bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is time ready for combination therapy at diagnosis of type 2 diabetes?
Authors: Prattichizzo Francesco , Ceriello Antonio
Published: July 2021

Emerging evidence is showing a range of beneficial effects for GLP‐1 receptor agonists and especially SGLT‐2 inhibitors on the cardio‐renal axis in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Preliminary findings suggest that: 1‐ such benefit extends also to patients with T2D without pre‐existing CVD; and 2‐ background therapies do not modify the effect of these drugs. Given these considerations, some authors advanced the hypothesis that these novel agents might undermine the first‐line position of metformin in the treatment algorithm of T2D. Here, we briefly discuss some pros and cons of such scenario, proposing a “starting” combination therapy with metformin plus one novel agent with trial‐proven benefit as the best option to make use of the available knowledge and minimize the risk of complications in patients with newly diagnosed T2D.
Regional specific differentiation of integumentary organs: SATB2 is involved in α‐ and β‐keratin gene cluster switching in the chicken
Authors: Lin Gee‐Way , Liang Ya‐Chen , Wu Ping , Chen Chih‐Kuan , Lai Yung‐Chih , Jiang Ting‐Xin , Haung Yen‐Hua , Chuong Cheng‐Ming
Published: July 2021

Background

Animals develop skin regional specificities to best adapt to their environments. Birds are excellent models in which to study the epigenetic mechanisms that facilitate these adaptions. Patients suffering from SATB2 mutations exhibit multiple defects including ectodermal dysplasia‐like changes. The preferential expression of SATB2, a chromatin regulator, in feather‐forming compared to scale‐forming regions, suggests it functions in regional specification of chicken skin appendages by acting on either differentiation or morphogenesis.

Results

Retrovirus mediated SATB2 misexpression in developing feathers, beaks, and claws causes epidermal differentiation abnormalities (e.g. knobs, plaques) with few organ morphology alterations. Chicken β‐keratins are encoded in 5 sub‐clusters (Claw, Feather, Feather‐like, Scale, and Keratinocyte) on Chromosome 25 and a large Feather keratin cluster on Chromosome 27. Type I and II α‐keratin clusters are located on Chromosomes 27 and 33, respectively. Transcriptome analyses showed these keratins (1) are often tuned up or down collectively as a sub‐cluster, and (2) these changes occur in a temporo‐spatial specific manner.

Conclusions

These results suggest an organizing role of SATB2 in cluster‐level gene co‐regulation during skin regional specification.
Freshwater wild biota exposure to microplastics: A global perspective
Authors: Cera Alessandra , Scalici Massimiliano
Published: July 2021

Current understanding on the exposure of freshwater organisms to microplastics (plastics sized between 1 µm and 5 mm) has arisen mostly from laboratory experiments—often conducted under artificial circumstances and with unrealistic concentrations. In order to improve scientific links through real ecosystem exposure, we review field data on the exposure of free‐living organisms to microplastics.

We highlight that the main outputs provided by field research are an assessment of the occurrence and, at times, the quantification of microplastics in different animal taxa. Topics of investigation also include the causes of contamination and the development of biological monitoring tools. With regard to taxa, fish, mollusks, and arthropods are at the center of the research, but birds and amphibians are also investigated. The ingestion or occurrence of microplastics in organs and tissues, such as livers and muscles, are the main data obtained. Microorganisms are studied differently than other taxa, highlighting interesting aspects on the freshwater plastisphere, for example, related to the structure and functionality of communities. Many taxa, that is, mammals, reptiles, and plants, are still under‐examined with regard to exposure to microplastics; this is surprising as they are generally endangered.

As biota contamination is acknowledged, we contribute to an interdisciplinary scientific discussion aimed at a better assessment of knowledge gaps on methodology, impact assessment, and monitoring.
Habitat selection by vulnerable golden bandicoots in the arid zone
Authors: Lohr Cheryl A. , Nilsson Kristen , Sims Colleen , Dunlop Judy , Lohr Michael T.
Published: July 2021

In 2010, vulnerable golden bandicoots (Isoodon auratus) were translocated from Barrow Island, Western Australia, to a mainland predator‐free enclosure on the Matuwa Indigenous Protected Area. Golden bandicoots were once widespread throughout a variety of arid and semiarid habitats of central and northern Australia. Like many small‐to‐medium‐sized marsupials, the species has severely declined since colonization and has been reduced to only four remnant natural populations. Between 2010 and 2020, the reintroduced population of golden bandicoots on Matuwa was monitored via capture–mark–recapture data collection, which was used in spatially explicit capture–recapture analysis to monitor their abundance over time. In 2014, we used VHF transmitters to examine the home range and habitat selection of 20 golden bandicoots in the enclosure over a six‐week period. We used compositional analysis to compare the use of four habitat types. Golden bandicoot abundance in the enclosure slowly increased between 2010 and 2014 and has since plateaued at approximately one quarter of the density observed in the founding population on Barrow Island. The population may have plateaued because some bandicoots escape through the fence. Golden bandicoots used habitats dominated by scattered shrubland with spinifex grass more than expected given the habitat's availability. Nocturnal foraging range was influenced by sex and trapping location, whereas diurnal refuge habitat, which was typically under a spinifex hummock with minimal overstory vegetation, was consistent across sex and trapping location. Our work suggests that diurnal refuge habitat may be an important factor for the success of proposed translocations of golden bandicoots.
Ecological and behavioral mechanisms of density‐dependent habitat expansion in a recovering African ungulate population
Authors: Becker Justine A. , Hutchinson Matthew C. , Potter Arjun B. , Park Shinkyu , Guyton Jennifer A. , Abernathy Kyler , Americo Victor F. , da Conceiçāo Anagledis , Kartzinel Tyler R. , Kuziel Luca , Leonard Naomi E. , Lorenzi Eli , Martins Nuno C. , Pansu Johan , Scott William L. , Stahl Maria K. , Torrens Kai R. , Stalmans Marc E. , Long Ryan A. , Pringle Robert M.
Published: July 2021

Major disturbances can temporarily remove factors that otherwise constrain population abundance and distribution. During such windows of relaxed top‐down and/or bottom‐up control, ungulate populations can grow rapidly, eventually leading to resource depletion and density‐dependent expansion into less‐preferred habitats. Although many studies have explored the demographic outcomes and ecological impacts of these processes, fewer have examined the individual‐level mechanisms by which they occur. We investigated these mechanisms in Gorongosa National Park, where the Mozambican Civil War devastated large‐mammal populations between 1977 and 1992. Gorongosa’s recovery has been marked by proliferation of waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus), an historically marginal 200‐kg antelope species, which is now roughly 20‐fold more abundant than before the war. We show that after years of unrestricted population growth, waterbuck have depleted food availability in their historically preferred floodplain habitat and have increasingly expanded into historically avoided savanna habitat. This expansion was demographically skewed: mixed‐sex groups of prime‐age individuals remained more common in the floodplain, while bachelors, loners, and subadults populated the savanna. By coupling DNA metabarcoding and forage analysis, we show that waterbuck in these two habitats ate radically different diets, which were more digestible and protein‐rich in the floodplain than in savanna; thus, although individuals in both habitats achieved positive net energy balance, energetic performance was higher in the floodplain. Analysis of daily activity patterns from high‐resolution GPS‐telemetry, accelerometry, and animal‐borne video revealed that savanna waterbuck spent less time eating, perhaps to accommodate their tougher, lower‐quality diets. Waterbuck in savanna also had more ectoparasites than those in the floodplain. Thus, plasticity in foraging behavior and diet selection enabled savanna waterbuck to tolerate the costs of density‐dependent spillover, at least in the short term; however, the already poorer energetic performance of these individuals implies that savanna occupancy may become prohibitively costly as heterospecific competitors and predators continue to recover in Gorongosa. Our results suggest that behavior can provide a leading indicator of the onset of density‐dependent limitation and the likelihood of subsequent population decline, but that reliable inference hinges on understanding the mechanistic basis of observed behavioral shifts.
The state, transport, and fate of aboveground terrestrial arthropod eDNA
Authors: Valentin Rafael E. , Kyle Kathleen E. , Allen Michael C. , Welbourne Dustin J. , Lockwood Julie L.
Published: July 2021

Environmental DNA (eDNA) analyses have become invaluable for detecting and monitoring aquatic and terrestrial species and assessing site biodiversity within aquatic environments or soil. Recent studies have extended these techniques by using eDNA to identify the presence of aboveground terrestrial arthropods directly from vegetative surfaces. However, while the dynamics of eDNA state, transport, and fate (its “ecology”) have been explored within aquatic environments and soil, they have yet to be explored within aboveground terrestrial systems. Here, we explore the ecology of terrestrial eDNA deposited by fluid‐feeding arthropods on leaf surfaces. We carried out a series of experiments to evaluate the optimal filter pore size for intracellular eDNA collection, how eDNA is affected by rain events, and its degradation rate under different solar radiation conditions. We found that the captured concentration of intracellular eDNA was not significantly affected by an increase in filter pore size, suggesting a wide range of viable pore size options exist for targeting intracellular eDNA. We also found extracellular eDNA from fluid excrement degrades more rapidly than intracellular when exposed to solar radiation, indicating the latter is a more viable target for collection. Finally, we identified that rainfall or mist will remove most terrestrial eDNA present on vegetation surfaces. We provide researchers and environmental managers key insights into successfully designing and carrying out aboveground terrestrial arthropod eDNA surveys that maximize detection probability.
Antigen carbohydrate 125 as a biomarker in heart failure: a narrative review
Authors: Núñez Julio , de la Espriella Rafael , Miñana Gema , Santas Enrique , Llácer Pau , Núñez Eduardo , Palau Patricia , Bodí Vicent , Chorro Francisco J. , Sanchis Juan , Lupón Josep , Bayés‐Genís Antoni
Published: July 2021

Congestion explains many of the signs and symptoms of acute heart failure (AHF) and disease progression. However, accurate quantification of congestion is challenging in daily practice. Antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) or mucin 16 (MUC16), a large glycoprotein synthesized by mesothelial cells, has emerged as a reliable proxy of congestion and inflammation in patients with heart failure (HF). In AHF syndromes, CA125 is strongly associated with right‐sided HF parameters and a higher risk of adverse clinical events beyond standard prognostic factors, including natriuretic peptides. Furthermore, CA125 has the potential for both monitoring and guide HF treatment following a decompensated HF event. The wide availability of CA125 in most clinical laboratories, together with its standardized measurement and reduced cost, makes this marker attractive for routine use in decompensated HF. Further research is required to understand better its biological role and its promising utility as a tool to guide decongestive therapy in HF.
Chasing C,C‐Palladacycles
Authors: García‐López José‐Antonio , Saura‐Llamas Isabel
Published: July 2021

The different approaches for the synthesis of C,C‐palladacycles are reviewed in this manuscript. These species hold a bidentate ligand that chelates the Pd atom through two C‐donor moieties. Their relevance is closely related to the fact that they are intermediates in many palladium‐catalyzed transformations. Furthermore, some of them have been used as efficient catalyst in cross coupling reactions. The review is structured according to the different strategies that have been employed to achieve the synthesis of the C,C‐palladacycle derivatives, starting with those involving one elemental step (such as the oxidative addition of strained C−C bonds to Pd(0) or the transmetalation reactions between organometallic reagents and Pd(II) precursors), and continuing with more complex processes, where at least two elementary steps of Pd chemistry are involved (for example, carbometalation of alkenes followed by a C−H activation process). A final section highlights some aspects of synthetic methodologies based on Pd catalysis in which one or several C,C‐palladacyclic intermediates are involved.
Quantitative Microstructural Characterization of Plutonium Oxalate Auto‐Degradation and Evidence for PuO2 Nanocrystal Formation
Authors: Corbey Jordan F. , Sweet Lucas E. , Sinkov Sergey I. , Reilly Dallas D. , Parker Cyrena M. , Lonergan Jason M. , Johnson Timothy J.
Published: July 2021

It has been known since the 1950s that plutonium oxalate powders change color and lose mass over time when stored at room temperature in air. Despite several studies monitoring these changes, there are still discrepancies in the literature regarding the speciation of intermediate and final products that result from this decomposition. Presented here for the first time is a comprehensive series of time‐resolved powder X‐ray diffraction experiments coupled with solid‐state optical spectroscopy and electron microscopy of aged plutonium (III) and (IV) oxalate powders. These data provide fresh insight into the chemical and structural changes that occur in these solids over time at room temperature and represent new evidence suggesting both plutonium (III) and plutonium (IV) oxalates auto‐decompose to form nanocrystalline plutonium oxide in the solid state.
Sunflower Oil–Beeswax Oleogels Are Promising Frying Medium for Potato Strips
Authors: Aydeniz Guneser Buket , Yılmaz Emin , Uslu Eda Keskin
Published: July 2021

Sunflower oil–beeswax oleogels at 3% (BWO‐3) and 8% (BWO‐8) organogelator concentration are prepared to evaluate oleogels as frying medium for potato strip frying against commercial sunflower oil (SO). Rheological and thermal analyses of oleogels prove that the samples are fully solid (20±3 °C) and totally liquid (180 °C), and thermoreversible. Fresh and used (after frying) fat analyses show that free fatty acidity (FFA), peroxide value (PV) and total polar materials (TPM) are enhanced in all samples at the 7th h, but the relative enhancement levels are lower in oleogel samples. Potato strips fried in oleogels absorb significantly less oil (11.97% and 12.07%) than the control sample (15.20%). Potatoes fried in oleogels are also more bright and yellower than the control sample. Textural profile of the fried potatoes indicates that the samples fried in oleogels are harder, springier, and gummier than that of the control sample. Sensory analysis shows that oleogel fried potatoes get higher sensory scores. Also, overall acceptability of potatoes fried in BWO‐8 sample is the highest (8.50) among all. The prepared oleogels are found quite promising frying medium in this study. Further studies with other types of oleogels in extended period frying of various foods are suggested.

Practical applications: The development of innovative frying techniques to produce healthier products with lower fat and calorie values are still a remarkable research area. Oleogelation is an emerging strategy used for solid‐like oil designing and based on the formation of 3D networks by the addition of organogelators. Oleogelation is accepted as a healthy strategy to structure liquid oils into solid consistency, and oleogels have great edible applications in processed foods, and can be used as a frying medium. This work can guide the use of sunflower oil–beeswax oleogels as a frying medium and allow the development of more healthy fried snacks.
Diversified crop rotations enhance groundwater and economic sustainability of food production
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Steenhuis Tammo S. , Davis Kyle Frankel , van der Werf Wopke , Ritsema Coen J. , Pacenka Steven , Zhang Fusuo , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Du Taisheng
Published: July 2021

Earth's water resources are critical for supporting livelihoods and food security but are being increasingly overexploited to support global agriculture. Diversifying cropping systems could potentially resolve unsustainable water use but trade‐offs with other aspects of sustainability and food security have not yet been assessed. We performed a detailed analysis of 31 different field crop rotations conducted during 1990–2019 in the North China Plain, to assess the potential impact of crop diversification on actual evapotranspiration (ETa), changes in regional groundwater table, grain yield, economic output, and water use efficiency (WUE) and to identify configurations that can achieve co‐benefits across multiple dimensions. We found that a combination of lowering the cropping index (i.e., harvest frequency), incorporating fallow periods, and introducing higher‐value crops into the currently dominant winter wheat–summer maize double cropping system can reduce growing season ETa by as much as 31%, mitigate groundwater decline by 19% or more, and increased economic output and economic WUE by more than 11% and 3%, respectively. We also found that multiple diversified wheat‐maize–based rotations—all with rotation lengths greater than 2 years—achieve co‐benefits across all evaluated dimensions. This study provides new empirical evidence of the opportunities for diversified crop rotations to balance the multiple objectives of food production, sustainable groundwater use, and farmer profitability. Extending this solution to other water‐stressed agricultural regions could be an effective strategy in achieving more sustainable food production system globally.
Maturity of gray matter structures and white matter connectomes, and their relationship with psychiatric symptoms in youth
Authors: Luna Alex , Bernanke Joel , Kim Kakyeong , Aw Natalie , Dworkin Jordan D. , Cha Jiook , Posner Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Brain predicted age difference, or BrainPAD, compares chronological age to an age estimate derived by applying machine learning (ML) to MRI brain data. BrainPAD studies in youth have been relatively limited, often using only a single MRI modality or a single ML algorithm. Here, we use multimodal MRI with a stacked ensemble ML approach that iteratively applies several ML algorithms (AutoML). Eligible participants in the Healthy Brain Network (N = 489) were split into training and test sets. Morphometry estimates, white matter connectomes, or both were entered into AutoML to develop BrainPAD models. The best model was then applied to a held‐out evaluation dataset, and associations with psychometrics were estimated. Models using morphometry and connectomes together had a mean absolute error of 1.18 years, outperforming models using a single MRI modality. Lower BrainPAD values were associated with more symptoms on the CBCL (pcorr = .012) and lower functioning on the Children's Global Assessment Scale (pcorr = .012). Higher BrainPAD values were associated with better performance on the Flanker task (pcorr = .008). Brain age prediction was more accurate using ComBat‐harmonized brain data (MAE = 0.26). Associations with psychometric measures remained consistent after ComBat harmonization, though only the association with CGAS reached statistical significance in the reduced sample. Our findings suggest that BrainPAD scores derived from unharmonized multimodal MRI data using an ensemble ML approach may offer a clinically relevant indicator of psychiatric and cognitive functioning in youth.
Combined extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and microaxial pump—when left ventricular preload is too low to unload in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Lüsebrink Enzo , Massberg Steffen , Orban Martin
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Severe cardiogenic shock is the major driver of mortality on cardiologic intensive care units. Novel therapeutic options like extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or the combination of ECMO and a percutaneous microaxial pump like Impella CP (ECMELLA) are promising Options. Here we want to focus on the question what happens when left ventricular preload is too low to unload in cardiogenic shock in patients with ECMELLA and this aspect is illustrated by transesophageal echocardiography.

Methods

We detail a case of a 43‐year‐old active smoker who was admitted for acute myocardial infarction causing severe cardiogenic shock and who was finally treated with ECMELLA. Transesophageal echocardiography is used to illustrate what happens when left ventricle (LV) preload is too low to unload.

Results

Transesophageal echocardiography demonstrates complete collapse of LV and LA as consequence of increased but still low flow rate of the coaxial pump.

Conclusion

Novel therapeutic options like ECMO and percutaneous microaxial pumps like Impella CP, 5.0 or the combination of both (ECMELLA), are promising options. Whether these approaches reduce mortality has to be evaluated in urgently needed randomized trials but results will not be available in the next few years.
Researching race‐ethnicity in race‐mute Europe
Authors: Jugert Philipp , Kaiser Marie J. , Ialuna Francesca , Civitillo Sauro
Published: July 2021

In Germany and continental Europe, more broadly, race and ethnicity are concepts that are not widely used and are increasingly erased from the legislation. Nevertheless, race and ethnicity are still used as social markers and often merely replaced with other terms (e.g., cultural background). The goal of this paper is threefold. First, we point to the danger of treating race and ethnicity as essentialist categories, which is still common in developmental science research. Second, we want to outline specific problems that occur when doing research on ethnicity and race with children and adolescents in the European race‐mute context. Third, we suggest that future research ought to focus more on constructions of Whiteness and reproduction of power differences among ethnic majority populations. In doing so, we draw on examples from our own research on ethnic‐racial identity and ethnic‐racial socialization.
No age differences? No problem
Authors: McLean Kate C. , Riggs Anne E.
Published: July 2021

In this essay we argue that the over‐reliance on age effects in the field of developmental psychology belies attention to actual development, obscuring attention to actual developmental processes. We use examples from diverse content areas in developmental psychology, such as narrative and autobiographical memory, personality trait development, Piagetian conservation tasks, pubertal timing, and Dynamic Systems Theory to build this argument. We conclude by arguing that focusing on individual differences in development, and cultural and historical context as major mechanisms of developmental processes will provide a fuller and richer understanding of the complexity of human development.

Highlights

Over‐reliance on age differences does not explain development and obscures attention to individual differences and cultural context.
Endogenous health groups and heterogeneous dynamics of the elderly
Authors: Amengual Dante , Bueren Jesús , Crego Julio A.
Published: July 2021

We propose a methodology to classify individuals into few but meaningful health groups by estimating a panel Markov switching model that exploits rich information from panel household surveys. Using the HRS, we identify four persistent health groups, depending on individual's physical and mental disabilities. Our classification outperforms existing health measures at explaining entry in nursing homes, home health care, out‐of‐pocket medical expenses, and mortality for individuals in the HRS, ELSA, and SHARE. Through a workhorse model of savings, we recover an asset cost of bad health that is twice as big as when using self‐reported health.
Quantitative label‐free optical technique to analyze the ultrastructure changes and spatiotemporal relationship of enamel induced by Msx2 deletion
Authors: Liu Hao , Guo Zhouyi , Mo Luoqi , Sun Yan , Zhang JuanJuan , Liu Xiaoying , Liu Zhiming
Published: July 2021

New advances in the molecular mechanism of enamel mineralization reveal the practical significance of regenerative medicine in clinical transformation. Muscle segment homeobox 2 (MSX2), a transcription factor, is recently reported to be closely associated with the amelogenesis imperfecta (AI). To elucidate the biomineralization framework of AI enamel, herein, Msx2 gene mutant mice are investigated by dual‐mode noninvasive spectroscopic analytical techniques for the first time. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) records the depth‐resolved structural information of mice teeth, where a dramatic decrease in enamel thickness and quality occurred in Msx2 deficient (Msx2−/−) enamel. And it has the advantages of fast, noninvasive and low cost. Raman spectroscopy, a powerful molecular fingerprint tool, further witnesses an imbalance of inorganic and organic contents in Msx2−/− enamel. In addition, abnormal expression of MSX2 also influences the spatial distribution of phosphate in enamel according to the Raman spectral imaging. Therefore, OCT integrated with Raman spectroscopy provides the quantitative label‐free optical parameters of both the physical structure and chemical component in mice enamel, which strengthens the understanding of the biomineralization process underlying the Msx2‐related amelogenesis imperfect.
Essential information for transition of care for frail elderly patients in Japan: A qualitative study
Authors: Matsumura Shinji , Ozaki Makiko , Kanno Tetsuya , Iioka Tomomi , Bito Seiji
Published: July 2021

Background

Information exchange between hospitals and primary care physicians is suboptimal. Most physicians are dissatisfied with the current referral process, and poor communication leads to negative care transition outcomes.

Method

To identify the key information needed for a successful transition of care, we conducted a qualitative study using consecutive, semistructured in‐person interviews and focus group sessions. We recruited five participants engaged in clinical work for individual interviews and 16 participants for focus groups. We analyzed all data using qualitative thematic analysis. All results were returned to the participants and modified based on their feedback.

Results

The five individual interviews provided a general picture of the current referral process and an interview guide for the following focus group sessions. The focus group discussions were used to identify the essential information needed at admission and discharge from the hospital. Essential information on hospital admission was as follows: (1) basic medical and care information, (2) care resources available at home, (3) the purpose of admission and the goals of care during hospitalization, and (4) status of advance care planning (ACP) and patient's will in an emergency. Essential information on hospital discharge was as follows: (1) clinical course, (2) explanation of medical condition during hospitalization, (3) status of ACP and patient's will in an emergency, and (4) medical procedures to be continued at home.

Conclusions

We identified the essential information needed for a successful transition of care in Japan. The clinical effectiveness of a template that contains the information identified in our study warrants further investigation.
Greener approach toward synthesis of biologically active s‐Triazine (TCT) derivatives: A recent update
Authors: Panchal Jigar , Jain Sonika , Jain Pankaj Kumar , Kishore Dharma , Dwivedi Jaya
Published: July 2021

The greener methodology to synthesize s‐triazine derivatives (also known as TCT) is described, including synthesis through microwave, ultrasound, and solvent‐free conditions. This review mainly focuses on reactions of TCT (2,4,6‐trichloro‐1,3,5‐triazine) with various substituents having amine and hydroxy functionalities to give corresponding triazine derivatives under a greener approach. The results of reactions indicate that, unlike classical methods, green methods result in better yields of the product, through a rapid reaction, under mild reaction conditions, and by easy workup procedures.
Tissue‐specific differences in HIV DNA levels and mechanisms that govern HIV transcription in blood, gut, genital tract and liver in ART‐treated women
Authors: Moron‐Lopez Sara , Xie Guorui , Kim Peggy , Siegel David A , Lee Sulggi , Wong Joseph K , Price Jennifer C , Elnachef Najwa , Greenblatt Ruth M , Tien Phyllis C , Roan Nadia R , Yukl Steven A
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Sex‐specific differences affect multiple aspects of HIV infection, yet few studies have quantified HIV levels in tissues from women. Since an HIV functional cure will likely require a major reduction of infected cells from most tissues, we measured total and intact HIV DNA and the HIV transcription profile in blood, gut, genital tract and liver from HIV‐positive antiretroviral therapy (ART) ‐treated women.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and biopsies from the gastrointestinal (ileum, colon, rectosigmoid +/‐ liver) and genital (ectocervix, endocervix and endometrium) tracts were collected from 6 ART‐treated (HIV RNA < 200 copies/mL) women. HIV DNA (total and intact) and levels of read‐through, initiated (total), 5’elongated, polyadenylated and multiply spliced HIV transcripts were measured by droplet digital PCR. Immunophenotyping of cells was performed using Cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF).

Results

We detected total HIV DNA in all tissues and intact HIV DNA in blood, ileum, colon, rectosigmoid and ectocervix. Initiated HIV transcripts per provirus were higher in PBMC and endometrium than in ileum, colon, rectosigmoid, ectocervix or endocervix, and higher in the rectum than either ileum or colon. 5’Elongated HIV transcripts per provirus were comparable in PBMC and endometrium, but higher than in gut or cervical samples. Polyadenylated and multiply spliced HIV transcripts were detected in PBMC (6/6 and 3/6 individuals respectively), but rarely in the tissues.

Conclusions

These results suggest tissue‐specific differences in the mechanisms that govern HIV expression, with lower HIV transcription in most tissues than blood. Therapies aimed at disrupting latency, such as latency‐reversing or latency‐silencing agents, will be required to penetrate into multiple tissues and target different blocks to HIV transcription.
Long‐term mean changes in actual evapotranspiration over China under climate warming and the attribution analysis within the Budyko framework
Authors: Su Tao , Feng Taichen , Huang Bicheng , Han Zixuan , Qian Zhonghua , Feng Guolin , Hou Wei , Dong Wenjie
Published: July 2021

In this study, the temporal variation of actual evapotranspiration (AE) over China during 1980–2015 is analysed based on an ensemble of six reanalyses and a complementary‐relationship‐based AE dataset. The results reveal that annual mean AE in China increases significantly, and the major regime shift occurred around 1998. Accordingly, long‐term mean AE changes from 1999–2015 relative to 1980–1997 are computed to quantify the spatial pattern of AE trends. In general, annual AE increases significantly in southern and northwestern China but decreases significantly in northeastern China and eastern Tibetan Plateau. Then we examine the primary cause for changes in AE using the Budyko framework, in which the change of climate is represented by changes in precipitation and potential evapotranspiration and the shift in landscape characteristics is represented by the parameter n. Overall, increasing potential evapotranspiration is the main contributor to the increase of AE in southeastern China. Increasing potential evapotranspiration and the parameter n are the main contributors to the increase of AE in southwestern China. Decreasing AE in northeastern China and eastern Tibetan Plateau are respectively caused by changes in precipitation and the parameter n, whereas the combination of these two factors has led to increasing AE in northwestern China. It is shown here that the contribution of the parameter n is comparable to that of climate change in western China. A positive correlation is found between vegetation coverage and the parameter n; however, vegetation type, catchment slope, irrigation practices, and glacial meltwater also have an impact on regional n. A concurrent occurrence of the negative contribution of parameter n and positive vegetation coverage change is found in the forest land of northeastern and southeastern China. Decreasing irrigation water is likely the main reason for the negative contribution of n in cropland of the North China Plain.
Performances of the barrel kiln used in cottage industry for fish processing and effects on physicochemical characteristics and safety of smoked fish products
Authors: Assogba Mahunan François , Afé Ogouyôm Herbert Iko , Ahouansou Roger Houèchénè , Anihouvi Dona Gildas Hippolyte , Kpoclou Yénoukounmè Euloge , Djago Dieudonné , Douny Caroline , Igout Ahmed , Mahillon Jacques , Hounhouigan Djidjoho Joseph , Scippo Marie‐Louise , Anihouvi Victor Bienvenu
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

In the traditional food sector, the smoking process and smoking‐drying process are widely used to increase the shelf‐life of seafood products. The smoking process and smoking‐drying process are mainly performed using barrel kiln and wood as fuel in many West African countries. The present study evaluated the performances of the barrel kiln and its effects on physicochemical characteristics and safety of smoked fish (SF) and smoked‐dried fish (SDF). Twelve follow‐ups were conducted with three experimental processors and 24 samples of fish collected at different steps of processing were analyzed in a laboratory using standard methods.

RESULTS

The extreme values of combustion temperature recorded during the smoking process (456.4 °C) and smoking‐drying process (482.8 °C) were higher than 450 °C, the temperature at which wood pyrolysis generates polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Smoked fish were highly contaminated with PAHs, and showed maximal levels of benzo[a]pyrene (52.7 μg kg−1) and PAH4 (i.e. sum of benzo[a]pyrene, chrysene, benzo[b]fluoranthene and benz[a]anthracene) (290.9 μg kg−1) exceeding the European Union limits by about 25‐fold. After smoking of Scomber scombrus and smoking‐drying of Cypselurus cyanopterus, no significant differences were recorded for lipid, protein and biogenic amine contents between fresh and processed fish, even if the histamine content of both fish exceeded the limit fixed by the European Union regulation.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in the present study showed that smoked fish and smoked‐dried fish produced using barrel kiln and wood fuel are highly contaminated by PAHs. Therefore, there is a need to improve the preservation practices of raw fish and smoking conditions to limit the contamination of end‐products by PAHs known to be carcinogenic components for humans and to ensure consumer safety. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Potential application of lactic acid bacteria in the biopreservation of red grape from mycotoxigenic fungi
Authors: Dopazo Victor , Luz Carlos , Quiles Juan M , Calpe Jorge , Romano Raffaele , Mañes Jordi , Meca Giuseppe
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Filamentous fungi are the main contamination agent in the viticultural sector. Use of synthetic fungicides is the regular answer to these contaminations. Nevertheless, because of several problems associated with the use of synthetic compounds, the industry demands new and safer methods. In the present work, the biopreservation potential of four lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains was studied against the principal grape contaminant fungi.

RESULTS

Agar diffusion test evidenced that all four culture‐free supernatant (CFS) had antifungal properties against all tested fungi. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) test values evidenced that media fermented by the Lactobacillus plantarum E3 and Lactobacillus plantarum E4 strains showed the highest antifungal activity, resulting in an MFC from 6.3 to 100 g L−1. Analysis of CFS evidenced the presence of different antifungal compounds, such as lactic acid, phenyllactic acid and pyrazines. In tests on red grapes, an average reduction of 1.32 log10 of the spores per gram of fruit was achieved by all CFS in grapes inoculated with Aspergillus ochraceus and by 0.94 log10 for L. plantarum E3 CFS against Botrytis cinerea.

CONCLUSION

The antifungal activity of the fermented CFS by L. plantarum E3 reduced the growth of B. cinerea and A. ochraceus in grapes, which are the main contaminant and main producer of ochratoxin A in these crops, respectively. Therefore, based on the results obtained in this work, use of the strain L. plantarum E3 could be an interesting option for the biopreservation of grapes. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Expanding Cyclic Topology‐Based Biomedical Polymer Panel: Universal Synthesis of Hetero‐“8”‐Shaped Copolymers and Topological Modulation of Polymer Degradation
Authors: Kang Gui‐Ying , Ma Wei , Liu Ming‐Zhu , Luo Hai‐Xi , Yu Cui‐Yun , Wei Hua
Published: July 2021

8‐Shaped copolymers with two macrocycles connected together represent an interesting cyclic topology‐derived polymer species due to the simultaneous incorporation of two cyclic moieties and the reported unique physical and chemical properties. To provide a proof‐of‐concept for a broad readership on biomedical polymers, a well‐defined hetero‐8‐shaped amphiphilic copolymer, cyclic‐poly(oligo(ethylene glycol)monomethyl ether methacrylate)‐b‐cyclic PCL (cPOEGMA‐b‐cPCL) is synthesized by an elegant integration of intrachain click cyclization and interchain click coupling. The potential of the self‐assembled micelles of cPOEGMA‐b‐cPCL for controlled drug release is evaluated by in vitro drug loading and drug release, cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, and degradation studies. Most importantly, the micelles based on cPOEGMA‐b‐cPCL show much slower degradation profiles than the previously reported linear counterpart, POEGMA‐b‐PCL and tadpole‐shaped analog, PEG‐b‐cPCL because of the presence of cyclic hydrophilic POEGMA segment. Therefore, this study not only develops a robust strategy for a universal precise synthesis of well‐defined hetero‐8‐shaped copolymers based on diverse vinyl and ring‐structured monomers, but also reveals the first modulation of polymer degradation property by topological control of the nondegradable moiety in the polymer construct through advanced macromolecular engineering.
Intramolecular Folding of Coil‐Helix Block Copolymers Induced by Quadrupole Interactions
Authors: Wang Chengyuan , Weck Marcus
Published: July 2021

True tertiary architectures with defined local secondary structures are rare in synthetic systems. Adapting well‐developed synthetic building blocks and controlling their folding through diverse interactions can be a general approach toward this goal. In this contribution, the synthesis of 3D hierarchical assemblies with distinct secondary domains formed through the intramolecular folding of a block copolymer containing a coil‐like poly(styrene) (PS) block with a helical poly(isocyanide) block induced by phenyl‐pentafluorophenyl quadrupole interactions is reported. The PS block is prepared via atom‐transfer radical polymerization and end functionalized with a nickel complex that serves as a macroinitiator for the polymerization of chiral isocyanides bearing pentafluorophenyl pendants. The folding behavior of the coil‐helix block copolymers is investigated by dynamic light scattering, NMR spectroscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, and differential scanning calorimetry.
Leukoencephalopathy with Brainstem and Spinal Cord Involvement and Lactate Elevation: A Novel DARS2 Mutation and Intra‐Familial Heterogeneity
Authors: Li Jeng‐Lin , Lee Ni‐Chung , Chen Pin‐Shiuan , Lee Gin Hoong , Wu Ruey‐Meei
Published: July 2021

Background

Leukoencephalopathy with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and lactate elevation (LBSL) is characterized by slowly progressive spastic gait, cerebellar symptoms, and posterior cord dysfunction. DARS2, which encodes mitochondrial aspartyl tRNA synthase, is associated with the rare disease.

Cases

The proband had gait disturbance since age 56, while her younger brother had the gait problem since his 20s and needed cane‐assistance at age 45. Both cases showed typical demyelinating features of LBSL on the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) involving the periventricular white matter, brainstem, cerebellum and spinal cord. Sequencing of both cases showed compound heterozygous mutations: c.228‐16C>A and c.508C>T in DARS2. The c.228‐16C>A is a common mutation in splicing site of intron 2, which causes alternative splicing defect of exon 3, while the c.508C>T at the exon 6 is novel. Our patients are unique in the relative late onset and the apparent difference in disease progression.

Literature Review

Literatures from PubMed were reviewed. Five families showed intra‐familial heterogeneity on age at onset or clinical severity.

Conclusion

We identified a family of LBSL with compound heterozygous mutations, and c.508C>T at the exon 6 is a novel one. Clinical heterogeneity was observed in the family and other literatures. Further research for underlying mechanism is required.
Exposure to Phosphoglycerate Kinase 1 Activators and Incidence of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Gros Priti , Wang Xuesong , Guan Jun , Lang Anthony E. , Austin Peter C. , Welk Blayne , Visanji Naomi P. , Marras Connie
Published: July 2021

Background

Preclinical and epidemiological data suggest that phosphoglycerate kinase 1 activators could have neuroprotective properties and prevent PD.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to compare the association between increased use of phosphoglycerate kinase 1 activators and increased use of tamsulosin with PD incidence.

Methods

Our retrospective cohort study included men older than age 66 years newly exposed to phosphoglycerate kinase 1 activators or tamsulosin and compared their PD incidence, using health care administrative data of Ontario, Canada.

Results

Among 265,745 men, each additional year of cumulative use of phosphoglycerate kinase 1 activators or tamsulosin was associated with 6% and 8% reduction, respectively, in the hazard of PD incidence. These hazards were not significantly different (P = 0.2094). A secondary analysis with the observation window starting after 6 months and 1 and 2 years showed similar results.

Conclusions

Increasing exposure to phosphoglycerate kinase 1 activators and tamsulosin were both associated with small reductions in PD incidence. These results support further investigation of phosphoglycerate kinase 1 activators and tamsulosin for possible PD disease‐modifying properties. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Computational Designing and Prediction of ADMET Properties of Four Novel Imidazole‐based Drug Candidates Inhibiting Heme Oxygenase‐1 Causing Cancers
Authors: Rahman Mijanur , Talukder Asma , Akter Rekha
Published: July 2021

The overexpression of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) contributes to the development of several types of cancers. The inhibition of HO‐1 through imidazole‐based drugs, which is non‐competitive with heme, is a focus of anticancer drug research. We designed the four following novel HO‐1 inhibiting compounds: 2‐(1‐cyclopentyl‐4‐(1H‐imidazol‐4‐yl)butan‐2‐yl)pyrazine (M11), 2‐[(2‐chloro‐3‐methylcyclohexyl)methyl]‐1H‐imidazole (M26), 2‐(2‐phenethyl‐1H‐imidazol‐4‐yl)ethanesulfonamide (M28), and 5‐chloro‐2‐[2‐(2,5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl)propan‐2‐yl]‐1H‐imidazole (M31). All compounds showed a strong binding affinity with HO‐1 in molecular docking studies. The in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) data showed that the compounds would be available orally in an acceptable manner. The bioactivity scores revealed that they were moderately active substances. They were found as non‐mutagen, non‐tumorigenic, non‐irritant, and non‐detrimental to the reproductive system. Finally, the drug‐likeness values of the compounds were obtained as −0.71, −1.64, −2.04, and 0.4 respectively, with the final drug‐score of 0.60, 0.54, 0.51, and 0.77 respectively.
Amorphous biogenic silica production and utilization in experimental dental composites: Effect of silica gel formation pH on silica and composite properties
Authors: Basaran Elalmis Yeliz , Yucel Sevil , Aydin Ismail
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this present study was to synthesize biogenic silica from rice hull ash (RHA) and investigate the effect of silica gel formation pH on the properties of silica powders and light‐cured experimental dental composites (EDCs) prepared using biogenic silica powders. Silica extracted from RHA and silica powders with different properties were obtained by the gelation of silicate solutions at pH 4, 7, and 9. Silica samples were characterized using inductively coupled plasma/optical emission spectrometry, X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, laser particle sizer, and N2 adsorption analysis. Silanated silica powders were mixed with organic matrix (bisphenol A‐glycidyl methacrylate 50 wt%—2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate 50 wt%) and EDC obtained were subjected to Vickers hardness, three‐point bending, and degree of conversion (DC) tests. EDC paste prepared with the inclusion of silica powder produced from pH 9 gel (9SiO2) could not be cured. EDC prepared with silica produced from pH 4 gel (4SiO2) had higher flexural strength than composite prepared with silica produced from pH 7 gel (7SiO2) at the same wt%. EDCs prepared using 9SiO2 showed significantly lower DC compared to EDCs prepared with 4SiO2 and 7SiO2. These observations reveal that EDC properties are susceptible to silica gel formation pH just as the obtained biogenic silica properties are. Furthermore, this study indicates the importance of optical properties of filler designed for light‐cured dental composites. Biogenic silica powders obtained from RHA may be low‐cost alternatives to current amorphous silica fillers depending on the production conditions.