bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Demands and Performance Indicators in Male Professional Cyclists During a Grand Tour: WorldTour Versus ProTeam Category
Authors: Muriel Xabier , Valenzuela Pedro L. , Mateo-March Manuel , Pallarés Jesús G. , Lucia Alejandro , Barranco-Gil David
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To compare the physical demands and performance indicators of male professional cyclists of 2 different categories (Union Cycliste Internationale WorldTour [WT] and ProTeam [PT]) during a cycling grand tour. Methods: A WT team (n = 8, 31.4 [5.4] y) and a PT team (n = 7, 26.9 [3.3] y) that completed “La Vuelta 2020” volunteered to participate. Participants’ power output (PO) was registered, and measures of physical demand and physiological performance (kilojoules spent, training stress score, time spent at different PO bands/zones, and mean maximal PO [MMP] for different exertion durations) were computed. Results: WT achieved a higher final individual position than PT (31 [interquartile range = 33] vs 71 [59], P = .004). WT cyclists showed higher mean PO and kilojoule values than their PT peers and spent more time at high-intensity PO values (>5.25 W·kg−1) and zones (91%–120% of individualized functional threshold power) (Ps < .05). Although no differences were found for MMP values in the overall analysis (P > .05), subanalyses revealed that the between-groups gap increased through the race, with WT cyclists reaching higher MMP values for ≥5-minute efforts in the second and third weeks (Ps < .05). Conclusions: Despite the multifactorial nature of cycling performance, WT cyclists spend more time at high intensities and show higher kilojoules and mean PO than their PT referents during a grand tour. Although the highest MMP values attained during the whole race might not differentiate between WT and PT cyclists, the former achieve higher MMP values as the race progresses.
Calibration of the Online Youth Activity Profile Assessment for School-Based Applications
Authors: Welk Gregory J. , Saint-Maurice Pedro F. , Dixon Philip M. , Hibbing Paul R. , Bai Yang , McLoughlin Gabriella M. , Pereira da Silva Michael
Published: August 2021

A balance between the feasibility and validity of measures is an important consideration for physical activity (PA) research—particularly in school-based research with youth. The present study extends previously tested calibration methods to develop and test new equations for an online version of the youth activity profile (YAP) tool, a self-report tool designed for school applications. Data were collected across different regions and seasons to develop more robust, generalizable equations. The study involved a total of 717 youth from 33 schools (374 elementary [ages 9–11 years], 224 middle [ages 11–14 years], and 119 high school [ages 14–18 years]) in two different states in the United States. Participants wore a Sensewear monitor for a full week and then completed the online YAP at school to report PA and sedentary behaviors in school and at home. Accelerometer data were processed using an R-based segmentation program to compute PA and sedentary behavior levels. Quantile regression models were used with half of the sample to develop item-specific YAP calibration equations, and these were cross validated with the remaining half of the sample. Computed values of mean absolute percentage error ranged from 15 to 25% with slightly lower error observed for the middle school sample. The new equations had improved precision compared with the previous versions when tested on the same sample. The online version of the YAP provides an efficient and effective way to capture school level estimates of PA and sedentary behaviors in youth.
β-Arrestin–dependent ERK signaling reduces anxiety-like and conditioned fear–related behaviors in mice
Authors: Ko Mee Jung , Chiang Terrance , Mukadam Arbaaz A. , Mulia Grace E. , Gutridge Anna M. , Lin Angel , Chester Julia A. , van Rijn Richard M.
Published: August 2021

β-Arrestin signaling may mediate the fear- and anxiety-relieving effects as well as adverse events of opioids.
The Dynamic Transition of Persistence toward the Viable but Nonculturable State during Stationary Phase Is Driven by Protein Aggregation
Authors: Dewachter Liselot , Bollen Celien , Wilmaerts Dorien , Louwagie Elen , Herpels Pauline , Matthay Paul , Khodaparast Ladan , Khodaparast Laleh , Rousseau Frederic , Schymkowitz Joost , Michiels Jan
Published: August 2021

While persistence and the viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state are currently investigated in isolation, our results strongly indicate that these phenotypes represent different stages of the same dormancy program and that they should therefore be studied within the same conceptual framework. Moreover, we show here for the first time that the dynamics of protein aggregation perfectly match the onset and further development of bacterial dormancy and that different dormant phenotypes are linked to different stages of protein aggregation.
Discovery of the Pseudomonas Polyyne Protegencin by a Phylogeny-Guided Study of Polyyne Biosynthetic Gene Cluster Diversity
Authors: Mullins Alex J. , Webster Gordon , Kim Hak Joong , Zhao Jinlian , Petrova Yoana D. , Ramming Christina E. , Jenner Matthew , Murray James A. H. , Connor Thomas R. , Hertweck Christian , Challis Gregory L. , Mahenthiralingam Eshwar
Published: August 2021

Natural products bearing alkyne (triple carbon bond) or polyyne (multiple alternating single and triple carbon bonds) moieties exhibit a broad range of important biological activities. Polyyne metabolites have been implicated in important ecological roles such as cepacin mediating biological control of plant pathogens and caryoynencin protecting Lagriinae beetle eggs against pathogenic fungi.
The TMPRSS2 Inhibitor Nafamostat Reduces SARS-CoV-2 Pulmonary Infection in Mouse Models of COVID-19
Authors: Li Kun , Meyerholz David K. , Bartlett Jennifer A. , McCray Paul B.
Published: August 2021

The causative agent of COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), requires host cell surface proteases for membrane fusion and entry into airway epithelia. We tested the hypothesis that inhibitors of these proteases, the serine protease inhibitors camostat and nafamostat, block infection by SARS-CoV-2.
Carboxysome Mispositioning Alters Growth, Morphology, and Rubisco Level of the Cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942
Authors: Rillema Rees , Hoang Y , MacCready Joshua S. , Vecchiarelli Anthony G.
Published: August 2021

Photosynthetic cyanobacteria are responsible for almost half of global CO
2
fixation. Due to eutrophication, rising temperatures, and increasing atmospheric CO
2
concentrations, cyanobacteria have gained notoriety for their ability to form massive blooms in both freshwater and marine ecosystems across the globe.
Leveraging Immunopeptidomics To Study and Combat Infectious Disease
Authors: Leddy Owen K. , White Forest M. , Bryson Bryan D.
Published: August 2021

T cells must recognize pathogen-derived peptides bound to major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs) in order to initiate a cell-mediated immune response against an infection, or to support the development of high-affinity antibody responses. Identifying antigens presented on MHCs by infected cells and professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs) during infection may therefore provide a route toward developing new vaccines.
Chemical Gradients of Plant Substrates in an
Atta texana
Fungus Garden
Authors: Caraballo-Rodríguez Andrés Mauricio , Puckett Sara P. , Kyle Kathleen E. , Petras Daniel , da Silva Ricardo , Nothias Louis-Félix , Ernst Madeleine , van der Hooft Justin J. J. , Tripathi Anupriya , Wang Mingxun , Balunas Marcy J. , Klassen Jonathan L. , Dorrestein Pieter C.
Published: August 2021

The study of complex ecosystems requires an understanding of the chemical processes involving molecules from several sources. Some of the molecules present in fungus-growing ants’ symbiotic system originate from plants.
Fifteen-minute consultation: Emergency management of children presenting with hyperkalaemia
Authors: Rubens Matthew , Kanaris Constantinos
Published: August 2021

Hyperkalaemia can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. A good understanding of the physiological basis of management can help us rationalise treatment and reduce plasma potassium levels efficiently and effectively. Management focuses on avoidance of arrythmias, rapid intracellular movement of potassium and finally reduction of total body potassium. Fluid management in hyperkalaemia should be carefully considered, with balanced solutions providing theoretical benefits compared to 0.9% saline in certain situations.
Isolated tricuspid valve endocarditis in immunocompetent juvenile patients: a series of three cases
Authors: Chandra Atanu , Ghosh Shrestha , Chakraborty Uddalak , Ray Debojyoti
Published: August 2021

Right-sided native valve infective endocarditis is common in patients with congenital or valvular heart disease, intracardiac device, central venous catheter and intravenous drug abuse, usually manifesting in adulthood. However, in the absence of predisposing risk factors and in younger age groups, this disease may pose a diagnostic challenge. We report a case series of three juvenile patients with isolated tricuspid valve infective endocarditis without any risk factors and paucity of cardiovascular findings in two of them, in an attempt to highlight the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion to arrive a timely diagnosis.
Study protocol of a randomised trial of Summer STRIPES: a peer-delivered high school preparatory intervention for students with ADHD
Authors: Zulauf-McCurdy Courtney A. , Coxe Stefany J. , Lyon Aaron R. , Aaronson Ben , Ortiz Mercedes , Sibley Margaret H.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

High schoolers with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience substantial impairments, particularly in the school setting. However, very few high school students with ADHD receive evidence-based interventions for their difficulties. We aim to improve access to care by adapting evidence-based psychosocial intervention components to a low-resource and novel school-based intervention model, Summer STRIPES (Students Taking Responsibility and Initiative through Peer Enhanced Support). Summer STRIPES is a brief peer-delivered summer orientation to high school with continued peer-delivered sessions during ninth grade.

Methods and analysis

Participants will be 72 rising ninth grade students with ADHD who are randomised to receive either Summer STRIPES or school services as usual. Summer STRIPES will be delivered by 12 peer interventionists in a school setting. Outcomes will be measured at baseline, start of ninth grade, mid-ninth grade and end-of-ninth grade. At each assessment, self, parent and teacher measures will be obtained. We will test the effect of Summer STRIPES (compared with school services as usual) on ADHD symptoms and key mechanisms (intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, executive functions) as well as key academic outcomes during the ninth-grade year (Grade Point Average (GPA), class attendance).

Ethics and dissemination

Findings will contribute to our understanding of how to improve access and utilisation of care for adolescents with ADHD. The protocol is approved by the institutional review board at Seattle Children’s Research Institute. The study results will be disseminated through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.

Trials registration number

NCT04571320; pre-results.
Care willingness and demand of residents under 60 years of age in western China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Cheng Li nan , Zhao Li , Xie Xiao feng , Wang Liang , Hu Xiu ying , Dong Xiao yang , Zhang Feng ying
Published: August 2021

Objectives

The objective was to examine care willingness and demand of residents under 60 years of age after retirement.

Setting

The staged cluster sampling method was used between August and October 2018 in Dujiangyan, Sichuan Province, China.

Participants

2282 participants under 60 years of age were surveyed in 2018 by the staged cluster sampling method in China.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The results of care willingness and demand were assessed by multiple comparisons of χ2test and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

The respondents who preferred institution-based care, home-based care and community-based care accounted for 39.5%, 38.3% and 20.2% respectively, whereas only 2.1% preferred home-based self-care. The main reasons for the respondents to choose institution-based care included better medical care (31.9%), better daily care (27.0%), burden reduction for children (26.3%), better accommodation (22.8%), satisfied living environment (21.6%) and low consumption (12.3%). The factors that affected care willingness and demand included age, ethnicity, educational attainment, marital status, occupation and the current type of residence.

Conclusions

The results revealed the care willingness and demand of residents under 60 years of age after retirement and relevant decision factors. This study provides a certain theoretical and practical significance for the development of the care willingness mode and promotes the cognition of policy-makers and researchers, and also provides the basis for decision-making.
Risk of aspiration pneumonia in paediatric patients with dysphagia who were found to have laryngeal penetration on the instrumental swallow evaluation: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Adlakha Vaishali , Ramos Leona , Smith Abigail , Tsistinas Olivia , Tanner-Smith Emily , Merrow Jill , Soultan Zafer , Mortelliti Anthony , Rosen Rachel , Imdad Aamer
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Dysphagia affects several children in USA and around the globe. Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS) and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) are the most objective studies to define swallowing function. The presence of tracheal aspiration during VFSS or FEES in children with dysphagia is associated with an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia. However, the association of laryngeal penetration with aspiration pneumonia remains unclear. This systematic review aims to assess the risk of aspiration pneumonia in children with dysphagia with laryngeal penetration on VFSS/FEES and compare it with children with tracheal aspiration and children with neither tracheal aspiration nor laryngeal penetration.

Methods and analysis

This study will be a systematic review and meta-analysis. Systematic electronic searches will be conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINHAL, Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL, LILACS and WHO Global Index Medicus. We will include studies published through 6 October 2021. Primary outcome will be the incidence of aspiration pneumonia. Secondary outcomes will be incidence of hospitalisation, paediatric intensive care unit admission, enteral tube requirement, growth, symptoms improvement and mortality. The Cochrane Risk of Bias In Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions tool will be used to assess the risk of bias. Meta-analysis will be used to pool the studies. We will pool dichotomous outcomes to obtain an odd ratio (OR) and report with 95% CI. Continuous outcomes will be pooled to obtain mean difference and reported with 95% CI. Overall grade of evidence will be assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria, and findings will be presented in a summary of findings table.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is a systematic review without contact with patients. Therefore, IRB approval is not required. Authors consent to publishing this review. Data will be kept for review by editors and peer reviewers. Data will be available to general public on request.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020222145.
Chimeric non-antigen receptors in T cell-based cancer therapy
Authors: Guo Jitao , Kent Andrew , Davila Eduardo
Published: August 2021

Adoptively transferred T cell-based cancer therapies have shown incredible promise in treatment of various cancers. So far therapeutic strategies using T cells have focused on manipulation of the antigen-recognition machinery itself, such as through selective expression of tumor-antigen specific T cell receptors or engineered antigen-recognition chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). While several CARs have been approved for treatment of hematopoietic malignancies, this kind of therapy has been less successful in the treatment of solid tumors, in part due to lack of suitable tumor-specific targets, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and the inability of adoptively transferred cells to maintain their therapeutic potentials. It is critical for therapeutic T cells to overcome immunosuppressive environmental triggers, mediating balanced antitumor immunity without causing unwanted inflammation or autoimmunity. To address these hurdles, chimeric receptors with distinct signaling properties are being engineered to function as allies of tumor antigen-specific receptors, modulating unique aspects of T cell function without directly binding to antigen themselves. In this review, we focus on the design and function of these chimeric non-antigen receptors, which fall into three broad categories: ‘inhibitory-to-stimulatory’ switch receptors that bind natural ligands, enhanced stimulatory receptors that interact with natural ligands, and synthetic receptor-ligand pairs. Our intent is to offer detailed descriptions that will help readers to understand the structure and function of these receptors, as well as inspire development of additional novel synthetic receptors to improve T cell-based cancer therapy.
The Rist radial access system: a multicenter study of 152 patients
Authors: Abecassis Isaac Josh , Saini Vasu , Crowley R Webster , Munich Stephan A , Singer Justin , Osbun Joshua W , Gross Bradley A , Walcott Brian P , Peebles Todd R , Bain Mark , Storey Christopher M , Yavagal Dileep R , Starke Robert M , Peterson Eric C
Published: August 2021

Background

Transradial access (TRA) for neurointervention is becoming increasingly popular as experience with the technique grows. Despite reasonable efficacy using femoral catheters off-label, conversion to femoral access occurs in approximately 8.6–10.3% of TRA cases, due to an inability of the catheter to track into the vessel of interest, lack of support, or radial artery spasm.

Methods

This is a multicenter, retrospective case series of patients undergoing neurointerventions using the Rist Radial Access System. We also present our institutional protocol for using the system.

Results

152 patients were included in the cohort. The most common procedure was flow diversion (28.3%). The smallest radial diameter utilized was 1.9 mm, and 44.1% were performed without an intermediate catheter. A majority of cases (96.1%) were completed successfully; 3 (1.9%) required conversion to a different radial catheter, 2 (1.3%) required conversion to femoral access, and 1 (0.7%) was aborted. There was 1 (0.7%) minor access site complication and 4 (2.6%) neurological complications.

Conclusions

The Rist catheter is a safe and effective tool for a wide range of complex neurointerventions, with lower conversion rates than classically reported.
Heart failure in pregnancy: what is the long-term impact of pregnancy on cardiac function? A tertiary care centre experience and systematic review
Authors: Dodeja Anudeep K , Siegel Francesca , Dodd Katherine , Ma'ayeh Marwan , Mehta Laxmi S , Fuchs Margaret M , Rood Kara M , Mah May Ling , Bradley Elisa A
Published: August 2021

Background

Women with cardiomyopathy (CM) are often advised against pregnancy due to risk for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). However, the impact of CM subtype on maternal MACE is not understood, and so we sought to evaluate the influence of CM phenotype on maternal outcomes, as well as the effect on immediate and late left ventricular function.

Methods

We evaluated all pregnant women in our high-risk maternal cardiovascular programme (2009–2019). Composite maternal MACE included: death, inotrope use, left ventricular assist device, orthotopic heart transplant and/or escalation in transplant listing status, acute decompensated heart failure and sustained ventricular arrhythmia.

Results

Among 875 women followed, 32 had CM (29±7 years old, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 41%±12%): 3 ischaemic CM (ICM), 10 peripartum CM (PPCM) and 19 non-ICM (NICM). MACE events occurred in 6 (18%) women (PPCM: 2 (33%), NICM: 4 (67%)). There was no difference in LVEF at baseline, however, women with MACE had significantly lower LVEF both early (LVEF: 27±5% vs . 41±2%, p<0.05) and late post partum (LVEF: 28±5% vs . 44±2%, p<0.01).

Conclusions

In this contemporary cohort of women with CM, maternal MACE rates were lower than previously reported, and were less common in PPCM as compared with ICM and NICM. Heart function in women with MACE was negatively impacted immediately after delivery and in late postpartum follow-up, suggesting that pregnancy itself likely has influence on future left ventricular function in women with underlying CM.
Efficacy of acid treatments used in archaeological ceramics for the removal of calcareous deposits
Authors: Sáenz-Martínez Águeda , Pérez-Estébanez Marta , San Andrés Margarita , Alvarez de Buergo Mónica , Fort Rafael
Published: August 2021

Calcareous deposits are one of the most common alterations that archaeological ceramics can exhibit, and they can damage their artistic and historical values. For this reason, it becomes necessary to remove these deposits. However, there is no agreement in the conservation field about the conditions of the cleaning treatments. Moreover, little has been studied about the consequences that archaeological ceramics might suffer. The main purpose of this research is to study the efficacy and safety of several cleaning treatments that are or can be used in archaeological ceramics. To this aim, it was necessary, in first place, elaborating ceramic specimens, simulating archaeological ones, and artificially growing calcareous deposits on their surface. Afterwards, effective and little damaging cleaning treatments based on the immersion of the elaborated ceramics on acid products were developed. Acetic and nitric acid solutions were prepared at the minimum concentration and applied during the minimum time to be effective. Ceramic specimens were elaborated with a commercial red clay simulating archaeological ceramics to avoid trials on real cultural objects. The mineralogical composition of the ceramics was studied by X-ray powder diffraction to establish if changes occurred after the carbonation process and after the cleaning treatments, and thermogravimetric analysis allowed to quantify the calcium carbonate content in every step of the process and to determine the efficacy and safety of such cleaning treatments. According to the results obtained so far, the acid treatments (acetic and nitric acid) were both effective in the removal of the deposits and did not modify the initial mineralogical composition of the ceramic specimens. Besides, no significant differences among them were detected regarding their efficacy.
Gravitational-wave searches in the era of Advanced LIGO and Virgo
Authors: Caudill Sarah , Kandhasamy Shivaraj , Lazzaro Claudia , Matas Andrew , Sieniawska Magdalena , Stuver Amber L.
Published: August 2021

The field of gravitational-wave astronomy has been opened up by gravitational-wave observations made with interferometric detectors. This review surveys the current state-of-the-art in gravitational-wave detectors and data analysis methods currently used by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory in the United States and the Virgo Observatory in Italy. These analysis methods will also be used in the recently completed KAGRA Observatory in Japan. Data analysis algorithms are developed to target one of four classes of gravitational waves. Short duration, transient sources include compact binary coalescences, and burst sources originating from poorly modeled or unanticipated sources. Long duration sources include sources which emit continuous signals of consistent frequency, and many unresolved sources forming a stochastic background. A description of potential sources and the search for gravitational waves from each of these classes are detailed.
A new shape function and some specific wormhole solutions in braneworld scenario
Authors: Ghosh Bikram , Mitra Saugata
Published: July 2021

Considering an energy density of the form [Formula: see text] (where [Formula: see text] is an arbitrary positive constant with dimension of energy density and [Formula: see text]), a shape function is obtained by using field equations of braneworld gravity theory in this paper. Under isotropic scenario wormhole solutions are obtained considering six different redshift functions along with the obtained new shape function. For anisotropic case, wormhole solutions are obtained under the consideration of five different shape functions along with the redshift function [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is an arbitrary constant. In each case all energy conditions are examined and it is found that for some cases all energy conditions are satisfied in the vicinity of the wormhole throat and for the rest of the cases all energy conditions are satisfied except strong energy condition.
Studying of dielectric spectra of YCu0.15Mn0.85O3 solid solution with the use of complex conductivity
Authors: Nazarenko A. V. , Pavlenko A. V. , Yurasov Y. I.
Published: July 2021

This work presents the results of studying the electrophysical properties of the [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]O3 solid solution in the range of temperatures of [Formula: see text] = 26–400[Formula: see text]C and frequency range of [Formula: see text] = 102–105 Hz. A model description of the revealed dispersion of dielectric parameters in the material is made. The nonclassical modified Havriliak–Negami model written for complex electrical conductivity was used as an approximation model. It is shown that the application of this model almost exactly describes the frequency behavior of the dielectric constant [Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text]( [Formula: see text], the dielectric loss tangent tg[Formula: see text]( [Formula: see text] as well as the real and imaginary parts of complex conductivity [Formula: see text]( [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]( [Formula: see text]. The results of this work are an important step in identifying the opportunities and understanding the applications of this model.
Bacterial Multicellularity: The Biology of Escherichia coli Building Large-Scale Biofilm Communities
Authors: Serra Diego O. , Hengge Regine
Published: August 2021

Biofilms are a widespread multicellular form of bacterial life. The spatial structure and emergent properties of these communities depend on a polymeric extracellular matrix architecture that is orders of magnitude larger than the cells that build it. Using as a model the wrinkly macrocolony biofilms of Escherichia coli, which contain amyloid curli fibers and phosphoethanolamine (pEtN)-modified cellulose as matrix components, we summarize here the structure, building, and function of this large-scale matrix architecture. Based on different sigma and other transcription factors as well as second messengers, the underlying regulatory network reflects the fundamental trade-off between growth and survival. It controls matrix production spatially in response to long-range chemical gradients, but it also generates distinct patterns of short-range matrix heterogeneity that are crucial for tissue-like elasticity and macroscopic morphogenesis. Overall, these biofilms confer protection and a potential for homeostasis, thereby reducing maintenance energy, which makes multicellularity an emergent property of life itself.
Antimicrobial Activity of Metals and Metalloids
Authors: Li Yuan Ping , Ben Fekih Ibtissem , Chi Fru Ernest , Moraleda-Munoz Aurelio , Li Xuanji , Rosen Barry P. , Yoshinaga Masafumi , Rensing Christopher
Published: August 2021

Competition shapes evolution. Toxic metals and metalloids have exerted selective pressure on life since the rise of the first organisms on the Earth, which has led to the evolution and acquisition of resistance mechanisms against them, as well as mechanisms to weaponize them. Microorganisms exploit antimicrobial metals and metalloids to gain competitive advantage over other members of microbial communities. This exerts a strong selective pressure that drives evolution of resistance. This review describes, with a focus on arsenic and copper, how microorganisms exploit metals and metalloids for predation and how metal- and metalloid-dependent predation may have been a driving force for evolution of microbial resistance against metals and metalloids.
Molecular Basis of Lysis–Lysogeny Decisions in Gram-Positive Phages
Authors: Brady Aisling , Felipe-Ruiz Alonso , Gallego del Sol Francisca , Marina Alberto , Quiles-Puchalt Nuria , Penadés José R.
Published: August 2021

Temperate bacteriophages (phages) are viruses of bacteria. Upon infection of a susceptible host, a temperate phage can establish either a lytic cycle that kills the host or a lysogenic cycle as a stable prophage. The life cycle pursued by an infecting temperate phage can have a significant impact not only on the individual host bacterium at the cellular level but also on bacterial communities and evolution in the ecosystem. Thus, understanding the decision processes of temperate phages is crucial. This review delves into the molecular mechanisms behind lysis–lysogeny decision-making in Gram-positive phages. We discuss a variety of molecular mechanisms and the genetic organization of these well-understood systems. By elucidating the strategies used by phages to make lysis–lysogeny decisions, we can improve our understanding of phage–host interactions, which is crucial for a variety of studies including bacterial evolution, community and ecosystem diversification, and phage therapeutics.
Investigation of the Role of Neurokinin‐1 Receptor Inhibition Using Aprepitant in the Apoptotic Cell Death through PI3K/Akt/NF‐κB Signal Transduction Pathways in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Ghahremanloo Atefeh , Javid Hossein , Afshari Amir R. , Hashemy Seyed Isaac
Published: August 2021

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is recognized as one of the most common malignancies with a high mortality rate worldwide, supporting the necessity for an effective novel antitumor drug to improve current therapy’s effectiveness. Substance P (SP) is the essential member of the tachykinins (TKs) family, which binds to the specific receptors, known as neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK1R), exerting its multiple influences such as tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Aprepitant, as a specific NK1R antagonist, is suggested as a novel antitumor agent, promoting apoptotic processes in tumor cells; however, the exact antitumor mechanism of aprepitant on molecular signaling in CRC is not entirely known. Method. The resazurin assay was conducted to assess the cytotoxic effects of aprepitant on the viability of the CRC cell line (SW480). The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured after 24‐hour treatment with SP and aprepitant. PI/annexin V‐FITC staining was conducted to assess apoptosis. Also, the expression of NF‐κB antiapoptotic target genes and proapoptotic p53 target genes was measured by real‐time‐ (RT‐) PCR assay. Western blotting assay was performed to determine the expression of PI3k/AKT/NF‐κB proteins. Results. We found that aprepitant stimulates apoptotic cell death and attenuates the PI3K/Akt pathway and its downstream proapoptotic target gene, including NF‐κB in SW480 cells. Also, the obtained results from the quantitative RT‐PCR assay showed that aprepitant could decrease the level of mRNA of NF‐κB antiapoptotic target genes. Conclusion. Towards this end, this study suggests that SP/NK1R system plays a vital role in the development of CRC, and pharmaceutical targeting of NK1R using aprepitant might be a promising treatment against CRC.
A Survey of Soft Computing Approaches in Biomedical Imaging
Authors: Devi Manju , Singh Sukhdip , Tiwari Shailendra , Chandra Patel Subhash , Ayana Melkamu Teshome
Published: August 2021

Medical imaging is an essential technique for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in modern clinics. Soft computing plays a major role in the recent advances in medical imaging. It handles uncertainties and improves the qualities of an image. Until now, various soft computing approaches have been proposed for medical applications. This paper discusses various medical imaging modalities and presents a short review of soft computing approaches such as fuzzy logic, artificial neural network, genetic algorithm, machine learning, and deep learning. We also studied and compared each approach used for other imaging modalities based on the certain parameter used for the system evaluation. Finally, based on comparative analysis, the possible research strategies for further development are proposed. As far as we know, no previous work examined this issue.
Adoption of Diffusion Tensor Imaging under Optimized Fuzzy C-Means Cluster Algorithm in Intracerebral Benign and Malignant Tumor Resection
Authors: Liu Yasong , Xu Wentao
Published: August 2021

The study aimed to analyze the application of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in the surgery of benign and malignant intracranial tumors through improved fuzzy C-means (FCM). First, a method of combining the maximum and minimum distances was proposed to improve the FCM algorithm. Then, the optimized FCM was applied to the diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) diagnosis. The patients were rolled into the benign tumor group and the malignant tumor group, and relevant parameters were compared. Finally, the postoperative total resection rate and disability rate of the DTI experimental group and the traditional control (Ctrl) group were evaluated. It was found that the segmentation accuracy of the optimized FCM algorithm was higher than traditional one and the obtained corpus callosum edge contour was clearer. In 63 patients with intracranial space, there were obvious differences in pairwise comparison of meningioma and glioma, metastatic tumor’s apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value, relative apparent diffusion coefficient (r ADC) value, and relative anisotropy fraction (r FA)

P
<
0.05

. In terms of the ADC, r ADC, and r FA values of tumor parenchymal area, those of benign tumors were larger than malignant tumors

P
<
0.05

. The ADC value (8.21 ± 1.87) and r FA value (1.36 ± 0.41) of the contralateral normal white matter area of malignant tumor were greater than the ADC value (7.23 ± 2.31) and r FA value (0.61 ± 0.24) of the peritumor white matter area, with statistically significant differences

P
<
0.05

. The total cut rates of the experimental group and the Ctrl were 87.5% and 54.84%, and the disability rates were 6.25% and 34.38%. In conclusion, the optimized FCM has high accuracy. The ADC, r ADC, and r FA values of DTI are important in the diagnosis of intracranial tumors. Besides, DTI can improve the survival rate in guiding intracranial tumor resection.
Using an SGB Decision Tree Approach to Estimate the Properties of CRM Made by Biomass Pretreated with Ionic Liquids
Authors: Gu Ya-Qing , Shu Tao , Ge Bin , Wang Ping , Gao Chen , Heydari Hamid
Published: August 2021

The use of ionic liquids (ILs) for biomass pretreatment to produce cellulose-rich materials (CRMs) has been well proven. In this research, due to the wide range of applications and ease of using artificial intelligence procedures, on the basis of the algorithm of stochastic gradient boosting (SGB) decision tree, an artificial intelligence approach is proposed to estimate the properties of cellulose-rich materials (CRMs). That being the case, the dataset of the empirical output values was gathered and was randomly broken down into datasets for testing and training. These results show that the best forecasting tool for calculating the properties of CRMs is the developed model. Furthermore, the accuracy of the databank of the biodiesel target values has been examined. In contrast, the influences of model contributed variables on the output have been examined as a new issue. It reveals that the most influencing variable in determining the properties of CRMs is the cellulose enrichment factor. Therefore, this research provides an innovative and accurate tool for predicting the properties of CRMs and sensitivity investigation on effective parameters to help investigators developing the optimized process.
Link Prediction Based on the Derivation of Mapping Entropy
Authors: Hu Hefei , Wang Yanan , Li Zheng , Tian Yang , Ren Yuemei
Published: August 2021

The algorithms based on topological similarity play an important role in link prediction. However, most of traditional algorithms based on the influences of nodes only consider the degrees of the endpoints which ignore the differences in contribution of neighbors. Through generous explorations, we propose the DME (derivation of mapping entropy) model concerning the mapping relationship between the node and its neighbors to access the influence of the node appropriately. Abundant experiments on nine real networks suggest that the model can improve precision in link prediction and perform better than traditional algorithms obviously with no increase in time complexity.
A Novel Defensive Strategy for Facial Manipulation Detection Combining Bilateral Filtering and Joint Adversarial Training
Authors: Luo Yifan , Ye Feng , Weng Bin , Du Shan , Huang Tianqiang
Published: August 2021

Facial manipulation enables facial expressions to be tampered with or facial identities to be replaced in videos. The fake videos are so realistic that they are even difficult for human eyes to distinguish. This poses a great threat to social and public information security. A number of facial manipulation detectors have been proposed to address this threat. However, previous studies have shown that the accuracy of these detectors is sensitive to adversarial examples. The existing defense methods are very limited in terms of applicable scenes and defense effects. This paper proposes a new defense strategy for facial manipulation detectors, which combines a passive defense method, bilateral filtering, and a proactive defense method, joint adversarial training, to mitigate the vulnerability of facial manipulation detectors against adversarial examples. The bilateral filtering method is applied in the preprocessing stage of the model without any modification to denoise the input adversarial examples. The joint adversarial training starts from the training stage of the model, which mixes various adversarial examples and original examples to train the model. The introduction of joint adversarial training can train a model that defends against multiple adversarial attacks. The experimental results show that the proposed defense strategy positively helps facial manipulation detectors counter adversarial examples.
Associations between ERAP1 Gene Polymorphisms and Psoriasis Susceptibility: A Meta‐Analysis of Case‐Control Studies
Authors: Wu Xiujuan , Zhao Zongfeng
Published: August 2021

This study is to investigate the relationship of endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 (ERAP1) gene polymorphisms with psoriasis. Five databases of PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for potential studies until 25 December 2019. Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate the quality of included studies. Meta‐analysis was performed with PRISMA. A total of 9 case‐control studies including 4858 psoriasis cases and 10,542 healthy controls were included. Three loci of ERAP1 gene polymorphisms (rs26653, rs30187, and rs27524) were evaluated in this meta‐analysis. There was no significant association between rs26653 polymorphism and risk of psoriasis (C vs. G, OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.80‐1.28, P = 0.93). However, there was a significant association between rs30187 polymorphisms and psoriasis susceptibility (T vs. C, OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.15‐1.32, P < 0.00001) and a significant association between rs27524 polymorphisms and psoriasis susceptibility (A vs. G, OR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.09‐1.25, P < 0.00001). For there were insufficient data of rs27044, rs151823, rs2248374, and rs2910686, we only conducted a systematic review for them. The rs30187 (C/T) and rs27524 (G/A) polymorphisms of ERAP1 are associated with increased risk of psoriasis. However, no significant association is observed between rs26653 (G/C) polymorphism and risk of psoriasis.
The Production of Standardized Samples with Known Concentrations for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 RT‐qPCR Testing Validation for Developing Countries in the Period of the Pandemic Era
Authors: Cuong Hoang Quoc , Hai Nguyen Duc , Linh Hoang Thuy , Hieu Nguyen Trung , Anh Nguyen Hoang , Ton Tran , Dong Tran Cat , Thao Vu Thanh , Tuoi Do Thi Hong , Tuan Nguyen Duc , Loan Huynh Thi Kim , Long Nguyen Thanh , Thang Cao Minh , Thao Nguyen Thi Thanh , Lan Phan Trong
Published: August 2021

Background. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a pandemic of pneumonia spreading around the world, leading to serious threats to public health and attracting enormous attention. There is an urgent need for sensitive diagnostic testing implementation to control and manage SARS-CoV-2 in public health laboratories. The quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT‐qPCR) assay is the gold standard method, but the sensitivity and specificity of SARS‐CoV‐2 testing are dependent on a number of factors. Methods. We synthesized RNA based on the genes published to estimate the concentration of inactivated virus samples in a biosafety level 3 laboratory. The limit of detection (LOD), linearity, accuracy, and precision were evaluated according to the bioanalytical method validation guidelines. Results. We found that the LOD reached around 3 copies/reaction. Furthermore, intra‐assay precision, accuracy, and linearity met the accepted criterion with an RSD for copies of less than 25%, and linear regression met the accepted R2 of 0.98. Conclusions. We suggest that synthesized RNA based on the database of the NCBI gene bank for estimating the concentration of inactivated virus samples provides a potential opportunity for reliable testing to diagnose coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) as well as limit the spread of the disease. This method may be relatively quick and inexpensive, and it may be useful for developing countries during the pandemic era. In the long term, it is also applicable for evaluation, verification, validation, and external quality assessment.
Self‐Adaptive Firefly‐Algorithm‐Based Unified Power Flow Controller Placement with Single Objectives
Authors: Ranganathan Selvarasu , Rajkumar S.
Published: July 2021

The selection of positions for unified power flow controller (UPFC) placement in transmission network is an essential factor, which aids in operating the system in a more reliable and secured manner. This paper focuses on strengthening the power system performance through UPFC placement employing self‐adaptive firefly algorithm (SAFA), which selects the best positions along with parameters for UPFC placement. Three single objectives of real power loss reduction, voltage profile improvement, and voltage stability enhancement are considered in this work. IEEE 14, 30, and 57 test systems are selected to accomplish the simulations and to reveal the efficacy of the proposed SAFA approach; besides, solutions are compared with two other algorithms solutions of honey bee algorithm (HBA) and bacterial foraging algorithm (BFA). The proposed SAFA contributes real power loss reduction, voltage profile improvement, and voltage stability enhancement by optimally choosing the placement for UPFC.
Mechanical Characteristic and Length Optimization of System Anchor in Loess Tunnel Based on Field Measurement and Analytical Solution
Authors: Su Zhongming , Chen Jianxun , Luo Yanbin
Published: August 2021

In this paper, field measurement is used to obtain the force of system anchor in its actual working condition and stress situation of system anchors in different parts of loess tunnel is analyzed based on field test results, indicating the reasons why values of measured axial force of system anchor are different in different parts of loess tunnel. Based on the displacement solution of Mindlin problem, this paper deduces the analytical solution to stress distribution of system anchors in the sidewall of loess tunnel under the pull-out force, analyzes the distribution forms and influencing factors of shear stress and axial force. At the same time, analytical solutions to system anchor stress and surrounding rock plastic zone radius are tentatively applied to the analysis of stress characteristics and length optimization of system anchor in loess tunnel. The research results are of great significance to understand the mechanical characteristics of anchors in loess tunnel and to optimize the design of anchors in the primary support system of loess tunnel, which leads to accelerated construction progress and low economically cost, especially in loess tunnels with large cross section and long span.
HIF‐1α‐Mediated miR‐623 Regulates Apoptosis and Inflammatory Responses of Nucleus Pulposus Induced by Oxidative Stress via Targeting TXNIP
Authors: Bao Xiaogang , Wang Zhenhua , Jia Qi , Shen Sibo , Wu Likang , Jiang Qi , Li Changwei , Xu Guohua
Published: August 2021

Excessive apoptosis and inflammatory responses of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells induced by oxidative stress contribute to intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Though some microRNAs are associated with IVDD, the specific microRNA that can mediate apoptotic and inflammatory responses of NP cells induced by oxidative stress synchronously still needs further identification. Here, we find that microRNA‐623 (miR‐623) is downregulated in IVDD and its expression is regulated by hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) under oxidative stress conditions. Mechanistically, HIF‐1α is observed to promote miR‐623 expression by directly binding to its promoter region (−1,994/−1,987 bp). Functionally, miR‐623 is found to work as an intermediator in alleviating apoptosis and inflammatory responses of NP cells induced by oxidative stress via regulating thioredoxin‐interacting protein (TXNIP) expression by directly targeting its 3 ′‐untranslated region (3 ′‐UTR). Thus, on elucidating the expression and functional mechanisms of miR‐623, our study suggests that miR‐623 can be a valuable therapeutic target for treating oxidative stress‐induced IVDD.
Averaging Principle for Caputo Fractional Stochastic Differential Equations Driven by Fractional Brownian Motion with Delays
Authors: Duan Pengju , Li Hao , Li Jie , Zhang Pei
Published: August 2021

In this article, we investigate a class of Caputo fractional stochastic differential equations driven by fractional Brownian motion with delays. Under some novel assumptions, the averaging principle of the system is obtained. Finally, we give an example to show that the solution of Caputo fractional stochastic differential equations driven by fractional Brownian motion with delays converges to the corresponding averaged stochastic differential equation.