bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mitochondrial and chloroplast dual targeting of a multifunctional plant viral protein modulates chloroplast‐to‐nucleus communication, RNA silencing suppressor activity, encapsidation, pathogenesis and tissue tropism
Authors: Navarro Jose A. , Saiz‐Bonilla Maria , Sanchez‐Navarro Jesus A. , Pallas Vicente
Published: July 2021

Plant defense against melon necrotic spot virus (MNSV) is triggered by the viral auxiliary replicase p29 that is targeted to mitochondrial membranes causing morphological alterations, oxidative burst and necrosis. Here we show that MNSV coat protein (CP) was also targeted to mitochondria and mitochondrial‐derived replication complexes [viral replication factories or complex (VRC)], in close association with p29, in addition to chloroplasts. CP import resulted in the cleavage of the R/arm domain previously implicated in genome binding during encapsidation and RNA silencing suppression (RSS). We also show that CP organelle import inhibition enhanced RSS activity, CP accumulation and VRC biogenesis but resulted in inhibition of systemic spreading, indicating that MNSV whole‐plant infection requires CP organelle import. We hypothesize that to alleviate the p29 impact on host physiology, MNSV could moderate its replication and p29 accumulation by regulating CP RSS activity through organelle targeting and, consequently, eluding early‐triggered antiviral response. Cellular and molecular events also suggested that S/P domains, which correspond to processed CP in chloroplast stroma or mitochondrion matrix, could mitigate host response inhibiting p29‐induced necrosis. S/P deletion mainly resulted in a precarious balance between defense and counter‐defense responses, generating either cytopathic alterations and MNSV cell‐to‐cell movement restriction or some degree of local movement. In addition, local necrosis and defense responses were dampened when RSS activity but not S/P organelle targeting was affected. Based on a robust biochemical and cellular analysis, we established that the mitochondrial and chloroplast dual targeting of MNSV CP profoundly impacts the viral infection cycle.
Nuclear–cytoplasmic balance: whole genome duplications induce elevated organellar genome copy number
Authors: Fernandes Gyorfy Matheus , Miller Emma R. , Conover Justin L. , Grover Corrinne E. , Wendel Jonathan F. , Sloan Daniel B. , Sharbrough Joel
Published: July 2021

The plant genome is partitioned across three distinct subcellular compartments: the nucleus, mitochondria, and plastids. Successful coordination of gene expression among these organellar genomes and the nuclear genome is critical for plant function and fitness. Whole genome duplication (WGD) events in the nucleus have played a major role in the diversification of land plants and are expected to perturb the relative copy number (stoichiometry) of nuclear, mitochondrial, and plastid genomes. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms whereby plant cells respond to the cytonuclear stoichiometric imbalance that follows WGDs represents an important yet underexplored question in understanding the evolutionary consequences of genome doubling. We used droplet digital PCR to investigate the relationship between nuclear and organellar genome copy numbers in allopolyploids and their diploid progenitors in both wheat and Arabidopsis. Polyploids exhibit elevated organellar genome copy numbers per cell, largely preserving the cytonuclear stoichiometry observed in diploids despite the change in nuclear genome copy number. To investigate the timescale over which cytonuclear stoichiometry may respond to WGD, we also estimated the organellar genome copy number in Arabidopsis synthetic autopolyploids and in a haploid‐induced diploid line. We observed corresponding changes in organellar genome copy number in these laboratory‐generated lines, indicating that at least some of the cellular response to cytonuclear stoichiometric imbalance is immediate following WGD. We conclude that increases in organellar genome copy numbers represent a common response to polyploidization, suggesting that maintenance of cytonuclear stoichiometry is an important component in establishing polyploid lineages.
Evidence‐Based Practice Culture and Mentorship Predict EBP Implementation, Nurse Job Satisfaction, and Intent to Stay: Support for the ARCC© Model
Authors: Melnyk Bernadette Mazurek , Tan Alai , Hsieh Andreanna Pavan , Gallagher‐Ford Lynn
Published: July 2021

Background

The Advancing Research and Clinical practice through close Collaboration (ARCC©) Model is a system‐wide framework for implementing and sustaining evidence‐based practice (EBP) in hospitals and healthcare systems. The model involves assessing organizational culture and readiness for EBP in addition to the development of a critical mass of EBP mentors who work with point‐of‐care clinicians to facilitate the implementation of evidence‐based care. Determining how the various components of the ARCC© Model relate to one another is important for understanding how EBP culture and mentorship impact EBP implementation, nurses’ job satisfaction, and intent to stay.

Aims

The current study aimed to test a model that could explain the relationships and direct pathways among eight key variables in the ARCC© Model: (1) EBP culture, (2) mentorship, (3) knowledge, (4) beliefs, (5) competency, (6) implementation, (7) nurses’ job satisfaction, and (8) intent to stay.

Methods

Structural equation modeling was used to test relationships among the variables in the ARCC© Model with data obtained from an earlier cross‐sectional descriptive study with 2,344 nurses from 19 hospitals and healthcare systems across the United States.

Results

The final structural equation model found that EBP culture and mentorship were key variables that positively impacted EBP knowledge, beliefs, competency, implementation, job satisfaction, and intent to stay among nurses.

Linking Evidence to Action

As described in the ARCC© Model, establishing a strong sustainable EBP culture along with a critical mass of EBP mentors is crucial for the development of EBP competency and consistent implementation of evidence‐based care by nurses. A strong EBP culture along with EBP mentorship also can result in higher job satisfaction and intent to stay. Implementation of the ARCC© Model is a key strategy in assisting systems to reach health care’s Quadruple Aim.
Integrative ichthyological species delimitation in the Greenthroat Darter complex (Percidae: Etheostomatinae)
Authors: MacGuigan Daniel J. , Hoagstrom Christopher W. , Domisch Sami , Hulsey C. Darrin , Near Thomas J.
Published: July 2021

Species delimitation is fundamental to deciphering the mechanisms that generate and maintain biodiversity. Alpha taxonomy historically relied on expert knowledge to describe new species using phenotypic and biogeographic evidence, which has the appearance of investigator subjectivity. In contrast, DNA‐based methods using the multispecies coalescent model (MSC) promise a more objective approach to describing biodiversity. However, recent criticisms suggest that under some conditions the MSC may over‐split lineages, identifying species that do not reflect biological reality. Here, we reconcile these approaches using empirical data for the Greenthroat Darter complex (Etheostoma lepidum), a small freshwater fish species with a disjunct distribution in Texas and New Mexico, USA. We demonstrate that MSC methods recognizes all nine sampled populations as distinct species, sometimes splitting specimens from a single locality into multiple species. However, environmental, phenotypic, and biogeographic evidence do not corroborate the nine species supported by the MSC. Instead, collective evidence indicates that E. lepidum is comprised of just three species that are consistent with the molecular phylogeny: Etheostoma lepidum (Greenthroat Darter) in rivers draining the eastern Edwards Plateau, Etheostoma cf. lepidum (Texas Darter) in the Concho and San Saba rivers, and Etheostoma cf. lepidum (Pecos Darter) in the Pecos River. The Pecos Darter is likely highly imperiled due to its localized distribution and reliance on vanishing spring‐fed stream habitats. The impending biodiversity crisis makes integrative and swift species delimitation more necessary than ever. Our study exemplifies how classic taxonomic expertise combined with molecular phylogenetics can produce a more robust description of threatened biodiversity.
A construction of complex analytic elliptic cohomology from double free loop spaces
Authors: Spong Matthew
Published: July 2021

We construct a complex analytic version of an equivariant cohomology theory which appeared in a paper of Rezk, and which is roughly modelled on the Borel-equivariant cohomology of the double free loop space. The construction is defined on finite, torus-equivariant CW complexes and takes values in coherent holomorphic sheaves over the moduli stack of complex elliptic curves. Our methods involve an inverse limit construction over all finite-dimensional subcomplexes of the double free loop space, following an analogous construction of Kitchloo for single free loop spaces. We show that, for any given complex elliptic curve $\mathcal {C}$, the fiber of our construction over $\mathcal {C}$ is isomorphic to Grojnowski's equivariant elliptic cohomology theory associated to $\mathcal {C}$.
Sustainable Energy Solutions for Thermal Load in Buildings—Role of Heat Pumps, Solar Thermal, and Hydrogen-Based Cogeneration Systems
Authors: Cheekatamarla Praveen , Sharma Vishaldeep , Shen Bo
Published: July 2021

Economic and population growth is leading to increased energy demand across all sectors—buildings, transportation, and industry. Adoption of new energy consumers such as electric vehicles could further increase this growth. Sensible utilization of clean renewable energy resources is necessary to sustain this growth. Thermal needs in a building pose a significant challenge to the energy infrastructure. Potential technological solutions to address growing energy demand while simultaneously lowering the carbon footprint and enhancing the grid flexibility are presented in this study. Performance assessment of heat pumps, solar thermal collectors, nonfossil fuel-based cogeneration systems, and their hybrid configurations is reported in this study. The impact of design configuration, coefficient of performance (COP), electric grid’s primary energy efficiency on the key attributes of total carbon footprint, life cycle costs, operational energy savings, and site-specific primary energy efficiency are analyzed and discussed in detail. Heat pumps and hydrogen-fueled solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are highly effective building energy resources compared to traditional approaches; however, the carbon intensity of electrical energy and hydrogen production are keys to the overall environmental benefit.
Forecasting Repair and Maintenance Services of Medical Devices Using Support Vector Machine
Authors: Liao Hao-yu , Cade Willie , Behdad Sara
Published: July 2021

Accurate prediction of product failures and the need for repair services become critical for various reasons, including understanding the warranty performance of manufacturers, defining cost-efficient repair strategies, and compliance with safety standards. The purpose of this study is to use machine learning tools to analyze several parameters crucial for achieving a robust repair service system, including the number of repairs, the time of the next repair ticket or product failure, and the time to repair. A large data set of over 530,000 repairs and maintenance of medical devices has been investigated by employing the Support Vector Machine (SVM) tool. SVM with four kernel functions is used to forecast the timing of the next failure or repair request in the system for two different products and two different failure types, namely, random failure and physical damage. Frequency analysis is also conducted to explore the product quality level based on product failure and the time to repair it. Besides, the best probability distributions are fitted for the failure count, the time between failures, and the time to repair. The results reveal the value of data analytics and machine learning tools in analyzing post-market product performance and the cost of repair and maintenance operations.
Extended Dynamic Stiffness Model for Analyzing Flexure-Hinge Mechanisms With Lumped Compliance
Authors: Ling Mingxiang , Zhang Xianmin , Cao Junyi
Published: July 2021

This paper introduces an extended dynamic stiffness modeling approach for concurrent kinetostatic and dynamic analyses of planar flexure-hinge mechanisms with lumped compliance. First, two novel dynamic stiffness matrices are derived for two types of flexure hinge connected to rigid bodies by shifting the end node to the mass center of rigid bodies considering the geometric effect of rigid motion. A straightforward modeling procedure is then proposed for the whole compliant mechanism based on d'Alembert's principle by selecting the displacements at both the mass center of rigid bodies and the rest end nodes of flexure hinges as the hybrid state variables. With the presented method, the statics and dynamics of flexure-hinge mechanisms with irregular-shaped rigid bodies in complex serial-parallel configurations can be analyzed in a concise form. The presented method is compared with other theoretical models, finite element simulation, and experiments for three case studies of a bridge-type compliant mechanism, a leveraged XY precision positioning stage, and a Scott–Russell-mechanism-based XYθ flexure manipulator. The results reveal the easy operation and well prediction accuracy of the presented method.
Selective functionalization of partially etched SiNx to enhance SiO2 to SiNx etch selectivity
Authors: Gasvoda Ryan J. , Wang Xue , Kumar Prabhat , Hudson Eric A. , Agarwal Sumit
Published: July 2021

Selective functionalization of SiO2 and SiNx surfaces is challenging after atmospheric exposure or after exposure to an etching plasma chemistry as both surfaces tend to have similar functional groups. Here, we show that a SiNx surface can be selectively functionalized over SiO2 with benzaldehyde after the first atomic layer etching (ALE) cycle. Similar to our previous work on pristine plasma-deposited SiO2 and SiNx surfaces [R. J. Gasvoda, Z. Zhang, E. A. Hudson, and S. Agarwal, J. Vac. Sci Technol. A 39, 040401 (2021)], this selective functionalization can be used to increase the overall SiO2 to SiNx etch selectivity during ALE. The surface reactions, composition, and film thickness during ALE were monitored using in situ surface infrared spectroscopy and in situ four-wavelength ellipsometry. Our ALE process consisted of alternating cycles of CFx deposition from a C4F6/Ar plasma and an Ar activation plasma with an average ion energy of ∼210 eV. The first ALE cycle removed the surface SiOxNy layer on the SiNx surface and created reactive sites for selective benzaldehyde attachment.
Prescription Medication for Posttraumatic Headache Following Concussion: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Burns Karlee , Tierney Ryan , McDevitt Jane
Published: July 2021

Clinical Question: In individuals with posttraumatic headache following concussion, what impact does medication have? Clinical Bottom Line: Prescription medications may be beneficial for those suffering posttraumatic headache following concussion by decreasing headache symptoms and improving cognitive function, though long-term outcomes were similar between those taking and not taking medications.
Core Oligosaccharide Portion of Lipopolysaccharide Plays Important Roles in Multiple Antibiotic Resistance in Escherichia coli
Authors: Wang Jianli , Ma Wenjian , Fang Yu , Liang Hao , Yang Huiting , Wang Yiwen , Dong Xiaofei , Zhan Yi , Wang Xiaoyuan
Published: July 2021

Gram-negative bacteria are intrinsically resistant to antibiotics due to the presence of the cell envelope, but the mechanisms of this resistance are still not fully understood. In this study, a series of mutants that lack one or more major components associated with the cell envelope were constructed from
Escherichia coli
K-12 W3110.
In Vitro
,
In Vivo
, and Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion Evaluation of SF
5
-Containing
N,N’
-Diarylureas as Antischistosomal Agents
Authors: Probst Alexandra , Pujol Eugènia , Häberli Cécile , Keiser Jennifer , Vázquez Santiago
Published: July 2021

In recent years,
N,N’
-diarylureas have emerged as a promising chemotype for the treatment of schistosomiasis, a parasite-caused disease that poses a considerable health burden to millions of people worldwide. Here, we report a novel series of
N,N’
-diarylureas featuring the scarcely explored pentafluorosulfanyl group (SF
5
).
Deficiency of Innate Immunity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Enhances Behavioral Avoidance via the HECW-1/NPR-1 Module in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Bai Hua , Zou Wei , Zhou Wenhui , Zhang Keqin , Huang Xiaowei
Published: July 2021

To antagonize infection of pathogenic bacteria in soil and confer increased survival,
Caenorhabditis elegans
employs innate immunity and behavioral avoidance synchronously as the two main defensive strategies. Although both biological processes and their individual signaling pathways have been partially elucidated, knowledge of their interrelationship remains limited. The current study reveals that deficiency of innate immunity triggered by mutation of the classic immune gene
pmk-1
promotes avoidance behavior in
C. elegans
and vice versa.
Enhanced Fitness of a Helicobacter pylori
babA
Mutant in a Murine Model
Authors: Harvey M. Lorena , Lin Aung Soe , Sun Lili , Koyama Tatsuki , Shuman Jennifer H. B. , Loh John T. , Algood Holly M. Scott , Scholz Matthew B. , McClain Mark S. , Cover Timothy L.
Published: July 2021

Helicobacter pylori
genomes encode over 60 predicted outer membrane proteins (OMPs). Several OMPs in the Hop family act as adhesins, but the functions of most Hop proteins are unknown.
Activation by TyrR in Escherichia coli K-12 by Interaction between TyrR and the α-Subunit of RNA Polymerase
Authors: Camakaris Helen , Yang Ji , Fujii Tadashi , Pittard James
Published: July 2021

Regulation of transcription by RNA polymerases is fundamental for adaptation to a changing environment and for cellular differentiation, across all kingdoms of life. The gene
tyrR
in
Escherichia coli
is a particularly useful model because it is involved in both activation and repression of a large number of operons by a range of mechanisms, and it interacts with all three aromatic amino acids and probably other effectors.
The Deletion of
yeaJ
Gene Facilitates Escherichia coli Escape from Immune Recognition
Authors: Wang Xudong , Lin Xinguang , Wan Zhixin , Wang Shaohui , Zuo Jiakun , Wang Zhihao , Xu Yuanyuan , Han Xiangan , Miao Jinfeng
Published: July 2021

E. coli
is the etiological agent of environmental mastitis in dairy cows, which causes massive financial losses worldwide. However, the pathophysiological role of YeaJ in the interaction between
E. coli
and host remains unclear.
Appendicitis: a rare adverse event in colonoscopy
Authors: Al-Dury Samer , Khalil Mohammad , Sadik Riadh , Hedenström Per
Published: July 2021

We present a case of a 41-year-old woman who visited the emergency department (ED) with acute abdomen. She was diagnosed with perforated appendicitis and abscess formation on CT. She was treated conservatively with antibiotics and discharged. On control CT 3 months later, the appendix had healed, but signs of thickening of the terminal ileum were noticed and colonoscopy was performed, which was uneventful and showed no signs of inflammation. Twelve hours later, she developed pain in the right lower quadrant, followed by fever, and visited the ED. Physical examination and blood work showed signs consistent with acute appendicitis, and appendectomy was performed laparoscopically 6 hours later. The patient recovered remarkably shortly afterwards. Whether colonoscopy resulted in de novo appendicitis or exacerbated an already existing inflammation remains unknown. However, endoscopists should be aware of this rare, yet serious complication and consider it in the workup of post-colonoscopy abdominal pain.
Subglottic concretion masquerading as foreign body in a child with β thalassemia major: an airway nightmare!
Authors: Parikh Badal , Sahu Swayam , Gupta Devendra Kumar , Singh Vikram
Published: July 2021

Subglottic concretion is a rare and perilous condition usually presenting with existing or impending airway obstruction. Due to long-standing nature of the condition, slow progression of symptoms and rarity of occurrence, the condition is either missed or misdiagnosed. Its resemblance in presentation and symptoms to that of foreign body (FB) bronchus can lead to a diagnostic misadventure. Detailed history, chronology of symptoms and radiological imaging in conjunction with fiberoptic evaluation are keys for establishing correct diagnosis. Treatment outcomes in such cases depend on appropriate management approach with backup plan in tandem. We describe a child with β thalassemia major with subglottic concretion, which was erroneously diagnosed and managed as a case of subglottic FB due to its classical history and presentation. The aim is to highlight the circumstances leading to this diagnostic misadventure with emphasis on airway management, problems faced and lessons learnt during the same.
Tension hydrothorax in a patient with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonitis and pleuralMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Butt Mohsin F , Symonds Maggie , Khurram Ruhaid
Published: July 2021

Unilateral pleural effusions are uncommonly reported in patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonitis. Herein, we report a case of a 42-year-old woman who presented to hospital with worsening dyspnoea on a background of a 2-week history of typical SARS-CoV-2 symptoms. On admission to the emergency department, the patient was severely hypoxic and hypotensive. A chest radiograph demonstrated a large left-sided pleural effusion with associated contralateral mediastinal shift (tension hydrothorax) and typical SARS-CoV-2 changes within the right lung. She was treated with thoracocentesis in which 2 L of serosanguinous, lymphocyte-rich fluid was drained from the left lung pleura. Following incubation, the pleural aspirate sample tested positive forMycobacterium tuberculosis. This case demonstrates the need to exclude non-SARS-CoV-2-related causes of pleural effusions, particularly when patients present in an atypical manner, that is, with tension hydrothorax. Given the non-specific symptomatology of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonitis, this case illustrates the importance of excluding other causes of respiratory distress.
Connecting the dots: Kerala’s use of digital technology during the COVID-19 response
Authors: Ummer Osama , Scott Kerry , Mohan Diwakar , Chakraborty Arpita , LeFevre Amnesty Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

Digital tools are increasingly being applied to support the response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in India and elsewhere globally. This article draws from global frameworks to explore the use of digital tools in the state of Kerala across the domains of communication, surveillance, clinical management, non-clinical support, and core health system readiness and response. Kerala is considered India’s first digital state, with the highest percentage of households with computers (24%) and the internet (51%) in India, 95% mobile phone penetration, 62% smartphone penetration and 75% digital literacy. Kerala has long been a model for the early adoption of digital technology for education and health. As part of the pandemic response, technology has been used across private and public sectors, including law enforcement, health, information technology and education. Efforts have sought to ensure timely access to health information, facilitate access to entitlements, monitor those under quarantine and track contacts, and provide healthcare services though telemedicine. Kerala’s COVID-19 pandemic response showcases the diverse potential of digital technology, the importance of building on a strong health system foundation, the value of collaboration, and the ongoing challenges of data privacy and equity in digital access.
Does exposure to health information through mobile phones increase immunisation knowledge, completeness and timeliness in rural India?
Authors: Chakraborty Arpita , Mohan Diwakar , Scott Kerry , Sahore Agrima , Shah Neha , Kumar Nayan , Ummer Osama , Bashingwa Jean Juste Harrisson , Chamberlain Sara , Dutt Priyanka , Godfrey Anna , LeFevre Amnesty Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Immunisation plays a vital role in reducing child mortality and morbidity against preventable diseases. As part of a randomised controlled trial in rural Madhya Pradesh, India to assess the impact of Kilkari, a maternal messaging programme, we explored determinants of parental immunisation knowledge and immunisation practice (completeness and timeliness) for children 0–12 months of age from four districts in Madhya Pradesh.

Methods

Data were drawn from a cross-sectional survey of women (n=4423) with access to a mobile phone and their spouses (n=3781). Parental knowledge about immunisation and their child’s receipt of vaccines, including timeliness and completeness, was assessed using self-reports and vaccination cards. Ordered logistic regressions were used to analyse the factors associated with parental immunisation knowledge. A Heckman two-stage probit model was used to analyse completeness and timeliness of immunisation after correcting for selection bias from being able to produce the immunisation card.

Results

One-third (33%) of women and men knew the timing for the start of vaccinations, diseases linked to immunisations and the benefits of Vitamin-A. Less than half of children had received the basic package of 8 vaccines (47%) and the comprehensive package of 19 vaccines (44%). Wealth was the most significant determinant of men’s knowledge and of the child receiving complete and timely immunisation for both basic and comprehensive packages. Exposure to Kilkari content on immunisation was significantly associated with an increase in men’s knowledge (but not women’s) about child immunisation (OR: 1.23, 95% CI 1.02 to1.48) and an increase in the timeliness of the child receiving vaccination at birth (Probit coefficient: 0.08, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.24).

Conclusion

Gaps in complete and timely immunisation for infants persist in rural India. Mobile messaging programmes, supported by mass media messages, may provide one important source for bolstering awareness, uptake and timeliness of immunisation services.

Trial registration number

NCT03576157.
Analysis of the comprehensive non-pharmaceutical interventions and measures in containing the COVID-19 epidemic in Shenzhen: a retrospective study
Authors: Xu Shule , Liu Peiyi , Mei Shujiang , Lv Qiuying , Cheng Cong , Lu Yan , Kong Dongfeng , Wu Xiaoliang , Wen Ying , Cao Bin , Gao Shitong , Xiong Huawei , Zhao Jin , Huang Yuanyuan , Luo Yijuan , Feng Tiejian
Published: July 2021

Objective

To analyse the epidemiological characteristics of family clusters of COVID-19 and the three stages of the comprehensive non-pharmaceutical interventions and measures implemented in Shenzhen.

Methods

The epidemic curve of COVID-19 was drawn and the impact of the comprehensive non-pharmaceutical interventions and measures was analysed by the different periods of the epidemic.

Results

A total of 427 cases (417 confirmed cases and 10 asymptomatic infectious cases) were reported in Shenzhen, of which 259 (60.7%) were clustered cases. 97 cluster events were drawn and most cluster events (97.3%) occurred in families. There were three stages of the COVID-19 epidemic in Shenzhen. The epidemic increased rapidly, but the peak lasted for a short time, while the decline in incidence was rapid and large.

Conclusions

Family clusters were the main feature of the COVID-19 outbreak in Shenzhen in 2020, and the Shenzhen government rolled out a quick response to the epidemic. Non-pharmaceutical interventions and measures were proven to have effectively contained community transmission, limit the transmission to aggregation and reduce the scale of transmission within a household.
Microsatellite instability evaluation: which test to use for endometrial cancer?
Authors: Rafaniello-Raviele Paola , Betella Ilaria , Rappa Alessandra , Vacirca Davide , Tolva Gianluca , Guerrieri-Gonzaga Aliana , Bertario Lucio , Barberis Massimo , Bonanni Bernardo , Marabelli Monica
Published: July 2021

Aims

Analysis of microsatellite instability (MSI) is strongly recommended in endometrial cancer (EC) and colorectal cancer to screen for Lynch syndrome, to predict prognosis and to determine optimal treatment and follow-up. In a large monoinstitutional series of ECs, we evaluated the reliability and accuracy of Idylla assay, a rapid, fully automated system to detect MSI, and we compared its performance with two routine reference methods.

Methods

We evaluated MSI status in 174 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded EC tissue samples using immunohistochemistry (IHC) for mismatch repair (MMR) proteins and Idylla assay. Samples with discordant or equivocal results were analysed with a third technique, the Promega MSI kit.

Results

Idylla MSI assay and IHC were highly concordant (overall agreement: 154/170=90.59%, 95% CI 85.26% to 94.12%). However, in four samples, MMR-IHC staining was equivocal; moreover, 16 cases showed discordant results, that is, MMR deficient using IHC and microsatellite stable using Idylla. These 20 samples were reanalysed using the MSI-Promega kit, which showed the same results of Idylla assay in 18/20 cases (overall agreement: 90%, 95% CI 69.90% to 97.21%).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that IHC is an efficient method to determine MMR status in ECs. However, the Idylla MSI assay is a rapid and reliable tool to define MSI status, and it could represent a valuable alternative to conventional MSI-PCR methods.
Mechanisms of fibrinolysis resistance and potential targets for thrombolysis in acute ischaemic stroke: lessons from retrieved stroke emboli
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , Madalina Mereuta Oana , Dai Daying , Kallmes David F , Savastano Luis , Liu Yang , Nimjee Shahid M , Nogueira Raul G , Abbasi Mehdi , Kadirvel Ramanathan
Published: July 2021

There has been growing interest and insight into the histological composition of retrieved stroke emboli. One of the main focuses of the stroke clot analysis literature has been the implications of clot composition on mechanical thrombectomy procedures. However, the holy grail of clot analysis may not be in the field of clot–device interaction, but rather, in understanding mechanisms of fibrinolysis resistance. The mechanisms underlying the low response to fibrinolytic therapy, even with the newer, more powerful agents, remain poorly understood. While factors such as embolus size, location and collateral status influence alteplase delivery and recanalisation rates; compositional analyses focused on histological and ultrastructural characteristics offer unique insights into mechanisms of alteplase resistance. In this review, we strive to provide comprehensive review of current knowledge on clot composition and ultrastructural analyses that help explain resistance to fibrinolysis.
Changes in tobacco depictions after implementation of tobacco-free film and TV rules in Bollywood films in India: a trend analysis
Authors: Nazar Gaurang P , Arora Monika , Sharma Nitika , Shrivastava Surbhi , Rawal Tina , Chugh Aastha , Sinha Praveen , Munish Vineet Gill , Tullu Fikru Tesfaye , Schotte Kerstin , Polansky Jonathan R , Glantz Stanton
Published: July 2021

Background

India’s tobacco-free film and TV rules were implemented from 2012. To assess the effect of the rules, we studied tobacco depictions in top-grossing Bollywood films released between 2006 and 2017 and rule compliance after 2012.

Methods

Tobacco incidents and brand appearances were coded in 240 top-grossing Bollywood films (2006–2017) using the Breathe California method. Trends in number of tobacco incidents per film per year were studied before and after implementation of the rules using Poisson regression analysis. Compliance with rules over the years was studied using Pearson product-moment correlations.

Results

Forty-five films were U-rated (all ages), 162 were UA-rated (below age 12 years must be adult-accompanied), and 33 were A-rated (age 18+ years only). Before implementation of the rules, the number of tobacco incidents per film was increasing by a factor of 1.1/year (95% CI 1.0 to 1.2, p=0.002). However, beginning year 2013, the number of incidents per film started falling significantly by a factor of 0.7/year (95% CI 0.6 to 0.9; p=0.012) compared with the previous increasing trend. The percentage of youth-rated (U and UA) films with any tobacco incidents also declined from a peak of 76% in 2012 to 35% in 2017. The percentage of films complying with the rules (audio-visual disclaimers, health spots, static warnings) did not change significantly from 2012 to 2017.

Conclusion

India’s 2012 rules were followed by a reduction in tobacco depictions in Bollywood films. Enhanced monitoring of compliance is needed to ensure the continued effectiveness of the rules.
African elements in Saramaccan Maroon plant names in Suriname
Authors: Van’t Klooster Charlotte I.E.A. , Haabo Vinije , van den Berg Margot , Stoffelen Piet , Van Andel Tinde R.
Published: July 2021

The ancestors of the Saramaccan Maroons, who were brought as enslaved Africans to Suriname, used their ethnobotanical knowledge and native languages to name the flora in their new environment. Little is known about the influence of African languages on Saramaccan plant naming. We hypothesized that Saramaccan plant names were more influenced by Central African languages than found so far based on ethnobotanical research, mainly because data on the Central African region was scarce. We compiled a new database on Saramaccan plant names and compared these names with an unpublished plant name database from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the earlier published NATRAPLAND database on Afro–Surinamese plant names to find comparable plant names for botanically related species in Africa. We further analyzed form, meaning, function, and categories of Saramaccan plant name components by means of dictionaries and grammars. In total, 39% of the Saramaccan plant names had an African origin, of which 44% were African retentions, 54% were innovations, and 2% were misidentifications with botanical links to Africa via other plant species. Most retentions were of Central African origin (62%). The Bantu language that contributed most to Saramaccan plant names was Kikongo, followed by West African Kwa languages. Plant names reveal important information on the African origin of the Saramaccans and deserve more scientific attention.
Application of RPAS to disaster risk reduction in Brazil: application in the analysis of urban floods
Authors: Buffon Elaiz Aparecida Mensch , Mendonça Francisco
Published: July 2021

Geotechnologies have significant potential for application in socio-environmental analysis coupled to disaster risk reduction. Equipment and applications are available that are supported by scientific computing, promoting advances in the acquisition and processing of remote sensing data. Among these are two types: (i) the associated equipment to technology LiDAR (light detection and ranging) and (ii) remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) with platforms of remote sensors. Recently, an growing number of studies has been observed that have the potential for applications in the sensors equipped in RPAS for environmental studies, especially those that evaluate the impacts of natural disasters. In this context, the aim of this research is to demonstrate the possibilities of RPAS applications in the collection of data of interest in the management of natural disasters. Also associated with this task is the prospect of implementing some techniques of scientific computing necessary for the implementation of applications. With these activities, we seek to contribute to the advancement of the employment of RPAS in managing and preventing the risk of natural disasters.
An Extensible Compiler for Implementing Software Design Patterns as Concise Language Constructs
Authors: Ghaleb Taher Ahmed , Aljasser Khalid , Alturki Musab A.
Published: July 2021

Design patterns are generic solutions to common programming problems. Design patterns represent a typical example of design reuse. However, implementing design patterns can lead to several problems, such as programming overhead and traceability. Existing research introduced several approaches to alleviate the implementation issues of design patterns. Nevertheless, existing approaches pose different implementation restrictions and require programmers to be aware of how design patterns should be implemented. Such approaches make the source code more prone to faults and defects. In addition, existing design pattern implementation approaches limit programmers to apply specific scenarios of design patterns (e.g. class-level), while other approaches require scattering implementation code snippets throughout the program. Such restrictions negatively impact understanding, tracing, or reusing design patterns. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to support the implementation of software design patterns as an extensible Java compiler. Our approach allows developers to use concise, easy-to-use language constructs to apply design patterns in their code. In addition, our approach allows the application of design patterns in different scenarios. We illustrate our approach using three commonly used design patterns, namely Singleton, Observer and Decorator. We show, through illustrative examples, how our design pattern constructs can significantly simplify implementing design patterns in a flexible, reusable and traceable manner. Moreover, our design pattern constructs allow class-level and instance-level implementations of design patterns.
Controlled Switching Diffusions Under Ambiguity: The Average Criterion
Authors: Escobedo-Trujillo Beatris A. , Higuera-Chan Carmen G. , López-Barrientos José Daniel
Published: July 2021

This paper concerns controlled switching diffusions. In particular, we consider that the drift coefficient of the diffusion process depends on an unknown (and possibly nonobservable) parameter. For giving solution to our control problem, we formulate it as a game against nature, where the ambiguity is represented by nature that chooses values of the unknown parameter through actions so playing the role as an opposite player of the controller. Our objective is to give conditions to characterize the ergodic optimality and guarantee the existence of optimal policies for the central controller. Finally, we provide two examples to illustrate our results.
The domestic computer science graduate students are there, we just need to recruit them
Authors: Whalley David , Yuan Xin , Liu Xiuwen
Published: July 2021

Proven practices to recruit domestic computer science graduate students.
Biases in AI systems
Authors: Srinivasan Ramya , Chander Ajay
Published: July 2021

A survey for practitioners.
An Elderly Gentleman with Acute Lupus Pneumonitis as the Initial Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Ferrero Gina , Chernow Kate , Karpoff Marissa , Traisak Pamela , Feinstein David , Eid Hala
Published: July 2021

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease, with presentations that vary within a population and across the lifespan of an individual. The disease afflicts childbearing women more than men and uncommonly presents in the geriatric population. Lupus pneumonitis is rare, with a reported incidence of 1–4%. Herein, we discuss the case report of an elderly gentleman with biopsy-proven acute lupus pneumonitis (ALP) as an initial presentation of lupus. After starting high-dose steroids, the patient initially improved, though unfortunately endured a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction and recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding. Despite multiple interventions and a prolonged hospital course, his gastrointestinal bleeding persisted. He elected to go on home hospice and ultimately passed away due to ongoing gastrointestinal bleeding. As with our patient, elderly patients can pose a diagnostic dilemma with regard to late-onset lupus; multiple comorbidities and growing evidence that late-onset lupus may manifest with distinct clinical patterns from younger cohorts complicate diagnosis in these patients. It is critical to maintain a broad differential, which includes unusual rheumatic manifestations when management of common comorbidities fails to alleviate symptoms for an elderly patient. Failure to do so may result in delayed diagnosis of rheumatic disease and increased side effects related to treatment. Additionally, this case serves as a reminder that due to the complexity of rheumatic disease and the additional challenge of older patients with baseline comorbidities, sometimes palliative care options may be appropriate.
Phytochemical Analysis and Investigation of the Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activities of Croton dichogamus Pax Crude Root Extracts
Authors: Matara Dorine Nyak , Nguta Joseph Mwanzia , Musila Fredrick Mutie , Mapenay Isaac
Published: July 2021

Background. Increasing antimicrobial resistance has led to an arduous search for new potent drugs from nature. In this search, plants have proved to be rich reservoirs of efficacious medicinal components that manage ailments. The current study is designed to investigate the phytochemical composition, antimicrobial activity, and the cytotoxicity of the crude root extracts of Croton dichogamus, a shrub that is commonly used in the eastern Africa for the management of infectious diseases. Methods. The roots of Croton dichogamus were obtained, dried, ground, and extracted using three solvents (acetone, distilled water, and 50% ethanol). The antimicrobial activity was tested using agar well diffusion and microbroth dilution techniques against five human pathogens. The brine shrimp lethality assay was used to assess the toxic effect. Results. The phytochemical screening indicated the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, polyuronides, saponins, and anthracenes. The brine shrimp lethality assay indicated that all the extracts were highly cytotoxic with LC50 values below 100 μg/ml. Acetonic extract had an LC50 value of 4.148 μg/ml, hydroethanolic extract had 76.09 μg/ml, and aqueous extract had 42.61 μg/ml. All extracts showed the antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (B. cereus and S. aureus) and a fungal organism, C. albicans. The extracts showed no antibacterial effect on the Gram-negative bacterial strains (P. aeruginosa and E. coli) at a concentration of 250 mg/ml. The highest antimicrobial activity was demonstrated by the acetonic extract on B. cereus which had an MIC of 10.42 mg/ml and a zone of inhibition of 17.33 ± 0.58 at a concentration of 250 mg/ml. Conclusion. In this research work, we report that C. dichogamus had the antimicrobial activity confirming the folklore claim. The results made a strong case for isolation of novel anticancer lead compounds.
Numerical Simulation on Flow Field and Design Optimization of a Generator Unit Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis
Authors: Xu Yingying , Tan Libin , Yuan Yuejin , Zhang Man
Published: July 2021

Achieving an optimal cooling of the generator unit is indispensable for high working performance. In this work, computational fluid dynamics analysis on the flow field of the conventional type and silent type of the S688CCS series generator unit is conducted, and design optimization of the generator unit with poor cooling is studied based on flow field analysis results. Flow field simulation results indicate that the total cooling air quantity of the silent type generator unit is lower than that of the conventional type generator unit, and the cooling air quantity of the radiator is also lower than that of the conventional type generator unit, which is not conductive for the cooling of the silent type generator unit. The flow field optimization is achieved by adopting the single variable control method to improve the structure of the fan cover, silent components for silence, adjacent structure, and air inlet grille. The corresponding structure optimization scheme is put forward. After optimization, the air quantity for the cooling radiator of the silent type generator unit is 44.33% higher than that of its original structure, and the total cooling air quantity is higher than that of the conventional type generator unit. The research results in this work can provide a theoretical basis for the design of the cooling air flow path of generator units for achieving an optimal cooling performance.
Histone Deacetylation Regulated by KDM1A to Suppress DACT1 in Proliferation and Migration of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Zeng Lingjuan , Chen Chunyan , Yao Chanjiao
Published: July 2021

Objective. Increased expression of KDM1A and decreased expression of DACT1 in cervical cancer cells were noticed in a previous study. This study is aimed at exploring the mechanism behind the KDM1A regulation on DACT1 in cervical cancer cells. Methods. The expression profile of KDM1A and DACT1 in cervical cancer tissues was searched in TCGA database. In vitro experiments verified the effect of KDM1A and DACT1 on proliferation and migration ability of cervical cancer cell lines after cell transfection. The interaction of KDM1A with HDAC1 was identified by coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP). The expression levels of KDM1A and DACT1 in cervical cancer cell lines were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot. Results. TCGA database showed that cervical cancer tissues had elevated expression of KDM1A and decreased expression of DACT1, which was consistent with the observation in cervical cancer cell lines. KDM1A was found to negatively regulate DACT1 through histone deacetylation. Meanwhile, the downregulation of KDM1A or overexpression of DACT1 could suppress the cell proliferation and migration ability in HeLa and SiHa cells. Cotransfection of KDM1A and DACT1 overexpression could reverse the increased cell proliferation and migration ability induced by KDM1A overexpression. Conclusion. KDM1A can downregulate DACT1 expression through histone deacetylation and therefore suppress the proliferation and migration of cervical cancer cells.
Balancing Privacy-Utility of Differential Privacy Mechanism: A Collaborative Perspective
Authors: Liu Hai , Peng Changgen , Tian Youliang , Long Shigong , Wu Zhenqiang
Published: July 2021

Differential privacy mechanism can maintain privacy-utility monotonicity. Thus, differential privacy mechanism does not obtain privacy-utility balance for numerical data. To this end, we provide privacy-utility balance of differential privacy mechanism with the collaborative perspective in this paper. First, we constructed the collaborative model achieving privacy-utility balance of differential privacy mechanism. Second, we presented the collaborative algorithm of differential privacy mechanism under our collaborative model. Third, our theoretical analysis showed that the collaborative algorithm of differential privacy mechanism could keep privacy-utility balance. Finally, our experimental results demonstrated that the collaborative differential privacy mechanism can maintain privacy-utility balance. Thus, we provide a new collaborative model to solve the privacy-utility balance problem of differential privacy mechanism. Our collaborative algorithm is easy to apply to query processing of numerical data.
Management of an Extrusive Luxation Concomitant with Subluxation: A Case Report with Ten-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Mokhtari Saeedeh , Hosseini Sepideh , Khosrozadeh Maryam
Published: July 2021

Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are a public health concern with high prevalence and incidence rates. Proper intervention can significantly reduce the subsequent complications of these events. This case report describes the clinical interventions to manage a patient with traumatized maxillary incisor with severe extrusive luxation. The procedure was aimed at preserving pulp vitality and providing periodontal maintenance to the highest possible degree. Owing to timely and accurate treatments, ten years of success have been achieved in this patient, as discussed in this case report.