bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distance sampling from curving transects in dense tropical forests
Authors: Esbach Michael S. , Patra Rohit K.
Published: July 2022

Line transect distance sampling is a popular method for estimating the density of animals across the tropics. The method relies on accurate measurements of the distance between an animal and a transect to model detectability. In dense tropical forests, surveys can become time‐consuming, expensive, and dangerous when randomly placed straight line transects cross landscape features such as rivers, swamps, and dense vegetation. As a result, transects often curve as an observer deviates from an ideal, straight line. Here, we examine the practical and statistical impact of these curves. We use distance sampling simulations to assess bias in density estimates based on scenarios corresponding with different methods reliant on distinct field measurements. Methods that measure the nearest distance between the animal and the curving transect produce the most reliable density estimates. Biased estimates were obtained when using methods that ignore curves, measure the distance to an ideal line (as opposed to the curve), or inaccurately calculate the area covered in the survey. Notably, these biased estimates were most severe when observation distances were short, highlighting the importance of accurate measurements in tropical forests characterized by low visibility. Given these results and the importance of reliable density estimates to conservation efforts across the tropics, we propose a method that addresses survey design, simplifies data collection, and alleviates some of the practical field challenges associated with straight line transects. We also developed an R package (CurveTransect) based on this method with functions that ensure accurate measurements and reliable density estimates in tropical forests.
Recommendations related to the analytical equivalence assessment of gene panel testing
Authors: Nagai Sumimasa , Nishihara Hiroshi , Suzuki Takayoshi , Nishio Kazuto , Taniguchi Hiroya , Tsuchihara Katsuya , Nakamura Kohei , Takamatsu Reika , Ueno Toshihide , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Kohno Takashi , Kohsaka Shinji
Published: July 2022

Advances in cancer genome care over the past few years have included the development of gene panel testing for various biomarkers. This article summarizes issues and provides recommendations related to analytical performance evaluations for new oncology gene panels. The scope of these recommendations includes comprehensive genomic profiling assays related to gene panel testing that uses histological or serum specimens to detect gene mutations. As a research project of the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development Research on Regulatory Science of Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices, we convened the working group committee that consisted of more than 30 experts from academia, industry, and government. We have discussed the points that should be considered to allow maximal simplification of assessments using clinical specimens in evaluating accuracy and limit of detection in equivalence and analytical performance for 3 years. We provide recommendations specific to each type of gene mutation as well as to reference standards or specimens used for evaluations. In addition, in order to facilitate the discussion on the analytical performance of gene panel tests by multidisciplinary tumor boards of hospitals, the present recommendations also describe the items that companies are expected to provide information on in their packaging inserts and reports, and the items that are expected to be discussed by multidisciplinary tumor boards. Our working group document will be important for participants in multidisciplinary tumor boards, including medical oncologists and genome scientists, and developers of gene panels not only in Japan but also in other countries.
Nonhematogenic circulating aneuploid cells confer inferior prognosis and therapeutic resistance in gliomas
Authors: Li Mingxiao , Gao Faliang , Ren Xiaohui , Dong Gehong , Chen Hongyan , Lin Alexander Y. , Wang Daisy Dandan , Liu Mingyang , Lin Peter Ping , Shen Shaoping , Jiang Haihui , Yang Chuanwei , Zhang Xiaokang , Zhao Xuzhe , Zhu Qinghui , Li Ming , Cui Yong , Lin Song
Published: July 2022

Aneuploidy is the hallmark of malignancy. Our previous study successfully detected nonhematogenic circulating aneuploidy cells (CACs) in types of gliomas. The current prospective clinical study aims to further precisely subcategorize aneuploid CACs, including CD31− circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and CD31+ circulating tumor endothelial cells, and thoroughly investigate the clinical utilities of these different subtypes of cells. Co‐detection and analysis of CTCs and circulating tumor‐derived endothelial cells (CTECs) expressing CD133, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), or epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFR vIII) were performed by integrated subtraction enrichment and immunostaining fluorescence in situ hybridization (SE‐iFISH) in 111 preoperative primary diffuse glioma patients. Aneuploid CACs could be detected in most de novo glioma patients. Among detected CACs, 45.6% were CD31−/CD45− aneuploid CTCs and the remaining 54.4% were CD31+/CD45− aneuploid CTECs. Positive detection of CTECs significantly correlated with disruption of the blood–brain barrier. The median number of large CTCs (LCTCs, >5 μm, 2) in low‐grade glioma (WHO grade 2) was less than high‐grade glioma (WHO grades 3 and 4) (3, p = 0.044), but this difference was not observed in small CTCs (SCTCs, ≤5 μm), CTECs or CACs (CTCs + CTECs). The numbers of CTCs, CTECs, or CACs in patients with contrast‐enhancing (CE) lesions considerably exceeded that of non‐CE lesions (p < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curves demonstrated that CD31+ CTECs, especially LCTECs, exhibited a close positive relationship with CE lesions. Survival analysis revealed that the high number of CD31− CTCs could be an adverse factor for compromised progression‐free survival and overall survival. Longitudinal surveillance of CD31− CTCs was suitable for evaluating the therapeutic response and for monitoring potential emerging treatment resistance.
In their own words: Finding meaning in girls' experiences of puberty
Authors: Koch Mary Kate , Mendle Jane
Published: July 2022

The present study pairs narrative meaning‐making with topic modeling to richly capture how girls choose to describe their experiences of change during puberty and to establish how these narratives map onto depressive symptoms. Participants (N = 125 girls; Mage = 11.61 years; 90.40% White) wrote about changes during puberty and reported their level of pubertal development, relationships, and mood. The relationship between meaning‐making and depressive symptoms was negatively moderated by early pubertal timing (d = .31) and positively moderated by more advanced pubertal status (d = .36). Exploratory analyses indicated that writing proportionally more about menstruation‐related changes had a small effect on subsequent depressive symptoms (f2 = .12). Results provide a conceptual and methodological update to decades‐old, landmark qualitative findings on girls' perceptions and assessments of experiences at puberty.
Paclitaxel extravasation treated with systemic corticosteroids
Authors: Cheour Mouna , Belajouza Colandane , Manaa Linda , Lahouel Maha , Fetoui Nedia Ghariani , Mokni Sana , Ghariani Najet , Aounallah Amina , Denguezli Mohamed
Published: July 2022

Chemotherapy extravasation is a rare but severe cutaneous complication associated with administration of intravenous chemotherapy. Extravasation causes serious disability and diminishes the quality of life in patients with cancer undergoing antineoplastic therapy. Treatment of chemotherapy extravasation is not standardized. We report a patient with paclitaxel extravasation who was successfully treated with corticosteroids.
Hyperkeratotic flexural erythema (more commonly known as granular parakeratosis) with use of laundry sanitizers containing benzalkonium chloride
Authors: Dear Kate , Gan Desmond , Stavrakoglou Anastasios , Ronaldson Claire , Nixon Rosemary L.
Published: July 2022

Background

Hyperkeratotic flexural erythema (HKFE), also known as granular parakeratosis, is a scaly, erythematous or brown eruption, which usually occurs in the intertriginous and flexural areas. It has been linked to the use of benzalkonium chloride (BAK).

Aim

To review the clinical presentation of patients diagnosed with HKFE who had been exposed to laundry sanitizer containing BAK, and the therapies trialled to treat these patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective cases series of 45 patients seen by dermatologists in Victoria, Australia. Information was collected on clinical presentation, investigation and management.

Results

The patients varied in age from 18 months to 89 years. The rash typically presented as a symmetrical erythema with characteristic multilayered brownish epidermal scaling. The most common location of the rash was the inguinal/anogenital area (32 of 45 patients; 71.1%) and there was a female predominance. Regarding treatment, topical corticosteroids were frequently prescribed and antibiotics were trialled in 11 patients; however, the condition resolved spontaneously over time in all patients with use of emollients, along with cleaning of the washing machine by running an empty wash, and repeated washing or sometimes disposal of BAK-contaminated clothing.

Conclusion

This large case series highlighted the characteristic clinical presentation of HKFE in the setting of BAK used in laundry sanitizer, demonstrating a potential causal link. Further studies are required to evaluate the role of the skin microbiome.
A Microfacet‐based Hair Scattering Model
Authors: Huang W. , Hullin M. B. , Hanika J.
Published: July 2022

The development of scattering models and rendering algorithms for human hair remains an important area of research in computer graphics. Virtually all available models for scattering off hair or fur fibers are based on separable lobes, which bring practical advantages in importance sampling, but do not represent physically‐plausible microgeometry. In this paper, we contribute the first microfacet‐based hair scattering model. Based on a rough cylinder geometry with tilted cuticle scales, our far‐field model is non‐separable by nature, yet allows accurate importance sampling. Additional benefits include support for elliptical hair cross‐sections and an analytical solution for the reflected lobe using the GGX distribution. We show that our model captures glint‐like forward scattering features in the R lobe that have been observed before but not properly explained.
A Position‐Free Path Integral for Homogeneous Slabs and Multiple Scattering on Smith Microfacets
Authors: Bitterli Benedikt , d'Eon Eugene
Published: July 2022

We consider the problem of multiple scattering on Smith microfacets. This problem is equivalent to computing volumetric light transport in a homogeneous slab. Although the symmetry of the slab allows for significant simplification, fully analytic solutions are scarce and not general enough for most applications. Standard Monte Carlo simulation, although general, is expensive and leads to variance that must be dealt with.

We present the first unbiased, truly position‐free path integral for evaluating the BSDF of a homogeneous slab. We collapse the spatially‐1D path integral of previous works to a position‐free form using an analytical preintegration of collision distances. Evaluation of the resulting path integral, which now contains only directions, reduces to simple recursive manipulation of exponential distributions. Applying Monte Carlo to solve the reduced integration problem leads to lower variance.

Our new algorithm allows us to render multiple scattering on Smith microfacets with less variance than prior work, and, in the case of conductors, to do so without any bias. Additionally, our algorithm can also be used to accelerate the rendering of BSDFs containing volumetrically scattering layers, at reduced variance compared to standard Monte Carlo integration.
pOp: Parameter Optimization of Differentiable Vector Patterns
Authors: Riso Marzia , Sforza Davide , Pellacini Fabio
Published: July 2022

Procedural materials are extensively used in computer graphics, since they provide editable, resolution‐independent representation of textures. However, tuning the parameters of procedural generators to achieve a desired result remains time‐consuming for users. Recently, inverse procedural material algorithms have been developed, exploiting differentiable rendering methods to find the parameters of a procedural model that match a target image. These approaches focus on raster textures. We propose pOp, a practical method for estimating the parameters of vector patterns, that are formed by collections of vector shapes arranged by an arbitrary procedural program. In our approach, patterns are defined as arbitrary programs, that control the translation, rotation and scale or vector graphics elements. We support elements typical of vector graphics, namely points, lines, circle, rounded rectangles, and quadratic Bèzier drawings, in multiple colors. We optimize the program parameters by automatically differentiating the signed distance field of the drawing, which we found to be significantly more reliable than using differentiable rendering of the final image. We demonstrate our method on a variety of cases, representing the variations found in structured vector patterns.
Spatial transcriptomic profiling to identify mesoderm progenitors with precision genomic screening and functional confirmation
Authors: Liu Guanghui , Yang Guanheng , Zhao Guijun , Guo Chuanliang , Zeng Yitao , Xue Yan , Zeng Fanyi
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Mesoderm, derived from a new layer between epiblast and hypoblast during gastrulation, can differentiate into various tissues, including muscles, bones, kidneys, blood, and the urogenital system. However, systematic elucidation of mesoderm characteristics and specific markers remains a challenge. This study aims to screen and identify candidate genes important for mesoderm development.

Materials and Methods

Cells originating from the three germ layers were obtained by laser capture microdissection, followed by microcellular RNA sequencing. Mesoderm‐specific differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by using a combination of three bioinformatics pipelines. Candidate mesoderm‐specific genes expression were verified by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis and immunohistochemistry. Functional analyses were verified by ESCs‐EBs differentiation and colony‐forming units (CFUs) assay.

Results

A total of 1962 differentially expressed mesoderm genes were found, out of which 50 were candidate mesoderm‐specific DEGs which mainly participate in somite development, formation of the primary germ layer, segmentation, mesoderm development, and pattern specification process by GO analysis. Representative genes Cdh2, Cdh11, Jag1, T, Fn‐1, and Pcdh7 were specifically expressed in mesoderm among the three germ layers. Pcdh7 as membrane‐associated gene has hematopoietic‐relevant functions identified by ESCs‐EBs differentiation and CFUs assay.

Conclusions

Spatial transcriptomic profiling with multi‐method analysis and confirmation revealed candidate mesoderm progenitors. This approach appears to be efficient and reliable and can be extended to screen and validate candidate genes in various cellular systems.
Cutaneous metastases of non‐cutaneous neuroendocrine neoplasms: A histopathologic review of 15 cases
Authors: Hobbs Misty M. , Snow Justin T. , Shachner Tracy R. , Sokumbi Olayemi
Published: July 2022

Background

Cutaneous metastases from non‐cutaneous neuroendocrine neoplasms are rare; however, distinction from primary neuroendocrine carcinomas of the skin (Merkel cell carcinoma) guides clinical management.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review from September 1, 2010 to September 30, 2020 of the histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and clinical characteristics of metastatic neuroendocrine neoplasms to the skin from non‐cutaneous primaries.

Results

Fourteen patients were identified for the study (nine males and five females; mean age of 59.5 years). Fifteen skin specimens from 14 patients were available for review. At the time of skin biopsy, a known non‐cutaneous neuroendocrine neoplasm was present in 50% of patients. Primary sites of neuroendocrine carcinoma included lung (n = 5), terminal ileum (n = 2), and one each from prostate, breast, rectum, uterus, esophagus, and sinus, with one unknown (suspected bladder malignancy). Eleven of fourteen patients are dead of disease; one was lost to follow‐up. All 15 specimens showed subcutaneous/deep dermal involvement with six involving the papillary dermis and one involving the epidermis. The tumors ranged from well to poorly differentiated. Two of fifteen specimens showed focal CK20 positivity (one metastatic uterine small cell carcinoma and one metastatic ileal carcinoid). TTF‐1 was performed in 13 specimens and was positive in six, of which two were of non‐pulmonary origin.

Conclusions

While immunohistochemical stains, in particular CK20, CK7, and TTF‐1, are integral in the workup of confirming the origin of neuroendocrine tumors found in the skin, results vary and are often non‐specific for a single primary site. Therefore, complete radiologic imaging as well as clinical correlation should be recommended to further aid in the identification of a non‐cutaneous primary neoplasm.
Brain volumes and functional outcomes in children without cerebral palsy after therapeutic hypothermia for neonatal hypoxic‐ischaemic encephalopathy
Authors: Spencer Arthur P. C. , Lee‐Kelland Richard , Brooks Jonathan C. W. , Jary Sally , Tonks James , Cowan Frances M. , Thoresen Marianne , Chakkarapani Ela
Published: July 2022

Aim

To investigate whether brain volumes were reduced in children aged 6 to 8 years without cerebral palsy, who underwent therapeutic hypothermia for neonatal hypoxic‐ischaemic encephalopathy (patients), and matched controls, and to examine the relation between subcortical volumes and functional outcome.

Method

We measured regional brain volumes in 31 patients and 32 controls (median age 7 years and 7 years 2 months respectively) from T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We assessed cognition using the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children, Fourth Edition and motor ability using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children, Second Edition (MABC‐2).

Results

Patients had lower volume of whole‐brain grey matter, white matter, pallidi, hippocampi, and thalami than controls (false discovery rate‐corrected p < 0.05). Differences in subcortical grey‐matter volumes were not independent of total brain volume (TBV). In patients, hippocampal and thalamic volumes correlated with full‐scale IQ (hippocampi, r = 0.477, p = 0.010; thalami, r = 0.452, p = 0.016) and MABC‐2 total score (hippocampi, r = 0.526, p = 0.004; thalami, r = 0.505, p = 0.006) independent of age, sex, and TBV. No significant correlations were found in controls. In patients, cortical injury on neonatal MRI was associated with reduced volumes of hippocampi (p = 0.001), thalami (p = 0.002), grey matter (p = 0.015), and white matter (p = 0.013).

Interpretation

Children who underwent therapeutic hypothermia have reduced whole‐brain grey and white‐matter volumes, with associations between hippocampal and thalamic volumes and functional outcomes.
Morphological characteristics of the nymphal stages of the giant Asian mantis, Hierodula chinensis Werner (Mantodea: Mantidae), an alien species in Japan, with remarks on its identification
Authors: Ioka Raito , Ueda Shouhei , Hirai Norio
Published: July 2022

We identified an alien praying mantis found in Japan as the giant Asian mantis Hierodula chinensis by observing the characteristics of male genitalia. Nymphs hatched from oothecae collected in Nara Prefecture, Japan, were reared in a breeding room and compared with nymphs of the native Japanese species H. patellifera. Different from H. patellifera, the H. chinensis individuals passed through 5–7 nymphal instars before emerging as adults. The body color of the H. chinensis nymphs was brownish gray in the first instar, whereas the second and later instars were green. Unlike H. chinensis, H. patellifera had mottled patterns all over its body during the first to third instar. The first to third instar nymphs of H. chinensis had mottled patterns on the femurs of their forelegs, which is a diagnostic characteristic that no native praying mantis species has. From the fourth instar, 7–10 dorsal spines were observed on the foreleg coxa of H. chinensis, whereas only 3 or 4 spines were observed in H. patellifera. These findings show that H. chinensis and H. patellifera can be distinguished in all nymphal instars.
Long transient response of vegetation dynamics after four millennia of anthropogenic impacts in an island ecosystem
Authors: Oro Daniel , Pueyo Yolanda , Bauzà Joan , Errea Maria Paz , Arroyo Antonio Ignacio
Published: July 2022

Agents of global change commonly have a higher impact on island ecosystem dynamics. In the Mediterranean region, those dynamics have historically been influenced by anthropogenic impacts, for example, the introduction of invasive species and overharvesting of resources. Here, we analysed the spatio‐temporal dynamics of vegetation in sa Dragonera island, which experienced a large environmental change ca. 4000 years ago by the arrival of humans. Anthropogenic impacts, such as herbivory by goats and over‐logging, ended in the 1970s, while in 2011 the site became the largest Mediterranean island where rats were eradicated. Invasive rats and goats played the ecological role of two endemic species, the cave goat and the giant dormouse, which inhabited the island for more than 5 million years and were rapidly extinct by humans. We used Landsat imagery to explore NDVI as a proxy of vegetation productivity over the years 1984–2021, orthophotos to assess changes in land and vegetation covers and historical plant inventories to study the dynamics in plant diversity. Results showed that those indicators steadily increased both in spring and in summer, while the noise around the trends was partially explained by climate variability. The regime shifts in the temporal dynamics of vegetation productivity suggested a transient from a perturbed to a non‐perturbed stable state. Trends in successional dynamics, spatial self‐organization and plant diversity also showed the same type of transient dynamics. Historical perturbations related to harvesting (mainly the synergies between goat browsing, burning and forest over‐logging) were more important than rat eradication or the influence of climate to explain the vegetation dynamics. Our study shows the transient nature of this small island ecosystem after 4000 years of perturbations and its current path towards vegetation dynamics more controlled by ecological interactions lacking large herbivores and omnivores, drought dynamics and the carrying capacity of the island.
Stable Neodymium Isotope Ratios of Geological Reference Materials
Authors: Bai Jianghao , Ma Jinlong , Wei Gangjian , Zhang Le , Liu Chengshuai , Gao Ting , Liu Yuhui , Liu Yufei
Published: July 2022

Here, we report the stable Nd isotopic compositions of twenty‐seven widely available geological reference materials (RMs) including silicates, sediments, soils and carbonates. Nd was purified from geological samples using a single TODGA resin column. The Nd isotopic ratios were determined via MC‐ICP‐MS using the combined standard‐sample bracketing and internal normalisation method. The (long‐term) intermediate measurement precision of δ146/144Nd values relative to the reference material JNdi‐1 was greater than 0.030‰ (2s). Measurements of five previously analysed RMs yielded δ146/144Nd values that were consistent with those obtained using the double‐spike method. The igneous rocks showed minimal variations in their δ146/144Nd values, which ranged from ‐0.039‰ to +0.015‰. The sediments displayed large stable Nd isotopic fractionations ranging from ‐0.099‰ to +0.057‰, implying differences in their sources. The soil RMs showed a range of ‐0.093‰ to ‐0.010‰, likely owing to complex geological processes such as the degree of chemical weathering. The sedimentary rock dolomite had the heaviest δ146/144Nd values at +0.147 ± 0.032‰ (2s, n = 3). Of the analysed RMs, the δ146/144Nd values of thirteen of them are being reported for the first time. The datasets presented here should play fundamental role in quality assurance and allow for universal comparisons for stable Nd isotope systematics.
Exploring the long‐term psychosocial impact of paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for nonmalignant diseases
Authors: Bense Joëll E. , ter Welle Lieke , Mekelenkamp Hilda , Schimmel Marieke , Louwerens Marloes , Lankester Arjan C. , Pieterse Arwen H. , de Pagter Anne P. J.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

An understanding of the long‐term psychosocial impact of paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for nonmalignant diseases is needed to optimize pre‐HSCT counselling, supportive care and long‐term follow‐up programmes after HSCT for this group of patients and caregivers.

Methods

This qualitative study included 14 patients who underwent transplantation for a nonmalignant disease during childhood. In‐depth interviews were held online to explore patients' perspectives on the long‐term psychosocial impact of HSCT on their lives. The results were analysed based on the Grounded Theory approach.

Results

Patients' median age at the time of the interview was 19 years (range: 14–49), and the median years after HSCT was 12 years (range: 3–33). Four main themes were identified: (1) doing okay, (2) experiencing persistent involvement with healthcare services, (3) influence on relationships with loved ones and (4) impact on the patient's life course. Subthemes extracted were doing okay, feeling of being cured, health limitations, sense of vulnerability, ongoing connection to the hospital, acceptance, friendship, family relations, development of own identity, not taking life for granted, social development, impact on (school) career and thinking about the future.

Conclusions

Patients reported active coping strategies and resilience after this high‐impact treatment. The data highlight the need for patient‐adjusted supportive care, indicating more need for supportive care in the long‐term outpatient clinic.

Patient Contribution

This study included patients as participants. Caregivers were approached if patients were below a certain age. Additionally, preliminary results were presented during a patient conference day.
Histological and molecular analysis of cellular leiomyoma with sclerosis: linked to HMGA2 overexpression
Authors: Griffin Brannan B , Feng Yue , Saini Priyanka , Lu Xinyan , Bulun Serdar , Chakravarti Debabrata , Wei Jian‐Jun
Published: July 2022

HMGA2 overexpression is found in 10–15% of leiomyomas (LM). HMGA2 overexpression is common in variants of hydropic, intravenous and lipo‐LM. Cellular or highly cellular LM (CLM) is a LM variant with a less well‐defined molecular nature. In this study, we identified and examined 52 hypercellular LM with sclerotic collagen, herein defined as cellular leiomyoma with sclerosis (CLM‐S). CLM‐S shows large tumour size (average 12.2 cm) and characteristic histology of tumour cells, arranged in cellular fascicles, sheets and trabeculae with abundant dense, pink sclerotic extracellular matrix in bands and nodules and increased vascularity. Tumour cells are uniform with small, round–oval nuclei and scant, pale–eosinophilic to vacuolated cytoplasm reminiscent of pericytes. The differential diagnosis of CLM‐S includes conventional CLM, endometrial stromal tumours and perivascular epithelioid cell tumour. Immunohistochemical profile [HMGA2, fumarate hydratase, smooth muscle markers, Melan A and HMB‐45] and molecular alterations [by HMGA2 mRNA reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), HMGA2 fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation and MED12 sequencing] were analysed in comparison to matched myometrium and CLM controls. Remarkably, 96% (50 of 52) of CLM‐S demonstrated diffuse positive immunoreactivity for HMGA2 and up to an 80‐fold increase in HMGA2 mRNA, determined by RT–PCR. FISH analysis with break‐part probes at intron 3 and the 5' UTR detected HMGA2 rearrangements in 47% (18 of 38) of CLM‐S. All CLM‐S retained expression of fumarate hydratase. No MED12 mutations were found in any CLM‐S. Our findings show that CLM‐S has unique and characteristic histomorphology probably driven by HMGA2 overexpression.
Evaluating the potential of Pediococcus pentosaceus as a biocontrol agent against tenuazonic acid–producing Alternaria alternata on livestock feeds
Authors: de Oliveira Rodrigo Cardoso , Mendonça Carlos Miguel Nobrega , Verissimo Nathalia Vieira , de Almeida Sonia Regina Yokomizo , Correa Benedito , Watanabe Ii-Sei , de Azevedo Pamela Oliveira de Souza , Oliveira Ricardo Pinheiro de Souza
Published: July 2022

Aims

This study aims to demonstrate the potential of the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) Pediococcus pentosaceus LBM18 against the mycotoxin-producing Alternaria alternata TEF-1A and highlight its application as an effective grain silage inoculant to control mycotoxin contamination.

Methods and Results

The antifungal properties of Ped. pentosaceus lyophilized (PPL) were assessed by evaluating its effect on A. alternata TEF-1A grown in a corn silage-based medium, which included morphological changes by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observations, growth rate, conidia production assays, and inhibition of Tenuazonic acid (TeA) production by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC–MS/MS) analyses. Furthermore, TeA biosynthesis was monitored for changes at the molecular level by PKS gene expression. The growth and sporulation processes of A. alternata TEF-1A were affected by Ped. pentosaceus LBM18 in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, a significant inhibition of TeA production (74.3%) and the transcription level of the PKS gene (42.9%) was observed.

Conclusions

Ped. pentosaceus is one of the promising LAB to be applied as an inoculant for corn silage preservation, aiming to inhibit mycotoxigenic fungi growth and their mycotoxin production.

Significance and impact of the study

Ped. pentosaceus could be used as an inoculant to reduce fungal and mycotoxins contamination in grain silage production.
Enhancement of antibacterial and growth-promoting effects of Paenibacillus polymyxa by optimizing its fermentation process
Authors: Liu Shoude , Liu Huamei , Zhou Li , Cheng Zhiguo , Wan Jun , Pan Yu , Xu Guang , Huang Fang , Wang Meng , Xiong Yuanyuan , Hu Guoyuan
Published: July 2022

Aims

We aimed to enhance the antibacterial and growth-promoting effects of Paenibacillus polymyxa by improving the yield of spores, lipopeptides and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) in the fermentation process.

Methods and Results

Through medium optimization by the response surface method and feeding fermentation, the number of spores reached 2.37 × 109 cfu ml−1 with an increase of 38%, the content of lipopeptides reached 60.8 mg L−1 with an increase of 89%, and the content of IAA reached 24.3 mg L−1 with an increase of 176%, respectively, comparing with the original (un-optimized) culture conditions. The fermentation culture of P. polymyxa from the optimized medium and feeding fermentation resulted in higher colonization of P. polymyxa in soils than that from the original culture during the 49 days for testing. Comparing with the supernatant of the original culture, the supernatant of the P. polymyxa culture from the optimized medium and feeding fermentation showed enhanced antibacterial effects and plant growth-promoting effects. The enhanced antibacterial effect was shown as the increase of the inhibition zone by 59%, 45% and 26% against Ralstonia solanacearum, Erwinia carotovora and Xanthomonas campestris. The enhanced growth-promoting effects on tomato and strawberry plants were the increase of plant height by 47% and 5%, root length by 23% and 15% and root weight by 65% and 110%.

Conclusions

The combination of medium optimization and feeding fermentation effectively improved the yield of spores, lipopeptides and IAA. Lipopeptides and IAA lead to enhanced antibacterial and plant growth-promoting effects of the P. polymyxa product.

Significance and impact of this study

The optimized fermentation method significantly improved the yield of spores, lipopeptides and IAA, thus providing theoretical and technical support for enhancing the antibacterial and growth-promoting effects of P. polymyxa products in agriculture.
Numerical model for solar drying mechanism of grapes using double glazed cabinet type solar dryer
Authors: Komble Sachin P. , Kulkarni Govind N. , Sewatkar Chandrashekhar M.
Published: July 2022

A development of an integrated mathematical model based on heat and mass transfer process was used to predict the shrinkage, moisture content, and thermal properties of grapes under different climatic conditions. A lab‐scale experimental test setup has also been developed, and tests are performed. The results obtained from the mathematical model are compared with experimental results and found to be in agreement with a maximum error of 14%. The moisture content evaluated from the model showed a fair agreement with the experimental results. An energy balance equation is used to obtain the cabinet temperature. A time‐dependent radiation flux density (I(t)) at a certain day is obtained through meteorological records. The effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) is obtained using Fick's diffusion equation for all the investigated conditions. The model is also validated with the results reported in the literature. Moisture is reduced from the initial moisture content of 4.88 kg of water per kg of dry matter to the final moisture content of approximately 0.38 kg of water per kg dry matter. The average radius of the grape decreased by 34.67% at the end of drying process (moisture content ~13%). The maximum water activity is 0.37 for the highest moisture content. The maximum radius change was found 4.9 mm from 7.5 mm for 50°C case. The maximum temperature increase of grapes with respect to drying time is 18°C. The results obtained using the proposed mathematical model can be used to predict product temperature, moisture content, and drying time for cylindrical‐shaped products.
An increasing disinterest in fatherhood among childless men in the United States: A brief report
Authors: Bozick Robert
Published: July 2022

Objective

The goal of this brief report is to document trends in expectations for and attitudes toward fatherhood among childless men across the first two decades of the 2000s.

Background

Childless men account for more than a third of adult men in the United States, but it is unclear if they desire to become fathers, and if not, whether this sentiment changed over time.

Method

Time trends for multiple measures of expectations for and attitudes toward fatherhood are plotted using samples of childless men from the National Survey of Family Growth, the Monitoring the Future study, and the Panel Study of Income Dynamics' Transition to Adulthood supplement.

Results

Across the time series, a growing share of childless men do not want children and increasingly, a lack of children would not bother them at all. Additionally, certainty in having children among childless men has waned over time and fewer childless men are concerned with parental leave policies when evaluating their job options.

Conclusion

Across the first two decades of the 2000s, there is an increasing disinterest in becoming fathers among childless men. These trends have broad implications for family researchers who study fertility rates, men's health, and family relationships.
Translingual neural stimulation affects resting‐state functional connectivity in mild‐moderate traumatic brain injury
Authors: Hou Jiancheng , Mohanty Rosaleena , Chu Daniel , Nair Veena A. , Danilov Yuri , Kaczmarek Kurt A. , Meyerand Beth , Tyler Mitchell , Prabhakaran Vivek
Published: July 2022

Background and Purpose

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to movement and balance deficits. In addition to physical therapy, brain‐based neurorehabilitation efforts have begun to show promise in improving these deficits. The present study investigated the effectiveness of translingual neural stimulation (TLNS) on patients with mild‐to‐moderate TBI (mmTBI) and related brain connectivity using a resting‐state functional connectivity (RSFC) approach.

Methods

Resting‐state images with 5‐min on GE750 3T scanner were acquired from nine participants with mmTBI. Paired t‐test was used for calculating changes in RSFC and behavioral scores before and after the TLNS intervention. The balance and movement performances related to mmTBI were evaluated by Sensory Organization Test (SOT) and Dynamic Gait Index (DGI).

Results

Compared to pre‐TLNS intervention, significant behavioral changes in SOT and DGI were observed. The analysis revealed increased RSFC between the left postcentral gyrus and left inferior parietal lobule and left Brodmann Area 40, as well as the increased RSFC between the right culmen and right declive, indicating changes due to TLNS treatment. However, there were no correlations between the sensory/somatomotor (or visual or cerebellar) network and SOT/DGI behavioral performance.

Conclusions

Although the limited sample size may have led to lack of significant correlations with functional assessments, these results provide preliminary evidence that TLNS in conjunction with physical therapy can induce brain plasticity in TBI patients with balance and movement deficits.
Diet Quality and School Attendance: Cost Analysis Informing Absence‐Reduction Strategies in Schools With Underserved Students
Authors: Kukla‐Acevedo Sharon A. , Ernst Micah G. , Sommer Evan C. , Adams Laura E. , Barkin Shari L.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

As school districts across the nation evaluate strategies and implement programs to reduce absenteeism, health‐related interventions remain largely underutilized. This study provides the estimated cost of improving students' diet quality as a means to increase attendance. Then, it compares the costs and efficacy of improving diet quality to those of other absence‐reduction interventions.

METHODS

This study used child‐level diet quality data from the Growing Right Onto Wellness (GROW) randomized control trial merged with Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) absences data, as well as food cost estimates from Rose et al. to study the cost effectiveness of improving underserved elementary student attendance through improved diet quality.

RESULTS

The results suggest that improving diet quality might be a cost‐efficient way of improving attendance among elementary students in underserved areas. Further, improving diet quality compares favorably to other absence‐reduction strategies, in terms of cost and effectiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

Investments in school food programs to improve diet quality may be a cost‐effective strategy to reduce student absenteeism, especially for schools with higher concentrations of students with lower diet quality. These results may assist decision‐makers who allocate scarce resources aimed at improving school attendance.
Effect of neurodevelopmental treatment in children with congenital Zika syndrome: A pilot study
Authors: Müller Wirtud I M , Gama Gabriela L , Borges Marcia C D , Bastos Bárbara M A M , Tavares Janiele S , Barros Emanuela S , Tavares Jousilene S , Amorim Melania M R , Melo Adriana
Published: July 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effects of neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) in children with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS).

Methods

This prospective, interventional cohort study involved children with CZS undergoing follow‐up at a specialist centre in northeastern Brazil. The duration of the proposed NDT protocol was 1 year, with 45‐min sessions delivered one to five times weekly. Motor function, weight, height, head circumference and the incidence of comorbidities were evaluated in children before protocol initiation and then at 3, 6 and 12 months of treatment.

Results

Thirty children were evaluated (age mean 30.1 ± 3 months). Motor function improved from baseline to 6 months (P = 0.001). No difference in weight and head circumference z‐score (P = 0.51 and P = 0.29, respectively), but an increase in height z‐score (P < 0.001) was observed over the evaluation period. There was a reduction in the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections, pneumonia and urinary tract infections over the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

NDT proved to be a viable treatment approach that can improve motor function and reduce the incidence of comorbidities in children with CZS, while having no harmful effects on their growth.
New real‐time PCR assay for detecting the blueberry and cranberry twig blight pathogen
Authors: Dharmaraj Karthikeyan , Michalecka Monika , Alexander Brett J. R. , Toome‐Heller Merje
Published: July 2022

Diaporthe vaccinii is a fungal pathogen of concern to Vaccinium species, responsible for twig blight disease. This fungus may survive in woody tissues without displaying symptoms, which makes the diagnostics more challenging. To provide a rapid and efficient diagnostic tool for D. vaccinii, a new and specific TaqMan real‐time PCR assay was developed using translation elongation factor 1 gene region. The assay was specific to D. vaccinii and did not cross‐react with any other tested Vaccinium pathogens. The sensitivity of the assay was found to be 1 pg of the pathogen DNA in water or in host DNA, which is equivalent to less than 20 hyphal cells. The assay was also used to test infected plant tissues, which determined that the assay can detect the pathogen from symptomatic as well as non‐symptomatic material. Furthermore, D. vaccinii was detected after mixing infected asymptomatic tissue with healthy stem tissues at a proportion of 1:10 by weight. To co‐amplify the D. vaccinii and the plant cytochrome oxidase gene as internal control in a single reaction, a duplex assay was successfully developed without any reduction in sensitivity. Inter‐laboratory testing of the assay showed consistent results, demonstrating that the developed assay is robust and transferrable to other laboratories.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of orally administered torasemide in healthy cats
Authors: Roche‐Catholy Marine , Paepe Dominique , Devreese Mathias , Broeckx Bart J. G. , Woehrlé Frederique , Schneider Marc , de Salazar Alcala Andrea Garcia , Hellemans Arnaut , Smets Pascale
Published: July 2022

Background

In people and dogs, torasemide has higher bioavailability, longer half‐life, and longer duration of action than equivalent doses of furosemide but data regarding pharmacological properties of torasemide in cats are limited.

Objective

To assess pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of torasemide in healthy cats, and to investigate the effects of a single administration of torasemide on indicators of diuresis, plasma creatinine concentration, blood pressure, electrolyte concentrations and markers of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS).

Animals

Six clinically healthy adult European shorthair cats.

Methods

Randomized 4‐period crossover design with 3 groups and 4 treatments. Pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained using a noncompartmental analysis, and the clinically effective dose was assessed using a Hill model.

Results

Mean absolute bioavailability was estimated at 88.1%. Mean total body clearance was 3.64 mL/h/kg and mean terminal half‐life was 12.9 hours. Urine output significantly increased after torasemide administration (P < .001). The urine sodium : potassium ratio (uNa : uK) paralleled and was statistically correlated to urine output (P < .001). Administration of a single torasemide dose led to a significant dose‐dependent increase in urine aldosterone : creatinine ratio (uAldo : C; P < .001) and a transient decrease in plasma potassium concentration (P < .001) but did not affect blood pressure or plasma creatinine concentration.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A single torasemide dose leads to a significant increase in diuresis and renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS) activation in healthy cats, with high absolute bioavailability, and without clinically relevant adverse effects. Pharmacokinetic parameters indicate that once daily dosing of 0.27 mg/kg may be appropriate in a clinical setting.
Ondansetron in dogs with nausea associated with vestibular disease: A double‐blinded, randomized placebo‐controlled crossover study
Authors: Henze Lea , Foth Sarah , Meller Sebastian , Twele Friederike , Charalambous Marios , Kenward Hannah , Elliott Jonathan , Pelligand Ludovic , Volk Holger A.
Published: July 2022

Background

Nausea and emesis can be, among other signs, common manifestations of acute vestibular system dysfunction in dogs. Currently, antiemetic drugs, such as maropitant and metoclopramide, are used commonly, but do not appear to control nausea. A non‐placebo‐controlled preliminary study suggested good efficacy of 5‐HT3‐receptor antagonists, such as ondansetron, against nausea in dogs with vestibular syndrome.

Objectives

To assess and confirm the effect of ondansetron on behavior suggestive of nausea in dogs with vestibular syndrome.

Animals

Fourteen dogs with vestibular syndrome and clinical signs of nausea presented to a neurology service.

Methods

Placebo‐controlled, double‐blinded, crossover study. Behavioral assessment was performed hourly for 4 hours using an established numerical rating scale. The criteria salivation, lip licking, vocalization, restlessness, lethargy, and general nausea were scored. The occurrence of emesis was recorded. After scoring at T0 (pre‐dose) and T2 (2 hours post‐dose) either ondansetron (0.5 mg/kg) or placebo was injected IV. Two hours post‐dose, treatments were switched. Blood samples were collected to measure serum arginine vasopressin (AVP) concentration, which previously has been shown to correlate with clinical signs of nausea.

Results

Clinical resolution of nausea was observed 1 hour after administration of ondansetron, whereas serum AVP concentration decreased 4 hours after ondansetron administration.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Administration of ondansetron IV is beneficial for dogs with nausea secondary to acute vestibular syndrome. Ondansetron substantially and rapidly decreased clinical signs of nausea behavior and stopped emesis.