bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population Size, Activity Patterns, Diet, and Ranging Ecology of Boutourlini’s Blue Monkey (Cercopithecus mitis boutourlinii) in Apini and Dokuma Forests, Awi Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Birhan Zemenu , Ejigu Dessalegn
Published: May 2021

Background: By studying population size, activity patterns, diet, and ranging ecology of Boutourolini’s blue monkey (Cercopithecus mitis boutourlinii) we can get sufficient information to conserve the subspecies in the area. Boutourlini’s blue monkey is endemic subspecies found in the western and northwestern parts of Ethiopia. The study was conducted in Apini and Dokuma forests, northwestern Ethiopia, from October 2018 to June 2019. The block count method was used to estimate its total population size and scan sampling method was used to collect data for activity patterns, and diet. The ranging ecology of the study subspecies was determined for each group based on the point to point movements of the group between consecutive GPS locations recorded. Results: On average a total of 71 and 111 individuals of Boutourolini’s blue monkey were counted in Apini and Dokuma forests, respectively. Boutourolini’s blue monkey spent 47.5% and 48.6% of time feeding, 20.2% and 18.6% moving, and 14.1% and 13.5% resting by the Apini and Dokuma groups, respectively. The Apini group frequently fed on young leaves (52.8%), fruits (30.2%), and mature leaves (6.6%), while the Dokuma group fed on young leaves (39.8%), fruit 942.3%), and mature leaves (8.3%). Ranging ecology of Boutourolini’s blue monkey was 44.4 ha and 78.3 ha for the Apini group, and 51 ha and 56.9 ha for the Dokuma group during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. Conclusions: The total population size of blue monkeys in the Apini and Dikuma forests counted were different. Activity budgets vary during the wet and dry seasons. During the entire study period blue monkeys consumed different food items from the two forests. The home range size of blue monkeys during the two seasons was different in both groups and they traveled long distance during the dry season. As the habitats of Boutourolini’s blue monkey in the present study area is degraded due to various anthropogenic activities, there is a need to design strategies to minimize conservation problems of the subspecies in the area.
Acoustic non-Hermitian skin effect from twisted winding topology
Authors: Zhang Li , Yang Yihao , Ge Yong , Guan Yijun , Chen Qiaolu , Yan Qinghui , Chen Fujia , Xi Rui , Li Yuanzhen , Jia Ding , Yuan Shou-qi , Sun Hongxiang , Chen Hongsheng , Zhang Baile
Published: May 2021

The recently discovered non-Hermitian skin effect (NHSE) manifests the breakdown of current classification of topological phases in energy-nonconservative systems, and necessitates the introduction of non-Hermitian band topology. So far, all NHSE observations are based on one type of non-Hermitian band topology, in which the complex energy spectrum winds along a closed loop. As recently characterized along a synthetic dimension on a photonic platform, non-Hermitian band topology can exhibit almost arbitrary windings in momentum space, but their actual phenomena in real physical systems remain unclear. Here, we report the experimental realization of NHSE in a one-dimensional (1D) non-reciprocal acoustic crystal. With direct acoustic measurement, we demonstrate that a twisted winding, whose topology consists of two oppositely oriented loops in contact rather than a single loop, will dramatically change the NHSE, following previous predictions of unique features such as the bipolar localization and the Bloch point for a Bloch-wave-like extended state. This work reveals previously unnoticed features of NHSE, and provides the first observation of physical phenomena originating from complex non-Hermitian winding topology.
Molecular dynamics simulation and docking studies reveal NF-κB as a promising therapeutic drug target for COVID-19
Authors: Ahmad Shaban , Bhanu Piyush , Kumar Jitendra , Pathak Ravi Kant , Mallick Dharmendra , Uttarkar Akshay , Niranjan Vidya , Mishra Vachaspati
Published: May 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is rampant worldwide and is a deadly disease for humans. Our current work emphasizes on molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) targeting nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), the well-known human transcription factor controlling innate and adaptive immunity, to understand its mechanism of action during COVID-19 in humans. NF-κB was interacted with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in an in silico MDS experiment, revealing the NF-κB site at which the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein interacts. We screened some known drugs via docking studies on NF-κB used as a receptor. The MDS software Schrodinger generated more than 2000 complexes from these compounds and using the SMILES format of these complexes, 243 structures were extracted and 411 conformers were generated. The drug used as a ligand that docked with NF-κB with the best docking score and binding affinity was Sulindac sodium as its trade name. Furthermore, RMSF data of sulindac sodium and NF-κB displayed minimal fluctuations in the protein structures, and the protein-ligand complex had reduced flexibility. Sulindac sodium is hence suggested as a suitable drug candidate for repurposing in clinical trials for SARS-CoV-2 infections. This drug potently blocked the spike protein’s interaction with NF-κB by inducing a conformational change in the latter. Arguably, NF-κB inaction is desired to have normal immunity and can possibly be retained using proposed drug. This work provides a significant lead for drug repurposing to combat SARS-CoV-2 and its various mutant forms and reveals new approach for controlling SARS-CoV-2-induced disease.
Factors Influencing Embodied Energy Trade between the Belt and Road Countries: A Gravity Approach
Authors: Sun Xiaoqi , Shi Qing
Published: May 2021

Energy is a basic factor input embodied in the production of goods and services. The rapid growth of trade between Belt and Road countries calls for the study of bilateral embodied energy trade between them. Using the Eora input-output database in 2015, this paper accounts the embodied energy trade between Belt and Road countries, followed by an investigation of the factors influencing the embodied energy trade through a gravity model, which is different from the conventional decomposition analysis. We find that the main bilateral embodied flow paths are from South Korea to China, China to South Korea, Singapore to China, Ukraine to Russia, and Malaysia to Singapore. 5% embodied energy flow paths account for 80% of the total bilateral embodied energy flow volume between Belt and Road countries. The gravity model results indicate that GDP per capita and population are the key drivers of bilateral embodied energy trade, while the industrial share of GDP is negatively related to the trade. Energy intensity, especially that of importing countries, plays a crucial role in reducing the bilateral embodied energy flow. These results are useful in the policymaking of sustainable development for the Belt and Road Initiative.
A methodological approach to update Ground Motion Prediction Models using Bayesian Inference
Authors: Bo Saran Srikanth , Keller Merlin , Gupta Abhinav , Senfaute Gloria
Published: May 2021

In recent decades, prediction of ground motion at a specific site or a region is of primary interest in probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA). Historically, several ground motion prediction equation (GMPE) models with different functional forms have been published using strong ground motion records available from NGA-West and European databases. However, low-to-moderate seismicity regions, such as Central & Eastern United States and western Europe, is characterized by limited strong-motion records in the magnitude-distance range of interest for PSHA. In these regions, the available data for the development of empirical GMPEs is very scarce and limited to small magnitude events. For these regions, the general practice in PSHA is to consider a set of GMPEs developed from data sets collected in other regions with high seismicity. This practice generates an overestimation of the seismic hazard for the low seismicity regions. There are two potential solutions to overcome this problem: (i) a new GMPE model can be developed; however, development of such a model can require significant amount of data which is not usually available, and (ii) the existing GMPE models can be recalibrated based on the data sets collected in the new region rather than developing a new GMPE model. In this paper, we propose a methodological approach to recalibrate the coefficients in a GMPE model using different algorithms to perform Bayesian inference. The coefficients are recalibrated for a subset of European Strong-Motion (ESM) database that corresponds to low-to-moderate seismicity records. In this study, different statistical models are compared based on the functional form given by the chosen GMPE, and the best model and algorithm are recommended using the concept of information criteria.
Genetic Spectrum and Clinical Characteristics of 3β-hydroxy-Δ5-C27-steroid Oxidoreductase (HSD3B7) Deficiency in China
Authors: Zhao Jing , Setchell Kenneth DR , Gong Ying , Sun Yinghua , Zhang Ping , Heubi James E , Fang Lingjuan , Lu Yi , Xie Xinbao , Gong Jingyu , Wang Jian-She
Published: May 2021

Background Biallelic variants in HSD3B7 cause 3β-hydroxy-Δ5-C27-steroid oxidoreductase (HSD3B7) deficiency, a life-threatening but treatable liver disease. Genetic and correlated clinical information is limited. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 39 unrelated patients with genetically confirmed HSD3B7 deficiency. Results In this cohort, 44 variants (34 novel) of HSD3B7 were detected. 31 patients were referred before one year old for neonatal cholestasis. eight patients were referred after one year old for liver failure (n=2), liver cirhosis (n=3), cholestasis (n=1), renal cysts and abnormal liver biochemistries (n=1), coagulopathy of vitamin K1 deficiency and abnormal liver biochemistries (n=1) respectively. Renal lesions, including renal cysts, renal stones, calcium deposition and renal enlargement were observed in 10 out of 35 patients with available data. 33 patients received oral chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) administration, 22 achieved normalization of liver biochemistries, five showed significant clinical improvement, six underwent liver transplantation or died. Renal lesions in six patients resolved after CDCA administration or liver transplantation. There is no significant correlation between genotype and clinical outcome. Conclusions This is so far the largest cohort of HSD3B7 deficiency, and reveals thatrenal lesion is a notable clinical feature of HSD3B7 deficiency and can be resolved with suppression of atypical bile acids.
ACOLBR: ACO Based Load Balancing Routing In MANET
Authors: Dholey Milan Kumar , Sinha Ditipriya
Published: May 2021

Real-time data transmission is one of the objectives of MANET (mobile ad-hoc network) to handle emergencies like a forest fire, flood, and earthquake. In this scenario, quick delivery of data is itself a challenging task for MANET and there is a possibility of load imbalance due to packet transmission in between source-destination pairs via the shortest path due to congestion or control overhead. In this paper, a novel routing protocol, called ACOLBR (ACO based load balancing routing), is design to control the congestion and balancing the load among the multiple paths in between source to destination. The similarity between the environment of Ant Colony and the MANET inspires the authors to apply ACO (Ant colony optimization) technique during routing in MANET to control congestion and balance the load in the network. In our proposal, two colonies of ants (red/blue) carry their packets based on the network condition. A decision variable is designed to select red/blue ant for transferring packets based on different network parameters such as bandwidth, energy, mobility, and distance. The selection of red ant means the route where the concentration of red pheromone is maximum and reverse is true for blue ant. This protocol is also concerns about the link failure during packet transmission in a route. Simulation results using OMNET++ show that ACOLBR outperforms ARA, ANTHOCNET, FACO, AODV, DSDV, DSR, CA-ARTT, and MOAODV in terms of load balancing efficiently in the route for data transmission in between source to destination.
Intestinal Protein Characterisation of SARS-CoV-2 Entry Molecules ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Fatal COVID-19 Infection
Authors: McAllister Milly J , Kirkwood Kathryn , Chuah Shaun C , Thompson Emily J , Cartwright Jennifer A , Russell Clark D , Dorward David A , Lucas Christopher D , Ho Gwo-tzer
Published: May 2021

The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 contributes to morbidity and mortality mainly as a result of immune-pathology in the lungs. Recent data has shown multi-system involvement with widespread viral tropism. Here we present a detailed intestinal protein characterisation of SARS-Cov-2 entry molecules ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease ([IBD]; Ulcerative Colitis [UC] and Crohn’s disease [CD]) with age- and sex-match non-IBD controls; and in those with fatal COVID19 infection. Our study showed that IBD gut inflammation did not influence ACE2 and TRPMSS2 expression. Of interest, colonic protein expression of ACE2 and TRPMSS2 are cytoplasmic distinct to the membranous pattern in the ileum. We observed a significant increase in immune cells within the lamina propria in UC and CD that expressed ACE2 and TRMPSS2 when compared to non-IBD controls. These were identified as plasma cells with multiple myeloma oncogene 1/interferon regulatory factor 4 (MUM1/IRF4) expression. In six fatal COVID19 cases, there was no gut inflammation despite evidence of viral tropism within the enterocytes. Our data provides evidence for tissue expression of entry molecules ACE2 and TMPRSS2 including a close apposition to plasma cells – both pointing towards a role of the gut in the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Single-cell roadmap of human gonadal development
Authors: Vento-Tormo Roser , Garcia-Alonso Luz , Lorenzi Valentina , Mazzeo Cecilia , Sancho-Serra Carmen , Roberts Kenny , Engelbert Justin , Alves-Lopes João , Marečková Magda , Botting Rachel , Li Tong , Crespo Berta , Dongen Stijn van , Kiselev Vladimir , Prigmore Elena , Moffett Ashley , Herbert Mary , Bayraktar Omer Ali , Surani Azim , Haniffa Muzlifah
Published: May 2021

Gonadal development is a complex process that involves sex determination followed by divergent maturation into ovaries or testes. Historically, limited tissue accessibility and lack of reliable in vitro models have impeded our understanding of human gonadogenesis, despite its importance in gonadal pathologies and infertility. Here, we generated a comprehensive map of first- and second-trimester gonadal development using a combination of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, chromatin accessibility assays and imaging. Using this approach, we identified novel transcription factors and cell states in human germ and supporting cell lineages. We compared them with other mammalian species and found primate-specific regulatory programmes. Our data identified cell context–specific interactions shaping sex specification and development of human germ cells. We defined a novel bipotent progenitor cell (LGR5+, TSPAN8+) in late embryos that can differentiate into early Sertoli in males or pre-granulosa cells in females. In fetal ovaries, we defined two subsets of pre-granulosa cells supporting germ-cell differentiation and distributed across the cortico-medullary axis. We also found a subset of developing granulosa cells appearing during the second trimester of pregnancy that is involved in follicular assembly. In fetal testes, we defined a novel supporting population (sPAX8 cells) located at the poles of the developing testis cords. We also found two tissue-resident myeloid populations that we named microglia-like and SIGLEC15+ fetal testicular macrophages. This study provides an unprecedented spatiotemporal map of human gonadal differentiation that can be utilised as a blueprint for in vitro gametogenesis.
Fitness Cost and Compensation Mechanism of Sulfonamide Resistance Genes (Sul1, Sul2, and Sul3) in Escherichia Coli
Authors: Zhou Yuqiao , Fang Jiehong , Davood Zaeim , Qu Daofeng , Han Jianzhong
Published: May 2021

Background: The fitness cost of antibiotic resistance is a crucial factor to determine the evolutionary success of resistant bacteria. Even if the selection pressure in the environment is eliminated, drug-resistant bacteria can still compensate for drug-resistant genes' fitness cost through some compensation mechanisms. The fitness cost and compensatory evolution of antibiotic resistance are an essential part of bacterial evolution.Result: Engineered bacteria with the same genetic background that carry sulfonamide resistance gene were generated to explore the fitness cost of sulfonamide resistance gene in Escherichia coli. There were significant differences in the protein expression of the two-component system pathway (fliZ, fliA, fliC and lrhA), folate biosynthesis pathway (sul1, sul2 and sul3), ABC transporter system (ugpC, rbsA and gsiA), and outer membrane pore protein OmpD through the comparative analysis of differential proteins compared to sensitive bacteria. Thus, we could speculate the possible fitness compensation mechanism. Finally, qRT-PCR was used to verify the functions of some differential proteins at the transcriptional level.Conclusions: The study of fitness cost assessment and compensatory evolution of bacterial resistance will help understand the development track of antibiotic resistance of bacterial pathogens and provide new ideas for solving antibiotic resistance issues.
From –20 to 200 °C: Fuel Cells with Broad Operational Flexibility Enabled by Intrinsically Ultramicroporous Membranes
Authors: Tang Hongying , Geng Kang , Wu Lei , Liu Junjie , Chen Zhiquan , You Wei , Yan Feng , Guiver Michael D. , Li Nanwen
Published: May 2021

Conventional proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) operate at a narrow temperature range, either under low temperature conditions (80‒90°C) using fully-humidified perfluorosulfonic acid (Nafion®) membranes or under non-humidified high temperature conditions (140‒180°C) using phosphoric acid (PA)-doped membranes to avoid water condensation-induced PA leaching. To allow wide operational flexibility over the full spectrum of temperature and humidity ranges, we present an innovative design strategy by using PA-doped intrinsically ultramicroporous membranes constructed from rigid and contorted high free volume polymers. The membranes with an average ultramicropore radius of 3.3 Å showed a significant siphoning effect as confirmed by the delocalization of PA in 31P NMR, thus allowing high retention of PA even under highly humidified conditions and presenting more than three orders of magnitude higher proton conductivity retention than conventional dense PA-doped polybenzimidazole membranes (PBI/PA). The resulting PEMFCs display impressive performance over a much broader temperature range from − 20 to 200°C and can accomplish over 100 start-up/shut-down cycles even at − 20°C. The broad operational flexibility rendered from the high PA-retention can ultimately simplify heat and water management and thereby reduce PEMFC costs.
Impacts of Information Propagation on Individual Migration Routes and Epidemic Spread Over Metapopulation Networks
Authors: Wang Bing , Gou Min , Han Yuexing
Published: May 2021

Information propagation driven by the epidemic may cause the awareness of individuals to change their behavior, thus preventing themselves from being infected. For example, the aware individuals migrate away from areas with severe infection. In this paper, we study the coupling transmission of epidemic and information in metapopulation networks, and mainly explore how the change of individual migration behavior affects the epidemic spreading. Combined with the transition probability tree of individual states, we use Markov chain approach for theoretical analysis and derive the epidemic threshold. Through numerous Monte Carlo simulation, we verify the accuracy of Markov equations for the prediction of epidemic sprading. The results show that the role of information transmission in suppressing the epidemic in terms of the epidemic threshold and the infection scale is very limited. Further increase of information transmission rate beyond its critical value will no longer affect the epidemic. The initial population distribution is a fundamental factor in the epidemic dynamics, and in the case of heterogeneous distribution, an appropriate movement of individuals can delay the epidemic spread with a smaller threshold. In addition, topological homogeneity of individual migration route is beneficial for the epidemic control. This study analyzes the interaction between epidemic and information on the metapopulation network model, which can provide guidance for epidemic intervention in reality.
Leg Length and Offset After Total Hip Arthroplasty: The Intraoperative use of a Calliper Improves the Results. Should Component Subsidence Influence the Target for Leg Length?
Authors: Fansur Maliha , Yurdi Nagib Atallah , Stoewe Reinhard Bernhard Josef
Published: May 2021

BackgroundThe purpose of total hip arthroplasty (THA) post-surgery and proper physiotherapy is positive recovery for the patient. Consideration is given to hip replacement biomechanics by ensuring no discrepancies in limb length (LL) and a stable prosthesis. Therefore, the patient must have proper preoperative planning and communication and a clear understanding of what to expect.MethodsA prospective series of 59 THA operated by a single surgeon via Hardinge approach was studied, using an intraoperative calliper (CAL) to predict the change of LL and offset. We compared the results of the intraoperative changes before and after THA implantation with the reference of these values on antero-posterior x-ray pelvis. The importance of leg length balance and a good offset restoration is questioned, and the effect of component subsidence on leg length is considered.ResultsThe average preoperative leg length discrepancy was -6.0 mm, postoperatively +3.6 mm. There was a strong correlation between the CAL measurements and the values on the x-ray (LL, r=0.873, p<0.01; offset, r=0.542, p<0.01). Reliability is better for limb-length than for offset. These results are comparable within the literature and the statistical results from other studies reviewed. In addition, we evaluate the importance of subsidence of the prosthesis components for long term results.ConclusionThe intraoperative use of CAL gives excellent results in predicting the final LL and offset after THA. Considering subsidence of prosthesis components, a target zone around +5 mm might be more suitable for leg length directly postoperatively. Moreover, surgeons must discuss the topic of leg length discrepancy (LLD) intensively with the patient pre-operatively.Level of evidence: Level 4, prospective cohort study
Analysis and Construction of ceRNA Networks Reveal 4 mRNAs as Potential Biomarkers of Temozolomide-resistant Glioblastomas
Authors: Gu Sujie , Wang Yihao , Lei Deqiang , Zhao Hongyang
Published: May 2021

Background: Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is the most malignant tumor of central nervous system. Although temozolomide (TMZ) was reported to improve the prognosis of GBM since applied to clinical practice, its chemoresistance has become a hot research focus and even been thought as the major factor of tumor recurrence. It’s urgent to illustrate the mechanism of TMZ resistance in GBM.Methods: In this study, we retrieved and analyzed expression profiles of TMZ resistant and TMZ sensitive glioma cell lines from GEO datasets, and then identified the enriched pathways of the differentially expressed genes. Moreover, genes involved in the KEGG pathways closely related to GBM from the Comparative Toxicogenomics 2020 Update Database were used for survival analysis of GBM samples from TCGA database. Finally, competing endogenous RNA networks regulating the acquired genes were constructed based on the expression profiles and public database. Results：To our knowledge, we firstly identified 4 mRNAs (LAMA1, COL5A1, ITGA2 and STK11) as potential biomarkers of TMZ resistant GBMs, then constructed their competing endogenous RNA networks. Conclusions: The results would provide theoretical basis for overcoming TMZ chemoresistance and contribute to more optimal chemotherapy of GBMs.
The Effects of an Innovative Integrated Care Intervention in Brazil on Local Health Service use by Dependent Older People
Authors: Lloyd-Sherlock Peter , Giacomin Karla , Sempé Lucas
Published: May 2021

Background:Since 2011, the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte has been operating an innovative scheme to support care-dependent older people in disadvantaged communities: Programa Maior Cuidado (PMC – Older Person’s Care Programme). This paper examines two potential effects of inclusion in PMC on types of outpatient health service utilisation by dependent older people. The first is that being in PMC is associated with a higher frequency of outpatient visits for physical rehabilitation. The second is that being in PMC is associated with a higher frequency of planned versus unplanned outpatient visits.Methods:We apply a quasi-experimental design to a unique set of government data. First, we preprocess our sample through different matching techniques such as ‘coarsened exact matching’ (CEM), ‘nearest neighbour’ based on logit scores (NN), ‘optimal pair’ (OP) and ‘optimal full’ (OF) methods. Second, we estimate marginal effects of being in PMC on our outcomes of interest. We use univariate log-binomial regressions with robust standard errors to calculate the incidence ratio of PMC on rehabilitation and planned visits.Results:We find significant positive incidence rates for belonging to PMC for both outcomes of interest under all matching specifications. The CEM shows a higher incidence rate for the proportion of visits for rehabilitation by PMC patients compared to the non-PMC controls: 3.35 (95% CI 1.79 - 6.27). For planned visits, there are significant positive associations for being in PMC in the CEM (1.25 (95% CI 1.17 - 1.33)) and the other models.Conclusions:Our analysis reveals significant positive associations between older people included in PMC and a matched set of controls for making outpatient visits that were planned, rather than unplanned. We find similar associations for the proportion of visits made for rehabilitation, as opposed to another reason. These findings indicate that PMC influences some elements of outpatient health service utilization by dependent older people.
Streptococcus Vaginalis Sp. Nov., a Novel Bacterial Species Isolated From Vaginal Swabs of a Pregnant Woman With Diabetes
Authors: Chao An-Shine , Lin Chiao-Yun , Chao Angel , Lee Yun-Shien , Chang Yu-Chung , Wu Hui-Chung , Dai Yu-Jie , Liao Wei-Qi , Kao Fan-Ching , Chen Yi-sheng
Published: May 2021

Sequences targeted at the V3 and V4 16S rRNA hypervariable regions of a streptococcal strain (P1L01T) isolated from vaginal swabs of a pregnant woman with diabetes were 100% similar to those of Streptococcus anginosus subsp. whileyi. However, phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA full-gene sequencing (1562 bp) revealed highest sequence similarity to Streptococcus periodonticum (98.65%), followed by Streptococcus anginosus subsp. whileyi (98.65 %), and Streptococcus anginosus subsp. anginosus (98.44%). Phylogenies of housekeeping genes rpoB and groEL were compared to improve classification, and the results showed a clear separation between strain P1L01T and closely related Streptococcus type strains. The complete genome of strain P1L01T consisted of 2,108,769 bp with a G+C content of 38.5 mol%. Average nucleotide identity values, based on genome sequencing, between strain P1L01T and Streptococcus periodonticum KCOM 2412T, Streptococcus anginosus subsp. whileyi CCUG 39159T, and Streptococcus anginosus subsp. anginosus NCTC 10713T were 95.48%, 94.33%, and 95.28%, respectively. The highest in silico DNA-DNA hybridization value with respect to the closest species was 66.2%, i.e., below the species cut-off of 70% hybridization. The main cellular fatty acids of strain P1L01T were 16:0, 18:1ω7c, and 14:0. On the basis of phylogenetic, genotypic and phenotypic data, we propose to classify this isolate as representative of a novel species of the genus Streptococcus, Streptococcus vaginalis sp. nov., in reference to its isolation from vaginal swabs, with strain P1L01T (=NBRC 114754T = BCRC 81289T) as the type strain.
The Optimization Solution of the Vertical Rolling Force by Using Unified Yield Criterion
Authors: Zhang Yufeng , Zhao Meiying , Xu Li , Di Hong Shuang , Zhou Xiaojuan , Wen Peng , Zhao Dewen , Zhang Dianhua
Published: May 2021

Vertical rolling is an important technique to control the width of continuous casting slab in hot rolling field. Accurate prediction of vertical rolling force is a core point to maintain rolling mill equipment. Due to the limitation of the algorithm, the prediction accuracy of most vertical rolling force models based on the energy method can only reach more than 10%. Therefore, it is challenging to optimize the rolling force model to improve the prediction accuracy. This paper presents an innovative approach for optimizing the calculation of vertical rolling force with a unified yield criterion. Firstly, the maximal width of dog bone region is determined by the slip-line method and described the dog bone shape via sine function model. Furthermore, proposed velocity and corresponding strain rate fields satisfy kinematically admissible condition is used to calculate the total power. Finally, the analytical solution of the rolling force and dog bone shape model is obtained by repeatedly optimizing the weighted coefficient b of intermediate principal shear stress on the yield criterion. And the effectiveness of the proposed mechanical model is verified by measured data in strip hot rolling field and other models’ results. The results shows that the prediction accuracy of vertical rolling force model can be improved by optimizing the value of b. Then, the impacts of reduction rate, initial thickness and friction factor on dog-bone shape size and vertical rolling force are discussed.
Structural and Gasification Kinetic Studies on Co-pyrolysis Chars of Coal and Biomass
Authors: Liu Lang , Zeng Jingsong , Jiao Qingrui , Ren Shan , Yang Jian , Su Xiangdong , Cao Yan , Tang Anjiang
Published: May 2021

In the present study, the CO2 gasification behaviours of the co-pyrolysis chars with coal and biomass as feedstock were investigated using isothermal thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) at 950–1150 °C. The TGA results demonstrated that the char gasification reactivity was improved at higher biomass composition. In addition, the char characteristics results evaluation revealed that biomass promoted the development of a porous structure and inhibited the formation of graphite-like carbon during the co-pyrolysis of coal and biomass. Moreover, an extended random pore model (eRPM) was proposed to define the char gasification kinetics of coal and biomass. It was found that the activation energies of chars decreased with increasing biomass composition. Lastly, the relationship between the gasification reactivity and char characteristics was evaluated.
Altered Brain Network Degree Centrality in Major Depressive Disorder via Electro-Acupuncture Stimulation at Baihui(gv20)
Authors: Li Shasha , Chen Ya , Duan Gaoxiong , Pang Yong , Liu Huimei , Wei Yichen , Liang Lingyan , Liu Peng , Deng Demao
Published: May 2021

Background: Although the acupuncture treatment of major depressive disorder(MDD) has been recognized by the latest clinical practice guidelines of the American Academy of Internal Medicine, complex therapeutic mechanisms need further to clarify. The aim of the study is investigate whether the aberrant resting state brain network in MDD patients could be regulated by acupuncture at GV20 using functional magnetic resonance imaging(fMRI) combined with degree centrality(DC) method. Results: Compared to healthy subjects, MDD patients exhibited significantly aberrant DC in widely brain regions, including cortical(PFC, precuneus, temporal, insula) and sub-cortical (thalamus, putamen and caudate) structures. Furthermore, results showed that acupuncture at GV20 induced down-regulation the DC of abnormal brain regions in MDD patients. Conclusions: Our findings provide imaging evidence to support that GV20-related acupuncture stimulation may modulate the abnormal brain function state in MDD patients by using fMRI technique combined with DC analysis. This study may partly interpret the neural mechanisms of acupuncture at GV20 which is used to treat patients with MDD in clinical. Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR-IOR-15006357. Registered 05 May 2015, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=10922.
Hibernation slows epigenetic aging in yellow-bellied marmots
Authors: Pinho Gabriela , Martin Julien , Farrell Colin , Haghani Amin , Zoller Joseph , Zhang Joshua , Snir Sagi , Pellegrini Matteo , Wayne Robert , Blumstein Daniel , Horvath Steve
Published: May 2021

Species that hibernate live longer than would be expected based solely on their body size. Hibernation is characterized by long periods of metabolic suppression (torpor) interspersed by short periods of increased metabolism (arousal). The torpor-arousal cycles occur multiple times during hibernation, and it has been suggested that processes controlling the transition between torpor and arousal states cause aging suppression. Metabolic rate is also a known correlate of longevity, we thus proposed the ‘hibernation-aging hypothesis’ whereby aging is suspended during hibernation. We tested this hypothesis in a well-studied population of yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventer), which spend 7-8 months per year hibernating. We used two approaches to estimate epigenetic age: the epigenetic clock and the epigenetic pacemaker. Variation in epigenetic age of 149 samples collected throughout the life of 73 females was modeled using generalized additive mixed models (GAMM), where season (cyclic cubic spline) and chronological age (cubic spline) were fixed effects. As expected, the GAMM using epigenetic ages calculated from the epigenetic pacemaker was better able to detect nonlinear patterns in epigenetic age change over time. We observed a logarithmic curve of epigenetic age with time, where the epigenetic age increased at a higher rate until females reached sexual maturity (2-years old). With respect to circannual patterns, the epigenetic age increased during the summer and essentially stalled during the winter. Our enrichment analysis of age-related CpG sites revealed pathways related to development and cell differentiation, while the season-related CpGs enriched pathways related to central carbon metabolism, immune system, and circadian clock. Taken together, our results are consistent with the hibernation-aging hypothesis and may explain the enhanced longevity in hibernators.
Effects of Supplementing Rumen-Protected Methionine on Production Performance, Apparent Digestibility, Blood Parameters, Ruminal Metabolites and Economic Effectiveness in Lactating Holstein Dairy Cows
Authors: Wei Jialin , Dou Mengying , Liu Shuai , Yan Bichuan , Li Cuiyu , Zhang Yinghui , Xiao Jianxin , Li Yuanxiao
Published: May 2021

Background: Because of disadvantages of excessive dietary crude protein (CP), decreasing dietary CP of dairy cows has attracted the worldwide attention. Rumen protected methionine (RPM) supplementation can allow lower CP diets and is beneficial to milk production performance, N efficiency of cows and environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of reducing dietary CP and supplementing RPM on production, digestibility of nutrients, blood parameters, ruminal metabolites and economic effectiveness in lactating Holstein dairy cows. Results: A total of 96 lactating cows (63 ± 25 d in milk; 34.4 ± 5.74 kg/d of milk production; mean ± SD) were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: diet containing 17.3% CP without RPM (control group; CON; n = 49); diet containing 16.4% CP with supplementing 15.0 g/d of RPM (treatment group; RPM; n = 47). No effect was observed of reducing dietary CP on milk yield and milk composition. The apparent digestibility of nutrients was similar between treatments. The results related to blood showed that cows in RPM group exhibited lower concentration of blood urea nitrogen than that in CON group (P < 0.001). Moreover, there were no differences between treatments on concentrations of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, globulin and albumin. In ruminal metabolites, microbial crude protein (MCP) of dairy cows in RPM group was higher compared with CON group (P = 0.006). Ruminal volatile fatty acid (VFA) contents were not changed by treatments except that the concentrations of butyrate and isovalerate of RPM group were higher than that of CON group at 2 h after feeding (P < 0.05). In addition, supplying the diet of 16.4% CP with RPM supplementation to cows could reduce feeding cost by 0.5 $/d per cow and boost net profits. Conclusions: Lower dietary CP with RPM supplementation did not limit milk yield, milk composition and apparent digestibility of nutrients, and could improve nitrogen utilization of dairy cows and synthesis of MCP in rumen, change VFA production at 2 h after feeding, as well as boost the economic benefits of the dairy farms.
Contrasting Monetary and non-monetary measures of poverty in developing countries: a survey
Authors: Azami Hicham El
Published: May 2021

While the study of poverty is popular amongst academia, there is yet to be a consensus on what defines such a phenomenon. Basing their arguments on different conceptual frameworks, some argue for a definition in monetary terms, as a lack of income or consumption, while others support a non-monetary approach focusing on shortcomings in diverse dimensions (health, education, nutrition…). Does it really matter that researchers do not agree on a definition of a poverty? Probing the empirical literature comparing monetary and non-monetary poverty in developing countries, this survey argues that different definitions of poverty lead to different populations identified as poor. Indeed, cross-tabulating poverty headcounts, it finds that a sizable portion of the non-monetary poor are excluded by the monetary approach. Moving to a subgroup level, it finds nonmonetary poverty amongst the monetary richest, and considerable disagreements with regards to poverty risks. In addition, these significant differences are not resolved when switching to a dynamic setting through panel studies. Policy implications are important: the risk mistargeting and misevaluation of policies is high if we do not consider both approaches concomitantly without one taking precedence over the other.
Idiopathic and Radiation-Induced Myxofibrosarcoma In Head And Neck-Case Report And Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Bin , Bai Miao , Tian Runfa , hao shuyu
Published: May 2021

BackgroundMyxofibrosarcoma (MFS) is a rare malignant fibroblastic tumor that primarily occurred in proximal extremities of older people. However, MFS, especially radiation-Induced MFS is extremely rare in the head and neck. Local recurrence is very common, the diagnosis and treatment of MFS is always a great challenge. We presented one case of radiation-induced MFS, combined with previous literature, the clinical features, essentials of diagnosis and treatment modalities of MFS in head and neck were reviewed to better understand this rare entity.Case presentationHere, we reported a case of radiation-Induced MFS under left occipital scalp in a 20-year-old girl with a history of medulloblastoma surgery and radiotherapy in 2006. A total tumor resection was performed with preservation of the overlying scalp the underlying bone, and no adjuvant therapy was administered after surgery. Post-operative pathological diagnosis was high-grade MFS. Unfortunately, the tumor relapsed six month later. Then a planned extensive resection was carried out, followed by radiotherapy. In addition, intra-operative frozen section was sent to confirm negative surgical margin. No relapse occurred in 12-month postoperative follow-up.ConclusionsPlanned gross total resection (GTR) with negative margins is the reasonable choice and footstone of other treatments for MFS. Ill-defined infiltrated borders and the complicated structures make it a great trouble to achieve total resection of MFS in the head and neck. Therefore, adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy seem more necessary for these lesions. Further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of radio-chemotherapy for head and neck MFS.
Detailed imaging of mitochondrial transport and precise manipulation of mitochondrial function with genetically-encoded photosensitizers in adult Drosophila neurons
Authors: Mattedi Francesca , Chennell George , Vagnoni Alessio
Published: May 2021

Precise distribution of mitochondria is essential for maintaining neuronal homeostasis. Although detailed mechanisms governing the transport of mitochondria have emerged, it is still poorly understood how the regulation of transport is coordinated in space and time within the physiological context of an organism. How alteration in mitochondrial functionality may trigger changes in organellar dynamics also remains unclear in this context. Therefore, the use of genetically-encoded tools to perturb mitochondrial functionality in real time would be desirable. Here we describe methods to interfere with mitochondrial function with high spatiotemporal precision with the use of photosensitisers in vivo in the intact wing nerve of adult Drosophila. We also provide details on how to visualise the transport of mitochondria and to improve the quality of the imaging to attain super-resolution in this tissue.
Machine learning approaches to predict gestational age in normal and complicated pregnancies via urinary metabolomics analysis
Authors: Yamauchi Takafumi , Ochi Daisuke , Matsukawa Naomi , Saigusa Daisuke , Ishikuro Mami , Obara Taku , Tsunemoto Yoshiki , Kumatani Satsuki , Yamashita Riu , Tanabe Osamu , Minegishi Naoko , Koshiba Seizo , Metoki Hirohito , Kuriyama Shinichi , Yaegashi Nobuo , Yamamoto Masayuki , Nagasaki Masao , Hiyama Satoshi , Sugawara Junichi
Published: May 2021

The elucidation of dynamic metabolomic changes during gestation is particularly important for the development of methods to evaluate pregnancy status or achieve earlier detection of pregnancy-related complications. Some studies have constructed models to evaluate pregnancy status and predict gestational age using omics data from blood biospecimens; however, less invasive methods are desired. Here we propose a model to predict gestational age, using urinary metabolite information. In our prospective cohort study, we collected 2,741 urine samples from 187 healthy pregnant women, 23 patients with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and 14 patients with spontaneous preterm birth. Using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, we identified 184 urinary metabolites that showed dynamic systematic changes in healthy pregnant women according to gestational age. A model to predict gestational age during normal pregnancy progression was constructed; the correlation coefficient between actual and predicted weeks of gestation was 0.86. The predicted gestational ages of cases with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy exhibited significant progression, compared with actual gestational ages. This is the first study to predict gestational age in normal and complicated pregnancies by using urinary metabolite information. Minimally invasive urinary metabolomics might facilitate changes in the prediction of gestational age in various clinical settings.
Steinernema sandneri n. sp. (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae), a new entomopathogenic nematode from Poland
Authors: Lis Magdalena , Sajnaga Ewa , Skowronek Marcin , Wiater Adrian , Rachwał Kamila , Kazimierczak Waldemar
Published: May 2021

A new species of entomopathogenic nematodes, Steinernema sandneri n. sp., was recovered by baiting from Poland. Its morphological traits indicate that the new species is a member of the feltiae-kraussei group. A body length of 843 (708–965) μm, a more anterior position of excretory pore (56 μm), and the lower D% value (40 vs > 46) discriminate this species from most of the other group members. The first-generation males of S. sandneri n. sp. can be distinguished from the other clade members by a 60 μm long spicule, a relatively long gubernaculum (GS% = 79), and the position of the excretory pore (80 μm). Phylogenetic analysis of the ITS rDNA, D2D3 of 28 S rDNA, and cox1 sequences confirmed that S. sandneri n. sp. is a new species of the feltiae-kraussei group, closely related to S. kraussei and S. silvaticum.
Inventory management and customers` satisfaction in the public health sector in Delta State, Nigeria: marketing analysis
Authors: Mitaire Tarurhor Emmanuel , Osahon Osazevbaru Henry
Published: May 2021

This study investigates the effects of inventory management on customers` satisfaction with lead time as a moderator variable in government-owned hospitals in Delta State, Nigeria. It aims to contribute to the extant literature on inventory management and customer satisfaction in developing countries, focusing on Delta State in Nigeria. Two hundred and sixty-five (265) questionnaires were distributed, comprising one hundred and five to measure inventory management variables administered among Medical Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, and Medical Laboratory Scientist. Similarly, one hundred and sixty questionnaires designed to measure customer satisfaction were administered to Patients. The study adopts multiple regression and structural equation modeling to analyze the data. Also, studying the impact of inventory management on customers` satisfaction some marketing analysis approaches were used. The obtained results support the appropriateness of the model as lead time possesses the qualities of a moderator between strategic supplier partnership, lean inventory, and information technology that are proxies of inventory management and customer satisfaction. Besides, the results record a positive and statistically significant relationship between strategic supplier partnership, lean inventory, and customer satisfaction at a 5 percent level of significance, respectively.In addition, lead time has a positive and statistically significant relationship with customer satisfaction. Impliedly, this study concludes that inventory management proxies and lead time drive customer satisfaction. Thus, the government is recommended to focus on the lead time to avert the dearth of basic inventories in the hospitals.
Do South African state-owned entities follow the pecking order theory of capital structure?
Authors: Marimuthu Ferina , Caroline Singh Stephanie
Published: May 2021

In corporate finance, the pecking-order theory suggests that companies adhere to a particular financing hierarchy, with internal funding taking preference over external funding, and debt financing taking preference over equity. This paper examines whether South African state-owned entities prioritize their financing sources as predicted by the pecking-order theory. A financing deficit variable comprising various cash flow-based components was used to test the theory. A panel regression model was employed using panel data estimators. Using a cross-section sample of 33 state-owned entities from 1995 to 2018, the study finds no evidence that South African state-owned entities follow a pecking order to finance investment projects. The pecking order theory proposition that costs of adverse selection are dominant for lower levels of leverage provides a reason for the financing deficit coefficient not being close to unity and hence an indication that the SOEs in South Africa do not follow the pecking order behavior in their financing decisions, an indication that South African capital market is still developing.