bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FGFR2 loss sensitizes MYCN‐amplified neuroblastoma CHP134 cells to CHK1 inhibitor–induced apoptosis
Authors: Ando Kiyohiro , Ohira Miki , Takada Ichiro , Cázares‐Ordoñez Verna , Suenaga Yusuke , Nagase Hiroki , Kobayashi Shinichi , Koshinaga Tsugumichi , Kamijo Takehiko , Makishima Makoto , Wada Satoshi
Published: November 2021

Checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) plays a key role in genome surveillance and integrity throughout the cell cycle. Selective inhibitors of CHK1 (CHK1i) are undergoing clinical evaluation for various human malignancies, including neuroblastoma. In this study, one CHK1i‐sensitive neuroblastoma cell line, CHP134, was investigated, which characteristically carries MYCN amplification and a chromosome deletion within the 10q region. Among several cancer‐related genes in the chromosome 10q region, mRNA expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) was altered in CHP134 cells and associated with an unfavorable prognosis of patients with neuroblastoma. Induced expression of FGFR2 in CHP134 cells reactivated downstream MEK/ERK signaling and resulted in cells resistant to CHK1i‐mediated cell growth inhibition. Consistently, the MEK1/2 inhibitor, trametinib, potentiated CHK1 inhibitor–mediated cell death in these cells. These results suggested that FGFR2 loss might be prone to highly effective CHK1i treatment. In conclusion, extreme cellular dependency of ERK activation may imply a possible application for the MEK1/2 inhibitor, either as a single inhibitor or in combination with CHK1i in MYCN‐amplified neuroblastomas.
Dvl2 facilitates the coordination of NF‐κB and Wnt signaling to promote colitis‐associated colorectal progression
Authors: Tang Feiyu , Cao Fuyang , Lu Can , He Xiang , Weng Liang , Sun Lunquan
Published: November 2021

Colitis‐associated colorectal cancer (CAC) arises due to prolonged inflammation and has distinct molecular events compared with sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC). Although inflammatory NF‐κB signaling was activated by pro‐inflammatory cytokines (such as TNFα) in early stages of CAC, Wnt/β‐catenin signaling later appears to function as a key regulator of CAC progression. However, the exact mechanism responsible for the cross‐regulation between these 2 pathways remains unclear. Here, we found reciprocal inhibition between NF‐κB and Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in CAC samples, and the Dvl2, an adaptor protein of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling, is responsible for NF‐κB inhibition. Mechanistically, Dvl2 interacts with the C‐terminus of tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFRI) and mediates TNFRI endocytosis, leading to NF‐κB signal inhibition. In addition, increased infiltration of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐13 (IL‐13) is responsible for upregulating Dvl2 expression through STAT6. Targeting STAT6 effectively decreases Dvl2 levels and restrains colony formation of cancer cells. These findings demonstrate a unique role for Dvl2 in TNFRI endocytosis, which facilitates the coordination of NF‐κB and Wnt to promote CAC progression.
Retracted: Multi constrained network feature approximation based secure routing for improved quality of service in mobile ad‐hoc network
Authors: Y. M. Mahaboob John , G Ravi
Published: November 2021

The mobile ad‐hoc network is well studied on the routing issues, and the security constraints around achieving higher quality of service (QoS) values are well analyzed. The main task is to establish the path to the target with reliable intermediate nodes based on quality parameters because of the lack of node mobility and central management. In a multi‐constrained QoS issuance, more than the QoS requirements must be satisfied at the end of the application. There are several secure routing protocols available to improve the QoS of Manet by routing packets securely. However, they do not meet the performance requirements. To solve this problem, and efficient Multi‐Constrained Network Feature Approximation (MCNFA) technique is proposed based on safe routing. The method first determines the list of paths between source and destination. According to that, the method approximates the congestion, latency, and hop count values for each route. According to the value obtained in approximation of various parameters, the legitimate weight is computed for all the routes towards the destination. According to the value of the legitimate weight, a single route is selected to perform data transmission. The MCNFA approach improves the routing performance and increases the throughput ratio and other QoS factors. The performance of the proposed method will be assessed using NS2 simulation. The results show that the proposed scheme can maintain a longer network lifecycle in tight scenarios suitable for delay‐tolerant networking. The performance is compared with energy recognition and MCNFA technique‐based energy‐saving routing protocols in various QoS scenarios.
Biodiversity post‐2020: Closing the gap between global targets and national‐level implementation
Authors: Perino Andrea , Pereira Henrique M. , Felipe‐Lucia Maria , Kim HyeJin , Kühl Hjalmar S. , Marselle Melissa R. , Meya Jasper N. , Meyer Carsten , Navarro Laetitia M. , van Klink Roel , Albert Georg , Barratt Christopher D. , Bruelheide Helge , Cao Yun , Chamoin Ariane , Darbi Marianne , Dornelas Maria , Eisenhauer Nico , Essl Franz , Farwig Nina , Förster Johannes , Freyhof Jörg , Geschke Jonas , Gottschall Felix , Guerra Carlos , Haase Peter , Hickler Thomas , Jacob Ute , Kastner Thomas , Korell Lotte , Kühn Ingolf , Lehmann Gerlind U. C. , Lenzner Bernd , Marques Alexandra , Motivans Švara Elena , Quintero Laura C. , Pacheco Andrea , Popp Alexander , Rouet‐Leduc Julia , Schnabel Florian , Siebert Julia , Staude Ingmar R. , Trogisch Stefan , Švara Vid , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Pe'er Guy , Raab Kristina , Rakosy Demetra , Vandewalle Marie , Werner Alexandra S. , Wirth Christian , Xu Haigen , Yu Dandan , Zinngrebe Yves , Bonn Aletta
Published: November 2021

National and local governments need to step up efforts to effectively implement the post‐2020 global biodiversity framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity to halt and reverse worsening biodiversity trends. Drawing on recent advances in interdisciplinary biodiversity science, we propose a framework for improved implementation by national and subnational governments. First, the identification of actions and the promotion of ownership across stakeholders need to recognize the multiple values of biodiversity and account for remote responsibility. Second, cross‐sectorial implementation and mainstreaming should adopt scalable and multifunctional ecosystem restoration approaches and target positive futures for nature and people. Third, assessment of progress and adaptive management can be informed by novel biodiversity monitoring and modeling approaches handling the multidimensionality of biodiversity change.
Human–nature connectedness as a pathway to sustainability: A global meta‐analysis
Authors: Barragan‐Jason Gladys , de Mazancourt Claire , Parmesan Camille , Singer Michael C. , Loreau Michel
Published: November 2021

Internationally agreed sustainability goals are being missed. Here, we conduct global meta‐analyses to assess how the extent to which humans see themselves as part of nature—known as human–nature connectedness (HNC)—can be used as a leverage point to reach sustainability. A meta‐analysis of 147 correlational studies shows that individuals with high HNC had more pronature behaviours and were significantly healthier than those with low HNC. A meta‐analysis of 59 experimental studies shows significant increases in HNC after manipulations involving contact with nature and mindfulness practices. Surprisingly, this same meta‐analysis finds no significant effect of environmental education on HNC. Thus, HNC is positively linked to mind‐sets that value sustainability and behaviours that enhance it. Further, we argue that HNC can be enhanced by targeted practices, and we identify those most likely to succeed. Our results suggest that enhancing HNC, via promotion of targeted practices, can improve sustainability and should be integrated into conservation policy.
Language input to infants of different socioeconomic statuses: A quantitative meta‐analysis
Authors: Dailey Shannon , Bergelson Elika
Published: November 2021

For the past 25 years, researchers have investigated language input to children from high‐ and low‐socioeconomic status (SES) families. Hart and Risley first reported a “30 Million Word Gap” between high‐SES and low‐SES children. More recent studies have challenged the size or even existence of this gap. The present study is a quantitative meta‐analysis on socioeconomic differences in language input to young children, which aims to systematically integrate decades of research on this topic. We analyzed 19 studies and found a significant effect of SES on language input quantity. However, this effect was moderated by the type of language included in language quantity measures: studies that include only child‐directed speech in their language measures find a large SES difference, while studies that include all speech in a child's environment find no effect of SES. These results support recent work suggesting that methodological decisions can affect researchers' estimates of the “word gap.” Overall, we find that young children from low‐SES homes heard less child‐directed speech than children from mid‐ to high‐SES homes, though this difference was much smaller than Hart & Risley's “30 Million Word Gap.” Finally, we underscore the need for more cross‐cultural work on language development and the forces that may contribute to it, highlighting the opportunity for better integration of observational, experimental, and intervention‐based approaches.
Using a Codesign Workshop to Make an Impact with Codesign Research
Authors: Watts‐Englert Jennifer , Yang Emily
Published: November 2021

Professional services companies are relaxing the tone of voice and personality they use to interact with clients. In response to these trends, we used codesign methods to explore how clients want to interact with our company. Study findings revealed several opportunities for creating stronger connections with our clients. To increase the impact of our research, we conducted a codesign workshop with stakeholders across the company to share insights and co‐create opportunities in an interactive format. This workshop created buy‐in for some controversial findings and led to the creation of a task force focused on integrating study findings into multiple marketing and design projects. This paper summarizes the study findings and describes the codesign methods used in the internal stakeholder workshop. We will also describe workshop outcomes and discuss the benefits of using codesign to share study findings.
Follow‐up evaluation of temporomandibular joints using magnetic resonance imaging after mandibular trauma: Case series analysis of young adult males
Authors: Ku Jeong‐Kui , Baik Sung Hyun , Kim Jae‐Young , Huh Jong‐Ki
Published: November 2021

Background/Aims

A relationship between mandibular fractures and traumatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions has been suggested in many studies. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best option for a TMJ evaluation, few studies have evaluated the TMJ condition after a mandibular fracture using MRI follow‐up. The aim of this study was to evaluate the TMJ for post‐traumatic conditions following a mandibular fracture using follow‐up MRI.

Materials and Methods

Fourteen TMJs of seven young adult males (aged 19–21 years) with mandibular fractures were analyzed by MRI, and 12 TMJs of six patients were evaluated by follow‐up MRI after the trauma. Regarding the intensity of MRI, the pathologic condition of TMJ was classified into acute joint inflammation, marrow edema, and joint space widening.

Results

Thirteen joints (92.9%) showed pathologic conditions, including 11 with acute joint inflammation (84.6%), 10 with joint space widening (76.9%), and six with marrow edema (46.2%). Five out of 12 evaluated joints were injected with dexamethasone. Among these, four joints healed within one week, and one healed within one month. Among the seven untreated TMJs, four and one joint healed within one week and one month, respectively, but two joints of one patient did not improve until one month. Although that patient received arthrocentesis, the right joint showed osteoarthritis six months after the trauma.

Conclusions

Most TMJs were acutely damaged due to mandibular trauma and healed within one week to one month. A follow‐up examination could be considered at one month after the injury to confirm the possibility of traumatic TMJ disorder, such as osteoarthritis.
Synthesis of ternary ceramics (Cr2AlC) by using biochars
Authors: Dey Maharshi , Zia Mahmoodi Negin , Javaid Sabah , Matzke Caleb , Gupta Surojit
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we report the synthesis of Cr2AlC by using biochars derived from lignin, Distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS), and hemp fibers. Initially, the powders were pyrolyzed at 1350°C for 4 h in Ar atmosphere to form biochars. The ball‐milled and sieved biochar powders were then mixed with Cr and Al powders in different stoichiometric ratios according to the C‐content of the biochars. The mixed powders were reacted at 1350°C for 4 h in Ar atmosphere. Detailed scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis showed the powders derived from hemp and DDGS biochars were > 90% pure as compared to powders derived from lignin biochar which was 76% pure. It is expected that ternary ceramics derived from biochars can be an addition avenue for carbon‐storage.
In situ anisotropic NiO nanostructure growth at high temperature and under water vapor
Authors: Qu Boyi , van Benthem Klaus
Published: November 2021

Anisotropic growth of nanostructures from individual nickel nanoparticles was observed during in situ heating experiments in an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) at 800°C under water vapor atmosphere. The morphology of nanostructures exhibited one directional growth with rates ranging below 1.8 nm/s. Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and selected area electron diffraction confirmed NiO stoichiometry of the growing nanostructures. Variations of the oxygen partial pressure during ex situ annealing and in situ ESEM heating experiments elucidate that anisotropic NiO growth is energetically favored in areas where the local surface energy density is relatively high. Growth of NiO nanostructures was absent in dry air and dry nitrogen environments and required the presence of water vapor. The results of this study suggest that the manipulation of surface energy prior to exposure to water vapor at elevated temperatures can prevent unwanted oxide nanostructure growth.
SARS‐CoV‐2 during pregnancy and associated outcomes: Results from an ongoing prospective cohort
Authors: Molenaar Nina M. , Rommel Anna‐Sophie , de Witte Lotje , Dolan Siobhan M. , Lieb Whitney , Ibroci Erona , Ohrn Sophie , Lynch Jezelle , Capuano Christina , Stadlbauer Daniel , Krammer Florian , Zapata Lauren B. , Brody Rachel I. , Pop Victor J. , Jessel Rebecca H. , Sperling Rhoda S. , Afzal Omara , Gigase Frederieke , Missall Roy , Janevic Teresa , Stone Joanne , Howell Elizabeth A. , Bergink Veerle
Published: November 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic is an ongoing global health threat, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Questions remain about how SARS‐CoV‐2 impacts pregnant individuals and their children.

Objective

To expand our understanding of the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection during pregnancy on pregnancy outcomes, regardless of symptomatology, by using serological tests to measure IgG antibody levels.

Methods

The Generation C Study is an ongoing prospective cohort study conducted at the Mount Sinai Health System. All pregnant individuals receiving obstetrical care at the Mount Sinai Healthcare System from 20 April 2020 onwards are eligible for participation. For the current analysis, we included participants who had given birth to a liveborn singleton infant on or before 22 September 2020. For each woman, we tested the latest prenatal blood sample available to establish seropositivity using a SARS‐CoV‐2 serologic enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, RT‐PCR testing was performed on a nasopharyngeal swab taken during labour. Pregnancy outcomes of interest (i.e., gestational age at delivery, preterm birth, small for gestational age, Apgar scores, maternal and neonatal intensive care unit admission, and length of neonatal hospital stay) and covariates were extracted from medical records. Excluding individuals who tested RT‐PCR positive at delivery, we conducted crude and adjusted regression models to compare antibody positive with antibody negative individuals at delivery. We stratified analyses by race/ethnicity to examine potential effect modification.

Results

The SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence based on IgG measurement was 16.4% (95% confidence interval 13.7, 19.3; n=116). Twelve individuals (1.7%) were SARS‐CoV‐2 RT‐PCR positive at delivery. Seropositive individuals were generally younger, more often Black or Hispanic, and more often had public insurance and higher pre‐pregnancy BMI compared with seronegative individuals. None of the examined pregnancy outcomes differed by seropositivity, overall or stratified by race/ethnicity.

Conclusion

Seropositivity for SARS‐CoV‐2 without RT‐PCR positivity at delivery (suggesting that infection occurred earlier during pregnancy) was not associated with selected adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes among live births in a cohort sample from New York City.
Inequality in early childhood chronic health conditions requiring hospitalisation: A data linkage study of health service utilisation and costs
Authors: Callander Emily J. , Bull Claudia , Lain Samantha , Wakefield Claire E. , Lingam Raghu , Marshall Glenn M. , Wake Melissa , Nassar Natasha
Published: November 2021

Background

The cost of socioeconomic inequality in health service use among Australian children with chronic health conditions is poorly understood.

Objectives

To quantify the cost of socioeconomic inequality in health service use among Australian children with chronic health conditions.

Methods

Cohort study using a whole‐of‐population linked administrative data for all births in Queensland, Australia, between July 2015 and July 2018. Socioeconomic status was defined by an areas‐based measure, grouping children into quintiles from most disadvantaged (Q1) to least disadvantaged (Q5) based on their postcode at birth. Study outcomes included health service utilisation (inpatient, emergency department, outpatient, general practitioner, specialist, pathology and diagnostic imaging services) and healthcare costs.

Results

Of the 238,600 children included in the analysis, 10.4% had at least one chronic health condition. Children with chronic health conditions in Q1 had higher rates of inpatient (6.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.4, 6.7), emergency department (7.2, 95% CI 7.0, 7.5) and outpatient (20.3, 95% CI 19.4, 21.3) service use compared to children with chronic health conditions in Q5. They also had lower rates of general practitioner (37.5, 95% CI 36.7, 38.4), specialist (8.9, 95% CI 8.5, 9.3), pathology (10.7, 95% CI 10.2, 11.3), and diagnostic imaging (4.3, 95% CI 4.2,4.5) service use. Children with any chronic health condition in Q1 incurred lower median out‐of‐pocket fees than children in Q5 ($0 vs $741, respectively), lower median Medicare funding ($2710, vs $3408, respectively), and higher median public hospital funding ($31, 052 vs $23, 017, respectively).

Conclusions

Children of most disadvantage are more likely to access public hospital provided services, which are accessible free of charge to patients. These children are less likely to access general practitioner, specialist, pathology and diagnostic imaging services; all of which are critical to the ongoing management of chronic health conditions, but often attract an out‐of‐pocket fee.
Second-Order Semi-Parametric Inference for Multivariate Log Gaussian Cox Processes
Authors: Hessellund Kristian Bjørn , Xu Ganggang , Guan Yongtao , Waagepetersen Rasmus
Published: November 2021

This paper introduces a new approach to inferring the second-order properties of a multivariate log Gaussian Cox process (LGCP) with a complex intensity function. We assume a semi-parametric model for the multivariate intensity function containing an unspecified complex factor common to all types of points. Given this model, we construct a second-order conditional composite likelihood to infer the pair correlation and cross pair correlation functions of the LGCP. Crucially this likelihood does not depend on the unspecified part of the intensity function. We also introduce a cross-validation method for model selection and an algorithm for regularized inference that can be used to obtain sparse models for cross pair correlation functions. The methodology is applied to simulated data as well as data examples from microscopy and criminology. This shows how the new approach outperforms existing alternatives where the intensity functions are estimated non-parametrically.
Fighting stigma‐based bullying in primary school children: An experimental intervention using vicarious intergroup contact and social norms
Authors: Cocco Veronica Margherita , Bisagno Elisa , Visintin Emilio Paolo , Cadamuro Alessia , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio , Trifiletti Elena , Molinari Luisa , Vezzali Loris
Published: November 2021

In this theory‐driven experimental field intervention, we used vicarious intergroup contact, a popular prejudice‐reduction strategy, to fight stigma‐based bullying. We focused on the role of peer norms, manipulated by asking participants to work individually or collectively in reinforcing activities following vicarious contact (operationalized as story reading). Participants were 346 Italian 4th‐5thgrade primary school children (48% females). Participants were allocated to a 2 (Target: outgroup vs. ingroup vicarious contact) × 2 (reinforcing activities: collective vs. individual) experimental design. Results revealed that outgroup (vs. ingroup) vicarious contact was indirectly associated with greater intentions to react to name‐calling and socially exclusionary behavior (two common forms of bullying) toward foreign children, only when participants collectively negotiated responses to reinforcing activities.
Linnebo's Abstractionism and the Bad Company Problem
Authors: Studd J. P.
Published: November 2021

InThin Objects: An Abstractionist Account, Linnebo offers what he describes as a “simple and definitive” solution to the bad company problem facing abstractionist accounts of mathematics. “Bad” abstraction principles can be rendered “good” by taking abstraction to have a predicative character. But the resulting predicative axioms are too weak to recover substantial portions of mathematics. Linnebo pursues two quite different strategies to overcome this weakness in the case of set theory and arithmetic. I argue that neither infinitely iterated abstraction nor abstraction on possible specifications fully resolves the bad company problem.
The small RNA‐mediated gene silencing machinery is required in Arabidopsis for stimulation of growth, systemic disease resistance, and suppression of the nitrile‐specifier gene NSP4 by Trichoderma atroviride
Authors: Rebolledo‐Prudencio Oscar Guillermo , Estrada‐Rivera Magnolia , Dautt‐Castro Mitzuko , Arteaga‐Vazquez Mario A. , Arenas‐Huertero Catalina , Rosendo‐Vargas Maria Montserrat , Jin Hailing , Casas‐Flores Sergio
Published: November 2021

Trichoderma atroviride is a root‐colonizing fungus that confers multiple benefits to plants. In plants, small RNA (sRNA)‐mediated gene silencing (sRNA‐MGS) plays pivotal roles in growth, development, and pathogen attack. Here, we explored the role of core components of Arabidopsis thaliana sRNA‐MGS pathways during its interaction with Trichoderma. Upon interaction with Trichoderma, sRNA‐MGS‐related genes paralleled the expression of Arabidopsis defense‐related genes, linked to salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) pathways. SA‐ and JA‐related genes were primed by Trichoderma in leaves after the application of the well‐known pathogen‐associated molecular patterns flg22 and chitin, respectively. Defense‐related genes were primed in roots as well, but to different extents and behaviors. Phenotypical characterization of mutants in AGO genes and components of the RNA‐dependent DNA methylation (RdDM) pathway revealed that different sets of sRNA‐MGS‐related genes are essential for (i) the induction of systemic acquired resistance against Botrytis cinerea, (ii) the activation of the expression of plant defense‐related genes, and (iii) root colonization by Trichoderma. Additionally, plant growth induced by Trichoderma depends on functional RdDM. Profiling of DNA methylation and histone N‐tail modification patterns at the Arabidopsis Nitrile‐Specifier Protein‐4 (NSP4) locus, which is responsive to Trichoderma, showed altered epigenetic modifications in RdDM mutants. Furthermore, NSP4 is required for the induction of systemic acquired resistance against Botrytis and avoidance of enhanced root colonization by Trichoderma. Together, our results indicate that RdDM is essential in Arabidopsis to establish a beneficial relationship with Trichoderma. We propose that DNA methylation and histone modifications are required for plant priming by the beneficial fungus against B. cinerea.
Chromosome‐level assembly of the Neolamarckia cadamba genome provides insights into the evolution of cadambine biosynthesis
Authors: Zhao Xiaolan , Hu Xiaodi , OuYang Kunxi , Yang Jing , Que Qingmin , Long Jianmei , Zhang Jianxia , Zhang Tong , Wang Xue , Gao Jiayu , Hu Xinquan , Yang Shuqi , Zhang Lisu , Li Shufen , Gao Wujun , Li Benping , Jiang Wenkai , Nielsen Erik , Chen Xiaoyang , Peng Changcao
Published: November 2021

Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.), a close relative of Coffea canephora and Ophiorrhiza pumila, is an important traditional medicine in Southeast Asia. Three major glycosidic monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIAs), cadambine and its derivatives 3β‐isodihydrocadambine and 3β‐dihydrocadambine, accumulate in the bark and leaves, and exhibit antimalarial, antiproliferative, antioxidant, anticancer and anti‐inflammatory activities. Here, we report a chromosome‐scale N. cadamba genome, with 744.5 Mb assembled into 22 pseudochromosomes with contig N50 and scaffold N50 of 824.14 Kb and 29.20 Mb, respectively. Comparative genomic analysis of N. cadamba with Co. canephora revealed that N. cadamba underwent a relatively recent whole‐genome duplication (WGD) event after diverging from Co. canephora, which contributed to the evolution of the MIA biosynthetic pathway. We determined the key intermediates of the cadambine biosynthetic pathway and further showed that NcSTR1 catalyzed the synthesis of strictosidine in N. cadamba. A new component, epoxystrictosidine (C27H34N2O10, m/z 547.2285), was identified in the cadambine biosynthetic pathway. Combining genome‐wide association study (GWAS), population analysis, multi‐omics analysis and metabolic gene cluster prediction, this study will shed light on the evolution of MIA biosynthetic pathway genes. This N. cadamba reference sequence will accelerate the understanding of the evolutionary history of specific metabolic pathways and facilitate the development of tools for enhancing bioactive productivity by metabolic engineering in microbes or by molecular breeding in plants.
Incidental diagnosis of a spindle cell type gastrointestinal stromal tumor in a dog with ethylene glycol intoxication
Authors: Serpa Priscila B. S. , Santos Andrea P.
Published: November 2021

A 6‐year‐old castrated male American Pit Bull Terrier dog was presented for evaluation of acute onset of tonic‐clonic seizures, anorexia, and vomiting. On physical examination, neurologic signs, such as generalized proprioceptive ataxia, salivation, circling to the right, and absent patellar reflexes bilaterally, were noted. A complete blood cell count revealed mild hemoconcentration and an inflammatory leukogram, while a chemistry panel showed severe azotemia, marked hypochloremia, and a severe titrational metabolic acidosis, suggesting possible ethylene glycol intoxication. However, an irregularly round, small mass was identified in the large intestine on abdominal ultrasound. Additionally, bilateral hyperechoic renal cortices with medullary rim sign were suggestive of acute nephritis or tubular necrosis. The cytologic evaluation of a fine‐needle aspiration biopsy of the abdominal mass revealed a large population of mesenchymal cells, suggesting the presence of neoplasia. Due to the worsening of symptoms, the dog was humanely euthanized. Necropsy confirmed ethylene glycol intoxication, and the incidental finding of a neoplastic intestinal mass was diagnosed as spindle cell sarcoma. Immunohistochemical staining showed strong, diffuse positivity for CD117, smooth muscle actin, and S‐100, indicating the final diagnosis of a spindle cell type gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). This report briefly discusses the classifications of nonlymphoid, nonangiogenic intestinal mesenchymal tumors, characteristics of GISTs, and the importance of the immunohistochemical classification of mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract.
Influence of Awareness and Education on Management of Covid-19 Pandemic in Nigeria: Perception of Information Professionals in Ogun State
Authors: Tawakalit A. Adegbite-Badmus, , O. Odunewu Kuburat
Published: November 2021

The catastrophic consequences on the civilization of covid-19 pandemic are obvious on all human endeavours, including information services of academic libraries. Several measures were put in place and funded by the government at all levels to manage the pandemic in Nigeria among which is the closure of all educational institutions in the country. Information professionals in tertiary institutions have become worried about their users' safety and well-being; hence the need to provide awareness and educate them on covid-19 as means to manage the pandemic. The quantitative design using the survey method was employed to determine the perceptions of information professionals, librarians and library officers in academic libraries in Ogun State, South west Nigeria on awareness and education services to manage covid-19. The study revealed that information professionals were reasonably aware of the covid-19 pandemic; had an appreciable level of awareness of signs with system of spreading covid-19 and; they had a good understanding of measures on how to manage covid-19. The Health Belief Theory was used to ascertain that if the respondents are aware of the danger of any disease they will prevent or take precautionary measures. The respondents believed that awareness of and education on covid-19 would educate users and the public on the signs and ways of spreading the virus. Besides, mobile phone services for sending bulk messages were identified as major means of informing and educating users on covid-19. The study concluded that awareness and education services for user-populace of academic libraries can be used for effective information management concerning covid-19 virus in Nigeria.
Nonlinear control of boundary impedance in an acoustic waveguide
Authors: Vered Yoav , Bucher Izhak
Published: November 2021

Wavetubes are employed for measurements of acoustic properties in various fluids. The ability to manipulate and control the frequency-dependent boundary impedance of the tube improves the estimation accuracy. Passive solutions, which use composite materials to change the boundary impedance, enable one to realize a finite combination of boundary impedances. In this paper, the tube boundary impedance is tuned at will by using two loudspeakers. The suggested method operates in the presence of dispersion by estimating, in real-time, a parametric reduced-order model using a multichannel least mean square algorithm. The identified model is fed to a nonlinear, adaptive control algorithm to realize modal traveling wave ratio (TWR) control. It has been noted that the TWR is smooth and parabolic across closed regions in the parameter space, thus assuring the convergence of the nonlinear control. Several methods to estimate the TWR gradient are considered and compared based on an analytical model of a rigid impedance tube. An experimental case study utilizing an air-filled impedance tube with two loudspeakers is presented. The results demonstrate the ability to control the dynamics of the principal acoustic mode at will, thus enabling one to set the desired tube's boundary impedance.
Impact of data augmentation on supervised learning for a moving mid-frequency source
Authors: Castro-Correa J. A. , Badiey M. , Neilsen T. B. , Knobles D. P. , Hodgkiss W. S.
Published: November 2021

Two residual networks are implemented to perform regression for the source localization and environment classification using a moving mid-frequency source, recorded during the Seabed Characterization Experiment in 2017. The first model implements only the classification for inferring the seabed type, and the second model uses regression to estimate the source localization parameters. The training is performed using synthetic data generated by the ORCA normal mode model. The architectures are tested on both the measured field and simulated data with variations in the sound speed profile and seabed mismatch. Additionally, nine data augmentation techniques are implemented to study their effect on the network predictions. The metrics used to quantify the network performance are the root mean square error for regression and accuracy for seabed classification. The models report consistent results for the source localization estimation and accuracy above 65% in the worst-case scenario for the seabed classification. From the data augmentation study, the results show that the more complex transformations, such as time warping, time masking, frequency masking, and a combination of these techniques, yield significant improvement of the results using both the simulated and measured data.
A free field recovery technique based on the boundary element method and three-dimensional scanning measurements
Authors: Luo Zhong-Wei , Fernandez Comesana Daniel , Zheng Chang-Jun , Bi Chuan-Xing
Published: November 2021

The boundary element method- (BEM-) based free field recovery technique (FFRT) has been proposed to recover the free field radiated by an arbitrarily shaped source from the mixed field that would be measured in a noisy environment. However, that technique requires that the boundary integral equation should be established on an enclosed hologram surface surrounding the source, which means that the hologram surface should be discretized into elements and the measurement points should be located on the nodes of the elements. For large-scale or mid-high frequency problems, it makes the total number of measurement points huge since it should obey the criterion of more than six elements per wavelength, which put forward very high requirements for holographic data measurement. To overcome this problem, a more flexible BEM-based FFRT without the restriction on the locations of measurement points is proposed in this study. In virtue of this, a three-dimensional scanning measurement method can be applied to acquire holographic data with high efficiency. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by two numerical simulations and an experiment.
Collagen and Vitamin C Supplementation Increases Lower Limb Rate of Force Development
Authors: Lis Dana M. , Jordan Matthew , Lipuma Timothy , Smith Tayler , Schaal Karine , Baar Keith
Published: November 2021

Background: Exercise and vitamin C-enriched collagen supplementation increase collagen synthesis, potentially increasing matrix density, stiffness, and force transfer. Purpose: To determine whether vitamin C-enriched collagen (hydrolyzed collagen [HC] + C) supplementation improves rate of force development (RFD) alongside a strength training program. Methods: Using a double-blinded parallel design, over 3 weeks, healthy male athletes (n = 50, 18–25 years) were randomly assigned to the intervention (HC + C; 20 g HC + 50 mg vitamin C) or placebo (20 g maltodextrin). Supplements were ingested daily 60 min prior to training. Athletes completed the same targeted maximal muscle power training program. Maximal isometric squats, countermovement jumps, and squat jumps were performed on a force plate at the same time each testing day (baseline, Tests 1, 2, and 3) to measure RFD and maximal force development. Mixed-model analysis of variance compared performance variables across the study timeline, whereas t tests were used to compare the change between baseline and Test 3. Results: Over 3 weeks, maximal RFD in the HC + C group returned to baseline, whereas the placebo group remained depressed (p = .18). While both groups showed a decrease in RFD through Test 2, only the treatment group recovered RFD to baseline by Test 3 (p = .036). In the HC + C group, change in countermovement jumps eccentric deceleration impulse (p = .008) and eccentric deceleration RFD (p = .04) was improved. A strong trend was observed for lower limb stiffness assessed in the countermovement jumps (p = .08). No difference was observed in maximal force or squat jump parameters. Conclusion: The HC + C supplementation improved RFD in the squat and countermovement jump alongside training.
Dosage, Efficacy, and Safety of Intra-articular Vancomycin for Prophylaxis of Periprosthetic Joint Infection Caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus after Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Rat Model
Authors: Wei Jian , Tong Kai , Wang Hui , Wen Yinxian , Chen Liaobin
Published: November 2021

Although intra-articular vancomycin powder (VP) is sometimes applied before the closure of the incision to prevent periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after joint replacement, the dosage, efficacy, and safety remain controversial. This study aimed to explore the dosage, efficacy, and safety of intra-articular VP in the prophylaxis of infection after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in a rat model.
Identification of FtpA, a Dps-Like Protein Involved in Anti-Oxidative Stress and Virulence in Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Tang Hao , Zhang Qiuhong , Han Weiyao , Wang Zhenyue , Pang Siqi , Zhu Han , Tan Kangning , Liu Xiao , Langford Paul R. , Huang Qi , Zhou Rui , Li Lu
Published: November 2021

As a ferroxidase, Dps of
Escherichia coli
can protect bacteria from reactive oxygen species damage, but its role in bacterial pathogenesis has received little attention. In this study, FtpA of the swine respiratory pathogen
A. pleuropneumoniae
was identified as a new Dps-like protein.
Transition from slab roll-back to slab break-off in the central Apennines, Italy: Constraints from the stratigraphic and thermochronologic record
Authors: Fellin Maria Giuditta , Jose Malwina San , Faccenna Claudio , Willett Sean D. , Cosentino Domenico , Lanari Riccardo , Gourbet Loraine , Maden Colin
Published: November 2021

Stratigraphic and thermochronologic data are used to study the processes that shaped the topography of the central Apennines of Italy. These are part of a major, active mountain belt in the center of the Mediterranean area, where several subduction zones control a complex topography. The Apennines were shaped by contraction at the front of the accretionary wedge overlying the subducting Adria microplate followed by extension at the wedge rear in response to eastward slab roll-back. In the central Apennines, intermontane extensional basins on the western flank rise eastward toward the summit. We contribute with new data consisting of 28 (U-Th-Sm)/He and 10 fission track ages on apatites to resolve a complex pattern of thermal histories in time and space, which we interpret as reflecting the transitional state of the orogen, undergoing a two-phase evolution related to initial slab retreat, followed by slab detachment. Along the Tyrrhenian coast, we document cooling from depths ≥3–4 km occurring between 8 and 5 Ma and related to the opening of marine extensional basins. Post–5 Ma, a broader region of the central Apennines exhibits cooling from variable depths, between <2 km in most areas and ≥3–4 km in the northeast, and with different onset times: at ca. 4 Ma in the west, at ca. 2.5 Ma in the center and northeast, and at ca. 1 Ma in the southeast. Between 5 and 2.5 Ma, exhumation is associated with modest topographic growth during the late stages of thrusting. Since 2.5 Ma, exhumation has concurred with the opening of intermontane basins in the west and in the east, with regional topographic growth and erosion, that we interpret to be associated with the locally detaching slab.
The influence of off-fault deformation zones on the near-fault distribution of coseismic landslides
Authors: Bloom Colin K. , Howell Andrew , Stahl Timothy , Massey Chris , Singeisen Corinne
Published: November 2021

Coseismic landslides are observed in higher concentrations around surface-rupturing faults. This observation has been attributed to a combination of stronger ground motions and increased rock mass damage closer to faults. Past work has shown it is difficult to separate the influences of rock mass damage from strong ground motions on landslide occurrence. We measured coseismic off-fault deformation (OFD) zone widths (treating them as a proxy for areas of more intense rock mass damage) using high-resolution, three-dimensional surface displacements from the 2016 Mw 7.8 Kaikōura earthquake in New Zealand. OFD zones vary in width from ~50 m to 1500 m over the ~180 km length of ruptures analyzed. Using landslide densities from a database of 29,557 Kaikōura landslides, we demonstrate that our OFD zone captures a higher density of coseismic landslide incidence than generic “distance to fault rupture” within ~650 m of surface fault ruptures. This result suggests that the effects of rock mass damage within OFD zones (including ground motions from trapped and amplified seismic waves) may contribute to near-fault coseismic landslide occurrence in addition to the influence of regional ground motions, which attenuate with distance from the fault. The OFD zone represents a new path toward understanding, and planning for, the distribution of coseismic landslides around surface fault ruptures. Inclusion of estimates of fault zone width may improve landslide susceptibility models and decrease landslide risk.
Multiple polygenic scores improve bone mineral density prediction in an independent sample of Caucasian women
Authors: Xiao Xiangxue , Wu Qing
Published: November 2021

Purpose of the study

To determine if multiple Genetic Risk Scores (GRSs) improve bone mineral density (BMD) prediction over single GRS in an independent sample of Caucasian women.

Study design

Based on summary statistics of four genome-wide association studies related to two osteoporosis-associated traits, namely BMD and heel quantitative ultrasound derived estimated BMD (eBMD), four GRSs were derived for 1205 individuals in the Genome-Wide Scan for Female Osteoporosis Gene Study. The effect of each GRS on BMD variation was assessed using multivariable linear regression, with conventional risk factors adjusted for. Next, the eBMD-related GRS that explained the most variance in BMD was selected to be entered into a multi-score model, along with the BMD-related GRS. Elastic net regularised regression was used to develop the multiscore model, which estimated the joint effect of two GRSs (GRS_BMD and GRS_eBMD) on BMD variation, after being adjusted for conventional risk factors.

Results

With the same clinical risk factors having been adjusted for, the model that included GRS_BMD performed best by explaining 32.53% of the variance in BMD; the single-score model that included GRS_eBMD explained 34.03% of BMD variance. The model that includes both GRS_BMD and GRS_ eBMD, as well as the clinical risk factors, aggregately explained 35.05% in BMD variation. Compared with the single GRS models, the multiscore model explained significantly more variance in BMD.

Conclusions

The multipolygenic score model explained a considerable amount of BMD variation. Compared with single score models, multipolygenic score model provided significant improvement in explaining BMD variation.
Collegiate male athletes exhibit conditions of the Male Athlete Triad
Authors: Moris J.M. , Olendorff S.A. , Zajac C.M. , Fernandez-del-Valle M. , Webb B.L. , Zuercher J.L. , Smith B.K. , Tucker K.R. , Guilford B.L.
Published: November 2021

The primary purpose of this study was to determine prevalence of the Male Athlete Triad (MAT) conditions: low energy availability (EA), low bone mineral density (BMD), and low testosterone in male collegiate athletes from different sports. Participants included 44 collegiate male athletes (age, 20.4 ± 0.2 years; body mass index, 25.3 ± 1.3 kg/m2) from 7 sports (cross country, soccer, basketball, wrestling, track, golf, and baseball). Resting metabolic rate, 3-day food intake, 7-day exercise energy expenditure, body composition, and reproductive and metabolic hormones were assessed. Of the total participants, 15% had low EA, 0% had low BMD, 28% had low total testosterone (TT), and 80% had low calculated free testosterone (cFT). There were no significant correlations between EA, BMD, TT, and cFT. Insulin and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were below and on the upper end of the reference range for healthy male adults, respectively. Insulin was negatively correlated with total (r = –0.330, p = 0.043) and lumbar spine BMD z-scores (r = –0.413, p = 0.010). Low TT and low cFT were the most prevalent MAT conditions among all athletes. Further research should investigate the relationship between insulin and SHBG and the role of these hormones in the MAT.

Novelty: Assessment of energy availability alone is not sufficient to identify physiological disturbances in collegiate male athletes. Low total and/or free testosterone may be present in some collegiate male athletes, regardless of BMD status. Low insulin and high SHBG concentration may portray the presence of conditions of the MAT in male collegiate athletes.
Proteins — a celebration of consilience
Authors: Škrbić Tatjana , Hoang Trinh Xuan , Giacometti Achille , Maritan Amos , Banavar Jayanth R.
Published: November 2021

Proteins are the common constituents of all living cells. They are molecular machines that interact with each other as well as with other cell products and carry out a dizzying array of functions with distinction. These interactions follow from their native state structures and therefore understanding sequence-structure relationships is of fundamental importance. What is quite remarkable about proteins is that their understanding necessarily straddles several disciplines. The importance of geometry in defining protein native state structure, the constraints placed on protein behavior by mathematics and physics, the need for proteins to obey the laws of quantum chemistry, and the rich role of evolution and biology all come together in defining protein science. Here we review ideas from the literature and present an interdisciplinary framework that aims to marry ideas from Plato and Darwin and demonstrates an astonishing consilience between disciplines in describing proteins. We discuss the consequences of this framework on protein behavior.