bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fermentation of whey and its permeate using a genetically modified strain of Escherichia coli K12 MG1655 to produce 2,3‐butanediol
Authors: Fernández‐Gutiérrez David , Veillette Marc , Ávalos Ramirez Antonio , Giroir‐Fendler Anne , Faucheux Nathalie , Heitz Michèle
Published: August 2021

Whey is generated during cheese manufacturing, and permeate whey is obtained after whey deproteinization. Both effluents contain lactose, which can cause environmental issues if they are released into the environment. The aim of the present study was the valorization of lactose contained in whey and permeate whey via fermentation into 2,3‐butanediol (2,3‐BD) with genetically modified strain of Escherichia coli K12 MG1655. Both effluents were first fermented at various dilution ratios with the culture medium M9 (50:50, 75:25, and 100:0, v/v). The fermentation of undiluted effluents produced the highest 2,3‐BD yield (0.43 g/g lactose) at 72 h. Afterwards, the effects of initial pH, inoculum size and agitation rate on 2,3‐BD yield in flask fermentation of undiluted effluents were studied. The agitation rates of 50 and 200 rpm resulted in lower 2,3‐BD yields compared with 100 rpm (67% lower). The effect of aeration (2.5 vvm) on 2,3‐BD yield was tested in a 2 L bioreactor, where a 2,3‐BD yield of 0.40 g/g lactose was obtained after 24 h. In the present study, it was demonstrated that both whey and permeate whey can be used to produce 2,3‐BD, reaching near 80% of the theoretical yield after 24 h of fermentation.
Mn2+ substitution within the {V14As8} polyoxovanadate archetype results in {Mn2V12As8} shells with trans‐positioned heterometal positions
Authors: Rasmussen Maren , Näther Christian , Kögerler Paul , Bensch Wolfgang
Published: August 2021

Solvothermal exploration of the As, V, Mn reaction system in the presence of aqueous diethylenetriamine (=dien) solution led to the discovery of [MnII4VIV12AsIII8O40(dien)4(H2O)] ⋅ 3.5H2O, containing the first arsenato‐polyoxovanadate featuring a {Mn2V12As8O40} cluster shell. In comparison to its parental {V14As8O42} archetype, two vanadyl (VO2+) units at opposite ends of the polyoxovanadate shell here are substituted by Mn2+ centers. In the solid state, these {Mn2V12As8O40} units are joined into rods by sharing common Mn−O−V linkages. Expansion of the cluster shell by two further Mn2+ sites via Mn−O=V bridges generates a {Mn4V12As8O40} moiety. Three Mn2+ cations are joined by monodentate‐coordinating dien ligands, which link the rods into layers. The dien ligands here coexist in three different coordination modes: monodentate, bidentate and tridentate, which is rarely observed. Magnetic susceptibility measurements show the expected significant antiferromagnetic coupling interactions between all spin centers present in the title compound, namely the isotropic spin‐5/2 Mn2+ centers and the isotropic spin‐1/2 vanadyl groups, in line with most other heterometal‐substituted arsenato‐polyoxovanadate(IV) clusters.
Numerical semigroups bounded by the translation of a plane monoid
Authors: Moreno-Frías M. A. , Rosales J. C.
Published: August 2021

Let $$\mathbb {N}$$
N
be the set of nonnegative integer numbers. A plane monoid is a submonoid of $$(\mathbb {N}^2,+)$$

(

N

2

,
+
)

. Let M be a plane monoid and $$p,q\in \mathbb {N}$$

p
,
q
∈
N

. We will say that an integer number n is M(p, q)-bounded if there is $$(a,b)\in M$$

(
a
,
b
)
∈
M

such that $$a+p\le n \le b-q$$

a
+
p
≤
n
≤
b
-
q

. We will denote by $${\mathrm A}(M(p,q))=\{n\in \mathbb {N}\mid n \text { is } M(p,q)\text {-bounded}\}.$$

A
(
M
(
p
,
q
)
)
=
{
n
∈
N
∣
n

is

M
(
p
,
q
)
-bounded
}
.

An $$\mathcal {A}(p,q)$$

A
(
p
,
q
)

-semigroup is a numerical semigroup S such that $$S= {\mathrm A}(M(p,q))\cup \{0\}$$

S
=
A
(
M
(
p
,
q
)
)
∪
{
0
}

for some plane monoid M. In this work we will study these kinds of numerical semigroups.
Intensivbettenbedarf für COVID‑19 im Herbst/Winter 2021
Authors: Schuppert Andreas , Weber-Carstens Steffen , Karagiannidis Christian
Published: August 2021

Hintergrund

Auch im Herbst 2021 droht trotz der steigenden Impfquoten gegen SARS-CoV-2 aufgrund saisonaler Veränderungen und der damit verbundenen erhöhten Infektionsraten eine erneute Infektionswelle mit einhergehender erneuter möglicher starker Belastung der Intensivmedizin. Im Folgenden sind verschiedene Szenarien mithilfe mathematischer Modelle simuliert, die unter der Annahme bestimmter Voraussetzungen eine Einschätzung hinsichtlich der Auslastung der Intensivbettenkapazitäten im Herbst in bestimmten Grenzen ermöglichen.

Methodik

Die Simulation der Szenarien verwendet ein stationäres Modell, ergänzt um den Effekt der Impfungen. Das altersgruppenspezifische Risikoprofil für einen intensivpflichtigen Krankheitsverlauf wird anhand von Einweisungsdaten der 3. Welle auf Intensivstationen in Sentinel-Kliniken, den lokalen DIVI-Register-Belegungsdaten sowie den entsprechenden lokalen Inzidenzen durch lineare Regression mit Zeitversatz berechnet. Wir simulieren hierbei Impfquoten von 15 % für die U18-Kohorte, 70 % für die 15- bis 34-jährige Kohorte, 75/80/85 % für die Kohorte von 35 bis 59 Jahren sowie 85/90/95 % für die Ü60-Kohorte. Die Simulationen berücksichtigen, dass eine Impfung zu 100 % vor einem intensivpflichtigen Krankheitsverlauf schützt. Für den Schutz vor Infektion der Geimpften wurden die Simulationen zum einen für das Szenario Impfschutz für 70 % der Geimpften und zum anderen für das Szenario Impfschutz für 85 % der Geimpften dargestellt.

Ergebnisse

Die Intensivbettenauslastung verläuft proportional zur Inzidenz. Der Faktor für dieses Verhältnis (Proportionalitätsfaktor) ist höher als in der 2. und 3. Welle, sodass vergleichbare Intensivbettenbelegungen erst bei höherer Inzidenz erreicht werden. Eine 10 %ige Steigerung der Impfquoten der Ü35 auf 85 % und der Ü60 auf 95 % führt zu einer erheblich verringerten Intensivbettenbelegung.

Diskussion

Es besteht auch in den kommenden Monaten eine enge und lineare Beziehung zwischen der SARS-CoV-2-Inzidenz und der Intensivbettenbelegung. Bereits ab Inzidenzen von 200/100.000 ist wieder eine erhebliche Belastung der Intensivstationen mit mehr als 3000 COVID-19-Patienten zu erwarten, sofern die Impfquote nicht noch deutlich gesteigert wird. Wenige Prozentpunkte in der Impfquote haben eine erhebliche Auswirkung auf die potenzielle Intensivbelegung im Herbst, sodass Bemühungen um die Steigerung der Impfakzeptanz in den kommenden Wochen im Vordergrund stehen sollten. Für die Intensivmedizin ist die Impfquote der über 35-Jährigen von entscheidender Bedeutung.
Women’s experiences of the injury, recovery and desire for rehabilitation after a second-degree vaginal tear—a qualitative study
Authors: Daremark Clara , Andréasson Lina , Gutke Annelie , Fagevik Olsén Monika
Published: August 2021

Introduction and hyposthesis

Eighty-five percent of all vaginal deliveries cause some form of obstetric tear injury. To our knowledge, there are no studies exploring experiences after second-degree tear. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the experiences of a second-degree vaginal tear regarding aspects of the recovery and need for healthcare and rehabilitation.

Methods

Individual semi-structured interviews were performed and analysed with a qualitative, inductive descriptive approach.

Results

A group of 18 women with a second-degree vaginal tear after delivery were included. Four main categories with associated subcategories were found: (1) feeling uncertainty, with subcategories: not knowing what is normal, concern, confusion and uncertainty regarding pelvic floor muscle training; (2) feeling of security, with subcategories: I have no/I can handle the symptoms, trust in the healthcare system and I have sufficient knowledge; (3) not prioritizing myself, with the subcategories: I cannot find time and others have bigger problems; (4) lack of trust in healthcare providers, with the subcategories: feeling forgotten, not being taken seriously, distrust of the competence of the healthcare providers and resignation.

Conclusion

Women who suffer from a second-degree vaginal tear after pregnancy can feel safe when needs are met but uncertainty is also common when available healthcare and information are perceived as insufficient. The women also feel uncertainty about what is normal after the tear and how to perform pelvic floor exercises.

Trial registration

This trial was registered in “FoU in Sweden” (Research and Development in Sweden). Registration number: 214591.
The role of cochlear implant positioning on MR imaging quality: a preclinical in vivo study with a novel implant magnet system
Authors: Canzi Pietro , Magnetto Marianna , Simoncelli Anna , Manfrin Marco , Aprile Federico , Lafe Elvis , Carlotto Elena , Avato Irene , Scribante Andrea , Preda Lorenzo , Benazzo Marco
Published: August 2021

Purposes

To investigate the effects for Ultra 3D cochlear implant (CI) positioning on MR imaging quality, looking at a comprehensive description of intracranial structures in cases of unilateral and bilateral CI placement.

Methods

Four CI angular positions (90°, 120°, 135° and 160°) at 9 cm distance from the outer-ear canal were explored. The 1.5 T MRI assessment included our institutional protocol for the investigation of brain pathologies without gadolinium application. Three investigators (two experienced neuroradiologists and one experienced otoneurosurgeon) independently evaluated the MR findings. A 4-point scale was adopted to describe 14 intracranial structures and to determine which CI positioning allowed the best image quality score and how bilateral CI placement modified MRI scan visibility.

Results

A high positive correlation was found between the three blinded observers. Structures situated contralateral from the CI showed high-quality values in all four placements. Structures situated ipsilaterally provided results suitable for diagnostic purposes for at least one position. At 90°, artifacts mainly involved brain structures located cranially and anteriorly (e.g., temporal lobe); on the contrary, at 160°, artifacts mostly influenced the posterior fossa structures (e.g., occipital lobe). For the bilateral CI condition, MR imaging examination revealed additional artifacts involving all structures located close to either CI, where there was a signal void/distortion area.

Conclusions

Suitable unilateral CI positioning can allow the visualization of intracranial structures with sufficient visibility for diagnostic purposes. Bilateral CI positioning significantly deteriorates the anatomical visibility. CI positioning might play a crucial role for patients who need post-operative MRI surveillance.
Role of ascorbic acid in the regulation of epigenetic processes induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis in endothelial-committed oral stem cells
Authors: Pizzicannella Jacopo , Marconi Guya Diletta , Guarnieri Simone , Fonticoli Luigia , Della Rocca Ylenia , Konstantinidou Fani , Rajan Thangavelu Soundara , Gatta Valentina , Trubiani Oriana , Diomede Francesca
Published: August 2021

Periodontitis is a common inflammatory disease that affects the teeth-supporting tissue and causes bone and tooth loss. Moreover, in a worldwide population, periodontal disease is often associated with cardiovascular diseases. Emerging studies have reported that one of the major pathogens related to periodontitis is Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), which triggers the inflammatory intracellular cascade. Here, we hypothesized a possible protective effect of ascorbic acid (AA) in the restoration of the physiological molecular pathway after exposure to lipopolysaccharide derived from P. gingivalis (LPS-G). In particular, human gingiva-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hGMSCs) and endothelial-differentiated hGMSCs (e-hGMSCs) exposed to LPS-G showed upregulation of p300 and downregulation of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), proteins associated with DNA methylation and histone acetylation. The co-treatment of AA and LPS-G showed a physiological expression of p300 and DNMT1 in hGMSCs and e-hGMSCs. Moreover, the inflammatory process triggered by LPS-G was demonstrated by evaluation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their intracellular localization. AA exposure re-established the physiological ROS levels. Despite the limitations of in vitro study, these findings collectively expand our knowledge regarding the molecular pathways involved in periodontal disease, and suggest the involvement of epigenetic modifications in the development of periodontitis.
Relationship between type of skin lesions and nailfold capillaroscopy pattern in mixed connective tissue disease
Authors: Felis-Giemza Anna , Ornowska Sylwia , Haładyj Ewa , Czuszyńska Zenobia , Olesińska Marzena
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rare disease with clinical picture consisted of multiple organ manifestations, including skin changes resembling systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), or dermatomyositis (DM). On the background of these manifestations are microvascular changes — alteration of endothelial function and impairment of endothelial progenitor cell. Nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) is a simple, non-invasive technique for investigating microvascular involvement in rheumatic diseases.

Objectives

To describe the relationship between type of skin lesions and NFC pattern in MCTD patients.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical picture and NFC patterns in 79 patients with MCTD. The NFC changes were classified into Normal, “Early,” “Active,” and “Late” scleroderma-like patterns (SD-like pattern) based on Cutolo classification.

In all patients, subjective and physical examinations were carried out, specifically the occurrence of skin lesions in the course of MCTD was assessed (systemic sclerosis-like (Ssc-like), systemic lupus erythematosus-like (SLE-like), dermatomysitis-like (DM-like)).

Results

Skin changes were present in 64 (81%) patients, involving 43 (54%) SLE-like, 48 (61%) SSc-like, and 4 (5.1%) DM-like. NFC changes were observed in a total of 55 (69.6 %) patients with predominance of the “Early” pattern — 41 (51.9 %) patients. According to skin change phenotypes, NFC changes were observed in 31 (72%) patients with SLE-like and in 32 (66.7%) patients with SSc-like skin phenotypes. The “early” pattern predominated in both group.

Conclusions

We did not find any correlation between NFC pattern and the type skin changes.

Key Points• The study did not show a correlation between the presence and absence of skin lesions and NFC pattern.• Scleroderma-like patterns were found in over 60% of patients with mixed connective tissue disease.• The “early” pattern is dominant regardless of the occurrence or absence of skin lesions in patients with MCTD.• Skin lesions, regardless of their type (SLE or SSc), do not correlate with type of lesion found in the NFC examination.
In Situ Mechanical Loading and Neutron Bragg-edge Imaging, Applied to Polygranular Graphite On IMAT@ISIS
Authors: Zillhardt T. A. C. , Burca G. , Liu D. , Marrow T. J.
Published: August 2021

Background

Bragg edge imaging have seen significant developments in the last decade with the availability of new time-resolved detectors, however, there have been no studies of changes in local coherent scattering from grain reorientation and deformation with load. Such damage accommodation mechanism may occur in (quasi)-brittle materials.

Objective

We developed a novel method usingin-situBragg imaging at the ISIS spallation neutron and muon source on the IMAT (Imaging and MATerials science and engineering) instrument using an energy-resolved detector setup. We collected and analysed data of a proof-of-concept experiment demonstrating the use of the method.

Methods

We have developed a loading apparatus that addresses the constraints posed by Bragg imaging, allowing us to resolve features in the material microstructure. We use energy-resolved neutron imaging to obtain images in energy bins and we have developed a set of codes to register and correlate these images, as well as detect changes in local coherent scattering,in situ.

Results

Preliminary results from this method on Gilsocarbon nuclear graphite allow qualitative observation of local changes in Bragg contrast, which may be due to deformation or grain reorientation.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated that we can track changes in local coherent scattering under mechanical load, with sufficient resolution to track features with a size above 100 microns. This method, apparatus and accompanying codes may be used on the IMAT instruments by users interested to better understand deformation in their materials.
Validation and Psychometric Evaluation of the Italian Version of the Bergen–Yale Sex Addiction Scale
Authors: Soraci Paolo , Melchiori Francesco M. , Del Fante Elena , Melchiori Roberto , Guaitoli Eleonora , Lagattolla Fulvia , Parente Grazia , Bonanno Enrico , Norbiato Laura , Cimaglia Roberta , Campedelli Lorenzo , Abbiati Francesco Antonio , Ferrari Ambra , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: August 2021

Excessive problematic sexual behavior in the form of compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD), hypersexuality (HS), and sex addiction has gained increasing credibility in recent years and has led to the development of various psychometric instruments to assess such behavior. However, there is still considerable controversy over the operational definition of such concepts and whether they can be used interchangeably to describe the behavior. One recently developed tool is the Bergen–Yale Sex Addiction Scale (BYSAS) based on the “components model of addiction.” The present study validated the Italian version of the BYSAS. The BYSAS was administered to a large Italian-speaking sample of Italian adults [N = 1230, aged 18 to 67 years] along with psychometric instruments assessing the “Big Five” personality traits, self-esteem, depression, and two other measures of addictive sexual behavior (i.e., PATHOS and Shorter PROMIS Questionnaire–Sex Subscale). Confirmatory factorial analysis supported a one-factor solution. Furthermore, the scale had good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.787). The BYSAS was positively associated with extroversion, openness to experience, depression, and problematic sexual behavior, and negatively associated with self-esteem, conscientiousness, emotional stability, agreeableness, and age. Based on the findings, the BYSAS is a brief, psychometrically reliable and valid measure for assessing sex addiction among Italian adults.
Quantitative CT texture analysis in predicting PD-L1 expression in locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC patients
Authors: Bracci Stefano , Dolciami Miriam , Trobiani Claudio , Izzo Antonella , Pernazza Angelina , D’Amati Giulia , Manganaro Lucia , Ricci Paolo
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The assessment of Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression has become a game changer in the treatment of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We aimed to investigate the ability of Radiomics applied to computed tomography (CT) in predicting PD-L1 expression in patients with advanced NSCLC.

Methods

By applying texture analysis, we retrospectively analyzed 72 patients with advanced NSCLC. The datasets were randomly split into a training cohort (2/3) and a validation cohort (1/3). Forty radiomic features were extracted by manually drawing tumor volumes of interest (VOIs) on baseline contrast-enhanced CT. After selecting features on the training cohort, two predictive models were created using binary logistic regression, one for PD-L1 values ≥ 50% and the other for values between 1 and 49%. The two models were analyzed with ROC curves and tested in the validation cohort.

Results

The Radiomic Score (Rad-Score) for PD-L1 values ≥ 50%, which consisted of Skewness and Low Gray-Level Zone Emphasis (GLZLM_LGZE), presented a cut-off value of − 0.745 with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.811 and 0.789 in the training and validation cohort, respectively. The Rad-Score for PD-L1 values between 1 and 49% consisted of Sphericity, Skewness, Conv_Q3 and Gray Level Non-Uniformity (GLZLM_GLNU), showing a cut-off value of 0.111 with AUC of 0.763 and 0.806 in the two population, respectively.

Conclusion

Rad-Scores obtained from CT texture analysis could be useful for predicting PD-L1 expression and guiding the therapeutic choice in patients with advanced NSCLC.
Gene editing in Brassica napus for basic research and trait development
Authors: Gocal Greg F. W.
Published: August 2021

The genome of Brassica napus L. is the result of several polyploidization events that occurred during the history of B. napus. Due to its relatively short domestication history, diversity is relatively limited. An increasing number of loci in this crop’s genome have been gene-edited using various technologies and reagent delivery methods for basic research as well as for trait development. New alleles have been developed as edits in single, 2, 4, or more homologous loci in this important oilseed crop. This comprehensive review will summarize new alleles that have been developed as they relate to weed control, flowering, self-incompatibility, plant hormone biology, disease resistance, grain composition, and pod shatter reduction. These new alleles have significantly augmented our understanding of both plant growth and development for basic research as well as for their potential commercial impacts.
The Moral Consideration of Artificial Entities: A Literature Review
Authors: Harris Jamie , Anthis Jacy Reese
Published: August 2021

Ethicists, policy-makers, and the general public have questioned whether artificial entities such as robots warrant rights or other forms of moral consideration. There is little synthesis of the research on this topic so far. We identify 294 relevant research or discussion items in our literature review of this topic. There is widespread agreement among scholars that some artificial entities could warrant moral consideration in the future, if not also the present. The reasoning varies, such as concern for the effects on artificial entities and concern for the effects on human society. Beyond the conventional consequentialist, deontological, and virtue ethicist ethical frameworks, some scholars encourage “information ethics” and “social-relational” approaches, though there are opportunities for more in-depth ethical research on the nuances of moral consideration of artificial entities. There is limited relevant empirical data collection, primarily in a few psychological studies on current moral and social attitudes of humans towards robots and other artificial entities. This suggests an important gap for psychological, sociological, economic, and organizational research on how artificial entities will be integrated into society and the factors that will determine how the interests of artificial entities are considered.
In-depth characterization of a new patient-derived xenograft model for metaplastic breast carcinoma to identify viable biologic targets and patterns of matrix evolution within rare tumor types
Authors: Matossian M. D. , Chang T. , Wright M. K. , Burks H. E. , Elliott S. , Sabol R. A. , Wathieu H. , Windsor G. O. , Alzoubi M. S. , King C. T. , Bursavich J. B. , Ham A. M. , Savoie J. J. , Nguyen K. , Baddoo M. , Flemington E. , Sirenko O. , Cromwell E. F. , Hebert K. L. , Lau F. , Izadpanah R. , Brown H. , Sinha S. , Zabaleta J. , Riker A. I. , Moroz K. , Miele L. , Zea A. H. , Ochoa A. , Bunnell B. A. , Collins-Burow B. M. , Martin E. C. , Burow M. E.
Published: August 2021

Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) is a rare breast cancer subtype with rapid growth, high rates of metastasis, recurrence and drug resistance, and diverse molecular and histological heterogeneity. Patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) provide a translational tool and physiologically relevant system to evaluate tumor biology of rare subtypes. Here, we provide an in-depth comprehensive characterization of a new PDX model for MBC, TU-BcX-4IC. TU-BcX-4IC is a clinically aggressive tumor exhibiting rapid growth in vivo, spontaneous metastases, and elevated levels of cell-free DNA and circulating tumor cell DNA. Relative chemosensitivity of primary cells derived from TU-BcX-4IC was performed using the National Cancer Institute (NCI) oncology drug set, crystal violet staining, and cytotoxic live/dead immunofluorescence stains in adherent and organoid culture conditions. We employed novel spheroid/organoid incubation methods (Pu·MA system) to demonstrate that TU-BcX-4IC is resistant to paclitaxel. An innovative physiologically relevant system using human adipose tissue was used to evaluate presence of cancer stem cell-like populations ex vivo. Tissue decellularization, cryogenic-scanning electron microscopy imaging and rheometry revealed consistent matrix architecture and stiffness were consistent despite serial transplantation. Matrix-associated gene pathways were essentially unchanged with serial passages, as determined by qPCR and RNA sequencing, suggesting utility of decellularized PDXs for in vitro screens. We determined type V collagen to be present throughout all serial passage of TU-BcX-4IC tumor, suggesting it is required for tumor maintenance and is a potential viable target for MBC. In this study we introduce an innovative and translational model system to study cell–matrix interactions in rare cancer types using higher passage PDX tissue.
Addressing ethical and laboratory challenges for initiation of a rapid whole genome sequencing program
Authors: Malone Jenkins Sabrina , Palmquist Rachel , Kapron Ashley L. , Torr Carrie , Best D. Hunter , Karren Mary Anne , Brunelli Luca , Yandell Mark , Tristani-Firouzi Martin , Dimmock David , Watts Brian , Botkin Jeffrey R. , Johnson Ann , Bonkowsky Joshua L.
Published: August 2021

Rapid whole genome sequencing (rapid WGS) is a powerful diagnostic tool that is becoming increasingly practical for widespread clinical use. However, protocols for its use are challenging to implement. A significant obstacle to clinical adoption is that laboratory certification requires an initial research development phase, which is constrained by regulations from returning results. Regulations preventing return of results have ethical implications in cases which might impact patient outcomes. Here, we describe our experience with the development of a rapid WGS research protocol, that balanced the requirements for laboratory-validated test development with the ethical needs of clinically relevant return of results.
Awareness of COVID-19 among Illiterate Population in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Salman Muhammad , Mustafa Zia Ul , Asif Noman , Shehzadi Naureen , Hussain Khalid , Khan Tahir Mehmood , Mallhi Tauqeer Hussain , Khan Yusra Habib , Butt Muhammad Hammad , Farrukh Muhammad Junaid , Saleem Fahad
Published: August 2021

Background

COVID-19 outbreak has been accompanied by a massive infodemic, however, many vulnerable individuals such as illiterate or low-literate, older adults and rural populations have limited access to health information. In this context, these individuals are more likely to have poor knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices related to COVID-19. The current study was aimed to investigate COVID-19’s awareness of the illiterate population of Pakistan.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among illiterate Pakistanis of ages ≥ 18 years through a convenient sampling approach. The study participants were interviewed face to face by respecting the defined precautionary measures and all data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 22 (IBM, Armonk, NY).

Results

The mean age of the study participants’ (N = 394) was 37.2 ± 9.60 years, with the majority being males (80.7%). All participants were aware of the COVID-19 outbreak and television news channels (75.1%) were the primary source of information. The mean knowledge score was 5.33 ± 1.88, and about 27% of participants had a good knowledge score (score ≥ 7) followed by moderate (score 4 - 6) and poor (score ≤ 3) knowledge in 41.6%, and 31.5% of respondents, respectively. The attitude score was 4.42 ± 1.22 with good (score ≥ 6), average (score 4 - 5), and poor attitude (score ≤ 3) in 19%, 66%, and 15% of the participants, respectively. The average practice-related score was 12.80 ± 3.34, with the majority of participants having inadequate practices.

Conclusion

COVID-19 knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices of the illiterate population in Pakistan are unsatisfactory. This study highlights the gaps in specific aspects of knowledge and practice that should be addressed through awareness campaigns targeting this specific population.
Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pre-test probability on positive predictive value of high cycle threshold severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test results
Authors: Gubbay Jonathan B. , Rilkoff Heather , Kristjanson Heather L. , Forbes Jessica D. , Murti Michelle , Eshaghi AliReza , Broukhanski George , Corbeil Antoine , Fittipaldi Nahuel , Hopkins Jessica P. , Kristjanson Erik , Kus Julianne V. , Macdonald Liane , Majury Anna , Mallo Gustavo V , Mazzulli Tony , Melano Roberto G. , Olsha Romy , Perusini Stephen J. , Tran Vanessa , Allen Vanessa G. , Patel Samir N.
Published: August 2021

Objectives:

Performance characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection assays are understudied within contexts of low pre-test probability, including screening asymptomatic persons without epidemiological links to confirmed cases, or asymptomatic surveillance testing. SARS-CoV-2 detection without symptoms may represent presymptomatic or asymptomatic infection, resolved infection with persistent RNA shedding, or a false-positive test. This study assessed the positive predictive value of SARS-CoV-2 real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) assays by retesting positive specimens from 5 pre-test probability groups ranging from high to low with an alternate assay.

Methods:

In total, 122 rRT-PCR positive specimens collected from unique patients between March and July 2020 were retested using a laboratory-developed nested RT-PCR assay targeting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene followed by Sanger sequencing.

Results:

Significantly fewer (15.6%) positive results in the lowest pre-test probability group (facilities with institution-wide screening having ≤3 positive asymptomatic cases) were reproduced with the nested RdRp gene RT-PCR assay than in each of the 4 groups with higher pre-test probability (individual group range, 50.0%–85.0%).

Conclusions:

Large-scale SARS-CoV-2 screening testing initiatives among low pre-test probability populations should be evaluated thoroughly prior to implementation given the risk of false-positive results and consequent potential for harm at the individual and population level.
Large-scale asymmetry in galaxy spin directions: evidence from the Southern hemisphere
Authors: Shamir Lior
Published: August 2021

Recent observations using several different telescopes and sky surveys showed patterns of asymmetry in the distribution of galaxies by their spin directions as observed from Earth. These studies were done with data imaged from the Northern hemisphere, showing excellent agreement between different telescopes and different analysis methods. Here, data from the DESI Legacy Survey was used. The initial dataset contains$\sim\!2.2\times 10^7$galaxy images, reduced to$\sim\!8.1\times 10^5$galaxies annotated by their spin direction using a symmetric algorithm. That makes it not just the first analysis of its kind in which the majority of the galaxies are in the Southern hemisphere, but also by far the largest dataset used for this purpose to date. The results show strong agreement between opposite parts of the sky, such that the asymmetry in one part of the sky is similar to the inverse asymmetry in the corresponding part of the sky in the opposite hemisphere. Fitting the distribution of galaxy spin directions to cosine dependence shows a dipole axis with probability of 4.66$\sigma$. Interestingly, the location of the most likely axis is within close proximity to the CMB Cold Spot. The profile of the distribution is nearly identical to the asymmetry profile of the distribution identified in Pan-STARRS, and it is within 1$\sigma$difference from the distribution profile in SDSS and HST. All four telescopes show similar large-scale profile of asymmetry.
Twitter as research data
Authors: Chen Kaiping , Duan Zening , Yang Sijia
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Scholars increasingly use Twitter data to study the life sciences and politics. However, Twitter data collection tools often pose challenges for scholars who are unfamiliar with their operation. Equally important, although many tools indicate that they offer representative samples of the full Twitter archive, little is known about whether the samples are indeed representative of the targeted population of tweets. This article evaluates such tools in terms of costs, training, and data quality as a means to introduce Twitter data as a research tool. Further, using an analysis of COVID-19 and moral foundations theory as an example, we compared the distributions of moral discussions from two commonly used tools for accessing Twitter data (Twitter’s standard APIs and third-party access) to the ground truth, the Twitter full archive. Our results highlight the importance of assessing the comparability of data sources to improve confidence in findings based on Twitter data. We also review the major new features of Twitter’s API version 2.
FEA-based tracking control of flexible body switching dynamic structure
Authors: Homaeinezhad M. R. , FotoohiNia F.
Published: August 2021

In dynamically switched systems with unknown switching signal, the control system is conventionally designed based on the worst switching scenario to ensure system stability. Such conservative design demands excessive control effort in less critical switching configurations. In the case of continuum mechanics systems, such excessive control inputs result in increased structural deformations and resultant modeling uncertainties. These deformations alter differential equations of motion which cripple the task of control. In this paper, a new approach for tracking control of uncertain continuum mechanics multivariable systems undergoing switching dynamics and unknown time delay has been proposed. Control algorithm is constructed based on the mathematical rigid model of the plant and a Common Lyapunov Function (CLF) is proposed upon sliding hyperplane regarding all switching configurations. Considering the model-based nature of sliding mode control (SMC) and inevitable uncertainties induced from modeling simplifications of continuum system or parameter evaluation errors, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is utilized to approximate total model uncertainties. To obtain robust stability, instead of conventional switching functions in the construction of control law, the control inputs are selected such that system dynamics reside within stability bounds which are calculated based on the Lyapunov asymptotic stability criterion. Therefore, the unwanted chattering issue caused by continuous switching is not observed in control input signals. Eventually, the accuracy of the proposed method has been verified through the student version of ANSYS® mechanical APDL-based simulations and its effectiveness has been demonstrated in multiple operating conditions.
Soil Fertility on an Agricultural Frontier: The US Great Plains, 1880–2000
Authors: Cunfer Geoff
Published: August 2021

In contrast to most long-settled agricultural landscapes, the US Great Plains presents a rare example of well-documented agricultural colonization of new land. The Census of Agriculture provides detailed information about evolving grassland farm systems from the beginning of agricultural expansion and then at some two dozen time points between 1880 and the present. From early sod-busting, through drought and depression, and into late-twentieth-century modernization, it is possible to track how farmers used their land in any county. Treating farmland as an agroecosystem, a hybrid human-natural landscape, this article asks how farmers captured, altered, and replenished soil fertility. Did they extract more soil nitrogen than they returned, or did they maintain a balance? The article assesses land use from a soil nutrients perspective in several plains environments to capture variation in climate (especially rainfall), native soil quality, and availability of irrigation water. It traces farm management strategies through time to understand agricultural crises, growth periods, and technological transitions in the context of soil fertility. Soil management on an agricultural frontier was markedly different from that in places that had been farmed for centuries. A shortage of people and livestock and an abundance of deep, rich soils in the plains informed farmers’ calculations as they juggled labor, capital, and market forces against family and financial strategies. Uniform methods of estimating and representing soil nutrient processes make possible a direct comparison of the relative sustainability of historical agroecosystems.
Bindungsstörungen
Authors: Bolten Margarete , Schanz Christian G. , Equit Monika
Published: August 2021

Das Konstrukt der Bindungsstörungen umfasst laut den gängigen Klassifikationssystemen eine heterogene Gruppe von Auffälligkeiten der sozialen Funktionen und des Beziehungsverhaltens bei Kindern. Diese entwickeln sich als Folge länger anhaltender vernachlässigender Umgebungsbedingungen, zu denen u.a. Vernachlässigung, Misshandlung oder auch ein häufiger Wechsel der Bezugspersonen gehört. Damit unterscheiden sich die Bindungsstörungen insofern von anderen Störungen, dass bereits in der klassifikatorischen Definition ein ätiologischer Faktor enthalten ist. Der Leitfaden stellt praxisorientiert das diagnostische und therapeutische Vorgehen bei Bindungsstörungen im Kindesalter dar. Aufbauend auf dem aktuellen Stand der Forschung werden Leitlinien zur Diagnostik, Verlaufskontrolle, Behandlungsindikation und Therapie dieser Störungen formuliert und ihre Umsetzung in die klinische Praxis dargestellt. Durch die Bereitstellung zahlreicher Materialien für den diagnostischen und therapeutischen Prozess, inkl. der Arbeit mit Eltern, sowie unterschiedlicher Fallbeispiele soll die Umsetzung der Leitlinien im klinischen Alltag erleichtert werden.
Repeatability and comparability of the Galilei-G4 and Cassini in measuring corneal power and astigmatism in normal and post-refractive surgery eyes
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed , Khan Mahmood , Kanakamedala Amritha , Gupta Isha , Wang Li , Koch Douglas , Al-Mohtaseb Zaina
Published: August 2021

To assess the repeatability and comparability of the Galilei G4 versus the Cassini topographer in post-refractive eyes and in normal eyes, including older patients representative of an initial cataract evaluation. Simulated keratometric (simK), total corneal and posterior corneal power and astigmatism were evaluated in both post-refractive and normal eyes. Repeatability was measured by calculating within-subject standard deviation (Sw), coefficient of variation (CoV), and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Vector analyses and Bland–Altman plots were employed to assess agreement between devices. We studied 32 subjects with a history of refractive surgery and 32 subjects without a history of refractive surgery undergoing cataract surgery. The mean age was 55 ± 18.5 years and the age range was 21.5–91.5 years. In non-refractive and post-refractive eyes, the ICC was > 0.9 (P < 0.001) for all corneal powers and for simK and total corneal astigmatism for both analyzers. The ICC for posterior corneal astigmatism magnitude using the Galilei was 0.62 and 0.67 and for the Cassini 0.55 and 0.38 in normal and post-refractive eyes, respectively. In both post-refractive and normal eyes, the Galilei G4 and Cassini analyzers have high repeatability in simK, total, and posterior corneal power and low repeatability for posterior corneal astigmatism.
A new insight into aggregation of oncolytic adenovirus Ad5-delta-24-RGD during CsCl gradient ultracentrifugation
Authors: Stepanenko Aleksei A. , Sosnovtseva Anastasiia O. , Valikhov Marat P. , Chekhonin Vladimir P.
Published: August 2021

Two-cycle cesium chloride (2 × CsCl) gradient ultracentrifugation is a conventional approach for purifying recombinant adenoviruses (rAds) for research purposes (gene therapy, vaccines, and oncolytic vectors). However, rAds containing the RGD-4C peptide in the HI loop of the fiber knob domain tend to aggregate during 2 × CsCl gradient ultracentrifugation resulting in a low infectious titer yield or even purification failure. An iodixanol-based purification method preventing aggregation of the RGD4C-modified rAds has been proposed. However, the reason explaining aggregation of the RGD4C-modified rAds during 2 × CsCl but not iodixanol gradient ultracentrifugation has not been revealed. In the present study, we showed that rAds with the RGD-4C peptide in the HI loop but not at the C-terminus of the fiber knob domain were prone to aggregate during 2 × CsCl but not iodixanol gradient ultracentrifugation. The cysteine residues with free thiol groups after the RGD motif within the inserted RGD-4C peptide were responsible for formation of the interparticle disulfide bonds under atmospheric oxygen and aggregation of Ad5-delta-24-RGD4C-based rAds during 2 × CsCl gradient ultracentrifugation, which could be prevented using iodixanol gradient ultracentrifugation, most likely due to antioxidant properties of iodixanol. A cysteine-to-glycine substitution of the cysteine residues with free thiol groups (RGD-2C2G) prevented aggregation during 2 × CsCl gradient purification but in coxsackie and adenovirus receptor (CAR)-low/negative cancer cell lines of human and rodent origin, this reduced cytolytic efficacy to the levels observed for a fiber non-modified control vector. However, both Ad5-delta-24-RGD4C and Ad5-delta-24-RGD2C2G were equally effective in the murine immunocompetent CT-2A glioma model due to a primary role of antitumor immune responses in the therapeutic efficacy of oncolytic virotherapy.
Clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of gastrointestinal vascular tumours
Authors: Haibin Zhou , Lingling Wang , Lexing Zhang , Xumin Bao , Yingyu Wang , Jianfeng Yang , Xiaofeng Zhang
Published: August 2021

To evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of gastrointestinal vascular tumours. By reviewing the information from the electronic medical record system and pathology database of Hangzhou First People's Hospital affiliated with Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Jiaxing First People’s Hospital from June 2008 to December 2019, 31 patients pathologically diagnosed with vascular tumours were included in this study. The age of onset, sex differences, clinical manifestations, imaging and endoscopic characteristic manifestations, pathological characteristics, treatment methods and prognosis were analysed. The pathological classification was haemangiolymphangioma, haemangioma, and lymphangioma in 8, 14, and 9 cases, respectively. The age of onset was 44–66 years, with no significant difference according to sex (P = 0.583); 32.26% (10/31) of patients had no noticeable symptoms, 37.5% (12/31) of patients had gastrointestinal bleeding, and 6.45% (2/31) of patients, all with lymphangioma, had intestinal obstruction. The lesions were located in and below the duodenum. Endoscopy showed colour differences. Both endoscopic and surgical treatments were safe and effective. The mean survival time was 57.06 ± 35.64 months. Regarding vascular tumours without typical symptoms, the main pathological classification is haemangioma. Vascular tumours are often clinically identified because of bleeding or obstruction and can be treated with endoscopy or surgery. Clinical follow-up is recommended because no invasive manifestations or instances of recurrence were observed.
Detection of fake-video uploaders on social media using Naive Bayesian model with social cues
Authors: Li Xiaojun , Li Shaochen , Li Jia , Yao Junping , Xiao Xvhao
Published: August 2021

With the rapid development of the Internet, the wide circulation of disinformation has considerably disrupted the search and recognition of information. Despite intensive research devoted to fake text detection, studies on fake short videos that inundate the Internet are rare. Fake videos, because of their quick transmission and broad reach, can increase misunderstanding, impact decision-making, and lead to irrevocable losses. Therefore, it is important to detect fake videos that mislead users on the Internet. Since it is difficult to detect fake videos directly, we probed the detection of fake video uploaders in this study with a vision to provide a basis for the detection of fake videos. Specifically, a dataset consisting of 450 uploaders of videos on diabetes and traditional Chinese medicine was constructed, five features of the fake video uploaders were proposed, and a Naive Bayesian model was built. Through experiments, the optimal feature combination was identified, and the proposed model reached a maximum accuracy of 70.7%.
Social communication activates the circadian gene Tctimeless in Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Rath Animesha , Benita Miriam , Doron Josef , Scharf Inon , Gottlieb Daphna
Published: August 2021

Chemical communication via pheromones is an integral component in insect behavior, particularly for mate searching and reproduction. Aggregation pheromones, that attract conspecifics of both sexes, are particularly common and have been identified for hundreds of species. These pheromones are among the most ecologically selective pest suppression agents. In this study, we identified an activating effect of the aggregation pheromone of the red flour beetle,Tribolium castaneum(Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenibroidae) on a highly conserved circadian clock gene (Tctimeless).Tribolium castaneumis one of the most damaging cosmopolitan pest of flour and other stored food products. Its male produced aggregation pheromone, 4,8-dimethyldecanal (DMD), attracts both conspecific males and females and is used for pest management via monitoring and mating disruption. TheTctimelessgene is an essential component for daily expression patterns of the circadian clock and plays vital roles in eclosion, egg production, and embryonic development. In this study, we demonstrate that constant exposure to the species-specific aggregation pheromone led toTctimelessup-regulation and a different pattern of rhythmic locomotive behavior. We propose that changing the well-adapted "alarm clock", using DMD is liable to reduce fitness and can be highly useful for pest management.