bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of CBRN Respirator Protection in Simulated Fire Overhaul Settings
Authors: Staack Shawn D , Griffin Stephanie C , Lee Vivien S T , Lutz Eric A , Burgess Jefferey L
Published: January 2021

Overhaul is the phase of firefighting after flames have been extinguished but when products of combustion are still being released. While positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) provide the highest level of respiratory protection during overhaul, use of air-purifying respirators (APRs) with suitable filters could potentially provide a lower weight, longer duration option for first responders. The objective of this study was to assess whether an APR with a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) canister could be recommended as substitution for SCBA during overhaul. A total of 15 simulated standard overhaul environments were created by burning household materials. Sampling was conducted using mannequin heads fitted with full facepiece respirators with either a CBRN canister or SCBA. In-mask and personal samples were collected for aldehydes, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, inorganic acids, aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter. An additional six simulated high-exposure overhaul environments were created in a flashover chamber by continuously adding household materials to a smoldering fire. The sampling train was the same for both the standard and high-exposure environments; however, the facepiece was sealed to the mannequin head in the high-exposure environments. In the standard overhaul environment, the CBRN canister effectively reduced the level of exposure for most contaminants, while in the high-exposure overhaul exposure setting in-mask acetaldehyde and formaldehyde were detected. In both exposure settings, the SCBA prevented almost all exposure, and therefore remains the recommended respiratory protection during overhaul.
The World Is Not Enough*: ethics in arbitration seen through the world of film
Authors: Rogers Catherine A
Published: January 2021

This article starts from the playful premise that if James Bond practiced law, it would be international arbitration. The article uses the 007 metaphor and the titles of James Bond films to examine the ethical challenges that confront various actors in international arbitration. The article argues that arbitration practitioners—as they tend to the needs of their clients, their organizations, their institutions, and their own professional goals—should look beyond their most immediate, short-term self-interest so their case does not become the billboard for some endemic problem or controversy in international arbitration. A modicum of foresight might have altered outcomes in some of arbitration's most disruptive cases and sensational cases—HEP v. Slovenia, Yukos, Einser, and RSM v. St. Lucia. The article concludes with a QUANTUM OF SOLACE—those professionals active in international arbitration have it within their power and have demonstrated a collective impulse to address problems through a determined self-reassessment and internal recalibration. In conclusion, it calls on international arbitration practitioners to make that collective impulse an express commitment, at TOMORROW NEVER DIES.
Study on the effect of Mongolian medicine Qiwei Qinggan Powder on hepatic fibrosis through JAK2/STAT3 pathway
Authors: Liang Jie , Yuan Hongwei , Xu Liping , Wang Feng , Bao Xiaomei , Yan Yuxin , Wang Haisheng , Zhang Chunyan , Jin Rong , Ma Lijie , Zhang Jianyu , Huri Lebagen , Su Xiaoli , Xiao Rui , Ma Yuehong
Published: January 2021

This research aimed to evaluate the antihepatic fibrosis effect and explore the mechanism of Qiwei Qinggan Powder (QGS-7) in vivo and in vitro. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-treated rats and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were used. QGS-7 treatment significantly improved the liver function of rats as indicated by decreased serum enzymatic activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase. Meanwhile, the hydroxyproline of liver was significantly decreased. Histopathological results indicated that QGS-7 alleviated liver damage and reduced the formation of fibrosis septa. Moreover, QGS-7 significantly attenuated expressions of Alpha smooth muscle actin, Collagen I, Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), phosphorylation-JAK2, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), phosphorylation-STAT3 in the rat hepatic fibrosis model. QGS-7 inhibited HSC proliferation and promoted it apoptosis. QGS-7 may affect hepatic fibrosis through JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway so as to play an antihepatic fibrosis role.
bbeaR: an R package and framework for epitope-specific antibody profiling
Authors: Suprun Maria , Ellis Randall J , Sampson Hugh A , Suárez-Fariñas Mayte
Published: January 2021

Analysis of epitope-specific antibody repertoires has provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders, especially allergies. A novel multiplex immunoassay, termed Bead-Based Epitope Assay (BBEA), was developed to quantify levels of epitope-specific immunoglobulins, including IgE, IgG, IgA and IgD isotypes. bbeaR is an open-source R package, developed for the BBEA, provides a framework to import, process and normalize .csv data files exported from the Luminex reader, evaluate various quality control metrics, analyze differential epitope-binding antibodies with linear modeling, visualize results and map epitopes’ amino acid sequences to their respective primary protein structures. bbeaR enables streamlined and reproducible analysis of epitope-specific antibody profiles.

Availability and implementation

bbeaR is open-source and freely available from GitHub as an R package: https://github.com/msuprun/bbeaR; vignettes included.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Beyond the Meaning of Zines: A Case Study of the Role of Materiality in four Prague-Based Zine Assemblages
Authors: Hroch Miloš , Carpentier Nico
Published: January 2021

This article studies the role of the material in four Prague-based zines. The analysis is theoretically embedded in the model of the discursive-material knot, which is a non-hierarchical articulation of the discursive and the material, and it is contextualized by a reflection on post-digital culture, which allows revalidating the role of the material in zine production and distribution more. The case study combines the analysis of personal interviews and zine content with an ethnography of the production and distribution processes, including zine fairs. This analysis shows how the alternative media discourse, with its focus on particular aesthetics and amateurism, intersects with networks of bodies, spaces, paper and related objects, many different machines and scarce capitals. This allows arguing that the material is omnipresent in zine production and distribution, also in intermaterial and transmaterial ways, but also that zines then use the particularity of this material component to signify their cultural specificity.
Depoliticizing Politics: Egypt’s Media Boycotts in the Turkish Media
Authors: Kaptan Yeşim , Kraidy Marwan M
Published: January 2021

By focusing on public discourse about the 2013 Egyptian boycott of Turkish television series, this paper analyzes the rarely discussed “media boycott” phenomenon in media studies. By examining the discursive chasms of Turkish Press and entertainment media through a critical discourse analysis (CDA), we investigate how the Turkish dailies take a position to determine the boycotting issue to the public, and enquire into the politics around the boycotting discourse which created an illusion that markets are not embedded in political relations, which can be considered separate domains under capitalism. The concept we called “depoliticizing the politics” denotes that Turkish agents framed the boycott as a solely economic crisis by dismissing the conflict’s political dimension.
Association between Socioeconomic Status and Incidence of Community-Associated Clostridioides difficile Infection — United States, 2014–2015
Authors: Skrobarcek Kimberly A , Mu Yi , Ahern Jennifer , Basiliere Elizabeth , Beldavs Zintars G , Brousseau Geoffrey , Dumyati Ghinwa , Fridkin Scott , Holzbauer Stacy M , Johnston Helen , Kainer Marion A , Meek James , Ocampo Valerie L S , Parker Erin , Perlmutter Rebecca , Phipps Erin C , Winston Lisa , Guh Alice
Published: January 2021

We evaluated the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and community-associated Clostridioides difficile infection (CA-CDI) incidence across 2474 census tracts in 10 states. Highly correlated community-level SES variables were transformed into distinct factors using factor analysis. We found low SES communities were associated with higher CA-CDI incidence.
Waning Vaccine Effectiveness Against Influenza-Associated Hospitalizations Among Adults, 2015–2016 to 2018–2019, United States Hospitalized Adult Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness Network
Authors: Ferdinands Jill M , Gaglani Manjusha , Martin Emily T , Monto Arnold S , Middleton Donald , Silveira Fernanda , Talbot H Keipp , Zimmerman Richard , Patel Manish
Published: January 2021

We observed decreased effectiveness of influenza vaccine with increasing time since vaccination for prevention of influenza A(H3N2), influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, and influenza B/Yamagata–associated hospitalizations among adults. Maximum vaccine effectiveness (VE) was observed shortly after vaccination, followed by an absolute decline in VE of about 8%–9% per month postvaccination.
Prevalence, recognition and management of chronic kidney disease in Japan: population-based estimate using a healthcare database with routine health checkup data
Authors: Takeuchi Masato , Shinkawa Kanna , Yanagita Motoko , Kawakami Koji
Published: January 2021

Background

We aimed to update information on the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Japan. We also explored whether CKD was properly recognized and managed.

Methods

We used data from annual health checkups in 2017, compiling records for 5 million persons. These included laboratory results and were linked to healthcare utilization records via personal identifiers. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. The prevalence was compared with that in 2005. Healthcare utilization, including laboratory tests, disease coding and medication for comorbid diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT), was used as an indicator for the recognition and management of CKD.

Results

Of the 761 565 records [median age 46 years (interquartile range 50–62)], CKD was found in 50 091 persons; the crude and age-adjusted prevalences were 63.1 and 71.8 per 1000 persons, respectively. CKD prevalence was significantly higher in 2017 than in 2005, with an increase of 14.1 per 1000 persons. Among persons with CKD, >95% sought medical services and 64.6% received laboratory tests within 180 days of the checkup. However, the diagnostic code suggestive of CKD was recorded in only 23.2% of patients and prescriptions for DM and HT were found in 31.2% (1590/5096) and 36.7% (8081/22 019) of comorbid persons, respectively.

Conclusions

The prevalence of CKD in Japan has increased over the past decade. However, recognition of CKD is likely suboptimal and there is room to improve the management of comorbid DM and HT.
NLRP3 inflammasome as a key driver of vascular disease
Authors: Takahashi Masafumi
Published: January 2021

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) is an intracellular innate immune receptor that recognizes a diverse range of stimuli derived from pathogens, damaged or dead cells, and irritants. NLRP3 activation causes the assembly of a large multiprotein complex termed the NLRP3 inflammasome, and leads to the secretion of bioactive interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 as well as the induction of inflammatory cell death termed pyroptosis. Accumulating evidence indicates that NLRP3 inflammasome plays a key role in the pathogenesis of sterile inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. Indeed, the results of the Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study trial demonstrated that IL-1β-mediated inflammation plays an important role in atherothrombotic events and suggested that NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of atherosclerosis. In this review, we will summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in vascular diseases, in particular in atherosclerosis, vascular injury, aortic aneurysm, and Kawasaki disease vasculitis, and discuss NLRP3 inflammasome as a therapeutic target for these disorders.
Large mixed-frequency VARs with a parsimonious time-varying parameter structure
Authors: Götz Thomas B , Hauzenberger Klemens
Published: January 2021

In order to simultaneously consider mixed-frequency time series, their joint dynamics, and possible structural change, we introduce a time-varying parameter mixed-frequency vector autoregression (VAR). Time variation enters in a parsimonious way: only the intercepts and a common factor in the error variances can vary. Computational complexity therefore remains in a range that still allows us to estimate moderately large VARs in a reasonable amount of time. This makes our model an appealing addition to any suite of forecasting models. For eleven U.S. variables, we show the competitiveness compared to a commonly used constant-coefficient mixed-frequency VAR and other related model classes. Our model also accurately captures the drop in the gross domestic product during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Quadruple episodes of takotsubo cardiomyopathy: a case report
Authors: Hiruma Takashi , Higuchi Ryosuke , Iguchi Nobuo
Published: January 2021

Background

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is characterized by transient left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, often preceded by emotional or physical trigger. The recurrence of TTS has been investigated, however, cases of multiple recurrences are scarcely reported.

Case summary

A 79-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital with the complaint of dyspnoea following emotional stress. Electrocardiogram showed terminal T-wave inversion with QT interval prolongation in anterior leads. Transthoracic echocardiogram revealed severe hypokinesis of mid- and apical-anterior segments. She was diagnosed with focal TTS. After 3 months, she complained of orthopnoea subsequent to upper-respiratory infection. Coronary angiography (CAG) depicted normal coronary arteries. She had recurrence of TTS with bi-ventricular dysfunction, and complicated cardiac collapse requiring intra-aortic balloon pumping. One month after the second episode, she had dyspnoea after herpes zoster infection. She was diagnosed with recurrence of focal TTS. After 4 months, she complained of central chest pain without evident trigger factors. CAG showed no coronary artery stenosis, and left ventriculography revealed mid-inferior and apical segment akinesis. She was diagnosed with the 4th occurrence of TTS.

Discussion

We describe the case of an elderly female experiencing quadruple episodes of TTS with various triggers, LV dysfunctions and severities in a short period of 10 months. Although multiple recurrences of TTS is rare, it can occur with variable trigger factors and patterns of myocardial dysfunction. An analysis of multiple recurrences could aid in clarifying the pathophysiology of TTS.
Effect of water stress on growth and dry matter distribution of four dryland species used in tree planting in the Sahel
Authors: Bayen Philippe , Lykke Anne Mette , Kagambèga François Wenemi , Bognounou Fidèle , Thiombiano Adjima
Published: January 2021

Water stress is the most important factor limiting early survival and growth of seedlings in arid and semi-arid zones. Many woody species develop adaptive mechanisms in response to water stress. This study assesses survival rate, growth and dry matter distribution in response to water stress in four dryland species (Senegalia dudgeonii, Senegalia gourmaensis, Vachellia nilotica and Vachellia tortilis). A total of 240 seedlings (60 per species) were grown using a completely randomized block design with three replicates in each of three water treatments (control = 100 percent of field capacity; moderate water stress = 50 percent of field capacity; severe water stress = 25 percent of field capacity) with a 7 day watering frequency. Data were collected on seedling survival, height, collar diameter, leaf production and dry matter distribution. Survival rate of the four species was not affected by water stress. However, the morphological responses to water stress were significantly different between species. Water stress resulted in significant reductions in height and collar diameter, higher below-ground biomass and significant increase in shedding of leaves. Under water stress, S. dudgeonii, S. gourmaensis and V. tortilis invested more in root growth. The allocation pattern from above-ground to below-ground parts was found to be the main adaption to drought. In contrast, V. nilotica gave preference to above-ground development, which could be an indication that the seedlings are adapted to grow under severe water stress. The results confirm the interspecific genetic differences in growth and dry matter distribution among species. These variations in water stress response may be used as criteria for species selection for degraded land reforestation.
Southern Pine Beetle: Factors Influencing the Growth and Decline of Summer Infestations in East Texas
Authors: Hedden Roy L. , Billings Ronald F.
Published: January 2021

The influence of selected forest site and stand factors on the rate of expansion of individual infestations (spots) of southern pine beetle (Dendroctonus frontalis) was studied during the summer months of 1975-77 in east Texas. In small spots (≤20 active trees), further expansion seldom occurred, presumably due to an insufficient quantity and distribution of brood to perpetuate necessary pheromone production. Similarly, the proportion of spots that had declined to less than 20 active trees after 1 month (day 30) was inversely related to number of active trees at first visit (day 0). In expanding spots, the number of additional trees killed per day was significantly and positively correlated with number of active trees per spot and stand basal area. In addition, mean rates of summer spot growth varied among years in direct relation to areawide beetle population levels in east Texas which increased to outbreak levels and then collapsed over the 3-year study period. This emphasizes the need to include some measure of beetle population level and/or aggressiveness in future spot growth models. No correlation was found between number of brood trees per spot at the first visit and stand basal area at the spot origin. These findings support the following hierarchy of priorities for direct control: Priority 1--spots with >100 active trees, even in sparse stands; Priority 2--spots with 20-100 active trees in high basal area stands; Priority 3--spots with 20-100 active trees in low basal area stands; Priority 4--spots with ≤20 active trees. During the summer, small spots, particularly those lacking freshly attacked trees (pheromone source), have a high probability of soon going inactive without control. Forest Sci. 25:547-556.
Controlled Moisture Stress to Improve Cold Hardiness and Morphology of Douglas-fir Seedlings
Authors: Blake John , Zaerr Joe , Hee Stephen
Published: January 2021

Nursery-grown seedlings of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) were subjected to three levels of moisture stress between late July and the end of August. Measurements in October and December showed that mild stress of -5 to -10 bars significantly improved cold hardiness. In a second experiment, the effectiveness of the mild stress treatment decreased as the onset of the stress was delayed from mid-July until September 1. Furthermore, the earlier onset of stress decreased the height and shoot/root ratio, but increased the root weight and nitrogen content of the needles. For seedlings lifted in October, mild stress also decreased mortality from cold storage. Forest Sci. 25:576-582.
Ectomycorrhizal Inoculation of Containerized Douglas-fir and Lodgepole Pine Seedlings with Six Isolates of Pisolithus tinctorius
Authors: Molina Randy
Published: January 2021

Containerized Douglas-fir and lodgepole pine seedlings grown under lowered fertility were inoculated with vegetative mycelium from six isolates of the ectomycorrhizal fungus Pisolithus tinctorius. The isolates differed both culturally and in effectiveness as ectomycorrhizal inoculum. The percent of seedlings successfully inoculated and percent of feeder roots colonized differed significantly among the isolates. Analysis of variance, however, for seedling height, stem diameter, stem and root dry weights, and top/root ratio showed no significant differences between any inoculation treatment and controls for either tree species. This study reinforces the concept that a wide array of fungus ecotypes should be tested before a specific strain is selected for wide-scale nursery inoculations. Forest Sci. 25:585-590.
A Technique for Estimating Timber Value Based on Tree Size, Management Variables, and Market Conditions
Authors: Jackson David H. , McQuillan Alan G.
Published: January 2021

Based upon revealed market preferences for timber, the authors developed an empirical stumpage valuation model for three ranger districts of the Lolo National Forest. The equation suggests how tree diameter, volume per acre harvested, reproduction systems utilized, logging systems employed, and market conditions affect the selling value of timber. Increase in volume per acre harvested, the amount of a sale that is clearcut or tractor skidded, and increases in the real value of lumber all increase the amount bid for a timber sale. Likewise, the diameter mix included in a sale will affect bidding levels. Of particular importance is the method developed which shows the effect of the mix of tree diameters in each sale on sale value. Brief remarks concerning the use of the model conclude the paper. Forest Sci. 25:620-626.
Optimizing Thinning in Douglas-fir with Three-Descriptor Dynamic Programming to Account for Accelerated Diameter Growth
Authors: Brodie J. Douglas , Kao Chiang
Published: January 2021

Accelerated diameter growth as a result of thinning must be incorporated into dynamic programming analysis to account for reduced logging cost and increased income as the size of harvested material increases. A three state-descriptor model is necessary to do this, but a three-descriptor formulation encounters problems of rounding, storage, and computational efficiency. Techniques for overcoming these problems are outlined and applied in representative demonstrations of the model. Forest Sci. 25:665-672.
Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly and Annotation of a Sciaenid Fish, Argyrosomus japonicus
Authors: Zhao Linlin , Xu Shengyong , Han Zhiqiang , Liu Qi , Ke Wensi , Liu An , Gao Tianxiang
Published: January 2021

Argyrosomus japonicus is an economically and ecologically important fish species in the family Sciaenidae with a wide distribution in the world’s oceans. Here, we report a high-quality, chromosome-level genome assembly of A. japonicus based on PacBio and Hi-C sequencing technology. A 673.7-Mb genome containing 282 contigs with an N50 length of 18.4 Mb was obtained based on PacBio long reads. These contigs were further ordered and clustered into 24 chromosome groups based on Hi-C data. In addition, a total of 217.2 Mb (32.24% of the assembled genome) of sequences were identified as repeat elements, and 23,730 protein-coding genes were predicted based on multiple approaches. More than 97% of BUSCO genes were identified in the A. japonicus genome. The high-quality genome assembled in this work not only provides a valuable genomic resource for future population genetics, conservation biology and selective breeding studies of A. japonicus but also lays a solid foundation for the study of Sciaenidae evolution.
COMPUTERIZED MEIOTIC MAPPING IN ASPERGILLUS NIDULANS
Authors: Dorn Gordon L
Published: January 2021

A computer system for the storage and processing of microbial meiotic data has been developed. Based on the language Fortran 4, the program retrieves relevant data and determines the order, map distances, and coefficient of coincidence for any three-gene group. Meiotic data from Aspergillus nidulans were used to test the program. A total of 61 three-gene sequences were processed, and the results were found to be compatible with the published values. The advantages and disadvantages of computer analysis for genetic analysis are discussed.
THE GENETIC STRUCTURE OF A TRIBAL POPULATION, THE YANOMAMA INDIANS. VI. ANALYSIS BY F-STATISTICS (INCLUDING A COMPARISON WITH THE MAKIRITARE AND XAVANTE
Authors: Neel James V , Ward Richard H
Published: January 2021

The infra-structure of three relatively undisturbed tribes of American Indians (Yanomama, Makiritare, Xavante) has been investigated by means of the F-statistics of Wright, using 8, 9 and 6 codominant systems respectively. The data for the first two mentioned tribes are much more extensive (37 and 7 villages) than for the third (3 villages), and much of the argument is based on the first two. An additive model partitioning F  IS into an average effect (F  A) and deviations due to deme size, systems effects, village effects, and random error has been employed. The Cannings-Edwards formulation suggests that the small size of the demes alone would result in an F  IS of —0.008 for the Yanomama and —0.007 for the Makiritare. There is no evidence for significant village or systems effects. Despite considerable scatter, F  A values are not significantly heterogeneous and tend to be negative (—0.012 to —0.023). On the basis of a computer simulation model, it appears that there is an excess of consanguineous marriage over random expectation, i.e. the negative F  A values are probably not due to avoidance of close inbreeding in a subdivided population in which demes are small. Aspects of population structure which could contribute to negative F  A values are identified. These include unequal gene frequencies in the sexes and occasional marked differential fertility. It is at this point unnecessary to introduce overdominance as a cause of the negative F  A values, since a computer simulation program which does not incorporate selection satisfactorily reproduces the observed F  IS values. If population breeding structure alone can result in negative F  IS values, then this may constitute a mechanism for retarding random fixation.—Mean F  ST values are 0.063 for the Yanomama and 0.036 for the Makiritare. While truly comparable data are lacking, it seems likely these will be found to be relatively high values for human populations. F  IT values have been calculated by both direct and indirect approaches. The direct approach yields a value of 0.045 for the Yanomama and —0.009 for the Makiritare; the respective indirect values are 0.085 and 0.017. The primary identifiable reason for this difference between tribes is the greater genetic heterogeneity among Yanomama villages. The assumptions underlying the indirect approach to the calculation of F  IT do not appear to be met in these populations.
HETEROZYGOSITY IN PIN-THRUM PLANTS OR WITH PARTIAL SEX LINKAGE
Authors: Strobeck Curtis
Published: January 2021

A two locus model is constructed for selection of a gene closely linked to the S locus in pin-thrum plants or to the sex determining part of the Y chromosome. Using this model, conditions for stability at the equilibrium point which is predicted by one-locus theory when there is heterozygotic superiority are derived. If the recombination value is small, it is found that this equilibrium point is unstable and that the gene frequencies go to a new stable equilibrium point at which the population has a higher average fitness. A few simple cases of selection and the implication of these to the theory of the evolution of the Y chromosome are discussed.
VIABILITIES OF THIRD CHROMOSOMES OF DROSOPHILA PSEUDOOBSCURA DIFFERING IN RELATIVE COMPETITIVE FITNESS
Authors: Strickberger Monroe W
Published: January 2021

Arrowhead (AR) third chromosome arrangements of Drosophila pseudoobscura, whose competitive fitnesses had been determined in population cages, were tested for their genetic loads in homozygous, heterozygous (homokaryotypic), and heterokaryotypic (AR/CH) combinations. The results showed that their competitive population cage performances were correlated to their viabilities as homozygotes but were not correlated to their viabilities as heterozygotes or as heterokaryotypes. However, the results do not fit in too simply with the mutational model of population structure, since the improvement of homozygous viability with increased competitive fitness was not accompanied by a significant degree of dominance as measured by the regression of viabilities of heterozygotes on homozygotes. Only the AR chromosomes derived from the population with poorest competitive fitness showed marked partial dominance (h=.35). The viabilities of heterokaryotypes were markedly uniform for all chromosomes tested and produced significantly greater numbers of flies per culture than the homokaryotypes. In general, the results show that the ranking of relative competitive fitnesses of these chromosomes is not a simple extrapolation of their viabilities, although marked changes in the populations tested have occurred. It is proposed that the differences in competitive fitness, homozygous viability, and degree of dominance observed among these chromosomes, arise from differences in genetic variability which enable different linkage relationships to be established for genes affecting these attributes.
ISOZYME FREQUENCY PATTERNS IN DROSOPHILA PAVANI ASSOCIATED WITH GEOGRAPHICAL AND SEASONAL VARIABLES
Authors: Kojima K , Smouse P , Yang S , Nair P S , Brncic D
Published: January 2021

Fourteen population samples of Drosophila pavani were obtained from a number of localities in Chile. The populations sampled were dispersed over 7 degrees of latitude and 1800 meters of elevation, and were drawn at three different times. Sixteen electrophoretic loci were assayed for each population; eight of the loci were analyzed statistically for geographic variation; the other eight were essentially monomorphic. For all eight variable loci, variation in allelic frequencies among populations was highly significant. In all cases, a significant portion of the variation among populations was associated with variation in gross environmental variables (latitude, elevation, month of collection). The implications of the evidence were discussed, and the authors concluded that there was suggestive evidence for selection.
THE RANDOM PHENOTYPE CONCEPT, WITH APPLICATIONS
Authors: Birnbaum Allan
Published: January 2021

A random phenotype is defined as a probability distribution over any given set of phenotypes. This includes as special cases the kinds of phenotypes usually considered (qualitative, quantitative, and threshold characters) and all others. Correspondingly general methods are indicated for analyzing data of all forms in terms of the classical Mendelian factor concept (as distinct from the biometrical methods usually applied to measurement and graded data, associated with the effective factor concept). These are applied in a new analysis of the data of E. L. Green (1951, 1954, 1962) on skeletal variation in the mouse. The adequacies of various classical one-factor and several-factor models are considered. Indications of an underlying scale are found from this new standpoint. The results are compared with those obtained by Green using the scaling approach. An illustrative application is also made to some of Bruell's (1962) continuous behavioural data on mice. This work was substantially completed in 1959 but not previously prepared for publication. The same approach was originated and developed independently by R. L. Collins who has treated a wider range of theoretical problems (cf. Collins 1967, 1968a, 1969b, 1970c) and a wider range of applications (cf. Collins and Fuller 1968; Collins 1968b, 1969a, 1970a). A less general independent development is that of Mode and Gasser 1972.
The Great Pond Snail (Lymnaea stagnalis) as a Model of Aging and Age-Related Memory Impairment: An Overview
Authors: Fodor István , Svigruha Réka , Kemenes György , Kemenes Ildikó , Pirger Zsolt
Published: January 2021

With the increase of life span, normal aging and age-related memory decline are affecting an increasing number of people; however, many aspects of these processes are still not fully understood. Although vertebrate models have provided considerable insights into the molecular and electrophysiological changes associated with brain aging, invertebrates, including the widely recognized molluscan model organism, the great pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis), have proven to be extremely useful for studying mechanisms of aging at the level of identified individual neurons and well-defined circuits. Its numerically simpler nervous system, well-characterized life cycle, and relatively long life span make it an ideal organism to study age-related changes in the nervous system. Here, we provide an overview of age-related studies on L. stagnalis and showcase this species as a contemporary choice for modeling the molecular, cellular, circuit, and behavioral mechanisms of aging and age-related memory impairment.
Associations of Age, Sex, Race/Ethnicity, and Education With 13 Epigenetic Clocks in a Nationally Representative U.S. Sample: The Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Crimmins Eileen M , Thyagarajan Bharat , Levine Morgan E , Weir David R , Faul Jessica
Published: January 2021

Background

Many DNA methylation-based indicators have been developed as summary measures of epigenetic aging. We examine the associations between 13 epigenetic clocks, including 4 second generation clocks, as well as the links of the clocks to social, demographic, and behavioral factors known to be related to health outcomes: sex, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, obesity, and lifetime smoking pack-years.

Methods

The Health and Retirement Study is the data source which is a nationally representative sample of Americans over age 50. Assessment of DNA methylation was based on the EPIC chip and epigenetic clocks were developed based on existing literature.

Results

The clocks vary in the strength of their relationships with age, with each other and with independent variables. Second generation clocks trained on health-related characteristics tend to relate more strongly to the sociodemographic and health behaviors known to be associated with health outcomes in this age group.

Conclusions

Users of this publicly available data set should be aware that epigenetic clocks vary in their relationships to age and to variables known to be related to the process of health change with age.
Tissue-specific control of galectin-1-driven circuits during inflammatory responses
Authors: Cutine Anabela M , Bach Camila A , Veigas Florencia , Merlo Joaquín P , Laporte Lorena , Manselle Cocco Montana N , Massaro Mora , Sarbia Nicolas , Perrotta Ramiro M , Mahmoud Yamil D , Rabinovich Gabriel A
Published: January 2021

The relevance of glycan-binding proteins in immune tolerance and inflammation has been well established, mainly by studies of C-type lectins, siglecs and galectins, both in experimental models and patient samples. Galectins, a family of evolutionarily conserved lectins, are characterized by sequence homology in the carbohydrate-recognition domain, atypical secretion via an endoplasmic reticulum–Golgi-independent pathway and by the ability to recognize β-galactoside-containing saccharides. Galectin-1 (Gal-1), a prototype member of this family, displays mainly anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities, although, similar to many cytokines and growth factors, it may also trigger paradoxical pro-inflammatory effects under certain circumstances. These dual effects could be associated to tissue-, time- or context-dependent regulation of galectin expression and function, including particular pathophysiologic settings and/or environmental conditions influencing the structure of this lectin, as well as the availability of glycosylated ligands in immune cells during the course of inflammatory responses. Here, we discuss the tissue-specific role of Gal-1 as a master regulator of inflammatory responses across different pathophysiologic settings, highlighting its potential role as a therapeutic target. Further studies designed at analyzing the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways that control Gal-1 expression and function in different tissue microenvironments may contribute to delineate tailored therapeutic strategies aimed at positively or negatively modulating this glycan-binding protein in pathologic inflammatory conditions.
Microvasculature in murine tracheal allografts after combined therapy with clopidogrel and everolimus
Authors: Heim Christian , Kuckhahn Annika , Ramsperger-Gleixner Martina , Nicolls Mark R , Weyand Michael , Ensminger Stephan M
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVES

Survival after lung transplantation is mainly limited by the development of chronic lung allograft dysfunction. Previous studies have suggested T-cell mediated proliferation and microvascular changes in experimental small airways models as potential therapeutic targets. The aim of this study was to assess microvascular changes in murine orthotopic tracheal allografts after treatment with everolimus alone or in combination with clopidogrel.

METHODS

C57Bl/6 (H-2b) donor tracheas were orthotopically transplanted into CBA (H-2k) recipients. Mice received daily injections of everolimus (0.05 mg/kg) alone or combined with clopidogrel (1 mg/kg). Twenty-eight days after transplantation, ratio of the thickness of tracheal epithelium and lamina propria was measured as an indicator for chronic rejection. Additionally, graft oxygenation and graft perfusion were detected on postoperative days 4, 10 and 28. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis was used for gene expression analysis.

RESULTS

While syngeneic grafts showed a stable tissue pO2 and undisturbed microvascular perfusion, rejecting allografts had a drastic decline in both parameters as well as a flattened epithelium and an increased thickness of the lamina propria. Treatment with everolimus reduced allogeneic fibroproliferation, but had no protective effects on the microvasculature; polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated hypoxic stress and inflammation. Combining everolimus with clopidogrel improved microvascular integrity in the tracheal grafts, but had no synergistic effect in preventing obliterative bronchiolitis development.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that the ability of everolimus to reduce the development of post-transplant obliterative bronchiolitis is not caused by microvascular protection and has no synergistic effects with clopidogrel in acute airway rejection.
From Deformation Theory of Wheeled Props to Classification of Kontsevich Formality Maps
Authors: Andersson Assar , Merkulov Sergei
Published: January 2021

We study the homotopy theory of the wheeled prop controlling Poisson structures on formal graded finite-dimensional manifolds and prove, in particular, that the Grothendieck–Teichmüller group acts on that wheeled prop faithfully and homotopy nontrivially. Next, we apply this homotopy theory to the study of the deformation complex of an arbitrary Kontsevich formality map and compute the full cohomology group of that deformation complex in terms of the cohomology of a certain graph complex introduced earlier by Kontsevich [ 3] and studied by Willwacher [ 18].
On a Type I Singularity Condition in Terms of the Pressure for the Euler Equations in ℝ3
Authors: Chae Dongho , Constantin Peter
Published: January 2021

We prove a blow up criterion in terms of the Hessian of the pressure of smooth solutions $u\in C([0, T); W^{2,q} (\mathbb R^3))$, $q>3$ of the incompressible Euler equations. We show that a blow up at $t=T$ happens only if $$\begin{align*} &\int_0 ^T \int_0 ^t \left\{\int_0 ^s \|D^2 p (\tau)\|_{L^\infty} \textrm{d}\tau \exp \left( \int_{s} ^t \int_0 ^{\sigma} \|D^2 p (\tau)\|_{L^\infty} \textrm{d}\tau \textrm{d}\sigma \right) \right\} \textrm{d}s \textrm{d}t \, = +\infty.\end{align*}$$As consequences of this criterion we show that there is no blow up at $t=T$ if $ \|D^2 p(t)\|_{L^\infty } \le \frac{c}{(T-t)^2}$ with $c<1$ as $t\nearrow T$. Under the additional assumption of $\int _0 ^T \|u(t)\|_{L^\infty (B(x_0, \rho ))} \textrm{d}t <+\infty $, we obtain localized versions of these results.
Effect of trehalose supplementation in milk replacer on the incidence of diarrhea and fecal microbiota in preweaned calves
Authors: Miura Hiroto , Mukai Kazuhisa , Sudo Keigo , Haga Satoshi , Suzuki Yutaka , Kobayashi Yasuo , Koike Satoshi
Published: January 2021

Trehalose, a nonreducing disaccharide consisting of d-glucose with α,α-1,1 linkage, was evaluated as a functional material to improve the gut environment in preweaned calves. In experiment 1, 173 calves were divided into two groups; the trehalose group was fed trehalose at 30 g/animal/d with milk replacer during the suckling period, and the control group was fed nonsupplemented milk replacer. Medication frequency was lower in the trehalose group (P < 0.05). In experiment 2, calves (n = 20) were divided into two groups (control group [n = 10] and trehalose group [n = 10]) based on their body weight and reared under the same feeding regimens as in experiment 1. Fresh feces were collected from individual animals at the beginning of the trial (average age 11 d), 3 wk after trehalose feeding (experimental day 22), and 1 d before weaning, and the fecal score was recorded daily. Fecal samples were analyzed for fermentation parameters and microbiota. The fecal score was significantly lower in the trehalose group than in the control group in the early stage (at an age of 14 to 18 d; P < 0.05) of the suckling period. Calves fed trehalose tended to have a higher proportion of fecal butyrate on day 22 than calves in the control group (P = 0.08). Population sizes of Clostridium spp. were significantly lower (P = 0.036), whereas those of Dialister spp. and Eubacterium spp. tended to be higher in the feces of calves in the trehalose group on day 22 (P = 0.060 and P = 0.083). These observations indicate that trehalose feeding modulated the gut environment and partially contributed to the reduction in medication frequency observed in experiment 1.
Targeting EZH2 as cancer therapy
Authors: Hanaki Shunsuke , Shimada Midori
Published: January 2021

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) that mediate repression of target genes by trimethylation of Lys27 in histone 3 (H3K27me3). Given the reported roles of EZH2 in cancer, it is perhaps not surprising that targeting EZH2 in cancer therapy has become a hot research topic. Indeed, different types of EZH2 inhibitors are currently under development and are being evaluated by clinical trials. Recently, Murashima et al. identified NPD13668, a novel EZH2 inhibitor, by using a cell-based high-throughput screening assay. NPD13668 inhibited EZH2 methyltransferase activity, and repressed cell growth in multiple cancer cell lines, indicating a potential role for this compound in cancer treatment. In this review, we will focus on the current knowledge regarding the biological significance of PRC2 and H3K27me, and the recent advances in developing and testing drugs that target PRC2.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination After COVID-19
Authors: Toh Zheng Quan , Russell Fiona M , Garland Suzanne M , Mulholland Edward K , Patton George , Licciardi Paul V
Published: January 2021

The current global novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic threatens to derail the uptake of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in low- and lower-middle income countries with major disruptions to routine immunization and the introduction of new vaccines delayed. This has a major impact on the World Health Organization cervical cancer elimination strategy, where it is dependent on HPV vaccination as well as cervical cancer screening and treatment. We discuss current opportunities and barriers to achieve high uptake of HPV vaccination in low- and lower-middle income countries as well as the impact of COVID-19. Implementation of 4 key recommendations for HPV vaccination in low- and lower-middle income countries is needed: increased global financial investment; improved vaccine supply and accelerated use of a single-dose schedule; education and social marketing; and adoption of universal school-based delivery. With the commitment of the global health community, the adoption of these strategies would underpin the effective elimination of cervical cancer.
Using natural variation to understand plant responses to iron availability
Authors: Miller Charlotte N , Busch Wolfgang
Published: January 2021

Iron bioavailability varies dramatically between soil types across the globe. This has given rise to high levels of natural variation in plant iron responses, allowing members of even a single species to thrive across a wide range of soil types. In recent years we have seen the use of genome-wide association analysis to identify natural variants underlying plant responses to changes in iron availability in both Arabidopsis and important crop species. These studies have provided insights into which genes have been important in shaping local adaptation to iron availability in different plant species and have allowed the discovery of novel regulators and mechanisms, not previously identified using mutagenesis approaches. Furthermore, these studies have allowed the identification of markers that can be used to accelerate breeding of future elite varieties with increased resilience to iron stress and improved nutritional quality. The studies highlighted here show that, in addition to studying plant responses to iron alone, it is important to consider these responses within the context of plant nutrition more broadly and to also consider iron regulation in relation to additional traits of agronomic importance such as yield and disease resistance.
Integrating quantitative proteomics with accurate genome profiling of transcription factors by greenCUT&RUN
Authors: Nizamuddin Sheikh , Koidl Stefanie , Bhuiyan Tanja , Werner Tamara V , Biniossek Martin L , Bonvin Alexandre M J J , Lassmann Silke , Timmers HThMarc
Published: January 2021

Genome-wide localization of chromatin and transcription regulators can be detected by a variety of techniques. Here, we describe a novel method ‘greenCUT&RUN’ for genome-wide profiling of transcription regulators, which has a very high sensitivity, resolution, accuracy and reproducibility, whilst assuring specificity. Our strategy begins with tagging of the protein of interest with GFP and utilizes a GFP-specific nanobody fused to MNase to profile genome-wide binding events. By using a GFP-nanobody the greenCUT&RUN approach eliminates antibody dependency and variability. Robust genomic profiles were obtained with greenCUT&RUN, which are accurate and unbiased towards open chromatin. By integrating greenCUT&RUN with nanobody-based affinity purification mass spectrometry, ‘piggy-back’ DNA binding events can be identified on a genomic scale. The unique design of greenCUT&RUN grants target protein flexibility and yields high resolution footprints. In addition, greenCUT&RUN allows rapid profiling of mutants of chromatin and transcription proteins. In conclusion, greenCUT&RUN is a widely applicable and versatile genome-mapping technique.