bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heat priming improved heat tolerance of photosynthesis, enhanced terpenoid and benzenoid emission and phenolics accumulation in Achillea millefolium
Authors: Liu Bin , Zhang Lu , Rusalepp Linda , Kaurilind Eve , Sulaiman Hassan Yusuf , Püssa Tõnu , Niinemets Ülo
Published: June 2020

The mechanism of heat priming, triggering alteration of secondary metabolite pathway fluxes and pools to enhance heat tolerance is not well understood. Achillea millefolium is an important medicinal herbal plant, rich in terpenoids and phenolics. In this study, the potential of heat priming treatment (35°C for 1 hr) to enhance tolerance of Achillea plants upon subsequent heat shock (45°C for 5 min) stress was investigated through recovery (0.5–72 hr). The priming treatment itself had minor impacts on photosynthesis, led to moderate increases in the emission of lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway volatiles and isoprene, and to major elicitation of monoterpene and benzaldehyde emissions in late stages of recovery. Upon subsequent heat shock, in primed plants, the rise in LOX and reduction in photosynthetic rate (A) was much less, stomatal conductance (gs) was initially enhanced, terpene emissions were greater and recovery of A occurred faster, indicating enhanced heat tolerance. Additionally, primed plants accumulated higher contents of total phenolics and condensed tannins at the end of the recovery. These results collectively indicate that heat priming improved photosynthesis upon subsequent heat shock by enhancing gs and synthesis of volatile and non‐volatile secondary compounds with antioxidative characteristics, thereby maintaining the integrity of leaf membranes under stress.
The Paranoid Style in American Politics Revisited: An Ideological Asymmetry in Conspiratorial Thinking
Authors: van der Linden Sander , Panagopoulos Costas , Azevedo Flávio , Jost John T.
Published: June 2020

It is often claimed that conspiracy theories are endorsed with the same level of intensity across the left‐right ideological spectrum. But do liberals and conservatives in the United States embrace conspiratorial thinking to an equivalent degree? There are important historical, philosophical, and scientific reasons dating back to Richard Hofstadter's bookThe Paranoid Style in American Politicsto doubt this claim. In four large studies of U.S. adults (totalN = 5049)—including national samples—we investigated the relationship between political ideology, measured in both symbolic and operational terms, and conspiratorial thinking in general. Results reveal that conservatives in the United States were not only more likely than liberals to endorse specific conspiracy theories, but they were also more likely to espouse conspiratorial worldviews in general (r = .27, 95% CI: .24, .30). Importantly, extreme conservatives were significantly more likely to engage in conspiratorial thinking than extreme liberals (Hedges'g = .77,SE = .07,p < .001). The relationship between ideology and conspiratorial thinking was mediated by a strong distrust of officialdom and paranoid ideation, both of which were higher among conservatives, consistent with Hofstadter's account of the paranoid style in American politics.
Prevention not cure: a review of methods to avoid sea lice infestations in salmon aquaculture
Authors: Barrett Luke T. , Oppedal Frode , Robinson Nick , Dempster Tim
Published: June 2020

The Atlantic salmon aquaculture industry still struggles with ectoparasitic sea lice despite decades of research and development invested into louse removal methods. In contrast, methods to prevent infestations before they occur have received relatively little research effort, yet may offer key benefits over treatment‐focused methods. Here, we summarise the range of potential and existing preventative methods, conduct a meta‐analysis of studies trialling the efficacy of existing preventative methods and discuss the rationale for a shift to the prevention‐focused louse management paradigm. Barrier technologies that minimise host–parasite encounter rates provide the greatest protection against lice, with a weighted median 76% reduction in infestation density in cages with plankton mesh ‘snorkels’ or ‘skirts’, and up to a 100% reduction for fully enclosed cages. Other methods such as geographic spatiotemporal management, manipulation of swimming depth, functional feeds, repellents and host cue masking can drive smaller reductions that may be additive when used in combination with barrier technologies. Finally, ongoing development of louse‐resistant salmon lineages may lead to long‐term improvements if genetic gain is maintained, while the development of an effective vaccine remains a key target. Preventative methods emphasise host resistance traits while simultaneously reducing host–parasite encounters. Effective implementation has the potential to dramatically reduce the need for delousing and thus improve fish welfare, productivity and sustainability in louse‐prone salmon farming regions.
Mineralization age and sources of ore‐forming material of the Nanmushu Zn‐Pb deposit in the Micangshan Tectonic Belt at the northern margin of the Yangtze Craton, China: Constraints from Rb‐Sr dating and Sr‐Pb isotopes
Authors: Song Zhijiao , Chen Cuihua , Yang Yulong , Zhang Yan , Yin Li , Li Hongzhi
Published: June 2020

The Nanmushu Zn‐Pb deposit, hosted by the Neoproterozoic Dengying Formation dolostone, is located in the eastern part of the Micangshan tectonic belt at the northern margin of the Yangtze Craton, China. This study involves a systematic field investigation, detailed mineralogical study, and Rb‐Sr and Pb isotopic analyses of the deposit. The results of Rb‐Sr isotopic dating of coexisting sphalerite and galena yield an isochron age of 486.7 ± 3.1 Ma, indicating the deposit was formed during the Late Cambrian to Early Ordovician. This mineralization age is interpreted to be related to the timing of destruction of the paleo‐oil reservoir in the Micangshan tectonic belt. All initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios of sphalerite and galena (0.70955–0.71212) fall into the range of the Mesoproterozoic Huodiya Group basement rocks (0.70877–0.71997) and Dengying Formation sandstone (0.70927–0.71282), which are significantly higher than those of Cambrian Guojiaba Formation limestone (0.70750–0.70980), Cambrian Guojiaba Formation carbonaceous slate (0.70766–0.71012), and Neoproterozoic Dengying Formation dolostone (0.70835–0.70876). Such Sr isotope signatures suggest that the ore strontium was mainly derived from a mixed source, and both of the Huodiya Group basement rocks and Dengying Formation sandstone were involved in ore formation. Both sphalerite and galena are characterized by an upper‐crustal source of lead (206Pb/204Pb = 17.849–18.022, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.604–15.809, and 208Pb/204Pb = 37.735–38.402), and their Pb isotopes are higher than, but partly overlap with, those of the Huodiya Group basement rocks, but differ from those of the Guojiaba and Dengying Formations. This suggests that the lead also originated from a mixed source, and the Huodiya Group basement rocks played a significant role. The Sr and Pb isotopic results suggest that the Huodiya Group basement rocks were one of the most important sources of metallogenic material. The geological and geochemical characteristics show that the Nanmushu Zn‐Pb deposit is similar to typical Mississippi Valley type, and the fluid mixing may be a reasonable metallogenic mechanism for Nanmushu Zn‐Pb deposit.
A Factor Analysis Approach Toward Reconciling Community Vulnerability and Resilience Indices for Natural Hazards
Authors: Johnson Paul M. , Brady Corey E. , Philip Craig , Baroud Hiba , Camp Janey V. , Abkowitz Mark
Published: June 2020

The concepts of vulnerability and resilience help explain why natural hazards of similar type and magnitude can have disparate impacts on varying communities. Numerous frameworks have been developed to measure these concepts, but a clear and consistent method of comparing them is lacking. Here, we develop a data‐driven approach for reconciling a popular class of frameworks known as vulnerability and resilience indices. In particular, we conduct an exploratory factor analysis on a comprehensive set of variables from established indices measuring community vulnerability and resilience at the U.S. county level. The resulting factor model suggests that 50 of the 130 analyzed variables effectively load onto five dimensions: wealth, poverty, agencies per capita, elderly populations, and non–English‐speaking populations. Additionally, the factor structure establishes an objective and intuitive schema for relating the constituent elements of vulnerability and resilience indices, in turn affording researchers a flexible yet robust baseline for validating and expanding upon current approaches.
Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs increase urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin in recreational runners
Authors: Semen Khrystyna O. , van der Doelen Rick H. A. , van der Lugt Monique , van Dam Davy G. H. A. , Reimer Jürgen , Stassen Frank R. M. , Janssen Loes , Janssen Paddy K. C. , Janssen Marcel J. W. , Bast Aalt , le Noble Jos L. M. L
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To study the effects of running with/without the use of pain killers on urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (uNGAL) and other parameters of kidney function in recreational runners.

Methods

Participants of the 10‐ and 21.1‐km Weir Venloop race were enrolled and their urine samples collected before and after the run. Urine dipstick and other conventional tests used to assess kidney function were performed. The presence of ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, and/or paracetamol was assessed by LC‐MS/MS. uNGAL was measured with a two‐step chemiluminescent immunoassay.

Results

NSAIDs/analgesics were detected in urine of 5 (14.4%) 10‐km runners and 13 (28.9%) 21.1‐km runners. Only half‐marathon participants showed significant increases in uNGAL (pre: 11.7 [7.1‐34.3] ng/mL; post: 33.4 [17.4‐50.4] ng/mL; P = .0038). There was a significant effect of NSAID/analgesic use on uNGAL increase (F2, 76 = 4.210, P = .004). Post hoc tests revealed that uNGAL increased significantly in runners who tested positive for ibuprofen/naproxen compared to runners who did not use any medications (P = .045) or those who tested positive for paracetamol (P = .033). Running distance had a significant influence on the increase in uNGAL (F1, 53 = 4.741, P < .05), specific gravity (F1, 60 = 9.231, P < .01), urinary creatinine (F1, 61 = 10.574, P < .01), albumin (F1, 59 = 4.888, P < .05), and development of hematuria (χ2(4) = 18.44, P = .001).

Conclusions

Running distance and use of ibuprofen/naproxen were identified as risk factors for uNGAL increase in recreational runners.
Biometric changes of skin parameters in using of microneedling fractional radiofrequency for skin tightening and rejuvenation facial
Authors: Nilforoushzadeh Mohammad Ali , Alavi Shiva , Heidari‐Kharaji Maryam , Hanifnia Amir Reza , Mahmoudbeyk Mona , Karimi Zahra , Kahe Farima
Published: June 2020

Background

Fractional radiofrequency (RF) has been used for skin rejuvenation and tightening by dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons in recent years.

Methods

Twenty female patients (mean age of 51.9 years) with Fitzpatrick III to VI skin phototypes who desired to undergo skin lift/tightening received six sessions of fractional microneedle RF treatment and were assessed at baseline and then 3 months after the last session for biometric characteristics using a Colorimeter, Visioface 1000D, Tewameter, Cutometer, Mexameter, and Sebumeter and a skin ultrasound imaging system to evaluate the transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin pores, color, melanin content, erythema, sebaceous content, and thickness and density of the epidermis and dermis. Patient satisfaction with visual analog scale (VAS) was also measured.

Results

The results showed that skin pores and spots decreased significantly. TEWL also decreased significantly (by 18.44%). Meanwhile, skin density increased significantly (R7, by 44.41%). The ultrasonographic assessments showed that both the density and thickness of the dermis and epidermis were increased. The changes in the other parameters were not significant.

Conclusion

FR increases the density and thickness of the dermis and thus also increases the collagen content and decreases skin pores and TEWL.
Automatic diagnosis of melanoma using hyperspectral data and GoogLeNet
Authors: Hirano Ginji , Nemoto Mitsutaka , Kimura Yuichi , Kiyohara Yoshio , Koga Hiroshi , Yamazaki Naoya , Christensen Gustav , Ingvar Christian , Nielsen Kari , Nakamura Atsushi , Sota Takayuki , Nagaoka Takashi
Published: June 2020

Background

Melanoma is a type of superficial tumor. As advanced melanoma has a poor prognosis, early detection and therapy are essential to reduce melanoma‐related deaths. To that end, there is a need to develop a quantitative method for diagnosing melanoma. This paper reports the development of such a diagnostic system using hyperspectral data (HSD) and a convolutional neural network, which is a type of machine learning.

Materials and Methods

HSD were acquired using a hyperspectral imager, which is a type of spectrometer that can simultaneously capture information about wavelength and position. GoogLeNet pre‐trained with Imagenet was used to model the convolutional neural network. As many CNNs (including GoogLeNet) have three input channels, the HSD (involving 84 channels) could not be input directly. For that reason, a “Mini Network” layer was added to reduce the number of channels from 84 to 3 just before the GoogLeNet input layer. In total, 619 lesions (including 278 melanoma lesions and 341 non‐melanoma lesions) were used for training and evaluation of the network.

Results and Conclusion

The system was evaluated by 5‐fold cross‐validation, and the results indicate sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 69.1%, 75.7%, and 72.7% without data augmentation, 72.3%, 81.2%, and 77.2% with data augmentation, respectively. In future work, it is intended to improve the Mini Network and to increase the number of lesions.
Five novel HLA‐DQA1*01 variants identified in Brazilian individuals
Authors: Vianna Romulo , Secco Danielle , Santos Angela , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: June 2020

Characterization of five novel HLA‐DQA1*01 variants, HLA‐DQA1*01:01:01:08, −DQA1*01:02:01:14, −DQA1*01:02:02:05, −DQA1*01:03:01:10 and −DQA1*01:05:01:03.
Pattern recognition and correction method for skeleton lines at small patch boundaries
Authors: Li Chengming , Yin Yong , Wu Pengda , Wu Wei
Published: June 2020

Skeleton line extraction is a key step in the dissolution and collapse operation of small patches in digital map generalization. Most parts of skeleton lines can be extracted well by existing methods, but these methods ignore skeleton line extraction at the local transition areas near the boundary, which is complex and diverse, resulting in topological inconsistency and visual noncontinuity. Our research focuses on this problem and puts forward a pattern recognition and correction method for skeleton lines at small patch boundaries. First, according to the semantic, topological, and distance characteristics of the nodes on the boundaries, the topological inconsistencies of skeleton lines at the boundaries are defined and classified into four patterns. Second, a classification and regression tree (CART) is trained to identify various patterns automatically. Finally, cubic Bezier curves are used to correct different patterns by considering the extension directions of the boundary and the skeleton line as constraints. The proposed method is validated using the National Geographic Census data in Guizhou Province, China. The results demonstrate that the recognition rate of topological inconsistency patterns can reach 100%, the topological relationships at boundaries are preserved, and the corrected skeleton lines are natural and smooth.
COVID‐19 in recent heart transplant recipients: Clinicopathologic features and early outcomes
Authors: Lima Brian , Gibson Gregory T. , Vullaganti Sirish , Malhame Kathryn , Maybaum Simon , Hussain Syed T. , Shah Samit , Majure David T. , Wallach Fran , Jang Kristine , Bijol Vanesa , Esposito Michael J. , Williamson Alex K. , Thomas Rebecca M. , Bhuiya Tawfiqul A. , Fernandez Harold A. , Stevens Gerin R.
Published: June 2020

Background

The impact of COVID‐19 on heart transplant (HTx) recipients remains unclear, particularly in the early post‐transplant period.

Methods

We share novel insights from our experience in five HTx patients with COVID‐19 (three within 2 months post‐transplant) from our institution at the epicenter of the pandemic. Results: All five exhibited moderate (requiring hospitalization, n = 3) or severe (requiring ICU and/or mechanical ventilation, n = 2) illness. Both cases with severe illness were transplanted approximately 6 weeks before presentation and acquired COVID‐19 through community spread. All five patients were on immunosuppressive therapy with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and tacrolimus, and three that were transplanted within the prior 2 months were additionally on prednisone. The two cases with severe illness had profound lymphopenia with markedly elevated C‐reactive protein, procalcitonin, and ferritin. All had bilateral ground‐glass opacities on chest imaging. MMF was discontinued in all five, and both severe cases received convalescent plasma. All three recent transplants underwent routine endomyocardial biopsies, revealing mild (n = 1) or no acute cellular rejection (n = 2), and no visible viral particles on electron microscopy. Within 30 days of admission, the two cases with severe illness remain hospitalized but have clinically improved, while the other three have been discharged.

Conclusions

COVID‐19 appears to negatively impact outcomes early after heart transplantation.
High‐flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure in 22 dogs requiring oxygen support escalation
Authors: Jagodich Tiffany A. , Bersenas Alexa M. E. , Bateman Shane W. , Kerr Carolyn L.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of high‐flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy on cardiorespiratory variables and outcome in dogs with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure.

Design

Prospective, sequential clinical trial.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Twenty‐two client‐owned dogs that failed to respond to traditional oxygen support.

Interventions

Initiation of HFNC therapy after traditional oxygen supplementation failed to increase Spo2 > 96% and Pao2 > 75 mm Hg or improve respiratory rate/effort.

Measurements and Main Results

Physiological variables, blood gas analyses, and dyspnea/sedation/tolerance scores were collected prior to HFNC initiation (on traditional oxygen support [time 0 or T0]), and subsequently during HFNC oxygen administration at time 30 minutes, 60 minutes, and 7 ± 1 hours. Relative to T0, use of HFNC resulted in a decreased respiratory rate at 1 hour (P = 0.022) and 7 hours (P = 0.012), a decrease in dyspnea score at all times (P < 0.01), and an increase in Spo2 at all times (P < 0.01). There was no difference in arterial/venous Pco2 relative to T0, although Paco2 was correlated with flow rate. Based on respiratory assessment, 60% of dogs responded to HFNC use by 30 minutes, and 45% ultimately responded to HFNC use and survived. No clinical air‐leak syndromes were observed.

Conclusions

HFNC use improved oxygenation and work of breathing relative to traditional oxygen therapies, without impairing ventilation. HFNC use appears to be a beneficial oxygen support modality to bridge the gap between standard oxygen supplementation and mechanical ventilation.
Osmolarity of basal and reflex tears of normal dogs
Authors: Lamkin Irini D. , Zimmerman Kelli L. , Smith Fleming Kathryn M. , Martins Bianca C.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To compare basal and reflex tear osmolarity in healthy dogs and to evaluate for correlation among tear film osmolarity, tear production, and tear fern pattern.

Animals studied

The population consisted of 22 healthy adult dogs.

Procedures

Reflex tear osmolarity was measured in both eyes using the I‐PEN® VET osmometer 30 minutes following the Schirmer tear test (STT‐1) measurement. Subsequently, two minutes following topical anesthetic application, the lacrimal lake and conjunctival fornices were dried, and 3 minutes later, basal tear osmolarity was measured. Tears were extracted from the dye‐free STT‐1 strip by centrifugation, placed on a glass slide, and the ferning pattern was determined by light microscopy. Comparisons between basal and reflex tears were performed with one‐way ANOVA. Correlations between tear osmolarity, STT‐1, and tear ferning were verified by Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Results

No statistical difference was found between right and left eyes for STT‐1, tear fern pattern, and osmolarity of reflex or basal tears (P < .05). There was no statistical difference between osmolarity of basal and reflex tears among individuals (P < .05). No correlation was detected between tear fern pattern and osmolarity of reflex tears. A weak positive correlation was detected between STT‐1 values and osmolarity of reflex, but not basal tears.

Conclusions

The osmolarity of basal tears did not differ from that of reflex tears. A positive weak correlation exists between tear production and osmolarity of reflex tears. No correlation was detected between tear osmolarity measured by handheld osmometer and tear ferning.
Clinical features and MRI characteristics of presumptive constrictive myelopathy in 27 pugs
Authors: Lourinho Filipa , Holdsworth Andrew , McConnell J. Fraser , Gonçalves Rita , Gutierrez‐Quintana Rodrigo , Morales Carles , Lowrie Mark , Trevail Raquel , Carrera Ines
Published: June 2020

Constrictive myelopathy has been described in pugs with paraparesis and is characterized by fibrous connective and granulation tissue within the dura mater causing spinal cord compression and focal gliosis. An association between constrictive myelopathy and caudal articular process (CAP) dysplasia is suspected; however, some studies have reported CAP dysplasia as an incidental finding. The imaging appearance of constrictive myelopathy is currently limited to a small number of cases. The aim of this multicenter, retrospective, descriptive study was to detail the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics and to correlate these with clinical signs of presumptive constrictive myelopathy in pugs. Medical databases from five veterinary referral hospitals were reviewed to identify pugs with pelvic limb ataxia and paresis, that had a complete record of signalment, neurological examination, and MRI of the thoracolumbar spinal cord. The exclusion criteria were pugs with other conditions, such as unequivocal subarachnoid diverticula, hemivertebrae causing vertebral canal stenosis, intervertebral disc extrusions/protrusions, and multifocal/diffuse lesions. Twenty‐seven pugs met the inclusion criteria. All cases were ambulatory with paraparesis and ataxia. Nearly 60% were incontinent. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a focal myelopathy in all cases showing one or more of the following lesions: CAP dysplasia (25/27), focal subarachnoid space irregular margination (26/27) with circumferential or dorsal contrast enhancement (10/12), and a symmetric V‐shaped ventral extradural lesion (23/27). This study describes specific MRI features of pugs with presumptive constrictive myelopathy, which authors hypothesize to be a consequence of chronic micro‐motion. Our results may help in diagnosing and subsequently treating this condition, which may warrant vertebral stabilization.
Mapping the drivers of parasitic weed abundance at a national scale: a new approach applied to Striga asiatica in the mid‐west of Madagascar
Authors: Scott Donald , Scholes Julie D. , Randrianjafizanaka Meva Tahiry , Randriamampianina Jean Augustin , Autfray Patrice , Freckleton Robert P.
Published: June 2020

The parasitic weed genus Striga causes huge losses to crop production in sub‐Saharan Africa, estimated to be in excess of $7 billion per year. There is a paucity of reliable distribution data for Striga; however, such data are urgently needed to understand current drivers, better target control efforts, as well as to predict future risks. To address this, we developed a methodology to enable rapid, large‐scale monitoring of Striga populations. We used this approach to uncover the factors that currently drive the abundance and distribution of Striga asiatica in Madagascar. Two long‐distance transects were established across the middle‐west region of Madagascar in which S. asiatica abundance in fields adjacent to the road was estimated. Management, crop structure and soil data were also collected. Analysis of the data suggests that crop variety, companion crop and previous crop were correlated with Striga density. A positive relationship between within‐field Striga density and the density of the nearest neighbouring fields indicates that spatial configuration and connectivity of suitable habitats is also important in determining Striga spread. Our results demonstrate that we are able to capture distribution and management data for Striga density at a landscape scale and use this to understand the ecological and agronomic drivers of abundance. The importance of crop varieties and cropping patterns is significant, as these are key socio‐economic elements of Malagasy cropping practices. Therefore, they have the potential to be promoted as readily available control options, rather than novel technologies requiring introduction.
Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of a Rigid–Flexible Gear Transmission Considering Geometric Eccentricities
Authors: Geng Zhibo , Xiao Ke , Wang Jiaxu , Li Junyang
Published: June 2020

Nonlinear vibration, a main factor affecting the dynamic stability, widely exists in the transmission system. In addition, geometric eccentricities caused by the manufacturing errors are inevitable in the gear transmission system, which may lead to the excessive nonlinear vibration. In order to suppress the nonlinear vibration under the excitation of the geometric eccentricities, a rigid–flexible gear pair consisting of the ring gear, the composite material, and the hub is proposed in this study. A dynamic model with nine degrees-of-freedom which considers geometric eccentricities is proposed to analyze the nonlinear dynamic characteristics of the rigid–flexible gear pair. Furthermore, the dynamic characteristics of the rigid–flexible gear pair and the rigid gear pair are compared within a wide range of operating conditions. The comparative analysis demonstrates that the rigid–flexible gear pair has better vibration suppression effect on the system.
Application of Machine Learning to Investigation of Heat and Mass Transfer Over a Cylinder Surrounded by Porous Media—The Radial Basic Function Network
Authors: Alizadeh Rasool , Mohebbi Najm Abad Javad , Fattahi Abolfazl , Alhajri Ebrahim , Karimi Nader
Published: June 2020

This paper investigates heat and mass transport around a cylinder featuring non-isothermal homogenous and heterogeneous chemical reactions in a surrounding porous medium. The system is subject to an impinging flow, while local thermal non-equilibrium, non-linear thermal radiation within the porous region, and the temperature dependency of the reaction rates are considered. Further, non-equilibrium thermodynamics, including Soret and Dufour effects are taken into account. The governing equations are numerically solved using a finite-difference method after reducing them to a system of non-linear ordinary differential equations. Since the current problem contains a large number of parameters with complex interconnections, low-cost models such as those based on artificial intelligence are desirable for the conduction of extensive parametric studies. Therefore, the simulations are used to train an artificial neural network. Comparing various algorithms of the artificial neural network, the radial basic function network is selected. The results show that variations in radiative heat transfer as well as those in Soret and Dufour effects can significantly change the heat and mass transfer responses. Within the investigated parametric range, it is found that the diffusion mechanism is dominantly responsible for heat and mass transfer. Importantly, it is noted that the developed predictor algorithm offers a considerable saving of the computational burden.
Dawn of the chicken revealed in Southeast Asia
Authors: Lawler Andrew
Published: June 2020

Chicken domestication—debated since Charles Darwin—tracked by genomic survey.
Charities that fund research face deep revenue declines
Authors: Cahan Eli
Published: June 2020

Cancellation of major fundraisers forces groups to lay off staff and delay, trim, or cancel grants to scientists.
Online GRE test heightens equity concerns
Authors: Hu Jane C.
Published: June 2020

Pandemic spurs graduate programs to drop standardized test requirements.
Senate bill to curb foreign threats raises alarms
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: June 2020

Sweeping changes to protect research could hamper academic collaboration, critics say.
“Explaining” machine learning reveals policy challenges
Authors: Coyle Diane , Weller Adrian
Published: June 2020

The need to make objectives explicit may expose policy trade-offs that had previously been implicit and obscured
Like other species, we have always been on the move
The Next Great Migration: The Beauty and Terror of Life on the Move
Sonia Shah
Bloomsbury, 2020. 400 pp.
Authors: Koser Khalid
Published: June 2020

Human migration and cultural exchange represent progress, not peril, argues a journalist
The simplicity of robust light harvesting
Authors: Duffy Christopher D. P.
Published: June 2020

A universal design principle underlies photosynthetic antenna systems
Preclinical Evaluation of Acylhydrazone SB-AF-1002 as a Novel Broad-Spectrum Antifungal Agent
Authors: Lazzarini Cristina , Haranahalli Krupanandan , McCarthy J. Brian , Mallamo John , Ojima Iwao , Del Poeta Maurizio
Published: June 2020

The incidence of invasive fungal infections is rising due to the increase in susceptible populations. Current clinically available drugs have therapeutic limitations due to toxicity, a narrow spectrum of activity, and, more importantly, the consistent rise of fungal species that are intrinsically resistant or that develop resistance due to prolonged therapy. Thus, there is an urgent need for new broad-spectrum antifungal agents with low toxicity and a novel mechanism of action. We previously reported a new class of potent antifungal compounds, acylhydrazones, that target the fungal sphingolipid pathway.
Computational Chemogenomics Drug Repositioning Strategy Enables the Discovery of Epirubicin as a New Repurposed Hit for Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax
Authors: Ferreira Letícia Tiburcio , Rodrigues Juliana , Cassiano Gustavo Capatti , Tavella Tatyana Almeida , Tomaz Kaira Cristina Peralis , Baia-da-Silva Djane Clarys , Souza Macejane Ferreira , Lima Marilia Nunes do Nascimento , Mottin Melina , Almeida Ludimila Dias , Calit Juliana , Puça Maria Carolina Silva de Barros , Melo Gisely Cardoso , Bargieri Daniel Youssef , Lopes Stefanie Costa Pinto , Lacerda Marcus Vinicius Guimarães , Bilsland Elizabeth , Sunnerhagen Per , Neves Bruno Junior , Andrade Carolina Horta , Cravo Pedro Vitor Lemos , Costa Fabio Trindade Maranhão
Published: June 2020

Widespread resistance against antimalarial drugs thwarts current efforts for controlling the disease and urges the discovery of new effective treatments. Drug repositioning is increasingly becoming an attractive strategy since it can reduce costs, risks, and time-to-market. Herein, we have used this strategy to identify novel antimalarial hits. We used a comparative
in silico
chemogenomics approach to select
Plasmodium falciparum
and
Plasmodium vivax
proteins as potential drug targets and analyzed them using a computer-assisted drug repositioning pipeline to identify approved drugs with potential antimalarial activity.
Upper Ordovician Juniata Formation, Central Appalachian Basin, USA: A record of Milankovitch-forced eustatic oscillations originating from glaciations in polar Gondwana
Authors: Hinnov Linda A. , Diecchio Richard J.
Published: June 2020

The Upper Ordovician Juniata Formation, Central Appalachian Basin, USA, is a thick succession of cyclically bedded arenites, wackes, and mudrocks. Sedimentary facies of the formation in West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland indicate cyclic peritidal deposition along the northern shoreline of the basin. The subsurface Juniata Formation has been drilled throughout the basin, and long, continuous well logs are available for analysis of the cyclic deposition. A 2400-ft-long (731.52-m-long) gamma-ray (GR) log from the Preston 119 well, northern West Virginia, provides a proxy of terrigenous siliciclastic fluxes originating from the Taconic highlands, from the early Ashgillian to the Ordovician–Silurian transition. Strong cycling in the GR log shows evidence for Milankovitch-forced sea-level oscillations, hypothesized to have been produced by dynamic Late Ordovician glaciation in polar (southern) Gondwana. Juniata cycle frequencies are different from those of Quaternary Milankovitch cycles, with significantly higher obliquity and precession index frequencies, consistent with a 21.5 h Ordovician day and an Earth-Moon distance that was 95% of present day. These results support John Dennison’s long-held view that Milankovitch forcing of sedimentation took place in the early Paleozoic Appalachian Basin by action of remotely generated glacio-eustatic oscillations powered by glaciation on southern Gondwana, and that this sedimentary record has tracked “Earth’s movement through space.”
Rhabdomyolysis as an initial presentation in a patient diagnosed with COVID-19
Authors: Valente-Acosta Benjamin , Moreno-Sanchez Francisco , Fueyo-Rodriguez Omar , Palomar-Lever Andres
Published: June 2020

The presence of rhabdomyolysis secondary to multiple infections has been reported, predominantly viral, but also bacterial and fungal. It is well known that COVID-19 can present a wide variety of complications during the course of infection; however, the presence of rhabdomyolysis as an initial condition has not been reported so far. We report a case of rhabdomyolysis as an initial presentation in a patient diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) infection.
Voices from the frontline: findings from a thematic analysis of a rapid online global survey of maternal and newborn health professionals facing the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Semaan Aline , Audet Constance , Huysmans Elise , Afolabi Bosede , Assarag Bouchra , Banke-Thomas Aduragbemi , Blencowe Hannah , Caluwaerts Séverine , Campbell Oona Maeve Renee , Cavallaro Francesca L , Chavane Leonardo , Day Louise Tina , Delamou Alexandre , Delvaux Therese , Graham Wendy Jane , Gon Giorgia , Kascak Peter , Matsui Mitsuaki , Moxon Sarah , Nakimuli Annettee , Pembe Andrea , Radovich Emma , van den Akker Thomas , Benova Lenka
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially impacted maternity care provision worldwide. Studies based on modelling estimated large indirect effects of the pandemic on services and health outcomes. The objective of this study was to prospectively document experiences of frontline maternal and newborn healthcare providers.

Methods

We conducted a global, cross-sectional study of maternal and newborn health professionals via an online survey disseminated through professional networks and social media in 12 languages. Information was collected between 24 March and 10 April 2020 on respondents’ background, preparedness for and response to COVID-19 and their experience during the pandemic. An optional module sought information on adaptations to 17 care processes. Descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis were used to analyse responses, disaggregating by low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) and high-income countries (HICs).

Results

We analysed responses from 714 maternal and newborn health professionals. Only one-third received training on COVID-19 from their health facility and nearly all searched for information themselves. Half of respondents in LMICs received updated guidelines for care provision compared with 82% in HICs. Overall, 47% of participants in LMICs and 69% in HICs felt mostly or completely knowledgeable in how to care for COVID-19 maternity patients. Facility-level responses to COVID-19 (signage, screening, testing and isolation rooms) were more common in HICs than LMICs. Globally, 90% of respondents reported somewhat or substantially higher levels of stress. There was a widespread perception of reduced use of routine maternity care services, and of modification in care processes, some of which were not evidence-based practices.

Conclusions

Substantial knowledge gaps exist in guidance on management of maternity cases with or without COVID-19. Formal information-sharing channels for providers must be established and mental health support provided. Surveys of maternity care providers can help track the situation, capture innovations and support rapid development of effective responses.
IL-6 promotes PD-L1 expression in monocytes and macrophages by decreasing protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type O expression in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Liu Yang , Yan Zhongyi , Yang Hui , Sun Wei , Yao Yongliang , Chen Yun , Jiang Runqiu
Published: June 2020

Background

We have previously discovered a relationship between the low expression of protein tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type O (PTPRO) in tumor-infiltrating T cells and immunosuppression. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between decreased PTPRO and increased programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) in both the peripheral monocytes and tumor-infiltrating macrophages of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The expression and correlation of all the indices were explored in monocytes and tumor-infiltrating macrophages within both human and mice HCC. The mechanic regulations were studied by using both in vitro and in vivo studies.

Results

We found a significant decrease in PTPRO in HCC peripheral monocytes that was associated with increased PD-L1 expression in peripheral monocytes and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in HCC. Monocyte PD-L1 and PTPRO therefore could serve as valuable prognostic indicators for post-surgery patients with HCC and were associated with increased T-cell exhaustion (Tim3+T cells). A depletion of PTPRO promoted PD-L1 secretion in both monocytes and macrophages through the JAK2/STAT1 and JAK2/STAT3/c-MYC pathways. Increased IL-6 expression was associated with activation of JAK2/STAT3/c-MYC and with decreased PTPRO expression through the STAT3/c-MYC/miR-25–3 p axis. Monocytes and TAMs showed significantly increased miR-25–3 p expression, which could target the 3′ untranslated region of PTPRO. The miR-25–3 p expression positively correlated with serum IL-6 levels, but inversely correlated with PTPRO in HCC monocytes. IL-6/STAT3/c-MYC activation enhanced in vitro miR-25–3 p transcription and decreased PTPRO, while further promoting PD-L1 secretion. Adoptive cell transfer of c-MYC/miR-25–3 p–modified monocytes promoted tumor growth by downregulating PTPRO and causing a PD-L1–induced immunosuppression in an orthotopic tumor transplantation model.

Conclusions

Increased serum IL-6 downregulated PTPRO expression in HCC monocytes and macrophages by activating STAT3/c-MYC/miR-25–3 p and by further enhancing PD-L1 expression through JAK2/STAT1 and JAK2/STAT3/c-MYC signaling.
Combination treatment with radiotherapy and a novel oxidative phosphorylation inhibitor overcomes PD-1 resistance and enhances antitumor immunity
Authors: Chen Dawei , Barsoumian Hampartsoum B , Fischer Grant , Yang Liangpeng , Verma Vivek , Younes Ahmed I , Hu Yun , Masropour Fatemeh , Klein Katherine , Vellano Christopher , Marszalek Joseph , Davies Michael , Cortez Maria Angelica , Welsh James
Published: June 2020

Background

Despite outstanding responses to anti-PD-1 agents in a subset of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, approximately 80% of patients fail to have prolonged favorable response. Recent studies show that tumor cell oxidative metabolism is a barrier to PD-1 immunotherapy and radiotherapy could overcome PD-1 resistance, so it is urgent to determine if combination treatment with radiotherapy and a novel oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) inhibitor (IACS-010759) is an effective strategy against PD-1 resistance in NSCLC.

Methods

The antitumor effect of this combinational treatment was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. For in vivo experiments, we treated 129Sv/Ev mice with anti-PD1-sensitive and anti-PD1-resistant 344SQ NSCLC adenocarcinoma xenografts with oral IACS-010759 combined with radiotherapy (XRT). In vitro experiments included PCR, seahorse bioenergetic profiling, flow cytometry phenotyping, and clonogenic survival assay.

Results

In the current study, we found that our PD-1-resistant model utilized OXPHOS to a significantly greater extent than the PD-1-sensitive model and XRT increased OXPHOS in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we explored the effect of the novel OXPHOS inhibitor IACS-010759 on PD-1-resistant NSCLC in an effort to overcome XRT-induced immunosuppression and maximize response to PD-1. Additionally, combined XRT and IACS-010759 promoted antitumor effects in the PD-1-resistant model, but not in the sensitive model. After elucidation of the most optimal dose/fractionation scheme of XRT with IACS-010759, the combinatorial therapy with this regimen did not increase the abscopal antitumor effect, although IACS-010549 did not decrease CD45+, CD4+, and CD8+ immune cells. Finally, triple therapy with IACS-010759, XRT, and anti-PD-1 promoted abscopal responses and prolonged survival time.

Conclusion

OXPHOS inhibition as part of a combinatorial regimen with XRT is a promising strategy to address PD-1-resistant NSCLC, and this combination is being tested clinically.
Sequential ctDNA whole-exome sequencing in advanced lung adenocarcinoma with initial durable tumor response on immune checkpoint inhibitor and late progression
Authors: Giroux Leprieur Etienne , Hélias-Rodzewicz Zofia , Takam Kamga Paul , Costantini Adrien , Julie Catherine , Corjon Alexandre , Dumenil Coraline , Dumoulin Jennifer , Giraud Violaine , Labrune Sylvie , Garinet Simon , Chinet Thierry , Emile Jean-François
Published: June 2020

Background

Despite prolonged tumor response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for a subset of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a secondary resistance will occur for a majority of these patients. The understanding of late progression mechanisms with ICIs is important to improve future treatment strategies.

Methods

We performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) on circulating tumor DNA and compared molecular profiles between the beginning of ICI treatment and tumor progression in patients with advanced NSCLC treated with ICIs and who had initial and prolonged tumor response with secondary progression, after at least 6 months of treatment.

Results

We identified eight patients who experienced initial and durable tumor response, and secondary tumor progression after 6 months of treatment, with available paired blood samples (diagnosis and progression). All had lung adenocarcinoma, three had programmed-death ligand-1 expression ≥50% in immunohistochemistry and all presented low blood tumor mutational burden (bTMB). Seven patients received nivolumab in second-line or more, and one received pembrolizumab as first-line treatment. WES at progression showed clonal selection with molecular alterations of Wnt pathway-related genes, increase of copy number aberrations in cancer-related genes and loss of tumor-suppressor genes (such asPTEN) or of genes associated with immune response (such asB2M). No difference in term of bTMB was observed at progression.

Conclusions

This is the first study describing putative molecular mechanisms associated with late progression under ICI in lung cancer. Studies on treatment strategies adapted to these mechanisms are needed.
Calcium-sensing receptor autoantibody-mediated hypoparathyroidism associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy: diagnosis and long-term follow-up
Authors: Dadu Ramona , Rodgers Theresa E , Trinh Van A , Kemp Elizabeth Helen , Cubb Trisha D , Patel Sapna , Simon Julie M , Burton Elizabeth M , Tawbi Hussein
Published: June 2020

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have produced significant survival benefit across many tumor types. However, immune-related adverse events are common including autoimmune responses against different endocrine organs. Here, a case of ICI-mediated hypoparathyroidism focusing on long-term follow-up and insights into its etiology is presented.

Case and methods

A 73-year-old man developed severe symptomatic hypocalcemia after the initiation of ipilimumab and nivolumab for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Hypoparathyroidism was diagnosed with undetectable intact parathyroid hormone (PTH). Immunoprecipitation assays, ELISAs, and cell-based functional assays were used to test the patient for antibodies against the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR). NACHT leucine-rich repeat protein 5 (NALP5) and cytokine antibodies were measured in radioligand binding assays and ELISAs, respectively.

Results

The patient’s symptoms improved with aggressive calcium and vitamin D supplementation. At 3 years and 3 months since the diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism, PTH was still inappropriately low at 7.6 pg/mL, and attempted discontinuation of calcium and calcitriol resulted in recurrent symptomatic hypocalcemia. Analysis for an autoimmune etiology of the patient’s hypoparathyroidism indicated that CaSR antibodies were negative before treatment and detected at multiple time points afterwards, and corresponded to the patient’s clinical course of hypoparathyroidism. CaSR antibodies purified from the patient’s serum activated the human CaSR. The patient was seronegative for NALP5 and cytokine antibodies, indicating that their hypoparathyroidism was not a manifestation of autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1.

Conclusion

The etiology of hypocalcemia is likely autoimmune hypoparathyroidism caused by the development of CaSR-activating antibodies that might prevent PTH release from the parathyroid.