bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrete topology and sizing optimization of frame structures with compliance constraints: A semidefinite programming-based approach
Authors: Wang Xingfeng , Zhang Qing , Qin Xianrong , Sun Yuantao
Published: February 2021

The discrete topology and sizing optimization of frame structures with compliance constraints is studied using a novel approach, which is capable of finding the theoretical lower bounds and high-quality discrete solutions in an efficient manner. The proposed approach works by reformulating the discrete problem as a relaxed semidefinite programming (SDP) problem. This reformulation is made possible by a linear relaxation of the original discrete space and the elimination of the nonconvex equilibrium equation using a semidefinite constraint. A continuous global optimum is first derived using existing solvers and then the discrete solution is discovered by the neighborhood search. Numerical examples are presented, including the sizing optimization of 2-Bay 6-Story frame and 3-Bay 10-Story frame, the topology and sizing optimization of 2-Bay 6-Story braced frame. A topology and sizing example with multiple load cases is also provided. The proposed approach and three other metaheuristic algorithms are used to solve these examples. Theoretical lower bounds for these examples can be efficiently discovered by the proposed approach. For the sizing problems, the discrete solutions by the proposed approach are all better than the other algorithms. For the topology and sizing problems, the proposed approach achieves discrete solutions better than genetic algorithm, but worse than the other metaheuristics. The computational superiority of the proposed approach is validated in all the examples.
Planar dynamic modelling of round link chain drives considering the irregular polygonal action and guide rail
Authors: Yuan Pengfei , He Baiyan , Zhang Lianhong
Published: February 2021

Round link chain drives can be sorted into the transmission, parallel conveyor and non-parallel conveyor systems according to their applications and guide rail’s layouts. The polygonal action in these systems is irregular. Compared with the literature, this paper proposes a more accurate modelling approach to capture the dynamic behaviour of round link chain drives, which can consider both the irregular polygonal action and non-parallel guide rail’s layout. The dynamic models of the three types of round link chain drives are developed based on the finite segment method. The chain is divided into multiple discrete segments that are connected by Kelvin models. To account for the irregular polygonal action, the sprocket is equivalent to an irregular polygon. To consider the non-parallel guide rail’s layout in the conveyor system, the chain segment out of the guide rail and the corresponding sprocket are treated as a swinging-block mechanism. The proposed approach is applied to model a scraper conveyor. Simulation results show that the irregular polygonal action and non-parallel guide rail’s layout greatly increase the fluctuation of the chain tension force.
Outpatient management of chronic expanding subdural hematomas with endovascular embolization to minimize inpatient admissions during the COVID-19 viral pandemic
Authors: Entezami Pouya , Field Nicholas C , Dalfino John C
Published: February 2021

Chronic subdural hematomas are complex collections that usually form after a trauma, particularly in elderly patients. This vulnerable population is at increased risk given the current viral pandemic. We share our experience in managing minimally symptomatic, enlarging subdural collections via middle meningeal embolization through the outpatient setting. This approach minimizes inpatient hospitalizations in hopes or reducing nosocomial spread (e.g., of COVID-19).
Emigrants into colonists: Settlement-oriented emigration to South America from Poland, 1918-1932
Authors: Puchalski Piotr
Published: February 2021

Starting in the late-nineteenth century, Polish national elites considered emigration a ‘necessary evil’ that alleviated local economic pressures. In the face of an exodus from all of the partitions, leaders of many political persuasions worked to channel the emigration of peasants towards destinations such as Paraná, where a ‘New Poland’ could be built. In the 1920s, the emerging inter-war Polish state created a sprawling emigration apparatus that adjusted the old policies to the new circumstances. This article traces the consecutive turns in the Polish government’s attitude towards emigration to South America, demonstrating the ways in which they mirrored broader European discourses and responded to systemic changes around the globe. Moreover, in line with the recent scholarship that points to the legacies of empire in inter-war Eastern Europe, the article also examines the relationship between the post-imperial nature of the nascent Polish state and its ‘colonial’ emigration policies.
Understanding the psychology of trust between patients and their community pharmacists
Authors: Gregory Paul A. M. , Austin Zubin
Published: February 2021

Background:

Pharmacists need patients to trust them in order to support best possible health outcomes. There has been little empirical work to test the widely stated claim that pharmacists are the “most trusted” health care professional. This study was undertaken to characterize the factors that shape public trust of individual pharmacists and the profession as a whole.

Methods:

An exploratory qualitative study was undertaken. Semistructured interviews with 13 patients from 5 different community pharmacies were completed. Interview data were transcribed, coded and categorized to identify trust-enhancing and trust-diminishing factors influencing patients’ perceptions of pharmacists.

Results:

Four trust-diminishing factors were identified, including the business context within which community pharmacy is practised, lack of transparency regarding pharmacists’ remuneration, lack of awareness of how pharmacists qualify and are regulated and inconsistent previous experiences with pharmacists. Four trust-enhancing factors were identified, including accessibility, affability, acknowledgement and respect.

Discussion:

This study illustrates that trust-diminishing factors appear to be somewhat outside the day-to-day control of individual community pharmacists, while trust-enhancing factors are elements that pharmacists may have greater personal control over. Further research is required to better understand these factors and to develop a more generalizable understanding of how patients develop trust in their pharmacists. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2021;154:xx-xx.
Analysis of computational efficiency for the solution of inverse kinematics problem of anthropomorphic robots using Gröbner bases theory
Authors: Silva Sérgio Ricardo Xavier da , Schnitman Leizer , Filho Vitalino Cesca
Published: February 2021

This article presents an analysis of computational efficiency to solve the inverse kinematics problem of anthropomorphic robots. Two approaches are investigated: the first approach uses Paul’s method applied to the matrix obtained by the Denavit–Hartenberg algorithm and the second approach uses Gröbner bases theory. With each approach, the problem of inverse kinematics for an anthropomorphic robot will be solved. When comparing each method, this article will demonstrate that the method using Gröbner bases theory is more computationally efficient.
The neoliberal governance of heroin and opioid users in Philadelphia city
Authors: Kavanaugh Philip R , Schally Jennifer L
Published: February 2021

Drawing on 147 news accounts and five policy documents on the heroin and opioid crisis in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania published between 2016 and 2018, our analysis highlights how media portrayals of opioid users as both tragic victims and public nuisance prompted a schizoid governmental response that draws on rhetorics of treatment and harm reduction to legitimate more punitive interventions. By describing how the state’s quasi-medical responsibilization strategy devolved to fold criminalization into its broader response, we argue the effort to wage a kinder/gentler war on overdose invests in familiar tropes of a recalcitrant drug user class that is a threat to public health. In doing so we provide a basis to critique how drug users are governed in this time of fiscal austerity, resource hoarding, and perpetual, continually evolving drug crises.
The 2020 election and its aftermath: Love, lies, and ensorceling leadership
Authors: Goethals George R
Published: February 2021

Though Donald Trump decisively lost the 2020 US presidential election, his mob-inciting charisma created a large and devoted base unusual in American politics. Insights from Sigmund Freud’s account of the emotional connections between leaders and followers, and later reframing of those views, suggest some of the dynamics that create the intense attachment expressed by Trump supporters, and his resulting ability to get his most loyal followers and allies to believe and do almost anything, no matter the evidence revealing his lies and the extremity of his demands. Essential elements include qualities of a leader and the leader’s message that make followers unable to countenance any criticism of their loved, overvalued messenger; followers’ uncritical willingness to believe whatever the leader says; and followers’ capacity to rationalize whatever actions they take as a result of those claims. The troubling implications for democracy of both the Electoral College and the Republican Party’s embrace of Trump and his message are discussed.
Truth and Advocacy: Reducing Bias in Policy-Related Research
Authors: Ellsworth Phoebe C.
Published: February 2021

Critics have suggested that psychological research is characterized by a pervasive liberal bias, and this problem may be particularly acute in research on issues related to public policy. In this article, I consider the sources of bias in basic and applied research in the evaluation, conduct, and communication of research. Techniques are suggested for counteracting bias at each of these stages.
Post-concussion return-to-play: Perceptions of roles, responsibilities and guideline implementation among community club rugby stakeholders in South Africa
Authors: Kraak Wilbur , Vuuren Hanno van , Welman Karen
Published: February 2021

Concussions are an inherent part of rugby; however, subsequent concussions can be decreased by following the appropriate post-concussion return-to-play (RTP) protocols. The aim of this study was to compare stakeholders’ perceptions regarding their roles and responsibilities in terms of the implementation of post-concussion RTP in community club rugby in the Western Cape, South Africa. The results of a post-concussion RTP implementation questionnaire revealed limited knowledge of the recommended 6-stage BokSmart™ RTP protocol among players. Although not essential that players have knowledge of this protocol, this can be indicative of coaches’ disregard of the importance of communicating concussion knowledge. Coaches were identified as having a major role to play in post-concussion RTP, being responsible for monitoring matches and training sessions for concussion. They were also considered the most knowledgeable stakeholders on post-concussion return-to-play guidelines. Yet, coaches and administrative staff demonstrated a relatively low ability to advise on when to safely return to play. Only two thirds of coaches and a third of administrative staff were found to implement the recommended protocol, while less than half of medical staff and only a third of coaches demonstrated the ability to implement the protocol correctly, revealing inadequate knowledge. Hence, the study underscored the significance of education focusing on the practical implementation of post-concussion RTP protocols within community club rugby.
Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles using Acai berry and Elderberry extracts and investigation of their effect on prostate and pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Sibuyi Nicole Remaliah Samantha , Thipe Velaphi Clement , Panjtan-Amiri Kiandokht , Meyer Mervin , Katti Kattesh V
Published: February 2021

Green nanotechnology has drawn major attention because of its ecofriendly and economical biosynthetic protocols. Synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using plant secondary metabolites is considered as a safer and cheaper option. Plants contain phytochemicals that has been used traditionally for treatment of various diseases, and proved to be non-toxic to healthy tissues. These phytochemicals play an important role in bio-reduction processes as reducing and stabilizing agents, and renders NPs selective toxicity towards diseased tissues. The study reports on the synthesis of AuNPs using Acai berry (AB) and Elderberry (EB) extracts and their anti-cancer properties. Formation of berry-AuNPs was confirmed through measurement of physico-chemical properties. The stability of the AuNPs was tested in biocompatible solutions. Anti-cancer activity of berry extracts and AuNPs was evaluated on the prostate (PC-3) and pancreatic (Panc-1) cancer cells. The berry extracts did not show toxicity to the cells, except for AB extracts on PC-3 cells at higher concentrations. The berry-AuNPs showed potential anti-cancer activities, and these effects could be further exploited for treatment of both the prostate and pancreatic cancers. Further studies are required to study the NP mechanism of action and specificity, as well as identify the phytochemicals involved in the synthesis of AuNPs.
Plasma apelin level in acute myocardial infarction and its relation with prognosis: A prospective study
Authors: Guzelburc Ozge , Demirtunc Refik , Altay Servet , Kemaloglu Oz Tugba , Tayyareci Gulsah
Published: February 2021

Objective

Apelin is a novel adipocytokine with a significant role in ischemia/reperfusion injury that is synthesized and secreted in myocardial cells and coronary endothelium. There is debate on its value for the diagnosis and prognosis of myocardial infarction. We aimed to investigate plasma apelin level in patients with acute ST segment elevation (STEMI) and non-ST segment elevation (NSTEMI) myocardial infarction and its relationship with left ventricular function and prognostic parameters.

Methods

Forty-one patients with STEMI, 21 patients with NSTEMI and 10 patients as control group with normal coronary angiograms were included. Plasma apelin level at presentation was investigated regarding its relationship with other diagnostic and prognostic parameters.

Results

Apelin level was significantly higher in acute myocardial infarction (0.31 ± 0.56 ng/mL) compared to control group (0.08 ± 0.05 ng/mL) (p < 0.01). Likewise, it was found to be significantly higher in STEMI group (0.45 ± 0.73 ng/mL) compared to control group (0.08 ± 0.05 ng/mL) (p < 0.01). Although apelin was higher in NSTEMI group (0.13 ± 0.10 ng/mL) compared to control group (0.08 ± 0.05 ng/mL), this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). No correlation was found between apelin and NT-proBNP, hsCRP, troponin, ejection fraction (EF) and Killip score (p > 0.05). A positive correlation was found between apelin and TIMI, GRACE and Gensini scores (p < 0.05). Only GRACE score was found to be correlated with apelin in MI groups.

Conclusion

Apelin level was found to be high in acute myocardial infarction. With its inotropic and vasodilator effects, apelin was thought to have a protective role against severe ischemia.
How populism and conservative media fuel conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19 and what it means for COVID-19 behaviors
Authors: Stecula Dominik A. , Pickup Mark
Published: February 2021

Research examining attitudes and behaviors of Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic has largely focused on partisanship as a lens through which many Americans see the coronavirus. Given the importance of partisan affiliation and the degree of partisan polarization in the American society, that is certainly an important driver of public opinion, and a necessary one to understand. But an overlooked set of predispositions might also shape COVID beliefs and attitudes: populism. It is a worldview that pits average citizens against “the elites” and, importantly in the context of a pandemic, it includes anti-intellectual attitudes such as distrust of experts (including scientists). We find that populism is correlated with conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19, above and beyond partisanship. Furthermore, we find that conservative media consumption tends to be a stronger predictor of conspiracy belief among those high in populism than among those low in populism. We also show that these beliefs have consequences: those who believe the conspiracy theories about COVID-19 are less likely to adapt behaviors recommended by public health officials.
Practice Transformation in HIV Primary Care: Perspectives of Coaches and Champions in the Southeast United States
Authors: Kay Emma Sophia , Batey David Scott , Craft Hannah L. , McCormick Lisa C. , Burkholder Greer A. , Burdge Jennifer , Raffanti Stephen P. , Mugavero Michael J. , Fifolt Matthew
Published: February 2021

Introduction/Objectives:

Across the United States, and particularly in the South, there is an urgent need to improve health outcomes for people with HIV. In response, the Southeast AIDS Education & Training Center (AETC) conducted a 4-year Practice Transformation (PT) initiative (2015-2018) in 12 mostly primary care clinics across 4 states in the region. Drawing on the leadership of PT facilitators (“coaches”) from AETC partner sites throughout the region and specific clinic staff members (“champions”), clinics worked toward self-selected organizational goals to increase their HIV care capacity and improve HIV health outcomes.

Methods:

To explore coaches’ and champions’ experiences and perspectives of PT, we conducted 2 focus group sessions, 1 tailored for coaches (n = 5) and another for champions (n = 9).

Results:

Content analysis of qualitative data revealed 4 major themes around coaches’ and champions’ experiences and perspectives of PT. These themes include Challenges, Facilitators, Successes, and Suggestions for PT Improvement.

Conclusion:

Primary care and infectious diseases/HIV clinics can help improve HIV Care Continuum outcomes through increasing their capacity to serve the needs of their clients, as facilitated through coaches and clinic champions. Since no single clinic or clinic patient population is alike, it is important work within organizations to address specific needs and leverage unique skillsets. Future PT initiatives can learn from experiences of this PT program to optimize the effectiveness of their programs.
Kessler Psychological Distress (K6) Questionnaire Scores Can Predict Autistic Traits and the Current and Prospective Suicidal Ideation in Medical University Students: A Prospective Study
Authors: Naito Yumi , Enomoto Noriyuki , Kameno Yosuke , Yamasue Hidenori , Suda Takafumi , Hotta Yoshihiro
Published: February 2021

Mental distress is highly prevalent in university students, and autistic traits can hinder academic education. The substantial lifestyle changes experienced by new university students can induce mood and anxiety dysfunctions and subsequent suicide-related behaviors. The aims of this study were to evaluate the detectability of suicidal ideation using the Kessler Psychological Distress (K6) questionnaire, a short and easily administered measure, and to elucidate the relationship between K6 scores and developmental disorders following university admission in medical students. The mental states of 341 new students at University School of Medicine were prospectively evaluated using the short questionnaire including the K6 at admission and 6 months later. Participants were simultaneously assessed on the five core features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), four features of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and presence of suicidal ideation on this short questionnaire. K6 scores were significantly higher 6 months after admission than at admission ( p = .028). Students with suicidal ideation had significantly higher K6 scores than those without ( p < .001), and K6 scores at admission differentiated students with suicidal ideation both at admission (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.947) and 6 months after admission (AUC = 0.913). K6 scores were positively correlated with scores of ASD- and ADHD-related items (ρ = .451 and .440, respectively) and with autism-spectrum quotient scores ( p = .041, ρ = .501). In conclusion, the K6 questionnaire may be useful in efficiently detecting university students with suicidal ideation or autistic traits.
Finding My New Balance
Authors: Amalanathan Sophia , Daniel Roy Thomas , Alexander Arun
Published: February 2021

All of us walk with faith, unaware of what lies ahead in our life, until we have that fall, my story is about how I lost my balance and regained it in a better form. Little did I know about this rare brain tumor that was slowly taking over my neural commands. To fight for my life was the only aim prior to surgery and getting back to living my life after neurosurgery was aiming higher than before. This narrative essay is about my trials and tribulations of a rare brain tumor that presented with audio-vestibular symptoms. It portrays vividly my experience of this brain tumor, and importantly vestibular rehabilitation that which allows the brain to achieve recovery of neural functions due to its inherent properties of neural plasticity.
Coupling mechanism of highly nonlinear solitary waves with damaged composite material plates
Authors: Zhao Jie , Wang Yan , Wu Hao , Ruan Miao
Published: February 2021

The coupling interaction between nonlinear solitary waves in one-dimensional granular chains and damaged composite material plates is considered. Based on Hertz contact law and meso-mechanical model of stiffness reduction of composite material plates when the fiber breakage is the main damage mode, the coupled differential equations of particle chains and damaged composite material plates are derived. By solving the differential equations with Runge–Kutta method to get the velocity and displacement curves of particles and analyzing the delays and amplitude ratios of reflected waves, it is found that the damage quantity, fiber volume fraction, and thickness of damaged composite material plates as well as gravity have an effect on solitary waves. The preliminary research results provide a theoretical basis for nondestructive testing of damaged composite material plates by using solitary waves.
Exposure forecasting for seismic risk estimation: Application to Costa Rica
Authors: Calderón Alejandro , Silva Vitor
Published: February 2021

This study proposes a framework to forecast the spatial distribution of population and residential buildings for the assessment of future disaster risk. The approach accounts for the number, location, and characteristics of future assets considering sources of aleatory and epistemic uncertainty in several time-dependent variables. The value of the methodology is demonstrated at the urban scale using an earthquake scenario for the Great Metropolitan Area of Costa Rica. Hundreds of trajectories representing future urban growth were generated using geographically weighted regression and multiple-agent systems. These were converted into exposure models featuring the spatial correlation of urban expansion and the densification of the built environment. The forecasted earthquake losses indicate a mean increase in the absolute human and economic losses by 2030. However, the trajectory of relative risk is reducing, suggesting that the long-term enforcement of seismic regulations and urban planning are effectively lowering seismic risk in the case of Costa Rica.
Extractives elucidation of Taiwania cryptomerioides sapwood
Authors: Tsao Nai-Wen , Chien Shih-Chang , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Wang Sheng-Yang
Published: February 2021

Taiwania (Taiwania cryptomerioides Hayata) has long been regarded as a living fossil from the Tertiary period of Mesozoic Era for its distinguished yellowish-red color with purplish-pink streaks presented in its heartwood. With this elegant appearance that matches the color “red” for good fortune in the Taiwanese culture, Taiwania is supposed to be a popular wood in Taiwan where it is a native species of. Extractives contribute to the properties of wood. It is a fascinating subject to investigate extractives biosynthesis in the process of heartwood formation. Up to date, there is no phytochemistry study of Taiwania sapwood. In this study, three new sesquiterpenoids, Taiwania A (1), Taiwania B (2), and Taiwania C (3), together with 75 known compounds in the Taiwania sapwood. The structures of extractives were determined by analysis of spectroscopic data and comparison with the literatures. This study supported secondary reaction lignans could be found in sapwood that confirmed our previous research on the Taiwania-type of heartwood formation.
In Situ Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles on Amino-Grafted Polyacrylonitrile Fiber and Its Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Zhang Guangyu , Xiao Yao , Yin Qitao , Yan Jiawei , Zang Chuanfeng , Zhang Huiyun
Published: February 2021

In this study, amino hyperbranched polymers (HBP)-grafted polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber was prepared through an amidation reaction in an autoclave. The prepared PAN-G-HBP fiber can complex Ag+ through amino groups of amino HBP, and in a hot steaming condition, Ag+ can be converted to Ag0 through the reducibility of HBP. PAN-G-HBP and Ag nanoparticles (NPs)-coated fibers were then characterized through FTIR, UV–VIS DRS, FE-SEM, EDS, XPS and antibacterial measurement. FTIR results confirmed HBP was grafted on the surface of PAN fiber. FE-SEM showed that after grafting with HBP, the average diameter of PAN fibers was amplified. EDS, XPS, and UV–VIS DRS method indicated that under hot steaming condition and with the reducibility of HBP, Ag NPs uniform coating on the PAN-G-HBP. Ag NPs-coated fibers exhibits excellent antibacterial property against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Even under 20 times home washing conditions, the antibacterial reduction of Ag NPs-coated PAN fiber can achieved more than 98.94%.
Giant prostatic hyperplasia: case presentation of the second largest prostate adenoma
Authors: Dincer Erdinc , Ipek Osman Murat , Sarikaya Kayipmaz Sukran , Hanci Burcu
Published: February 2021

Background

Benign prostate hyperplasia is one of the most common diseases in middle-aged or older men. Approximately 50% of men over 60 years old suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia. Giant prostatic hyperplasia is defined as a prostate exceeding 500 g. In all the literature, ten case reports were published with giant prostatic hyperplasia.

Case presentation

In this case report, we present a 72-year-old man with edema of lower extremities. In physical examination, bilateral pitting edema of the lower extremities was detected. Serum prostate-specific antigen level was > 100.00 ng/ml. He did not have lower urinary tract symptoms. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and uroflowmetry results proved that the patient did not have lower urinary tract symptoms. Radiologic imaging revealed a huge pelvic mass behind bladder. Grade 1 hydronephrosis in the right kidney was detected, but serum creatinine value was normal. This mass was excised with open surgery. This mass was measured 1090 g, and histopathologic examination showed benign prostatic hyperplasia. The patient had no complication at the 12-month follow-up. After 5 years, prostate volume was calculated approximately 108 cc by computer tomography but still the patient did not have any lower urinary tract symptoms.

Conclusion

It is important to approach the retroperitoneal mass. Clinicians usually think about malignity, but sometimes that mass can be relevant with benign process. Intra-operative biopsy can help clinicians for both diagnosis and surgical approach. In this case presentation, we report a patient with one of the largest sizes of prostate gland that measured 1090 g.
Bilateral extra-adrenal perirenal myelolipomas: a case report
Authors: Agarwal Aniket , Vani Kavita
Published: February 2021

Background

Myelolipomas are mesenchymal tumors usually involving the adrenal gland. They are a rare entity with incidence ranging from 0.08 to 0.4% as per autopsy reports. Only 15% of these are in extra-adrenal locations such as pelvis, retroperitoneum, mediastinum, lungs, stomach, liver, spleen and kidneys. Very few (only 3) cases of bilateral extra-adrenal perirenal myelolipomas have been reported until now; and one such case has been presented in our case report.

Case presentation

A 45-year-old male presented with abdominal distension and bilateral lower limb edema for 2 months. Renal functions were mildly deranged. Ultrasound was suggestive of perirenal masses. CT scan of the abdomen confirmed the diagnosis of bilateral extra-adrenal, perirenal myelolipoma. The differentials of lipomatous retroperitoneal tumors were considered. Core biopsy from perirenal masses revealed adipose tissue with interspersed hematopoietic precursors.

Conclusion

Extra-adrenal myelolipoma are rare tumors that are not known to have malignant potential and may be symptomatic only due to mass effect. Diagnosis can be confirmed by imaging in most cases. Histopathology may not be able to confirm malignancy even in sarcoma if sample is not taken from the appropriate site, usually non-fatty soft-tissue components. This rare case is presented in order to add to literature, the varied presentations of extra-adrenal myelolipomas.
Environmental fate and effects of water-soluble synthetic organic polymers used in cosmetic products
Authors: Duis Karen , Junker Thomas , Coors Anja
Published: February 2021

Because of their usually high molecular weight, polymers are generally considered as being of low environmental concern and are, therefore, exempted from registration and evaluation within REACH. This exemption is currently being reviewed by the European Commission. Against this background, data on the environmental fate and effects of selected water-soluble synthetic organic polymers used in cosmetic products were evaluated. The considered polymers include non-ionic polyethylene glycols (PEGs), anionic homo- and copolymers of acrylic acid (AA-P&CoPs), and cationic polyquaterniums (PQs). The PEGs are more amenable to biodegradation than the AA-P&CoPs and the PQs, which biodegrade slowly. In wastewater treatment plants, sorption and precipitation are expected to lead to an effective removal of the considered polymers from the wastewater. Uptake and bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms are limited by the large molecular size and, for AA-P&CoPs and PQs, the ionic charge of the polymers. In aquatic ecotoxicity tests, the PEGs and the AA-P&CoPs showed generally no to low toxicity. Effects of AA-P&CoPs on algae and crustaceans are attributed to the chelation of cationic nutrients in soft water, with toxicity being mitigated at higher water hardness. Toxicity of the cationic PQs to aquatic organisms ranged from absent to high, depending on the polymer structure, charge density and molecular weight, as well as on the test organism and test conditions. The observed effects most likely result from interactions with the organisms’ surfaces. Aquatic toxicity of the PQs is reduced by dissolved organic carbon, suspended solids, sediments minerals, and at higher water hardness, representative of natural conditions. Results from toxicity tests with sediment and soil organisms were only identified for homopolymers of acrylic acid, showing no toxicity. The evaluation of the available ecotoxicity data suggests that test methods may need to be adapted to the respective polymer type, and further standardised to improve reproducibility. Based on the identified data, the considered polymers are likely to be of low environmental concern. However, this conclusion must be seen as preliminary, since environmental concentrations could not be estimated, and further ecotoxicity data are required, e.g., for sediment and soil organisms.
cognac: rapid generation of concatenated gene alignments for phylogenetic inference from large, bacterial whole genome sequencing datasets
Authors: Crawford Ryan D. , Snitkin Evan S.
Published: February 2021

Background

The quantity of genomic data is expanding at an increasing rate. Tools for phylogenetic analysis which scale to the quantity of available data are required. To address this need, we present cognac, a user-friendly software package to rapidly generate concatenated gene alignments for phylogenetic analysis.

Results

We illustrate that cognac is able to rapidly identify phylogenetic marker genes using a data driven approach and efficiently generate concatenated gene alignments for very large genomic datasets. To benchmark our tool, we generated core gene alignments for eight unique genera of bacteria, including a dataset of over 11,000 genomes from the genus Escherichia producing an alignment with 1353 genes, which was constructed in less than 17 h.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that cognac presents an efficient method for generating concatenated gene alignments for phylogenetic analysis. We have released cognac as an R package (https://github.com/rdcrawford/cognac) with customizable parameters for adaptation to diverse applications.
Rubidium chloride modulated the fecal microbiota community in mice
Authors: Chen Qian , He Zhiguo , Zhuo Yuting , Li Shuzhen , Yang Wenjing , Hu Liang , Zhong Hui
Published: February 2021

Background

The microbiota plays an important role in host health. Although rubidium (Rb) has been used to study its effects on depression and cancers, the interaction between microbial commensals and Rb is still unexplored. To gain the knowledge of the relationship between Rb and microbes, 51 mice receiving RbCl-based treatment and 13 untreated mice were evaluated for their characteristics and bacterial microbiome changes.

Results

The 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing of fecal microbiota showed that RbCl generally maintained fecal microbial community diversity, while the shifts in fecal microbial composition were apparent after RbCl exposure. RbCl significantly enhanced the abundances of Rikenellaceae, Alistipes, Clostridium XlVa and sulfate-reducing bacteria including Deltaproteobacteria, Desulfovibrionales, Desulfovibrionaceae and Desulfovibrio, but significantly inhibited the abundances of Tenericutes, Mollicutes, Anaeroplasmatales, Anaeroplasmataceae and Anaeroplasma lineages. With regarding to the archaea, we only observed two less richness archaea Sulfolobus and Acidiplasma at the genus level.

Conclusions

Changes of fecal microbes may in part contribute to the anticancer or anti-depressant effects of RbCl. These findings further validate that the microbiome could be a target for therapeutic intervention.
Molecular characterization, expression and functional analysis of acyl-CoA-binding protein gene family in maize (Zea mays)
Authors: Zhu Jiantang , Li Weijun , Zhou Yuanyuan , Pei Laming , Liu Jiajia , Xia Xinyao , Che Ronghui , Li Hui
Published: February 2021

Background

Acyl-CoA-binding proteins (ACBPs) possess a conserved acyl-CoA-binding (ACB) domain that facilitates binding to acyl-CoA esters and trafficking in eukaryotic cells. Although the various functions of ACBP have been characterized in several plant species, their structure, molecular evolution, expression profile, and function have not been fully elucidated in Zea mays L.

Results

Genome-wide analysis identified nine ZmACBP genes in Z. mays, which could be divided into four distinct classes (class I, class II, class III, and class IV) via construction of a phylogenetic tree that included 48 ACBP genes from six different plant species. Transient expression of a ZmACBP-GFP fusion protein in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) epidermal cells revealed that ZmACBPs localized to multiple different locations. Analyses of expression profiles revealed that ZmACBPs exhibited temporal and spatial expression changes during abiotic and biotic stresses. Eight of the nine ZmACBP genes were also found to have significant association with agronomic traits in a panel of 500 maize inbred lines. The heterologous constitutive expression of ZmACBP1 and ZmACBP3 in Arabidopsis enhanced the resistance of these plants to salinity and drought stress, possibly through alterations in the level of lipid metabolic and stress-responsive genes.

Conclusion

The ACBP gene family was highly conserved across different plant species. ZmACBP genes had clear tissue and organ expression specificity and were responsive to both biotic and abiotic stresses, suggesting their roles in plant growth and stress resistance.
Transcriptome analysis reveals major transcriptional changes during regrowth after mowing of red clover (Trifolium pratense)
Authors: Herbert Denise Brigitte , Gross Thomas , Rupp Oliver , Becker Annette
Published: February 2021

Background

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is globally used as a fodder plant due its high nutritional value and soil improving qualities. In response to mowing, red clover exhibits specific morphological traits to compensate the loss of biomass. The morphological reaction is well described, but the underlying molecular mechanisms and its role for plants grown in the field are unclear.

Results

Here, we characterize the global transcriptional response to mowing of red clover by comparing plants grown under greenhouse conditions with plants growing on agriculturally used fields. Unexpectedly, we found that biotic and abiotic stress related changes of plants grown in the field overlay their regrowth related transcriptional changes and characterized transcription related protein families involved in these processes. Further, we can show that gibberellins, among other phytohormones, also contribute to the developmental processes related to regrowth after biomass-loss.

Conclusions

Our findings show that massive biomass loss triggers less transcriptional changes in field grown plants than their struggle with biotic and abiotic stresses and that gibberellins also play a role in the developmental program related to regrowth after mowing in red clover. Our results provide first insights into the physiological and developmental processes of mowing on red clover and may serve as a base for red clover yield improvement.
Diabetes impairs the protective effects of sevoflurane postconditioning in the myocardium subjected to ischemia/ reperfusion injury in rats: important role of Drp1
Authors: Yu Jing , He Jiandong , Yang Wenqu , Wang Xiang , Shi Gaoxiang , Duan Yinglei , Wang Hui , Han Chongfang
Published: February 2021

Background

Sevoflurane postconditioning (SevP) effectively relieves myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury but performs poorly in the diabetic myocardium. Previous studies have revealed the important role of increased oxidative stress in diabetic tissues. Notably, mitochondrial fission mediated by dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) is an upstream pathway of reactive oxygen production. Whether the ineffectiveness of SevP in the diabetic myocardium is related to Drp1-dependent mitochondrial fission remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the important role of Drp1 in the diabetic myocardium and investigate whether Drp1 inhibition could restore the cardioprotective effect of SevP.

Methods

In the first part of the study, adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups. Rats in the diabetic groups were fed with high-fat and high-sugar diets for 8 weeks and injected intraperitoneally with streptozotocin (35 mg/kg). Myocardial I/R was induced by 30 min of occlusion of the left anterior descending branch of the coronary artery followed by 120 min of reperfusion. SevP was applied by continuous inhalation of 2.5 % sevoflurane 1 min before reperfusion, which lasted for 10 min. In the second part of the study, we applied mdivi-1 to investigate whether Drp1 inhibition could restore the cardioprotective effect of SevP in the diabetic myocardium. The myocardial infarct size, mitochondrial ultrastructure, apoptosis index, SOD activity, MDA content, and Drp1 expression were detected.

Results

TTC staining and TUNEL results showed that the myocardial infarct size and apoptosis index were increased in the diabetic myocardium. However, SevP significantly alleviated myocardial I/R injury in the normal myocardium but not in the diabetic myocardium. Additionally, we found an elevation in Drp1 expression, accompanied by more severe fission-induced structural damage and oxidative stress in the diabetic myocardium. Interestingly, we discovered that the beneficial effect of SevP was restored by mdivi-1, which significantly suppressed mitochondrial fission and oxidative stress.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the crucial role of mitochondrial fission dependent on Drp1 in the diabetic myocardium subjected to I/R, and strongly indicates that Drp1 inhibition may restore the cardioprotective effect of SevP in diabetic rats.
The effects of submaximal exercise and cold exposure on blood coagulation parameters in coronary artery disease patients
Authors: Parkkila Karri , Valtonen Rasmus I. P. , Hiltunen Leena , Hintsala Heidi E. , Jaakkola Jouni J. K. , Ikäheimo Tiina M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Both exercise and cold exposure increase blood coagulation potential but their combined effects are not known. The purpose of the present study was to assess blood coagulation factors in response to submaximal exercise in the cold environment among patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

Sixteen men (61.1 ± 7.1 years) with stable CAD participated in three 30-min experimental conditions (seated rest in − 15 °C and exercise in both + 22 °C and − 15 °C) in random order. The employed exercise consisted of brisk walking (66–69% of maximal heart rate). Factor VII (FVII), fibrinogen, D-dimer and von Willebrand factor (vWF) were analyzed from blood samples obtained before, immediately and one hour after each experiment.

Results

On average, FVII activity (95% confidence interval, CI) was 123 (108–143) %, 123 (106–140) %, 121 (103–139) % (baseline, recovery 1, recovery 2), fibrinogen concentration (95% CI) 3.81 (3.49–4.12) g/l, 3.71 (3.34–4.08) g/l, 3.65 (3.26–4.05) g/l, D-dimer concentration (95% CI) 0.42 (0.28–0.56) µg/ml, 0.42 (0.29-.55) µg/ml and 0.39 (0.29–0.49) µg/ml, and vWF activity (95% CI) 184 (135–232) %, 170 (128–212) % and 173 (129–217) % after exercise in the cold. Average FVII activity varied from 122 to 123%, fibrinogen concentration from 3.71 to 3.75 g/l, D-dimer concentration from 0.35 to 0.51 µg/ml and von Willebrand factor activity from 168 to 175% immediately after each three experimental condition.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that submaximal lower body exercise carried out in a cold environment does not significantly affect blood coagulation parameters among patients with stable CAD.
Serum miR-222 is independently associated with atrial fibrillation in patients with degenerative valvular heart disease
Authors: Zhou Hualan , Lin Sen , Li Xia , Guo Dianxuan , Wang Yun , Hu Youdong
Published: February 2021

Background

Inflammation is involved in the progression of degenerative valvular heart disease (DVHD). microRNA-222 (miR-222) contributes to inflammation-mediated vascular remodeling, but its involvement in DVHD in relation to atrial fibrillation (AF) is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the changes in miR-222, interleukin (IL)-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in patients with DVHD complicated with AF.

Methods

This was a case control study of patients with DVHD who were hospitalized at the Geriatrics Department of the Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University between 01/2017 and 08/2018. The participants were grouped according to the presence of AF, and serum miR-222, IL-6, hs-CRP, and NT-proBNP levels were compared.

Results

There were fifty-two participants (28 males) in the DVHD with AF group, aged 60–80 years (73.0 ± 5.9 years). Sixty participants (31 males) were included in the DVHD without AF group, aged 60–80 years (71.9 ± 6.92 years). There were no significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, and blood pressure between the two groups. The serum levels of miRNA-222, IL-6, hs-CRP, and NT-proBNP in DVHD patients were significantly higher in those with AF compared with the non-AF group (all P < 0.05). Correlation analyses revealed that IL-6, hs-CRP, and NT-proBNP levels were positively correlated with miR-222 levels in all patients (IL-6: r = 0.507, P < 0.01; hs-CRP: r = 0.390, P < 0.01; NT-proBNP: r = 0.509, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Serum miR-222 was independently associated with AF in patients with DVHD.
Causal inference concepts applied to three observational studies in the context of vaccine development: from theory to practice
Authors: Gvozdenović Emilia , Malvisi Lucio , Cinconze Elisa , Vansteelandt Stijn , Nakanwagi Phoebe , Aris Emmanuel , Rosillon Dominique
Published: February 2021

Background

Randomized controlled trials are considered the gold standard to evaluate causal associations, whereas assessing causality in observational studies is challenging.

Methods

We applied Hill’s Criteria, counterfactual reasoning, and causal diagrams to evaluate a potentially causal relationship between an exposure and outcome in three published observational studies: a) one burden of disease cohort study to determine the association between type 2 diabetes and herpes zoster, b) one post-authorization safety cohort study to assess the effect of AS04-HPV-16/18 vaccine on the risk of autoimmune diseases, and c) one matched case-control study to evaluate the effectiveness of a rotavirus vaccine in preventing hospitalization for rotavirus gastroenteritis.

Results

Among the 9 Hill’s criteria, 8 (Strength, Consistency, Specificity, Temporality, Plausibility, Coherence, Analogy, Experiment) were considered as met for study c, 3 (Temporality, Plausibility, Coherence) for study a, and 2 (Temporary, Plausibility) for study b. For counterfactual reasoning criteria, exchangeability, the most critical assumption, could not be tested. Using these tools, we concluded that causality was very unlikely in study b, unlikely in study a, and very likely in study c. Directed acyclic graphs provided complementary visual structures that identified confounding bias and helped determine the most accurate design and analysis to assess causality.

Conclusions

Based on our assessment we found causal Hill’s criteria and counterfactual thinking valuable in determining some level of certainty about causality in observational studies. Application of causal inference frameworks should be considered in designing and interpreting observational studies.