bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substantial heterogeneity of carbon and oxygen stable-isotope compositions of single layers or specimens of natural carbonate materials: New evidence from replicate sampling of continental carbonates affirms previous evidence from marine limestones
Authors: Dupont Laura A. , Railsback L. Bruce , Cox Julia E.
Published: May 2021

The uncertainty of measurements of carbon and oxygen stable-isotope ratios of carbonate materials is commonly assumed to be the analytical uncertainty determined from replicate analyses of single samples, but this ignores the possibility that heterogeneity of the material studied is greater than the analytical uncertainty. To test this question, we took eight samples from each of 13 layers or specimens of various non-marine (“continental”) carbonates and found ranges of δ13C and δ18O of 0.3 to 5.1‰, all exceeding the range of the typical lab-reported analytical uncertainty, ± 0.1‰, placed around single samples. These results are similar to previous replicate sampling of marine limestone layers, which revealed ranges of 0.2 to 2.8‰. Both sets of results, and other published data, demonstrate that analytical uncertainty derived from replicate analysis of a single sample is not a valid estimate of the uncertainty of δ13C or δ18O values characterizing a layer or specimen, and they remind us that we should not place great credence in anomalies or events defined by single samples of layers or specimens, regardless of the replication of analysis of that single sample. Our results indicate that the required layer-level or specimen-level uncertainty can be derived only from replicate sampling at different locations in layers or specimens, and that the layer-level or specimen-level uncertainty is inevitably greater than typical lab-reported analytical uncertainty. Credibility of anomalies or events in time series would be increased by replicate sampling of a random or dispersed subset of layers to estimate the variability of all layers and/or by replicate sampling of layers at and around a potential but unconfirmed event. The significance of the variability discussed above is evident in use of δ18O data to estimate paleotemperatures, where a difference of 1‰ in δ18O implies a difference of 4°C in temperature. Use of a single sample resulting in mischaracterization of the δ18O of an ancient material by 1.5‰ relative to the true mean for that material (which our results suggest is quite possible) would lead to a corresponding misestimation of temperature of 6°C, a significant difference in paleoenvironmental studies.
Controls of aeolian dune height on cross-strata architecture: White Sands Dune Field, New Mexico, U.S.A.
Authors: Zhao Feifei , Cardenas Benjamin T. , Kim Wonsuck
Published: May 2021

The stratal types composing aeolian dunes preserve a record of the transport and sorting of grains and are categorized into: 1) grainflow strata, 2) grainfall laminae, and 3) wind-ripple laminae. The arrangement of these deposits in the cross beds of a formative dune is largely unexplored. Here, field results from White Sands Dune Field, New Mexico, USA, are used to test the hypothesis that dune height controls the arrangement, abundance, and geometry of cross-stratification types. Grainflow thicknesses and deposit widths were measured on wind-scoured stoss-side exposures of seven crescentic dunes with heights ranging from 1.7 m to 11.2 m. Dozens of grainflow thickness measurements were taken along transverse-oriented strata normal to the crest on each dune. The results show that grainflow thickness averages from 1 cm to 4 cm. These data show a positive trend between mean grainflow thickness and dune height but only for the grainflow thicknesses measured at the bases of dunes. The tallest dune (11.2 m) produced many thick grainflow packages of 10 cm to 30 cm in which individual grainflow strata were indistinguishable from each other. This amalgamation was also found to be characteristic of larger dunes—the product of a lack of grainfall deposits separating individual grainflows. These differences in grainflow strata at the bases of dune lee slopes are linked to the temporary storage of sediment along the upper parts of lee slopes. In taller dunes with longer lee slopes, amalgamated grainflows which require multiple avalanche events and take longer time to reach the base transport temporarily stored sediment at upper parts of the slope. This allows time for wind ripples to rework accumulations near the base, where grainfall deposition is also limited. Shorter dunes lack this temporary storage mechanism, as individual grainflows can move across the entire lee slope in a single event, and grainfall accumulates across the entire lee slope. These stratigraphic measurements and process-based understanding will be useful in estimating original dune height in ancient cross-strata and will lead to a better interpretation of aeolian stratigraphy.
Cooperation in the commons: Community-based rangeland management in Namibia
Authors: Karlan Dean , Coppock David , Crowley Lucas , Durham Susan , Groves Dylan , Jamison Julian , Norton Brien , Ramsey R.
Published: May 2021

Classic theories suggest that common pool resources are subject to overexploitation. Community-based resource management approaches may ameliorate “tragedy of the commons” effects. Using a randomized evaluation in Namibia’s communal rangelands, we find that a comprehensive four-year program to support community-based rangeland and cattle management led to persistent and large improvements for eight of thirteen indices of social and behavioral outcomes. But effects on rangeland outcomes, cattle productivity and household economics were either negative or nil. Positive impacts on community resource management may have been offset by communities’ inability to control grazing by non-participating herds and inertia in the rangeland sub-system. This juxtaposition, in which measurable improvements in community resource management did not translate into better outcomes for households or ecosystem health, demonstrates the fragility of the causal pathway from program implementation to intended socioeconomic and environmental outcomes. It also points to challenges for improving climate change adaptation strategies.
Bacteria from Bovine Clinical Mastitis Showed Multiple Drug Resistance
Authors: Awandkar Sudhakar P , Kulkarni Mahesh B
Published: May 2021

Mastitis, most often udder infection of dairy animals attracted concerns due to heavy economic loss to dairy industry and public health. This study was conducted to determine the cultivable bacterial species associated with bovine clinical mastitis and their resistance patterns to different antimicrobials. The milk samples from 272 quarters of cows suffering from clinical mastitis were investigated. A total of 110 bacterial isolates belonging to 14 different genera were isolated and identified. Aminoglycosides and Quinolones were found to be most effective antibiotics. We demonstrated Extended Spectrum β Lactamases (ESBL), Cephalosporins, Tetracyclines, Vancomycin and Chloramphenicol resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria along with Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci (VRE), Multiple Drug Resistant Gram-Negative Rods (MDR-GNR), MDR-Pseudomonas (MDR-P) and MDR Acinetobacter (MDR-A). The ESBLs and cephalosporins resistant S. aureus isolates showed resistance to Vancomycin. Wide spread of resistance among Streptococcus uberis against ESBLs and Cephalosporins, widely used antibiotics in bovine mastitis, was documented. Variable MDR patterns were recorded for every species. MDR transfer from non-pathogens to emerging foodborne and established mastitis pathogens could be potential problem to dairy industry as well as public health.
Massilia Cellulosiltytica Sp. Nov., A Novel Cellulose-degrading Bacterium Isolated from Rhizosphere Soil of Rice (Oryza Sativa L.) and whole Genome Analysis
Authors: Du Chuanjiao , Li Chenxu , Cao Peng , Li Tingting , Du Dandan , Wang Xiangjing , Zhao Junwei , Xiang Wensheng
Published: May 2021

A bacterial strain, Gram-stain negative, rod-shaped, aerobic and cellulose-degrading, designated NEAU-DD11T, was isolated from rhizosphere soil of rice collected from Northeast Agricultural University in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, North-east China. Base on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain NEAU-DD11T belongs to the genus Massilia and shared high sequence similarities with Massilia phosphatilytica 12-OD1T (98.46 %) and Massilia putida 6NM-7T (98.41 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene and whole genome sequences indicated that strain NEAU-DD11T formed a stable cluster with M. phosphatilytica 12-OD1T and M. putida 6NM-7T. The major fatty acids of the strain were C16:0, C17:0-cyclo and C16:1ω7c. The respiratory quinone was Q-8. The polar lipids profile of the strain showed the presence of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, an unidentified polar lipid and an unidentified phospholipid. In addition, the digital DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain NEAU-DD11T and M. phosphatilytica 12-OD1T and M. putida 6NM-7T were 45.4% and 35.6%, respectively, which are lower than the accepted threshold value of 70%. The DNA G + C content of strain NEAU-DD11T was 66.2 %. The whole genome analysis showed the strain contained carbohydrate enzymes such as glycoside hydrolase and polysaccharide lyase, which enabled the strain to had the function of degrading cellulose. On the basis of the phenotypic, genotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics, strain NEAU-DD11T represents a novel species of the genus Massilia, for which the name Massilia cellulosiltytica sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is NEAU-DD11T (= CCTCC AB 2019141T = DSM 109721T).
Is There an Optimal Timing for Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures in the First 24 Hours?
Authors: Okkaoglu Mustafa Caner , Ozdemir Firat Emin , Ozdemir Erdi , Karaduman Mert , Ates Ahmet , Altay Murat
Published: May 2021

Background:We aimed to determine the ideal surgical timing in the first 24 hours after admission to the hospital of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures (SHF) that do not require emergent intervention. Materials and Methods:Patients who underwent surgery in our institution between January 2011 and January 2019 due to pediatric Gartland type 3 SHFs were evaluated retrospectively. Open fractures, fractures associated with vascular injury and compartment syndrome, flexion type fractures were excluded. A total of 150 Gartland type 3 were included. The effect of early (<12 hours) or late (>12 hours) surgical interventions, daytime or night-time surgeries, working or non-working hour surgeries on operative parameters (operative duration and open reduction rate, reduction quality on postoperative early radiographs) were evaluated in pediatric SHFs. Results:Early (<12 hours) or late (>12 hours), daytime or nighttime, working or non-working hour surgeries were found to be similar in Gartland type 3 patients regarding early postoperative reduction quality, duration of surgery, open reduction rate (p>0.05). Mean times passed from first admission to hospital until surgery were longer in working hour, late (>12 hours) and daytime surgery groups than non-working hour, early (<12 hours) and night-time surgery groups (p<0.001). Conclusion:Although delaying the operation to the working hours seems to prolong the time until surgery in pediatric Gartland type 3 SHF patients who do not require emergent intervention such as open fractures, neurovascular impairment and compartment syndrome, there may not be a time interval that makes a difference for the patients if surgery is performed within the first 24 hours, thus the surgery could be scheduled according to the surgeons’ preference.Level of Evidence: Level 3, Retrospective cohort study
Aggregatimonas Sangjinii Gen. Nov., Sp. Nov., A Novel Silver Nanoparticle Synthesizing Bacterium Belonging to the Family Flavobacteriaceaee
Authors: Chung Dawoon , Kim Jaoon Young Hwan , Kim Kyung Woo , Kwon Yong Min
Published: May 2021

A gram-negative, orange-pigmented, non-flagellated, gliding, rod-shaped, and aerobic bacterium, designated strain F202Z8T, was isolated from a rusty iron plate found in the intertidal region of Taean, South Korea. Notably, this strain synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and 17 putative genes responsible for the synthesis of AgNPs were found in its genome. The complete genome sequence of strain F202Z8T is 4,723,614 bp, with 43.26% G + C content. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain F202Z8T forms a distinct lineage with closely related genera Maribacter, Pelagihabitans, Pseudozobellia, Zobellia, Pricia, and Costertonia belonging to the family Flavobacteriaceae. The 16S rRNA sequence similarity was < 94.5%. The digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values calculated from the whole genome-sequence comparison between strain F202Z8T and other members of the family Flavobacteriaceae were in the ranges of 12.7–16.9% and 70.3–74.4%, respectively. Growth was observed at 15–33°C (optimally at 30°C), at pH 6.5–7.5 (optimally at pH 7.0), and with the addition of 2.5–4.5% (w/v) NaCl to the media (optimally at 4.0%). The predominant cellular fatty acids were iso-C15: 0, iso-C15 :1 G, and iso-C17 :0 3-OH; the major respiratory quinone was MK-6. Polar lipids included phosphatidylethanolamine, five unidentified lipids, and two unidentified aminolipids. Our polyphasic taxonomic results suggested that this strain represents a novel species of a novel genus in the family Flavobacteriaceae, for which the name Aggregatimonas sangjinii gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Aggregatimonas sangjinii is F202Z8T (= KCCM 43411T = LMG 31494T).
Theoretical Study on the Noncovalent Interactions Involving Triplet Diphenylcarbene
Authors: Zhao Chunhong , Lin Hui , Shan Aiting , Guo Shaofu , Li Xiaoyan , Zhang Xueying
Published: May 2021

The properties of some types of noncovalent interactions formed by triplet diphenylcarbene (DPC3) have been investigated by means of density functional theory (DFT) calculations and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) studies. The DPC3···LA (LA = AlF3, SiF4, PF5, SF2, ClF) complexes have been analyzed from their equilibrium geometries, binding energies, charge transfer and properties of electron density. The triel bond in the DPC3···AlF3 complex exhibits a partially covalent nature, with the binding energy − 65.7kJ/mol. The tetrel bond, pnicogen bond, chalcogen bond and halogen bond in the DPC3···LA (LA = SiF4, PF5, SF2, ClF) complexes show the character of a weak closed-shell noncovalent interaction. Polarization plays an important role in the formation of the studied complexes. The strength of intermolecular interaction decreases in the order LA = AlF3 > ClF > SF2 > SiF4 > PF5. In the process of complexation, the charge transferrs from DPC3 to the antibonding orbital of AlF3/SF2/ClF, the quantity of charge transfer is very small between DPC3 and SiF4/PF5. The electron spin density transferrs from the radical DPC3 to ClF and SF2 in the formation of halogen bond and chalcogen bond, but for the DPC3···AlF3/SiF4/PF5 complexes, the transfer of electron spin density is minimal.
Serological Rapid Test for Diagnosis of SARS-COVv-2 Works Also on Gastro-intestinal Tissue Samples of COVID-19 Patients: Practical Aspects of Single Center Observational Study.
Authors: Dioscoridi Lorenzo , Massad Mutaz , Forti Edoardo , Pugliese Francesco , Cintolo Marcello , Bonato Giulia , Rosa Roberto , Mutignani Massimiliano
Published: May 2021

SARS-COV-2 infection spreading becomes a long and challenging medical question. The possibility to improve the diagnosis of SARS-COV-2 infection in digestive endoscopy is important because gastrointestinal symptoms can be the presenting symptoms of COVID-19.We tried to obtain a fast and “bedside” diagnosis of gastrointestinal COVID-19 by performing serological rapid test to verify the presence of SARS-COV-2 in gastrointestinal mucosal specimens.From the 4th to the 30th January 2021, regular mucosal biopsies were taken from stomach, ileum or colon of 10 COVID-19 patients (7M, 3F, mean age: 49.7 y.o.) and from 10 negative patients ( 6M, 4F, mean age: 50 y.o.) according to standard clinical indications. One specimen for each patient was placed in a sterile test-tube with 5 drops of standard reagent for rapid serological test for 10 minutes.After that period, both the specimen and the drops were put on the platform for serological rapid tests. In all COVID-19 patients, tests were positive for both IgG and IgM bands (and control bands, confirming that the test worked properly). Otherwise, the analysis of gastrointestinal specimen of negative patients showed only the control band.No differences were found for different specimens (stomach, colon or ileum). Statistical analysis conducted to compare the results of the two groups confirmed the difference between COVID-19 positive and negative groups.Applying this kind of analysis, we can immediately verify if gastrointestinal symptoms (especially diarrhea) of a non-tested patient are related to SARS-COV-2 infection and we can use this test as a rapid test in case of suspected endoscopic findings to confirm the association with SARS-COV-2 infection.In the end, the test can contribute to help in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal manifestations considering the long-term management of SARS-COV-2 infections.
WITHDRAWN: The Catalytic Pyrolysis Mechanism of Cellulose On ZSM-5: Based On Py-GC/MS And Density Functional Theory
Authors: Cheng Xiaoxue , Jiang Ding , Xia Zhen , Barati Bahram , Viswanathan Karthickeyan , Hu Yamin , Qian Lili , He Zhixia , Wang Shuang , Li Hongping
Published: May 2021

Cellulose is one of the main components of terrestrial biomass. In this study, a zeolite catalyst (ZSM-5) was used to catalyze the pyrolysis of cellulose. The components produced during pyrolysis were tested by Py-GC/MS, and the pyrolysis mechanism was analyzed by density functional theory (DFT). The results showed that furans and sugars were the primary pyrolysis products. After catalytic pyrolysis, the furfural content was significantly lower than that of non-catalytic pyrolysis. However, the yield of aromatic hydrocarbons increased significantly, especially benzene, which increased from almost zero to 13.04%. DFT further explored the specific reaction pathway of catalytic pyrolysis. It was found that under the catalysis of ZSM-5, the catalyst directly participated in most cellulose pyrolysis reactions. Also, the electrophilicity of acid sites in the reaction system played an important role. Therefore, the catalysis of the molecular sieve can significantly reduce the energy barrier of each path. In generating aromatic hydrocarbons, the decarbonylation reaction and dehydration reaction of furfural can be completely catalyzed, thereby increasing the reaction rate of generating aromatic hydrocarbons. Some deoxygenation steps occurred during the reaction, which made the catalytic pyrolysis reaction easier to develop, and improved the bio-oil quality.
Morphological, Biochemical and Molecular Characterization of Indigenous Aromatic Rice of Assam
Authors: Bordoloi Dibosh , Sarma Debojit , Barua Nagendra Sarma , Das Bikram Kishore
Published: May 2021

We carried out the morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterization of twenty cultivars of the least studied Joha (aromatic) rice indigenous to Assam. Unweighted Neighbour Joining (UNJ) clustering based on usual Euclidean distances for thirty-seven polymorphic morphological markers grouped the cultivars into three clusters with eight, eleven, and one genotype. The Joha rice cultivars showed highly significant differences for all the quantitative traits except for panicle length. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variability (GCV & PCV) were high for grain yield ha-1 (24.62 & 24.85%) and filled grains panicle-1 (23.69 & 25.02%). All the traits except days to flowering and maturity, flag leaf breadth, and spikelet fertility exhibited high heritability along with high to moderate genetic advance, indicating the predominant role of additive gene action. Mahalanobis D2 analysis revealed three multi-genotypic and four mono-genotypic clusters of the cultivars. The cultivars' average polyunsaturated fatty acids were 37.9% oleic acid, 39.22% linoleic acid, and 0.5% linolenic acid. The fatty acid profile of Local Joha was superior to the other cultivars as it showed a high level of linoleic and linolenic acid and low saturated fatty acid content. Kon Joha 4 and Ronga Joha contained the highest iron (82.88 mg kg-1) and zinc (47.39 mg kg-1), respectively, while protein content of Kon Joha-1 and amylose content of Harinarayan were the highest. Joha (Bihpuria) showed the highest gel consistency of 140.50 mm. Kalijeera, Kunkuni Joha, Kon Joha-5, Manimuni Joha and Kon Joha-2 accorded a strong aroma. PCR amplified 174 alleles with a mean value of 2.64 across the 66 polymorphic SSR markers. PIC values ranged from 0.091 to 0.698, with an average of 0.326. The highly informative (PIC>0.50) markers were RM316, RM283, RM585, RM1388, RM3562, RM171, R1M30, RM118, RM11and RM29 for identification of the twenty aromatic rice cultivars. The UNJ clustering based on Jaccard's coefficients classified the cultivars into three distinct clusters with eight, ten, and two genotypes. Our study revealed the nutritional richness of these specialty Joha rice cultivars and sufficient scope for yield enhancement through their interbreeding to keep quality intact.
Simulation of Gymnastics Performance Based on MEMS Sensor
Authors: Chen Bingxin , Kuang Lifei , He Wei
Published: May 2021

The development and progress of multi-sensor data fusion theory and method also lay the foundation for the research of human posture tracking system based on inertial sensor. This paper mainly studies the simulation of gymnastic performance based on MEMS sensors. In the preprocessing of reducing noise interference, this paper mainly uses median filter to remove signal burr. In this paper, the use of virtual character model for gymnastics performance. The computer receives sensor data from the sink node of the motion capture device through a Bluetooth communication module. The unit calculates the quaternion output from the dynamic link library of sensor data processing, calculates the rotation and coordinate offset of the limb where each sensor node is located, and realizes the real-time rendering of the virtual human model by using the driver of the human model. At the same time, it controls the storage of sensor data, the driving of model and the display of graphical interface. When the gesture action is about to happen, a trigger signal is given to the system to mark the beginning of the action, so as to obtain the initial data of each axis signal of MEMS sensor. When the gesture action is completed, a signal to end the action is given to the system to mark the end of the action, so that the original signal data between the beginning and end of the gesture action can be captured. In order to ensure the normal communication between PS and PL, it is necessary to test the key interface. Because the data received by the SPI acquisition module is irregular, it is unable to verify whether the data is wrong. Therefore, the SPI acquisition module is replaced with an automatic incremental data module, and it is generated into an IP core to build a test platform for testing. The data show that the average measurement errors of x-axis displacement, Y-axis displacement, z-axis displacement and three-dimensional displacement are 8.17%, 7.51%, 9.72% and 8.7%, respectively. The results show that the MEMS sensor can accurately identify the action with high accuracy.
Protective Effect of Pomegranate Peels Extracts Against Stomach Peptic-Ulcer Induced By Brexin In Albino Rats
Authors: Alazzouni Ahmed S. , Daim Mohamed Abdel , Gabri Mohamed S. , Fathalla Aya S. , Albrakati Ashraf , Al-Hazani Tahani , Hassan Basma N.
Published: May 2021

Background: Pomegranate peel extract (PPE) is known to possess bioactive compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids, considered among the more potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory sources.Aims: This study was designed to evaluate PPE activity's protective effect as a natural therapeutic against peptic ulcers induced by Brexin.Methods: 40 rats were divided into four groups: Control group: ten rats received normal saline treatment; Brexit group: ten rats received a single oral dose of Brexit to induce the stomach ulcer; Antodine group: ten rats received Antodine (50 mg/kg) as a commercial drug for the peptic ulcer treatment once for two weeks following a peptic ulcer; Pomegranate group: ten rats of the group received PPE (43 mg/kg) treatments. Histological, histochemical, immunohistochemical techniques were used to detect histopathological damages in stomach rats in all groups.Results: The histopathological results showed that PPE treatments following Brexin-induced peptic ulcer ameliorated histological degenerative changes in the gastric glandular. Chief and surface mucous cells that are lining gastric mucosa were regained when compared with the other groups. The histochemical results showed that PPE treatment following ulcer provided an improvement in the secretion and distribution of the polysaccharides in the epithelial cells when compared with the other groups. Also, immunohistochemical results indicated a significant decrease in immunoreactivity of cytokeratin-20, cyclooxygenase-2, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in epithelial cells of rats in ulcer-model when compared with the other groups.Conclusion: PPE revealed its antiulcer activity and is recommended as a natural remedy against gastric mucosal injury induced by Brexin.
Communication Skills Education in Advance Care Planning: a Survey Study in Medical Students at the University of Antwerp
Authors: de Wiel Mick van , Bombeke Katrien , Janssens Annelies
Published: May 2021

Background Palliative Care (PC) medicine is strongly emerging worldwide. Despite the effort to implement PC in the basic medical curriculum in Belgium, little time is spent on it during theoretical training. For two consecutive years, a survey was presented to all students from the second master’s year medicine from the University of Antwerp. The survey consisted of demographic questions, a knowledge test about PC and an evaluation about students’ self-confidence regarding communicative skills used in end-of-life conversations. First, to evaluate students’ self-confidence regarding end-of-life conversation and mapping out possible gaps in the palliative care training at our university. Second, to assess whether our classes are able to get students to adequately reflect on possible factors that may influence end-of-life conversation.Results Students feel that not enough time is spent on palliative care education. However, good scores were obtained regarding the theoretical knowledge about PC. Students feel confident about general communicative skills, but don’t feel confident about communicative skills specific to palliative care/advance care planning.Conclusion Specific course content can help improve students’ confidence in end-of-life conversation. No difference was seen between real-life teaching or online teaching. Regularly evaluating students’ confidence can help alter course content for the future.
Identification and characterization of a non-conventional CD45 negative perivascular macrophage population within the mouse brain.
Authors: Siret Carole , Lessen Max van , Jeong Hyun-Woo , Wang Shuaiwei , Simic Milesa , de Fabritus Lauriane , Tchoghandjian Aurelie , Fallet Mathieu , Sarrazin Sandrine , Sieweke Michael , Stumm Ralf , Adams Ralf , Merker Stefan , Kiefer Friedemann , de Pavert Serge van
Published: May 2021

Perivascular macrophages (pvM) are closely associated with cerebral vasculature and play an essential role in drainage of the brain and regulation of the immune response. Here, using reporter mouse models and immunofluorescence on sections and whole brain, flow cytometry and single cell sequencing, we identify a Lyve1+ brain perivascular population lacking classical macrophage markers such as CD45 and Cx3cr1. We named the new non-conventional CD45 negative perivascular macrophages pvM2. These cells have a similar location, morphology and phagocytic function as conventional pvM. The pvM2 are not derived from hematopoietic stem cells, as they are negative in the VavtdT lineage tracing model. They increase in number after photothrombotic induced stroke established by flow cytometry and 3D immunofluorescence analysis. Since CD45 negative cells were typically excluded from macrophage studies, the presence of pvM2 has been previously missed and their role is of importance to assess in the brain disease models.
Ca2+ Imaging With Two-photon Microscopy to Detect the Disruption of Brain Function in Mice Administered With Neonicotinoid Insecticides
Authors: Hirai Anri , Sugio Shouta , Nimako Collins , Nakayama Shouta , Kato Keisuke , Takahashi Keisuke , Arizono Koji , Hirano Tetsushi , Hoshi Nobuhiko , Fujioka Kazutoshi , Taira Kumiko , Ishizuka Mayumi , Wake Hiroaki , IKENAKA Yoshinori
Published: May 2021

Neonicotinoid pesticides are insecticides that are insecticides that reportedly have untargeted effects on bees and dragonflies causing a reduction in numbers. Neonicotinoids act as neuroreceptor modulators, and some studies have reported their association with neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the effect of neonicotinoids on the central nervous system has not yet been identified. Herein, we conducted in vivo Ca2+ imaging using a two-photon microscope to detect abnormal activity of neuronal circuits in the brain using a neonicotinoid. The oral administration of acetamiprid (ACE) (20 mg/kg body weight [bw]) in mature mice with a less than the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) and a tenth or half of the median lethal dose (LD50) of nicotine (0.33 or 1.65 mg/kg bw, respectively), as a typical nAChRs agonist, increased anxiety-like behavior associated with altered activities of the neuronal population in the somatosensory cortex. Furthermore, we detected ACE and metabolites in the brain 1 h after ACE administration. The results suggested that in vivo Ca2+ imaging using a two-photon microscope enabled the highly sensitive detection of neurotoxicant-mediated brain disturbance of nerves.
Moderate Boron Concentration Beneficial for Flue-cured Tobacco Seedlings Growth and Development
Authors: Li Mengxia , Deng Xiaopeng , Ren Ke , Liu Rui , Wang Tao , Ji Xinwei , He Chenggang , Li Yongzhong , Zou Congming
Published: May 2021

Boron (B) is a micronutrient tobacco needs in minute amounts, and Boron insufficient supply can causes significant tobacco yield loss, however, the appropriate concentration for flue-cured tobacco seedlings to growth remains unknown. In this sense, a hydroponic experiment was conduct to measure the agronomic traits, dry matter mass, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic performance, antioxidant enzymes, boron ion and nicotine content of flue-cured tobacco seedlings K326 under different boron concentrations of 0.000mmol/L (B1, CK), 0.125mmol/L (B2), 0.250mmol/L (B3), 0.750mmol/L (B4), 5.000mmol/L (B5), 10.000mmol/L (B6), 20.000mmol/L (B7), 40.000mmol/L (B8) after 30 days. B significantly influenced flue-tobacco seedlings growth on agronomic traits, photosynthetic performance, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, boron ion and nicotine content aspects. B linearly enhanced the accumulation of boron ion by 24.00%~96.44%, and decreased nicotine content by 21.60%~82.03% in tobacco seedlings. Solution B concentration at 0.750 and 5.000mmol/L markedly improved tobacco seedlings maximum leaf length by 4.83%~82.03% and leaf width by 0.77%~24.36%, root weight by 13.64%~56.82%, stem weight by 12.26%~52.36%, leaf weight by 9.68%~36.56%, dry matter mass by 10.65%~38.92%, the Pn parameter by 1.22%~80.28%, the Cond paramete by 33.40%~75.86%, while decreased the activities of SOD by 10.44%~91.67%, POD by 21.32%~65.62% and CAT by 50.05%~96.44%, and MDA by 16.23%~75.16%. The B concentration concluded in this study enhanced the agronomy traits, photosynthetic and biochemical characteristics of flue-cured tobacco seedlings, which lays a scientific theoretical foundation for rational application of B in tobacco production and improve the internal quality of flue-cured tobacco.
High Performance Opening Up Dual-core Photonic Crystal Fiber Sensor Based on Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Ghahramani Soghra , Bravestani Jamal , Meshginqalam Bahar
Published: May 2021

Nowadays, plasmonic sensor based on photonic crystal fiber (PCF) attracted a great deal of attention in field of optical sensing. An opening up dual-core photonic crystal fiber based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) are numerically demonstrated and analyzed for detecting wide refractive index (RI) range by Finite-Difference Time-Domain method (FDTD). The wavelength and amplitude integration methods, as well as figure of merit are used to investigate the sensor performance. For improving sensing performance, it is introduced a large hole between two cores in opening up section. The opening up section as a sensing channel is coated with gold film and a thin titanium dioxide (\({TiO}_{2}\)) layer. By surface engineering including imposing of grating on the gold film, specification of optimized values of different layers located near the surface, sensing performance are investigated. Next, the effect of the fiber structural parameters is analyzed to enhancing of SPR and fundamental core mode coupling. The proposed sensor revealed maximum wavelength and amplitude sensitivities of 15167 \(\left(\frac{nm}{RIU}\right)\) and 207.19 \(\left({RIU}^{-1}\right)\), respectively. Due to ease of infiltering analyte and gold coating and tanks to high wavelength and amplitude sensitivity, the sensors can be promising candidate of physical and chemical sensing.
Neuro-adaptive Fixed-time Non-singular Fast Terminal Sliding Mode Control Design for a Class of Under-actuated Nonlinear Systems
Authors: ULLAH SAFEER , Khan Qudrat , Mehmood Adeel
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a fixed-time control design for a class of uncertain under-actuated nonlinear systems (UNS) using a non-singular fast terminal sliding mode control (TSMC) with a radial basis function (RBF) based estimator to achieve the fast convergence and robustness against the uncertain disturbances. The generalized mathematical model of the considered class is first reduced into an equivalent regular form, which is more convenient for any control synthesis design. A fast TSMC is designed for the transformed regular form to improve the control performance and annihilate the associated singularity problem of the conventional TSMC scheme. The steering of sliding manifold and system states in fixed-time is ensured through the Lyapunov stability theory. The RBF-based neural networks are used to adaptively estimate the nonlinear drift functions, which are feedbacked to the control input. The theoretical design, analysis and simulations of cart-pendulum and quadcopter systems demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of the regular form transformation and the designed control design. Comparing the proposed control synthesis with the standard literature presents the attractive nature of the proposed method for such a class.
Tobacco and Alcohol as Factors for Male Infertility – a Public Health Approach
Authors: Basic Marin , Mitic Dejan , Krstic Mirjana , Cvetkovic Jovana
Published: May 2021

The study of reproductive characteristics of 430 male subjects of different age, fertility status and educational level who were covered by the program of extracorporeal fertilization at the Gynecological-Obstetric Clinic in Niš, examined knowledge, attitudes and behaviour regarding tobacco and alcohol consumption as predictors of infertility risk. The methodology consisted of analyses of spermiograms and a survey on the patients’ reactions to smoking and alcohol use. Results: Statistical analysis, expressed by Hi-square test and a unilateral regression analysis, yielded the following results: the proportion with higher tobacco consumption and more severe forms of infertility increased significantly with ageing (p<0.001); the highest consumption of daily doses of alcoholic beverages and the incidence of intoxication is with azoospermic patients; the level of awareness of tobacco harmfulness is highest in normozoospermic ones, and the most significant degree of determination to quit smoking in the future is with azoospermic subjects. The determination to quit alcohol in the future does not correspond to the most vulnerable categories of respondents. Belonging to educational groups does not coincide with their expected health behaviour. In all categories of subjects concerning fertility status, smoking was found to be a risk factor for its deterioration. Smokers are 12 times more likely to develop oligospermia than non-smokers (OR 12.331). Conclusion: appropriate use of health promotion activities in relation to alcohol and tobacco use is through specially designed programs.
Intravoxel Incoherent Motion for Differentiating Spinal Metastasis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Li Yuan , Xing Xiaoying , Zhang Enlong , Qin Siyuan , Yuan Huishu , Lang Ning
Published: May 2021

Background: To investigate the value of an intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) MRI for discriminating spinal metastasis from tuberculous spondylitis.Methods: This study included 50 patients with spinal metastasis (32 lung cancer, 7 breast cancer, 11 renal cancer), and 20 tuberculous spondylitis. All patients underwent IVIM MRI at 3.0T before treatment. The IVIM parameters including single-index model ( Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)-stand), double exponential model (ADCslow，ADCfast and f) and stretched-exponential model parameters (distributed diffusion coefficient (DDC) and α) were acquired. Two radiologists separately measured these parameters for each lesion through drawing region of interest. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and the area under the ROC curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance. Each parameter was substituted into the Logistic regression model to determine the meaningful parameters, and the combined diagnostic performance was evaluated.Results: The ADCfast and f showed significant differences between spinal metastasis and tuberculous spondylitis. (for all, p < 0.05). The Logistic regression model results showed that ADCfast and f were independent factors affecting the conclusion (P<0.05). The AUC values of ADCfast and f were 0.823 (95%CI:0.719 to 0.927) and 0.876 (95%CI: 0.782 to 0.969), respectively. ADCfast combined with f showed the highest AUC value of 0.925 (95%CI: 0.858 to 0.992). Additional significant differences were found in ADCstand, ADCslow, DDC and α among different metastasis type.Conclusions: IVIM MR imaging may be helpful for differentiating spinal metastasis from tuberculous spondylitis and may be used to detect the origin tumor for those patients who could not identify primary tumors, and provide help for clinical treatment.
Title: Does the use of 3D Cones give a chance to postpone the use of resection prosthesis?
Authors: Kotrych Daniel , Brodecki Adam , Marcinkowski Sławomir , Anuszkiewicz Marcin , Kleszowski Jakub , Ciechanowicz Dawid , Bohatyrewicz Andrzej
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose: Revision procedures and the resulting bone loss are still a big challenge for orthopedic surgeons. Therefor we checked, what post-operative functional outcomes 3D printed Cone augments offer in patients with bone defects (AORI classification type 2 and 3) of the knee joint and does use of Cones can delay the necessity to use resection prothesis?Methods Data from 64 patients (M=22; W=42) who underwent a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) revision in two clinical hospitals were included in the retrospective analysis. 3D printed Cones were used in all patients. The Knee Society Clinical Rating System (KSS) and the range of motion in the knee joint were used for the functional assessment of patients.Results The mean follow-up was 22 months (range, 12 to 38 months). Survival for aseptic loosening at follow-up was 100%. Infection occurred in 2 (3.1%) patients. The mean KSS score increased from 12.75 points preoperatively to 66.56 points postoperatively (p <0.001). While the mean range of motion in the knee joint changed from 61.15 degrees preoperatively to 115.93 degrees postoperative (p <0.001).Conclusion Due to the good functional results of patients and the low rate of complications, 3D printed Cone augments seems to be a good solution for patients requiring a TKA revision procedure. When used in patients with bone defects classified as 2B and 3 (AORI), they can be a good alternative, delaying the need for resection prostheses.
Clinical Characteristics of Immune-Mediated Necrotizing Myopathy with Autoantibodies Recognizing the Signal Recognition Particle: A Retrospective Study of a Chinese Cohort
Authors: Tang Qi , He Jinshen , Li Feng , Chen Jinwei , Tian Jing , Wang Jia , Mao Ni , Du Jinfeng , Liao Jiafen , Ling Guanghui , Li Shu , Ge Yan , Xie Xi
Published: May 2021

Objective: Immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM) with autoantibodies recognizing the signal recognition particle (SRP) patients tend to have prominent proximal weakness and infrequent extra-muscular involvement, especially interstitial lung disease (ILD). However, we reported a Chinese cohort of anti-SRP IMNM patients with relatively more frequent ILD.Methods: Anti-SRP IMNM patients from September 2016 to November 2019 were included according to the most recent European Neuromuscular Center criteria for IMNM. All sera for anti-SRP autoantibody and other myositis-related autoantibodies detection were obtained before the treatment initiation. Muscle strength, coexisting autoimmunity, complications including ILD, treatment and follow-up outcomes were also recorded. Univariate logistic regression was performed to determine variables predicting bad outcomes.Results: Of 271 patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy tested, we diagnosed 23 (8.5%) patients with anti-SRP IMNM. Muscle weakness was presented in 23 patients (100%) and generally worse in the lower limbs. ILD was observed in 50% anti-SRP IMNM patients. Predictor of bad outcomes identified by univariate logistic regression analysis was complicated ILD (odds ratio, 3.8).Conclusion: ILD tends to be more frequent in this Chinese anti-SRP IMNM cohort from Hunan province. Complicated ILD represents a risk factor for bad outcomes for anti-SRP IMNM.
Predictors Of Fetal Macrosomia Among Women Delivering At A Tertiary Hospital In Tanzania: Case Control Study
Authors: Ngadaya Emmanuel Imani , Rweyemamu Maria Angelica , Mwampagatwa Proffesor Ipyana Hudson , Lilungulu Athanase Gervase
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Women who deliver macrosomic or big baby have been observed to sustain adverse maternal and fetal outcomes such as prolonged labor, perineal tears, uterine rupture, postpartum hemorrhage, maternal and neonatal deaths. The study aimed at assessing predictive factors associated with fetal macrosomia at a tertiary hospital in Tanzania.Methods: This was an analytical quantitative study that used a case-control study design in which cases were women who delivered babies weighing ≥ 4000g while controls were those who delivered babies weighing 2500g to 3500g. Purposive sampling technique was employed to recruit both controls and cases 216 participants. This was an unmatched case control study. A structured questionnaire was used for the data collection. SPSS version 25 software program was used for data entry and analysis.Results: The identified predictors associated with fetal macrosomia at Iringa Regional Referral hospital were advanced gestation age (AOR=8.16, CI 3.49-19.03, p=<0.0001), diabetes mellitus during pregnancy (AOR =12.03, CI 1.28 -13.14, p= 0.0297) and a previous history of macrosomic baby delivery (AOR = 3.01, CI 1.02 -8.89, p=0.0467).Conclusion: women with advanced gestation age, diabetes mellitus during pregnancy, and a previous history of macrosomic baby delivery are at an increased risk of delivering a macrosomic baby.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Ourmia-like Mycovirus Infecting the Phytopathogenic Fungus Botryosphaeria Dothidea
Authors: Sun Liying , Lian Ziqian , Das Subha , Luo Jingxian , Andika Ida Bagus
Published: May 2021

In this study, we describe the full-length genome sequence of a novel ourmia-like mycovirus, tentatively designated Botryosphaeria dothidea ourmia-like virus 1 (BdOLV1), isolated from the phytopathogenic fungus, Botryosphaeria dothidea strain P8, associated with apple ring rot in Shanxi province, China. The complete BdOLV1 genome is comprised of 2797 nucleotides, a positive-sense (+) single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) with a single open reading frame (ORF). The ORF putatively encodes a 642-amino acid polypeptide with conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) motifs, related to viruses of the family Botourmiaviridae. Phylogenetic analysis based on the RdRp amino acid sequences showed that BdOLV1 is grouped with oomycete-infecting unclassified viruses closely related to the genus Botoulivirus in Botourmiaviridae. This is the first report of a novel (+)ssRNA virus in B. dothidea related to the genus Botoulivirus in the family Botourmiaviridae.
Dietary palmitic acid promotes tumor growth and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation in prostate cancer
Authors: Huang Fengjiao , Sun Bingqian , Wang Xiaoying , Jian Xiao , Du Qindan , Chen Jiayao , chen yongquan
Published: May 2021

Background

High-fat diet (HFD) is a major risk factor for prostate cancer (PCA). Palmitic acid (PA) is the main constituent of HFD, and the main end product of fatty acid synthase (FASN). However, the effect of dietary intake of PA on the occurrence and development of PCA is rarely reported. This study aims to explore the effect of PA on PCA in mice.
Methods

Twelve nude mice were divided into two groups, one group was fed with a high-PA diet and the other group was fed with a normal control (NC) diet. Twelve c-MycT mice were treated the same as the nude mice. The following analyses were performed: measuring tumor weight and size, H&E staining, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and western blot assay detecting the expression of Ki67, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, TGF-β1, as well as searching and analyzing of the gene data from TCGA database.
Results

FASN is positively related to the malignancy of PCA. PA diet stimulated the progression of PCA, induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and activated transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signal both in nude mice and c-MycT mice. The expression levels of CD36 were positively associated with the expression of TGF-β1, and these two genes were related to poor prognosis of patients with PCA.
Conclusion

PA promotes PCA formation and activates TGF-β1 signal, inducing EMT in PCA. TGF-β1 is a potential target for the treatment of PCA.