bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The contributions of the left hippocampus and bilateral inferior parietal lobule to form‐meaning associative learning
Authors: Qu Jing , Hu Liyuan , Liu Xiaoyu , Dong Jie , Yang Rui , Mei Leilei
Published: May 2021

Existing studies have identified crucial roles for the hippocampus and a distributed set of cortical regions (e.g., the inferior parietal cortex) in learning novel words. Nevertheless, researchers have not clearly determined how the hippocampus and cortical regions dynamically interact during novel word learning, especially during form‐meaning associative learning. As a method to address this question, we used an online learning paradigm and representational similarity analysis to explore the contributions of the hippocampus and neocortex to form‐meaning associative learning. Twenty‐nine native Chinese college students were recruited to learn 30 form‐meaning pairs, which were repeated 7 times during fMRI scan. Form‐meaning associative learning elicited activations in a wide neural network including regions required for word processing (i.e., the bilateral inferior frontal gyrus and the occipitotemporal cortex), regions required for encoding (i.e., the bilateral parahippocampus and hippocampus), and regions required for cognitive control (i.e., the anterior cingulate cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex). More importantly, our study revealed the differential roles of the left hippocampus and bilateral inferior parietal lobule (IPL) in form‐meaning associative learning. Specifically, higher pattern similarity in the bilateral IPL in the early learning phase (repetitions 1 to 3) was related to better learning performance, while higher pattern similarity in the left hippocampus in the late learning phase (repetitions 5 to 7) was associated with better learning performance. These findings indicate that the hippocampus and cortical regions (e.g., the IPL) contribute to form‐meaning learning in different stages.
Virtual relationships: Anthropomorphism in the digital age
Authors: Koike Mayu , Loughnan Steve
Published: May 2021

For most of human history we have ascribed human‐like capacities to other entities (anthropomorphism). Recently, the digital age has created new entities: virtual agents (VAs). Increasingly, these virtual entities are complex and human‐like, specifically designed to elicit anthropomorphism from their owners and users. We employ social psychological research and theory to review how, why, and when people come to anthropomorphize VAs. Moving beyond static representations, we examine the dynamics of human‐VA relationships and how they are encroaching on the closest of human relationships, virtual love. We use the social psychology of close relationships to examine the ways in which people may form, maintain, and terminate relationships with VAs. We conclude by examining the potential costs and benefits of these new relationships.
Radically Truncated Clauses in Hungarian and Beyond: Evidence for the Fine Structure of the Minimal VP
Authors: Halm Tamás
Published: May 2021

This article explores the syntax of radically truncated clauses in colloquial Hungarian. I argue that radically truncated clauses arise when, in informal speech situations and under time pressure, the derivation is terminated prematurely, at the VP level, and the bare VP (lacking any of the higher functional projections) is sent to spellout (PF) and semantic interpretation (LF). Due to their radically truncated nature, such clauses provide us a unique window through which it becomes possible to explore the fine structure of the minimal VP in itself. I show that radically‐truncated‐clause data are highly relevant to various theoretical questions, such as the head–complement branching order, the adjunction analysis of topicalization and quantification, and the split‐DP proposal. I argue that observations about radically truncated clauses support the availability of OV as a nonderived, basic word order, that they are in line with the adjunction analysis of topicalization and quantifier raising, and that they corroborate the split‐DP analysis of arguments. The discussion is supported with evidence from corpus data and with rigorous statistical analysis of grammaticality‐judgment‐survey results.
Cytosolic geraniol and citronellol biosynthesis require a Nudix hydrolase in rose‐scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Authors: Bergman Matthew E. , Bhardwaj Mridula , Phillips Michael A.
Published: May 2021

Geraniol, citronellol and their esters are high‐value acyclic monoterpenes used in food technology, perfumery and cosmetics. A major source of these compounds is the essential oil of rose‐scented geraniums of the genus Pelargonium. We provide evidence that their biosynthesis mainly takes place in the cytosol of glandular trichomes via geranyl monophosphate (GP) through the action of a Nudix hydrolase. Protein preparations could convert geranyl diphosphate (GDP) to geraniol in in vitro assays, a process which could be blocked by inorganic phosphatase inhibitors, suggesting a two‐step conversion of GDP to geraniol. Pelargonium graveolens chemotypes enriched in either geraniol or (−)‐citronellol accumulate GP or citronellyl monophosphate (CP), respectively, the presumed precursors to their monoterpenoid end products. Geranyl monophosphate was highly enriched in isolated glandular trichomes of lines producing high amounts of geraniol. In contrast, (−)‐isomenthone‐rich lines are depleted in these prenyl monophosphates and monoterpene alcohols and instead feature high levels of GDP, the precursor to plastidic p‐menthane biosynthesis. A Nudix hydrolase cDNA from Pelargonium glandular trichomes, dubbed PgNdx1, encoded a cytosolic protein capable of hydrolyzing GDP to GP with a KM of about 750 nm but is only weakly active towards farnesyl diphosphate. In citronellol‐rich lines, GDP, GP and CP were detected in nearly equimolar amounts, while citronellyl diphosphate was absent, suggesting that citronellol biosynthesis may proceed by reduction of GP to CP in this species. These findings highlight the cytosol as a compartment that supports monoterpene biosynthesis and expands the roles of Nudix hydrolases in the biosynthesis of plant volatiles.
High‐throughput measuring of meiotic recombination rates in barley pollen nuclei using Crystal Digital PCRTM
Authors: Ahn Yun‐Jae , Fuchs Joerg , Houben Andreas , Heckmann Stefan
Published: May 2021

Breeding exploits novel allelic combinations assured by meiotic recombination. Barley (Hordeum vulgare) single pollen nucleus genotyping enables measurement of meiotic recombination rates in gametes before fertilization without the need for segregating populations. However, so far, established methods rely on whole‐genome amplification of every single pollen nucleus due to their limited DNA content, thus restricting the number of analyzed samples. In this study, high‐throughput measurements of meiotic recombination rates in barley pollen nuclei without whole‐genome amplification were performed through a Crystal Digital PCRTM‐based genotyping assay. Meiotic recombination rates within two centromeric and two distal chromosomal intervals were measured in hybrid plants by genotyping a total of >42 000 individual pollen nuclei (up to 4900 nuclei analyzed per plant). Determined recombination frequencies in pollen nuclei were similar to frequencies in segregating populations. We improved the efficiency of the genotyping by pretreating the pollen nuclei with a thermostable restriction enzyme. Additional opportunities for a higher sample throughput and a further increase of the genotyping efficiency are presented and discussed. Taken together, single barley pollen nucleus genotyping based on Crystal Digital PCRTM enables reliable, rapid and high‐throughput meiotic recombination measurements within defined chromosomal intervals of intraspecific hybrid plants. The successful encapsulation of nuclei from a range of species with different nuclear and genome sizes suggests that the proposed method is broadly applicable to genotyping single nuclei.
Platelet‐enhanced plasma: Characterization of a novel candidate resuscitation fluid's extracellular vesicle content, clotting parameters, and thrombin generation capacity
Authors: Price Joshua , Gardiner Chris , Harrison Paul
Published: May 2021

Background

Platelet transfusion is challenging in emergency medicine because of short platelet shelf life and stringent storage conditions. Platelet‐derived extracellular vesicles (PEV) exhibit platelet‐like properties. A plasma generated from expired platelet units rich in procoagulant PEV may be able to combine the benefits of plasma and platelets for resuscitation while increasing shelf life and utilizing an otherwise wasted resource.

Study design and methods

Freeze–thaw cycling of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) followed by centrifugation to remove platelet remnants was utilized to generate platelet‐enhanced plasma (PEP). An in vitro model of dilutional coagulopathy was also designed and used to test PEP. Rotational thromboelastometry and calibrated automated thrombography were used to assess clotting and extracellular vesicles (EV) procoagulant activity. Capture arrays were used to specifically measure EV subpopulations of interest (ExoView™, NanoView Biosciences). Captured vesicles were quantified and labeled with Annexin‐V‐FITC, CD41‐PE, and CD63‐AF647. Platelet alpha granule content (platelet‐derived growth factor AB, soluble P‐selectin, vascular endothelial growth factor A, and neutrophil activating peptide 2‐chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 7) was measured. Commercially available platelet lysates were also characterized.

Results

PEP is highly procoagulant, rich in growth factors, exhibits enhanced thrombin generation, and restores hemostasis within an in vitro model of dilutional coagulopathy. The predominant vesicle population were PEV with 7.0 × 109 CD41+PS+ EV/ml compared to 4.7 × 107 CD41+PS+ EV/ml in platelet‐free plasma (p = .0079). Commercial lysates show impaired but rescuable clotting.

Discussion

PEP is a unique candidate resuscitation fluid containing high PEV concentration with preliminary evidence, indicating a potential for upscaling the approach using platelet concentrates. Commercial lysate manufacturer workflows may be suitable for this, but further optimization and characterization of PEP is required.
Influence of a novel scaffold composed of polyurethane, hydroxyapatite, and decellularized bone particles on the healing of fourth metacarpal defects in mares
Authors: Grzeskowiak Remigiusz M. , Alghazali Karrer M. , Hecht Silke , Donnell Robert L. , Doherty Thomas J. , Smith Christopher K. , Anderson David E. , Biris Alexandru S. , Adair Henry S.
Published: May 2021

Objective

To determine the effect of a novel scaffold, designed for use in bone regeneration, on healing of splint bone segmental defects in mares.

Study design

In vivo experimental study.

Sample population

Five adult mares (4–10 years old; mean weight, 437.7 kg ± 29 kg).

Methods

Bilateral 2‐cm full‐thickness defects were created in the fourth metacarpal bones (MCIV) of each horse. Each defect was randomly assigned to either a novel scaffold treatment (n = 5) or an untreated control (n = 5). The scaffold was composed of polyurethane, hydroxyapatite, and decellularized bone particles. Bone healing was assessed for a period of 60 days by thermography, ultrasonography, radiography, and computed tomography (CT). Biopsies of each defect were performed 60 days after surgery for histological evaluation.

Results

On the basis of radiographic analysis, scaffold‐treated defects had greater filling (67.42% ± 26.7%) compared with untreated defects (35.88% ± 32.7%; P = .006). After 60 days, CT revealed that the density of the defects treated with the scaffolds (807.80 ± 129.6 Hounsfield units [HU]) was greater than density of the untreated defects (464.80 ± 81.3 HU; P = .004). Evaluation of histology slides provided evidence of bone formation within an average of 9.43% ± 3.7% of the cross‐sectional area of scaffolds in contrast to unfilled defects in which connective tissue was predominant throughout the biopsy specimens.

Conclusion

The novel scaffold was biocompatible and supported bone formation within the MCIV segmental defects.

Clinical significance

This novel scaffold offers an effective option for filling bone voids in horses when support of bone healing is indicated.
Temperature-dependent development and reproduction of Oligonychus punicae (Acari: Tetranychidae) on Eucalyptus

Authors: Ferraz José Cláudio Barros , Neto Antônio Vieira Gomes , França Solange Maria de , Silva Paulo Roberto Ramalho , Melo José Wagner da Silva , Lima Debora Barbosa de
Published: May 2021

Temperature plays an important role in the development and reproduction of mites. The present study assesses how temperature affects the biology (development and survival of immatures) and life table parameters of Oligonychus punicae. This study also determines the mite thermal requirements (thermal requirement and development base temperature). The experiments were conducted in an air-conditioned chamber under different temperatures (21, 25, 29, 33, and 37ºC). The period of each stage (egg to adult) of O. punicae at different temperatures was used to determine the thermal constant and the lower thermal limit of development. The duration of the periods of pre-oviposition, oviposition, post-oviposition, fecundity, and longevity was recorded. The life table at different temperatures was created using data from the biological cycle. There was an inverse relationship between the development time of O. punicae and temperatures. However, there was no hatching of eggs at 37ºC. All O. punicae eggs resulted in females. The survival analysis for the immature and adult (female) stages of O. punicae showed a decreased life span with increasing temperatures. For the egg-adult period, the lower thermal threshold and the thermal constant for females of O. punicae were 10.34ºC and 163.93 degree-days, respectively. Temperature affected the periods of pre-oviposition, oviposition, and fecundity of adult females of O. punicae, tending to decrease with increasing temperatures. Specific fecundity varied over the oviposition period, decreasing with increasing temperatures. The net reproduction rate decreased significantly following temperatures 21°C to 33°C. The increase in temperature results in a significantly shorter average generation time. The intrinsic rate of increase ranged from 0.15 to 0.20. The finite rates of increase were all greater than 1.00. The effects of temperature on the development of O. punicae varies according to the stage of development. The optimum temperature for O. punicae is between 25 and 29ºC.
Benefits of triple acoustic beamforming during speech-on-speech masking and sound localization for bilateral cochlear-implant users
Authors: Yun David , Jennings Todd R. , Kidd Gerald , Goupell Matthew J.
Published: May 2021

Bilateral cochlear-implant (CI) users struggle to understand speech in noisy environments despite receiving some spatial-hearing benefits. One potential solution is to provide acoustic beamforming. A headphone-based experiment was conducted to compare speech understanding under natural CI listening conditions and for two non-adaptive beamformers, one single beam and one binaural, called “triple beam,” which provides an improved signal-to-noise ratio (beamforming benefit) and usable spatial cues by reintroducing interaural level differences. Speech reception thresholds (SRTs) for speech-on-speech masking were measured with target speech presented in front and two maskers in co-located or narrow/wide separations. Numerosity judgments and sound-localization performance also were measured. Natural spatial cues, single-beam, and triple-beam conditions were compared. For CI listeners, there was a negligible change in SRTs when comparing co-located to separated maskers for natural listening conditions. In contrast, there were 4.9- and 16.9-dB improvements in SRTs for the beamformer and 3.5- and 12.3-dB improvements for triple beam (narrow and wide separations). Similar results were found for normal-hearing listeners presented with vocoded stimuli. Single beam improved speech-on-speech masking performance but yielded poor sound localization. Triple beam improved speech-on-speech masking performance, albeit less than the single beam, and sound localization. Thus, triple beam was the most versatile across multiple spatial-hearing domains.
Specular-reflection contributions to static and dynamic radiation forces on circular cylinders
Authors: Marston Philip L. , Daniel Timothy D. , Fortuner Auberry R. , Kirsteins Ivars P. , Abawi Ahmad T.
Published: May 2021

Interest in the response of highly reflecting objects in water to modulated acoustical radiation forces makes it appropriate to consider contributions to such forces from perfectly reflecting objects to provide insight into radiation forces. The acoustic illumination can have wavelengths much smaller than the object's size, and objects of interest may have complicated shapes. Here, the specular contribution to the oscillating radiation force on an infinite circular cylinder at normal incidence is considered for double-sideband-suppressed carrier-modulated acoustic illumination. The oscillatory magnitude of the specular force decreases monotonically with increasing modulation frequency, and the phase of the oscillating force depends on the relative phase of the sidebands. The phase dependence on the modulation frequency can be reduced with the appropriate selection of a sideband relative-phase parameter. That is a consequence of the significance of rays that are incident on the cylinder having small impact parameters that are nearly backscattered. For one choice of a relative sideband phase, a prior partial wave series (PWS) solution is available, which supports the specular analysis when the PWS is evaluated for a rigid cylinder. The importance of specular contributions for aluminum cylinders in water is noted. A specular analysis for an analogous spherical reflector is also summarized.
Transient level-set topology optimization of a planar acoustic lens working with short-duration pulse
Authors: Hyun Jaeyub , Kim H. Alicia
Published: May 2021

With the advance of additive manufacturing, many researchers are increasingly interested in planar acoustic lenses that are not only easier to fabricate than typical convex/concave lenses, but also have excellent imaging performance. However, the planar acoustic lenses reported so far cannot work for a short-duration pulse used in conventional imaging systems due to their inherent dispersive characteristics. This study addresses the challenge by devising a transient topology optimization formulation to design a planar acoustic lens that works effectively for a short-duration pulse. A planar lens consists of two materials where optimal combination and distribution are obtained with a crisp interface via the level-set method. Design is based on the transient acoustic responses, which are calculated from a time-dependent acoustic model solved by the Newmark method. The proposed method uses the area-fraction approach to compute the acoustic properties of a cut element by the interface. A localizing time-window function is introduced so that acoustic energy can be focused within the desired time range as much as possible. We obtain optimum design solutions designed with the proposed method and verify its effectiveness through the numerical investigations.
Testosterone and Dihydrotestosterone Changes in Male and Female Athletes Relative to Training Status
Authors: Cook Christian J. , Crewther Blair T. , Kilduff Liam P. , Agnew Linda L. , Fourie Phillip , Serpell Benjamin G.
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To establish if training volume was associated with androgen baselines and androgen responsiveness to acute exercise. Methods: During a “high-volume” training phase, 28 cyclists (14 men and 14 women) undertook oxygen-uptake and maximal-work-capacity testing. Two days later, they completed a repeat-sprint protocol, which was repeated 3 weeks later during a “low-volume” phase. Blood and saliva samples were collected before and after (+5 and +60 min) the repeat-sprint protocol. Blood was assayed for total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and saliva, for testosterone and DHT. Results: Pretrial TT, FT, and DHT concentration was greater for males (P < .001, large effect size differences), and in both genders TT, DHT, and saliva for DHT was higher during high-volume loading (moderate to large effect size). Area-under-the-curve analysis revealed larger TT, FT, and DHT responses to the repeat-sprint protocol among females, and high-volume training was linked to larger TT, DHT, and saliva for DHT responses (moderate to large effect size). Baseline TT and FT correlated with oxygen uptake and work capacity in both genders (P < .05). Conclusion: DHT showed no acute performance correlation but was responsive to volume of training, particularly in females. This work informs on timelines and relationships of androgenic biomarkers in males and females across different training loads, adding to the complexity that should be considered in interpretation thereof. The authors speculate that testosterone may impact acute performance via behavioral mechanisms of motivation and attention; DHT, via training volume-induced androgenic promotion, may facilitate long-term adaptive changes, especially for females.
Acute Effects of Frequent Light-Intensity Standing-Based Exercises That Interrupt 8 Hours of Prolonged Sitting on Postprandial Glucose in Stroke Survivors: A Dose-Escalation Trial
Authors: Mackie Paul , Crowfoot Gary , Gyawali Prajwal , Janssen Heidi , Holliday Elizabeth , Dunstan David , English Coralie
Published: May 2021

Background: Interrupting prolonged sitting can attenuate postprandial glucose responses in overweight adults. The dose–response effect in stroke survivors is unknown. The authors investigated the effects of interrupting 8 hours of prolonged sitting with increasingly frequent bouts of light-intensity standing-based exercises on the postprandial glucose response in stroke survivors. Methods: Within-participant, laboratory-based, dose-escalation trial. Participants completed three 8-hour conditions: prolonged sitting and 2 experimental conditions. Experimental conditions involved light-intensity standing-based exercises of increasing frequency (2 × 5 min to 6 × 5 min bouts). Postprandial glucose is reported. Results: Twenty-nine stroke survivors (aged 66 y) participated. Interrupting 8 hours of prolonged sitting with light-intensity standing-based exercises every 90 minutes significantly decreased postprandial glucose (positive incremental area under the curve; −1.1 mmol/L·7 h; 95% confidence interval, −2.0 to −0.1). In the morning (08:00–11:00), postprandial glucose decreased during the 4 × 5 minutes and 6 × 5 minutes conditions (positive incremental area under the curve; −0.8 mmol/L·3 h; 95% confidence interval, −1.3 to −0.3 and −0.8 mmol/L·3 h; 95% confidence interval, −1.5 to −0.2, respectively) compared with prolonged sitting. Conclusion: Interrupting 8 hours of prolonged sitting at least every 90 minutes with light-intensity standing-based exercises attenuates postprandial glucose in stroke survivors. During the morning, postprandial glucose is attenuated when sitting is interrupted every 60 and 90 minutes.
Seemingly Uninvolved Players’ Impact on Assistant Referees’ Offside Decisions
Authors: Noël Benjamin , Klatt Stefanie
Published: May 2021

Most studies on offside decision making in soccer have not addressed rather simplistic situational probabilities like the number of players involved in an offside situation. In three studies (one observational and two experimental), the authors tried to assess whether the number of players close to the offside situation can predict the quality of offside decision making. In all three studies, they found that the presence of additional players negatively affected the percentage of correct decisions. The exact relationship between the number of players and the decrease in decision-making performance differed between the studies, though. Importantly, there was a negative influence of the number of players on decision-making quality in Studies 2 and 3, even though the authors tried to add players clearly farther away from the offside line than the relevant pair of players. This points to a crowding effect as a potential explanation for why decision-making quality decreases with an increasing number of players.
A Season-Long Examination of Team Structure and Its Implications for Subgroups in Individual Sport
Authors: Saizew Kelsey , Evans M. Blair , Allan Veronica , Martin Luc J.
Published: May 2021

The authors explored how sport structure predisposed a team to subgroup formation and influenced athlete interactions and team functioning. A season-long qualitative case study was undertaken with a nationally ranked Canadian track and field team. Semistructured interviews were conducted with coaches (n = 4) and athletes (n = 11) from different event groups (e.g., sprinters, jumpers) at the beginning and at the end of the season. The results highlighted constraints that directly impacted athlete interactions and predisposed the group to subgroup formation (e.g., sport/event type, facility/schedule limitations, team size/change over time). The constraints led to structural divides that impacted interactions but could be overcome through team building, engaging with leaders, and prioritizing communication. These findings underline how structure imposed by the design of sports impacts teammate interactions and how practitioners, coaches, and athletes can manage groups when facing such constraints. The authors describe theoretical and practical implications while also proposing potential future directions.
Test–Retest Reliability of a Functional Reaction Time Assessment Battery
Authors: Lynall Robert C. , Johnson Rachel S. , Lempke Landon B. , Schmidt Julianne D.
Published: May 2021

Context: Reaction time is commonly assessed postconcussion through a computerized neurocognitive battery. Although this measure is sensitive to postconcussion deficits, it is not clear if computerized reaction time reflects the dynamic reaction time necessary to compete effectively and safely during sporting activities. Functional reaction time assessments may be useful postconcussion, but reliability must be determined before clinical implementation. Objective: To determine the test–retest reliability of a functional reaction time assessment battery and to determine if reaction time improved between sessions. Design: Cohort. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: Forty-one participants (21 men and 20 women) completed 2 time points. Participants, on average, were 22.5 (2.1) years old, 72.5 (11.9) cm tall, had a mass of 71.0 (13.7) kg, and were mostly right leg and hand dominant (92.7%). Interventions: Participants completed 2 clinical reaction time tests (computerized Stroop and drop stick) and 5 functional reaction time tests (gait, jump landing, single-leg hop, anticipated cut, and unanticipated cut) across 2 sessions. Drop stick and functional reaction time assessments were performed in single (motor task only) and dual task (motor task with cognitive task). Main Outcome Measures: Reaction time (in seconds) was calculated during all assessments. Test–retest reliability was determined using 2-way mixed-effects intraclass correlation coefficients (3, k). Paired samples t tests compared mean reaction time between sessions. Results: Test–retest reliability was moderate to excellent for all reaction time outcomes (intraclass correlation coefficients [3, k] range = .766–.925). Several statistically significant between-session mean differences were observed, but effect sizes were negligible to small (d range = 0.05–0.44). Conclusions: The functional reaction time assessment battery displayed similar reliability to the standard computerized reaction time assessment battery and may provide important postinjury information, but more research is needed to determine clinical utility.
Undergraduate Sport Management Education: Exploring Ego Development and Leadership Efficacy
Authors: Kerwin Shannon , Spence Kirsty
Published: May 2021

This research explored students’ ego development and leadership efficacy during an undergraduate sport management program. A sequential mixed-method case study design and associated methodologies were adopted to explore students’ ego development and leadership efficacy during 3 years of an academic program. Results show fluctuations in leadership efficacy for all but one participant. These fluctuations are discussed in relation to ego development in that growth from self-conforming to self-authoring stages of ego development may partially explain fluctuations in how students see themselves and their potential for leadership in the field of sport management. The role of the ego development construct in relation to students’ perceptions of their leadership capabilities highlights that programmatic elements (e.g., thoughtful experiential education) can be consciously developed and strategically leveraged to more accurately target perceptions of leadership prowess among students. The findings emphasize that students’ level of ego development can be fostered through active and effective program delivery.
Isotopic evidence for acidity-driven enhancement of sulfate formation after SO
2
emission control
Authors: Hattori Shohei , Iizuka Yoshinori , Alexander Becky , Ishino Sakiko , Fujita Koji , Zhai Shuting , Sherwen Tomás , Oshima Naga , Uemura Ryu , Yamada Akinori , Suzuki Nozomi , Matoba Sumito , Tsuruta Asuka , Savarino Joel , Yoshida Naohiro
Published: May 2021

Observed
17
O excess of ice core sulfate suggests recent changes in sulfate production pathways due to lower acidity.
Electrochemically controlled metasurfaces with high-contrast switching at visible frequencies
Authors: Kaissner Robin , Li Jianxiong , Lu Wenzheng , Li Xin , Neubrech Frank , Wang Jianfang , Liu Na
Published: May 2021

Electrochemically controlled metasurfaces that exhibit excellent switching functions at visible frequencies are demonstrated.
Sulfate-dependent reversibility of intracellular reactions explains the opposing isotope effects in the anaerobic oxidation of methane
Authors: Wegener Gunter , Gropp Jonathan , Taubner Heidi , Halevy Itay , Elvert Marcus
Published: May 2021

Electron acceptor availability affects the net isotopic fractionation of a global biogeochemical reaction in marine sediments.
Respiratory capacity is twice as important as temperature in explaining patterns of metabolic rate across the vertebrate tree of life
Authors: Bigman Jennifer S. , M’Gonigle Leithen K. , Wegner Nicholas C. , Dulvy Nicholas K.
Published: May 2021

Oxygen supply from respiratory organs explains patterns of oxygen demand across the vertebrate tree of life.
A parental transcriptional response to microsporidia infection induces inherited immunity in offspring
Authors: Willis Alexandra R. , Zhao Winnie , Sukhdeo Ronesh , Wadi Lina , El Jarkass Hala Tamim , Claycomb Julie M. , Reinke Aaron W.
Published: May 2021

Microsporidia infection initiates a transcriptional response in parents, resulting in pathogen-resistant progeny.
Integrated trajectories of the maternal metabolome, proteome, and immunome predict labor onset
Authors: Stelzer Ina A. , Ghaemi Mohammad S. , Han Xiaoyuan , Ando Kazuo , Hédou Julien J. , Feyaerts Dorien , Peterson Laura S. , Rumer Kristen K. , Tsai Eileen S. , Ganio Edward A. , Gaudillière Dyani K. , Tsai Amy S. , Choisy Benjamin , Gaigne Lea P. , Verdonk Franck , Jacobsen Danielle , Gavasso Sonia , Traber Gavin M. , Ellenberger Mathew , Stanley Natalie , Becker Martin , Culos Anthony , Fallahzadeh Ramin , Wong Ronald J. , Darmstadt Gary L. , Druzin Maurice L. , Winn Virginia D. , Gibbs Ronald S. , Ling Xuefeng B. , Sylvester Karl , Carvalho Brendan , Snyder Michael P. , Shaw Gary M. , Stevenson David K. , Contrepois Kévin , Angst Martin S. , Aghaeepour Nima , Gaudillière Brice
Published: May 2021

Peripheral blood dynamics in the 100 days before delivery reveal a transition from pregnancy maintenance to prelabor biology.
Escherichia coli Strains Producing Selected Bacteriocins Inhibit Porcine Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) under both
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Conditions
Authors: Hrala Matěj , Bosák Juraj , Micenková Lenka , Křenová Jitka , Lexa Matej , Pirková Viktória , Tomáštíková Zuzana , Koláčková Ivana , Šmajs David
Published: May 2021

Increasing levels of antibiotic resistance among bacteria also increase the need for alternatives to conventional antibiotic treatment. Pathogenic
Escherichia coli
represents a major diarrheic infectious agent of piglets in their postweaning period; however, available measures to control these infections are limited.
Development of a Mini-Replicon-Based Reverse-Genetics System for Rice Stripe Tenuivirus
Authors: Feng Mingfeng , Li Luyao , Cheng Ruixiang , Yuan Yulong , Dong Yongxin , Chen Minglong , Guo Rong , Yao Min , Xu Yi , Zhou Yijun , Wu Jianxiang , Ding Xin Shun , Zhou Xueping , Tao Xiaorong
Published: May 2021

Plant-infecting segmented negative-stranded RNA (NSR) viruses are grouped into three genera:
Orthotospovirus, Tenuivirus
, and
Emaravirus
. Reverse-genetics systems have been established for members of the genera
Orthotospovirus
and
Emaravirus
.
A Human Endogenous Bornavirus-Like Nucleoprotein Encodes a Mitochondrial Protein Associated with Cell Viability
Authors: Fujino Kan , Horie Masayuki , Kojima Shohei , Shimizu Sae , Nabekura Aya , Kobayashi Hiroko , Makino Akiko , Honda Tomoyuki , Tomonaga Keizo
Published: May 2021

Our genomes contain molecular fossils of ancient viruses, called endogenous virus elements (EVEs). Mounting evidence suggests that EVEs derived from nonretroviral RNA viruses have acquired functions in host cells during evolution.
Genome-Resolved Metagenomics of a Photosynthetic Bioreactor Performing Biological Nutrient Removal
Authors: McDaniel Elizabeth A. , Wever Renske , Oyserman Ben O. , Noguera Daniel R. , McMahon Katherine D.
Published: May 2021

Enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) is an economically and environmentally significant wastewater treatment process for removing excess phosphorus by harnessing the metabolic physiologies of enriched microbial communities. We present a genome-resolved metagenomic data set consisting of 86 metagenome-assembled genome sequences from a photosynthetically operated lab-scale bioreactor simulating EBPR.
Rengasvirus, a Circular Replication-Associated Protein-Encoding Single-Stranded DNA Virus-Related Genome That Is a Common Contaminant in Metagenomic Data
Authors: Keeler Emma L. , Taylor Louis J. , Abbas Arwa , Collman Ronald G. , Bushman Frederic D.
Published: May 2021

We report the genome of a circular Rep-encoding segmented or satellite virus, which we have provisionally named rengasvirus. In metagenomic studies of virus-enriched fractions, rengasvirus was detected widely, including in reagent-negative controls. We thus report this genome to help others recognize a probable contaminating sequence.
16S rRNA Gene Amplicon Profiling of the New Zealand Parasitic Blowfly Calliphora vicina
Authors: Palevich Nikola , Maclean Paul H. , Carvalho Luis , Jauregui Ruy
Published: May 2021

Here, we present a 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequence data set and profiles demonstrating the bacterial diversity of larval and adult
Calliphora vicina
, collected from Ashhurst, New Zealand (May 2020). The three dominant genera among the adult male and female
C. vicina
were
Serratia
and
Morganella
(phylum
Proteobacteria
) and
Carnobacterium
(phylum
Firmicutes
), while the larvae were also dominated by the genera
Lactobacillus
(phylum
Firmicutes
).
Draft Genome Sequence of an Aeromonas salmonicida subsp.
salmonicida
Strain from the Canadian Pacific Coast Bearing a Variant of pRAS1
Authors: Vaillancourt Kevin C. , Paquet Valérie E. , Vincent Antony T. , Schneider Anna , Thompson Christy , Laurent Mathilde , Frenette Michel , Charette Steve J.
Published: May 2021

The genome sequencing of
Aeromonas salmonicida
subspecies
salmonicida
strain 2004-072 revealed a plasmid bearing a region carrying antibiotic resistance genes very similar to the one found in the plasmid pRAS1, an IncU family plasmid. This new plasmid was named pRAS1b.
Complete Genome Sequences of Three Clinical Listeria monocytogenes Sequence Type 8 Strains from Recent German Listeriosis Outbreaks
Authors: Fischer Martin A. , Thürmer Andrea , Flieger Antje , Halbedel Sven
Published: May 2021

We report here the closed genome sequences of three clinical
Listeria monocytogenes
strains of multilocus sequence typing (MLST) sequence type 8 (ST8). These strains are representatives of three separate listeriosis outbreak clusters (Alpha1, Pi4, and Sigma1) that affected Germany between 2012 and 2020.
Genome Sequence of Ruloma Virus, a Novel Paramyxovirus Clustering Basally to Members of the Genus
Jeilongvirus
Authors: Vanmechelen Bert , Meurs Sien , Zisi Zafeiro , Goüy de Bellocq Joëlle , Bletsa Magda , Lemey Philippe , Maes Piet
Published: May 2021

We report here the complete genome sequence of ruloma virus, a novel paramyxovirus detected in a Machangu’s brush-furred rat from Tanzania. Ruloma virus has the longest orthoparamyxovirus genome reported to date and forms a sister clade to all currently known members of the genus
Jeilongvirus
.
Metagenome-Assembled Genomes of 12 Bacterial Species from Biofouled Plastic Fabrics Harbor Multiple Genes for Degradation of Hydrocarbons
Authors: Radwan Osman , Ruiz Oscar N.
Published: May 2021

We report the metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) of 12 different bacterial species recovered from environmental microbiomes associated with biofouled plastic fabrics. The MAGs have estimated sizes of 2.53 to 7.66 Mb with 3,229 to 9,289 proteins, 26.20% to 99.1% genome completeness, 48.9% to 72.6% G+C content, and multiple genes for hydrocarbon degradation.
Platelet storage pool disorder: multidisciplinary planning in pregnancy
Authors: Khakwani Sadia , Winton Claire , Aslam Nosheen , Taylor Suzanne
Published: May 2021

A 32-year old primigravida woman presented for antenatal care giving a history that her mother had platelet storage pool disorder (PSPD). The patient was subsequently diagnosed with PSPD during her pregnancy and had a caesarean delivery for breech presentation at 39 weeks. In this paper, we discuss the basic science, inheritance pattern, symptoms and management of this condition, alongside the antenatal and intrapartum and postnatal management specific to it, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach to care. PSPD refers to a group of rare conditions involving defects in platelet granule storage or secretion, which leads to abnormal aggregation and activation of platelets. There are both genetic and acquired forms of the condition. It is a functional platelet disorder, meaning platelet counts will usually remain in the normal range. The diagnosis may be suspected due to characteristic signs and symptoms, but patients may also be asymptomatic. There have been only a few documented cases of pregnant women with PSPD; therefore, management is not clear. Vaginal delivery is not contraindicated, however, postpartum haemorrhage should be anticipated and planned for the use of deamino D-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP), tranexamic acid, prophylactic oxytocics and prompt access to blood products, including platelets, if required. This case highlights the need for effective multidisciplinary teamwork between obstetricians, anaesthetists and haematologists to ensure high-quality care and enable careful intrapartum management planning.
Massive traumatic abdominal wall hernia with significant tissue loss: challenges in management
Authors: Skelhorne-Gross Graham , Nantais Jordan , Ditkofsky Noah , Gomez David
Published: May 2021

A 41-year-old woman presented to our trauma centre following a high-speed motor vehicle collision with a seatbelt pattern of injury resulting in extensive rupture of her abdominal wall musculature and associated hollow viscus injuries. The abdominal wall had vertical separation between transected rectus, bilateral transverse abdominis and oblique muscles allowing evisceration of small and large bowel into the flanks without skin rupture. Intraoperatively, extensive liquefaction and tissue loss of the abdominal wall was found with significant retraction of the remaining musculature. Initial operative management focused on repair of concomitant intra-abdominal injuries with definitive repair performed in delayed, preplanned stages including bridging with absorbable mesh and placement of an overlying split-thickness skin graft. The patient was discharged from hospital and underwent extensive rehabilitation. One year later, the abdominal wall was definitively repaired with components separation and biological mesh underlay. This stepwise repair process provided her with a robust and enduring abdominal wall reconstruction.
Cohort profile: DOLORisk Dundee: a longitudinal study of chronic neuropathic pain
Authors: Hébert Harry L. , Veluchamy Abirami , Baskozos Georgios , Fardo Francesca , Van Ryckeghem Dimitri M. L. , Pascal Mathilde M. V. , Jones Claire , Milburn Keith , Pearson Ewan R. , Crombez Geert , Bennett David L. H. , Meng Weihua , Palmer Colin N. A. , Smith Blair H.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Neuropathic pain is a common disorder of the somatosensory system that affects 7%–10% of the general population. The disorder places a large social and economic burden on patients as well as healthcare services. However, not everyone with a relevant underlying aetiology develops corresponding pain. DOLORisk Dundee, a European Union-funded cohort, part of the multicentre DOLORisk consortium, was set up to increase current understanding of this variation in onset. In particular, the cohort will allow exploration of psychosocial, clinical and genetic predictors of neuropathic pain onset.

Participants

DOLORisk Dundee has been constructed by rephenotyping two pre-existing Scottish population cohorts for neuropathic pain using a standardised ‘core’ study protocol: Genetics of Diabetes Audit and Research in Tayside Scotland (GoDARTS) (n=5236) consisting of predominantly type 2 diabetics from the Tayside region, and Generation Scotland: Scottish Family Health Study (GS:SFHS; n=20 221). Rephenotyping was conducted in two phases: a baseline postal survey and a combined postal and online follow-up survey. DOLORisk Dundee consists of 9155 participants (GoDARTS=1915; GS:SFHS=7240) who responded to the baseline survey, of which 6338 (69.2%; GoDARTS=1046; GS:SFHS=5292) also responded to the follow-up survey (18 months later).

Findings to date

At baseline, the proportion of those with chronic neuropathic pain (Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions questionnaire score ≥3, duration ≥3 months) was 30.5% in GoDARTS and 14.2% in Generation Scotland. Electronic record linkage enables large scale genetic association studies to be conducted and risk models have been constructed for neuropathic pain.

Future plans

The cohort is being maintained by an access committee, through which collaborations are encouraged. Details of how to do this will be available on the study website (http://dolorisk.eu/). Further follow-up surveys of the cohort are planned and funding applications are being prepared to this effect. This will be conducted in harmony with similar pain rephenotyping of UK Biobank.
Asthma exacerbation prevalence during the COVID-19 lockdown in a moderate-severe asthma cohort
Authors: de Boer Geertje , Braunstahl Gert-Jan , Hendriks Rudi , Tramper-Stranders Gerdien
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Following the recent COVID-19 lockdown, a reduction in emergency healthcare visits was reported. Infectious diseases were less often diagnosed, while it was not clear if this was due to a decrease in prevalence or a decrease in emergency healthcare visits due to fear of COVID-19.

Methods

This study comprises a follow-up from a recently finished randomised controlled trial, to gain insight into the prevalence of asthma exacerbation and fear of COVID-19 in patients with moderate-severe asthma and controls in the Netherlands. Participants, patients with asthma and controls, were invited to fill out a short survey by email or post. Exacerbation frequencies until 1 July 2020 were verified with the hospitals’ and general practitioners’ medical records, pharmacies and patient interviews.

Results

In quarter 2 of 2020, mean exacerbation frequency per patient was significantly lower (χ2(3)=9.91, p=0.019) compared with quarter 2 in previous years. Patients with asthma were more likely to avoid (38.8%; controls, 0.0%, p<0.01) or delay (24.5%; controls, 0.0%, p=0.02) essential medical visits due to fear of SARS-CoV-2 infection at medical facilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we found a significantly reduced asthma exacerbation frequency during COVID-19 social distancing measures compared with previous years. Patients with asthma also showed more anxiety towards (acquiring) COVID-19 infection.

Trial registration number

NL8576.
Dantrolene for muscle rigidity in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Khan Nadia
Published: May 2021

Progressive supranuclear palsy is a degenerative neurological condition with a high level of associated motor symptom burden manifesting in poor postural reflexes, bradykinesia, dystonia and stiffness in the body core and neck. In the light of a paucity in literature exploring pain management in neurodegenerative diseases, the below case report describes the use of dantrolene to successfully relieve distressing widespread dystonia and muscle rigidity refractory to non-pharmacological and pharmacotherapy. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of dantrolene use for the treatment of refractory muscle rigidity pain in neurodegenerative conditions.
International consensus to standardise histopathological scoring for small bowel strictures in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Gordon Ilyssa O , Bettenworth Dominik , Bokemeyer Arne , Srivastava Amitabh , Rosty Christophe , de Hertogh Gert , Robert Marie E , Valasek Mark A , Mao Ren , Li Jiannan , Harpaz Noam , Borralho Paula , Pai Reetesh K , Odze Robert , Feakins Roger , Parker Claire E , Guizzetti Leonardo , Nguyen Tran , Shackelton Lisa M , Sandborn William J , Jairath Vipul , Baker Mark , Bruining David , Fletcher Joel G , Feagan Brian G , Pai Rish K , Rieder Florian
Published: May 2021

Objective

Effective medical therapy and validated trial outcomes are lacking for small bowel Crohn’s disease (CD) strictures. Histopathology of surgically resected specimens is the gold standard for correlation with imaging techniques. However, no validated histopathological scoring systems are currently available for small bowel stricturing disease. We convened an expert panel to evaluate the appropriateness of histopathology scoring systems and items generated based on panel opinion.

Design

Modified RAND/University of California Los Angeles methodology was used to determine the appropriateness of 313 candidate items related to assessment of CD small bowel strictures.

Results

In this exercise, diagnosis of naïve and anastomotic strictures required increased bowel wall thickness, decreased luminal diameter or internal circumference, and fibrosis of the submucosa. Specific definitions for stricture features and technical sampling parameters were also identified. Histopathologically, a stricture was defined as increased thickness of all layers of the bowel wall, fibrosis of the submucosa and bowel wall, and muscularisation of the submucosa. Active mucosal inflammatory disease was defined as neutrophilic inflammation in the lamina propria and any crypt or intact surface epithelium, erosion, ulcer and fistula. Chronic mucosal inflammatory disease was defined as crypt architectural distortion and loss, pyloric gland metaplasia, Paneth cell hyperplasia, basal lymphoplasmacytosis, plasmacytosis and fibrosis, or prominent lymphoid aggregates at the mucosa/submucosa interface. None of the scoring systems used to assess CD strictures were considered appropriate for clinical trials.

Conclusion

Standardised assessment of gross pathology and histopathology of CD small bowel strictures will improve clinical trial efficiency and aid drug development.