregation followed naturally from that. Once begun, however, they appeared wherever rulers and regimes wanted to exercise greater control over their subjects. The reason why Europe was first in developing a particularly draconian code of public health seems likely to lie, therefore, in the realm of politics.
Total cost of care increases significantly from early to mild Alzheimer’s disease: 5-year ALSOVA follow-up
Authors: Jetsonen Viivi , Kuvaja-Köllner Virpi , Välimäki Tarja , Selander Tuomas , Martikainen Janne , Koivisto Anne M
Published: June 2021

Introduction

We studied the costs of formal and informal care in relation to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression.

Methods

231 persons with AD with a family caregiver were followed up for 5 years. The Clinical Dementia Rating Scale—Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) was used to measure AD progression. Health and social care unit costs were used for formal care costs. An opportunity cost method for lost leisure time was applied to analyse the cost of informal care.

Results

Total cost of care in early stage AD (CDR-SB ≤ 4) was 16,448€ (95% CI 13,722–19,716) annually. In mild (CDR-SB 4.5–9), moderate (CDR-SB 9.5–15.5) and severe (CDR-SB ≥ 16) AD, the total costs were 2.3, 3.4 and 4.4 times higher, respectively. A one-unit increase in CDR-SB increased the total, formal and informal costs by 15, 11 and 18%, respectively.

Conclusions

Compared to early AD, the costs of total, formal and informal care are remarkably higher already in mild AD. This finding emphasises early diagnosis, interventions and family support for persons with AD and their caregivers.
SPP1 expression in the mouse uterus and placenta: implications for implantation†
Authors: Kramer Avery C , Erikson David W , McLendon Bryan A , Seo Heewon , Hayashi Kanako , Spencer Thomas E , Bazer Fuller W , Burghardt Robert C , Johnson Greg A
Published: June 2021

Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1, also known as osteopontin) binds integrins to mediate cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix communication to promote cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. Considerable evidence links SPP1 to pregnancy in several species. Current evidence suggests that SPP1 is involved in implantation and placentation in mice, but in vivo localization of SPP1 and in vivo mechanistic studies to substantiate these roles are incomplete and contradictory. We localized Spp1 mRNA and protein in the endometrium and placenta of mice throughout gestation, and utilized delayed implantation of mouse blastocysts to link SPP1 expression to the implantation chamber. Spp1 mRNA and protein localized to the endometrial luminal (LE), but not glandular epithelia (GE) in interimplantation regions of the uterus throughout gestation. Spp1 mRNA and protein also localized to uterine naturel killer (uNK) cells of the decidua. Within the implantation chamber, Spp1 mRNA localized only to intermittent LE cells, and to the inner cell mass. SPP1 protein localized to intermittent trophoblast cells, and to the parietal endoderm. These results suggest that SPP1: (1) is secreted by the LE at interimplantation sites for closure of the uterine lumen to form the implantation chamber; (2) is secreted by LE adjacent to the attaching trophoblast cells for attachment and invasion of the blastocyst; and (3) is not a component of histotroph secreted from the GE, but is secreted from uNK cells in the decidua to increase angiogenesis within the decidua to augment hemotrophic support of embryonic/fetal development of the conceptus.
Conferences in the time of COVID: notes on organizing and delivering the first Brain Conference
Authors: Li Lucia M , Bourke Niall J , Lai Helen H L , May Hazel G , Zimmerman Karl A , Bell Joanne , Riches Eleanor , Abu-Sway Safa , Sharp David J
Published: June 2021

To further fulfil their missions of promoting teaching, education and research in neurology and related clinical-academic disciplines, the Guarantors of Brain and the Brain journal family invited delegates to the first Brain Conference in Spring of this year. This event aimed to deliver excellent teaching and scientific presentations across a broad spectrum of neuroscience fields, with the key aim of making the content as accessible as possible. We hoped to capitalize on the benefits of an online format, whilst trying to capture a little of the joy of the in-person meeting. This article reports on the approach and practical choices made to achieve these goals, and we hope this will provide some guidance and advice to others organizing their own online conference.
Routinized Syphilis Screening Among Men Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Burchell Ann N , Tan Darrell H S , Grewal Ramandip , MacPherson Paul A , Walmsley Sharon , Rachlis Anita , Andany Nisha , Mishra Sharmistha , Gardner Sandra L , Raboud Janet , Fisman David , Cooper Curtis , Gough Kevin , Maxwell John , Rourke Sean B , Rousseau Rodney , Mazzulli Tony , Salit Irving E , Allen Vanessa G
Published: June 2021

Background

We implemented an opt-out clinic-based intervention pairing syphilis tests with routine human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral load testing. The primary objective was to determine the degree to which this intervention increased the detection of early syphilis.

Methods

The Enhanced Syphilis Screening Among HIV-Positive Men (ESSAHM) Trial was a stepped wedge cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 4 urban HIV clinics in Ontario, Canada, from 2015 to 2017. The population was HIV-positive adult males. The intervention was standing orders for syphilis serological testing with viral loads, and control was usual practice. We obtained test results via linkage with the centralized provincial laboratory and defined cases using a standardized clinical worksheet and medical record review. We employed a generalized linear mixed model with a logit link to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the intervention.

Results

A total of 3895 men were followed over 7471 person-years. The mean number of syphilis tests increased from 0.53 to 2.02 tests per person per year. There were 217 new diagnoses of syphilis (control, 81; intervention, 136), for which 147 (68%) were cases of early syphilis (control, 61 [75%]; intervention, 86 [63%]). The annualized proportion with newly detected early syphilis increased from 0.009 to 0.032 with implementation of the intervention; the corresponding time-adjusted OR was 1.25 (95% CI, .71–2.20).

Conclusions

The implementation of standing orders for syphilis testing with HIV viral loads was feasible and increased testing, yet produced less-than-expected increases in case detection compared to past uncontrolled pre–post trials.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT02019043.
Genetic Diagnosis in Hereditary Hemochromatosis: Discovering and Understanding the Biological Relevance of Variants
Authors: Baas Floor S , Rishi Gautam , Swinkels Dorine W , Subramaniam V Nathan
Published: June 2021

Background

Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is a genetic disease, leading to iron accumulation and possible organ damage. Patients are usually homozygous for p. Cys282Tyr in the homeostatic iron regulator gene but may have mutations in other genes involved in the regulation of iron. Next-generation sequencing is increasingly being utilized for the diagnosis of patients, leading to the discovery of novel genetic variants. The clinical significance of these variants is often unknown.

Content

Determining the pathogenicity of such variants of unknown significance is important for diagnostics and genetic counseling. Predictions can be made using in silico computational tools and population data, but additional evidence is required for a conclusive pathogenicity classification. Genetic disease models, such as in vitro models using cellular overexpression, induced pluripotent stem cells or organoids, and in vivo models using mice or zebrafish all have their own challenges and opportunities when used to model HH and other iron disorders. Recent developments in gene-editing technologies are transforming the field of genetic disease modeling.

In summary, this review addresses methods and developments regarding the discovery and classification of genetic variants, from in silico tools to in vitro and in vivo models, and presents them in the context of HH. It also explores recent gene-editing developments and how they can be applied to the discussed models of genetic disease.
Tunicate Swarm Magnetic Optimization With Deep Convolution Neural Network For Collaborative Filter Recommendation
Authors: Gupta Shefali , Goel Ankit , Dave Dr Meenu
Published: June 2021

Collaborative filtering (CF) is a well-known and eminent recommendation technique to predict the preference of new users by revealing the structures of historical records of the examined users. Even though CF is effectively adapted in several commercial areas, many limitations still exist, particularly in the sparsity of rating data that raises many issues. This paper devises a novel deep learning strategy for CF to recognize user preferences. Here, black hole entropic fuzzy clustering (BHEFC) is devised for clustering item sequences to form groups with similar item sequences. Moreover, cluster centroids are optimized using the tunicate swarm magnetic optimization algorithm (TSMOA), which is devised by combining tunicate swarm algorithm and magnetic optimization algorithm. After grouping similar items together, the group matching is performed based on a deep convolutional neural network (Deep CNN). Subsequently, the visitor sequence and query sequence are compared using Jaro–Winkler distance, which contributes to the best visitor sequence. From this best visitor sequence, the recommended product is acquired. The proposed TSMOA–BHEFC and Deep CNN outperformed other methods with minimal mean absolute error of 0.200, mean absolute percentage error of 0.198 and root mean square error of 0.447, respectively.
Device-related complications after Impella mechanical circulatory support implantation: an IMP-IT observational multicentre registry substudy
Authors: Ancona Marco B , Montorfano Matteo , Masiero Giulia , Burzotta Francesco , Briguori Carlo , Pagnesi Matteo , Pazzanese Vittorio , Trani Carlo , Piva Tommaso , De Marco Federico , Di Biasi Maurizio , Pagnotta Paolo , Casu Gavino , Garbo Roberto , Preti Gerlando , Nicolini Elisa , Sclafani Rocco , Colonna Giuseppe , Mojoli Marco , Siviglia Massimo , Denurra Cristiana , Caprioglio Francesco , Scandroglio Anna Mara , Tarantini Giuseppe , Chieffo Alaide
Published: June 2021

Aims

To report the incidence, the predictors and clinical impact of device-related complications (DRCs) in the IMP-IT (IMPella Mechanical Circulatory Support Device in Italy) registry. Impella is percutaneous left ventricular assist devices, which provides mechanical circulatory support both in cardiogenic shock (CS) and high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HR-PCI). The IMP-IT registry is a multicentre registry evaluating the trends in use and clinical outcomes of Impella in Italy.

Methods and results

A total of 406 patients have been included in this registry: 56.4% in the setting of CS, while 43.6% patients in the setting of HR-PCI. DRCs were defined as a composite endpoint of access-site bleeding, limb ischaemia, vascular complication requiring treatment, haemolysis, aortic injury, and left ventricular perforation. DRC incidence in the overall population was 25.6%, with significantly higher rate in the CS (37.1%) than in the HR-PCI (10.7%) group. The most frequent complication was haemolysis (11.8%), which occurred almost exclusively in CS population. Access-site bleeding was observed in 9.6% of the overall population, with no significant difference between the two groups. Limb ischaemia was observed in 8.3% of the overall population, with significantly higher rate in the CS group. CS and right ventricular dysfunction appear as the strongest independent predictors of DRC. One-year mortality in patients with DRC appears higher than in patients with no DRC. However, DRC was not confirmed as an independent predictor of 1-year mortality at multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

In the IMP-IT registry, the rate of DRC was 25.6%, with CS being the strongest independent predictor. DRC was not found as an independent predictor of 1-year mortality.
Staphylococcus aureusmembrane-damaging activities of four phenolics
Authors: Bouarab Lynda , Degraeve Pascal , Bouajila Jalloul , Cottaz Amandine , Jbilou Fouzia , Joly Catherine , Oulahal Nadia
Published: June 2021

The membrane-damaging activities of four phenolics chosen for their bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus CNRZ3 were investigated: 5,7-dihydroxy-4-phenylcoumarin (DHPC), 5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (DHNQ), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and isobutyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (IBHB). Staphylococcus aureus CNRZ3 cells, as well as model liposomes mimicking its membrane phospholipids composition, were treated with each phenolic at its minimal bactericidal concentration. Membrane integrity, intracellular pH and intracellular esterase activity were examined by flow cytometric analysis of S. aureus cells stained with propidium iodide and SYTO® 9, 2′,7′-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein acetoxymethyl ester, and 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate, respectively. While intracellular pH was affected by the foyr phenolics, only DHNQ and to a lesser extent EGCG, caused a loss of membrane integrity. Flow cytometric analysis of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) and DPPC/POPG (2-oleoyl-1-palmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoglycerol) liposomes stained with Coumarin 6 (which penetrates the lipid bilayer) or 5-N(octadecanoyl)-amino-fluorescein (which binds to the liposome shell) suggested that only EGCG and DHNQ penetrated the bilayer of phospholipids of liposomes. Taken together, these findings support the hypothesis that EGCG and DHNQ bactericidal activity results from their accumulation in the phospholipid bilayer of S. aureus cells membrane causing its disruption.
The herbicide cycloxydim is an effective alternative to propyzamide or glyphosate for the control of the forest grass weeds Molinia caerulea, Calamagrostis epigejos, Deschampsia flexuosa and Holcus lanatus
Authors: Willoughby Ian H , Forster Jack
Published: June 2021

We tested the efficacy of a range of herbicides to see if they might be potential substitutes for the use of propyzamide or glyphosate to control grass weed species that, if left unchecked, often outcompete recently planted trees in UK forests.

Applications of 0.45kg a.i. ha−1 cycloxydim in late April–early May gave good control of wood small reed (Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus L.), and wavy hair grass (Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin.)) for at least 12 weeks after application. When coupled with a sequential application of 0.15kg a.i. ha−1 propaquizafop made 5 weeks later, purple moor grass (Molinia caerulea (L.) Moench) was controlled for at least 21 weeks.

Sequential applications of 0.45 kg a.i. ha−1 cycloxydim in October, then 0.45 kg a.i. ha−1 cycloxydim in late April, was the most effective treatment for minimizing competition from purple moor grass, wood small reed or wavy hair grass and equally effective as propyzamide on Yorkshire fog.

The herbicides carbetamide, clethodim, clodinafop-propargyl and fenoxaprop-p-ethyl were not as effective as cycloxydim.

We conclude that cycloxydim is effective on a broader range of grass weeds than previously thought. Cycloxydim and propaquizafop are both highly selective and unlike the broad-spectrum herbicide glyphosate will not harm young trees, even if they are oversprayed when in active growth. If applied at the correct time of year, cycloxydim is likely to be as effective as glyphosate on most grasses, and for wood small reed, purple moor grass and wavy hair grass considerably more effective than propyzamide. A sequential application of cycloxydim or possibly propaquizafop in the autumn, followed by a second spray in late April of the following spring, is likely to be the most effective means of maximizing tree growth and survival in grass dominated new planting or restock sites in UK forests.
Extending the Analysis of Functional Ability Trajectories to Unexplored National Contexts: The Case of Chile
Authors: Madero-Cabib Ignacio , Villalobos Dintrans Pablo , Browne Salas Jorge
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Despite the enormous advances in the field, most evidence about functional ability trajectories in old age comes from studies conducted in developed and high-income countries. This research aims to build on these previous advances to examine functional ability trajectories in Chile.

Method

Drawing on a robust, publicly available 15-year panel data set (2004–2018), and using sequence analysis, we examine functional ability trajectories types among 4 age groups (people aged 46–50, 51–55, 56–60, and 61–64 at baseline). Then, we analyze trajectories’ dynamics looking at intraindividual health-declining and health-recovery transitions between functional ability statuses, within each trajectory type. Finally, we assess how multiple baseline individual characteristics predict the likelihood of following a functional ability trajectory type, using multinomial regression models.

Results

Across all age groups, an important fraction (between 26% and 50%) reports stable healthy trajectories, and between 10% and 20% follow equivocal-declining trajectories (i.e., exhibiting both health-declining and health-recovery intraindividual transitions), suggesting that age might not be the main source of heterogeneity in functional ability trajectories. Overall, women, lower educated people, nonworking individuals, and people with a higher burden of chronic conditions at baseline are more prevalent among health-declining trajectory types; however, these results are not constant across the age groups analyzed.

Discussion

This nationally focused study reinforces the feasibility and usefulness of an in-depth analysis of functional ability trajectories in old age. The study findings can be crucial to define different prevention strategies according to the functional ability path that an individual might follow, especially in countries like Chile that currently navigate the challenges of population aging.
Assessing Age Inclusivity in Higher Education: Introducing the Age-Friendly Inventory and Campus Climate Survey
Authors: Silverstein Nina M , Whitbourne Susan K , Bowen Lauren M , Montepare Joann M , Jansen Taylor , Beaulieu Celeste , Prasad Anyah
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

This study introduces a theoretical framework for assessing age inclusivity in higher education environments and describes the Age-Friendly Inventory and Campus Climate Survey (ICCS). The ICCS measures age-friendly campus practices as reported by administrators, perceptions of age-friendliness by campus constituents, and the fit between objective practices and subjective perceptions as an overall indicator of age inclusivity.

Research Design and Methods

The ICCS was administered at a public university in the northeastern United States. Administrators completed the Inventory of potential age-friendly campus practices associated with their units. Campus constituents (n = 688) completed the online Campus Climate Survey to assess subjective awareness of these practices, perceived age-friendliness, and personal beliefs about age inclusivity.

Results

The Inventory yielded a score of 66% of potential age-friendly practices in place as reported by administrators. The Campus Climate Survey showed low overall perceptions of age-friendliness and varied beliefs about age inclusivity on campus. Fit was measured by comparing the Inventory practices and Campus Climate Survey awareness of the existence of 47 of 73 potential practices. Convergence on this campus showed an awareness of 36% of age-friendly practices.

Discussion and Implications

Based on the proposed theoretical framework for age inclusivity, the ICCS offers a way of assessing the age-friendliness of the objective environment across campus functions, the subjective environment across campus constituents, and the fit between subjective and objective environments on campuses. The ICCS will help higher education institutions identify strengths and challenges for advancing age inclusivity.
Self-Reported Behavioral Symptoms of People With Dementia: A Pilot Study Examining Individuals’ Perceived Illness Experience
Authors: Minyo Morgan J , Judge Katherine S
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

Persons with dementia experience behavioral symptoms, such as agitation and repeating questions, which have been reported as one of the most burdensome and stressful aspects of providing care by dementia caregivers. However, no published studies have assessed the subjective experience of behavioral symptoms and distress from people with dementia.

Research Design and Methods

The current pilot study examined the feasibility of people with dementia providing self-reported behaviors and behavioral-related distress. Data from a larger, ongoing research study was used consisting of people with mild to moderate dementia (n = 12) residing in a long-term memory care facility.

Results

Participants were able to provide reliable (α = 0.91) self-reported data concerning their own behaviors and behavioral-related distress with variability among responses. The most frequently self-reported behaviors included agitation (66.7%) and complaining/criticizing things (58.3%) while the least-reported behaviors were refusing to be left alone (8.3%) and yelling/swearing (8.3%). The highest behavioral distress reported was agitation (58.3%) while the least was wandering (8.3%).

Discussion and Implications

Understanding the subjective, perceived experience of people with dementia provides valuable information on the illness experience. Additional research is needed to examine the role and impact of self-reported behaviors and the resulting behavioral-related distress on outcomes of well-being. Subjective reports of behavioral-related distress could predict well-being, above and beyond that of traditional objective measures, creating the potential for novel nonpharmacological intervention development for people with dementia.
One Health and reconciliation: media portrayals of dogs and Indigenous communities in Canada
Authors: Fraser-Celin Valli-Laurente , Rock Melanie J
Published: June 2021

This qualitative media analysis explores how the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) portrayed ‘dog problems’ and their solutions in Indigenous communities in Canada from 2008 through 2018. We apply a One Health framework to demonstrate how human, animal, and the socio-environmental health are interconnected, which aligns more explicitly with Indigenous worldviews. Through this analysis, we respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) Calls to Action, specifically Action 19 (health inequity) and Action 84 (media). We found that the CBC portrayed dogs as “strays” and focused mainly on the removal of dogs, whether rehoming by animal rescue groups or through culling, and that rescue groups were portrayed as ‘animal lovers’. Meanwhile, journalists sometimes mentioned the lack of policies to support community-driven dog population control and veterinary services, but these policy deficits did not receive emphasis. The CBC coverage did not highlight systemic injustices that can impact dog health and welfare in Indigenous communities. This media analysis outlines ways forward for reconciliation with Indigenous communities when the media reports on dogs; we recommend journalists (i) focus on lack of veterinary services in communities and the impacts rather than the removal of dogs, (ii) discuss broader systemic structures and policies that limit access to veterinary services in Indigenous communities and (iii) how such resource constraints impact human and animal health.
Intergenerational change in anthropometry of children and adolescents in the New Delhi Birth Cohort
Authors: Sinha Sikha , Shah Dheeraj , Osmond Clive , Fall Caroline H D , Bhargava Santosh K , Sachdev Harshpal Singh
Published: June 2021

Background

A comparison of the anthropometry of children and adolescents with that of their parents at the same age may provide a more precise measure of intergenerational changes in linear growth and body mass index (BMI).

Methods

New Delhi Birth Cohort participants (F1), born between 1969 and 1972, were followed up for anthropometry at birth and at 6-monthly intervals until 21 years of age. At variable intervals 1447 children, aged 0–19 years (F2) and born to 818 F1 participants, were measured (weight and height), providing 2236 sets of anthropometries. Intergenerational changes (F2-F1) in height and BMI [absolute and standard deviation (SD) units] were computed by comparing children with their parents at corresponding ages.

Results

F2 children were taller (P < 0.001) than their parents at corresponding ages; the increase {mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] World Health Organization SD units} was 0.97 (0.83, 1.11), 1.21 (1.10, 1.32), 1.09 (0.98, 1.19), 1.10 (1.00, 1.21) and 0.75 (0.65, 0.85) for age categories of 0–5, 5–7.5, 7.5–10, 10–12.5 and >12.5 years, respectively. In absolute terms, this increase ranged from 3.5 cm (0–5-year-olds) to 7.5 cm (10–12.5-year-olds). The corresponding increases in BMI SD scores were 0.32 (0.18, 0.47), 0.60 (0.45, 0.75), 1.13 (0.99, 1.27), 1.30 (1.15, 1.45) and 1.00 (0.85, 1.15), respectively. The absolute BMI increase ranged from 1–3 kg/m2 at >5 years age to ∼3 kg/m2 at >10-years of age. The intergenerational increases were comparable in both sexes, but were greater in children born and measured later. A positive change in socioeconomic status was associated with an increase in height across the generations.

Conclusions

Children and adolescents, throughout the ages 0–19 years, have become considerably taller and have a higher BMI than their parents at corresponding ages in an urban middle-class Indian population undergoing socioeconomic improvements.
Using sustainable development indicators in developing Saudi cities—case study: Makkah city
Authors: Helmi Mansour , Hegazy Ibrahim , Qurnfulah Emad , Maddah Rahif , Ibrahim Hossam Samir
Published: June 2021

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has achieved a rate of 69% in development sustainability level and ranked 101st out of 157 countries participating in the United Nations (UN) Convention of Sustainable Development Achievement. This shows a weakness in the extent of achieving sustainable development in the cities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Therefore, Makkah city, as one of the most significant cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was selected to measure to what extent it achieves sustainable development. The study sought to identify the indicators through which the extent of sustainable development achievement can be measured in Makkah. The values of indicators in Makkah were determined with reference to the accredited authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, such as the General Authority for Statistics and the establishment of the Makkah Comprehensive Plan. In addition, the quality-of-life program document was reviewed and links between the sustainable development indicators and livability indicators included in the quality-of-life document were considered. Then, a gap analysis was identified to find out the difference between the status in Makkah and the standard established by the UN and those included in the quality-of-life document. Finally, the study revealed the extent of achieving sustainable development in Makkah, which reached a score of 77.5%. The weaknesses of the city were determined in comparison to the established standards. Initiations and several programs were proposed for the purpose of bridging the gap identified in the study.