bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High royal jelly production does not impact the gut microbiome of honey bees
Authors: Damico Megan E. , Rueppell Olav , Shaffer Zack , Han Bin , Raymann Kasie
Published: September 2021

Background

Honey bees are not only essential for pollination services, but are also economically important as a source of hive products (e.g., honey, royal jelly, pollen, wax, and propolis) that are used as foods, cosmetics, and alternative medicines. Royal jelly is a popular honey bee product with multiple potential medicinal properties. To boost royal jelly production, a long-term genetic selection program of Italian honey bees (ITBs) in China has been performed, resulting in honey bee stocks (here referred to as RJBs) that produce an order of magnitude more royal jelly than ITBs. Although multiple studies have investigated the molecular basis of increased royal jelly yields, one factor that has not been considered is the role of honey bee-associated gut microbes.

Results

Based on the behavioral, morphological, physiological, and neurological differences between RJBs and ITBs, we predicted that the gut microbiome composition of RJBs bees would differ from ITBs. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the bacterial composition of RJB and ITB workers from an urban location and RJBs from a rural location in China. Based on 16S rRNA gene profiling, we did not find any evidence that RJBs possess a unique bacterial gut community when compared to ITBs. However, we observed differences between honey bees from the urban versus rural sites.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the environmental factors rather than stock differences are more important in shaping the bacterial composition in honey bee guts. Further studies are needed to investigate if the observed differences in relative abundance of taxa between the urban and rural bees correspond to distinct functional capabilities that impact honey bee health. Because the lifestyle, diet, and other environmental variables are different in rural and urban areas, controlled studies are needed to determine which of these factors are responsible for the observed differences in gut bacterial composition between urban and rural honeybees.
Effect of parental presence on anxiety during induction of anaesthesia in children undergoing elective day case surgery
Authors: Talabi Ademola Olusegun , Sowande Oludayo Adedapo , Mosaku Kolawole Samuel , Owojuyigbe Afolabi Muyiwa , Amosu Lukmon Olusesan , Adejuyigbe Olusanya
Published: September 2021

Background

Surgical operation and anaesthesia induction are fearful events which may interfere with the smooth conduct of anaesthesia and postoperative recovery in children. Indeed, the fear of needles, syringes and unknown hospital environment often compound their anxiety. Various modalities such as use of clowns, music, low intensity light in the induction room, pharmacological agents and parental presence during induction of anaesthesia have been utilized with the aim of gaining the cooperation of the children during induction. However, their use has yielded conflicting results. This prospective study was conducted among children whose ages were between 2 and 15 years. They were randomized into parental presence and parental absence (un-accompanied) or control groups. The anxiety levels of children and parents in both groups were compared at baseline, separation and during induction of anaesthesia.

Results

The ages of the children ranged between 2 and 15 years with a mean age of 6.78 ± 2.50 years. The mean age of patients in the parental presence at induction (PPIA) was 7.14 ± 3.68 years while in the control group was 6.42 ± 3.31 years. The difference was not statistically significant, p < 0.05. The mean anxiety score of patients in the PPIA at reception, separation and induction of anaesthesia were 26.6 ± 9.2, 38.4 ± 18.3 and 54.1 ± 22.8 compared to 27.3 ± 8.04, 41.4 ± 21.7 and 58.6 ± 23.1 in the control group respectively, p < 0.05. The mean anxiety score of parents in the PPIA at reception, separation and induction of anaesthesia were 52.2 ± 6.7, 51.7 ± 7.8 and 51.9 ± 7.9 compared to 53.0 ± 6.5, 52.4 ± 6.2 and 52.9 ± 7.9 in the control group respectively, p < 0.05. Among the cohort of preschool age group, children in the control group were more anxious at induction compared to the PPIA group, p = 0.01. As the age increases, the anxiety state of the children decreases, t = − 0.398, p < 0.001. The mean score of parental satisfaction in the PPIA and the control groups were comparable, 8.1 ± 7.1 vs 7.3 ± 1.1 respectively, p = 0.395.

Conclusion

The presence of parents during induction of anaesthesia did not influence the anxiety states of children in our study. Anxiety at induction tends to reduce as the age of patients increases.
Identification of tick-borne pathogens using metagenomic analyses in H. longicornis feeding on humans in downtown Beijing
Authors: Lv Jizhou , Wang Huiyu , Han Xueqing , Mei Lin , Yuan Xiangfen , Kong Yufang , Deng Junhua , Fu Zhen F. , Wu Shaoqiang , Lin Xiangmei
Published: September 2021

On August 14th, 2018, a Beijing resident living in Xicheng District found a female H. longicornis tick attached to the skin at the front of his upper shin. On examination, the patient was afebrile and appeared well. The species of the tick was identified through morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome C oxidase subunit I. This H. longicornis tick was screened for tick-borne pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and parasites. RNA pathogens were screened by PCR and sequencing, while DNA pathogens were screened by metagenomic analyses. It was found that the tick was positive for the DNA sequences of zoonotic and animal pathogens such as A. phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia minasensis and C. burnetii. Considering the good health condition of the patient, we hypothesized that the pathogens originated from the tick specimen itself rather than host blood meal. For the first time, our study reveals the possible risk of transmission of tick-borne pathogens to human beings through tick bit in downtown Beijing. Further research is needed to screen for tick-borne pathogens among unfed ticks collected from central Beijing.
Capecitabine Versus Active Monitoring in Stable or Responding Metastatic Colorectal Cancer After 16 Weeks of First-Line Therapy: Results of the Randomized FOCUS4-N Trial
Authors: Adams Richard A. , Fisher David J. , Graham Janet , Seligmann Jenny F. , Seymour Matthew , Kaplan Richard , Yates Emma , Parmar Mahesh , Richman Susan D. , Quirke Philip , Butler Rachel , Brown Ewan , Collinson Fiona , Falk Stephen , Wasan Harpreet , Shiu Kai-Keen , Middleton Gary , Samuel Leslie , Wilson Richard H. , Brown Louise C. , Maughan Timothy S. ,   on behalf of the FOCUS4 Trial Investigators
Published: September 2021

PURPOSE

Despite extensive randomized evidence supporting the use of treatment breaks in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), they are not universally offered to patients despite improvements in quality of life without detriment to overall survival (OS). FOCUS4-N was set up to explore the impact of oral maintenance therapy in patients who are responding to first-line therapy.

METHODS

FOCUS4 was a molecularly stratified trial program that registered patients with newly diagnosed mCRC. The FOCUS4-N trial was offered to patients in whom a targeted subtrial was unavailable or biomarker tests failed. Patients were randomly assigned using a 1:1 ratio between maintenance capecitabine and active monitoring (AM). The primary outcome was progression-free survival (PFS) with secondary outcomes including OS toxicity and tolerability.

RESULTS

Between March 2014 and March 2020, 254 patients were randomly assigned (127 to capecitabine and 127 to AM) across 88 UK sites. Baseline characteristics were balanced. There was strong evidence of efficacy for PFS (hazard ratio = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.75; P < .0001), but no significant improvement in OS (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.69 to 1.27; P = .66) was observed. Compliance with treatment was good, and toxicity from capecitabine versus AM was as expected with grade ≥ 2 fatigue (25% v 12%), diarrhea (23% v 13%), and hand-foot syndrome (26% v 3%). Quality of life showed little difference between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Despite strong evidence of disease control with maintenance therapy, OS remains unaffected and FOCUS4-N provides additional evidence to support the use of treatment breaks as safe management alternatives for patients who are stable or responding to first-line treatment for mCRC. Capecitabine without bevacizumab may be used to extend PFS in the interval after 16 weeks of first-line therapy.
Early Completion of Model-Assisted Designs for Dose-Finding Trials
Authors: Kojima Masahiro
Published: September 2021

PURPOSE

We propose a novel early completion method for phase I dose-finding trials using model-assisted designs. The trials can halt when a maximum tolerated dose (MTD) is estimated with sufficient accuracy. Early completion can reduce the average number of patients treated relative to the planned number, thereby allowing the trial to proceed to enrolling an expansion cohort for efficacy and enabling the trial to reach the next phase faster.

METHODS

Early completion is conducted on the basis of a dose-retainment probability using dose-assignment decisions. We evaluated early the completion for two actual trials. In addition, we performed a computer simulation to confirm the percentage of correctly selected MTDs, the early completion percentage, and the average number of patients treated.

RESULTS

In the evaluation of the two actual trials, we confirmed that the trials completed early. In the simulation results, we confirmed that the percentages of correct MTD selection were maintained relative to the original model-assisted designs. The early completion percentages ranged from 50% to 90%, and the number of patients treated reduced from 20%-60% relative to the planned number of patients.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the early completion method can be applied unproblematically to the model-assisted design of phase I dose-finding trials.
Photon Hall effect in two-dimensional photonic crystal waveguide
Authors: Zhao Li-Ming , Zhou Yun-Song , Wei Gong-Min
Published: September 2021

The finding of Photon Hall effect (PHE) on metal surface is an important progress in photonics, but it will be more practical if PHE can be realized in line-type waveguide. In this paper, we suggested a way to realize PHE in two-dimensional photonic crystal (PC) waveguide. Numerical simulation results show that the propagating direction and strength of light in the PC waveguide can be controlled by the polarization state of incident light. Different from the PHE on metal surface, the PHE in PC waveguide can be driven not only by circularly polarized light, but also by linearly polarized light. The PHE in PC waveguide can be attributed to the interference of the two component waves excited by the incident light.
Regulation of host phenotypic plasticity by gut symbiont communities in the eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes)
Authors: Sapkota Rajani , Nakatsu Cindy H. , Scharf Michael E.
Published: September 2021

Termites are eusocial insects that host a range of prokaryotic and eukaryotic gut symbionts and can differentiate into a range of caste phenotypes. Soldier caste differentiation from termite workers follows two successive molts (worker–presoldier–soldier) that are driven at the endocrine level by juvenile hormone (JH). Although physiological and eusocial mechanisms tied to JH signaling have been studied, the role of gut symbionts in the caste differentiation process is poorly understood. Here, we used the JH analog methoprene in combination with the antibiotic kanamycin to manipulate caste differentiation and gut bacterial loads in Reticulitermes flavipes termites via four bioassay treatments: kanamycin, methoprene, kanamycin+methoprene, and an untreated (negative) control. Bioassay results demonstrated a significantly higher number of presoldiers in the methoprene treatment, highest mortality in kanamycin+methoprene treatment, and significantly reduced protist numbers in all treatments except the untreated control. Bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequencing provided alpha and beta diversity results that mirrored bioassay findings. From ANCOM analysis, we found that several bacterial genera were differentially abundant among treatments. Finally, follow-up experiments showed that if methoprene and kanamycin or untreated termites are placed together, zero or rescued presoldier initiation, respectively, occurs. These findings reveal that endogenous JH selects for symbiont compositions required to successfully complete presoldier differentiation. However, if the gut is voided before the influx of JH, it cannot select for the necessary symbionts that are crucial for molting. Based on these results, we are able to provide a novel example of linkages between gut microbial communities and host phenotypic plasticity.
Researching and practicing ARTIVISM through field-crossing: an innovative method for collaborative research
Authors: Salzbrunn Monika
Published: September 2021

While collaborative research has mainly focused on the relationship between researchers and research partners in the field, several recent works have contributed to reflecting on the relationships between researchers of various backgrounds and roles, and the challenges and benefits of teamwork. While conducting the ERC-funded ARTIVISM project, I have continued to rethink the ways research can be conducted collectively, especially when starting from a multi-sensory approach and by applying apprenticeship and audio-visual techniques. I developed the method of field-crossing, which allows the researcher to regularly contrast perspectives and perceptions, and which helps researchers regain emotional and intellectual independence after an intensive, year-long period of fieldwork as and among artivists. The article shows how field-crossing allows its practitioners to reflect in an innovative way on their positioning in a field, open new perspectives, integrate surprises and disruptive and unexpected developments, and cope with inner and collective conflicts. Finally, collective feedback sessions about text and image publications (comics, films) with the artivists are not only part of our ethical approach but also serve as elicitation sessions which reflect the complexity of field relations and individual and collective perspectives among and between field-crossers and artivists.
“Feeling in Control”: Optimal Busyness and the Temporality of Organizational Controls
Authors: Lupu Ioana , Rokka Joonas
Published: September 2021

This study extends prior research seeking to understand the reproduction and persistence of excessive busyness in professional settings by addressing the relationship between organizational controls and temporal experiences. Drawing on 146 interviews and more than 300 weekly diaries in two professional service firms, we develop a framework centered on the emerging concept of optimal busyness, an attractive, short-lived temporal experience that people try to reproduce/prolong because it makes them feel energized and productive as well as in control of their time. Our findings show that individuals continuously navigate between different temporal experiences separated by a fine line, quiet time, optimal busyness, and excessive busyness, and that optimal busyness that they strive for is a fragile and fleeting state difficult to achieve and maintain. We show that these temporal experiences are the effect of the temporality of controls—that is, the ability of controls to shape professionals’ temporal experience through structuring, rarefying, and synchronizing temporality. Moreover, we find that professionals who regularly face high temporal pressures seek to cope with these by attempting to construct/prolong optimal busyness through manipulating the pace, focus, and length of their temporal experiences, a process we call control of temporality. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the reproduction of busyness by explaining why professionals in their attempts to feel in control of their time routinely end up overworking.
Foucault, examen y estadística: El Instituto Mental de la Santa Cruz entre 1855-1936
Authors: Nowak Victoria Sedkowski
Published: September 2021

Este trabalho apresenta uma revisão da técnica disciplinar do exame que o autor Michel Foucault desenvolveu em sua obra Vigiar e Punir (1975) e a relaciona com o conceito de “estatística” de que trata o curso Segurança, Território, População entre 1977 e 1978. Será dada especial ênfase à inclusão do indivíduo em um “campo documental” produzido pelo exame, exemplificando-o com os registros documentais dos anos 1855-1936 do antigo Instituto Mental de la Santa Cruz y San Pablo da cidade de Barcelona, assim como com as mudanças legislativas em matéria de saúde mental que aconteceram entre esses anos.
Effects of Supplemental Cations on Growth and Nitrogen Accumulation in Canna indica L.
Authors:   Graduate Master’s Degree Program in Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Manokieng Manutsawan , Jampeetong Arunothai ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
Published: September 2021

Abstract The effects of supplemental cations on growth, nitrogen, and mineral accumulation were assessed in Canna indica L. Similar sized 45 days-old plants were grown on a nutrient solution modified from Hoagland and Arnon (1950). The different cations were added to generate 6 treatments (n=4): (i) control (no cation added), (ii) 2.5 mM K+, (iii) 2.5 mM Ca2+, (iv) 75 mM Na+, (v) 1.25 mM K+ + 1.25 mM Ca2+ and (vi) 2.5 mM Ca2+ + 75 mM Na+, respectively. An experiment was carried out in the greenhouse for 49 days. The study found that supplemental K+ and K++ Ca2+ increased plant growth and total biomass. The highest SER was found in plants receiving supplemental K+. In contrast, SERs, leaf areas, and total biomass decreased in Na+ or Na++Ca2+ supplemented plants. The accumulated NO3- concentration (at the whole plant level) was also highest in the plants with supplemental K+ and K++Ca2+. The total nitrogen accumulation was higher in the K+, Ca2+, and K++Ca2+ supplemented plants than in the control plants. The results suggest that supplemental cations particularly K+ can enhance plant growth and nitrogen accumulation in C. indica. Therefore, cation supplementation could be an alternative technique to stimulate plant growth and improve nitrate removal in constructed wetlands. Keywords: Constructed wetland, Nitrate removal, Potassium, Tropical wetland plants
Morphometry and Phylogeny of the Different Populations of Selaginella tamariscina (P. Beauv.) Spring and S. pulvinata (Hook. & Grev.) Maxim. in Northern Thailand
Authors:   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Meuang, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Pongkawong Udon , Kampuansai Jatupol ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Meuang, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Pollawatn Rossarin ,   Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand, Jampeetong Arunothai ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Meuang, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
Published: September 2021

Abstract “Dok Hin” is the Thai local name for Selaginella species that form rosettes. They commonly distributes in Siberia, Manchuria, southern China, Japan, the Philippines and Thailand. Morphology of Dok Hin is very resemble leading to misidentification. So, exactly number of species of Dok Hin in Thailand and their differences in morphological characteristics is not well understood. Thus, revision of morphological characters and phylogenetic confirmation of the taxonomic identification are needed. This study aims to examine morphological charateristics and phylogenetic patterns in eight populations of the Dok Hin in Northern Thailand. Morphology of Dok Hin from each populations was quantitatively examined using 15 vegetative and 6 reproductive characters meanwhile phylogenetic analyses was explored by DNA barcode ITS2. The results of the phylogenetic analysis revealed the existence of two species of Dok Hin, S. tamariscina and S. pulvinata. Selaginella tamariscina can be distinguished from S. pulvinata by its presence of a pseudotrunk above ground and ridges of dorsal leaves. On the other hand, the results of phylogenetic analysis indicated the differences among populations of S. pulvinata as well. Chiang Mai populations of S. pulvinata was characterized by peculiar set of characters long leaves and leaf apices look like caudate, while the rest of their populations have shorter leaves and leaf apices look like aristate. It indicates that S. pulvinata has genetic and phenotypic divergence among populations. However, additional studies of Dok Hin populations in other parts of Thailand and studies on different genetic markers are necessary to confirm the taxonomic status of S. pulvinata. Keywords: Dok Hin, Morphometric, Phylogeny, Pseudotrunk, Resurrection plant
Effect of Vitamin A-Fortified Rice on the Gut Microbiota of Thai Lactating Women and Their Exclusively Breastfed Infants
Authors:   Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Science and Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, Pattani, 94000 Thailand, Azis Lukman , Pinkaew Siwaporn ,   Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Science and Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, Pattani, 94000 Thailand, Wichienchot Santad ,   Center of Excellence in Functional Foods and Gastronomy, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai Campus, Songkhla, 90110 Thailand
Published: September 2021

Abstract The optimal vitamin A (VA) status of lactating women is important for mothers and their breastfed infants, especially in protecting against infectious diseases. Vitamin A fortified rice is one of the food-base intervention strategy which has the potential to improve VA status. Vitamin A and gut microbiota are interrelated in their effect on human health and immunity however no specific relationship has been proved in these groups of population. This study aimed to determine the effect of VA fortified rice on the gut microbiota changes of lactating woman-exclusively breastfed infant pairs. A double-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) of VA fortified rice was conducted in 70 lactating women-infants pairs for 14 weeks. Gut microbiota was measured using the fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) and next generation sequencing (NGS) technique. Based on the FISH technique, the numbers of Clostridium spp. /Enterobacter spp. were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in mothers fed VA-fortified rice at the end of the study. In contrast, the abundance of Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus spp. of infants whose mothers fed with VA-fortified rice was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the control group. The NGS technique confirmed that results with the increasing of Lactobacillus, B. longum and B. Choerinum in the infant of intervention group. In conclusion, VA-fortified rice was efficacious in decreasing Clostridium spp. /Enterobacter spp. in lactating women and raising the number of Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus spp. in their breastfed infants. Keywords: Breastfeeding, Gut microbiota, Lactating woman-infant pairs, Randomized controlled trial, Vitamin A
Assessment of the Antihyperlipidemic Effect of Garlic Vs Pitavastatin in Patients with Moderate Hyperlipidemia: A Metanalysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors:   Rashid Hospital, Clinical pharmacy, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Saeed Muhammad Waqas ,   Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy Gulf Medical University, Ajmanm UAE, Gillani Syed Wasif ,   Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy Gulf Medical University, Ajmanm UAE, Mahmood Rana Kamran ,   Response plus medical - Clinical pharmacy, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Usman Muhammad ,   AL Qassimi Hospital for Women and Children – Pharmacy, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Published: September 2021

Abstract To assess the efficacy of garlic in comparison with pitavastatin in reducing hypercholesteremia. Databases that include PubMed/Medline, Cochrane, TRIP and SCOPUS were searched. All randomised controlled trials selected for the study. Studies comparing garlic with placebo and pitavastatin with either placebo or other drugs were selected to treat hypercholesteremia. Statistical analysis done using a random-effect model, and results expressed in Mean difference and variance for continuous data with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Twelve studies analysed the efficacy of garlic compared to pitavastatin. Total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides assessed for garlic and pitavastatin's comparative efficacy. Mean difference noticed in total cholesterol in garlic arm was -13.604 with 95% CI = -22.246, -4.962 while in pitavastatin group was -28.205 (95% CI = -29.016,-27.394). The LDL-c reduction not recorded in the garlic arm where the mean increase was recorded of 0.309 (95% CI = -12.502, 13.120) while in the pitavastatin group was -35.538 (95% CI = -39.992, -31.084). Similarly, the increase in HDL was more in the pitavastatin group 5.308 (95% CI = 0.906, 9.710 compared to garlic (2.754 with 95% CI = 1.069, 4.440). Triglycerides level reduction was also low in whereas pitavastatin was -24.210 with 95% CI = -29.249, -19.171.The analysis showed that garlic has a significant effect on lipid profile. The comparison profile of garlic with pitavastatin showed clinical application in the treatment of mild-moderate hypercholesteremia—further studies required the investigator to use the combination therapy in controlled trials. Keywords: Allicin, Allium sativum, Dyslipidemia, Garlic, Hypercholesteremia, Hyperlipidemia Pitavastatin
Characterization of X- box binding protein 1(XBP1) and BiP functions and investigation their roles in YHV replication in P. monodon
Authors:   Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand, Rugsanit Piyawadee , Attasart Pongsopee ,   Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand, Udomkit Apinunt ,   Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand, Tirasophon Witoon ,   Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
Published: September 2021

Abstract Eukaryotic cells have mechanisms to cope with stress in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) called unfolded protein response (UPR). In this study, we characterized putative X-box DNA binding protein1 (XBP1) and Binding protein (BiP) cDNAs from black tiger shrimp (Peneaus monodon). When the shrimp were infected with Yellow head virus (YHV), the levels of XBP1 and BiP mRNA transcripts were elevated approximately 8 and 55 folds, respectively. In normal shrimp, the putative XBP1 (XBP1u) was predicted to encode a protein with 283 amino acid residues. When shrimp were infected with YHV, portion of cDNA with 17 nucleotides intron elimination (XBP1s) was observed. The elimination caused alteration of its translational frame. The predicted protein from this is 469 amino acids in length with total change in its amino acid sequence downstream of the intron. Functional analysis of these XBP1 proteins in mammalian cells clearly showed that overexpression of P. monodon XBP1s was capable of activating the transcription rate of mammalian UPR responsive genes (BiP, ERdj4 and P58IPK). Finally, the impact of XBP1 and BiP on YHV multiplication in black tiger shrimp was investigated by RNAi approach. Knocking down either XBP1 or BiP expression efficiently inhibited YHV replication. Therefore, these two components in the UPR pathway may be an interesting target for anti YHV development in the future. Keywords: Endoplasmic reticulum, siRNA, Stress-inducible genes, Transcriptional regulation
Pasting Behavior and Viscoelastic Properties of Fresh, Chilled, and Rehydrated Freeze-Dried Gel Beads from Blends of Tapioca Flour, Soy Flour, and Cane Sugar
Authors:   Division of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand, Chantagith Nattagan , Katkaew Natnaree ,   Division of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand, Rattanapitigorn Panida ,   Division of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand
Published: September 2021

Abstract An extreme vertices design for a mixture of three components was used to establish the proportions of tapioca flour (50% to 100% w/w), soy flour (0% to 50% w/w), and cane sugar (0% to 10% w/w) mass fractions in a food gel bead system. Thus, nine compositions were prepared and analyzed. The pasting profiles of the mixtures were studied using a Rapid Visco Analyzer. The texture profiles of fresh, chilled, and rehydrated freeze-dried gel beads were studied using a texture analyzer. Increasing the proportion of soy flour in the range of 11.25% to 50.00% w/w decreased the peak viscosity, breakdown, final viscosity, and setback of mixed flour. Tapioca flour in the proportion of 81.25% to 100.00% w/w recorded the lowest hardness of fresh gel beads (92.00 to 283.00 g). Soy flour in the proportion of 11.25% to 50.00% w/w exhibited lower texture profiles (hardness, chewiness, and gumminess) than tapioca flour in gel beads for both chilled and rehydrated freeze-dried gel beads. Significant relationships were found among pasting profiles of the flour mixtures and texture profiles of fresh, chilled, and rehydrated freeze-dried gel beads, implying a functional role for soy flour in food gel beads. In conclusion, soy flour can act as an anti-retrogradation agent for the gel beads both in chilled (stored at 4°C for 7 days) and freeze-dried conditions. A small amount of cane sugar does not affect the inhibition of starch retrogradation in the gel bead system. Keywords: Anti-retrogradation, Food gel bead, Pasting profile, Soy flour, Tapioca flour, Texture profiles
Effect of rainfall seasonality and land use on the water quality of the paraíba do sul river
Authors: Bourguignon Dayane Andrade da Silva , Fraga Micael de Souza , Lyra Gustavo  Bastos , Cecílio Roberto Avelino , Abreu Marcel Carvalho
Published: September 2021

Monitoring water quality is important for the suitable management of water resources. Therefore, this study aims to assess the main water quality parameters and the National Sanitation Foundation-Water Quality Index (WQINSF) of four locations on the Paraíba do Sul River basin, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, influenced by different land use and land cover, and in the dry and rainy seasons. The following quality parameters were evaluated: total phosphorus (TP), nitrate (NO3-), dissolved oxygen (DO), potential of hydrogen (pH), turbidity (Turb), thermotolerant coliforms (Col), total dissolved solids (TDS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), water temperature (Twater) and air temperature (Tair). Statistical differences (p < 0.05) were observed between the dry and rainy seasons for the parameters: TP, Col, Turb, TDS, Twater, Tair, NO3-, DO, and WQINSF. The concentration of rainfall was effective in water quality parameters behavior. WQINSF was lower in the rainy season and possibly the runoff was the major cause of water quality degradation. Land use and land cover influenced the concentration of DO and Col and, consequently, WQINSF. Despite statistical differences, in most cases, the Paraíba do Sul River basin lies in medium water quality index according to the classification of the National Water and Sanitation Agency (ANA).
Optimizing Mueller polarimetry in noisy systems through
over-determination
Authors: Philpott H. , Garcia-Caurel E. , Guaitella O. , Sobota A.
Published: September 2021

Mueller polarimetry measurements are increasingly being used to image
highly dynamic and short-lived phenomena such as plasma discharges.
For phenomena such as these, exposure times below 1 µs must be used.
Unfortunately, these low exposure times significantly reduce the
signal-to-noise ratio, making accurate and consistent measurements
difficult. To overcome this limitation, we investigated increasing the
number of Stokes vectors produced from a polarization state analyzer
and polarization state generator, a process known as
over-determination. To conduct our analysis, we used results from
physical experiments using Stokes vectors generated by liquid crystal
variable retarders. These results were then verified using data from
simulations. First, we conclude that increasing the degree of
over-determination is a simple and effective way of dealing with this
noise; however, we also convey that choosing the best scheme is not an
entirely trivial process. Second, we demonstrate that
over-determination gives rise to hitherto inaccessible information
that allows for the quantification of statistical noise and,
crucially, the pinpointing of the origin of systematic error, a highly
beneficial process that has been lacking until now.
Ultrafast laser-induced strain waves in thin ruthenium layers
Authors: de Haan G. , van den Hooven T. J. , Planken P. C. M.
Published: September 2021

We report on the time-dependent optical diffraction from ultra-high frequency laser-induced acoustic waves in thin layers of ruthenium deposited on glass substrates. We show that the thermo-optic and strain-optic effects dominate the optical response of Ru layers to a traveling longitudinal strain wave. In addition, we show the generation and detection of acoustic waves with a central frequency ranging from 130 GHz to 750 GHz on ultra-thin layers with thicknesses in the range of 1.2 - 20 nm. For these ultra-thin layers we measure a strong dependency of the speed of sound on the layer thickness and, thus, the frequency. This frequency-dependent speed of sound results in a frequency-dependent acoustic impedance mismatch between the ruthenium and the glass substrate, leading to a faster decay of the measured signals for increasing frequency. Furthermore, for these extremely high-frequency oscillations, we find that the frequency and phase remain constant for times longer than about 2 ps after optical excitation. Back extrapolation of the acquired acoustic signals to t = 0 gives a starting phase of −π/2. As this seems unlikely, we interpret this as an indication of possible dynamic changes in the phase/frequency of the acoustic wave in the first 2 ps after excitation.
EGOF-Net: epipolar guided optical flow network for unrectified stereo matching
Authors: Li Yunpeng , Ge Baozhen , Tian Qingguo , Lu Qieni , Quan Jianing , Chen Qibo , Chen Lei
Published: September 2021

It is challenging to realize stereo matching in dynamic stereo vision systems. We present an epipolar guided optical flow network (EGOF-Net) for unrectified stereo matching by estimating robust epipolar geometry with a deep cross-checking-based fundamental matrix estimation method (DCCM) and then surpassing false matches with a 4D epipolar modulator (4D-EM) module. On synthetic and real-scene datasets, our network outperforms the state-of-the-art methods by a substantial margin. Also, we test the network in an existing dynamic stereo system and successfully reconstruct the 3D point clouds. The technique can simplify the stereo vision pipeline by ticking out rectification operations. Moreover, it suggests a new opportunity for combining heuristic algorithms with neural networks. The code is available on https://github.com/psyrocloud/EGOF-Net.
Depth resolution in multifocus laser speckle contrast imaging
Authors: Zheng Shuqi , Xiao Sheng , Kretsge Lisa , Cruz-Martín Alberto , Mertz Jerome
Published: September 2021

Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) can be used to evaluate blood flow based on spatial or temporal speckle statistics, but its accuracy is undermined by out-of-focus image blur. In this Letter, we show how the fraction of dynamic versus static light scattering is dependent on focus, and describe a deconvolution strategy to correct for out-of-focus blur. With the aid of a z-splitter, which enables instantaneous multifocus imaging, we demonstrate depth-resolved LSCI that can robustly extract multi-plane structural and flow-speed information simultaneously. This method is applied to in vivo imaging of blood vessels in a mouse cortex and provides improved estimates of blood flow speed throughout a depth range of

300

µ

m

.
Multi-spectral infrared camouflage through excitation of plasmon-phonon polaritons in a visible-transparent hBN-ITO nanoantenna emitter
Authors: Buhara Ebru , Ghobadi Amir , Ozbay Ekmel
Published: September 2021

In an ideal platform for camouflage compatible cooling, the thermal emitter should be a spectrally selective antenna to radiate its heat buildup without being detected by thermal cameras. Moreover, to keep its visual appearance and to minimize solar induced heating, the structure should be visibly transparent. In this Letter, to achieve the visually invisible mid-infrared (MIR) camouflage-cooling feature, a metasurface design based on an indium-doped tin oxide (ITO)-hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) heterostructure is proposed. The proposed ITO-hBN nanoantenna shows spectrally selective broadband absorptions in near-infrared (NIR) and non-transmissive (MIR) windows, while it is dominantly non-emissive in other ranges. The camouflage ability of the structure in the targeted wavelengths is demonstrated using power calculations.
Modelling to explore the potential impact of asymptomatic human infections on transmission and dynamics of African sleeping sickness
Authors: Aliee Maryam , Keeling Matt J. , Rock Kat S.
Published: September 2021

Gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (gHAT, sleeping sickness) is one of several neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) where there is evidence of asymptomatic human infection but there is uncertainty of the role it plays in transmission and maintenance. To explore possible consequences of asymptomatic infections, particularly in the context of elimination of transmission—a goal set to be achieved by 2030—we propose a novel dynamic transmission model to account for the asymptomatic population. This extends an established framework, basing infection progression on a number of experimental and observation gHAT studies. Asymptomatic gHAT infections include those in people with blood-dwelling trypanosomes, but no discernible symptoms, or those with parasites only detectable in skin. Given current protocols, asymptomatic infection with blood parasites may be diagnosed and treated, based on observable parasitaemia, in contrast to many other diseases for which treatment (and/or diagnosis) may be based on symptomatic infection. We construct a model in which exposed people can either progress to either asymptomatic skin-only parasite infection, which would not be diagnosed through active screening algorithms, or blood-parasite infection, which is likely to be diagnosed if tested. We add extra parameters to the baseline model including different self-cure, recovery, transmission and detection rates for skin-only or blood infections. Performing sensitivity analysis suggests all the new parameters introduced in the asymptomatic model can impact the infection dynamics substantially. Among them, the proportion of exposures resulting in initial skin or blood infection appears the most influential parameter. For some plausible parameterisations, an initial fall in infection prevalence due to interventions could subsequently stagnate even under continued screening due to the formation of a new, lower endemic equilibrium. Excluding this scenario, our results still highlight the possibility for asymptomatic infection to slow down progress towards elimination of transmission. Location-specific model fitting will be needed to determine if and where this could pose a threat.
Application of a time-series deep learning model to predict cardiac dysrhythmias in electronic health records
Authors: Guo Aixia , Smith Sakima , Khan Yosef M. , Langabeer II James R. , Foraker Randi E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Cardiac dysrhythmias (CD) affect millions of Americans in the United States (US), and are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. New strategies to combat this growing problem are urgently needed.

Objectives

Predicting CD using electronic health record (EHR) data would allow for earlier diagnosis and treatment of the condition, thus improving overall cardiovascular outcomes. The Guideline Advantage (TGA) is an American Heart Association ambulatory quality clinical data registry of EHR data representing 70 clinics distributed throughout the US, and has been used to monitor outpatient prevention and disease management outcome measures across populations and for longitudinal research on the impact of preventative care.

Methods

For this study, we represented all time-series cardiovascular health (CVH) measures and the corresponding data collection time points for each patient by numerical embedding vectors. We then employed a deep learning technique–long-short term memory (LSTM) model–to predict CD from the vector of time-series CVH measures by 5-fold cross validation and compared the performance of this model to the results of deep neural networks, logistic regression, random forest, and Naïve Bayes models.

Results

We demonstrated that the LSTM model outperformed other traditional machine learning models and achieved the best prediction performance as measured by the average area under the receiver operator curve (AUROC): 0.76 for LSTM, 0.71 for deep neural networks, 0.66 for logistic regression, 0.67 for random forest, and 0.59 for Naïve Bayes. The most influential feature from the LSTM model were blood pressure.

Conclusions

These findings may be used to prevent CD in the outpatient setting by encouraging appropriate surveillance and management of CVH.
COVID-19 health awareness among the United Arab Emirates population
Authors: Saeed Balsam Qubais , Elbarazi Iffat , Barakat Mai , Adrees Ahmed Omer , Fahady Kubais Saeed
Published: September 2021

In response to the global COVID-19 epidemic, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government is taking precautionary action to mitigate the spread of the virus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and practices toward COVID-19 among the general public in the UAE during the current outbreak. A cross-sectional online survey of 1356 respondents in the UAE was conducted during the epidemic outbreak between 9th to 24th June-2020. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: Socio-demographic, knowledge, practices. Independent-samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi-square and binary logistic regression was used. A p-value of (p < 0.05) was considered statistically significant. The total correct score of knowledge and practice questions was high 85% and 90%, respectively. Male’s sex, other marital status, and illiterate/primary educational levels had a lower level of knowledge and practices than others. Participants aged 18–29 had little higher knowledge than other ages but had a lower level in practices, people who live in Abu Dhabi had better knowledge and practices than other emirates, employed people had a lower level of knowledge but higher in practices. Binary logistic regression analysis presented that females, 18–29 years, and married participants significantly associated with a higher score of knowledge, while female, over 30 years old, the martial status of singles, college-level and higher, unemployed, were significantly associated with high mean practices score. This study provided a full screening of the knowledge and practices among a sample of residents in The UAE toward COVID-19, continuing to implement the health education programs pursued by the UAE is highly important to maintain the appropriate level of awareness among the public.
Changes in entropy on polarized-sensitive optical coherence tomography images after therapeutic subthreshold micropulse laser for diabetic macular edema: A pilot study
Authors: Ueda Koji , Shiraya Tomoyasu , Araki Fumiyuki , Hashimoto Yohei , Yamamoto Motoshi , Yamanari Masahiro , Ueta Takashi , Minami Takahiro , Aoki Nobuyori , Sugiyama Satoshi , Zhou Han Peng , Totsuka Kiyohito , Toyama Taku , Sugimoto Koichiro , Obata Ryo , Kato Satoshi
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To investigate the dynamics of the healing process after therapeutic subthreshold micropulse laser (SMPL) for diabetic macular edema (DME) using polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT).

Methods

Patients with treatment-native or previously-treated DME were prospectively imaged using PS-OCT at baseline, 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. The following outcomes were evaluated: changes in the entropy value per unit area (pixel2) in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) on the B-scan image; changes in the entropy value in each stratified layer (retina, RPE, choroid) based on the ETDRS grid circle overlaid with en face entropy mapping, not only the whole ETDRS grid area but also a sector irradiated by the SMPL; and the relationship between edema reduction and entropy changes.

Results

A total of 11 eyes of 11 consecutive DME patients were enrolled. No visible signs of SMPL treatment were detected on PS-OCT images. The entropy value per unit area (pixel2) in the RPE tended to decrease at 3 and 6 months from baseline (35.8 ± 17.0 vs 26.1 ± 9.8, P = 0.14; vs 28.2 ± 18.3, P = 0.14). Based on the en face entropy mapping, the overall entropy value did not change in each layer in the whole ETDRS grid; however, decrease of entropy in the RPE was observed at 2, 3, and 6 months post-treatment within the SMPL-irradiated sectors (P < 0.01, each). There was a positive correlation between the change rate of retinal thickness and that of entropy in the RPE within the SMPL-irradiated sector at 6 months (r2 = 0.19, P = 0.039).

Conclusion

Entropy measured using PS-OCT may be a new parameter that facilitates objective monitoring of SMPL-induced functional changes in the RPE that could not previously be assessed directly. This may contribute to a more promising therapeutic evaluation of DME.

Clinical trial

This clinical study was registered in UMIN-CTR (ID: UMIN000042420).