bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helpful and challenging aspects of breastfeeding in public for women living in Australia, Ireland and Sweden: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hauck Yvonne L. , Kuliukas Lesley , Gallagher Louise , Brady Vivienne , Dykes Charlotta , Rubertsson Christine
Published: May 2020

Background

Breastfeeding in public continues to be contentious with qualitative evidence confirming that women face many challenges. It is therefore important to gain understanding of not only the challenges but also what women perceive is helpful to breastfeed in public.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with women living in Australia, Ireland or Sweden currently breastfeeding or having breastfed within the previous 2 years. Our objective was to explore and compare what women do when faced with having to breastfeed in the presence of someone they are uncomfortable with and what women think is helpful and challenging when considering whether to breastfeed in public. Data were collected in 2018 from an online survey over a 4 week period in each country. Content analysis revealed data similarity and theme names and definitions were negotiated until consensus was reached. How often each theme was cited was counted to report frequencies. Helpful and challenging aspects were also ranked by women to allow international comparison.

Results

Ten themes emerged around women facing someone they were uncomfortable to breastfeed in the presence of with the most frequently cited being: ‘made the effort to be discreet’; ‘moved to a private location’; ‘turned away’ and ‘just got on with breastfeeding’. Nine themes captured challenges to breastfeed in public with the following ranked in the top five across countries: ‘unwanted attention’; ‘no comfortable place to sit’; ‘environment not suitable’; ‘awkward audience’ and ‘not wearing appropriate clothing’. Nine themes revealed what was helpful to breastfeed in public with the top five: ‘supportive network’; ‘quiet private suitable environment’; ‘comfortable seating’; ‘understanding and acceptance of others’ and ‘seeing other mothers’ breastfeed’.

Conclusions

When breastfeeding in public women are challenged by shared concerns around unwanted attention, coping with an awkward audience and unsuitable environments. Women want to feel comfortable when breastfeeding in a public space. How women respond to situations where they are uncomfortable is counterproductive to what they share would be helpful, namely seeing other mothers breastfeed. Themes reveal issues beyond the control of the individual and highlight how the support required by breastfeeding women is a public health responsibility.
Diverse maize hybrids are structurally inefficient at resisting wind induced bending forces that cause stalk lodging
Authors: Stubbs Christopher J. , Seegmiller Kate , McMahan Christopher , Sekhon Rajandeep S. , Robertson Daniel J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Stalk lodging (breaking of agricultural plant stalks prior to harvest) results in millions of dollars in lost revenue each year. Despite a growing body of literature on the topic of stalk lodging, the structural efficiency of maize stalks has not been investigated previously. In this study, we investigate the morphology of mature maize stalks to determine if rind tissues, which are the major load bearing component of corn stalks, are efficiently organized to withstand wind induced bending stresses that cause stalk lodging.

Results

945 fully mature, dried commercial hybrid maize stem specimens (48 hybrids, ~ 2 replicates, ~ 10 samples per plot) were subjected to: (1) three-point-bending tests to measure their bending strength and (2) rind penetration tests to measure the cross-sectional morphology at each internode. The data were analyzed through an engineering optimization algorithm to determine the structural efficiency of the specimens.

Conclusions

Hybrids with higher average bending strengths were found to allocate rind tissue more efficiently than weaker hybrids. However, even strong hybrids were structurally suboptimal. There remains significant room for improving the structural efficiency of maize stalks. Results also indicated that stalks are morphologically organized to resist wind loading that occurs primarily above the ear. Results are applicable to selective breeding and crop management studies seeking to reduce stalk lodging rates.
In vitro analysis of the effect of Flightless I on murine tenocyte cellular functions
Authors: Jackson Jessica E. , Kopecki Zlatko , Anderson Peter J. , Cowin Allison J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Healing of tendons after injury involves the proliferation of tenocytes and the production of extracellular matrix; however, their capacity to heal is limited by poor cell density and limited growth factor activity. Flightless I (Flii) has previously been identified as an important regulator of cellular proliferation and migration, and the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of differential Flii gene expression on tenocyte function in vitro.

Methods

The role of Flii on tenocyte proliferation, migration, and contraction was assessed using established assays. Tenocytes from Flii+/−, wild-type, and Flii overexpressing mice were obtained and the effect of differential Flii expression on migration, proliferation, contraction, and collagen synthesis determined in vitro. Statistical differences were determined using unpaired Student’s t test and statistical outliers were identified using the Grubbs’ test.

Results

Flii overexpressing tenocytes showed significantly improved migration and proliferation as well as increased collagen I secretion. Explanted tendons from Flii overexpressing mice also showed significantly elevated tenocyte outgrowth compared to Flii+/− mice. In contrast to its role in dermal wound repair, Flii positively affects cellular processes in tendons.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that Flii could be a novel target for modulating tenocyte activity and improving tendon repair. This could have significant clinical implications as novel therapeutic targets for improved healing of tendon injuries are urgently needed.
Endoplasmic reticulum retention and degradation of a mutation in SLC6A1 associated with epilepsy and autism
Authors: Wang Jie , Poliquin Sarah , Mermer Felicia , Eissman Jaclyn , Delpire Eric , Wang Juexin , Shen Wangzhen , Cai Kefu , Li Bing-Mei , Li Zong-Yan , Xu Dong , Nwosu Gerald , Flamm Carson , Liao Wei-Ping , Shi Yi-Wu , Kang Jing-Qiong
Published: May 2020

Mutations in SLC6A1, encoding γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporter 1 (GAT-1), have been recently associated with a spectrum of epilepsy syndromes, intellectual disability and autism in clinic. However, the pathophysiology of the gene mutations is far from clear. Here we report a novel SLC6A1 missense mutation in a patient with epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder and characterized the molecular defects of the mutant GAT-1, from transporter protein trafficking to GABA uptake function in heterologous cells and neurons. The heterozygous missense mutation (c1081C to A (P361T)) in SLC6A1 was identified by exome sequencing. We have thoroughly characterized the molecular pathophysiology underlying the clinical phenotypes. We performed EEG recordings and autism diagnostic interview. The patient had neurodevelopmental delay, absence epilepsy, generalized epilepsy, and 2.5–3 Hz generalized spike and slow waves on EEG recordings. The impact of the mutation on GAT-1 function and trafficking was evaluated by 3H GABA uptake, structural simulation with machine learning tools, live cell confocal microscopy and protein expression in mouse neurons and nonneuronal cells. We demonstrated that the GAT-1(P361T) mutation destabilizes the global protein conformation and reduces total protein expression. The mutant transporter protein was localized intracellularly inside the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) with a pattern of expression very similar to the cells treated with tunicamycin, an ER stress inducer. Radioactive 3H-labeled GABA uptake assay indicated the mutation reduced the function of the mutant GAT-1(P361T), to a level that is similar to the cells treated with GAT-1 inhibitors. In summary, this mutation destabilizes the mutant transporter protein, which results in retention of the mutant protein inside cells and reduction of total transporter expression, likely via excessive endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation. This thus likely causes reduced functional transporter number on the cell surface, which then could cause the observed reduced GABA uptake function. Consequently, malfunctioning GABA signaling may cause altered neurodevelopment and neurotransmission, such as enhanced tonic inhibition and altered cell proliferation in vivo. The pathophysiology due to severely impaired GAT-1 function may give rise to a wide spectrum of neurodevelopmental phenotypes including autism and epilepsy.
Does the application of Opsite⋄ Flexigrid⋄ occlude the oxygen saturation readings in healthy individuals using the moorVMS‐OXY machine?
Authors: Beaumont A. , McSorley L. , Matthews M. , Mooneesawmy K. , Little L. , Forss J. R.
Published: May 2020

Background

A proportion of people who have been diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease and diabetes mellitus will be susceptible to chronic wounds. Oxygen is vital for wound healing, so oxygen measurements should to be taken as predictive values for wound healing in patients. When measuring oxygen at the wound bed, there is potentially a risk of cross‐infection if no protective barrier is used; and skin stripping if an adhesive barrier is used on the wound bed. This cross sectional within subject repeated measures pilot study, aims to determine if the application of opsite film, as an infection control measure, in one or two layers, impacts on tissue oxygenation readings obtained when using the MoorVMS‐OXY.

Methods

Mean oxygen saturation percentages were measured from 29 limbs of 18 healthy participants. Oxygen saturation was measured for 20 s and analysed at the first metatarsophalangeal joint using no film, one and two layers using the MoorVMS‐OXY. A one‐way repeated ANOVA with a Bonferroni post hoc test was performed to test for statistically significant differences between the values of the three parameters and multiple pairwise comparisons was completed.

Results

Amongst the three layers, there was a statistically significant difference in oxygen saturation between the two layers of Opsite Flexigrid and none; and also between the two layers of Flexigrid and single layer (p < 0.05). It was also established that there was no statistically significant difference between the single layer of Opsite Flexigrid and no Flexigrid layer (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The results imply that one layer of Opsite Flexigrid is a suitable protective barrier to use when establishing capillary bed oxygen perfusion with the MoorVMS‐OXY. However, the application of two Opsite Flexigrid layers, to prevent skin stripping, decreases the recorded values of oxygen saturation percentages significantly, therefore providing inaccurate results. Indicating that a double layer cannot be used over ulceration sites if measuring oxygen levels at the wound bed.
A phylogenetic analysis of the biting midges belonging to Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) subgenus Avaritia using molecular data
Authors: Mathieu Bruno , Garros Claire , Balenghien Thomas , Candolfi Ermanno , Delécolle Jean-Claude , Cêtre-Sossah Catherine
Published: May 2020

Background

Within the genus Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), the subgenus Avaritia is of particular interest as it contains a significant number of economically important vector species. Disagreements about the systematic classification of species within this subgenus have resulted in a taxonomic imbroglio.

Methods

A molecular phylogeny of the subgenus Avaritia was conducted to test the existing systematic classification, which is based on phenetic assessment of morphological characters. Three nuclear ribosomal markers, internal transcribed spacer 1 and 2 (ITS1, ITS2), 5.8S, and three mitochondrial markers, cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 and 2, and cytochrome b (cox1, cox2 and cytb), were obtained for 37 species of the subgenus Avaritia from all six biogeographical regions. Phylogenetic reconstructions using these genes independently and in combination were implemented using Bayesian inference analysis and maximum likelihood methods.

Results

Phylogenetic reconstructions gave strong support to several monophyletic groups within the subgenus Avaritia. Both C. actoni and C. pusillus formed a single clade with C. grahamii so their respective groups, the Actoni and Pusillus groups, have been merged with the Grahamii group. Some support was provided for the Boophagus and Jacobsoni groups. A group of species currently placed into the Orientalis group clustered in a clade with poor support. The Obsoletus group was defined as a sister clade to all other Avaritia groups. The clade including the Imicola group was well supported based on phylogenetic criteria.

Conclusions

This phylogenetic study combining five distinct molecular markers has provided meaningful insights into the systematic relationships of Culicoides (Avaritia) and highlighted future directions to continue the study of this subgenus. While the cox2 marker appeared to be useful to investigate closely related species, the 5.8S marker was highly conserved and uninformative. Further investigations including species absent from this work are needed to confirm the proposed systematic scheme. However, this systematic scheme can now serve as a foundation to investigate cryptic species affiliation within the subgenus. We advocate that future studies employ a combination of morphological and molecular analyses.
Socioeconomic, demographic and landscape factors associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis in Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijerathna Tharaka , Gunathilaka Nayana , Gunawardena Kithsiri , Rodrigo Wasana
Published: May 2020

Background

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that affects countries in the developing world. In Sri Lanka, cutaneous leishmaniasis is the most common form of the disease. It is prevalent in dry and intermediate zones, mostly associated with rural settings. Understanding basic risk factors is critical in the management of the disease with effective interventions. This study is focused on assessing the demographic, socioeconomic and landscape factors associated with leishmaniasis in Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Households of the past patients and randomly selected households, which had no history of leishmaniasis cases were interviewed. The clinical, socioeconomic, demographic, landscape and awareness-related data were obtained using a pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire.

Results

A total of 101 patients and a similar number of controls were included in the study. All the patients had the cutaneous form of the disease. Housewives and personnel with monthly incomes less than Rs. 10,000 (56.76 USD) were 3.9- and 9.5-times more prone to the disease, respectively, according to multivariate analysis. Presence of decaying garbage, termite hills, unclear areas, wet soil and gardening areas were always associated with the increased odds of acquiring the disease.

Conclusions

Demographic factors do not play a pivotal role in the prevalence of leishmaniasis in the area. Housewives, inhabitants with low incomes and individuals who live in areas with conditions suitable for sand fly breeding and resting are major groups with a higher risk of infection. Special attention must be given in raising awareness and environmental management in control activities.
Asiatic acid attenuates hypertrophic and fibrotic differentiation of articular chondrocytes via AMPK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Na , Fu Dejie , Yang Junjun , Liu Pingju , Song Xiongbo , Wang Xin , Li Rui , Fu Zhenlan , Chen Jiajia , Gong Xiaoyuan , Chen Cheng , Yang Liu
Published: May 2020

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common joint disorder, is characterized by a progressive degradation of articular cartilage. Increasing evidence suggests that OA is closely associated with cartilage pathologies including chondrocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis.

Methods

In this study, we showed that asiatic acid (AA) treatment reduced chondrocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis. First, the cytotoxicity of AA (0, 5, 10, and 20 μM) to chondrocytes was evaluated, and 5 μM was selected for subsequent experiments. Then, we detected the gene and protein level of chondrocyte hypertrophic markers including type X collagen (COL-X), matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2); chondrocyte fibrosis markers including type I collagen (COL-Ι) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA); and chondrogenic markers including SRY-related HMG box 9 (SOX9), type II collagen (COL-II), and aggrecan (ACAN). Further, we tested the mechanism of AA on inhibiting chondrocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis. Finally, we verified the results in an anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) rat OA model.

Results

We found that AA treatment inhibited the hypertrophic and fibrotic phenotype of chondrocytes, without affecting the chondrogenic phenotype. Moreover, we found that AA treatment activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and inhibited phosphoinositide-3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway in vitro. The results in an ACLT rat OA model also indicated that AA significantly attenuated chondrocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis.

Conclusion

AA treatment could reduce hypertrophic and fibrotic differentiation and maintain the chondrogenic phenotype of articular chondrocytes by targeting the AMPK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Our study suggested that AA might be a prospective drug component that targets hypertrophic and fibrotic chondrocytes for OA treatment.
Efficacy and safety of IL-17 inhibitors for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yin Yufeng , Wang Mingjun , Liu Mengru , Zhou Erye , Ren Tian , Chang Xin , He Michun , Zeng Keqin , Guo Yufan , Wu Jian
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To systematically assess the efficacy and safety of IL-17 inhibitors in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) concerning IL-17 inhibitors in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Meta-analyses were used to determine the efficacy and safety of the IL-17 inhibitors in the treatment of these patients. The primary endpoint was predefined as the proportion of patients with at least 20% improvement in the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS20) response criteria at week 16, and the secondary endpoint was defined as ASAS40 at week 16.

Results

Six phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials including 1733 patients (1153 patients received IL-17 inhibitors, including secukinumab or ixekizumab, whereas 580 patients received a placebo as comparators) were included. At week 16, the IL-17 inhibitor regimen produced a significant increase in the ASAS20 response rate (RR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.45 to 1.84, p = 0.00) and the secondary endpoint ASAS40 response rate (RR = 2.12, 95% CI 1.75 to 2.56, p = 0.00) versus those for the placebo. With respect to the safety profile, more treatment-emergent adverse events (RR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.22, p = 0.03) and non-severe infections (RR = 1.82, 95% CI 1.40 to 2.37, p < 0.001) were described after treatment with IL-17 inhibitors than after treatment with placebo, while no increased risk of other adverse events was indicated after IL-17 inhibitor therapy, including death, discontinuation due to adverse events, or serious adverse events.

Conclusions

IL-17 inhibitors produced favorable response rates but an increased risk of non-severe infections in the treatment of active ankylosing spondylitis.
Immunohistochemistry of advanced glycation end product Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine in coronary arteries in relation to cardiac fibrosis and serum N-terminal-pro basic natriuretic peptide in forensic autopsy cases
Authors: Nogami Makoto , Hoshi Tomoaki , Toukairin Yoko , Arai Tomomi , Nishio Tadashi
Published: May 2020

Objective

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are known to play important roles in the development of diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis.　Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) is the major AGE, and is found in the arterial walls in the heart. The CML involvement in myocardial ischemia has been reported. We studied the immunohistochemical localization of CML in the hearts from forensic autopsies in relation to the age, serum N-terminal-pro basic natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), heart weights, and the degree of peri-myocardial fibrous tissues reflecting coronary microvascular infarction and myocardial remodeling.

Results

The CML immunoreactivity in the endothelial cells and intima of arterial walls in the interstitium of ventricular muscles was significantly stronger in the aged group, compatible with the progression of atherosclerosis. The blood level of NT-proBNP, a known useful marker for heart failure, had the positive correlation with the CML immunoreactivity. The degree of fibrosis, heart weights and the histories of hypertension and hyperlipidemia showed positive correlations with the CML immunoreactivity. Our results show the novel positive correlation between the CML immunohistochemistry in the heart vessels and heart conditions, and its future usefulness in the cardiovascular evaluation in histopathology.
Bio-banding in junior soccer players: a pilot study
Authors: Romann Michael , Lüdin Dennis , Born Dennis-Peter
Published: May 2020

Objective

Bio-banding (BB) has been introduced to account for varying maturity and to improve the talent development of junior soccer players. To date, research that investigated the physiological and technical effects of BB is sparse. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare effects of BB with CA on selected technical and tactical parameters in U13 and U14 soccer players.

Results

BB significantly increased the number of duels (p = 0.024) and set pieces (p = 0.025) compared to chronological age. The mean time of ball possession per action was reduced (p = 0.021) and the rate of successful passes was lower with BB (p = 0.001). Meanwhile, the total number of passes was unaffected (p = 0.796), and there was a trend towards a lower difference in ball possession between BB teams (p = 0.058). In addition, BB reduced the distances covered while jogging (p = 0.001), running (p = 0.038) and high-speed running (p = 0.035). With BB, an increased number of duels, unsuccessful passes and set pieces resulted in a quicker change of match play situations between teams. While physical demand was reduced, BB seems to result in a more technically and tactically challenging game. Benefits in long-term player development, however, require further investigation.
Transcriptional analysis of the multiple Sry genes and developmental program at the onset of testis differentiation in the rat
Authors: Prokop Jeremy W. , Chhetri Surya B. , van Veen J. Edward , Chen Xuqi , Underwood Adam C. , Uhl Katie , Dwinell Melinda R. , Geurts Aron M. , Correa Stephanie M. , Arnold Arthur P.
Published: May 2020

Background

The commonly used laboratory rat,Rattus norvegicus, is unique in having multipleSrygene copies found on the Y chromosome, with different copies encoding amino acid variations that influence the resulting protein function. It is not clear whichSrygenes are expressed at the onset of testis differentiation or how their expression correlates with that of other genes in testis-determination pathways.

Methods

Here, two independent E11–E14 developmental RNAseq datasets show that multipleSrygenes are expressed at E12–E13.

Results

The identified copies expressed during testis initiation includeSry4A,Sry1, andSry3C, which are conserved in every strain ofRattus norvegicuswith genomes sequenced to date.

Conclusions

This work represents a first step in defining the complex environment of rat testis differentiation that can open the door for generating sex reversal model systems using embryo manipulation techniques that have been available in the mouse but not the rat.
kGCN: a graph-based deep learning framework for chemical structures
Authors: Kojima Ryosuke , Ishida Shoichi , Ohta Masateru , Iwata Hiroaki , Honma Teruki , Okuno Yasushi
Published: May 2020

Deep learning is developing as an important technology to perform various tasks in cheminformatics. In particular, graph convolutional neural networks (GCNs) have been reported to perform well in many types of prediction tasks related to molecules. Although GCN exhibits considerable potential in various applications, appropriate utilization of this resource for obtaining reasonable and reliable prediction results requires thorough understanding of GCN and programming. To leverage the power of GCN to benefit various users from chemists to cheminformaticians, an open-source GCN tool, kGCN, is introduced. To support the users with various levels of programming skills, kGCN includes three interfaces: a graphical user interface (GUI) employing KNIME for users with limited programming skills such as chemists, as well as command-line and Python library interfaces for users with advanced programming skills such as cheminformaticians. To support the three steps required for building a prediction model, i.e., pre-processing, model tuning, and interpretation of results, kGCN includes functions of typical pre-processing, Bayesian optimization for automatic model tuning, and visualization of the atomic contribution to prediction for interpretation of results. kGCN supports three types of approaches, single-task, multi-task, and multi-modal predictions. The prediction of compound-protein interaction for four matrixmetalloproteases, MMP-3, -9, -12 and -13, in the inhibition assays is performed as a representative case study using kGCN. Additionally, kGCN provides the visualization of atomic contributions to the prediction. Such visualization is useful for the validation of the prediction models and the design of molecules based on the prediction model, realizing “explainable AI” for understanding the factors affecting AI prediction. kGCN is available at https://github.com/clinfo.
VEGF receptor targeted imaging of angiogenic response to limb ischemia in diabetic vs. non-diabetic Yucatan minipigs
Authors: Johnson Lynne L. , Johnson Jordan , Ali Ziad , Tekabe Yared , Ober Rebecca , Geist Gail , McLuckie Alicia , Safarov Aram , Holland April , Zhang Geping , Backer Marina , Backer Joseph
Published: May 2020

Background

New therapies to treat diabetic peripheral artery disease (PAD) require target-specific non-invasive imaging modalities to follow efficacy. As a translational study, we performed targeted imaging of receptors for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in response to anterior femoral artery occlusion (FAO) in Yucatan minipigs and compare the normal response to response in diabetic Yucatan minipigs.

Methods

Eleven Yucatan minipigs, 6 non-diabetic (non-D) and 5 purpose bred diabetic (D) (Sinclair, Auxvasse MO), underwent intravascular total occlusion of the anterior femoral artery (FA). At days 1 and 28, pigs underwent SPECT/CT 201Tl hindlimb perfusion imaging and at day 7 were injected with [99mTc]DOTA-PEG-scVEGF (scV/Tc) tracer targeting VEGF receptor, and underwent biopsies of the hindlimb muscles for gamma counting and histology, followed by imaging. One day after the final scan, pigs underwent contrast angiography of the lower extremities. Counts from scans were converted to percentage injected activity (%IA).

Results

Perfusion was lower in the occluded hindlimb compared to non-occluded on day 1 in both the D and non-D pigs. At day 7, scV/Tc count ratio of counts from ROIs drawn in proximal gastrocnemius muscle for the occluded over non-occluded limb was significantly higher in non-D vs. D pigs (1.32 ± 0.06 vs. 1.04 ± 0.13, P = 0.02) reflecting higher level of angiogenesis. Perfusion increased between days 1 and 28 in the muscles in the occluded limb for the non-diabetic pigs while the diabetic pig showed no increase (+ 0.13 ± 0.08 %IA vs. − 0.13 ± 0.11, P = 0.003). The anterior FA showed poor contrast filling beyond occluder and qualitatively fewer bridging collaterals compared to non-D pigs at 28 days.

Conclusion

VEGF receptor targeted imaging showed the effects of diabetes to suppress angiogenesis in response to occlusion of the anterior femoral artery of purpose bred diabetic Yucatan minipigs and indicates potential applicability as a marker to follow efficacy of novel therapies to improve blood flow by stimulating angiogenesis in diabetic PAD.
RNA-Seq analysis of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.) infected with nodavirus reveals powerful modulation of the stress response
Authors: Lama Raquel , Pereiro Patricia , Valenzuela-Muñoz Valentina , Gallardo-Escárate Cristian , Tort Lluis , Figueras Antonio , Novoa Beatriz
Published: May 2020

Nodavirus, or nervous necrosis virus (NNV), is the causative agent of viral encephalopathy and retinopathy (VER), a severe disease affecting numerous fish species worldwide. European sea bass, a cultured species of great economic importance, is highly susceptible to the disease. To better understand the response of this organism to NNV, we conducted RNA-Seq analysis of the brain and head kidney from experimentally infected and uninfected sea bass juveniles at 24 and 72 hours post-infection (hpi). Contrary to what was expected, we observed modest modulation of immune-related genes in the brain, the target organ of this virus, and some of these genes were even downregulated. However, genes involved in the stress response showed extremely high modulation. Accordingly, the genes encoding the enzymes implicated in the synthesis of cortisol were almost the only overexpressed genes in the head kidney at 24 hpi. This stress response was attenuated after 72 h in both tissues, and a progressive immune response against the virus was mounted. Moreover, experiments were conducted to determine how stress activation could impact NNV replication. Our results show the complex interplay between viral activity, the stress reaction and the immune response.
Estimation of f-divergence and Shannon entropy by using Levinson type inequalities for higher order convex functions via Hermite interpolating polynomial
Authors: Adeel Muhammad , Khan Khuram Ali , Pečarić Ðilda , Pečarić Josip
Published: May 2020

Levinson type inequalities are generalized by using Hermite interpolating polynomial for the class of $\mathfrak{n}$n-convex functions. In seek of application to information theory, some estimates for new functional are obtained based on f divergence. Inequalities involving Shannon entropies are also discussed.
Existence and monotone iteration of unique solution for tempered fractional differential equations Riemann–Stieltjes integral boundary value problems
Authors: Zhou Bibo , Zhang Lingling , Zhang Nan , Addai Emmanuel
Published: May 2020

The primary objective of this research paper is to investigate two kinds of high-order tempered fractional differential equations integral boundary value problems. By means of the mixed monotone operators fixed point theorems with perturbation and the increasing$\varphi -(h,\sigma )$φ−(h,σ)-concave operators fixed point theorems, we can not only guarantee the existence-uniqueness of solution, but also construct successively sequences for approximating the unique solution. In addition, we demonstrate the effectiveness of the main result by using two examples.
COVID-19 vulnerability: the potential impact of genetic susceptibility and airborne transmission
Authors: Godri Pollitt Krystal J. , Peccia Jordan , Ko Albert I. , Kaminski Naftali , Dela Cruz Charles S. , Nebert Daniel W. , Reichardt Juergen K.V. , Thompson David C. , Vasiliou Vasilis
Published: May 2020

The recent coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is inarguably the most challenging coronavirus outbreak relative to the previous outbreaks involving SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. With the number of COVID-19 cases now exceeding 2 million worldwide, it is apparent that (i) transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is very high and (ii) there are large variations in disease severity, one component of which may be genetic variability in the response to the virus. Controlling current rates of infection and combating future waves require a better understanding of the routes of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and the underlying genomic susceptibility to this disease. In this mini-review, we highlight possible genetic determinants of COVID-19 and the contribution of aerosol exposure as a potentially important transmission route of SARS-CoV-2.
Factors associated with drug use in prison – results from the Norwegian offender mental health and addiction (NorMA) study
Authors: Bukten Anne , Lund Ingunn Olea , Kinner Stuart A. , Rognli Eline Borger , Havnes Ingrid Amalia , Muller Ashley Elizabeth , Stavseth Marianne Riksheim
Published: May 2020

Background

Remarkably little is known about drug use during imprisonment, including whether it represents a continuation of pre-incarceration drug use, or whether prison is also a setting for drug use initiation. This paper aims to describe drug use among people in prison in Norway and investigate risk factors associated with in-prison drug use.

Methods

We used data from the Norwegian Offender Mental Health and Addiction (NorMA) Study, a cross-sectional survey of 1499 individuals in Norwegian prisons. Respondents reported on drug use (narcotics and non-prescribed medications) both before and during imprisonment. We used multivariate logistic regression to investigate the associations between drug use in prison and demographics, previous drug use, mental health, and criminal activity.

Results

Sixty-five percent of respondents reported lifetime drug use, and about 50% reported daily use of drugs during the 6 months before incarceration. Thirty-five percent reported ever using drugs in prison, but initiation of drug used during incarceration was uncommon. In a multivariate model, factors independently associated with drug use in prison included lifetime number of drugs used (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–1.23; p <  0.001), daily drug use in the 6 months before imprisonment (aOR = 7.12; 95%CI 3.99–12.70; p <  0.001), and being intoxicated while committing the crime related to current imprisonment (aOR = 2.13; 95%CI 1.13–4.03; p = 0.020).

Conclusions

In-prison drug use is independently associated with high-risk drug use before imprisonment. To reduce drug use in prison, correctional services must systematically screen for pre-prison drug use and offer effective drug treatment for those in need.
How anxious is too anxious? State and trait physiological arousal predict anxious youth’s treatment response to brief cognitive behavioral therapy
Authors: McCormack Caitlyn C. , Mennies Rebekah J. , Silk Jennifer S. , Stone Lindsey B.
Published: May 2020

Background

Exposure therapy is the gold standard for treating childhood anxiety, yet not all youth improve. Children do not always have insight on their distress, which can limit the utility of self-reported units of distress (SUDS) during exposures. Physiological assessment provides an objective means of monitoring emotional arousal. Electrodermal activity (EDA) in particular indexes sympathetic nervous system arousal which is heavily linked to anxiety. The aim of the current study was to examine the feasibility and utility of incorporating EDA assessment in an in-session exposure. We examined concordance between EDA and SUDS, and whether either predicted treatment response.

Methods

Thirty-four youth who met DSM-5 criteria for generalized, separation, and/or social anxiety disorder completed brief CBT (8 sessions) and completed a survey on trait physiological arousal. EDA and SUDS were collected from 18 youth (9 female, ages 9–14) during a mid-treatment exposure. Changes in anxiety severity were examined post-treatment.

Results

SUDS were not correlated with trait or state physiological arousal. There was a large association between heightened sympathetic arousal and poorer post-treatment response. Similarly, SUDS indices of greater fear activation and habituation were associated with poorer post-treatment response with a small to moderate effect size. Supplemental analyses among the full sample aligned: trait physiological arousal predicted poorer treatment response.

Conclusions

The lack of concordance between sympathetic arousal and SUDS indices highlights the limitations of relying solely on SUDS with pediatric populations. EDA provided unique data on youth’s distress during exposures. Thus, results indicate that physiological assessment may exhibit clinical utility for aiding clinicians in monitoring youth’s progress in exposure therapy.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02259036.
Evaluation of geochemical records as a paleoenvironmental proxy in the hypercalcified demosponge Astrosclera willeyana
Authors: Asami Ryuji , Kinjo Akira , Ohshiro Daiki , Naruse Tohru , Mizuyama Masaru , Uemura Ryu , Shinjo Ryuichi , Ise Yuji , Fujita Yoshihisa , Sakamaki Takashi
Published: May 2020

The geochemistry of the calcium carbonates of marine organisms is an excellent proxy for reconstruction of the paleoceanographic history. However, previous studies of hypercalcified demosponges (sclerosponges) are considerably fewer than those of corals, foraminifers, and bivalves. Here, we investigated stable oxygen (δ18O) and carbon (δ13C) isotopes and minor and trace element (Mg, Sr, Ba, Pb, and U) to Ca ratios of 36 living sclerosponges (Astrosclera willeyana) collected from Kume Island in the Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan, to evaluate the utility of geochemistry as a paleoenvironmental proxy. The δ18O, δ13C, and Sr/Ca deviations of the coevally precipitated skeleton were extremely small and almost constant at all skeletal portions, strongly suggesting that within-skeletal variations in the chemical components are negligibly small for non-symbiotic sclerosponges. Mean δ18O, δ13C, and Sr/Ca values (N = 36), falling within a quite narrow range, showed no significant evidence for intraspecific (inter-specimen) variations in the sclerosponges. The sclerosponges δ18O and δ13C were consistent with those of the aragonites precipitated in isotopic equilibrium with seawater at the growth site. The sclerosponge Sr/Ca was close to that of inorganically precipitated aragonite, and the estimated partition coefficient of 1.1 (almost unity) is identical to previously reported values for different species (Ceratoporella nicholsoni). Consequently, these results suggest that A. willeyana sclerosponge, having little vital effects on the geochemistry, is a robust indicator of paleocean environments (seawater δ18O, temperature, and dissolved inorganic carbon δ13C). Further, our evaluation study documents that sclerosponges living in deeper ocean environments can support the reconstruction of spatial and vertical paleoceanographic changes in conjunction with coral proxy records. The sclerosponge U/Ca showed little within-skeletal and intraspecific variations, but the heterogeneity and individual difference of the Mg/Ca, Ba/Ca, and Pb/Ca were relatively large, the reasons of which still remain unresolved.
Sea-level inundation and risk assessment along the south and southwest coasts of Sri Lanka
Authors: Palamakumbure Lakshika , Ratnayake Amila Sandaruwan , Premasiri H. M. Ranjith , Ratnayake Nalin Prasanna , Katupotha Jinadasa , Dushyantha Nimila , Weththasinghe Shanaka , Weerakoon W. A. Panchala
Published: May 2020

Global sea-level changes have been a major topic among scientists. Sea-level changes are not globally uniform. Reconstruction of paleo sea-level changes and monitoring of variations in regional sea-level are important to (i) evaluate future sea-level changes, and (ii) predict risk assessment. In this study, we examined sea-level inundation during the middle Holocene highstands based on paleo sea-level indicators along the south and southwest coasts of Sri Lanka. Besides, future sea-level inundation was predicted considering the calculated sea-level trends based on tidal gauge data and high-resolution surface elevation data. Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is one of the most accurate optical remote sensing methods currently available to obtain high-resolution land surface elevation data. Therefore, in this study, Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) were prepared using LiDAR data for estimating the risk assessment in coastal lowlands. Tide gauge data of Colombo in Sri Lanka (from 2006 to 2017), Gan in the Maldives (from 1995 to 2017), and Hulhule in the Maldives (from 1995 to 2017) showed that sea-level has increased with a rate of 0.288 ± 0.118, 0.234 ± 0.025, and 0.368 ± 0.027 mm/month, respectively. DEMs based on LiDAR data suggested that south and southwest coasts are a risk of future sea-level inundation (height = 0.1–0.2 m during next 50 years and about 0.7 m in height during next 200 years, and distance = about 3.5–15.0 m from the present sea-level towards the inland). Consequently, it is important to consider future sea-level changes in disaster management and mitigation activities along the south and southwest coasts of Sri Lanka.
Promising anitidiabetic potential of Cuscuta reflexa leaves methanol extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Mostofa Ronia , Begum Rayhana , Wang Hongbin , Begum Mst. Marium , Karim Rubaba , Begum Taslima , Siddiquee Nur Alam , Sultana Rebeka , Sultana Sonia , Kabir A. K. Lutful , Alam Sumaiya , Nova Tasnuva Tasnim
Published: May 2020

Context

Cuscuta reflexa(C. reflexa) Roxb. (Convolvulaceae) has medicinal properties for the effective management of several aliments including diabetes mellitus, inflammation, and gastric ulcer.

Objective

The present investigation focuses on the antidiabetic potential ofC. reflexaleaves methanol extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

The antidiabetic activity ofC. reflexaleaves methanol extract (CRME) was evaluated using alloxan-induced diabetes in Wistar albino rats. The duration of the study was 45 days. Diabetic model was developed by i.p. administration of alloxan monohydrate (120 mg/kg). Ingestion of CRME (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day) and standard (gliclazide, 10 mg/kg/day) was done via oral route from the day of diabetes induction and continued up to 45 days. The effect of CRME was investigated by evaluating the blood glucose concentrations, HbA1C, insulin, lipid profile and liver function test. Further, the protective potentials of CRME were studied by histopathology of the pancreas, liver, and kidney tissues from experimental rats.

Results

CRME showed significant (p < 0.01 at all doses) reduction of blood glucose level (137.1 ± 5.8, 125.9 ± 6.5, and 109.5 ± 5.4 mg/dL at the doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, respectively) as compared to the diabetic control (249.7 ± 7.3 mg/dL). Moreover, CRME at the highest dose decreased HbA1Cand improved insulin levels (3.96% and 11 ng/ml, respectively) when compared with diabetic control group (7.55% and 6.5 ng/ml, respectively). CRME also revealed pronounced improvement in liver function test and lipid profile test when compared to the diabetic control. Furthermore, CRME notably reversed the histopathological changes that observed in alloxan-induced diabetes.

Conclusion

Our research exertion clearly demonstrates that CRME can be explored as a substantial antidiabetic and organ protective agent in the management of diabetes.
Epilepsy control during an epidemic: emerging approaches and a new management framework
Authors: Chen Deng , Zhu Lina , Lin Xin , Hong Zhen , Li Shichuo , Liu Ling , Zhou Dong
Published: May 2020

Epidemics are a big threat to world health. The ongoing pandemic of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a series of challenges to public health. One such challenge is the management of chronic diseases such as epilepsy during an epidemic event. Studies on this topic are rather limited and the related medical practice is full of uncertainty. Here we review recent development of potential approaches for epilepsy control during an epidemic and propose a new three-level management framework to address these challenges.
Modelling and optimization studies on decolorization of brilliant green dye using integrated nanofiltration and photocatalysis
Authors: Donkadokula Naresh Yadav , Kola Anand Kishore , Saroj Devendra
Published: May 2020

The current work explores the treatment of dye wastewater using the combination of photocatalysis and ceramic nanofiltration process. Commercial ceramic membrane and titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalyst were used in this study to investigate the removal of Brilliant Green (BG) dye from the synthetic dye wastewater solution. The effect of various operating parameters on dye decolorization and total organic carbon removal were investigated. The operating parameters (pH, catalyst loading and time duration) were optimized using an experimental design model namely Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The use of experimental design by RSM resulted in the improvement of dye decolorization at optimum conditions. In addition to these operating parameters, the trend of initial dye concentration and the influence of catalyst loading on permeate flux was also studied. Around 99% of decolorization was obtained by the hybrid system at 500 mg L− 1 of dye concentration, 1 g L− 1 of TiO2 dosage, pH of 4.2 and 90 min. The integrated system i.e. photocatalytic reactor with nanofiltration membrane has shown complete removal of BG dye compared to individual systems. From the present study, it can be concluded that this integrated system is one of the efficient methods for dye treatment.
Perineal canal repair using modified Tsuchida’s technique
Authors: Manjiri S. , Shetty Jeevak , Padmalatha S. K. , Luthra Kush , Patil Neehar
Published: May 2020

Background

The perineal canal is a rare variety of anorectal malformations, identified by different nomenclatures like H fistula, double termination of the alimentary canal, and anovestibular fistula. Various approaches to repair this anomaly have been proposed.

The present study aimed to review the results of perineal canal repair with modified Tsuchida’s technique, in seven girls treated in our unit between 2014 and 2019. These were classified as acquired and congenital type of perineal canal, depending upon their clinical presentations.

Results

Of the total seven cases, it was found that three of them had a perineal abscess and persistent anovestibular fistula formation, and they underwent definitive repair of the perineal canal after 12 weeks as they did not respond to the conservative management. Four girls had congenital anovestibular fistula without infection. All the patients underwent covering colostomy and definitive repair by modified Tsuchida’s technique. One patient had a recurrence of the fistula, due to early closure of colostomy and underwent redo repair. One patient with known immune deficiency died before colostomy closure due to severe sepsis. During the last follow-up, all six girls were continent (Kelly’s score 6/6), and the perineum had healed well.

Conclusion

The perineal canal can be acquired or congenital. Irrespective of its etiology, modified Tsuchida’s technique has been found to be an easy and satisfactory method of its repair.