bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wnt signaling in breast cancer: biological mechanisms, challenges and opportunities
Authors: Xu Xiufang , Zhang Miaofeng , Xu Faying , Jiang Shaojie
Published: November 2020

Wnt signaling is a highly conserved signaling pathway that plays a critical role in controlling embryonic and organ development, as well as cancer progression. Genome-wide sequencing and gene expression profile analyses have demonstrated that Wnt signaling is involved mainly in the processes of breast cancer proliferation and metastasis. The most recent studies have indicated that Wnt signaling is also crucial in breast cancer immune microenvironment regulation, stemness maintenance, therapeutic resistance, phenotype shaping, etc. Wnt/β-Catenin, Wnt–planar cell polarity (PCP), and Wnt–Ca2+signaling are three well-established Wnt signaling pathways that share overlapping components and play different roles in breast cancer progression. In this review, we summarize the main findings concerning the relationship between Wnt signaling and breast cancer and provide an overview of existing mechanisms, challenges, and potential opportunities for advancing the therapy and diagnosis of breast cancer.
Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer as a potential therapeutic agent for organ fibrosis disease
Authors: Liu Hao , Lv Chongning , Lu Jincai
Published: November 2020

Background

Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer), a representative Chinese herbal medicine, can improve the body’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity. Recently, scientists have shifted emphasis towards the initial stages of different malignant diseases—corresponding organ fibrosis and explored the essential role of P. ginseng in the treatment of fibrotic diseases.

Main body

In the first instance, the review generalizes the molecular mechanisms and common therapeutic methods of fibrosis. Next, due to the convenience and safety of individual medication, the research progress of ginseng extract and formulas in treating liver fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, myocardial fibrosis, and renal fibrosis has been systematically summarized. Finally, we describe active ingredients isolated from P. ginseng for their outstanding anti-fibrotic properties and further reveal the potential therapeutic prospect and limitations of P. ginseng in fibrotic diseases.

Conclusions

P. ginseng can be regarded as a valuable herbal medicine against fibrous tissue proliferation. Ginseng extract, derived formulas and monomers can inhibit the abundant deposition of extracellular matrix which caused by repeated damage and provide protection for fibrotic organs. Although the molecular mechanisms such as transforming growth factor β signal transduction have been confirmed, future studies should still focus on exploring the underlying mechanisms of P. ginseng in treating fibrotic disease including the therapeutic targets of synergistic action of multiple components in P. ginseng. Moreover, it is also necessary to carry out clinical trial to evaluate the feasibility of P. ginseng in combination with common fibrosis drugs.
Establishment of a duplex real-time qPCR method for detection of Salmonella spp. and Serratia fonticola in fishmeal
Authors: Ruan Jinghua , Wang Wujun , Zhang Tiyin , Zheng Teng , Zheng Jing , Yu Shiyu , Yu Daojin , Huang Yifan
Published: November 2020

Salmonella spp. is a high-risk bacterial pathogen that is monitored in imported animal-derived feedstuffs. Serratia fonticola is the bacterial species most frequently confused with Salmonella spp. in traditional identification methods based on biochemical characteristics, which are time-consuming and labor-intensive, and thus unsuitable for daily inspection and quarantine work. In this study, we established a duplex real-time qPCR method with invA- and gyrB-specific primers and probes corresponding to Salmonella spp. and S. fonticola. The method could simultaneously detect both pathogens in imported feedstuffs, with a minimum limit of detection for Salmonella spp. and S. fonticola of 197 copies/μL and 145 copies/μL, respectively (correlation coefficient R2 = 0.999 in both cases). The amplification efficiency for Salmonella spp. and S. fonticola was 98.346% and 96.49%, respectively. Detection of fishmeal was consistent with method GB/T 13091-2018, and all seven artificially contaminated imported feed samples were positively identified. Thus, the developed duplex real-time qPCR assay displays high specificity and sensitivity, and can be used for the rapid and accurate detection of genomic DNA from Salmonella spp. and S. fonticola within hours. This represents a significant improvement in the efficiency of detection of both pathogens in imported feedstuffs.
Correction to: The social, economic, political, and genetic value of race and ethnicity in 2020
Authors: Mersha Tesfaye B. , Beck Andrew F.
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Web-based information on the treatment of the mouth in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Abdouh Ismail , Porter Stephen , Fedele Stefano , Elgendy Nadia , Ni Riordain Richeal
Published: November 2020

Background

To categorise the content and assess the quality and readability of the web-based information regarding treatment of the mouth in systemic sclerosis.

Methods

An online search using three different search terms regarding the treatment of the mouth in SSc was undertaken using the Google search engine. The first 100 websites from each search were selected for analysis. Data recorded included DISCERN instrument scores along with the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks and the presence of the Health on the Net seal (HON). Flesch Reading Ease Scores, Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, the Simplified Measure of Gobbledygook Index and Coleman-Liau index were calculated to assess readability.

Results

Fifty seven of the first websites remained for analysis after applying appropriate exclusion criteria. The mean overall DISCERN score was 2.37 (±1.01). Only 4 websites (7%) achieved all four JAMA benchmarks. Only 12 websites (21.1%) displayed the HON seal. The reading level was found to be difficult to very difficult among the majority of websites.

Conclusion

The overall quality of the available online information concerning the treatment of the mouth of systemic sclerosis is questionable and requires a high level of reading skill. Further efforts should be directed toward establishing higher quality, reliable online information sources on the treatment of oral disease relevant to patients with systemic sclerosis.
Cognitive impairment among patients with diabetes in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Naguib Rania , Soliman Eman S. , Neimatallah Fatima Mohammed , AlKhudhairy Najd Sulaiman , ALGhamdi Amjad Muashaq , Almosa Reema Saad , Aldashash Kholud Abdullaziz , Alkhalifah Bashayer Yaqoub , Elmorshedy Hala
Published: November 2020

Background

The incidence of cognitive impairment (CI) is higher in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). The association between DM and CI and the risk factors for CI need to be addressed to estimate the prevalence of cognitive impairment in patients with DM and to identify the potential risk factors. The study is a cross-sectional study using a convenient sample of 269 subjects. Sociodemographic diabetes-related variables including biochemical markers were collected. CI and diabetes-related distress (DRD) were assessed using the Arabic version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale (MoCA) and the Diabetes Distress Screening Scale respectively.

Results

Overall, 80.3% had cognitive impairment while 33.8% had severe impairment. Older age, female gender, low level of education, and low income were associated with CI; duration of diabetes and DRD were associated with CI while ophthalmic complications were associated with severe CI. Duration of diabetes was inversely associated with CI. Level of HbA1c was significantly higher in patients with severe CI, and the probability of CI increased as the level of HbA1c increased. Low level of education was associated with severe CI, and CI was two times more likely among patients with DRD.

Conclusion

CI was higher than worldwide figures. Elderly females with low educational level, long duration of DM, and low socioeconomic status are at more risk. The probability of severe CI increased with increased level of HbA1c. Screening for CI in patients with diabetes along with intervention programs while considering the DRD and the level of HbA1c is crucial.
Linear Momentum of a Microfluid Realizes an Anisotropic Reaction at the Ends of a Supramolecular Nanofiber
Authors: Kanzaki Chisako , Matoba Shota , Inagawa Arinori , Fukuhara Gaku , Okada Tetsuo , Narushima Tetsuya , Okamoto Hiromi , Numata Munenori
Published: November 2020

The anisotropic properties of one-dimensional (1D) supramolecules have generally been the sole way to input molecular information along a structure of high density. Although the chain reaction of a synthetic polymer (e.g., in radical polymerization) does realize anisotropic polymer elongation, it has remained challenging to induce such properties in artificial 1D self-assembling systems. Herein, by employing J-aggregate nanofibers of TPPS — a sort of self-assembling porphyrin — as a model, we describe a system in which linear momentum of laminar flow facilitates directional supramolecular elongation of the flowing nanofibers. In situ fluorescence and linear dichroism (LD) measurements revealed that the elongation of the J-aggregate nanofibers could be accelerated only when they were oriented in the flow direction. Moreover, linear transport of the oriented nanofibers along the stream disrupted the isotropic reactivity at their two termini; one terminus could be activated selectively, resulting in directional nanofiber elongation. The shear rate gradient of the laminar flow induced collisions of the TPPS monomer units at the end of one terminus of the nanofibers. This strategy should be applicable more generally to supramolecular 1D elongation (supramolecular polymerization) of various functional molecules, regardless of their chemical properties, thereby extending the frontiers of supramolecular chemistry.
Chemoselective Reduction of α,β-Unsaturated Carbonyl and Carboxylic Compounds by Hydrogen Iodide
Authors: Matsumoto Shoji , Marumoto Hayato , Akazome Motohiro , Otani Yasuhiko , Kaiho Tatsuo
Published: November 2020

The selective reduction of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds was achieved to produce saturated carbonyl compounds with aqueous HI solution. The introduction of an aryl group at an α or β position efficiently facilitated the reduction with good yield. The reaction was applicable to compounds bearing carboxylic acids and halogen atoms. Through the investigation of the reaction mechanism, it was found that Michael-type addition of iodide occurred to produce β-iodo compounds followed by the reduction of C-I bond via anionic and radical paths.
CTD data profiling to assess the natural hazard of active submarine vent fields: the case of Santorini Island
Authors: Dura Ana , Mertzimekis Theo J. , Bakalis Evangelos , Nomikou Paraskevi , Gondikas Andreas , Hannington Mark D. , Petersen Sven
Published: November 2020

Almost three quarters of known volcanic activity on Earth occurs in underwater locations. The presence of active hydrothermal vent fields in such environments is a potential natural hazard for the environment, the society, and the economy. Despite its importance for risk assessment and risk mitigation, monitoring of the activity is impeded by the remoteness and the extreme conditions of underwater volcanoes. The large difference of population present on Santorini between the winter and summer seasons, all within a partially enclosed system, make the Santorini-Kolumbo volcanic field, an ideal place for detailed exploration. In 2017, GEOMAR in collaboration with the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (mission: POS-510 ANYDROS), used an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) to map the NE–trending Santorini–Kolumbo line, where it also collected CTD data. Here we present the preliminary results from the 15-hour survey held on the 25th March 2017, during the POS-510 expedition targeting the vent field which is located in the North Basin of Santorini Caldera. Detailed CTD 3D profiles have been reconstructed from the raw data of Santorini’s vent field. An anomaly emerges at the depth of 350 m in the Conductivity and Salinity depth profiles, as the CTD sensor is placed directly above the vent sources. Anomalies were evident in the 3D maps reconstructed, showing for the first time a rather weak, but underlying hydrothermal vent activity at various locations. As the present results are the first ones produced from this expedition, further investigation is required incorporating the full dataset. Based on those results, the impact of developing appropriate mechanisms and policies to avoid the associated natural hazard is expected to be immense.
Organization of resource supply for housing and communal services
Authors: Shitov Viktor
Published: November 2020

The tutorial reveals the concept and essence of organization of the provision of resources for housing, utilities, composition and structure of housing and communal services of Russia, organizational-economic mechanism of management of the housing stock, rules of granting of utilities, tariff policy in the Russian Federation, methods of reducing the level of tariffs for housing and communal services, Provision of utilities to owners and users of premises in apartment buildings and houses, the main areas of resource conservation residential premises, organization of work of the emergency repair service of housing and communal services, procedure for maintenance and repair of engineering equipment of housing and communal services, malfunctions of the emergency order and terms of their elimination. A description of practical work is provided, as well as a list of independent works. Meets the requirements of the Federal state educational standard of secondary professional education of the latest generation. For students of secondary vocational education institutions. It can be used in the development of the PM discipline. 02 "organization of resource provision of housing and communal services", which is part of the MDK.02.01 "organization of resource provision of housing and communal services" in the specialty 43.02.08 "housing and communal services".
Memoria de trabajo y flexibilidad cognitiva en niños típicos y con diagnóstico de TDAH.
Authors: Gatica-Ferrero Sergio Andrés
Published: November 2020

El trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad (TDAH), es el trastorno neurológico infantil más diagnosticado en la práctica clínica. Se ha asociado el TDAH a un deterioro de las funciones ejecutivas, especialmente en atención e inhibición. Variadas investigaciones han mostrado el rol de la memoria de trabajo y la flexibilidad cognitiva en el funcionamiento del sujeto con TDAH. El objetivo de este trabajo es estudiar el desempeño de la memoria de trabajo y la flexibilidad cognitiva en sujetos típicos y con diagnóstico de TDAH. Se aplicó una batería neuropsicología en 85 estudiantes (56 clínicos y 29 típicos). Los resultados mostraron que la memoria de trabajo se ve alterada en algunos tipos de TDAH pero no en sujetos normales y que la flexibilidad cognitiva se ve interferida en un subtipo específico de TDAH en contraste con los sujetos sin el trastorno.
Smoking Habit Prevention in Schools: Report of a Pediatric Educational Intervention Held in Pisa
Authors: Bellino Elisabetta M. , Di Cicco Maria , Soldateschi Massimo , Frangione Lucia , Rosati Sara , Tyutyusheva Nina , Angelucci Claudia , Maiorino Giuseppe , D’Elios Sofia , Piccigallo Adriana , Peroni Diego
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the world and the detrimental effects of tobacco on health have been described across the full life span. There is no safe level of tobacco exposure and childhood is the more vulnerable period of life. Current estimates show that 10% of children aged 13-15 years are active smokers and most of them started smoking at >11 years of age, due to peer and/or family influence. Moreover, recently, e-cigarette use has spread, particularly among youth. Many school-based smoking prevention interventions have been carried out around the world, the efficacy of which has yet to be established.
Materials and methods: In February 2018 we planned an educational program on smoking habit within the Italian Society of Pediatric Respiratory Diseases (SIMRI) (“Dai un calcio al fumo” program). In May 2018 we held 8 interventions at the Fibonacci School (Pisa, Italy), meeting 365 children aged 9 to 13 years and involving a pediatrician and a pediatric resident in a 2-hour lesson focusing on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and smoking habit effects. The children were invited to ask questions and talk about their experiences, with a subsequent 30-minutes collegial discussion. The most frequent questions were collected, as well as students’, physicians’ and teachers’ opinions on each meeting.
Results: During our educational interventions the most frequently asked questions were about the discrepancy related to the fact that a dangerous product is legally sold and the potential harmful effects of e-cigarettes. All the children stated that they knew that combustible cigarette smoking was dangerous. Most of them admitted that they feel that smoking habits start from emulating friends and relatives. Almost 70% of the children reported to have at least one smoker relative. Teachers, physicians and students proposed to replicate the meetings the following year.
Conclusions: The considerable interest shown by the students, together with the low cost and potential effectiveness of school-based educational measures, suggest that in our country a national educational program should be introduced in schools. Too many children are still exposed to tobacco smoke in the household environment.
Effects of Acupuncture & Qigong Meditation on Nonmotor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kim Jaejong , Cho Ki Heang , An So jung , Cui Shanqin , Kim Sun Wook , Suh Joseph , Lee Young
Published: November 2020

Background: Parkinson's disease(PD) affects not only motor symptoms, but also nonmotor symptoms. This study is a clinical trial to determine whether Qigong and acupuncture affect nonmotor symptoms of PD.Methods: A 2-arm parallel and randomized trial was performed with 21 participants who had received either Qigong meditation only [control group (CG)] or acupuncture and Qigong meditation [experimental group (EG)]. The participants' levels of the discomfort in nonmotor symptoms from Parkinson's disease were evaluated by using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scales (UPDRS 1) and Test of Smell Identification (TSI) before and after 12 treatments at baseline and 1 month after 12 treatments.Results: The both CG and EG showed improvements in the UPDRS 1 score after treatment by 5.6 ± 5.15 (p= 0.003; 74%) and 4.8 ± 3.80 (p = 0.004; 79%), respectively. The both CG and the EG did improvements in the TSI after treatment by 10.3 ± 4.37 (p < 0.001; 84%) and 12.6 ± 1.77 (p = 0.022; 100%), respectively. However, statistical differences were not observed between the CG and the EG using the UPDRS 1 and the TSI scores.Conclusion: The combination of Qigong and acupuncture and Qigong alone was shown to improve the nonmotor symptoms and olfactory function of PD. In the future, large-scale clinical studies on alternative treatment for PD and studies on mechanisms affecting nonmotor symptoms of acupuncture and Qigong are needed.
The Effectiveness of Acupuncture Treatment for Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Shin Jin Hyeon , Shin Hye Jeong , Kim Eui Byeol , An Yun Young , Yook Tae Han , Choi Yoo Min , Song Beom Yong , Kim Jong Uk
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment for the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). There were 11 databases searched for randomized controlled trials using acupuncture treatment for AD. The risk-of-bias assessment tool of the Cochrane Library was used to evaluate the quality of each study. Using the Review Manager (RevMan), a meta-analysis was performed using risk ratio, mean difference, 95% confidence interval, and random effect model. There were 32 studies selected, all of which were conducted in China. There were 16 studies where acupuncture was used as the intervention, and 23 studies used Donepezil as the control group. Acupoint GV20 was most frequently selected during the treatment. The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) was the most frequently used outcome variable. A period of 12 weeks was the most common treatment duration. As a result of meta-analysis (n = 25), acupuncture improved the MMSE and activities of daily living scores. Electroacupuncture improved the Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale, and scalp acupuncture improved the MMSE score for AD. Acupuncture alleviates the symptoms of AD. However, further research is necessary to provide a better level of evidence.
REDE HIDROMÉTRICA NO SEMIÁRIDO BAIANO: DESAFIOS E POSSIBILIDADES
Authors: Santos Silvio de Sousa
Published: November 2020

O conhecimento dos dados hidrológicos é extremamente importante para que se possam gerenciar os recursos hídricos disponíveis em uma dada região. No semi-árido baiano, região que apresenta um regime pluviométrico reduzido durante um período do ano, além de possuir um número elevado de rios intermitentes, o conhecimento desses dados é de vital importância para que se possa garantir a manutenção do abastecimento humano e demais usos. Para a obtenção dos dados necessários é instalada uma rede hidrométrica básica (estação pluviométrica, fluviométrica e evaporimétrica); entretanto, são inúmeras as dificuldades enfrentadas para a operacionalização dessa rede, já que o acesso às estações apresenta uma série de obstáculos. Também existe uma dificuldade muito grande quanto à observação diária do nível dos rios, pois nem sempre é possível encontrar pessoas capacitadas que possam fazer essa leitura. Enfim, são muitos os empecilhos vivenciados por essa região na obtenção de dados precisos.
Performance studies of evolutionary transfer learning for end-to-end QoT estimation in multi-domain optical networks [Invited]
Authors: Liu Che-Yu , Chen Xiaoliang , Proietti Roberto , Yoo S. J. Ben
Published: November 2020

This paper proposes an evolutionary transfer learning approach (Evol-TL) for scalable quality-of-transmission (QoT) estimation in multi-domain elastic optical networks (MD-EONs). Evol-TL exploits a broker-based MD-EON architecture that enables cooperative learning between the broker plane (end-to-end) and domain-level (local) machine learning functions while securing the autonomy of each domain. We designed a genetic algorithm to optimize the neural network architectures and the sets of weights to be transferred between the source and destination tasks. We evaluated the performance of Evol-TL with three case studies considering the QoT estimation task for lightpaths with (i) different path lengths (in terms of the numbers of fiber links traversed), (ii) different modulation formats, and (iii) different device conditions (emulated by introducing different levels of wavelength-specific attenuation to the amplifiers). The results show that the proposed approach can reduce the average amount of required training data by up to13×while achieving an estimation accuracy above 95%.
Automated on-axis direct laser writing of coupling elements for photonic chips
Authors: Perez Edgar , Moille Gregory , Lu Xiyuan , Westly Daron , Srinivasan Kartik
Published: November 2020

Direct laser writing (DLW) has recently been used to create versatile micro-optic structures that facilitate photonic-chip coupling, like free-form lenses, free-form mirrors, and photonic wirebonds. However, at the edges of photonic chips, the top-down/off-axis printing orientation typically used limits the size and complexity of structures and the range of materials compatible with the DLW process. To avoid these issues, we develop a DLW method in which the photonic chip’s optical input/output (IO) ports are co-linear with the axis of the lithography beam (on-axis printing). Alignment automation and port identification are enabled by a 1-dimensional barcode-like pattern that is fabricated within the chip’s device layer and surrounds the IO waveguides to increase their visibility. We demonstrate passive alignment to these markers using standard machine vision techniques, and print single-element elliptical lenses along an array of 42 ports with a 100 % fabrication yield. These lenses improve fiber-to-chip misalignment tolerance relative to other fiber-based coupling techniques. The 1 dB excess loss diameter increases from ≈ 2.3 μm when using a lensed fiber to ≈ 9.9 μm when using the DLW printed micro-optic and a cleaved fiber. The insertion loss penalty introduced by moving to this misalignment-tolerant coupling approach is limited, with an additional loss (in comparison to the lensed fiber) as small as ≈1 dB and ≈2 dB on average. Going forward, on-axis printing can accommodate a variety of multi-element free-space and guided wave coupling elements, without requiring calibration of printing dose specific to the geometry of the 3D printed structure or to the materials comprising the photonic chip. It also enables novel methods for interconnection between chips. To that end, we fabricate a proof-of-concept 3D photonic wire bond between two vertically stacked photonic chips.
Orbital angular momentum beams generation from 61 channels coherent beam combining femtosecond digital laser
Authors: Veinhard Matthieu , Bellanger Séverine , Daniault Louis , Fsaifes Ihsan , Bourderionnet Jérôme , Larat Christian , Lallier Eric , Brignon Arnaud , Chanteloup Jean-Christophe
Published: November 2020

We report on the use of a 61 beamlets coherent beam combination femtosecond fiber amplifiers as a digital laser source to generate high-power orbital angular momentum beams. Such an approach opens the path for higher-order non-symmetrical user-defined far field distributions.
Simultaneous measurement of liquid-level and density by detecting buoyancy and hydraulic pressure
Authors: Lyu Guohui , Sun Yu , Zhou Boning , Chen Zexian , Zhan Hui , Li Hongwei
Published: November 2020

In this Letter, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a method for simultaneous and complete discriminative measurement of liquid-level and density for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The principle is to measure the responses of optical fiber sensing units caused by buoyancy and hydraulic pressure. By utilizing a designed steel diamond structure, the sensor sensitivity is significantly improved. The theoretical models and experimental methods are analyzed in detail. For large-range liquid-level measurement, a high sensitivity of 77.3 pm/cm with resolution of 0.129 mm (accuracy of 0.149‰) is achieved. As a trade-off between density measurement and sensor capability, a dual-parameter sensing is demonstrated experimentally, which features liquid-level sensitivity of 34.7 pm/cm and density sensitivity varying from 1 to

3.44

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. Taking advantage of the compact size, easy fabrication, and low cost, this method has great potential in real-time intelligent monitoring of reserves and quality for industrial storage of fuels and chemicals.
Effects of climate change on parasites and disease in estuarine and nearshore environments
Authors: Byers James E.
Published: November 2020

Information on parasites and disease in marine ecosystems lags behind terrestrial systems, increasing the challenge of predicting responses of marine host–parasite systems to climate change. However, here I examine several generalizable aspects and research priorities. First, I advocate that quantification and comparison of host and parasite thermal performance curves is a smart approach to improve predictions of temperature effects on disease. Marine invertebrate species are ectothermic and should be highly conducive to this approach given their generally short generation times. Second, in marine systems, shallow subtidal and intertidal areas will experience the biggest temperature swings and thus likely see the most changes to host–parasite dynamics. Third, for some responses like parasite intensity, as long as the lethal limit of the parasite is not crossed, on average, there may be a biological basis to expect temperature-dependent intensification of impacts on hosts. Fourth, because secondary mortality effects and indirect effects of parasites can be very important, we need to study temperature effects on host–parasite dynamics in a community context to truly know their bottom line effects. This includes examining climate-influenced effects of parasites on ecosystem engineers given their pivotal role in communities. Finally, other global change factors, especially hypoxia, salinity, and ocean acidity, covary with temperature change and need to be considered and evaluated when possible for their contributing effects on host–parasite systems. Climate change–disease interactions in nearshore marine environments are complex; however, generalities are possible and continued research, especially in the areas outlined here, will improve our understanding.
Forest canopy-cover composition and landscape influence on bryophyte communities in Nothofagus forests of southern Patagonia
Authors: Toro Manríquez Mónica D. R. , Ardiles Víctor , Promis Álvaro , Huertas Herrera Alejandro , Soler Rosina , Lencinas María Vanessa , Martínez Pastur Guillermo
Published: November 2020

Bryophytes (liverworts, mosses and hornworts) are one of the most diverse plant groups worldwide but one of the least studied in temperate forests from an ecological perspective. In comparison to vascular plants, bryophytes have a broader distribution and a longer altitudinal gradient, and their influence on the landscape is poorly understood. The objective was to evaluate environmental drivers that can influence bryophyte cover, richness, diversity, and nestedness in different forest canopy compositions in two typical landscapes across the natural distribution of bryophytes in Tierra del Fuego (Argentina). Three naturalNothofagusforest types (pure deciduous, pure evergreen, and mixed deciduous-evergreen) in two landscapes (coasts < 100 m.a.s.l. and mountains > 400 m.a.s.l.) were selected (N = 60 plots). In each plot, we established one transect (10 m length) to measure bryophyte cover (point-intercept method). Data were evaluated using generalized linear mixed models and multivariate analyses. The studied environmental drivers were mainly explained by the microclimate, with higher effective annual precipitation and relative air humidity in the coastal forests and higher soil moisture in the mountain forests. Greater liverwort richness was found in evergreen forests at the mountain (9 species) than at the coastal, while mosses showed higher richness in mixed deciduous-evergreen forests at the coastal (11 species) than at the mountain. However, the expected richness according to the rarefaction/extrapolation curves suggested that it is possible to record additional species, except for liverworts in pure deciduous forests on the coasts. Similarities and differences among the studied forest types and among plots of the same forest type and landscape were detected. These differences in the studied indexes (similarity that varied between 0 and 1) ranged from 0.09–0.48 for liverworts and 0.05–0.65 for mosses. Moreover, these results indicated that pure evergreen and mixed deciduous-evergreen forests presented higher moss cover (10.7% and 10.0%, respectively), mainly in the mountains than on the coast. These outputs highlight the need to explore differences at greater altitudinal ranges to achieve sustainability objectives conservation planning for bryophytes in southernmost forests.
Temporal experience modifies future thoughts: Manipulation of Libet’s W influences difficulty assessment during a decision-making task
Authors: Isham Eve A.
Published: November 2020

Past studies have employed the subjective experience of decision time (Libet’s W) as an index of consciousness, marking the moment at which the agent first becomes aware of a decision. In the current study, we examined whether the temporal experience of W affects subsequent experience related to the action. Specifically, we tested whether W influenced the perception of difficulty in a decision-making task, hypothesizing that temporal awareness of W might influence the sense of difficulty. Consistent with our predictions, when W was perceived as early or late, participants subsequently rated the decision difficulty to be easy or difficult, respectively (Exp.1). Further investigation showed that perceived difficulty, however, did not influence W (Exp.2). Together, our findings suggest a unidirectional relationship such that W plays a role in the metacognition of difficulty evaluation. The results imply that subjective temporal experience of decision time modifies the consequential sense of difficulty.
Plant grafting relieves asymmetry of jasmonic acid response induced by wounding between scion and rootstock in tomato hypocotyl
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Li Dongliang , Chen Ni , Chen Jingjing , Mu Changjun , Yin Kuide , He Yuke , Liu Heng
Published: November 2020

Plant grafting is a sequential wound healing process. However, whether wounding induces a different jasmonic acid (JA) response within half a day (12 h) after grafting or non-grafting remains unclear. Using the tomato hypocotyl grafting method, we show that grafting alleviates the asymmetrical accumulation of JA and jasmonic acid isoleucine conjugate (JA-Ile) in scion and rootstock caused by wounding, and from 2 h after tomato micrografting, grafting obviously restored the level of JA-Ile in the scion and rootstock. Meanwhile, five JA-related genes, SlLOX11, SlAOS, SlCOI1, SlLAPA and SlJA2L, are detected and show significant changes in transcriptional expression patterns within 12 h of grafting, from asymmetrical to symmetrical, when the expression of 30 JA- and defense-related genes were analyzed. The results indicated that grafting alleviates the asymmetrical JA and defense response between scion and rootstock of the tomato hypocotyl within 12 h as induced by wounding. Moreover, we demonstrate that in the very early hours after grafting, JA-related genes may be involved in a molecular mechanism that changes asymmetrical expression as induced by wounding between scion and rootstock, thereby promoting wound healing and grafting success.
Availability, prices and affordability of essential medicines in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Dong Zuojun , Tao Qiucheng , Yan Bobo , Sun Guojun
Published: November 2020

Objective

To evaluate the availability, prices, and affordability of essential medicines in Zhejiang Province, China.

Methods

The survey was carried out in Zhejiang Province in 2018 following the methodology of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Health Action International (HAI). This method is an international standard method.Data on 50 medicines were collected from public health facilities and private pharmacies. Medication prices were compared with international reference prices to obtain a median price ratio. The affordability of medicines was measured based on the daily wage of the lowest-paid unskilled government worker. In private pharmacies, the mean availability of Originator Brands (OBs) and Lowest-priced Generics (LPGs) was 36.7% and 40.3%, respectively.

Findings

The effects of the mean availability of OBs and LPGs were seen in private pharmacies. Correspondingly, the average availability of OBs and LPGs was 41.8% and 35.1% in the public sector, respectively. In the public sector, the median price ratios (MPRs) were 5.21 for generics and 13.49 for OBs. In the private sector, the MPRs were 4.94 for generics and 14.75 for OBs. Treating common diseases with LPGs was generally affordable, while treatment with OBs was less affordable.

Conclusions

In Zhejiang Province, low availability was observed for medicines surveyed in the public and private sectors. Price differences between originator brands and generics in both sectors are apparent. OBs were more expensive than LPGs in both the public and private sectors. Low availability affects access to essential medicines. Policy measures should be taken to improve the availability of essential medicines.
Spatial scale and structure of complex life cycle trematode parasite communities in streams
Authors: Zemmer Sally A. , Detwiler Jillian T. , Sokol Eric R. , Da Silva Neto Jeronimo G. , Wyderko Jennie , Potts Kevin , Gajewski Zachary J. , Sarment Lea V. , Benfield E. F. , Belden Lisa K.
Published: November 2020

By considering the role of site-level factors and dispersal, metacommunity concepts have advanced our understanding of the processes that structure ecological communities. In dendritic systems, like streams and rivers, these processes may be impacted by network connectivity and unidirectional current. Streams and rivers are central to the dispersal of many pathogens, including parasites with complex, multi-host life cycles. Patterns in parasite distribution and diversity are often driven by host dispersal. We conducted two studies at different spatial scales (within and across stream networks) to investigate the importance of local and regional processes that structure trematode (parasitic flatworms) communities in streams. First, we examined trematode communities in first-intermediate host snails (Elimia proxima) in a survey of Appalachian headwater streams within the Upper New River Basin to assess regional turnover in community structure. We analyzed trematode communities based on both morphotype (visual identification) and haplotype (molecular identification), as cryptic diversity in larval trematodes could mask important community-level variation. Second, we examined communities at multiple sites (headwaters and main stem) within a stream network to assess potential roles of network position and downstream drift. Across stream networks, we found a broad scale spatial pattern in morphotype- and haplotype-defined communities due to regional turnover in the dominant parasite type. This pattern was correlated with elevation, but not with any other environmental factors. Additionally, we found evidence of multiple species within morphotypes, and greater genetic diversity in parasites with hosts limited to in-stream dispersal. Within network parasite prevalence, for at least some parasite taxa, was related to several site-level factors (elevation, snail density and stream depth), and total prevalence decreased from headwaters to main stem. Variation in the distribution and diversity of parasites at the regional scale may reflect differences in the abilities of hosts to disperse across the landscape. Within a stream network, species-environment relationships may counter the effects of downstream dispersal on community structure.
Targeted metabolomic profiling of cerebrospinal fluid from patients with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Luo Yi , Möhn Nora , Al-Mekhlafi Amani , Schuchardt Sven , Skripuletz Thomas , Sühs Wolfram , Pessler Frank , Stangel Martin
Published: November 2020

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), caused by JC polyomavirus, is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that primarily affects oligodendrocytes. It can cause significant morbidity and mortality. An early diagnosis is of high relevance as timely immune reconstitution is essential. However, diagnosis can be challenging if virus detection via cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) PCR remains negative. Hence, identifying CSF biomarkers for this disease is of crucial importance. We applied a targeted metabolomic screen to CSF from 23 PML patients and eight normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) patients as controls. Out of 188 potentially detectable metabolites, 48 (13 amino acids, 4 biogenic amines, 1 acylcarnitine, 21 phosphatidylcholines, 8 sphingolipids, and the sum of hexoses) passed the quality screen and were included in the analyses. Even though there was a tendency towards lower concentrations in PML (mostly of phosphatidylcholines and sphingomyelins), none of the differences between PML and controls in individual metabolite concentrations reached statistical significance (lowest p = 0.104) and there were no potential diagnostic biomarkers (highest area under the ROC curve 0.68). Thus, CSF metabolite changes in PML are likely subtle and possibly larger group sizes and broader metabolite screens are needed to identify potential CSF metabolite biomarkers for PML.
A clinical audit of anatomical side marker use in a pediatric medical imaging department: A quantitative and qualitative investigation
Authors: Chung Lilian , Kumar Saravana , Oldfield Joanne , Phillips Maureen , Stratfold Megan
Published: November 2020

Background

The presence of a radiopaque or digital anatomical side marker (ASM) is an important diagnostic feature on radiographs and should be a routine feature on every radiographic image. Despite its importance, research has indicated numerous instances where ASMs were absent which have the potential to lead to adverse events. To date, few studies have systematically examined the use of ASMs in clinical practice and explored medical imaging professionals’ perspectives on ASM use. This research aimed to address this knowledge gap.

Methods

This investigation was conducted in two stages. Stage 1 involved a retrospective clinical audit of 421 randomly selected radiographs within 12-months at a pediatric medical imaging department. The data were analyzed for overall presence and type of marker use. Stage 2 comprised of semi-structured interviews with 11 radiographers to garner their perspectives on ASM use, and barriers and enablers to their use in clinical practice. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed.

Results

The overall presence of ASMs (radiopaque and digital) was observed on 99 per cent of radiographs. There was a noticeable shift towards the use of digital (78.8 per cent) compared to radiopaque ASMs (20.2 per cent), highlighting the growing trend towards using ASM in post-processing. A handful of images (N = 4) did not include any ASMs. Semi-structured interviews revealed multifaceted barriers (time, infection precautions, and patient factors) and few enablers (professionalism, legal requirement) for ASM use.

Conclusion

This investigation, informed by quantitative and qualitative research paradigms, has shed new light on an important area of radiography practice. While missing ASMs were a small feature, there continue to remain opportunities where best practice standards can be improved. The increasing use of digital ASMs potentially highlights a shift in clinical practice standards.
Characterization of binding between model protein GA-Z and human serum albumin using asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation and small angle X-ray scattering
Authors: Choi Jaeyeong , Wahlgren Marie , Ek Vilhelm , Elofsson Ulla , Fransson Jonas , Nilsson Lars , Terry Ann , Söderberg Christopher A. G.
Published: November 2020

Protein-based drugs often require targeted drug delivery for optimal therapy. A successful strategy to increase the circulation time of the protein in the blood is to link the therapeutic protein with an albumin-binding domain. In this work, we characterized such a protein-based drug, GA-Z. Using asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation coupled with multi-angle light scattering (AF4-MALS) we investigated the GA-Z monomer-dimer equilibrium as well as the molar binding ratio of GA-Z to HSA. Using small angle X-ray scattering, we studied the structure of GA-Z as well as the complex between GA-Z and HSA. The results show that GA-Z is predominantly dimeric in solution at pH 7 and that it binds to monomeric as well as dimeric HSA. Furthermore, GA-Z binds to HSA both as a monomer and a dimer, and thus, it can be expected to stay bound also upon dilution following injection in the blood stream. The results from SAXS and binding studies indicate that the GA-Z dimer is formed between two target domains (Z-domains). The results also indicate that the binding of GA-Z to HSA does not affect the ratio between HSA dimers and monomers, and that no higher order oligomers of the complex are seen other than those containing dimers of GA-Z and dimers of HSA.
Assessment of mucin-related gene alterations following treatment with rebamipide ophthalmic suspension in Sjögren’s syndrome-associated dry eyes
Authors: Shoji Jun , Inada Noriko , Tomioka Akiko , Yamagami Satoru
Published: November 2020

Ocular surface mucins are thought to play vital roles in maintaining the homeostasis of the pre-ocular surface tear film. We performed ocular surface tests with impression cytology to assess the expression levels of mucin-related genes on the ocular surface in healthy eyes. In addition, we investigated alterations in mucin-related gene expression secondary to treatment with rebamipide ophthalmic suspension in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome-associated dry eyes (SS-DE). Thirty-three healthy individuals (control group) and 13 patients from our hospital with SS-DE were enrolled. Impression cytology was performed using Schirmer’s test paper for RNA sampling. The mRNA levels of SAM-pointed domain-containing ETS-like factor (SPDEF), mucin 5AC (MUC5AC), and mucin 16 (MUC16) were determined using a real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The ocular surface test was performed once for the control group, and at baseline as well as 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after treatment in the Sjögren’s syndrome-associated dry eyes group. mRNA levels of SPDEF, MUC5AC, and MUC16 were not significantly different between the control and SS-DE groups before rebamipide ophthalmic suspension treatment. SPDEF mRNA levels in control subjects were significantly correlated with levels of MUC5AC. Among SS-DE patients, SPDEF mRNA levels were significantly increased at 2, 4, and 8 weeks after treatment compared with baseline levels. MUC16 mRNA levels were significantly decreased from baseline levels at 4 and 8 weeks post-treatment. Ocular surface test using impression cytology is a clinically useful tool for assessing mucous conditions on the ocular surface and can be used to determine the effects of instillation treatment with eye drops that affect mucin production at the ocular surface.
Bacillus-infecting bacteriophage Izhevsk harbors thermostable endolysin with broad range specificity
Authors: Skorynina Anna V. , Piligrimova Emma G. , Kazantseva Olesya A. , Kulyabin Vladislav A. , Baicher Svetlana D. , Ryabova Natalya A. , Shadrin Andrey M.
Published: November 2020

Several bacterial species belonging to theBacillus cereusgroup are known to be causative agents of food poisoning and severe human diseases. Bacteriophages and their lytic enzymes called endolysins have been widely shown to provide for a supplemental or primary means of treating bacterial infections. In this work we present a new broad-host-range phage Izhevsk, which infects the members of theBacillus cereusgroup. Transmission electron microscopy, genome sequencing and comparative analyses revealed that Izhevsk is a temperate phage withSiphoviridaemorphology and belongs to the same genus as the previously described but taxonomically unclassified bacteriophages Tsamsa and Diildio. The Ply57 endolysin of Izhevsk phage has broad-spectrum activity againstB.cereus sensu lato. The thermolability of Ply57 is higher than that of the PlyG of Wβ phage. This work contributes to our current understanding of phage biodiversity and may be useful for further development of efficient antimicrobials aimed at diagnosing and treating infectious diseases and food contaminations caused by theBacillus cereusgroup of bacteria.