bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring aniseikonia tolerance range for stereoacuity – a tool for the refractive surgeon
Authors: Krarup Therese , Nisted Ivan , Kjærbo Hadi , Christensen Ulrik , Kiilgaard Jens Folke , la Cour Morten
Published: June 2020

Objective

No method exists to measure aniseikonia tolerance in stereoacuity. The brain can compensate for 2%–3% aniseikonia (i.e. 2–3 dioptres of anisometropia) without impairing stereoacuity; however, a substantial proportion of anisometropic patients experience problems caused by disruptions of sensory fusion due to surgically induced aniseikonia. We hypothesized that individual differences in tolerance to aniseikonia exist and sought to develop a method to measure aniseikonia tolerance.

Methods

A total of 21 eye‐healthy phakic individuals older than 50 years of age and 11 patients awaiting clear lens extraction were included. Patients were tested with best corrected near and distance visual acuity, cover/uncover test, eye dominance test, stereoacuity threshold (TNO test), slit lamp examination and ocular coherence tomography. The stereoacuity threshold was determined with aniseikonia induced by different size lenses ranging from 1% to 9% magnification of both eyes in increments of 1%. The aniseikonia tolerance range (ATR) was defined as the percentage aniseikonia in which the stereoacuity threshold was maintained.

Results

We examined 32 patients with a median age of 65 (95% CI: 62–66 years), CDVA better than 6/7.5 (0.1 logMAR), and median near visual acuity better than 6/6 (0.0 logMAR). The median stereoacuity threshold was 60 arcsec (maximum 30, minimum 120). We observed large inter‐individual differences in ATR: 6/31 (19%) participants had an ATR of ≤1%, 1/31 (3%) had an ATR of 1‐5%, 7/31 (22%) had an ATR of 5‐10%, and 17/31 (54%) had an ATR of >10%.

Conclusion

We present a reliable method for measuring the amount of aniseikonia that a person can tolerate without impairing stereopsis. We report large inter‐individual differences in tolerance of aniseikonia.
Effects of Allium mongolicum Regel supplementation on the digestibility, methane production, and antioxidant capacity of Simmental calves in northwest China
Authors: Xie Kaili , Wang Zhaofeng , Wang Yongjia , Wang Chunmei , Chang Shenghua , Zhang Cheng , Zhu Wanhe , Hou Fujiang
Published: June 2020

This study evaluated the effects of Allium mongolicum Regel (AM) supplementation on nitrogen (N) balance, ruminal fermentation, and antioxidant properties. Sixteen male calves were assigned randomly to four groups, and the four were added with 0 (CON), 200 mg/kg (body weight; BW) (Low AM; LA), 400 mg/kg (BW) (Middle AM; MA), or 800 mg/kg (BW) (High AM; HA) per day for each individual. AM was added on dry matter (DM) basis. The experiment lasted for 58 days. Supplementation of AM could significantly increase average daily gain, DM digestibility, acid detergent fiber digestibility, and retained N/Intake N. N digestibility and molar proportion of propionate in the MA and HA treatments were higher than that in the CON treatment (p < .05), respectively. AM supplementation significantly increased the molar concentration of total volatile fatty acid in the rumen fluid (p < .05). The ratio of acetate to propionate in the MA and HA groups was lower than that in the CON treatment (p < .05). Furthermore, AM supplementation significantly reduced methane (CH4) (p < .05) emissions. AM supplementation significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase. The MA group could significantly increase the activities of glutathione peroxidase and decrease the content of malondialdehyde. Our results indicated that AM supplementation could affect the nutrient digestibility, CH4 emission, and antioxidant capacity of Simmental calves.
Critical analysis of communication strategies in public health promotion: An empirical‐ethical study on organ donation in Germany
Authors: Hansen Solveig Lena , Pfaller Larissa , Schicktanz Silke
Published: June 2020

Given the need for organs, public organizations use social marketing strategies to increase the number of donors. Their campaigns employ a variety of moral appeals. However, their effects on audiences are unclear. We identified 14 campaigns in Germany from over the last 20 years. Our approach combined a multimodal analysis of categorized posters with a qualitative analysis of responses, collected in interviews or focus groups, of 53 persons who were either skeptical or undecided about organ donation. The combined analyses revealed that the posters failed to motivate laypersons in general to donate, and were even less effective on skeptical or undecided individuals. We explain this in terms of the types of moral messages found on posters and the limits of such social marketing strategies. Furthermore, we discuss certain ethical aspects of organ donation campaigns pertaining to communicating norms and trust in public institutions.
How can use of the Theoretical Domains Framework be optimized in qualitative research? A rapid systematic review
Authors: McGowan Laura J. , Powell Rachael , French David P.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) is an integrative framework which can facilitate comprehensive assessment of behavioural determinants in qualitative studies. However, studies can become entirely deductive if they adhere rigidly to the provided guidance and may thus overlook important factors. This review identified the number of TDF‐related qualitative publications employing health care professional (HCP) or patient/public samples (stage 1) and investigated the specific methods used and impact on findings in research involving patient/public populations, with consideration of how TDF use could be optimized in such studies (stage 2).

Methods

A rapid systematic review of TDF‐based qualitative studies was conducted. Studies were included in stage 1 that had (1) used qualitative methods of both data collection and analysis and (2) used the TDF to inform data collection and/or analysis. Stage 2 included studies from stage 1 that employed patient/public populations and explored influences of behaviour. These studies were coded for instances of TDF use with respect to data collection, analysis, and reporting of findings.

Results

In stage 1, 186 TDF‐based qualitative studies were identified (HCP = 123; patient/public = 43; both = 20). Thirty‐eight of these were eligible for inclusion in stage 2. Many of these studies used the TDF in a highly structured way within data collection, and the majority used a deductive approach to analysis. Most studies presented findings confined to TDF domains, with no non‐TDF material presented.

Conclusions

Rigid operationalization of the TDF in qualitative studies may result in determinants being overlooked. We propose recommendations for flexible use of the TDF in order to optimize its use in exploratory qualitative research.
Mechanism of action of SNF472, a novel calcification inhibitor to treat vascular calcification and calciphylaxis
Authors: Perelló Joan , Ferrer Miquel D. , del Mar Pérez Maria , Kaesler Nadine , Güney Ayshe , Brandenburg Vincent M. , Behets Geert J. , D'Haese Patrick C. , Garg Rekha , Isern Bernat , Gold Alex , Wolf Myles , Salcedo Carolina
Published: June 2020

Background and Purpose

No therapy is approved for vascular calcification or calcific uraemic arteriolopathy (calciphylaxis), which increases mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing dialysis. Deposition of hydroxyapatite (HAP) crystals in arterial walls is the common pathophysiologic mechanism. The mechanism of action of SNF472 to reduce HAP deposition in arterial walls was investigated.

Experimental Approach

We examined SNF472 binding features (affinity, release kinetics and antagonism type) for HAP crystals in vitro, inhibition of calcification in excised vascular smooth muscle cells from rats and bone parameters in osteoblasts from dogs and rats.

Key Results

SNF472 bound to HAP with affinity (KD) of 1–10 μM and saturated HAP at 7.6 μM. SNF472 binding was fast (80% within 5 min) and insurmountable. SNF472 inhibited HAP crystal formation from 3.8 μM, with complete inhibition at 30.4 μM. SNF472 chelated free calcium with an EC50 of 539 μM. Chelation of free calcium was imperceptible for SNF472 1–10 μM in physiological calcium concentrations. The lowest concentration tested in vascular smooth muscle cells, 1 μM inhibited calcification by 67%. SNF472 showed no deleterious effects on bone mineralization in dogs or in rat osteoblasts.

Conclusion and Implications

These experiments show that SNF472 binds to HAP and inhibits further HAP crystallization. The EC50 for chelation of free calcium is 50‐fold greater than a maximally effective SNF472 dose, supporting the selectivity of SNF472 for HAP. These findings indicate that SNF472 may have a future role in the treatment of vascular calcification and calcific uraemic arteriolopathy in patients undergoing dialysis.
Context‐dependent irritability in Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: correlates and stability of family‐restricted versus cross‐situational temper outbursts
Authors: Courbet Ophélie , Slama Hichem , Purper‐Ouakil Diane , Massat Isabelle , Villemonteix Thomas
Published: June 2020

Background

Impairing irritability is highly prevalent in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), although manifestations of irritability are not necessarily present in all settings (home, school, with peers). At the moment, little is known about the relative prevalence, stability, and etiologies of contextual versus cross‐situational manifestations of irritability in ADHD. In this study, levels of dysfunctional parenting practices and sleep problems were compared in irritable versus nonirritable children with ADHD, in cases of family‐restricted versus cross‐situational irritability, and examined as predictors of irritability levels over a one‐year interval. Stability of irritability manifestations over time was investigated, and prevalence of cross‐situational disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) versus ‘family‐restricted’ DMDD was compared.

Method

One hundred and seventy children with ADHD (age 6–11) were examined. Parents completed a semi‐structured interview and questionnaire to assess irritability, and parent‐report questionnaires were used to evaluate parenting practices and sleep problems. Questionnaires were completed for a second time after a one‐year interval.

Results

Parenting practices were more dysfunctional in the irritable group compared to the nonirritable group, while sleep problems did not differ between these two groups. Levels of parenting practices and sleep problems did not predict later irritability after correction for multiple comparison nor did they differ between the family‐restricted and cross‐situational irritable groups. Finally, family‐restricted irritability was as prevalent and as stable over time as cross‐situational irritability and family‐restricted DMDD as prevalent as cross‐situational DMDD.

Conclusions

Factors associated with contextual versus cross‐situational manifestations of irritability in ADHD remain elusive. More subtle measures of parenting practices should be considered, including psychological control or accommodation, and other constructs such as social inhibition. Despite not being captured by current nosography, severe forms of family‐restricted irritability may be as prevalent as severe forms of cross‐situational irritability.
An expert‐generated tool for assessing policy capacity
Authors: Lawrence Logan M. , Fierlbeck Katherine , McGrath Patrick J. , Curran Janet A.
Published: June 2020

“Policy capacity” describes the ability of policy‐making systems to do quality work. Better‐quality policy work leads to more successful policies. There have been limited attempts to operationalize theoretical understanding of policy capacity, resulting in a lack of shared understanding and assessment metrics. In this Delphi study, health policy experts validated an existing multidimensional conceptual framework for policy capacity. Factors that contribute to policy success were identified and rated to represent aspects of policy capacity, and arranged within the conceptual framework, as were factor indicators. The resulting tool provides expert‐generated items for transparently and systematically assessing policy capacity.
The miR‐1908/SRM regulatory axis contributes to extracellular vesicle secretion in prostate cancer
Authors: Urabe Fumihiko , Kosaka Nobuyoshi , Sawa Yurika , Ito Kagenori , Kimura Takahiro , Egawa Shin , Ochiya Takahiro , Yamamoto Yusuke
Published: June 2020

Targeting extracellular vesicle (EV) secretion can have potential clinical implications for cancer therapy, however the precise regulatory mechanisms of EV secretion are not fully understood. Recently, we have shown a novel pathway of EV biogenesis in PCa cell lines, PC3 and PC3M. However, as the characteristics of EVs are divergent even among PCa cell lines, we hypothesized that other pathways or common regulatory pathways of EV biogenesis still exist. Here, we performed quantitative high‐throughput screening to determine the key regulatory genes involved in EV biogenesis in 22Rv1 cells, which secrete a different type of EVs. In total, 1728 miRNAs were screened and miR‐1908 was selected as the potential miRNA regulating EV biogenesis in 22Rv1 cells. Subsequently, we investigated target genes of miR‐1908 using siRNA screening and identified that spermidine synthase (SRM) was the key regulator of EV secretion in 22Rv1 cells. Attenuation of SRM expression significantly inhibited secretion of EVs in 22Rv1 cells, and overexpression of SRM was confirmed in PCa tissues. Furthermore, we found that the number of endosome compartments was increased in cellular cytoplasm after knockdown of the SRM gene. In conclusion, our results showed that miR‐1908‐mediated regulation of SRM can control secretion of EVs in PCa. In addition, these data suggested that the EV secretion pathway was dependent on cellular characteristics.
Toward a Global Urban Sociology: Keywords
Authors: Garrido Marco , Ren Xuefei , Weinstein Liza
Published: June 2020

Many cities in the Global South are structurally different from the Northern, particularly American, cities on which much of urban sociology’s conceptual apparatus has been based. Thus, depicting them in terms of a standard urban vocabulary risks imposing an inappropriate way of seeing. We need a vocabulary that is able to accommodate their different urban experience. This special issue contributes to the work of building that vocabulary. We select five keywords in urban sociology— eviction, segregation, suburbs, violence, and gentrification—and reconstruct them in light of the places we study (India, China, Mexico, the Philippines, and South Africa). Our aim is to produce a set of keywords better equipped to travel South and, in the process, advance a truly global urban sociology.
Evaluation and comparison of histologic changes and implant survival in extraction sites immediately grafted with two different xenografts: A randomized clinical pilot study
Authors: Sivolella Stefano , Botticelli Daniele , Prasad Sanjana , Ricci Sara , Bressan Eriberto , Prasad Hari
Published: June 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this prospective, single‐center randomized pilot study was to histologically evaluate and compare vital bone development in premolar and molar‐extraction sites grafted with two different bovine‐derived xenografts. The secondary outcome of interest was implant survival in the grafted sites.

Materials and Methods

Adult patients in need of at least two tooth extractions were enrolled. A paired design was used; each patient received at least one of each type of graft at different sites. Each extraction site was randomized to one of two xenograft treatment groups. A resorbable membrane was always placed, and primary intention soft tissue closure was achieved. Four months later, implants were placed and a trephine drill was used to remove bone cores for histologic and histomorphometric analysis.

Results

Sixteen patients with 40 extraction sites were enrolled; 20 sites were grafted with one type of xenograft and 20 with another. Mean patient age was 53.5 years, and 65% of patients were male. Evaluation of bone core samples taken from grafted sites showed no significant difference in the mean value of percentage of new bone formation between the different grafted sites (33.4% and 32.4%, p = .76). Cumulative implant survival was 97.5% at the 24‐month follow‐up visit.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this pilot study, no statistically significant differences in new bone growth between sites grafted with two different types of xenograft were found. Both graft materials promoted the formation of new bone and provided osseous support for implant placement after socket grafting.
Lentigo maligna melanoma in situ with neurotropism
Authors: Occidental Michael , Shapiro Richard , Jour George
Published: June 2020

Perineural invasion, or neurotropism, is defined by the presence of cancer cells either within the neuronal sheath or found along the nerves. In melanoma, it is most commonly associated with invasive desmoplastic melanoma, a melanoma that is most commonly associated with malignant melanoma in situ, lentigo maligna type. Initially, perineural invasion was included in the reported Breslow thickness; however, recent data suggest that it should not be included. In this report, we describe a case of malignant melanoma in situ, lentigo maligna type, with associated neurotropism in the absence of invasive component.
A computational model‐based analysis of basal ganglia pathway changes in Parkinson’s disease inferred from resting‐state fMRI
Authors: Maith Oliver , Villagrasa Escudero Francesc , Dinkelbach Helge Ülo , Baladron Javier , Horn Andreas , Irmen Friederike , Kühn Andrea A. , Hamker Fred H.
Published: June 2020

Previous computational model‐based approaches for understanding the dynamic changes related to Parkinson's disease made particular assumptions about Parkinson's disease‐related activity changes or specified dopamine‐dependent activation or learning rules. Inspired by recent model‐based analysis of resting‐state fMRI, we have taken a data‐driven approach. We fit the free parameters of a spiking neuro‐computational model to match correlations of blood oxygen level‐dependent signals between different basal ganglia nuclei and obtain subject‐specific neuro‐computational models of two subject groups: Parkinson patients and matched controls. When comparing mean firing rates at rest and connectivity strengths between the control and Parkinsonian model groups, several significant differences were found that are consistent with previous experimental observations. We discuss the implications of our approach and compare its results also with the popular “rate model” of the basal ganglia. Our study suggests that a model‐based analysis of imaging data from healthy and Parkinsonian subjects is a promising approach for the future to better understand Parkinson‐related changes in the basal ganglia and corresponding treatments.
New insight into Parkinson’s disease‐related impairment of the automatic control of upright stance
Authors: Bonnet Cédrick T. , Delval Arnaud , Singh Tarkeshwar , Kechabia Yann‐Romain , Defebvre Luc
Published: June 2020

Parkinson's disease (PD) affects the automatic control of body movements. In our study, we tested PD‐related impairments in automatic postural control in quiet upright stance. Twenty PD patients (mean age: 60 ± 8 years; Hoehn and Yahr: 2.00 ± 0.32, on‐drug) and twenty age‐matched controls (61 ± 7 years) were recruited. We studied interrelations between center‐of‐pressure movements, body movements (head, neck, and lower back), eye movements and variability of pupil size. Participants performed two fixation tasks while standing, during which they looked at: (a) a cross surrounded by a white background; and (b) a cross surrounded by a structured visual background (images used: rooms in houses). PD patients exhibited stronger and weaker correlations between eye and center‐of‐pressure/body movement variables than age‐matched controls in the white and structured fixation tasks, respectively. Partial correlations, controlling for variability of pupil size showed that PD patients used lower and greater attentional resources than age‐matched controls to control their eye and center‐of‐pressure/body movements simultaneously in the white fixation and structured fixation tasks, respectively. In the white fixation task, PD patients used attentional resources to optimize visuomotor coupling between eye and body movements to control their posture. In the structured fixation task, the salient visual stimuli distracted PD patients’ attention and that possibly affected postural control by deteriorating the automatic visuomotor coupling. In contrast, age‐matched controls were able to use surrounding visual background to improve the automatic coupling between eye and center‐of‐pressure movements to control their posture. These results suggest that cluttered environments may distract PD patients and deteriorate their postural control.
2‐Deoxyglucose terminates pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus in neonatal rats
Authors: Janicot Remi , Stafstrom Carl E. , Shao Li‐Rong
Published: June 2020

Objective

Neonatal status epilepticus (SE) is a life‐threatening medical emergency. Unfortunately, up to 50% of neonates with SE are resistant to current antiseizure drugs, highlighting the need for better treatments. This study aims to explore a novel metabolic approach as a potential alternative treatment to control neonatal SE, using the glycolytic inhibitor 2‐deoxyglucose (2‐DG).

Methods

SE was induced by pilocarpine (300 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [ip]) in neonatal Sprague Dawley rats (postnatal day 10 [P10]‐P17) and was monitored by video‐electroencephalography (V‐EEG). After 30 minutes of SE, 2‐DG or one of two conventional antiseizure drugs with different mechanisms of action, phenobarbital or levetiracetam, was administrated ip, and V‐EEG recording was continued for ~60 additional minutes. The time to seizure cessation after drug injection, EEG scores, and power spectra before and after drug or saline treatment were used to assess drug effects.

Results

Once SE became sustained, administration of 2‐DG (50, 100, or 500 mg/kg, ip) consistently stopped behavioral and electrographic seizures within 10‐15 minutes; lower doses took longer (25‐30 minutes) to stop SE, demonstrating a dose‐dependent effect. Administration of phenobarbital (30 mg/kg, ip) or levetiracetam (100 mg/kg, ip) also stopped SE within 10‐15 minutes in neonatal rats.

Significance

Our results suggest that the glycolysis inhibitor 2‐DG acts quickly to reduce neuronal hyperexcitability and effectively suppress ongoing seizure activity, which may provide translational value in the treatment of neonatal SE.
Lifetime low behavioural plasticity of personality traits in the common vole (Microtus arvalis) under laboratory conditions
Authors: Urbánková Gabriela , Šíchová Klára , Riegert Jan , Horsley Rachel , Mladěnková Nella , Starck‐Lantová Petra , Sedláček František
Published: June 2020

Individual differences in behaviour, referred to as animal personality, are consistent across time and contexts. Nevertheless, personality traits show behavioural plasticity, much like many other phenotypic traits. In the present study, we examined the relationship between personality traits and behavioural plasticity in the common vole (Microtus arvalis) under stable, long‐lasting laboratory conditions. A total of 94 voles were tested in the classic open field test, designed to measure seven behavioural parameters (distance moved, grooming, immobility, rearing, running, scanning and walking duration) during a three‐minute test. A total of 60 voles formed the experimental group and were tested at four different time points over their lifetime (1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th month); 34 voles formed the control group and were tested only once at the 7th month. All voles were of the same age. Based on principal component analysis (PCA), two ordination axes were determined: “exploration” and “activity.” For further analyses, “distance moved” and “scanning duration” were selected from the first axis and “walking duration” from the second. Using linear mixed‐effect models (LMMs), we found highly significant random intercepts (i.e. personality traits) in all three behavioural parameters. However, evidence for behavioural plasticity was only found in the distance moved parameter, as determined from the random slope, and correlations between personality trait (intercept) and plasticity (slope) were not significant for any trait. During the experiment, variances of random effects were high and remained essentially the same, whilst the rank order of many individuals changed. Based on fixed effect slopes and a comparison with the control group, habituation was only significant for “walking duration.” The observed low behavioural plasticity could mirror stable (laboratory) conditions that result in the manifestation of original trait settings (genetic, early postnatal) or their gradual overcoming. These findings provide a starting point for further tests on free‐living voles.
Quantifying the individual impact of artificial barriers in freshwaters: A standardized and absolute genetic index of fragmentation
Authors: Prunier Jérôme G. , Poesy Camille , Dubut Vincent , Veyssière Charlotte , Loot Géraldine , Poulet Nicolas , Blanchet Simon
Published: June 2020

Fragmentation by artificial barriers is an important threat to freshwater biodiversity. Mitigating the negative aftermaths of fragmentation is of crucial importance, and it is now essential for environmental managers to benefit from a precise estimate of the individual impact of weirs and dams on river connectivity. Although the indirect monitoring of fragmentation using molecular data constitutes a promising approach, it is plagued with several constraints preventing a standardized quantification of barrier effects. Indeed, observed levels of genetic differentiation GD depend on both the age of the obstacle and the effective size of the populations it separates, making comparisons of the actual barrier effect of different obstacles difficult. Here, we developed a standardized genetic index of fragmentation (FINDEX), allowing an absolute and independent assessment of the individual effects of obstacles on connectivity. The FINDEX is the standardized ratio between the observed GD between pairs of populations located on either side of an obstacle and the GD expected if this obstacle completely prevented gene flow. The expected GD is calculated from simulations taking into account two parameters: the number of generations since barrier creation and the expected heterozygosity of the populations, a proxy for effective population size. Using both simulated and empirical datasets, we explored the validity and the limits of the FINDEX. We demonstrated that it allows quantifying effects of fragmentation only from a few generations after barrier creation and provides valid comparisons among obstacles of different ages and populations (or species) of different effective sizes. The FINDEX requires a minimum amount of fieldwork and genotypic data and solves some of the difficulties inherent to the study of artificial fragmentation in rivers and potentially in other ecosystems. This makes the FINDEX promising to support the management of freshwater species affected by barriers, notably for planning and evaluating restoration programs.
Heptabladed β‐propeller lectins PLL2 and PHL from Photorhabdus spp. recognize O‐methylated sugars and influence the host immune system
Authors: Fujdiarová Eva , Houser Josef , Dobeš Pavel , Paulíková Gita , Kondakov Nikolay , Kononov Leonid , Hyršl Pavel , Wimmerová Michaela
Published: June 2020

O‐methylation is an unusual sugar modification with a function that is not fully understood. Given its occurrence and recognition by lectins involved in the immune response, methylated sugars were proposed to represent a conserved pathogen‐associated molecular pattern. We describe the interaction of O‐methylated saccharides with two β‐propeller lectins, the newly described PLL2 from the entomopathogenic bacterium Photorhabdus laumondii, and its homologue PHL from the related human pathogen Photorhabdus asymbiotica. The crystal structures of PLL2 and PHL revealed up to 10 out of 14 potential binding sites per protein subunit to be occupied with O‐methylated structures. The avidity effect strengthens the interaction by 4 orders of magnitude. PLL2 and PHL also interfere with the early immune response by modulating the production of reactive oxygen species and phenoloxidase activity. Since bacteria from Photorhabdus spp. have a complex life cycle involving pathogenicity towards different hosts, the involvement of PLL2 and PHL might contribute to the pathogen overcoming insect and human immune system defences in the early stages of infection.

Databases

Structural data are available in PDB database under the accession numbers 6RG2, 6RGG, 6RFZ, 6RG1, 6RGU, 6RGW, 6RGJ, and 6RGR.
Ecological significance of autotroph–heterotroph microbial interactions in freshwaters
Authors: Halvorson Halvor M. , Wyatt Kevin H. , Kuehn Kevin A.
Published: June 2020

Ecologists often separate pathways of energy flow into those based on either autotrophy (green) or heterotrophy (brown). While these two pathways are easily separated by concept and methodology, increasing evidence shows a complex interplay between autotrophic and heterotrophic components of ecosystems.

In freshwater settings, autotroph–heterotroph microbial interactions range widely. Studies suggest that algal–bacterial and algal–fungal interactions can encompass competition, mutualism, and priming effects that depend on environmental factors and can alter ecosystem processes including energy flow and nutrient cycling. Other studies suggest that primary consumers do not feed exclusively in either brown or green food webs, blurring the distinctions between trophic pathways. This omnivory complicates trophic classification, and its nutritional significance is important to understand autotrophy, heterotrophy, and detritus as the basis of consumer growth and fitness.

This special issue addresses knowledge gaps regarding the breadth and complexity of the autotroph–heterotroph microbial interface in freshwaters. The nine manuscripts within this special issue showcase the range of topics crossing the boundary between green and brown food webs to understand organism‐ to ecosystem‐level responses to light regime, nutrient availability, temperature, and other environmental factors that affect autotroph–heterotroph interactions.

We highlight knowledge gaps generated from this special issue, such as a need for additional field studies documenting autotroph–heterotroph microbial interactions particularly in lentic settings, and a need to scale interactions from the field up to food webs and ecosystems. We anticipate that this special issue will spur scientific interest in both autotrophy and heterotrophy in freshwaters, including how these energy flow pathways cannot be fully understood when studied in isolation.
Male‐specific alterations in structure of isolation call sequences of mouse pups with 16p11.2 deletion
Authors: Agarwalla Swapna , Arroyo Noelle S. , Long Natalie E. , O'Brien William T. , Abel Ted , Bandyopadhyay Sharba
Published: June 2020

16p11.2 deletion is one of the most common gene copy variations that increases the susceptibility to autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. This syndrome leads to developmental delays, including speech impairment and delays in expressive language and communication skills. To study developmental impairment of vocal communication associated with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome, we used the 16p11.2del mouse model and performed an analysis of pup isolation calls (PICs). The earliest PICs at postnatal day 5 from 16p11.2del pups were found altered in a male‐specific fashion relative to wild‐type (WT) pups. Analysis of sequences of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) emitted by pups using mutual information between syllables at different positions in the USV spectrograms showed that dependencies exist between syllables in WT mice of both sexes. The order of syllables was not random; syllables were emitted in an ordered fashion. The structure observed in the WT pups was identified and the pattern of syllable sequences was considered typical for the mouse line. However, typical patterns were totally absent in the 16p11.2del male pups, showing on average random syllable sequences, while the 16p11.2del female pups had dependencies similar to the WT pups. Thus, we found that PICs were reduced in number in male 16p11.2 pups and their vocalizations lack the syllable sequence order emitted by WT males and females and 16p11.2 females. Therefore, our study is the first to reveal sex‐specific perinatal communication impairment in a mouse model of 16p11.2 deletion and applies a novel, more granular method of analysing the structure of USVs.
Evaluation of pyrolysis chars derived from marine macroalgae silage as soil amendments
Authors: Adams Jessica M. M. , Turner Lesley B. , Toop Trisha A. , Kirby Marie E. , Rolin Christine , Judd Emma , Inkster Rhiannon , McEvoy Lesley , Mirza Waseem M. , Theodorou Michael K. , Gallagher Joseph
Published: June 2020

Pyrolysis char residues from ensiled macroalgae were examined to determine their potential as growth promoters on germinating and transplanted seedlings. Macroalgae was harvested in May, July and August from beach collections, containing predominantly Laminaria digitata and Laminaria hyperborea; naturally seeded mussel lines dominated by Saccharina latissima; and lines seeded with cultivated L. digitata. Material was ensiled, pressed to pellets and underwent pyrolysis using a thermo‐catalytic reforming (TCR) process, with and without additional steam. The chars generated were then assessed through proximate and ultimate analysis. Seasonal changes had the prevalent impact on char composition, though using mixed beach‐harvested material gave a greater variability in elements than when using the offshore collections. Applying the char at 5% (v/v)/2% (w/w) into germination or seedling soils was universally negative for the plants, inhibiting or delaying all parameters assessed with no clear advantage in harvesting date, species or TCR processing methodology. In germinating lettuce seeds, soil containing the pyrolysis chars caused a longer germination time, poorer germination, fewer true leaves to be produced, a lower average plant health score and a lower final biomass yield. For transplanted ryegrass seedlings, there were lower plant survival rates, with surviving plants producing fewer leaves and tillers, lower biomass yields when cut and less regrowth after cutting. As water from the char‐contained plant pots inhibited the lettuce char control, one further observation was that run‐off water from the pyrolysis char released compounds which detrimentally affected cultivated plant growth. This study clearly shows that pyrolysed macroalgae char does not fit the standard assumption that chars can be used as soil amendments at 2% (w/w) addition levels. As the bioeconomy expands in the future, the end use of residues and wastes from bioprocessing will become a genuine global issue, requiring consideration and demonstration rather than hypothesized use.
Overestimation of glomerular filtration rate by creatinine‐based equation in heart failure patients is predicted by a novel scoring system
Authors: Ishigo Tomoyuki , Katano Satoshi , Yano Toshiyuki , Kouzu Hidemichi , Ohori Katsuhiko , Nakata Hiromasa , Nonoyama Masatoshi , Inoue Takuya , Takamura Yuhei , Nagaoka Ryohei , Kondo Fuki , Nakano Keita , Takada Ryo , Kitagawa Manabu , Kimyo Tomoko , Miura Tetsuji
Published: June 2020

Aims

Creatinine‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcre) has been shown to overestimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) when it is compared with cystatin C‐based estimated GFR (eGFRcys) in older people. We investigated clinical determinants of GFR overestimation by eGFRcre and developed a score for prediction of GFR overestimation (OE) in heart failure patients.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 244 Japanese heart failure patients (aged 72.2 ± 13.1 years; 48% women) who had no known extrarenal factors that affect serum cystatin C concentration. eGFR OE by eGFRcre was defined as eGFRcre being ≥120% of cystatin C‐based eGFR.

Results

The proportion of heart failure patients with OE was 14.3%. Patients with OE were older, had lower body weight and total skeletal muscle mass than those in patients without OE. Laboratory examinations showed that hemoglobin concentration was lower, and the ratio of blood urea nitrogen‐to‐creatinine was higher in patients with OE than in patients without OE. In multivariate regression analysis, body weight (<63.0 kg in men and <42.0 kg in women), hemoglobin level (<12.4 g/dL in men and <11.0 g/dL in women) and ratio of blood urea nitrogen‐to‐creatinine (>26.5) in addition to skeletal muscle mass were independently associated with OE. A score calculated by using cut‐off levels of body weight, hemoglobin concentration and ratio of blood urea nitrogen‐to‐creatinine predicted OE with a sensitivity of 97.1% and a specificity of 98.1%.

Conclusion

Overestimation of GFR by eGFRcre is predictable by a novel scoring system, which might be useful for the detection of patients who require cystatin C‐based eGFR measurement for accurate assessment of renal function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 752–758.
YkgM and YkgO maintain translation by replacing their paralogs, zinc‐binding ribosomal proteins L31 and L36, with identical activities
Authors: Ueta Masami , Wada Chieko , Wada Akira
Published: June 2020

When a cell is zinc‐deficient, ykgM and ykgO, which encode paralogs of the zinc‐binding ribosomal proteins L31 and L36, are expressed from the ykgM operon, which is ordinarily held inactive by the Zur repressor. In ribosomes lacking L31, ribosomal subunit association is weakened, resulting in reduced in vitro translation and the deletion mutants of rpmE, the gene encoding L31, forming small colonies. We isolated four suppressor mutants of ∆rpmE that formed normal colonies. All four mutation sites were located in zur, and ribosomes of zur mutant cells contained one copy of YkgM and had translational activities equivalent to those of ribosomes containing L31. L36 is highly conserved among bacteria, chloroplast and mitochondria. Analysis of a deletion mutant of rpmJ, which encodes L36, suggested that L36 is involved in late assembly of the 50S particle, in vitro translation and cell growth. In zur mutant cells lacking rpmJ, the paralog YkgO was expressed and took over the functions of L36. zur mutant cells contained four types of ribosomes containing combinations of L31 or YkgM, and L36 or YkgO. Copy numbers of L31 and YkgM, and L36 and YkgO, summed to 1, indicating that each paralog pair shares a binding site.
Substitution therapy
Authors: Shima Midori , Sidonio Robert F.
Published: June 2020

Emicizumab is a bispecific antibody that recognizes FIX(a)/FX, and mimics FVIIIa cofactor activity. Due to its unique characteristics including longer half‐life and subcutaneous injectability, treatment for haemophilia A dramatically improved regardless of the presence of FVIII inhibitor. Protection from pathological change in joints, avoidance of inhibitor development and intra‐cranial haemorrhage could be expected by introduction of emicizumab in early childhood. Applications in mild/moderate patients should be also considered. Clinical assessment tool should be standardized; however, since there are limitations to conventional ABR‐based assessment. Laboratory monitoring is another practical issue due to the mode of action of emicizumab. Chromogenic assays and global assays could be utilized. The other emicizumab‐related practical issue is immune tolerance induction for the inhibitor patients, since ITI remains the only effective means to inhibitor eradication. With the recently introduced Atlanta protocol, emicizumab prophylaxis is given in combination with 50‐100 IU/kg FVIII three times a week. A single manuscript has been published, and multiple clinical trials are open to address the efficacy of this strategy. Whether the Atlanta protocol will be fully embraced is yet to be seen, but there is widespread consensus about attempts to tolerize every haemophilia A patient with an inhibitor.
Novel complex ceramic oxides, Ln2TiO5 (Ln = La, Sm, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, and Yb), for polyphase nuclear waste‐forms
Authors: Aughterson Robert D. , Lumpkin Gregory R. , Smith Katherine L. , Cairney Julie M.
Published: June 2020

As part of a broader study of ceramic nuclear waste‐forms, four different lanthanide titanates were fabricated; La0.1Sm0.1Gd0.1Tb0.1Dy0.3Ho0.1Er0.2YbTiO5, Sm0.3Gd0.3Dy0.3Yb1.1TiO5, Sm0.1Gd0.4Dy0.4Yb1.1TiO5, and Sm0.2Gd0.2Dy0.2Yb1.4TiO5. The aim was to produce single‐phase novel materials with cubic symmetry, capable of incorporating a wide variety of cations and with acceptable radiation tolerance. The chemistry flexibility and radiation tolerance are some of the major desirable properties for nuclear waste‐form materials. By using multiple lanthanides the average lanthanide radius can be controlled and consequently the structure, along with properties such as radiation tolerance. The radiation tolerance was assessed using in situ 1 MeV krypton irradiation and transmission electron microscopy characterization. Those materials for which cubic symmetry was achieved displayed better radiation tolerance; a greater critical fluence of ions (Fc) was required for the crystalline to amorphous transition, and a lower temperature was required to maintain crystallinity (Tc) during irradiation.
Bridging distance: Practical and pedagogical implications of virtual Makerspaces
Authors: Lock Jennifer , Redmond Petrea , Orwin Lindy , Powell Alwyn , Becker Sandra , Hollohan Paula , Johnson Carol
Published: June 2020

Makerspaces are locations where people with common interests can work on projects, share ideas, tools and expertise to make or create. There is an abundance of “how to” guides and research studies on physical makerspaces, little research focuses on describing the virtual making processes and the experiences therein. This qualitative study explores the experiences of seven participants who engaged in a synchronous virtual makerspace. Meeting once a month over 16 weeks, members of the International Maker Educator Network participated in the making of a robot. This case study describes how the virtual making occurred, the personal experiences of the makers, technology used to support virtual making, and the affordances and inhibitors of virtual making. Data are analysed through the lens of a professional learning community and the People, Means and Activities makerspace framework. The paper concludes with implications for virtual making in practice and future research opportunities.
Guiding the use of collective feedback displayed on heatmaps to reduce group conformity and improve learning in Peer Instruction
Authors: Michinov Nicolas , Anquetil Éric , Michinov Estelle
Published: June 2020

Peer Instruction is an active learning method widely used in higher education, whereby students answer a series of questions twice, once before and once after peer discussion. There is an ongoing debate as to whether a collective feedback should be given after the students' initial answer, and if so, how the frequently observed group conformity can be avoided. This study examined whether guiding on the use of this feedback can reduce group conformity and improve learning using an interactive learning environment to administer a new type of quiz using graphics, and delivering collective feedback to the whole class in a novel heatmap format. In the experimental group, the teacher told the students that the answer indicated by the heatmap was not necessarily the correct one; this information was not given to students in the control group. Results revealed that guided students were less likely to adopt the (incorrect) majority answer than the non‐guided students, and consequently, they were more likely to improve their learning by reaching an agreement about the correct answer through discussion with their peers. These findings suggest that guiding students in their use of collective feedback may have a crucial role in Peer Instruction.
When to haggle, when to hold firm? Lessons from the used‐car retail market
Authors: Huang Guofang
Published: June 2020

Though haggling has been the conventional way for auto retailers to sell cars, the last two decades have witnessed the systematic adoption of no‐haggle prices by many large dealerships, including the largest new‐ and used‐car dealership chains. This paper develops a structural empirical model to estimate sellers' profits under posted price and haggling, and investigates how market conditions affect sellers' optimal pricing formats. The model incorporates a simple class of bargaining mechanisms into a standard random‐coefficient discrete‐choice model. With the extension, the product‐level demand system is estimated using data with only list prices, and the unobserved price discounts are also recovered in the estimation. The counterfactual experiments yield a few interesting findings. First, dealers' adopted pricing formats seem superior to the alternative ones. Second, dealers enjoying larger market power through vertical differentiation and carrying a large number of models are more likely to have posted price as their optimal pricing format.
Clinical profile of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in nonobese patients
Authors: Lum Johnathan Huey Ming , Cheah Mark Chang Chuen , Leow Wei Qiang , Wan Wei Keat , Lim Tony Kiat Hon , Chow Wan Cheng , Chang Jason Pik Eu , Goh George Boon Bee
Published: June 2020

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with metabolic syndrome. Worryingly, it has been increasingly reported among nonobese patients. This study aims to analyse patient characteristics of biopsy‐proven NAFLD in an Asian cohort and explore differences stratified by body mass index (BMI).

Methods

Clinical, laboratory, and histological data were collected from 263 adults with biopsy‐proven NAFLD. Patients with and without obesity (BMI cut‐off 25) were compared. The ability to predict advanced liver fibrosis with three non‐invasive scores, the NAFLD Fibrosis score (NFS), Fibrosis‐4 (FIB4), and the aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), was compared.

Results

Obese subjects had a lower mean age (49.5 ± 12.5 vs 54.0 ± 12.9 years, P = 0.017), a higher prevalence of diabetes (52.4% vs 36.8%, P = 0.037), and a higher waist circumference (113.9 ± 16.0 cm vs 87.0 ± 18.4 cm, P = 0.022). The prevalence of dyslipidaemia (68.0% vs 61.4%, P = 0.353) and hypertension (61.7% vs 49.1%, P = 0.190) was comparable between the two groups. The distribution of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (63.1% versus 61.4%, P = 0.710) and advanced fibrosis (31.6% versus 26.3%, P = 0.447) were also similar in both groups. All three non‐invasive scores (NFS, FIB4, and APRI) performed poorly in predicting advanced fibrosis in nonobese patients with NAFLD. The FIB4 was the most accurate non‐invasive score in predicting advanced fibrosis in the obese group.

Conclusions

Obese and nonobese patients are equally at risk of NASH and advanced fibrosis. While the FIB4 is the most accurate non‐invasive score in predicting advanced fibrosis among obese individuals, further research is warranted to develop a nonobese specific score to correctly identify nonobese NAFLD patients with advanced fibrosis.