bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predator-Based Selection And The Impact of Edge Sympatry On Components of Coral Snake Mimicry
Authors: Wilson Lauren , Lonsdale George , Curlis John David , Hunter Elizabeth , Cox Christian L.
Published: May 2021

Mimicry is a vivid example of how predator-driven selection can impact phenotypic diversity, which itself can be influenced by the presence (sympatry) or absence (allopatry) of a dangerous model. However, the impact of sympatry and allopatry on predation on mimicry systems at fine spatial scales (e.g., edge sympatry, allopatry) is not well understood. We used a clay replica study in a montane tropical site in Honduras to test the impact of edge sympatry on 1) overall attack rates, 2) the fitness benefit of mimetic coloration, 3) predation on specific mimetic signal components, and 4) temporal variation in predator-based selection on mimicry components. Unlike previous research, we found that mimetic phenotypes received significantly more attacks than cryptic replicas in edge sympatry, suggesting that mimetic phenotypes might not confer a fitness benefit in areas of edge sympatry. Additionally, we documented temporal variation in predator-based selection, as the impacts of allopatry on predatory attacks varied among years. Our results imply that the effect of sympatry and allopatry on predator-based selection in mimicry systems may be more complex than previously thought for species-rich assemblies of coral snakes and their mimics in the montane tropics.
Developing SSR Individual Identification System and Tracking the Geographical Origin of Timber for the Endangered Species Chamaecyparis Formosensis
Authors: Hu Chiun-Jr , Chu Fang-Hua , Huang Yi-Shiang , Tu Yu-Ching , Hung Yu-Mei , Tseng Yu-Hsin , Pu Chang-En , Hsu Cheng Te , Chao Chi-Hsiang , Chou Yu-Shyang , Liu Shau-Chian , You Ya Ting , Hsu Shuo-Yu , Hsieh Hsiang-Chih , Wang Chieh-Ting , Chen Chi-Tsong
Published: May 2021

Chamaecyparis formosensis is an endemic species of Taiwan, threatened from intensive use and illegal felling. An individual identification system for C. formosensis is required to provide scientific evidence for court use and deter illegal felling. In this study, 36 polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were developed. By applying up to 28 non-linkage of the developed markers, it is calculated that the cumulative random probability of identity (CPI) is as low as 1.652×10-12, the combined power of discrimination (CPD) is as high as 0.999999999998348, and the identifiable population size is up to 60 million, which is greater than the known C. formosensis population size in Taiwan. Biogeographical analysis data show that C. formosensis from four geographic areas belong to the same genetic population which can be further divided into three clusters: SY (Eastern Taiwan), HV and GW (Northwestern Taiwan), and MM (Southwestern Taiwan). The developed system was applied to assess the provenance of samples with 88.44% of accuracy rate, and therefore can serve as a pre-screening tool to reduce the range required for comparison. The system developed in this study is a potential crime-fighting tool against illegal felling.
Shakedown strength based parameter optimization technique and its application on designing an airtight module
Authors: Huang Songhua , Xu Yugong , Zhang Lele , Chen Geng , Zeng Fuming , Liu Feng
Published: May 2021

Structural optimal design is traditionally performed according to the elastic limit rule which makes the structure overweighted or strength over conservative to an extent. Shakedown theory is implemented in the present study in order to measure load-capacity performance of structure. It can determine the strength of a structure under arbitrary varying loads without loading history where failure form of incremental collapse, ratcheting and alternate plasticity will be avoided. The current research subsequently provides a parameter optimal design scheme with respect to maximum structure strength and strength-to-weight performance in the framework of shakedown which makes the optimal structure design in a relatively practical way. With this motivation, the formula of proposed shakedown limited parameter optimization problem is derived and solved based on genetic-gradient coupling algorithm. The present coupling algorithm is essentially solve a double-loop problem where the inner loop adopt interior point method to solve shakedown problem under a given parameter combination while the outer loop use genetic algorithm to find the optimal parameters based on a given shakedown fitness. In addition, external database technique is applied to accelerate computation and prevent unexpected interrupt. Subsequently, a test example which is a optimal parameter design problem of plate with a circular hole is presented to demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method and algorithm. In addition, the proposed method is also utilized to determine the optimal load-bearing capacity of a airtight module to be used in a manned spacecraft. Moreover, optimal shakedown load design results of the manned airtight module as well as optimal strength-to-weight efficiency design results are given in the end. This study confirmed that genetic-gradient coupling algorithm is a effective means for determine the optimal parameter in accordance to the shakedown load domain.
COVID-19 in Children with Chronic Dialysis and Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Canpolat Nur , Yıldırım Zeynep Yürük , Yıldız Nurdan , Taşdemir Mehmet , Göknar Nilüfer , Evrengül Havva , Gülmez Rüveyda , Aksu Bağdagül , Dursun Hasan , Özçelik Gül , Yavaşcan Önder , Çiçek Rümeysa Yasemin , Tülpar Sebahat , Hacıhamdioğlu Duygu Övünç , Nayır Ahmet , Alpay Harika
Published: May 2021

The aim of the study is to present incidence of COVID-19 in children with renal replacement therapy (RRT) and compare the severity and outcomes of the disease between the groups undergoing dialysis and kidney transplantation (KTx). This multicenter observational study was based on data collected from children receiving RRT, either chronic dialysis or KTx, diagnosed with COVID-19. All members of the Istanbul branch of the Turkish Pediatric Nephrology Association were requested to submit all their confirmed COVID-19 cases between April 1 and December 31, 2020. They were also asked to report the number of their prevalent patients on RRT under the age of 20. A total of 46 RRT patients diagnosed with COVID-19 were reported from 12 centers. Of these, 29 were KTx recipients, and 17 were on dialysis. COVID-19 cases represented 9.3% of all prevalent dialysis patients and 9.2% of all prevalent KTx recipients. Twelve KTx recipients (41.4%) and three dialysis patients (17.6%) were asymptomatic (p = 0.12). The hospitalization rate was higher in dialysis patients than KTx recipients (82.4% vs. 27.6%, p = 0.001). Two patients, one in each group, experienced a severe disease course, and only one hemodialysis patient had a critical illness that required mechanical ventilation. Acute kidney injury developed in 36% of KTx recipients, but none required dialysis or lost their graft. In the entire cohort, one patient on hemodialysis with multiple comorbidities died.Conclusion: Although most of cases were asymptomatic or had a mild disease, children on RRT seem to have an increased risk for COVID-19.
WITHDRAWN: Repurposing of Dapsone as Neuroprotective Agent on Cuprizone-induced Demyelination via Targeting Nrf2 and NF-kB in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Dehpour Ahmad Reza , Khaledi Ehsan , Noori Tayebeh , Delphi Ladan , Sureda Antoni , Sobarzo-Sanchez Eduardo , Shirooie Samira
Published: May 2021

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disorder wherein the myelin of nerve cells in central nervous system is damaged. Fatigue, lack of coordination, blurred vision and mental problems are some of the symptoms of MS. In the current study, we assessed the performance of Dapsone (DAP) on improvement of behavioral dysfunction and preservation of myelin in the cuprizone (CPZ) induced demyelination model via targeting Nrf2 and IKB. MS was induced in C57BL/6 mice through diet supplementation of CPZ (0.2%) for 6 weeks and DAP (12.5 mg/kg/day; i.p.) was administered once daily for the last 2 weeks of treatment. Behavioral tests (pole test and rotarod performance test), LFB and H&E staining and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of p-Nrf2 and p-IKB were performed to evaluate locomotor coordination, observe the area of demyelination in corpus callosum respectively. Furthermore, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and nitrite were measured. Based on the results of the weight of mice, it was shown that the weight of the groups receiving CPZ decreased compared to the control group (P < 0.001), while administration of dapsone increased the weight (P < 0.001). Pole test showed that CPZ increased latency time to fall (P <0.01) but the latency to reach the floor in DAP-CPZ group was significantly shorter than the CPZ group (P <0.001). Rotarod performance test showed the effect of CPZ in reducing fall time in CPZ group (P <0.01) however treatment with DAP significantly increased fall time (P < 0.001). In LFB staining increased demyelination was seen in the CPZ group and decreased demyelination was observed in the DAP group. IHC staining results of p-Nrf2 and p-IKB showed that CPZ significantly decreased p-Nrf2 and elevated p-IKB levels compared with the control group (P <0.001), but in DAP -treated groups markedly modified these changes (P < 0.001). CPZ feeding led to increase of brain nitrite levels and reduced SOD activity (P <0.05) but in DAP-treated considerably reversed CPZ-induced changes in nitrite and SOD activity level (P <0.001). These data support the suggestion that the beneficial properties of dapsone on the CPZ-induced demyelination are mediated by targeting Nrf2 and NF-kB pathways.
Increased excitability in hippocampal neurons of synaptopodin-knockout mouse
Authors: Aloni Etay , Verbitzky Serphima , kushnireva Lilia , Korkotian Eduard , Segal Menahem
Published: May 2021

Synaptopodin (SP) is localized within the spine apparatus, an enigmatic structure located in the neck of spines of central excitatory neurons. It serves as a link between the spine head, where the synapse is located, and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in the parent dendrite (Vlachos et al. 2009, Korkotian and Segal, 2011, Zhang et al. 2013). SP is also located in the axon initial segment, in association with the cisternal organelle, another structure related to endoplasmic reticulum. Extensive research using SP knockout (SPKO) mice suggests that SP has a pivotal role in structural and functional plasticity (Deller et al. 2003, Deller et al. 2007). Consequently, SPKO mice were shown to be deficient in cognitive functions, and in ability to undergo long term potentiation of reactivity to afferent stimulation (Deller et al. 2003). In contrast, neurons of SPKO mice appear to be more excitable than their wild type (wt) counterparts(Bas Orth et al, 2007). To address this discrepancy, we have now recorded activity of CA1 neurons in the mouse hippocampus slice, with both extracellular and patch recording methods. Electrophysiologically, SPKO cells in CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus were more excitable than wt ones. In addition, exposure of mice to a complex environment caused a higher proportion of arc-expressing cells in SPKO than in wt mice hippocampus. These experiments indicate that higher excitability and higher expression of arc staining may reflect SP deficiency in the hippocampus of adult SPKO mice.
Retrograde Intramedullary Nailing for Proximal Monteggia Fractures in Children
Authors: Thürig Grégoire , Ines Raabe , Mauro Maniglio , Vial Philippe , Tannast Moritz , Gautier Emanuel
Published: May 2021

IntroductionMonteggia fractures are defined as fractures of the ulna’s proximal third with associated dislocation of the radial head and were further described and classified by Bado. They are very rare in adults and even rare in children reaching an incidence of 1.5 - 3% of all pediatric forearm fractures. The treatment’s primary goal is the anatomical reduction of the ulnar fracture, and with that, the following indirect anatomic reduction of the radial head. Different modalities for the treatment of Monteggia fractures in children are reported.We present possible closed reduction techniques and internal fixation based on the type of Bado classification in pediatric patients. We illustrate these techniques as a case series discussing the strengths, risks, and pitfalls of the ulna’s retrograde nailing.Materials and MethodsFor this case series, we included all pediatric patients who got surgical treatment at our institution for a Monteggia lesion from November 2000 to August 2019. Preoperative imaging consisted of conventional radiographs of the elbow and the forearm in two planes. Results This case series reports about six pediatric cases (age two to six years, two girls and four boys). They all had a proximal Monteggia fracture. In all cases, closed indirect reduction of the ulnar fracture and reposition of the radial head was achieved utilizing retrograde nailing of the ulna employing an intramedullary nail or Kirschner-Wire according to the instructions. No infection, vascular or nerve injuries, or other complications occurred. All were pain-free and regained full range of motion compared to the contralateral side.ConclusionIndirect reduction and intramedullary retrograde nailing are minimally invasive techniques that do not harm the blood supply to the bone and soft tissues. It may be a safe and effective procedure.
Distinct and Dynamic Distributions of Multiple Elements and Their Species in the Rice Rhizosphere
Authors: Yuan Zhao-Feng , Gustave Williamson , Ata-Ul-Karim Syed Tahir , Bridge Jonathan , Sekar Raju , Liu Fuyuan , Chen Zheng
Published: May 2021

AimsThe biogeochemical cycles of elements from soils to plants are mainly governed by their rhizosphere processes. Understanding these processes is challenging and remains largely unresolved due to the complex interrelationships among different elements and due to a lack of appropriate techniques for simultaneous spatiotemporal monitoring.MethodsThis study employed an In-situ Porewater Iterative (IPI) sampler array (0-22 mm measurement distance every 1.7 mm, with a time interval of 3 to 10 days) to capture the in situ spatiotemporal dynamics of ten elements (Fe, Mn, As, P, S, Cr, Co, Zn, Sb and Cd) in the paddy rhizosphere to examine their covarying changes in time and space dimensions.ResultsThe findings revealed that the solute-phase concentration of most elements, other than Sb and Cd, increased to a peak after 30 days of paddy soil flooding and then decreased. Additionally, Sb and Cd continuously decreased during flooding. Fe (-52%), Mn (-17%), P (-43%), Co (-11%), and As species (-74%) were substantially immobilized within a 10 mm zone around the roots, while Zn (28%) and Cd (41%) increased. The greater immobilization of As and re-mobilization of Cd, in the rhizosphere, are stimulated by biotic oxidation of arsenite to arsenate with root oxygen loss and the pH decrease, respectively.ConclusionsOur study showed most sampled elements covaried with Fe both in time and space in the rhizosphere, but the elements are temporally and spatially determined by multiple biogeochemical processes in soils as well as exudates from plant roots.
Radiologic evaluation using computed tomography for compensatory lung growth; a prospective comparison with histological data from a large animal model
Authors: Ohata Keiji , Chen-Yoshikawa Toyofumi F. , Hamaji Masatsugu , Kubo Takeshi , Nakamura Tatsuo , Date Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

Background Non-invasive analysis using computed tomography (CT) data may be a promising candidate to evaluate neo-alveolarization in adult lungs following lung resection. This study evaluates and compares the validity of CT analysis with histologic morphometry for compensatory lung growth in a large animal model.Methods We calculated the radiologic tissue volume and the radiologic lung weight from CT data taken at 1, 3, and 6 months post-surgery on 15 male beagle dogs that had a right thoractotomy, bilobectomy, or pneumonectomy (n = 5 in each group). Results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and were subsequently compared to histologic findings of tissue samples at 6 months post-surgery using Pearson’s correlation.Results An increase in radiologic tissue volume and radiologic lung weight was identified, which was positively correlated with histologic lung parenchymal amounts (correlation coefficient = 0.955 and 0.934, respectively, p < 0.001). Histology of lung specimens at six months post-surgery revealed an increase in the tissue amount in both Bilobectomy and Peumonectomy groups, which was consistent with compensatory lung growth.Conclusion Radiologic tissue volume and radiologic lung weight reflected compensatory lung growth following lung resection. Radiologic assessment using CT data can be a promising clinical modality to evaluate postoperative lung growth.
Mild deficiency of mitochondrial Complex III in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease decreases amyloid beta plaque formation
Authors: pinto milena , Diaz Francisca , Nissanka Nadee , Guastucci Chelsey S , Illiano Placido , Brambilla Roberta , Moraes Carlos T
Published: May 2021

Background: For decades, mitochondrial dysfunctions and the generation of reactive oxygen species have been proposed to promote the development and progression of the amyloid pathology in Alzheimer’s disease, but this association is still debated. In particular, it is still unclear if mitochondrial dysfunctions are a trigger or rather a consequence of the formation of amyloid aggregates, and in particular, the role of the different mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation complexes in Alzheimer’s patients’ brain remains poorly understood. Methods: To study how mitochondrial Complex III defects affect amyloid beta pathology in vivo , we partially knocked out mitochondrial Complex III (CIII KO ) in mature forebrain neurons of an Alzheimer’s mouse model that develops plaque pathology (APP/PS1). Results: We found that Complex III dysfunction in adult neurons induced mild oxidative stress which did not correlate with increased amyloid beta accumulation. In fact, CIII KO -AD mice showed decreased plaque number, decreased Aβ42 toxic fragment and altered amyloid precursor protein cleavage pathway. Conclusions: Our results support a model in which mitochondrial dysfunction is not the cause of amyloid oligomer accumulation but rather a consequence of amyloid beta toxicity.
Indirect Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Hospitalisations For Cardiometabolic Conditions and Their Management: A Systematic Review
Authors: SEIDU SAMUEL , SK Kunutsor , Cos Xavier , Khunti K.
Published: May 2021

Background: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a dramatic crisis in health care systems worldwide. These may have significant implications for the management of cardiometabolic diseases. We conducted a systematic review of published evidence to assess the indirect impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospitalisations for cardiovascular diseases and their management.Methods: Studies that evaluated volume of hospitalisations for cardiometabolic conditions and their management with comparisons between the COVID-19 and pre-COVID periods were identified from MEDLINE, Embase and the reference list of relevant studies from January 2020 to 25 February 2021. Results: We identified 103 observational studies, with most studies assessing hospitalisations for acute cardiovascular conditions such as acute coronary syndrome, ischemic strokes and heart failure. About 89% of studies reported a decline in hospitalisations during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic times, with reductions ranging from 20.2 to 73%. Severe presentation, less utilization of cardiovascular procedures, and longer patient- and healthcare-related delays were common during the pandemic. Most studies reported shorter length of hospital stay during the pandemic than before the pandemic (1-8 vs 2-12 days) or no difference in length of stay. Most studies reported no change in in-hospital mortality among hospitalised patients.Conclusion: Routine and ongoing clinical care of patients for acute cardiovascular conditions, their management and outcomes have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients should be educated via population-wide approaches on the need for timely medical contact and health systems should put strategies in place to provide timely care to patients at high risk.
Organization of DNA Replication Origin Firing in Xenopus Egg Extracts : The Role of Intra-S Checkpoint
Authors: Ciardo Diletta , Haccard Olivier , Narassimprakash Hemalatha , Arbona Jean-Michel , Hyrien Olivier , Audit Benjamin , Marheineke Kathrin , Goldar Arach
Published: May 2021

Background: During cell division, the duplication of the genome starts at multiple positions called replication origins. Origin firing requires the interaction of rate-limiting factors with potential origins during the S(ynthesis)-phase of the cell cycle. Origins fire as synchronous clusters which is proposed to be regulated by the intra-S checkpoint. Results: By modelling the unchallenged, the checkpoint-inhibited and the checkpoint protein Chk1 over-expressed replication pattern of single DNA molecules from Xenopus sperm chromatin replicated in egg extracts, we demonstrate that the quantitative modelling of data requires: 1) a segmentation of the genome into regions of low and high probability of origin firing; 2) that regions with high probability of origin firing escape intra-S checkpoint regulation and 3) the variability of the rate of DNA synthesis close to replication forks is a necessary ingredient that should be taken in to account in order to describe the dynamic of replication origin firing. Conclusions: This model implies that the observed origin clustering emerges from the apparent synchrony of origin firing in regions with high probability of origin firing and challenge the assumption that the intra-S checkpoint is the main regulator of origin clustering. Availabily: The datasets supporting the conclusions of this article are from reference [1].
Simple Concentration Method Enables the Use of Gargle and Mouthwash Instead of Nasopharyngeal Swab Sampling for the Diagnosis of Covid19 by PCR
Authors: Kocagoz Tanil , Can Ozge , Uyar Neval Yurttutan , Aksoy Ece , Polat Tuba , Cankaya Dilara , Karakus Betul , Mozioglu Erkan , Kocagoz Sesin
Published: May 2021

Purpose Since its emergence in December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 is causing one of the most devastating pandemics in human history. Currently, the most important method for definitive diagnosis of COVID-19 is identification of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in nasopharyngeal swab samples by RT-PCR. Nasopharyngeal swab sampling is a discomforting procedure sometimes with adverse effects, which also poses a risk for infection for the personnel performing the sampling. We have developed a new method for concentrating biological samples, which enabled us to use gargle and mouth-wash samples to be used in RT-PCR, for the diagnosis of COVID-19, as an alternative to nasopharyngeal swab samples.Methods We have analyzed nasopharyngeal and gargle and mouthwash samples, before and after concentration, of 363 patients by RT-PCR for the presence of SARS-CoV-2.Results Among 114 patients in which SARS-CoV-2 was identified in at least one of their samples, the virus was identified in 76 (66.7%), 67 (58.8%) and 101 (88.6%) of nasopharyngeal swab, gargle and mouth-wash samples before and after concentration, respectively.Conclusion When concentrated by our new method, gargle and mouthwash samples can be used instead of nasopharyngeal samples in identification of SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR, with the same or better sensitivity. Eliminating the need for nasopharyngeal sampling, will save the patients from an invasive and painful procedure and will lower the risk of infection for the healthcare personnel taking the sample. This easy sampling procedure may decrease the workload of hospitals, shorten the turn-around time of obtaining test results and thus enable rapid isolation of infected patients.
Bayesian Method for Estimating Weibull Parameters for Wind Resource Assessment in the Equatorial Region: a Comparison Between Two-parameter and Three-parameter Weibull Distributions
Authors: Khan M. G. M. , Ahmed M. Rafiuddin
Published: May 2021

The two-parameter Weibull distribution has garnered much attention in the assessment of wind energy potential. The estimation of the shape and scale parameters of the distribution has brought forth a successful tool for the wind energy industry. However, it may be inappropriate to use the two-parameter Weibull distribution to accurately characterize wind speed at every location, especially at sites where the frequency of low speed is high, such as the Equatorial region. In this work, for the robustness in wind resource assessment, we first propose a Bayesian approach in estimating Weibull parameters. Secondly, we compare the techniques of wind resource assessment using both two and three-parameter Weibull distributions for different sites in the Equatorial region. The Bayesian inference approach is adopted using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms. Simulation studies conducted in this research confirms that the Bayesian approach seems to be a new robust alternative technique for accurate estimation of Weibull parameters. An appropriate Weibull distribution and the application of the Bayesian approach in estimating distribution parameters were determined using data from six sites in the Equatorial region from 1° N of Equator to 19° South of Equator. Results revealed that a three-parameter Weibull distribution is a better fit for wind data having a greater percentage of low wind speeds (0-1 m/s) and low skewness. However, wind data with a smaller percentage of low wind speeds and high skewness showed better results using a two-parameter Weibull distribution. The results also demonstrate that the proposed Bayesian approach to estimate Weibull parameters is extremely useful in the analysis of wind power potential, as it provides more accurate results while characterizing lower wind speeds.
MIXed Plastics Biodegradation and UPcycling Using Microbial Communities: The EU Horizon 2020 Project MIX-UP
Authors: Ballerstedt Hendrik , Tiso Till , Wierckx Nick , Wei Ren , Avérous Luc , Bornscheuer Uwe , O’Connor Kevin , Floehr Tilman , Jupke Andreas , Klankermayer Jürgen , Liu Luo , de Lorenzo Victor , Narancic Tanja , Nogales Juan , Perrin Remi , Pollet Eric , Prieto Auxiliadora , Casey William , Haarmann Thomas , Sarbu Alexandru , Schwaneberg Ulrich , Xin Fengxue , Dong Weiliang , Xing Jianmin , Chen Guo-Qiang , Tan Tianwei , Jiang Min , Blank Lars M
Published: May 2021

This article introduces the EU Horizon 2020 research project MIX-UP, “Mixed plastics biodegradation and upcycling using microbial communities”. The project focuses on the ambitious vision to change the traditional linear value chain of plastics to a sustainable, biodegradable based one. In MIX-UP, plastic mixtures containing five of the top six fossil-based recalcitrant plastics (PE, PUR, PP, PET, and PS), along with upcoming biobased and biodegradable plastics (bioplastics) such as PHA and PLA, will be used as feedstock for microbial transformations. The generated new workflow increases recycling quotas and adds value to present poorly recycled plastic waste streams. Consecutive controlled enzymatic and microbial degradation of mechanically pre-treated plastics waste combined with subsequent microbial conversion to polymers and value-added chemicals by mixed cultures. Through optimization of known plastic-degrading enzymes by integrated protein engineering, high specific binding capacities, stability, and catalytic efficacy towards a broad spectrum of plastic polymers under high salt content and temperature conditions will be achieved. Another focus lies in the search and isolation of novel enzymes active on recalcitrant polymers. MIX-UP will also enhance the production of enzymes and formulate enzyme cocktails tailored to specific waste streams. In vivo and in vitro application of these cocktails enables stable, self-sustaining microbiomes to convert the released plastic monomers selectively into value-added products, key building blocks, and biomass. Any of the remaining material recalcitrant to the enzymatic activity will be recirculated into the process by physicochemical treatment. The Chinese-European MIX-UP is a multidisciplinary and industry-participating consortium to address the market need for novel sustainable routes to valorize plastic waste streams. MIX-UP realizes a circular (bio) plastic economy and will contribute where mechanical and chemical plastic recycling show limits.
The Influence of Adjunctive Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy on Survival in Primary Liver Cancer: A Real-world Study Based on EMRs
Authors: Zhao Ruixia , Wang Linlin , Liu Yibing , Shao Mingyi , Yang Wei , Fu Yu , Gao Qilong , Feng Jun'an , Zhao Changpu , Ji Weiguo , Xing Yunfei , Xiang Xinghua , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Rongrong , Zhao Yunxia , Shao Fanlei
Published: May 2021

BackgroundPrimary liver cancer is a common clinical malignancy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an alternative treatment for primary liver cancer. TCM effectively improves the survival rate and quality of life of patients, but high-level evidence is lacking.Patients and methodsThis study determined whether the combination of TCM and conventional cancer treatment affects the survival of liver cancer patients. Patients were selected from 5 tertiary hospitals in Henan Province. Two thousand and sixty-seven patients with primary liver cancer were included in the study for analysis. Patients who received adjunctive TCM treatment and underwent treatment for more than 1 month were classified as the TCM intervention cohort, i.e., the exposure group. Patients who did not receive adjunctive TCM treatment or who received adjunctive TCM treatment for less than 1 month were classified as the non-TCM intervention cohort, i.e., the non-exposed group. The main outcome indicators were the survival outcome and survival time of primary liver cancer patients. The propensity score inverse probability weighting method was used to balance the differences in the observed characteristics between the groups.ResultsThe primary cohort comprised 2,067 patients with primary liver cancer, including 462 patients who received adjunctive TCM treatment and 1,605 patients who did not receive adjunctive TCM treatment. Multiple logistic (binary) regression analysis results showed that adjunctive TCM treatment may reduce the mortality of primary liver cancer patients (regression coefficient = −0.82, P<0.001). The results of the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that the survival rate and median survival time of the exposure group before and after propensity score weighting were greater than those of the control group (P<0.0001). Multiple Cox regression analysis showed that adjunctive TCM treatment was an independent protective factor for survival in liver cancer patients (regression coefficient = −0.2477, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.7806, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.6311–0.9655]), and cancer embolus was an independent risk factor (regression coefficient = 1.0546, HR = 0.3483, 95% CI [0.2831–0.4286]).ConclusionAdjuvant treatment with TCM has a protective effect on the prognosis of patients with primary liver cancer; it can reduce the mortality of primary liver cancer and prolong the survival time of patients. Cancer embolus is a risk factor that impacts the therapeutic effect of treatment in liver cancer patients.
Phenotypic Changes of Detrusor PDGFR Alpha Positive Cells in Spinal Cord Injury-Induced Detrusor Overactivity
Authors: Lee Ken , Park Sang , Choi Pil , Ryoo Seung-Bum , Lee Haeyeong , Peri Lauren , Zhou Tong , Corrigan Robert , Yanez Andrew , Moon Suk B , Perrino Brian , Sanders Kenton , Koh Sang Don
Published: May 2021

Volume accommodation occurs via a novel mechanism involving interstitial cells in detrusor muscles. The interstitial cells in the bladder are PDGFRα+ , and they restrain the excitability of smooth muscle at low levels and prevent the development of transient contractions (TCs). A common clinical manifestation of spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced bladder dysfunction is detrusor overactivity (DO). Although a myogenic origin of DO after SCI has been suggested, a mechanism for development of SCI-induced DO has not been determined. In this study we hypothesized that SCI-induced DO is related to loss of function in the regulatory mechanism provided by PDGFRα+ cells. Our results showed that transcriptional expression of Pdgfra and Kcnn3 was decreased after SCI. Proteins encoded by these genes also decreased after SCI, and a reduction in PDGFRα+ cell density was also documented. Loss of PDGFRα + cells was due to apoptosis. TCs in ex vivo bladders during filling increased dramatically after SCI, and this was related to the loss of regulation provided by SK channels, as we observed decreased sensitivity to apamin. These findings show that damage to the mechanism restraining muscle contraction during bladder filling that is provided by PDGFRα + cells is causative in the development of DO after SCI.
A Digital Twin-driven Human-robot Collaborative Assembly-commissioning Method for Complex Products
Authors: Sun Xuemin , Zhang Rong , Liu Shimin , Lv Qibing , Bao Jinsong , Li Jie
Published: May 2021

In the process of complex products assembly-commissioning, manual operation is the main reason for low efficiency. The human-robot cooperation (HRC) technology combines the advantages of human and robot, and makes it complete the task in the shared space. It is an effective way to solve the problem by introducing the HRC technology into the complex products of assembly-commissioning. However, the current HRC technology has insufficient perception and cognitive ability of tasks. Therefore, this paper presents a digital twin-driven HRC assembly-commissioning framework. In this framework, a virtual-real mapping environment for HRC is constructed. In order to improve the cognitive ability of robot units to tasks, this paper proposes a method of intention recognition that integrates the features of parts into human joint sequences. In order to improve the adaptability of robot unit to task, the assembly-commissioning task knowledge graph is constructed to quickly extract the implement sequence of robot unit. At the same time, the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) is used to adaptively adjust the robot unit implement action in the process of assembly-commissioning. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by taking a particular type of automobile generator as a case study product.
Functional Characterization of Melanocortin-3 Receptor In Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss)
Authors: Yu Hui-Xia , Li Yang , Song Wei-Jia , Wang Hui , Mo Hao-Lin , Liu Qiao , Zhang Xin-Miao , Jiang Ze-Bin , Wang Li-Xin
Published: May 2021

The melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) is an important regulator of energy homeostasis and inflammation in mammals. However, its function in teleost fish needs to be further explored. In this study, we characterized rainbow trout MC3R (rtMC3R), which encoded a putative protein of 331 amino acids. Phylogenetic and chromosomal synteny analyses showed that rtMC3R was closely related to bony fishes. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) revealed that the transcripts of rtMC3R were highly expressed in the brain and muscle. The cellular function of rtMC3R was further verified by the signal-pathway-specific luciferase reporter assays. Four agonists such as α-MSH, β-MSH, ACTH (1–24) and NDP-MSH can active rtMC3R, increasing the production of intracellular cAMP and up-regulating MAPK/ERK signals. Moreover, we found that rtMC3R stimulated with α-MSH and NDP-MSH can significantly inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway. This research will be helpful for further studies on the function of MC3R in rainbow trout, especially the role of energy metabolism and immune regulation.
Collagen-Coated Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as a Sustainable Catalyst for Spirooxindole Synthesis
Authors: Ghanbari Shima , Esmkhani Maryam , Javanshir Shahrzad
Published: May 2021

In this work, a novel magnetic organic-inorganic hybrid catalyst was fabricated by encapsulating magnetite@silica (Fe3O4@SiO2) nanoparticles with Isinglass protein collagen (IGPC) using epichlorohydrin (ECH) as crosslinking agent. Characterization studies of the prepared particles were accomplished by various analytical techniques specifically, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer−Emmett−Teller (BET) analysis. The XRD results showed a crystalline and amorphous phase which contribute to magnetite and isinglass respectively. Moreover, the formation of the core/shell structure had been confirmed by TEM images. The synthesized Fe3O4@SiO2/ECH/IG was applied as bifunctional heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of spirooxindole derivatives demonstrating excellent catalytic properties, stability and recyclability.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Produced By The Rhizosphere Actinobacteria Streptomyces Sp. and Amycolatopsis Sp. Strains and Their Antifungal Activity Against Colletotrichum Musae
Authors: de Brito Maria Vieira , Fonseca Wéverson L. , Mafezoli Jair , Barbosa Francisco Geraldo , Nunes Fátima Miranda , de Mattos Marcos Carlos , Santos João E. A. dos , Araujo Francisca S. A. , Vieira Regimara F. B. S. , Magalhães Hilton C. R. , Muniz Celli R. , Garruti Deborah S. , Ootani Marcio A. , Netto José M. S. , Pinto Licarion , Viana Francisco M.P. , de Oliveira Maria da Conceicao Ferreira
Published: May 2021

Herein is reported the study on the antifungal potential of VOCs produced by actinobacterial strains from the rhizosphere of Caatinga plants. Twenty strains were screened for their ability to produce VOCs with growth inhibition (GI) potential against the phytopathogen fungus Colletotrichum musae . The most active VOCs were produced by Streptomyces sp. (ACTB-77) and Amycolatopsis sp. (ACTB-290). The effect of VOCs from ACTB-77 and ACTB-290 on the morphological structure of the fungus hyphae was investigated by SEM and revealed significant deformation of the fungal cell filaments, especially in the case of ACTB-290. VOCs produced by these two actinobacteria strains and the fungus under axenic and co-culture conditions were investigated using HS-SPME-GCMS combined approaches, and all data were analyzed by statistical methods. Most of the mVOCs were identified, representing 92-100% of total peaks areas. Linalool (38.53±5.19%) and geosmin (17.25±2.55%) were the major VOCs constituents from ACTB-77, while dimethyl disulfide (48.49±3.48%) and dimethyl trisulfide (21.14±3.50%) were the major VOCs compounds produced by ACTB-290. Statistical analyses of data from co-cultures showed that the VOCs profile of the experiment involving ACTB-77 was more influenced by the fungal VOCs while the experiment with ACTB-290 was more influence by compounds from the actinobacteria.
Cemented versus Uncemented Hemiarthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fractures in Patients with Neuromuscular Diseases: A Minimum of 2 Years Follow-Up Study
Authors: Wang Yuchuan , Wang Zhongzheng , Tian Siyu , Tan Zhanchao , Zhu Yanbin , Chen Wei , Zhang Yingze
Published: May 2021

Background

The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of cemented and uncemented hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fractures in patients with neuromuscular disease.
Methods

We reviewed 156 patients with neuromuscular disease who underwent hemiarthroplasty between 2015 and 2019. Patients were divided into cemented group (n = 105) and uncemented group (n = 51), with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Factors including preoperative features, duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, complications, pain, Harris hip scores (HHS), and quality of life were compared across groups, and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to estimate survival.
Results

In the uncemented group, the mean duration of surgery was 16.0 minutes shorter (p = 0.001) and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 71.1 mL less (p = 0.01). Visual analog scales (VAS), HHS and European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) scores were not different between the groups. Despite a few potential trends, we did not observe a difference in complications such as periprosthetic fractures and dislocations. The rates of mortality were similar between groups (p=0.821).
Conclusions

Both arthroplasties may be used with good medium-term results in the treatment of femoral neck fractures in patients with neuromuscular diseases.
Metabolomic fingerprinting of pig seminal plasma identifies in vivo fertility biomarkers
Authors: Mateo-Otero Yentel , Fernández-López Pol , Delgado-Bermúdez Ariadna , Nolis Pau , Roca Jordi , Miró Jordi , Barranco Isabel , Yeste Marc
Published: May 2021

Background
Metabolomic approaches, which include the study of low molecular weight molecules, is an emerging -omics technology useful for the identification of biomarkers. In this field, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy approach has already been used to uncover (in)fertility biomarkers in the seminal plasma (SP) of several mammalian species. However, NMR studies profiling SP metabolome to uncover in vivo fertility biomarkers are yet to be carried out in pigs. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the putative relationship between the presence/concentration of SP-metabolites and in vivo fertility outcomes. To this end, 24 entire ejaculates (three ejaculates per boar) were collected from artificial insemination (AI)-boars throughout a year (one ejaculate every four months). Immediately after collection, ejaculates were centrifuged (1,500×g for 10 min twice) to obtain SP-samples and were stored (− 80°C) for subsequent metabolomic analysis by NMR spectroscopy. Fertility outcomes from 1,525 inseminations were recorded over a year, including farrowing rate, litter size, stillbirths per litter and the duration of pregnancy. These data were corrected to isolate the direct boar effect on each in vivo fertility parameter using a multivariate statistical model.
Results
A total of 24 metabolites were identified and quantified in all SP-samples. ROC curve analysis showed that lactate levels in SP had discriminative capacity for farrowing rate (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.764; P < 0.05) while carnitine (AUC = 0.847), hypotaurine (AUC = 0.819), sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (AUC = 0.833), glutamate (AUC = 0.799) and glucose (AUC = 0.750) had it for litter size (P < 0.05). Similarly, citrate (AUC = 0.743), creatine (AUC = 0.812), phenylalanine (AUC = 0.750), tyrosine (AUC = 0.753) and malonate (AUC = 0.868) levels had discriminative capacity for stillbirths per litter (P < 0.05); and malonate (AUC = 0.767) and fumarate (AUC = 0.868) concentrations for gestation length (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Considering these results, the assessment of selected SP-metabolites in ejaculates through NMR spectroscopy could be considered as a promising non-invasive tool to predict in vivo fertility outcomes in pigs. Moreover, supplementing AI-doses with specific metabolites should also be contemplated as a way to improve their fertility potential.
FBXO18/Circrna211/Mir-431/CSF1 Axis Regulates the Establishment of Endometrial Receptivity Though Activating MAPK and CSF1R/PI3K/AKT/Mtor Pathways in Dairy Goats
Authors: Yang Lichun , Liu Xiaorui , Zhang Lei , Li Danni , Li Guili , Cui Jiuzeng , An Xiaopeng , Cao Binyun , Song Yu-Xuan
Published: May 2021

Background: Endometrial epithelial cells proliferation and secretion of various cytokines have a strong impact on the formation of receptive endometrium, which is known as a physiological status that allows an activated embryo to attach to the endometrium for a limited time. Circular RNAs and miRNAs can be involved in the dynamic physiological changes of endometrium by regulating relevant functional target genes in the uterus. Our work presented here with the ultimate purpose of revealing the latent molecular mechanism of FBXO18/circRNA211/miR-431/CSF1 axis in the establishment of endometrial receptivity of dairy goats.Results: In vitro, we found a regulatory network of FBXO18/circRNA211/miR-431/CSF1 in goat endometrial epithelial cells that circRNA211 severed as a sponge for miR-431, resulting in weakening the inhibition of miR-431 on target genes CSF1 and FBXO18. FBXO18/circRNA211/miR-431/CSF1 axis promoted the proliferation through regulating the key proteins of Ras, Raf, MEK, ERK in MAPK pathway via CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry and Western blot assays. Furthermore, FBXO18/circRNA211/miR-431/CSF1 axis activated the phosphorylation of key proteins PI3K, AKT and mTOR in PI3K-mTOR pathway by CSF1R, thereby promoting the establishment of endometrial receptivity. In vivo models, mice injected with miR-431 agomir showed that the endometrial thickness and the number of pinopodes were significantly decreased by HE staining and scanning electron microscope. Immunohistochemistry results showed that VEGF and OPN proteins were down-regulated and MUC1 protein was up-regulated under the treatment of miR-431 agomir. Further study demonstrated that miR-431 inhibited embryo implantation by impeding the establishment of endometrial receptivity.Conclusion: Ultimately, our study revealed a regulatory mechanism of FBXO18/circRNA211/miR-431/CSF1 axis in goat endometrial epithelial cells. This circRNA/miRNA/mRNA regulatory network presented here in vitro and in vivo models may provide a novel insight into the potentially regulating endometrium biological functions and promoting the formation of endometrium receptivity.
Piperine Exhibits Promising Antibiofilm Activity Against Staphylococcus Aureus by Accumulating Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)
Authors: Das Sharmistha , Paul Payel , Chatterjee Sudipta , Chakraborty Poulomi , Sarker Ranojit K. , Das Amlan , Maiti Debasish , Tribedi Prosun
Published: May 2021

Biofilm, an aggregated form of microbial existence has been a major area of concern in the healthcare units. These sessile microbes not only protect themselves from the host immune system but also exhibit high resistance against several antimicrobials. One such widely reported Gram-positive pathogen is Staphylococcus aureus. This human commensal is known to cause severe harmful diseases like bacteremia, sepsis, pneumonia, etc. Thus, strategies need to be undertaken to deal with such biofilm challenges. In this respect, we aimed to inhibit microbial biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus under the influence of a natural compound, piperine. Our study revealed that the higher concentrations of piperine exhibited considerable antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Hence, lower concentrations of piperine were tested to examine its antibiofilm activity. Several experiments like crystal violet (CV) assay, total biofilm protein assay, and fluorescence microscopy observation established that lower concentrations (8 µg/mL and 16 µg/mL) of piperine showed efficient antibiofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus. It was also noticed that the lower concentrations of piperine did not compromise the microbial growth of Staphylococcus aureus while exhibiting antibiofilm activity. In this connection, we also noticed that the lower concentrations of piperine showed a considerable reduction in microbial metabolic activity. Furthermore, we observed that the compound was found to accumulate reactive oxygen species in the bacterial cells that could play an important role in the inhibition of biofilm formation. Thus, piperine could be considered as a potential antibiofilm agent against the biofilm formation caused by Staphylococcus aureus.