bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dung mimicry inTyphonium(Araceae): explaining floral trait and pollinator divergence in a widespread species complex and a rare sister species
Authors: Sayers Thomas D J , Steinbauer Martin J , Farnier Kevin , Miller Rebecca E
Published: February 2020

The process of pollinator-driven evolution is best studied at the level of populations and among closely related plant species. Araceae provide a plant model for investigating plant–pollinator interactions, but few studies have investigated intraspecific variation in their pollination systems. Typhonium brownii (Araceae) is distributed widely across 2000 km from tropical to temperate latitudes in Australia, yet the existence of intraspecific variation and ecotypes has not been investigated. Typhonium brownii from five regions, potentially representing distinct taxa, and populations of the sister species, T. eliosurum, were studied to explore pollinator and floral trait divergence. We characterize significant intraspecific floral trait variation in T. brownii, indicating the existence of a species complex, despite the taxa trapping similar Coleoptera (Staphylinidae, Scarabaeidae). Although all T. brownii showed similar temperature increases in the appendix, there were significant shifts in the timing and pattern of thermogenic and anthesis rhythms between regions (taxa), and all T. brownii taxa had distinct scent compositions, with T. sp. aff. brownii being the most dissimilar to other taxa. In contrast, T. eliosurum inflorescences almost exclusively trapped Diptera (Sphaeroceridae, Psychodidae), had modest temperature increases confined to the staminate zone and had a distinct scent profile which differed from all T. brownii taxa; this scent was confirmed in field bioassays to be important for pollinator attraction. Prevalent volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by T. eliosurum and T. brownii taxa included the common dung constituents skatole, indole and p-cresol. Typhonium eliosurum and T. brownii taxa further differed significantly in morphology and trapping mechanisms, particularly the fly-pollinated T. eliosurum. It is possible that a subset of ubiquitous VOCs identified in T. eliosurum and T. brownii taxa attract local communities of dung-seeking flies and beetles, and that floral morphological features are more important for trapping different insect orders in these dung mimics.
Medial temporal lobe connectivity and its associations with cognition in early Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Berron David , van Westen Danielle , Ossenkoppele Rik , Strandberg Olof , Hansson Oskar
Published: February 2020

Human episodic memory critically depends on subregions of the medial temporal lobe, which are part of functional brain systems such as the anterior-temporal and the posterior-medial system. Here we analysed how Alzheimer’s pathology affects functional connectivity within these systems. Data from 256 amyloid-β-negative cognitively unimpaired, 103 amyloid-β-positive cognitively unimpaired, and 83 amyloid-β-positive individuals with mild cognitive impairment were analysed. Amyloid-β and tau pathology were measured using the CSF amyloid-β42/40 ratio and phosphorylated tau, respectively. We found that amyloid-β-positive cognitively unimpaired individuals were mainly characterized by decreased functional connectivity between the medial temporal lobe and regions in the anterior-temporal system, most prominently between left perirhinal/entorhinal cortices and medial prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, correlation analysis in this group revealed decreasing functional connectivity between bilateral perirhinal/entorhinal cortices, anterior hippocampus and posterior-medial regions with increasing levels of phosphorylated tau. The amyloid-β-positive individuals with mild cognitive impairment mostly exhibited reduced connectivity between the medial temporal lobe and posterior-medial regions, predominantly between the anterior hippocampus and posterior cingulate cortex. In addition, they showed hyperconnectivity within the medial temporal lobe and its immediate proximity. Lower medial temporal-cortical functional connectivity networks resulting from the group comparisons of cognitively unimpaired individuals were associated with reduced memory performance and more rapid longitudinal memory decline as shown by linear mixed-effects regression analysis. Finally, we found that reduced medial temporal-cortical connectivity in mildly cognitively impaired individuals was related to reduced entorhinal thickness and white matter integrity of the parahippocampal cingulum and the fornix. No such relationships were found in cognitively unimpaired individuals. In conclusion, our findings show that the earliest changes in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease might involve decreased connectivity within the anterior-temporal system, and early changes in connectivity might be related to memory impairment, but not to structural changes. With disease progression and increased tau pathology, medial temporal functional connectivity with posterior-medial regions seems to be increasingly impaired. In individuals with mild cognitive impairment, reduced functional connectivity is associated with structural brain changes as well as the emergence of locally increased connectivity patterns. Thus, functional connectivity between the medial temporal lobe and the anterior-temporal and posterior-medial system could serve as stage-specific functional markers in early Alzheimer’s disease.
Parabacteroides distasonis attenuates tumorigenesis, modulates inflammatory markers and promotes intestinal barrier integrity in azoxymethane-treated A/J mice
Authors: Koh Gar Yee , Kane Anne V , Wu Xian , Crott Jimmy W
Published: February 2020

Imbalance of the gut microbial community promotes inflammation and colorectal cancer (CRC). Previously, we demonstrated that freeze-dried Parabacteroides distasonis (Pd) suppressed obesity-driven colorectal tumorigenesis in mice. Here, we investigated if Pd could suppress the development of colon tumors in mice independent of obesity. Six-week-old male A/J mice were assigned to receive: (i) chow diet (CTR); (ii) chow with 0.04% wt/wt freeze-dried Pd (Pd-Early) or (iii) chow diet before switching to 0.04% Pd diet (Pd-Late). Mice remained on diet for 25 weeks with the switch for Pd-Late mice occurring after 19 weeks. All mice received 6 weekly injections of the colon carcinogen azoxymethane (AOM; 10 mg/kg I.P.) starting after 1 week on diet. Colon tumors were observed in 77, 55 and 40% in CTR, Pd-Early and Pd-Late mice, respectively (X2 = 0.047). Colonic expression of toll-like receptor 4, IL-4 and TNF-α was 40% (P < 0.01), 58% (P = 0.05) and 55% (P < 0.001) lower, respectively, in Pd-Early compared with CTR mice. Pd-Late mice displayed a 217% (P = 0.05) and 185% (P < 0.001) increase in colonic IL-10 and TGF-β expression, respectively, compared with CTR mice and similar increases in protein abundances were detected (47–145%; P < 0.05). Pd-Early and Pd-Late mice both demonstrated increased colonic expression of the tight junction proteins Zonula occludens-1 (P < 0.001) and occludin (P < 0.001) at the transcript (2–3-fold; P < 0.01) and protein level (30–50%; P < 0.05) relative to CTR. Our results support a protective role for Pd in colonic tumorigenesis and maintenance of intestinal epithelial barrier in AOM-treated mice.
Administrative and Related Barriers to Covering the Costs of Preexposure Prophylaxis at a Safety-net Clinic in Seattle, Washington
Authors: McMahan Vanessa M , McCanta Lanny , Tran Dominic , Herrera Luis , Viquez Luis , Swanson Fred , Crutsinger-Perry Beth , Baeten Jared M , Katz Aaron , Stekler Joanne D
Published: February 2020

One barrier to human immunodeficiency virus preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is lack or perceived lack of health insurance or financial assistance. We performed a medical records review at a safety-net PrEP clinic in Seattle, Washington, and found that barriers to obtaining financial assistance were commonly recorded in association with initiation and persistence on PrEP.
Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Is Associated With Decreased Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue Density in People Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Debroy Paula , Lake Jordan E , Moser Carlee , Olefsky Maxine , Erlandson Kristine M , Scherzinger Ann , Stein James H , Currier Judith S , Brown Todd T , McComsey Grace A
Published: February 2020

Background

Adipose tissue (AT) alterations are common in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). Decreases in AT density suggest disrupted adipocyte function/hypertrophy. We assessed changes in AT density after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and associations with immunometabolic parameters.

Methods

In a prospective randomized clinical trial of ART initiation, L4–L5 abdominal CT scans measured subcutaneous AT (SAT) and visceral AT (VAT) area and density in treatment-naive PLWH randomized to tenofovir-emtricitabine plus ritonavir-boosted atazanavir, ritonavir-boosted darunavir, or raltegravir. Linear regression models compared week 0 and week 96 levels, and 96-week changes, in SAT and VAT density (in Hounsfield units [HU]). Spearman correlations assessed relationships between AT density and immunometabolic parameters.

Results

Of the 228 participants, 89% were male and 44% were white non-Hispanic. Median age was 36 years, baseline HIV-1 RNA was 4.6 log10 copies/mL, and CD4+ T-cell count was 344 cells/μL. Over 96 weeks, SAT and VAT HU decreased significantly in all arms. Less dense week 96 SAT and VAT density correlated with higher high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and adiponectin (r = 0.19–0.30) levels and lower interleukin 6, non-HDL cholesterol, triglyceride, leptin, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (r = −0.23 to −0.68) levels at week 96 after adjusting for baseline CD4+ T-cell count, HIV-1 RNA, and baseline AT area.

Conclusions

Following virologic suppression, lower SAT and VAT density was associated with greater plasma measures of systemic inflammation, lipid disturbances, and insulin resistance independent of AT area, suggesting that changes in AT density with ART may lead to adverse health outcomes independent of AT quantity.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT00851799.
About clique number estimates and exact enumeration in scale-free networks
Authors: Jursa Andrej , Markošová Mária , Rudolf Boris
Published: February 2020

In this article, we present several analytical methods for both correlated and uncorrelated scale-free networks to obtain the clique number upper bound estimate. To test these estimates, we developed several tools to construct networks with scale-free degree distribution. To compute an exact clique number of network in short time, we also developed a clique finder algorithm. As the empirical results show, the various estimate methods gives good upper bounding for the clique numbers. Our clique finder proves to be able to solve clique number problem of arbitrary graphs in a good computation time. To show this, we applied our clique finder on benchmark graphs from various known databases.
Cardioversion of atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter revisited: current evidence and practical guidance for a common procedure
Authors: Brandes Axel , Crijns Harry J G M , Rienstra Michiel , Kirchhof Paulus , Grove Erik L , Pedersen Kenneth Bruun , Van Gelder Isabelle C
Published: February 2020

Cardioversion is widely used in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter when a rhythm control strategy is pursued. We sought to summarize the current evidence on this important area of clinical management of patients with AF including electrical and pharmacological cardioversion, peri-procedural anticoagulation and thromboembolic complications, success rate, and risk factors for recurrence to give practical guidance.
The Evolution History of Fe–S Cluster A-Type Assembly Protein Reveals Multiple Gene Duplication Events and Essential Protein Motifs
Authors: Lu Hui-Meng , Li Jing-Di , Zhang Yu-Dan , Lu Xiao-Li , Xu Chang , Huang Yuan , Gribskov Michael
Published: February 2020

Iron–sulfur (Fe–S) clusters play important roles in electron transfer, metabolic and biosynthetic reactions, and the regulation of gene expression. Understanding the biogenesis of Fe–S clusters is therefore relevant to many fields. In the complex process of Fe–S protein formation, the A-type assembly protein (ATAP) family, which consists of several subfamilies, plays an essential role in Fe–S cluster formation and transfer and is highly conserved across the tree of life. However, the taxonomic distribution, motif compositions, and the evolutionary history of the ATAP subfamilies are not well understood. To address these problems, our study investigated the taxonomic distribution of 321 species from a broad cross-section of taxa. Then, we identified common and specific motifs in multiple ATAP subfamilies to explain the functional conservation and nonredundancy of the ATAPs, and a novel, essential motif was found in Eumetazoa IscA1, which has a newly found magnetic function. Finally, we used phylogenetic analytical methods to reconstruct the evolution history of this family. Our results show that two types of ErpA proteins (nonproteobacteria-type ErpA1 and proteobacteria-type ErpA2) exist in bacteria. The ATAP family, consisting of seven subfamilies, can be further classified into two types of ATAPs. Type-I ATAPs include IscA, SufA, HesB, ErpA1, and IscA1, with an ErpA1-like gene as their last common ancestor, whereas type-II ATAPs consist of ErpA2 and IscA2, duplicated from an ErpA2-like gene. During the mitochondrial endosymbiosis, IscA became IscA1 in eukaryotes and ErpA2 became IscA2 in eukaryotes, respectively.
Development and piloting of a Checklist for healthy eating And Physical Activity in the Workplace (CEPAW)
Authors: Freak-Poli Rosanne , Brand Margaret , Boelsen-Robinson Tara , Huse Oliver , de Courten Maximilian , Peeters Anna
Published: February 2020

To develop and pilot a tool that assesses the infrastructure and policy workplace environment characteristics that may influence employee healthy eating and physical activity behaviours. A checklist was developed with reference to prior tools and piloted at eight worksites. Piloting of the tool demonstrated that it was generally feasible to use, took 1–2 hours to complete and appeared sensitive to differences between workplace environment characteristics. Refinement of the tool occurred after piloting. The final 21-item checklist contains sub-scores capturing policy, infrastructure, healthy eating and physical activity characteristics. This new checklist overcomes some limitations of pre-existing tools as it explicitly considers policy and is short, inexpensive and can be used by workplaces for self-assessment and by health promotion professionals in evaluation studies or as an intervention tool.
The health literacy of university students in North Cyprus
Authors: Sariyar Sultan , Firat Kiliç Hülya
Published: February 2020

Health literacy is individuals' motivation and ability to obtain, understand, evaluate and use health information. Health literacy is very important during university education when students have the ability to acquire and accumulate knowledge of the best way. The aim of this study was to determine the health literacy of university students. The sample of this descriptive cross-sectional study was composed of 365 students who were first-time visitors at the health center of a private university in Northern Cyprus between May and July 2017. An introductory information form and the Adult Health Literacy Scale (AHLS) were used as data collection tools. The mean AHLS score of the students was found as 13.91 ± 2.90. Health literacy was found to be lower for male students and students with more years of study. The students with low daily alcohol use had higher AHLS scores. The results of the study suggest that curricula should be revised to raise the health literacy of university students to the highest level. It is important to organize conferences, seminars and scientific activities to improving the health literacy of male students and students with more years of study. Due to the limitations of studies of health literacy in North Cyprus, future studies should be conducted with larger samples and different measurement tools.
Progesterone receptor ligands for the treatment of endometriosis: the mechanisms behind therapeutic success and failure
Authors: Reis Fernando M , Coutinho Larissa M , Vannuccini Silvia , Batteux Frédéric , Chapron Charles , Petraglia Felice
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Despite intense research, it remains intriguing why hormonal therapies in general and progestins in particular sometimes fail in endometriosis.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

We review here the action mechanisms of progesterone receptor ligands in endometriosis, identify critical differences between the effects of progestins on normal endometrium and endometriosis and envisage pathways to escape drug resistance and improve the therapeutic response of endometriotic lesions to such treatments.

SEARCH METHODS

We performed a systematic Pubmed search covering articles published since 1958 about the use of progestins, estro-progestins and selective progesterone receptor modulators, to treat endometriosis and its related symptoms. Two reviewers screened the titles and abstracts to select articles for full-text assessment.

OUTCOMES

Progesterone receptor signalling leads to down-regulation of estrogen receptors and restrains local estradiol production through interference with aromatase and 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1. Progestins inhibit cell proliferation, inflammation, neovascularisation and neurogenesis in endometriosis. However, progesterone receptor expression is reduced and disrupted in endometriotic lesions, with predominance of the less active isoform (PRA) over the full-length, active isoform (PRB), due to epigenetic abnormalities affecting the PGR gene transcription. Oxidative stress is another mechanism involved in progesterone resistance in endometriosis. Among the molecular targets of progesterone in the normal endometrium that resist progestin action in endometriotic cells are the nuclear transcription factor FOXO1, matrix metalloproteinases, the transmembrane gap junction protein connexin 43 and paracrine regulators of estradiol metabolism. Compared to other phenotypes, deep endometriosis appears to be more resistant to size regression upon medical treatments. Individual genetic characteristics can affect the bioavailability and pharmacodynamics of hormonal drugs used to treat endometriosis and, hence, explain part of the variability in the therapeutic response.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

Medical treatment of endometriosis needs urgent innovation, which should start by deeper understanding of the disease core features and diverse phenotypes and idiosyncrasies, while moving from pure hormonal treatments to drug combinations or novel molecules capable of restoring the various homeostatic mechanisms disrupted by endometriotic lesions.
Investigating Agreement Among HCI Researchers About Human–Computer Interaction in CMMI-DEV Model: A Case Study
Authors: Gonçalves Taisa Guidini , Loslever Pierre , de Oliveira Káthia Marçal , Kolski Christophe
Published: February 2020

Do human–computer interaction (HCI) researchers agree about which HCI approaches should be used in the development of an interactive system? To address this question, we performed a study based on the engineering process areas (requirements development, technical solution, product integration, verification and validation) of the CMMI-DEV (Capability Maturity Model Integration for Development), a software engineering model commonly used in the industry. To carry out this study, a literature review was performed, a specific instrument was designed based on CMMI-DEV and interviews with 20 researchers from the HCI domain were conducted. Analyzing the interview data with monovariate and multivariate statistical approach (Multiple Correspondence Analysis - MCA), we find the greatest agreement occurred among researchers for HCI approaches that support verification and validation phases and the use of functional prototypes in some activities of the last phases of software development (technical solution and product integration). However, we identified lack of agreement among researchers regarding requirements development activities.
Impact of the first-line treatment shift from dihydroartemisinin/piperaquine to artesunate/mefloquine on Plasmodium vivax drug susceptibility in Cambodia
Authors: Roesch Camille , Mairet-Khedim Mélissa , Kim Saorin , Lek Dysoley , Popovici Jean , Witkowski Benoit
Published: February 2020

Background

Cambodia is the epicentre of the emergence of Plasmodium falciparum drug resistance. Much less is known regarding the drug susceptibility of the co-endemic Plasmodium vivax. Only in vitro drug assays can determine the parasite’s intrinsic susceptibility, but these are challenging to implement for P. vivax and rarely performed.

Objectives

To evaluate the evolution of Cambodian P. vivax susceptibility to antimalarial drugs and determine their association with putative markers of drug resistance.

Methods

In vitro response to three drugs used in the past decade in Cambodia was measured for 52 clinical isolates from Eastern Cambodia collected between 2015 and 2018 and the sequence and copy number variation of their pvmdr1 and pvcrt genes were analysed. pvmdr1 polymorphism was also determined for an additional 250 isolates collected in Eastern Cambodia between 2014 and 2019.

Results

Among the 52 cryopreserved isolates tested, all were susceptible to the three drugs, with overall median IC50s of 16.1 nM (IQR 11.4–22.3) chloroquine, 3.4 nM (IQR 2.1–5.0) mefloquine and 4.6 nM (IQR 2.7–7.0) piperaquine. A significant increase in chloroquine and piperaquine susceptibility was observed between 2015 and 2018, unrelated to polymorphisms in pvcrt and pvmdr1. Susceptibility to mefloquine was significantly lower in parasites with a single mutation in pvmdr1 compared with isolates with multiple mutations. The proportion of parasites with this single mutation genotype increased between 2014 and 2019.

Conclusions

P. vivax with decreased susceptibility to mefloquine is associated with the introduction of mefloquine-based treatment during 2017–18.
Surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Has Unclear Impact on Female Fertility: A Cochrane Collaboration Systematic Review
Authors: Lee Sangmin , Crowe Megan , Seow Cynthia H , Kotze Paulo G , Kaplan Gilaad G , Metcalfe Amy , Ricciuto Amanda , Benchimol Eric I , Kuenzig M Ellen
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

Surgical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may impair female fertility. We conducted a systematic review to determine the risk of infertility and pregnancy outcomes in women with IBD who underwent surgery.

Methods

We identified studies evaluating the impact of IBD surgery on infertility and pregnancy outcomes. Risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled when data were presented using contingency tables. Odds ratios (OR) were pooled when raw numbers were not provided. GRADE was used to evaluate the certainty of evidence.

Results

Sixteen observational studies were included, comparing women with and without surgery, open and laparoscopic surgery and before and after surgery. All studies were of low quality. The effect of surgery on infertility at 12 months (RR 5.45, 95% CI 0.41 to 72.57) was uncertain. Similarly, the fertility effects of laparoscopic versus open surgery method were unclear (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.27). The impact of IBD surgery on pregnancy outcomes should be interpreted with caution. Surgery was associated with miscarriage (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.60), use of assisted reproductive technologies (RR 25.09, 95% CI 1.56 to 403.76) and caesarean section (RR 2.23, 95% CI 1.00 to 4.95), but not with stillbirth (RR 1.96, 95% CI 0.42 to 9.18), preterm birth (RR 1.91, 95% CI 0.67 to 5.48), low birth weight (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.08 to 4.83) or small for gestational age (RR 2.54, 95% CI 0.80 to 8.01).

Conclusion

The effect of surgical therapy for IBD on rates of female infertility and pregnancy-related outcomes was uncertain due to poor quality of existing literature.
Object-oriented integrated algorithms for efficient water pipe network by modified Hardy Cross technique
Authors: Jha Kailash , Mishra Manish Kumar
Published: February 2020

In this work, object-oriented integrated algorithms for an efficient flow analysis of the water pipe network are developed. This is achieved by treating the pipe network as a graph data structure with its nodes as the graph’s nodes and the pipes as the edges. The algorithm for cycle (real cycle or pseudo-cycle) extraction has been developed using nested breadth-first search that gives ordered cycles. Pseudo-loops are found using the shortest path algorithm between the nodes. Pipes are initialized loop by loop using conservation of mass at nodes. A modified Hardy Cross method is used in the proposed work with third-order convergence. The friction factor is updated for every change in discharges. The pressure calculation has been done by the graph traversal algorithm between the reference nodes and node where the pressure is to be calculated using the energy equation. The pressure at all intermediate nodes is obtained in the course of the traversal. Balanced discharges and nodal pressure in the pipe network are compared with the simultaneous loop flow adjustment method and EPANET software. The proposed work gives more efficient flow analysis than the traditional Newton–Raphson-based techniques for complex networks.
Development and Validation of Real-Time PCR Method to Estimate Stored Sperm in the Spermathecae of Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Catalá-Oltra Marta , Llácer Elena , Urbaneja Alberto , Pérez-Hedo Meritxell
Published: February 2020

The development of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) markers to identify the Y chromosome of Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann has permitted the detection of sperm transferred to females during mating. However, a molecular technique to quantify the sperm transferred has not yet become available. The current method to quantify the amount of sperm has been the direct counting of sperm heads. Thus, the purpose of this research was to develop and validate an accurate molecular method of diagnosis based on the application of an absolute quantitative real-time PCR, which allows the assessment of the quantity of sperm stored in the spermathecae. For this, Y-specific sequences were used to re-design and test distinct sperm markers. From the amplification product of samples detected as strong positives in conventional PCR, a cloning process of the target sequence was carried out to build the required standard curve. A series of known dilutions of this standard material was prepared for the absolute quantification process. A Roche Lightcycler 480 Real-Time PCR System and SYBRGreen fluorescent dye were used to quantify the sperm contained in the spermathecae of 4-d-old mated females and virgins. Wild-type and Vienna-8 strain sterile males were used to quantify the sperm transferred at four mating durations (10, 30, 60, and 90 min) under laboratory conditions. To validate the reported quantitative method, our results were compared by counting sperm heads under a fluorescent microscope using the same experimental design. In addition, DNA samples were also evaluated and compared by conventional PCR.
Response of a remnant marmot population to habitat enhancement yields insights into marmot ecology
Authors: Reynolds-Hogland Melissa J , Ramsey Alan B , Seward August T , Pilgrim Kristine L , Engkjer Cory , Ramsey Philip W
Published: February 2020

We evaluated the response of a remnant population of yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventris) to targeted habitat enhancement in an ecological system that had been degraded during ~100 years of intensive livestock management, including marmot eradication. We used capture-recapture data and a novel use of a multistate framework to evaluate geographic expansion of the marmot population pre- and post-habitat enhancement. We also estimated age-structured survival, reproduction, and sex ratios. The marmot population appeared to respond positively to new habitat opportunities created by habitat enhancement: the number of marmots captured increased from three marmots pre-habitat enhancement to 54 (28 adults and yearlings, 26 young) post-habitat enhancement at the end of the study. Marmots expanded geographically by transitioning into habitat-enhanced areas, and adult females occupied and reproduced in all habitat-enhanced areas. The sex ratio of the young population in 2019 was strongly female-biased, which may have been influenced by poor body condition of breeding females owing to unusually prolonged snow cover that year. Adult and yearling survival were within the range of that reported for colonial adults and yearlings in Colorado. Our results suggest that active habitat enhancement can assist in the recovery of marmot populations in systems where marmots historically existed.
Direct observation and analysis of TET-mediated oxidation processes in a DNA origami nanochip
Authors: Xing Xiwen , Sato Shinsuke , Wong Nai-Kei , Hidaka Kumi , Sugiyama Hiroshi , Endo Masayuki
Published: February 2020

DNA methylation and demethylation play a key role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression; however, a series of oxidation reactions of 5-methyl cytosine (5mC) mediated by ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes driving demethylation process are yet to be uncovered. To elucidate the relationship between the oxidative processes and structural factors of DNA, we analysed the behavior of TET-mediated 5mC-oxidation by incorporating structural stress onto a substrate double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) using a DNA origami nanochip. The reactions and behaviors of TET enzymes were systematically monitored by biochemical analysis and single-molecule observation using atomic force microscopy (AFM). A reformative frame-like DNA origami was established to allow the incorporation of dsDNAs as 5mC-containing substrates in parallel orientations. We tested the potential effect of dsDNAs present in the tense and relaxed states within a DNA nanochip on TET oxidation. Based on enzyme binding and the detection of oxidation reactions within the DNA nanochip, it was revealed that TET preferred a relaxed substrate regardless of the modification types of 5-oxidated-methyl cytosine. Strikingly, when a multi-5mCG sites model was deployed to further characterize substrate preferences of TET, TET preferred the fully methylated site over the hemi-methylated site. This analytical modality also permits the direct observations of dynamic movements of TET such as sliding and interstrand transfer by high-speed AFM. In addition, the thymine DNA glycosylase-mediated base excision repair process was characterized in the DNA nanochip. Thus, we have convincingly established the system's ability to physically regulate enzymatic reactions, which could prove useful for the observation and characterization of coordinated DNA demethylation processes at the nanoscale.
A multi-layered structure of the interphase chromocenter revealed by proximity-based biotinylation
Authors: Kochanova Natalia Y , Schauer Tamas , Mathias Grusha Primal , Lukacs Andrea , Schmidt Andreas , Flatley Andrew , Schepers Aloys , Thomae Andreas W , Imhof Axel
Published: February 2020

During interphase centromeres often coalesce into a small number of chromocenters, which can be visualized as distinct, DAPI dense nuclear domains. Intact chromocenters play a major role in maintaining genome stability as they stabilize the transcriptionally silent state of repetitive DNA while ensuring centromere function. Despite its biological importance, relatively little is known about the molecular composition of the chromocenter or the processes that mediate chromocenter formation and maintenance. To provide a deeper molecular insight into the composition of the chromocenter and to demonstrate the usefulness of proximity-based biotinylation as a tool to investigate those questions, we performed super resolution microscopy and proximity-based biotinylation experiments of three distinct proteins associated with the chromocenter in Drosophila. Our work revealed an intricate internal architecture of the chromocenter suggesting a complex multilayered structure of this intranuclear domain.
Mixed milk feeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its prevalence and drivers
Authors: Monge-Montero Carmen , van der Merwe Liandré F , Papadimitropoulou Katerina , Agostoni Carlo , Vitaglione Paola
Published: February 2020

Context

Extensive literature is available on exclusive breastfeeding and formula-feeding practices and health effects. In contrast, limited and unstructured literature exists on mixed milk feeding (MMF), here defined as the combination of breastfeeding and formula feeding during the same period in term infants > 72 hours old (inclusion criterion).

Objective

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, on the global prevalence of MMF (primary outcome) and related drivers and practices (secondary outcomes).

Data Sources

The search of MMF in generally healthy populations was conducted across 6 databases, restricted to publications from January 2000 to August 2018 in English, Spanish, French, and Mandarin.

Data Extraction

Two reviewers independently performed screenings and data extraction according to a priori inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Data Analysis

Of the 2931 abstracts identified, 151 full-text publications were included for data extraction and 96 of those were included for data synthesis (the majority of those were cross-sectional and cohort studies). The authors summarized data across 5 different categories (feeding intention prenatally, and 4 age intervals between > 72 hours and > 6–23 months) and 5 regional subgroups. The overall prevalence of MMF across different age intervals and regions varied between 23% and 32%; the highest rate was found for the age group 4–6 months (32%; 95% confidence interval, 27%–38%); regional comparisons indicated highest MMF rates in Asia (34%), North and South America (33%), and Middle East and Africa together (36%), using a random effects meta-analysis model for proportions. Some drivers and practices for MMF were identified.

Conclusion

MMF is a widespread feeding reality. A shared and aligned definition of MMF will help shed light on this feeding practice and evaluate its influence on the duration of total breastfeeding, as well as on infants’ nutrition status, growth, development, and health status in the short and long terms. PROSPERO registration number CRD42018105337.
Economic theory in an imperfect world: Frank Hahn, general equilibrium, and Keynesian economics
Authors: Backhouse Roger E
Published: February 2020

Frank Hahn was both a Keynesian economist, active in policy debates, and an economic theorist. Placing his work in the context of attempts to make theoretical sense of Keynesian economics, this article explores the way Hahn used abstract general equilibrium theory to draw conclusions relevant to policy in an ‘imperfect’ world that does not conform to the assumptions made in the theory. Hahn’s rigorous approach to theorizing as the route to understanding is assessed in relation to the different approaches of Robert Lucas, Milton Friedman, Paul Samuelson and Axel Leijonhufvud.
Cooperative Intuitionism
Authors: Ingram Stephen
Published: February 2020

According to pluralistic intuitionist theories, some of our moral beliefs are non-inferentially justified, and these beliefs come in both an a priori and an a posteriori variety. In this paper, I present new support for this pluralistic form of intuitionism by examining the deeply social nature of moral inquiry. This is something that intuitionists have tended to neglect. It does play an important role in an intuitionist theory offered by Bengson, Cuneo, and Shafer-Landau, but whilst they invoke the social nature of moral inquiry in order to argue that ordinary moral intuitions are trustworthy, my argument focuses on what I will call the ‘frontiers’ of moral inquiry. I will show that inclusive and cooperative dialogue is necessary at moral inquiry's frontiers, and that intuitionists can expect such dialogue to result in both a priori and a posteriori moral beliefs.
CHARACTERIZATION OF SAND SAMPLES FROM KARACHI BEACHES USING GAMMA SPECTROMETRY AND XRD
Authors: Zeb Jahan , Wasim Mohammad , Shah Sardar A , Khanam Safia , Tahir Hajira , Qadri Masooda
Published: February 2020

Chemical phase and distribution of natural radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) were determined for sand samples collected from ten different beaches of Karachi. All samples, except one, were identified with major and minor phases as SiO2 and CaCO3, respectively. The average activity concentrations were 24.9, 25.0 and 239 Bq kg−1 for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K, respectively. Including all samples, the average radium equivalent activity was 79.1 Bq kg−1. The external and internal radiation hazard indices and representative level index were all found below unity. The average air absorbed dose rate at 1 m above the sand due to the natural radionuclides was 18.3 nGy h−1, which was less than the world average for soil. The corresponding annual effective dose rate was 22.4 μSv y−1. It was found that Raeq had positive significant correlation with the amount of quartz present at the beaches.
Bioaccumulation and toxicity of 2-naphthalene sulfonate: an intermediate compound used in textile industry
Authors: Mehra Sukanya , Chadha Pooja
Published: February 2020

The aromatic compounds substituted with sulfonate groups, being xenobiotic, resist biodegradation in the environment and tend to accumulate up to toxic levels. The hydrophilic sulfonated group makes these compounds highly water soluble and they tend to pass through water-treatment plants. The release of untreated effluents from these industries results in pollution of water bodies affecting aquatic fauna. Thus, the toxicity regarding these compounds is of major concern. The 2-naphthalene sulfonate is a sulfonated aromatic compound being widely used in textile industries. Being non-biodegradable concern regarding its toxicity has risen. Thus in the light of above facts, the present study was undertaken to determine the toxicity of 2-naphthalene sulfonate in blood cells of Channa punctatus. For this, LD50 was determined and after selection of sublethal doses oxidative stress, genotoxicity and bioaccumulation were studied. For oxidative stress determination, biochemical markers such as malondialdehyde content and activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase were studied. Genotoxicity was studied using comet and micronucleus assay. Significant increase in oxidative stress and DNA damage in the exposed groups as compared to control group (P ≤ 0.05) was observed till 96 h. However, decreased values of all the studied parameters at 720 h (30 days) indicate repair capacity of fish. Further, the bio accumulative potential of 2-naphthalene sulfonate was assessed in blood plasma using high-performance liquid chromatography. The study revealed the toxic potential of 2-naphthalene sulfonate to aquatic organisms thus stressed on the need for the implementation of stringent policies regarding the management of such toxic compounds.
Impaired Tubular Reabsorption Is the Main Mechanism Explaining Increases in Urinary NGAL Excretion Following Acute Kidney Injury in Rats
Authors: Sancho-Martínez Sandra M , Blanco-Gozalo Víctor , Quiros Yaremi , Prieto-García Laura , Montero-Gómez María J , Docherty Neil G , Martínez-Salgado Carlos , Morales Ana I , López-Novoa José M , López-Hernández Francisco J
Published: February 2020

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a secreted low-molecular weight iron-siderophore-binding protein. NGAL overexpression in injured tubular epithelia partly explains its utility as a sensitive and early urinary biomarker of acute kidney injury (AKI). Herein, we extend mechanistic insights into the source and kinetics of urinary NGAL excretion in experimental AKI. Three models of experimental AKI were undertaken in adult male Wistar rats; renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) and gentamicin (G) and cisplatin (Cisp) nephrotoxicity. Alongside standard histological and biochemical assessment of AKI, urinary NGAL excretion rate, plasma NGAL concentration, and renal NGAL mRNA/protein expression were assessed. In situ renal perfusion studies were undertaken to discriminate direct shedding of NGAL to the urine from addition of NGAL to the urine secondary to alterations in the tubular handling of glomerular filtrate-derived protein. Renal NGAL expression and urinary excretion increased in experimental AKI. In acute studies in both the IRI and G models, direct renal perfusion with Kreb’s buffer eliminated urinary NGAL excretion. Addition of exogenous NGAL to the Kreb’s buffer circuit, reestablishment of perfusion with systemic blood or reperfusion with renal vein effluent restored high levels of urinary NGAL excretion. Urinary NGAL excretion in AKI arises in large proportion from reduced reabsorption from the glomerular filtrate. Hence, subclinical cellular dysfunction could increase urinary NGAL, particularly in concert with elevations in circulating prerenal NGAL and/or pharmacological inhibition of tubular reabsorption. More granular interpretation of urinary NGAL measurements could optimize the scope of its clinical utility as a biomarker of AKI.
Hypertensive Diseases of Pregnancy Increase Risk of Readmission With Heart Failure: A National Readmissions Database Study
Authors: Nizamuddin J. , Gupta A. , Patel V. , Minhaj M. , Nizamuddin S.L. , Mueller A.L. , Naseem H. , Tung A. , Rana S. , Shahul S.
Published: February 2020

(Mayo Clin Proc. 2019;94(5):811–819)

Heart disease is responsible for a quarter of all deaths in women in the United States and a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. The risk of cardiovascular disease-related mortality is higher in women who have had pregnancies complicated by hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (HDP). HDPs affect up to 8.2% of US deliveries. Previous studies have shown a long-term increase in postpartum heart failure in women diagnosed with HDP. There is a lack of data from large epidemiological studies on the prevalence of readmission in the immediate postpartum period for new-onset heart failure or postpartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). This study hypothesized that rates of readmission for newly diagnosed heart failure or PPCM in the immediate postpartum period would be higher in women with HDP.
Trends in Postpartum Hemorrhage in the United States From 2010-2014
Authors: Reale S.C. , Easter S.R. , Xu X. , Bateman B.T. , Farber M.K.
Published: February 2020

(Anesth Analg. 2019. Doi: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000004424)

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States, and its occurrence has increased 27.5% from 1995-2004 due to higher rates of uterine atony. There has been a number of concerted efforts to improve PPH care protocols at institutional, state, and national levels. These investigators conducted their study to analyze the frequency, etiology, and maternal morbidity of recent PPH trends in the United States. The National Inpatient Sample was used to identify and study subjects with a PPH diagnosis.
Incidence, Trends and Severity of Primary Postpartum Haemorrhage in Australia: A Population-based Study Using Victorian Perinatal Data Collection Data for 764,244 Births
Authors: Flood M. , McDonald S.J. , Pollock W. , Cullinane F. , Davey M.A.
Published: February 2020

(Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2019;59:228–234)

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal mortality, has reportedly increased in high resource countries such as Australia over the past few decades. Severe PPH has also become more prevalent. A detailed analysis of PPH in Victoria, Australia was last conducted with data up to 2002. This study analyzed PPH incidence data in Victoria from 2003-2013 and data on PPH severity from 2009-2013, with the aim to investigate trends and severe morbidity associated with PPH.
Maternal and Perinatal Mortality and Complications Associated With Caesarean Section in Low-income and Middle-income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sobhy S. , Arroyo-Manzano D. , Murugesu N. , Karthikeyan G. , Kumar V. , Kaur I. , Fernandez E. , Gundabattula S.R. , Betran A.P. , Khan K. , Zamora J. , Thangaratinam S.
Published: February 2020

(Lancet. 2019;393:1973–1982)

The vast majority (99%) of maternal deaths occur in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). While cesarean section access is an important factor for improving maternal care, cesarean sections sometimes are performed too often. Lack of skilled medical workers and resources in LMICs make complications related to cesarean section even more severe than in high-income countries (HICs). There is a lack of large studies in LMICs on maternal and neonatal deaths after cesarean section. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the risk of mortality in women from LMICs after undergoing cesarean section. In addition, risk factors for maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality following cesarean section were investigated.
Point-of-Care Fibrinogen Testing in Pregnancy
Authors: Katz D. , Hamburger J. , Batt D. , Zahn J. , Beilin Y.
Published: February 2020

(Anesth Analg. 2019;129(3):e86–e88)

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a life-threatening event that affects pregnant women globally. A deficiency of fibrinogen in the blood can help physicians predict the severity of PPH. Historically, the Clauss method has been used to measure fibrinogen levels, but this approach is more time-consuming than point-of-care (POC) thromboelastography (TEG) or thromboelastometry testing. There has not been much research focused specifically on the correlation of TEG functional fibrinogen (FLEV) to Clauss levels in obstetric patients who may have distinctive coagulation profiles compared with trauma, cardiac, or transplant patients. These investigators conducted this study to discover if the POC FLEV is consistent with the laboratory Clauss fibrinogen measurement.
Multicentre Clinical Simulation Evaluation of the ISO 80369-6 Neuraxial Non-Luer Connector
Authors: Cook T.M. , Wilkes A. , Bickford Smith P. , Dorn L. , Stacey M. , Kinsella S.M. , Sharpe P. , Phillips P.
Published: February 2020

(Anaesthesia. 2019;74(5):619–629)

The medical literature has reported incidents of “wrong route” administration of medicines, with much concern around errors involving neuraxial administration of intravenous agents. The risk of these errors increases when devices are fitted with the “universal” Luer connector. As a result, there have been efforts to introduce non-Luer neuraxial connectors into clinical practice. This article described a study conducted to assess the clinical usability and cross-connectability of non-Luer neuraxial connectors designed for anesthesia procedures. The study was conducted as part of the development phase of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 80369 standard, which included specifications for a series of 7 small-bore connectors of varying sizes designed to reduce the risk of accidental misconnections.