bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race/ethnicity-associated blood DNA methylation differences between Japanese and European American women: an exploratory study
Authors: Song Min-Ae , Seffernick Anna Eames , Archer Kellie J. , Mori Kellie M. , Park Song-Yi , Chang Linda , Ernst Thomas , Tiirikainen Maarit , Peplowska Karolina , Wilkens Lynne R. , Le Marchand Loïc , Lim Unhee
Published: October 2021

Background

Racial/ethnic disparities in health reflect a combination of genetic and environmental causes, and DNA methylation may be an important mediator. We compared in an exploratory manner the blood DNA methylome of Japanese Americans (JPA) versus European Americans (EUA).

Methods

Genome-wide buffy coat DNA methylation was profiled among healthy Multiethnic Cohort participant women who were Japanese (JPA; n = 30) or European (EUA; n = 28) Americans aged 60–65. Differentially methylated CpGs by race/ethnicity (DM-CpGs) were identified by linear regression (Bonferroni-corrected P < 0.1) and analyzed in relation to corresponding gene expression, a priori selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and blood biomarkers of inflammation and metabolism using Pearson or Spearman correlations (FDR < 0.1).

Results

We identified 174 DM-CpGs with the majority of hypermethylated in JPA compared to EUA (n = 133), often in promoter regions (n = 48). Half (51%) of the genes corresponding to the DM-CpGs were involved in liver function and liver disease, and the methylation in nine genes was significantly correlated with gene expression for DM-CpGs. A total of 156 DM-CpGs were associated with rs7489665 (SH2B1). Methylation of DM-CpGs was correlated with blood levels of the cytokine MIP1B (n = 146). We confirmed some of the DM-CpGs in the TCGA adjacent non-tumor liver tissue of Asians versus EUA.

Conclusion

We found a number of differentially methylated CpGs in blood DNA between JPA and EUA women with a potential link to liver disease, specific SNPs, and systemic inflammation. These findings may support further research on the role of DNA methylation in mediating some of the higher risk of liver disease among JPA.
Cell-based therapies for retinal diseases: a review of clinical trials and direct to consumer “cell therapy” clinics
Authors: Hinkle John W. , Mahmoudzadeh Raziyeh , Kuriyan Ajay E.
Published: October 2021

Background

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is implicated in the pathophysiology of many retinal degenerative diseases. This cell layer is also an ideal target for cell-based therapies. Several early phase clinical trials evaluating cell therapy approaches for diseases involving the RPE, such as age-related macular degeneration and Stargardt's macular dystrophy have been published. However, there have also been numerous reports of complications from unproven “cell therapy” treatments marketed by “cell therapy” clinics. This review aims to outline the particular approaches in the different published clinical trials for cell-based therapies for retinal diseases. Additionally, the controversies surrounding experimental treatments offered outside of legitimate studies are presented.

Main body

Cell-based therapies can be applied to disorders that involve the RPE via a variety of techniques. A defining characteristic of any cell therapy treatment is the cell source used: human embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and human umbilical tissue-derived cells have all been studied in published trials. In addition to the cell source, various trials have evaluated particular immunosuppression regiments, surgical approaches, and outcome measures. Data from early phase studies investigating cell-based therapies in non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration (70 patients, five trials), neovascular age-related macular degeneration (12 patients, four trials), and Stargardt’s macular dystrophy (23 patients, three trials) have demonstrated safety related to the cell therapies, though evidence of significant efficacy has not been reported. This is in contrast to the multiple reports of serious complications and permanent vision loss in patients treated at “cell therapy” clinics. These interventions are marketed directly to patients, funded by the patient, lack Food and Drug Administration approval, and lack significant oversight.

Conclusion

Currently, there are no proven effective cell-based treatments for retinal diseases, although several trials have investigated potential therapies. These studies reported favorable safety profiles with multiple surgical approaches, with cells derived from multiple sources, and with utilized different immunosuppressive regiments. However, data demonstrating the efficacy and long-term safety are still pending. Nevertheless, “cell therapy” clinics continue to conduct direct-to consumer marketing for non-FDA-approved treatments with potentially blinding complications.
Study on the causes of secondary cracks of the eave wall mural of Daxiong Hall at Fengguo Temple in Yixian, Liaoning, China
Authors: Liu Cheng , He Yuan , Li Qian , Wang Fei
Published: October 2021

Built in Kaitai 9 years after the beginning of the Liao Dynasty (1020 A.D.), the Daxiong Hall of Fengguo Temple (Yixian County, Liaoning Province) is one of China’s largest existing ancient single-eave wooden architecture structures. In 2012, it was listed on the “Preliminary List of World Cultural Heritage in China.” Preserved Buddhist murals depicting the Yuan Dynasty cover approximately 470 m2 of the hall’s four walls. Since the in-situ reinforcement and protection of the mural, conducted in the 1980s in cooperation with the maintenance and restoration project of the main hall, seriously developed cracks—known as secondary cracks—have become a primary factor affecting the mural’s structural stability. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation using a full-frame digital camera, an industrial endoscope, an infrared thermal imager, an online environmental monitoring system, and a three-dimensional laser scanner. Our results, and other relevant materials, allowed us to deepen our understanding of the existing structural features, the nature of the cracks, the deformation conditions, and the environmental characteristics of the mural. Moreover, we provide a further discussion on the macroscopic formation process of the secondary cracks.
The diagnostic indicators of gestational diabetes mellitus from second trimester to birth: a systematic review
Authors: Di Filippo Daria , Wanniarachchi Thiyasha , Wei Daniel , Yang Jennifer J. , Mc Sweeney Aoife , Havard Alys , Henry Amanda , Welsh Alec
Published: October 2021

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is glucose intolerance first recognised during pregnancy. Both modalities and thresholds of the GDM diagnostic test, the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), have varied widely over time and among countries. Additionally, OGTT limitations include inconsistency, poor patient tolerability, and questionable diagnostic reliability. Many biological parameters have been reported to be modified by GDM and could potentially be used as diagnostic indicators. This study aimed to 1) systematically explore biomarkers reported in the literature as differentiating GDM from healthy pregnancies 2) screen those indicators assessed against OGTT to propose OGTT alternatives.

Main body

A systematic review of GDM diagnostic indicators was performed according to PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO registration CRD42020145499). Inclusion criteria were full-text, comprehensible English-language articles published January 2009-January 2021, where a biomarker (from blood, ultrasound, amniotic fluid, placenta) was compared between GDM and normal glucose tolerance (NGT) women from the second trimester onward to immediately postpartum. GDM diagnostic method had to be clearly specified, and the number of patients per study higher than 30 in total or 15 per group. Results were synthesised by biomarkers.

Results

Of 13,133 studies identified in initial screening, 174 studies (135,801 participants) were included. One hundred and twenty-nine studies described blood analytes, one amniotic fluid analytes, 27 ultrasound features, 17 post-natal features. Among the biomarkers evaluated in exploratory studies, Adiponectin, AFABP, Betatrophin, CRP, Cystatin-C, Delta-Neutrophil Index, GGT, TNF-A were those demonstrating statistically and clinically significant differences in substantial cohorts of patients (> 500). Regarding biomarkers assessed versus OGTT (i.e. potential OGTT alternatives) most promising were Leptin > 48.5 ng/ml, Ficolin3/adiponectin ratio ≥ 1.06, Chemerin/FABP > 0.71, and Ultrasound Gestational Diabetes Score > 4. These all demonstrated sensitivity and specificity > 80% in adequate sample sizes (> / = 100).

Conclusions

Numerous biomarkers may differentiate GDM from normoglycaemic pregnancy. Given the limitations of the OGTT and the lack of a gold standard for GDM diagnosis, advanced phase studies are needed to triangulate the most promising biomarkers. Further studies are also recommended to assess the sensitivity and specificity of promising biomarkers not yet assessed against OGTT.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number CRD42020145499.
Molecular biology of autoinflammatory diseases
Authors: Masumoto Junya , Zhou Wei , Morikawa Shinnosuke , Hosokawa Sho , Taguchi Haruka , Yamamoto Toshihiro , Kurata Mie , Kaneko Naoe
Published: October 2021

The long battle between humans and various physical, chemical, and biological insults that cause cell injury (e.g., products of tissue damage, metabolites, and/or infections) have led to the evolution of various adaptive responses. These responses are triggered by recognition of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and/or pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), usually by cells of the innate immune system. DAMPs and PAMPs are recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) expressed by innate immune cells; this recognition triggers inflammation. Autoinflammatory diseases are strongly associated with dysregulation of PRR interactomes, which include inflammasomes, NF-κB-activating signalosomes, type I interferon-inducing signalosomes, and immuno-proteasome; disruptions of regulation of these interactomes leads to inflammasomopathies, relopathies, interferonopathies, and proteasome-associated autoinflammatory syndromes, respectively. In this review, we discuss the currently accepted molecular mechanisms underlying several autoinflammatory diseases.
Insights of Noncanonical Splice-site Variants on RNA Splicing in Patients With Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Albader Najla , Zou Minjing , BinEssa Huda A , Abdi Saba , Al-Enezi Anwar F , Meyer Brian F , Alzahrani Ali S , Shi Yufei
Published: October 2021

Context

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is caused by mutations in the genes for thyroid hormone synthesis. In our previous investigation of CH patients, approximately 53% of patients had mutations in either coding exons or canonical splice sites of causative genes. Noncanonical splice-site variants in the intron were detected but their pathogenic significance was not known.

Objective

This work aims to evaluate noncanonical splice-site variants on pre–messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) splicing of CH-causing genes.

Methods

Next-generation sequencing data of 55 CH cases in 47 families were analyzed to identify rare intron variants. The effects of variants on pre-mRNA splicing were investigated by minigene RNA-splicing assay.

Results

Four intron variants were found in 3 patients: solute carrier family 26 member 4 (SLC26A4) c.1544+9C>T and c.1707+94C>T in one patient, and solute carrier family 5 member 5 (SLC5A5) c.970-48G>C and c.1652-97A>C in 2 other patients. The c.1707+94C>T and c.970-48G>C caused exons 15 and 16 skipping, and exon 8 skipping, respectively. The remaining variants had no effect on RNA splicing. Furthermore, we analyzed 28 previously reported noncanonical splice-site variants (4 in TG and 24 in SLC26A4). Among them, 15 variants (~ 54%) resulted in aberrant splicing and 13 variants had no effect on RNA splicing. These data were compared with 3 variant-prediction programs (FATHMM-XF, FATHMM-MKL, and CADD). Among 32 variants, FATHMM-XF, FATHMM-MKL, and CADD correctly predicted 20 (63%), 17 (53%), and 26 (81%) variants, respectively.

Conclusion

Two novel deep intron mutations have been identified in SLC26A4 and SLC5A5, bringing the total number of solved families with disease-causing mutations to approximately 45% in our cohort. Approximately 46% (13/28) of reported noncanonical splice-site mutations do not disrupt pre-mRNA splicing. CADD provides highest prediction accuracy of noncanonical splice-site variants.
Her Name Was Doña Margot
Authors: Colón-Montijo César
Published: October 2021

Margarita “Doña Margot” Rivera García (1909–2000) was a black working-class Puerto Rican woman whose labor as a composer, healer, midwife, and spiritual medium made her an esteemed community leader among her neighbors from Santurce, a predominantly black enclave in San Juan. Through her bomba and plena compositions, she helped forge modern black Puerto Rican music amid the rapid industrialization of Puerto Rico after the 1950s. However, her story has been overshadowed by the aura of her son, the legendary Afro–Puerto Rican singer Ismael “Maelo” Rivera (1931–87). Although Doña Margot is praised as a maternal figure who gave Maelo the gift of rhythm, her story as a woman and artist has remained widely unheard. This essay examines her parallel presence and erasure in salsa historiography, taking her testimonios about her musical gift as offering a counternarrative that defies masculinist music histories and serves as a site of memory that endures erasure.
CZON-cutter – a CRISPR-Cas9 system for multiplexed organelle imaging in a simple unicellular alga
Authors: Tanaka Naoto , Mogi Yuko , Fujiwara Takayuki , Yabe Kannosuke , Toyama Yukiho , Higashiyama Tetsuya , Yoshida Yamato
Published: October 2021

The unicellular alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae has a simple cellular structure; each cell has one nucleus, one mitochondrion, one chloroplast and one peroxisome. This simplicity offers unique advantages for investigating organellar proliferation and the cell cycle. Here, we describe CZON-cutter, an engineered clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 (Cas9) system for simultaneous genome editing and organellar visualization. We engineered a C. merolae strain expressing a nuclear-localized Cas9–Venus nuclease for targeted editing of any locus defined by a single-guide RNA (sgRNA). We then successfully edited the algal genome and visualized the mitochondrion and peroxisome in transformants using fluorescent protein reporters with different excitation wavelengths. Fluorescent protein labeling of organelles in living transformants allows us to validate phenotypes associated with organellar proliferation and the cell cycle, even when the edited gene is essential. Combined with the exceptional biological features of C. merolae, CZON-cutter will be instrumental for investigating cellular and organellar division in a high-throughput manner.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Flight training and dietary antioxidants have mixed effects on the oxidative status of multiple tissues in a female migratory songbird
Authors: Frawley Abigail E. , DeMoranville Kristen J. , Carbeck Katherine M. , Trost Lisa , Bryła Amadeusz , Działo Maciej , Sadowska Edyta T. , Bauchinger Ulf , Pierce Barbara J. , McWilliams Scott R.
Published: October 2021

Birds, like other vertebrates, rely on a robust antioxidant system to protect themselves against oxidative imbalance caused by energy-intensive activities such as flying. Such oxidative challenges may be especially acute for females during spring migration, as they must pay the oxidative costs of flight while preparing for reproduction; however, little previous work has examined how the antioxidant system of female spring migrants responds to dietary antioxidants and the oxidative challenges of regular flying. We fed two diets to female European starlings, one supplemented with a dietary antioxidant and one without, and then flew them daily in a windtunnel for 2 weeks during the autumn and spring migration periods. We measured the activity of enzymatic antioxidants (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase), non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity (ORAC) and markers of oxidative damage (protein carbonyls and lipid hydroperoxides) in four tissues: pectoralis, leg muscle, liver and heart. Dietary antioxidants affected enzymatic antioxidant activity and lipid damage in the heart, non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity in the pectoralis, and protein damage in leg muscle. In general, birds not fed the antioxidant supplement appeared to incur increased oxidative damage while upregulating non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant activity, though these effects were strongly tissue specific. We also found trends for diet×training interactions for enzymatic antioxidant activity in the heart and leg muscle. Flight training may condition the antioxidant system of females to dynamically respond to oxidative challenges, and females during spring migration may shift antioxidant allocation to reduce oxidative damage.
The effectiveness of EMR implementation regarding reducing documentation errors and waiting time for patients in outpatient clinics: a systematic review
Authors: Albagmi Salem
Published: October 2021

Background: Electronic medical records (EMRs) refer to the digital copies of paper notes prepared in the physician’s office, outpatient clinics and other departments in health care institutes. EMRs are considered to be significant and preferable to paper records because they allow providers to keep accurate track of patient data and monitoring over time, thus reducing errors, and enhance overall health care quality. The aim of this systematic review was to highlight the significance of EMRs and the effectiveness of implementation regarding reducing documentation errors and waiting time for patients in outpatient clinics.

Methods: PubMed, Central, Ovid, Scopus, Science Direct, Elsevier, Cochrane , WHO website and the McMaster University Health Evidence website from 2005-2020 were searched to identify studies that investigated the association between the EMR implementation and documentation error and waiting time for patients. A reviewer screened identified citations and extracted data according to the PRISMA guidelines and data was synthesized in a narrative manner.

Results: After full text examination of the articles selected for this literature review, the major themes of relevance that were identified in the context of reducing documentation errors and waiting time for patients in outpatient clinic include: reduction of medical errors because of fewer documentation errors resulting from EMR implementation and reduction of waiting time for patients due to overall improvement of system workflow after use of EMRs.

Conclusion: In summary of the reviewed evidence from published material, the implementation of an EMR system in any outpatient setting appears to reduce documentation errors (medication dose errors, issues of prescription errors). It was also seen that in many settings, waiting time for patients in outpatient clinics was reduced with EMR use, while in other settings it was not possible to determine if any significant improvement was seen in this aspect after EMR implementation.
Ustroń-Jaszowiec. Niespełniony sen o socjalistycznym kurorcie (ze studiów nad kulturą wczasów i wypoczynku w PRL-u)
Authors: Pawelec Tomasz
Published: October 2021

Artykuł traktuje o wczasowym miasteczku Jaszowiec w Ustroniu, stanowiącym wyjątkową w dziejach PRL próbę zrealizowania w praktyce marzenia o wzorcowym, idealnym socjalistycznym kurorcie. Autor identyfikuje i rekonstruuje mechanizmy oraz przesłanki ideologicznego niepowodzenia przedsięwzięcia, zarazem wskazując i tłumacząc przestrzenie ograniczonego (ale realnego) sukcesu Jaszowca jako wypoczynkowej propozycji dla mieszkańców PRL-u. Analizowany w ten sposób kompleks okazuje się „antywzorcem” socjalistycznej budowy.
O potrzebie dalszych badań nad prasą gadzinową. Stan obecny i perspektywy badawcze
Authors: Napora Monika
Published: October 2021

Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie stanu badań nad prasą gadzinową oraz wskazanie potencjalnych obszarów umożliwiających ich dalszą kontynuację. Autor zmierza do pokazania wypracowanego na gruncie historiografii modelu badań nad gadzinówkami. Opierając się na analizie publikacji w zakresie wymienionej prasy oraz odwołując się do współczesnych koncepcji metodologicznych, wskazuje na niebezpieczeństwo marginalizacji badań bądź ich całkowitego zaniechania. W konkluzjach sygnalizuje nowe możliwości prowadzenia dalszych badań z wykorzystaniem założeń proponowanych przez narratologię.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Pregnancy
Authors: Bhattacharya Koushik , Bhattacharya Soumita , Sengupta Pallav , Dutta Sulagna , Choudhuri Gargi Ray , Mukhopadhyay Lipika Das
Published: October 2021

Women perhaps are more exposed to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the novel coronavirus (CoV) called as the severe acute respiratory syndrome-CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2), as compared to men, due to their greater contribution in healthcare and social services. Globally, around 70% of health and social service providers constitute of female. The pandemic is also poising serious threat to female sexual and reproductive health. Particularly, pregnant women are at risk and need special antenatal care besides routine health services. SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to the path of an exaggerated immune reaction in an infected individual. This leads to ‘cytokine storm’ causing massive tissue damage, systemic inflammation, increased body temperature, and in turn, these may lead to multiple organ failure. The gonads are also susceptible to damage and impairment in reproductive functions. Thus, it is vital to acquire information on the impact of this virus on gestational changes and pregnancy outcome. Given the limitation of data on COVID-19 mediated changes in pregnant women, this article also reviews the effects of two previous coronavirus infections - severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) caused by SARS-CoV and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) caused by MERS-CoV to predict the possible impact of the novel SARS-CoV-2 on pregnancy outcomes. Analysis of available literature reveals that unlike coronavirus infections of pregnant women caused by SARS and MERS, COVID-19 seems less likely to cause maternal death. Importantly, alike SARS and MERS, there were no confirmed cases of intrauterine transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from mothers with COVID-19 to their fetuses. Further broad-spectrum research is necessary to reach a consensus regarding the vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and whether it adopts any other mechanisms to affect pregnancy outcomes.
A Deep Learning-Based Transfer Learning Framework for the Early Detection and Classification of Dermoscopic Images of Melanoma
Authors: Singh Lokesh , Janghel Rekh Ram , Sahu Satya Prakash
Published: October 2021

Purpose:Less contrast between lesions and skin, blurriness, darkened lesion images, presence of bubbles, hairs are the artifactsmakes the issue challenging in timely and accurate diagnosis of melanoma. In addition, huge similarity amid nevus lesions and melanoma pose complexity in investigating the melanoma even for the expert dermatologists. Method: In this work, a computer-aided diagnosis for melanoma detection (CAD-MD) system is designed and evaluated for the early and accurate detection of melanoma using thepotentials of machine, and deep learning-based transfer learning for the classification of pigmented skin lesions. The designed CAD-MD comprises of preprocessing, segmentation, feature extraction and classification. Experiments are conducted on dermoscopic images of PH2 and ISIC 2016 publicly available datasets using machine learning and deep learning-based transfer leaning models in twofold: first, with actual images, second, with augmented images. Results:Optimal results are obtained on augmented lesion images using machine learning and deep learning models on PH2 and ISIC-16 dataset. The performance of the CAD-MD system is evaluated using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, dice coefficient, and jacquard Index. Conclusion:Empirical results show that using the potentials of deep learning-based transfer learning model VGG-16 has significantly outperformed all employed models with an accuracy of 99.1% on the PH2 dataset.
Ameliorative Potential of Aqueous Extract of Broccoli Sprouts Against Triazophos Induced Ovarian Toxicity in Wistar Rats
Authors: Sharma Dharmender , Sangha Gurinder Kaur
Published: October 2021

Traditional therapeutic procedures using antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables have been in vogue for the development of evidence-based biomarkers for assessing reproductive health. Present investigation was designed to study the antioxidative potential of broccoli sprouts aqueous extract (BE), against ovarian toxicity in female rats induced by triazophos (TZ). In the experimental setup, six groups of rats were formed; Control (group 1), BE (group 2), TZ (group 3), and also BE+TZ groups such as BE1 (group 4), BE2 (group 5) and BE3 (group 6) groups. Body weight was weekly recorded of all the rats, while vaginal smear was observed daily during 30 days experiment. After sacrifice, oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers levels viz; catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were determined along with histopathological and apoptotic observation. Results revealed differentially modified changes in OS biomarkers as CAT, SOD, GR, GPx, and GST, while LPO levels were significantly improved with broccoli supplementation compared to TZ group rats. Plasma progesterone and estradiol levels were also restored along with improved ovarian histoarchitecture among all BE+TZ treated rats. Reduced apoptotic granulosa cells with reduced atresia and normal ovarian surface epithelium height were also observed with BE treatment. BE exerts multi-mechanistic protective effects against TZ induced ovarian toxicity which is attributable to its antioxidant and protective actions.
Microbial Tyrosinase: Biochemical, Molecular Properties and Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: El-Sayed Ashraf S.A. , Maamoun Hanaa Salah , H. Rabie Gamal , Shaker Ibrahim , Alaidaroos Bothaina A. , Ali Mostafa G. , Rady Amgad M.
Published: October 2021

Tyrosinase is a copper-containing monooxygenase involved in thecatalysis of the hydroxylation and oxidation reaction of monophenols and diphenols, respectively, into O-quinones intermediates. Tyrosinase is mainly involved in melanogenesis via two reactions. Firstly, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine is produced through tyrosine hydroxylation the nit oxidized into dopaquinone, and finally gives melanin. However, dopaquinones can results in neuronal damage and cell death through the excessive production, suggesting that tyrosinase may be implanted in the formation human brain’s neuromelanin and association with Parkinson’s diseases. Thus, down regulating the melanin pigments and its intermediates by inhibiting tyrosinase activity is the major pharmaceutical challenge to prevent hyperpigmentation, in addition to therapy of neuromelanin disorders. Thus, this review has been focused on exploring the biochemical and molecular properties of tyrosinase from different sources and its potential inhibition with different natural and synthetic compounds.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies for Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Hassan Muhjah Falah , Sengupta Pallav , Dutta Sulagna
Published: October 2021

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory fertility problems in women of reproductive age, with a prevalence as high as 40% to 75%. There are different treatment modalities for increasing the chance of pregnancy in PCOS patients. Since most of the PCOS patients suffer from ovulatory problems, therapeutic efforts are focused mainly towards restoring normal ovulation. However, even after pharmacological interventions to ameliorate ovulatory irregularities, women with polycystic ovary are still at high risk of fetal loss. Thus, assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) have become popular approaches which significantly increase the chances of successful pregnancy in these women, bypassing the conditions of PCOS. The present mini-review ‘pinpoints’ on the suitability of ARTs for PCOS patients who fail to ovulate following the conventional infertility treatment. The article also briefly explains how intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), the most effectiveART, correlates with better biological parameters, fertilization rate and better quality of embryos in PCOS women.
Physiological Beneficial Changes in the Respiratory System in Adolescents with Chronic Obstructive Bronchitis as a Result of the Use of a Set of Yogic Exercises
Authors: Medvedev Ilya N. , Kachenkova Ekaterina S. , Zbrueva Yulia V. , Nalobina Anna N. , Kulkova Irina V.
Published: October 2021

In the modern world, the incidence of chronic obstructive bronchitis in adolescents remains quite high. Due to the high incidence of chronic obstructive bronchitis in adolescents, there remains an urgent need for medical science to improve the rehabilitation of this contingent of patients. The aim of the work is to assess the rehabilitation possibilities of yoga exercises in adolescents suffering from chronic obstructive bronchitis. The study was carried out on 46 adolescents aged 14-15 years old, suffering from uncomplicated chronic obstructive bronchitis for a long time in a state of unstable remission. The control group included 22 clinically healthy adolescents of the same age. For those surveyed with chronic bronchitis, there was a decrease in lung volumes and the size of the lumen of the bronchi of any diameter. This naturally reduced the functional capabilities of the respiratory system in adolescents. Regular yogic exercises provided in adolescents with bronchitis a pronounced positive dynamics of their well-being and adaptive capabilities of the respiratory system. Systematic yoga exercises optimized the functional capabilities of the entire respiratory system in adolescents with chronic obstructive bronchitis and significantly increased their resistance to hypoxia.
Correlation between Sperm Dna Fragmentation and Conventional Semen Parameters among Different Age Groups
Authors: Chopra Shruti , Varma Ajit , Jain Seema , Jain Sangeeta , Choudhary Devendra
Published: October 2021

Objective: To study the relationship between conventional semen parameters and sperm chromatin condensation (DNA fragmentation index) using aniline blue-eosin staining method among patients of different age groups visiting the In-vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic.Design: Retrospective study Setting: Tertiary care infertility centre Method: A total of 240 patient semen samples were studied between the period of May 2015 to May 2016 for conventional semen parameters (WHO criteria) and DNA fragmentation index (DFI) using aniline blue- eosin staining method. Patients were separated into three groups: <=30 years, 31-35 years and 36 years & above. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson correlation co-efficient and regression tests on the groups. Main Outcome Measures: Sperm concentration (Millions /ml), motility(%), normal morphology(%), DFI (%). Result: In each age group, i.e., <=30years, 31-35 years and 36 years & above, there was a significant and negative correlation between DFI and sperm concentration (r= -0.50, r= -0.34, r= -0.49 respectively; P<0.05), motility(r= -0.69,r= -0.66, r= -0.54 respectively; P<0.05) and normal morphology (r= -0.86,r= -0.80, r= -0.75 respectively; P<0.05). Sperm DNA fragmentation index among the age groups was not statistically significantly (P>0.05). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that age is not a predictor of DFI. Whereas, sperm concentration, sperm motility and normal sperm morphology showed a significant association with DFI in all the age groups i.e., better the conventional semen parameters, lower the DFI.
Change of Urinary Nitrite Excretion in Primary Enuresis after Indomethacin Treatment
Authors: W. Bader Hisham , Youssef Hala A. , F. Armaneous Ayman , M. Azmy Ashraf , R. Youness Eman , W. Abouelnaga Marwa
Published: October 2021

Various treatment modalities have been used in primary Nocturnal Enuresis (PNE). Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis may have value in the management of PNE. The effect of PGs on the urinary system are similar to those of Nitrous oxide (No), so there might be a link between No production and PNE. We can use nitrite as a good indicator of both PG and No because it is a stable metabolite of No. Our objective in this study was to assess urinary nitrite excretion in patients with enuresis and to evaluate the effect of indomethacin (a potent prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor) on urinary nitrite excretion. Sixty children participated in this study with age range 5-14 years and were divided into three groups: Group A comprised 20 children with PNE and were given 50 mg indomethacin suppositories each night for 1 month, group B comprised also 20 children with PNE not receiving treatment. Both groups were assessed by frequency of bed wetting episodes as well as by measuring urinary nitrites. In addition, 20 normal comparable controls were assessed as regards their urinary nitrites to show the difference in its values between enuretics and normal individuals. The results showed increase in nitric acid level in enuretic children than controls with marked decrease in its levels after receiving Indomethacin and marked improvement in the frequency of bed-wetting.
Immediate effects of photobiomodulation therapy combined with a static magnetic field on the subsequent performance: a preliminary randomized crossover triple-blinded placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Aleixo-Junior Ivo de Oliveira , Leal-Junior Ernesto Cesar Pinto , Casalechi Heliodora Leão , Vanin Adriane Aver , de Paiva Paulo Roberto Vicente , Machado Caroline dos Santos Monteiro , Dias Luana Barbosa , Lino Matheus Marinho Aguiar , Teixeira Adeilson Matias , Johnson Douglas Scott , Tomazoni Shaiane Silva
Published: October 2021

There is evidence about the effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) alone and combined with a static magnetic field (PBMT-sMF) on skeletal muscle fatigue, physical performance and post-exercise recovery in different types of exercise protocols and sports activity. However, the effects of PBMT-sMF to improve the subsequent performance after a first set of exercises are unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of PBMT-sMF, applied between two sets of exercises, on the subsequent physical performance. A randomized, crossover, triple-blinded (assessors, therapist, and volunteers), placebo-controlled trial was carried out. Healthy non-athlete male volunteers were randomized and treated with a single application of PBMT-sMF and placebo between two sets of an exercise protocol performed on isokinetic dynamometer. The order of interventions was randomized. The primary outcome was fatigue index and the secondary outcomes were total work, peak work, and blood lactate levels. Twelve volunteers were randomized and analyzed to each sequence. PBMT-sMF decreased the fatigue index compared to the placebo PBMT-sMF at second set of the exercise protocol (MD = -6.08, 95% CI -10.49 to -1.68). In addition, PBMT-sMF decreased the blood lactate levels post-intervention, and after the second set of the exercise protocol compared to placebo (p<0.05). There was no difference between PBMT-sMF and placebo in the remaining outcomes tested. Volunteers did not report adverse events. Our results suggest that PBMT-sMF is able to decrease skeletal muscle fatigue, accelerating post-exercise recovery and, consequently, increasing subsequent physical performance when applied between two sets of exercises.
Using multi-polar scattering and near-field plasmonic resonances to achieve optimal emission enhancement from quantum emitters embedded in dielectric pillars
Authors: Inam Faraz Ahmed , Castelletto Stefania
Published: October 2021

Recently, high refractive index micro-pillars have been widely used for enhancing the fluorescence of quantum emitters (vacancy/defect centers) embedded within the pillar. However, the maximum observed enhancement from these pillars has been limited to about a factor of 10. Within the dielectric pillars, the Purcell enhancement is restricted to around unity, and the fluorescence enhancement is mainly due to the enhancement of the collection efficiency of the dipole emission from inside the pillar if compared to a bulk substrate. Using multi-polar electromagnetic scattering resonances and near-field plasmonic field enhancement/confinement, here we report a simple metal–dielectric pillar resonator scheme to achieve a close to three orders of magnitude fluorescence enhancement from embedded solid state vacancy centers. The scheme comprises a silver (Ag) cylinder fabricated on top of a silicon-carbide (SiC) dielectric pillar, with both the SiC and Ag cylinders having the same diameter. A selective dipole orientation relative to the metal–dielectric interface for emitters close to the SiC pillar’s top surface leads to a large Purcell enhancement of the dipole’s emission. The Ag cylinder was found to function as an efficient resonator as well as an antenna, enhancing as well as directing a significant fraction of the dipole’s emission into far-field free space.
Light detection and ranging (lidar): introduction
Authors: Zalevsky Zeev , Buller Gerald S. , Chen Tao , Cohen Moshik , Barton-Grimley Rory
Published: October 2021

In this introduction we provide an overview of the papers that were accepted for publication in the special issue on light detection and ranging (lidar). Four of the papers were published in JOSA A, and four were published in JOSA B. They represent different aspects of this important and fast-growing field while showing the relevant state-of-the-art achievements currently existing in the field of lidars in the world of science and engineering.
Optically transparent and microwave diffusion coding metasurface by utilizing ultrathin silver films
Authors: Wang Heyan , Sun Yujia , Zhang Yilei , Luo Bowen , Cao Zhibo , Liu Yunfei , Lu Zhengang , Tan Jiubin
Published: October 2021

The past few years have witnessed the great success of artificial metamaterials with effective medium parameters to control electromagnetic waves. Herein, we present a scheme to achieve broadband microwave low specular reflection with uniform backward scattering by using a coding metasurface, which is composed of a rational layout of subwavelength coding elements, via an optimization method. We propose coding elements with high transparency based on ultrathin doped silver, which are capable of generating large phase differences (∼180°) over a wide frequency range by designing geometric structures. The electromagnetic diffusion of the coding metasurface originates from the destructive interference of the reflected waves in various directions. Numerical simulations and experimental results demonstrate that low reflection is achieved from 12 to 18 GHz with a high angular insensitivity of up to ±40° for both transverse electric and transverse magnetic polarizations. Furthermore, the excellent visible transparency of the encoding metasurface is promising for various microwave and optical applications such as electronic surveillance, electromagnetic interference shielding, and radar cross-section reduction.
3D printed metasurface for generating a Bessel beam with arbitrary focusing directions
Authors: Qu Mei-Jun , Li Wen-Yu , Zeng Ting , Su Jian-Xun , Song Wei-Li
Published: October 2021

In this Letter, a metasurface combined with emerging 3D printing technology is proposed. The proposed metasurface regards the simple cube as the unit cell, and the height of the cube is the only variable. A nearly linear transmission phase range covering 360° operating at 20 GHz is obtained when the height is regulated in [2.26 mm, 11.20 mm]. Therefore, the proposed unit cell can be adopted to any metasurface with various functions. Taking the generation of a non-diffractive Bessel beam as an example, two metasurfaces composed of

30

×

30

units with different focusing directions are designed based on non-diffractive theory and the generalized law of refraction. Two prototypes are 3D printed and measured by a near-field scanning system. The measured results validate our design with satisfactory focusing and beam deflection performance. Additionally, the 3D printed metasurface has lower cost and a shorter processing cycle, and avoids metal loss. Therefore, a 3D printed metasurface is an excellent candidate that can be applied in millimeter wave or even higher frequency bands.
Ghost panorama using a convex mirror
Authors: Ye Zhiyuan , Wang Hai-Bo , Xiong Jun , Wang Kaige
Published: October 2021

Computational ghost imaging or single-pixel imaging enables the image formation of an unknown scene using a lens-free photodetector. In this Letter, we present a computational panoramic ghost imaging system that can achieve a full-color panorama using a single-pixel photodetector, where a convex mirror performs the optical transformation of the engineered Hadamard-based circular illumination pattern from unidirectionally to omnidirectionally. To our best knowledge, it is the first time to propose the concept of ghost panoramas and realize preliminary experimentations. It is foreseeable that ghost panoramas will have more advantages in imaging and detection in many extreme conditions (e.g., scattering/turbulence and unconventional spectra), as well as broad application prospects.
Metasurfaces with single-sized antennas for reconstructing full-color holographic images without cross talk
Authors: Shan Xin , Li Zile , Dai Qi , Li Jiaxin , Fu Rao , He Zhixue , Tao Jin , Zheng Guoxing
Published: October 2021

Designing a color hologram with conventional metasurfaces usually resorts to a supercell strategy or single-sized approach with different incident angles. However, these designs still have their own drawbacks that need to be further solved. Herein, we show a new, to the best of our knowledge, single-sized strategy to design full-color geometric meta-holograms by utilizing the conjugation property of two circularly polarized lights with opposite handedness and diffraction dispersion. The experimentally captured holographic color images are reconstructed with high quality and without cross talk, which agrees well with our theoretical prediction. Moreover, only with an appropriate combination of wavelength and polarization state can color images be observed accurately. Our strategy provides a simple and effective approach for full-color meta-holography and offers significant potential in image display, information storage, etc.
A hybridoma-derived monoclonal antibody with high homology to the aberrant myeloma light chain
Authors: Pornnoppadol Ghasidit , Zhang Boya , Desai Alec A. , Berardi Anthony , Remmer Henriette A. , Tessier Peter M. , Greineder Colin F.
Published: October 2021

The identification of antibody variable regions in the heavy (VH) and light (VL) chains from hybridomas is necessary for the production of recombinant, sequence-defined monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and antibody derivatives. This process has received renewed attention in light of recent reports of hybridomas having unintended specificities due to the production of non-antigen specific heavy and/or light chains for the intended antigen. Here we report a surprising finding and potential pitfall in variable domain sequencing of an anti-human CD63 hybridoma. We amplified multiple VL genes from the hybridoma cDNA, including the well-known aberrant Sp2/0 myeloma VK and a unique, full-length VL. After finding that the unique VL failed to yield a functional antibody, we discovered an additional full-length sequence with surprising similarity (~95% sequence identify) to the non-translated myeloma kappa chain but with a correction of its key frameshift mutation. Expression of the recombinant mAb confirmed that this highly homologous sequence is the antigen-specific light chain. Our results highlight the complexity of PCR-based cloning of antibody genes and strategies useful for identification of correct sequences.
Survey and molecular detection of Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus in Thailand
Authors: Saokham Kingkan , Hemniam Nuannapa , Roekwan Sukanya , Hunsawattanakul Sirikan , Thawinampan Jutathip , Siriwan Wanwisa
Published: October 2021

Cassava plantations in an area of 458 hectares spanning five provinces along the Thailand–Cambodia border were surveyed from October 2018 to July 2019 to determine the prevalence of cassava mosaic disease (CMD) caused by Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus (SLCMV) in the region. CMD prevalence was 40% in the whole area and 80% in Prachinburi, 43% in Sakaeo, 37% in Burium, 25% in Surin, and 19% in Sisaket provinces. Disease incidence of CMD was highest 43.08% in Sakaeo, followed by 26.78% in Prachinburi, 7% in Burium, 2.58% in Surin, and 1.25% in Sisaket provinces. Disease severity of CMD symptoms was mild chlorosis to moderate mosaic (2–3). The greatest disease severity was recorded in Prachinburi and Sakaeo provinces. Asymptomatic plants were identified in Surin (12%), Prachinburi (5%), Sakaeo (0.2%), and Buriram (0.1%) by PCR analysis. Cassava cultivars CMR-89 and Huai Bong 80 were susceptible to CMD. In 95% of cases, the infection was transmitted by whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci), which were abundant in Sakaeo, Buriram, and Prachinburi but were sparse in Surin; their densities were highest in May and June 2019. Nucleotide sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (mtCO1) gene of whiteflies in Thailand revealed that it was similar to the mtCO1 gene of Asia II 1 whitefly. Furthermore, the AV1 gene of SLCMV—which encodes the capsid protein—showed 90% nucleotide identity with SLCMV. Phylogenetic analysis of completed nucleotide sequences of DNA-A and DNA-B components of the SLCMV genome determined by rolling circle amplification (RCA) indicated that they were similar to the nucleotide sequence of SLCMV isolates from Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. These results provide important insights into the distribution, impact, and spread of CMD and SLCMV in Thailand.
autopsych: An R Shiny tool for the reproducible Rasch analysis, differential item functioning, equating, and examination of group effects
Authors: Courtney Matthew G. R. , Chang Kevin C. T. , Mei Bing , Meissel Kane , Rowe Luke I. , Issayeva Laila B.
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we presentautopsych, a novel online tool that allows school assessment experts, test developers, and researchers to perform routine psychometric analyses and equating of student test data and to examine the effect of student demographic and group conditions on student test performance. The app extends current open-source software by providing (1) extensive embedded result narration and summaries for written reports, (2) improved handling of partial credit data via customizable item-person Wright maps, (3) customizable item- and person-flagging systems, (4) item-response theory model constraints and controls, (5) many-facets Rasch analysis to examine item bias, (6) Rasch fixed item equating for mapping student ability across test forms, (7) tabbed spreadsheet outputs and immediate options for secondary data analysis, (8) customizable graphical color schemes, (9) extended ANOVA analysis for examining group differences, and (10) inter-rater reliability analyses for the verifying the consistency of rater scoring systems. We present the app’s architecture and functionalities and test its performance with simulated and real-world small-, medium-, and large-scale assessment data. Implications and planned future developments are also discussed.