bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of nanoemulsion particle size on the bioavailability and bioactivity of perilla oil in rats
Authors: Hu Miao , Xie Fengying , Zhang Shuang , Qi Baokun , Li Yang
Published: December 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the bioavailability and bioactivity of perilla (Perilla frutescens) oil nanoemulsions prepared at different homogenization pressures by measuring the weight, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties in rats. The high‐pressure homogenization significantly reduced the particle size of perilla oil nanoemulsions and enhanced their stability, and the minimum particle size was 293.87 ± 6.55 nm at 120 MPa. There was an increase in the weight and fatty acid levels in the plasma and liver of test group rats. The highest glutathione (GSH) and the lowest malondialdehyde (MDA) levels of 18.76 ± 10.51 mg GSH/g prot and 20.27 ± 2.46 nmol/mg prot, respectively, were recorded in rats administrated perilla oil nanoemulsions prepared at 120 MPa. However, there was no significant difference in superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) between the groups. The interferon‐gamma (IL‐γ), interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), IL‐6 (interleukin‐6), and IL‐8 (interleukin‐8) levels in the test groups were lower than those in the blank and control groups at 8 hr after lipopolysaccharide injection. The IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐8 levels were 49.52 ± 14.06, 90.13 ± 6.04, and 419.71 ± 32.03 ng/L, respectively, in rats treated with perilla oil nanoemulsions prepared at 120 MPa. Both perilla oil and its nanoemulsions decreased estradiol levels and damaged the ovaries. Overall, our findings show that the test nanoemulsions enhanced the bioavailability of perilla oil, which resulted in enhanced antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory responses; thus, we provide a new approach to deliver perilla oil.

Practical Application

Nanoemulsions can be used to deliver drugs and bioactive compounds, and perilla oil nanoemulsions can be used in healthcare products and beverage industries.
Anti‐obesity effect of Liupao tea extract by modulating lipid metabolism and oxidative stress in high‐fat‐diet‐induced obese mice
Authors: Wu Ya , Sun Hailan , Yi Ruokun , Tan Fang , Zhao Xin
Published: December 2020

Liupao tea (LPT) is traditional dark Chinese tea. The effect of LPT extract on high‐fat‐diet‐induced obese mice was investigated systematically. The results showed that LPT extract could reduce body weight and significantly alleviate liver damage and fat accumulation. LPT could also decrease the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and increase the level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) in the liver. It also decreased the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), interleukin (IL)‐1β, and IL‐6 and increased the serum levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines, including IL‐10 and IL‐4. Moreover, LPT improved the levels of total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), and catalase (CAT) and reduced the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver. Moreover, LPT could upregulate the mRNA and protein expressions of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha (PPAR‐α), lipoprotein lipase (LPL), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1(CPT1), and cholesterol 7 alpha‐hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and downregulate those of PPAR‐γ and CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein alpha (C/EBP‐α) in the liver. It also increased the mRNA expression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1), manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2), CAT, gamma‐glutamylcysteine synthetase 1 (GSH1), and GSH‐Px. The components of LPT extract include catechin, rutin, taxifolin, and astragalin, which possibly have a wide range of biological activities. In conclusion, our work verified that LPT extract possessed an anti‐obesity effect and alleviated obesity‐related symptoms, including lipid metabolism disorder, chronic low‐grade inflammation, and liver damage, by modulating lipid metabolism and oxidative stress.
Ovarian antibodies among SLE women with premature menopause after cyclophosphamide
Authors: Tsaliki Martha , Koelsch Kristi A. , Chambers Ambre , Talsania Mitali , Scofield R. Hal , Chakravarty Eliza F.
Published: December 2020

Background

Women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at risk of premature ovarian failure when treated with cyclophosphamide. This risk is increased when autoimmune thyroid disease is present. We undertook this study to determine whether the presence of ovarian autoimmunity also increased the risk of early ovarian failure among women receiving cyclophosphamide.

Methods

We examined the records of women enrolled in the Lupus Family Registry and Repository, a cross‐sectional study of ~3300 SLE subjects, for treatment with cyclophosphamide as well as menopausal status. We defined premature menopause as permanent, spontaneous cessation of menstruation before age 45. We measured anti‐ovarian antibodies by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay using stored sera.

Results

There were 258 women treated with cyclophosphamide in whom presence of absence or premature menopause could by defined. A total of 169 (65.6%) had premature ovarian failure, while 89 (34.6%) did not. While anti‐ovarian antibodies were present in a small percentage of patients, there was no association of premature menopause to either level of these antibodies (16.2 ± 20.3 units vs 17.4 ± 21.7 units, P = NS by Fisher's exact test), or positivity on this testing (11 of 169 [6.5%] positive vs 8 of 89 [8.9%], χ2 = 0.53, P = .46, 95% CI 0.95‐1.1). Neither renal disease nor hypothyroidism increased the risk of premature ovarian failure in these women receiving cyclophosphamide.

Conclusion

Anti‐ovarian antibodies among women with SLE are not associated with premature ovarian failure after treatment with cyclophosphamide.
Heterogeneous tumor‐immune microenvironments between primary and metastatic carcinoid tumors differentially respond to anti‐PD‐L1 antibody therapy
Authors: Sakata Shinya , Imamura Kosuke , Tajima Yuka , Masuda Yuiko , Sato Ryo , Yoshida Chieko , Okamoto Shinichiro , Saeki Sho , Tomita Yusuke , Sakagami Takuro
Published: December 2020

A pulmonary carcinoid tumor is a rare tumor that lacks a validated therapeutic approach for unresectable disease. Understanding the intersite tumor‐immune heterogeneity is essential to harness the immune system for cancer therapy. However, little is known about the tumor‐immune microenvironment (TIME). Here, we describe a patient who had heterogeneous TIME between primary and metastatic carcinoid tumors which differentially responded to chemoimmunotherapy. A 72‐year‐old man was diagnosed with an advanced pulmonary carcinoid tumor. CT‐guided biopsies of lung and scapular tumors confirmed typical carcinoid (PD‐L1, 1%–24%) and atypical carcinoid tumors (PD‐L1, negative), respectively. Although the primary lung carcinoid tumor showed a partial response, the scapular tumor was significantly enlarged after two cycles of anti‐PD‐L1 antibody therapy in combination with carboplatin plus etoposide. We performed quantitative pathology imaging analysis with fluorescent multiplex immunohistochemistry. CD8+ T cell infiltration was detected in the PD‐L1‐positive primary lung tumor nest; however, it was mostly restrained in the stroma in a PD‐L1‐negative metastatic scapular tumor. Treg infiltrations into both tumor nests and stroma were detected in the lung tumor, which were not detected in the metastatic scapular tumor. This study provides the first evidence of coexistence of heterogeneous TIME within a single individual with a pulmonary carcinoid tumor. This study may provide new insights into the mechanism of primary resistance to chemoimmunotherapy in pulmonary carcinoid tumors.
Pulmonary metastasis with coexisting pulmonary mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma 20 years after endometrioid adenocarcinoma surgery: A case report
Authors: Nakamura Daisuke , Kobayashi Nobutaka , Miyazawa Masahisa , Miura Kentaro , Satomi Hidetoshi
Published: December 2020

Late pulmonary metastasis from endometrioid adenocarcinoma (EA) is rare, and occurrence after >20 years is extremely rare. Here, we report a case of pulmonary metastasis with coexisting pulmonary mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma that occurred 20 years after surgery for EA. A 60‐year‐old Japanese woman had previously undergone surgery for primary EA, and 20 years later presented with an abnormality that was detected on chest radiography. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed two nodules in the right lower lung lobe, which were suspected to be primary lung cancer. Wedge resection was performed, and the intraoperative pathological diagnosis was that of adenocarcinoma with MALT lymphoma; this prompted additional right lower lobectomy. The final pathological diagnosis was pulmonary metastasis from EA with coexisting MALT lymphoma. This is probably the first report on late pulmonary metastasis coexisting with MALT lymphoma 20 years after surgery for EA. Surgeons should be aware of the possibility of late pulmonary recurrence of EA after more than 20 years and should consider aggressive resection.

Key points

Significant findings of the study

Although extremely rare, pulmonary metastasis can occur more than 20 years after surgery for endometrioid adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, pulmonary metastasis from endometrioid adenocarcinoma may coexist with mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma.

What this study adds

Endometrioid adenocarcinoma requires long‐term postoperative follow‐up to detect recurrence, even in early‐stage cases. Video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is useful for resecting pulmonary metastasis from endometrioid adenocarcinoma.
What factors enable mid‐life carers to re‐enter the labour market in New Zealand?
Authors: Spijker Jeroen J. A. , Alpass Fiona M. , Allen Joanne , Stephens Christine
Published: December 2020

Objective

To assess the characteristics of carers and the caregiving situation associated with return to paid employment among older unemployed carers in New Zealand.

Methods

A baseline sample of 280 unemployed carers was identified from responses by people aged 55‐70 to the 2012‐2016 biennial waves of the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement longitudinal survey. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess characteristics uniquely predicting employment status at two‐year follow‐up.

Results

Sixteen percent were employed at follow‐up. Economic living standards, physical health and preference to be in paid employment were positively associated with being employed at follow‐up. There were no statistical differences according to age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, education and care characteristics.

Conclusion

Individual preferences were the strongest predictor of return to paid employment. Despite New Zealand employment legislation allowing all employees to request flexible working arrangements, economic and health differences in workforce retention among carers persist.
Basophil activation test shows high accuracy in the diagnosis of peanut and tree nut allergy: The Markers of Nut Allergy Study
Authors: Duan Lucy , Celik Alper , Hoang Jennifer A. , Schmidthaler Klara , So Delvin , Yin Xiaojun , Ditlof Christina M. , Ponce Marta , Upton Julia E.M. , Lee Jean‐Soo , Hung Lisa , Breiteneder Heimo , Palladino Chiara , Atkinson Adelle R. , Kim Vy H.D. , Berenjy Alireza , Asper Maria , Hummel David , Wong Samantha , Alexanian‐Farr Mara , Magder Ahuva , Chinthrajah Sharon R. , Mukai Kaori , Tsai Mindy , Nadeau Kari , Galli Stephen J. , Ramani Arun K. , Szepfalusi Zsolt , Eiwegger Thomas
Published: December 2020

Background

Peanut and tree nut allergies are the most important causes of anaphylaxis. Co‐reactivity to more than one nut is frequent, and co‐sensitization in the absence of clinical data is often obtained. Confirmatory oral food challenges (OFCs) are inconsistently performed.

Objective

To investigate the utility of the basophil activation test (BAT) in diagnosing peanut and tree nut allergies.

Methods

The Markers Of Nut Allergy Study (MONAS) prospectively enrolled patients aged 0.5–17 years with confirmed peanut and/or tree nut (almond, cashew, hazelnut, pistachio, walnut) allergy or sensitization from Canadian (n = 150) and Austrian (n = 50) tertiary pediatric centers. BAT using %CD63+ basophils (SSClow/CCR3pos) as outcome was performed with whole blood samples stimulated with allergen extracts of each nut (0.001‐1000 ng/mL protein). BAT results were assessed against confirmed allergic status in a blinded fashion to develop a generalizable statistical model for comparison to extract and marker allergen‐specific IgE.

Results

A mixed effect model integrating BAT results for 10 and 100 ng/mL of peanut and individual tree nut extracts was optimal. The area under the ROC curve (AUROC) was 0.98 for peanut, 0.97 for cashew, 0.92 for hazelnut, 0.95 for pistachio, and 0.97 for walnut. The BAT outperformed sIgE testing for peanut or hazelnut and was comparable for walnut (AUROC 0.95, 0.94, 0.92) in a sub‐analysis in sensitized patients undergoing OFC.

Conclusions

Basophil activation test can predict allergic clinical status to peanut and tree nuts in multi‐nut‐sensitized children and may reduce the need for high‐risk OFCs in patients.
Withdrawal of intensive care during times of severe scarcity: Triage during a pandemic only upon arrival or with the inclusion of patients who are already under treatment?
Authors: Dufner Annette
Published: December 2020

Many countries have adopted new triage recommendations for use in the event that intensive care beds become scarce during the COVID‐19 pandemic. In addition to establishing the exact criteria regarding whether treatment for a newly arriving patient shows a sufficient likelihood of success, it is also necessary to ask whether patients already undergoing treatment whose prospects are low should be moved into palliative care if new patients with better prospects arrive. This question has led to divergent ethical guidelines. This paper explores the distinction between withholding and withdrawing medical treatment during times of scarcity. As a first central point, the paper argues that a revival of the ethical distinction between doing and allowing would have a revisionary impact on cases of voluntary treatment withdrawal. A second systematic focus lies in the concern that withdrawal due to scarcity might be considered a physical transgression and therefore more problematic than not treating someone in the first place. In light of the persistent disagreement, especially concerning the second issue, the paper concludes with two pragmatic proposals for how to handle the ethical uncertainty: (1) triage protocols should explicitly require that intensive care attempts are designed as time‐limited trials based on specified treatment goals, and this intent should be documented very clearly at the beginning of each treatment; and (2) lower survival prospects can be accepted for treatments that have already begun, compared with the respective triage rules for the initial access of patients to intensive care.
Deletion of the E3 ubiquitin ligase, Parkin, exacerbates chronic alcohol intake‐induced cardiomyopathy through an Ambra1‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Yang Mingjie , Wang Shuyi , Fu Shouzhi , Wu Ne N. , Xu Xihui , Sun Shiqun , Zhang Yingmei , Ren Jun
Published: December 2020

Background and Purpose

Chronic alcohol consumption contributes to contractile dysfunction and unfavourable geometric changes in myocardium, accompanied by altered autophagy and disturbed mitochondrial homeostasis. The E3 ubiquitin ligase Parkin encoded by PARK2 gene maintains a fundamental role in regulating mitophagy and mitochondrial homeostasis, although little is known of its role in the aetiology of alcoholic cardiomyopathy. Here we assessed the effects of Parkin deletion in chronic alcohol‐evoked cardiotoxicity.

Experimental Approach

Following alcohol (4%) or control diet intake for 8 weeks, adult male wild‐type (WT) and PARK2 knockout (Parkin−/−) mice were examined using echocardiography. Cardiomyocyte mechanical properties, morphology of myocardium, and mitochondrial damage were also evaluated. Autophagy and mitophagy levels were assessed by LC3B and GFP‐LC3 puncta, and lysosome‐dependent autophagic flux was scrutinized using GFP‐mRFP‐LC3 puncta and Bafilomycin A1 treatment.

Key Results

Chronic alcohol exposure provoked unfavourable geometric changes in myocardium and led to mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiac contractile defects, effects further exacerbated by Parkin knockout. Chronic alcohol exposure provoked autophagy and PINK1/Parkin‐mediated mitophagy without affecting lysosome‐dependent autophagic flux, the effects of which were diminished by Parkin deletion. Parkin adenovirus infection in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes further increased autophagy and protected against alcohol‐induced myocardial injury, effects blocked by siRNA for Ambra1 (Autophagy and Beclin1 regulator 1). Immunofluorescence staining and co‐immunoprecipitation assays showed interactions between Parkin and Ambra1.

Conclusions and Implications

Parkin was essential for cardiac homeostasis in alcohol challenge, accompanied by increased autophagy/mitophagy and maintenance of mitochondrial integrity through its interaction with Ambra1.
Design and marketing: Intersections and challenges
Authors: Henseler Jörg , Guerreiro Manuela
Published: December 2020

This editorial article reports on interdisciplinary research being conducted at the interface between the scientific disciplines of marketing and design. It reviews the 11 academic papers from the special issue situated at this intersection, thereby showing the richness of research happening in this liminal area. At the same time, the paper observes how the disciplines' different scopes as well as their different modi operandi inhibit the collaboration between marketing and design research. Whereas marketing largely follows the paradigm of empirical realism asking how the current world works, design largely follows the pragmatist paradigm asking how a future world can be shaped. Finally, this paper contains a number of suggestions on how to foster cooperation between the two disciplines.
Oxytocin in young children with Prader‐Willi syndrome: Results of a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover trial investigating 3 months of oxytocin
Authors: Damen Layla , Grootjen Lionne N. , Juriaans Alicia F. , Donze Stephany H. , Huisman T. Martin , Visser Jenny A. , Delhanty Patric J.D. , Hokken‐Koelega Anita C.S.
Published: December 2020

Context

Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS) is characterized by hypothalamic dysfunction, hyperphagia and a typical behavioural phenotype, with characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) like stubbornness, temper tantrums and compulsivity. It has been suggested that the oxytocin system in patients with PWS is dysfunctional. In ASD, intranasal oxytocin treatment has favourable effects on behaviour.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of 3 months of twice daily intranasal oxytocin (dose range 16‐40 IU/day), compared to placebo, on behaviour and hyperphagia in children with PWS.

Design

Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study in the Dutch PWS Reference Center.

Patients

Twenty‐six children with PWS aged 3‐11 years.

Main outcome measures

(Change in) behaviour and hyperphagia measured by Oxytocin Questionnaire and Dykens hyperphagia questionnaire.

Results

In the total group, no significant effects of oxytocin on social behaviour or hyperphagia were found. However, in boys, the Oxytocin Questionnaire scores improved significantly during oxytocin treatment, compared to a deterioration during placebo (4.5 (−0.8 to 15.3) vs. −4.0 (−11.3 to 0.8), P = .025). The Dykens hyperphagia questionnaire scores remained similar during oxytocin treatment, while there was a deterioration during placebo (0.0 (−0.8 to 4.3) vs. −3.5 (−6.0 to 0.0), P = .046). Patients with a deletion had significant improvements in both questionnaire scores during oxytocin treatment, but deteriorations during placebo. Oxytocin treatment was well tolerated, and there were no serious adverse events.

Conclusions

Intranasal oxytocin treatment has positive effects on social and eating behaviour in 3‐11 years aged boys with PWS and in children with a deletion without safety concerns. Intranasal oxytocin in children with PWS might be considered, but individual effects should be carefully evaluated and treatment discontinued if no effects are found.
Simulation and performance analysis of 15 NmFinFETbased carry skip adder
Authors: Duraivel N. , Paulchamy B.
Published: December 2020

Various changes in the advanced semiconductor industry, designing adder with higher performance is a major concern. These proposed works constrain the major area in FinFET designing at the range of 15‐nm FinFET technology at 25°C. By designing the FinFET technology with the range of 15 nm is the rising transistor technology with the lesser delay and the management in the power tradeoff. FinFET technology makes the evolutionary step in the semiconductor field because various adders have various complications in scaling at the range of 15 nm. The speed reinforcement is used based on various schemes to improve the efficiency of the conventional carry skip adder (Conv‐CSKA) structure. By taking into account multiplexer logic, the proposed designing structure made in the account of AND‐OR‐Invert (AOI) and OR‐AND‐Invert (OAI) compound gates which are used as the skip logic. The simulation is carried out using HSPICE and Tanner. In various research works, it is concluded that the FinFET based adders are implemented in the semiconductor devices which are the advanced part of the computerized technique with the advancement in the designing circuits. The proposed designing structure includes the 8 T adders which reduce the power consumption with different datapath. The modified designing increases the slack time and decreases the input voltage. This article implements the comparison of FinFET designing based on their speed, power, and energy with the other adder circuits using 15‐nm FinFET technology.
Peroxidase‐catalysed coloration of wool fabrics
Authors: Netithammakorn Nalinee , Smith Edward , Lerpiniere Claire , Shen Jinsong
Published: December 2020

An enzyme‐based textile coloration process using peroxidase (EC1.11.1.7) was investigated for its potential as an alternative to conventional textile dyeing processes, with the benefits of being low in energy use and non‐damaging to fibres. The current study presents a process for the coloration of wool fabric using peroxidase oxidation of a range of different aromatic compounds in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The results revealed that wool can be successfully dyed by peroxidase‐catalysed coloration at temperatures as low as 30°C. By controlling the pH values and buffer systems during processing, a diverse colour palette was produced, depending on the small molecular aromatic compound used as the precursor. Colour fastness testing found that fastness to washing, rubbing and light properties achieved good to excellent ratings, with further improvement to wash fastness provided by a post‐soaping wash. No fibre damage occurred due to peroxidase‐catalysed coloration. This enzyme coloration process is a promising alternative to conventional wool dyeing processes with the advantage of effective dyeing at low temperatures, therefore having the potential of reducing energy consumption and preventing fibre damage.
A novel reaction‐based fluorescent probe sensitive to pH changes in multiple intervals
Authors: Li Hongqi , Chen Zhen , Zheng Tao , Hu Luping , Song Yanxi , Zhang Ruiqing , Zhang Xin
Published: December 2020

A new coumarin derivative containing both imine bond and amide moiety was synthesised. It was used as a reaction‐based pH probe and was sensitive to pH changes in the intervals 1.50–4.10 and 10.20–12.86. In the pH range 1.50–4.10, the ultraviolet‐visible (UV‒vis) absorption band of the probe gradually shifted from 353 nm to 340 nm with decrease in the pH value. The colour changed from pale yellow fluorescence at pH 4.10 to blue fluorescence at pH 1.50. Meanwhile the fluorescence emission band at 501 nm gradually shifted to 560 nm accompanying a gradual enhancing in the emission intensity. This pH response is caused by the hydrolysis of the imine bond in the probe under acidic conditions (pH 1.50–4.10). The colourless probe solution turned yellow at pH range 10.20–12.86. Bathochromic shift of the fluorescence band from 501 nm gradually to 550 nm was observed with the increase of pH value from 10.20 to 12.86 accompanying a gradual enhancement of the fluorescence emission intensity, indicating that the new compound serves as a fluorescent pH probe at pH range 10.20–12.86 through a deprotonation process. Under strongly alkaline conditions with pH larger than 12.86, hydrolysis of the lactone structure in the probe occurred to produce non‐fluorescent species.
Cutaneous acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma accompanying syringofibroadenomatous hyperplasia with proliferation of mature sebocytes: A case report
Authors: Tanaka Chiharu , Kurabayashi Atsushi , Furihata Kaoru , Iwashita Waka , Naganuma Seiji , Toi Makoto , Yano Akiko , Furihata Mutsuo
Published: December 2020

Acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma is a rare variant of epidermal acanthoma. It has a flat, plaque‐like structure and is characterized microscopically by acantholysis and dyskeratosis. Eccrine syringofibroadenomatous hyperplasia is benign and likely reactive. It has recently been considered as a hyperplastic process affecting the eccrine ducts rather than the neoplasm because of its pathological heterogeneity and wide clinical associations. In this article, we present the case of 97‐year‐old Japanese women with a 10‐mm wide, painful acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma accompanied by syringofibroadenomatous hyperplasia in the right femoral region. Although syringofibroadenomatous hyperplasia is known to occur as a reactive process with various dermatoses and cutaneous tumors, to date, there have been no reports of cases of acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma accompanying syringofibroadenomatous hyperplasia. Moreover, this case also includes the unusual finding of an increase in the mature sebocytes in the area of the syringofibroadenomatous hyperplasia.
The value of identification scanner technology in monitoring and detecting banned patrons in entertainment precincts
Authors: de Andrade Dominique , Puljević Cheneal , Miller Peter G. , Taylor Nicholas , Curtis Ashlee , Ferris Jason
Published: December 2020

Introduction and Aims

Networked identification (ID) scanner technology is a novel approach to collecting licensed venue attendance data, and potentially reducing alcohol‐related violence by detecting banned patrons. Using ID scanner data from three Queensland entertainment precincts (Safe Night Precincts; SNPs), we aim to: (i) examine patterns in patron attendance to licensed venues; and (ii) examine patterns in the detection of banned patrons.

Design and Methods

We conducted descriptive analyses of licensed venue patron entries between 1 October 2017 and 30 June 2019. Scans during high alcohol hours (Friday and Saturday, 20:00–06:00) were stratified by patron sex and key age groups. We described scans associated with a detected banning notice issued by venues, courts or police across all Queensland SNPs and three key SNPs.

Results

ID scanner data showed similar attendance trends across SNPs. The peak licensed venue entry hour was 23:00–23:59, with Saturday being the peak day. Approximately two‐thirds of scanned patrons were male, and patrons had a mean age of 25.8 years (SD = 8.80). Scanners detected 48 657 attempted entries by banned patrons, with the majority of attempts made by males (85%) aged 18–24 years (61%).

Discussion and Conclusions

This study adds to the limited evidence on the use of ID scanners in the night‐time economy and highlights the feasibility of ID scanner use in this setting. Results demonstrate the value of scanners to passively collect data on patrons, identify banned patrons and assist in the enforcement of bans.
Ecological uniqueness of species assemblages and their determinants in forest communities
Authors: Yao Jie , Huang Jihong , Ding Yi , Xu Yue , Xu Han , Zang Runguo
Published: December 2020

Aim

Beta diversity can be partitioned into the contributions of individual sampling units to overall beta diversity, which are comparative indicators of the ecological uniqueness of species assemblages in the sampling units. Yet, what determines ecological uniqueness has rarely been examined. Here, we investigated the determinants of ecological uniqueness in species assemblages in forest communities.

Location

China.

Methods

We used tree census data, combined with spatially explicit environmental variables collected from forest dynamics plots across tropical, subtropical and temperate forests in China. We computed beta diversity as the total variation of the community data, and a site‐based approach was used to determine whether ecological uniqueness is related to local environmental conditions and/or community characteristics.

Results

Ecological uniqueness was explained by both local environment and community characteristics, but their relative importance varied across the four forest types. We provide direct evidence that the relationship between ecological uniqueness and species richness (EUSRR) is related to the percentage of rare species in the community. Local environmental factors affecting ecological uniqueness and beta diversity were inconsistent, indicating that focusing simultaneously on beta diversity and ecological uniqueness with regard to local environmental conditions is likely to be the appropriate approach to study forest community assembly.

Main conclusions

Although the EUSRR was negative in some cases, indicating high species richness, this does not necessarily imply high ecological uniqueness. Thus, for biological conservation, species‐rich sites and unique low‐richness sites should be valued more. The higher degree of ecological uniqueness indicates unique species compositions, which provides insight into finding such quadrats and taking measures for protection, restoration or management. We propose that focusing simultaneously on the beta diversity, species richness and ecological uniqueness of individual quadrats is likely to be a valuable approach for biodiversity conservation programmes.
Susceptible host availability modulates climate effects on dengue dynamics
Authors: Nova Nicole , Deyle Ethan R. , Shocket Marta S. , MacDonald Andrew J. , Childs Marissa L. , Rypdal Martin , Sugihara George , Mordecai Erin A.
Published: December 2020

Experiments and models suggest that climate affects mosquito‐borne disease transmission. However, disease transmission involves complex nonlinear interactions between climate and population dynamics, which makes detecting climate drivers at the population level challenging. By analysing incidence data, estimated susceptible population size, and climate data with methods based on nonlinear time series analysis (collectively referred to as empirical dynamic modelling), we identified drivers and their interactive effects on dengue dynamics in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Climatic forcing arose only when susceptible availability was high: temperature and rainfall had net positive and negative effects respectively. By capturing mechanistic, nonlinear and context‐dependent effects of population susceptibility, temperature and rainfall on dengue transmission empirically, our model improves forecast skill over recent, state‐of‐the‐art models for dengue incidence. Together, these results provide empirical evidence that the interdependence of host population susceptibility and climate drives dengue dynamics in a nonlinear and complex, yet predictable way.
Foliar fungi and plant diversity drive ecosystem carbon fluxes in experimental prairies
Authors: Kohli Mayank , Henning Jeremiah A. , Borer Elizabeth T. , Kinkel Linda , Seabloom Eric W.
Published: December 2020

Plant diversity and plant–consumer/pathogen interactions likely interact to influence ecosystem carbon fluxes but experimental evidence is scarce. We examined how experimental removal of foliar fungi, soil fungi and arthropods from experimental prairies planted with 1, 4 or 16 plant species affected instantaneous rates of carbon uptake (GPP), ecosystem respiration (Re) and net ecosystem exchange (NEE). Increasing plant diversity increased plant biomass, GPP and Re, but NEE remained unchanged. Removing foliar fungi increased GPP and NEE, with the greatest effects at low plant diversity. After accounting for plant biomass, we found that removing foliar fungi increased mass‐specific flux rates in the low‐diversity plant communities by altering plant species composition and community‐wide foliar nitrogen content. However, this effect disappeared when soil fungi and arthropods were also removed, demonstrating that both plant diversity and interactions among consumer groups determine the ecosystem‐scale effects of plant–fungal interactions.
Decision making and framing effects in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Zamarian Laura , Berger Thomas , Pertl Marie‐Theres , Bsteh Gabriel , Djamshidian Atbin , Deisenhammer Florian , Delazer Margarete
Published: December 2020

Background

Previous studies reported reduced decision‐making abilities for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) relative to healthy controls (HC). This study aimed to evaluate whether these problems arise when sampling information or when pondering about the evidence collected.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional, controlled study, 43 relapsing‐remitting MS patients (RRMS; Expanded Disability Status Scale 1.5, range 0–4) and 53 HC performed an information sampling task (‘beads task’), a health‐related framing task, and neuropsychological background tests.

Results

In the beads task, patients collected as much information as HC prior to a decision. However, there were twice as many patients as HC making irrational decisions, that is, decisions against the evidence collected (RRMS: 26/43, 60%; HC: 16/53, 30%; p = 0.003). Compared to HC, patients also showed a stronger framing effect, that is, they were more strongly biased by the way health‐related information was presented (p < 0.05, Cohen's d = 0.5). Overall, the framing effect predicted whether a participant would make irrational decisions (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.29–3.49, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Predecisional information sampling is intact in RRMS. However, compared to HC, patients are more likely to make irrational decisions and to be biased by the way health‐related information is framed. This warrants caution in communication, especially in the medical context, with patients.
Genomic characterisation of bovine papillomavirus types 1 and 2 identified in equine sarcoids in Japan
Authors: Yamashita‐Kawanishi Nanako , Chambers James K. , Uchida Kazuyuki , Tobari Yumiko , Yoshimura Hisashi , Yamamoto Masami , Yumoto Norio , Aoki Hiroshi , Sugiura Katsuaki , Higuchi Tohru , Saito Shigeaki , Haga Takeshi
Published: December 2020

Background

Bovine papillomavirus types 1 and 2 (BPV1/2) infection in horses has been associated with the development of equine sarcoids. Previous findings revealed the presence of sarcoid‐associated BPV sequence variants that have been proposed as a key factor of cross‐species infection in horses. To verify this hypothesis, sarcoid‐associated BPV variants should be identified regardless of geographic location.

Objectives

Sequence analyses of BPV1/2 derived from both horses and cattle were conducted to clarify the sarcoid‐associated sequence variants. The aim of this study was to clarify the correlation between BPV phylogeny and the geographic origin/host species.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Conventional PCR to detect BPV1/2 was performed with genomic DNA extracted from equine sarcoid (n = 10) and bovine papilloma (n = 10) samples collected in Japan. Direct sequencing results were compared between equine and bovine (equine/bovine)‐derived BPV to identify sarcoid‐associated variants of two early regions (E2, E5), one late region (L1) and the long control region (LCR). Phylogenetic and phylogeny‐trait correlation were analysed using Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method and Bayesian tip‐association significance testing (BaTS).

Results

Seven BPV1 and three BPV2 were identified from equine sarcoids using PCR and direct sequencing. Sequence analysis of equine/bovine‐derived samples showed no sarcoid‐associated variants in four regions (E2, E5, L1 and LCR) of either BPV1 or BPV2. The phylogenetic tree of BPV1 E2, L1 and LCR tended to cluster within its geographic origins. BaTS analysis demonstrated that BPV1 sequence variability may be due to the geographic origin rather than host species difference.

Main limitations

There was a limitation in sample numbers.

Conclusions

This study supports the geographic‐specific hypothesis of sequence variability, suggesting that BPV1 is shared between local equids and bovids. However, more extensively collected sequences worldwide and functional evaluations are needed to verify the geographic‐specific sequence variability of BPV1/2 between equine‐ and bovine‐derived sequence.
More than a zip code: global modulation of cellular function by nuclear localization signals
Authors: Chang Chih‐Chia , Hsia Kuo‐Chiang
Published: December 2020

Extensive structural and functional studies have been carried out in the field of nucleocytoplasmic transport. Nuclear transport factors, such as Importin‐α/‐β, recognize nuclear localization signals (NLSs) on cargo, and together with the small GTPase Ran, facilitate their nuclear localization. However, it is now emerging that binding of nuclear transport factors to NLSs not only mediates nuclear transport but also contributes to a variety of cellular functions in eukaryotes. Here, we describe recent advances that reveal how NLSs facilitate diverse cellular functions beyond nuclear transport activity. We review separately NLS‐mediated regulatory mechanisms at different levels of biological organization, including (a) assembly of higher‐order structures; (b) cellular organelle dynamics; and (c) modulation of cellular stress responses and viral infections. Finally, we provide mechanistic insights into how NLSs can regulate such a broad range of functions via their structural and biochemical properties.
Hepsin: a multifunctional transmembrane serine protease in pathobiology
Authors: Li Shuo , Wang Lina , Sun Shijin , Wu Qingyu
Published: December 2020

Cell membrane‐bound serine proteases are important in the maintenance of physiological homeostasis. Hepsin is a type II transmembrane serine protease highly expressed in the liver. Recent studies indicate that hepsin activates prohepatocyte growth factor in the liver to enhance Met signaling, thereby regulating glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism. In addition, hepsin functions in nonhepatic tissues, including the adipose tissue, kidney, and inner ear, to regulate adipocyte differentiation, urinary protein processing, and auditory function, respectively. In mouse models, hepsin deficiency lowers blood glucose, lipid, and protein levels, impairs uromodulin assembly in renal epithelial cells, and causes hearing loss. Elevated hepsin expression has also been found in many cancers. As a type II transmembrane protease, cell surface expression and zymogen activation are essential for hepsin activity. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge regarding hepsin biosynthesis, activation, and functions in pathobiology.
How big is big enough? Surprising responses of a semiarid grassland to increasing deluge size
Authors: Post Alison K. , Knapp Alan K.
Published: December 2020

Climate change has intensified the hydrologic cycle globally, increasing the magnitude and frequency of large precipitation events, or deluges. Dryland ecosystems are expected to be particularly responsive to increases in deluge size, as their ecological processes are largely dependent on distinct soil moisture pulses. To better understand how increasing deluge size will affect ecosystem function, we conducted a field experiment in a native semiarid shortgrass steppe (Colorado, USA). We quantified ecological responses to a range of deluge sizes, from moderate to extreme, with the goal of identifying response patterns and thresholds beyond which ecological processes would not increase further (saturate). Using a replicated regression approach, we imposed single deluges that ranged in size from 20 to 120 mm (82.3rd to >99.9th percentile of historical event size) on undisturbed grassland plots. We quantified pre‐ and postdeluge responses in soil moisture, soil respiration, and canopy greenness, as well as leaf water potential, growth, and flowering of the dominant grass species (Bouteloua gracilis). We also measured end of season above‐ and belowground net primary production (ANPP, BNPP). As expected, this water‐limited ecosystem responded strongly to the applied deluges, but surprisingly, most variables increased linearly with deluge size. We found little evidence for response thresholds within the range of deluge sizes imposed, at least during this dry year. Instead, response patterns reflected the linear increase in the duration of elevated soil moisture (2–22 days) with increasing event size. Flowering of B. gracilis and soil respiration responded particularly strongly to deluge size (14‐ and 4‐fold increases, respectively), as did ANPP and BNPP (~60% increase for both). Overall, our results suggest that this semiarid grassland will respond positively and linearly to predicted increases in deluge size, and that event sizes may need to exceed historical magnitudes, or occur during wet years, before responses saturate.
Joint pricing and quality decision model under stochastic reference quality effect
Authors: Cao Yu , Duan Yongrui
Published: December 2020

This paper uses stochastic control theory to study a monopolist's time‐varying policies regarding price and product quality in the presence of stochastic reference quality effect. A novel feature of our model is to allow for some randomness in the evolution of consumers' reference quality levels to capture intertemporal heterogeneity of consumers or exogenous shocks. We first derive the optimal explicit contingent (closed‐loop) strategies by Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation based on the assumption that the reference quality information is available. Our results show that the monopolist benefits from higher price and higher quality policies compared with the results in the deterministic model. In the long run, our results suggest that, on average, consumers purchase a product with a lower price per unit of quality and are relatively more sensitive to changes in quality than in price under stochastic reference quality effect. Additionally, we consider alternative committed (open‐loop) policies when reference quality information is not unobtainable. We explicitly characterize the probability distribution of reference quality under both strategies and numerically highlight the value of acquiring reference quality information. Numerical study further shows that expected steady‐state price, quality, and quality‐price ratio increase with the intensity of reference quality effect and with the marginal contribution of quality on demand, but decrease with the customers' memory and with the monopolist's patience.
Nonselective versus selective His bundle pacing: An acute intrapatient speckle‐tracking strain echocardiographic study
Authors: Bednarek Agnieszka , Ionita Oana , Moskal Paweł , Linkova Hana , Kiełbasa Grzegorz , Prochazkova Radka , Vesela Jana , Rajzer Marek , Curila Karol , Jastrzębski Marek
Published: December 2020

Introduction

We aimed to compare the acute differences in left ventricular (LV) function and mechanical synchrony during nonselective His bundle pacing (ns‐HBP) versus selective His bundle pacing (s‐HBP) using strain echocardiography.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients with permanent His bundle pacing, in whom it was possible to obtain both s‐HBP and ns‐HBP, were studied in two centers. In each patient, echocardiography was performed sequentially during s‐HBP and ns‐HBP. Speckle‐tracking echocardiography parameters were analyzed: Global longitudinal strain (GLS), the time delay between peak systolic strain in the basal septal and basal lateral segments (BS‐BL delay), peak strain dispersion (PSD) and strain delay index. Right ventricle function was assessed using tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and tissue Doppler velocity of the lateral tricuspid annulus (S′).

A total of 69 patients (age: 75.6 ± 10.5 years; males: 75%) were enrolled. There were no differences in LV ejection fraction and GLS between s‐HBP and ns‐HBP modes: 59% versus 60%, and −15.6% versus −15.7%, respectively; as well as no difference in BS‐BL delay and strain delay index. The PSD value was higher in the ns‐HBP group than in the s‐HBP group with the most pronounced difference in the basal LV segments. No differences in right ventricular function parameters (TAPSE and S′) were found.

Conclusion

The ns‐HBP and s‐HBP modes seem comparable regarding ventricular function. The dyssynchrony parameters were significantly higher during ns‐HBP, however, the difference seems modest and clarification of its impact on LV function requires a larger long‐term study.
Intestinal epithelial cells related lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles in dextran sulphate sodium‐induced colitis
Authors: Liu Huan , Li Teming , Zhong Shizhen , Yu Min , Huang Wenhua
Published: December 2020

Intestinal epithelial barrier damage caused by intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recently, some studies have suggested the emerging role of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in IBD. The aim of this study was to reveal lncRNAs and mRNA expression profiles in IECs from a mouse model of colitis and to expand our understanding in the intestinal epithelial barrier regulation. IECs from the colons of wild‐type mice and dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)‐induced mice were isolated for high‐throughput RNA‐sequencing. A total of 254 up‐regulated and 1013 down‐regulated mRNAs and 542 up‐regulated and 766 down‐regulated lncRNAs were detected in the DSS group compared with the Control group. Four mRNAs and six lncRNAs were validated by real‐time quantitative PCR. Function analysis showed that dysregulated mRNAs participated in TLR7 signalling pathway, IL‐1 receptor activity, BMP receptor binding and IL‐17 signalling pathway. Furthermore, the possibility of indirect interactions between differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs was illustrated by the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. LncRNA ENSMUST00000128026 was predicted to bind to mmu‐miR‐6899‐3p, regulating Dnmbp expression. LncRNA NONMMUT143162.1 was predicted to competitively bind to mmu‐miR‐6899‐3p, regulating Tnip3 expression. Finally, the protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was constructed with 311 nodes and 563 edges. And the highest connectivity degrees were Mmp9, Fpr2 and Ccl3. These results provide novel insights into the functions of lncRNAs and mRNAs involved in the regulation of the intestinal epithelial barrier.