bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Solanum glaucophyllum Desf. extract reduces mineralized matrix synthesis in osteogenically differentiated rat mesenchymal stem cells in vitro
Authors: Melo Fabrício Gomes , Ocarino Natália Melo , Reis Amanda Maria Sena , Gimeno Eduardo Juan , Massone Adriana Raquel , Melo Marília Martins , Botelho Ana Flávia Machado , Stehmann João Renato , Serakides Rogéria
Published: April 2020

The Solanum glaucophyllum Desf. has been used to treat and prevent diseases in human and veterinary medicine. On the other hand, plant poisoning causes several bone diseases, among them osteoporosis, which is characterized by osteoblastic hypoplasia. Because the osteoblast is a cell derived from the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from bone marrow, the hypothesis is that the plant reduces the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of S. glaucophyllum Desf. extract on MSCs cultured in osteogenic differentiation medium. We determined by liquid chromatography that 1 ml of plant extract contained 3.8 μl of 1,25(OH)2D3 (calcitriol). Four groups of MSCs cultivated in osteogenic medium were evaluated as follows: (a) treated with 100 μl of extract/L containing 0.4 μg/L of calcitriol; (b) treated with 1 ml of extract/L containing 4 μg/L of calcitriol; (c) treated with 5 ml of extract/L containing 20 μg/L of calcitriol; and (d) a control group without extract. We performed alkaline phosphatase activity assay, analysis of MTT conversion to formazan, and evaluated the percentage of cells, and number and diameter of mineralization nodules. The expression of gene transcripts for osteopontin, bone sialoprotein and BMP‐2 was analysed by RT‐qPCR. After 21 days, there was a significant reduction in MTT conversion to formazan in treated groups, of the cellularity in the group with 5 ml of extract/L, and in the number and size of mineralization nodules in the groups treated with 1 and 5 ml of extract/L. The 5 ml extract/L concentration also reduced transcript expression of osteopontin. It is concluded that S. glaucophyllum Desf. at concentrations of 1 and 5 ml extract/L reduced mineralized matrix synthesis in MSCs cultivated in osteogenic differentiation medium, which suggests that this is one of the mechanisms by which osteoporosis occurs in intoxicated animals.
Actigraphy measurement of physical activity and energy expenditure in narcolepsy type 1, narcolepsy type 2 and idiopathic hypersomnia: A Sensewear Armband study
Authors: Bornstein Axel , Hedström Anders , Wasling Pontus
Published: April 2020

The cause of obesity in narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) patients is not fully understood. The present study investigated if a reduced physical activity could explain weight gain in NT1. Seventy‐nine patients were included in this retrospective study and divided into an NT1 group (n = 56) and a non‐NT1 group (n = 23), including NT2 and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH). Accelerometry‐derived measures of physical activity, total energy expenditure and skin temperature were collected from patients during seven consecutive days without medication. In addition, results from multiple sleep latency tests and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaire, body weight, height and CSF orexin/hypocretin were acquired. Three measurements of physical activity, including metabolic equivalent of task (MET), the average time of physical activity and step count, were compared without differences between groups. Neither could we find a significant difference in total energy expenditure or skin temperature. Thus, by analysing accelerometric data, we could not find any differences in the amount of physical activity or total energy expenditure explaining overweight in NT1.
Influence of heat treatment of goat milk on casein micelle size, rheological and textural properties of acid gels and set type yoghurts
Authors: Hovjecki Marina , Miloradovic Zorana , Rac Vladislav , Pudja Predrag , Miocinovic Jelena
Published: April 2020

Acid gels and yoghurts were made from goat milk that was heated at 72°C/30 s, 85°C/5 min, and 95°C/5 min, followed by acidification with starter culture at 43C until pH 4.6. The rheological and textural properties of acid gels and yoghurts were analyzed using dynamic low amplitude oscillatory rheology and back extrusion texture analysis, respectively. The effect of goat milk heat treatment on the mean casein micelle diameter and protein profile was also determined by dynamic light scattering and SDS PAGE electrophoresis, respectively. The shortest gelation and fermentation time was recorded for yoghurt prepared from milk heated at 85°C/5 min. Also, the pH of gelation, the storage moduli (G′) and yield stress were higher for this yoghurt, compared with the other two. Textural properties of goat milk yoghurts such as firmness and consistency were strongly affected by milk heat treatment, and the highest values were recorded for yoghurt produced from milk preheated at 85°C/5 min, as well. The largest casein micelles were measured after 85°C/5 min treatment and their size decreased at higher temperature, despite higher denaturation of whey proteins at the most intense heat regime, indicating the structure changes that influence on the acid gelation.
Identification of hepatitis B virus aetiologic antigens, HBx and Pre‐S2, in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Huang Xinxing , Young Ken H. , Guo Wei , Wang Yinping , Wang Xueju , Xi Yanfeng , Wang Lifen , Bai Ou
Published: April 2020

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has been reported to have a significant association with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, there has been no experimental evidence to determine whether the components of the hepatitis B virus are expressed in lymphoid cells. In this study, we used immunohistochemical methods to explore whether the antigens of hepatitis B virus are expressed in DLBCL lymphoma cells in HBsAg‐positive DLBCL patients (HBsAg + DLBCL). HBx antigen was detected in 48.9% of HBsAg + DLBCL patients, and the expression rate of the Pre‐S2 antigen was 57.2%. HBx expression was significantly associated with high‐level expression of c‐Myc, while the Pre‐S2 antigen was not. In this study, we demonstrated that HBx antigen and Pre‐S2 antigen could be detected in lymphoma cells, and HBx expression was related to c‐Myc expression. Our findings provide a strong basis for further study of the HBV‐infected DLBCL and molecular mechanism underlying the lymphomagenesis.
Pharmacokinetics of ceftiofur sodium in Peekapoo dogs following a single intravenous and subcutaneous injection
Authors: Yang Fang , Yang Fan , Wang Han , Zhang Chao‐Shuo , Song Zhe‐Wen , Shao Hao‐Tian , Zhang Mei
Published: April 2020

The present study aimed to determine the pharmacokinetic profiles of ceftiofur (as measured by ceftiofur and its active metabolites concentrations) in a small‐size dog breed, Peekapoo, following a single intravenous or subcutaneous injection of ceftiofur sodium. The study population comprised of five clinically healthy Peekapoo dogs with an average body weight (BW) of 3.4 kg. Each dog received either intravenous or subcutaneous injection, both at 5 mg/kg BW (calculated as pure ceftiofur). Plasma samples were collected at different time points after the administration. Ceftiofur and its active metabolites were extracted from plasma samples, derivatized, and further quantified by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The concentrations versus time data were subjected to noncompartmental analysis to obtain the pharmacokinetic parameters. The terminal half‐life (t1/2λz) was calculated as 7.40 ± 0.79 and 7.91 ± 1.53 hr following intravenous and subcutaneous injections, respectively. After intravenous treatment, the total body clearance (Cl) and volume of distribution at steady‐state (VSS) were determined as 39.91 ± 4.04 ml hr−1 kg−1 and 345.71 ± 28.66 ml/kg, respectively. After subcutaneous injection, the peak concentration (Cmax; 10.50 ± 0.22 μg/ml) was observed at 3.2 ± 1.1 hr, and the absorption half‐life (t1/2ka) and absolute bioavailability (F) were calculated as 0.74 ± 0.23 hr and 91.70%±7.34%, respectively. The pharmacokinetic profiles of ceftiofur and its related metabolites demonstrated their quick and excellent absorption after subcutaneous administration, in addition to poor distribution and slow elimination in Peekapoo dogs. Based on the time of concentration above minimum inhibitory concentration (T > MIC) values calculated here, an intravenous or subcutaneous dose at 5 mg/kg of ceftiofur sodium once every 12 hr is predicted to be effective for treating canine bacteria with a MIC value of ≤4.0 μg/ml.
Impact of osteopontin on the development of non‐alcoholic liver disease and related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Nardo Alexander D. , Grün Nicole G. , Zeyda Maximilian , Dumanic Monika , Oberhuber Georg , Rivelles Elisa , Helbich Thomas H. , Markgraf Daniel F. , Roden Michael , Claudel Thierry , Trauner Michael , Stulnig Thomas M.
Published: April 2020

Background & aims

Osteopontin, a multifunctional protein and inflammatory cytokine, is overexpressed in adipose tissue and liver in obesity and contributes to the induction of adipose tissue inflammation and non‐alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL). Studies performed in both mice and humans also point to a potential role for OPN in malignant transformation and tumour growth. To fully understand the role of OPN on the development of NAFL‐derived hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we applied a non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)‐HCC mouse model on osteopontin‐deficient (Spp1−/−) mice analysing time points of NASH, fibrosis and HCC compared to wild‐type mice.

Methods

Two‐day‐old wild‐type and Spp1−/− mice received a low‐dose streptozotocin injection in order to induce diabetes, and were fed a high‐fat diet starting from week 4. Different cohorts of mice of both genotypes were sacrificed at 8, 12 and 19 weeks of age to evaluate the NASH, fibrosis and HCC phenotypes respectively.

Results

Spp1−/− animals showed enhanced hepatic lipid accumulation and aggravated NASH, as also increased hepatocellular apoptosis and accelerated fibrosis. The worse steatotic and fibrotic phenotypes observed in Spp1−/− mice might be driven by enhanced hepatic fatty acid influx through CD36 overexpression and by a pathological accumulation of specific diacylglycerol species during NAFL. Lack of osteopontin lowered systemic inflammation, prevented HCC progression to less differentiated tumours and improved overall survival.

Conclusions

Lack of osteopontin dissociates NASH‐fibrosis severity from overall survival and HCC malignant transformation in NAFLD, and is therefore a putative therapeutic target only for advanced chronic liver disease.
The global epidemiology of hepatitis E virus infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Pengfei , Liu Jiaye , Li Yang , Su Junhong , Ma Zhongren , Bramer Wichor M. , Cao Wanlu , de Man Robert A. , Peppelenbosch Maikel P. , Pan Qiuwei
Published: April 2020

Background and aims

Hepatitis E virus (HEV), as an emerging zoonotic pathogen, is a leading cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide, with a high risk of developing chronic infection in immunocompromised patients. However, the global epidemiology of HEV infection has not been comprehensively assessed. This study aims to map the global prevalence and identify the risk factors of HEV infection by performing a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

A systematic searching of articles published in Medline, Embase, Web of science, Cochrane and Google scholar databases till July 2019 was conducted to identify studies with HEV prevalence data. Pooled prevalence among different countries and continents was estimated. HEV IgG seroprevalence of subgroups was compared and risk factors for HEV infection were evaluated using odd ratios (OR).

Results

We identified 419 related studies which comprised of 1 519 872 individuals. A total of 1 099 717 participants pooled from 287 studies of general population estimated a global anti‐HEV IgG seroprevalence of 12.47% (95% CI 10.42‐14.67; I2 = 100%). Notably, the use of ELISA kits from different manufacturers has a substantial impact on the global estimation of anti‐HEV IgG seroprevalence. The pooled estimate of anti‐HEV IgM seroprevalence based on 98 studies is 1.47% (95% CI 1.14‐1.85; I2 = 99%). The overall estimate of HEV viral RNA‐positive rate in general population is 0.20% (95% CI 0.15‐0.25; I2 = 98%). Consumption of raw meat (P = .0001), exposure to soil (P < .0001), blood transfusion (P = .0138), travelling to endemic areas (P = .0244), contacting with dogs (P = .0416), living in rural areas (P = .0349) and receiving education less than elementary school (P < .0001) were identified as risk factors for anti‐HEV IgG positivity.

Conclusions

Globally, approximately 939 million corresponding to 1 in 8 individuals have ever experienced HEV infection. 15‐110 million individuals have recent or ongoing HEV infection. Our study highlights the substantial burden of HEV infection and calls for increasing routine screening and preventive measures.
RpoN1 and RpoN2 play different regulatory roles in virulence traits, flagellar biosynthesis, and basal metabolism in Xanthomonas campestris
Authors: Li Kaihuai , Wu Guichun , Liao Yuling , Zeng Quan , Wang Haihong , Liu Fengquan
Published: April 2020

Homologous regulatory factors are widely present in bacteria, but whether homologous regulators synergistically or differentially regulate different biological functions remains mostly unknown. Here, we report that the homologous regulators RpoN1 and RpoN2 of the plant pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) play different regulatory roles with respect to virulence traits, flagellar biosynthesis, and basal metabolism. RpoN2 directly regulated Xcc fliC and fliQ to modulate flagellar synthesis in X. campestris, thus affecting the swimming motility of X. campestris. Mutation of rpoN2 resulted in reduced production of biofilms and extracellular polysaccharides in Xcc. These defects may together cause reduced virulence of the rpoN2 mutant against the host plant. Moreover, we demonstrated that RpoN1 could regulate branched‐chain fatty acid production and modulate the synthesis of diffusible signal factor family quorum sensing signals. Although RpoN1 and RpoN2 are homologues, the regulatory roles and biological functions of these proteins were not interchangeable. Overall, our report provides new insights into the two different molecular roles that form the basis for the transcriptional specialization of RpoN homologues.
Central and peripheral modulation of gastrointestinal transit in mice by DN‐9, a multifunctional opioid/NPFF receptor agonist
Authors: Xu Biao , Guo Yuanyuan , Zhang Mengna , Zhang Run , Chen Dan , Zhang Qinqin , Xiao Jian , Xu Kangtai , Li Ning , Qiu Yu , Zhu Hanwen , Niu Jiandong , Zhang Xiaoyu , Fang Quan
Published: April 2020

Background

The nonapeptide DN‐9 functions as a multifunctional agonist to opioid and neuropeptide FF (NPFF) receptors and exhibits antinociceptive effects at the central and peripheral levels.

Methods

The effects of DN‐9 on small and colonic intestinal transit were evaluated using the upper gastrointestinal (GI) transit test and colonic bead expulsion assay, respectively. Opioid and NPFF receptor antagonists were used to investigate the mechanisms of DN‐9‐induced GI inhibition. Furthermore, the agonism of the DN‐9 analog [Phg9]‐DN‐9 to opioid and NPFF receptors was tested by the cAMP assay.

Key results

Intracerebroventricular administration of DN‐9 dose‐dependently slowed upper GI transit and colonic expulsion via mu‐ and kappa‐opioid receptors in the brain, independent of the delta‐opioid receptor. Similarly, intraperitoneal injection of DN‐9 dose‐dependently inhibited GI propulsion via the peripheral opioid receptors. DN‐9‐induced GI transit inhibitions were significantly aggravated by the NPFF receptor antagonist RF9. Moreover, the DN‐9 analog [Phg9]‐DN‐9, an agonist at mu‐, delta‐, and kappa‐opioid receptors but not NPFF receptors, inhibited GI more potently than DN‐9. In addition, intracerebroventricular NPFF significantly attenuated the central inhibitory effects induced by [Phg9]‐DN‐9 and morphine. However, central and peripheral injections of NPFF or RF9 almost had no significant effects on GI transit by itself.

Conclusion and Inferences

Intracerebroventricular and intraperitoneal administrations of DN‐9 inhibit GI transit via opioid receptors in mice by central and peripheral mechanisms, respectively. In addition, the NPFF agonism of DN‐9 possesses antiopioid effects on GI transit, which might explain the reduced constipation at the antinociceptive doses.
Resource dispersion and relatedness interact to explain space use in a solitary predator
Authors: Aronsson Malin , Åkesson Mikael , Low Matthew , Persson Jens , Andrén Henrik
Published: April 2020

Resource dispersion or kin selection are commonly used to explain animal spatial and social organization. Despite this, studies examining how these factors interact in wild populations of solitary animals are rare. We used 16 years of individual‐level spatial and genetic data to disentangle how resources and relatedness influence spatial organization of a solitary predator, the Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx. As expected, space‐use overlap between neighbouring individuals increased when food resources were heterogeneous and unpredictably distributed (as predicted from resource dispersion) or when neighbours were closely related (as predicted from kin selection). However, these patterns were highly dependent on each other. Increased spatial overlap was restricted to mother–daughter dyads, with this effect only occurring in areas and during seasons when prey was clumped and irregularly distributed in the landscape. Additionally, full‐siblings with similar levels of genetic relatedness did not show these patterns, suggesting that kin selection is mediated through mother–daughter recognition, and is only beneficial under specific resource dispersion circumstances. Our results provide key insights into the flexibility of spatial organization of solitary animals, and clearly show the importance of considering the interaction between resources and kinship when assessing animal space use patterns.
Genetic variability of Polish tomato black ring virus isolates and their satellite RNAs
Authors: Zarzyńska‐Nowak Aleksandra , Hasiów‐Jaroszewska Beata , Budzyńska Daria , Trzmiel Katarzyna
Published: April 2020

Tomato black ring virus (TBRV), a member of the Nepovirus genus, is a serious plant pathogen distributed worldwide. It causes significant damage to several economically important crops, such as artichoke or strawberry. The TBRV bipartite genome consists of two polyadenylated single‐stranded positive‐sense RNA molecules, which may be accompanied by subviral particles such as defective interfering RNAs (DI RNAs) and satellite RNAs (satRNAs). In this study, we obtained the complete genome sequence of six TBRV isolates originating from different hosts and determined the presence of eight TBRV satRNAs. Subsequently, genetic variability, recombination, phylogenetic and selection pressure analyses were performed. The results revealed that the TBRV population is genetically diverse. The occurrence of potential recombination events, evidence of positive selection pressure acting on particular codons and the diversification of satRNAs within the TBRV population indicated that the virus mutates and can rapidly adapt to new environmental conditions or hosts. The presented data shed some light on TBRV evolutionary dynamics and epidemiology.
Finding the Strength in a Weak Instrument in a Study of Cognitive Outcomes Produced by Catholic High Schools
Authors: Heng Siyu , Small Dylan S. , Rosenbaum Paul R.
Published: April 2020

We show that the strength of an instrument is incompletely characterized by the proportion of compliers, and we propose and evaluate new methods that extract more information from certain settings with comparatively few compliers. Specifically, we demonstrate that, for a fixed small proportion of compliers, the presence of an equal number of always-takers and never-takers weakens an instrument, whereas the absence of always-takers or, equivalently, the absence of never-takers strengthens an instrument. In this statement, the strength of an instrument refers to its ability to recognize and reject a false hypothesis about a structural parameter. Equivalently, the strength of an instrument refers to its ability to exclude from a confidence interval a false value of a structural parameter. This ability is measured by the Bahadur efficiency of a test that assumes that the instrument is flawless, or the Bahadur efficiency of a sensitivity analysis that assumes that the instrument may be somewhat biased. When there are few compliers, the outcomes for most people are unaffected by fluctuations in the instrument, so most of the information about the treatment effect is contained in the tail of the distribution of the outcomes. Exploiting this fact, we propose new methods that emphasize the affected portion of the distribution of outcomes, thereby extracting more information from studies with few compliers. Studies of the effects of Catholic high schools on academic test performance have used ‘being Catholic’ as an instrument for ‘attending a Catholic high school’, and the application concerns such a comparison using the US National Educational Longitudinal Study. Most Catholics did not attend Catholic school, so there are few compliers, but it was rare for non-Catholics to attend Catholic school, so there are very few always-takers.
Heart failure management in dialysis patients: Many treatment options with no clear evidence
Authors: Roehm Bethany , Gulati Gaurav , Weiner Daniel E.
Published: April 2020

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) impacts approximately 20% of dialysis patients and is associated with high mortality rates. Key issues discussed in this review of HFrEF management in dialysis include dialysis modality choice, vascular access, dialysate composition, pharmacological therapies, and strategies to reduce sudden cardiac death, including the use of cardiac devices. Peritoneal dialysis and more frequent or longer duration of hemodialysis may be better tolerated due to slower ultrafiltration rates, leading to less intradialytic hypotension and better volume control; dialysate cooling and higher dialysate calcium may also have benefits. While high‐quality evidence exists for many drug classes in the non‐dialysis population, dialysis patients were excluded from major trials, and only limited data exist for many medications in kidney failure patients. Despite limited evidence, beta blocker and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker use is common in dialysis. Similarly, devices such as implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy that have proven benefits in non‐dialysis HFrEF patients have not consistently been beneficial in the limited dialysis studies. The use of leadless pacemakers and subcutaneous ICDs can mitigate future hemodialysis access limitations. Additional research is critical to address knowledge gaps in treating maintenance dialysis patients with HFrEF.
Recognizing the product of concave‐bank sedimentary processes in fluvial meander‐belt strata
Authors: Durkin Paul R. , Hubbard Stephen M. , Holbrook John , Weleschuk Zennon , Nesbit Paul , Hugenholtz Chris , Lyons Tania , Smith Derald G.
Published: April 2020

Downstream migration of point bars is an important process in meander belts. Inherent to downstream migration is sediment accumulation in concave channel banks, immediately adjacent to and downstream of convex point bars. Despite this, associated concave bank processes are often overlooked, with depositional products sparsely identified in the stratigraphic record. Counter‐point‐bar deposits are a type of concave‐bank deposit that have been positively identified in subsurface three‐dimensional seismic datasets, yet outcrop examples are not well‐constrained. This study characterizes and establishes recognition criteria of counter‐point‐bar deposits in outcrop using extensive exposure of Late‐Cretaceous meander‐belt deposits in eastern Alberta, Canada. Using a combination of traditional field‐based sedimentological analyses and three‐dimensional outcrop mapping with an Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle and Structure‐from‐Motion photogrammetry, point bar, counter‐point bar, and associated abandoned‐channel deposits, as well as adjacent floodplain deposits are identified. Bed‐scale characteristics of counter‐point‐bar deposits include interlaminated and interbedded siltstone and fine‐grained sandstone, abundant organic detritus, and evidence of deformation and slumping. At the bend scale, accretion packages bounded by internal erosion surfaces are composed of dipping siltstone and minor sandstone beds that extend from the top to the base of the meander belt. At the belt scale, positive identification relies on concave accretion surface mapping, their orientation relative to the meander‐belt edge (i.e. dipping away), and consideration of meander‐bend evolution. These results have implications for recognition of counter‐point‐bar deposits in analogous, less‐constrained data sets, which provides a foundation for more complete palaeoenvironmental interpretations.
Equity versus equality: Discourses and practices within decentralized welfare‐to‐work programs in California
Authors: Lanfranconi Lucia M. , Chang Yu‐Ling , Das Aditi , Simpson Paul J.
Published: April 2020

The U.S. welfare reform of 1996 brought about highly decentralized Welfare‐to‐Work (WTW) programs, granting discretion to states and local governments to implement policies. Previous research has emphasized racial disparities in WTW sanction rates, by focusing on state/county characteristics or frontline‐workers' biases. There is a dearth of research focusing on different understandings of equity or equality and corresponding practices embedded within WTW programs at the state and local levels. This knowledge is important to better understand how race disparities in WTW may be shaped. Our case is California's comparatively generous and highly devolved WTW program and its implementation in two most different counties. Descriptive analysis of administrative data reveals racial disparities in WTW sanctions and exemptions at the state‐level and contrasting racial disparity patterns across two counties. Drawing on an equity framework, critical discourse analysis (CDA) of policy documents and interviews at the state level reveals conflicting discourses and practices around equity and equality, leaving room for interpretation at local agencies. CDA of county‐level documents and interviews with county administrators showcases contrasting discourses and practices: while one county operates on an equality discourse that does not challenge existing disparities, the other county adopts an equity‐related discourse of providing better treatment towards some historically disadvantaged groups. The observed discourses and practices help to understand the different racial disparity patterns. We conclude that in the absence of a clear equity framework at the state level, decentralization in WTW complicates the manner in which equity discourses and practices play out at the local level.
Seeing The Untold, Speaking The Invisible: Lesbian Co‐Formations In Milan
Authors: Nessi Cecilia
Published: April 2020

This paper investigates how lesbian spaces in Milan are created, inhabited and reproduced in order to explore the existing ways of being lesbians, here and now. I reflect on how scholars can un/intentionally reinforce or challenge the dominant viewpoints of understanding difference. I use the concept of co‐formations, a non‐linear approach to intersectionality, that focuses on the relationality of difference and takes space and time into account. I argue that what is excluded from space is also excluded from the identities shaped by the same space. To conclude, I reflect upon the responsibilities and the possibilities presented by taking a critical and racialized White positionality seriously.
JC virus‐associated nephropathy in a post‐heart and ‐kidney transplantation patient
Authors: Aguilar Jack , Chang David H. , Lin Mercury , Hou Jean , Huang Edmund , Kittleson Michelle , Patel Jignesh , Kobashigawa Jon
Published: April 2020

JC virus‐associated nephropathy is rare in kidney transplant recipients, and even rarer in recipients of other solid organ transplants. We present a case of JC virus‐associated nephropathy in a heart‐kidney transplant recipient, which to our knowledge is the first case reported in the literature. We discuss the findings on renal biopsy for JC virus nephropathy and our management approach to this rare complication.
The foxtail millet (Setaria italica) terpene synthase gene family
Authors: Karunanithi Prema S. , Berrios David I. , Wang Sadira , Davis John , Shen Tong , Fiehn Oliver , Maloof Julin N. , Zerbe Philipp
Published: April 2020

Terpenoid metabolism plays vital roles in stress defense and the environmental adaptation of monocot crops. Here, we describe the identification of the terpene synthase (TPS) gene family of the panicoid food and bioenergy model crop foxtail millet (Setaria italica). The diploid S. italica genome contains 32 TPS genes, 17 of which were biochemically characterized in this study. Unlike other thus far investigated grasses, S. italica contains TPSs producing all three ent‐, (+)‐ and syn‐copalyl pyrophosphate stereoisomers that naturally occur as central building blocks in the biosynthesis of distinct monocot diterpenoids. Conversion of these intermediates by the promiscuous TPS SiTPS8 yielded different diterpenoid scaffolds. Additionally, a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP99A17), which genomically clustered with SiTPS8, catalyzes the C19 hydroxylation of SiTPS8 products to generate the corresponding diterpene alcohols. The presence of syntenic orthologs to about 19% of the S. italica TPSs in related grasses supports a common ancestry of selected pathway branches. Among the identified enzyme products, abietadien‐19‐ol, syn‐pimara‐7,15‐dien‐19‐ol and germacrene‐d‐4‐ol were detectable in planta, and gene expression analysis of the biosynthetic TPSs showed distinct and, albeit moderately, inducible expression patterns in response to biotic and abiotic stress. In vitro growth‐inhibiting activity of abietadien‐19‐ol and syn‐pimara‐7,15‐dien‐19‐ol against Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium subglutinans may indicate pathogen defensive functions, whereas the low antifungal efficacy of tested sesquiterpenoids supports other bioactivities. Together, these findings expand the known chemical space of monocot terpenoid metabolism to enable further investigations of terpenoid‐mediated stress resilience in these agriculturally important species.
Modelling the impact of non‐tariff measures on supply chains in ASEAN
Authors: Webb Mike , Strutt Anna , Gibson John , Walmsley Terrie
Published: April 2020

This paper explores the impact of reducing non‐tariff measures (NTMs) in major ASEAN countries. New econometric estimates of the impact of different types of NTMs are used in a global supply chain model to separately model the effects on intermediate products and those sold to final consumers. We also distinguish between whether the NTM cost burden is directed at exporters or importers. This paper makes important advances in modelling the heterogeneity of NTMs, offering much richer policy analysis of the impact of NTMs on supply chains in the Asia‐Pacific region than has previously been possible. We illustrate the benefits, both to the major ASEAN countries and to their trading partners, from the partial liberalisation by ASEAN countries of their most trade distorting types of NTMs. Such liberalisation increases the GDP and welfare of all countries, with the effect particularly pronounced for the major ASEAN countries themselves, especially Vietnam and the Philippines. As trade in plant products and animal products is particularly affected by NTMs, these sectors show the largest expansion of trade.
Intermittent reloading does not prevent reduction in iron availability and hepcidin upregulation caused by hindlimb unloading
Authors: Nay Kévin , Martin David , Orfila Luz , Saligaut Dany , Martin Brice , Horeau Mathieu , Cavey Thibaut , Kenawi Moussa , Island Marie‐Laure , Ropert Martine , Loréal Olivier , Koechlin‐Ramonatxo Christelle , Derbré Frédéric
Published: April 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Could skeletal muscle be involved in microgravity‐induced iron misdistribution by modulating expression of hepcidin, the master regulator of iron metabolism?

What is the main finding and its importance?

We demonstrate, in rats, that hepcidin upregulation is not a transient adaptation associated with early exposure to microgravity and that intermittent reloading does not limit microgravity‐induced iron misdistribution despite having a beneficial effect on soleus muscle wasting.

In humans, exposure to microgravity during spaceflight causes muscle atrophy, changes in iron storage and a reduction in iron availability. We previously observed that during 7 days of simulated microgravity in rats, hepcidin plays a key role in iron misdistribution, and we suggested that a crosstalk between skeletal muscle and liver could regulate hepcidin synthesis in this context. In the present study in rats, we investigated the medium‐term effects of simulated microgravity on iron metabolism. We also tested whether intermittent reloading (IR) to target skeletal muscle atrophy limits iron misdistribution efficiently. For this purpose, Wistar rats underwent 14 days of hindlimb unloading (HU) combined or not combined with daily IR. At the end of this period, the serum iron concentration and transferrin saturation were significantly reduced, whereas hepatic hepcidin mRNA was upregulated. However, the main signalling pathways involved in hepcidin synthesis in the liver (BMP–small mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD), interleukin‐6–STAT3 and ERK1/2) were unaffected. Unlike what was observed after 7 days of HU, the iron concentration in the spleen, liver and skeletal muscle was comparable between control animals and those that underwent HU or HU plus IR for 14 days. Despite its beneficial effect on soleus muscle atrophy and slow‐to‐fast myosin heavy chain distribution, IR did not significantly prevent a reduction in iron availability and hepcidin upregulation. Altogether, these results highlight that iron availability is durably reduced during longer exposure to simulated microgravity and that the related hepcidin upregulation is not a transient adaptation to these conditions. The results also suggest that skeletal muscle does not necessarily play a key role in the iron misdistribution that occurs during simulated microgravity.
Indices of acceleration atelectasis and the effect of hypergravity duration on its development
Authors: Pollock Ross D. , Gates Sonny D. , Storey Jessica A. , Radcliffe Jeremy J. , Stevenson Alec T.
Published: April 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of the study?

The aim was to determine the effects of duration of acceleration in the cranial–caudal direction (+Gz) on acceleration atelectasis and identify measurement techniques that can be used to assess it.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Non‐invasive measurement of acceleration atelectasis using electrical impedance tomography and estimates of pulmonary shunt provide more detailed assessment of acceleration atelectasis than traditional forced vital capacity measures. Using these techniques, it was found that as little as 30 s of exposure to +Gz acceleration can cause acceleration atelectasis. The results of the present study will allow a more accurate and detailed assessment of acceleration atelectasis in the future.

Recently, there have been reports of acceleration atelectasis during fast jet flight despite the use of systems designed to minimize this. Before further investigation of this, indices suitable for use in applied settings and identification of acceleration durations that elicit it are required.

Fifteen non‐aircrew subjects underwented five centrifuge exposures lasting 15, 30, 60 and 2 × 90 s with a plateau of +5 Gz (acceleration in the cranial‐caudal direction) while breathing 94% O2 during all but one control exposure (21% O2). Lung volumes and gas exchange limitation were assessed after each exposure. Regional lung impedance and compliance were measured after Gz exposure using electrical impedance tomography and the forced oscillatory technique, respectively.

The presence of acceleration atelectasis was confirmed by reductions of 10–17% in vital and inspiratory capacity after 60 and 90 s Gz exposures (P < 0.05) and resulted in reduced regional lung impedance and a gas exchange limitation of 8.1 and 12.5%, respectively (P < 0.05). There was also a small but significant decrease in regional lung impedance after 30 s exposures. Functional residual capacity and lung compliance were unchanged in atelectatic lungs (P > 0.05).

In the majority of individuals, >60 s of Gz exposure while breathing 94% O2 causes acceleration atelectasis. Electrical impedance tomography and the measurement of gas exchange limitation provide useful indicators of acceleration atelectasis. Acceleration atelectasis exerts its effects primarily through basal lung closure and reflex inspiratory limitation, both of which can be reversed by performing three maximal inspiratory breathing manoeuvres.
The Effects of Prosthesis Inversion/Eversion Stiffness on Balance-Related Variability During Level Walking: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kim Myunghee , Lyness Hannah , Chen Tianjian , Collins Steven H.
Published: April 2020

Prosthesis features that enhance balance are desirable to people with transtibial amputation. Ankle inversion/eversion compliance is intended to improve balance on uneven ground, but its effects remain unclear on level ground. We posited that increasing ankle inversion/eversion stiffness during level-ground walking would reduce balance-related effort by assisting in recovery from small disturbances in frontal-plane motions. We performed a pilot test with an ankle-foot prosthesis emulator programmed to apply inversion/eversion torques in proportion to the deviation from a nominal inversion/eversion position trajectory. We applied a range of stiffnesses to clearly understand the effect of the stiffness on balance-related effort, hypothesizing that positive stiffness would reduce effort while negative stiffness would increase effort. Nominal joint angle trajectories were calculated online as a moving average over several steps. In experiments with K3 ambulators with unilateral transtibial amputation (N = 5), stiffness affected step-width variability, average step width, margin of stability, intact-foot center of pressure variability, and user satisfaction (p ≤ 0.05, Friedman's test), but not intact-limb evertor average, intact-limb evertor variability, and metabolic rate (p ≥ 0.38, Friedman's test). Compared to zero stiffness, high positive stiffness reduced step-width variability by 13%, step width by 3%, margin of stability by 3%, and intact-foot center of pressure variability by 14%, whereas high negative stiffness had opposite effects and decreased satisfaction by 63%. The results of this pilot study suggest that positive ankle inversion stiffness can reduce active control requirements during level walking.
Specialized Strain Energy Functions for Modeling the Contribution of the Collagen Network (Waniso) to the Deformation of Soft Tissues
Authors: Anssari-Benam Afshin , Pani Martino , Bucchi Andrea
Published: April 2020

A popular framework in continuum mechanics modeling of soft tissues is the use of an additive split of the total strain energy function (W) into the contribution of the isotropic matrix (Wiso) and the anisotropic collagen fiber networks (Waniso): W = Wiso + Waniso. This paper presents specialized strain energy functions for the Waniso part of this additive split, in the form of Waniso(I4) or Waniso(I4, I6) for one or two fiber families, respectively, accounting for the deformation and contribution of the collagen fibers’ network. The models have their origins in the statistical mechanics treatment of chains network based on a non-Gaussian, a Gaussian, and a modified Gaussian approach. The models are applied to extant experimental stress-stretch data, across multi-scales from a single collagen molecule to the network ensemble, demonstrating an excellent agreement. Due to the direct physical structural basis of the model parameters and therefore their objectivity and uniqueness, these models are proposed as advantageous options next to the existing phenomenological continuum-based strain energy functions in the literature. In addition, and while not exploited in this paper, since the model parameters are inherent structural properties of the collagen molecular chains, they may be established a priori via imaging or molecular techniques. Therefore, the proposed models allow the important possibility of precluding the need for destructive mechanical tests and calibration a posteriori, instead of paving the way for predicting the mechanical behavior of the collagen network from pre-established structural parameters. These features render the proposed models as attractive choices for application in continuum-based modeling of collagenous soft tissues.
Thermal Characterization of a Turbulent Free Jet With Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence
Authors: Seitz Sara , Wright Lesley M.
Published: April 2020

Two-color, toluene-based, planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) is utilized to characterize the thermal structure of a turbulent, free jet. The PLIF technique has been used to measure concentration gradients for combustion applications, but its use to quantify thermal gradients is limited. To validate the method, compressed air is seeded with toluene particles. The seeded airflow is heated to temperatures varying from 300 to 375 K, and the heated jet exits a 1.27-cm diameter orifice into quiescent, room temperature air. The jet Reynolds number is varied from 5000 to 15,000. As the jet exits the orifice, the toluene particles fluorescence across a 266 nm laser light sheet which ultimately provides a two-dimensional temperature distribution of the free jet. The rigorous calibration procedure for the PLIF technique is described along with the seeding nuances needed to quantify the thermal structure of the jets. The PLIF technique has been demonstrated for this fundamental flow field, and it has proven to be applicable to more complex heat transfer and cooling applications. Furthermore, the time-averaged temperature distributions obtained in this investigation can be used in the validation of turbulent computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solvers.
Understanding the Role of Fathers in Children’s Physical Activity: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Neshteruk Cody D. , Jones Deborah J. , Skinner Asheley , Ammerman Alice , Tate Deborah F. , Ward Dianne S.
Published: April 2020

Background: Parents are influential in supporting children’s physical activity, but relatively little is known about the role of fathers in children’s physical activity. Methods: Semi-structured interviews (n = 24) were conducted with low-active and active fathers of children 3–11 years old. Deductive thematic analysis was used to identify fathers’ physical activity practices and understand how fathers interact with their children around physical activity. Results: All fathers demonstrated coparticipation in physical activity with their children. Other physical activity practices commonly used by fathers included as follows: facilitation of active opportunities, modeling, involvement through coaching or teaching, and encouragement. In addition, fathers viewed physical activity as an opportunity to spend time with their children to bond and develop shared interests. Finally, fathers perceived their role in children’s physical activity to be different compared with mothers. Regarding father activity level, active fathers discussed modeling more frequently and tended to engage in a variety of different activities compared with low-active fathers. Conclusions: Fathers play an important role in their children’s physical activity, suggesting that physical activity may be one context in which to prompt paternal involvement, foster father–child relationships, and strengthen paternal parenting.
Trends in Muscle-Strengthening Exercise Among Nationally Representative Samples of United States Adults Between 2011 and 2017
Authors: Bennie Jason A. , Kolbe-Alexander Tracy , Seghers Jan , Biddle Stuart J.H. , De Cocker Katrien
Published: April 2020

Background: Muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE) is a component of the World Health Organization’s “2010 Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health.” However, its participation trends are seldom examined in physical activity surveillance. This study describes the prevalence, trends, and correlates of MSE among a large sample of US adults. Methods: The data were analyzed from the 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017 US Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System surveys. Self-reported MSE participation was assessed using the same validated survey item. Population-weighted proportions were calculated for (1) “insufficient” (0–1 time/wk) or (2) “sufficient MSE” (≥2 times/wk). Prevalence ratios of those reporting sufficient MSE across sociodemographic characteristics were calculated using multivariate Poisson regression. Results: The data were available for 1,735,626 participants (≥18 y). Over the 7-year monitoring period, the prevalence of sufficient MSE showed a small (1.2%) but statistically significant increase (2011 = 29.1%; 2013 = 29.4%; 2015 = 30.2%; and 2017 = 30.3%, P < .001 for linear trend). Older adults, women, and those with lower education/income were consistently less likely to report sufficient MSE, compared with their counterparts. Conclusions: From 2011 to 2017, between 69.7% and 70.9% of US adults did not meet the MSE guidelines. Consistently low participation levels highlight the need to provide support for uptake of or adherence to MSE at the population level.
Redox Coenzyme F
420
Biosynthesis in
Thermomicrobia
Involves Reduction by Stand-Alone Nitroreductase Superfamily Enzymes
Authors: Braga Daniel , Hasan Mahmudul , Kröber Tabea , Last Daniel , Lackner Gerald
Published: April 2020

Coenzyme F
420
is a redox cofactor of
Archaea
and
Actinobacteria
, as well as some Gram-negative bacteria. Its involvement in processes such as the biosynthesis of antibiotics, the degradation of xenobiotics, and asymmetric enzymatic reductions renders F
420
of great relevance for biotechnology. Recently, a new biosynthetic step during the formation of F
420
in
Actinobacteria
was discovered, involving an enzyme domain belonging to the versatile nitroreductase (NTR) superfamily, while this process remained blurred in Gram-negative bacteria. Here, we show that a similar biosynthetic route exists in
Thermomicrobia
, although key biosynthetic enzymes show different domain architectures and are only distantly related. Our results shed light on the biosynthesis of F
420
in Gram-negative bacteria and refine the knowledge about sequence-function relationships within the NTR superfamily of enzymes. Appreciably, these results offer an alternative route to produce F
420
in Gram-negative model organisms and unveil yet another biochemical facet of this pathway to be explored by synthetic microbiologists.
A Mediterranean Diet Intervention Reduces the Levels of Salivary Periodontopathogenic Bacteria in Overweight and Obese Subjects
Authors: Laiola Manolo , De Filippis Francesca , Vitaglione Paola , Ercolini Danilo
Published: April 2020

Changes in dietary behavior with increased adherence to a Mediterranean diet can determine a reduction of periodontopathogenic bacterial abundances in the saliva of overweight subjects with cardiometabolic risk due to an unhealthy lifestyle, without any change in individual energy intake, nutrient intake, and physical activity.