bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybridized Cuckoo Search with Multi-Verse Optimization-Based Patch Matching and Deep Learning Concept for Enhancing Video Inpainting
Authors: Janardhana Rao B , Chakrapani Y , Srinivas Kumar S
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to develop a novel deep learning concept to deal with video inpainting. Initially, motion tracking is performed, which is the process of determining motion vectors that describe the transformation from adjacent frames in a video sequence. Further, the regions or patches of each frame are categorized using the optimized recurrent neural network (RNN), in which the region is split into a smooth and structure region. It is performed using the texture feature called grey-level co-occurrence matrix. The filling of the smooth region is accomplished by replacing with the mean pixels of unmasked region, and the structure region is done by optimized patch matching approach based on scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT). The main objective optimized patch matching is based on the minimized Euclidean distance between the extracted SIFT features of the original patch and reference patch, and the certain patch is inpainted by the optimized patch. Here, the hybridization of two meta-heuristic algorithms like cuckoo search algorithm and multi-verse optimization (MVO) called Cuckoo Search-based MVO is used to optimize the RNN and patch matching. Finally, the experimental results verify the reliability of the proposed algorithm over existing algorithms.
Modeling Higher-Order Interactions in Complex Networks by Edge Product of Graphs
Authors: Wang Yucheng , Yi Yuhao , Xu Wanyue , Zhang Zhongzhi
Published: May 2021

Many graph products have been applied to generate complex networks with striking properties observed in real-world systems. In this paper, we propose a simple generative model for simplicial networks by iteratively using edge corona product. We present a comprehensive analysis of the structural properties of the network model, including degree distribution, diameter, clustering coefficient, as well as distribution of clique sizes, obtaining explicit expressions for these relevant quantities, which agree with the behaviors found in diverse real networks. Moreover, we obtain exact expressions for all the eigenvalues and their associated multiplicities of the normalized Laplacian matrix, based on which we derive explicit formulas for mixing time, mean hitting time and the number of spanning trees. Thus, as previous models generated by other graph products, our model is also an exactly solvable one, whose structural properties can be analytically treated. More interestingly, the expressions for the spectra of our model are also exactly determined, which is sharp contrast to previous models whose spectra can only be given recursively at most. This advantage makes our model a good test bed and an ideal substrate network for studying dynamical processes, especially those closely related to the spectra of normalized Laplacian matrix, in order to uncover the influences of simplicial structure on these processes.
Improving dynamic stroke risk prediction in non-anticoagulated patients with and without atrial fibrillation: comparing common clinical risk scores and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Lip Gregory Y H , Tran George , Genaidy Ash , Marroquin Patricia , Estes Cara , Landsheft Jeremy
Published: May 2021

Aims

Diversified cardiovascular/non-cardiovascular multi-morbid risk and efficient machine learning algorithms may facilitate improvements in stroke risk prediction, especially in newly diagnosed non-anticoagulated atrial fibrillation (AF) patients where initial decision-making on stroke prevention is needed. Therefore the aims of this article are to study common clinical risk assessment for stroke risk prediction in AF/non-AF cohorts together with cardiovascular/ non-cardiovascular multi-morbid conditions; to improve stroke risk prediction using machine learning approaches; and to compare the improved clinical prediction rules for multi-morbid conditions using machine learning algorithms

Methods and results

We used cohort data from two health plans with 6 457 412 males/females contributing 14,188,679 person-years of data. The model inputs consisted of a diversified list of comorbidities/demographic/ temporal exposure variables, with the outcome capturing stroke event incidences. Machine learning algorithms used two parametric and two nonparametric techniques. The best prediction model was derived on the basis of non-linear formulations using machine learning criteria, with the highest c-index was obtained for logistic regression [0.892; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.886–0.898] with consistency on external validation (0.891; 95% CI 0.882–0.9). These were significantly higher than those based on the conventional stroke risk scores (CHADS2: 0.7488, 95% CI 0.746–0.7516; CHA2DS2-VASc: 0.7801, 95% CI 0.7772–0.7831) and multi-morbid index (0.8508, 95% CI 0.8483–0.8532). The machine learning algorithm had good internal and external calibration and net benefit values.

Conclusion

In this large cohort of newly diagnosed non-anticoagulated AF/non-AF patients, large improvements in stroke risk prediction can be shown with cardiovascular/non-cardiovascular multi-morbid index and a machine learning approach accounting for dynamic changes in risk factors.
Isolated tricuspid valve surgery: first outcomes report according to a novel clinical and functional staging of tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Sala Alessandra , Lorusso Roberto , Bargagna Marta , Ascione Guido , Ruggeri Stefania , Meneghin Roberta , Schiavi Davide , Buzzatti Nicola , Trumello Cinzia , Monaco Fabrizio , Agricola Eustachio , Alfieri Ottavio , Castiglioni Alessandro , De Bonis Michele
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this study was to assess the applicability of a novel classification of patients with tricuspid regurgitation based on 5 stages and to evaluate outcomes following isolated surgical treatment.

METHODS

All patients treated with isolated tricuspid valve repair or tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) from March 1997 to January 2020 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided according to a novel clinical-functional classification, based on the degree of regurgitation together with symptoms, right ventricular size and function and medical therapy. A total of 195 patients were treated; however, 23/195 were excluded due to lack of sufficient preoperative data.

RESULTS

A total of 172 patients were considered; of these, 129 (75%) underwent TVR and 43 (25%) had tricuspid valve repair. The distribution of patients showed that 46.5% of patients who underwent tricuspid valve repair were in stage 2, whereas 51.9% who underwent TVR were in stage 3. TVR patients were in more advanced stages of the disease, with dilated right ventricles, more pronounced symptoms and development of organ damage. Hospital mortality was 5.8%, in particular 0% in stages 2 and 3 and 15.3% in stages 4 and 5 (P < 0.001). Both intensive care unit and hospital stays were significantly longer in more advanced stages (P < 0.001). Patients in stages 4 and 5 developed more postoperative complications, such as acute kidney injury (3.7–10% in stages 2 and 3 vs 44–100% in stages 4 and 5; P < 0.001) and low cardiac output syndrome (15–50% in stages 2 and 3 vs 71–100% in stages 4 and 5; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients in more advanced stages had higher hospital mortality and longer hospitalizations. Timely referral is associated with lower mortality, short postoperative course and mostly valve repair.
Age Discrimination in the Context of Motivation and Healthy Aging
Authors: Rothermund Klaus , Klusmann Verena , Zacher Hannes
Published: May 2021

Age discrimination can undermine older people’s motivation to stay engaged with their lives and poses a major challenge to healthy aging. In this article, we review research on age discrimination in different life domains, including health and work. Motivation and health constitute potential antecedents as well as outcomes of age discrimination, with reduced motivation and impaired health increasing the likelihood of becoming a victim of age discrimination, but also resulting from age discrimination. Furthermore, high levels of motivation and health can also serve as buffers against the negative effects of age discrimination. Based on our literature review, we discuss possible strategies aimed at reducing age discrimination. Understanding and combating age discrimination can foster older people’s motivation to participate in meaningful activities and promote healthy aging.
Correlates of Memory and Executive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Adults in the CLSA: A Minority Stress Approach
Authors: Stinchcombe Arne , Hammond Nicole G
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Maintaining cognitive function is an important component of healthy aging. There is increasing recognition that extraneous factors expedite the typical cognitive aging process. Risk factors for cognitive decline cluster around inequalities and disproportionally affect minority and vulnerable groups. Taking a minority stress approach, we examined the relationship between proxy measures of minority stress and cognitive health in a large sample of Canadians aged 45–85 years.

Methods

Data were drawn from the baseline of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a prospective cohort study. Memory (n = 36,849) and executive function (n = 36,266) were assessed using standardized assessment tools. We ran multiple linear regression models with memory and executive function as the outcomes. Explanatory variables included known correlates of cognitive health (i.e., demographic, health, and cognitive reserve) and proxy measures of minority stress (i.e., sexual orientation, race, and perceived social standing).

Results

Results were consistent with existing evidence showing that demographic and health variables were associated with cognitive performance. Modifiable health variables, walking, and fruit/vegetable consumption were associated with better cognitive performance, as were cognitive reserve and social support measures. Within the models, racial minority status was consistently associated with lower cognitive performance. As one’s perceived social standing within their own community increased, so too did cognitive function.

Discussion

These findings identify factors that may put people at risk for cognitive decline. There is a need to support the cognitive health of racialized Canadians and members of other disadvantaged groups, while promoting health equity.
The consideration of rights in the Israeli Counter-Terrorism Law
Authors: Margalit Lila
Published: May 2021

What can we realistically expect from pre-enactment rights engagement, particularly in sensitive areas like counterterrorism, which pit “our” security against “their” rights? This article seeks to contribute to the ongoing scholarly effort to explore this question, through an in-depth case study of the Israeli Counter-Terrorism Law, adopted by the Knesset in 2016. The case study reveals a complex picture. On the one hand, the unrushed and depoliticized nature of deliberations on the Counter-Terrorism Law contributed to a parliamentary process that, while not challenging the government’s core policy agenda, did force it to justify and refine the specific, worthy purposes of particular provisions, to agree to some narrow-tailoring, and to improve certain procedural safeguards. These parliamentary processes were facilitated primarily by the institution of the Knesset committee legal advisor, whose non-partisan, independent status and wide-ranging advisory functions position them to facilitate informed rights-based deliberations in the absence of a formalized vetting process. At the same time, the case study reveals significant constraints on the potential for deliberative rights engagement, which are particularly salient in the field of counterterrorism, including the information gap—the fact that the government possesses a near monopoly on the factual expertise and information necessary to effectively evaluate counterterrorism policy, and the problem of voice—the fact that those whose rights are most likely to be curtailed by counterterrorism measures are underrepresented in the process. Relatedly, it demonstrates the importance of including in the process actors who are institutionally motivated to be skeptical of government discretion and who take seriously the risk of erroneous or abusive use of power.
Genetic Variants and Immune Responses in a Cohort of Patients With Varicella Zoster Virus Encephalitis
Authors: Thomsen Michelle M , Tyrberg Tobias , Skaalum Kristoffer , Carter-Timofte Madalina , Freytag Mette R , Norberg Peter , Helleberg Marie , Storgaard Merete , Nielsen Henrik , Bodilsen Jacob , Grahn Anna , Mogensen Trine H
Published: May 2021

Background

Infection with varicella zoster virus (VZV) may involve different central nervous system (CNS) manifestations, including meningitis, encephalitis, and vasculitis. In cases in which otherwise healthy individuals are affected, an inborn error of immunity may underlie increased susceptibility or severity of infection.

Methods

We collected a cohort of 17 adults who experienced VZV encephalitis and performed whole exome sequencing. Patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells were infected with VZV, and innate antiviral interferon (IFN) and cytokine responses as well as viral replication were evaluated. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

We identified a total of 21 different potentially disease-causing variants in a total of 13 of the 17 patients included. These gene variants were within 2 major functional clusters: (1) innate viral sensors and immune pathways and (2) autophagy pathways. Antiviral IFN and cytokine responses were abnormal in the majority of patients, whereas viral replication was increased in only 2 of 17 patients.

Conclusions

This study identifies a list of variants of pathogenic potential, which may serve as a platform for generating hypotheses for future studies addressing genetic and immunological factors associated with susceptibility to VZV encephalitis. These data, taken together, suggest that disturbances in innate sensing and autophagy pathways may predispose to VZV encephalitis.
Informatics-enabled citizen science to advance health equity
Authors: Valdez Rupa S , Detmer Don E , Bourne Philip , Kim Katherine K , Austin Robin , McCollister Anna , Rogers Courtney C , Waters-Wicks Karen C
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has once again highlighted the ubiquity and persistence of health inequities along with our inability to respond to them in a timely and effective manner. There is an opportunity to address the limitations of our current approaches through new models of informatics-enabled research and clinical practice that shift the norm from small- to large-scale patient engagement. We propose augmenting our approach to address health inequities through informatics-enabled citizen science, challenging the types of questions being asked, prioritized, and acted upon. We envision this democratization of informatics that builds upon the inclusive tradition of community-based participatory research (CBPR) as a logical and transformative step toward improving individual, community, and population health in a way that deeply reflects the needs of historically marginalized populations.
Real-time electronic health record mortality prediction during the COVID-19 pandemic: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sottile Peter D , Albers David , DeWitt Peter E , Russell Seth , Stroh J N , Kao David P , Adrian Bonnie , Levine Matthew E , Mooney Ryan , Larchick Lenny , Kutner Jean S , Wynia Matthew K , Glasheen Jeffrey J , Bennett Tellen D
Published: May 2021

Objective

To rapidly develop, validate, and implement a novel real-time mortality score for the COVID-19 pandemic that improves upon sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) for decision support for a Crisis Standards of Care team.

Materials and Methods

We developed, verified, and deployed a stacked generalization model to predict mortality using data available in the electronic health record (EHR) by combining 5 previously validated scores and additional novel variables reported to be associated with COVID-19-specific mortality. We verified the model with prospectively collected data from 12 hospitals in Colorado between March 2020 and July 2020. We compared the area under the receiver operator curve (AUROC) for the new model to the SOFA score and the Charlson Comorbidity Index.

Results

The prospective cohort included 27 296 encounters, of which 1358 (5.0%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2, 4494 (16.5%) required intensive care unit care, 1480 (5.4%) required mechanical ventilation, and 717 (2.6%) ended in death. The Charlson Comorbidity Index and SOFA scores predicted mortality with an AUROC of 0.72 and 0.90, respectively. Our novel score predicted mortality with AUROC 0.94. In the subset of patients with COVID-19, the stacked model predicted mortality with AUROC 0.90, whereas SOFA had AUROC of 0.85.

Discussion

Stacked regression allows a flexible, updatable, live-implementable, ethically defensible predictive analytics tool for decision support that begins with validated models and includes only novel information that improves prediction.

Conclusion

We developed and validated an accurate in-hospital mortality prediction score in a live EHR for automatic and continuous calculation using a novel model that improved upon SOFA.
Effects of protein supplementation to steers consuming low-quality forages on greenhouse gas emissions
Authors: Shreck Adam L , Zeltwanger Joshua M , Bailey Eric A , Jennings Jenny S , Meyer Beverly E , Cole Noel Andy
Published: May 2021

Providing supplements that enhance the efficiency of feed utilization can reduce methane (CH4) emissions from ruminants. Protein supplementation is widely used to increase intake and digestion of low-quality forages, yet little is known about its impact on CH4 emissions. British-cross steers (n = 23; initial body weight [BW] = 344 ± 33.9 kg) were used in a three-period crossover design to evaluate the effect of protein supplementation to beef cattle consuming low-quality forage on ruminal CH4, metabolic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, forage intake, and ruminal fermentation. Steers individually had ad libitum access to low-quality bluestem hay (4.6% crude protein [CP]) and were provided supplemental protein based on (dry matter basis): cottonseed meal (CSM; 0.29% of BW daily; 391 g/d CP), dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS; 0.41% of BW daily 563 g/d CP), or none (CON). Urea was added to DDGS to match rumen degradable protein provided by CSM. Ruminal CH4 and metabolic CO2 fluxes were obtained 2.4 ± 0.4 times per steer daily using an automated open-circuit gas quantification system (GreenFeed emission monitoring system; C-Lock Inc., Rapid City, SD). Forage intake increased (P < 0.01) with protein supplementation; however, no difference in forage intake (P = 0.14) was observed between CSM and DDGS treatments. Flux of CO2 (g/d) was greater (P < 0.01) for steers fed CSM and DDGS than for steers fed CON. Steers supplemented with CSM had greater (P < 0.01) CH4 emissions (211 g/d) than DDGS (197 g/d) both of which were greater (P < 0.01) than CON (175 g/d). Methane emissions as a proportion of gross energy intake (GEI) were lowest (P < 0.01) for DDGS (7.66%), intermediate for CSM (8.46%) steers, and greatest for CON (10.53%). Steers fed DDGS also had the lowest (P < 0.01) ruminal acetate:propionate ratio (3.60), whereas CSM (4.89) was intermediate, and CON (5.64) steers were greatest. This study suggests that the common practice of supplementing protein to cattle consuming low-quality forage decreases greenhouse gas emissions per unit of GEI.
Face Transplants: An International History
Authors: Alberti Fay Bound , Hoyle Victoria
Published: May 2021

Face transplants have attracted global media and public attention since the 1990s. The first recipient, Isabelle Dinoire, found herself at the centre of a dramatic episode of surgical innovation after her transplant was announced in November 2005. Subsequently 47 transplants have been conducted worldwide (including two retransplants) up to August 2020, and these have been accompanied by extensive news coverage. Hundreds of papers on the medical, physical, psychological, and ethical implications of the procedure have been published in the scientific literature, disproportionate to the incidence of the procedure. Face transplants have also featured in films, television, and fiction, indicating an appetite for interrogating the social and interpersonal implications of facial difference. However, the history of facial transplantation has largely been unexplored.

This article provides the first international history of the global development and implementation of facial transplantation. Using published medical literature, media coverage, and oral history interviews with key participants as source material, it situates the experimental transplant in national, institutional, and professional contexts. It argues that charting the history of face transplants over a 30 year period from initial discussions in 1991 to the present provides a valuable case study through which to consider surgical cultures and discourses of medical innovation in the twenty-first century.
Rear drop: a new radiographic landmark for estimation of pelvic tilt on pelvis AP radiographs
Authors: Atilla Halis Atil , Raju Sivashanmugam , Akdogan Mutlu , Ozturk Alper , Bilgetekin Yenel Gurkan , Kose Ozkan
Published: May 2021

Estimation of pelvic tilt on anteroposterior (AP) pelvis radiograph is often done by indirect methods based on the midline pelvic landmarks. The purpose of this cadaveric study is to describe a new radiographic landmark and reference measurements to estimate the coronal tilt of the pelvis, independent of the midline references. The new radiologic reference is called ‘rear drop’, and its anatomic location is described with the cadaveric pelvis AP radiographs in various pelvic inclination. The parameters derived from the new reference were used to assess the pelvic tilt, and the results were compared with the previously established method using ‘sacrococcygeal joint to symphysis distance’ (SCSD). The shape of the new figure is used to determine the position of the pelvis, and its relationship with the previously described acetabular retroversion indicators was statistically analyzed. The new reference figure corresponds to the posteroinferior edge of the horseshoe shape of the acetabular margin. The newly derived reference parameters, rear to tear distance and rear to tear angle, changes with pelvic tilt and are strongly correlated with SCSD. The shape of the rear drop changes with the changing pelvic tilt and correlates statistically with the previously described acetabular retroversion indicators. Rear drop and its derivative measurements can be used as a reliable and reproducible indicator to estimate the coronal pelvic tilt, free of midline reference points. This new reference will be a base for future clinical studies on pelvic tilt, rotation and their application in intraoperative hip fluoroscopy.
Getting to the root of belowground high temperature responses in plants
Authors: Fonseca de Lima Cassio Flavio , Kleine-Vehn Jürgen , De Smet Ive , Feraru Elena
Published: May 2021

The environment is continually challenging plants, and in response they use various coping strategies, such as adaptation of their growth. Thermomorphogenesis is a specific growth adaptation that promotes organ growth in response to moderately high temperature. This would eventually enable plants to cool down by dissipating heat. Although well understood for shoot organs, the thermomorphogenesis response in roots has only recently received increased research attention. Accordingly, in the past few years, the hormonal responses and underlying molecular players important for root thermomorphogenesis have been revealed. Other responses triggered by high temperature in the root encompass modifications of overall root architecture and interactions with the soil environment, with consequences for the whole plant. Here, we review scientific knowledge and highlight current understanding of root responses to moderately high and extreme temperature.
A Fluorescence-Based Quantitative Analysis for Total Bilirubin in Blood and Urine
Authors: Tien Tai Tran , Adachi Yasushi , Taketani Shigeru
Published: May 2021

Background

Bilirubin is a catabolic product of heme metabolism that circulates in the bloodstream in its unconjugated or glucuronide-conjugated form. Because the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood is a common symptom of liver diseases, its measurement in plasma (serum) is important for the diagnosis of these diseases.

Method

We developed a method to assess total bilirubin levels in serum and urine, using the fluorescent protein UnaG and β-glucuronidase.

Results

Our results indicate good correlation in serum total bilirubin levels between UnaG and the conventional bilirubin oxidase (BOD) methods. We found low levels of conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin in the urine of healthy subject individuals. Urinary bilirubin levels were elevated in patients with liver or bile duct diseases. A simple spot test of bilirubin using serum and urine showed a strong signal in patients with liver diseases.

Conclusion

The proposed method to assess bilirubin levels in serum and urine will contribute to the accurate diagnosis of health conditions such as jaundice, anemia, and liver disease.
EDTA-Induced Pseudothrombocytopenia up to 9 Months after Initial COVID-19 Infection Associated with Persistent Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG Seropositivity
Authors: Bereczki Dániel , Nagy Béla , Kerényi Adrienne , Nagy Gábor , Szarka Krisztina , Kristóf Katalin , Szalay Balázs , Vásárhelyi Barna , Bhattoa Harjit P , Kappelmayer János
Published: May 2021

Platelets have a role in vascular complications of COVID-19-related viral coagulopathy. Although immune-induced thrombocytopenia has been described mostly in moderate-to-severe COVID-19, the prognostic role of platelet count in COVID-19 is still controversial. Pseudothrombocytopenia has been reported to represent COVID-19-associated coagulopathy in critical illness, and transient EDTA-dependent pseudothrombocytopenia lasting less than 3 weeks was described in a patient with severe acute COVID-19 pneumonia. In our case study, EDTA-induced pseudothrombocytopenia was still present at 9 months after an initial SARS-CoV-2 virus infection in an apparently recovered 60 year old man. The persistence of antinucleocapside and antispike antibodies 9 months after the initial infection suggests that EDTA-induced pseudothrombocytopenia may be related to anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG or IgM antibodies. We should acknowledge the possibility that pseudothrombocytopenia may also appear in some patients after seroconversion after the launch of large-scale vaccination programs.
The morphology of star-forming gas and its alignment with galaxies and dark matter haloes in the EAGLE simulations
Authors: Hill Alexander D , Crain Robert A , Kwan Juliana , McCarthy Ian G
Published: May 2021

We present measurements of the morphology of star-forming gas in galaxies from the EAGLE simulations, and its alignment relative to stars and dark matter (DM). Imaging of such gas in the radio continuum enables weak lensing experiments that complement traditional optical approaches. Star-forming gas is typically more flattened than the stars and DM within halo centres, particularly for present-day structures of total mass $\sim 10^{12-12.5}\, {\rm M}_\odot$, which preferentially host star-forming galaxies with rotationally supported stellar discs. Such systems have oblate, spheroidal star-forming gas distributions, but in both less- and more-massive subhaloes the distributions tend to be prolate, and its morphology correlates positively and significantly with that of its host galaxy’s stars, both in terms of sphericity and triaxiality. The minor axis of star-forming gas most commonly aligns with the minor axis of its host subhalo’s central DM distribution, but this alignment is often poor in subhaloes with a prolate DM distribution. Star-forming gas aligns with the DM at the centre of its parent subhalo less strongly than is the case for stars, but its morphological minor axis aligns closely with its kinematic axis, affording a route to observational identification of the unsheared morphological axis. The projected ellipticities of star-forming gas in EAGLE are consistent with shapes inferred from high-fidelity radio continuum images, and they exhibit greater shape noise than is the case for images of the stars, owing to the greater characteristic flattening of star-forming gas with respect to stars.
Dust changes in Sakurai’s Object: new PAHs and SiC with coagulation of submicron-sized silicate dust into 10 μm-sized melilite grains
Authors: Bowey Janet E
Published: May 2021

6–14 μm Spitzer spectra obtained at 6 epochs between 2005 April and 2008 October are used to determine temporal changes in dust features associated with Sakurai’s Object (V4334 Sgr), a low mass post-AGB star that has been forming dust in an eruptive event since 1996. The obscured carbon-rich photosphere is surrounded by a 40-milliarcsec torus and 32 arcsec PN. An initially rapid mid-infrared flux decrease stalled after 2008 April 21. Optically thin emission due to nanometre-sized SiC grains reached a minimum in 2007 October, increased rapidly between 2008 April 21–30 and more slowly to 2008 October. 6.3-μm absorption due to PAHs increased throughout. 20 μm-sized SiC grains might have contributed to the 6–7 μm absorption after 2007 May. Mass estimates based on the optically thick emission agree with those in the absorption features if the large SiC grains formed before 1999 May and PAHs formed in 1999 April–June. Estimated masses of PAH and large-SiC grains in 2008 October, were 3 × 10−9 M⊙ and 10−8 M⊙, respectively. Some of the submicron-sized silicates responsible for a weak 10 μm absorption feature are probably located within the PN because the optical depth decreased between 2007 October and 2008 October. 6.9-μm absorption assigned to ∼10 μm-sized crystalline melilite silicates increased between 2005 April and 2008 October. Abundance and spectroscopic constraints are satisfied if $\lesssim$2.8 per cent of the submicron-sized silicates coagulated to form melilites. This figure is similar to the abundance of melilite-bearing calcium–aluminium-rich inclusions in chondritic meteorites.
Tightening the girdle: phylotranscriptomics of Polyplacophora
Authors: Moles Juan , Cunha Tauana Junqueira , Lemer Sarah , Combosch David J , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: May 2021

The phylogenetic relationships within the molluscan class Polyplacophora (chitons) have been studied using morphology, traditional Sanger markers and mitogenomics, but, to date, no analysis has been carried out using transcriptomic and genome-wide data. Here, we leverage the power of transcriptomes to investigate the chiton phylogeny to test current classification schemes and the position of Callochitonidae, a family whose phylogenetic position and taxonomic assignation are uncertain because of conflicting results from past studies. Using multiple data matrices with different taxon occupancy thresholds and inference methods, including both concatenated and coalescence-based approaches, we find a consistent resolution of the chiton phylogeny. Our results support a system with the orders Lepidopleurida, Chitonida and Callochitonida, with the latter two as sister groups. This resolution is compatible with recent mitogenomic results and rejects the position of Callochiton as a member of Chitonina.
Structural basis for zinc-induced activation of a zinc uptake transcriptional regulator
Authors: Liu Fenmei , Su Zihui , Chen Peng , Tian Xiaolin , Wu Lijie , Tang Dong-Jie , Li Peifang , Deng Haiteng , Ding Pengfei , Fu Qiang , Tang Ji-Liang , Ming Zhenhua
Published: May 2021

The zinc uptake regulator (Zur) is a member of the Fur (ferric uptake regulator) family transcriptional regulators that plays important roles in zinc homeostasis and virulence of bacteria. Upon zinc perception, Zur binds to the promoters of zinc responsive genes and controls their transcription. However, the mechanism underlying zinc-mediated Zur activation remains unclear. Here we report a 2.2-Å crystal structure of apo Zur from the phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (XcZur), which reveals the molecular mechanism that XcZur exists in a closed inactive state before regulatory zinc binding. Subsequently, we present a 1.9-Å crystal structure of holo XcZur, which, by contrast, adopts an open state that has enough capacity to bind DNA. Structural comparison and hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) analyses uncover that binding of a zinc atom in the regulatory site, formed by the hinge region, the dimerization domain and the DNA binding domain, drives a closed-to-open conformational change that is essential for XcZur activation. Moreover, key residues responsible for DNA recognition are identified by site-directed mutagenesis. This work provides important insights into zinc-induced XcZur activation and valuable discussions on the mechanism of DNA recognition.
DrugComb update: a more comprehensive drug sensitivity data repository and analysis portal
Authors: Zheng Shuyu , Aldahdooh Jehad , Shadbahr Tolou , Wang Yinyin , Aldahdooh Dalal , Bao Jie , Wang Wenyu , Tang Jing
Published: May 2021

Combinatorial therapies that target multiple pathways have shown great promises for treating complex diseases. DrugComb (https://drugcomb.org/) is a web-based portal for the deposition and analysis of drug combination screening datasets. Since its first release, DrugComb has received continuous updates on the coverage of data resources, as well as on the functionality of the web server to improve the analysis, visualization and interpretation of drug combination screens. Here, we report significant updates of DrugComb, including: (i) manual curation and harmonization of more comprehensive drug combination and monotherapy screening data, not only for cancers but also for other diseases such as malaria and COVID-19; (ii) enhanced algorithms for assessing the sensitivity and synergy of drug combinations; (iii) network modelling tools to visualize the mechanisms of action of drugs or drug combinations for a given cancer sample and (iv) state-of-the-art machine learning models to predict drug combination sensitivity and synergy. These improvements have been provided with more user-friendly graphical interface and faster database infrastructure, which make DrugComb the most comprehensive web-based resources for the study of drug sensitivities for multiple diseases.
Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization Versus Conventional Treatment of Chronic Subdural Hematomas
Authors: Enriquez-Marulanda Alejandro , Gomez-Paz Santiago , Salem Mohamed M , Mallick Akashleena , Motiei-Langroudi Rouzbeh , Arle J E , Stippler Martina , Papavassiliou Efstathios , Alterman Ron L , Ogilvy Christopher S , Moore Justin M* , Thomas Ajith J
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization is an emerging minimally invasive endovascular technique for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). Currently, limited literature exists on its safety and efficacy compared with conventional treatment (open-surgical-evacuation-only).

OBJECTIVE

To compare MMA embolization to conventional treatment.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients with cSDHs treated with MMA embolization in a single center from 2018 to 2019 was performed. Comparisons were made with a historical conventional treatment cohort from 2006 to 2016. Propensity score matching analysis was used to assemble a balanced group of subjects.

RESULTS

A total of 357 conventionally treated cSDH and 45 with MMA embolization were included. After balancing with propensity score matching, a total of 25 pairs of cSDH were analyzed. Comparing the embolization with the conventional treatment group yielded no significant differences in complications (4% vs 4%; P > .99), clinical improvement (82.6% vs 83.3%; P = .95), cSDH recurrence (4.3% vs 21.7%; P = .08), overall re-intervention rates (12% vs 24%; P = .26), modified Rankin scale >2 on last follow-up (17.4% vs 32%; P = .24), as well as mortality (0% vs 12%; P = .09). Radiographic improvement at last follow-up was significantly higher in the open surgery cohort (73.9% vs 95.6%; P = .04). However, there was a trend for lengthier last follow-up for the historical cohort (72 vs 104 d; P = .07).

CONCLUSION

There was a trend for lower recurrence and mortality rates in the embolization era cohort. There were significantly higher radiological improvement rates on last follow-up in the surgical only cohort era. There were no significant differences in complications and clinical improvement.
Fields of Forel Brain Stimulation Improves Levodopa-Unresponsive Gait and Balance Disorders in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Rocha Maria Sheila Guimarães , de Freitas Julian Leticia , Costa Carlos Daniel Miranda , de Oliveira Maira Okada , Terzian Paulo Roberto , Queiroz João Welberthon Matos , Ferraz Jamana Barbosa , Tatsch João Fellipe Santos , Soriano Diogo Coutinho , Hamani Clement , Godinho Fabio
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Gait and balance disturbance are challenging symptoms in advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). Anatomic and clinical data suggest that the fields of Forel may be a potential surgical target to treat these symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

To test whether bilateral stimulation centered at the fields of Forel improves levodopa unresponsive freezing of gait (FOG), balance problems, postural instability, and falls in PD.

METHODS

A total of 13 patients with levodopa-unresponsive gait disturbance (Hoehn and Yahr stage ≥3) were included. Patients were evaluated before (on-medication condition) and 1 yr after surgery (on-medication-on-stimulation condition). Motor symptoms and quality of life were assessed with the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating scale (UPDRS III) and Quality of Life scale (PDQ-39). Clinical and instrumented analyses assessed gait, balance, postural instability, and falls.

RESULTS

Surgery improved balance by 43% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.2-36.4 to 35.2-47.1; P = .0012), reduced FOG by 35% (95% CI: 15.1-20.3 to 8.1-15.3; P = .0021), and the monthly number of falls by 82.2% (95% CI: 2.2-6.9 to −0.2-1.7; P = .0039). Anticipatory postural adjustments, velocity to turn, and postural sway measurements also improved 1 yr after deep brain stimulation (DBS). UPDRS III motor scores were reduced by 27.2% postoperatively (95% CI: 42.6-54.3 to 30.2-40.5; P < .0001). Quality of life improved 27.5% (95% CI: 34.6-48.8 to 22.4-37.9; P = .0100).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that DBS of the fields of Forel improved motor symptoms in PD, as well as the FOG, falls, balance, postural instability, and quality of life.
Landscape cover type, not social dominance, is associated with the winter movement patterns of Snowy Owls in temperate areas
Authors: McCabe Rebecca A , Therrien Jean-François , Wiebe Karen L , Gauthier Gilles , Brinker David , Weidensaul Scott , Elliott Kyle
Published: May 2021

Migrating animals occur along a continuum from species that spend the nonbreeding season at a fixed location to species that are nomadic during the nonbreeding season, essentially continuously moving. Such variation is likely driven by the economics of territoriality or heterogeneity in the environment. The Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) is known for its complex seasonal movements, and thus an excellent model to test these ideas, as many individuals travel unpredictably along irregular routes during both the breeding and nonbreeding seasons. Two possible explanations for this large variation in the propensity to move are (1) dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals (adult females in this case) monopolize some key, consistent resources, and move less than subdominants; and (2) habitat heterogeneity in which individuals foraging in rich and less heterogenic environments are less mobile. We analyzed fine-scale telemetry data (global positioning system [GPS]/global system for mobile communication [GSM]) from 50 Snowy Owls tagged in eastern and central North America from 2013 to 2019, comparing space use during the winter period according to sex and age, and to land cover attributes. We used variograms to classify individuals as nomadic (58%) or range-resident (42%), and found that nomadic owls had ten times larger wintering areas than range-resident owls. The frequency of nomadism was similar in socially-dominant adult females, immatures, and males. However, nomadism increased from west to east, and north to south, and was positively associated with the use of water and negatively associated with croplands. We conclude that many individual Snowy Owls in Eastern North America are nomadic during the nonbreeding season and that movement patterns during this time are driven primarily by extrinsic factors, specifically heterogeneity in habitat and prey availability, as opposed to intrinsic factors associated with spacing behavior, such as age and sex.
LAZY1-LIKE-mediated gravity signaling pathway in root gravitropic set-point angle control
Authors: Furutani Masahiko , Morita Miyo Terao
Published: May 2021

Gravity signaling components contribute to the control of root gravitropic set-point angle through protein polarization relay within columella.
Crossing the boundaries: IL-23 and its role in linking inflammation of the skin, gut and joints
Authors: Łukasik Zuzanna , Gracey Eric , Venken Koen , Ritchlin Christopher , Elewaut Dirk
Published: May 2021

Several lines of evidence point towards the central role of IL-23 as a crucial inflammatory mediator in the pathogenesis of SpA—a group of inflammatory arthritic diseases whose symptoms span the skin, gastrointestinal tract and joints. While therapeutic blockade of IL-23 proved successful in the treatment of IBD, psoriatic skin disease and peripheral SpA, it failed in patients suffering from SpA with predominantly axial involvement. Here we review state-of-the-art discoveries on IL-23 signalling pathways across target tissues involved in SpA. We discuss the discrepancies in resident IL-23–responding cells and their downstream activities across skin, gut and joint that shape the unique immunological landscape of SpA.
SEMI-AUTOMATED 3D SEGMENTATION OF PELVIC REGION BONES IN CT VOLUMES FOR THE ANNOTATION OF MACHINE LEARNING DATASETS
Authors: Jeuthe Julius , Sánchez José Carlos González , Magnusson Maria , Sandborg Michael , Tedgren Åsa Carlsson , Malusek Alexandr
Published: May 2021

Automatic segmentation of bones in computed tomography (CT) images is used for instance in beam hardening correction algorithms where it improves the accuracy of resulting CT numbers. Of special interest are pelvic bones, which—because of their strong attenuation—affect the accuracy of brachytherapy in this region. This work evaluated the performance of the JJ2016 algorithm with the performance of MK2014v2 and JS2018 algorithms; all these algorithms were developed by authors. Visual comparison, and, in the latter case, also Dice similarity coefficients derived from the ground truth were used. It was found that the 3D-based JJ2016 performed better than the 2D-based MK2014v2, mainly because of the more accurate hole filling that benefitted from information in adjacent slices. The neural network-based JS2018 outperformed both traditional algorithms. It was, however, limited to the resolution of 1283 owing to the limited amount of memory in the graphical processing unit (GPU).
Network embeddedness in illegal online markets: endogenous sources of prices and profit in anonymous criminal drug trade
Authors: Duxbury Scott W , Haynie Dana L
Published: May 2021

Although economic sociology emphasizes the role of social networks for shaping economic action, little research has examined how network governance structures affect prices in the unregulated and high-risk social context of online criminal trade. We consider how overembeddedness—a state of excessive interconnectedness among market actors—arises from endogenous trade relations to shape prices in illegal online markets with aggregate consequences for short-term gross illegal revenue. Drawing on transaction-level data on 16 847 illegal drug transactions over 14 months of trade in a ‘darknet’ drug market, we assess how repeated exchanges and closure in buyer–vendor trade networks nonlinearly influence prices and short-term gross revenue from illegal drug trade. Using a series of panel models, we find that increases in closure and repeated exchange raise prices until a threshold is reached upon which prices and gross monthly revenue begin to decline as networks become overembedded. Findings provide insight into the network determinants of prices and gross monthly revenue in illegal online drug trade and illustrate how network structure shapes prices in criminal markets, even in anonymous trade environments.
An exploratory analysis to identify behavior change techniques of implementation interventions associated with the implementation of healthy canteen policies
Authors: Yoong Sze Lin , Hall Alix , Stacey Fiona , Nathan Nicole , Reilly Kathryn , Delaney Tessa , Sutherland Rachel , Hodder Rebecca , Straus Sharon , Wolfenden Luke
Published: May 2021

Empirical studies to disentangle the effects of multicomponent implementation interventions are needed to inform the development of future interventions. This study aims to examine which behavior change techniques (BCTs) primarily targeting canteen manager are associated with school’s healthy canteen policy implementation. This is a secondary data analysis from three randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of a “high,” “medium,” and “low” intensity intervention primarily targeting canteen managers on school’s implementation of a healthy canteen policy. The policy required primary schools to remove all “red” (less healthy items) or “banned” (sugar sweetened beverages) items from regular sale and ensure that “green” (healthier items) dominated the menu (>50%). The delivery of BCTs were retrospectively coded. We undertook an elastic net regularized logistic regression with all BCTs in a single model. Five k-fold cross-validation elastic net models were conducted. The percentage of times each strategy remained across 1,000 replications was calculated. For no “red” or “banned” items (n = 162), the strongest BCTs were: problem solving, goal setting (behavior), and review behavior goals. These BCTs were identified in 100% of replications as a strong predictor in the cross-validation elastic net models. For the outcome relating to >50% “green” items, the BCTs problem solving, instruction on how to perform behavior and demonstration of behavior were the strongest predictors. Two strategies were identified in 100% of replications as a strong (i.e., problem solving) or weak predictor (i.e., feedback on behavior). This study identified unique BCTs associated with the implementation of a healthy canteen policy.