bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Erwinia amylovora Infection in Apple Saplings and Fruit on the Behavior of Delia platura (Diptera: Anthomyiidae)
Authors: Boucher Matthew , Collins Rowan , Hesler Stephen , Cox Kerik , Loeb Greg 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The Vector Manipulation Hypothesis (VMH) posits that phytopathogens develop strategies to enhance dissemination by mediating behavior change in insect vectors. The VMH is poorly studied in phytopathogenic bacteria, especially in systems with numerous, occasional vectors. Erwinia amylovora is a bacterial pathogen of pome fruit that produces a bacterial ooze and is mechanically vectored by insects after they feed on ooze. The blossom blight phase of the disease exhibits manipulation of honeybees, leading to enhanced transmission, but whether the same occurs during the shoot blight phase of the disease is unknown. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of E. amylovora on the behavior of Delia platura, a fly with a worldwide endemic presence that may transmit E. amylovora. We show that D. platura prefer infected, oozing fruit to uninfected fruit in choice tests and that preference subsides when bacterial ooze is removed from the infected fruit. Flies did not exhibit a preference between infected saplings and uninfected saplings. The volatiles of infected fruit did not attract D. platura, indicating that diseased fruit odor is not responsible for the observed preference for infected fruit. Flies did not differentiate between sapling odors until infected trees had died, at which point they preferred uninfected tree odors. This study supports previous hypotheses suggesting that E. amylovora takes advantage of existing plant–insect interactions, though it is not fully understood how significantly behavioral changes affect transmission. Additional pathosystems with occasional, nonspecific vectors should be studied to further understanding of the VMH.
Mitral annulus disjunction is associated with adverse outcome in Marfan and Loeys–Dietz syndromes
Authors: Chivulescu Monica , Krohg-Sørensen Kirsten , Scheirlynck Esther , Lindberg Beate R , Dejgaard Lars A , Lie Øyvind H , Helle-Valle Thomas , Skjølsvik Eystein T , Estensen Mette E , Edvardsen Thor , Lingaas Per S , Haugaa Kristina H 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Aims
We aimed to assess the prevalence of mitral annulus disjunction (MAD) and to explore the association with aortic disease and mitral valve surgery in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) and Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS).

Methods and results
We included consecutive MFS patients fulfilling Revised Ghent Criteria and LDS patients fulfilling Loeys–Dietz Revised Nosology. MAD was identified by echocardiography and was quantified as the longitudinal distance from the ventricular myocardium to the hinge point of the posterior mitral leaflet. Aortic events were defined as aortic dissection or prophylactic aortic surgery. We recorded the need of mitral valve surgery including mitral valve repair or replacement. We included 168 patients (103 with MFS and 65 with LDS). The prevalence of MAD was 41%. MAD was present in all age groups. Aortic events occurred in 112 (67%) patients (27 with dissections and 85 with prophylactic surgical interventions). Patients with MAD were younger at aortic event than those without MAD (log rank = 0.02) Patients with aortic events had greater MAD distance in posterolateral wall [8 (7–10) mm vs. 7 (6–8) mm, P = 0.04]. Mitral events occurred more frequently in patients with MAD (P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusion
MAD was highly prevalent in patients with MFS and LDS. MAD was a marker of severe disease including aortic events at younger age and need of mitral valve surgery. Screening patients with MFS an LDS for MAD may provide prognostic information and may be relevant in planning surgical intervention. Detection of MAD in patients with MFS and LDS may infer closer clinical follow-up from younger age.
Conflicts over calcium and the treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Crespi Bernard , Alcock Joe 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Several recent studies have provided evidence that use of calcium channel blockers (CCBs), especially amlodipine and nifedipine, can reduce mortality from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Moreover, hypocalcemia (a reduced level of serum ionized calcium) has been shown to be strongly positively associated with COVID-19 severity. Both effectiveness of CCBs as antiviral therapy, and positive associations of hypocalcemia with mortality, have been demonstrated for many other viruses as well. We evaluate these findings in the contexts of virus–host evolutionary conflicts over calcium metabolism, and hypocalcemia as either pathology, viral manipulation or host defence against pathogens. Considerable evidence supports the hypothesis that hypocalcemia represents a host defence. Indeed, hypocalcemia may exert antiviral effects in a similar manner as do CCBs, through interference with calcium metabolism in virus-infected cells. Prospective clinical studies that address the efficacy of CCBs and hypocalcemia should provide novel insights into the pathogenicity and treatment of COVID-19 and other viruses.
Information delivery channels and agricultural technology uptake: experimental evidence from Ghana
Authors: Dzanku Fred Mawunyo , Osei Robert Darko , Nkegbe Paul Kwame , Osei-Akoto Isaac 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Purpose: Adequate information is necessary for investments. We use data from a randomized controlled experiment in northern Ghana to advance knowledge on which communication options are most effective for reaching farmers with a new technology (Bradyrhizobium inoculation) to boost adoption. Farmers received information through either video documentaries or radio listening clubs. Joint test of all treatment effects provide strong evidence that the video was effective for inducing technology uptake and increased yields; the radio listening club effects were mostly imprecise, partly due to insufficient statistical power. We conclude that barriers to learning about correct technology usage or benefits constrain adoption.
Alcohol consumption, cardiac biomarkers, and risk of atrial fibrillation and adverse outcomes
Authors: Csengeri Dora , Sprünker Ngoc-Anh , Di Castelnuovo Augusto , Niiranen Teemu , Vishram-Nielsen Julie Kk , Costanzo Simona , Söderberg Stefan , Jensen Steen M , Vartiainen Erkki , Donati Maria Benedetta , Magnussen Christina , Camen Stephan , Gianfagna Francesco , Løchen Maja-Lisa , Kee Frank , Kontto Jukka , Mathiesen Ellisiv B , Koenig Wolfgang , Blankenberg Stefan , de Gaetano Giovanni , Jørgensen Torben , Kuulasmaa Kari , Zeller Tanja , Salomaa Veikko , Iacoviello Licia , Schnabel Renate B 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Aims
There is inconsistent evidence on the relation of alcohol intake with incident atrial fibrillation (AF), in particular at lower doses. We assessed the association between alcohol consumption, biomarkers, and incident AF across the spectrum of alcohol intake in European cohorts.

Methods and results
In a community-based pooled cohort, we followed 107 845 individuals for the association between alcohol consumption, including types of alcohol and drinking patterns, and incident AF. We collected information on classical cardiovascular risk factors and incident heart failure (HF) and measured the biomarkers N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and high-sensitivity troponin I. The median age of individuals was 47.8 years, 48.3% were men. The median alcohol consumption was 3 g/day. N = 5854 individuals developed AF (median follow-up time: 13.9 years). In a sex- and cohort-stratified Cox regression analysis alcohol consumption was non-linearly and positively associated with incident AF. The hazard ratio for one drink (12 g) per day was 1.16, 95% CI 1.11–1.22, P &lt; 0.001. Associations were similar across types of alcohol. In contrast, alcohol consumption at lower doses was associated with reduced risk of incident HF. The association between alcohol consumption and incident AF was neither fully explained by cardiac biomarker concentrations nor by the occurrence of HF.

Conclusions
In contrast to other cardiovascular diseases such as HF, even modest habitual alcohol intake of 1.2 drinks/day was associated with an increased risk of AF, which needs to be considered in AF prevention.
Insights into community of photosynthetic microorganisms from permafrost
Authors: Vishnivetskaya Tatiana A , Almatari Abraham L , Spirina Elena V , Wu Xiaofen , Williams Daniel E , Pfiffner Susan M , Rivkina Elizaveta M 
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACTThis work integrates cultivation studies of Siberian permafrost and analyses of metagenomes from different locations in the Arctic with the aim of obtaining insights into the community of photosynthetic microorganisms in perennially frozen deposits. Cyanobacteria and microalgae have been described in Arctic aquatic and surface soil environments, but their diversity and ability to withstand harsh conditions within the permafrost are still largely unknown. Community structure of photosynthetic organisms in permafrost sediments was explored using Arctic metagenomes available through the MG-RAST. Sequences affiliated with cyanobacteria represented from 0.25 to 3.03% of total sequences, followed by sequences affiliated with Streptophyta (algae and vascular plants) 0.01–0.45% and Chlorophyta (green algae) 0.01–0.1%. Enrichment and cultivation approaches revealed that cyanobacteria and green algae survive in permafrost and they could be revived during prolonged incubation at low light intensity. Among photosynthetic microorganisms isolated from permafrost, the filamentous Oscillatoria-like cyanobacteria and unicellular green algae of the genus Chlorella were dominant. Our findings suggest that permafrost cyanobacteria and green algae are expected to be effective members of the re-assembled community after permafrost thawing and soil collapse.
Temporal changes in water temperature and salinity drive the formation of a reversible plastic-specific microbial community
Authors: Pinnell Lee J , Turner Jeffrey W 
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACTPlastic is a ubiquitous pollutant in the marine environment. Here, we investigated how temporal changes in environmental factors affect the microbial communities formed on plastic (polyethylene terephthalate; PET) versus a ceramic substrate. In situ mesocosms (N = 90 replicates) were deployed at the sediment–water interface of a coastal lagoon and sampled every 4 weeks for 424 days. Sequencing data (16S rRNA) was parsed based on variation in temperature with the exposure starting in fall 2016 and remaining in situ through the next four seasons (winter, spring, summer and fall 2017). PET biofilms were distinct during the summer when salinity and temperature were highest. In particular, a significant shift in the relative abundance of Ignavibacteriales and Cytophagales was observed during the summer, but PET and ceramic communities were again indistinguishable the following fall. Water temperature, salinity and pH were significant drivers of PET biofilm diversity as well as the relative abundance of plastic-discriminant taxa. This study illustrates the temporal and successional dynamics of PET biofilms and clearly demonstrates that increased water temperature, salinity, pH and exposure length play a role in the formation of a plastic-specific microbial community, but this specificity can be lost with a change in environmental conditions.
Microbiological assessment of street foods at the point of sale in Maputo (Mozambique)
Authors: Salamandane Acácio , Silva Ana Carla , Brito Luísa , Malfeito-Ferreira Manuel 
Published: November 2020

AbstractObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the microbiological quality and safety of street food sold in the main streets and informal markets of Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.Materials and MethodsFrom 83 different vendors selling different types of foods, 83 samples of ready-to-eat (RTE) street food were analyzed. Mesophiles, Escherichia coli and total coliforms were used as quality and hygiene indicators. Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) Salmonella and coagulase-positive staphylococci were used as food safety indicators.ResultsHigh proportions of unsatisfactory food samples were found in both traditional hot (76.7%) and cold (75%) foods. L. monocytogenes and Salmonella were tested negative in this survey. However, when coagulase-positive staphylococci was used as a food safety indicator, approximately 25% (23/83) of the food samples analyzed were classified as unsatisfactory/potentially hazardous.ConclusionsThese results, showing that street food sold in Maputo clearly requires adequate sanitary conditions for its preparation and sale, contribute to the development of good manufacturing practices (GMP) for street food in Maputo, Mozambique. This is the first report on the microbiological quality and safety of street food in Mozambique.
Telomere Length Change in a Multidomain Lifestyle Intervention to Prevent Cognitive Decline: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sindi Shireen , Solomon Alina , Kåreholt Ingemar , Hovatta Iiris , Antikainen Riitta , Hänninen Tuomo , Levälahti Esko , Laatikainen Tiina , Lehtisalo Jenni , Lindström Jaana , Paajanen Teemu , Peltonen Markku , Singh Khalsa Dharma , Wolozin Benjamin , Strandberg Timo , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Soininen Hilkka , Ngandu Tiia , Kivipelto Miia ,   FINGER Study Group
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Shorter leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is associated with aging and dementia. Impact of lifestyle changes on LTL, and relation to cognition and genetic susceptibility for dementia, has not been investigated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods
Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability is a 2-year RCT enrolling 1260 participants at risk for dementia from the general population, aged 60–77 years, randomly assigned (1:1) to multidomain lifestyle intervention or control group. The primary outcome was cognitive change (Neuropsychological Test Battery z-score). Relative LTL was measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (trial registration: NCT01041989).

Results
This exploratory LTL substudy included 756 participants (377 intervention, 379 control) with baseline and 24-month LTL measurements. The mean annual LTL change (SD) was −0.016 (0.19) in the intervention group and −0.023 (0.17) in the control group. Between-group difference was nonsignificant (unstandardized β-coefficient 0.007, 95% CI −0.015 to 0.030). Interaction analyses indicated better LTL maintenance among apolipoprotein E (APOE)-ε4 carriers versus noncarriers: 0.054 (95% CI 0.007 to 0.102); younger versus older participants: −0.005 (95% CI −0.010 to −0.001); and those with more versus less healthy lifestyle changes: 0.047 (95% CI 0.005 to 0.089). Cognitive intervention benefits were more pronounced among participants with better LTL maintenance for executive functioning (0.227, 95% CI 0.057 to 0.396) and long-term memory (0.257, 95% CI 0.024 to 0.489), with a similar trend for Neuropsychological Test Battery total score (0.127, 95% CI −0.011 to 0.264).

Conclusions
This is the first large RCT showing that a multidomain lifestyle intervention facilitated LTL maintenance among subgroups of older people at risk for dementia, including APOE-ε4 carriers. LTL maintenance was associated with more pronounced cognitive intervention benefits.

Clinical Trials Registration Number
NCT01041989
A lattice method for seismic wave propagation in nonlinear viscoelastic media
Authors: O'Brien Gareth S 
Published: November 2020

SUMMARYNonlinear wave propagation is an important consideration in several geophysical problems as heterogeneities within the subsurface give rise to nonlinear stress–strain relationships in rocks. To address these problems, where the inclusion of subsurface complexity is accounted for, numerical solutions are required. Here, we outline a discrete particle or lattice numerical method that can simulate dynamic and static deformation in an isotropic viscoelastic nonlinear medium where the nonlinearity includes the fourth-order elastic tensor coefficients. The relationship between the local interaction constants in the lattice method and the macroscopic nonlinear coefficients is derived and the relationships presented. The theoretical dispersion properties of the system is determined from a nonlinear perturbation method and are validated against some numerical results. There is an excellent agreement between the theory and numerical results and the method reproduces the common features of nonlinear wave propagation, for example, harmonics, waveform distortion and spectra shifts. As expected the system is shown to be dependent on the wave amplitudes and an example is presented which shows the complexity that can arise in both dynamic and static deformation in a complex model where nonlinearity is included.
Learning from intersectoral action beyond health: a meta-narrative review
Authors: Mondal Shinjini , Van Belle Sara , Maioni Antonia 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Intersectoral action (ISA) is considered pivotal for achieving health and societal goals but remains difficult to achieve as it requires complex efforts, resources and coordinated responses from multiple sectors and organizations. While ISA in health is often desired, its potential can be better informed by the advanced theory-building and empirical application in real-world contexts from political science, public administration and environmental sciences. Considering the importance and the associated challenges in achieving ISA, we have conducted a meta-narrative review, in the research domains of political science, public administration, environmental and health. The review aims to identify theory, theoretical concepts and empirical applications of ISA in these identified research traditions and draw learning for health. Using the multidisciplinary database of SCOPUS from 1996 to 2017, 5535 records were identified, 155 full-text articles were reviewed and 57 papers met our final inclusion criteria. In our findings, we trace the theoretical roots of ISA across all research domains, describing the main focus and motivation to pursue collaborative work. The literature synthesis is organized around the following: implementation instruments, formal mechanisms and informal networks, enabling institutional environments involving the interplay of hardware (i.e. resources, management systems, structures) and software (more specifically the realms of ideas, values, power); and the important role of leaders who can work across boundaries in promoting ISA, political mobilization and the essential role of hybrid accountability mechanisms. Overall, our review reaffirms affirms that ISA has both technical and political dimensions. In addition to technical concerns for strengthening capacities and providing support instruments and mechanisms, future research must carefully consider power and inter-organizational dynamics in order to develop a more fulsome understanding and improve the implementation of intersectoral initiatives, as well as to ensure their sustainability. This also shows the need for continued attention to emergent knowledge bases across different research domains including health.
On the Convolution Inequality f ≥ f ⋆ f
Authors: Carlen Eric A , Jauslin Ian , Lieb Elliott H , Loss Michael P 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
We consider the inequality $f \geqslant f\star f$ for real functions in $L^1({\mathbb{R}}^d)$ where $f\star f$ denotes the convolution of $f$ with itself. We show that all such functions $f$ are nonnegative, which is not the case for the same inequality in $L^p$ for any $1 &lt; p \leqslant 2$, for which the convolution is defined. We also show that all solutions in $L^1({\mathbb{R}}^d)$ satisfy $\int _{{\mathbb{R}}^{\textrm{d}}}f(x)\ \textrm{d}x \leqslant \tfrac 12$. Moreover, if $\int _{{\mathbb{R}}^{\textrm{d}}}f(x)\ \textrm{d}x = \tfrac 12$, then $f$ must decay fairly slowly: $\int _{{\mathbb{R}}^{\textrm{d}}}|x| f(x)\ \textrm{d}x = \infty $, and this is sharp since for all $r&lt; 1$, there are solutions with $\int _{{\mathbb{R}}^{\textrm{d}}}f(x)\ \textrm{d}x = \tfrac 12$ and $\int _{{\mathbb{R}}^{\textrm{d}}}|x|^r f(x)\ \textrm{d}x &lt;\infty $. However, if $\int _{{\mathbb{R}}^{\textrm{d}}}f(x)\ \textrm{d}x =: a &lt; \tfrac 12$, the decay at infinity can be much more rapid: we show that for all $a&lt;\tfrac 12$, there are solutions such that for some $\varepsilon&gt;0$, $\int _{{\mathbb{R}}^{\textrm{d}}}e^{\varepsilon |x|}f(x)\ \textrm{d}x &lt; \infty $.
Understanding the Role of Emerging Vitamin D Biomarkers on Short-term Persistence of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Infection Among Mid-Adult Women
Authors: Troja Catherine , Hoofnagle Andrew N , Szpiro Adam , Stern Joshua E , Lin John , Winer Rachel L 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Associations between vitamin D biomarkers and persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) detection have not been evaluated.

Methods
2011–2012 stored sera from 72 women aged 30–50 years with prevalent hrHPV (n = 116 type-specific infections) were tested for 5 vitamin D biomarkers: 25(OH)D and 4 emerging biomarkers, 1,25(OH)2D; 24,25(OH)2D; free vitamin D; and vitamin D binding protein (DBP). The hrHPV detection patterns (persistent vs transient/sporadic) were determined using cervicovaginal swabs collected monthly for 6 months. Associations between vitamin D and short-term type-specific hrHPV persistence were estimated using logistic regression. Our primary exposure was continuous 25(OH)D, with additional biomarkers evaluated as secondary exposures. Primary models were adjusted for age, race, body mass index, education, contraceptives, smoking, season, and calcium/phosphate levels. Sensitivity analyses were restricted from 19 hrHPV types to 14 used in cervical cancer screening.

Results
In primary analyses, nonsignificant positive associations with hrHPV persistence were observed for measures of 25(OH)D and 24,25(OH)2D. Associations were stronger and significant when restricting to 14 hrHPV types (25(OH)D per 10 ng/mL increase: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.82 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.15–2.88] and aOR, 4.19 [95% CI, 1.18–14.88] DBP-adjusted; 25(OH)D ≥30 vs &lt;30 ng/mL: aOR, 8.85 [95% CI, 2.69–29.06]; 24,25(OH)2D: aOR, 1.85 [95% CI, 1.18–2.88]). 1,25(OH)2D was unassociated with persistence.

Conclusions
Serum vitamin D measured by multiple biomarkers showed positive associations with short-term hrHPV persistence that were significant only when restricting to 14 clinically relevant hrHPV types.