bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycosylationproperties of the Pichia pastoris‐expressed recombinant kringle 2 domain oftissue‐type plasminogen activator
Authors: Miele Robert G. , Nilsen Stephanie L. , Brito Teresa , Bretthauer Roger K. , Castellino Francis J.
Published: October 2023

The oligosaccharide structures present on Asn5 of the Pichia pastoris‐expressed recombinant kringle 2 domain of tissue‐type plasminogen activator {(r)‐[K2tPA]} have been determined by a combination of techniques, including HPLC, FPLC, gel filtration, endoglycosidase digestions and mass spectrometry. The major oligosaccharides identified after their liberation by either hydrazinolysis or by the enzyme peptide:N4‐(N‐acetyl‐b‐glucosaminyl)asparaginyl amid‐ase, were in the oligomer range of (mannose)8(N‐acetylglucosamine)2 (Man8GN2) to Man18GN2. The preponderance of these glycans spanned Man9GN2 to Man12GN2, and the major overall product was Man10GN2. An additional (less than 5′) amount of the polypeptide was hyperglycosylated. In contrast with glycoproteins produced in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, our results with specific mannosidase digestions were consistent with previous studies showing that (a1,3)‐linked mannose residues were not present in extensions of the core Man8GN2 unit. The results show that the N‐linked glycosylation pathways in P. pastoris are substantially different from those found in S. cerevisiae, with shorter Man(a1,6) extensions to the core Man8GN2 and the apparent lack of significant Man(a1,3) additions representing the major processing modality of N‐linked glycans in P. pastoris.
"1996“Starting the modern era of biologics regulation: FDA's elimination ofestablishment licensure and other changes“
Authors: Gamerman Gary E. , Mackler Bruce F. , Landa Michael M.
Published: October 2023

On May 14, 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a new regulation eliminating the establishment licensure requirement for certain “specified” biologics and expanded the definition of “manufacturer” for biologic products in general. These regulatory changes are a significant change in the history of biologics regulation and are the logical culmination to the FDA's recent efforts to make modern biologics regulation conform to modern biologics technology. This regulation essentially placed modern biologics on an equal regulatory and commercial footing with traditional chemical drug products. Executives, legal counsel of biologics manufacturers, and researchers developing biologics need to review their regulatory strategies and commercial agreements in light of these extraordinary changes.
Purification of mouse H1 histones expressed in Escherichia coli
Authors: Wellman Susan E. , Song Yuguang , Su Duan , Mamoon Naila M.
Published: October 2023

We amplified the coding regions of the previously cloned H1 genes H1‐1, H1° and H1t and inserted them into the expression vector pET‐11d. The synthesis of the H1 histones can be induced in the appropriate strains of bacteria, and the H1 histones can be readily purified. We report detailed protocols for the purification of the expressed proteins using combinations of ion‐exchange and reverse‐phase HPLC. Sufficient amounts of each pure variant protein can be obtained for use in physical studies of H1ŐDNA interactions.
Characteristics of Suicidality Among Adolescents
Authors: Wetzler Scott , Asnis Gregory M. , Bernstein Ruth , Virtue Christie , Zimmerman James , Rathus Jill H.
Published: October 2023

The identification of high‐risk adolescent suicide attempters in a population of depressed and suicidal adolescents is of crucial importance. This retrospective study examined characteristics of suicidality (recent and lifetime, active and passive) and psychopathology (depression, aggression, impulsivity, stressful life events, SCL‐90 dimensions) among four groups of depressed adolescent outpatients: (1) suicide attempters who required medical treatment (n = 84), (2) suicide attempters who did not require medical treatment (n = 57), (3) suicidal ideators who had never made a suicide attempt (n = 40), and (4) nonsuicidal patients (n = 44). Results indicate that the nonsuicidal group could be differentiated from the three suicidal groups on the basis of suicidality and psychopathology, and that the three suicidal groups could be differentiated from one another on the basis of suicidality but not psychopathology. These findings are discussed in terms of the usefulness of certain self‐report measures of suicidality for identifying suicidal adolescents and for differentiating among them. Furthermore, the findings suggest that psychopathological factors do not determine which suicidal adolescents make a medically dangerous suicide attempt and which do not.
A Comparative Evaluation of Police Suicide Rate Validity
Authors: Violanti John M. , Vena John E. , Marshall James R. , Petralia Sandra
Published: October 2023

The authors assessed sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of official police suicide rates and compared them to municipal workers. Deaths officially classified as suicide, accidental, and undetermined were submitted to a panel of medical examiners for validation. Six cases originally in the accident and undetermined rubric were reclassified as suicide. Official police suicide rates had less sensitivity (83.3% compared to 92.3%) of actual suicides than municipal worker rates. Police suicide rates also showed a lower negative proportion than municipal worker rates (86.2% compared to 98.7%). A generalizable sensitivity proportion equation for assessing suicide rates in other police groups is presented.
A Comparison of Suicidal and Nonsuicidal Elders Referred to a Community Mental Health Center Program
Authors: Florio Evelyn R. , Hendryx Michael S. , Jensen Julie E. , Rockwood Todd H , Raschko Raymond , Dyck Dennis G.
Published: October 2023

Sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, and life stressors of community‐dwelling suicidal risk and nonsuicidal risk elders referred to a community aging and mental health provider were compared in this study. Information was collected through case manager surveys and agency records on 683 older adults referred to the Elder Services Program of Spokane Mental Health in 1994 and the first 6 months of 1995. This sample included 109 individuals who were clinically judged to be at suicide risk by case managers at the time of initial assessment. Comparisons between suicidal risk and nonsuicidal risk elders indicated that suicidal elders were younger, more likely to be separated or divorced, and more likely to report a previous history of suicidal behavior. Results of a logistic regression analysis indicated that living alone, depression or anxiety disorder, and higher levels of emotional disturbance predicted suicide risk status. In addition, medical problems, family conflict, and relationship loss predicted suicide risk status in this particular sample. Individuals at suicide risk were also more likely to have a family physician than others. Implications of findings for identification and treatment of suicidal elders are discussed.
Suicidal Ideation in Elderly Bereaved: The Role of Complicated Grief
Authors: Szanto Katalin , Prigerson Holly , Houck Patricia , Ehrenpreis Lin , Reynolds Charles F.
Published: October 2023

This study examined whether symptoms of complicated grief at baseline predicted suicidal ideation during a depressive episode in elderly bereaved individuals. Over a 17‐month period, serial ratings of suicidal ideation, hopelessness, and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and complicated grief were obtained from 130 elderly participants who had lost their spouses within the past 2 years. Groups of active and passive suicidal ideators, as well as nonideator controls, were compared via analysis of variance (ANOVA) with respect to levels of complicated grief, depression, and anxiety. Elderly bereaved with both active and passive suicidal ideation were found to have higher symptomatic levels of depression, hopelessness, complicated grief, and anxiety, as well as lower levels of perceived social support, than nonideators at study entry. Fifty‐seven percent of the patients with high complicated grief scores were found to be ideators during the follow‐up versus 24% of the patients with low complicated grief scores. Patients with any suicidal ideation had higher symptom levels of depression, anxiety, and complicated grief when they were ideators as compared with periods when they denied ideation. Fifteen out of the 39 ideators had recurrent depressive episodes versus 5 of the 91 nonideators. Patients with a history of suicide attempts were more likely to be ideators after loss than other bereaved. Thus, the condition of having high levels of complicated grief symptoms and depressive symptoms appears to make bereaved individuals vulnerable to suicidal ideation. Detection of high levels of complicated grief could help clinicians identify patients who may be at heightened risk for suicide.
Ethnocultural Differences in Prevalence of Adolescent Suicidal Behaviors
Authors: Roberts Robert E. , Chen Y. Richard , Roberts Catherine R.
Published: October 2023

Data from an ethnically diverse sample of middle school students (grades 6–8;n= 5,423) are analyzed for ethnic differences in suicidal ideation, thoughts about suicide in the past 2 weeks, suicide plans, and suicide attempts. Ideation was examined using a four‐item scale and a single item on suicidal thoughts. Ideation was higher among females, older youths, and lower status youths. The same general pattern held for recent suicidal plans and attempts, with the exception of gender, where the trend was for males to report more attempts. Lifetime plans and attempts were higher for females, older youths, and lower status youths. Data were sufficient to compare nine ethnic groups. Multivariate logistic regression analyses, adjusting for the effects of age, gender, and socioeconomic status, yielded significant odds ratios using the Anglo group as the reference, for suicidal ideation for the Mexican (OR= 1.76,p< .001), Pakistani (OR= 2.0,p< .01), and Vietnamese (OR= 1.48, p < .05) American groups. For thoughts about suicide in the past 2 weeks, only Pakistani and Mixed Ancestry youths had elevated risk. For suicidal plans in the past 2 weeks, Mixed Ancestry youths (OR= 2.02,p< .05) and Pakistani youths (OR= 3.20,p< .01) had elevated risk. For recent attempts, only the Pakistani American youths had elevated risk (OR= 3.19,p< .01). Future research needs to address whether these results hold in other ethnically diverse communities and, if so, what factors contribute to increased risk among some minority youth and not others.
Temporal Trends and Geographic Patterns of Teen Suicide in Alaska, 1979–1993
Authors: Gessner Bradford D.
Published: October 2023

The author analyzed death certificate and U.S. census data to document trends in suicide rates among Alaskans 14–19 years of age. During 1979–1993, Alaskan teenagers had a suicide rate of 31.5 per 100,000 persons per year. Suicide rates varied up to sixfold by race, gender, and local census area of residence; in particular, Alaska Native males had one of the highest documented suicide rates in the world. Suicide rates increased two‐ to threefold during the study period for persons less than 18 years of age, while remaining stable for older teenagers. Within census areas, suicide rates correlated inversely with the percentage of all households headed by a married couple.
1. The Adolescent: The Individual in Cultural Perspective
Authors: Berman Alan L.
Published: October 2023

Case vignettes are presented to highlight the idiosyncratic dynamics and special cultural influences that describe adolescent suicides. Extrapolated from these cases are a series of aphorisms about the study of adolescent suicide and about adolescence, meant to inform both clinicians and researchers on the need to better attend to the individual in context of his or her cultural influences.
11 Suicide in an International Perspective
Authors: Lester David
Published: October 2023

Epidemiological trends in national suicide rates were identified, including a slowdown in the 1980s in the suicide rates of nations with the highest rates and a rising male suicide rate worldwide. A review of theories of national differences in suicide rates permitted selection of a small set of predictor variables, which were quite successful in predicting the suicide rates of 17 industrialized nations.
Bereavement after a Physician‐Assisted Suicide: A Speculation Based on Theory
Authors: Beder Joan
Published: October 2023

Despite the recent Supreme Court ruling upholding the ban on physician‐assisted suicide, the practice continues in the United States. A majority of Americans support physician‐assisted suicide, and several surveys document its use by physicians and nurses. This article explores the anticipated bereavement experience of significant survivors following a physician‐assisted suicide. Theoretical approaches to bereavement frame the discussion of possible reactions to suicidal death: (1) psychodynamic, (2) attachment theory, (3) crisis theory, and (4) cognitive theory. Three case scenarios illustrate potential survivor reactions, with suggested intervention approaches.
Optimized crystal structure and microwave dielectric properties of BaZnSi3O8‐based ceramics
Authors: Cai Yiyang , Du Kang , Song Xiaoqiang , Yin Changzhi , Cheng Mingfei , Liu Yaodong , Li Xiaoxiao , Lu Wenzhong , Lei Wen
Published: October 2023

In this study, we synthesized BaZnSi3O8‐based compounds with monoclinic structures (P21/a) using a solid‐state method. The crystal structure, phase composition, and microwave dielectric properties of BaZnSi3O8‐based ceramics were systematically investigated systematically. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images proved that the maximum solubility of BaZn1‐xMgxSi3O8 ranged between 0.3 and 0.4. Rietveld refinement and Phillips–Van Vechten–Levine complex chemical bond theory were used to illustrate the relationship between the microwave dielectric performance and lattice parameters. To further improve the properties, we substituted Ba2+ with Sr2+ in BaZn0.8Mg0.2Si3O8. Ba1‐ySryZn0.8Mg0.2Si3O8 remained in a single‐phase as y increased from 0 to 1.0. We achieved thermal stability of the resonance frequency of the BaZnSi3O8‐based ceramics by adjusting TiO2 to form composite ceramics. After sintering at 1020°C for 5 h, excellent microwave dielectric properties with εr = 7.44, Q×f = 57,400 GHz, and τf = − 0.2 ppm/°C were realized in the SrZn0.8Mg0.2Si3O8+8 wt %TiO2 system.
Microglial FoxO3a deficiency ameliorates ferroptosis‐induced brain injury of intracerebral haemorrhage via regulating autophagy and heme oxygenase‐1
Authors: Wang Rikang , Liang Zhi , Xue Xiaoyan , Mei Hua , Ji Lianru , Wang Bocheng , Chen Wenjin , Gao Chao , Yuan Shun , Wu Tao , Qi Hui , Hu Suifa , Yi Li , Song Yonggui , Liao Rifang , Chen Baodong
Published: October 2023

Microglial HO‐1 regulates iron metabolism in the brain. Intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) shares features of ferroptosis and necroptosis; hemin is an oxidized product of haemoglobin from lysed red blood cells, leading to secondary injury. However, little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms attributable to secondary injury by hemin or ICH. In this study, we first show that FoxO3a was highly co‐located with neurons and microglia but not astrocytes area of ICH model mice. Hemin activated FoxO3a/ATG‐mediated autophagy and HO‐1 signalling resulting in ferroptosis in vitro and in a mice model of brain haemorrhage. Accordingly, autophagy inhibitor Baf‐A1 or HO‐1 inhibitor ZnPP protected against hemin‐induced ferroptosis. Hemin promoted ferroptosis of neuronal cells via FoxO3a/ATG‐mediated autophagy and HO‐1 signalling pathway. Knock‐down of FoxO3a inhibited autophagy and prevented hemin‐induced ferroptosis dependent of HO‐1 signalling. We first showed that hemin stimulated microglial FoxO3a/HO‐1 expression and enhanced the microglial polarisation towards the M1 phenotype, while knockdown of microglial FoxO3a inhibited pro‐inflammatory cytokine production in microglia. Furthermore, the microglia activation in the striatum showed significant along with a high expression level of FoxO3a in the ICH mice. We found that conditional knockout of FoxO3a in microglia in mice alleviated neurological deficits and microglia activation as well as ferroptosis‐induced striatum injury in the autologous blood‐induced ICH model. We demonstrate, for the first time, that FoxO3a/ATG‐mediated autophagy and HO‐1 play an important role in microglial activation and ferroptosis‐induced striatum injury of ICH, identifying a new therapeutic avenue for the treatment of ICH.
RNA interference‐mediated silencing of NOA and V‐ATPase subunit D genes results in deformities and mortality in Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel, 1912)
Authors: Kaur Simranpreet , Singh Sandeep , Mohanpuria Prashant , Govindasamy Mohan , Sidhu Gurupkar Singh , Yue Zhang , Li Zhihong
Published: October 2023

The Oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) is one of the five disastrous pests in the world with an economical significance. The guava germplasm resilient to fruit fly is not reported worldwide to date. The utilization of RNA interference (RNAi) approach can offer a promising alternative for fruit fly management in guava. The goal of our investigation is to evaluate the efficiency of dsRNA expression based on Escherichia coli used in B. dorsalis management by addressing its two indispensable genes, fatty acid elongase (NOA) and Vacuolar‐type H+‐ATPases D (v‐ATPase D). An artificial diet having E. coli strain HT115 (DE3) containing BdNOA, Bdv‐ATPase D dsRNA fed to maggots resulted in deformities with drastic mortality in treated adults, emerged pupae and maggots. The deformity together with total mortality in B. dorsalis was recorded at maximum as 74.66% and 64.20% in bacteria expressing dsRNAs of BdNOA and Bdv‐ATPase D, respectively, at 700 μL as compared to 350, 200 μL treatments. Severe deformities were reported such as underdeveloped abdomen, absence of wings, legs and inadequate eclosion along with suppressed target gene expression in B. dorsalis. This investigation thus provides a potential RNAi‐based pest management by targeting two key genes through feeding dsRNA‐expressing bacteria in B. dorsalis.
Intestinal lesions and parasites associated with senescence and prespawn mortality in Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: Nervino Stephanie , Polley Tamsen , Peterson James T. , Schreck Carl B. , Kent Michael L. , Alexander Julie D.
Published: October 2023

Prespawn mortality (PSM) presents a major problem for the recovery of spring Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) populations. In the Willamette River, Oregon, PSM exceeds 90% in some years but factors explaining it are not well understood. We examined intestinal tissue samples using histological slides from over 783 spring Chinook Salmon collected between 2009 and 2021, which included tissues from PSM fish, artificially spawned captive broodstock (BS) and normal river run fish, comprised of trapped (Live) and naturally post‐spawned river (RPS) fish collected from the river. We observed degeneration of the intestinal epithelium and loss of villous structure, with concurrent severe enteritis. A natural progression of decline in epithelial integrity (EI) through the summer and fall until spawning and subsequent death was also observed. Live fish exhibited high EI scores (mean = 68%), BS exhibited variable EI scores (35%) and RPS exhibited severe loss of EI (14%). PSM fish exhibited prominent loss of intestinal epithelium with EI scores (13%), very similar to RPS fish, despite having been collected earlier in the year. Hence, we argue that low EI scores are strongly linked with PSM. Ceratonova shasta and Enterocytozoon schreckii were common in all groups, but neither were linked to either PSM or a decline in EI.
New ESG rating drivers in the cross‐section of European stock returns
Authors: Berk Ian , Guidolin Massimo , Magnani Monia
Published: October 2023

We assess the performance of two quantitative signals based on ESG scores across a large, multi‐national cross‐section of European stock returns. We test whether the cost of equity capital is more influenced by the upward momentum (measured over time) of the ESG scores of the firms issuing stocks or by their stability (identified as the volatility of the scores over time), measured around a changing mean level. We find that short‐term ESG momentum over 1 month has a significant impact on the cross‐section of stock returns, lowering the anticipated cost of capital and leading to positive average abnormal returns. This suggests that short‐term ESG momentum may represent a novel, priced systematic risk factor. Furthermore, we find strong evidence that an ESG volatility spread strategy which buys low ESG score volatility stocks and sells high volatility ones, generates a substantial alpha and affects the ex‐ante cost of capital. Both quantitative ESG signals result in portfolio sorting and long‐short strategies that enhance the overall sustainability profile of the issuing firms without compromising the raw average of their ESG scores.
Morphological analysis and grain size distribution of SnO2 nanoparticles via digital image processing across diverse calcination temperatures
Authors: Kumar Aashish , Bhasin Manan , Chitkara Mansi
Published: October 2023

This study presents a comprehensive image analysis of the SnO2 nanoparticles synthesised through calcination at diverse temperatures, which enables an estimation of grain size distribution (GSD) from field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) images. Even though FE‐SEM images could provide us with a lot of information about sample differences, we can learn more and perform a more accurate analysis of them by using quantitative data obtained by our image processing application. The digital image processing techniques used in this research provide a detailed analysis of the nanoparticles' size and shape, enabling a deeper understanding of their unique characteristics. The results reveal the significant impact of calcination temperature on the morphology of the nanoparticles, with changes in grain size and grain size distribution observed at varying temperatures.
Diet‐induced diabetes is associated with lower hippocampal glycogen and reduced glycogenolysis following local exogenous insulin
Authors: McNay Ewan C.
Published: October 2023

Brain fuel (specifically, glucose) supply and metabolism are well‐established to be limiting factors for cognitive performance, with the largest body of data being for hippocampally mediated tasks. Consistent with this, disease states such as Alzheimer's disease and insulin‐resistant diabetes, that impair cognitive metabolism, impair cognition with this being shown again most prominently for hippocampally mediated processes. In addition to glucose supplied from the blood, brain oxidative metabolism can use local glycogen stores (within astrocytes) as a fuel source via conversion to lactate; both lactate and glycogen have been shown to be important contributors to regulation of cognitive metabolism. Insulin has been shown to be a key regulator of hippocampal cognitive and metabolic processes; in the periphery, insulin facilitates glycogen synthesis and storage, but the impact on brain glycogen is unclear. Furthermore, the impact of diet‐induced diabetes on hippocampal glycogen levels and/or metabolism is unknown. Here, we show that in rats with high‐fat diet‐induced diabetes, hippocampal glycogen is reduced and is less responsive to acute intrahippocampal administration of insulin, which significantly reduces glycogen in the hippocampi of control animals: Our data suggest that impaired fuel availability from glycogen may be a contributing factor to the cognitive impairment seen in disease states that include central insulin resistance.

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Reduction of body weight by increased loading is associated with activation of norepinephrine neurones in the medial nucleus of the solitary tract
Authors: Zlatkovic Jovana , Dalmau Gasull Adrià , Hägg Daniel , Font‐Gironès Ferran , Bellman Jakob , Meister Björn , Palsdottir Vilborg , Ruud Johan , Ohlsson Claes , Dickson Suzanne L. , Anesten Fredrik , Jansson John‐Olov
Published: October 2023

We previously provided evidence supporting the existence of a novel leptin‐independent body weight homeostat (“the gravitostat”) that senses body weight and then initiates a homeostatic feed‐back regulation of body weight. We, herein, hypothesize that this feed‐back regulation involves a CNS mechanism. To identify populations of neurones of importance for the putative feed‐back signal induced by increased loading, high‐fat diet‐fed rats or mice were implanted intraperitoneally or subcutaneously with capsules weighing ∼15% (Load) or ∼2.5% (Control) of body weight. At 3–5 days after implantation, neuronal activation was assessed in different parts of the brain/brainstem by immunohistochemical detection of FosB. Implantation of weighted capsules, both subcutaneous and intraperitoneal, induced FosB in specific neurones in the medial nucleus of the solitary tract (mNTS), known to integrate information about the metabolic status of the body. These neurones also expressed tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and dopamine‐beta‐hydroxylase (DbH), a pattern typical of norepinephrine neurones. In functional studies, we specifically ablated norepinephrine neurones in mNTS, which attenuated the feed‐back regulation of increased load on body weight and food intake. In conclusion, increased load appears to reduce body weight and food intake via activation of norepinephrine neurones in the mNTS.
Mycolytic effect and underlying mechanism of Chaetomium subaffine LB‐1 on phytopathogenic fungi via morphological, physio‐biochemical and transcriptomic analysis
Authors: Liu Caiyun , Kan Shihong , Zhou Huicheng , Zhang Huan , Chang Zhilong
Published: October 2023

Chaetomium subaffine LB‐1 is a biocontrol strain screened by our laboratory. Mycolytic effect and its action mechanism was researched in this study with Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria solani as test phytopathogenic fungi. Microscopic observation found that hyphae of the test fungi exhibited vacuolated and flocculent when cultured in LB‐1 culture filtrate for 48 h. Physio‐biochemical detection indicated that hyphae of the test fungi displayed red fluorescence with propidium iodide (PI) staining when cultured in LB‐1 culture filtrate 24 h later; conductivity and the leakage value of the extracellular fluid of the test fungi were significantly higher (p ≤ .05) than corresponding control fluid of test fungi cultured in potato dextrose broth (PDB), but the malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in hyphae of the test fungi have not significant difference (p ≤ .05) between treatment and control. Colorimetric determination showed that the activities of alkaline protease, neutral protease, acidic protease and β‐l,3‐glucanase in LB‐1 culture filtrate were significant. In RNA‐seq analysis, 3644 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found in 6 days shaking‐cultured LB‐1 as compared to that of 0 days shaking‐cultured, of which 1756 were up‐regulated and 1888 were down‐regulated. In significantly up‐regulated DEGs, 12 were annotated as cell wall hydrolase, 13 as enzyme of antibiotic substance production and 18 as membrane transporter. The above results indicated that C. subaffine LB‐1 might exert mycolytic effect through altering the permeability of cell membrane and the integrity of cell wall of phytopathogenic fungi, and this altering effect was closely related with cell wall hydrolase, antifungal substance and membrane transporter.
Dysfunction of large‐scale brain networks underlying cognitive impairments in shift work disorder
Authors: Zhao Yan , Feng Sitong , Dong Linrui , Wu Ziyao , Ning Yanzhe
Published: October 2023

It has been demonstrated that shift work can affect cognitive functions. Several neuroimaging studies have revealed altered brain function and structure for patients with shift work disorder (SWD). However, knowledge on the dysfunction of large‐scale brain networks underlying cognitive impairments in shift work disorder is limited. This study aims to identify altered functional networks associated with cognitive declines in shift work disorder, and to assess their potential diagnostic value. Thirty‐four patients with shift work disorder and 36 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited to perform the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and resting‐state functional scans. After surface‐based preprocessing, we calculated within‐ and between‐network functional connectivity (FC) using the Dosenbach atlas. Moreover, correlation analysis was done between altered functional connectivity of large‐scale brain networks and scores of cognitive assessments in patients with shift work disorder. Finally, we established a classification model to provide features for patients with shift work disorder concerning the disrupted large‐scale networks. Compared with healthy controls, increased functional connectivity within‐networks across the seven brain networks, and between‐networks involving ventral attention network (VAN)‐subcortical network (SCN), SCN‐frontoparietal network (FPN), and somatosensory network (SMN)‐SCN were observed in shift work disorder. Decreased functional connectivity between brain networks was found in shift work disorder compared with healthy controls, including visual network (VN)‐FPN, VN‐default mode network (DMN), SMN‐DMN, dorsal attention network (DAN)‐DMN, VAN‐DMN, and FPN‐DMN. Furthermore, the altered functional connectivity of large‐scale brain networks was significantly correlated with scores of immediate memory, visuospatial, and delayed memory in patients with shift work disorder, respectively. Abnormal functional connectivity of large‐scale brain networks may play critical roles in cognitive dysfunction in shift work disorder. Our findings provide new evidence to interpret the underlying neural mechanisms of cognitive impairments in shift work disorder.
Metameric pruritus as the sole manifestation of an intramedullary tumor in a toddler
Authors: Communie Antoine , Brenaut Emilie , Le Fournier Luc , Nussmann Hélène , Bastard François , Martin Ludovic
Published: October 2023

An 18‐month‐old child presented with persistent pruritus and excoriation involving the right T9 and T10 dermatomes. She did not exhibit any other dermatological or neurological anomalies. Based on magnetic resonance imaging investigation of the spine, T8 ganglioglioma was diagnosed and surgically removed resulting in resolution of the pruritus within a few days. This observation underlines the importance of neuroimaging in patients presenting with metameric pruritus without specific skin lesions, especially in young children.
The role of free vitamin D and vitamin D binding protein in SARS‐Cov‐2 infection in children
Authors: Us Mahmut Caner , Devrim Lanpir Aslı , Özdatli Kurtuluş Şükran , Yagci Mesut , Akarsu Özlem , Şahin Kamil , Akkoç Gülşen
Published: October 2023

Background

Many studies have discussed the effects of serum vitamin D deficiency in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) patients. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between SARS‐CoV‐2 infection severity and free vitamin D (FVD) and bioavailable vitamin D (BAVD) levels in children.

Methods

A prospective case–control study design was used. Participants were divided into three groups based on the World Health Organization COVID‐19 Clinical Progression Scale. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (ng/mL), albumin (g/L), and vitamin D binding protein (ng/mL) levels were evaluated to investigate the relationship between disease severity and FVD and BAVD levels.

Results

In total, 82 participants were included in the study. Of those, 24.4% were uninfected (n = 20), 50% had a mild case of SARS‐CoV‐2 (n = 41), and 25.6% had a moderate case (n = 21). There was a statistically significant difference in FVD and BAVD levels between the groups (p = 0.026). Median FVD (p = 0.007, Cohen's d = 0.84) and BAVD (p = 0.007, Cohen's d = 0.86) levels were significantly higher in the mild group compared to the moderate group. FVD and BAVD metabolites were moderately positively correlated with lymphocyte counts (FVD: r = 0.437, p < 0.001; BAVD: r = 0.439, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This is the first study to demonstrate a relationship between SARS‐CoV‐2 symptom severity and FVD and BAVD levels. The relationship between FVD and BAVD levels and lymphocyte counts could play an important role in symptom severity and should be evaluated in further studies.
Compositionality and constituent structure in the analogue mind
Authors: Clarke Sam
Published: October 2023

I argue that analogue mental representations possess a canonical decomposition into privileged constituents from which they compose. I motivate this suggestion, and rebut arguments to the contrary, through reflection on the approximate number system, whose representations are widely expected to have an analogue format. I then argue that arguments for the compositionality and constituent structure of these analogue representations generalize to other analogue mental representations posited in the human mind, such as those in early vision and visual imagery.
The relative infection potential of Meloidogyne incognita and M. graminicola in the basmati rice cultivar PB1121
Authors: Dutta Tushar K. , Akhil Voodikala S.
Published: October 2023

Root‐knot nematodes, Meloidogyne spp., are considered one of the major biotic constraints for global rice production. Although the role of Meloidogyne graminicola in root‐knot disease progression is well investigated, negligible research has been performed to understand the damaging potential of M. incognita in rice. In this study, the comparative infection biology of M. incognita and M. graminicola was investigated in the basmati rice cultivar PB1121 growing in Pluronic gel medium and soil. Intriguingly, M. incognita laid eggs outside the galled root, whereas M. graminicola egg masses were deposited inside the galled root. This differential egg‐laying pattern can be correlated with their specific adaptations in irrigated and upland rice production systems. Although M. incognita induced a greater number of galls than M. graminicola, M. graminicola gall sizes were comparatively larger than those of M. incognita. The greater reproductive success of M. graminicola than M. incognita did not cause any difference in their yield reduction potential in PB1121. PB1121 was equally vulnerable to M. incognita and M. graminicola in terms of reduction in plant height, tiller numbers per plant and grain yield per plant. Our research suggests that M. incognita also causes economic damage to rice, and nematode management tactics must consider the damaging potential of both nematode species.
Effects of prenatal opioid exposure on infant sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity
Authors: Tabachnick Alexandra R. , Eiden Rina Das , Labella Madelyn H. , Dozier Mary
Published: October 2023

Prenatal opioid exposure has been associated with developmental problems, including autonomic nervous system dysregulation. However, little is known about the effects of prenatal opioid exposure on the autonomic nervous system beyond the first days of life, particularly across both the parasympathetic and sympathetic branches, and when accounting for exposure to other substances. The present study examined the effects of prenatal exposure to opioid agonist therapy (OAT, e.g., methadone) and other opioids on infant autonomic nervous system activity at rest and in response to a social stressor (the Still‐Face Paradigm) at six months among 86 infants varying in prenatal opioid and other substance exposure. Results indicated that OAT and other opioids have unique effects on the developing autonomic nervous system that may further depend on subtype (i.e., methadone versus buprenorphine) and timing in gestation. Results are discussed in the context of theoretical models of the developing stress response system.
Dental and jawbone abnormalities linked to amelogenesis imperfecta: A retrospective and analytic study comparing panoramic radiographs
Authors: Kammoun Rym , Ghoul Sonia , Chaabani Imen , Ben Salem Kamel , Ben Alaya Touhami
Published: October 2023

Background

Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) is a disorder of tooth development characterized by abnormal enamel formation. In order to detect other dental and jawbone abnormalities that could be associated with AI, a retrospective and analytic study was conducted comparing panoramic radiographs of AI and non‐AI patients.

Material and Methods

Digital panoramic radiographs of 60 AI and 60 non‐AI patients were examined. Abnormalities in dental number, size, shape, eruption, and in the shape of the dental arches were checked and blindly recorded by two experimented observers. Descriptive statistics using percentages and chi‐square test with .05 level of significance value was used.

Results

Prevalence of supernumerary teeth, dental agenesis, microdontia, taurodontism, radicular dilacerations, dental inclusions, temporary teeth persistence, and pulp calcifications was significantly higher in AI patients compared to control patients. Prevalence of periapical images, cysts, and hypercementosis was lower in AI patients compared to control patients, with no statistically significant difference. A significant prevalence of mandibular hypoplasia was also noted in AI patients.

Conclusion

In addition to enamel defect, panoramic radiography was useful in detecting other dental abnormalities and mandibular hypoplasia associated with AI and should therefore be systematically indicated for AI patients’ care.
How do we perform intrauterine transfusions?
Authors: Crowe Elizabeth P. , Hasan Rida , Saifee Nabiha H. , Bakhtary Sara , Miller Jena L. , Gonzalez‐Velez Juan M. , Goel Ruchika
Published: October 2023

Background

Intrauterine transfusion (IUT) is an invasive but critical and potentially life‐saving intervention for severe fetal anemia with demonstrated improvement in outcomes. The fetus is vulnerable to hemodynamic alterations and transfusion‐related adverse events; therefore, special consideration must be given to blood component selection and modification. There is widespread IUT practice variability, and existing guidance primarily relies on expert opinion and single center experiences.

Study Design and Methods

Experts in Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pediatric Hematology, and Transfusion Medicine from centers across the United States, collectively performing about 120 IUT annually, offer a multidisciplinary perspective on the performance of IUT and preparation of blood components. This perspective includes strategies for identifying an at‐risk fetus, communicating between disciplines, determining the necessary blood volume, selecting and processing blood components, documenting the procedure in medical record, and managing the neonate.

Results

Identifying an at‐risk fetus relies on review of the clinical history, non‐invasive monitoring, and laboratory evaluation. We recommend the use of relatively fresh, group O, cytomegalovirus‐safe, freshly irradiated, red blood cells (RBC) that are Hemoglobin S negative and antigen‐negative for any maternal antibody, if indicated. These RBC units should be concentrated to remove additives and increase the hematocrit thus minimizing fluctuations in fetal volume status. The units intended for IUT should be labeled clearly and the documentation of transfusion differentiated in the maternal medical record.

Discussion

An awareness of the technical, logistical, and regulatory considerations for IUT performance will facilitate improved communication and patient care, especially when rare units of RBC are required.
The impact of interstate soft conflicts on bilateral trade flows using structural gravity model
Authors: Taralashvili Tamar
Published: October 2023

This paper contributes to the literature on the economic impact of interstate conflicts by focusing on empirical analysis of the impact of interstate soft conflicts on bilateral trade. Interstate soft conflicts arising from the failure of diplomacy when a military operation seems too radical may act as a policy tool and have a negative impact on bilateral relations. The empirical approach is based on the use of balanced panel data with annual observations and a theory‐consistent structural gravity framework, augmented by a new measure of interstate soft conflict. The results of standard gravity estimators show that interstate soft conflicts have a sustained negative impact on bilateral trade, regardless of the control for omitted variables (presence of regional trade agreements, various types of sanctions, state acts, and militarised interstate disputes) and different model specifications.
Does cold storage of blood before transfusion prevent the transmission of syphilis? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: D'aes Tine , Van de Sande Dieter , De Buck Emmy , Zachée Pierre , Compernolle Veerle , Vandekerckhove Philippe
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives

Although screening of donated blood for syphilis is almost universally applied, its cost‐effectiveness is questioned because of the low prevalence of transfusion‐transmitted syphilis and a widespread belief that the syphilis‐causing bacterium Treponema pallidum is very vulnerable to cold storage. Since the latter claim is not yet supported by a systematic review, we investigated whether syphilis can be transmitted via transfusion following prolonged (cold or room temperature) storage of blood products.

Materials and Methods

MEDLINE, PMC and NCBI bookshelf (PubMed interface), Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science and CINAHL were searched up to 17 January 2023.

Results

Nine experimental animal studies and one observational human study were included. Meta‐analysis showed that storing artificially infected human (six studies; risk ratio [RR] = 0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.22–0.64, p = 0.0003) or rabbit (two studies; RR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.55, p = 0.01) blood for more than 72 h before intratesticular injection significantly decreased the number of recipient animals that develop syphilis. Nonetheless, the possibility of syphilis transmission remained for up to 7 days. Differences could not be found for rabbit plasma (p = 0.60) or naturally infected rabbit blood (p = 0.28). There was limited evidence from one study in favour of the storage of artificially infected human platelets for over 72 h at cold temperatures (RR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.03–0.52, p = 0.004) but not at room temperature (p = 0.12).

Conclusion

Even though the infectivity of T. pallidum‐spiked blood may decrease after 72 h of cold storage, the possibility for transfusion‐transmitted syphilis may remain for several days after. The evidence is very uncertain, and conclusions are hindered by a lack of sufficiently powered studies and studies in humans. In addition, T. pallidum concentrations used in animal studies may be unrealistically high.
River drainage rearrangements and the phylogeographic pattern of the annual fish Austrolebias arachan (Cyprinodontiformes, Rivulidae)
Authors: Loureiro Marcelo , Stareczek Sofía , D'anatro Alejandro , Thompson Andrew W. , Ortí Guillermo
Published: October 2023

Palaeogeographical and climatic processes are among the main factors affecting biological diversity and distribution patterns. In freshwater systems, major dispersal processes are caused by river drainage rearrangements where the direction of flow of a stream changes, allowing range expansions and connection of previously isolated communities. In the Neotropical region, this process has been known to connect part of the southwestern Amazon basin with La Plata basin during the formation of the Bolivian Orocline, and La Plata basin with Atlantic coastal basins since the split from Africa. Several species of annual fishes of the genus Austrolebias are known to inhabit seasonal ponds both in the Rio Negro basin (southern tip of Brazilian shield, Lower Uruguay ecoregion), and the headwaters of rivers draining into the Merín lagoon (coastal drainages, Laguna dos Patos ecoregion). The aim of this article was to analyse the phylogeographic pattern of Austrolebias arachan in the context of putative river rearrangements. Two hypotheses were tested: (a) the spatial configuration of river basins determines the genetic structure and distribution of this species, and (b) coastal drainages captured sections of upland shield river drainages. We analysed a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and a fragment of a nuclear intron locus. Results support the prediction of the first hypothesis: geographic variation within A. arachan is structured according to geography. The second hypothesis was in part confirmed: the migration analyses showed that Rio Negro basin populations could have acted as a source for Laguna Merin basin. However, migration estimates also support gene flow in the opposite direction. The cytochrome b haplotype network configuration and its phylogenetic pattern suggests at least two independent events of capture, with divergence time estimated at the onset of Pleistocene glacial cycles.
Shifting focus: Time to look beyond the classic physiological adaptations associated with human heat acclimation
Authors: Deshayes Thomas A. , Sodabi Dèwanou Gilles Arnaud , Dubord Marianne , Gagnon Daniel
Published: October 2023

Planet Earth is warming at an unprecedented rate and our future is now assured to be shaped by the consequences of more frequent hot days and extreme heat. Humans will need to adapt both behaviorally and physiologically to thrive in a hotter climate. From a physiological perspective, countless studies have shown that human heat acclimation increases thermoeffector output (i.e., sweating and skin blood flow) and lowers cardiovascular strain (i.e., heart rate) during heat stress. However, the mechanisms mediating these adaptations remain understudied. Furthermore, several possible benefits of heat acclimation for other systems and functions involved in maintaining health and performance during heat stress remain to be elucidated. This review summarizes recent advances in human heat acclimation, with emphasis on recent studies that (1) advanced our understanding of the mechanisms mediating improved thermoeffector output and (2) investigated adaptations that go beyond those classically associated with heat acclimation. We highlight that these studies have contributed to a better understanding of the integrated physiological responses underlying human heat acclimation while leaving key unanswered questions that will need to be addressed in the future.
Silences, spikes and bursts: Three‐part knot of the neural code
Authors: Friedenberger Zachary , Harkin Emerson , Tóth Katalin , Naud Richard
Published: October 2023

When a neuron breaks silence, it can emit action potentials in a number of patterns. Some responses are so sudden and intense that electrophysiologists felt the need to single them out, labelling action potentials emitted at a particularly high frequency with a metonym – bursts. Is there more to bursts than a figure of speech? After all, sudden bouts of high‐frequency firing are expected to occur whenever inputs surge. The burst coding hypothesis advances that the neural code has three syllables: silences, spikes and bursts. We review evidence supporting this ternary code in terms of devoted mechanisms for burst generation, synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity. We also review the learning and attention theories for which such a triad is beneficial.

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Un extraño caso de minimalismo literario: Roberto Bolaño, “La parte de los crímenes”, en 2666
Authors: Chaparro-Amaya Adolfo
Published: October 2023

“La parte de los crímenes” plantea un reto inédito en cuanto al ejercicio de la narración de los feminicidios cometidos en México durante los años noventa del siglo pasado. Sobre ese fondo problemático, el presente artículo se despliega en dos partes. En la primera, siguiendo a Kant y a Lyotard, se propone mostrar la singularidad de la experiencia de lo sublime ocasionada por (el relato de) los crímenes. En la segunda, se abre la posibilidad de que una comprensión del hecho en su conjunto pueda apelar a figuras de la razón, pero, en lugar de volver a Kant, lo resuelve apelando a algunos conceptos-idea de Giorgio Agamben que han venido a enriquecer el paisaje de la filosofía política contemporánea.