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Background Post-stroke upper limb (UL) motor improvement is associated with adaptive neuroplasticity and motor learning. Both intervention-related (including provision of intensive, variable, and task-specific practice) and individual-specific factors (including the presence of genetic polymorphisms) influence improvement. In individuals with stroke, most commonly, polymorphisms are found in Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Apolipoprotein (APOE) and Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT). These involve a replacement of cystine by arginine (APOEε4) or valines by 1 or 2 methionines (BDNF:val 66 met, met 66 met; COMT:val 158 met; met 158 met). However, the implications of these polymorphisms on post-stroke UL motor improvement specifically have not yet been elucidated. Objective Examine the influence of genetic polymorphism on post-stroke UL motor improvement. Design Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Methods We conducted a systematic search of the literature published in English language. The modified Downs and Black checklist helped assess study quality. We compared change in UL motor impairment and activity scores between individuals with and without the polymorphisms. Meta-analyses helped assess change in motor impairment (Fugl Meyer Assessment) scores based upon a minimum of 2 studies/time point. Effect sizes (ES) were quantified based upon the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System as follows: small (0.08-0.18), medium (0.19 -0.40) and large (≥0.41). Results We retrieved 10 (4 good and 6 fair quality) studies. Compared to those with BDNF val 66 met and met 66 met polymorphism, meta-analyses revealed lower motor impairment (large ES) in those without the polymorphism at intervention completion (0.5, 95% CI: 0.11-0.88) and at retention (0.58, 95% CI:0.06-1.11). The presence of CoMT val 158 met or met 158 met polymorphism had similar results, with lower impairment (large ES ≥1.5) and higher activity scores (large ES ranging from 0.5-0.76) in those without the polymorphism. Presence of APOEε4 form did not influence UL motor improvement. Conclusion Polymorphisms with the presence of 1 or 2 met alleles in BDNF and COMT negatively influence UL motor improvement. Registration https://osf.io/wk9cf/ .

A two-component undergraduate laboratory experience has been developed by students in a senior level capstone course. The first component is a 3 h laboratory experience dedicated to the rapid synthesis of a metal-organic framework (MOF-808) in aqueous solution using readily available reagents and equipment. During the second component, MOF-808 was characterized via a suite of instruments: powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS). In addition, quantitative [superscript 19]F{[superscript 1]H} NMR spectroscopy was utilized to quantify the amount of perfluorobutanesulfonate (PFBS), one example of a poly- or perfluoroalkyl substance (aka PFAS), adsorbed from solution. The two 3 h laboratory experiences were subsequently deployed in a foundation level inorganic chemistry course. This two-component, multi-instrument lab experience provides students an opportunity to synthesize a modern porous solid and utilize it in an emerging application of MOF science.

This article explores how doctoral graduates in Aotearoa New Zealand are being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey captured the employment and mobility situations of doctoral graduates from 2019 to early 2021 from six of the eight universities in NZ. The 406 survey responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, as well as drawing on Cognitive Information Processing (CIP) theory in an inductive analysis of freeform comments. Most respondents were aspiring to academic careers, but the pandemic led to the loss of job offers for 19.2% and altered career plans for 60.6%. Family circumstances impacted career decisions for 21.4% and these were complicated by mobility difficulties with border closures and visa issues. The impacts of the pandemic on careers were significantly greater for international graduates. The qualitative analysis revealed themes of uncertainty, complications, pragmatism and academia. Using CIP, it is apparent that the pandemic has created a more complex job environment and heightened stress and anxiety over career and mobility options. As shown in our conceptual model, NZ universities need to better prepare graduates for the landscape of career possibilities, making students aware of their attributes, supporting their wellbeing, and helping them navigate the complexity of the current job environment.

Background:. In recent years, self-tanners have become a well-liked alternative to sun tanning and tanning bed usage, as strikingly similar results can be achieved without the harmful side effects of ultraviolet exposure. Objective:. The aim of this study is to investigate the presence and prevalence of potential allergens in the most popular self-tanning products. Methods:. Five major retailers in the United States were evaluated, from which 17 different brands and 44 unique self-tanning products were analyzed. The ingredients in each self-tanning product were compared with 80 and 36 notable contact allergens taken from the North American Contact Dermatitis Group and Food and Drug Administration–approved T.R.U.E (Thin-Layer Rapid Use Epicutaneous Patch Test), respectively. Results:. We found that contact allergens are frequently present in self-tanning products; allergens especially common are propylene glycol, linalool, polysorbate, d-limonene, benzyl alcohol, tocopherol (vitamin E), fragrances, and other scented botanicals. On average, each self-tanner we analyzed contained 11.86 allergens. Limitations:. The limitation is that commercial names could not be eliminated from the analysis, introducing potential bias. Conclusion:. While self-tanning products are a safer alternative to tanning bed use or sunbathing, consumers and clinicians alike must be aware that they may cause an allergic reaction of the skin for some users.

The earliest and most prevalent sensory experience includes tactile, thermal, and olfactory stimulation delivered to the young via contact with the mother, and in some mammals, the father. Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster), like humans, are biparental and serve as a model for understanding the impact of parent/offspring interactions on the developing brain. Prairie voles also exhibit natural variation in the level of tactile stimulation delivered by the parents to the offspring, and this has been well documented and quantified. Previous studies revealed that adult prairie vole offspring who received either high (HC) or low (LC) tactile contact from their parents have differences in the size of cortical fields and the connections of somatosensory cortex. In the current investigation, we examined gene expression, intraneocortical connectivity, and cortical thickness in newborn voles to appreciate when differences in HC and LC offspring begin to emerge. We observed differences in developmentally regulated genes, as well as variation in prelimbic and anterior cingulate cortical thickness at postnatal Day 1 (P1) in HC and LC voles. Results from this study suggest that parenting styles, such as those involving high or low physical contact, impact the developing neocortex via very early sensory experience as well as differences in epigenetic modifications that may emerge in HC and LC voles.

Designing spray-dried particles for inhalation aims at specific physicochemical properties including a respirable aerodynamic diameter and adequate powder dispersibility. Leucine, an amphiphilic amino acid, has been shown to aid in optimizing bulk powder properties. Mannitol, a model crystalline active and common bulking agent, was co-sprayed with leucine at several excipient ratios, ethanol/water ratios, and spray dryer outlet temperatures in order to experimentally probe the underlying particle formation mechanisms in this binary crystalline system. During the droplet drying of two crystallizing components, the material that nucleates first will preferentially enrich the surface. It is desired to have a completely crystalline leucine shell to improve powder properties, however, mannitol competes with leucine for the surface depending on excipient concentration and manufacturing parameters. The resulting particles were studied initially and at a two-month timepoint via solid state characterization, visual analysis, and particle size analysis in order to detect changes in bulk powder properties. It was determined that, similar to systems where only leucine can crystallize, initial leucine saturation in the formulation dictates powder characteristics.

A life-threatening manifestation of Covid-19 infection is a cytokine storm that requires hospitalization and supplemental oxygen. Various strategies to reduce inflammatory cytokines have had some success in limiting cytokine storm and improving survival. Agonists of adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) reduce cytokine release from most immune cells. Apadenoson is a potent and selective anti-inflammatory adenosine analog that reduces inflammation. When administered by subcutaneous osmotic pumps to mice infected with SARS CoV-2, Apadenoson was found to improve the outcomes of infection as measured by a decrease in weight loss, improved clinical symptoms, reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in bronchial lavage (BAL) fluid, and enhanced survival of K18-hACE2 transgenic mice. These results support further examination of A2AR agonists as therapies for treating cytokine storm due to COVID-19.

Although species interactions are often proposed to be stronger at lower latitudes and elevations, few studies have evaluated the mechanisms driving such patterns. In this study, we assessed whether, and by which mechanisms, abiotic changes associated with elevation altered the outcome of an ant–aphid protection mutualism. To do so, we characterized the multi-trophic interactions among the ant Formica podzolica, the aphid Aphis varians, and aphid natural enemies occurring on the plant Chamerion angustifolium within replicate high and low elevation valleys. Low (versus high) elevation sites had longer summers (snowmelt 13 days earlier) and were on average 1.1°C warmer and 41% drier throughout the year. At low elevations, individual ant colonies consumed approximately double the volume of carbohydrate baits, likely due to a higher foraging tempo, and possibly due to a greater demand for sugar- versus protein-rich resources (as indicated by stable isotope analysis). Wild aphid colonies at low elevations were visited by 1.4-fold more natural enemies (controlling for variation in aphid abundance), while experimental aphid colonies on potted plants were tended 52% more frequently by ants. As a result, ants increased aphid colony survival by 66% at low elevations but had no detectable effect at high elevations; at low (versus high) elevations aphid colonies without ants had lower survival, demonstrating stronger predator effects, while aphid colonies with ants had higher survival, demonstrating even stronger ant benefits. Analyses for the effects of mean summer temperature yielded qualitatively identical results to those based on elevation. Collectively, these findings support predictions for a greater sensitivity of higher trophic levels to warming and demonstrate how species interactions can vary across environmental gradients due to simultaneous changes in species traits and abundances across multiple trophic levels.

Logic‐gated engineered cells are an emerging therapeutic modality that can take advantage of molecular profiles to focus medical interventions on specific tissues in the body. However, the increased complexity of these engineered systems may pose a challenge for prediction and optimization of their behavior. Here we describe the design and testing of a flow cytometry‐based screening system to rapidly select functional inhibitory receptors from a pooled library of candidate constructs. In proof‐of‐concept experiments, this approach identifies inhibitory receptors that can operate as NOT gates when paired with activating receptors. The method may be used to generate large datasets to train machine learning models to better predict and optimize the function of logic‐gated cell therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post-stroke upper limb (UL) motor improvement is associated with adaptive neuroplasticity and motor learning. Both intervention-related (including provision of intensive, variable, and task-specific practice) and individual-specific factors (including the presence of genetic polymorphisms) influence improvement. In individuals with stroke, most commonly, polymorphisms are found in Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Apolipoprotein (APOE) and Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT). These involve a replacement of cystine by arginine (APOEε4) or valines by 1 or 2 methionines (BDNF:val66met, met66met; COMT:val158met; met158met). However, the implications of these polymorphisms on post-stroke UL motor improvement specifically have not yet been elucidated. Objective: Examine the influence of genetic polymorphism on post-stroke UL motor improvement. Design: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Methods: We conducted a systematic search of the literature published in English language. The modified Downs and Black checklist helped assess study quality. We compared change in UL motor impairment and activity scores between individuals with and without the polymorphisms. Meta-analyses helped assess change in motor impairment (Fugl Meyer Assessment) scores based upon a minimum of 2 studies/time point. Effect sizes (ES) were quantified based upon the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System as follows: small (0.08-0.18), medium (0.19 -0.40) and large (≥0.41). Results: We retrieved 10 (4 good and 6 fair quality) studies. Compared to those with BDNF val66met and met66met polymorphism, meta-analyses revealed lower motor impairment (large ES) in those without the polymorphism at intervention completion (0.5, 95% CI: 0.11-0.88) and at retention (0.58, 95% CI:0.06-1.11). The presence of CoMT val158met or met158met polymorphism had similar results, with lower impairment (large ES ≥1.5) and higher activity scores (large ES ranging from 0.5-0.76) in those without the polymorphism. Presence of APOEε4 form did not influence UL motor improvement. Conclusion: Polymorphisms with the presence of 1 or 2 met alleles in BDNF and COMT negatively influence UL motor improvement. Registration: https://osf.io/wk9cf/. Plain language summary: This research paper focuses on the impact of variations in DNA sequence in certain genes on improvement seen in the arms in people who have had a stroke. In this study, we studied the role of 3 genes previously identified as having variations in DNA sequence. The authors searched published research articles from 2000 onwards and selected articles that satisfied certain criteria. We then checked the quality of the selected papers. Next, we combined common data from same tests used to examine motor improvement in the arms to check if there was an overall effect. A total of 10 papers were found. The selected articles were either good or moderate in quality. Variations in DNA structure in 2 out of the 3 genes studied affected the ability to improve the use of the arms in daily life after a stroke. Such information can have important implications in the extent of recovery that is possible after a stroke. It can also be helpful to decide the best rehabilitation options that can be offered to help maximize their ability to use the arms after a stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) represent a leading cause of non-genetic neuropathologies. Recent preclinical evidence from suggests that prenatal ethanol exposure (PrEE), like other environmental exposures, may have a significant, transgenerational impact on the offspring of directly exposed animals, including altered neocortical development at birth and behavior in peri-pubescent mice. How these adverse behavioral outcomes are manifested within the brain at the time of behavioral disruption remains unknown.Methods: A transgenerational mouse model of FASD was used to generate up to a third filial generation of offspring to study. Using a multi-modal battery of behavioral assays, we assessed motor coordination/function, sensorimotor processing, risk-taking behavior, and depressive-like behavior in postnatal day (P) 20 pre-pubescent mice. Additionally, sensory neocortical area connectivity using dye tracing, neocortical gene expression using in situ RNA hybridization, and spine density of spiny stellate cells in the somatosensory cortex using Golgi-Cox staining were examined in mice at P20.Results: We found that PrEE induces behavioral abnormalities including abnormal sensorimotor processing, increased risk-taking behavior, and increased depressive-like behaviors that extend to the F3 generation in 20-day old mice. Assessment of both somatosensory and visual cortical connectivity, as well as cortical RZRβ expression in pre-pubescent mice yielded no significant differences among any experimental generations. In contrast, only directly-exposed F1 mice displayed altered cortical expression of Id2 and decreased spine density among layer IV spiny stellate cells in somatosensory cortex at this pre-pubescent, post weaning age.Conclusion: Our results suggest that robust, clinically-relevant behavioral abnormalities are passed transgenerationally to the offspring of mice directly exposed to prenatal ethanol. Additionally, in contrast to our previous findings in the newborn PrEE mouse, a lack of transgenerational findings within the brain at this later age illuminates the critical need for future studies to attempt to discover the link between neurological function and the described behavioral changes. Overall, our study suggests that multi-generational effects of PrEE may have a substantial impact on human behavior as well as health and well-being and that these effects likely extend beyond early childhood.

The asymmetric imidazolium salt [Ru[(dmbpy).sub.2][(bpip)]([PF.sub.6]).sub.3] (bpip = 1-benzyl-3-isopropyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthrolinium) was prepared by a four-step synthetic route. The isotopomer labelled with [.sup.13]C at the C2 position of bpip was prepared from 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-diamine and triethyl orthoformate-(formyl-[.sup.13]C). Deprotonation at low temperatures in acetonitrile using [KO.sup.t]Bu and KHMDS were monitored by NMR to investigate the formation of the free N-heterocyclic carbene. Key words: ruthenium, polypyridyl, [.sup.13]C labelling, N-heterocyclic carbene, photocatalyst. Nous avons prepare le sel d'imidazolium asymetrique, le [Ru[(dmbpy).sub.2][(bpip)]([PF.sub.6]).sub.3] (bpip = 1-benzyl-3-isopropyl-1Himidazo [4,5f][1,10]phenanthrolinium), par une voie de synthese en quatre etapes. L'isotopomere marque au [.sup.13]C a la position C2 du ligand bpip a ete prepare a partir de la 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-diamine et de l'orthoformiate d'ethyle-(formiate-[.sup.13]C). Nous avons suivi par RMN la deprotonation a basse temperature dans l'acetonitrile effectuee a l'aide du [KO.sup.t]Bu et du KHMDS afin d'etudier la formation du carbene N-heterocyclique libre. [Traduit par la Redaction] Mots-cles : ruthenium, polypyridyl, marquage au [.sup.13]C, carbene N-heterocyclique, photocatalyseur., Introduction A highly investigated method to store solar energy is artificial photosynthesis. (1,2) Water and sunlight are converted into [H.sub.2] and [O.sub.2], or water, sunlight, and [CO.sub.2] are converted into [...]

Flare frequency distributions represent a key approach to addressing one of the largest problems in solar and stellar physics: determining the mechanism that counterintuitively heats coronae to temperatures that are orders of magnitude hotter than the corresponding photospheres. It is widely accepted that the magnetic field is responsible for the heating, but there are two competing mechanisms that could explain it: nanoflares or Alfvén waves. To date, neither can be directly observed. Nanoflares are, by definition, extremely small, but their aggregate energy release could represent a substantial heating mechanism, presuming they are sufficiently abundant. One way to test this presumption is via the flare frequency distribution, which describes how often flares of various energies occur. If the slope of the power law fitting the flare frequency distribution is above a critical threshold, α = 2 as established in prior literature, then there should be a sufficient abundance of nanoflares to explain coronal heating. We performed >600 case studies of solar flares, made possible by an unprecedented number of data analysts via three semesters of an undergraduate physics laboratory course. This allowed us to include two crucial, but nontrivial, analysis methods: preflare baseline subtraction and computation of the flare energy, which requires determining flare start and stop times. We aggregated the results of these analyses into a statistical study to determine that α = 1.63 ± 0.03. This is below the critical threshold, suggesting that Alfvén waves are an important driver of coronal heating.

The USDA, APHIS, PPQ has been conducting a risk-based multi-pest survey (MPS) for the past two years.  The initial 6 statewide survey cycles were conducted on a 6 week basis, whereas the subsequent 20 cycles have been conducted on a 3-week basis.  HLB and ACP are the two main pests addressed by the MPS but other citrus pests and diseases, i.e., Asiatic Citrus Canker (ACC), Citrus Leprosis Virus (CLiV), Citrus Black Spot (CBS) and Citrus Variegated Chlorosis (CVC) were also given lesser emphasis during the survey.