bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging Cuprizone-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Ray Lucille A. , Pacheco Gardenia , Taraboletti Alexandra , Konopka Michael C. , Shriver Leah P.
Published: December 2020

Cuprizone is a copper chelator that induces mitochondrial dysfunction in myelin-producing oligodendrocytes and hepatic cells. Inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation has been proposed as a potential mechanism, but the exact relationship between shape changes and metabolic alterations is not well-understood. Here we explore how mitochondrial shape influences oxidative phosphorylation rates by performing simultaneous imaging and respiration measurements within intact cells. We observed that MO3.13 cells exposed to cuprizone undergo an initial increase in respiration followed by mitochondrial dysfunction and genetic dysregulation within 8 hours. Oxygen consumption was measured within 30 minutes of treatment and found to be elevated. This increase was followed by swelling of mitochondria over the first 8 hours, but preceded cell death by 24 hours. A transcriptomic analysis of early changes in cellular gene expression identified alterations within the electron transport chain, stress response pathways, and mitochondrial dynamics compared to control cells. These results suggest that pathological mitochondrial swelling is associated with increased oxygen consumption rates leading to transcriptional changes in respiratory complexes and ultimately mitochondrial failure.
Endosomal escape of delivered mRNA from endosomal recycling tubules visualized at the nanoscale
Authors: Paramasivam Prasath , Franke Christian , Stöter Martin , Höijer Andreas , Bartesaghi Stefano , Sabirsh Alan , Lindfors Lennart , Arteta Marianna Yanez , Dahlén Anders , Bak Annette , Andersson Shalini , Kalaidzidis Yannis , Bickle Marc , Zerial Marino
Published: December 2020

Delivery of exogenous mRNA using lipid nanoparticles (LNP) is a promising strategy for therapeutics. However, a bottleneck remains the poor understanding of the parameters that correlate with endosomal escape vs. cytotoxicity. To address this problem, we compared the endosomal distribution of six LNP-mRNA formulations of diverse chemical composition and efficacy, similar to those employed in mRNA-based vaccines, in primary human adipocytes, fibroblasts and HeLa cells. Surprisingly, we found that total uptake is not a sufficient predictor of delivery and different LNP vary considerably in endosomal distributions. Prolonged uptake impaired endosomal acidification, a sign of cytotoxicity, and caused mRNA to accumulate in compartments defective in cargo transport and unproductive for delivery. In contrast, early endocytic/recycling compartments have the highest probability for mRNA escape. By super-resolution microscopy we could resolve single LNP-mRNA within sub-endosomal compartments and capture events of mRNA escape from endosomal recycling tubules. Our results change the view of the mechanisms of endosomal escape and define quantitative parameters to guide the development of mRNA formulations towards higher efficacy and lower cytotoxicity.
Several forms of SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in wastewaters : implication for wastewater-based epidemiology and risk assessment
Authors: Wurtzer S. , Waldman P. , Ferrier-Rembert A. , Frenois-Veyrat G. , Mouchel JM. , Boni M. , Maday Y. ,   OBEPINE consortium, Marechal V. , Moulin L.
Published: December 2020

The ongoing global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been a public health emergency of international concern. Although SARS-CoV-2 is considered to be mainly transmitted by inhalation of contaminated droplets and aerosols, SARS-CoV-2 is also detected in human feces and in raw wastewaters suggesting that other routes of infection may exist. Monitoring SARS-CoV-2 genomes in wastewaters has been proposed as a complementary approach for tracing the dynamics of virus transmission within human population connected to wastewater network. The understanding on SARS-CoV-2 transmission through wastewater surveillance, the development of epidemic modeling and the evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 transmission from contaminated wastewater are largely limited by our knowledge on viral RNA genome persistence and virus infectivity preservation in such an environment. Using an integrity based RT-qPCR assay this study led to the discovery that SARS-CoV-2 RNA can persist under several forms in wastewaters, which provides important information on the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in raw wastewaters and associated risk assessment.

Graphical Abstract
Decision tree models and cell fate choice
Authors: Veleslavov Ivan Croydon , Stumpf Michael P.H.
Published: December 2020

Single cell transcriptomics has laid bare the heterogeneity of apparently identical cells at the level of gene expression. For many cell-types we now know that there is variability in the abundance of many transcripts, and that average transcript abun-dance or average gene expression can be a unhelpful concept. A range of clustering and other classification methods have been proposed which use the signal in single cell data to classify, that is assign cell types, to cells based on their transcriptomic states. In many cases, however, we would like to have not just a classifier, but also a set of interpretable rules by which this classification occurs. Here we develop and demonstrate the interpretive power of one such approach, which sets out to establish a biologically interpretable classification scheme. In particular we are interested in capturing the chain of regulatory events that drive cell-fate decision making across a lineage tree or lineage sequence. We find that suitably defined decision trees can help to resolve gene regulatory programs involved in shaping lineage trees. Our approach combines predictive power with interpretabilty and can extract logical rules from single cell data.
Bursting firing in ventromedial hypothalamic neurons exerts dual control of anxiety-like behavior and energy expenditure
Authors: Shao Jie , Gao Dashuang , Liu Yunhui , Chen Shanping , Liu Nian , Zhang Lu , Zhou Xinyi , Xiao Qian , Wang Liping , Hu Hailan , Yang Fan
Published: December 2020

Exposure to chronic stress induces anxiety-like behavior and metabolic changes in animals, resulting in adaptive or maladaptive responses to the stressful environment. Recent studies have indicated the dorsomedial ventromedial hypothalamus (dmVMH) as an important hub that regulates both anxiety and energy homeostasis. However, up to now, how dmVMH neurons exert dual control of chronic stress-induced anxiety and energy expenditure remains poorly understood. Here, we established a chronic-stress mouse model that induced anxiety-like behavior, reduced food consumption, and decreased energy expenditure. We found thatc-fosexpression increased and theta band power is higher in the dmVMH after chronic stress, and the proportion of burst firing neurons significantly increased, which was mediated by elevated expression of T-type calcium channel Cav 3.1. Optogenetically evoked burst firing of dmVMH neurons induced anxiety-like behavior, shifted the respiratory exchange ratio toward fat oxidation, and decreased food intake, while knockdown of Cav3.1 in the dmVMH had the opposite effects. Collectively, our study first revealed an important role of dmVMH burst firing in the dual regulation of anxiety-like behavior and energy expenditure, and identified Cav 3.1 as a crucial regulator of the activity of the burst firing neurons in dmVMH. These molecular and cellular level findings will advance our understanding of the chronic stress-induced emotional malfunction and energy expenditure disorders.
Genomic Insights of an Andean Multi-resistant Soil Actinobacterium of Biotechnological Interest
Authors: Alonso-Reyes Daniel , Galván Fátima Silvina , Portero Luciano Raúl , Alvarado Natalia Noelia , Farías María Eugenia , Vazquez Martín P. , Albarracín Virginia Helena
Published: December 2020

Central Andean Ecosystems (between 2000 and 6000 masl) are typical arid to semiarid environments suffering from the highest total solar and UVB radiation on the planet but displaying numerous salt flats and shallow lakes. Isolated from these environments, Andean Microbial Communities (AME) of exceptional biodiversity endures multiple severe conditions. Also, the poly-extremophilic nature of AME’s microbes indicates the potential for biotechnological applications. In this context, the presented study used genome mining and physiological characterization to reveal the multi-resistant profile ofNesterenkonia sp. Act20, an actinobacterium isolated from the soil surrounding Lake Socompa, Salta, Argentina (3570 m). UV-B, desiccation, and copper assays showed the strain’s exceptional resistance to all these factors. Act20’s genome presented coding sequences involving antibiotics, low temperatures, UV and arsenic resistance, nutrient limiting conditions, osmotic stress response, low atmospheric oxygen pressure, heavy metal stress, and resistance to fluoride and chlorite. Act20 can also synthesize proteins and natural products such as an insecticide, bacterial cellulose, ectoine, bacterial hemoglobin, and even antibiotics like colicin V and aurachin C. We also found numerous enzymes for animal and vegetal biomass degradation and application in other industrial processes.

The herein report shed light on the microbial adaptation to high-altitude environments, its possible extrapolation for studying other extreme environments of relevance, and its application to industrial and biotechnological processes.

HIGHLIGHTS

Arid Andean Soils are attractive sources of microbial strains useful in biotechnological processes.

Physiological studies revealed the multi-resistant nature of the poly-extremophileNesterenkonia sp. Act20.

Act20’s genome analysis showed a complete set of genes coding for proteins involved in resistance to multiple stresses, including extremoenzymes and extremolytes.
The Arabidopsis TTL3 protein interconnects brassinosteroid signalling and cytoskeleton during lateral root development
Authors: Xin Pengfei , Schier Jakub , Kulich Ivan , Dubrovsky Joseph G. , Jean-Philippe Vielle-Calzada , Soukup Aleš
Published: December 2020

Lateral roots are essential components of the plant edaphic interface, contributing to water and nutrient uptake, biotic and abiotic interactions, stress survival, and plant anchorage. We have identified the TETRATRICOPEPTIDE-REPEAT THIOREDOXIN-LIKE 3 (TTL3) being related to lateral root emergence and later development. TTL3 interacts with microtubules and potentially interconnects cytoskeletal function with the brassinosteroid signalling pathway. Loss of function ofTTL3leads to a reduced number of emerged lateral roots due to delayed development of lateral root primordia. Lateral root growth of thettl3mutant is less sensitive to BR treatment. Timing and spatial distribution ofTTL3expression is consistent with its role in development of lateral root primordia before their emergence and subsequent development into lateral roots. TTL3 is a novel component of the root system morphogenesis regulatory network.
Isolation and identification ofPhytophthoraspecies оn nut-bearing plants
Authors: Surina T. A. , Kopina M. B. , Smirnova A.V. , Shukhin D.I.
Published: December 2020

The paper describes the isolation and identification of pathogens from soil samples taken in the Moscow region from walnut plants with signs of wilting and stem ulcers. Isolation ofPhytophthorafrom soil samples was carried out by the method of floating biological baits with subsequent isolation of pathogens on a semi-selective nutrient medium - P5ARP [H]. Samples were taken from the colonies for DNA isolation. After that, PCR analysis was carried out with primers YPh1F / YPh2R and ITS4 / ITS5 and sequencing. As a result of the studies carried out, colonies similar to the morphological characteristics ofP. cactorumandP citricolawere obtained and confirmed by sequencing.
Dynamics of myogenic differentiation using a novel Myogenin knock-in reporter mouse
Authors: Benavente-Diaz Maria , Comai Glenda , Di Girolamo Daniela , Langa Francina , Tajbakhsh Shahragim
Published: December 2020

Background

Myogeninis a transcription factor that is expressed during terminal myoblast differentiation in embryonic development and adult muscle regeneration. Investigation of this cell state transition has been hampered by the lack of a sensitive reporter to dynamically track cells during differentiation.

Results

Here, we report a knock-in mouse line expressing the tdTOMATO fluorescent protein from the endogenousMyogeninlocus. Expression of tdTOMATO inMyogntdTommice recapitulated endogenousMyogeninexpression during embryonic muscle formation and adult regeneration and enabled the isolation of the Myogenin+cell population. We also show that tdTOMATO fluorescence allows tracking of differentiating myoblastsin vitroand by intravital imagingin vivo. Lastly, we monitored by live imaging the cell division dynamics of differentiating myoblasts in vitro and showed that a fraction of the MYOGENIN+population can undergo one round of cell division, albeit at a much lower frequency than MYOGENIN-myoblasts.

Conclusions

We expect that this reporter mouse will be a valuable resource for researchers investigating skeletal muscle biology in developmental and adult contexts.
Pleiotropic Roles for thePlasmodium bergheiRNA Binding Protein UIS12 in Transmission and Oocyst Maturation
Authors: Müller Katja , Silvie Olivier , Mollenkopf Hans-Joachim , Matuschewski Kai
Published: December 2020

Colonization of the mosquito host byPlasmodiumparasites is achieved by sexually differentiated gametocytes. Gametocytogenesis, gamete formation and fertilization are tightly regulated processes, and translational repression is a major regulatory mechanism for stage conversion. Here, we present a characterization of aPlasmodium bergheiRNA binding protein, UIS12, that contains two conserved eukaryotic RNA recognition motifs (RRM). Targeted gene deletion resulted in viable parasites that replicate normally during blood infection, but form fewer gametocytes. Upon transmission toAnopheles stephensimosquitoes, both numbers and size of midgut-associated oocysts were reduced and their development stopped at an early time point. As a consequence, no salivary gland sporozoites were formed indicative of a complete life cycle arrest in the mosquito vector. Comparative transcript profiling in mutant and wild-type infected red blood cells revealed a decrease in transcript abundance of mRNAs coding for signature gamete-, ookinete- and oocyst-specific proteins inuis12(-)parasites. Together, our findings indicate multiple roles for UIS12 in regulation of gene expression after blood infection in good agreement with the pleiotropic defects that terminate successful sporogony and onward transmission to a new vertebrate host.
Is Fear of COVID-19 Higher among Food-Insecure Households? A Model-Based Study, Mediated by Perceived Stress among Iranian Populations
Authors: Ezzeddin Neda , Eini-Zinab Hassan , Kalantari Naser , Ahmadi Mohammad , Beheshti Zeinab
Published: December 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is a crisis accompanied with multiple psychological consequences. This cross-sectional study, conducted on 2871 Iranians, examines how food insecurity may be associated with fear of COVID-19. Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, COVID-19 fear scale, Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale, and Perceived Social Support Questionnaire were used in gathering data. Data analysis was done using SPSS 22 and Amos 22. The results showed that food insecurity has significantly positive direct and indirect (mediated by perceived stress) correlations with fear of COVID-19 (P<0.05). It was also shown that perceived social support could negatively affect fear of COVID-19, through food insecurity or perceived stress (P<0.05). Among women, the presence of a child under 5 had a significant direct impact on fear of COVID-19 (P<0.05). The crisis caused by COVID-19 highlights the need for increasing social resilience through developing and implementing appropriate food security strategies.
NOFSal-MP10: A single hypervariable STR 12-plex for accurate verification of triploidy in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salarL.)
Authors: Jacq Celeste
Published: December 2020

An increasing interest in production of sterile fish in aquaculture requires rapid, accurate and efficient testing for certification of triploidy prior to sale. Further, validation of triploidy can be beneficial, and even required, for accrediting methods of triploid production. A PCR-genotyping approach using a single megaplex of 12 hypervariable STR markers shows accurate and highly repeatable results enabling verification of ploidy in a single test. The NOFSal-MP10 panel contains 12 STR markers mapped to 9 chromosomes with an average of 21.4 alleles per marker for a combined total of 257 alleles based on genotyped samples to-date. The hypervariable nature of these 12 STRs leads to a large probability for three uniquely sized alleles to be observed at each marker, thus providing a rapid confirmation of ploidy based on the count of allele fragments per marker. Further, as a PCR amplification step is involved, this method is robust to DNA quality and quantity, making it suitable for very early determination of ploidy, as early as the eyed-egg stage. Repeat genotyping of positive control diploid Atlantic salmon over two different capillary electrophoretic instruments in different laboratories and with multiple laboratory personnel proves the panel’s robustness to scoring errors with an overall allelic error rate of 0.3% and a false-positive triploid assignment rate of zero. Genotyping of DNA from 1238 eggs and larvae from 18 independent triploid production batches over three years confirmed triploidy in 98% of samples based on a semi-strict criterion of three unique alleles at one or more loci, and 95% based on a strict criterion of three unique alleles at two or more loci.

Highlights

This paper describes a rapid quantifiable test for validation of triploidy in Atlantic salmon

The method is highly accurate and repeatable and robust to DNA quality, allowing testing in embryonic stages

Rapid early testing of triploidy will enable certified sales of triploid eggs for production
Characterization of an unbalanced translocation causing 3q28qter duplication and 10q26.2qter deletion in a patient with global developmental delay and self-injury
Authors: Osei-Owusu Ikeoluwa A. , Norris Alexis L. , Joynt Anya T. , Thorpe Jeremy , Cho Soonweng , Tierney Elaine , Schmidt Jonathan , Hagopian Louis , Harris Jacqueline , Pevsner Jonathan
Published: December 2020

Chromosomal structural variation can cause severe neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric phenotypes. Here we present a nonverbal female adolescent with severe stereotypic movement disorder with severe problem behavior (e.g., self-injurious behavior, aggression, and disruptive and destructive behaviors), autism spectrum disorder, severe intellectual disability, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and global developmental delay. Previous cytogenetic analysis revealed balanced translocations present in the patient's apparently normal mother. We hypothesized the presence of unbalanced translocations in the patient due to maternal history of spontaneous abortions. Whole-genome sequencing and whole-genome optical mapping, complementary next-generation genomic technologies capable of the accurate and robust detection of structural variants, identified t(3;10), t(10;14), and t(3;14) three-way balanced translocations in the mother and der(10)t(3;14;10) and der(14)t(3;14;10) translocations in the patient. Instead of a t(3;10), she inherited a normal maternal copy of Chromosome 3, resulting in an unbalanced state of a 3q28qter duplication and 10q26.2qter deletion. Copy-imbalanced genes in one or both of these regions, such as DLG1, DOCK1, and EBF3, may contribute to the patient's phenotype that spans neurodevelopmental, musculoskeletal, and psychiatric domains, with the possible contribution of a maternally inherited 15q13.2q13.3 deletion.
Subclinical psychopathy, interpersonal workplace exchanges and moral emotions through the lens of affective events theory (AET)
Authors: Boulter Louise , Boddy Clive
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to better comprehend the subclinical psychopath's intra and interpersonal moral emotions in the context of their natural habitat, the workplace, alongside implications for employees and organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on affective events theory (AET) to illuminate this dark-side phenomenon. Thematic analysis is used to identify themes from qualitative data collected from a small sample of interviews conducted with human resource management (HRM) directors and other managers.

Findings

The findings show that the subclinical psychopath is agentic, being unfettered by intra self-directed conscious moral emotions. The predominant moral emotion directed at employees during interpersonal workplace exchanges is typically anger. However, it appears likely the subclinical psychopath fakes this moral emotion as a smokescreen for manipulative and exploitative gains. The predominant moral emotion directed by employees towards the subclinical psychopath is fear. Employees resort to avoidance and withdrawal behaviour and intentions to quit become a reality.

Practical implications

The signalling quality of employees' moral emotions and subsequent dysfunctional avoidance and withdrawal behaviour can provide valuable information to HRM professionals in the detection of subclinical psychopaths which is acknowledged as notoriously difficult.

Originality/value

This study contributes new knowledge to subclinical psychopathy and makes novel use of AET to explore this personality type as a driver of employees' negative workplace emotions, the impact on employees' behaviour alongside implications for organisational effectiveness.
Epidemiology and molecular characterization of chikungunya virus from human cases in North India, 2016
Authors: Khan Naushad , Bhat Ruchika , Jain Vineet , Raghavendhar B Siva , Patel Ashok K. , Nayak Kaustuv , Chandele Anmol , Murali‐Krishna Kaja , Ray Pratima
Published: December 2020

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), an arthropod‐borne Alphavirus is responsible for chikungunya disease. Arthralgia and arthritis are the major symptom. Some patients recover early while others for a very long time. This study provides, epidemiology and molecular characterization of three whole‐genome sequences of CHIKV and assessed phylogenetic analysis, physiological properties, antigenicity, and B‐cell epitope prediction by in silico. We report the clinical epidemiology of 325 suspected patients. Of these, 118 (36.30%) were confirmed CHIKV positive by either PCR or ELISA. Clinical analysis showed joint pain, joint swelling and headache were frequent and significant features. Phylogenie analysis showed the currently circulating strain is in close clustring to Africa, Uganda, and Singapore CHIKV strains. Molecular characterization by WGS was done. Thirty eight amino acid changes in the nonstructural proteins were found with respect to the S27 (ECSA) strain. Of these five located in nsP2. Similarly, 34 amino acid changes in structural proteins were observed. The major change was notice; in E3 protein hydropathicity −0.281 to −0.362, in E2 isoelectric point (pI) 8.24 to 8.37, instability index 66.08 to 71.062, aliphatic index varied from 74.69 to 68.59 and E3 75.79 to 70.05. In nsP1 protein pI varies from 6.62 to 8.04, while no other change was observed in structural and nonstructural protein. The linear B‐cell epitopes, position, and number varied with the mutation. The molecular characterizations of WGS demonstrate the observation of protein, antigenicity with respect to the mutation.
The nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase antagonist FK866 inhibits growth of prostate tumour spheroids and increases doxorubicin retention without changes in drug transporter and cancer stem cell protein expression
Authors: Sauer Heinrich , Kampmann Henning , Khosravi Farhad , Sharifpanah Fatemeh , Wartenberg Maria
Published: December 2020

Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) is a rate‐limiting enzyme for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) synthesis and is involved in cancer cell proliferation through regulation of energy production pathways. Therefore, NAMPT inhibitors are promising drugs for cancer therapy by limiting energy supply of tumours. Herein, we demonstrated that the NAMPT inhibitor FK866 ((E)‐N‐(4‐(1‐Benzoylpiperidin‐4‐yl)butyl)‐3‐(pyridin‐3‐yl)acrylamide) dose‐dependently inhibited growth and cell motility of DU‐145 prostate tumour spheroids and decreased the intracellular ATP concentration. The apoptosis marker cleaved caspase‐3 remained unchanged, but the autophagy marker microtubule‐associated protein 1A/1B‐light chain 3 (LC3) was upregulated. Growth inhibition was reversed upon co‐administration of NAD to the cell culture medium. FK866 decreased calcein as well as pheophorbide A efflux from tumour spheroids and increased doxorubicin toxicity, indicating interference with function of drug efflux transporters. DU‐145 multicellular tumour spheroids expressed the stem cell associated markers CD133, CD44, Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, and drug transporters ABCB1, ABCG2, and ABCC1 which are associated with stem cell properties in cancer cells. The ABCB1 inhibitor zosuquidar, the ABCG2 inhibitor Ko143, and the ABCC1 inhibitor MK571 increased calcein retention. Neither protein expression of stem cell markers, nor drug transporters was significantly changed upon FK866 treatment. In conclusion, our data suggest that FK866 inhibits prostate cancer cell proliferation by interference with the energy metabolism, and function of drug efflux transporters.
Correlations between neck circumference and serum thyroid hormones levels in postmenopausal women with euthyroid and subclinical hypothyroidism
Authors: Jian Chaohui , Xu Yiting , Ma Xiaojing , Shen Yun , Wang Yufei , Bao Yuqian
Published: December 2020

Middle‐aged and elderly women are at a higher risk of subclinical hypothyroidism (SHypo). Menopause is an important period of metabolic change in women and thyroid hormones are closely related to metabolic status. Neck circumference (NC) is a simple anthropometric index that reflects upper body fat accumulation. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between NC and thyroid hormones in postmenopausal women. A total of 1050 postmenopausal women were enrolled from Shanghai Zhabei communities (888 euthyroid subjects and 162 SHypo patients). Anthropometric parameters, including NC, were measured. The measurements of serum thyroid hormones were performed by electrochemical luminescence immunoassay. The results showed NC was positively correlated with thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) (r = .064, P = .039). TSH and the proportion of SHypo patients increased significantly in those with elevated NC (both P < .05). In logistic regression analysis, the risk of SHypo increased by 46.4% in those with elevated NC (OR = 1.464 [1.035–2.071], P = .031). After adjusting for metabolic confounding factors, the positive association disappeared (P = .112). Multiple linear regression analysis showed there were no significant correlations between NC and TSH in either univariate or multivariate model in the total population (both P > .05). And in the subgroup analysis of euthyroid and SHypo individuals, NC was also not related to TSH (all P > .05). In conclusion, there was no independent association between NC, a simple anthropometric index for upper body fat accumulation, and serum TSH levels in Chinese euthyroid and SHypo postmenopausal women.
An Experiment in Extremity: The Portrayal of Violence in Robert the Monk's Narrative of the First Crusade
Authors: ASBRIDGE THOMAS
Published: December 2020

This article examines the portrayal of physical violence enacted by Latin Christians during the First Crusade in Robert the Monk's Historia Iherosolomitana, with particular reference to the fighting witnessed outside Antioch in early 1098. The narrative techniques and effects used by Robert are established by employing the tools of narratological analysis. Comparisons are drawn with other Latin accounts of the First Crusade, alongside Latin sources detailing the Norman conquests of England and Sicily, and, in methodological terms, a case is made against strictly intra‐textual narratology.

It is argued that Robert made a conscious decision to amplify crusader violence, detailing Latin brutality in unusually graphic and extreme terms, not least through the extensive use of blood imagery and the suggestion that crusader savagery could inspire sensations of horror. By exploring the portrayal of violence beyond the context of the apocalypticism associated with Jerusalem, a broader range of influences and impulses shaping Robert's authorial interventions are posited – notably his echoing of chansons de geste tropes and his desire to assert Frankish martial indomitability. 

Robert the Monk's distinctive approach to the portrayal of violence also provides us with a means to reassess the dissemination and impact of his Historia, which to date has been presented as medieval Europe's ‘bestselling’ account of the First Crusade. Potential links to a range of medieval Latin narratives are newly identified in this article, but it is suggested that Robert the Monk's representation of violence did not demonstrably influence later crusade narratives.
Comparing Northern Territory Elections, 1974‐2016: Independent Success in a Strong Two‐Party System
Authors: Sanders Will
Published: December 2020

Electoral success of independents and minor parties is often interpreted as indicating a weakening of two‐party systems of political competition. This paper, on all thirteen elections for the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly since 1974, observes that independents have enjoyed far more success than minor parties. It argues that independent success has reflected a continuing strong two‐party system, not a weakening one. Six of ten successful independents in NTLA elections have been “splitters” from the Country Liberal Party in times of intra‐party turmoil. Their subsequent electoral success as independents in divisions previously very safe for the CLP leads to development of a “lopsided seats” hypothesis; that independents succeed in electoral divisions where the two‐party contest has become lopsided, with one major party attracting twice the votes of the other or more. Two successful “non‐splitter” independents in the 2016 election also contested such divisions — one lopsided to the CLP and one to Labor. This latter successful independent ran with the support of a Yolgnu First Nation organisation, which re‐opens questions in the literature about Aboriginal candidates and Aboriginal voters, including turnout levels. A jurisdiction‐wide graphic technique of “proportionality profiling” is applied to all thirteen NTLA elections and contextualises the later division‐level analysis.
Second allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with acute leukemia relapsed after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Choi Yunsuk , Choi Eun‐Ji , Lee Jung‐Hee , Lee Kyoo‐Hyung , Jo Jae‐Cheol , Park Han‐Seung , Lee Yoo Jin , Seol Miee , Lee Young‐Shin , Kang Young‐Ah , Jeon Mijin , Lee Je‐Hwan
Published: December 2020

The prognosis of patients with acute leukemia relapsed after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is dismal. We aimed to evaluate the outcomes and prognostic factors of the second HSCT (HSCT2) in acute leukemia patients relapsed after the first HSCT (HSCT1). We analyzed 80 patients who received HSCT2 for relapsed acute leukemia in two Korean institutes. All but four patients received HSCT2 from a donor other than matched sibling donor: an unrelated donor (URD) in 30 and a familial haploidentical donor (FHD) in 46. Forty‐four patients (55.0%) were in complete remission (CR) or CR with incomplete count recovery (CRi) at HSCT2, and the median time from HSCT1 to relapse was 9 months. The 2‐year overall survival (OS) and event‐free survival (EFS) were 21.0% and 17.5%, respectively. The outcomes were similar between URD and FHD. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that disease status (active disease vs. CR/CRi) at HSCT2 and remission duration after HSCT1 were independent prognostic factors for OS and EFS after HSCT2. HSCT2 from URD or FHD was feasible in patients with acute leukemia relapsed after allogeneic HSCT. Also, our study confirmed two critical prognostic factors; disease status at HSCT2 and remission duration after HSCT1.
HFS‐LightGBM: A machine learning model based on hybrid feature selection for classifying ICU patient readmissions
Authors: Qiu Yan , Ding Shuai , Yao Ningguang , Gu Dongxiao , Li Xiaojian
Published: December 2020

Compared to patients readmitted to general wards, readmitted patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) are exposed to higher mortality rates and prolonged hospital stays. Moreover, the readmission of ICU patients brings pressing challenges for ICU management. Most models are devoted to identifying the risk factors and developing classification models that can predict whether ICU patients will be readmitted. Though these models are prominent, they do not provide estimates for the frequency of readmissions. This paper establishes a prediction model, hybrid feature selection‐LightGBM (HFS‐LightGBM), to evaluate the probability and frequency of ICU patient readmissions empirically. In terms of feature selection, a hybrid feature selection (HFS) algorithm for LightGBM combines the filter and wrapper methods. Pearson's correlation coefficient is employed in the filter procedure. Then we adopt the targeted LightGBM classifier along with the recursive feature elimination and cross‐validated (RFECV) to produce the optimal feature subset. Additionally, the hyperparameters of the HFS‐LightGBM are optimized. The HFS‐LightGBM is employed on the real‐world ICU dataset containing 1722 patients' electronic health records. This model outperforms the current prevailing readmission models. The identified frequency can assist doctors in making specific interventions for patients to reduce the ICU readmission rate.
Family Conflicts and Technology Use: The Voices of Grandmothers
Authors: Ivan Loredana , Nimrod Galit
Published: December 2020

Objective

Our aim was to understand family conflicts, specifically those involving grandmothers, related to use of new communication technologies.

Background

Research shows that tension between family members in intergenerational contexts arises in relation to technology. This is especially common when attitudes toward technology differ among family members. Differing opinions around technology use create gaps in skills and perceived competence. Grandparents' voices about the challenges of perpetual connectivity in family settings are absent in the research on technology domestication and mediation.

Method

To fill this gap, semistructured group interviews were conducted with women in Canada, Colombia, Israel, Italy, Peru, Romania, and Spain. All women were aged 65 years and older, had grandchildren, and used information and communication technology (ICT).

Results

Grandmothers experienced conflicts when interacting with grandchildren due to ginability to recognize online threats. Asking for help in managing different applications could be a source of family conflicts. Embarrassment and unease is reduced when grandmothers call grandchildren for help, rather than receive assistance from their adult children. Conflictual moments also emerged around the use of ICT at family dinners or other gatherings, with grandmothers showing more tolerance in this context for grandchildren than for their adult children.

Conclusion

Family conflicts over technology use may differ when involving adult children versus grandchildren.

Implications

The voices of grandmothers express the importance of permanent and affordable opportunities for people to receive assistance in technology use outside of family contexts.
Heparin locks with low and high concentration in haemodialysis patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tan Jiajia , Ning Tingting , Zhang Wenting , Qian Zhuru , Jiang Xuqin , Sun Ling , Wu Bin
Published: December 2020

Aim

There is no evidence‐based consensus on the optimal concentration for heparin locks; several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have evaluated the concentration of heparin locks, yet the results remain inconsistent. We aimed to assess heparin locks with low and high concentration in haemodialysis patients.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of RCTs focusing on the concentration in heparin locks. Studies were identified by searching PUBMED, EMBASE, Science Direct, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang databases (from inception to 15 March 2020). Summary risk ratios or mean differences with 95% confidence interval were calculated.

Results

A total of 370 patients with four RCTs were included. Heparin locks with 1000 U/ml could significantly reduce the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) compared with 5000 U/ml. No significant differences were seen in the occurrence of catheter‐related thrombosis, the length of catheter stay, the rates of bleeding and catheter occlusions between the two groups.

Conclusions

Lower concentrations in heparin lock are optimal for shortening APTT in haemodialysis patients; further studies are needed to elucidate the role of heparin concentration in the lock practice.
Genetic differentiation among populations of the blackfin goodea Goodea atripinnis (Cyprinodontiformes: Goodeidae): implications for its evolutionary history
Authors: Beltrán‐López Rosa Gabriela , Domínguez‐Domínguez Omar , Piller Kyle R. , Mejía‐Mojica Humberto , Mar‐Silva Adán Fernando , Doadrio Ignacio
Published: December 2020

Central Mexico is characterized by a complex topography that is the result of historic and contemporary tectonic and climatic factors. These events have influenced the evolutionary history of numerous freshwater fishes in the region. Nonetheless, recent studies have shown that life‐history traits and ecological characteristics of species may influence dispersal capabilities and the degree of genetic connectivity. Goodea (Cyprinodontiformes: Goodeidae) is one of the most widely distributed and environmentally tolerant genera of goodeids. In this study, the authors analysed variation in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene to evaluate the phylogeographic relationships, genetic structure, genetic diversity and demographic history of Goodea from across its distribution range. They found low genetic differentiation and identified shared haplotypes among several regions. Geographic segregation was found in samples southwest and northeast of the Lower Lerma region, with some internal isolated groups showing phylogeographic differentiation and unique haplotypes. The AMOVA best explained genetic structure when grouped by haplogroups rather than when grouped by recognized biogeographic regions. Several regions showed null genetic diversity, raising the possibility of dispersal mediated by humans. Finally, Bayesian Skyline Plot analysis showed a population expansion for the Southwest haplogroup, except for the Armería population and sub‐group II of the Northeast haplogroup. All this suggests a recent colonization of Goodea atripinnis throughout some of the biogeographic regions currently inhabited by this species.
Transcriptome comparison of isotretinoin‐effective and isotretinoin‐ineffective severe acne vulgaris patients
Authors: Jiang Yuchen , Zhang Jie , Guo Hongen , Chen Qiaoping , Lai Wei , Zheng Yue
Published: December 2020

Background

Oral isotretinoin is the first‐line treatment of severe nodular acne. However, patients presenting ineffective or poor effective to oral isotretinoin are still a clinical problem, and its molecular genetic mechanisms remain unclear.

Aims

To compare the transcriptome profiles of isotretinoin‐effective and isotretinoin‐ineffective severe acne vulgaris patients and analyze the potential physiological roles to better understand the mechanisms of isotretinoin efficacy differences.

Patients/Methods

Peripheral blood of 43 patients with severe acne was collected before treatment. After 8‐week isotretinoin, patients presented effective and ineffective to isotretinoin treatment were selected and their pretreatment peripheral blood was analyzed. High‐throughput sequencing was used to detect gene expression profiles. Gene Ontology and KEGG were used to perform functional annotation and pathway enrichment analysis.

Results

Ten acne patients (3 male and 7 female, age 31 ± 9.2) presented effectiveness by oral isotretinoin and 10 acne patients (4 male and 6 female, age 28 ± 7.7) presented ineffectiveness were included. Comparison of gene profiles of isotretinoin‐effective and isotretinoin‐ineffective patients revealed 2779 differentially expressed genes: 2723 upregulated and 56 downregulated. Differentially expressed genes were enriched in RNA degradation pathway, autophagy pathway, protein ubiquitination pathway, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum pathway, T‐cell receptor signaling pathway, spliceosome pathway, mRNA surveillance pathway, cell cycle pathway, long‐term potentiation pathway, and FoxO signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Transcriptome expression differences not only participated in the acne pathogenesis, but also influenced the isotretinoin therapeutic effects. These findings might provide some evidence for exploring individualized therapy for acne patients.
Healthcare professionals' competence in stroke care pathways: A mixed‐methods systematic review
Authors: Jarva Erika , Mikkonen Kristina , Tuomikoski Anna‐Maria , Kääriäinen Maria , Meriläinen Merja , Karsikas Eevi , Koivunen Kirsi , Jounila‐Ilola Päivi , Oikarinen Anne
Published: December 2020

Background

The challenges of caring for stroke patients are growing due to population ageing and improved survival rates. Healthcare professionals' competence development in stroke care is a necessity to ensure high‐quality patient care.

Objectives

To identify and describe the competence areas of healthcare professionals working in the stroke patient care pathway and factors influencing these competences.

Design

A mixed‐methods systematic review.

Methods

The review was conducted according to the JBI guidelines and registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42020204062). PRISMA checklist guided the review process. Relevant original studies were identified by searching four databases—CINAHL (EBSCO), PubMed, Scopus and Medic. After researcher consensus was reached, 32 studies were selected for inclusion and subjected to content analysis and data tabulation.

Results

Competence in care processes, clinical competence, competence in using self‐management strategies, interaction skills, skills in acknowledging family and competence in integrating the available evidence base into patient care were identified as key competence areas. Organisation of services, specialisation in stroke care, continuous development and education, family and carer and training in oral care and cognitive rehabilitation were identified as factors that influence healthcare professionals' competence.

Conclusions

Diverse clinical and interaction competencies are needed throughout the stroke care pathway, and various factors affect healthcare professionals' competence. Further research on healthcare professionals' stroke care competence will be needed to respond to changing healthcare demand.

Relevance to clinical practice

We recommend organisational support and formulation of stroke care patient guidelines in line with healthcare competence requirements. Focus should be added for nursing professions in developing interactive communication competence since nurses spend the majority of the time providing individual patient care. Also, organisations should integrate continuing training in specialised stroke care for healthcare professionals' competence development.
Impact of menstrual cycle phase and oral contraceptives on sleep and overnight memory consolidation
Authors: Plamberger Christina Paula , Van Wijk Helen Elisabeth , Kerschbaum Hubert , Pletzer Belinda Angela , Gruber Georg , Oberascher Karin , Dresler Martin , Hahn Michael Andreas , Hoedlmoser Kerstin
Published: December 2020

Sleep spindles benefit declarative memory consolidation and are considered to be a biological marker for general cognitive abilities. However, the impact of sexual hormones and hormonal oral contraceptives (OCs) on these relationships are less clear. Thus, we here investigated the influence of endogenous progesterone levels of naturally cycling women and women using OCs on nocturnal sleep and overnight memory consolidation. Nineteen healthy women using OCs (MAge = 21.4, SD = 2.1 years) were compared to 43 healthy women with a natural menstrual cycle (follicular phase: n = 16, MAge = 21.4, SD = 3.1 years; luteal phase: n = 27, MAge = 22.5, SD = 3.6 years). Sleep spindle density and salivary progesterone were measured during an adaptation and an experimental night. A word pair association task preceding the experimental night followed by two recalls (pre‐sleep and post‐sleep) was performed to test declarative memory performance. We found that memory performance improved overnight in all women. Interestingly, women using OCs (characterized by a low endogenous progesterone level but with very potent synthetic progestins) and naturally cycling women during the luteal phase (characterized by a high endogenous progesterone level) had a higher fast sleep spindle density compared to naturally cycling women during the follicular phase (characterized by a low endogenous progesterone level). Furthermore, we observed a positive correlation between endogenous progesterone level and fast spindle density in women during the luteal phase. Results suggest that the use of OCs and the menstrual cycle phase affects sleep spindles and therefore should be considered in further studies investigating sleep spindles and cognitive performance.
Preliminary assessment of large‐scale co‐culture of sandfish (Holothuria scabra) with the Babylon snail (Babylonia areolata) in earthen ponds and in raceways
Authors: Dobson Gregory T. , Duy Nguyen Dinh Quang , Southgate Paul C.
Published: December 2020

Holothuria scabra (sandfish) and Babylonia areolata were trialed in two large‐scale co‐culture experiments. Experiment 1 assessed co‐culture in 4 × 400 m2 earthen ponds where Babylonia were cultured in a central pen at a density of 400 individuals/m2 with sandfish occupying the remaining pond space at 1.1 individuals/m2. Sandfish grew from 18.20 ± 6.67 g to 119.03 ± 17.74 g in 92 days and Babylonia (fed trash fish in both experiments) grew from 0.90 ± 0.38 g to 4.93 ± 1.44 g, but Babylonia growth was not increased in co‐culture compared to monoculture. Water and sediment quality varied between co‐culture and monoculture ponds. Neither showed clear improvement due to sandfish culture. Experiment 2 compared non‐segregated sandfish‐Babylonia co‐culture with Babylonia monoculture in 20 m2 concrete raceways. Sandfish were cultured at 2 individuals/m2 and Babylonia at 300 individuals/m2. Sandfish grew up to 1.91 g.day−1 with 100% survival. Babylonia weight gain was significantly greater in co‐culture raceways (3.35 ± 0.64 g over 61 days), which was double that of Babylonia in monoculture. Substrate total N was reduced by 20% in co‐culture compared with monoculture (p = .032). This provisional study of commercial scale sandfish‐Babylonia co‐culture demonstrates culture compatibility, providing a basis for further system development.