bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evolution of dimorphic traits: predicting the genetic correlation between environments.
Authors: Roff D A
Published: April 2021

Many traits vary in a dichotomous manner, although the underlying genetic determination is polygenic. The genetic basis of such dimorphic traits can be analyzed using the threshold model, in which it is assumed that there is a continuously distributed underlying character and the phenotype is determined by whether the character is above or below a threshold. Threshold traits frequently vary with environmental variables such as photoperiod, temperature and density. This effect can be accounted for using a threshold model in which (1) there is a critical value of the environmental variable at which a genotype switches to the alternate morph, and (2) switch (threshold) points are normally distributed in the population. I term this the environmental threshold (ET) model. I show that the ET model predicts that across environments differing in only one factor the genetic correlation will be 1. This prediction is supported by data from three wing dimorphic insects. Evidence is presented that the genetic correlation between environments differing in two components (temperature and photoperiod) is less than 1.
Mutations in rik1, clr2, clr3 and clr4 genes asymmetrically derepress the silent mating-type loci in fission yeast.
Authors: Ekwall K , Ruusala T
Published: April 2021

In Schizosaccharomyces pombe the mating-type information is stored at two transcriptionally silent loci (mat2 and mat3). The region between these sites (K region) is inert for meiotic crossing over. The mating-type genes (M or P) are expressed only when present at a third, active locus (mat1). We have earlier shown that the positional regulation of P genes is based on repression at the silent site, caused by elements in the flanking DNA sequences. In this study we have mutagenized a sterile mat1 deleted strain and selected for cells that are able to conjugate. Recessive mutations of this type should define genes encoding trans-acting factors involved in repression of the silent mating-type loci. Before this work mutations in two genes, clr1 and swi6, had been shown to allow both expression of the silent loci and recombination in the K region. The sensitivity of the present selection is demonstrated by the isolation of new mutations that derepress one or both of the silent loci (M-mating or bi-mating). The frequency of M-mating mutants was almost two orders of magnitude higher than that of bi-mating mutants and in all mutants analyzed mat3-M expression was significantly higher than mat2-P expression. The mutations define three new genes, clr2, clr3 and clr4. In addition we show that the rik1 mutant previously known to allow recombination in the K region also depresses the silent loci.
The Age-Dependent Association Between Vascular Risk Factors and Depressed Mood
Authors: Blöchl Maria , Schaare H Lina , Kunzmann Ute , Nestler Steffen
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Cumulative burden of vascular risk factors (VRFs) has been linked to an increased risk of depressed mood. However, the role of age in this association is still unclear. Here, we investigated whether VRF burden is associated with levels and changes in depressed mood and whether these associations become stronger or weaker from mid- to later life.

Method

We used longitudinal data from 5,689 participants (52–89 years) of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. A composite score incorporated the presence of 5 VRFs: hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and hypercholesterolemia. Second-order latent growth models were used to test whether levels and changes of depressed mood differed as a function of baseline VRF burden, and whether these associations were moderated by age.

Results

Baseline VRF burden showed a small association with higher levels of depressed mood (estimate = 0.081; 95% CI: 0.024, 0.138, p = .005). This association varied with age, such that it was stronger in midlife compared to later life (estimate = −0.007; 95% CI: −0.013, −0.002, p = .017). There was no evidence that VRF burden was associated with changes in depressed mood.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that VRF burden in midlife, but less so in later life, predicts individual differences in depressed mood. These findings are consistent with reports on the importance of midlife VRFs and support the idea that promotion of vascular health in this age group or earlier in life may be critical to maintain mental health across adulthood.
Vaginal sialoglycan foraging byGardnerella vaginalis: mucus barriers as a meal for unwelcome guests?
Authors: Agarwal Kavita , Lewis Amanda L
Published: April 2021

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition of the vaginal microbiome in which there are few lactobacilli and abundant anaerobic bacteria. Members of the genus Gardnerella are often one of the most abundant bacteria in BV. BV is associated with a wide variety of poor health outcomes for women. It has been recognized since the 1980s that women with BV have detectable and sometimes markedly elevated levels of sialidase activity in vaginal fluids and that bacteria associated with this condition produce this activity in culture. Mounting evidence collected using diverse methodologies points to the conclusion that BV is associated with a reduction in intact sialoglycans in cervicovaginal secretions. Here we review evidence for the contributions of vaginal bacteria, especially Gardnerella, in the processes of mucosal sialoglycan degradation, uptake, metabolism and depletion. Our understanding of the impacts of vaginal sialoglycan degradation is still limited. However, the potential implications of sialic acid depletion are discussed in light of our current understanding of the roles played by sialoglycans in vaginal physiology.
Semi-prone position for thoracoscopic resection of a rare oesophageal tumour
Authors: Khalayleh Harbi , Mashni Ibrahim , Bar Ilan , Pines Guy
Published: April 2021

Oesophageal schwannomas are extremely rare tumours arising from Schwann cells of the neural sheath, with less than 115 cases reported in the English literature. These tumours are usually sporadic and account for about 2% of all stromal oesophageal tumours. Diagnosis is usually confirmed by the presence of positive immunohistochemical marker S-100 and absence of CD117, CD34, smooth muscle actine and Desmin. Treatment can vary from enucleation to oesophagectomy. Herein, we report a case of a 61-year-old woman who presented with progressive dysphagia. Computerized tomography scan revealed a 5 × 3 cm mass extending proximal to the azygos arch. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy showed a submucosal mass at 20–24 cm from the incisors. Endoscopic ultrasound showed a 6 × 3 cm well-circumscribed mass originating from the fourth layer, suspicious for a gastrointestinal stromal tumour. The patient underwent thoracoscopic enucleation of the tumour in a semi-prone position. Final pathology was consistent with a completely resected benign oesophageal schwannoma, positive for S-100.
Upper extremity revascularization with autologous femoral vein graft in an immunocompromised patient: 5-year computed tomographic findings
Authors: Yie Kilsoo , Park Hyo-Won
Published: April 2021

Femoral veins have been used as a substitute graft for limb bypass in selected patients. The long-term efficacy of deep-vein grafts in neoaortoiliac system reconstruction has been shown to be excellent but the efficacy in extremity bypass is still unclear. Here, we report a case of subclavian-to-brachial artery bypass surgery using a femoral vein graft in a chronically immunocompromised patient with previous kidney transplantation. The patient remains symptom-free at 5 years with a patent bypass without any complications, such as aneurysmal dilatation, recurrent infection, stenosis or harvested limb oedema. The femoral vein would be a good option for extremity bypass in patients with high-risk immune problems when other veins are not available.
A linear implicit Euler method for the finite element discretization of a controlled stochastic heat equation
Authors: Benner Peter , Stillfjord Tony , Trautwein Christoph
Published: April 2021

We consider a numerical approximation of a linear quadratic control problem constrained by the stochastic heat equation with nonhomogeneous Neumann boundary conditions. This involves a combination of distributed and boundary control, as well as both distributed and boundary noise. We apply the finite element method for the spatial discretization and the linear implicit Euler method for the temporal discretization. Due to the low regularity induced by the boundary noise, convergence orders above $1/2$ in space and $1/4$ in time cannot be expected. We prove such optimal convergence orders for our full discretization when the distributed noise and the initial condition are sufficiently smooth. Under less smooth conditions the convergence order is further decreased. Our results only assume that the related (deterministic) differential Riccati equation can be approximated with a certain convergence order, which is easy to achieve in practice. We confirm these theoretical results through a numerical experiment in a two-dimensional domain.
On Subharmonic and Entire Functions of Small Order: After Kjellberg
Authors: Rippon Philip J , Stallard Gwyneth M
Published: April 2021

We give a general method for constructing examples of transcendental entire functions of given small order, which allows precise control over the size and shape of the set where the minimum modulus of the function is relatively large. Our method involves a novel technique to obtain an upper bound for the growth of a positive harmonic function defined in a certain type of multiply connected domain, based on comparing the Harnack metric and hyperbolic metric, which gives a sharp estimate for the growth in many cases.

Dedicated to the memory of Paddy Barry.
Existence of Equivariant Models of Spherical Varieties and OtherG-varieties
Authors: Borovoi Mikhail , Gagliardi Giuliano
Published: April 2021

Let $k_0$ be a field of characteristic $0$ with algebraic closure $k$. Let $G$ be a connected reductive $k$-group, and let $Y$ be a spherical variety over $k$ (a spherical homogeneous space or a spherical embedding). Let $G_0$ be a $k_0$-model ($k_0$-form) of $G$. We give necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a $G_0$-equivariant $k_0$-model of $Y$.
Deciphering mobile genetic elements disseminating macrolide resistance in Streptococcus pyogenes over a 21 year period in Barcelona, Spain
Authors: Berbel Dàmaris , Càmara Jordi , González-Díaz Aida , Cubero Meritxell , López de Egea Guillem , Martí Sara , Tubau Fe , Domínguez M Angeles , Ardanuy Carmen
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To phenotypically and genetically characterize the antibiotic resistance determinants and associated mobile genetic elements (MGEs) among macrolide-resistant (MR) Streptococcus pyogenes [Group A streptococci (GAS)] clinical isolates collected in Barcelona, Spain.

Methods

Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by microdilution. Isolates were emm and MLST typed and 55 were whole-genome sequenced to determine the nature of the macrolide resistance (MR) determinants and their larger MGE and chromosomal context.

Results

Between 1998 and 2018, 142 of 1028 GAS (13.8%) were MR. Among 108 isolates available for molecular characterization, 41.7% had cMLSB, 30.5% iMLSB and 27.8% M phenotype. Eight erm(B)-containing strains were notable in having an MDR phenotype conferred by an MGE encoding several antibiotic resistance genes. MR isolates were comprised of several distinct genetic lineages as defined by the combination of emm and ST. Although most lineages were only transiently present, the emm11/ST403 clone persisted throughout the period. Two lineages, emm9/ST75 with erm(B) and emm77/ST63 with erm(TR), emerged in 2016–18. The erm(B) was predominantly encoded on the Tn916 family of transposons (21/31) with different genetic contexts, and in other MGEs (Tn6263, ICESpHKU372 and one harbouring an MDR cluster called ICESp1070HUB). The erm(TR) was found in ICESp2905 (8/17), ICESp1108-like (4/17), ICESpHKU165 (3/17) and two structures described in this study (IMESp316HUB and ICESp3729HUB). The M phenotype [mef(A)-msr(D)] was linked to phage φ1207.3. Eight integrative conjugative element/integrative mobilizable element (ICE/IME) cluster groups were classified on the basis of gene content within conjugation modules. These groups were found among MGEs, which corresponded with the MR-containing element or the site of integration.

Conclusions

We detected several different MGEs harbouring erm(B) or erm(TR). This is the first known description of Tn6263 in GAS and three MGEs [IMESp316HUB, ICESp3729HUB and ICESp1070HUB] associated with MR. Periods of high MR rates in our area were mainly associated with the expansion of certain predominant lineages, while in low MR periods different sporadic and low prevalence lineages were more frequent.
Development and Validation of an LC-MS/MS Method for the Ultra-Trace Analysis of Pacific Ciguatoxins in Fish
Authors: Nagae Mika , Igarashi Tomoji , Mizukoshi Kazushi , Kuniyoshi Kyoko , Oshiro Naomasa , Yasumoto Takeshi
Published: April 2021

Background

Ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP) poses a serious threat to both public health and the use of aquatic resources from the various warm-water regions of the world. Hence, a process for the efficient determination of the relevant toxins is required.

Objective

We sought to develop and validate the first LC-MS/MS method to quantify the major toxins prevalent in fish from the Pacific Ocean.

Method

Toxins were extracted from fish flesh (2 g) using a methanol–water mixture (9:1, v/v). The extract was heated at 80°C, and low-polarity lipids were eliminated using hexane, initially from the basic solution and later from the acidic solution. The cleanup was performed using solid-phase extraction, Florisil, silica, reversed-phase C18, and primary secondary amine columns. A validation study was conducted by spiking fish flesh with two representative toxins having different skeletal structures and polarities and was calibrated by NMR (qNMR) spectroscopy.

Results

The validation parameters for the ciguatera toxins CTX1B and CTX3C at spiked levels of 0.1 µg/kg were as follows: repeatabilities of 2.3–3.5% and 3.2–5.3%; intermediate precisions of 6.3–9.8% and 6.0–7.4%; recoveries of 80–107% and 95–120%, respectively. The lowest detection levels were 0.004 µg/kg for CTX1B, 0.005 µg/kg for 51-hydroxyCTX3C, and 0.009 µg/kg for CTX3C.

Conclusions

The described method practically clears the international action level of 0.01 µg/kg CTX1B equivalents set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority and satisfies the global standards set by Codex and AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

Highlights

A validation study for an LC-MS/MS method for ciguatoxin detection was completed for the first time using calibrated toxin standards.
Intergenerational Impacts of Maternal Stress on Early Childhood Atopy in Black Americans
Authors: Engel Melissa L , Pike Madeline R , Cohen Madeleine F , Dunlop Anne L , Corwin Elizabeth J , Pearce Brad D , Brennan Patricia A
Published: April 2021

Objective

Black children are disproportionately affected by atopic diseases (i.e., atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and food allergies), with health disparities present in early life. Studies in White samples suggest that maternal stress confers risk for offspring atopy, yet little is known about these relationships in Black populations. This study seeks to (a) examine the relationship between self-reported and physiological indicators of maternal stress and offspring atopy and (b) explore warm and responsive caregiving as a potential protective factor in Black Americans.

Methods

A sample of 179 Black mother–child dyads of varying socioeconomic status participated in a prospective longitudinal study. Mothers completed self-reports of childhood trauma, prenatal stress, postnatal stress, and physician diagnosis of offspring atopy; provided blood samples to assess physiological responses to chronic stress exposure; and participated in a behavioral task with their infant.

Results

Maternal self-reports of childhood trauma, prenatal stress, and postnatal stress were not associated with offspring diagnosis of atopy by 2–3 years of age. Mothers who produced a smaller inflammatory response during pregnancy were more likely to have an offspring with atopy by 2–3 years of age. Warm and responsive parenting demonstrated a protective effect; the positive association between maternal stress and offspring atopy was less apparent in cases of mother–child interactions characterized by high levels warm and responsive parenting.

Conclusion

Failure to replicate previous findings suggests that the maternal stress–offspring atopy relationship is complex. Future studies must examine the unique stressors in Black Americans, as well as caregiving as a potential protective factor.
Protection in Natural Disasters: The Response to Cyclone Idai in Mozambique
Authors: Fischel de Andrade José H , de Lima Madureira André
Published: April 2021

Following the landfall of cyclone Idai in mid-March 2019, the United Nations Emergency Relief Coordinator activated an Inter-Agency Standing Committee Humanitarian System-Wide Scale-Up in Mozambique. As a result, in late March 2019, 10 clusters were activated in Sofala province, as the main province affected by the cyclone. Clusters activated included the protection cluster, which was co-led by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Provincial Director for Gender, Children and Social Affairs. The present field report covers the main activities of the Sofala province Protection Cluster from March to October 2019, i.e. during the emergency and early-recovery phases of the response. By the end of the reporting period, there were 10,405 internally displaced families (53,742 internally displaced people) living in 22 resettlement sites across the Sofala province.
Training Strategies Maintain Performance Characteristics in Marines Selected for Marine Forces Special Operations Individualized Training Course
Authors: Royer Scott D , Poploski Kathleen M , Ross Jeremy A , Heebner Nicholas R , Abt John P , Sheppard Ryan L , Winters Joshua D
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Marines must complete an intensive Assessment and Selection (A&S) course before becoming a U.S. Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) Raider. Following selection, marines are given training recommendations designed to maintain performance characteristics deemed relevant to successfully complete a rigorous 9-month Individualized Training Course (ITC). However, training strategies are individually implemented by the marine, and the time between the two courses is highly irregular, ranging between 2 months and 24 months based on operational factors related to military occupational specialty (MOS). The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in performance between the completion of A&S and the start of ITC and to examine if the duration between courses and previous MOS influenced changes in performance.

Materials and Methods

Body fat percentage (BF%), anaerobic power (AP), anaerobic capacity (AC), aerobic capacity (VO2max), knee flexion (KF), knee extension (KE), trunk extension (TE), and trunk flexion (TF) isokinetic strength were collected on 38 marines (age: 25.1 ± 2.7 years, height: 1.77 ± 0.05 m, mass: 83.2 ± 7.7 kg, Post-A&S to ITC start: 204.1 ± 68.4 days) following A&S and directly before ITC.

Results

Pre-ITC students had significantly greater mass (P = .002), BF% (P = .000), and AP (P = .039). There were no significant changes in AC (P = .170), VO2max (P = .259), KF (P = .400), KE (P = .320), TE (P = .178), and TF (P = .643). There was no significant relationship between performance outcomes and time between courses and previous MOS.

Conclusion

Current training strategies appear effective at addressing performance deficits that occur as a result of A&S, while maintaining high levels of KF, KE, TE, TF, AC, and VO2max. However, pre-ITC students still exhibited AP deficits compared to active marine raiders, so forthcoming programming may benefit from an increased emphasis on AP. Assessment of additional selectees at these timepoints, as well as students before A&S may provide valuable information to MARSOC human performance specialists to develop programing, ultimately leading to a higher ITC graduation rate, increased force readiness, and decreased financial burden forcewide.
20 Years of Radiographic Imaging: Crystalline Deposits Causing Severe Arthropathy and Erosions
Authors: Mank Victoria M F , Goldstein Elianna , Babb Sean , Meghpara Sanket , Breighner Crystal , Roberts Jefferson
Published: April 2021

Urate crystal gout arthritis and calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD) are crystalline arthropathies seen in middle age to elderly patients, but are also seen in the active duty military population. Flares of either can be identified by acute joint pain, associated swelling, tenderness, and warmth. Definitive diagnosis involves synovial analysis from arthrocentesis. Gout and CPPD are common inflammatory joint diseases. Both arthropathies presenting themselves in the same joint are rather rare.

An elderly female with a history of gout presented to the hospital with severe hip pain. She was on urate-lowering therapy at the time, and uric acid levels on admission were not significantly elevated. Radiographic imaging of her hip demonstrated periarticular cartilage calcifications. A review of radiographic imaging over the last 20 years found significant erosive arthropathy in multiple joints and radiographic evidence of chondrocalcinosis, suggesting CPPD. Synovial analysis was not obtained during this admission as the patient declined procedures due to her elderly age. Her condition improved with oral steroids.

Few literatures have demonstrated that gout and CPPD are common crystal arthropathies that can occur concomitantly in the same joint. A 20-year review of imaging in an elderly female with known gout arthropathy found that she had radiographic evidence of concomitant CPPD-associated damage to many of her joints. Clinicians should be aware of the different erosive arthropathies, their corresponding imaging findings, evaluation for underlying metabolic disorders if appropriate, and the possibility that they may occur in the same joint. Early prevention can reduce joint destruction later in life.
A Sub-Analysis of U.S. Africa Command Area of Operations Transportations for Ophthalmic Concerns, 2008–2018
Authors: Altman Adam H H , Carius Brandon M , Justin Grant A , Schauer Steven G , Escandon Mireya A , Maddry Joseph K , Mazzoli Robert A , Legault Gary L
Published: April 2021

Introduction

American military personnel in U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) operate in a continent triple the size of the USA without mature medical facilities, requiring a substantial transportation network for medical evacuation. We describe medical transportation based on ophthalmic complaints analyzed from the U.S. Transportation Command Regulating and Command and Control Evacuation System (TRAC2ES) database from 2008 to 2018.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of all TRAC2ES records for medical evacuations for ophthalmic complaints from the AFRICOM theater of operations conducted between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2018. We analyzed free-text data in TRAC2ES for ophthalmic diagnostic and therapeutic interventions performed before established patient movement requests. An expert panel analyzed evacuations for their indications and interventions.

Results

Nine hundred and sixty-one total records originating within AFRICOM were identified in TRAC2ES. Forty-three cases (4%) had ophthalmic complaints. The majority of transports were routine (72%) and originated in Djibouti (83%), and all were transported to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. The majority of patients were evacuated without a definitive diagnosis (60%). Leading ophthalmic diagnoses were chalazion (14%), corneal abrasion/ulcer (14%), and posterior vitreous detachment (12%). More than one-quarter of patients were transported without recorded evaluation and approximately half (51%) did not receive any intervention before evacuation. Consultation with an ophthalmologist occurred in only 16 (37%) cases. By majority, the expert panel deemed 12 evacuations (28%) potentially unnecessary.

Conclusion

Evacuations were primarily routine often for disease etiology and further diagnostic evaluation. These findings support opportunities for telemedicine consultation to avoid potentially unnecessary transportation. Increased ophthalmic care and enhanced data collection on transports would support process improvement, optimize ophthalmic care by ensuring proper disposition of patients thus limiting unnecessary evacuations, and ultimately strengthen the entire fighting force.
Learning deconvolutions for astronomical images
Authors: Long Ma , Soubo Yang , Cong Shu , Weiping Ni , Tong Liu
Published: April 2021

Astronomical images allow people to explore the Universe and monitor space; however, due to the long distances involved, such images are generally collected using telescopic equipment. The equipment optical characteristics and the imaging environment cause image degradation, such as blurring, lost details, and sometimes serious losses of object structures and contours, thus limiting the applications of these images. Unfortunately, improving the equipment to acquire much sharper images is expensive. Therefore, we propose a post-processing structure learning method to restore astronomical images that is low in cost but has exciting effects. The proposed method uses single backbone neural networks or their simple combinations to solve a series of image restoration problems, including point spread function (PSF) estimation, non-blind deconvolution, and blind deconvolution. In tests on simulated and real astronomical images, the proposed method achieves dramatic improvements compared to other state-of-the-art methods. Although this work concentrates on astronomical images, the proposed framework is applicable to a wide range of fields.
A MeerKAT view on galaxy clusters: a radio–optical study of Abell 1300 and MACS J1931.8−2634
Authors: Terni de Gregory B , Hugo B , Venturi T , Bernardi G , Dallacasa D , Nonino M , Makhatini S , Parekh V , Smirnov O M , Giacintucci S , Kale R
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we present results from a radio–optical study of the galaxy populations of the galaxy clusters Abell 1300 and MACS J1931.8−2634, a merger and a relaxed system respectively both located at z ∼ 0.3, aimed at finding evidence of merger-induced radio emission. Radio observations are taken at 1.28 GHz with the MeerKAT interferometer during its early-stage commissioning phase, and combined with archive optical data. We generated catalogues containing 107 and 162 radio sources in the A 1300 and MACS J1931.8−2634 cluster fields, respectively, above a 0.2 mJy threshold and within a 30 arcmin radius from the cluster centre (corresponding to 8.1 and 8.8 Mpc, respectively). By cross-correlating the radio and optical catalogues, and including spectroscopic information, nine and six sources were found to be cluster members and used to construct the radio luminosity functions, respectively, for both clusters. The comparison of the radio source catalogues between the two cluster fields leads to a marginal difference, with a 2σ statistical significance. We derived the radio luminosity function at 1.28 GHz in both clusters, in the power range of $22.81 \lt \rm {log~\mathit{ P}_{1.28~GHz}~(W\,Hz^{-1})} \lt 25.95$, and obtained that in A 1300 the radio luminosity function averaged over the full radio power interval is only 3.3 ± 1.9 times higher than the MACS J1931.8−2634 one, suggesting no statistical difference in their probability to host nuclear radio emission. We conclude that, at least for the two clusters studied here, the role of cluster mergers in affecting the statistical properties of the radio galaxy population is negligible.
Spin misalignment of black hole binaries from young star clusters: implications for the origin of gravitational waves events
Authors: Trani A A , Tanikawa A , Fujii M S , Leigh N W C , Kumamoto J
Published: April 2021

Recent studies indicate that the progenitors of merging black hole (BH) binaries from young star clusters can undergo a common envelope phase just like isolated binaries. If the stars emerge from the common envelope as naked cores, tidal interactions can efficiently synchronize their spins before they collapse into BHs. Contrary to the isolated case, these binary BHs can also undergo dynamical interactions with other BHs in the cluster before merging. The interactions can tilt the binary orbital plane, leading to spin-orbit misalignment. We estimate the spin properties of merging binary BHs undergoing this scenario by combining up-to-date binary population synthesis and accurate few-body simulations. We show that post-common envelope binary BHs are likely to undergo only a single encounter, due to the high binary recoil velocity and short coalescence times. Adopting conservative limits on the binary–single encounter rates, we obtain a local BH merger rate density of ${\sim } 6.6 {\, \rm yr}^{-1} \, \rm Gpc^{-3}$. Assuming low (≲0.2) natal BH spins, this scenario reproduces the trends in the distributions of effective spin χeff and precession parameters χp inferred from GWTC-2, including the peaks at (χeff, χp) ∼ (0.1, 0.2) and the tail at negative χeff values.
Multiwavelength study of the quiescent states of six brightest flat-spectrum radio quasars detected by Fermi-LAT
Authors: Roy Abhradeep , Patel S R , Sarkar A , Chatterjee A , Chitnis V R
Published: April 2021

The regular monitoring of flat-spectrum radio quasars (FSRQs) in γ-rays by Fermi-LAT (Large Area Telescope) since past 12 yr indicated six sources who exhibited extreme γ-ray outbursts crossing daily flux of 10−5 photons cm−2 s−1. We obtained nearly simultaneous multiwavelength data of these sources in radio to γ-ray waveband from OVRO (Owens Valley Radio Observatory), Steward Observatory, SMARTS (Small and Moderate Aperture Research Telescope System), Swift-UVOT (UV/Optical Telescope), Swift-XRT (X-ray Telescope), and Fermi-LAT. The time-averaged broad-band spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of these sources in quiescent states were studied to get an idea about the underlying baseline radiation processes. We modelled the SEDs using one-zone leptonic synchrotron and inverse Compton emission scenario from broken power-law electron energy distribution inside a spherical plasma blob, relativistically moving down a conical jet. The model takes into account inverse Compton scattering of externally and locally originated seed photons in the jet. The big blue bumps visible in quiescent state SEDs helped to estimate the accretion disc luminosities and central black hole masses. We found a correlation between the magnetic field inside the emission region and the ratio of emission region distance to disc luminosity, which implies that the magnetic field decreases with an increase in emission region distance and decrease in disc luminosity, suggesting a disc–jet connection. The high-energy index of the electron distribution was also found to be correlated with observed γ-ray luminosity as γ-rays are produced by high-energy particles. In most cases, kinetic power carried by electrons can account for jet radiation power as jets become radiatively inefficient during quiescent states.
Transcriptional changes through menstrual cycle reveal a global transcriptional derepression underlying the molecular mechanism involved in the window of implantation
Authors: Sebastian-Leon P , Devesa-Peiro A , Aleman A , Parraga-Leo A , Arnau V , Pellicer A , Diaz-Gimeno P
Published: April 2021

The human endometrium is a dynamic tissue that only is receptive to host the embryo during a brief time in the middle secretory phase, called the window of implantation (WOI). Despite its importance, regulation of the menstrual cycle remains incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to characterize the gene cooperation and regulation of menstrual cycle progression, to dissect the molecular complexity underlying acquisition of endometrial receptivity for a successful pregnancy, and to provide the scientific community with detailed gene co-expression information throughout the menstrual cycle on a user-friendly web-tool database. A retrospective gene co-expression analysis was performed based on the endometrial receptivity array (ERarray) gene signature from 523 human endometrial samples collected across the menstrual cycle, including during the WOI. Gene co-expression analysis revealed the WOI as having the significantly smallest proportion of negative correlations for transcriptional profiles associated with successful pregnancies compared to other cycle stages, pointing to a global transcriptional derepression being involved in acquisition of endometrial receptivity. Regulation was greatest during the transition between proliferative and secretory endometrial phases. Further, we prioritized nuclear hormone receptors as major regulators of this derepression and proved that some genes and transcription factors involved in this process were dysregulated in patients with recurrent implantation failure. We also compiled the wealth of gene co-expression data to stimulate hypothesis-driven single-molecule endometrial studies in a user-friendly database: Menstrual Cycle Gene Co-expression Network (www.menstrualcyclegcn.com). This study revealed a global transcriptional repression across the menstrual cycle, which relaxes when the WOI opens for transcriptional profiles associated with successful pregnancies. These findings suggest that a global transcriptional derepression is needed for embryo implantation and early development.
Magnesium and calcium overaccumulate in the leaves of aschengen3mutant ofBrassica rapa
Authors: Alcock Thomas D , Thomas Catherine L , Ó Lochlainn Seosamh , Pongrac Paula , Wilson Michael , Moore Christopher , Reyt Guilhem , Vogel-Mikuš Katarina , Kelemen Mitja , Hayden Rory , Wilson Lolita , Stephenson Pauline , Østergaard Lars , Irwin Judith A , Hammond John P , King Graham J , Salt David E , Graham Neil S , White Philip J , Broadley Martin R
Published: April 2021

Magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) are essential mineral nutrients poorly supplied in many human food systems. In grazing livestock, Mg and Ca deficiencies are costly welfare issues. Here, we report a Brassica rapa loss-of-function schengen3 (sgn3) mutant, braA.sgn3.a-1, which accumulates twice as much Mg and a third more Ca in its leaves. We mapped braA.sgn3.a to a single recessive locus using a forward ionomic screen of chemically mutagenized lines with subsequent backcrossing and linked-read sequencing of second back-crossed, second filial generation (BC2F2) segregants. Confocal imaging revealed a disrupted root endodermal diffusion barrier, consistent with SGN3 encoding a receptor-like kinase required for normal formation of Casparian strips, as reported in thale cress (Arabidopsis thaliana). Analysis of the spatial distribution of elements showed elevated extracellular Mg concentrations in leaves of braA.sgn3.a-1, hypothesized to result from preferential export of excessive Mg from cells to ensure suitable cellular concentrations. This work confirms a conserved role of SGN3 in controlling nutrient homeostasis in B. rapa, and reveals mechanisms by which plants are able to deal with perturbed shoot element concentrations resulting from a “leaky” root endodermal barrier. Characterization of variation in leaf Mg and Ca accumulation across a mutagenized population of B. rapa shows promise for using such populations in breeding programs to increase edible concentrations of essential human and animal nutrients.
Patient Expectancy Does Not Predict Success or Failure of Thermal Neurotomy for Persistent Zygapophysial and Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Authors: Speldewinde G C , Panwar C E
Published: April 2021

Objective

The placebo effect is important in determining the outcome of the treatment of pain for which expectancy and context are the main contributors. The variable success of thermal neurotomy spinal pain procedures is often seen as evidence of the placebo effect. Conversely, proponents of pain procedures explain poorer outcomes by technical procedure deficiencies, including inadequate diagnosis. This cohort study set out to determine whether patient expectancy is a contributing factor in the outcome of thermal neurotomy to the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar zygapophysial and sacroiliac joints.

Design

This single-practitioner, single-site retrospective analysis of prospectively gathered cohort data of 549 patients evaluated the impact of patient preprocedure expectancy (rated on a simple 0–10 or 0–4 numerical rating scale) on outcomes in a large consecutive series of patients who had undergone thermal neurotomy treatment between 2009 and 2019. In addition, a portion of patients were asked to what extent they hoped for or desired a good outcome.

Results

Successful pain relief (≥75% reduction from baseline) was not associated with a higher preprocedure expectancy than were failed procedures. Hope and desire demonstrated no impact on the positive or negative impact of the procedure.

Conclusions

Altogether, patient expectation of outcome, hope, and desire are not associated with the outcome of effective pain relief by thermal neurotomy that has been performed to the appropriate and commonly available technical standards. Further work is needed to determine the influence of patient expectation across a range of pain intervention modalities.
More than Hurt Feelings: The Wear and Tear of Day-to-Day Discrimination in Adults with Chronic Pain
Authors: Ong Anthony D , Goktas Selin , Reid M Carrington
Published: April 2021

Objective

To examine the extent to which self-reported experiences of discrimination are associated with pain interference among men and women with chronic non-cancer pain.

Methods

Data are from the Study of Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) Refresher Cohort. The analytic sample consisted of 207 adults with chronic pain (54.2 ± 12.8 years; 53.6% female) who completed the Major Experiences of Discrimination and Everyday Discrimination scales. Regression analyses examined cross-sectional relations between discrimination and pain interference.

Results

On average, the level of pain interference was moderate in the sample (mean = 3.46, standard deviation = 2.66; observed range 0–10). Approximately a third of respondents reported at least one major discriminatory event in their lifetime, while 22% reported three or more discriminatory lifetime events. Everyday discrimination scores averaged 14.19 ± 5.46 (observed range 0–33). With adjustment for sociodemographics, physical health, cognitive and psychological factors, social isolation, and loneliness, everyday discrimination was associated with increased pain interference (B = 0.099; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02 to 0.17).

Conclusion

These findings add weight to the importance of day-to-day experiences of interpersonal discrimination by documenting independent associations with functional interference in adults with chronic pain.
Combined Bipolar and V-Shaped Lesions for Lumbar Facet Radiofrequency Ablation: A Technical Report
Authors: Sagir Afrin , Bolash Robert
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a demonstrated safe and effective treatment for chronic low back pain. RFA delivers high density electrical current near lumbar medial branch nerve. The success of RFA is contingent upon creating a lesion that overlaps the sensory nerve supplying the affected facet joint(s). Both bipolar-RFA and V-shaped active tip cannulas increase lesion size in experimental models. We describe successful application of concomitant bipolar and V-shaped lesions in a single patient with chronic low back pain caused by lumbar spondylosis.

Case presentation

An 81-year-old male with atrial fibrillation on chronic warfarin anticoagulation was previously treated with conventional monopolar lumbar facet RFA resulting in a 75% decrement in pain intensity exceeding eight months. Nine months after the procedure, his pain returned with similar pretreatment character and was unresponsive to additional physical therapy and acetaminophen. We elected to use a V-shaped cannula to maximize lesion diameter and lengthen intervals between anticoagulant abstinence to minimize the risk. Intraoperatively, a grounding-pad malfunction compelled us to convert to bipolar-RFA by placing a second adjacent V-shaped cannula, eliminating grounding-pad requirement. Bilateral bipolar medial branch RFA of L3–L4, L4–L5, L5–S1 nerves was performed between these two cannulas without further incident. The patient had sustained analgesia that lasted over twelve months resultant from treatment.

Conclusions

We herein describe a technique of combined bipolar-RFA utilizing proximally adjacent V-shaped cannulas. Both bipolar and V-shaped cannulas create larger lesions in experiments. While both techniques purport theoretical advantages, the clinical superiority of a combined technique warrants continued clinical investigation.
Automatic Processing of Numerosity in Human Neocortex Evidenced by Occipital and Parietal Neuromagnetic Responses
Authors: Van Rinsveld Amandine , Wens Vincent , Guillaume Mathieu , Beuel Anthony , Gevers Wim , De Tiège Xavier , Content Alain
Published: April 2021

Humans and other animal species are endowed with the ability to sense, represent, and mentally manipulate the number of items in a set without needing to count them. One central hypothesis is that this ability relies on an automated functional system dedicated to numerosity, the perception of the discrete numerical magnitude of a set of items. This system has classically been associated with intraparietal regions, however accumulating evidence in favor of an early visual number sense calls into question the functional role of parietal regions in numerosity processing. Targeting specifically numerosity among other visual features in the earliest stages of processing requires high temporal and spatial resolution. We used frequency-tagged magnetoencephalography to investigate the early automatic processing of numerical magnitudes and measured the steady-state brain responses specifically evoked by numerical and other visual changes in the visual scene. The neuromagnetic responses showed implicit discrimination of numerosity, total occupied area, and convex hull. The source reconstruction corresponding to the implicit discrimination responses showed common and separate sources along the ventral and dorsal visual pathways. Occipital sources attested the perceptual salience of numerosity similarly to both other implicitly discriminable visual features. Crucially, we found parietal responses uniquely associated with numerosity discrimination, showing automatic processing of numerosity in the parietal cortex, even when not relevant to the task. Taken together, these results provide further insights into the functional roles of parietal and occipital regions in numerosity encoding along the visual hierarchy.
Follow-Up of Low Birth Weight Preterm Infants After Hospital Discharge: Incidence and Reasons for Rehospitalization
Authors: Baysoy Nihal , Kavuncuoğlu Sultan , Ramoğlu Mehmet Gökhan , Aldemir Esin Yildiz , Payasli Müge
Published: April 2021

Objectives

The rehospitalization frequency/indications of low birth weight (LBW) preterms and the effect of rehospitalization on growth and neurodevelopment were investigated.

Methods

LBW preterms discharged from NICU were prospectively followed until the corrected age of 1 year. Infants rehospitalized after discharge were defined as the study group and those not rehospitalized as the control group. The frequency, duration and etiology of rehospitalization were investigated and the effects of neonatal complications, surgery and socio-demographic status on rehospitalization were assessed.

Results

The study and the control group included 113 and 217 infants, respectively. Infants in the study group were rehospitalized 247 times in total. Rehospitalization was significantly higher in the male gender (39.7% vs. 28.9%, p < 0.05). Hyperbilirubinemia-anemia, anemia-surgery and pulmonary-other infections were the most common indications for rehospitalization in the 0–14 days, 15 days to 2 months and 2–12 months, respectively. Intrauterine growth had no impact on rehospitalization. Somatic growth and neurodevelopment were significantly delayed in the study group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Birth weight and gestational week are the most important determinants of rehospitalization. Rehospitalized preterm infants have significant deficits in both somatic growth and neurodevelopment despite high-quality follow-up care.
High prevalence of opisthorchiasis in rural populations from Khammouane Province, central Lao PDR: serological screening using total IgG- and IgG4-based ELISA
Authors: Phupiewkham Weeraya , Rodpai Rutchanee , Inthavongsack Somchith , Laymanivong Sakhone , Thanchomnang Tongjit , Sadaow Lakkhana , Boonroumkaew Patcharaporn , Sanpool Oranuch , Janwan Penchom , Intapan Pewpan M , Maleewong Wanchai
Published: April 2021

Background

Human opisthorchiasis, caused by Opisthorchis viverrini, is a public health problem in Southeast Asia and a major risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma. In Lao PDR, seroprevalence and the relationship between the number of O. viverrini eggs in infected people and specific antibody responses are still unknown. We evaluated and compared parasitological and serological screening methods in the community in an endemic area of opisthorchiasis in Lao PDR.

Methods

Seroprevalence of O. viverrini-specific total IgG and IgG4 antibodies and their relationships with O. viverrini egg intensities were evaluated in Khammouane Province, central Lao PDR, using ELISA and a modified formalin ethyl-acetate concentration technique (FECT).

Results

FECT stool examination revealed O. viverrini eggs in 70.3% (90/128) of individuals (95% CI 61.6 to 78.1%) while ELISA (based on total IgG and on IgG4 antibodies to O. viverrini) found 98.4% (95% CI 94.5 to 99.8%) and 89.8% (95% CI 83.3 to 94.5%) of sera, respectively. There was a positive and significant correlation between numbers of O. viverrini eggs per gram and levels of both IgG (R2=0.168, p<0.001) and IgG4 (R2=0.219, p<0.001) antibodies.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of human opisthorchiasis in Lao PDR was found using a new platform, serological screening in the community. This points to a need for sustainable control of this liver fluke infection.