bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic modified Fezf2 mRNA (modRNA) with concurrent small molecule SIRT1 inhibition enhances refinement of cortical subcerebral/corticospinal neuron identity from mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Sadegh Cameron , Ebina Wataru , Arvanites Anthony C. , Davidow Lance S. , Rubin Lee L. , Macklis Jeffrey D.
Published: September 2021

During late embryonic development of the cerebral cortex, the major class of cortical output neurons termed subcerebral projection neurons (SCPN; including the predominant population of corticospinal neurons, CSN) and the class of interhemispheric callosal projection neurons (CPN) initially express overlapping molecular controls that later undergo subtype-specific refinements. Such molecular refinements are largely absent in heterogeneous, maturation-stalled, neocortical-like neurons (termed “cortical” here) spontaneously generated by established embryonic stem cell (ES) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) differentiation. Building on recently identified central molecular controls over SCPN development, we used a combination of synthetic modified mRNA (modRNA) forFezf2, the central transcription factor controlling SCPN specification, and small molecule screening to investigate whether distinct chromatin modifiers might complementFezf2functions to promote SCPN-specific differentiation by mouse ES (mES)-derived cortical-like neurons. We find that the inhibition of a specific histone deacetylase, Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), enhances refinement of SCPN subtype molecular identity by both mES-derived cortical-like neurons and primary dissociated E12.5 mouse cortical neurons.In vivo, we identify that SIRT1 is specifically expressed by CPN, but not SCPN, during late embryonic and postnatal differentiation. Together, these data indicate that SIRT1 has neuronal subtype-specific expression in the mouse cortexin vivo, and that its inhibition enhances subtype-specific differentiation of highly clinically relevant SCPN / CSN cortical neuronsin vitro.
On the effect of COVID-19 pandemic in the excess of human mortality. The case of Brazil and Spain
Authors: Borrego–Morell Jorge A. , Huertas Edmundo J. , Torrado Nuria
Published: September 2021

Excess of deaths is a technique used in epidemiology to assess the deaths caused by an unexpected event. For the present COVID–19 pandemic, we discuss the performance of some linear and nonlinear time series forecasting techniques widely used for modeling the actual pandemic and provide estimates for this metric from January 2020 to April 2021. We apply the results obtained to evaluate the evolution of the present pandemic in Brazil and Spain, which allows in particular to compare how well (or bad) these countries have managed the pandemic. For Brazil, our calculations refute the claim made by some officials that the present pandemic is “a little flu”. Some studies suggest that the virus could be lying dormant across the world before been detected for the first time. In that regard, our results show that there is no evidence of deaths by the virus in 2019.
Sociodemographic characteristics determine download and use of a Corona contact tracing app in Germany—Results of the COSMO surveys
Authors: Grill Eva , Eitze Sarah , De Bock Freia , Dragano Nico , Huebl Lena , Schmich Patrick , Wieler Lothar H. , Betsch Cornelia
Published: September 2021

During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic mobile health applications indicating risks emerging from close contacts to infected persons have a large potential to interrupt transmission chains by automating contact tracing. Since its dispatch in Germany in June 2020 the Corona Warn App has been downloaded on 25.7 Mio smartphones by February 2021. To understand barriers to download and user fidelity in different sociodemographic groups we analysed data from five consecutive cross-sectional waves of the COVID-19 Snapshot Monitoring survey from June to August 2020. Questions on the Corona Warn App included information on download, use, functionality, usability, and consequences of the app. Of the 4,960 participants (mean age 45.9 years, standard deviation 16.0, 50.4% female), 36.5% had downloaded the Corona Warn App. Adjusted analysis found that those who had downloaded the app were less likely to be female (Adjusted Odds Ratio for men 1.16 95% Confidence Interval [1.02;1.33]), less likely to be younger (Adjusted Odds Ratio for age 18 to 39 0.47 [0.32;0.59] Adjusted Odds Ratio for age 40 to 64 0.57 [0.46;0.69]), less likely to have a lower household income (AOR 0.55 [0.43;0.69]), and more likely to live in one of the Western federal states including Berlin (AOR 2.31 [1.90;2.82]). Willingness to disclose a positive test result and trust in data protection compliance of the Corona Warn App was significantly higher in older adults. Willingness to disclose also increased with higher educational degrees and income. This study supports the hypothesis of a digital divide that separates users and non-users of the Corona Warn App along a well-known health gap of education, income, and region.
The impact of community-based prevention on quality of life—The necessity to control for general health trends the Northern Sweden MONICA study in 2014
Authors: Spege Elin , Ek Kristina , Söderberg Stefan , Eliasson Mats
Published: September 2021

Background

The Västerbotten intervention program (VIP), is a public health promotion program in northern Sweden with the aim of preventing cardiovascular disease. Positive effects have been reported although the evidence is not unequivocal. Since only historical controls have been used, effects from other sources than the program have largely been uncontrolled for and health related quality of life (HRQoL) has not been evaluated.

Purpose

By using the neighbouring county of Norrbotten (NB) as the reference population, we compare HRQoL in Västerbotten (VB) and in NB.

Methods

In 2014 the Northern Sweden survey, Monitoring of Trends and Determinants in Cardiovascular Disease (MONICA), examined a random sample from the two counties. HRQoL was measured with the EQ-5D-3L. In total, 1112 subjects aged 40–74 years participated, 516 in VB and 594 in NB. Differences in mean QoL between VB and NB were analysed via Student’s t-test and the Pearson chi-square test.

Results

Average HRQoL measured by the EQ-5D-index was 0.798 in VB and 0.811 in NB, a difference of 0.013 (p = 0.2, CI -0.009 to 0.036). For subjects aged 45–54 years, the HRQoL was lower in VB than in NB, a difference of 0.048 (p = 0.041; CI 0.002 to 0.0094). Men had higher HRQoL than women, and university educated had higher HRQoL than those without university education. EQ-VAS showed similar results. Subjects from NB and from VB did not differ regarding age, gender and level of education. In NB, HRQoL decrease with age, a pattern not seen in VB.

Conclusions

We found similar levels of HRQoL in VB and in NB.
Analysis of imidacloprid residues in mango, cowpea and water samples based on portable molecular imprinting sensors
Authors: Peng Sihua , Yang Shuyan , Zhang Xi , Jia Jingjing , Chen Qiulin , Lian Yuyang , Wang Aqiang , Zeng Bei , Yang Heming , Li Jinlei , Dan Jianguo , Liao Jianjun , Zhou Shihao
Published: September 2021

Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide widely used in the production and cultivation of crops. In recent years, the extensive use of imidacloprid in agricultural production has resulted in large amounts of pesticide residues in agricultural products and the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a rapid, accurate, sensitive and convenient method for detecting imidacloprid pesticide residues to ensure the safety of agricultural products and the environment. To clarify how to use the molecular imprinting method for the electrochemical rapid residue detection of imidacloprid. This paper selected reduced graphene oxide and gold nanoparticles as modifiers modified on screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) chitosan as a functional monomer, and imidacloprid as template molecule to prepare molecularly imprinted polymer, and applied this sensor to the residue detection of imidacloprid. The results showed that the concentration of imidacloprid showed a good linear relationship with the peak response current, and the detection limit of imidacloprid was 0.5 μM, while the sensor had good repeatability and interference resistance. The recoveries of imidacloprid spiked on three samples, mango, cowpea and water, were in the range of 90–110% (relative standard deviation, RSD<5%), which proved the practicality and feasibility of the assay established in this paper. The results of this paper can be used as a basis for the research on the detection of imidacloprid pesticide residues in food or environment.
Does school reopening affect SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among school-age children in Milan?
Authors: Barcellini Lucia , Forlanini Federica , Sangiorgio Arianna , Gambacorta Greta , Alberti Luisella , Meta Andrea , Gaia Paola , Amendola Antonella , Tanzi Elisabetta , Massa Valentina , Borghi Elisa , Fabiano Valentina , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo
Published: September 2021

The benefits of schools’ closure, used as a containment strategy by many European countries, must be carefully considered against the adverse effects of child wellbeing. In this study, we assessed SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence, which better estimates the real extent of the infection unraveling asymptomatic cases, among schoolchildren aged 3 to 18 in Milan, using dried blood spot, a safe and extremely viable methods for children, and then compared it between September 2020 and January 2021. Secondly, we evaluated the seroconversion rate and compared it between students attending schools in presence and those switched to distance-learning, using a logistic regression model, both as univariate and multivariate, adjusting for age and biological-sex. Among 1109 pupils, we found a seroprevalence of 2.8% in September before school reopening, while in January 2021, the seropositive rate was 12.5%, reflecting the general growth rate of infections during the second pandemic wave. The overall seroconversion rate was 10%, with no differences based on biological-sex and age groups; we observed no seroreversion. When considered age groups, the seroconversion rate was 10.5% (95%Confidence Interval, 2.9–24.8) among children attending preschools, 10.6% (95%Confidence Interval, 8.2–13.4) for primary schools, 9.9% (95%Confidence Interval, 6.8–13.8) for secondary schools, and 7.8% (95%Confidence Interval, 4–13.2) among high-school students. Interestingly, no differences in seroconversion rate were found between students who attended school compared to those who started remote learning in the first days of November. Furthermore, most patients (61%) reported that the contact occurred within the household. We reported a low seroconversion rate among school children in Milan, with no differences between those who attended from September 2020 to January 2021 compared to those who switched to remote learning in the first days of November. Our data suggest that schools do not amplify SARS-CoV-2 transmission, but rather reflect the level of the transmission in the community.
Influence of first colostrum pasteurization on serum immunoglobulin G, iron, and activity of gamma-glutamyltransferase in newborn dairy calves
Authors: Ganz Sebastian , Failing Klaus , Hassan Abdulwahed Ahmed , Bülte Michael , Wehrend Axel
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: Colostrum pasteurization is an established procedure in dairy farms in developed countries. This practice can improve the health status of the offspring by reducing several pathogens. This study aimed to focus on the pasteurization of bovine first colostrum and its influence on certain important bioactive components. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Holstein-Friesian bull calves, which were randomly divided into two groups and fed with 6 L of untreated (UT, n=10) or 6 L of heat-treated (HT, 63.5°C for 30 min, n=10) colostrum from their own dam within the first 12 h after birth. Blood samples were taken before, 24 h, and 48 h after first colostrum intake to determine the concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and iron and the activity of gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) in the serum. Results: The level of IgG was not affected by pasteurization (p=0.19). However, a slower increase in GGT activity (p<0.05) and a lower serum iron concentration (p=0.04) were observed in the HT group. Conclusion: It can be concluded that pasteurization influences the absorption of colostrum components and therefore, the passive transfer of immunity, although the level of IgG was not affected by pasteurization in this study.
Scene-Change Detection Based on Multi-Feature-Fusion Latent Dirichlet Allocation Model for High-Spatial-Resolution Remote Sensing Imagery
Authors: Li Xiaoman , Zhong Yanfei , Su Yu , Ye Richen
Published: September 2021

With the continuous development of high-spatial-resolution ground observation technology, it is now becoming possible to obtain more and more high-resolution images, which provide us with the possibility to understand remote sensing images at the semantic level. Compared with traditional
pixel- and object-oriented methods of change detection, scene-change detection can provide us with land use change information at the semantic level, and can thus provide reliable information for urban land use change detection, urban planning, and government management. Most of the current
scene-change detection methods are based on the visual-words expression of the bag-of-visual-words model and the single-feature-based latent Dirichlet allocation model. In this article, a scene-change detection method for high-spatial-resolution imagery is proposed based on a multi-feature-fusion
latent Dirich- let allocation model. This method combines the spectral, textural, and spatial features of the high-spatial-resolution images, and the final scene expression is realized through the topic features extracted from the more abstract latent Dirichlet allocation model. Post-classification
comparison is then used to detect changes in the scene images at different times. A series of experiments demonstrates that, compared with the traditional bag-of-words and topic models, the proposed method can obtain superior scene-change detection results.
The role of internal jugular vein Doppler ultrasonography in predicting hypovolemic shock in polytrauma patients
Authors: Khajehpour Hojatollah , Behzadnia Mohammad Javad
Published: August 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of internal jugular vein (IJV) Doppler ultrasonography in predicting hypovolemic shock in polytrauma patients.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted on 75 multiple trauma patients (injury severity score >15) with a mean age of 33.00±9.57 years. IJV Doppler ultrasonography was performed in all patients with stable vital signs and a negative extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma. Jugular pulsatility index (JPI) values were calculated using the equation (Vmax-Vmin)/Vmax. Clinical and laboratory indices of hypovolemic shock were recorded at the time of admission. Patients were subsequently divided into those with hemorrhagic shock (n=36) and those without (n=39) based on the occurrence of hemorrhagic shock within 6 hours after admission. The results were compared between these groups.Results: IJV Doppler ultrasound parameters (JPI, Vmin, and Vmax-Vmin) showed significant differences between the two groups. The JPI values of patients with hemorrhagic shock were significantly lower than those in the control group (0.43±0.21 vs. 0.78±0.24, P<0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, and discriminant ability (area under the curve) of JPI with a cutoff of 0.58 in detecting hemorrhagic shock were 86.11%, 82.05%, and 0.853 (P<0.001), respectively.Conclusion: IJV Doppler ultrasonography can reliably predict hemorrhagic shock in polytrauma patients with stable vital signs. Ultrasonography can be used in combination with clinical signs and laboratory findings to diagnose patients at risk of hypovolemic shock.
Tropical seasonal changes impact on hematological parameters of goats
Authors: Dhuha J. M. , Muayad M. T. A. , Saeed O. A. , Al-Bayar M. A. , Saeid Z. J. M. , Al-Bakri S. A. , Che Musa H. , Safaa A. , Abed Q. N. , Kaabi S. A. G. , Haniza H. M. Z. , Shaari A.
Published: September 2021

The study was carried out to evaluate the impact of seasonal variations on the hematological responses of goats in Malaysia. Fifty-two goats (24 bucks and 28 does), aged between 1 to 2 years old were used in the study. The goats were fed on commercial concentrate and forage, access to mineral salt and water was ad libitum. Blood samples were obtained from each goat in January, May and September to analyze hematology blood constitute during the study. The results showed that red blood cell (RBC) levels in Anglo-Nubian females rose dramatically in January and May while the Saanen breed remains without diversity. In all seasons, high hemoglobin (Hb) concentration of Anglo-Nubian males was unlike Saanen breed. For Saanen females, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) increased significant-ly, whereas in Saanen males, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and MCH concentration (MCHC) were increased. High packed cell volume (PCV) concentration of Anglo females compared to others during September. In conclusion, variations in breed and sex of goats reflect the distinct ability of trop-ical changes that have been formed during seasonal effects on hematological responses between the two breeds of goats.
Evaluation of anti-fungal activity derivative from Premna odorata Blanco extract by deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Abdullah Ahmad Kamis , Dheyab Ali Sami , Saleh Raed Obaid
Published: August 2021

Fungal organisms are an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in different parts in human body like oral cavity and vagina. Recent study has revealed a critical need for novel antifungal medicines developed from medicinal plant extracts due to concerns about fungal pathogen resistance to commercial medication. In the present work, Premna odorata Blanco, belonging to the family Lamiaceae was evaluated in vitro antifungal activity against two fungal organism isolated from clinical cases. With the aim to replace toxic conventional solvents through deep eutectic solvents was used and phytochemical compounds were determined (total phenol content, total flavonoid content). ChMa extracts of Premna odorata Blanco demonstrate a significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Monilinia spp. Higher than water extract. While the DES2 extract reported the highest phenolic contents (3.58 mg GAE/100 g DW) and total flavonoid content (0.028 mg RE/100 g DW) compared with water extract. In conclusion, the study suggests that the Premna odorata Blanco extracts by deep eutectic solvents are promising for the development of treatments against various fungal diseases with a friendly green procedure, low toxicity and new application in pharmaceutical industry.
Fault-Tolerant Placement of Additional Mesh Nodes in Rural Wireless Mesh Networks: A Minimum Steiner Tree Based Centre of Mass With Bounded Edge Length
Authors: Fendji Jean Louis Kedieng Ebongue , Bagona Patience Leopold
Published: August 2021

Wireless mesh networks are presented as an attractive solution to reduce the digital divide between rural and developed areas. In a multi-hop fashion, they can cover larger spaces. However, their planning is subject to many constraints including robustness. In fact, the failure of a node may result in the partitioning of the network. The robustness of the network is therefore achieved by carefully placing additional nodes. This work tackles the problem of additional nodes minimization when planning bi and tri-connectivity from a given network. We propose a vertex augmentation approach inspired by the placement of Steiner points. The idea is to incrementally determine cut vertices and bridges in the network and to carefully place additional nodes to ensure connectivity, bi and tri-connectivity. The approach relies on an algorithm using the centre of mass of the blocks derived after the partitioning of the network. The proposed approach has been compared to a modified version of a former approach based on the Minimum Steiner Tree. The different experiments carried out show the competitiveness of the proposed approach to connect, bi-connect, and tri-connect the wireless mesh networks.
Inhibition of ADAM10 ameliorates doxorubicin-induced cardiac remodeling by suppressing N-cadherin cleavage
Authors: Li Xiaoou , Pan Feng , He Bing , Fang Chengzhi
Published: August 2021

The present research was designed to examine the effects of disintegrin metalloproteinases 10 (ADAM10) on the doxorubicin (DOX)-induced dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and the mechanisms involved, with a focus on ADAM10-dependent cleavage of N-cadherin. The present study constructed recombinant lentiviral vectors expressing short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting the ADAM10 gene. H9C2 cells were treated with the recombinant lentivirus or GI254023 (an ADAM10 inhibitor). The expression level of N-cadherin and its C-terminal fragment1 (CTF1) was tested by western blotting and flow cytometry. The adhesion ability was analyzed using a plate adhesion model. Cardiac function and morphology were assessed in control and lentivirus-transfected rats with or without DOX treatment. The inhibition of ADAM10 activity significantly increased the expression of full-length N-cadherin on the cellular surface and reduced CTF1 generation in vivo and in vitro. The adhesion ability was also increased in ADAM10-knockdown H9C2 cells. Furthermore, DOX-induced myocardial dysfunction was ameliorated in rats transfected with ADAM10-shRNA lentivirus. These findings demonstrated that ADAM10 specifically cleaves N-cadherin in cardiomyocytes. ADAM10-induced N-cadherin cleavage results in changes in the adhesive behavior of cells. Therefore, ADAM10 may serve as a therapeutic target to reverse cardiac remodeling in DCM.
3D host cell and pathogen-based bioassay development for testing anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug response and modeling immunodeficiency
Authors: Mukundan Shilpaa , Bhatt Rachana , Lucas John , Tereyek Matthew , Chang Theresa L. , Subbian Selvakumar , Parekkadan Biju
Published: September 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) is a global health threat that affects 10 million people worldwide. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains one of the major contributors to the reactivation of asymptomatic latent tuberculosis (LTBI). Over the recent years, there has been a significant focus in developing in-vitro 3D models mimicking early events of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) pathogenesis, especially formation of the granuloma. However, these models are low throughput and require extracellular matrix. In this article, we report the generation of a matrix-free 3D model, using THP-1 human monocyte/macrophage cells and mCherry-expressing Mycobacterium bovis BCG (Bacilli Camille Guérin), henceforth referred as 3D spheroids, to study the host cell-bacterial interactions. Using mCherry-intensity-based tracking, we monitored the kinetics of BCG growth in the 3D spheroids. We also demonstrate the application of the 3D spheroids for testing anti-TB compounds such as isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RIF), as well as a host-directed drug, everolimus (EVR) as single and combinational treatments. We further established a dual infection 3D spheroid model by coinfecting THP-1 macrophages with BCG mCherry and pseudotype HIV. In this HIV-TB co-infection model, we found an increase in BCG mCherry growth within the 3D spheroids infected with HIV pseudotype. The degree of disruption of the granuloma was proportional to the virus titers used for co-infection. In summary, this 3D spheroid assay is an useful tool to screen anti-TB response of potential candidate drugs and can be adopted to model HIV-TB interactions.
Reinstatement of Indian Ocean Porolithon coarctatum and P. gardineri based on sequencing type specimens, and P. epiphyticum
sp. nov. (Corallinales, Rhodophyta), with comments on subfamilies Hydrolithoideae and Metagoniolithoideae
Authors: Richards Joseph L. , Saunders Gary W. , Hughey Jeffery R. , Gabrielson Paul W.
Published: August 2021

Partial rbcL sequences were obtained from the type specimens of Lithophyllum coarctatum and L. gardineri. Both species were variably assigned to either Hydrolithon or Porolithon during the last two centuries, with L. coarctatum, from the tropical eastern Indian Ocean currently considered a synonym of L. gardineri from the tropical western Indian Ocean. Phylogenetic analyses show that both belong in Porolithon and that they are distinct species despite their morpho-anatomical similarities, including a columnar morphology. Porolithon epiphyticum
sp. nov., from the same locality as P. coarctatum, Cocos-Keeling Islands, is the first reported epiphytic species in the genus. Eight of the currently recognized 15 species of Porolithon have had their type specimens sequenced to correctly apply names, including the generitype specimen. DNA sequencing provides independent confirmation that the morpho-anatomical character of the presence of horizontal fields of trichocytes without intervening vegetative cells is diagnostic for Porolithon. The generitypes of the four genera classified in the subfamily Metagoniolithoideae, Dawsoniolithon, Floiophycus, Harveylithon, and Metagoniolithon as well as Hydrolithon in the subfamily Hydrolithoideae, have not been sequenced. The taxonomic and nomenclatural uncertainties in each of these genera are discussed.
Lessons in clinical reasoning ‒ pitfalls, myths, and pearls: a case of confusion, disequilibrium, and “picking at the air”
Authors: Magee Charles D. , Parsons Andrew S. , Millard Alexander S. , Torre Dario
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Defects in human cognition commonly result in clinical reasoning failures that can lead to diagnostic errors.

Case presentation

A 43-year-old female was brought to the emergency department with 4–5 days of confusion, disequilibrium resulting in several falls, and hallucinations. Further investigation revealed tachycardia, diaphoresis, mydriatic pupils, incomprehensible speech and she was seen picking at the air. Given multiple recent medication changes, there was initial concern for serotonin syndrome vs. an anticholinergic toxidrome. She then developed a fever, marked leukocytosis, and worsening encephalopathy. She underwent lumbar puncture and aspiration of an identified left ankle effusion. Methicillin sensitive staph aureus (MSSA) grew from blood, joint, and cerebrospinal fluid cultures within 18 h. She improved with antibiotics and incision, drainage, and washout of her ankle by orthopedic surgery.

Conclusions

Through integrated commentary on the diagnostic reasoning process from clinical reasoning experts, this case underscores how multiple cognitive biases can cascade sequentially, skewing clinical reasoning toward erroneous conclusions and driving potentially inappropriate testing and treatment. A fishbone diagram is provided to visually demonstrate the major factors that contributed to the diagnostic error. A case discussant describes the importance of structured reflection, a tool to promote metacognitive analysis, and the application of knowledge organization tools such as illness scripts to navigate these cognitive biases.
Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 antigen electrochemiluminescence immunoassay to RT-PCR assay for laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19 in Peshawar
Authors: Iqbal Bilal , Khan Maria , Shah Noman , Dawood Mirza Muhammad , Jehanzeb Valeed , Shafi Mohsin
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Antigen based rapid diagnostic tests possesses a potential to be utilized along with Gold standard methods to detect Covid-19 infection to cope with the demand of testing. The aim of this study was to determine diagnostic accuracy of electrochemiluminescence based automated antigen detection immunoassay comparing with molecular based test RT-PCR (Covid-19).

Methods

It was a cross-sectional study conducted in RMI Peshawar, from 1st April 2021 till 30th April 2021. The study comprised 170 individuals who were suspected of having Covid-19. Nasopharyngeal samples taken from suspected individuals were analyzed by RT-PCR and automated antigen test (Elecsys SARS-CoV-2 Antigen) simultaneously. The correlation of SARS-CoV-2 antigen with PCR positive and negative cases was analyzed for specificity, sensitivity respectively.

Results

The ECLIA based Elecsys antigen test (Roche) revealed overall sensitivity 72%, specificity 95% and accuracy of 94.9%. Sensitivity of antigen test progressively declined from 94.3% in Ct <25 to 70.8% in Ct 26–29 and then to 47.2% in Ct 30–35.

Conclusions

Based on the findings of our study we conclude that automated antigen testing (Elecsys SARS-CoV-2 Antigen) cannot replace molecular based testing like RT PCR. Elecsys SARS-CoV-2 Ag test should be used complementary to RT-PCR in testing algorithms. Frequent testing strategy should be adopted while using automated antigen testing to overcome its limitation in individuals with low viral loads.
Design of production lines and logistic flows in production
Authors: Molnár Vieroslav , Cempírek Václav , Turek Michal , Fiala David
Published: August 2021

The study deals with the topic of the implementation of modern production methods with emphasis on the solution of a new production with the utilization of lean principles and respecting the limiting conditions of the production company. In the summary, an economic assessment of the designed concept using the Lean Method is presented. The outcomes of the researched problem are a performed analysis, its acceptance of the user and the acceptance of the designed concept of the new production line.
Effects of cryogenic treatment and interface modifications of basalt fibre on the mechanical properties of hybrid fibre-reinforced composites
Authors: Deng Hai , Wei Xinpei , Wang Chao , Yang Jinghao , Li Zhigang
Published: August 2021

Although natural fibre-based thermoplastic composites (NFCs) have the advantages of environmental compatibility and low cost, their mechanical properties are still relatively poor. Hybridization with basalt fibres (BFs) can broaden the industrial applications of NFCs. Hybrid composites were manufactured by means of interlayer hybrid reinforcement; that is, the hybrid composites were prepared by the lamination moulding of BF prepregs and hemp/polylactide fibre (HF/PLA) felts. The effects of cryogenic treatment and interfacial modification in BF hybridization on the mechanical properties of HF/PLA composites were investigated. The study revealed that the hybridization of BFs with hemp fibres (HFs) significantly increased the mechanical properties of composites, and the cryogenic treatment and interface modification of BFs also improved the performance of hybrid composites. Compared with those of untreated BF-reinforced composites (UBF/HF/PLA), the tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact strength were increased by approximately 28.5% (120.82 MPa), 44.6% (90.29 MPa), and 192.1% (61.0 kJ/m2), respectively.
Phyto-fabrication of selenium nanorods using extract of pomegranate rind wastes and their potentialities for inhibiting fish-borne pathogens
Authors: Gad Hend A. , Tayel Ahmed A. , Al-Saggaf Mohammed S. , Moussa Shaaban H. , Diab Amany M.
Published: August 2021

The invasion of fish/seafoods by zoonotic pathogens causes health threats to humans. Plant derivatives and phytosynthesized nanometals could promisingly overcome bacterial infections/contaminations. The extract of pomegranate rinds (PRE) was innovatively employed for biosynthesizing selenium nanorods (Se-NRs). These agents were assessed as antibacterial candidates against diverse fish-borne pathogenic species (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Sphingomonas paucimobilis). The PRE-synthesized Se-NRs, within 60 min of contact, were negatively charged (‒32 mV) and had mean diameter of 62.31 nm and length range of 443.5–1236.9 nm. The designated infrared spectra for PRE and PRE/Se-NRs composite validated the biosynthesis, bonding, and interactions of the nanocomposite. The antibacterial potentialities of PRE, phytosynthesized Se-NRs, and PRE/Se-NRs composite was confirmed toward the entire challenged pathogens; S. aureus had the highest resistance (with inhibitory concentrations of 72.5, 60.0, and 55.0 mg/L, respectively) and S. paucimobilis was the most sensitive (with inhibitory concentrations of 55.0, 45.0, and 42.5 mg/L, respectively). The ultrastructure of the treated S. paucimobilis with PRE/Se-NRs emphasized the composite potentiality for deforming/distorting cells within 4 h and causing full cells’ destruction and deformation within 8 h of exposure. The PRE-phytosynthesized Se-NRs are advocated as potent antibacterial products against fish-borne pathogens for decontaminating fisheries farms and products.
Hydrophilic modification of PVDF membranes by in situ synthesis of nano-Ag with nano-ZrO2
Authors: Lu Yanjun , Ma Yuxuan , Yang Tong , Guo Jifeng
Published: August 2021

Modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes were prepared by the phase inversion method via blending in situ formed nanosilver (Ag) and nanozirconium dioxide (ZrO2). Scanning electron microscopy of the membranes revealed that the surface pore size of the membranes was increased and distributed widely with the addition of modified nanosilver (Ag) and nanozirconium dioxide (ZrO2). The pores of the membrane were reduced due to excessive modification of the material when the content of zirconium dioxide was increased to 0.4%. XRD characterization showed that in situ synthesis of nanosilver (Ag) and nanozirconium dioxide (ZrO2) had been successfully blended in the membranes. The contact angle of the modified membrane ranged from 82.72° to 67.37°, which showed that the hydrophilic properties of the membrane were improved. The pure water flux of the modified membrane increased from 28.43 to 143.2 L/m2 h, indicating that the hydrophilicity of the modified membrane was enhanced significantly. The flux recovery rate of the modified membrane was obviously increased in the fouling experiment with BSA as the source of organic pollutants. The antimicrobial contamination of the membrane was greatly enhanced with the E. coli microbial contamination experiment.
Paracrine study of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) in a self-assembling nano-polypeptide hydrogel environment
Authors: Ling Jianmin , Tian Ailing , Yi Xin , Sun Nianfeng
Published: August 2021

To research the paracrine role of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) in promoting angiogenesis under the three-dimensional culture conditions consisting of a functionalized self-assembling peptide nanofiber hydrogel. ADMSCs were isolated, extracted, and then identified. Three kinds of peptides (RADAI-16, RGD, and KLT) were prepared, and a functionalized self-assembling peptide nanofiber hydrogel was produced by mixing RADAI-16, RGD, and KLT in a volume ratio 2:1:1. AFM was used to observe RADAI-16, RGD, KLT, and the functionalized self-assembling peptide nanofiber hydrogel. Then, ADMSCs were cultured under three-dimensional conditions consisting of the peptide nanofiber hydrogel, and AFM was used to observe cell migration. The ADMSCs in the common culture group (37°C, 5% CO2 cell culture box) and hypoxic culture group (37°C, 10% CO2, and 1% O2 hypoxic culture box) acted as controls. ADMSCs were three-dimensionally cultured in situ for 1 day, and then the concentrations of HGF and VEGF in the supernatant were determined by ELISA. Cells were extracted from the peptide nanofiber hydrogel, and HO-1 expression was detected by western blotting. ADMSCs have high expression levels of CD29, CD90, and CDl05 and low expression levels of CD34 and CD45. In addition, they can differentiate into adipocytes and osteocytes. The diameters of the fibers of RADAI-16, RGD, KLT, and the functionalized self-assembling peptide hydrogel are 17.34 ± 1.82, 15.50 ± 1.41, 13.77 ± 1.18, and 20.26 ± 1.25 nm, respectively. AFM indicated that cells in the functionalized self-assembling peptide nanofiber hydrogel migrated farther than those in RADAI-16. The concentrations of HGF under common, hypoxic, and three-dimensional culture conditions were 47.31 ± 6.75, 247.86 ± 17.59, and 297.25 ± 17.95 pg/mL, respectively, while the concentrations of VEGF were 218.30 ± 3.03, 267.13 ± 4.27, and 289.14 ± 3.11 pg/mL, respectively. Both HGF and VEGF were expressed more in the presence of the functionalized self-assembling peptide nanofiber hydrogel than in its absence (P < 0.05). Using western blotting, ADMSCs cultured under hypoxic and three-dimensional conditions were found to have high expression levels of HO-1. Culturing ADMSCs under three-dimensional conditions consisting of functionalized self-assembling peptide nanofiber hydrogels can promote their paracrine role in angiogenesis, such as HGF and VEGF, and hypoxia is one of the important elements.
Astrocytic potassium and calcium channels as integrators of the inflammatory and ischemic CNS microenvironment
Authors: Schmaul Samantha , Hanuscheck Nicholas , Bittner Stefan
Published: August 2021

Astrocytes are key regulators of their surroundings by receiving and integrating stimuli from their local microenvironment, thereby regulating glial and neuronal homeostasis. Cumulating evidence supports a plethora of heterogenic astrocyte subpopulations that differ morphologically and in their expression patterns of receptors, transporters and ion channels, as well as in their functional specialisation. Astrocytic heterogeneity is especially relevant under pathological conditions. In experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model of multiple sclerosis (MS), morphologically distinct astrocytic subtypes were identified and could be linked to transcriptome changes during different disease stages and regions. To allow for continuous awareness of changing stimuli across age and diseases, astrocytes are equipped with a variety of receptors and ion channels allowing the precise perception of environmental cues. Recent studies implicate the diverse repertoire of astrocytic ion channels – including transient receptor potential channels, voltage-gated calcium channels, inwardly rectifying K+ channels, and two-pore domain potassium channels – in sensing the brain state in physiology, inflammation and ischemia. Here, we review current evidence regarding astrocytic potassium and calcium channels and their functional contribution in homeostasis, neuroinflammation and stroke.
Benefits and effectiveness of high pressure processing on cheese: a ricotta case study
Authors: Stefanini Roberta , Ronzano Anna , Borghesi Giulia , Vignali Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

Today High Pressure Processing (HPP) is receiving interest thanks to its ability to stabilize foods preserving nutritional and sensorial characteristics. This work applies HPP on nutrient ricottas created in the Parmigiano Reggiano area and demonstrates not only its benefits, but also disadvantages, testing different pressures and packaging. Moreover, the ability of HPP to prolong the lag phase and reduce the maximum growth rate of bacteria is illustrated with a mathematical model. Results show the influence of HPP parameters on microbial growth, volatile organic compounds, syneresis, softness and colour, and demonstrate that not all packaging are suitable for the treatment. Obtained data highlight the effectiveness of HPP, which results the best stabilization method to sell safe and nutritive ricottas on the market with a long shelf life. Of course, the work can be a starting point for food companies who want to test an innovative and promising non-thermal technology.
Analysis of flavor compounds in marinated chicken wings after irradiation and natural antioxidant (phytic acid and tea polyphenols) treatment
Authors: Long Mingxiu , Liu Min , Li Yongfu , Tian Zhuxi , He Yangbo , Shi Bin , Liang Qian , Tan Shuming
Published: September 2021

Marinated chicken wings is one of the popular marinated meat products in China. Here, electronic nose (e-nose) and solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) were used to detect volatile components of four different treatment marinated chicken wings (neither irradiated nor added phytic acid and tea polyphenols, A1; added phytic acid and tea polyphenols but no irradiated, A2; irradiated with 4 kGy irradiation but not added phytic acid and tea polyphenols, A3; irradiated with 4 kGy irradiation and added phytic acid and tea polyphenols, A4). Then odor activity value (OAV) and principal component analysis (PCA) were utilized to analyze their key flavor compounds. E-nose analysis found that antioxidant has a great impact on the odor of the marinated chicken wings, while the irradiation treatment has little effect on it. Besides, the irradiation treatment can reduce the unpleasant odor caused by antioxidants in certain. Through SPME-GC-MS, 101 volatile compounds were identified in four groups. After analysis, the antioxidants can inhibit the production of some volatile compounds, while irradiation treatment will relieve this phenomenon. This result is consistent with the e-nose. Following OAV, PCA analysis and sensory evaluation further verified the above conclusions.
Deployment of the formulaic utterance “how about∼” in task-based second language classroom discussions
Authors: Aline David , Hosoda Yuri
Published: August 2021

Formulaic speech has long been of interest in studies of second language learning and pragmatic use as production and comprehension of formulaic utterances requires less processing and production effort and, therefore, allows for greater fluency. This study scrutinizes the sequential positions and actions of one formulaic utterance “how about∼” from the participants’ perspective. This conversation analytic study offers a fine-grained microanalysis of student interaction during classroom peer discussion activities. The data consist of over 54 h of video-recorded classroom interaction. Analysis revealed several positions and actions of “how about∼” as it occurs during peer discussions by Japanese learners of English. Emerging from analysis was a focus on how learners deploy this formulaic utterance to achieve various actions within sequences of interaction. Analysis revealed that participants used “how about∼” for (a) explicitly selecting next speaker, (b) shifting topics, (c) proposing a solution, and (d) suggesting alternative procedures. Although the formula was deployed to perform these four different actions, consistent throughout all instances was the disclosure of learner orientation to the progressivity of the task interaction. The findings show how language learners deploy this formulaic utterance in discussion tasks designed for language learning and highlights the pragmatic functions of this phrase.
The status of conventional metaphorical meaning in the L2 lexicon
Authors: Werkmann Horvat Ana , Bolognesi Marianna , Kohl Katrin
Published: August 2021

This paper investigates how L2 speakers of English process conventional metaphorical expressions. While much of the literature on L2 processing of figurative expressions focuses on idioms only, the aim of this paper is to investigate how L2 speakers process conventional metaphorical expressions. The results of a cross-modal semantic priming task show that conventional metaphors have a special status in comparison to literal language in the L2 lexicon. The differences in reaction times show that L2 speakers are aware of the connections between literal primes and targets, resulting in slower reaction times, while this effect is not found in the metaphorical condition. This demonstrates that even when metaphorical language is very conventional, it can cause difficulties for L2 speakers. Furthermore, these results show that conventional metaphorical expressions can pose a semantic and pragmatic challenge for language learners, thus creating a need for explicit teaching of metaphorical meanings of polysemous words.
Populist discourse and active metaphors in the 2016 US presidential elections
Authors: Keating John
Published: August 2021

In recent years, the specter of populism has grown increasingly restless in the Western world and beyond. This new populism has been observed in different political movements in Europe; the Brexit movement in the UK, Podemos and Vox in Spain, Rassemblement National in France, Partij voor de Vrijheid in the Netherlands, and Viktor Orbán’s illiberal democracy in Hungary. Inevitably, it is most commonly associated with the election of Donald Trump as president of the USA in 2016. In this paper, a pragmatic interaction theory of metaphorical utterances is applied to a corpus of speeches given by candidates during the American 2016 presidential elections. First, speeches and candidates were graded for populism according to a holistic grading method. Secondly, speeches were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods to investigate if and how active metaphorical language was used to construct the populist frame. The findings suggest that active metaphors can be useful for politicians who wish to counter the dominant conventional frames, and so can serve the ideological purposes of populists and non-populists alike. Therefore, this paper also argues that novel metaphorical concepts and active metaphorical utterances make important contributions to the communication of ideologies in political discourse and should not be overlooked by analysts.
The Hermit Kingdom’s Forgotten Threat: Evaluating UNSCR 1540’s Effectiveness in Controlling North Korea’s Biological Weapons Program
Authors: Reynolds Jakob
Published: August 2021

Mitigating the proliferation of biological weapons remains uniquely challenging, even 48 years after the ratification of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). Suspected development of advanced biological weapons by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), despite its status as a party to both the BWC and other nonproliferation agreements, has emphasized the need for international efforts to keep biological weapons out of the hands of rogue nations and terrorist networks. Among the numerous weaponized cultures believed to be in development by the North Korean military are anthrax, botulism, cholera, plague and smallpox. With a steady decrease in resources and attention devoted to preparedness for biological attacks or outbreaks since 2001, the United States and its allies remain vulnerable to biological weapons in development by North Korea. An ongoing example of this danger is demonstrated by the international community’s struggle to respond to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. With United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1540’s expiration in 2021, this paper aims to assess its effectiveness in preventing the proliferation of biological weapons by analyzing the legal requirements UNSCR 1540 imposes on UN member nations. Using North Korea’s biological weapons program as a case study, this paper will evaluate the successes and failures of UNSCR 1540’s legal mechanisms in controlling biological weapons development in North Korea in its penultimate year of validity. This paper will also examine the overlapping roles served by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), and UNSCR 1540, and how their administrative frameworks identify and respond to natural disease outbreaks and biological attacks. Finally, this paper will recommend actions the United Nations Security Council may take to more effectively pursue its mission of nonproliferation.