bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transposable Element Landscape in Drosophila Populations Selected for Longevity
Authors: Fabian Daniel K , Dönertaş Handan Melike , Fuentealba Matías , Partridge Linda , Thornton Janet M 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) inflict numerous negative effects on health and fitness as they replicate by integrating into new regions of the host genome. Even though organisms employ powerful mechanisms to demobilize TEs, transposons gradually lose repression during aging. The rising TE activity causes genomic instability and was implicated in age-dependent neurodegenerative diseases, inflammation, and the determination of lifespan. It is therefore conceivable that long-lived individuals have improved TE silencing mechanisms resulting in reduced TE expression relative to their shorter-lived counterparts and fewer genomic insertions. Here, we test this hypothesis by performing the first genome-wide analysis of TE insertions and expression in populations of Drosophila melanogaster selected for longevity through late-life reproduction for 50–170 generations from four independent studies. Contrary to our expectation, TE families were generally more abundant in long-lived populations compared with nonselected controls. Although simulations showed that this was not expected under neutrality, we found little evidence for selection driving TE abundance differences. Additional RNA-seq analysis revealed a tendency for reducing TE expression in selected populations, which might be more important for lifespan than regulating genomic insertions. We further find limited evidence of parallel selection on genes related to TE regulation and transposition. However, telomeric TEs were genomically and transcriptionally more abundant in long-lived flies, suggesting improved telomere maintenance as a promising TE-mediated mechanism for prolonging lifespan. Our results provide a novel viewpoint indicating that reproduction at old age increases the opportunity of TEs to be passed on to the next generation with little impact on longevity.
Gene–Environment Interactions and Stochastic Variations in the Gero-Exposome
Authors: Finch Caleb E , Haghani Amin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The limited heritability of human life spans suggests an important role for gene–environment (G × E) interactions across the life span (T), from gametes to geronts. Multilevel G × E × T interactions of aging phenotypes are conceptualized in the Gero-Exposome as Exogenous and Endogenous domains. Stochastic variations in the Endogenous domain contribute to the diversity of aging phenotypes, shown for the diversity of inbred Caenorhabditis elegans life spans in the same culture environment, and for variegated gene expression of somatic cells in nematodes and mammals. These phenotypic complexities can be analyzed as 3-way interactions of gene, environment, and stochastic variations, the Tripartite Phenotype of Aging. Single-cell analyses provide tools to explore this broadening frontier of biogerontology.
The global finite-time synchronization of a class of chaotic systems via the variable-substitution and feedback control
Authors: Chen Yun , Xu Yanyi , Lin Qian 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis paper deals with the global finite-time synchronization of a class of third-order chaotic systems with some intersecting nonlinearities, which cover many famous chaotic systems. First, a simple, continuous and dimension-reducible control by the name of the variable-substitution and feedback control is designed to construct a master–slave finite-time synchronization scheme. Then, a global finite-time synchronization criterion for the synchronization scheme is proven and the synchronization time is analytically estimated. Subsequently, the criterion and optimization technique are applied to the well-known brushless direct current motor (BLDCM) system and the classic Lorenz system, respectively, further obtaining some new optimized synchronization criteria in the form of algebra. Two numerical examples for the BLDCM system and a numerical example for the Lorenz system are simulated and analyzed to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical results obtained in this paper.
Immunomodulatory Agents Combat Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis by Improving Antimicrobial Immunity
Authors: Rao Muvva Jagadeeswara , Ahmed Sultan , Rekha Rokeya Sultana , Kalsum Sadaf , Groenheit Ramona , Schön Thomas , Agerberth Birgitta , Bergman Peter , Brighenti Susanna 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background
Multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis has low treatment success rates, and new treatment strategies are needed. We explored whether treatment with active vitamin D3 (vitD) and phenylbutyrate (PBA) could improve conventional chemotherapy by enhancing immune-mediated eradication of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Methods
A clinically relevant model was used consisting of human macrophages infected with M. tuberculosis isolates (n = 15) with different antibiotic resistance profiles. The antimicrobial effect of vitD+PBA, was tested together with rifampicin or isoniazid. Methods included colony-forming units (intracellular bacterial growth), messenger RNA expression analyses (LL-37, β-defensin, nitric oxide synthase, and dual oxidase 2), RNA interference (LL-37-silencing in primary macrophages), and Western blot analysis and confocal microscopy (LL-37 and LC3 protein expression).

Results
VitD+PBA inhibited growth of clinical MDR tuberculosis strains in human macrophages and strengthened intracellular growth inhibition of rifampicin and isoniazid via induction of the antimicrobial peptide LL-37 and LC3-dependent autophagy. Gene silencing of LL-37 expression enhanced MDR tuberculosis growth in vitD+PBA–treated macrophages. The combination of vitD+PBA and isoniazid were as effective in reducing intracellular MDR tuberculosis growth as a &gt;125-fold higher dose of isoniazid alone, suggesting potent additive effects of vitD+PBA with isoniazid.

Conclusions
Immunomodulatory agents that trigger multiple immune pathways can strengthen standard MDR tuberculosis treatment and contribute to next-generation individualized treatment options for patients with difficult-to-treat pulmonary tuberculosis.
Characterizing Resistance to Soybean Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae): Antibiosis and Antixenosis Assessment
Authors: Bansal Raman , Mian M A Rouf , Michel Andy 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Host-plant resistance (HPR) remains a vital tool to manage soybean aphid (Aphis glycines Matsumura), a major pest of soybean in Midwestern United States and southern Canada. HPR can be overcome by virulent biotypes of A. glycines; thus, in order to increase the durability of resistant cultivars, HPR needs to be deployed strategically. To improve the strategic deployment, a complete understanding of HPR in existing resistant germplasm will help ensure HPR success. In this study, we characterized HPR soybean to determine antibiosis and antixenosis categories of resistance to different biotypes of A. glycines. No-choice and free-choice tests were performed on 11 previously reported plant introductions (PIs) possessing resistance to at least one A. glycines biotype (1, 2, and 3). Overall, we found that the PIs manifested differences of a particular resistance category in response to infestation by different biotypes. Our data from no-choice tests indicate that all tested PIs possess antibiosis-based resistance to three biotypes. However, the strength of antibiosis was variable as some PIs showed stronger antibiosis toward a given biotype than others. All tested PIs manifested antixenosis, in addition to antibiosis. Furthermore, detached leaf assays revealed that resistance to A. glycines was not retained in excised soybean leaves. Characterization of resistance in this study can contribute to develop strategies for future deployment of resistant cultivars developed from these PIs.
Curating Local Knowledge: Experimental Evidence from Small Retailers in Indonesia
Authors: Dalton Patricio S , Rüschenpöhler Julius , Uras Burak , Zia Bilal 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBusiness practices and performance vary widely across businesses within the same sector. A key outstanding question is why profitable practices do not readily diffuse. We conduct a field experiment among urban retailers in Indonesia to study whether alleviating informational and behavioral frictions can facilitate such diffusion in a cost-effective manner. Through quantitative and qualitative fieldwork, we curate a handbook that associates locally relevant practices with performance, and provides idiosyncratic implementation guidance informed by exemplary local retailers. We complement this handbook with two light-touch interventions to facilitate behavior change. A subset of retailers is invited to a documentary movie screening featuring the paths to success of exemplary peers. Another subset is offered two 30-minute personal visits by a local facilitator. A third group is offered both. Eighteen months later, we find significant impacts on practice adoption when the handbook is coupled with the two behavioral nudges, and up to a 35% increase in profits and 16.7% increase in sales. These findings suggest both informational and behavioral constraints are at play. The types of practices adopted map the performance improvements to efficiency gains rather than other channels. A simple cost–benefit analysis shows such locally relevant knowledge can be codified and scaled successfully at relatively low cost.
Characterizing irreparable: a retrospective machine learning analysis of patients who undergo primary labral reconstruction during hip arthroscopy
Authors: Mayo Benjamin C , Rosinsky Philip J , Kyin Cynthia , Monahan Peter F , Maldonado David R , Lall Ajay C , Domb Benjamin G 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Hip labrum reconstruction has been demonstrated to be a viable option for patients with irreparable labral tears. However, there is a lack of data analyzing patient and labral characteristics in those undergoing primary hip labral reconstruction. To use a machine learning technique to subcategorize patients who underwent labral reconstruction during primary hip arthroscopy and to determine if there may be varying pathology resulting in severe labral damage. Patients who underwent primary labral reconstruction between 2015 and 2018 were included. Patients with a prior ipsilateral hip surgery, who were unwilling to participate, or had incomplete preoperative data were excluded. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering analysis was conducted to identify the subgroups of patients. A comparison was performed for preoperative characteristics, intraoperative findings and procedures. Of the 191 patients who underwent primary labral reconstruction and were eligible, 174 were included in the clustering analysis. Two distinct groups were identified (Group 1: 112 patients, 64.4%; Group 2: 62 patients, 35.6%). Group 1 had a significantly higher proportion of females (61.6% versus 43.5%; P &lt; 0.05), combined Seldes I and II labral tears (94.6% versus 54.8%; P &lt; 0.05), and larger tears. Group 2 had a significantly higher rate of labral calcification (82.3% versus 3.6%; P &lt; 0.05). The results of this study demonstrate two distinct groups of patients who underwent primary hip labral reconstruction: those with severe labral damage, and those with a calcified labrum. Approximately two-thirds were placed in the group with severe labral damage, while the other third had diminished quality secondary to calcific changes. Retrospective comparative trial; Level of Evidence, 3.
Diurnal sheltering preferences and associated conservation management for the endangered sandhill dunnart,Sminthopsis psammophila
Authors: Riley Joanna , Turpin Jeff M , Zeale Matt R K , Jayatilaka Brynne , Jones Gareth 
Published: February 2021

AbstractDasyurids are small mammals that can conserve energy and water by using shelters that insulate against extreme conditions, prevent predation, and facilitate torpor. To quantify the diurnal sheltering requirements of a poorly known, endangered dasyurid, the sandhill dunnart, Sminthopsis psammophila, we radiotracked 40 individuals in the Western Australian Great Victoria Desert between 2015 and 2019. We assessed the effect of habitat class (broad habitat features), plot-level (the area surrounding each shelter), and shelter characteristics (e.g., daily temperature ranges), on shelter selection and sheltering habitat preferences. Two hundred and eleven diurnal shelters (mean of 5 ± 3 shelters per individual) were located on 363 shelter days (the number of days each shelter was used), within mature vegetation (mean seral age of 32 ± 12 years postfire). Burrows were used on 77% of shelter days and were typically concealed under mature spinifex, Triodia spp., with stable temperature ranges and northern aspects facing the sun. While many burrows were reused (n = 40 across 175 shelter days), spinifex hummock shelters typically were used for one shelter day and were not insulative against extreme temperatures. However, shallow scrapes within Lepidobolus deserti hummock shelters had thermal advantages and log shelters retained heat and were selected on cooler days. Sminthopsis psammophila requires long-unburned sheltering habitat with mature vegetation. Summer fires in the Great Victoria Desert can be extensive and destroy large areas of land, rendering them a key threat to the species. We conclude that the survey and conservation of S. psammophila requires attention to long-unburned, dense lower stratum swale, sand plain, and dune slope habitats, and the tendency of S. psammophila to burrow allows the species to survive within the extreme conditions of its desert environment.
The Expression of Chemosensory Genes in Male Maxillary Palps ofAnopheles coluzzii(Diptera: Culicidae) andAn. quadriannulatus
Authors: Athrey Giridhar , Popkin-Hall Zachary R , Takken Willem , Slotman Michel A 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBecause of its importance as a malaria vector, Anopheles coluzzii’s Coetzee & Wilkerson olfactory system has been studied extensively. Among this work is a series of studies comparing the expression of chemosensory genes in olfactory organs in females and/or males of these species. These have identified species- and female-biased chemosensory gene expression patterns. However, many questions remain about the role of chemosensation in male anopheline biology. To pave the way for future work we used RNAseq to compare chemosensory gene expression in the male maxillary palps of An. coluzzii and its sibling species An. quadriannulatus Theobald. As expected, the chemosensory gene repertoire is small in the male maxillary palps. Both species express the tuning receptors Or8 and Or28 at relatively high levels. The CO2 receptor genes Gr22-Gr24 are present in both species as well, although at much lower level than in females. Additionally, several chemoreceptors are species-specific. Gr37 and Gr52 are exclusive to An. coluzzii, whereas Or9 and Gr60 were detected only in An. quadriannulatus. Furthermore, several chemosensory genes show differential expression between the two species. Finally, several Irs, Grs, and Obps that show strong differential expression in the female palps, are absent or lowly expressed in the male palps. While many questions remain about the role of chemosensation in anopheline male biology, these results suggest that the male maxillary palps could have both a sex- and species-specific role in the perception of chemical stimuli. This work may guide future studies on the role of the male maxillary palp in these species.
Imaging Anatomy and Surface Localization of External Control Device-Targeted Arteries for Noncompressible Torso Hemorrhage
Authors: Zhang Hua-yu , Guo Yong , Liu Heng , Tang Hao , Li Yang , Zhang Lian-yang 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT

Background
External hemorrhage control devices (EHCDs) are effective in reducing the death risk of noncompressible torso hemorrhage (NCTH), but the pressurized area is too large to prevent serious organ damage. This study aims to establish the surface localization strategy of EHCDs based on the anatomical features of NCTH-related arteries through CT images to facilitate the optimal design and application of EHCDs.

Methods
Two hundred patients who underwent abdominal CT were enrolled. Anatomical parameters such as the length of the common iliac artery (CIA), the external iliac artery (EIA), and the common femoral artery were measured; positional relationships among the EHCD-targeted arteries, umbilicus, anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), and pubic tubercle (PT) were determined. The accuracy of surface localization was verified by the 3D-printed mannequins of 20 real patients.

Results
Aortic bifurcation (AB) was 7.5 ± 8.6 mm to the left of the umbilicus. The left CIA (left: 46.6 ± 16.0 mm vs. right: 43.3 ± 15.5 mm, P = .038) and the right EIA (left: 102.6 ± 16.3 mm vs. right: 111.5 ± 18.8 mm, P &lt; .001) were longer than their counterparts, respectively. The vertical distance between the CIA terminus and the ipsilateral AB–ASIS line was 19.6 ± 8.2 mm, and the left and right perpendicular intersections were located at the upper one-third and one-fourth of the AB–ASIS line, respectively. The length ratio of EIA–ASIS to ASIS–PT was 0.6:1. The predicted point and its actual subpoint were significantly correlated (P ≤ .002), and the vertical distance between the two points was ≤5.5 mm.

Conclusion
The arterial localization strategy established via anatomical investigation was consistent with the actual situation. The data are necessary for improving EHCD design, precise hemostasis, and EHCD-related collateral injuries.
Trial registration: Ratification no. 2019092. Registered November 4, 2020—retrospectively registered, www.chictr.org.cn.
Characteristics, Treatment, and Outcomes of Patients With Severe or Life-threatening COVID-19 at a Military Treatment Facility—A Descriptive Cohort Study
Authors: Elliott Brian P , Buchek Gregory M , Koroscil Matthew T 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The treatment of severe and life-threatening COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving practice. The purpose of our study was to describe the characteristics and outcomes of patients with severe or life-threatening COVID-19 who present to a Military Treatment Facility (MTF) with an emphasis on addressing institutional adaptations to rapidly changing medical evidence.

Materials and Methods
A single-center retrospective study conducted on a prospectively maintained cohort. The MTF is a 52-bed hospital within an urban setting. Patients were included in the cohort if they had laboratory-confirmed severe or life-threatening COVID-19 with positive SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Severe disease was defined as dyspnea, respiratory frequency ≥30/min, blood oxygen saturation ≤93% on ambient air, partial pressure of arterial oxygen to fraction of inspired oxygen ratio &lt;300, or lung infiltrates involving &gt;50% of lung fields within 24-48 hours. Life-threatening COVID-19 was defined as respiratory failure, septic shock, or multiple organ dysfunction. The cohort included patients admitted from June 1 through November 13. Data were collected retrospectively via chart review by a resident physician.

Results
In total, our MTF saw 14 cases of severe or life-threatening COVID-19 from June 1 to November 13. Patients had a median age of 70.5 years, with 7% being active duty personnel, 21% dependents, and 71% retired military members. The median time to dexamethasone, remdesivir, and convalescent plasma administration was 4.7, 6.3, and 11.2 hours, respectively. The 28-day in-hospital mortality was 0%.

Conclusions
Patients who present to an MTF with severe or life-threatening COVID-19 are largely retirees, with only a small fraction comprising active duty personnel. The institution of order sets and early consultation can help facilitate prompt patient care for COVID-19.
Comparison of Different Variants of the U.S. Army Occupational Physical Assessment Test
Authors: Spiering Barry A , Taylor Kathryn M , Cohen Bruce S , Smith Nathaniel I , Zeppetelli David J , Pecorelli Vincent P , Bartlett P Matthew , Walker Leila A , Frykman Peter N , Foulis Stephen A 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe U.S. Army Occupational Physical Assessment Test (OPAT) is a pre-enlistment physical employment screening assessment developed to place recruits and soldiers into Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) based on their physical capabilities in order to optimize performance and limit injury. The OPAT consists of the seated power throw (SPT), strength deadlift (SDL), standing long jump, and interval aerobic run. During the scientific validation of the OPAT, two variants of the SPT and two variants of the SDL were used. Although the OPAT was validated using both variants for each test, U.S. Army scientists and policymakers have received queries regarding how these variants compare to each other. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare different variants of the SPT and SDL.Materials and MethodsThirty-two participants (14 male and 18 female) between the ages of 18 and 42 years visited the laboratory on one occasion and performed two variants of the SPT (seated on the ground [the current OPAT standard] versus seated in a chair with a 35 cm seat height) and two variants of the SDL (using a hex-bar [the current OPAT standard] versus using paired dumbbells). Testing order for the different variants was randomized. The protocol was approved by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command Institutional Review Board.ResultsPerforming the SPT from a chair significantly (P &lt; .05) increased performance when compared to performing the SPT from the ground (5.4 ± 1.3 m versus 5.0 ± 1.4 m, respectively). Values for the two SPT variants were correlated (tau = 0.90). Performing the SDL using the hex-bar significantly increased the maximal weight lifted when compared to performing the SDL using paired dumbbells (86.9 ± 18.4 kg versus 83.1 ± 18.0 kg, respectively). Values for the two SDL variants were correlated (tau = 0.83).ConclusionsPerforming different variants of the SPT and SDL influenced the resulting score. Although these findings do not alter the administration or scoring of the OPAT, they do provide a valuable reference in the event of future inquiries regarding the development of the OPAT.