bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromoanagenesis from radiation-induced genome damage in Populus
Authors: Guo Weier , Comai Luca , Henry Isabelle M.
Published: August 2021

Chromoanagenesis is a genomic catastrophe that results in chromosomal shattering and reassembly. These extreme single chromosome events were first identified in cancer, and have since been observed in other systems, but have so far only been formally documented in plants in the context of haploid induction crosses. The frequency, origins, consequences, and evolutionary impact of such major chromosomal remodeling in other situations remain obscure. Here, we demonstrate the occurrence of chromoanagenesis in poplar (Populus sp.) trees produced from gamma-irradiated pollen. Specifically, in this population of siblings carrying indel mutations, two individuals exhibited highly frequent copy number variation (CNV) clustered on a single chromosome, one of the hallmarks of chromoanagenesis. Using short-read sequencing, we confirmed the presence of clustered segmental rearrangement. Independently, we identified and validated novel DNA junctions and confirmed that they were clustered and corresponded to these rearrangements. Our reconstruction of the novel sequences suggests that the chromosomal segments have reorganized randomly to produce a novel rearranged chromosome but that two different mechanisms might be at play. Our results indicate that gamma irradiation can trigger chromoanagenesis, suggesting that this may also occur when natural or induced mutagens cause DNA breaks. We further demonstrate that such events can be tolerated in poplar, and even replicated clonally, providing an attractive system for more in-depth investigations of their consequences.
Recombinant cystatin-like protein-based competition ELISA for Trichinella spiralis antibody test in multihost sera
Authors: Liu Yan , Xu Ning , Li Yansong , Tang Bin , Yang Hualin , Gao Weihua , Liu Mingyuan , Liu Xiaolei , Zhou Yu
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Trichinella spiralisis a zoonotic parasite with a complex parasitic life cycle and exposed to animals or humans by infectious meat. To control transmissions ofT.spiralisthrough the food chain to humans, sensitive and selective multihost sera-diagnosis is urgent needed for monitoringT.spiralisexposure.

Methods

A competition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) forT.spiralisinfection diagnosis in multihost sera was developed based on recombinant cystatin-like protein (rCLP-cELISA) as well as monoclonal antibodies. The sensitivity and accuracy of the rCLP-cELISA were quantified using swine (n = 1316), mice (n = 189) and human (n = 157) serum samples.T.spiralis-antibody targeting test ability of the rCLP-cELISA in swine (n = 22) and human (n = 36), instead of other parasites or viruses antibodies, was evaluated.

Results

The rCLP-cELISA showed high agreement with commercial ELISA kits in field swine sera assessed by Cohen’s kappa value (κ = 0.7963). And it showed 100% specificity in human trichinellosis detection with sensitivity of 96.49%, no cross-reaction with other parasite or virus infections, and high positive detection rate of 87.5% in low-dose infected swine. Besides, the rCLP-cELISA exhibited potential in the detection ofT.spiralis,T.nelsoniandTrichinellaT8 infections.

Conclusions

The rCLP-cELISA can be used forT.spiralis-associated antibody test in multihost sera.
Oligonucleotide capture sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 genome and subgenomic fragments from COVID-19 individuals
Authors: Doddapaneni Harsha , Cregeen Sara Javornik , Sucgang Richard , Meng Qingchang , Qin Xiang , Avadhanula Vasanthi , Chao Hsu , Menon Vipin , Nicholson Erin , Henke David , Piedra Felipe-Andres , Rajan Anubama , Momin Zeineen , Kottapalli Kavya , Hoffman Kristi L. , Sedlazeck Fritz J. , Metcalf Ginger , Piedra Pedro A. , Muzny Donna M. , Petrosino Joseph F. , Gibbs Richard A.
Published: August 2021

The newly emerged and rapidly spreading SARS-CoV-2 causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To facilitate a deeper understanding of the viral biology we developed a capture sequencing methodology to generate SARS-CoV-2 genomic and transcriptome sequences from infected patients. We utilized an oligonucleotide probe-set representing the full-length genome to obtain both genomic and transcriptome (subgenomic open reading frames [ORFs]) sequences from 45 SARS-CoV-2 clinical samples with varying viral titers. For samples with higher viral loads (cycle threshold value under 33, based on the CDC qPCR assay) complete genomes were generated. Analysis of junction reads revealed regions of differential transcriptional activity among samples. Mixed allelic frequencies along the 20kb ORF1ab gene in one sample, suggested the presence of a defective viral RNA species subpopulation maintained in mixture with functional RNA in one sample. The associated workflow is straightforward, and hybridization-based capture offers an effective and scalable approach for sequencing SARS-CoV-2 from patient samples.
Complete genome sequence of a HPV31 isolate from laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and biological consequences for p97 promoter activity
Authors: Munsamy Yuri , Seedat Riaz Y. , Sekee Tumelo R. , Bester Phillip A. , Burt Felicity J.
Published: August 2021

Human papillomavirus type 31, although detected less frequently than HPV types 16 and 18, is associated with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Previous studies suggest that polymorphisms in the long control region (LCR) may alter the oncogenic potential of the virus. This study reports the first complete genome of a South African HPV31 isolate from a laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Sequence variations relative to the HPV31 prototype sequence were identified. The pBlue-Topo® vector, a reporter gene system was used to investigate the possible influence of these variations on the LCR promoter activity in vitro. Using mutagenesis to create two different fragments, β-galactosidase assays were used to monitor the effect of nucleotide variations on the p97 promoter. Increased β-galactosidase expression was observed in mutants when compared to the South African HPV31 LCR isolate. Enhanced transcriptional activity was observed with the mutant that possessed a single nucleotide change within the YY1 transcription factor binding site. In conclusion, sequence variation within the LCR of HPV31 isolates may have a functional effect on viral p97 promoter activity.
Stars inside have reached outside: The effects of electronic dance music DJs’ social standing and musical identity on track success
Authors: Wi Hyeongseok , Lee Wonjae
Published: August 2021

The social standing of an artist provides a reliable proxy for the value of the artist’s product and reduces uncertainty about the quality of the product. While there are several different types of social standing, we focus on reputation among professional artists within the same genre, as they are best able to identify the artistic value of a product within that genre. To reveal the underlying means of attaining high social standing within the professional group, we examined two quantifiable properties that are closely associated with social standing, musical identity and the social position of the artist. We analyzed the playlist data of electronic dance music DJ/producers, DJs who also compose their own music. We crawled 98,332 tracks from 3,164 playlists by 815 DJs, who played at nine notable international music festivals. Information from the DJs’ tracks, including genre, beats per minute, and musical keys, was used to quantify musical identity, and playlists were transformed into network data to measure social positions among the DJs. We found that DJs with a distinct genre identity as well as network positions combining brokerage and cohesion tend to place higher in success and social standing.
Osteology of an exceptionally well-preserved tapejarid skeleton from Brazil: Revealing the anatomy of a curious pterodactyloid clade
Authors: Beccari Victor , Pinheiro Felipe Lima , Nunes Ivan , Anelli Luiz Eduardo , Mateus Octávio , Costa Fabiana Rodrigues
Published: August 2021

A remarkably well-preserved, almost complete and articulated new specimen (GP/2E 9266) ofTupandactylus navigansis here described for the Early Cretaceous Crato Formation of Brazil. The new specimen comprises an almost complete skeleton, preserving both the skull and post-cranium, associated with remarkable preservation of soft tissues, which makes it the most complete tapejarid known thus far. CT-Scanning was performed to allow the assessment of bones still covered by sediment. The specimen can be assigned toTupa.navigansdue to its vertical supra-premaxillary bony process and short and rounded parietal crest. It also bears the largest dentary crest among tapejarine pterosaurs and a notarium, which is absent in other representatives of the clade. The new specimen is here regarded as an adult individual. This is the first time that postcranial remains ofTupa.navigansare described, being also an unprecedented record of an articulated tapejarid skeleton from the Araripe Basin.
Cognitive mediators of US—China differences in early symbolic arithmetic
Authors: Opfer John E. , Kim Dan , Fazio Lisa K. , Zhou Xinlin , Siegler Robert S.
Published: August 2021

Chinese children routinely outperform American peers in standardized tests of mathematics knowledge. To examine mediators of this effect, 95 Chinese and US 5-year-olds completed a test of overall symbolic arithmetic, an IQ subtest, and three tests each of symbolic and non-symbolic numerical magnitude knowledge (magnitude comparison, approximate addition, and number-line estimation). Overall Chinese children performed better in symbolic arithmetic than US children, and all measures of IQ and number knowledge predicted overall symbolic arithmetic. Chinese children were more accurate than US peers in symbolic numerical magnitude comparison, symbolic approximate addition, and both symbolic and non-symbolic number-line estimation; Chinese and U.S. children did not differ in IQ and non-symbolic magnitude comparison and approximate addition. A substantial amount of the nationality difference in overall symbolic arithmetic was mediated by performance on the symbolic and number-line tests.
Baseline homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance associated with fibrosis progression in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease without diabetes: A cohort study
Authors: Koo Dae-Jeong , Lee Mi Yeon , Jung Inha , Moon Sun Joon , Kwon Hyemi , Park Se Eun , Rhee Eun-Jung , Lee Won-Young
Published: August 2021

Background and aims

Fibrosis progression is the most important prognostic factor, and insulin resistance is one of the main mechanisms associated with fibrosis progression in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We evaluate the association between baseline insulin resistance and future fibrosis progression in patients with NAFLD without diabetes.

Approach and results

This retrospective longitudinal study with 8-year follow-up period included 32,606 (men, 83%) participants aged >20 years (average age, 38.0 years) without diabetes at baseline who completed at least two comprehensive health checkups from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2018. NAFLD was diagnosed based on ultrasonography. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was used to evaluate baseline insulin resistance. Fibrosis progression was assessed using the aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI). The advanced liver fibrosis with an APRI value above the intermediate fibrosis probability (≥0.5) developed in a total of 2,897 participants during 136,108 person-years. 114 participants progressed to a high fibrosis probability stage (APRI >1.5) during 141,064 person-years. Using the lowest baseline HOMA-IR quartile group (Q1) as a reference, the multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for development of advanced liver fibrosis (APRI ≥0.5) in the highest baseline HOMA-IR quartile group (Q4) was 1.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.74–2.19; Model 4). And the HR for development of advanced liver fibrosis with high fibrosis probability was 1.95 (95% CI 1.10–3.46; Model 4). The positive association was maintained throughout the entire follow-up period. The baseline HOMA-IR model was superior to the baseline body mass index (BMI) model in predicting the progression of fibrosis probability.

Conclusions

In this longitudinal study, we found that the degree of baseline insulin resistance, assessed by HOMA-IR values, was positively associated with future fibrosis progression in patients with NAFLD without diabetes.
Hyper-altruistic behavior vanishes with high stakes
Authors: Brañas-Garza Pablo , Jorrat Diego , Kovářík Jaromír , López María C.
Published: August 2021

Using an incentivized experiment with statistical power, this paper explores the role of stakes in charitable giving of lottery prizes, where subjects commit to donate a fraction of the prize before they learn the outcome of the lottery. We study three stake levels: 5€ (n= 177), 100€ (n= 168), and 1,000€ (n= 171). Although the donations increase in absolute terms as the stakes increase, subjects decrease the donated fraction of the pie. However, people still share roughly 20% of 1,000€, an amount as high as the average monthly salary of people at the age of our subjects. The number of people sharing 50% of the pie is remarkably stable across stakes, but donating the the whole pie–the modal behavior in charity-donation experiments–disappears with stakes. Such hyper-altruistic behavior thus seems to be an artifact of the stakes typically employed in economic and psychological experiments. Our findings point out that sharing with others is a prevalent human feature, but stakes are an important determinant of sharing. Policies promoted via prosocial frames (e.g., stressing the effects of mask-wearing or social distancing on others during the Covid-19 pandemic or environmentally-friendly behaviors on future generations) may thus be miscalibrated if they disregard the stakes at play.
Overlapping community detection in networks based on link partitioning and partitioning around medoids
Authors: Ponomarenko Alexander , Pitsoulis Leonidas , Shamshetdinov Marat
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we present a new method for detecting overlapping communities in networks with a predefined number of clusters called LPAM (Link Partitioning Around Medoids). The overlapping communities in the graph are obtained by detecting the disjoint communities in the associated line graph employing link partitioning and partitioning around medoids which are done through the use of a distance function defined on the set of nodes. We consider both the commute distance and amplified commute distance as distance functions. The performance of the LPAM method is evaluated with computational experiments on real life instances, as well as synthetic network benchmarks. For small and medium-size networks, the exact solution was found, while for large networks we found solutions with a heuristic version of the LPAM method.
Association of mental health help-seeking with mental health-related knowledge and stigma in Japan Rugby Top League players
Authors: Ojio Yasutaka , Matsunaga Asami , Yamaguchi Sosei , Hatakeyama Kensuke , Kawamura Shin , Yoshitani Goro , Horiguchi Masanori , Nakajima Shun , Kanie Ayako , Horikoshi Masaru , Fujii Chiyo
Published: August 2021

Background

Globally increasing clinical and research interests are driving a movement to promote understanding and practice of mental health in elite athletes. However, few studies have yet addressed this issue. This study aims to describe the association of the intention to seek help with mental health knowledge and stigma and the severity of depressive symptoms in Japan Rugby Top League players.

Methods

As a target population, we studied 233 Japan Rugby Top League male players (25–29 years = 123 [52.8%]), who were born in Japan, using a cross-sectional design. Surveys were conducted using anonymous, web-based self-administered questionnaires. Structural equation modelling was performed to evaluate the hypothesis of an interrelationship between mental health knowledge, stigma, and severity of depressive symptoms as factors influencing the intention to seek help.

Results

Players with more severe depressive symptoms were more reluctant to seek help from others (β = - 0.20, p = 0.03). Players with greater knowledge about mental health tended to have less stigma toward others with mental health problems (β = 0.13, p = 0.049), but tended not to seek help with their own mental health problems.

Conclusions

Rugby players in need of mental health support, even with greater knowledge, tend not to seek help from others, while having less stigma toward people with mental health problems. Rugby players might require approaches other than a knowledge-based educational approach to encourage them to seek help.
Low-field and variable-field NMR relaxation studies of H2O and D2O molecular dynamics in articular cartilage
Authors: Crețu Andrea , Mattea Carlos , Stapf Siegfried
Published: August 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) as the main degenerative disease of articular cartilage in joints is accompanied by structural and compositional changes in the tissue. Degeneration is a consequence of a reduction of the amount of macromolecules, the so-called proteoglycans, and of a corresponding increase in water content, both leading to structural weakening of cartilage. NMR investigations of cartilage generally address only the relaxation properties of water. In this study, two-dimensional (T1-T2) measurements of bovine articular cartilage samples were carried out for different stages of hydration, complemented by molecular exchange with D2O and treatment by trypsin which simulates degeneration by OA. Two signal components were identified in all measurements, characterized by very different T2which suggests liquid-like and solid-like dynamics. These measurements allow the quantification of separate hydrogen components and their assignment to defined physical pools which had been discussed repeatedly in the literature, i.e. bulk-like water and a combination of protein hydrogens and strongly bound water. The first determination of2H relaxation dispersion in comparison to1H dispersion suggests intramolecular interactions as the dominating source for the pronounced magnetic field dependence of the longitudinal relaxation time T1.
Kale supplementation during high fat feeding improves metabolic health in a mouse model of obesity and insulin resistance
Authors: Raychaudhuri Samnhita , Fan Si , Kraus Olivia , Shahinozzaman Md. , Obanda Diana N.
Published: August 2021

Cruciferous vegetables have been widely studied for cancer prevention and cardiovascular health. Broccoli is the cruciferous vegetable whose phytochemistry and physiological effects have been most extensively studied. Kale (Brassica oleraceavar. acephala) appears on lists of ‘healthiest, nutrient dense foods’ but, there is paucity of data on kale as a functional food. In a 12-week study, we tested the effect of curly green kale on high fat diet (HFD) induced obesity and insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, endotoxemia and inflammation in C57BL/6J mice fed isocaloric diets. Kale supplementation did not attenuate HFD diet induced fat accumulation and insulin resistance (P = ns; n = 9) but, it lowered serum triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LPL) cholesterol and prevented HFD induced increases in systemic endotoxemia and inflammation (serum LPS and Ccl2) (P<0.01; n = 9). In adipose tissue, kale enhanced the expression of genes involved in adipogenesis (P<0.01; n = 9), reduced the appearance of histologic markers of inflammation, downregulated both the gene expression and protein expression of the adipose tissue specific inflammation markers CD11c and F4/80 (P<0.001; n = 9) and reduced the gene expression of a battery of chemokine C-C motif ligands (Ccl2, Ccl6, Ccl7, Ccl8, Ccl9) and chemokine C-C motif receptors (Ccr2, Ccr3, Ccr5). We conclude that kale vegetable protects against HFD diet induced dysfunction through mechanisms involving lipid metabolism, endotoxemia and inflammation.
What is the likely impact on surgical site infections in Australian hospitals if smoking rates are reduced? A cost analysis
Authors: McCaffrey Nikki , Scollo Michelle , Dean Emma , White Sarah L.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Assisting smokers to quit before surgery reduces surgical site infection (SSI) risk. The short-term economic benefits of reducing SSIs by embedding tobacco dependence treatment in Australian hospitals are unknown. Estimated annual number of SSIs prevented, and hospital bed-days (HBD) and costs saved from reducing smoking before surgery are calculated.

Methods

The most recent number of surgical procedures and SSI rates for Australia were sourced. The number of smokers and non-smokers having a SSI were calculated using the UK Royal College of Physicians reported adjusted odds ratio (1.79), and the proportion of SSIs attributable to smoking calculated. The potential impact fraction was used to estimate reductions in SSIs and associated HBDs and costs from reducing the smoking rates among surgical patients from 23.9% to 10% or 5% targets. Uncertainty around the final estimates was calculated using probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

Results

In 2016–17, approximately 40,593 (95% UI 32,543, 50,239) people having a surgical procedure in Australia experienced a SSI leading to 101,888 extra days (95% UI 49,988, 200,822) in hospital. If the smoking rate among surgical patients was reduced to 10%, 3,580 (95% UI 2,312, 5,178) SSIs would be prevented, and 8,985 (95% UI 4,094, 19,153) HBDs and $19.1M (95% UI $7.7M, $42.5M) saved in one year. If the smoking rate was reduced to 5%, 4,867 (95% UI 3,268, 6,867) SSIs would be prevented, and 12,217 (95% UI 5,614, 25,642) HBDs and $26.0M (95% UI $10.8M, $57.0M) would be saved.

Conclusions

The findings suggest achieving smoking rate targets of 10% or 5% would provide substantial short-term health and economic benefits through reductions in SSIs. Embedding tobacco dependence treatment in Australian hospitals would provide value for money by reducing costs and improving clinical quality and safety. A more comprehensive, modelled economic evaluation synthesising the best available evidence is needed to confirm findings.
Weapon injuries in the crusader mass graves from a 13th century attack on the port city of Sidon (Lebanon)
Authors: Mikulski Richard N. R. , Schutkowski Holger , Smith Martin J. , Doumet-Serhal Claude , Mitchell Piers D.
Published: August 2021

Archaeological excavations close to St Louis’ castle in Sidon, Lebanon have revealed two mass grave deposits containing partially articulated and disarticulated human skeletal remains. A minimum of 25 male individuals have been recovered, with no females or young children. Radiocarbon dating of the human remains, a crusader coin, and the design of Frankish belt buckles strongly indicate they belong to a single event in the mid-13th century CE. The skeletal remains demonstrate a high prevalence of unhealed sharp force, penetrating force and blunt force trauma consistent with medieval weaponry. Higher numbers of wounds on the back of individuals than the front suggests some were attacked from behind, possibly as they fled. The concentration of blade wounds to the back of the neck of others would be compatible with execution by decapitation following their capture. Taphonomic changes indicate the skeletal remains were left exposed for some weeks prior to being collected together and re-deposited in the defensive ditch by a fortified gateway within the town wall. Charring on some bones provides evidence of burning of the bodies. The findings imply the systematic clearance of partially decomposed corpses following an attack on the city, where adult and teenage males died as a result of weapon related trauma. The skeletons date from the second half of the Crusader period, when Christian-held Sidon came under direct assault from both the Mamluk Sultanate (1253 CE) and the Ilkhanate Mongols (1260 CE). It is likely that those in the mass graves died during one of these assaults.
Population-based socio-demographic household assessment of livelihoods and health among communities in Migori County, Kenya over multiple timepoints (2021, 2024, 2027): A study protocol
Authors: Starnes Joseph R. , Wamae Jane , Okoth Vincent , Ressler Daniele J. , Were Vincent , Were Lawrence P. O. , Moon Troy D. , Wamai Richard
Published: August 2021

Migori County is located in western Kenya bordering Lake Victoria and has traditionally performed poorly on important health metrics, including child mortality and HIV prevalence. The Lwala Community Alliance is a non-governmental organization that serves to promote the health and well-being of communities in Migori County through an innovative model utilizing community health workers, community committees, and high-quality facility-based care. This has led to improved outcomes in areas served, including improvements in childhood mortality. As the Lwala Community Alliance expands to new programming areas, it has partnered with multiple academic institutions to rigorously evaluate outcomes. We describe a repeated cross-sectional survey study to evaluate key health metrics in both areas served by the Lwala Community Alliance and comparison areas. This will allow for longitudinal evaluation of changes in metrics over time. Surveys will be administered by trained enumerators on a tablet-based platform to maintain high data quality.
The applicability of basic preventive measures of the pandemic COVID-19 and associated factors among residents in Guraghe Zone
Authors: Dessu Samuel , Tsehay Tadesse , Girum Tadele , Timerga Abebe , Solomon Mamo , Tsegaye Baye , Geremew Mulugeta , Migora Biru , Mesfin Yibeltal , Kemal Abdurezak , Alebel Fisha , Tolosa Omega , Tesfa Shegaw , Yasin Fedila
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Internationally, countries have reacted to the COVID-19 outbreak by introducing key public health non-pharmaceutical interventions to protect vulnerable population groups. In response to COVID-19, the Government of Ethiopia has been taking a series of policy actions beyond public health initiatives alone. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the applicability of basic preventive measures of the pandemic COVID-19 and associated factors among the residents of Guraghe Zone from 18th to 29th September, 2020.

Methods

Community based cross sectional study was conducted at Guraghe Zone from 18th to 29th September, 2020. Systematic random sampling method was applied among the predetermined 634 samples. Variables which had p-value less than 0.25 in bivariate analysis were considered as candidate for multivariable logistic regression model. P-value <0.05 was used as a cutoff point to determine statistical significance in multiple logistic regressions for the final model.

Result

In this study, 17.7% (95% CI: 14.7, 20.5) of the respondents apply the basic preventive measures towards the prevention of the pandemic COVID-19. In addition, being rural resident (AOR: 4.78,; 95%CI: 2.50, 8.90), being studied grade 1–8 (AOR: 3.70; 95%CI: 1.70, 7.90), being a farmer (AOR: 4.10; 95%CI: 1.25, 13.35), currently not married (AOR: 2.20, 95%CI: 1.24, 4.06), having family size 1-3(AOR: 6.50; 95%CI: 3.21, 3.35), have no diagnosed medical illness (AOR: 6.40; 95%CI: 3.85, 10.83) and having poor knowledge (AOR: 3.50; 95%CI: 1.60, 7.40) were factors which are statistically significant in multivariable logistic regression model.

Conclusion

Despite the application of preventive measures and vaccine delivery, the applicability of the pandemic COVID-19 preventive measures was too low, which indicate that the Zone is at risk for the infection. Rural residents, those who have lower educational level, farmers, non-marrieds, those who have lower family size, those who have diagnosed medical illnesses and those who have poor knowledge were prone to the infection with the pandemic COVID-19 due to the lower practice of applying the basic preventive measures. In addition, awareness creation should be in practice at all levels of the community especially lower educational classes and rural residents.
Activation of Cph1 causes ß(1,3)-glucan unmasking in Candida albicans and attenuates virulence in mice in a neutrophil-dependent manner
Authors: Wagner Andrew S. , Hancock Trevor J. , Lumsdaine Stephen W. , Kauffman Sarah J. , Mangrum Mikayla M. , Phillips Elise K. , Sparer Timothy E. , Reynolds Todd B.
Published: August 2021

Masking the immunogenic cell wall epitope ß(1,3)-glucan under an outer layer of mannosylated glycoproteins is an important virulence factor deployed by Candida albicans during infection. Consequently, increased ß(1,3)-glucan exposure (unmasking) reveals C. albicans to the host’s immune system and attenuates its virulence. We have previously shown that activation of the Cek1 MAPK pathway via expression of a hyperactive allele of an upstream kinase (STE11ΔN467) induced unmasking. It also increased survival of mice in a murine disseminated candidiasis model and attenuated kidney fungal burden by ≥33 fold. In this communication, we utilized cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression to test if the clearance of the unmasked STE11ΔN467 mutant was dependent on the host immune system. Suppression of the immune response by cyclophosphamide reduced the attenuation in fungal burden caused by the STE11ΔN467 allele. Moreover, specific depletion of neutrophils via 1A8 antibody treatment also reduced STE11ΔN467-dependent fungal burden attenuation, but to a lesser extent than cyclophosphamide, demonstrating an important role for neutrophils in mediating fungal clearance of unmasked STE11ΔN467 cells. In an effort to understand the mechanism by which Ste11ΔN467 causes unmasking, transcriptomics were used to reveal that several components in the Cek1 MAPK pathway were upregulated, including the transcription factor CPH1 and the cell wall sensor DFI1. In this report we show that a cph1ΔΔ mutation restored ß(1,3)-glucan exposure to wild-type levels in the STE11ΔN467 strain, confirming that Cph1 is the transcription factor mediating Ste11ΔN467-induced unmasking. Furthermore, Cph1 is shown to induce a positive feedback loop that increases Cek1 activation. In addition, full unmasking by STE11ΔN467 is dependent on the upstream cell wall sensor DFI1. However, while deletion of DFI1 significantly reduced Ste11ΔN467-induced unmasking, it did not impact activation of the downstream kinase Cek1. Thus, it appears that once stimulated by Ste11ΔN467, Dfi1 activates a parallel signaling pathway that is involved in Ste11ΔN467-induced unmasking.
Effects of the prebiotic lactoferrin on multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli infections in broiler chickens
Authors: Badr Heba , Nabil Nehal M. , Tawakol Maram M.
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: Increased multidrug resistance in Escherichia coli has created challenges for the poultry industry. Consequently, new antimicrobial agents should preferentially be utilized for the prevention and treatment of E. coli outbreaks. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of lactoferrin (LF) as a prebiotic on broiler chicks challenged with multidrug-resistant E. coli in comparison with antibiotics.

Materials and Methods: A total of 70 diseased flocks from Egypt were collected for E. coli isolation and identification, serotyping, and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern determination. E. coli was isolated and characterized phenotypically and one isolate that showed multidrug-resistance was selected. A challenge trial was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of LF as a prebiotic on the isolated multidrug-resistant E. coli. Liver samples were collected from the experimental chicks and subjected to E. coli enumeration to illustrate the effectiveness of LF on the liver cells and bacteria using an electron microscope. Serum samples were also collected to estimate lysozyme and nitric oxide (NO) concentrations.

Results: After isolation of E. coli with a percentage of 54.3% from the diseased broilers, the strain was serotyped (identified serotypes: O2, O18, O55, O78, O86a, O111, O125, O126, O127, O157, O159, and O166). Multi-antibiotic resistance was found to be harbored in a high percentage among 11 antibiotic discs. The LF in the prophylactic and treated groups was found to have a significant effect in comparison with the group treated with the drug of choice (ciprofloxacin). Furthermore, a significant difference in the NO (one of non-specific immune response) and a non-significant difference in lysozyme concentrations were reported in the group fed on rations with LF in comparison with the non-fed group.

Conclusion: LF was thus identified as an effective prebiotic that can improve chick performance, help them to overcome multidrug-resistant E. coli and stimulate immunity.
Association of Self-Concept with Oral Health Status among Children Residing in Orphanages in Bengaluru
Authors: Chandran Thara , Ravindranath Nagashree Savanur , Raju Rekha , Samuel Soumi , James Jesline Merly , Mistry Freddy
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND Self-concept is a fundamental domain of a person’s psychological function. Relation with family members and peers may influence self-concept which poses children in orphanages at risk. In order to implement and evaluate oral health interventions, we need to consider the functional and psychosocial dimensions of oral health. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between self-concept and oral health status among 12 - 17 year olds residing in orphanages in Bengaluru. METHODS The study was carried out among children living in orphanages. A cluster sampling method was used to select 269 participants from 9 orphanages in Bengaluru. The self-concept of the study participants was assessed using R. K. Saraswat’s selfconcept questionnaire. Oral health status was recorded using world health organization (WHO) oral health assessment form 2013. RESULTS Majority of the children in orphanages had an above average (45 %) and average selfconcept (39 %). Dental caries was present in 91.1 %, missing teeth in 19.7 %, filled teeth in 20.4 %, dental trauma in 17.9, gingival bleeding in 14.5 %, erosion in 5.9 % and oral mucosal lesions in 10.03 % of study participants. CONCLUSIONS Orphan children have an above average self-concept but are at an increased risk for oral diseases. KEY WORDS Self-Concept, Dental Caries, Gingivitis, Trauma, Orphanage
Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders – A Review
Authors: Gopi Indra , Muthukrishnan Arvind , G. Maragathavalli
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are a group of disorders associated with temporomandibular joints, their associated muscles, and other related structures. TMD present with pain in the joints and related structures which can radiate to the neighbouring areas mimicking ear pains, headaches, neuropathic pain and odontogenic pain. Even though TMDs are more seen in both genders, the ratio of women reporting with TMD is higher (2:1) than men. Pain, the commonest symptom encountered, is usually chronic in duration and mild to severe in intensity. Various other signs and symptoms described are clicking or popping noise, deviation of the mandible, restricted mouth opening and jaw movements. Multiple factors have been reported as an aetiology, however, there is no definite established aetiology to cause TMD. Approaches to the management of TMDs require thorough history taking, clinical and radiological assessment and proper treatment planning. The signs, symptoms, and prevalence of the diseases are also necessary considerations in the treatment planning of TMDs. Traditional approaches in the management of TMDs involve systemic medications, physical therapies, and surgical interventions. The first line of systemic medications to be advised to relieve pain are analgesics. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, muscle relaxants, barbiturates like benzodiazepine have been frequently administered. In recent times, extraction of impacted or buccoverted third molar teeth has also proven to be effective in reducing the pain associated with TMDs. The purpose of this study is to provide new clinical practice guidelines to establish a multidisciplinary approach in the management of patients with TMDs and to improve the patient’s quality of life (QoL). KEY WORDS Pain, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, TMD, Treatment Guidelines
Lipoma of Oral Cavity – A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Mohite Deepali Prakash , Mohite Prakash M. , Udapure Snehal U.
Published: August 2021

Connective tissue neoplasms or soft tissue tumours as they are popularly called are mesenchymal neoplasms that affect any part of the body. They occur frequently in all organs including the head and neck region and the oral cavity is no exception. The frequency of their occurrence contributes to 15 - 20 % of all head and neck neoplasms and neoplasms of oral cavity form 1 - 4 % of the reported lesions,1,2 representing 2.2 % of all lipomas.3 In a study by Moreno SE et al. in 2016 the most frequently affected sites were the buccal mucosa followed by the lips, tongue, palate, and other areas of the oral cavity.4Here we are documenting a case occurring in the buccal mucosa.
Non-Surgical Management of Iatrogenic Extrusion of Calcium Hydroxide Based Intracanal Medicament in Clinical Endodontics – A Case Report
Authors: Khandelwal Akshay
Published: August 2021

Calcium hydroxide is used as an intracanal medicament in endodontics as it reduces intracanal microbial load and exudate discharge from infected teeth. Reports have shown that extrusion of calcium hydroxide periapically leads to an increased incidence of swelling, delayed periapical healing, nerve paraesthesia and other complications. Teeth with immature apex or those undergoing apical resorption are prone to higher chances of periapical medicament extrusion, especially under high pressure delivery systems. This case report discusses nonsurgical management of periapically extruded non-setting calcium hydroxide by an innovative technique which is less invasive and comfortable both for the clinician and the patient. Calcium hydroxide is widely used as an intracanal medicament for the treatment of pulpal and periapical diseases.1 The intracanal placement of calcium hydroxide can be done with a lentulospiral or a syringe-based delivery system.2 If extruded periapically, there is an increased incidence of swelling, delayed periapical healing, nerve paraesthesia and other complications.3 Case reports in the past have suggested surgical management of periapically extruded calcium hydroxide. The purpose of this case report is to discuss an orthograde nonsurgical management of periapically extruded calcium hydroxide based intracanal medicament containing barium sulphate during endodontic treatment.
A hazai csődmodell-család alkalmazása ágazati centroidokra
Authors: Virág Miklós , Dóbé Sándor
Published: August 2021

A szerzők írásukban a pénzügyi mutatószámokon alapuló csődelőrejelző modellekkel, azok egy speciális alkalmazásával foglalkoznak. A csődmodellek olyan statisztikai eszközök, amelyek alkalmasak egy vizsgált elem pénzügyi viszonyszámokon alapuló besorolására két adott kategória (csődös és túlélő) egyikébe. A csődmodellek hagyományos vizsgálati egységei a vállalatok, mivel általában ezekről kell eldönteni, vajon inkább a csődveszélyt, vagy inkább a gazdasági életképességet mutató jegyeket viselik-e magukon. E cikk keretei között azonban nem vállalatokat, hanem nemzetgazdasági ágazatokat vizsgálnak - mégpedig úgy, hogy a szükséges pénzügyi viszonyszám-inputokat az ágazati szinten aggregált kimutatásokból készítik el, és ezeket helyettesítik a modellekbe.
Does privatization make Brazilian airports more efficient?
Authors: Toledo Fernanda Silva , Falcão Viviane Adriano , Camioto Flávia de Castro , da Silva Paulo Afonso Lopes
Published: August 2021

Airport concessions to private management began in Brazil in 2011 to address infrastructure bottlenecks and the need for investments. Productivity improvements after privatization need to be measured and efficiency gains can help to identify strategic points where to intervene both in current and upcoming concessions. However, previous studies have applied neither the Slacks-Based Measure Data Analysis Envelopment models nor the second stage Tobit regression to evaluate airport efficiency, especially in the context of Brazilian airport privatization. The objective of this study is to verify if privatization contributes to improving Brazilian airports' productive efficiency compared with public airports, using variable slacks and identifying new socio-economic variables that may influence the productive efficiency index. A two-stage SBM-DEA approach found that only 40% of the sample among 28 airports are efficient, evidencing poor management overall, and the slacks show the sectors that need most attention and investments. Based on the productive process and the sample evaluated, the study concludes that privatization of Brazilian airports did not improve their production efficiency. A revision of the contracts in the first round of concessions is suggested, as contractual obligation may result in lower production efficiency.
In the face of sociopolitical and cultural challenges: Educational leaders’ strategic thinking skills
Authors: Da’as Rima’a , ’Ali Nohad
Published: August 2021

This article discusses the implications of sociopolitical and cultural challenges and complexity on educational leaders’ use of strategic thinking skills in divided societies, using the case of Israel, a deeply divided society with a hegemonic Jewish ethno-national state and Bedouins – a subculture of the minority Arabs. In the suggested model, we propose that, due to sociopolitical and cultural challenges, Bedouin school principals use ‘systems thinking’ skills as a holistic approach to coping with their complex environment. Jewish principals use the additional strategic skills of reflection and reframing. We provide the results of a preliminary empirical study, with 103 Bedouin and 67 Jewish principals, supporting our propositions. This article and its propositions open avenues for research into principals’ perceptions in deeply divided contexts and contribute to cognitive characteristics of leadership by explaining the implications of specific contexts for strategic thinking.
Staying forever curious in a world of ideas
Authors: Mayer Richard E.
Published: August 2021

I certainly entered academic life with an underdeveloped and naïve view of what was to come. In this essay I have tried to give my younger self 10 nuggets of acquired wisdom for how to live an academic life based on what I have learned since starting graduate school in 1969. If any of these 10 observations makes sense to you, I will consider this exercise to have been a success.Download the PDF and read Dr. Mayer's nuggets of wisdom.
Survey on economic considerations and decisions of key geodata providers and users in Czech public administration
Authors: Řezník Tomáš , Charvát Karel , Herman Lukáš , Konečný Milan
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the results of an empirical economic data-based survey of the costs and revenues of geographical data and Web services across public administration in Czechia. The survey was composed of questionnaires and interviews. The data was collected from the 19 biggest public producers of geographical information and 25 organizations that use geographical information. The results focus on the economic consequences of data opening, splitting finances within public administration bodies, the prioritization of activities related to geographical information, licensing issues and life cycle planning etc. We also consider user opinions on the restrictions on the (re)use of geographical information of public administration, including open data.
Impact of climate change on phenology of Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook.) Raf. across Mumbai
Authors: Farhan Suraliwala , Bindu Gopalkrishnan
Published: August 2021

The average annual temperatures are gradually increasing over time since few decades. This has led to global warming and change in climate. The increase in temperature has not only affected the humans but the flora too. In many flowering plants the temperature has altered the phenology (timing) of flowering, example Cassia fistula, Samanea saman, Delonix regia etc. An attempt is made to investigate the tree Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook.) Raf. commonly known as Gulmohar. It is monitored for its flowering time since 2016 to 2019. The area selected for study was Bhayandar, Mira road, Andheri and Vile Parle in Mumbai. The data obtained was further analyzed with the literature from different Flora’s and research papers. The actual flowering time according to the old literature was April to June. Since few years it has been observed that Gulmohar flowered twice i.e. October to December and also April to June. The amount of flowers bloomed during October – December was scanty while mass bloom was witnessed during April to June. The phenology of flowering has shifted earlier in response to warming during October – December. The shift in the timing of flowering may have resulted in reproductive failure in the plant. This behaviour of plants is of great concern. More broadly it is important to mitigate climate change by controlling global warming in order to conserve the D. regia trees. It can be used as bio indicator stating the climate change in Mumbai.
Nonuniform dichotomy spectrum and reducibility for nonautonomous difference equations
Authors: Chu Jifeng , Liao Fang-Fang , Siegmund Stefan , Xia Yonghui , Zhu Hailong
Published: August 2021

For nonautonomous linear difference equations, we introduce the notion of the so-called nonuniform dichotomy spectrum and prove a spectral theorem. As an application of the spectral theorem, we prove a reducibility result.
Measuring the Impact of Insurance on Recovery after Extreme Weather Events Using Nightlights
Authors: Owen Sally , Noy Ilan , Pástor-Paz Jacob , Fleming David
Published: August 2021

Climate change is predicted to make extreme weather events worse and more frequent in many places around the world. In New Zealand, the Earthquake Commission (EQC) was created to provide insurance for earthquakes. In some circumstances, however, homeowners affected by extreme weather events can also make claims to the EQC – for landslip, storm or flood events. In this paper, we explore the impact of this public natural hazard insurance on recovery from weather-related events. We do this by using a proxy for short-term economic recovery: satellite imagery of average monthly night-time radiance. Linking these night-time light data to precipitation data records, we compare areas which experienced damage from extreme rainfall episodes to those that suffered no damage even though they experienced extreme rainfall. Using data from three recent intense storms, we find that areas that experienced property damage, and were paid in a timely manner by EQC, did not fare any worse than areas that suffered no property damage but were exposed to these extreme precipitation events. This finding suggests that EQC insurance is serving its stated purpose by protecting claimants from the adverse impact of extreme weather events.