bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal shifts in antibiotic resistance elements govern phage-pathogen conflicts
Authors: LeGault Kristen N. , Hays Stephanie G. , Angermeyer Angus , McKitterick Amelia C. , Johura Fatema-tuz , Sultana Marzia , Ahmed Tahmeed , Alam Munirul , Seed Kimberley D.
Published: July 2021

Back to the future phage

The interrelationships that prevail between bacteria and their phage parasites are subtle and evolutionarily dynamic. In Bangladesh, cholera remains endemic, and natural, clinically relevant infections have been monitored for decades. LeGault
et al
. investigated the relationship between antiphage defenses and phage counterresponses in human
Vibrio cholerae
cases. These bacteria have integrative and conjugative elements called SXT ICEs, which are notorious for carrying antibiotic resistance genes but also contain genes that defend bacteria from phage. Phage have their own counterdefense mechanisms. One constitutes a 44–amino acid peptide product in a phage lineage that inhibits the bacterium’s SXT ICE defenses. In a further complication, SXT-ICEs also inhibit the lysogenic phage that transmit
Vibrio
virulence factors, including cholera toxin. Therefore, this process drives bacterial diversity as well as antibiotic resistance. —CA
Type 1 diabetes glycemic management: Insulin therapy, glucose monitoring, and automation
Authors: Perkins Bruce A. , Sherr Jennifer L. , Mathieu Chantal
Published: July 2021

Despite innovations in insulin therapy since its discovery, most patients living with type 1 diabetes do not achieve sufficient glycemic control to prevent complications, and they experience hypoglycemia, weight gain, and major self-care burden. Promising pharmacological advances in insulin therapy include the refinement of extremely rapid insulin analogs, alternate insulin-delivery routes, liver-selective insulins, add-on drugs that enhance insulin effect, and glucose-responsive insulin molecules. The greatest future impact will come from combining these pharmacological solutions with existing automated insulin delivery methods that integrate insulin pumps and glucose sensors. These systems will use algorithms enhanced by machine learning, supplemented by technologies that include activity monitors and sensors for other key metabolites such as ketones. The future challenges facing clinicians and researchers will be those of access and broad clinical implementation.
Losing fat through the skin
Authors: Schneider Marlon R.
Published: July 2021

A cytokine could help to reduce white adipose tissue by inducing sebum hypersecretion
Immunotherapy: Building a bridge to a cure for type 1 diabetes
Authors: Bluestone Jeffrey A. , Buckner Jane H. , Herold Kevan C.
Published: July 2021

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which T cells attack and destroy the insulin-producing β cells in the pancreatic islets. Genetic and environmental factors increase T1D risk by compromising immune homeostasis. Although the discovery and use of insulin have transformed T1D treatment, insulin therapy does not change the underlying disease or fully prevent complications. Over the past two decades, research has identified multiple immune cell types and soluble factors that destroy insulin-producing β cells. These insights into disease pathogenesis have enabled the development of therapies to prevent and modify T1D. In this review, we highlight the key events that initiate and sustain pancreatic islet inflammation in T1D, the current state of the immunological therapies, and their advantages for the treatment of T1D.
Comment on “Nicotinamide mononucleotide increases muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women”
Authors: Brenner Charles
Published: July 2021

Nicotinamide mononucleotide increases muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women

Yoshino
et al
. (Reports, 11 June 2021, p. 1224) have reported that nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) increases muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women. However, the 13 women who received NMN had hepatic lipid content of 6.3 ± 1.2%, whereas the 12 in the placebo group had 14.8 ± 2.0% (
P
= 0.003). Given that a target of NMN is liver fat clearance, this was not an effectively randomized trial.
The nature (and nurture) of IQ
The Orphans of Davenport
Marilyn Brookwood
Liveright, 2021. 352 pp.
Authors: Wadman Meredith
Published: July 2021

New ideas about intelligence rocked the nascent field of academic psychology in the 1930s
Control of condensates dictates nucleolar architecture
Authors: Yamazaki Tomohiro , Hirose Tetsuro
Published: July 2021

Long noncoding RNA directs biophysical properties of phase-separated nucleoli
No shortcuts to SARS-CoV-2 antivirals
Authors: Edwards Aled , Hartung Ingo V.
Published: July 2021

Are many drug repurposers pursuing artifacts?
Cross-reactive antibodies against human coronaviruses and the animal coronavirome suggest diagnostics for future zoonotic spillovers
Authors: Klompus Shelley , Leviatan Sigal , Vogl Thomas , Mazor Roei D. , Kalka Iris N. , Stoler-Barak Liat , Nathan Nachum , Peres Ayelet , Moss Lihee , Godneva Anastasia , Tikva Sharon Kagan Ben , Shinar Eilat , Cohen-Dvashi Hadas , Gabizon Ronen , London Nir , Diskin Ron , Yaari Gur , Weinberger Adina , Shulman Ziv , Segal Eran
Published: July 2021

Cross-reactive antibodies present after SARS-CoV-2 infection can distinguish patients with COVID-19 from uninfected individuals.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Capripoxvirus Vaccine Strain KSGP 0240, Reisolated from Cattle
Authors: Bamouh Zahra , Fellahi Siham , Khayi Slimane , Hamdi Jihane , Omari Tadlaoui Khalid , Fassi-Fihri Ouafaa , Elharrak Mehdi
Published: July 2021

Control of lumpy skin disease in cattle is based on vaccination with live attenuated vaccines. The Kenyan strain KSGP 0240 is commonly used to vaccinate ruminants against capripox infections, but the conferred protection is still controversial. In this study, we report the draft genome sequence of the vaccine strain KSGP 0240, reisolated from cattle.
Draft Genome Sequences of the Three
Massilia
Strains AB1, ST3, and ZL223
Authors: Bradley Ariel A. , Laughlin Zoephia , Torres Saralexis , Cozy Loralyn M.
Published: July 2021

To increase the genomic data available for antibiotic discovery, three independently isolated antibiotic-producing
Massilia
strains were sequenced. No more than 84% average nucleotide identity was shared with publicly available
Massilia
genomes, and a low similarity of predicted biosynthetic gene clusters to known clusters was found.
Complete Genome Sequence of Campylobacter jejuni Strain G1, Isolated from a Patient with Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Authors: Karlyshev Andrey V.
Published: July 2021

Here, I report the complete genome sequence of
Campylobacter jejuni
strain G1, belonging to Penner serotype HS1. One remarkable feature of the genome of this isolate is the presence of four copies of Mu-like prophages, of which none are present in some other strains, including the reference strain NCTC11168.
Supplemental Material: Spontaneous reheating of crystallizing lava
Authors: Whittington Alan G. , Sehlke Alexander
Published: July 2021

Two supplemental tables and four videos.
COVID-19-associated ischaemic stroke despite use of anticoagulation
Authors: Sharma Shyam , Wood Michael , Gulli Giosue
Published: July 2021

A 64-year-old female nurse was admitted to hospital following fever, cough, shortness of breath and low blood pressure. She tested positive for COVID-19 and was treated on a high-dependency unit and prescribed enoxaparin, a prophylactic anticoagulant. Eight days later, she suffered a left middle cerebral artery ischaemic stroke. Over the next 2 weeks, her condition fluctuated, eventually leading to her death. We report her case from clinical history to investigations and outcomes, and explore the potential link between coronavirus, the use of anticoagulation and ischaemic stroke.
HARMONY: a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial of a culturally competent systems intervention to prevent and reduce domestic violence among migrant and refugee families in general practice: study protocol
Authors: Taft Angela , Young Felicity , Hegarty Kelsey , Yelland Jane , Mazza Danielle , Boyle Douglas , Norman Richard , Garcia-Moreno Claudia , Nguyen Cattram Duong , Li Xia , Pokharel Bijaya , Allen Molly , Feder Gene
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) is prevalent, harmful and more dangerous among diaspora communities because of the difficulty accessing DVA services, language and migration issues. Consequently, migrant/refugee women are common among primary care populations, but evidence for culturally competent DVA primary care practice is negligible. This pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial aims to increase DVA identification and referral (primary outcomes) threefold and safety planning (secondary outcome) among diverse women attending intervention vs comparison primary care clinics. Additionally, the study plans to improve recording of DVA, ethnicity, and conduct process and economic evaluations.

Methods and analysis

Recruitment of ≤28 primary care clinics in Melbourne, Australia with high migrant/refugee communities. Eligible clinics need ≥1 South Asian general practitioner (GP) and one of two common software programmes to enable aggregated routine data extraction by GrHanite. Intervention staff undertake three DVA training sessions from a GP educator and bilingual DVA advocate/educator. Following training, clinic staff and DVA affected women 18+ will be supported for 12 months by the advocate/educator. Comparison clinics are trained in ethnicity and DVA data entry and offer routine DVA care. Data extraction of DV identification, safety planning and referral from routine GP data in both arms. Adjusted regression analysis by intention-to-treat by staff blinded to arm. Economic evaluation will estimate cost-effectiveness and cost–utility. Process evaluation interviews and analysis with primary care staff and women will be framed by Normalisation Process Theory to maximise understanding of sustainability. Harmony will be the first primary care trial to test a culturally competent model for the care of diverse women experiencing DVA.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval from La Trobe University Human Ethics Committee (HEC18413) and dissemination by policy briefs, journal articles and conference and community presentations.

Trial registration number

ANZCTR- ACTRN12618001845224; Pre-results.
Diagnostic role of the ‘white test’ with lipidic solution in the early intraoperative identification of open bile ducts for the prevention of bile leakage after liver resection: study protocol for a randomised controlled multicentric superiority trial (BiLe-Trial)
Authors: Cristaudi Alessandra , Tarantino Ignazio , Scheiwiller Andreas , Wiencierz Andrea , Majno-Hurst Pietro , Schmied Bruno M , Metzger Juerg , Hartel Mark , Kremer Michael , Manzini Giulia
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Bile leakage is a frequent complication after liver resection associated with the need of interventional drainage, endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography (ERCP) or reoperation. The intraoperative application of the white test could be a promising strategy to reduce the occurrence of bile leakages. Therefore, we propose to conduct the first multicentric randomised controlled trial with rate of postoperative bile leakage as primary endpoint with and without the white test.

Methods and analysis

The Bile-Leakage Trial trial is an investigator-initiated randomised controlled, parallel group, double-blinded, multicentric, superiority trial in four Swiss centres. A total of 210 patients undergoing a resection of at least 2 liver segments will be randomly allocated intraoperatively to either the intervention (identification of open bile ducts with administration of 20–40 mL SMOFlipid5% in the bile tract) or the control group (identification with a white gauze on the liver resection surface).

Primary outcome will be the comparison of the postoperative bile leakage rate in both groups within 30 days after liver resection, defined according to the classification of the International Study Group of Liver Surgery. Secondary outcomes will be operative and postoperative complication, including severity grade of the bile leakage, rate of ERCP, interventional drainage, morbidity, intensive care unit stay, and mortality.

Ethics and dissemination

The cantonal ethics committees of all participating centres and Swissmedic approved the study. SMOFlipid20% consists of a mixture of oils, no side effects resulting from the intraoperative application of 20–40 mL in the biliary tract with consecutive enteral absorption are expected nor are side effects described in the literature. SMOFlipid20% will be diluted intraoperatively with isotonic saline solution to a concentration of 5%. The results of the BiLe-Trial will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal regardless of the outcome. As this is an investigator-initiated trial, data are property of the sponsor investigator and can be obtained on request.

Trial registration number

Clinicaltrials.gov, ID:NCT04523701. Registered on 25 August 2020.

Swiss National Clinical Trials Portal (SNCTP), ID: SNCTP000004200. Registered on 20 January 2021.

Protocol version

V3.2_14-12-2020_clean.pdf
Objective measurement of lung volume recruitment therapy: laboratory and clinical validation
Authors: Naughton Phoebe E , Sheers Nicole , Berlowitz David J , Howard Mark E , McKim Douglas A , Katz Sherri L
Published: July 2021

Lung volume recruitment manoeuvres are often prescribed to maintain respiratory health in neuromuscular disease. Unfortunately, no current system accurately records delivered dose. This study determined the performance characteristics of a novel, objective, manual lung volume recruitment bag counter (‘the counter’) with bench and healthy volunteer testing, as well as in individuals with neuromuscular disease. We undertook (1) bench test determination of activation threshold, (2) bench and healthy volunteer fidelity testing during simulated patient interface leak and different pressure compressions and (3) comparisons with self-report in individuals with neuromuscular disease. The data are reported as summary statistics, compression counts, percentage of recorded versus delivered compressions and concordance (Cohen’s kappa (K) and absolute agreement).

Results

Minimum counter activation pressure under conditions of zero leak was 1.9±0.4 cm H2O. No difference was observed between the number of repetitions delivered and recorded during high airway pressure condition. Interface leak approximating 25% resulted in underestimation of repetition counts, and once the leak was at 50% or beyond, the counter recorded no activity. Faster sampling frequency collected data with more fidelity. Counter data agreed with diary self-report during community trials (16 participants, 960 participant days, 77% agreement, Cohen’s Κ=0.66 and p<0.001). Disagreement typically favoured more diary reported (18%) than counter (5%) sessions.

Conclusions

The performance characteristics of a new lung volume recruitment counter have been established in both laboratory and community settings. Objective usage and dosage data should accelerate new knowledge development and better translation of lung volume recruitment therapy into policy and practice.
Cardiopulmonary function in adolescent patients with pectus excavatum or carinatum
Authors: Ramadan Salim , Wilde Jim , Tabard-Fougère Anne , Toso Seema , Beghetti Maurice , Vallée Jean-Paul , Corbelli Regula , Barazzone-Argiroffo Constance , Lascombes Pierre , Ruchonnet-Métrailler Isabelle
Published: July 2021

Background

Pectus excavatum (PE) and pectus carinatum (PC) have generally been considered an aesthetic issue, although there is growing evidence of associated cardiopulmonary function (CPF) impairment, especially in PE patients. The study goal was to determine any correlation between pectus malformations and cardiopulmonary symptoms and function based on systematic assessment of CPF and thoracic measurements, such as Haller Index (HI) and sternal torsion angle (STA).

Methods

Data from 76 adolescent patients with PE (n=30) or PC (n=46) were retrospectively collected referred between January 2015 and April 2018. CPF measurements and thoracic imaging were performed in all patients. HI and STA correction indexes were measured in all patients.

Findings

Medical records from 76 patients (PE n=30; PC n=46) were analysed. Patients were predominantly male (>93.3%), and aged between 13 and 14½ old. PE was associated with airway obstruction, with a forced expiratory volume in 1 s value under the lower limit of normal in 13% of cases (p<0.001). Restrictive syndrome was observed in 23% of cases (p<0.001), with a Z score for total lung capacity under the lower limit of normal. In PC, pulmonary function was not affected. All patients showed slightly decreased values of left and right ejection fraction and cardiac index at rest, although values were within normal range. There were no significant correlations between pulmonary and cardiac functions or between low CPF and thoracic measurements.

Interpretation

Our results confirm the modest impact of pectus malformations on CPF at rest, without correlation with anamnestic dyspnoea on exertion, nor with chest pain or anatomical measurements. Validation of new correction indexes could be helping characterise these malformations and choose optimal therapeutic management.
Is resistance training intensity adequately prescribed to meet the demands of returning to sport following anterior cruciate ligament repair? A systematic review
Authors: Nichols Zackary William , O'Brien Daniel , White Steven Gordon
Published: July 2021

Objective

To identify, critique and synthesise the research findings that evaluate the use of resistance training (RT) programmes on return to sport outcome measures for people following ACL repair (ACLR).

Design and data sources

This systematic review included a comprehensive search of electronic databases (EBSCO health databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus), Scopus and Pedro) performed in June 2020 and was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist. Studies were appraised using the Downs and Black checklist.

Eligibility criteria

Randomised and non-randomised controlled trials, longitudinal cohort studies and case series were considered for inclusion where an adequate description of the RT intervention was provided as a part of the study’s ACLR rehabilitation protocol. Articles that did not include outcome measures related to return to sport criteria were excluded.

Results

Eleven articles met the inclusion criteria and were subjected to appraisal and data extraction. Study quality ranged from poor to excellent. RT intensity varied considerably among studies (between 5% and >80% of one repetition maximum). Only one identified study specifically investigated the effect of a low-intensity versus high-intensity RT protocol. The majority of studies reported participant outcomes that would not meet commonly used return to sport criteria.

Conclusion

There appears to be considerable variation in the intensity of RT prescribed in research for people following ACLR. Furthermore, in most of the identified studies, RT protocols promoted muscle endurance and hypertrophy without progressing to strength or power-based RT. The findings of this review provide insight into potential factors limiting returning to sport and contributing to reinjury for people following ACLR.
Personalised external aortic root support for elective treatment of aortic root dilation in 200 patients
Authors: Van Hoof Lucas , Rega Filip , Golesworthy Tal , Verbrugghe Peter , Austin Conal , Takkenberg Johanna J M , Pepper John R , Treasure Tom
Published: July 2021

Background and objectives

In personalised external aortic root support (PEARS), a custom-made, macroporous mesh is used to stabilise a dilated aortic root and prevent dissection, primarily in patients with genetically driven aortopathies. Data are needed on the safety and postoperative incidence of aortic events.

Methods

We present a multicentre cohort study evaluating the first 200 consecutive patients (median age 33 years) undergoing surgery with an intention to perform PEARS for aortic root dilatation in 23 centres between 2004 and 2019. Perioperative outcomes were collected prospectively while clinical follow-up was retrieved retrospectively. Median follow-up was 21.2 months.

Results

The main indication was Marfan syndrome (73.5%) and the most frequent concomitant procedure was mitral valve repair (10%). An intervention for myocardial ischaemia or coronary injury was needed in 11 patients, 1 case resulting in perioperative death. No ascending aortic dissections were observed in 596 documented postoperative patient years. Late reoperation was performed in 3 patients for operator failure to achieve complete mesh coverage. Among patients with at least mild aortic regurgitation (AR) preoperatively, 68% had no or trivial AR at follow-up.

Conclusions

This study represents the clinical history of the first 200 patients to undergo PEARS. To date, aortic dissection has not been observed in the restrained part of the aorta, yet long-term follow-up is needed to confirm the potential of PEARS to prevent dissection. While operative mortality is low, the reported coronary complications reflect the learning curve of aortic root surgery in patients with connective tissue disease. PEARS may stabilise or reduce aortic regurgitation.
Tryptophan potentiates CD8+T cells against cancer cells by TRIP12 tryptophanylation and surface PD-1 downregulation
Authors: Qin Rui , Zhao Chen , Wang Chen-Ji , Xu Wei , Zhao Jian-Yuan , Lin Yan , Yuan Yi-Yuan , Lin Peng-Cheng , Li Yao , Zhao Shimin , Huang Yan
Published: July 2021

Background

Tryptophan catabolites suppress immunity. Therefore, blocking tryptophan catabolism with indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibitors is pursued as an anticancer strategy.

Methods

The intracellular level of tryptophan and kynurenine was detected by mass spectrum analysis. The effect of tryptophan and IDO inhibitors on cell surface programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) level were measured by flow cytometry. A set of biochemical analyses were used to figure out the underlying mechanism. In vitro co-culture system, syngeneic mouse models, immunofluorescent staining, and flow cytometry analysis were employed to investigate the role of tryptophan and IDO inhibitor in regulating the cytotoxicity of CD8+T cells.

Results

Here, we reported that IDO inhibitors activated CD8+T cells also by accumulating tryptophan that downregulated PD-1. Tryptophan and IDO inhibitors administration, both increased intracellular tryptophan, and tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (WARS) overexpression decreased Jurkat and mice CD8+T cell surface PD-1. Mechanistically, WARS tryptophanylated lysine 1136 of and activated E3 ligase TRIP12 to degrade NFATc1, a PD-1 transcription activator. SIRT1 de-tryptophanylated TRIP12 and reversed the effects of tryptophan and WARS on PD-1. Tryptophan or IDO inhibitors potentiated CD8+T cells to induce apoptosis of co-cultured cancer cells, increased cancer-infiltrating CD8+T cells and slowed down tumor growth of lung cancer in mice.

Conclusions

Our results revealed the immune-activating efficacy of tryptophan, and suggested tryptophan supplemental may benefit IDO inhibitors and PD-1 blockade during anticancer treatments.
Overexpression of CD200 is a stem cell-specific mechanism of immune evasion in AML
Authors: Herbrich Shelley , Baran Natalia , Cai Tianyu , Weng Connie , Aitken Marisa J L , Post Sean M , Henderson Jared , Shi Chunhua , Havranek Ondrej , Richard-Carpentier Guillame , Sauvageau Guy , Baggerly Keith , Al-Atrash Gheath , Davis R Eric , Daver Naval , Zha Dongxing , Konopleva Marina
Published: July 2021

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) stem cells (LSCs) are capable of surviving current standard chemotherapy and are the likely source of deadly, relapsed disease. While stem cell transplant serves as proof-of-principle that AML LSCs can be eliminated by the immune system, the translation of existing immunotherapies to AML has been met with limited success. Consequently, understanding and exploiting the unique immune-evasive mechanisms of AML LSCs is critical.

Methods

Analysis of stem cell datasets and primary patient samples revealed CD200 as a putative stem cell–specific immune checkpoint overexpressed in AML LSCs. Isogenic cell line models of CD200 expression were employed to characterize the interaction of CD200+AML with various immune cell subsets both in vitro and in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC)–humanized mouse models. CyTOF and RNA-sequencing were performed on humanized mice to identify novel mechanisms of CD200-mediated immunosuppression. To clinically translate these findings, we developed a fully humanized CD200 antibody (IgG1) that removed the immunosuppressive signal by blocking interaction with the CD200 receptor while also inducing a potent Fc-mediated response. Therapeutic efficacy of the CD200 antibody was evaluated using both humanized mice and patient-derived xenograft models.

Results

Our results demonstrate that CD200 is selectively overexpressed in AML LSCs and is broadly immunosuppressive by impairing cytokine secretion in both innate and adaptive immune cell subsets. In a PBMC-humanized mouse model, CD200+leukemia progressed rapidly, escaping elimination by T cells, compared with CD200−AML. T cells from mice with CD200+AML were characterized by an abundance of metabolically quiescent CD8+central and effector memory cells. Mechanistically, CD200 expression on AML cells significantly impaired OXPHOS metabolic activity in T cells from healthy donors. Importantly, CD200 antibody therapy could eliminate disease in the presence of graft-versus-leukemia in immune competent mice and could significantly improve the efficacy of low-intensity azacitidine/venetoclax chemotherapy in immunodeficient hosts.

Conclusions

Overexpression of CD200 is a stem cell–specific marker that contributes to immunosuppression in AML by impairing effector cell metabolism and function. CD200 antibody therapy is capable of simultaneously reducing CD200-mediated suppression while also engaging macrophage activity. This study lays the groundwork for CD200-targeted therapeutic strategies to eliminate LSCs and prevent AML relapse.
Slaughtering to serving: a reflection on healthcare leadership in Indonesia
Authors: Tengkawan Jeslyn , Felicia Felicia , Azhary Aqsha
Published: July 2021

Climate and culture within health institutions are strongly determined by healthcare leadership. Studies have shown how workers’ motivations and satisfactions not only improve their performances but also impact quality of care. Every healthcare leader should make reasonable policies that meet population needs and ensure safe, effective and good quality services. Effective leadership is very crucial to create and maintain a supportive work environment in maximising the potentials of health services. This article aimed to reflect about the importance of healthcare leadership and encourage us to start asking ourselves about our work motivation, strengths and weaknesses, and aspects we aimed to develop, which will help to create a good and healthy workplace environment.
Corrosion evaluation of helical steel piles in unsaturated tropical soils: a case study
Authors: Bispo Malcom Barbosa , Tsuha Cristina de Hollanda Cavalcanti
Published: July 2021

This note presents a case study which aimed to identify the environmental effects that may cause or accelerate the corrosion of helical steel piles installed in a typical site of Brazilian unsaturated tropical soil. For this study, an experimental investigation was carried out based on a detailed examination of two helical piles, fabricated with weathering steel, exhumed after approximately 4 years of installation. The pile corrosion was evaluated through qualitative and quantitative interpretations. The results indicate that the corrosiveness increases markedly as the zone of groundwater table fluctuation was approached, and at the top-soil zone, due to the higher oxygen concentration. Insignificant corrosion was detected along the length of pile embedded below the groundwater table. Additionally, the inner surface of the examined closed-end steel pipe piles, which was not in contact with the soil, is much less affected by corrosion compared with the outer surface.
Ancient diversity and turnover of cunninghamioid conifers (Cupressaceae): two new genera from the Upper Cretaceous of Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Atkinson Brian A. , Contreras Dori L. , Stockey Ruth A. , Rothwell Gar W.
Published: July 2021

Conifers of the taxodiaceous grade of Cupressaceae were more diverse and widespread during the Mesozoic than they are today. The earliest diverging subfamily, Cunninghamioideae, only includes a single extant genus, but has at least 10 fossil genera. Here, two additional cunninghamioid genera are characterized on the basis of permineralized seed cones from the Upper Cretaceous of Hokkaido, Japan. These conifers display seed cone characters typical of cunninghamioids; however, they have a mosaic of characters that are not seen in any reported conifer of Cupressaceae. They are, therefore, designated as two new extinct species: Ohanastrobus hokkaidoensis gen. et sp. nov. and Nishidastrobus japonicum gen. et sp. nov. These newly reported conifers expand the taxonomic and morphological diversity of cunninghamioids. The stratigraphic and paleobiogeographic records of cunninghamioids and other fossil Cupressaceae with foliate seed cones indicate they peak in diversity during the Cretaceous. The living genera Taiwania and Cunninghamia appear during the Albian and Campanian, respectively, and maintain a nearly continuous fossil record through to today, while nearly all other extinct genera of Cupressaceae with foliate cones disappear by the close of the Campanian. As more ancient cunninghamioids are recovered, our understanding of macroevolutionary patterns of this once diverse lineage will be further elucidated.
Log landings are methane emission hotspots in managed forests
Authors: Vantellingen Juliana , Thomas Sean C.
Published: July 2021

Log landings are areas within managed forests used to process and store felled trees prior to transport. Through their construction and use soil is removed or redistributed, compacted, and organic matter contents may be increased by incorporation of wood fragments. The effects of these changes to soil properties on methane (CH4) flux are unclear and unstudied. We quantified CH4 flux rates from year-old landings in Ontario, Canada, and examined spatial variability and relationships to soil properties within these sites. Landings emitted CH4 throughout the growing season; the average CH4 emission rate from log landings was 69.2 ± 12.8 nmol·m−2·s−1 (26.2 ± 4.8 g CH4-C·m−2·year−1), a rate comparable to CH4-emitting wetlands. Emission rates were correlated to soil pH, organic matter content, and quantities of buried woody debris. These properties led to strong CH4 emissions, or “hotspots”, in certain areas of landings, particularly where processing of logs occurred and incorporated woody debris into the soil. At the forest level, emissions from landings were estimated to offset ∼12% of CH4 consumption from soils within the harvest area, although making up only ∼0.5% of the harvest area. Management practices to avoid or remediate these emissions should be developed as a priority measure in “climate-smart” forestry.
Molecular characterization and functional analysis of the lysosomal cathepsin D-like gene in red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii
Authors: Huang Long , Wu Ben-li , He Ji-Xiang , Zhang Ye , Chen Jing , Chen Xia-jun
Published: July 2021

Aspartic proteinases are one of the four families of proteinase enzymes that are widely present in living organisms. They are involved in various physiological events, such as protein degradation, development, and host defense. However, the characterization and functional roles of aspartic proteinases remain to be elucidated in crustaceans. Here, we characterized a fragment of cathepsin D-like cDNA from red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii (Pc-cathepsin D-like). The open reading frame of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene contained 1152 bp, encoding a protein of 383 amino acid residues. We also evaluated the immunological role of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene in vivo. Spatial distribution analysis revealed that the Pc-cathepsin D-like mRNA was high in the hepatopancreas, followed by the gut, gills, and hemocytes of P. clarkii. The expression levels of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene increased following challenge with viral (polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid) and bacterial (lipopolysaccharides, peptidoglycan) PAMPs compared with PBS injection. The suppression of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene by RNA interference significantly increased the expression of immune-associated genes. These results showed that the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene has an essential biological role in innate immune responses because it regulates the expression of immune-associated genes.
Probing anomalous quartic $$\gamma \gamma \gamma \gamma $$ couplings in light-by-light collisions at the CLIC
Authors: İnan S. C. , Kisselev A. V.
Published: July 2021

The anomalous quartic neutral couplings of the$$\gamma \gamma \gamma \gamma $$γγγγvertex in a polarized light-by-light scattering of the Compton backscattered photons at the CLIC are examined. Both differential and total cross sections are calculated for$$e^+e^-$$e+e-collision energies 1500 GeV and 3000 GeV. The helicity of the initial electron beams is taken to be$$\pm \,0.8$$±0.8. The unpolarized and SM cross sections for the same values of helicities are also estimated. The 95% C.L. exclusion limits on two anomalous photon couplings$$\zeta _1$$ζ1and$$\zeta _2$$ζ2are calculated. The best bounds on these couplings are found to be$$6.85 \times 10^{-16} \text { GeV}^{-4}$$6.85×10-16GeV-4and$$1.43 \times 10^{-15} \text { GeV}^{-4}$$1.43×10-15GeV-4, respectively. The results are compared with the exclusion bounds obtained previously for the LHC and HL-LHC. It is shown that the light-by-light scattering at the CLIC, especially the polarized, has a greater potential to search for the anomalous quartic neutral couplings of the$$\gamma \gamma \gamma \gamma $$γγγγvertex.
Syntheses of thiophene appended N-confused phlorin isomers
Authors: Gao Shimin , Li Chengjie , Baryshnikov Glib , Ågren Hans , Li Qizhao , Xie Yongshu
Published: July 2021

A doubly confused thiapentapyrrane NSP-5 was synthesized by acid-catalysed condensation. Subsequent oxidation with DDQ did not afford the expected thiasapphyrin-like product. Instead, two tetrapyrrolic macrocycles, i.e. neo-N-confused phlorin (1) and N-confused phlorin-II (2) were obtained in the yields of 14% and 18%, respectively. The compounds were characterized by NMR, HRMS, and X-ray diffraction analyses. Single crystal structures clearly reveal that the thienyl units are not embedded into the macrocycles, but appended as meso-substituents, and the C[Formula: see text]-N and C[Formula: see text]-C[Formula: see text] cyclization modes can be clearly revealed by the crystal structures of 1 and 2, respectively. The observation that the thienyl unit is not involved in oxidative cyclization may be related to the relatively low reactivity of the thiophene moiety compared with the more electron-rich pyrrole unit. These results indicate that oxidative cyclization of linear thiaoligopyrranes containing terminal thiophene units may be developed as an effective approach for synthesizing nonconjugated macrocycles like phlorin analogues.
Electronic structures of zinc octaalkylthio- and octaphenylthio-tetrapyrazinoporphyrazines, and comparison with those of phthalocyanines and pyrazinoporphyrazines
Authors: Igarashi Yumiko , Okada Yusuke , Watabiki Shouta , Sakaguchi Yuma , Yoshino Satoru , Sakamoto Keiichi , Suzuki Masahiro , Kobayashi Nagao
Published: July 2021

Eight strongly electron-donating alkylthio- or arylthio-groups have been introduced to a strongly electron-withdrawing pyrazinoporphyrazine (PyZ) core, to form the Zn complexes of octadecylthiolated ZnPyZ, (SDc)[Formula: see text]ZnPyZ, and octaphenylthiolated ZnPyZ, (S[Formula: see text])[Formula: see text]ZnPyZ, and their electronic structures studied by 1H NMR and electronic absorption spectroscopy. The strength of the ring current, aromaticity, and flow of charge were discussed by calculating the ring current, nucleus-independent chemical shift (NICS), and anisotropy of the current-induced density (ACID), respectively. Good agreement was seen for the results of these three calculations, demonstrating that a strong ring current of the macrocycle is produced when the aromatic ring fused to the tetraazaporphyrin core has a weaker diamagnetic ring current, [Formula: see text]. weaker aromaticity (negatively smaller NICS values). TD-DFT molecular orbital (MO) calculations succeeded in explaining the differences of the absorption spectra between these octathiolated ZnPyZs and those without thiolated groups. The singlet oxygen quantum yield in pyridine (0.62) of (S[Formula: see text])[Formula: see text]ZnPyZ was similar to that (0.61) of normal ZnPc.
Mitigating Voltage Attacks in Multi-Tenant FPGAs
Authors: Provelengios George , Holcomb Daniel , Tessier Russell
Published: July 2021

Recent research has exposed a number of security issues related to the use of FPGAs in embedded system and cloud computing environments. Circuits that deliberately waste power can be carefully crafted by a malicious cloud FPGA user and deployed to cause denial-of-service and fault injection attacks. The main defense strategy used by FPGA cloud services involves checking user-submitted designs for circuit structures that are known to aggressively consume power. Unfortunately, this approach is limited by an attacker’s ability to conceive new designs that defeat existing checkers. In this work, our contributions are twofold. We evaluate a variety of circuit power wasting techniques that typically are not flagged by design rule checks imposed by FPGA cloud computing vendors. The efficiencies of five power wasting circuits, including our new design, are evaluated in terms of power consumed per logic resource. We then show that the source of voltage attacks based on power wasters can be identified. Our monitoring approach localizes the attack and suppresses the clock signal for the target region within 21 μs, which is fast enough to stop an attack before it causes a board reset. All experiments are performed using a state-of-the-art Intel Stratix 10 FPGA.
Low-dose hyperoxia primes airways for fibrosis in mice after influenza A infection
Authors: Dylag Andrew M. , Haak Jeannie , Warren Rachel , Yee Min , Pryhuber Gloria S. , O’Reilly Michael A.
Published: July 2021

It is well known that supplemental oxygen used to treat preterm infants in respiratory distress is associated with permanently disrupting lung development and the host response to influenza A virus (IAV). However, many infants who go home with normally functioning lungs are also at risk for hyperreactivity after a respiratory viral infection. We recently reported a new, low-dose hyperoxia mouse model (40% for 8 days; 40×8) that causes a transient change in lung function that resolves, rendering 40×8 adult animals functionally indistinguishable from room air controls. Here we report that when infected with IAV, 40×8 mice display an early transient activation of TGFβ signaling and later airway hyperreactivity associated with peribronchial inflammation (profibrotic macrophages) and fibrosis compared with infected room air controls, suggesting neonatal oxygen induced hidden molecular changes that prime the lung for hyperreactive airways disease. Although searching for potential activators of TGFβ signaling, we discovered that thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is elevated in naïve 40×8 mice compared with controls and localized to lung megakaryocytes and platelets before and during IAV infection. Elevated TSP-1 was also identified in human autopsy samples of former preterm infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. These findings reveal how low doses of oxygen that do not durably change lung function may prime it for hyperreactive airways disease by changing expression of genes, such as TSP-1, thus helping to explain why former preterm infants who have normal lung function are susceptible to airway obstruction and increased morbidity after viral infection.
Intralaryngeal application of ATP evokes apneic response mainly via acting on P2X3 (P2X2/3) receptors of the superior laryngeal nerve in postnatal rats
Authors: Zhuang Jianguo , Gao Xiuping , Wei Wan , Pelleg Amir , Xu Fadi
Published: July 2021

Aerosolized ATP induces cough and bronchoconstriction via activating P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors (P2X3R and P2X2/3R) localized on vagal pulmonary sensory fibers. The superior laryngeal nerve (SLN), particularly SLN C-fibers (SLCFs), is involved in generating apnea, hypertension, and bradycardia. This study demonstrates for the first time that either ATP or α,β-mATP applied onto the laryngeal mucosa elicit these cardiorespiratory responses predominately through the activation of P2X3R-P2X2/3R localized on SLCFs.
Lower body negative pressure reduces jugular and portal vein volumes and counteracts the elevation of middle cerebral vein velocity during long-duration spaceflight
Authors: Arbeille P. , Zuj K. A. , Macias B. R. , Ebert D. J. , Laurie S. S. , Sargsyan A. E. , Martin D. S. , Lee S. M. C. , Dulchavsky S. A. , Stenger M. B. , Hargens A. R.
Published: July 2021

Microgravity-induced fluid shifts markedly enlarge jugular and portal veins and increase cerebral vein velocity. These findings demonstrate a marked flow engorgement at neck and splanchnic levels and may suggest compression of the cerebral veins by the brain tissue in space. LBNP (25 mmHg for 30 min) returns these changes to preflight levels and, thus, reduces the associated flow and tissue disturbances.
Similar stretch reflexes and behavioral patterns are expressed by the dominant and nondominant arms during postural control
Authors: Maurus Philipp , Kurtzer Isaac , Antonawich Ryan , Cluff Tyler
Published: July 2021

A prominent hypothesis is that the nervous system controls the dominant arm through predictive internal models and the nondominant arm through impedance mechanisms. We tested whether stretch reflexes of muscles in the two arms also display such specialization during posture control. Nearly all behavioral responses and stretch reflexes did not differ statistically but were strongly correlated between the arms. The results indicate individual signatures of feedback control that are common for the two arms.
Blind Source Separation Based on Quantum Slime Mould Algorithm in Impulse Noise
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Gao Hongyuan , Ma Jingya , Wang Shihao , Sun Helin
Published: July 2021

In order to resolve engineering problems that the performance of the traditional blind source separation (BSS) methods deteriorates or even becomes invalid when the unknown source signals are interfered by impulse noise with a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a more effective and robust BSS method is proposed. Based on dual-parameter variable tailing (DPVT) transformation function, moving average filtering (MAF), and median filtering (MF), a filtering system that can achieve noise suppression in an impulse noise environment is proposed, noted as MAF-DPVT-MF. A hybrid optimization objective function is designed based on the two independence criteria to achieve more effective and robust BSS. Meanwhile, combining quantum computation theory with slime mould algorithm (SMA), quantum slime mould algorithm (QSMA) is proposed and QSMA is used to solve the hybrid optimization objective function. The proposed method is called BSS based on QSMA (QSMA-BSS). The simulation results show that QSMA-BSS is superior to the traditional methods. Compared with previous BSS methods, QSMA-BSS has a wider applications range, more stable performance, and higher precision.
Analysis of a Multiparticipant Game under a Subsidy and Punishment Mechanism: An Evolutionary Theory Perspective
Authors: Li Jiangchao , Yang Shilei
Published: July 2021

In a market with intense competition, cost pressures tempt enterprises to seek profits in ways that infringe on the interests of consumers. This is especially true when market sentiment is weak. In such situations, governments play a vital role in protecting consumers’ interests and helping struggling enterprises. We construct a tripartite game model that includes the government, enterprises, and consumers under a subsidy and punishment mechanism. We use this model to investigate the strategic choices made by the participants in an evolutionary game theory (EGT) framework. We present four stable equilibrium points as pure strategy solutions with the aid of a replicator dynamic system. Three main findings are presented in this paper. First, not all equilibrium points can be evolutionary stable strategies (ESSs) when considering the potential motivations of the participants to change strategies. Second, there is an equilibrium point that satisfies the stability condition but changes periodically in its strategy space; strategy changes between participants are not synchronized. Third, the government prefers to subsidize enterprises when enterprise speculation is serious or when enterprise investment in improving production technology is high.
[Retracted] Protective Effect of Luteolin on D‐Galactosamine (D‐Gal)/Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Induced Hepatic Injury by in Mice
Authors: Pu Yiwei , Yang Zhaocong , Mo Xuming
Published: July 2021

To observe the effects of luteolin on galactosamine (D‐Gal)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced liver injury in mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal control group, D‐GaI/LPS group, D‐GaI/LPS + luteolin (Lu, 20 mg/kg), and D‐GaI/LPS + luteolin (Lu, 40 mg/kg). Mice in the normal control group and D‐GaI/LPS group were given distilled water while other groups were given drugs in 7 days by gavage. 4 hours after the continuous administration, Gal (700 mg/kg) and LPS (10 mg/kg) were injected intraperitoneally. Mice in the normal control group were given the same volume of vegetable oil solution. 24 h after the establishment of the mice model, blood and liver samples were collected. Hematoxylin (HE) staining was used to observe the changes of hepatic histopathology. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (AST) in serum, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF‐α) were measured by related kits. Western blotting was used to demonstrate the expression levels of related inflammation proteins. Lu significantly reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in serum and liver. Lu restored the pathological changes after galactosamine (D‐Gal)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment. In addition, Lu regulated proteins levels of the NLRP3/NF‐κB pathway in liver. Lu exhibited therapeutical effects on D‐GaI/LPS induced liver injury in mice which might be related to the regulation of the NLRP3/NF‐κB pathway.
TAD’s for the Derotation of 90° Rotated Maxillary Bicuspids
Authors: Hasan Hasan Sabah , Kolemen Ayshan , Elkolaly Mohamed , Marya Anand , Gujjar Shreyas , Venugopal Adith
Published: July 2021

It is undeniable that the advent of extra-alveolar mini-implants for anchorage purposes has revolutionized the field of Orthodontics. This case report sheds light on an innovative anchorage plan using TADs, to carry out treatment for a 15-year-old female patient. The patient reported to the clinic with a chief complaint of rotated second premolars, crowding, and a deep bite. On examination, it was seen that the patient had a Class I skeletal pattern, Class II subdivision molar relationship, 90-degree maxillary second premolar rotations, crowding in both the arches, and a deep bite. In this case, the clinicians decided to use TADs for premolar derotation as it not only provides a pure rotational couple without any deleterious effects on the adjacent teeth but also helps shorten the overall treatment time. The total treatment time for this case was 10 months.