bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and optimization of thermal contrast amplification lateral flow immunoassays for ultrasensitive HIV p24 protein detection
Authors: Zhan Li , Granade Timothy , Liu Yilin , Wei Xierong , Youngpairoj Ae , Sullivan Vickie , Johnson Jeff , Bischof John
Published: July 2020

Detection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) p24 protein at a single pg/ml concentration in point-of-care (POC) settings is important because it can facilitate acute HIV infection diagnosis with a detection sensitivity approaching that of laboratory-based assays. However, the limit of detection (LOD) of lateral flow immunoassays (LFAs), the most prominent POC diagnostic platform, falls short of that of laboratory protein detection methods such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Here, we report the development and optimization of a thermal contrast amplification (TCA) LFA that will allow ultrasensitive detection of 8 pg/ml p24 protein spiked into human serum at POC, approaching the LOD of a laboratory test. To achieve this aim, we pursued several innovations as follows: (a) defining a new quantitative figure of merit for LFA design based on the specific to nonspecific binding ratio (BR); (b) using different sizes and shapes of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) in the systematic optimization of TCA LFA designs; and (c) exploring new laser wavelengths and power regimes for TCA LFA designs. First, we optimized the blocking buffer for the membrane and running buffer by quantitatively measuring the BR using a TCA reader. The TCA reader interprets the thermal signal (i.e., temperature) of GNPs within the membrane when irradiated by a laser at the plasmon resonance wavelength of the particle. This process results in higher detection and quantitation of GNPs than in traditional visual detection (i.e., color intensity). Further, we investigated the effect of laser power (30, 100, 200 mW), GNP size and shape (30 and 100 nm gold spheres, 150 nm gold-silica shells), and laser wavelength (532, 800 nm). Applying these innovations to a new TCA LFA design, we demonstrated that 100 nm spheres with a 100 mW 532 nm laser provided the best performance (i.e., LOD = 8 pg/ml). This LOD is significantly better than that of the current colorimetric LFA and is in the range of the laboratory-based p24 ELISA. In summary, this TCA LFA for p24 protein shows promise for detecting acute HIV infection in POC settings.
Odor identification performance in children aged 3–6 years
Authors: Schriever Valentin A. , Zscheile Liesa , Gellrich Janine , Hummel Thomas
Published: July 2020

Background

While valid and reliable olfactory tests have been developed for children aged >5 years, olfactory testing has not systematically been evaluated in younger children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of the “U-Sniff” odor identification test in children aged 3–6 years.

Methods

We included 160 healthy children (age range 3–6 years) and 14 congenitally anosmic children. Participants were investigated in two identical sessions. The “U-Sniff” test was used to evaluate olfactory function. A picture identification test (PIT) and the Kasel-Concentration-Task (KKA) were administered to identify factors influencing odor identification performance.

Results

Age significantly influenced odor identification performance, with older children achieving higher scores. PIT and KKA scores correlated positively with odor identification scores. The “U-Sniff” test demonstrated a high test–retest reliability (r160 = 0.75, p < 0.001). It was possible to distinguish between healthy and anosmic children by means of “U-Sniff” scores starting at age 4 years with high sensitivity (79–93%) and specificity (88–95%).

Conclusions

The “U-Sniff” test is feasible for children starting at age 3 years. In children aged ≥4 years, it is a reliable and valid method to distinguish between normal olfactory function and anosmia.

Impact

Olfactory testing is reliable and valid starting at an age of 4 years.

The study adds a systematic evaluation of olfactory testing in young children.

Results of this study are especially interesting for clinicians in the diagnosis of olfactory dysfunction.
Whole-exome sequencing of long-term, never relapse exceptional responders of trastuzumab-treated HER2+ metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Walsh Naomi , Andrieu Charlotte , O’Donovan Peter , Quinn Cecily , Maguire Alanna , Furney Simon J. , Gullo Giuseppe , Crown John
Published: July 2020

Trastuzumab has significantly improved the overall survival of patients with HER2+ metastatic breast cancer (MBC). However, outcomes can vary, with patients progressing within 1 year of treatment or exceptional cases of complete response to trastuzumab for ≥10 years. Identification of the underlying genomic aberrations of “exceptional responders (ExRs)” compared to “rapid non-responders (NRs)” increases our understanding of the mechanisms involved in MBC progression and identification of biomarkers of trastuzumab response and resistance. Whole-exome sequencing was performed on six ExRs compared to five NR. The overall fraction of genome copy number alteration (CNA) burden was higher in NR patients (P = 0.07), while more significantly pronounced in copy number gains (P = 0.03) in NR compared to ExRs. Delineation of the distribution of CNA burden across the genome identified a greater degree of CNA burden in NR within Chr8 (P = 0.02) and in Chr17 (P = 0.06) and conferred a statistically significant benefit in overall survival. Clinical trial number: NCT01722890 [ICORG 12/09].
Association of obesity status and metabolic syndrome with site-specific cancers: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Cao Zhi , Zheng Xiaomin , Yang Hongxi , Li Shu , Xu Fusheng , Yang Xilin , Wang Yaogang
Published: July 2020

Background

Obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) appear in clusters and are both associated with an increased risk of cancer. However, it remains unknown whether obesity status with or without MetS increases the risk of site-specific cancers.

Methods

We used data derived from 390,575 individuals (37–73 years old) from the UK Biobank who were enrolled from 2006–2016 with a median of 7.8 years of follow-up. Obesity was defined by BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2and MetS was defined by the criteria of the Adult Treatment Panel-III (ATP-III). Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the associations of BMI and MetS with 22 cancers.

Results

Metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) phenotypes represented 6.7% and 17.9% of the total analytic samples and 27.1% and 72.9% of the included subpopulation with obesity, respectively. Obesity was independently associated with higher risks of 10 of 22 cancers. Stratified by metabolic status, the MUO phenotype was consistently associated with 10 obesity-related cancers. In contrast, the MHO phenotype was only associated with increased risks of five cancers: endometrium, oesophagus, kidney, pancreas and postmenopausal breast cancers.

Conclusion

Even in metabolically healthy individuals, obesity was associated with increased risks of five cancers, whereas we did not find that these individuals were associated with increased risks of several other obesity-related cancers.
Author Correction: Microbial habitability of Europa sustained by radioactive sources
Authors: Altair Thiago , de Avellar Marcio G. B. , Rodrigues Fabio , Galante Douglas
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Zika virus infection in pregnancy and adverse fetal outcomes in São Paulo State, Brazil: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sanchez Clemente Nuria , Brickley Elizabeth B. , Paixão Enny S. , De Almeida Marcia F. , Gazeta Rosa E. , Vedovello Danila , Rodrigues Laura C. , Witkin Steven S. , Passos Saulo D.
Published: July 2020

Robust epidemiological and biological evidence supports a causal link between prenatal Zika Virus (ZIKV) infection and congenital brain abnormalities including microcephaly. However, it remains uncertain if ZIKV infection in pregnancy also increases the risk for other adverse fetal and birth outcomes. In a prospective cohort study we investigated the influence of ZIKV on the prevalence of prematurity, low birth weight, small-for-gestational-age, and fetal death as well as microcephaly (i.e., overall and disproportionate) in the offspring of women attending a high-risk pregnancy clinic during the recent ZIKV outbreak in Brazil. During the recruitment period (01 March 2016–23 August 2017), urine samples were tested for ZIKV by RT-PCR from all women attending the high-risk pregnancy clinic at Jundiaí University Hospital and from the neonates after delivery. Of the 574 women evaluated, 44 (7.7%) were ZIKV RT-PCR positive during pregnancy. Of the 409 neonates tested, 19 (4.6%) were ZIKV RT-PCR positive in the first 10 days of life. In this cohort, maternal ZIKV exposure was not associated with increased risks of prematurity, low birth weight, small-for-gestational-age, or fetal death. However, relative to ZIKV-negative neonates, ZIKV-positive infants had a five-fold increased risk of microcephaly overall (RR 5.1, 95% CI 1.2–22.5) and a ten-fold increased risk of disproportionate microcephaly (RR 10.3, 95% CI 2.0–52.6). Our findings provide new evidence that, in a high-risk pregnancy cohort, ZIKV RT-PCR positivity in the neonate at birth is strongly associated with microcephaly. However, ZIKV infection during pregnancy does not appear to influence the risks of prematurity, low birth weight, small-for-gestational-age or fetal death in women who already have gestational comorbidities. The results suggest disproportion between neonatal head circumference and weight may be a useful screening indicator for the detection of congenital microcephaly associated with ZIKV infection.
Aerosol and surface contamination of SARS-CoV-2 observed in quarantine and isolation care
Authors: Santarpia Joshua L. , Rivera Danielle N. , Herrera Vicki L. , Morwitzer M. Jane , Creager Hannah M. , Santarpia George W. , Crown Kevin K. , Brett-Major David M. , Schnaubelt Elizabeth R. , Broadhurst M. Jana , Lawler James V. , Reid St. Patrick , Lowe John J.
Published: July 2020

The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) originated in Wuhan, China in late 2019, and its resulting coronavirus disease, COVID-19, was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. The rapid global spread of COVID-19 represents perhaps the most significant public health emergency in a century. As the pandemic progressed, a continued paucity of evidence on routes of SARS-CoV-2 transmission has resulted in shifting infection prevention and control guidelines between classically-defined airborne and droplet precautions. During the initial isolation of 13 individuals with COVID-19 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, we collected air and surface samples to examine viral shedding from isolated individuals. We detected viral contamination among all samples, supporting the use of airborne isolation precautions when caring for COVID-19 patients.
Virtual screening identifies broad-spectrum β-lactamase inhibitors with activity on clinically relevant serine- and metallo-carbapenemases
Authors: Spyrakis Francesca , Santucci Matteo , Maso Lorenzo , Cross Simon , Gianquinto Eleonora , Sannio Filomena , Verdirosa Federica , De Luca Filomena , Docquier Jean-Denis , Cendron Laura , Tondi Donatella , Venturelli Alberto , Cruciani Gabriele , Costi Maria Paola
Published: July 2020

Bacteria are known to evade β-lactam antibiotic action by producing β-lactamases (BLs), including carbapenemases, which are able to hydrolyze nearly all available β-lactams. The production of BLs represents one of the best known and most targeted mechanisms of resistance in bacteria. We have performed the parallel screening of commercially available compounds against a panel of clinically relevant BLs: class A CTX-M-15 and KPC-2, subclass B1 NDM-1 and VIM-2 MBLs, and the class C P. aeruginosa AmpC. The results show that all BLs prefer scaffolds having electron pair donors: KPC-2 is preferentially inhibited by sulfonamide and tetrazole-based derivatives, NDM-1 by compounds bearing a thiol, a thiosemicarbazide or thiosemicarbazone moiety, while VIM-2 by triazole-containing molecules. Few broad-spectrum BLs inhibitors were identified; among these, compound 40 potentiates imipenem activity against an NDM-1-producing E. coli clinical strain. The binary complexes of the two most promising compounds binding NDM-1 and VIM-2 were obtained at high resolution, providing strong insights to improve molecular docking simulations, especially regarding the interaction of MBLs with inhibitors.
Current prevalence of perioperative early venous thromboembolism and risk factors in Chinese adult patients with inguinal hernia (CHAT-1)
Authors: Wang Minggang , Zhang Guangyong , Chen Jie , Li Jianwen , Che Yan , Tang Jianxiong , Li Hangyu , Li Junsheng , Ma Yingmin
Published: July 2020

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an important postoperative complication. We investigated and analyzed the current inguinal hernia treatment methods and occurrence of early postoperative VTE in Chinese adults. This study involved data for patients with inguinal hernia hospitalized in 58 general hospitals in mainland China from January 1st, 2017 to December 31st, 2017. Data were retrospectively analyzed using a questionnaire. After data inputting and cleaning, we stratified and statistically analyzed patients' data using Caprini scores to create a high-, middle-, and low-risk group. A total of 14,322 patients with inguinal hernia were admitted to the 58 participating hospitals. After data collation and cleaning, 13,886 patients (97.0%) met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. The percentages of laparoscopic surgery and open surgery were 51.2% and 48.8%, respectively. 16 VTEs occurred during the hospitalization, accounting for 0.1% of all adverse events (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11–0.13). The incidence of VTE was 0.2% (95% CI 0.18–0.2) in the high-risk group and 0.02% (95% CI 0.01–0.03) in the middle-risk group, based on Caprini scoring, with a significant difference (p < 0.0001). No VTE occurred in the low-risk group. Only 3,250 (23.4%) patients underwent Caprini risk assessment regarding treatment, with 13.2% receiving any prevention and only 1.2% receiving appropriate prevention. The treatment of inguinal hernia in Chinese adults has progressed somewhat; however, the evaluation and prevention of perioperative VTE was seriously neglected, in our study, and the incidence of postoperative VTE was underestimated postoperatively. Risk factors continue to be inadequately considered.
Stronger resting-state neural oscillations associated with wiser advising from the 2nd- but not the 3rd-person perspective
Authors: Huang Chengli , Zhang Haotian , Huang Jinhao , Duan Cuiwen , Kim Juensung J. , Ferrari Michel , Hu Chao S.
Published: July 2020

This is the first electroencephalogram study exploring the personal perspective effect on wise advising. Participants advised hypothetical protagonists in life dilemmas from both the 2nd- and 3rd-person perspective. Their advice for each dilemma was rated by two independent raters on wisdom criteria, i.e., metacognitive humility, metacognitive flexibility, and perspective taking. The results revealed that participants felt a significantly shorter psychological distance from protagonists when advising from the 2nd- (vs. the 3rd-) person perspective, p < 0.001. However, there was no significant effect of perspective condition on the wisdom score. Nevertheless, stronger resting-state absolute EEG powers in the frontal lobe were associated with wiser advising from the 2nd-, but not the 3rd-person perspective. Moreover, Z tests revealed that the correlations between the resting-state absolute EEG powers and wisdom scores were significantly stronger during advising from the 2nd- than the 3rd-person perspective. These results suggest that advising from the 2nd-person perspective was more self-related, and mental activities during rest contributed to advising from the 2nd- but not the 3rd-person perspective.
Metagenomic analysis of gut microbiota in non-treated plaque psoriasis patients stratified by disease severity: development of a new Psoriasis-Microbiome Index
Authors: Dei-Cas Ignacio , Giliberto Florencia , Luce Leonela , Dopazo Hernán , Penas-Steinhardt Alberto
Published: July 2020

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin disorder. Imbalance of gut microbial populations has been implicated in many diseases. We aimed to investigate whether there were differences in gut microbiota in psoriasis patients vs non-psoriasis controls and between psoriasis severity groups. 55 psoriasis patients and 27 controls were included. V3–V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene of fecal samples were analyzed using Illumina MiSeq. Bioinformatic analysis was performed. We found changes in gut microbiome composition depending on their psoriasis status as determined by weighted unifrac (p < 0.05), in particular an increase in Firmicutes and depletion of Bacteroidetes in psoriasis patients. Additionally, theFaecalibacteriumandBlautiagenus were higher in psoriasis patients whileBacteroidesandParaprevotellain non-psoriasis controls (p < 0.05, LDA score > 2). Moderate-to-severe psoriasis patients had lower biodiversity than mild psoriatic patients (p = 0.049). No differences for beta-diversity were found. We developed a Psoriasis-Microbiota Index (PMI), which discriminated among psoriasis patients and controls with sensitivity: 0.78 and specificity: 0.79. Furthermore, we performed a meta-analysis with published data to validate this index. We demonstrated gut dysbiosis in psoriasis patients, suggesting a role in psoriasis pathophysiology. Furthermore, we developed a PMI with the potential to discriminate between psoriasis patients and controls across different populations, which could be used as a biomarker in the clinical practice.
Chaining of hard disks in nematic needles: particle-based simulation of colloidal interactions in liquid crystals
Authors: Müller David , Kampmann Tobias Alexander , Kierfeld Jan
Published: July 2020

Colloidal particles suspended in liquid crystals can exhibit various effective anisotropic interactions that can be tuned and utilized in self-assembly processes. We simulate a two-dimensional system of hard disks suspended in a solution of dense hard needles as a model system for colloids suspended in a nematic lyotropic liquid crystal. The novel event-chain Monte Carlo technique enables us to directly measure colloidal interactions in a microscopic simulation with explicit liquid crystal particles in the dense nematic phase. We find a directional short-range attraction for disks along the director, which triggers chaining parallel to the director and seemingly contradicts the standard liquid crystal field theory result of a quadrupolar attraction with a preferred $${45^{\circ }}$$45∘ angle. Our results can be explained by a short-range density-dependent depletion interaction, which has been neglected so far. Directionality and strength of the depletion interaction are caused by the weak planar anchoring of hard rods. The depletion attraction robustly dominates over the quadrupolar elastic attraction if disks come close. Self-assembly of many disks proceeds via intermediate chaining, which demonstrates that in lyotropic liquid crystal colloids depletion interactions play an important role in structure formation processes.
Comparison of the prognostic values of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose parameters from colon and non-colon sites of involvement in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the colon
Authors: Lim Chae Hong , Hyun Seung Hyup , Moon Seung Hwan , Cho Young Seok , Choi Joon Young , Lee Kyung-Han
Published: July 2020

We examined the prognostic values of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) parameters from colon, non-colon, and total lesions in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the colon. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in 50 patients was retrospectively analyzed for maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG). During follow-up, 13 patients showed progression and 9 died from disease. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis showed that non-colon and total lesion MTV and TLG and colon lesion SUVmax were associated with progression or death. Significant univariate predictors of poor event-free survival (EFS) included stage III-IV, greater International Prognostic Index (IPI) score, no resection, high non-colon lesion SUVmax, MTV and TLG, and high total lesion MTV and TLG. Univariate predictors of poor overall survival (OS) included stage III–IV, greater IPI score, no resection, high non-colon lesion MTV and TLG, high total lesion MTV, and low colon lesion SUVmax. Multivariate analysis revealed that high non-colon lesion TLG was independently associated with poor EFS and OS. Low colon lesion SUVmax was also independently associated with poor OS. In a subgroup with colon-dominant involvement (n = 35), non-colon lesion MTV and TLG were associated with events and non-colon lesion MTV was associated with patient death. Univariate analysis showed that high non-colon lesion MTV was a significant predictor of poor EFS and OS, while non-colon lesion TLG was a significant predictor of poor OS. Thus, volumetric FDG parameters of non-colon lesions offered significant prognostic information in patients with DLBCL of the colon.
Publisher Correction: A cognitively demanding working-memory intervention enhances extinction
Authors: de Voogd Lycia D. , Phelps Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: Identifying priority conservation areas in a Saharan environment by highlighting the endangered Cuvier’s Gazelle as a flagship species
Authors: Herrera-Sánchez F. Javier , Gil-Sánchez Jose María , Álvarez Begoña , Cancio Inmaculada , de Lucas Jesus , Arredondo Ángel , Díaz-Portero Miguel Ángel , Rodríguez-Siles Javier , Sáez Juan Manuel , Pérez Joaquín , McCain Emil , Qninba Abdeljebbar , Abáigar Teresa
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Photo-triggered large mass transport driven only by a photoresponsive surface skin layer
Authors: Kitamura Issei , Kato Keisuke , Berk Rafael Benjamin , Nakai Takashi , Hara Mitsuo , Nagano Shusaku , Seki Takahiro
Published: July 2020

Since the discovery 25 years ago, many investigations have reported light-induced macroscopic mass migration of azobenzene-containing polymer films. Various mechanisms have been proposed to account for these motions. This study explores light-inert side chain liquid crystalline polymer (SCLCP) films with a photoresponsive polymer only at the free surface and reports the key effects of the topmost surface to generate surface relief gratings (SRGs) for SCLCP films. The top-coating with an azobenzene-containing SCLCP is achieved by the Langmuir–Schaefer (LS) method or surface segregation. A negligible amount of the photoresponsive skin layer can induce large SRGs upon patterned UV light irradiation. Conversely, the motion of the SRG-forming azobenzene SCLCP is impeded by the existence of a LS monolayer of the octadecyl side chain polymer on the top. These results are well understood by considering the Marangoni flow driven by the surface tension instability. This approach should pave the way toward in-situ inscription of the surface topography for light-inert materials and eliminate the strong light absorption of azobenzene, which is a drawback in optical device applications.
Novel microwire-based biosensor probe for simultaneous real-time measurement of glutamate and GABA dynamics in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Doughty P. Timothy , Hossain Imran , Gong Chenggong , Ponder Kayla A. , Pati Sandipan , Arumugam Prabhu U. , Murray Teresa A.
Published: July 2020

Glutamate (GLU) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are the major excitatory (E) and inhibitory (I) neurotransmitters in the brain, respectively. Dysregulation of the E/I ratio is associated with numerous neurological disorders. Enzyme-based microelectrode array biosensors present the potential for improved biocompatibility, localized sample volumes, and much faster sampling rates over existing measurement methods. However, enzymes degrade over time. To overcome the time limitation of permanently implanted microbiosensors, we created a microwire-based biosensor that can be periodically inserted into a permanently implanted cannula. Biosensor coatings were based on our previously developed GLU and reagent-free GABA shank-type biosensor. In addition, the microwire biosensors were in the same geometric plane for the improved acquisition of signals in planar tissue including rodent brain slices, cultured cells, and brain regions with laminar structure. We measured real-time dynamics of GLU and GABA in rat hippocampal slices and observed a significant, nonlinear shift in the E/I ratio from excitatory to inhibitory dominance as electrical stimulation frequency increased from 10 to 140 Hz, suggesting that GABA release is a component of a homeostatic mechanism in the hippocampus to prevent excitotoxic damage. Additionally, we recorded from a freely moving rat over fourteen weeks, inserting fresh biosensors each time, thus demonstrating that the microwire biosensor overcomes the time limitation of permanently implanted biosensors and that the biosensors detect relevant changes in GLU and GABA levels that are consistent with various behaviors.
Survival differences and associated molecular signatures of DNMT3A-mutant acute myeloid leukemia patients
Authors: Lauber Chris , Correia Nádia , Trumpp Andreas , Rieger Michael A. , Dolnik Anna , Bullinger Lars , Roeder Ingo , Seifert Michael
Published: July 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a very heterogeneous and highly malignant blood cancer. Mutations of the DNA methyltransferaseDNMT3Aare among the most frequent recurrent genetic lesions in AML. The majority ofDNMT3A-mutant AML patients shows fast relapse and poor survival, but also patients with long survival or long-term remission have been reported. Underlying molecular signatures and mechanisms that contribute to these survival differences are only poorly understood and have not been studied in detail so far. We applied hierarchical clustering to somatic gene mutation profiles of 51DNMT3A-mutant patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) AML cohort revealing two robust patient subgroups with profound differences in survival. We further determined molecular signatures that distinguish both subgroups. Our results suggest thatFLT3and/orNPM1mutations contribute to survival differences ofDNMT3A-mutant patients. We observed an upregulation of genes of the p53, VEGF and DNA replication pathway and a downregulation of genes of the PI3K-Akt pathway in short- compared to long-lived patients. We identified that the majority of measured miRNAs was downregulated in the short-lived group and we found differentially expressed microRNAs between both subgroups that have not been reported for AML so far (miR-153-2,miR-3065,miR-95,miR-6718) suggesting that miRNAs could be important for prognosis. In addition, we learned gene regulatory networks to predict potential major regulators and found several genes and miRNAs with known roles in AML pathogenesis, but also interesting novel candidates involved in the regulation of hematopoiesis, cell cycle, cell differentiation, and immunity that may contribute to the observed survival differences of both subgroups and could therefore be important for prognosis. Moreover, the characteristic gene mutation and expression signatures that distinguished short- from long-lived patients were also predictive for independentDNMT3A-mutant AML patients from other cohorts and could also contribute to further improve the European LeukemiaNet (ELN) prognostic scoring system. Our study represents the first in-depth computational approach to identify molecular factors associated with survival differences ofDNMT3A-mutant AML patients and could trigger additional studies to develop robust molecular markers for a better stratification of AML patients withDNMT3Amutations.
Different levels of estradiol are correlated with sexual dysfunction in adult men
Authors: Chen Tong , Wu Fei , Wang Xianlong , Ma Gang , Xuan Xujun , Tang Rong , Ding Sentai , Lu Jiaju
Published: July 2020

Ejaculatory dysfunction, including premature ejaculation (PE) and delayed ejaculation (DE), as well as erectile dysfunction (ED), constitute the majority of male sexual dysfunction. Despite a fair amount of data on the role of hormones and erection and ejaculation, it is inconclusive due to controversy in the current literature. To explore the correlation of male sexual dysfunction with hormonal profile, 1,076 men between the ages of 19–60 years (mean: 32.12 years) were included in this retrospective case–control study; 507 were categorized as ED, PE and DE groups. Five hundred and sixty-nine men without sexual dysfunction were enrolled in the control group. The background characteristics and clinical features of the four groups were collected and analyzed. The estradiol value was significantly elevated in the ED group than the control group (109.44 ± 47.14 pmol/L vs. 91.88 ± 27.68 pmol/L; P < 0.001). Conversely, the DE group had significantly lower level of estradiol than control did (70.76 ± 27.20 pmol/L vs. 91.88 ± 27.68 pmol/L; P < 0.001). The PE group had similar level of estradiol (91.73 ± 31.57 pmol/L vs. 91.88 ± 27.68 pmol/L; P = 0.960) but significantly higher level of testosterone (17.23 ± 5.72 nmol/L vs. 15.31 ± 4.31 nmol/L; P < 0.001) compared with the control group. In conclusion, elevated serum testosterone concentration was an independent risk factor for PE. Besides, there was a progressively increasing graded-distribution of estradiol values from DE to PE and ED groups.
Influence of artificial turf temperature on physical performance and muscle contractile properties in football players after a repeated-sprint ability test
Authors: Calderón-Pellegrino Gabriel , Gallardo Leonor , Paredes-Hernández Víctor , García-Unanue Jorge , Giménez Jesus Vicente , Colino Enrique , Felipe Jose Luis , Sánchez-Sánchez Javier
Published: July 2020

This study aimed to analyse the effect of playing surface temperature on muscular and thermal response to a repeated-sprint ability (RSA) test in football players. Thirty-two male football players (23 ± 5 years; 1.77 ± 0.06 m; 71.2 ± 6.7 kg) from two squads of a third-division football club participated in the study. An RSA test was carried out at a high surface temperature (45.34 ± 2.53 °C) and low surface temperature (27.21 ± 2.17 °C). Before and after this test, the muscular response of the players was assessed through tensiomyography and thermograms. The results revealed that performance in the RSA test particularly increased at a higher surface temperature, especially in the first 5 m of the 30 m sprint test. While a reduction in maximal radial displacement (Dm) in the biceps femoris post-RSA was observed at lower surface temperatures, a higher temperature on the thigh, hamstring and calf was found in the higher surface temperature group. In conclusion, higher surface temperatures had an influence on players’ thermal and tensiomyographic profile and improved performance in their repeated-sprint ability. These results suggest a need for coaches and players to be aware of these parameters to ensure adequate functionality and safety of the playing surface.
3D printing of high-strength chitosan hydrogel scaffolds without any organic solvents
Authors: Zhou Luyu , Ramezani Hamed , Sun Miao , Xie Mingjun , Nie Jing , Lv Shang , Cai Jie , Fu Jianzhong , He Yong
Published: July 2020

Here, a novel direct ink printing method was developed to print high-strength chitosan hydrogel scaffolds without any organic solvents.
Self-assembly of a robust, reduction-sensitive camptothecin nanotube
Authors: Sun Yuan , Fry Cathleen M. , Shieh Aileen , Parquette Jon R.
Published: July 2020

We report that crosslinking a self-assembled, camptothecin nanotube via disulfide bond formation reversibly stabilizes the nanotubes at low concentrations and inhibits the release of CPT. In a reducing environment, the nanotubes dissociate leading to rapid drug release.
Chiral covalent organic frameworks: design, synthesis and property
Authors: Han Xing , Yuan Chen , Hou Bang , Liu Lujia , Li Haiyang , Liu Yan , Cui Yong
Published: July 2020

Owing to the unique structural features and facile tunability of the subcomponents and channels, chiral COFs show great potential in heterogeneous catalysis, enantioselective separation, and recognition.
Ultrasmall Au nanoclusters for bioanalytical and biomedical applications: the undisclosed and neglected roles of ligands in determining the nanoclusters' catalytic activities
Authors: Chen Da , Li Jinghong
Published: July 2020

The structure and biocatalytic activities of Au NCs are discussed from the perspective of the ligands, with particular emphasis on the exploration of the undisclosed and neglected roles of shell ligands in the biocatalytic activities of Au NCs.
Understanding the efficiency of ionic liquids–DMSO as solvents for carbohydrates: use of solvatochromic- and related physicochemical properties
Authors: Bioni Thaís A. , de Oliveira Mayara L. , Dignani Marcella T. , El Seoud Omar A.
Published: July 2020

The quantification of interactions of solvatochromic probes with ionic liquids/DMSO serves as an expedient approach for predicting the solvent efficiency in dissolving carbohydrates
A new type IV DES: a competent green catalyst and solvent for the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated diketones and dicyano compounds by Knoevenagel condensation reaction
Authors: Shaibuna M. , Hiba K. , Theresa Letcy V. , Sreekumar K.
Published: July 2020

Preparation, characterisation and application of novel type IV DESs from CeCl3·7H2O and HBDs (urea, ethylene glycol, glycerol and lactic acid).
Magnetic hysteresis and strong ferromagnetic coupling of sulfur-bridged Dy ions in clusterfullerene Dy2S@C82
Authors: Krylov Denis , Velkos Georgios , Chen Chia-Hsiang , Büchner Bernd , Kostanyan Aram , Greber Thomas , Avdoshenko Stanislav M. , Popov Alexey A.
Published: July 2020

Sub-Kelvin magnetic hysteresis allows precise determination of the energy difference between the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic states of dinuclear molecular magnets such as Dy2S@C82.
Exploring the practical efficiency limit of silicon solar cells using thin solar-grade substrates
Authors: Augusto A. , Karas J. , Balaji P. , Bowden S. G. , King R. R.
Published: July 2020

For commercially-viable solar-grade silicon, thinner wafers and surface saturation current densities below 1 fA cm−2, are required to significantly increase the practical efficiency limit of solar cells.
Microphysiological systems for the modeling of wound healing and evaluation of pro-healing therapies
Authors: Deal Halston E. , Brown Ashley C. , Daniele Michael A.
Published: July 2020

Wound healing microphysiological systems have been engineered with synthetic and natural materials and techniques such as bioprinting or viscous finger patterning. Model designs focus on particular phases of wound healing or the recapitulation of micro-anatomies.
HOTTIP polymorphism may affect gastric cancer susceptibility by altering HOTTIP expression
Authors: Wang Ben-gang , Li Yi-zhi , Ding Han-xi , Lv Zhi , Xu Qian , Yuan Yuan
Published: July 2020

Background: Non-coding RNA polymorphisms can affect disease risk and prognosis by influencing gene expression. Here, we first investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOTTIP and gastric cancer risk/prognosis. Methods: A total of five HOTTIP SNPs among 627 gastric cancer cases and 935 controls were tested by Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) assay. The functional SNPs underwent eQTL analysis and the expression of HOTTIP was assessed by quantitative RT-PCR. Results: The rs2067087 and rs3807598 SNPs of HOTTIP increased susceptibility to gastric cancer (rs2067087: dominant model, P=0.008, odds ratio (OR) = 1.35; rs3807598: recessive model, P=0.037, OR = 1.29). Both HOTTIP rs2067087 and rs3807598 could affect the expression of mature lncRNA (P=0.003 and P=0.032, respectively). Conclusion: The rs2067087 and rs3807598 SNPs of HOTTIP are associated with gastric cancer risk, possibly by affecting the expression of mature HOTTIP.
ROS based SLAM implementation for Autonomous navigation using Turtlebot
Authors: Pramod Thale Sumegh , Mangesh Prabhu Mihir , Vinod Thakur Pranjali , Kadam Pratik
Published: July 2020

This paper presents the autonomous navigation of a robot using SLAM algorithm.The proposed work uses Robot Operating system as a framework.The robot is simulated in gazebo and Rviz used for data visualization.Gmapping package is used for mapping by utilizing laser and odometry data from various sensors.The Turtlebot provides open source software to perform navigation.
Association Mining for Super Market Sales using UP Growth and Top-K Algorithm
Authors: Bhope Harshal , Mahajan Yash , Deore Swapnil , Jethani Vimla
Published: July 2020

Frequent itemsets(HUIs) mining is an evolving field in data mining, that centers around finding itemsets having a utility that meets a user-specified minimum utility by finding all the itemsets. A problem arises in setting up minimum utility exactly which causes difficulties for users. By setting minimum utility underneath average, too many incessant itemsets will be generated, which in turn will make the mining process quite inefficient. No frequent itemsets will be found if the minimum utility is set too huge. The research focuses on generating frequent itemsets by using the transaction weighted utility of each product. While using UP growth methodology for discovering high utility items from large datasets it takes more time and consumes more memory due to which it is less efficient. So to overcome these drawbacks of UP growth we use the Top-K algorithm which makes it more scalable and efficient. Therefore, we use the Top-K algorithm which does not require a minimum threshold.
An ML and SMS remote access based model for Anti-theft protection of Android devices
Authors: Sawant Tanuja , Shah Dhrupal , Sontakke Smita , Gunjgur Prathmesh
Published: July 2020

Android phones being stolen is a significant problem that causes concerns to intellectual privacy and property. Always protecting smartphones from being stolen is a problem that remains. The key findings of the survey of existing systems for theft protection are, they provide various efficient functionalities but fail when the internet is unavailable or require specialized equipment to detect thefts. Most of these solutions are not free of charge, inefficient, time-consuming, or/and inflexible. This paper puts forward a system that provides an ML-based real-time anti-theft and remote access system for android devices. It detects theft using SVM-RBF model trained on feature-set extracted from the inertial sensor’s data with an accuracy of 0.76. Whereas remote access is provided using short message services (SMS). The salient feature of this system is minimal configuration without intruding human-assisted tasks. Moreover, it will be an excellent help for authentic smartphone users to realize the theft situation and utilize the remote access features.
Detection of Thoracic Diseases using Deep Learning
Authors: Palani Salome , Kulkarni Arya , Kochara Abishai , M Kiruthika
Published: July 2020

The study of using deep learning for detection of various thoracic diseases has been an active and challenging research area. Chest X-rays are currently the most common and globally used radiology practices for detecting thoracic diseases. Patients suffering from thoracic diseases need to take Chest X-Rays which are read by radiologists and a report is generated by them. However, today with the increase in the number of thoracic patients, a quick method to classify the disease and generate the report has become necessary. Also, patient history has to be considered for diagnosis. This paper offers a comparative study on the various deep learning techniques that can process chest x-rays and are capable of detecting the different thoracic diseases. Also, a technique has been proposed to classify 14 diseases namely Atelectasis, Cardiomegaly, Consolidation, Edema, Effusion, Emphysema, Fibrosis, Hernia, Infiltration, Mass, Nodule, Pneumonia, Pneumothorax, Pleural thickening based on the given X-rays using Residual Neural Network.
Underwater Object Detection using Tensorflow
Authors: Mahavarkar Avinash , Kadwadkar Ritika , Maurya Sneha , Raveendran Smitha
Published: July 2020

Object Detection is a popular technology that detects instances within an image. In order to eliminate the barriers in Computer Vision technology due to the dissolution of the BGR(Blue-Green-Red) constituents with the increase in depth, it has been a necessity that the accuracy and efficiency of detecting any object underwater is optimum. In this article, we conduct Underwater Object Detection using Machine Learning through Tensorflow and Image Processing along with Faster R-CNN (Regions with Convolution Neural Network) as an algorithm for implementation. A suitable environment will be created so that Machine Learning algorithm will be used to train different images of the object. Open source Computer Vision has various functions which can be used for the image processing needs when an image is captured.
Pour une recherche scientifique responsable
Authors: Barré Rémi
Published: July 2020

L’objet du cycle de colloques était de mettre en débat et d’enrichir une réflexion qui avait donné lieu à la publication du manifeste Pour une recherche scientifique responsable. Le chercheur est-il un rouage impuissant ou un acteur pleinement responsable ? Et si oui, à quelles conditions ? Le premier colloque visait à identifier le rôle du contexte institutionnel, économique et politique. Le deuxième colloque avait pour point d’entrée la responsabilité du chercheur lui-même. Le troisième colloque a posé la question de comment envisager une autre recherche : quels contre-modèles existent ou émergent ? Il s’agit maintenant de passer à la vitesse supérieure par le développement d’une communauté d’acteurs-chercheurs se reconnaissant dans ces nouvelles pratiques. D’où l’appel à la mise en mouvement des imaginations et la déclaration « qu’une autre science est possible ». Partie prenante d’un nouveau contrat science-société pour une transition écologique et sociale, une recherche scientifique responsable pourrait alors émerger.
Structural Changes in the Posterior Interosseous Nerve from Patients with Wrist Osteoarthritis and Asymptomatic Controls
Authors: Swärd Elin , Nennesmo Inger , Wilcke Maria
Published: July 2020

Background Posttraumatic morphological changes have been described in the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) after mild wrist trauma, and it has been suggested that posttraumatic nerve changes may contribute to wrist pain. PIN excision has shown to relieve pain in some patients with wrist osteoarthritis. However, is not known if PINs from osteoarthritic wrist have pathological features.

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate whether PINs from osteoarthritic wrists show morphological changes that are not present in healthy wrists.

Materials and Methods PINs resected from 15 osteoarthritic wrists were analyzed with light microscopy regarding morphological changes and compared with five asymptomatic controls without osteoarthritis.

Results No significant differences in fascicular area, myelinated fiber density or myelinated fiber diameter were found. However, most patients and controls exhibited some degree of pathology, and a few samples from both groups exhibited severe pathological changes.

Conclusions Our findings of morphological changes in both patients with osteoarthritis and asymptomatic controls suggest that pathological changes of unknown significance might exist in the general population in the PIN at wrist level. We believe that the observed structural nerve changes in the PIN are unlikely to contribute to the symptoms of pain. Further studies of the normal histological appearance of the terminal PIN are needed.

Level of Evidence This is Level II study.
Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease—The Clinical Aspects and Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Wicher Dorota , Obrycki Łukasz , Jankowska Irena
Published: July 2020

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is one of the most common ciliopathies with kidney (nephromegaly, hypertension, renal dysfunction) and liver involvement (congenital hepatic fibrosis, dilated bile ducts). Clinical features also include growth failure and neurocognitive impairment. Plurality of clinical aspects requires multidisciplinary approach to treatment and care of patients. Until recently, diagnosis was based on clinical criteria. Results of genetic testing show the molecular basis of polycystic kidneys disease is heterogeneous, and differential diagnosis is essential. The aim of the article is to discuss the role of genetic testing and its difficulties in diagnostics of ARPKD in children.
Goldenhar Syndrome Presenting As Squamosal Chronic Otitis Media
Authors: Ambewadi Ravi , Bhat Vikram Kemmannu , Salian Prajna Laxman
Published: July 2020

Goldenhar syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly involving the eye, ear, vertebra, and the mandible. This anomaly presenting primarily to the ENT outpatient clinic with ear discharge and cholesteatoma is still rarer. Here we describe one such rare case that was a challenge to diagnose as well as manage. We also discuss the various problems in the management and highlight the need for a multispecialty approach to tackling the various pathologies in such a case.
Marketing, consumption and their determinants in village poultry production in four states of Ethiopia
Authors: Hailemichael Aklilu , Gebremedhin Berhanu
Published: July 2020

Context
It is widely recognised that village poultry play important roles nutritionally, economically and socio-culturally in developing countries such as Ethiopia where the sector makes up the largest portion of the national poultry meat and egg production. The importance of socioeconomic environment for improving the contribution of village poultry to household income and diets is receiving little attention in research and development.

Aims
The present study examined whether and to what extent household, flock, institutional and infrastructural factors enable or constrain village poultry marketing and consumption.

Methods
The results of the study are based on analysis of data drawn from a cross-sectional survey of 5004 households conducted in four regions of Ethiopia. On the basis of the type of dependent variable, probit and ordinary least squares regression models and marginal effects were used to determine whether and how much the aforementioned factors affect household involvement in marketing or consumption of village poultry.

Key results
Flock size per household highly significantly and positively affected poultry selling. Majority of the households (82%) sold their poultry primarily for covering planned household expenses. Male-headed households had a lower likelihood of selling poultry and an increased mean number of birds consumed, than did female-headed households. A lower probability of selling poultry was associated with an increasing household-asset ownership and an increasing distance to a market town. Participation in training increased poultry consumption per household.

Conclusions
Our empirical results showed that factors related to household characteristics, flock size, infrastructure and institutional services affected marketing and consumption of household poultry. Household attributes are important to identify and target the right groups for poultry research and development, and market infrastructure and institutional services have to be developed for improving opportunities of smallholders to better benefit from poultry marketing or consumption.

Implications
Finally, along with technical efforts to increase production, sustainability and nutritional and economic impacts could be improved if research and development interventions were to holistically take into account the socioeconomic and institutional context under which poultry-producing households operate.