bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rates of protein synthesis are reduced in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from fragile X individuals
Authors: Dionne Olivier , Lortie Audrey , Gagnon Florence , Corbin François
Published: May 2021

Background

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading inherited cause of intellectual disability and is caused by the loss of expression of the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). In animal model of FXS, the absence of FMRP leads to an aberrant rate of neuronal protein synthesis, which in turn is believed to be at the origin of defects regarding spine morphology and synaptic plasticity. Normalisation of protein synthesis in these models has been associated with a rescue of FXS behavioral and biochemicals phenotype, thus establishing the rate of protein synthesis as one of the most promising monitoring biomarker for FXS. However, rate of protein synthesis alteration in fragile X individuals is not well characterized.

Method

We applied a robust radiolabeled assay to measure rate of protein synthesis in freshly extracted peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and blood platelets. We ultimately settle on PBMCs to measure and compare rate of protein synthesis in 13 males with fragile X and 14 matched controls individuals.

Results

Using this method, we measured a 26.9% decrease (p = 0,0193) in the rate of protein synthesis in fragile X individuals PBMCs. Furthermore, the rate of protein synthesis measurements obtained were highly reproducible, highlighting the robustness of the method.

Conclusion

Our work presents the first evidence of a diminution of the rate of protein synthesis in a human peripheral model of fragile X. Our results also support the finding of previous studies using brain PET imaging in Fragile X individuals. Since our assay only requires a simple venous puncture, it could be used in other cases of intellectual disability in order to determine if an aberrant rate of protein synthesis is a common general mechanism leading to impairment in synaptic plasticity and to intellectual disability.
Establishment of soil strength in a nourished wetland using thin layer placement of dredged sediment
Authors: Harris Brian D. , Day Donnie J. , Cadigan Jack A. , Jafari Navid H. , Bailey Susan E. , Tyler Zachary J.
Published: May 2021

Coastal wetlands are experiencing accelerated rates of fragmentation and degradation due to sea-level rise, sediment deficits, subsidence, and salt-water intrusion. This reduces their ability to provide ecosystem benefits, such as wave attenuation, habitat for migratory birds, and a sink for carbon and nitrogen cycles. A deteriorated back barrier wetland in New Jersey, USA was nourished through thin layer placement (TLP) of dredged sediment in 2016. A field investigation was conducted in 2019 using a cone penetrometer (CPT) to quantify the establishment of soil strength post sediment nourishment compared to adjacent reference sites in conjunction with traditional wetland performance measures. Results show that the nourished area exhibited weaker strengths than the reference sites, suggesting the root system of the vegetation is still establishing. The belowground biomass measurements correlated to the CPT strength measurements, demonstrating that shear strength measured from the cone penetrometer could serve as a surrogate to monitor wetland vegetation trajectories. In addition, heavily trafficked areas underwent compaction from heavy equipment loads, inhibiting the development of vegetation and highlighting how sensitive wetlands are to anthropogenic disturbances. As the need for more expansive wetland restoration projects grow, the CPT can provide rapid high-resolution measurements across large areas supplying government and management agencies with vital establishment trajectories.
Effect of zinc deficiency on chronic kidney disease progression and effect modification by hypoalbuminemia
Authors: Tokuyama Atsuyuki , Kanda Eiichiro , Itano Seiji , Kondo Megumi , Wada Yoshihisa , Kadoya Hiroyuki , Kidokoro Kengo , Nagasu Hajime , Sasaki Tamaki , Kashihara Naoki
Published: May 2021

Serum zinc (Zn) levels tend to be low in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. This cohort study was conducted to investigate the relationship between zinc deficiency and CKD progression. Patients were classified into two groups based on Zn levels < 60 μg/dl (low-Zn group, n = 160) and ≥ 60 μg/dl (high-Zn group, n = 152). The primary outcome was defined as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) or death and was examined over a 1-year observation period. Overall, the mean Zn level was 59.6 μg/dl and the median eGFR was 20.3 ml/min/1.73 m2. The incidence of the primary outcome was higher in the low-Zn group (p<0.001). Various Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for baseline characteristics showed higher risks of the primary outcome in the low-Zn group than in the high-Zn group. Competing risks analysis showed that low Zn levels were associated with ESKD but not with death. Moreover, in propensity score-matched analysis, the low-Zn group showed a higher risk of the primary outcome [adjusted hazard ratio 1.81 (95% confidence interval 1.02, 3.24)]. Furthermore, an interaction was observed between Zn and serum albumin levels (interaction p = 0.026). The results of this study indicate that zinc deficiency is a risk factor for CKD progression.
Locomotor illusions are generated by perceptual body-environment organization
Authors: Dobricki Martin , Weibel David , Angelini Leonardo , Mugellini Elena , Mast Fred W.
Published: May 2021

While one is walking, the stimulation by one’s body forms a structure with the stimulation by the environment. This locomotor array of stimulation corresponds to the human-environment relation that one’s body forms with the environment it is moving through. Thus, the perceptual experience of walking may arise from such a locomotor array of stimulation. Humans can also experience walking while they are sitting. In this case, there is no stimulation by one’s walking body. Hence, one can experience walking although a basic component of a locomotor array of stimulation is missing. This may be facilitated by perception organizing the sensory input about one’s body and environment into a perceptual structure that corresponds to a locomotor array of stimulation. We examined whether locomotor illusions are generated by this perceptual formation of a locomotor structure. We exposed sixteen seated individuals to environmental stimuli that elicited either the perceptual formation of a locomotor structure or that of a control structure. The study participants experienced distinct locomotor illusions when they were presented with environmental stimuli that elicited the perceptual formation of a locomotor structure. They did not experience distinct locomotor illusions when the stimuli instead elicited the perceptual formation of the control structure. These findings suggest that locomotor illusions are generated by the perceptual organization of sensory input about one’s body and environment into a locomotor structure. This perceptual body-environment organization elucidates why seated human individuals experience the sensation of walking without any proprioceptive or kinaesthetic stimulation.
Local adaptation of phenotypic stem traits distinguishes two provenance regions of silver birch in Latvia
Authors: Gailis Arnis , Zeltiņš Pauls , Matisons Roberts , Purviņš Andis , Augustovs Juris , Vīndedzis Valts , Jansons Āris
Published: May 2021

Populations of tree species with a wide geographic range, such as silver birch ( Roth), show genetic specialization to native environments, while maintaining high phenotypical plasticity. Accordingly, assessment of local specialization is essential for adaptive management. The aim of the study was to detect geographic patterns of local adaptation of growth and stem quality based on two open-pollinated progeny trials in Latvia testing local material. Two provenance regions differing by continentality were distinguished, which also differed in genetic control of growth traits, likely originating from the post-glacial recolonization of vegetation and subsequent natural adaptation. Heritability of the traits was estimated for each of the distinguished regions, indicating differing patterns of genetic adaptation and potential for future selection. Trees from the more continental inland showed superior growth and possessed higher heritability. The coastal provenance region showed slower growth and intermediate heritability of the respective traits. Moderate to high heritability for stem quality traits was estimated irrespectively of region. Overall, better growth and higher heritability suggests that anthropogenic selection within the best inland provenances may constitute better performing and adaptable breeding population compared to the coastal one. Still, overlapping phenotypical variation and heritability of quality traits implies improved stemwood quality for plywood regardless of the provenance region. High adaptive capacity of silver birch genotypes suggests ability to cope with climatic changes, highlighting its potential for climate-smart forestry.Betula pendula
Role of Computed Tomography Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology in the Study of Various Thoracic Mass Lesions
Authors: Kumari Nawanita , Kumar Nidhish , Singh Sharvani , Vaibhaw Vishal
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Intrathoracic mass is a problem faced by the clinicians worldwide which is difficult to diagnose correctly. The mediastinum although a small anatomic compartment, the pathologic processes found in it are diverse. Imaging techniques are very helpful for detection and diagnosing these lesions. The current study was conducted for assessing the diagnostic accuracy and efficacy of computed tomography (CT) guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the evaluation of various thoracic mass lesions and also to compare the histopathological findings of CT guided FNAC for evaluation of the type of thoracic lesions & its prognosis. METHODS Data for the study was collected from 50 patients referred to the Department of Pathology, in a tertiary care hospital for 16 months from December 2015 to March 2017. RESULTS Among 50 patients with intrathoracic mass, there were 37 men (74 %) and 13 women (26 %). The age of patients with intrathoracic masses in this study varied from 31 to 80 years. The mean age was 55 years. Thirty-two patients were found to have malignant tumours and 18 cases were of benign aetiology. The highest frequency of cases in this study were of adenocarcinoma followed by squamous cell carcinoma. CONCLUSIONS Computed tomography (CT) guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a cost effective, simple, safe, highly sensitive & specific procedure with high diagnostic accuracy in the diagnosis of intrathoracic mass lesions. It has few complications, rarely requiring active management. KEY WORDS Intrathoracic Mass, Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology, Pneumothorax, Pneumonectomy, Thoracic Mass Lesions
Inspecting Management Strategies of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Tertiary Centre in Western Rajasthan
Authors: Kulamarva Ganaraj , Bhat Supriya Prathibha Shankaranarayana , Dadhich Sunil , Bhargava Narendra , Ranjan Prabhat
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal malignancy which mostly develops in patients with cirrhosis. It is usually diagnosed late in the course of the illness and the median survival following diagnosis ranges between 6 - 20 months. India lacks data on management strategies and their efficacy. In the absence of data on treatment protocols and its adequacy; we evaluated our own centre data for a period of 1 year to get the estimate of incidence, aetiology, treatment adequacy and response to treatment. Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) prognostic staging classification comprising five stages is used for prognostication, which is based on the extent of the primary lesion, performance status, vascular invasion and extrahepatic spread. Surgical therapies including resection and transplantation are feasible in early stages (BCLC stage 0 and stage A). Trans arterial chemoembolisation is recommended in intermediate stage (BCLC stage B) while systemic therapies are recommended in advanced stage (BCLC stage C). Best supportive care is recommended in terminal stage (BCLC stage D). This study has included BCLC staging for staging classification and patients were assessed for adequacy of management. METHODS This study was done as a retrospective hospital based observational study. All HCC patients presenting to Mahatma Gandhi Hospital attached to Dr. Sampurnanand Medical College, Jodhpur, Western Rajasthan from January to December 2014 were included. HCC was diagnosed based on European Association for the study of the Liver–European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EASL–EORTC) clinical practice guidelines 2011. Patients were classified according to Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging and management given was recorded. RESULTS Thirty-two patients who were diagnosed with HCC between January to December 2014 were included in the study. In three fourths of the patients (24) HCC was diagnosed based on typical findings on dynamic imaging studies (triple phase contrast enhanced CT-computed tomography abdomen and / or MRI- magnetic resonance imaging abdomen). Liver biopsy was needed in one fourth of the patients. Majority of the patients (87.5 %) had cirrhosis of the liver at the time of diagnosis of HCC. Some of these patients [5 (17.8 %)] were known cirrhotic patients. CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis B was the most common aetiology of HCC as mentioned previously in other studies, which is vaccine preventable. HCC is rarely diagnosed at an early stage in developing countries. Various treatment modalities are available which depend on the stage, local expertise and affordability. If the surveillance recommendations are strictly adhered,HCC can be diagnosed at an early stage. Affordability and compliance will remain issues in HCC management in our country increasing the socio-economic burden on the society. KEY WORDS Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), BCLC Staging, Survival
Assessment of Mother-Child (0 - 36 Months) Interaction, and Its Association with Socio-Emotional Development in Rural Area of Wardha District
Authors: Kishore Sumit , Quazi Syed Zahiruddin , Kishore Priyanka Sumit , Singh Vikram , Waghmare Rutuj
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Infancy is a significant period in a human being's development.1 Adverse parenting practices can have negative impacts in the context of complete dependence and vulnerability of a child. Physical and psychological development of the child is also influenced by the relationship between the mother and the child. The purpose of the study was to assess the interaction and its association with socio-emotional development between mother and child in rural areas. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural area of Wardha district among 160 mother-child participants using Observation of Mother-Child Interaction (OMCI) and Profile of Socio-Emotional Development (PSED) tools for accessing mother-child interaction and socio emotional development of child. The sampling was done by complete enumeration sampling method. Written inform consent was taken from participants. Descriptive analysis was carried out in order to evaluate the measures of the collected result. RESULTS It is evident from this study that there is no statistically significant finding in motherchild interaction with socio emotional development i.e., P-value 0.081, and mother score having mean (SD) i.e., 22.99 (± 5.38), child score having mean (SD) i.e., 13.19 (± 3.84), total mother-child score having mean (SD) i.e., 18.03 (± 6.70) and total PSED score having mean (SD) i.e., 15.63 (± 6.15). CONCLUSIONS This study concludes that large responsive care ratings were related to enhance socio-emotional growth and responsive care with higher levels of maternal education as well as socioeconomic status. It can be further stated that inclusion of responsive care in child health interventions could have a valuable impact on child socioemotional development. KEY WORDS Mother-Child Interaction, OMCI, PSED, Socio Emotional Development
Clinicohaematological & Aetiological Profile of Bicytopenic / Pancytopenic Children in Dehradun, India - A 5-Year Study
Authors: Bahal Neelima , Malviya Avneesh , Ahuja Sana
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Cytopenia (bicytopenia / pancytopenia) in paediatric age group patients presents with variable clinical features from pallor, fever to organomegaly. Causes vary from megaloblastic anaemia to fatal leukaemias. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the etiological and clinico-haematological profile in children with bicytopenia and pancytopenia. METHODS The present retrospective study was carried out in the section of haematology, Department of Pathology of Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, Dehradun. All paediatric cases (up to 18 yrs.) with bone marrow examination, that were presented as bicytopenia or pancytopenia by routine haematological investigations were included in the study. RESULTS A total of 126 cases were included in the study, out of which, bone marrow aspiration was done in all 126 cases and trephine biopsy was done in only 78 cases. In our study, bicytopenia and pancytopenia was seen in 57.9 % and 42.1 % cases respectively. Most cases were recorded in 2nd decade. Pallor and fever were frequently observed clinical features in both cytopenias. Splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy and hepatomegaly were observed more in bicytopenia (34.2 %, 28.8 % and 27.4 % respectively). Bleeding and petechial rash were more common in pancytopenia (30.2 % and 20.8 % respectively). Anaemia and thrombocytopenia (67.1 %) were commonest combinations of bicytopenia followed by anaemia and leucopenia (26.0 %) and thrombocytopenia and leucopenia (6.8 %). CONCLUSIONS Bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy are important diagnostic tools in evaluating the cases of cytopenia. Both procedures are complementary to each other. KEY WORDS Bicytopenia, Pancytopenia, Megaloblastic Anaemia, Leukemia, Children
LEGITIMIZATION OF JERUSALEM EMBASSY ACT ACCORDING TO INTERNATIONAL LAW
Authors: Noviani Riktin , Pratama Garry Gumelar
Published: May 2021

Jerusalem is a special entity under the administrative power of United Nations according to United Nations General Assembly Resolution 181, where Jerusalem does not fall under the sovereignty of any state. Jerusalem Embassy Act is the public law of United States which recognized Jerusalem as the capital city of Israel by establishing a diplomatic mission in the city.This paper concludes that Jerusalem Embassy Act is illegitimate according to international law. It turns its back to international obligation under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961 and UN resolutions.Thus, the Jerusalem Embassy Act has to be pulled back by the US parliament in order to maintain international peace and security, bearing in mind the ongoing dispute between Palestine and Israel.
MENILIK ARAH POLITIK PERUBAHAN UNDANG-UNDANG MAHKAMAH KONSTITUSI
Authors: Dahoklory Madaskolay Viktoris
Published: May 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana dinamika politik perubahan Undang-Undang Mahkamah Konstitusi (UU MK) dan apakah perubahan itu sesuai atau tidak dengan semangat berkonstitusi. Penelitian ini bersifat normatif dengan menggunakan pendekatan perundang-undangan dan pendekatan konseptual. Hasil penelitian menyimpulkan bahwa dinamika politik perubahan UU Mahkamah Konstitusi sama sekali tidak menyentuh aspek substansial seperti menambahkan/mengurangi tugas dan wewenang hakim konstitusi, melainkan perubahan UU mahkamah konstitusi masih berputar-putar terkait dengan persyaratan batasan usia untuk dapat diangkat/diberhentikan sebagai hakim konstitusi. Walaupun mengubah batasan usia menjadi hakim konstitusi merupakan wilayah kebijakan hukum terbuka yang dimiliki oleh pembentuk UU tetapi semestinya tidak boleh bertentangan dengan moralitas, rasionalitas atau akal sehat seperti yang diamanatkan oleh mahkamah konstitusi dalam putusan nomor 51-52-59/PUU-VI/2008.
Conversion Among Arma Models And State-Space Representation
Authors: Chen William W.S.
Published: May 2021

We present the ARMA models (or Non-Markovian) and state-space (or Markovian) representation relationship. Then we break the problem into three different cases to discuss how one form could be converted to another form. In case A, we assume that we know the state-space representation then we convert it into the ARMA model. In case B, we reverse the situation, given the ARMA model we convert into state-space representation. In Case C, we combine the first two cases, conversion the two forms in either directions.
Solution to n-Queens Problem: Heuristic Approach
Authors: Osaghae Edgar
Published: May 2021

Finding non-backtracking solutions to n-queens problems, has been very challenging. Several researchers have attempting to find non-backtracking solutions to n-queens problem, although, some of them recorded huge successes in their researches, but none of them have attempting using the implications of even and odd n-queens, to find solutions to the n-queens problem. In this paper, an attempt was made to extract patterns created from even-numbered n-queens and odd-numbered n-queens placements on the chessboard. The research started from experimenting the placements of  non-attacking queens for 4-queens, 16-queens, 32-queens and n-queens. After the experimenting with the placements of different number of queens on the chessboard, it was revealed that even-numbered and odd-numbered queens, have pattern of placement of queens. The results of this research work show how to start and finish placements of queens on the chessboard, depending on whether the n number of queens are either even or odd, using heuristic approach.
Classification of Imbalanced Data Stream: Techniques and Challenges
Authors: Alfhaid Mashaal A. , Abdullah Manal
Published: May 2021

As the number of generated data increases every day, this has brought the importance of data mining and knowledge extraction. In traditional data mining, offline status can be used for knowledge extraction. Nevertheless, dealing with stream data mining is different due to continuously arriving data that can be processed at a single scan besides the appearance of concept drift. As the pre-processing stage is critical in knowledge extraction, imbalanced stream data gain significant popularity in the last few years among researchers. Many real-world applications suffer from class imbalance including medical, business, fraud detection and etc. Learning from the supervised model includes classes whether it is binary- or multi-classes. These classes are often imbalance where it is divided into the majority (negative) class and minority (positive) class, which can cause a bias toward the majority class that leads to skew in predictive performance models. Handles imbalance streaming data is mandatory for more accurate and reliable learning models. In this paper, we will present an overview of data stream mining and its tools. Besides, summarize the problem of class imbalance and its different approaches. In addition, researchers will present the popular evaluation metrics and challenges prone from imbalanced streaming data.
ÇEVRİM İÇİ ALIŞVERİŞTE TÜKETİCİ TEMELLİ MARKA VARLIĞI NASIL OLUŞUR? COVİD-19 SÜRECİ ÖZELİNDE BİR İNCELEME
Authors: TÜMER KABADAYI Ebru , CAVDAR AKSOY Nilşah , BAYDOĞAN TÜRKAY Pınar , YÜRÜYEN Hediye
Published: May 2021

Tüketicinin bir markayı tanıması ve hafızasında o markaya ilişkin olumlu, güçlü ve eşsiz çağrışımlar oluşturması yoluyla ortaya çıkan tüketici temelli marka varlığı, tüketicinin marka değeri kapsamında etkin rolünü gözlemlemeye olanak sağladığı için hayati önem taşımaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, modern pazarlama tarihinde en etkili çevresel değişikliklerden biri olarak görülebilecek Covid-19 sürecinde, çevrim içi alışveriş imkânı sunan markalara ilişkin durumu tüketicilerin gözüyle, tüketici temelli marka varlığı vasıtasıyla anlamlandırmak ve açıklamaktır. Bu bağlamda, sürecin tüketici davranışları ve hizmet sektörü bakımından öne çıkan faktörlerine (hizmet kolaylığı, kurumsal sosyal sorumluluk (CSR) ve müşteri ilginliği) odaklanılmıştır. Çevrimiçi anket yöntemi ile 502 yanıtlayıcıya ulaşılmış ve elde edilen veri yapısal eşitlik modeli aracılığı ile analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma bulguları, hizmet kolaylığının ve CSR’nin müşteri ilginliği davranışını, müşteri ilginliği davranışının da tüketici temelli marka varlığını pozitif yönde etkilediğini göstermiştir. Bulgular neticesinde araştırma kısıtları, teorik çıkarımlar ve pazarlama araştırmacıları ve uygulayıcıları için öneriler sunulmuştur.
L2 university students’ motivational self system in English writing: a sociocultural inquiry
Authors: Yu Shulin , Jiang Lianjiang
Published: May 2021

Although there is no lack of studies on L2 motivation in applied linguistics, research on L2 writing motivation remains scanty. Drawing upon Dornyei’s L2-motivational-self-system and the notions of identity, this study analyzed 27 Chinese university-based students’ English writing learning experiences. Data were gathered through individual interviews and written reflections. The findings showed that the students’ experience of learning to write was not conducive to their formation of identity as a multilingual writer because their ideal L2 selves in EFL writing were influenced by the overall learning and testing cultures. The findings also reveal that the teachers, parents, and schools played little role in shaping the students’ ought-to selves due to the marginal status of EFL writing in both the nation-wide exams and the institutional curricula. Overall, the students’ investment in learning to write yielded mostly a “passive and mediocre test-oriented” writer identity, with the capital to construct customized writings for individual and professional communication remained unattainable. The findings call for attention to the prevalent native speaker ideology and the ideology that considers students’ L1 as problem.
Study on the corrosion resistance of sulfonated graphene/aluminum phosphate composites in waterborne polyurethane coatings
Authors: Wang Changrui , Wang Jihu , Wen Shaoguo , Wang Guangyu , Chen Yabo , Wang Yan , Li Siwei , Zhang Jijia
Published: May 2021

Sulfonated graphene/aluminum phosphate (SG/AlPO4) composites were synthesized by precipitation method, and composites with different mass ratios were added to water-based polyurethane (WPU) resins to prepare coatings. According to tests, composites with the addition of 2 wt% composite coating has good anticorrosion performance, and its protection efficiency is increased by 79.6% compared with pure resin. In the early stage of the corrosion, the SG layer forms the barrier. During the corrosion process, the SG layer was destroyed, the phosphate ions decomposed by the exposed spherical AlPO4 in the corrosive medium and the divalent iron ions on the iron-based surface form a stable precipitation protective layer to achieve the anticorrosion effect. From the EIS test, the coating with 2 wt% composite material has a larger radius of curvature in the Nyquist diagram at different time periods. According to the fitted circuit, it is further confirmed that the precipitation protection layer has a larger resistance value. After soaking for 24 h the resistance value is the largest, which is 1.231 × 104 Ω cm2.
Herbal supplement (Combi-5) in the management of COVID 19 individual with mild to moderate symptoms: a case report
Authors: Onyeaghala Augustine Anayochukwu , Onyeaghala Emmanuella Ogechi , Babalola Chinedum Peace , Aina Oluwasanmi Olayinka , Jelpe Dadik
Published: May 2021

Objective

To explore repurposing known natural products for managing patients with mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19.

Case presentation

We present a case report of a middle aged woman, who was positive to COVID 19, with mild to moderate symptoms; who self –managed at home using well formulated herbal supplement (Combi-5) taken along with vitamin C and Zinc supplements. She recovered within a short time.

Conclusions

While we may not conclude from this report that Combi-5 was solely responsible for the recovery of the patient, we strongly believe that it played significant role through different mechanisms in facilitating early recovery from the infection. Further studies are needed to evaluate the phytochemical and pharmacological constituents of the supplement; investigate its direct effect(s) on SARS CoV-2 and conduct randomized controlled trial to elucidate its clinical benefits.
Surface-response functions obtained from equilibrium electron-density profiles
Authors: Mortensen N. Asger , Gonçalves P. A. D. , Shuklin Fedor A. , Cox Joel D. , Tserkezis Christos , Ichikawa Masakazu , Wolff Christian
Published: May 2021

Surface-response functions are one of the most promising routes for bridging the gap between fully quantum-mechanical calculations and phenomenological models in quantum nanoplasmonics. Among all currently available recipes for obtaining such response functions, the use of ab initio methods remains one of the most conspicuous trends, wherein the surface-response functions are retrieved via the metal’s non-equilibrium response to an external time-dependent perturbation. Here, we present a complementary approach to approximate one of the most appealing surface-response functions, namely the Feibelman d-parameters, yield a finite contribution even when they are calculated solely with the equilibrium properties of the metal, described under the local-response approximation (LRA) but with a spatially varying equilibrium electron density, as input. Using model calculations that mimic both spill-in and spill-out of the equilibrium electron density, we show that the obtained d-parameters are in qualitative agreement with more elaborate, but also more computationally demanding, ab initio methods. The analytical work presented here illustrates how microscopic surface-response functions can emerge out of entirely local electrodynamic considerations.
A systematic review on the metabolic effects of chlorpyrifos
Authors: Farkhondeh Tahereh , Mehrpour Omid , Sadeghi Mahmood , Aschner Michael , Aramjoo Hamed , Roshanravan Babak , Samarghandian Saeed
Published: May 2021

Organophosphate (OP) pesticides, including chlorpyrifos (CPF), can alter metabolic hemostasis. The current systematic study investigated blood glucose, lipid profiles, and body weight alterations in rodents and fish exposed to CPF. The systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Guidelines, querying online databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus and also search engine including Google Scholar, through January 2021. Studies on rodent and fish exposed to CPF assessing metabolic functions were selected. All studies were in the English language, with other languages being excluded from the review. Two investigators independently assessed each of the articles. The first author’s name, publication date, animal model, age, sample size, gender, dose, duration, and route of exposure and outcomes were extracted from each publication. The present review summarizes findings from 61 publications on glycemic, lipid profile, insulin, and body weight changes in rodents and fish exposed to CPF exposure. Most of the studies reported hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and decreased insulin levels and body weight following exposure to CPF. Additionally, we confirmed that the CPF-induced metabolic alterations were both dose- and time-dependent. Our findings support an association between CPF exposure and metabolic diseases. However, more studies are needed to identify the metabolic-disrupting effects of CPF and their underlying mechanisms.
El ustedeo en tres zonas del departamento de Antioquia (Colombia) / The use of usted in three areas of the department of Antioquia (Colombia)
Authors: Jang Ji Son
Published: May 2021

En este trabajo se presentan algunos resultados acerca del uso del usted de una investigación sobre la selección pronominal llevada a cabo en tres municipios del departamento colombiano de Antioquia: 1) La ciudad de Medellín, que se considera zona urbana; 2) Carmen de Viboral, que se comprende como una zona semi rural (a una hora de la ciudad en automóvil) y 3) Andes, que se entiende como una zona rural (se sitúa a unas tres horas de la ciudad en coche). Más concretamente, se muestra, por un lado, en cuál de las tres zonas se emplearía con más frecuencia el usted y, por el otro, en qué zona se observa más notablemente la dependencia entre la selección del usted y la edad del interlocutor. La población estudiada está constituida por informantes de edades entre los 13 y los 34 años. La variable social para este artículo es el lugar de la vivienda de los informantes, es decir, zona urbana (Medellín), semi rural (Carmen de Viboral) o rural (Andes) lo cual se ha correlacionado con la edad de los informantes. Para llevar a cabo esta investigación se aplicó un cuestionario, donde aparecen distintos tipos interaccionales, a los informantes de las zonas mencionadas, obteniéndose un total de 1.490 informantes. Tres técnicas estadísticas fueron aplicadas a estos datos: 1) tamaño de muestra óptimo para distribuciones multinomiales; 2) análisis de varianza con un solo factor (ANOVA); 3) prueba de hipótesis para proporciones. La estadística muestra que, por un lado, en la gran mayoría de relaciones interpersonales, en Andes se usa más el usted que en Carmen de Viboral y, asimismo, en este último municipio se emplea más el usted que en Medellín; por otro lado, en Medellín, en comparación con Carmen de Viboral o Andes, se usa más el usted con interlocutores de mayor edad que con los de la misma o menor edad. En otras palabras, en las zonas rurales se usa mucho más el usted que en la zona urbana, independientemente de la edad de los interlocutores, como marca de costumbres más conservadoras.
Glutamate Signaling via the AMPAR Subunit GluR4 Regulates Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cell Migration in the Developing Spinal Cord
Authors: Piller Melanie , Werkman Inge L. , Brown Robin Isadora , Latimer Andrew J. , Kucenas Sarah
Published: May 2021

Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) are specified from discrete precursor populations during gliogenesis and migrate extensively from their origins, ultimately distributing throughout the brain and spinal cord during early development. Subsequently, a subset of OPCs differentiates into mature oligodendrocytes, which myelinate axons. This process is necessary for efficient neuronal signaling and organism survival. Previous studies have identified several factors that influence OPC development, including excitatory glutamatergic synapses that form between neurons and OPCs during myelination. However, little is known about how glutamate signaling affects OPC migration before myelination. In this study, we usein vivo,time-lapse imaging in zebrafish in conjunction with genetic and pharmacological perturbation to investigate OPC migration and myelination when the GluR4A ionotropic glutamate receptor subunit is disrupted. In our studies, we observed thatgria4amutant embryos and larvae displayed abnormal OPC migration and altered dorsoventral distribution in the spinal cord. Genetic mosaic analysis confirmed that these effects were cell-autonomous, and we identified that voltage-gated calcium channels were downstream of glutamate receptor signaling in OPCs and could rescue the migration and myelination defects we observed when glutamate signaling was perturbed. These results offer new insights into the complex system of neuron-OPC interactions and reveal a cell-autonomous role for glutamatergic signaling in OPCs during neural development.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe migration of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) is an essential process during development that leads to uniform oligodendrocyte distribution and sufficient myelination for central nervous system function. Here, we demonstrate that the AMPA receptor (AMPAR) subunit GluR4A is an important driver of OPC migration and myelinationin vivoand that activated voltage-gated calcium channels are downstream of glutamate receptor signaling in mediating this migration.
Projecting ocean acidification impacts for the Gulf of Maine to 2050
Authors: Siedlecki SA , Salisbury J , Gledhill DK , Bastidas C , Meseck S , McGarry K , Hunt CW , Alexander M , Lavoie D , Wang ZA , Scott J , Brady DC , Mlsna I , Azetsu-Scott K , Liberti CM , Melrose DC , White MM , Pershing A , Vandemark D , Townsend DW , Chen C , Mook W , Morrison R
Published: May 2021

Ocean acidification (OA) is increasing predictably in the global ocean as rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide lead to higher oceanic concentrations of inorganic carbon. The Gulf of Maine (GOM) is a seasonally varying region of confluence for many processes that further affect the carbonate system including freshwater influences and high productivity, particularly near the coast where local processes impart a strong influence. Two main regions within the GOM currently experience carbonate conditions that are suboptimal for many organisms—the nearshore and subsurface deep shelf. OA trends over the past 15 years have been masked in the GOM by recent warming and changes to the regional circulation that locally supply more Gulf Stream waters. The region is home to many commercially important shellfish that are vulnerable to OA conditions, as well as to the human populations whose dependence on shellfish species in the fishery has continued to increase over the past decade. Through a review of the sensitivity of the regional marine ecosystem inhabitants, we identified a critical threshold of 1.5 for the aragonite saturation state (Ωa). A combination of regional high-resolution simulations that include coastal processes were used to project OA conditions for the GOM into 2050. By 2050, the Ωa declines everywhere in the GOM with most pronounced impacts near the coast, in subsurface waters, and associated with freshening. Under the RCP 8.5 projected climate scenario, the entire GOM will experience conditions below the critical Ωa threshold of 1.5 for most of the year by 2050. Despite these declines, the projected warming in the GOM imparts a partial compensatory effect to Ωa by elevating saturation states considerably above what would result from acidification alone and preserving some important fisheries locations, including much of Georges Bank, above the critical threshold.
Second-generation hormonotherapy in prostate cancer and bone microenvironment
Authors: Bouleftour Wafa , Boussoualim Karima , Sotton Sandrine , Vassal Cecile , Thomas Thierry , Magne Nicolas , Guillot Aline
Published: May 2021

Prostate cancer (Pca) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer affecting men in France. Before the age of 75 years old, 1 in 8 French men will have Pca. Androgen deprivation therapies (ADT) remain the standard of care. Such therapies induce significant bone loss. The bone-remodelling cycle depends on the androgen synthesis signalling pathways. Furthermore, age-specific hormonal decline plays a key role in the decrease in bone mass. As a result, the older the patients, the more likely they are to have osteoporosis if they are treated with hormone therapy. Their risk of osteoporotic fracture has an impact on their quality of life and their capacity of independent living. In recent years, newer hormone therapies (acetate abiraterone, enzalutamide, apalutamide and darolutamide) have proved efficient in metastatic castration-resistant Pca (mCRPC) patients as well as in hormone naïve patients, and actually in nonmetastatic diagnosis. The combination of these treatments with ADT highly inhibit androgen production pathways. They are prescribed to aged patients undergoing bone density loss after first-generation antiandrogen treatment. Specific recommendations for bone health management in Pca patients are currently lacking. To date, bone mineral density in patients treated with second-generation hormone therapy has never been assessed in a prospective study. This review aims at reviewing what is known about the impact of second-generation hormonotherapy on bone microenvironment.
Discurso creador y distancia temporal. La expresión del tiempo en Ricœur
Authors: Laguna González Mercedes
Published: May 2021

Comentamos en este artículo tres conferencias de Paul Ricœur: dos sobre la imaginación y la metáfora (una de ellas inédita), y una tercera sobre la escritura de la historia y la representación del pasado. El objetivo es establecer las relaciones entre tiempo y palabra a cuenta del discurso creador que nace de la imaginación productora y que, a su vez, puede ser capaz de expresar el ser finito y temporal que somos. El discurso creador (que se expresa mediante figuras temporales), propio de la poesía y de la narración, es también decisivo para la elaboración del quehacer historiográfico, tanto en el proceso de investigación documental, como en el planteamiento de las preguntas sobre los distintos acontecimientos históricos, y, propiamente, para la escritura de la historia.
Os filósofos da Geração “Nós”: X. Vicente Viqueira e Vicente Risco
Authors: Braz Teixeira António
Published: May 2021

El objetivo del presente texto es resaltar las aportaciones filosóficas de la Generación Nós, a través del examen de la filosofía de sus dos pensadores más relevantes, Xoán Vicente Viqueira (1886-1924) y Vicente Risco (1884-1963). En ambos autores, se recuerda su carrera intelectual y se contemplan sus principales obras filosóficas. Viqueira, además de filósofo, fue un destacado psicólogo, uno de los fundadores de la psicología en España. Su obra filosófica, que es esquemática y fragmentaria debido a su muerte temprana, incluye metafísica, ética y teoría de la religión. Risco fue una figura polifacética, teorizador y agente destacado en la cultura y la política de Galicia. Como filósofo, destacan sus elaboraciones en metafísica y filosofía de la religión. Ambos pensadores escribieron y publicaron en gallego y en castellano.
Deep eutectic solvent delignification: Impact of initial lignin
Authors: Majová Veronika , Horanová Silvia , Škulcová Andrea , Šima Jozef , Jablonský Michal
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to resolve the issue of the lack of detailed understanding of the effect of initial lignin content in hardwood kraft pulps on pulp delignification by deep eutectic solvents. The authors used Kappa number of the concerned pulp, intrinsic viscosity, and selectivity and efficiency of delignification as the parameters of the effect. The pulp (50 g oven dry pulp) was treated with four different DESs systems based on choline chloride with lactic acid (1:9), oxalic acid (1:1), malic acid (1:1), and system alanine:lactic acid (1:9); the results were compared to those reached by oxygen delignification. The results showed that the pulp with a higher initial lignin content had a greater fraction of easily removed lignin fragments.
Investigation on the attack of Trichoderma viride on wheat straw composites manufactured with methylene diphenyl diisocyanate
Authors: Yan Li , Zeng Fei-yang , Zang Kun , Chen Zhang-jing , Lei Ya-fang
Published: May 2021

Trichoderma viride can infect wheat straw composites (WSC), thus affecting the quality of boards. This study investigated the change in color of the composite and its chemical composition after the straw was infested with mold with for 4, 8, or 12 weeks. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to analyze chemical structural changes in the WSC after the infestation. The infested surface and core layers were examined and analyzed. The infection of T. viride on the WSC can darken its color. After 12 weeks of cultural infestation, 19.6% of cellulose, 27.2% of xylan, 9.3% of lignin, and 31.9% of ethanol extracts were degraded. The degradation on WSC by T. viride was 9 times and 14 times more than the degradations of pine and poplar wood, respectively. T. viride attacked WSB differently on its surface and center layers. More lignin in the WSB surface layer was degraded. In contrast, cellulose and xylan were degraded to a greater degree in the center.
Effectiveness of micronizing zinc borate to improve its fungicidal properties
Authors: Ibáñez Claudia M. , Camargo Alvaro , Mantero Carlos , Faccio Ricardo , Malanga Antonio , Rabinovich Mario
Published: May 2021

The effectiveness was evaluated for an established wood preservative, zinc borate, prepared in an agitating bead mill to extensively reduce its particle size. The generated micro- or nano-particles of zinc borate were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, and the particle size distribution was determined to evaluate the effect of milling. Then the fungicidal effectiveness of the zinc borate of both milled and unmilled samples were assayed against brown- and white-rot fungi, on culture medium and on conifer and hardwood as substrates. Treated wood samples were subjected to leaching tests. Scanning electron microscopic images of wood samples were examined to analyze the distribution of zinc borate within the wood. The micronized zinc product kept its crystal structure intact, and it increased the proportion of particles with diameters below 100 nm by 25% when compared to the unmilled product. Malt extract-agar medium supplemented with 2.5% of w/w milled and unmilled zinc borate inhibited fungal growth tested. Both milled and unmilled zinc borate protected the wood when not subjected to leaching. The milled sample of zinc borate improved resistance to leaching, which would allow its application in environments of high moisture content; however, it did not improve the fungicidal action against decay fungi.
Analysis of dissolved and colloidal substances in old corrugated containers’ whitewater and dissolved substances’ impact on colloidal substances’ stability
Authors: Liu Hui , Li Meiling , Zhu Kaili , Ma Haitong , Wu Yueru , Wang Zhiwei , Wang Shuangfei
Published: May 2021

The physicochemical properties of dissolved and colloidal substances (DCS) in the old corrugated containers’ (OCC) whitewater were studied. Then, the colloidal substances (CS) were separated from dissolved substances (DS) and the effect of inorganic salts on the stability of CS (not DCS) was studied for the first time. The results showed that many DCS aggregated and attached to the fiber surface when pulping. The primary sources were resin, lignin, adhesives, coating fixatives, and fillers. The colloidal stability of DCS and solids of whitewater differed because the DCS contained less filler. Both Ca2+ and Na+ can affect the stability of CS, but Ca2+ led to more CS instability and aggregated into larger flocculent precipitates. The surprising discovery in the experiment was that when Ca2+ and Na+ were added together, the instability degree of the system was between the addition of Ca2+ and Na+ alone. Ca2+ played a dominant role in affecting the stability of CS, and Na+ competed for adsorption sites.