bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consistent Detection of 2019 Novel Coronavirus in Saliva
Authors: To Kelvin Kai-Wang , Tsang Owen Tak-Yin , Yip Cyril Chik-Yan , Chan Kwok-Hung , Wu Tak-Chiu , Chan Jacky Man-Chun , Leung Wai-Shing , Chik Thomas Shiu-Hong , Choi Chris Yau-Chung , Kandamby Darshana H , Lung David Christopher , Tam Anthony Raymond , Poon Rosana Wing-Shan , Fung Agnes Yim-Fong , Hung Ivan Fan-Ngai , Cheng Vincent Chi-Chung , Chan Jasper Fuk-Woo , Yuen Kwok-Yung
Published: February 2020

The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was detected in the self-collected saliva of 91.7% (11/12) of patients. Serial saliva viral load monitoring generally showed a declining trend. Live virus was detected in saliva by viral culture. Saliva is a promising noninvasive specimen for diagnosis, monitoring, and infection control in patients with 2019-nCoV infection.
The polarization within and across individuals: the hierarchical Ising opinion model
Authors: van der Maas Han L J , Dalege Jonas , Waldorp Lourens
Published: February 2020

Polarization of opinions is a societal threat. It involves psychological processes as well as group dynamics, a popular topic in statistical physics. However, the interaction between the within individual dynamics of attitude formation and across person polarization is rarely studied. By modelling individual attitudes as Ising networks of attitude elements, and approximating this behaviour by the cusp singularity, we developed a fundamentally new model of social dynamics. In this hierarchical model, agents behave either discretely or continuously depending on their attention to the issue. At the individual level, the model reproduces the mere thought effect and resistance to persuasion. At the social level, the model implies polarization and the persuasion paradox. We propose a new intervention for escaping polarization in bounded confidence models of opinion dynamics.
Reframing conservation physiology to be more inclusive, integrative, relevant and forward-looking: reflections and a horizon scan
Authors: Cooke Steven J , Madliger Christine L , Cramp Rebecca L , Beardall John , Burness Gary , Chown Steven L , Clark Timothy D , Dantzer Ben , de la Barrera Erick , Fangue Nann A , Franklin Craig E , Fuller Andrea , Hawkes Lucy A , Hultine Kevin R , Hunt Kathleen E , Love Oliver P , MacMillan Heath A , Mandelman John W , Mark Felix C , Martin Lynn B , Newman Amy E M , Nicotra Adrienne B , Robinson Sharon A , Ropert-Coudert Yan , Rummer Jodie L , Seebacher Frank , Todgham Anne E
Published: February 2020

Applying physiological tools, knowledge and concepts to understand conservation problems (i.e. conservation physiology) has become commonplace and confers an ability to understand mechanistic processes, develop predictive models and identify cause-and-effect relationships. Conservation physiology is making contributions to conservation solutions; the number of ‘success stories’ is growing, but there remain unexplored opportunities for which conservation physiology shows immense promise and has the potential to contribute to major advances in protecting and restoring biodiversity. Here, we consider how conservation physiology has evolved with a focus on reframing the discipline to be more inclusive and integrative. Using a ‘horizon scan’, we further explore ways in which conservation physiology can be more relevant to pressing conservation issues of today (e.g. addressing the Sustainable Development Goals; delivering science to support the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration), as well as more forward-looking to inform emerging issues and policies for tomorrow. Our horizon scan provides evidence that, as the discipline of conservation physiology continues to mature, it provides a wealth of opportunities to promote integration, inclusivity and forward-thinking goals that contribute to achieving conservation gains. To advance environmental management and ecosystem restoration, we need to ensure that the underlying science (such as that generated by conservation physiology) is relevant with accompanying messaging that is straightforward and accessible to end users.
The Economics of Optimal Foraging by the Red Imported Fire Ant
Authors: Roeder Karl A , Prather Rebecca M , Paraskevopoulos Anna W , Roeder Diane V
Published: February 2020

For social organisms, foraging is often a complicated behavior where tasks are divided among numerous individuals. Here, we ask how one species, the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), collectively manages this behavior. We tested the Diminishing Returns Hypothesis, which posits that for social insects 1) foraging investment levels increase until diminishing gains result in a decelerating slope of return and 2) the level of investment is a function of the size of the collective group. We compared how different metrics of foraging (e.g., number of foragers, mass of foragers, and body size of foragers) are correlated and how these metrics change over time. We then tested the prediction that as fire ant colonies increase in size, both discovery time and the inflection point (i.e., the time point where colonial investment toward resources slows) should decrease while a colony’s maximum foraging mass should increase. In congruence with our predictions, we found that fire ants recruited en masse toward baits, allocating 486 workers and 148 mg of biomass, on average, after 60 min: amounts that were not different 30 min prior. There was incredible variation across colonies with discovery time, the inflection point, and the maximum biomass of foragers all being significantly correlated with colony size. We suggest that biomass is a solid indicator of how social taxa invest their workforce toward resources and hypothesize ways that invasive fire ants are able to leverage their enormous workforce to dominate novel ecosystems by comparing their foraging and colony mass with co-occurring native species.
Diversity of a phosphate transporter gene among species and isolates of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Giovannini Luca , Sbrana Cristiana , Avio Luciano , Turrini Alessandra
Published: February 2020

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are a key group of beneficial obligate biotrophs, establishing a mutualistic symbiosis with the roots of most land plants. The molecular markers generally used for their characterization are mainly based on informative regions of nuclear rDNA (SSU-ITS-LSU), although protein-encoding genes have also been proposed. Within functional genes, those encoding for phosphate transporters (PT) are particularly important in AMF, given their primary ability to take up Pi from soil, and to differentially affect plant phosphate nutrition. In this work, we investigated the genetic diversity of PT1 gene sequences and sequences of the taxonomically relevant SSU-ITS-LSU region in two isolates of the species Funneliformis coronatus, three isolates of the species Funneliformis mosseae and two species of the genus Rhizoglomus, originated from geographically distant areas and cultured in vivo. Our results showed that partial PT1 sequences not only successfully differentiated AMF genera and species like ribosomal gene sequences but also highlighted intraspecific diversity among F. mosseae and F. coronatus isolates. The study of functional genes related to the uptake of key mineral nutrients for the assessment of AMF diversity represents a key step in the selection of efficient isolates to be used as inocula in sustainable agriculture.
Proinflammatory cytokines induce accumulation of glypican-1-derived heparan sulfate and the C-terminal fragment of β-cleaved APP in autophagosomes of dividing neuronal cells
Authors: Cheng Fang , Fransson Lars-Åke , Mani Katrin
Published: February 2020

Proinflammatory cytokines stimulate expression of β-secretase, which increases processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP), ultimately leading to the deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ). The N-terminal domain of β-cleaved APP supports Cu/NO-dependent release of heparan sulfate (HS) from the glypican-1 (Gpc-1) proteoglycan. HS is an inhibitor of β-secretase, thereby constituting a regulatory, negative feedback loop. Here, we have investigated the effect of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 on the interplay between APP processing and release of HS from Gpc-1 in neuronal cells. We have used deconvolution immunofluorescence microscopy and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and a panel of monoclonal/polyclonal antibodies recognizing the released HS, the N-terminus of Aβ, Aβ, the C-terminus of APP and the autophagosome marker LC3 as well as the chemical lysosome marker LysoTrackerRed (LTR). We repeatedly found that N2a neuroblastoma cells and human neural stem cells grown in the presence of the cytokines developed large cytoplasmic clusters, which stained positive for HS, the N-terminus of Aβ, Aβ, the C-terminus of APP, LC3 and LTR, indicating accumulation of HS and APP/APP degradation products in enlarged autophagosomes/lysosomes. The SDS-PAGE of immunoisolates obtained from TNF-α-treated N2a cells by using anti-C-terminus of APP revealed the presence of SDS-stable complexes between HS and the C-terminal fragment of β-cleaved APP (βCTF) migrating in the range 10–18 kDa. Clustered accumulation of βCTF disappeared when HS release was prevented and slightly enhanced when HS release was increased. Hence, when proinflammatory cytokines induce increased processing of APP, inhibition of β-secretase by HS is insufficient, which may lead to the impaired autophagosomal degradation.
Using Twitter to promote a youth mental health agenda
Authors: Dadich Ann , Khan Aila
Published: February 2020

Agenda-setting theory suggests the media shapes public perceptions. Guided by this theory, this study examines the effects of organizational Twitter accounts on public discourse in the Twittersphere. The tweets that mention one of three youth mental health organizations were theorized to emanate the particular focus of the organization mentioned. This was investigated by analysing: randomly selected tweets that mentioned one of three national mental health organizations—ReachOut, headspace or the Young and Well Cooperative Research Centre but not authored by these organizations (n = 600); and the population of tweets that mentioned one of these three organizations and authored by either of the two counterparts of the mentioned organization (n = 115). Findings supported anticipated patterns, whereby the tweets reflected the remit of the three organizations. These findings reveal the influential role of social media in setting a youth mental health agenda. The implications for practitioners and researchers are discussed.
Apixaban for treatment of intracardiac thrombosis in children with congenital heart disease
Authors: Esch Jesse J , Hellinger Amy , Friedman Kevin G , VanderPluym Christina J
Published: February 2020

Apixaban is well studied in adults; paediatric data are extremely limited. We describe 3 children (age 2–6 years, weight 13–17 kg) with congenital heart disease who developed intracardiac thrombosis, and in whom typical treatments had failed (in 1) or were considered impractical (in 2). All were treated with apixaban 2.5 mg orally twice daily with complete (in 2) or partial (in 1) thrombus resolution and no clinical bleeding events.
Fractal Percolation and Quasisymmetric Mappings
Authors: Rossi Eino , Suomala Ville
Published: February 2020

We study the conformal dimension of fractal percolation and show that, almost surely, the conformal dimension of a fractal percolation is strictly smaller than its Hausdorff dimension.
Developmental population pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics and dosing optimization of cefoperazone in children
Authors: Shi Hai-Yan , Wang Kai , Wang Rong-Hua , Wu Yue-E , Tang Bo-Hao , Li Xue , Du Bin , Kan Min , Zheng Yi , Xu Bao-Ping , Shen A-Dong , Su Le-Qun , Jacqz-Aigrain Evelyne , Huang Xin , Zhao Wei
Published: February 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the population pharmacokinetics of cefoperazone in children and establish an evidence-based dosing regimen using a developmental pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic approach in order to optimize cefoperazone treatment.

Methods

A model-based, open-label, opportunistic-sampling pharmacokinetic study was conducted in China. Blood samples from 99 cefoperazone-treated children were collected and quantified by HPLC/MS. NONMEM software was used for population pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic analysis. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03113344).

Results

A two-compartment model with first-order elimination agreed well with the experimental data. Covariate analysis showed that current body weight had a significant effect on the pharmacokinetics of cefoperazone. Monte Carlo simulation showed that for bacteria for which cefoperazone has an MIC of 0.5 mg/L, 78.1% of hypothetical children treated with ‘40 mg/kg/day, q8h, IV drip 3 h’ would reach the pharmacodynamic target. For bacteria for which cefoperazone has an MIC of 8 mg/L, 88.4% of hypothetical children treated with 80 mg/kg/day (continuous infusion) would reach the treatment goal. A 160 mg/kg/day (continuous infusion) regimen can cover bacteria for which cefoperazone has an MIC of 16 mg/L. Nevertheless, even if using the maximum reported dose of 160 mg/kg/day (continuous infusion), the ratio of hypothetical children reaching the treatment target was only 9.9% for bacteria for which cefoperazone has an MIC of 32 mg/L.

Conclusions

For cefoperazone, population pharmacokinetics were evaluated in children and an appropriate dosing regimen was developed based on developmental pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics. The dose indicated in the instructions (20–160 mg/kg/day) can basically cover the clinically common bacteria for which cefoperazone has an MIC of ≤16 mg/L. However, for bacteria for which the MIC is >16 mg/L, cefoperazone is not a preferred choice.
Identification of gp120 polymorphisms in HIV-1 B subtype potentially associated with resistance to fostemsavir
Authors: Bouba Yagai , Berno Giulia , Fabeni Lavinia , Carioti Luca , Salpini Romina , Aquaro Stefano , Svicher Valentina , Perno Carlo Federico , Ceccherini-Silberstein Francesca , Santoro Maria Mercedes
Published: February 2020

Objectives

We evaluated natural resistance to the new antiretroviral fostemsavir and its potential association with other HIV-1 gp120 polymorphisms.

Methods

A total of 1997 HIV-1 B subtype gp120 sequences from the Los Alamos HIV Database were analysed for mutation prevalence at fostemsavir resistance-associated positions and potential association with other gp120 polymorphisms. The role of each fostemsavir resistance-related position and the correlated gp120 mutations, both in protein stability and in reducing the binding affinity between antibody and/or T cell lymphocyte epitopes and the MHC molecules, was estimated.

Results

The prevalence of fostemsavir resistance mutations was as follows: L116Q (0.05%), S375H/M/T (0.55%/1.35%/17.73%, the latter being far less relevant in determining resistance), M426L (7.56%), M434I (4.21%) and M475I (1.65%). Additionally, the M426R polymorphism had a prevalence of 16.32%. A significantly higher prevalence in X4 viruses versus R5 viruses was found only for S375M (0.69% versus 3.93%, P = 0.009) and S375T (16.60% versus 22.11%, P = 0.030). Some fostemsavirv resistance positions positively and significantly correlated with specific gp120 polymorphisms: S375T with I371V; S375M with L134W, I154V and I323T; M475I with K322A; and M426R with G167N, K192T and S195N. The topology of the dendrogram suggested the existence of three distinct clusters (bootstrap ≥0.98) involving these fostemsavir resistance mutations and gp120 polymorphisms. Interestingly, all clustered mutations are localized in class I/II-restricted T cell/antibody epitopes, suggesting a potential role in immune HIV escape.

Conclusions

A low prevalence of known fostemsavir resistance mutations was found in the HIV-1 B subtype. The detection of novel HIV-1 gp120 polymorphisms potentially relevant for fostemsavir resistance deserves new in-depth in vitro investigations.
A system uptake analysis and GUIDES checklist evaluation of the Electronic Asthma Management System: A point-of-care computerized clinical decision support system
Authors: Lam Shin Cheung Jeffrey , Paolucci Natalie , Price Courtney , Sykes Jenna , Gupta Samir ,   for the Canadian Respiratory Research Network
Published: February 2020

Objective

Computerized clinical decision support systems (CCDSSs) promise improvements in care quality; however, uptake is often suboptimal. We sought to characterize system use, its predictors, and user feedback for the Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS)—an electronic medical record system–integrated, point-of-care CCDSS for asthma—and applied the GUIDES checklist as a framework to identify areas for improvement.

Materials and Methods

The eAMS was tested in a 1-year prospective cohort study across 3 Ontario primary care sites. We recorded system usage by clinicians and patient characteristics through system logs and chart reviews. We created multivariable models to identify predictors of (1) CCDSS opening and (2) creation of a self-management asthma action plan (AAP) (final CCDSS step). Electronic questionnaires captured user feedback.

Results

Over 1 year, 490 asthma patients saw 121 clinicians. The CCDSS was opened in 205 of 1033 (19.8%) visits and an AAP created in 121 of 1033 (11.7%) visits. Multivariable predictors of opening the CCDSS and producing an AAP included clinic site, having physician-diagnosed asthma, and presenting with an asthma- or respiratory-related complaint. The system usability scale score was 66.3 ± 16.5 (maximum 100). Reported usage barriers included time and system accessibility.

Discussion

The eAMS was used in a minority of asthma patient visits. Varying workflows and cultures across clinics, physician beliefs regarding asthma diagnosis, and relevance of the clinical complaint influenced uptake.

Conclusions

Considering our findings in the context of the GUIDES checklist helped to identify improvements to drive uptake and provides lessons relevant to CCDSS design across diseases.
Determination of Arsenic in Seafood by Electrothermal Atomic Absorption Spectrometry after Microwave Digestion: NMKL Collaborative Study
Authors: Julshamn Kaare , Thorlacius Arngriimur , Lea Per ,   Collaborators:, Barland Kjetil , Eidem Kari , Gjerstad Karl Olav , Grønningen Dag , Larsen Erik H , Lierhagen Syverin , Liukkonen-Lilja Helena , Lind Birger
Published: February 2020

Eight laboratories participated in an interlaboratory method performance (collaborative) study of a method for the determination of arsenic in foodstuffs of marine origin by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry after wet digestion using a microwave oven technique. The study was preceded by a practice round of familiarization samples. The method was tested on 8 materials (cod roe, krill, blue mussel, saithe, scampi, cod fillet, shrimp, and cod extract) ranging in As content from 2 to 75 mg/kg. The materials were sent to participants in the study as blind duplicates, and the participants were asked to perform single determinations on each sample. Repeatability relative standard deviations (RSDr) for As ranged from 6.8 to 17.4%. Reproducibility relative standard deviations (RSDR) ranged from 7.6 to 24%. The highest RSDR value was found for the sample with the highest concentration of As.
Intra- and interobserver reliability for predicting hip preservation versus hip arthroplasty utilizing plain radiographs with comparison of surgeon specialization
Authors: Schultz Kyle , Osborne Jeff , Nelson Karen , Potini Vishnu , Chen Chaoyang , Aljuni Andrew , Bedi Asheesh , Bookout James , Yusaf Michael , Bishai Shariff K
Published: February 2020

Surgeon subspecialty training and practice landscape are formative in diagnostic evaluation and treatment recommendations. Varying recommendations can have substantial impact on patients’ care pathways and outcomes. We investigated intra- and interobserver reliability of treatment predictions for total hip arthroplasty (THA) between surgeons performing arthroplasty and/or arthroscopic hip preservation surgery. Anterior–posterior (AP) hip radiographs cropped to include the lateral sourcil, medial sourcil and foveal region of 53 patients with Tönnis Grade 0–3 were evaluated by five surgeons (two performing arthroplasty, two performing arthroscopic hip preservation and one performing both interventions). Surgeons predicted THA versus no THA as the treatment for each image. Predictions were repeated three times with image order randomized, and intra- and interobserver reliability were calculated. Surgeons were blinded to patient characteristics and clinical information. Interobserver reliability was 0.452 whereas intraobserver reliability ranged from 0.270 to 0.690. Arthroscopic hip preservation surgeons were more likely to predict THA (36.9%) than arthroplasty surgeons (32.7%), P = 0.041. Intra- and interobserver reliabilities of surgeons predicting THA versus no THA based on an AP hip radiograph were average at best. Arthroscopic hip preservation surgeons were more likely to predict THA than arthroplasty surgeons. Subjective surgeon interpretation can lead to variability in recommendations to patients; potentially complicating care pathways.
Plot-level rapid screening for photosynthetic parameters using proximal hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Meacham-Hensold Katherine , Fu Peng , Wu Jin , Serbin Shawn , Montes Christopher M , Ainsworth Elizabeth , Guan Kaiyu , Dracup Evan , Pederson Taylor , Driever Steven , Bernacchi Carl
Published: February 2020

Photosynthesis is currently measured using time-laborious and/or destructive methods which slows research and breeding efforts to identify crop germplasm with higher photosynthetic capacities. We present a plot-level screening tool for quantification of photosynthetic parameters and pigment contents that utilizes hyperspectral reflectance from sunlit leaf pixels collected from a plot (~2 m×2 m) in <1 min. Using field-grown Nicotiana tabacum with genetically altered photosynthetic pathways over two growing seasons (2017 and 2018), we built predictive models for eight photosynthetic parameters and pigment traits. Using partial least squares regression (PLSR) analysis of plot-level sunlit vegetative reflectance pixels from a single visible near infra-red (VNIR) (400–900 nm) hyperspectral camera, we predict maximum carboxylation rate of Rubisco (Vc,max, R2=0.79) maximum electron transport rate in given conditions (J1800, R2=0.59), maximal light-saturated photosynthesis (Pmax, R2=0.54), chlorophyll content (R2=0.87), the Chl a/b ratio (R2=0.63), carbon content (R2=0.47), and nitrogen content (R2=0.49). Model predictions did not improve when using two cameras spanning 400–1800 nm, suggesting a robust, widely applicable and more ‘cost-effective’ pipeline requiring only a single VNIR camera. The analysis pipeline and methods can be used in any cropping system with modified species-specific PLSR analysis to offer a high-throughput field phenotyping screening for germplasm with improved photosynthetic performance in field trials.
Multiple conclusion linear logic: cut elimination and more
Authors: Eades III Harley , de Paiva Valeria
Published: February 2020

Full intuitionistic linear logic (FILL) was first introduced by Hyland and de Paiva, and went against current beliefs that it was not possible to incorporate all of the linear connectives, e.g. tensor, par and implication, into an intuitionistic linear logic. Bierman showed that their formalization of FILL did not enjoy cut elimination as such, but Bellin proposed a small change to the definition of FILL regaining cut elimination and using proof nets. In this note we adopt Bellin’s proposed change and give a direct proof of cut elimination for the sequent calculus. Then we show that a categorical model of FILL in the basic dialectica category is also a linear/non-linear model of Benton and a full tensor model of Melliès’ and Tabareau’s tensorial logic. We give a double-negation translation of linear logic into FILL that explicitly uses par in addition to tensor. Lastly, we introduce a new library to be used in the proof assistant Agda for proving properties of dialectica categories.
Resolving the excess of long GRB’s at low redshift in the Swift era
Authors: Le Truong , Ratke Cecilia , Mehta Vedant
Published: February 2020

Utilizing more than 100 long gamma-ray bursts (LGRBs) in the Swift-Ryan-2012 sample that includes the observed redshifts and jet angles, Le & Mehta performed a timely study of the rate density of LGRBs with an assumed broken power-law GRB spectrum and obtained a GRB-burst-rate functional form that gives acceptable fits to the pre-Swift and Swift redshift, and jet angle distributions. The results indicated an excess of LGRBs at redshift below z ∼ 2 in the Swift sample. In this work, we are investigating if the excess is caused by the cosmological Hubble constant H0, the gamma-ray energy released ${\cal E}_{*\gamma }$, the low- and high-energy indices (α, β) of the Band function, the minimum and maximum jet angles θj, min and θj, max, or that the excess is due to a bias in the Swift-Ryan-2012 sample. Our analyses indicate that none of the above physical parameters resolved the excess problem, but suggesting that the Swift-Ryan-2012 sample is biased with possible afterglow selection effect. The following model physical parameter values provide the best fit to the Swift-Ryan-2012 and pre-Swift samples: the Hubble constant $H_0 = 72 \, {\rm km s^{-1} Mpc^{-1}}$, the energy released ${\cal E}_{*\gamma }\sim 4.47 \times 10^{51}$ erg, the energy indices α ∼ 0.9 and β ∼ −2.13, the jet angles of θj, max ∼ 0.8 rad, and θj, min ∼ 0.065 and ∼0.04 rad for pre-Swift and Swift, respectively, s ∼ −1.55 the jet angle power-law index, and a GRB formation rate that is similar to the Hopkins & Beacom observed star formation history and as extended by Li. Using the Swift Gamma-Ray Burst Host Galaxy Legacy Survey (SHOALS) Swift-Perley LGRB sample and applying the same physical parameter values as above, however, our model provides consistent results with this data set and indicating no excess of LGRBs at any redshift.
Metabolic profile of in vitro derived human embryos is not affected by the mode of fertilization
Authors: Leary Christine , Sturmey Roger G
Published: February 2020

The pattern of metabolism by early embryos in vitro has been linked to a range of phenotypes, including viability. However, the extent to which metabolic function of embryos is modified by specific methods used during ART has yet to be fully described. This study has sought to determine if the mode of fertilization used to create embryos affects subsequent embryo metabolism of substrates. A metabolic profile, including consumption of key substrates and the endogenous triglyceride content of individual IVF and ICSI supernumerary embryos, was assessed and compared. Embryo development and quality was also recorded. All embryos were donated at a single clinical IVF center, on Day 5, from 36 patients aged 18–38 years, The data revealed that consumption of glucose and pyruvate, and production of lactate, did not differ between embryos created by IVF or ICSI. Similarly, the mode of insemination did not impact on the triglyceride content of embryos. However, ICSI-derived embryos displayed a more active turnover of amino acids (P = 0.023), compared to IVF embryos. The specific amino acids produced in higher quantities from ICSI compared to IVF embryos were aspartate (P = 0.016), asparagine (P = 0.04), histidine (P = 0.021) and threonine (P = 0.009) while leucine consumption was significantly lower (P = 0.04). However, importantly neither individual nor collective differences in amino acid metabolism were apparent for sibling oocytes subjected to either mode of fertilization. Embryo morphology (the number of top grade embryos) and development (proportion reaching the blastocyst stage) were comparable in patients undergoing IVF and ICSI. In conclusion, the microinjection of spermatozoa into oocytes does not appear to have an impact on subsequent metabolism and viability. Observed differences in amino acid metabolism may be attributed to male factor infertility of the patients rather than the ICSI procedure per se.
RNase II binds to RNase E and modulates its endoribonucleolytic activity in the cyanobacterium Anabaena PCC 7120
Authors: Zhou Cong , Zhang Juyuan , Hu Xinyu , Li Changchang , Wang Li , Huang Qiaoyun , Chen Wenli
Published: February 2020

In Escherichia coli, the endoribonuclease E (RNase E) can recruit several other ribonucleases and regulatory proteins via its noncatalytic domain to form an RNA degradosome that controls cellular RNA turnover. Similar RNA degradation complexes have been found in other bacteria; however, their compositions are varied among different bacterial species. In cyanobacteria, only the exoribonuclease PNPase was shown to bind to the noncatalytic domain of RNase E. Here, we showed that Alr1240, a member of the RNB family of exoribonucleases, could be co-isolated with RNase E from the lysate of the cyanobacterium Anabaena PCC 7120. Enzymatic analysis revealed that Alr1240 is an exoribonuclease II (RNase II), as it only degrades non-structured single-stranded RNA substrates. In contrast to known RNase E-interacting ribonucleases, which bind to the noncatalytic domain of RNase E, the Anabaena RNase II was shown to associate with the catalytic domain of RNase E. Using a strain in which RNase E and RNase II were tagged in situ with GFP and BFP, respectively, we showed that RNase E and RNase II form a compact complex in vivo by a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assay. RNase E activity on several synthetic substrates was boosted in the presence of RNase II, suggesting that the activity of RNase E could be regulated by RNase II-RNase E interaction. To our knowledge, Anabaena RNase II is an unusual ribonuclease that interacts with the catalytic domain of RNase E, and it may represent a new type of RNA degradosome and a novel mechanism for regulating the activity of the RNA degradosome. As Anabaena RNase E interacts with RNase II and PNPase via different regions, it is very likely that the three ribonucleases form a large complex and cooperatively regulate RNA metabolism in the cell.
S3norm: simultaneous normalization of sequencing depth and signal-to-noise ratio in epigenomic data
Authors: Xiang Guanjue , Keller Cheryl A , Giardine Belinda , An Lin , Li Qunhua , Zhang Yu , Hardison Ross C
Published: February 2020

Quantitative comparison of epigenomic data across multiple cell types or experimental conditions is a promising way to understand the biological functions of epigenetic modifications. However, differences in sequencing depth and signal-to-noise ratios in the data from different experiments can hinder our ability to identify real biological variation from raw epigenomic data. Proper normalization is required prior to data analysis to gain meaningful insights. Most existing methods for data normalization standardize signals by rescaling either background regions or peak regions, assuming that the same scale factor is applicable to both background and peak regions. While such methods adjust for differences in sequencing depths, they do not address differences in the signal-to-noise ratios across different experiments. We developed a new data normalization method, called S3norm, that normalizes the sequencing depths and signal-to-noise ratios across different data sets simultaneously by a monotonic nonlinear transformation. We show empirically that the epigenomic data normalized by our method, compared to existing methods, can better capture real biological variation, such as impact on gene expression regulation.
Anisotropic alignments of hierarchical Li2SiO3/TiO2 @nano-C anode//LiMnPO4@nano-C cathode architectures for full-cell lithium-ion battery
Authors: Khalifa Hesham , El-Safty Sherif A , Reda Abdullah , Shenashen Mohamed A , Eid Alaa I
Published: February 2020

We report on low-cost fabrication and high-energy density of full-cell lithium-ion battery (LIB) models. Super-hierarchical electrode architectures of Li2SiO3/TiO2@nano-carbon anode (LSO.TO@nano-C) and high-voltage olivine LiMnPO4@nano-carbon cathode (LMPO@nano-C) are designed for half- and full-system LIB-CR2032 coin cell models. On the basis of primary architecture-power-driven LIB geometrics, the structure keys including three-dimensional (3D) modeling superhierarchy, multiscale micro/nano architectures and anisotropic surface heterogeneity affect the buildup design of anode/cathode LIB electrodes. Such hierarchical electrode surface topologies enable continuous in-/out-flow rates and fast transport pathways of Li+-ions during charge/discharge cycles. The stacked layer configurations of pouch LIB-types lead to excellent charge/discharge rate, and energy density of 237.6 Wh kg−1. As the most promising LIB-configurations, the high specific energy density of hierarchical pouch battery systems may improve energy storage for long-driving range of electric vehicles. Indeed, the anisotropic alignments of hierarchical electrode architectures in the large-scale LIBs provide proof of excellent capacity storage and outstanding durability and cyclability. The full-system LIB-CR2032 coin cell models maintain high specific capacity of ∼89.8% within a long-term life period of 2000 cycles, and average Coulombic efficiency of 99.8% at 1C rate for future configuration of LIB manufacturing and commercialization challenges.
From carotenoid intake to carotenoid blood and tissue concentrations – implications for dietary intake recommendations
Authors: Böhm Volker , Lietz Georg , Olmedilla-Alonso Begoña , Phelan David , Reboul Emmanuelle , Bánati Diana , Borel Patrick , Corte-Real Joana , de Lera Angel R , Desmarchelier Charles , Dulinska-Litewka Joanna , Landrier Jean-Francois , Milisav Irina , Nolan John , Porrini Marisa , Riso Patrizia , Roob Johannes M , Valanou Elisavet , Wawrzyniak Agata , Winklhofer-Roob Brigitte M , Rühl Ralph , Bohn Torsten
Published: February 2020

There is uncertainty regarding carotenoid intake recommendations, because positive and negative health effects have been found or are correlated with carotenoid intake and tissue levels (including blood, adipose tissue, and the macula), depending on the type of study (epidemiological vs intervention), the dose (physiological vs supraphysiological) and the matrix (foods vs supplements, isolated or used in combination). All these factors, combined with interindividual response variations (eg, depending on age, sex, disease state, genetic makeup), make the relationship between carotenoid intake and their blood/tissue concentrations often unclear and highly variable. Although blood total carotenoid concentrations <1000 nmol/L have been related to increased chronic disease risk, no dietary reference intakes (DRIs) exist. Although high total plasma/serum carotenoid concentrations of up to 7500 nmol/L are achievable after supplementation, a plateauing effect for higher doses and prolonged intake is apparent. In this review and position paper, the current knowledge on carotenoids in serum/plasma and tissues and their relationship to dietary intake and health status is summarized with the aim of proposing suggestions for a “normal,” safe, and desirable range of concentrations that presumably are beneficial for health. Existing recommendations are likewise evaluated and practical dietary suggestions are included.
What the Centipede Knows: Polycentricity and ‘Theory’ for Common Lawyers
Authors: Swaminathan Shivprasad
Published: February 2020

For Michael Polanyi, ‘polycentricity’ was a method of decision making—of which he saw the common law as a prime exemplar—where numerous decision makers mutually adjust their decisions to their expectations of what will pass muster with the community of decision makers, without the use of any common blueprint. This article argues that Polanyi’s idea of polycentricity—once disentangled from Lon Fuller’s borrowed, but unrelated, use of the term—has the potential to illuminate much for the legal theorist. First, from several elements in the common law’s functioning that are liable to come across as ‘muddling through’, polycentricity helps us glean a sophisticated philosophical method primed to cut through difficult moral problems. Secondly, the idea of polycentricity helps locate—and address—the incongruity between the functioning of the common law and the theoretical model typically used to construct ‘theory’ in various areas, especially private law, which manifests in practitioners’ wariness of theory.
Quantum holographic entanglement entropy to all orders in 1/N expansion
Authors: Hirano Shinji
Published: February 2020

We study holographic entanglement entropy in four-dimensional quantum gravity with negative cosmological constant. By using the replica trick and evaluating path integrals in the minisuperspace approximation, in conjunction with the Wheeler–DeWitt equation, we compute quantum corrections to the holographic entanglement entropy for a circular entangling surface on the boundary three-sphere. Similarly to our previous work on the sphere partition function, the path integrals are dominated by a replica version of asymptotically anti-de Sitter conic geometries at saddle points. As expected from a general conformal field theory argument, the final result is minus the free energy on the three-sphere, which agrees with the logarithm of the Airy partition function for the Aharony–Bergman–Jafferis–Maldacena theory that sums up all perturbative $1/N$ corrections despite the absence of supersymmetries. The all-order holographic entanglement entropy cleanly splits into two parts, (1) the $1/N$-corrected Ryu–Takayanagi minimal surface area and (2) the bulk entanglement entropy across the minimal surface, as suggested in the earlier literature. It is explicitly shown that the former comes from the localized conical singularity of the replica geometries and the latter from the replication of the bulk volume.
Anomalies and False Rejections
Authors: Chordia Tarun , Goyal Amit , Saretto Alessio
Published: February 2020

We use information from over 2 million trading strategies randomly generated using real data and from strategies that survive the publication process to infer the statistical properties of the set of strategies that could have been studied by researchers. Using this set, we compute $t$-statistic thresholds that control for multiple hypothesis testing, when searching for anomalies, at 3.8 and 3.4 for time-series and cross-sectional regressions, respectively. We estimate the expected proportion of false rejections that researchers would produce if they failed to account for multiple hypothesis testing to be about 45%.
Splicing factor SRSF1 controls T cell homeostasis and its decreased levels are linked to lymphopenia in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Katsuyama Takayuki , Martin-Delgado Ignacio Juarez , Krishfield Suzanne M , Kyttaris Vasileios C , Moulton Vaishali R
Published: February 2020

Objective

Lymphopenia is a frequent clinical manifestation and risk factor for infections in SLE, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. We previously identified novel roles for the RNA-binding protein serine arginine-rich splicing factor 1 (SRSF1) in the control of genes involved in signalling and cytokine production in human T cells. SRSF1 is decreased in T cells from patients with SLE and associates with severe disease. Because SRSF1 controls the expression of apoptosis-related genes, we hypothesized that SRSF1 controls T cell homeostasis and, when reduced, leads to lymphopenia.

Methods

We evaluated SRSF1 expression in T cells from SLE patients by immunoblots and analysed its correlation with clinical parameters. T cell conditional Srsf1 knockout mice were used to evaluate lymphoid cells and apoptosis by flow cytometry. Quantitative PCR and immunoblots were used to assess Bcl-xL mRNA and protein expression. SRSF1 overexpression was performed by transient transfections by electroporation.

Results

We found that low SRSF1 levels correlated with lymphopenia in SLE patients. Selective deletion of Srsf1 in T cells in mice led to T cell lymphopenia, with increased apoptosis and decreased expression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL. Lower SRSF1 expression correlated with low Bcl-xL levels in T cells and lower Bcl-xL levels associated with lymphopenia in SLE patients. Importantly, overexpression of SRSF1 rescued survival of T cells from patients with SLE.

Conclusion

Our studies uncovered a previously unrecognized role for SRSF1 in the control of T cell homeostasis and its reduced expression as a molecular defect that contributes to lymphopenia in systemic autoimmunity.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Phytoplasma Strains Associated with Sugarcane Grassy Shoot (SCGS) and Bermuda Grass White Leaf (BGWL) Diseases
Authors: Kirdat Kiran , Tiwarekar Bhavesh , Thorat Vipool , Narawade Nitin , Dhotre Dhiraj , Sathe Shivaji , Shouche Yogesh , Yadav Amit
Published: February 2020

We performed whole-genome sequencing of two phytoplasmas associated with sugarcane grassy shoot (SCGS) and Bermuda grass white leaf diseases. These are the first draft genomes of SCGS phytoplasma (strain SCGS) and ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma cynodontis’ (strain LW01) and may help to delineate these phytoplasmas at a finer taxonomic level.
The electronic cigarette epidemic in youth and young adults
Authors: Burt Brian , Li Jing
Published: February 2020

Electronic cigarettes are the most common form of nicotine delivery used by youth and young adults, and in 2018, the US Surgeon General declared this to be an epidemic. The developing adolescent brain is vulnerable to nicotine exposure, which can lead to long-lasting cognitive and mood disorders. Screening rates for vaping are low and lack of knowledge by adolescents, clinicians, parents, and caregivers is high. This article reviews the components of vaping, prevalence, adverse reactions, regulation, treatment, and prevention strategies related to vaping in youth and young adults.
Impact of Chronic DMARD Therapy in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis Undergoing Surgery of the Craniovertebral Junction
Authors: Elia Christopher J. , Brazdzionis James , Toor Harjyot , Takayanagi Ariel , Hariri Omid , Asgarzadie Farbod , Rao Sanjay , Guppy Kern , Tashjian Vartan
Published: February 2020

Study Design.

A multi-centered retrospective review from five institutions.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to determine whether continuing or withholding disease-modifying antirheumatoid drugs (DMARDs) in the perioperative period affect outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients undergoing arthrodesis at the craniovertebral junction

Summary of Background Data.

RA is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease that affects the cervical spine and is treated with DMARDs. Some advocate withholding DMARDs in the perioperative period due to concern for the cytotoxic effects of these medications. However, the impact of DMARDs in the perioperative period is not well understood.

Methods.

A multicenter retrospective study from five affiliated institutions was performed. Adult patients with RA on chronic DMARDs undergoing posterior arthrodesis of the craniovertebral junction (occipital-cervical or atlanto-axial arthrodesis) were identified. Patients were stratified based on whether DMARD therapy was continued (C group) or discontinued (DC group) in the perioperative period. The primary outcome was the need for reoperation and reason for reoperation.

Results.

Thirty-nine patients met inclusion criteria, 19 in C group and 20 in DC group. Average follow-up time was 42 months. Four patients (three in DC group and one in C group) required reoperation. Two patients from the DC group required readmission secondary to RA flare-up.

Conclusion.

Our cohort of RA patients who underwent occipital-cervical and C1/C2 posterior arthrodesis showed no significant differences in surgical complications when DMARD therapy was continued or discontinued in the perioperative period. The decision to continue or discontinue DMARD therapy in the perioperative period is at the discretion of the treating physician, but we encourage physicians to counsel patients regarding this theoretical risk and their tolerance of the medications as well as the risk of RA flare-up. Factors such as overall health, disease burden, nutrition, bone quality, smoking status, and other comorbid conditions are likely to have a larger influence on perioperative complications.

Level of Evidence: 3
Heavy Metal Toxicity in Chronic Renal Failure and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Glicklich Daniel , Shin Christopher T. , Frishman William H.
Published: February 2020

Exposure to heavy metals is common. This exposure is related to environmental contamination of air, water and soil, occupational exposure, accumulation in food, tobacco, and other factors. Cadmium and lead are notable for their widespread contamination, long-lasting effects in the body, and renal as well as cardiovascular toxicity. Acute toxicity due to high-level exposure, as well as chronic low-level exposure are now well-established pathogenic entities. Both chronic renal failure and ischemic heart disease patients have been treated separately in recent studies with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelation therapy. In patients with chronic kidney disease (serum creatinine: 1.5–4.0 mg/dL) and increased body lead burden, weekly low-dose chelation with calcium EDTA slowed the rate of decline in renal function in patients with diabetes and in non-diabetic patients. In patients with a history of myocardial infarction, the Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy study showed that EDTA chelation decreased the likelihood of cardiovascular events, particularly in patients with diabetes. However, heavy metal levels were not measured in this study. It is clear that more research is needed in this area. There is also a need to more frequently consider and test for the possibility of cadmium and lead toxicity in patients with increased risk, such as those with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic renal disease.
Reliability and Validity of the State-Trait Hopelessness Scale in Patients With Heart Disease and Moderate to Severe Hopelessness
Authors: Dunn Susan L. , DeVon Holli A. , Buursma Madison P. , Boven Emma , Tintle Nathan L.
Published: February 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of the State-Trait Hopelessness Scale (STHS) in patients with heart disease who report moderate to severe state hopelessness.

Methods

Reliability, concurrent validity, and convergent validity were evaluated for 20 patients.

Results

Cronbach's α for the State and Trait subscales were .81 and .79, respectively. Strong correlations between the State Hopelessness Subscale and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (r = 0.77, P < .001), State Hope Scale (r = −0.75, P < .001), EQ-5D-5L (r = 0.59, P < .005), and PROMIS-29 domains of depression (P = .72, P < .001), fatigue (P = .61, P < .001), and social roles (P = .45, P = .047) were found. There were strong correlations between the Trait Hopelessness Subscale and Trait Hope Scale (r = −0.58, P < .005), State Hope Scale (r = −0.49, P = .03), and PROMIS-29 fatigue domain (r = 0.54, P = .015).

Conclusions

Findings support the reliability and validity of the STHS for evaluation of hopelessness in patients with heart disease.