bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socioeconomic changes predict genome-wide DNA methylation in childhood
Authors: Liu Jiaxuan , Cerutti Janine , Lussier Alexandre A , Zhu Yiwen , Smith Brooke J , Smith Andrew D A C , Dunn Erin C
Published: July 2022

Childhood socioeconomic position (SEP) is a major determinant of health and well-being across the entire life course. To effectively prevent and reduce health risks related to SEP, it is critical to better understand when and under what circumstances socioeconomic adversity shapes biological processes. DNA methylation (DNAm) is one such mechanism for how early life adversity ‘gets under the skin’. In this study, we evaluated the dynamic relationship between SEP and DNAm across childhood using data from 946 mother–child pairs in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. We assessed six SEP indicators spanning financial, occupational and residential domains during very early childhood (ages 0–2), early childhood (ages 3–5) and middle childhood (ages 6–7). Epigenome-wide DNAm was measured at 412 956 cytosine-guanines (CpGs) from peripheral blood at age 7. Using an innovative two-stage structured life-course modeling approach, we tested three life-course hypotheses for how SEP shapes DNAm profiles—accumulation, sensitive period and mobility. We showed that changes in the socioeconomic environment were associated with the greatest differences in DNAm, and that middle childhood may be a potential sensitive period when socioeconomic instability is especially important in shaping DNAm. Top SEP-related DNAm CpGs were overrepresented in genes involved in pathways important for neural development, immune function and metabolic processes. Our findings highlight the importance of socioeconomic stability during childhood and if replicated, may emphasize the need for public programs to help children and families experiencing socioeconomic instability and other forms of socioeconomic adversity.
Convergent biological pathways underlying the Kallmann syndrome-linked genes Hs6st1 and Fgfr1
Authors: Moon Sohyun , Zhao Ying-Tao
Published: July 2022

Kallmann syndrome (KS) is a congenital disorder characterized by idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and olfactory dysfunction. KS is linked to variants in >34 genes, which are scattered across the human genome and show disparate biological functions. Although the genetic basis of KS is well studied, the mechanisms by which disruptions of these diverse genes cause the same outcome of KS are not fully understood. Here we show that disruptions of KS-linked genes affect the same biological processes, indicating convergent molecular mechanisms underlying KS. We carried out machine learning-based predictions and found that KS-linked mutations in heparan sulfate 6-O-sulfotransferase 1 (HS6ST1) are likely loss-of-function mutations. We next disrupted Hs6st1 and another KS-linked gene, fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (Fgfr1), in mouse neuronal cells and measured transcriptome changes using RNA sequencing. We found that disruptions of Hs6st1 and Fgfr1 altered genes in the same biological processes, including the upregulation of genes in extracellular pathways and the downregulation of genes in chromatin pathways. Moreover, we performed genomics and bioinformatics analyses and found that Hs6st1 and Fgfr1 regulate gene transcription likely via the transcription factor Sox9/Sox10 and the chromatin regulator Chd7, which are also associated with KS. Together, our results demonstrate how different KS-linked genes work coordinately in a convergent signaling pathway to regulate the same biological processes, thus providing new insights into KS.
Sexual dysfunction and disorders as a consequence of infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Leeners Brigitte , Tschudin Sibil , Wischmann Tewes , Kalaitzopoulos Dimitrios Rafail
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Sexuality has a key impact on quality of life and on reproductive health. Infertility often results in sexual dysfunction. Despite this close association, addressing sexuality is not a standard component of infertility counselling, especially since in most countries sexual medicine is not a core element of specialist training. Even today, many doctors and patients consider discussing sexuality to be more challenging than other aspects of reproductive medicine. The present review addresses the complex consequences of infertility on sexuality.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

Our goals were: (i) to identify the prevalence of sexual problems resulting from infertility, (ii) to evaluate characteristics of sexual difficulties and disorders resulting from infertility and (iii) to analyse factors involved in the complex association between sexual problems and infertility.

SEARCH METHODS

A systematic search for publications containing keywords related to sexual disorders and infertility was performed via PubMed, Web of Science and Psyndex. A total of 170 manuscripts published between January 1966 and April 2021 were identified after verification of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The reference lists in these manuscripts were searched for further relevant literature. Studies were reviewed for quality-related methodological details.

OUTCOMES

Couples diagnosed with infertility have an increased risk of sexual disorders. Loss of sexual desire and erectile dysfunction are among the most frequent sexual disorders resulting from infertility. Currently available literature reflects only fragmentarily the complexity of the diverse interactions. Sexuality plays out against the backdrop of interactions among personal, cultural, infertility-related and sexuality-related factors. Considering this complexity, it is crucial to evaluate individual profiles as well as partnership interactions to avoid a negative impact of infertility on a couple’s sexual life.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

Identifying sexual disorders as relevant considerations in the context of infertility and exploring their impact during the entire course of diagnosis and treatment constitute an important contribution to comprehensively care for the couples concerned. Counselling should focus on preventing the onset and aggravation of sexual disorders. As sexuality represents a major component of quality of life and of partnership, such support may improve not only the current overall wellbeing but also the chances of a satisfactory long-term partnership and family life.
Aquatic Walking and Swimming Kinematics of Neonate and Juvenile Epaulette Sharks
Authors: Porter Marianne E , Hernandez Andrea V , Gervais Connor R , Rummer Jodie L
Published: July 2022

The epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum, is a small, reef-dwelling, benthic shark that—using its paired fins—can walk, both in and out of water. Within the reef flats, this species experiences short periods of elevated CO2 and hypoxia as well as fluctuating temperatures as reef flats become isolated with the outgoing tide. Past studies have shown that this species is robust (i.e., respiratory and metabolic performance, behavior) to climate change-relevant elevated CO2 levels as well as hypoxia and anoxia tolerant. However, epaulette shark embryos reared under ocean warming conditions hatch earlier and smaller, with altered patterns and coloration, and with higher metabolic costs than their current-day counterparts. Findings to date suggest that this species has adaptations to tolerate some, but perhaps not all, of the challenging conditions predicted for the 21st century. As such, the epaulette shark is emerging as a model system to understand vertebrate physiology in changing oceans. Yet, few studies have investigated the kinematics of walking and swimming, which may be vital to their biological fitness, considering their habitat and propensity for challenging environmental conditions. Given that neonates retain embryonic nutrition via an internalized yolk sac, resulting in a bulbous abdomen, while juveniles actively forage for worms, crustaceans, and small fishes, we hypothesized that difference in body shape over early ontogeny would affect locomotor performance. To test this, we examined neonate and juvenile locomotor kinematics during the three aquatic gaits they utilize—slow-to-medium walking, fast walking, and swimming—using 13 anatomical landmarks along the fins, girdles, and body midline. We found that differences in body shape did not alter kinematics between neonates and juveniles. Overall velocity, fin rotation, axial bending, and tail beat frequency and amplitude were consistent between early life stages. Data suggest that the locomotor kinematics are maintained between neonate and juvenile epaulette sharks, even as their feeding strategy changes. Studying epaulette shark locomotion allows us to understand this—and perhaps related—species’ ability to move within and away from challenging conditions in their habitats. Such locomotor traits may not only be key to survival, in general, as a small, benthic mesopredator (i.e., movements required to maneuver into small reef crevices to avoid aerial and aquatic predators), but also be related to their sustained physiological performance under challenging environmental conditions, including those associated with climate change—a topic worthy of future investigation.
Tools for assessing quality and risk of bias in Mendelian randomization studies: a systematic review
Authors: Spiga Francesca , Gibson Mark , Dawson Sarah , Tilling Kate , Davey Smith George , Munafò Marcus R , Higgins Julian P T
Published: July 2022

Background

The use of Mendelian randomization (MR) in epidemiology has increased considerably in recent years, with a subsequent increase in systematic reviews of MR studies. We conducted a systematic review of tools designed for assessing risk of bias and/or quality of evidence in MR studies and a review of systematic reviews of MR studies.

Methods

We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Web of Science, preprints servers and Google Scholar for articles containing tools for assessing, conducting and/or reporting MR studies. We also searched for systematic reviews and protocols of systematic reviews of MR studies. From eligible articles we collected data on tool characteristics and content, as well as details of narrative description of bias assessment.

Results

Our searches retrieved 2464 records to screen, from which 14 tools, 35 systematic reviews and 38 protocols were included in our review. Seven tools were designed for assessing risk of bias/quality of evidence in MR studies and evaluation of their content revealed that all seven tools addressed the three core assumptions of instrumental variable analysis, violation of which can potentially introduce bias in MR analysis estimates.

Conclusion

We present an overview of tools and methods to assess risk of bias/quality of evidence in MR analysis. Issues commonly addressed relate to the three standard assumptions of instrumental variables analyses, the choice of genetic instrument(s) and features of the population(s) from which the data are collected (particularly in two-sample MR), in addition to more traditional non-MR-specific epidemiological biases. The identified tools should be tested and validated for general use before recommendations can be made on their widespread use. Our findings should raise awareness about the importance of bias related to MR analysis and provide information that is useful for assessment of MR studies in the context of systematic reviews.
Rankin–Selberg Integrals and L-Functions for Covering Groups of General Linear Groups
Authors: Kaplan Eyal
Published: July 2022

Let ${\operatorname {GL}}_c^{(m)}$ be the covering group of ${\operatorname {GL}}_c$, obtained by restriction from the $m$-fold central extension of Matsumoto of the symplectic group. We introduce a new family of Rankin–Selberg integrals for representations of ${\operatorname {GL}}_c^{(m)}\times {\operatorname {GL}}_k^{(m)}$. The construction is based on certain assumptions, which we prove here for $k=1$. Using the integrals, we define local $\gamma $-, $L$-, and $\epsilon $-factors. Globally, our construction is strong in the sense that the integrals are truly Eulerian. This enables us to define the completed $L$-function for cuspidal representations and prove its standard functional equation.
Vanishing Theorems for Sheaves of Logarithmic Differential Forms on Compact Kähler Manifolds
Authors: Huang Chunle , Liu Kefeng , Wan Xueyuan , Yang Xiaokui
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we first establish an $L^2$-type Dolbeault isomorphism for logarithmic differential forms by Hrmander’s $L^2$ estimates. By using this isomorphism and the construction of smooth Hermitian metrics, we obtain a number of new vanishing theorems for sheaves of logarithmic differential forms on compact Kähler manifolds with simple normal crossing divisors, which generalize several classical vanishing theorems, including Norimatsu’s vanishing theorem, Girbau’s vanishing theorem, Le Potier’s vanishing theorem, and a version of the Kawamata–Viehweg vanishing theorem.
Classification of Integrable Boundary Equations for Integrable Systems on Quad-Graphs
Authors: Sun Pengyu , Zhang Cheng
Published: July 2022

In the context of integrable systems on quad-graphs, the boundary consistency around a half of a rhombic dodecahedron, as a companion notion to the three-dimensional consistency around a cube, was introduced as a criterion for defining integrable boundary conditions for quad-graph systems with a boundary. In this paper, we formalize the notions of boundary equations as boundary conditions for quad-graph systems, and provide a systematic method for solving the boundary consistency, which results in a classification of integrable boundary equations for quad-graph equations in the Adler–Bobenko–Suris classification. This relies on factorizing, first the quad-graph equations into pairs of dual boundary equations, and then the consistency on a rhombic dodecahedron into two equivalent boundary consistencies. Generalization of the method to rhombic-symmetric equations is also considered.
Malaria Transmission Intensity Likely Modifies RTS, S/AS01 Efficacy Due to a Rebound Effect in Ghana, Malawi, and Gabon
Authors: Bell Griffin J , Goel Varun , Essone Paulin , Dosoo David , Adu Bright , Mensah Benedicta Ayiedu , Gyaase Stephaney , Wiru Kenneth , Mougeni Fabrice , Osei Musah , Minsoko Pamela , Sinai Cyrus , Niaré Karamoko , Juliano Jonathan J , Hudgens Michael , Ghansah Anita , Kamthunzi Portia , Mvalo Tisungane , Agnandji Selidji Todagbe , Bailey Jeffrey A , Asante Kwaku Poku , Emch Michael
Published: July 2022

Background

RTS,S/AS01 is the first malaria vaccine to be approved and recommended for widespread implementation by the World Health Organization (WHO). Trials reported lower vaccine efficacies in higher-incidence sites, potentially due to a “rebound” in malaria cases in vaccinated children. When naturally acquired protection in the control group rises and vaccine protection in the vaccinated wanes concurrently, malaria incidence can become greater in the vaccinated than in the control group, resulting in negative vaccine efficacies.

Methods

Using data from the 2009–2014 phase III trial (NCT00866619) in Lilongwe, Malawi; Kintampo, Ghana; and Lambaréné, Gabon, we evaluate this hypothesis by estimating malaria incidence in each vaccine group over time and in varying transmission settings. After estimating transmission intensities using ecological variables, we fit models with 3-way interactions between vaccination, time, and transmission intensity.

Results

Over time, incidence decreased in the control group and increased in the vaccine group. Three-dose efficacy in the lowest-transmission-intensity group (0.25 cases per person-year [CPPY]) decreased from 88.2% to 15.0% over 4.5 years, compared with 81.6% to −27.7% in the highest-transmission-intensity group (3 CPPY).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that interventions, including the fourth RTS,S dose, that protect vaccinated individuals during the potential rebound period should be implemented for high-transmission settings.
Host Respiratory Transcriptome Signature Associated with Poor Outcome in Children with Influenza–Staphylococcus aureus Pneumonia
Authors: Britto Carl , Mohorianu Irina , Yeung Tracy , Cheung Elaine , Novak Tanya , Hall Mark W , Mourani Peter M , Weiss Scott L , Thomas Neal J , Markovitz Barry , Randolph Adrienne G , Moffitt Kristin L
Published: July 2022

Respiratory coinfection of influenza with Staphylococcus aureus often causes severe disease; methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) coinfection is frequently fatal. Understanding disease pathogenesis may inform therapies. We aimed to identify host and pathogen transcriptomic (messenger RNA) signatures from the respiratory compartment of pediatric patients critically ill with influenza–S. aureus coinfection (ISAC), signatures that predict worse outcomes. Messenger RNA extracted from endotracheal aspirate samples was evaluated for S. aureus and host transcriptomic biosignatures. Influenza-MRSA outcomes were worse, but of 190 S. aureus virulence-associated genes, 6 were differentially expressed between MRSA-coinfected versus methicillin-susceptible S. aureus–coinfected patients, and none discriminated outcome. Host gene expression in patients with ISAC was compared with that in patients with influenza infection alone. Patients with poor clinical outcomes (death or prolonged multiorgan dysfunction) had relatively reduced expression of interferons and down-regulation of interferon γ–induced immune cell chemoattractants CXCL10 and CXCL11. In ISAC, airway host but not pathogen gene expression profiles predicted worse clinical outcomes.
How much do radiative transfer models influence red:far-red simulation and subsequent modelling of plant photomorphogenesis?
Authors: Couturier Arthur , Frak Elzbieta , Rambaud Quentin , Louarn Gaëtan , Barillot Romain , Durand Jean-Louis , Escobar-Gutiérrez Abraham , Combes Didier
Published: July 2022

Red:far-red ratio (R:FR) plays an important role in the architectural dynamics of vegetation. The integration of its effects into the crop model and/or into modelling work on plant dynamics over years requires new methods for describing R:FR spatial and temporal variability. This study assesses the sensitivity of simulating plant morphogenesis to the methods of R:FR modelling. The approach consisted in using a generic individual-based legume model coupled with radiative transfer models allowing the computation of R:FR values. Three methods of computation of R:FR were evaluated based on reference radiative transfer model CANESTRA and on turbid-medium model RIRI. The effects of R:FR simulated by the three methods on the simulation of plant morphogenesis were evaluated for the petiole and internodes of two contrasted plant architectures (alfalfa and white clover) at different stages of plant development and density. Plant morphogenesis expressed by the simulated petiole and internode length was sensitive to R:FR values provided by the models, especially at an early stage of development. Contrasted plant architectures exhibit different ranges of sensitivity to R:FR computed by the different models. However, this sensitivity follows a similar pattern between the two types of plant architecture, also for other conditions such as density or stage of development. This study highlights that the choice of radiative transfer model is of main importance for modelling plant morphogenetical responses, in particular at an early stage of plant development. The role of coupling of the FSP and radiative transfer models to address photomorphogenetic issues in order to consider plant-to-plant interactions is discussed.
Association between sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge and practice of COVID-19 measures among households in Mombasa and Kilifi County, Kenya
Authors: Mwai J , Mutai J , Kaduka L , Abdi M , Ahmed I , Ndemwa P , Nyole D , Omogi J
Published: July 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a severe acute respiratory disease. The Kenyan Ministry of Health (MoH) put in place measures that included mandatory face masking, hand and cough hygiene and social and physical distancing to reduce disease transmission and increase prevention efforts. The primary objective of this study was to determine how sociodemographic characteristics affect knowledge and practice of the above measures.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess water, sanitation and hygiene practices for the prevention and control of COVID-19 in Kilifi and Mombasa Counties, Kenya. Data collection was accomplished through a mobile data collection tool. Principal component analysis was used to create a wealth index using data on asset ownership and housing characteristics. Bloom cut-off points of 80–100%, 60–79% and ≤59% were used to determine knowledge and practice.

Results

Of the 612 households, 339 (55.4%) were from Kilifi County and 273 (44.6%) were from Mombasa County. A total of 431 (70.4%) were female and the mean age of the household members was 38.2±14.8 y.

Almost all (99.2%) respondents were aware of COVID-19, with 60% knowing prevention, symptoms and persons at a higher risk of contracting the virus. Females had the highest knowledge of COVID-19 and were likely to practice prevention and control measures, unlike males. Age was significant (p<0.05) with knowledge and practice.

Conclusions

The sociodemographic characteristics of populations play a key role in behavioural aspects as far as prevention and control of COVID-19 are concerned. There is a need for partnerships between the MoH and county governments to put in place a multisectoral community approach to advance feasible behavioural interventions among targeted populations towards combating the spread of COVID-19.
Why International Organizations Differ in Their Output Productivity: A Comparative Study
Authors: Panke Diana , Hohlstein Franziska , Polat Gurur
Published: July 2022

Analyzing the performance of international organizations (IOs) in a comparative manner is of high importance. Yet IOs differ remarkably, which renders comparisons difficult. This article examines IO output productivity as an important precondition for IOs to have effects on their members (outcome) and on the ground (impact). We distinguish between the number and volume of IO policy outputs and measure both productivity components for ninety-eight IOs. Drawing on Easton's system theory, we derive several hypotheses on how input, throughput, and feedback loop factors impact output productivity and examine them with quantitative methods. This reveals that input matters as IOs with more member states are likely to have broader meeting agendas and a higher number of items on the negotiation agenda, which furthers the output productivity of IOs. Throughput matters as well as. Whereas IOs with high meeting frequencies give delegates more opportunities to negotiate and pass policies, which increases the number and volume of outputs, the access of non-state actors to negotiations slows down the decision-making process, which reduces IO output productivity. Finally, with respect to the feedback loop, this article shows that transparent decision-making exerts an accountability pressure on delegates, which has a positive effect on IO output productivity.
Patterns of Antinuclear Antibodies in a New Variant of Endemic Pemphigus in El Bagre, Colombia, Colocalizing with Antigens against MIZAP, ARVCF, p0071, and Desmoplakins I and II
Authors: Velez Ana Maria Abreu , Upegui-Zapata Yulieth Alexandra , Valencia-Yepes Carlos Andres , Upegui-Quiceño Eduardo , Howard Michael S
Published: July 2022

Background

A new variant of endemic pemphigus foliaceus (EPF) has been documented, El Bagre-EPF. We aimed to study antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) in these patients.

Methods

We performed a case-control study, testing 57 patients affected by this disease and 57 controls from the endemic area matched by work activity and demographics. The participants were evaluated clinically as well as by detection of ANAs utilizing HEp-2 cells. We utilized Triton-induced partial permeabilization of the cell membranes, allowing for the visualization of intracellular and intranuclear antigens. We also immunoadsorbed the ANAs using synthetic peptides to elucidate the nature of the ANA.

Results

We detected the presence of a new pattern of ANAs. The new pattern of ANAs was seen in 24% of the El Bagre-EPF patients, compared to our controls (P < 0.001). The new ANA pattern consisted of a thin nuclear and nucleolar rim, finely speckled nucleolar, nuclear membrane pores stains, and a positive intranuclear stain directed against small nuclear components, as well as cytoplasmic deposits of autoantibodies were also observed. The new ANAs pattern perfectly colocalized with commercial antibodies to miocardium-enriched zonula occlusans-1 associated protein (MIZAP), armadillo repeat gene deleted in velo-cardio-facial syndrome (ARVCF), p0071 and desmoplakins I–II (all from Progen Biotechnik). Additionally in 14% of patients with El Bagre-EPF forme fruste and hyperpigmented clinical presentations, a classic homogeneous ANA pattern was observed with autoantibodies specific for Ro, La, Sm, and double-stranded DNA antigens. Immunoadsorption with peptide-based sequences from MIZAP, ARVCF, p0071 and desmoplakins I–II removed the new ANA pattern.

Conclusions

We describe a new pattern of ANAs in El Bagre-EPF, colocalizing with autoantibodies directed against MIZAP, ARVCF, p0071, and desmoplakins I–II.
A Siamese hybrid neural network framework for few-shot fault diagnosis of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles
Authors: Li Chuanjiang , Li Shaobo , Zhang Ansi , Yang Lei , Zio Enrico , Pecht Michael , Gryllias Konstantinos
Published: July 2022

As fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (FW-UAVs) are used for diverse civil and scientific missions, failure incidents are on the rise. Recent rapid developments in deep learning (DL) techniques offer advanced solutions for fault diagnosis of unmanned aerial vehicles. However, most existing DL-based diagnostic models only perform well when trained on massive amounts of labeled data, which are challenging to collect due to the complexity of the FW-UAVs systems and service environments. To address these issues, this paper presents a novel framework, Siamese hybrid neural network (SHNN), to achieve few-shot fault diagnosis of FW-UAVs in an intelligent manner. “State map” strategy is firstly proposed to transform raw flight data into similar and dissimilar sample pairs as input. The proposed SHNN framework consists of two identical networks that share weights with each other, and each subnetwork is designed with a hybrid one-dimensional conventional neural network and long short-term memory model as feature encoder, whose generated feature embedding is used to measure the similarity of input pairs via a distance function in the metric space. In comprehensive experiments on a real flight dataset of an FW-UAV, the SHNN framework achieves competitive results compared to other models, demonstrating its effectiveness in both binary and multi-class few-shot fault diagnosis.
Cross-Resistance and Fitness Costs of the cis-Nitromethylene Neonicotinoid Cycloxaprid Resistance in Melon Aphid, Aphis gossypii (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Dong Wenyang , Yang Hengli , Wang Cuicui , Li Hongbao , Shang Jiao , Chen Zhao , Zhang Huihui , Liang Pei , Gao Xiwu , Shi Xueyan
Published: July 2022

The melon aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover, is an important pest on various vegetables around the world and has developed resistance to neonicotinoids in fields. Cycloxaprid is a novel cis-nitromethylene configuration neonicotinoid insecticide that is different from trans-configuration neonicotinoids like imidacloprid and thiamethoxam. Herein, the cross-resistance to the other seven insecticides and fitness costs were investigated in the cycloxaprid-resistant A. gossypii strain (Cpd-R), which has developed 69.5-fold resistance to cycloxaprid. The results showed that the Cpd-R strain had very low levels of cross-resistance to imidacloprid (4.3-fold), acetamiprid (2.9-fold), thiamethoxam (3.7-fold), nitenpyram (6.1-fold), flupyradifurone (2.2-fold), and sulfoxaflor (4.5-fold), while it exhibited a cross-resistance to dinotefuran (10.6-fold). The fitness of the Cpd-R strain by life table analysis was only 0.799 compared to the susceptible strain (Cpd-S). This Cpd-R strain exhibited significantly reduction in fecundity, oviposition days, and developmental time of nymph stage compared to the Cpd-S strain. Moreover, the expression levels of some genes related to the development and reproduction, including EcR, USP, JHAMT, and JHEH were significantly up-regulated, while Vg was down-regulated in the Cpd-R strain. This study indicates that the Cpd-R strain possessed a certain fitness cost. The above research results are useful for rational application of cycloxaprid and implementing the appropriate resistance management strategy for A. gossypii.
Journalism as historical repair work: addressing present injustice through the second draft of history
Authors: Usher Nikki , Carlson Matt
Published: July 2022

As part of contemporary racial reckoning, institutions are acknowledging their historical legacies of racism and discrimination. Media institutions, given their role in the social construction of reality, have been called to account by racial justice activists for perpetuating the white-dominant status quo. We develop a framework for recognizing and interpreting efforts at historical repair work in journalism, second draft of history journalism (SDOH), whereby contemporary consciousness about racial injustice, structural inequality, and exclusionary practices inside and outside journalism prompt news organizations to revisit the historical record. Through case study exemplars at U.S. newspapers, we define the three main modes—active, reflective, and active/reflective, and four key characteristics of SDOH journalism—discursive consciousness, institutional consciousness, moral consciousness, and past orientation. We address the contested boundaries of journalism’s cultural authority as journalists negotiate between SDOH journalism’s moral advocacy in pursuit of social justice and journalists’ professional journalistic norms of objectivity and neutrality.
The Rhizobium tropici CIAT 899 NodD2 protein promotes symbiosis and extends rhizobial nodulation range by constitutive nodulation factor synthesis
Authors: Ayala-García Paula , Jiménez-Guerrero Irene , Jacott Catherine N , López-Baena Francisco Javier , Ollero Francisco Javier , del Cerro Pablo , Pérez-Montaño Francisco
Published: July 2022

In the symbiotic associations between rhizobia and legumes, the NodD regulators orchestrate the transcription of the specific nodulation genes. This set of genes is involved in the synthesis of nodulation factors, which are responsible for initiating the nodulation process. Rhizobium tropici CIAT 899 is the most successful symbiont of Phaseolus vulgaris and can nodulate a variety of legumes. Among the five NodD regulators present in this rhizobium, only NodD1 and NodD2 seem to have a role in the symbiotic process. However, the individual role of each NodD in the absence of the other proteins has remained elusive. In this work, we show that the CIAT 899 NodD2 does not require activation by inducers to promote the synthesis of nodulation factors. A CIAT 899 strain overexpressing nodD2, but lacking all additional nodD genes, can nodulate three different legumes as efficiently as the wild type. Interestingly, CIAT 899 NodD2-mediated gain of nodulation can be extended to another rhizobial species, since its overproduction in Sinorhizobium fredii HH103 not only increases the number of nitrogen-fixing nodules in two host legumes but also results in nodule development in incompatible legumes. These findings potentially open exciting opportunities to develop rhizobial inoculants and increase legume crop production.
Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species are crucial for the antifungal activity of amorolfine and ciclopirox olamine against the dermatophyte Trichophyton interdigitale
Authors: Carmo Paulo H F , Freitas Gustavo J C , Dornelas João C M , Almeida Bruna C T , Baltazar Ludmila M , Ferreira Gabriella F , Peres Nalu T A , Santos Daniel A
Published: July 2022

Onychomycosis is a nail infection caused by Trichophyton interdigitale and other fungi, which can be treated with topical amorolfine (AMR) and ciclopirox olamine (CPX). Although these drugs are widely used, little is known about the role of reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) in their mechanism of action. To better understand the effects of AMR and CPX in dermatophytes, we evaluated whether they act through the production of ROS and peroxynitrite (PRN). We tested a set of strains, all susceptible to AMR and CPX, and these antifungals significantly reduced T. interdigitale viability within 24 h. This effect occurred concomitantly with reduced ergosterol, increased production of ROS and PRN, and consequently increased lipid peroxidation. Together, these mechanisms lead to cell damage and fungal death. These fungicidal effects were abolished when PRN and superoxide scavengers were used in the assays, demonstrating the role of these species in the mechanism of action. We also studied the antioxidant system when T. interdigitale was exposed to AMR and CPX. Interestingly, superoxide dismutase and catalase inhibition lead to altered ROS and PRN production, lipid peroxidation, and ergosterol levels. In fact, the combination of AMR or CPX with a superoxide dismutase inhibitor was antagonistic. Together, these data demonstrate the importance of ROS and PRN in the antifungal action of AMR and CPX against the evaluated T. interdigitale strains.

Lay Summary

Onychomycosis is a nail infection, which can be treated with amorolfine and ciclopirox olamine. Here we demonstrate that these drugs exhibit antifungal activity also through the production of oxidative and nitrosative radicals.
Correlates of Perceptions, Use, and Intention to Use Heated Tobacco Products Among US Young Adults in 2020
Authors: Duan Zongshuan , Wysota Christina N , Romm Katelyn F , Levine Hagai , Bar-Zeev Yael , Choi Kelvin , Berg Carla J
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Despite the increased heated tobacco product (HTP) marketing in the United States, little is known about HTP perceptions and correlates of HTP use and use intentions among young adults.

Aims and Methods

Using 2020 cross-sectional data from 2,470 young adults (ages 18–34) from 6 US metropolitan areas, we conducted exploratory factor analysis to identify factors regarding perceived utility/appeal of HTPs, specifically IQOS, and examined these factors in relation to lifetime HTP use and use intentions, using multivariable logistic and linear regression, respectively.

Results

19.1% had heard of HTPs and 4.1% ever used HTPs; 14.7% had heard of IQOS specifically and 2.8% were ever-users. Use intentions were low (M = 1.27, scale: 1 = not at all to 7 = extremely). Factor analysis identified five perceived utility/appeal factors: innovation (M = 3.17, scale: 1 = not at all to 7 = extremely), cigarette substitute (M = 2.99), and youth appeal (M = 2.82), e-cigarette/nicotine substitute (M = 2.36), and fashionable (M = 2.04). Controlling for sociodemographics and other tobacco use, perceiving IQOS as more fashionable and e-cigarette substitutes positively correlated with lifetime HTP use (aOR = 1.60, 95%CI = 1.17, 2.17; aOR = 1.48, 95%CI = 1.11, 1.97, respectively) and use intentions (β = 0.26, 95%CI = 0.21, 0.30; β = 0.14, 95%CI = 0.09, 0.18); perceiving IQOS as cigarette substitutes negatively correlated with ever use (aOR = 0.74, 95%CI = 0.56, 0.97) and use intentions (β = −0.06, 95%CI = −0.10, −0.03). Correlation patterns were similar among past-month cigarette, e-cigarette, and any-tobacco users.

Conclusions

Although HTP awareness and use were low, monitoring HTP perceptions and reasons for use as HTPs become more prominent is critical in anticipating their potential impact, particularly as more products seek FDA authorization to use reduced risk or exposure marketing claims.

Implications

Awareness, ever use, and intentions to use heated tobacco products (HTPs) were low among US young adults in 2020. Perceiving IQOS as fashionable and an e-cigarette substitute were positively correlated with ever use and intention to use HTPs. In addition, perceiving IQOS as a cigarette substitute was negatively correlated with ever use of HTPs and HTP use intentions. Continued surveillance on perceptions and use behaviors is needed to better understand use patterns, intentions to use, and reasons for using HTPs.
NAC transcription factor TgNAP promotes tulip petal senescence
Authors: Meng Lin , Yang Haipo , Xiang Lin , Wang Yanping , Chan Zhulong
Published: July 2022

Petal senescence is a crucial determinant for ornamental quality and economic value of floral crops. Salicylic acid (SA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are two prominent factors involved in plant senescence regulation. In this study, tulip TgNAP (NAC-like, activated by APETALA3/PISTILLATA) was characterized as positively regulating tulip petal senescence through dually regulating SA biosynthesis and ROS detoxification pathways. TgNAP was upregulated in senescing petals of tulip while exogenous SA and H2O2 treatments substantially promoted petal senescence in tulip. Silencing of TgNAP by VIGS assay delayed SA and H2O2-induced petal senescence in tulip, whereas overexpression of TgNAP promoted the senescence process in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) plants. Additionally, inhibition of SA biosynthesis prolonged the lifespan of TgNAP-silenced petal discs. Further evidence indicated that TgNAP activates the transcriptions of two key SA biosynthetic genes ISOCHORISMATE SYNTHASE 1 (TgICS1) and PHENYLALANINE AMMONIA-LYASE 1 (TgPAL1) through directly binding to their promoter regions. Meanwhile, TgNAP repressed ROS scavenging by directly inhibiting PEROXIDASE 12 (POD12) and POD17 expression. Taken together, these results indicate that TgNAP enhances SA biosynthesis and ROS accumulation to positively regulate petal senescence in tulip.
DIACYLGLYCEROL KINASE 5 participates in flagellin-induced signaling in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kalachova Tetiana , Škrabálková Eliška , Pateyron Stéphanie , Soubigou-Taconnat Ludivine , Djafi Nabila , Collin Sylvie , Sekereš Juraj , Burketová Lenka , Potocký Martin , Pejchar Přemysl , Ruelland Eric
Published: July 2022

Flagellin perception is a keystone of pattern-triggered immunity in plants. The recognition of this protein by a plasma membrane (PM) receptor complex is the beginning of a signaling cascade that includes protein phosphorylation and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In both Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) seedlings and suspension cells, we found that treatment with flg22, a peptide corresponding to the most conserved domain of bacterial flagellin, caused a rapid and transient decrease in the level of phosphatidylinositol (PI) 4,5-bisphosphate along with a parallel increase in phosphatidic acid (PA). In suspension cells, inhibitors of either phosphoinositide-dependent phospholipases C (PLC) or diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) inhibited flg22-triggered PA production and the oxidative burst. In response to flg22, receptor-like kinase-deficient fls2, bak1, and bik1 mutants (FLAGELLIN SENSITIVE 2, BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1-associated kinase 1, and BOTRYTIS-INDUCED KINASE 1, respectively) produced less PA than wild-type (WT) plants, whereas this response did not differ in NADPH oxidase-deficient rbohD (RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOG D) plants. Among the DGK-deficient lines tested, the dgk5.1 mutant produced less PA and less ROS after flg22 treatment compared with WT seedlings. In response to flg22, dgk5.1 plants showed lower callose accumulation and impaired resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 hrcC-. Transcriptomics revealed that the basal expression of defense-related genes was altered in dgk5.1 seedlings compared with the WT. A GFP-DGK5 fusion protein localized to the PM, where RBOHD and PLC2 (proteins involved in plant immunity) are also located. The role of DGK5 and its enzymatic activity in flagellin signaling and fine-tuning of early immune responses in plant–microbe interactions is discussed.
Soluble guanylate cyclase stimulation fosters angiogenesis and blunts myofibroblast-like features of systemic sclerosis endothelial cells
Authors: Romano Eloisa , Rosa Irene , Fioretto Bianca Saveria , Giuggioli Dilia , Manetti Mirko , Matucci-Cerinic Marco
Published: July 2022

Objectives

In SSc, angiogenesis impairment advances in parallel with the development of fibrosis orchestrated by myofibroblasts originating from different sources, including endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT). Soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulation has shown antifibrotic effects in SSc skin fibroblasts and mouse models. Here, we investigated the effects of pharmacological sGC stimulation on impaired angiogenesis and myofibroblast-like features of SSc dermal microvascular endothelial cells (SSc-MVECs).

Methods

To determine whether sGC stimulation affected cell viability/proliferation, SSc-MVECs and healthy dermal MVECs (H-MVECs) were challenged with the sGC stimulator (sGCS) MK-2947 and assayed by annexin V/propidium iodide flow cytometry and the water-soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay. To study angiogenesis and EndoMT, MK-2947-treated SSc-MVECs were subjected to wound healing and capillary morphogenesis assays and analysed for the expression of endothelial/myofibroblast markers and contractile ability.

Results

MK-2947 treatment did not affect H-MVEC viability/proliferation, while it significantly increased SSc-MVEC proliferation, wound healing capability and angiogenic performance. After MK-2947 treatment, SSc-MVECs exhibited significantly increased proangiogenic MMP9 and decreased antiangiogenic MMP12 and PTX3 gene expression. A significant increase in the expression of CD31 and vascular endothelial cadherin paralleled by a decrease in α-smooth muscle actin, S100A4, type I collagen and Snail1 mesenchymal markers was also found in MK-2947-treated SSc-MVECs. Furthermore, stimulation of sGC with MK-2947 significantly counteracted the intrinsic ability of SSc-MVECs to contract collagen gels and reduced phosphorylated-extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 protein levels.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate for the first time that pharmacological sGC stimulation effectively ameliorates the angiogenic performance and blunts the myofibroblast-like profibrotic phenotype of SSc-MVECs, thus providing new evidence for repurposing sGCSs for SSc.
Insomnia during pregnancy and severe maternal morbidity in the united states: nationally representative data from 2006 to 2017
Authors: Kendle Anthony M , Salemi Jason L , Jackson Chandra L , Buysse Daniel J , Louis Judette M
Published: July 2022

Study Objectives

Using a large, nationally representative database, we aimed to estimate the prevalence and trends of insomnia among pregnant women over a 12-year period. In addition, we aimed to examine the interplay among insomnia, maternal comorbidities, and severe maternal morbidity (SMM).

Methods

We conducted a serial cross-sectional analysis of pregnancy-related hospitalizations in the United States from the 2006 to 2017 National Inpatient Sample (NIS). ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes were used to capture diagnoses of insomnia and obstetric comorbidities during delivery and non-delivery hospitalizations. The primary outcome was the diagnosis of SMM at delivery. We used logistic regression to assess the association between insomnia and SMM. Joinpoint regression was used to estimate trends in insomnia and SMM.

Results

Of nearly 47 million delivery hospitalizations, 24 625 women had a diagnosis of insomnia, or 5.2 per 10 000 deliveries. The annual incidence increased from 1.8 to 8.6 per 10 000 over the study period. The crude rate of insomnia was 6.3 times higher for non-delivery hospitalizations. Patients with insomnia had more comorbidities, particularly neuromuscular disease, mental health disorders, asthma, and substance use disorder. Prevalence of non-blood transfusion SMM was 3.6 times higher for patients with insomnia (2.4% vs. 0.7%). SMM increased annually by 11% (95% CI = 3.0% to 19.7%) in patients with insomnia. After adjusting for comorbidities, there remained a 24% increased likelihood of SMM for patients with insomnia.

Conclusions

Coded diagnosis of insomnia during pregnancy has increased over time, and this burden disparately affects women of low socioeconomic status. Diagnosis of insomnia is an independent predictor of SMM.
Immovable-associated equipment in the CTC MAC Protocol: interactions between international interest and local interests under Chilean law
Authors: Saldías Robles Camilo
Published: July 2022

The Mining, Agriculture and Construction Protocol (MAC Protocol) of the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment (Cape Town Convention or CTC), provides a major innovation in the CTC system by including the concept of ‘immovable-associated equipment’. Article VII of the MAC Protocol’s mandatory declaration regulates immovable-associated equipment and the interaction between the international law regime of the CTC and domestic law of potential State parties, such as Chile. This article addresses the interactions between the CTC’s international interest in MAC equipment and the local interest under Chilean law. Consequently, it explores which alternative provided by Article VII of the MAC Protocol’s declaration provides the best improvement for Chilean law in order to enhance creditor position and to promote asset-based financing in the case of immovable-associated equipment. For such purpose, the Chilean mortgage is considered as a relevant interest for the immovable-associated equipment and the CTC international interest is compared with the Chilean non-possessory pledge under a case-by-case analysis. The analysis focuses on the cases when MAC equipment is a movable good deemed as immovable by destination under Chilean law.
XIILiterature 1780–1830: The Romantic Period
Authors: Davis Amanda Blake , Pozoukidis Konstantinos , Fancett Anna , Dolive Emily , Greentree Shane , Khan Yasser Shams
Published: July 2022

This chapter has four sections: 1. General and Prose; 2. The Novel; 3. Poetry; 4. Drama. Section 1 is by Amanda Blake Davis; section 2 is by Konstantinos Pozoukidis and Anna Fancett; section 3 is by Emily Dolive and Shane Greentree; section 4 is by Yasser Shams Khan.
Thoracic and diaphragmatic endometriosis: an overview of diagnosis and surgical treatment
Authors: McKee Dana C. , Mansour Trina , Wasson Megan N.
Published: July 2022

Purpose of review

Thoracic endometriosis is a rare disease that can lead to a variety of clinical manifestations. There are currently no guidelines for optimal diagnosis and management of the disease. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the diagnosis and surgical treatment of thoracic endometriosis.

Recent findings

Various imaging modalities, including computed tomography (CT), MRI and ultrasound, have been reported in the detection of thoracic endometriosis. MRI is the most sensitive imaging study and may aid in preoperative planning. Histopathology of a biopsied lesion remains the gold standard for diagnosis. Surgical management of thoracic endometriosis may involve laparoscopy and/or thoracoscopy, and surgical planning should include preparation for single ventilation capability. A multidisciplinary approach involving a gynaecologic surgeon and thoracic surgeon may be considered. Repairing diaphragm defects and pleurodesis are shown to decrease recurrent symptoms.

Although optimal diagnostic testing remains uncertain, a high clinical suspicion for thoracic endometriosis is critical to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment in order to prevent recurrent symptoms and progression to more serious sequalae. Minimally invasive surgical techniques are becoming increasingly utilized and allow for thorough evaluation and treatment of thoracic endometriosis.