bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mating under climate change: Impact of simulated heatwaves on the reproduction of model pollinators
Authors: Martinet Baptiste , Zambra Ella , Przybyla Kimberly , Lecocq Thomas , Anselmo Abigaël , Nonclercq Denis , Rasmont Pierre , Michez Denis , Hennebert Elise
Published: December 2020

Climate change is related to an increase in frequency and intensity of extreme events such as heatwaves. It is well established that such events may worsen the current world‐wide biodiversity decline. In many organisms, heat stress is associated with direct physiological perturbations and could lead to a decrease of fitness. In contrast to endotherms, heat stress resistance has been poorly investigated in heterotherms; especially in insects, in which the internal physiological mechanisms available to regulate body temperature are almost negligible making them sensitive to extreme temperature variations.

Wild bees are crucial pollinators for wild plants and crops. Among them, bumblebees are experiencing a strong decline across the world. Therefore, the ongoing global decline of these insect pollinators partly due to climate change could cause major economic issues.

Here we assess how simulated heatwaves impact fertility and attractiveness (key parameters of sustainability) of bumblebee males. We used three model species: Bombus terrestris, a widespread and warm‐adapted species, B. magnus and B. jonellus, two declining and cold‐adapted species.

We highlight that heat shock (40°C) negatively affects sperm viability and sperm DNA integrity only in the two cold‐adapted species. Heat shock can also impact the structure of cephalic labial glands and the production of pheromones only in the declining species.

The specific disruption in key reproductive traits we identify following simulated heatwave conditions could provide one important mechanistic explanation for why some pollinators are in decline through climate change.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Phantom river noise alters orb‐weaving spider abundance, web size and prey capture
Authors: Gomes Dylan G. E. , Hesselberg Thomas , Barber Jesse R.
Published: December 2020

Novel anthropogenic noise has received considerable attention in behavioural ecology, but the natural acoustic environment has largely been ignored as a niche axis.

Using arrays of speakers, we experimentally broadcasted whitewater river noise continuously for three summers, and monitored spider abundance and behaviour across 15 sites, to test our hypothesis that river noise is an important structuring force as a niche axis.

We find substantial evidence that orb‐weaving spiders (Araneidae and Tetragnathidae) are more abundant in high sound level environments, but are not affected by background noise spectrum.

We explore multiple possible mechanisms underlying these patterns, such as loss of vertebrate predators and increased prey capture, and assess spider web‐building behaviour and body condition in noise. Continued research on the natural and anthropogenic acoustic environment will likely reveal a web of connections hidden within this neglected ecological niche axis.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Foliar summer frost resistance measured via electrolyte leakage approach as related to plant distribution, community composition and plant traits
Authors: Bucher Solveig Franziska , Rosbakh Sergey
Published: December 2020

Frost resistance (FR) is a fundamental process determining various aspects of plant life. Measurements of FR remain challenging as existing methods are time‐ and labour‐intensive.

Here, we test the applicability of foliar summer FR measured via the ‘electrolyte leakage’ approach (FRPEL), a simple and inexpensive technique so far underused in ecological research to estimate FR. We tested the ability of this trait to predict (a) species occurrence, (b) community composition along an elevation gradient and (c) analysed its relationship with nine other traits (SLA, Cmass, Nmass, Pmass, Camass, Mgmass, Kmass, canopy height and the ability to form rosettes) related to plant performance. We studied 183 vascular species occurring at 37 sites, which we also analysed in terms of species composition along an elevation gradient from 656 to 2,363 m a.s.l. in the Bavarian Alps, Germany.

Species' FRPELvalues correlated significantly with the species occurrence along the elevation gradient. However, this relationship was weak as it explained only 10% in the variation of the Landolt indicator values, a proxy for species geographic ranges. We found a strong positive relationship between community‐weighted FRPELvalues and elevation suggesting a strong environmental filtering of this trait that removes species with low FR from the local species pool at high elevations. The community functional diversity of FRPELsignificantly increased with increasing elevation suggesting a higher trait divergence in harsher climates. We found significant negative relationships between FRPELand SLA, canopy height and the ability to form leaf rosettes, indicating a trade‐off in plants between the investment in conservative strategies, in our case FR, and fast resource acquisition.

Our study highlights the potential of using FRPELmore frequently in ecological research as we were able to reconfirm three patterns inferred by more precise yet time‐consuming and labour‐intensive approaches. We demonstrate that FRPELcan be used to predict species occurrence and infer assembly rules along elevation gradients. Furthermore, we found that FRPELis linked to plant functional traits associated with plant performance and morphological features of the plants. However, the trait's predictive power varied greatly among the study objectives and levels.

A freePlain Language Summarycan be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Using generalised dissimilarity modelling and targeted field surveys to gap‐fill an ecosystem surveillance network
Authors: Guerin Greg R. , Williams Kristen J. , Leitch Emrys , Lowe Andrew J. , Sparrow Ben
Published: December 2020

Effective ecosystem management requires spatially distributed measurements that are representative of ecological diversity. When considering which sites complement existing conservation or monitoring networks, there are many strategies for optimising ecological coverage in the absence of ground observations. However, such optimisation is often implemented theoretically in conservation prioritisation frameworks and real‐world implementation is rarely assessed, particularly for monitoring networks.

We assessed the performance of adding new survey sites informed by predictive modelling in gap‐filling the ecological coverage of the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network's (TERN) continental network of ecosystem surveillance plots, Ausplots. We constructed a generalised dissimilarity model (GDM) in which plant species composition in 531 sites was fitted to environmental parameters. We combined predicted nearest‐neighbour ecological distances for locations across Australia with practical considerations to select regions for gap‐filling surveys of 181 new plots across 18 expeditions. We iteratively tracked the reduction in mean nearest‐neighbour distances in GDM space, and increases in the actual sampling of ecological space, using cumulative multivariate dispersion.

The generalised dissimilarity model explained 34% of deviance in species compositional turnover as a function of geographic distance, soil P, aridity, actual evapotranspiration and rainfall seasonality, among 17 significant predictors.

We targeted identified gap regions in the Australian jurisdictions of Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia for surveys in addition to opportunistic or project‐based gap‐filling over 2 years. Approximately 20% of the land area of Australia received increased servicing of biological representation, corresponding to a reduction in mean nearest‐neighbour ecological distances from 0.38 to 0.33 in units of compositional dissimilarity. The corresponding increase in sampled ecological space was 172% more than that achieved from the previous 181 plots.

Synthesis and applications. Increases in the representation of ecosystems included in surveillance networks can be achieved efficiently using objective methods for site selection and appraisal. Scaling of environmental variables through ecological models supports practical sampling decisions, while optimising putative survey locations via their ecological distance to a nearest neighbour is useful when the aim is to increase inclusion of habitats. Iterations between modelled gaps and field campaigns provide a pragmatic compromise between theoretical optima and real‐world decision‐making.
Using a 3D food printer as a teaching tool: Focus groups with dietitians, teachers, and nutrition students
Authors: Gosine Laura , Kean Brianna , Parsons Chelsea , McSweeney Matthew B.
Published: December 2020

Three‐dimensional (3D) food printing is a new technology that can be used to produce personalized and customized food products. However, very little research has been completed on how 3D food printers could be used as educational tools. As such, the objective of this study was to evaluate how teachers (n = 6), dietitians (n = 6), and nutrition students (n = 11) envision the use of 3D food printers when disseminating information about food and nutrition. Focus groups were conducted with teachers, dietitians, and nutrition students. Initially, the participants were introduced to the concept of 3D food printing and then they were asked how they could use a 3D food printer in their teachings. The participants did not feel that a 3D food printer would enhance their teaching and instead felt it could confuse or frighten people. Also, all of the participants were worried about learning how to 3D print foods. The participants did state that people would be interested in watching a 3D food printer. Furthermore, the teachers and nutrition students indicated they thought a demonstration of a 3D food printer would lead to more interest in food and nutrition. Additionally, they thought a 3D food printer could be used to create visually appealing foods. Overall, until 3D food printers are found in residential and commercial kitchens, the participants did not think it would enhance their teachings; however, they did indicate that 3D food printing demonstrations could lead to students being interested in the food and nutrition fields.
Starch‐based nanoparticles: Stimuli responsiveness, toxicity, and interactions with food components
Authors: Yu Mengting , Ji Na , Wang Yanfei , Dai Lei , Xiong Liu , Sun Qingjie
Published: December 2020

In recent years, starch‐based nanoparticles have attracted great interest due to their small size, good biocompatibility, and environmental friendliness, as well as their potential applications in foods, drug delivery carriers, and biodegradable edible films. Compared with nonstarch polysaccharides, starch can be enzymatically hydrolyzed into glucose in vivo, so it can be used as an enzyme‐responsive carrier. The recent research progress of starch‐based nanoparticles, including starch nanoparticles, starch nanospheres, starch micelles, starch vesicles, starch nanogels, and starch nanofibers, are reviewed in this paper. The main focus is on their responsiveness, digestibility, toxicity, interactions with other components, and applications. Starch‐based nanoparticles are nontoxic and responsive to pH, temperature, light, and other stimuli. It can interact with proteins, antioxidants, and lipids through electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding interactions. Starch‐based nanoparticles have a wide range of applications, including enhancing the mechanical properties of films and gels, stabilizing emulsions, as a fluorescent indicator, a catalyst, and a nanocarrier to control the release of active ingredients and drugs.
Vadadustat for anemia in chronic kidney disease patients on peritoneal dialysis: A phase 3 open‐label study in Japan
Authors: Nangaku Masaomi , Kondo Kazuoki , Takabe Souichirou , Ueta Kiichiro , Kaneko Genki , Otsuka Makiko , Kawaguchi Yutaka , Komatsu Yasuhiro
Published: December 2020

Vadadustat is an oral hypoxia‐inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor for the treatment of anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This phase 3, open‐label, 24‐week single‐arm study evaluated the efficacy and safety of vadadustat in 42 Japanese CKD patients with anemia undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Patients received oral vadadustat for 24 weeks, initiated at 300 mg/day and doses were adjusted to achieve the target hemoglobin (Hb) range of 11.0‐13.0 g/dL. Least squares mean of average Hb at weeks 20 and 24 was 11.35 g/dL, which was within the target range. The most frequent adverse events were catheter site infections (23.8%), which were not related to vadadustat treatment. Vadadustat was generally well tolerated and effective in controlling Hb levels within the target range, indicating the usefulness of vadadustat for treating anemia in Japanese CKD patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.
Subjective alcohol responses in high‐ and low‐risk adolescents: results from the Dresden Longitudinal Study on Alcohol Use in Young Adults
Authors: Chavarria Jesus , Fridberg Daniel J. , Obst Elisabeth , Zimmermann Ulrich S. , King Andrea C.
Published: December 2020

Background and Aims

Research shows that sensitivity to certain alcohol responses conveys risk for problem drinking. This study aimed to determine if high‐risk adolescent drinkers infuse more alcohol and experience greater alcohol‐induced stimulation and wanting and less sedation than low‐risk adolescent drinkers.

Design and Participants

Ninety‐two low‐ (n = 38) and high‐risk (n = 54) adolescent drinkers, as determined by Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test scores of < 6 or ≥ 6, respectively, participated in the Dresden Longitudinal Study on Alcohol Use in Young Adults in which intravenous alcohol self‐administration was examined in a mixed within‐ and between‐subjects design.

Setting

Technische Universität Dresden. Dresden, Germany.

Measurements

Predictors were drinking status (high‐ versus low‐risk), time and their interactions. Outcomes were arterial blood alcohol concentration (aBAC); alcohol‐induced stimulation, sedation and wanting assessed at baseline, 10 (alcohol prime), 45, 65, 85, 105, 125 and 145 minutes. Covariates were family history of alcohol use disorder, sex and aBAC.

Results

The alcohol prime dose produced similar sharp increases in stimulation and sedation in high‐ and low‐risk drinkers (time P < 0.001; group × time P > 0.05). During self‐administration, high‐risk drinkers reached higher aBACs (P = 0.028) at a faster rate (group × time P < 0.001), and experienced further increases in stimulation (group × time P = 0.005) but with similar sedation (group × time P = 0.794) than in low‐risk drinkers. High‐risk drinkers also exhibited greater tonic alcohol wanting (group P = 0.003) throughout the session.

Conclusions

High‐risk adolescent drinkers appear to have heightened sensitivity to alcohol‐induced stimulation and tonic high levels of wanting compared with low‐risk adolescent drinkers.
Genetic structure of two Plusiinae species suggests recent expansion of Chrysodeixis includens in the American continent
Authors: Perini Clérison R. , Sosa Verónica I. , Koda Vicente E. , Silva Horacio , Risso Andrés A. , Vasconcelos Wanessa N. F. , Gonçalves Carolina F. , Ugalde Gustavo A. , Machado Dayanna N. , Bevilacqua Caroline B. , Ardisson‐Araújo Daniel M. P. , Maebe Kevin , Smagghe Guy , Valmorbida Ivair , Guedes Jerson C.
Published: December 2020

The Plusiinae subfamily has many polyphagous species, many of which occur in South America. Chrysodeixis includens and Rachiplusia nu are two representatives that mainly occurs in soybeans, cotton, common beans, sunflower and alfalfa.

A population genetic study of C. includens and R. nu collected in the Southern Cone of America was performed using a partial COI gene sequencing data and compared with specimens from other American countries.

Six haplotypes were identified in C. includens populations of Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, organized within a star‐like haplotype network, with the most common haplotype identified as Chin_MC.

R. nu populations are more diverse and stable in comparison to C. includens. Populations from Argentina and Uruguay had the highest haplotype diversity, sharing five haplotypes and putatively indicating haplotype exchange.

Demographic change analysis suggested a recent population expansion of C. includens over the American continent.

Some C. includens haplotypes were country‐specific, suggesting population expansion in the countries where specimens were collected.
Avifauna diversity and anthropogenic threats of wetlands in South‐Western Ethiopia
Authors: Alemkere Bezabih Azmeraw , Bakala Gabayo Fayera , Tolossa Wakjira Tesfaye
Published: December 2020

This study was conducted to investigate avifauna diversity and anthropogenic threats to wetlands in Sheka and Bench‐Maji Zones. A total of 5 wetlands, 4 swamps and 1 artificial lake, were purposely selected. Avian diversity data were collected using point count method. Household surveys were undertaken to collect data on anthropogenic threats of wetlands. A total of 1,130 individuals of birds belonging to 28 families and 61 species were recorded. Species richness and diversity were higher in the wet season (51 species, H = 3.65) than the dry season (40 species, H = 3.37). The Bray–Curtis Dissimilarity Index (BC) revealed the three study sites were 78.77% dissimilar in species composition (BCijk = 0.7877) with a total number of 18 shared species. Chega‐Gawussi wetlands and Chonkie‐Shinke wetlands have 70.89% similarity with BC Dissimilarity Index value of 0.291. The study identified that drainage for farming practices, grass overexploitation and Eucalyptus plantations were the main threats to Chonke‐Shinkie wetlands, and Lake Dembi has been threatened by sedimentation from the adjacent farmlands, waste disposal from the Mizan‐Aman Municipality, coffee washing plantations, whereas Chega‐Gawussi wetlands were affected by grass overexploitation and deforestation. Therefore, due attention and conservation actions are required from stakeholders for the protection of these ecosystems.
Many Voices, One Ambition: Local Government, Post‐War Reconstruction and Northern Development in Australia
Authors: White Patrick
Published: December 2020

Established in 1944, the North Queensland Local Government Association made an impact on post‐war reconstruction and northern development in Australia. The association modernised infrastructure and improved social conditions in Queensland's north, as well as launching an influential publicity campaign to promote a massive northern development scheme. In an era when federal proposals for developing Australia's northern regions often struggled to make a convincing case for Commonwealth investment, these were significant contributions to nation‐building. Putting substance before parochialism, the association fostered cooperation among municipal authorities and patiently lobbied the Queensland government. But some members complained that their region was part of a “neglected north” and called for a more assertive campaign. By the late 1950s, having developed regional infrastructure, grown in confidence, and looking for new challenges, the association shifted its lobbying to target the Commonwealth government. The change led to the “People the North” publicity campaign, which influenced federal northern development policy. This article analyses the campaigns led by the North Queensland Local Government Association in the twenty years after 1944. It illuminates a neglected part of Australia's political history: the contribution of regional political voices from Australia's north to nation‐building projects such as post‐war reconstruction and northern development.
Population pharmacokinetics and exposure‐response analysis of tigecycline in patients with hospital‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: Zhou Yangang , Xu Ping , Li Huande , Wang Feng , Yan Han , Liang Wu , Xiang Daxiong , Zhang Bikui , Banh Hoan Linh
Published: December 2020

Background

Tigecycline has been widely used to treat hospital‐acquired pneumonia (HAP) off‐label since it is effective against a wide range of multidrug‐resistant bacteria. However, no recommended dosage for this indication has been evaluated, resulting in possible inadequate treatment.

Aims

The aims of this study are to establish the population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model of tigecycline in Chinese patients with HAP, as well as to evaluate the exposure‐response relationship for the treatment of HAP with multidrug‐resistant gram‐negative bacteria.

Methods

A PPK analysis of tigecycline was conducted on pooled data from 328 blood samples obtained from 89 patients with HAP. Tigecycline plasma concentrations were measured by a two‐dimensional liquid chromatographic system and the data were analysed using Phoenix NLMETM software. Exposure‐response analyses for efficacy were performed based on the data from 79 HAP patients with multidrug‐resistant gram‐negative infections. Classification and regression tree and logistic regression analyses were employed to identify which pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic (PK‐PD) indices and magnitudes were the significant predictors of tigecycline efficacy.

Results

A two‐compartment model with zero‐order absorption and first‐order elimination adequately described the data. A larger body weight was associated with increased central volume of distribution and clearance (P < .005), and increased age, baseline creatinine concentration and aspertate aminotransferase were associated with decreased clearance (P < .005). The AUC0‐12h × V/MIC ratio, APACHEII score and combined Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection are the strong predictors for tigecycline clinical response. Classification and regression tree analyses indicated that the combination of APACHEII score < 24 and AUC0‐12h × V/MIC ratio ≥ 100 was associated with clinical success.

Conclusions

The proposed PPK model may serve as the basis for estimating tigecycline exposure for PK‐PD analyses, and the PK‐PD index and magnitude found in this study could be used for designing proper dosage regimens of tigecycline.
‘Too late or too soon’: The ethics of advance care planning in dementia setting
Authors: Perin Marta , Ghirotto Luca , De Panfilis Ludovica
Published: December 2020

Advance care planning (ACP) is considered a pivotal aid in the decision‐making process, especially for many people living with dementia, who inevitably will lose the capacity to make decisions at the end of life. In Italy, ACP has been recently regulated by law 219/2017, leading to the investigation of how physicians deal with ACP in dementia. In order to comprehend the perception of physicians who provide care for patients with dementia regarding ACP and to describe their difficulties and needs, this study presents the results of a qualitative research study performed within a local health authority in northern Italy. Data were collected by semi‐structured interviews with 11 physicians dealing with patients with dementia and were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four superordinate themes were identified, describing both the difficulties and challenges perceived by physicians in performing shared ACP in their daily activities. This study demonstrates that physicians experience troubles synchronizing the time of shared ACP with the more rapid development of dementia. Results also suggest that further training about communication on ACP is urgently required to ease the implementation of shared ACP. A broader involvement of institutions and other professionals is also important in spreading ACP among healthcare institutions.
Structure‐based derivation and optimization of YAP‐like coactivator‐derived peptides to selectively target TEAD family transcription factors by hydrocarbon stapling and cyclization
Authors: He Bo , Wu Tao , He Ping , Lv Fenglin , Liu Hongxiang
Published: December 2020

Human transcriptional enhanced associate domain (TEAD) family consists of four paralogous transcription factors that function to modulate gene expression by interacting with YAP‐like coactivators and have been recognized as potential therapeutic targets of diverse diseases including lung cancer and gastric tumor. Here, we attempt to explore the systematic interaction profile between the 4 TEAD proteins and the peptides derived from the binding sites of 8 known YAP‐like coactivators, in order to analyze the binding affinity and recognition specificity of these peptides toward the TEAD family, and to design hydrocarbon‐stapled/cyclized peptides that can target the specific interaction profile for each coactivator. Structural, energetic, and dynamic investigations of TEAD–coactivator interactions reveal that the coactivators adopt three independent secondary structure regions (β‐strand, α‐helix, and Ω‐loop) to surround on the surface of TEAD proteins, in which the α‐helical and Ω‐loop regions are primarily responsible for the interactions. Five α‐helical peptides and four Ω‐loop peptides are derived from the 8 YAP‐like coactivators, and their systematic binding profile toward the 4 TEAD proteins is created, and hydrocarbon stapling and cyclization strategies are employed to constrain the free α‐helical and Ω‐loop peptides into their native conformations, respectively, thus effectively promoting peptide binding to TEADs. The all‐hydrocarbon and disulfide bridges are designed to point out the TEAD–peptide complex interface, which would not disrupt the direct intermolecular interaction between the TEAD and peptide. Therefore, the stapling and cyclization only improve peptide binding affinity to these TEADs, but do not alter peptide recognition specificity over different TEADs.
The epidermal growth factor receptor variant type III mutation frequently found in gliomas induces astrogenesis in human cerebral organoids
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Mun , Lee Sang‐Hyeok , Lim Jaejoon , Yoo Jongman , Hwang Dong‐Youn
Published: December 2020

Objectives

The epidermal growth factor receptor variant type III (EGFRvIII) is the most common mutation of EGFR in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and is found in approximately 25% of all GBMs. Intriguingly, EGFRvIII is mostly found in GFAP+ astrocytic tumour cells in the brain, suggesting connection of EGFRvIII to astrogenesis. In this study, we explored whether EGFRvIII mutation facilitates astrogenesis in human development setting.

Materials and methods

Using CRISPR‐Cas9, we generated EGFRvIII mutations in H9‐hESCs. Wild type (wt) H9‐hESCs were used as an isogenic control. Next, we generated cerebral organoids using the wt and EGFRvIII‐hESCs and examined the astrogenic differentiation of the brain organoids.

Results

EGFRvIII‐organoids showed abundant astrocytes (GFAP+, S100β+), while no astrocytes were detected in wt hESC‐derived organoids at day 49. On the contrary, TUJ1+ neurons were more abundant in the wt‐organoids than the EGFRvIII‐organoids. This result suggested that constitutively active EGFRvIII promoted astrogenesis at the expense of neurogenesis. In addition, the EGFRvIII‐organoids were larger in size and retained more Ki67+ cells than wt‐organoids, indicating enhanced cell proliferation by the mutation. The EGFRvIII‐organoids displayed massive apoptotic cell death after treatment with temozolomide and hence, could be used for evaluation of anti‐GBM drugs.

Conclusions

EGFRvIII mutation‐induced astrogenesis and massive cell proliferation in a human brain development model. These results provide us new insights into the mechanisms relating EGFRvIII mutation‐mediated gliogenesis and gliomagenesis.
The US Unanticipated Costs of Decoupling from China
Authors: Zhang Jun , Shi Shuo
Published: December 2020

The decoupling policies enforced by the Trump Administration aim to break the US economic relationship with China. Those policies, however, are escalating strategic costs for the US in at least three unanticipated ways: the decoupling policies are losing the endorsement of US multinational corporations, undermining the solidarity of the US and its allies, and making supply chains more likely to disengage from the US than to disengage from China. We argue that the ongoing decoupling policies are costing more than the US can bear and will end in vain. If the Trump Administration enforces further decoupling policies without considering those implicit costs, it will only set the US up for a more expensive failure.
Pennsylvania coordinated specialty care programs forfirst‐episodepsychosis: 6‐ and 12‐month outcomes
Authors: Westfall Megan B. E. , Kohler Christian G. , Hurford Irene , Abegunde Courtney , Agosti Dominick , Brinen Aaron , Cadman Mary Lyn , Conroy Catherine , Ered Arielle , Fooks Amanda , Franco Olivia , Huque Zeeshan M. , Namowicz Denise , O'Connor Seamus , Oross Molly , Payne Elisa , Sarpal Deepak K. , Schmidt Lyndsay R. , Swigart Alison , Wenzel R. Marie , Calkins Monica E.
Published: December 2020

Aim

Pennsylvania (PA) first‐episode psychosis (FEP) program evaluation is a statewide initiative, supported by the PA Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (PA‐OMHSAS) and administered by PA Early Intervention Center/Heads Up, which evaluates fidelity and outcomes of PA Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) programs. Programs participate in standard computerized measures of CSC outcomes using centralized informatics. The aims of the current report are to describe implementation of this core battery for program evaluation in PA and to present 6‐ and 12‐month outcomes.

Methods

Participants (n = 697) from nine PA CSC programs completed the core battery at admission. The battery was re‐administered at 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up, and data were analysed for individuals (n = 230) who had completed 12‐months of treatment. Domains assessed via clinician report and/or self‐report included symptoms, role and social functioning, self‐perceived recovery and service utilization.

Results

PA FEP CSC participants showed improvement over time in several domains, including decreased symptoms, higher role and social functioning, decreased hospitalizations, and improved self‐perception of recovery, quality of life, and services satisfaction. Trends towards improvements were observed for participant happiness, hopelessness, and school‐enrolment. Nearly all improvements were observed at 6‐month follow‐up, with earlier gains maintained at 12‐months.

Conclusions

PA FEP CSC programs demonstrate the ability to assess and improve critical outcomes of coordinated specialty care in PA. Improved outcomes by 12 months in treatment provides evidence of an effective treatment model and supports the continuation of these programs in pursuit of our goal of reducing schizophrenia disease burden on individuals and society.
Gender effect on cardiac involvement in myotonic dystrophy type 1
Authors: Garibaldi Matteo , Lauletta Antonio , Bucci Elisabetta , Fionda Laura , Vanoli Fiammetta , Leonardi Luca , Alfieri Girolamo , Tufano Laura , Morino Stefania , Merlonghi Gioia , Anibaldi Paolo , Salvetti Marco , Testa Marco , Antonini Giovanni
Published: December 2020

Background and purpose

Cardiac involvement is observed in about 80% of subjects with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and is mainly characterized by cardiac conduction and/or rhythm abnormalities (CCRAs), possibly leading to sudden cardiac death (SCD). Our objective was to investigate whether the gender difference may influence the cardiac involvement and SCD in DM1.

Methods

We analyzed prevalence and incidence of cardiological abnormalities in males versus females in 151 consecutive DM1 patients over a 35‐year follow‐up period.

Results

Fifty‐five patients, 35 males (62.5%) and 20 females (42.5%), developed some type of CCRA during the follow‐up period (mean 7.82 ± 6.21 years). CCRA overall, and specifically cardiac conduction abnormalities (CCAs), were significantly more frequent in males than in females (p = 0.043 and p = 0.031, respectively). CCRAs progressed in 16 males (45.7%) and six females (30%). Twenty‐four patients, 14 males (25.0%) and 10 females (21.3%), died during the follow‐up. Nine of them, six males (10.7%) and three females (6.4%), had SCD. After correction for Muscular Impairment Rating Scale progression, cytosine thymine‐guanine expansion, and follow‐up duration, a higher prevalence of CCAs was independently associated with male gender (p = 0.039), but independent association with gender was not detected for CCRAs overall, cardiac rhythm abnormalities, and SCD prevalence, even if prevalence was higher in males than females.

Conclusions

The overall risk of occurrence of CCAs in DM1 is significantly higher in males than females regardless of genetic background and disease severity and progression. Moreover, the data also suggest a similar impact for male gender for CCRAs overall, CCAs, and SCD even if not statistically significant.
Phosphatidylserine flux into mitochondria unveiled by organelle‐targeted Escherichia coli phosphatidylserine synthase PssA
Authors: Shiino Hiroya , Furuta Shiina , Kojima Rieko , Kimura Keisuke , Endo Toshiya , Tamura Yasushi
Published: December 2020

Most phospholipids are synthesised in the endoplasmic reticulum and distributed to other cellular membranes. Although the vesicle transport contributes to the phospholipid distribution among the endomembrane system, exactly how phospholipids are transported to, from and between mitochondrial membranes remains unclear. To gain insights into phospholipid transport routes into mitochondria, we expressed the Escherichia coli phosphatidylserine (PS) synthase PssA in various membrane compartments with distinct membrane topologies in yeast cells lacking a sole PS synthase (Cho1). Interestingly, PssA could complement loss of Cho1 when targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), peroxisome, or lipid droplet membranes. Synthesised PS could be converted to phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) by Psd1, the mitochondrial PS decarboxylase, suggesting that phospholipids synthesised in the peroxisomes and low doses (LDs) can efficiently reach mitochondria. Furthermore, we found that PssA which has been integrated into the mitochondrial inner membrane (MIM) from the matrix side could partially complement the loss of Cho1. The PS synthesised in the MIM was also converted to PE, indicating that PS flops across the MIM to become PE. These findings expand our understanding of the intracellular phospholipid transport routes via mitochondria.
Optimisation of 186Os/188Os Measurements by N‐TIMS Using Amplifiers Equipped with 1013 Ω Resistors
Authors: Reisberg Laurie , Zimmermann Catherine
Published: December 2020

Analysis of 186Os/188Os variations in most natural samples is hampered by their low Os mass fractions (usually < 100 pg g−1), requiring Os separation from up to a kilogram of powder to obtain high precision measurement results. Recently developed amplifiers equipped with 1013 Ω feedback resistors improve the signal to noise ratio by an order of magnitude, allowing acquisition of high precision data (2SE < 50 ppm) from 186Os16O3− ion beams of ~ 40 fA and thus analysis of less material (~ 10–500 g). Factors controlling the uncertainty of 186Os/188Os N‐TIMS measurement results, using a mixed array of 1013 and 1011 Ω amplifiers, include isobaric interferences, baseline variability, gain calibration, decay time corrections and oxygen isotope composition variations. Isobaric interferences present the greatest challenges, but these can be largely overcome by using double Pt filaments and periodically monitoring interferences during each measurement. The optimised procedures produce 186Os/188Os ratios with precisions close to the theoretical limits imposed by counting statistics and Johnson–Nyquist electronic noise for ion beams of 10–70 fA. The intermediate measurement precision (85 ppm; 2s) approaches theoretically expected values (~ 50–80 ppm). This precision is sufficient to allow 186Os/188Os analyses of crustal rocks, for which relatively large variations are expected.
IgA binds to the AD‐2 epitope of glycoprotein B and neutralizes human cytomegalovirus
Authors: Siddiqui Saima , Hackl Sarah , Ghoddusi Hamid , McIntosh Megan R. , Gomes Ariane C. , Ho Joshua , Reeves Matthew B. , McLean Gary R.
Published: December 2020

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquitous pathogen that is potentially pathogenic in immunosuppressed individuals and pregnant females during primary infection. The HCMV envelope glycoprotein B (gB) facilitates viral entry into all cell types and induces a potent immune response. AD‐2 epitope is a highly conserved linear neutralizing epitope of gB and a critical target for antibodies; however, only 50% of sero‐positive individuals make IgG antibodies to this site and IgA responses have not been fully investigated. This study aimed to compare IgG and IgA responses against gB and the AD‐2 epitope in naturally exposed individuals and those receiving a recombinant gB/MF59 adjuvant vaccine. Thus, vaccination of sero‐positive individuals improved pre‐existing gB‐specific IgA and IgG levels and induced de novo gB‐specific IgA and IgG responses in sero‐negative recipients. Pre‐existing AD‐2 IgG and IgA responses were boosted with vaccination, but de novo AD‐2 responses were not detected. Naturally exposed individuals had dominant IgG responses towards gB and AD‐2 compared with weaker and variable IgA responses, although a significant IgA binding response to AD‐2 was observed within human breastmilk samples. All antibodies binding AD‐2 contained kappa light chains, whereas balanced kappa/lambda light chain usage was found for those binding to gB. V region‐matched AD‐2‐specific recombinant IgG and IgA bound both to gB and to AD‐2 and neutralized HCMV infection in vitro. Overall, these results indicate that although human IgG responses dominate, IgA class antibodies against AD‐2 are a significant component of human milk, which may function to protect neonates from HCMV.
NLRP9 in innate immunity and inflammation
Authors: Mullins Breanne , Chen Jueqi
Published: December 2020

The nucleotide‐binding domain leucine‐rich repeat containing receptors (NLRs) are a family of evolutionarily conserved proteins. Several members of NLRs, notably NLRP1, NLRP3 and NLRC4, are able to form cytosolic oligomeric signalling platforms termed inflammasomes to mediate immune response towards pathogens, damage and stress. However, the functions of many NLRs still remain elusive. In the past few years, a couple of less‐characterized NLR members are emerging as important signalling molecules with fundamental functions in host defence and inflammation. Among them, NLRP9 is an NLR originally proposed to be expressed and function solely in the reproductive system. Recent evidence has suggested that NLRP9 is also capable of initiating inflammasome formation in the intestine to restrict replication and damage brought by rotavirus infection. Here, we highlight the latest progress in characterization of the role of NLRP9 in infectious and inflammatory diseases, as well as the newest crystallographic and biochemical studies on NLRP9. Finally, we discuss some important questions remained to be answered regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing NLRP9's function in innate immunity and inflammation.
Self‐measured worksite blood pressure and its association with organ damage in working adults: Japan Morning Surge Home Blood Pressure (J‐HOP) worksite study
Authors: Tomitani Naoko , Hoshide Satoshi , Kario Kazuomi
Published: December 2020

The effects of elevations in blood pressure (BP) on worksite stress as an out‐of‐office BP setting have been evaluated using ambulatory BP monitoring but not by self‐measurement. Herein, we determined the profile of self‐measured worksite BP in working adults and its association with organ damage in comparison with office BP and home BP measured by the same home BP monitoring device. A total of 103 prefectural government employees (age 45.3 ± 9.0 years, 77.7% male) self‐measured their worksite BP at four timepoints (before starting work, before and after a lunch break, and before leaving the workplace) and home BP in the morning, evening, and nighttime (at 2, 3, and 4 a.m.) each day for 14 consecutive days. In the total group, the average worksite systolic BP (SBP) was significantly higher than the morning home SBP (129.1 ± 14.3 vs. 124.4 ± 16.4 mmHg, p = .026). No significant difference was observed among the four worksite SBP values. Although the average worksite BP was higher than the morning home BP in the study participants with office BP < 140/90 mmHg (SBP: 121.4 ± 9.4 vs. 115.1 ± 10.4 mmHg, p < .001, DBP: 76.0 ± 7.7 vs. 72.4 ± 8.4 mmHg, p = .013), this association was not observed in those with office BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg or those using antihypertensive medication. Worksite SBP was significantly correlated with the left ventricular mass index evaluated by echocardiography (r = 0.516, p < .0001). The self‐measurement of worksite BP would be useful to unveil the risk of hypertension in working adults who show normal office and home BP.
First report of voltage‐gated sodium channel M918V and molecular diagnostics of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor R81T in the cotton aphid
Authors: Munkhbayar Otgonzaya , Liu Nian , Li Mei , Qiu Xinghui
Published: December 2020

The cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover, is one of the most important agricultural insect pests. Pyrethroid and neonicotinoid insecticides have generally shown excellent control of A. gossypii, but many populations of this pest have developed resistance against these classes of insecticides. The success of insecticide resistance management strategies requires detailed knowledge of both phenotype and genotype of the target insect pest. In this study, we attempted to understand the molecular status of insecticide resistance in cotton aphid populations in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China, the major cotton planting region of China. In addition to the previously reported M918L mutation, we discovered another substitution (M918V) in the voltage‐gated sodium channel (VGSC). Moreover, we developed a molecular assay that could be used to detect precisely the R81T mutation in the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). This survey revealed that 918L was the predominant VGSC allele with a frequency ranging from 50.0% to 56.7%. Notably, appreciable frequencies (between 10% and 40%) of the resistance 81T allele of the nAChR gene were detected in three investigated populations. The prevalent co‐occurrence of both VGSC 918L/V and nAchR 81T indicates a worrisome situation of multiple resistance to both pyrethroids and neonicotinoids.
BAYESIAN STATE SPACE MODELS IN MACROECONOMETRICS
Authors: Chan Joshua C.C. , Strachan Rodney W.
Published: December 2020

State space models play an important role in macroeconometric analysis and the Bayesian approach has been shown to have many advantages. This paper outlines recent developments in state space modelling applied to macroeconomics using Bayesian methods. We outline the directions of recent research, specifically the problems being addressed and the solutions proposed. After presenting a general form for the linear Gaussian model, we discuss the interpretations and virtues of alternative estimation routines and their outputs. This discussion includes the Kalman filter and smoother, and precision‐based algorithms. As the advantages of using large models have become better understood, a focus has developed on dimension reduction and computational advances to cope with high‐dimensional parameter spaces. We give an overview of a number of recent advances in these directions. Many models suggested by economic theory are either non‐linear or non‐Gaussian, or both. We discuss work on the particle filtering approach to such models as well as other techniques that use various approximations – to either the time state and measurement equations or to the full posterior for the states – to obtain draws.
“Marielle, presente”: Metaleptic temporality and the enregisterment of hope in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Silva Daniel N. , Lee Jerry Won
Published: December 2020

This article looks to the assassination of Marielle Franco, a queer Black councilwoman from the Complexo da Maré favela in Rio de Janeiro, to outline a principled metacomunicative action toward “hope.” Empirically, it unpacks features of the pragmatics of her discourse, along with that of mourners who knew her. We identify two main features in their discourse that point to the enregisterment of hope, i.e. to ways in which their communicative practices have been attuned to avoid despair by propelling an alternative indexing of time, authority, and forms of life. These features are as follows: metaleptic temporality, i.e. the reinsertion of Marielle's agentive time into the temporal universe of heroes; andpapo reto, a translational and performative practice of scaling bureaucratic and economic talk into local registers. Finally, we point to the habituated and pedagogic dimension of this sociolinguistics of hope, in part responsible for the fractalization and performativity of the mourning movement.
Interobserver and intraobserver reliability for 2 grading systems for gastric ulcer syndrome in horses
Authors: Wise Jessica C. , Wilkes Edwina J.A. , Raidal Sharanne L. , Xie Gang , Crosby Danielle E. , Hale Josephine N. , Hughes Kristopher J.
Published: December 2020

Background

Grading of equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is undertaken in clinical and research settings, but the reliability of EGUS grading systems is poorly understood.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Investigate interobserver and intraobserver reliability of an established ordinal grading system and a novel visual analog scale (VAS), and assess the influence of observer experience.

Animals

Sixty deidentified gastroscopy videos.

Methods

Six observers (3 specialists and 3 residents) graded videos using the EGUS Council (EGUC) system and VAS. Observers graded the videos three 3 for each system, using a cross‐over design with at least 1 week between each phase. The order of videos was randomized for each phase.

Methods

Interobserver and intraobserver reliability were estimated using Gwet's agreement coefficient with ordinal weights applied (AC2) for the EGUC system and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the VAS.

Results

Using the EGUC system, interobserver reliability was substantial for squamous (AC2 = 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57‐0.80) and glandular mucosa (AC2 = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.70‐0.75), and intraobserver reliability was substantial for squamous (AC2 = 0.80; 95% CI, 0.71‐0.90) and glandular mucosa (AC2 = 0.80; 95% CI, 0.74‐0.86). Interobserver reliability using the VAS was moderate for squamous (ICC = 0.64; 95% CI, 0.31‐0.96) and poor for glandular mucosa (ICC = 0.35; 95% CI, 0.06‐0.64), and intraobserver reliability was moderate for squamous (ICC = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.62‐0.86) and glandular mucosa (ICC = 0.56; 95% CI, 0.39‐0.72).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The EGUC system had acceptable intraobserver and interobserver reliability and performed well regardless of observer experience. Familiarity and observer experience improved reliability of the VAS.