bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fault Diagnosis of Reciprocating Compressor Valve Based on Transfer Learning Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Guo Fu-Yan , Zhang Yan-Chao , Wang Yue , Ren Pei-Jun , Wang Ping
Published: January 2021

Reciprocating compressors play a vital role in oil, natural gas, and general industrial processes. Their safe and stable operation directly affects the healthy development of the enterprise economy. Since the valve failure accounts for 60% of the total failures when the reciprocating compressor fails, it is of great significance to quickly find and diagnose the failure type of the valve for the fault diagnosis of the reciprocating compressor. At present, reciprocating compressor valve fault diagnosis based on deep neural networks requires sufficient labeled data for training, but valve in real-case reciprocating compressor (VRRC) does not have enough labeled data to train a reliable model. Fortunately, the data of valve in laboratory reciprocating compressor (VLRC) contains relevant fault diagnosis knowledge. Therefore, inspired by the idea of transfer learning, a fault diagnosis method for reciprocating compressor valves based on transfer learning convolutional neural network (TCNN) is proposed. This method uses convolutional neural network (CNN) to extract the transferable features of gas temperature and pressure data from VLRC and VRRC and establish pseudolabels for VRRC unlabeled data. Three regularization terms, the maximum mean discrepancy (MMD) of the transferable features of VLRC and VRRC data, the error between the VLRC sample label prediction and the actual label, and the error between the VRRC sample label prediction and the pseudolabel, are proposed. Their weighted sum is used as an objective function to train the model, thereby reducing the distribution difference of domain feature transfer and increasing the distance between learning feature classes. Experimental results show that this method uses VLRC data to identify the health status of VRRC, and the fault recognition rate can reach 98.32%. Compared with existing methods, this method has higher diagnostic accuracy, which proves the effectiveness of this method.
Deep Learning-Based Trajectory Tracking Control forUnmanned Surface Vehicle
Authors: Sun Wenli , Gao Xu
Published: January 2021

Trajectory tracking control based on waypoint behavior is a promising way for unmanned surface vehicle (USV) to achieve autonomous navigation. This study is aimed at the guidance progress in the kinematics; the artificial intelligence method of deep learning is adopted to improve the trajectory tracking level of USV. First, two deep neural network (DNN) models are constructed to evaluate navigation effects and to estimate guidance law parameters in real time, respectively. We then pretrain the DNN using a Gaussian–Bernoulli restricted Boltzmann machine to further improve the accuracy of predicting navigation effect. Finally, two DNNs are connected in parallel with the control loop of USV to provide predictive supervision and auxiliary decision making for traditional control methods. This kind of parallel way conforms to the ship manipulation of habit. Furthermore, we develop a new application on the basis of Mission Oriented Operating Suite Interval Programming named “pDeepLearning.” It can predict the navigation effect online by DNN and adjust the guidance law parameters according to the effect level. The experimental results show that, compared with the original waypoint behavior of USV, the prediction model proposed in this study reduces the trajectory tracking error by 19.0% and increases the waypoint behavior effect level.
The Influence of Menopause and Inflammation on Redox Status and Bone Mineral Density in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Stojanovic Aleksandra , Veselinovic Mirjana , Draginic Nevena , Rankovic Marina , Andjic Marijana , Bradic Jovana , Bolevich Sergey , Antovic Aleksandra , Jakovljevic Vladimir
Published: January 2021

Although oxidative stress is considered to be one of the key pathogenic factors in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), there is insufficient knowledge regarding the impact of menopause on redox status in this population. Thus, this study is aimed at assessing the influence of menopause within healthy women and within RA patients as well as the impact of RA in premenopausal and postmenopausal women on redox status, with special reference to bone mineral density (BMD). A total of 90 women were included in the study, 42 with RA and 48 age‐matched healthy controls. They were divided into subgroups according to the presence of menopause. Following oxidative stress parameters were measured spectrophotometrically: index of lipid peroxidation (measured as TBARS), nitrites (NO2-), superoxide anion radical (O2-), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH). BMD was assessed by using a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scanner. Comorbidities and drug history were recorded. The levels of H2O2 and TBARS were elevated in patients with RA, while NO2- and O2- increased in healthy women, both in premenopausal and postmenopausal groups. SOD activity decreased in postmenopausal RA patients. BMD was reduced in postmenopausal RA women. There was a correlation between NO2- and O2- with Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) index in RA patients. Given that postmenopausal state was associated with elevated oxidative stress within healthy women and that menopausal state did not affect redox homeostasis within RA patients, but the redox homeostasis was altered in both RA groups compared to healthy women, it can be presumed that impaired redox status in RA occurred due to presence of the disease, irrespective of age. Moreover, menopause attenuates BMD reduction in women with RA. These results may indicate the need for therapeutic use of antioxidants in the form of supplements in women with RA, regardless of age.
Variance Swap Pricing under Markov-Modulated Jump-Diffusion Model
Authors: Liu Shican , Yang Yu , Zhang Hu , Wu Yonghong
Published: January 2021

This paper investigates the pricing of discretely sampled variance swaps under a Markov regime-switching jump-diffusion model. The jump diffusion, as well as other parameters of the underlying stock’s dynamics, is modulated by a Markov chain representing different states of the market. A semi-closed-form pricing formula is derived by applying the generalized Fourier transform method. The counterpart pricing formula for a variance swap with continuous sampling times is also derived and compared with the discrete price to show the improvement of accuracy in our solution. Moreover, a semi-Monte-Carlo simulation is also presented in comparison with the two semi-closed-form pricing formulas. Finally, the effect of incorporating jump and regime switching on the strike price is investigated via numerical analysis.
Cystatin C and Seminal Parameter Evaluation in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Grangeiro Vitor Pereira Xavier
Published: January 2021

Objective: We aimed to investigate the possible relationship between seminal parameters and cystatin C seminal levels in an infertility evaluation of chronic hemodialysis patients. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, aged 18-60 years, in a group of 60 men undergoing hemodialysis (case) for more than 6 months, and a group of 15 healthy men (control) without clinical or laboratory signs of genitourinary tract infection. We performed a spermogram, hormonal profile, and assessment of leukocytes and cystatin levels in the semen. Results: The ages in the case and control were similar (p = 0.060).The seminal cystatin was significantly different between the case group and control group (41.16 ± 26.59 vs. 79.00 ± 05.68 mg/l, respectively, p < 0.001) and between normospermia and oligospermia (83.50 ± 02.40 vs. 30.34 ± 02.52 mg/l, respectively, p < 0.001). The mean seminal cystatin levels identified by the degrees of oligospermia (severe, moderate, and slim) were similar to each other (p > 0.05) and significantly different (p < 0.05) in relation to normospermia in the case group. The seminal cystatin levels positively correlated (p < 0.05) with sperm motility and sperm density. Conclusion: Seminal cystatin levels are associated with the numerical and motility changes evidenced in the spermogram and may be of help in the initial evaluation of clinical suspicion of sub-fertility and infertility.
Prediction of Therapeutic Outcome in a Naturalistic Setting Using Pretreatment Psychological Distress Indicators
Authors: Mütze Kaline , Witthöft Michael , Bräscher Anne-Kathrin
Published: January 2021

Background: Outcome predictions allow to improve psychotherapy and to increase economic benefit. The efficient translation into practice requires simple prediction methods. The present study evaluates the prediction of treatment outcome based on initial distress level. Methods: Routine data of a university psychotherapy outpatient clinic were used (N = 3,145, Mage = 35.8, 67% female). Low versus high distress patients (classified by overall psychological distress, symptomatology, and previous treatment) were compared on total reduction in psychopathology, (early) response, remission, and premature treatment discontinuation using t tests and logistic regressions. Response and remission were assessed via relative (percentage improvement) and absolute measures (Reliable Change Index; RCI). Results: Distress level was inversely related to percentage improvement (OR = 0.62) and remission (OR = 0.34). It was positively related to total reduction in psychopathology (d = 0.63), RCI response (OR = 2.37), and treatment discontinuation (OR = 2.15). Early response and treatment discontinuation partially mediated the relationship between distress level and treatment outcome. Conclusions: Treatment success tends to be lower when initial distress is high, but this finding appears contingent on the operationalization of treatment outcome. The presented classification approach is easy to implement in practice and may be useful in order to counter an excessive workload in psychotherapy trainees.
Letramento informacional e o trabalho do bibliotecário frente às demandas e necessidades informacionais dos estudantes das bibliotecas do Instituto Federal do Espírito Santo
Authors: Azevedo Kelly Rita de , Dumont Ligia Maria Moreira
Published: January 2021

Busca identificar o papel do bibliotecário no desenvolvimento do letramento informacional de estudantes do Instituto Federal do Espírito Santo (Ifes) frente às necessidades e demandas de informações. A pesquisa acadêmica foi classificada como descritiva, estabelecendo em seu desenho o estudo de caso como método. Instituiu-se como recorte de pesquisa duas bibliotecas que contemplassem condições e realidades socioculturais e demográficas diversificadas de estudantes e a análise dos dados empíricos por meio dos métodos quantitativo e qualitativo, tendo como enfoque de análise os estudantes e os bibliotecários pertencentes a essas bibliotecas. Como resultado, verificou-se que os bibliotecários entrevistados possuem conhecimento da importância do letramento informacional e desenvolvem algumas atividades, quando há demanda dos usuários. Foi também averiguado que não há o planejamento de estudo de usuários e de ações específicas para todos os públicos que visam o letramento informacional, bem como de trabalho integrado entre dirigentes, equipe pedagógica, professores e bibliotecários. Depreende-se pela pesquisa que tais ausências têm como pano de fundo o fato da equipe pedagógica e professores desconhecerem o papel educativo do bibliotecário, além da ausência de atividades integradas entre os professores e bibliotecários, tendo como objetivo comum melhorar de forma efetiva o desenvolvimento dos estudantes no processo de aprendizagem dentro e fora da sala de aula. Quanto aos estudantes, a contribuição valorosa nas respostas traz luz ao caminho que ainda precisa ser percorrido pelo bibliotecário para o desenvolvimento do letramento informacional direcionado ao segmento discente.
Perspectivas da Ciência da informação sobre o prontuário do paciente
Authors: Gualdani Fabrício Amadeu , Galvão Maria Cristiane Barbosa
Published: January 2021

Buscou-se compreender como a ciência da informação têm analisado o objeto informacional prontuário do paciente. Para tanto, elaborou-se uma revisão de literatura de estudos produzidos no Brasil e publicados em periódicos do campo da ciência da informação, sem uma limitação de período. Dos 57 artigos científicos identificados na Base de Dados de Periódicos em Ciência da Informação (BRAPCI), 45 artigos foram selecionados de forma independente pelos autores. Após sistematização, observou-se que os pesquisadores brasileiros têm estudado o prontuário do paciente por meio de 8 perspectivas, quais sejam: Perspectiva cultural, analisa o prontuário do paciente como patrimônio documental, cultural e objeto de preservação da memória; Perspectiva ético-jurídica, analisa questões relacionadas com o acesso, utilização e sigilo das informações disponibilizadas no prontuário do paciente; Perspectiva educacional, analisa o prontuário do paciente no contexto do ensino, em disciplinas de graduação ou pós-graduação; Perspectiva filosófica, analisa o prontuário do paciente do ponto de vista filosófico, epistemológico e social; Perspectiva conceitual, analisa as características do termo “prontuário do paciente”; Perspectiva arquivística, analisa o prontuário do paciente como documento arquivístico; Perspectiva tecnológica, analisa ferramentas e metodologias aplicadas ao prontuário do paciente para melhorar sua qualidade; Perspectiva gerencial, analisa o prontuário do paciente segundo a gestão dos documentos em instituições de saúde, incluindo processos de trabalho. As abordagens mapeadas não excluem outras possibilidades de sistematização, mas evidenciam a riqueza do prontuário do paciente como objeto de estudo pela ciência da informação.
Produção científica brasileira sobre métricas alternativas: revisão sistemática
Authors: Silva Márcia Regina , Rocha Ednéia Silva Santos , Souza Guilherme Moreira de
Published: January 2021

O objetivo desta pesquisa é realizar uma revisão sistemática na literatura sobre Altmetria indexada na base de dados Scopus, com o intuito de delinear um panorama do que tem sido discutido no âmbito nacional. A metodologia da revisão sistemática foi adotada por permitir maior controle e direcionamento das etapas que constituem o levantamento bibliográfico e a análise de dados. Ao total de registros recuperados foram estabelecidos critérios para elegibilidade e aplicados filtros para a análise documental. Após essas etapas, sínteses foram geradas a fim de representar as ideias principais dos documentos. Os resultados demonstram que os pesquisadores brasileiros com publicações indexadas na Scopus sobre Altmetria buscaram conceituar e entender os preceitos teóricos dessa abordagem quantitativa, bem como mapear o impacto social de áreas e disciplinas por meio de indicadores altmétricos. Conclui-se que pela abrangência da pesquisa ainda não é suficiente fazer prospecções a respeito do direcionamento da Altmetria na literatura nacional, muito embora a literatura analisada sinalize que a Altmetria tem se firmado como abordagem metodológica, apesar de suas críticas e limitações.
Do conceito de informação ao discurso sobre competência em informação
Authors: Silva Carlos Robson Souza da , Nunes Jefferson Veras , Teixeira Thiciane Mary Carvalho
Published: January 2021

O presente artigo tem como objetivo relacionar as teorias da informação ao discurso de Competência em Informação. Trata-se de uma pesquisa do tipo exploratória, de abordagem qualitativa, que possui como instrumento de coleta de dados a pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Aborda o conceito de informação e seus paradigmas e como esses paradigmas influenciaram o desenvolvimento da Ciência da Informação, sua conceituação e subáreas. Tem como resultados o fato de que a Competência em Informação esteve três distintas abordagens de acordo com os paradigmas da informação e uma abordagem custodial: 1 – custodial, ligada ao conceito de Educação de Usuários; 2 - física, que a compreendia sob o ponto de vista do acesso a documentos e dados; 3 - cognitiva, no qual se compreendia o papel da satisfação das necessidades de informação dos indivíduos; e 4 - social, que compreende o papel da Competência em Informação na formação social, ética e política dos indivíduos. Conclui que a Competência em Informação tem apresentado características distintas concomitantemente ao desenvolvimento das Teorias da Informação, enfatizando ora os aspectos físicos da informação, ora os cognitivos, ora os sociais.
Mediação fotográfica revela o lugar da intimidade: a casa de Jorge Amado
Authors: Alves Fernanda Maria Melo
Published: January 2021

Resenha de: 
SÁ, Alzira Q. G. T. Mediação fotográfica revela o lugar da intimidade: a casa de Jorge Amado. Salvador: EDUFBA, 2019. 319 p.
Algoritmo e governamentalidade
Authors: Moreno Bruno Stramandinoli , Martins Carlos José , Tremblay Diane-Gabrielle
Published: January 2021

O presente ensaio busca refletir sobre a nova configuração governamental produzida pela presença dos dispositivos algorítmicos na produção de subjetividade contemporânea. Especialmente, quanto aos desdobramentos políticos no modo como os algoritmos se agenciam à vida humana, modulando-a. Trata-se circunscrever uma nova forma de governamentalidade que opera um refinamento no modo de conduzir as condutas humanas. Neste sentido, interroga-se em que medida o advento do dispositivo algorítmico otimiza o enredamento e o engajamento, ao mesmo tempo, mais eficaz e menos perceptível, da produção das subjetividades humanas.
O conceito de hibridismo para as empresas que estão se adequando à Indústria 4.0
Authors: Silva Rafaela Carolina , Ottonicar Selma Letícia Capinzaiki , Barbosa Everaldo Henrique dos Santos , Moraes Cassia Regina Bassan
Published: January 2021

A Indústria 4.0 é uma tendência que emerge das grandes mudanças em sociedade, por isso são compreendidas como disruptivas. As empresas estão vivenciando um momento em transição porque precisam lidar com tecnologias analógicas, digitais e disruptivas ao mesmo momento. À esse contexto denominou-se híbrido inspirado nas teorias da Biblioteconomia. Desse modo, objetiva-se demonstrar como o conceito de hibridismo pode estar presente no contexto da Indústria 4.0. A pesquisa é exploratória e de natureza qualitativa. O método utilizado foi de Pesquisa Bibliográfica em diferentes bases de dados das áreas da Ciência da Informação e da Gestão Empresarial. Os resultados demonstraram que a convergência das tecnologias complexificam a inovação, assim sendo, a troca de dados entre máquinas e robôs se complementam. Os profissionais que atuam nessas empresas precisam ser dinâmicos, inovadores, disruptivos e dispostos a aprender nas rotinas de trabalho. A conexão das tecnologias contribui para que as necessidades dos clientes sejam atendidas, assim como as demandas informacionais dos usuários nas bibliotecas. Conclui-se que é necessária a aplicação dos conceitos de hibridez nos ambientes organizacionais e industriais, a fim de fomentar a sua importância e relevância para o crescimento do fluxo de desenvolvimento em todo o conjunto empresarial.
Guideline-Concordant Antiarrhythmic Drug Use in the Get With The Guidelines–Atrial Fibrillation Registry
Authors: Field Michael E. , Holmes DaJuanicia N. , Page Richard L. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Matsouaka Roland A. , Turakhia Mintu P. , Lewis William R. , Piccini Jonathan P. ,   for the Get With The Guidelines-AFIB Clinical Working Group and Hospitals
Published: January 2021

Background:

Antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF) can be associated with both proarrhythmic and noncardiovascular toxicities. Practice guidelines recommend tailored AAD therapy for AF based on patient-specific characteristics, such as coronary artery disease and heart failure, to minimize adverse events. However, current prescription patterns for specific AADs and the degree to which these guidelines are followed in practice are unknown.

Methods:

Patients enrolled in the Get With The Guidelines–Atrial Fibrillation registry with a primary diagnosis of AF discharged on an AAD between January 2014 and November 2018 were included. We analyzed rates of prescription of each AAD in several subgroups including those without structural heart disease. We classified AAD use as guideline concordant or nonguideline concordant based on 6 criteria derived from the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology/Heart Rhythm Society AF guidelines. Guideline concordance for amiodarone was not considered applicable, since its use is not specifically contraindicated in the guidelines for reasons such as structural heart disease or renal function. We analyzed guideline-concordant AAD use by specific patient and hospital characteristics, and regional and temporal trends.

Results:

Among 21 921 patients from 123 sites, the median age was 69 years, 46% female and 51% had paroxysmal AF. The most commonly prescribed AAD was amiodarone (38%). Sotalol (23.2%) and dofetilide (19.2%) were each more commonly prescribed than either flecainide (9.8%) or propafenone (4.8%). Overall guideline-concordant AAD prescription at discharge was 84%. Guideline-concordant AAD use by drug was as follows: dofetilide 93%, sotalol 66%, flecainide 68%, propafenone 48%, and dronedarone 80%. There was variability in rate of guideline-concordant AAD use by hospital and geographic region.

Conclusions:

Amiodarone remains the most commonly prescribed AAD for AF followed by sotalol and dofetilide. Rates of guideline-concordant AAD use were high, and there was significant variability by specific drugs, hospitals, and regions, highlighting opportunities for additional quality improvement.
“Four-Legged Terror” or “Ultimate New Yorker”?: Urban Rat Videos and Their Media Reception
Authors: Jarzebowska Gabriela
Published: January 2021

Online videos of subway rats in New York and their media reception are examined in order to observe how they reflect sociocultural attitudes towards these non-human animals. It is argued that regardless of whether a particular video was purposefully staged as a hoax or whether its creators were convinced they were filming “true life,” virtually all these materials produce a deeply stereotypical vision of these animals and provide interpretations of their behaviors that conform to deep-seated cultural scripts and prejudices. Contemporary videos contribute to a long-enduring myth about rats that is deeply embedded in Western culture. They complement this myth with a new one that establishes rats as the ultimate urbanites who are granted individuality and extensively anthropomorphized.
Liposomes Encapsulating Neoantigens and Black Phosphorus Quantum Dots for Enhancing Photothermal Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Jinxie , Chen Xiuli , Xue Tianyuan , Cheng Qinzhen , Ye Xinyu , Wang Changshan , Yu Yongkang , Ji Xiaoyuan , Wu Meiying , Zhang Xudong , Zheng Yi , Wu Benqing , Liang Xin , Mei Lin
Published: January 2021

Colorectal cancer frustrates with high relapse after the traditional treatment including surgery and chemotherapy. Neoantigen-based therapeutic vaccine has achieved high response rate in the clinical trials rising the immunotherapy as a promising alternative for colorectal cancer. Herein,
colon cancer cells derived neoantigen peptide Adpgk were employed to be co-encapsulated with black phosphorus quantum dots into liposome (Adpgk-BPQDs-liposome) as therapeutic vaccine. Adpgk-BPQDs-liposome were dispersed in F127 gel containing GM-CSF. The heat generated by black phosphorus
(BP) under 808 nm near-infrared laser irradiation accelerates the F127 gel ablation and the release of GM-CSF, which recruit APC cells and prime the native T cells. The tumor bearing mice received the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) checkpoint blockade antibody combined with photo-thermal
gel intensively prevented the tumor progress. Furthermore, the tumor infiltrating CD8+ T cells were significantly increased which lead to the elimination of the tumor.
Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of Ag- and Au-Nanoparticles Loaded TiO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Arkusz Katarzyna , Paradowska Ewa , Nycz Marta , Mazurek-Popczyk Justyna , Baldy-Chudzik Katarzyna
Published: January 2021

Current research on the antibacterial properties of implant surfaces has focused on using titanium nanotubes (TNTs) with diameters of 100 and 200 nm, which simultaneously show the best antibacterial properties, poor osseointegration, and ability to immobilize proteins. Therefore, the
research aimed to develop an implantable material based on titanium dioxide nanotubes with a diameter of 50 nm doped with silver (AgNPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), indicating good absorption and antibacterial properties. Moreover, metallic nanoparticles deposited by varying methods should
maintain sphericity and lack of agglomeration. For this purpose, the surface charge, wettability, stability of nanoparticles, and antibacterial properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, i. e., Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mutans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ,
were performed. Obtained results indicate a greater resistance to leaching of silver nanoparticles compared to gold nanoparticles. These results are reflected in microbiological studies, both into the time and the effectiveness of the implantable material's antibacterial activity. A greater
antibacterial effect of AgNPs than AuNPs has been confirmed. Also, AgNPs inhibit the multiplication of Gram-negative bacteria to a greater extent than Gram-positive bacteria. It has been proven that the TNT platforms deposited with metal nanoparticles via the voltammetric method are more effective
in deactivating microorganisms. Besides, the results have proven that smaller TNTs effectively reduce live bacteria as nanotubes with a diameter of 100 and 200 nm.
Evidence for decreased parasympathetic response to a novel peer interaction in older children with autism spectrum disorder: a case-control study
Authors: Muscatello Rachael A. , Vandekar Simon N. , Corbett Blythe A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience elevated stress during social interactions and may have difficulty forming and maintaining peer relationships. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) directs physiological changes in the body in response to a number of environmental stimuli, including social encounters. Evidence suggests the flexibility of the ANS response is an important driving factor in shaping social behavior. For youth with ASD, increased stress response and/or atypical ANS regulation to benign social encounters may therefore influence social behaviors, and, along with developmental and experiential factors, shape psychological outcomes.

Methods

The current study measured ANS response to a peer-based social interaction paradigm in 50 typically developing (TD) children and 50 children with ASD (ages 10–13). Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), a cardiac measure of parasympathetic influence on the heart, and pre-ejection period (PEP), a sympathetic indicator, were collected. Participants engaged in a friendly, face-to-face conversation with a novel, same-aged peer, and physiological data were collected continuously before and during the interaction. Participants also reported on state anxiety following the interaction, while parents reported on the child’s social functioning and number of social difficulties.

Results

Linear mixed models revealed that, while there were no diagnostic effects for RSA or PEP, older youth with ASD appeared to demonstrate a blunted parasympathetic (RSA) response. Further, increased severity of parent-reported social symptoms was associated with lower RSA. Youth with ASD reported more anxiety following the interaction; however, symptoms were not related to RSA or PEP response based on linear mixed modeling.

Conclusions

Physiological regulation, age, and social functioning likely influence stress responses to peer interactions for youth with ASD. Parasympathetic functioning, as opposed to sympathetic arousal, may be especially important in behavioral regulation, as older youth with ASD demonstrated atypical regulation and response to the social interaction paradigm. Future studies should help to further elucidate the developmental factors contributing to stress responses in ASD, the impact of physiological response on observable social behavior, and potential long-term consequences of chronic social stress in youth with ASD.
Genetic Analysis of S5-Interacting Genes Regulating Hybrid Sterility in Rice
Authors: Rao Jianglei , Wang Xing , Cai Zhongquan , Fan Yourong , Yang Jiangyi
Published: January 2021

Background

Asian cultivated rice (Oryza sativaL.) comprises two subspecies,O. sativasubsp.indicaand subsp.japonica, and the hybrids between them display strong heterosis. However, hybrid sterility (HS) limits practical use of the heterosis between these two subspecies.S5is a major-effect locus controlling the HS of female gametes in rice, consisting of three closely-linked genesORF3,ORF4andORF5that act as a killer-protector system. The HS effects ofS5are inconsistent for different genetic backgrounds, indicating the existence of interacting genes within the genome.

Results

In the present study, theS5-interacting genes (SIG) and their effects on HS were analyzed by studying the hybrid progeny between anindicarice, Dular (DL) and ajaponicarice, BalillaORF5+(BLORF5+), with a transgenicORF5+allele. Four interacting quantitative trait loci (QTL):qSIG3.1,qSIG3.2,qSIG6.1, andqSIG12.1, were genetically mapped. To analyze the effect of each interacting locus, four near-isogenic lines (NILs) were developed. The effect of each specific locus was investigated while the other three loci were kept DL homozygous (DL/DL). Of the four loci,qSIG3.1was the SIG with the greatest effects in which the DL allele was completely dominant. Furthermore, the DL allele displayed incomplete dominance atqSIG3.2,qSIG6.1, andqSIG12.1.qSIG3.1will be the first choice for further fine-mapping.

Conclusions

FourS5-interacting QTL were identified by genetic mapping and the effect of each locus was analyzed using advanced backcrossed NILs. The present study will facilitate elucidation of the molecular mechanism of rice HS caused byS5. Additionally, it would provide the basis to explore the origin and differentiation of cultivated rice, having practical significance for inter-subspecific hybrid rice breeding programs.
Prostate cancer awareness and screening among men in a rural community in Kenya: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mbugua Ruth Gathoni , Oluchina Sherry , Karanja Simon
Published: January 2021

Background

Globally, prostate cancer ranks as the second most frequently diagnosed cancer among men with the highest mortality rates being in Asia and Africa. The screening rates have been very low among men from developing countries with the majority presenting in advanced stages of the disease. The study aimed to assess the awareness of prostate cancer and screening among men aged 40–69 years in a rural community in Kenya.

Methods

This cross-sectional mixed-method survey was conducted among men aged 40–69 years. Data were collected using a pretested questionnaire among 576 men and a Focus Group Discussion guide among 44 men. The study was conducted in all the community units in Gatundu North and Kiambu Sub-counties, Kenya.

Results

Five hundred and seventy-six men participated with a response rate of 100%. Of the men interviewed, 84% had ever heard of prostate cancer. Slightly below half (40.6%) of the respondents had ever heard of prostate cancer screening. There was the existence of myths and misconceptions which predominantly associated prostate cancer with sexual behaviors. Overall, 57.3% of the respondents had a low level of awareness of prostate cancer. The prevalence of prostate cancer screening was 5%. Willingness to undergo screening in the future was high (81%) among the participants. The most frequently cited (56.9%) reason for lack of willingness to screen was the participant’s belief that they were well. Participants who were aware of prostate cancer screening were more likely to take up screening (OR = 8.472; 95% CI: 1.554- 46.186; P = 0.014).

Conclusion

Awareness of prostate cancer symptoms, treatment, and screening was low with the existence of myths and misconceptions. The level of prostate cancer screening was abysmally low. It is vital for the Ministry of Health, county governments, and other stakeholders to consider the use of multifaceted approaches to increase public awareness on prostate cancer to enhance informed shared decision making. The study provides relevant information for designing prevention and control programs for prostate cancer.
Outcomes of low-flow priapism and role of integrated penile prosthesis management
Authors: Elhawy Mamdouh M. , Fawzy A. M.
Published: January 2021

Background

The natural history of priapism and predictors of erectile dysfunction (ED) remain vague due to defective reporting, different management techniques and variable follow-up durations. Acquiring more information concerning the prognosis of erectile function after priapism can help to assess the burden of post-priapism ED. Also, it may guide the decision-making process regarding penile prosthesis insertion in refractory and late post-priapism ED. In this study, we tried to evaluate the state of erectile function after recovery and how far penile implant surgery could be integrated in the early and late management of priapism-related ED.

Methods

We included 72 patients with low-flow priapism who were managed via a stepwise approach starting from aspiration through percutaneous distal shunt up to distal shunt. Immediate placement of a penile prosthesis was completed in eight refractory patients, including three that were inserted even before an open distal corporoglanular shunt.

Results

Nearly two-thirds (70.3%) of recovered priapism patients developed ED, but penile prostheses were inserted only in 35.5% of ED cases. There were no differences in the short- and long-term complications of immediate versus delayed prosthesis placement except for difficulty with the insertion of the penile prosthesis in delayed procedures.

Conclusions

Immediate placement of a penile prosthesis is a good treatment option in the setting of refractory priapism with comparable outcomes to those of patients with post-priapism ED who received prostheses. Immediate penile prosthesis insertion was further justified by the high incidence of post-priapism erectile dysfunction.
A comparison of quality of life of obstetric fistula survivors in Zimbabwe before and after surgical treatment
Authors: Chimamise Chipo , Shiripinda Iris , Munjanja Stephen P. , Machinga Mazvita
Published: January 2021

Background

In Zimbabwe, repair of obstetric fistula was established as a public health intervention in 2015. The aim of this study was to assess the quality life of obstetric fistula survivors before and after surgical repair of the fistula.

Methods

A longitudinal, before and after cohort study was conducted using the WHOQOL-BREF tool to assess quality of life before and after surgical treatment of obstetric fistula. The tool assess general health, experience of life in general, physical health, psychological health, social and environmental health. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0 for descriptive measures and significance.

Results

Of the 29 women who came for obstetric fistula repair at the center in November and December 2019, 26 were enrolled into the study. All participants had transvaginal fistula repair and 24 had successful repair i.e. the fistulas were closed. Two of them still had stress incontinence by the time of data collection. The post treatment mean scores, using the WHOQOL assessment tool, on physical, psychological, social, environmental and general health significantly improved from the pretreatment mean scores. There was no significant change in some facets of the quality of life domains such as financial resources, opportunities for participation in leisure activities and dependence on medicines.

Conclusions

This study concluded that surgical treatment of obstetric fistula improves the quality of life of survivors significantly and recommends that untreated fistula survivors be identified and linked to care and treatment.
Gap analysis of DNA barcoding in ERMS reference libraries for ascidians and cnidarians
Authors: Paz Guy , Rinkevich Baruch
Published: January 2021

Background

All-inclusive DNA-barcoding libraries in the storage and analysis platform of the BOLD (Barcode of Life Data) system are essential for the study of the marine biodiversity and are pertinent for regulatory purposes, including ecosystem monitoring and assessment, such as in the context of the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). Here, we investigate knowledge gaps in the lists of DNA barcoded organisms within two inventories, Cnidaria (Anthozoa and Hydrozoa) and Ascidiacea from the reference libraries of the European Register of Marine Species (ERMS) dataset (402 ascidians and 1200 cnidarian species). ERMS records were checked species by species, against publicly available sequence information and other data stored in BOLD system. As the available COI barcode data adequately cover just a small fraction of the ERMS reference library, it is of importance to employ quality control on existing data, to close the knowledge gaps and purge errors off BOLD.

Results

Results revealed that just 22.9% and 29.2% of the listed ascidians and cnidarians species, respectively, are BOLD barcodes of which 58.4% and 52.3% of the seemingly barcoded species, respectively, were noted to have complete BOLD pages. Thus, only 11.44% of the tunicate and 17.07% of the cnidarian data in the ERMS lists are of high quality. Deep analyses revealed seven common types of gaps in the list of the barcoded species in addition to a wide range of discrepancies and misidentifications, discordances, and errors primarily in the GenBank mined data as with the BINs assignments, among others.

Conclusions

Gap knowledge in barcoding of important taxonomic marine groups exists, and in addition, quality management elements (quality assurance and quality control) were not employed when using the list for national monitoring projects, for regulatory compliance purposes and other purposes. Even though BOLD is the most trustable DNA-barcoding reference library, worldwide projects of DNA barcoding are needed to close these gaps of mistakes, verifications, missing data, and unreliable sequencing labs. Tight quality control and quality assurance are important to close the knowledge gaps of Barcoding of the European recommended ERMS reference library.
Key technologies and equipment for contaminated surface/groundwater environment in the rural river network area of China: integrated remediation
Authors: Wang Han , Wang Tianbei , Xue Gang , Zhao Jiang , Ma Weiwu , Qian Yajie , Wu Min , Zhang Zhuoran , Gao Pin , Su Changqing , Zong Bingnian , Yu Junwu , Guo Jingsong , Wang Yayi
Published: January 2021

To realize the integrated remediation of SW/GW and soil in the rural river network area, the integrated remediation in rural river network area project (IR-RRNA), funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, has been launched. In eastern China, the rural river network area (RRNA) is an anthropic active area characterized by its rapid economic development and high gross national product. However, the water environmental pollution in these areas is increasingly severe, which has greatly hindered their sustainable development. Especially, the frequent interactions between surface/groundwater (SW–GW) have intensified the pollution migration and transformation in RRNA. The IR-RRNA (2019–2022) will apply the related interdisciplinary and methodological knowledge to elucidate the transportation and transformation of pollutants in water and soil during SW–GW interaction and develop remediation technologies of surface water, groundwater, and soil suitable for the RRNA. In this way, to realize the remediation technologies integration for surface/groundwater and soil in RRNA and implementing application demonstration. Meanwhile, a technical guideline will be compiled for the integrated remediation suitable for the RRNA. This project is conducive to addressing the urgent environmental problems as well as promoting rural economic revitalization and ecological environment optimization.
Environmental RNAi pathways in the two-spotted spider mite
Authors: Mondal Mosharrof , Peter Jacob , Scarbrough Obrie , Flynt Alex
Published: January 2021

Background

RNA interference (RNAi) regulates gene expression in most multicellular organisms through binding of small RNA effectors to target transcripts. Exploiting this process is a popular strategy for genetic manipulation and has applications that includes arthropod pest control. RNAi technologies are dependent on delivery method with the most convenient likely being feeding, which is effective in some animals while others are insensitive. The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, is prime candidate for developing RNAi approaches due to frequent occurrence of conventional pesticide resistance. Using a sequencing-based approach, the fate of ingested RNAs was explored to identify features and conditions that affect small RNA biogenesis from external sources to better inform RNAi design.

Results

Biochemical and sequencing approaches in conjunction with extensive computational assessment were used to evaluate metabolism of ingested RNAs in T. urticae. This chelicerae arthropod shows only modest response to oral RNAi and has biogenesis pathways distinct from model organisms. Processing of synthetic and plant host RNAs ingested during feeding were evaluated to identify active substrates for spider mite RNAi pathways. Through cataloging characteristics of biochemically purified RNA from these sources, trans-acting small RNAs could be distinguished from degradation fragments and their origins documented.

Conclusions

Using a strategy that delineates small RNA processing, we found many transcripts have the potential to enter spider mite RNAi pathways, however, trans-acting RNAs appear very unstable and rare. This suggests potential RNAi pathway substrates from ingested materials are mostly degraded and infrequently converted into regulators of gene expression. Spider mites infest a variety of plants, and it would be maladaptive to generate diverse gene regulators from dietary RNAs. This study provides a framework for assessing RNAi technology in organisms where genetic and biochemical tools are absent and benefit rationale design of RNAi triggers for T.urticae.
Enhancement of Zika virus infection by antibodies from West Nile virus seropositive individuals with no history of clinical infection
Authors: Garg Himanshu , Yeh Rose , Watts Douglas M. , Mehmetoglu-Gurbuz Tugba , Resendes Robert , Parsons Bruce , Gonzales Fernando , Joshi Anjali
Published: January 2021

Background

Recent outbreaks of Zika Virus (ZIKV) infection and associated microcephaly has raised multiple scientific questions. The close antigenic relatedness between flaviviruses makes diagnosis of specific infection difficult. This relatedness also raises the potential of Antibody Dependent Enhancement (ADE) via cross reactive antibodies to flaviviruses like West Nile Virus (WNV) and Dengue Virus (DENV). Asymptomatic WNV infections are endemic throughout the US creating a large proportion of the population that is seropositive for WNV antibodies. Whether these sero-positive individuals potentially carry ZIKV enhancing antibodies remains unknown.

Results

Serum samples obtained from human subjects with symptomatic or asymptomatic WNV infection from a WNV endemic region in Texas were tested for their ability to enhance or neutralize ZIKV infection. Sero-surveillance data demonstrated a ~ 7% prevalence for WNV antibodies in the population. Sera from both symptomatic and asymptomatic WNV seropositive donors effectively neutralized WNV and to some extent DENV infection. Interestingly, WNV+ sera failed to inhibit ZIKV while significantly enhancing infection. Conversely, ZIKV specific sera effectively neutralized ZIKV, with ADE only evident at lower concentrations. The enhancement of ZIKV via WNV antibody positive sera was likely due to non-neutralizing Envelope (E) antibodies as seen with monoclonal ZIKV E antibodies.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings suggest that WNV antibodies in the sera significantly enhance ZIKV infection in Fc receptor positive cells with limited neutralization activity. Further studies in more relevant models of ADE will be needed to confirm the relevance of these findings in vivo.
Highly abundant core taxa in the blow within and across captive bottlenose dolphins provide evidence for a temporally stable airway microbiota
Authors: Vendl Catharina , Nelson Tiffanie , Ferrari Belinda , Thomas Torsten , Rogers Tracey
Published: January 2021

Background

The analysis of blow microbiota has been proposed as a biomarker for respiratory health analysis in cetaceans. Yet, we lack crucial knowledge on the long-term stability of the blow microbiota and its potential changes during disease. Research in humans and mice have provided evidence that respiratory disease is accompanied by a shift in microbial communities of the airways. We investigate here the stability of the community composition of the blow microbiota for 13 captive bottlenose dolphins over eight months including both sick and healthy individuals. We used barcoded tag sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Four of the dolphins experienced distinct medical conditions and received systemic antimicrobial treatment during the study.

Results

We showed that each dolphin harboured a unique community of zero-radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) that was present throughout the entire sampling period (‘intra-core’). Although for most dolphins there was significant variation over time, overall the intra-core accounted for an average of 73% of relative abundance of the blow microbiota. In addition, the dolphins shared between 8 and 66 zOTUs on any of the sampling occasions (‘inter-core’), accounting for a relative abundance between 17 and 41% of any dolphin’s airway microbiota. The majority of the intra-core and all of the inter-core zOTUs in this study are commonly found in captive and free-ranging dolphins and have previously been reported from several different body sites. While we did not find a clear effect of microbial treatment on blow microbiota, age and sex of the dolphins did have such an effect.

Conclusions

The airways of dolphins were colonized by an individual intra-core ‘signature’ that varied in abundance relative to more temporary bacteria. We speculate that the intra-core bacteria interact with the immune response of the respiratory tract and support its function. This study provides the first evidence of individual-specific airway microbiota in cetaceans that is stable over eight months.