bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methods Used and Application of the Mouse Grimace Scale in Biomedical Research 10 Years on: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Whittaker Alexandra L. , Liu Yifan , Barker Timothy H.
Published: December 2020

The Mouse Grimace Scale (MGS) was developed 10 years ago to assess pain through characterisation of changes in five facial features or action units. The strength of the technique is that it is proposed to be a measure of spontaneous or non-evoked pain. A comprehensive scoping review of the academic literature was performed. The MGS has been employed mainly in evaluation of acute pain, particularly in the pain and neuroscience research fields. There has however been use of the technique in a wide range of fields, and based on limited study it does appear to have utility for pain assessment across a spectrum of animal models. Use of the method does allow detection of pain of a longer duration, up to a month post-initial insult. There has been less use of the technique using real-time methods and this is an area in need of further research.
Prevalence of Co-Infections With Respiratory Viruses in Individuals Investigated for Sars-Cov-2 in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Peci Adriana , Tran Vanessa , Gurtherie Jennifer L , Li Ye , Nelson Paul , Schwartz Kevin L , Buchan Sara A , Gubbay Jonathan B
Published: December 2020

Background: Co-infections of SARS-CoV-2 with respiratory viruses, bacteria and fungi have been reported to cause a wide range of illness. Objectives: We asses s the prevalence of co-infection of SARS-CoV-2 with seasonal respiratory viruses, document the respiratory viruses detected among individuals tested for SARS-CoV-2, and describe characteristics of individuals with respiratory virus co-infection detected. Methods: Specimens included in this study were submitted as part of routine clinical testing to Public Health Ontario Laboratory from individuals requiring testing for SARS-CoV-2 and/or seasonal respiratory viruses. Results: Co-infection was detected in a smaller proportion (2.5%) of individuals with laboratory confirmed SARS-CoV-2 than those with seasonal respiratory viruses (4.3%); this difference was not significant. Individuals with any respiratory virus co-infection were more likely to be younger than 65 years of age and male than those with single infection. Those with SARS-CoV-2 co-infection manifested mostly mild respiratory symptoms. Conclusions: Findings of this study may not support routine testing for seasonal respiratory viruses among all individuals tested for SARS-CoV-2, as they were rare during the study period nor associated with severe disease. However, testing for seasonal respiratory viruses should be performed in severely ill individuals, in which detection of other viruses may assist with patient management.
Pre-Implantation Gender Selection: Family Balancing in Jordan
Authors: Sindiani Amer , zayed faheem , Alshdaifat Eman , rawashdeh hasan , Al-Woshah Wesam , zayed nada , Khader Yousef
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Purpose: In this study, the Pre-implantation embryonic sex ratio in 125 couples who had three or more female children and underwent pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for non-medical reason was included. Besides, we have aimed to find out whether these couples had more chances of getting a girl child once again. Methods: 125 couples who had three or more female offspring and those who underwent PGD for non-medical sex selection (XY) between 2015 and 2019 were included. Nuclear DNA was analyzed by Fluorescent in situ Hybridization (FISH). 2-chromosome (X, Y), 3-chromosome (21, X, Y), 5-chromosome (13, 18, 21, X, Y) probes were used for FISH. The standard protocol was followed for sperm processing and embryo culture for IVF and PGD. Result: Independent sample t-test showed that there is no significant difference between equal and unequal embryonic groups in patients’ age, husbands’ age, sperm count, sperm motility, total male embryos, total female embryos, normal male embryos, and normal female embryos. For patients with positive pregnancy outcome, 84.6% had unequal embryonic ratio while 15.4% had equal embryonic ratio. Similarly, patients those who were treated by short protocol had 85% of unequal embryonic ratio and 15% had equal ratio. Conclusion: Greater variability in the female to male embryos was found in these couples, confirms the fact that couples previously having girl offspring may predominantly not produce embryo of the same sex every time.
Scaling of Phase Diagram and Critical Point Parameters in Liquid-Vapour Phase Transition of Metallic Fluids
Authors: Menon S.V.G.
Published: December 2020

The first objective of this paper is to investigate the scaling behavior of liquid-vapor phase transition in FCC and BCC metals starting from the zero-temperature four-parameter formula for cohesive energy. The effective potentials between the atoms in the solid are determined using lattice inversion techniques as a function of scaling variables in the above formula. These potentials are split into repulsive and attractive parts as per the Weeks-Chandler-Anderson prescription, and used in the coupling-parameter expansion for solving the Ornstein-Zernike equation supplemented with an accurate closure. Thermodynamic quantities obtained via the correlation functions are used to obtain critical point parameters and liquid-vapor phase diagrams. Their dependence on the scaling variables in the cohesive energy formula are also determined. Equally important second objective of the paper is to revisit coupling parameter expansion for solving the Ornstein-Zernike equation. The Newton-Armijo non-linear solver and Krylov-space based linear solvers are employed in this regard. These methods generate a robust algorithm that can be used to span the entire fluid region, except very low temperatures. Accuracy of the method is established by comparing the phase diagrams with those obtained via computer simulation. Avoidance of the 'no-solution-region' of Ornstein-Zernike equation in coupling-parameter expansion is also discussed. Details of the method and the complete algorithm provided here would make this technique more accessible to researchers investigating thermodynamic properties of one component fluids.
Predation-Driven Spillover: Pathogen Bioaccumulation in Top Predators
Authors: Malmberg Jennifer , White Lauren , Vandewoude Sue
Published: December 2020

Predator-prey interactions present heightened opportunities for pathogen spillover, as predators are exposed to novel parasites through consumption of prey harboring potentially infectious agents. Epizootics with high morbidity and mortality have been recorded following prey-to-predator spillover events with significant conservation implications, particularly for sensitive species. However, relatively few virulent infections following prey consumption are reported, given the very large number of exposures that presumably occur. Further, many transmitted agents are infectious but clinically silent and thus go unrecognized. Mechanisms that determine outcome of predator exposure to prey-based pathogens therefore represent an important, understudied component of disease dynamics that should be considered in modeling approaches and empirical research to better understand disease risk and emergence, particularly in vulnerable or threatened species.
HTS Accelerator Magnets and Conductor development in Europe
Authors: Rossi Lucio , Senatore Carmine
Published: December 2020

In view of the preparation for a post-LHC collider, the high-energy physics (HEP) community started from 2010 to discuss various options, including the use of HTS for very high field dipoles. Therefore, a small program was set in Europe aiming at exploring the possibility of using HTS for accelerator quality magnets. Based on various EU funded programs, though at modest levels, has enabled the European community of accelerator magnets to start getting experience in HTS and addressing a few issues. The program was based on use of REBCO tapes to form 10 kA Roebel cables, to be used to wind small dipoles of 30-40 mm aperture in the 5 T range. The dipoles are designed to be later inserted in a background dipole field (in Nb3Sn), to reach eventually a field level in the 16-20 T range, beyond the reach of LTS. The program is currently underway: more than 1 km tape of high performance (Je > 500 A/mm2 at 20 T, 4.2 K has been manufactured and characterized, various 30 m long Roebel cables have been assembled and validated up to 13 kA, a few dipoles have been wound and tested, reaching at present 4.5 T in stand-alone (while a dipole made from race track coils with no-bore exceeded 5 T using stacked tape cable) and a test in a background field is being organized.
A COVID-19 Drug Repurposing Strategy Through Quantitative Homological Similarities by using a Topological Data Analysis Based Formalism
Authors: Pérez-Moraga Raul , Forés-Martos Jaume , Suay Beatriz , Duval Jean-Louis , Falcó Antonio , Climent Joan
Published: December 2020

Since its emergence in March 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 global pandemic has produced more than 65 million cases and one point five million deaths worldwide. Despite the enormous efforts carried out by the scientific community, no effective treatments have been developed to date. We created a novel computational pipeline aimed to speed up the process of repurposable candidate drug identification. Compared with current drug repurposing methodologies, our strategy is centered on filtering the best candidate among all selected targets focused on the introduction of a mathematical formalism motivated by recent advances in the fields of algebraic topology and topological data analysis (TDA). This formalism allows us to compare three-dimensional protein structures. Its use in conjunction with two in silico validation strategies (molecular docking and transcriptomic analyses) allowed us to identify a set of potential drug repurposing candidates targeting three viral proteins (3CL viral protease, NSP15 endoribonuclease, and NSP12 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase), which included rutin, dexamethasone, and vemurafenib among others. To our knowledge, it is the first time that a TDA based strategy has been used to compare a massive amount of protein structures with the final objective of performing drug repurposing
A Reevaluation of the Risk of Infection Based on Time to Debridement in Open Fractures
Authors: Foote Clary J. , Tornetta Paul , Reito Aleksi , Al-Hourani Khalid , Schenker Mara , Bosse Michael , Coles Chad P. , Bozzo Anthony , Furey Andrew , Leighton Ross ,   the GOLIATH Investigators
Published: December 2020

Update

This article was updated on February 9, 2021, because of a previous error. On page 269, in the Note at the end of the article, the surname that had read “Merner” now reads “Mener.”

An erratum has been published: J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2021 Mar 17;103(6):e25.

Background:

Open fractures are one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. The threshold time to debridement that reduces the infection rate is unclear.

Methods:

We searched all available databases to identify observational studies and randomized trials related to open fracture care. We then conducted an extensive meta-analysis of the observational studies, using raw and adjusted estimates, to determine if there was an association between the timing of initial debridement and infection.

Results:

We identified 84 studies (18,239 patients) for the primary analysis. In unadjusted analyses comparing various “late” time thresholds for debridement versus “early” thresholds, there was an association between timing of debridement and surgical site infection (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.11 to 1.49, p < 0.001, I2 = 30%, 84 studies, n = 18,239). For debridement performed between 12 and 24 hours versus earlier than 12 hours, the OR was higher in tibial fractures (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.00 to 1.87, p = 0.05, I2 = 19%, 12 studies, n = 2,065), and even more so in Gustilo type-IIIB tibial fractures (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.89, p = 0.004, I2 = 23%, 12 studies, n = 1,255). An analysis of Gustilo type-III fractures showed a progressive increase in the risk of infection with time. Critical time thresholds included 12 hours (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.28 to 1.78, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%, 16 studies, n = 3,502) and 24 hours (OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.73 to 2.72, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%, 29 studies, n = 5,214).

Conclusions:

High-grade open fractures demonstrated an increased risk of infection with progressive delay to debridement.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level IV. See Instruction for Authors for a complete description of the levels of evidence.
2020 Student Professional Paper - Graduate Level Integrating Design Parameters for Reseeding and Mulching after Wildfire: An Example from the 416 Fire, Colorado
Authors: Graber Andrew
Published: December 2020

Wildfires burn vegetation over large areas of land, removing ground cover and frequently increasing potential for erosion-related hazards, such as debris flows, soil loss, and increased sedimentation downstream. Reseeding and mulching are two techniques used to prevent erosion and foster re-establishment of native plant species. However, design guidelines and specifications for reseeding and mulching programs are scattered in the literature, impeding efforts to follow best practices when preparing mitigation plans. This article summarizes guidelines and specifications for both reseeding and mulching and applies them in a sample GIS-based reseeding and mulching design for a basin burned in 2018 by the 416 Fire, Colorado. In addition to relying only on remote data, the method presented here aids operators and management personnel in making quick assessments of mitigation needs and areas suitable for mitigation, allowing for prompt responses to time-sensitive erosion hazards.
Experiencia del diseño de secuencias didácticas digitales en la asignatura Investigación de Mercados
Authors: Buitrago-Echeverry Franklin Deiber
Published: December 2020

Este artículo aborda los principales conceptos del diseño de secuencias didácticas digitales (SDD) para un Aula Virtual de Aprendizaje (AVA), basadas en el Modelo de Entornos Convergentes (MEC - Complexus) del Sistema de Educación a Distancia (SEAD) de la Universidad Autónoma de Manizales (UAM). Las SDD son un dispositivo a través del cual se incorporan las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC) en las unidades didácticas contextualizadas con el propósito de promover el aprendizaje; de esta forma, el estudiante puede aprender, por medio de diferentes actividades de aprendizaje situadas, a enlazar la teoría con la práctica en el contexto socioprofesional. Teniendo en cuenta, entonces, la aplicabilidad de las SSD, el artículo tiene como objetivo describir la experiencia de diseño de entornos de aprendizaje para la asignatura de Investigación de Mercados en el segundo período académico de 2019. El texto se desarrolla a través de la narrativa del profesor y su interpretación del proceso y permite concluir que el diseño de secuencias didácticas digitales es un constructo amplio que va más allá de simplemente describir qué se debe hacer en un aula de clase o cómo el estudiante y el profesor hacen uso de las TIC. Pues, integrar herramientas tecnológicas como la televisión, el internet, el material didáctico digital, los videos académicos, la bibliografía en línea y los casos empresariales, hace que la transferencia de conocimientos realmente tome sentido y que los estudiantes comprendan de forma pertinente la importancia de estudiar y aplicar lo aprendido en el aula.
The effect of active occupational stress management on psychosocial and physiological wellbeing: a pilot study
Authors: Jukic Tomislav , Ihan Alojz , Strojnik Vojko , Stubljar David , Starc Andrej
Published: December 2020

Background: The aim of the study was to address the working population with an occupational stress prevention program using mHealth solution and encourage them for healthy lifestyle choices.Methods: Seventeen participants were randomized from the corporate setting. A 24alife app with a good compliance program was selected. Test battery has been designed to test the physical readiness, psychological evaluation and biological blood markers for stress. Participants were followed up after 30, 60 and 90 days, respectively, within the intervention period. Weight of participants was tracked three times per month. Univariate analysis compared the continuous variables by One-Way Repeated-Measures ANOVA test when the data were normally distributed, or Wilcoxon rank sum test for abnormal distribution of variables.Results: Participants used the app with a compliance rate of 94.1%. The psychological evaluation revealed higher motivation for work, lower burnout scores and participants gave subjective responses of better general wellbeing. Some of the participants lost up to four kg of body mass. Physical readiness has also improved.Conclusions: Results of mHealth projects on corporate could include primary health care institutions and health ministry to extend the existing system to patients’ pockets where they can monitor their disease and increase the ability of self-care.
Optimising medication management in children and young people with ADHD using a computerised test (QbTest): a feasibility randomised controlled trial
Authors: Williams Laura , Hall Charlotte L , Brown Susan , Guo Boliang , James Marilyn , Franceschini Matilde , Clarke Julie , Selby Kim , Vijayan Hena , Kulkarni Neeta , Brown Nikki , Sayal Kapil , Hollis Chris , Groom Madeleine J
Published: December 2020

Background: Medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) should be closely monitored to ensure optimisation. There is growing interest in using computerised assessments of ADHD symptoms to support medication monitoring. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the efficacy of one such computerised assessment, the Quantified Behavior (Qb) Test, as part of medication management for ADHD. Methods: This feasibility multi-site RCT conducted in child and adolescent mental health and community paediatric settings recruited participants aged 6-15 years diagnosed with ADHD starting stimulant medication. Participants were randomised into one of two arms: Experimental (QbTest protocol): participants completed a QbTest at baseline and two follow-up QbTests on medication (2-4 weeks and 8-10 weeks later). Control: participants received treatment-as-usual, including at least two follow-up consultations. Measures of parent, teacher and clinician-rated symptoms and global functioning were completed at each time-point. Clinicians recorded treatment decision-making and health economic measures were obtained. Data were analysed using multi-level modelling and participants (children and parents) and clinicians were interviewed about their experiences, resulting data were thematically analysed. Results: Forty-four children and young people were randomised. Completion of study outcome measures by caregivers and teachers ranged from 52-78% at baseline to 47-65% at follow-up. Participants reported the questionnaires to be useful to complete. SNAP-IV inattention scores showed greater reduction in the intervention than the control group (-5.85, 95%CI -10.33, -1.36, p=0.01). Engagement with the intervention ranged from 100% at baseline, to 78% follow-up 1 and 57% follow-up 2. However, only 37% of QbTests were conducted in the correct time period. Interview data highlighted that the objectivity of the QbTest was appreciated by clinicians and parents. Clinicians commented that the additional time and resources required meant that it is not feasible to use QbTest for all cases.Conclusion: The trial design and protocol appear to be feasible and acceptable but could be improved by modifying QbTest time periods and the method of data collection. With these changes the protocol may be appropriate for a full trial. Adding QbTest may improve symptom outcome as measured by SNAP-IV.
Characterization of type -2 diacylglycerol acyltransferases in Haematococcus lacustris reveals their functions and engineering potential in triacylglycerol biosynthesis
Authors: Cui Hongli , Zhao Chunchao , Xu Wenxin , Zhang Hongjiang , Hang Wei , Zhu Xiaoli , Ji Chunli , Xue Jinai , Zhang Chunhui , Li Runzhi
Published: December 2020

Background: Haematococcus lacustris is an ideal source of astaxanthin (AST), which is stored in oil bodies containing esterified AST (EAST) and triacylglycerol (TAG). Diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGATs) catalyze the last step of acyl-CoA-dependent TAG biosynthesis and are also considered as crucial enzymes involved in EAST biosynthesis in H. lacustris. Previous studies have identified four putative DGAT2-encoding genes in H. lacustris, and only HpDGAT2D allowed the recovery of TAG biosynthesis, but the engineering potential of HpDGAT2s in TAG biosynthesis remains ambiguous.Results: Five putative DGAT2 genes (HpDGAT2A, HpDGAT2B, HpDGAT2C, HpDGAT2D, and HpDGAT2E) were identified in H. lacustris. Transcription analysis showed that the expression levels of the HpDGAT2A, HpDGAT2D, and HpDGAT2E genes markedly increased under high light and nitrogen deficient conditions with distinct patterns, which led to significant TAG and EAST accumulation. Functional complementation demonstrated that HpDGAT2A, HpDGAT2B, HpDGAT2D, and HpDGAT2E had the capacity to restore TAG synthesis in a TAG-deficient yeast strain (H1246) showing a large difference in enzymatic activity. Fatty acid (FA) profile assays revealed that HpDGAT2A, HpDGAT2D, and HpDGAT2E, but not HpDGAT2B, preferred monounsaturated fatty acyl-CoAs (MUFAs) for TAG synthesis in yeast cells, and showed a preference for polyunsaturated fatty acyl-CoAs (PUFAs) based on their feeding strategy. The heterologous expression of HpDGAT2D in Arabidopsis thaliana and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii significantly increased the TAG content and obviously promoted the MUFAs and PUFAs contents.Conclusions: Our study represents systematic work on the characterization of HpDGAT2s by integrating expression patterns, AST/TAG accumulation, functional complementation, and heterologous expression in yeast, plants, and algae. These results (1) update the gene models of HpDGAT2s, (2) prove the TAG biosynthesis capacity of HpDGAT2s, (3) show the strong preference for MUFAs and PUFAs, and (4) offer target genes to modulate TAG biosynthesis by using genetic engineering methods.
Bioluminescence and Fluorescence in Littoral Earthworms
Authors: Seesamut Teerapong , Yano Daichi , Paitio Jose , Kin Ikuhiko , Panha Somsak , Oba Yuichi
Published: December 2020

Pontodrilus litoralis is a cosmopolitan littoral earthworm known to exhibit bioluminescence. Recently, a congeneric species Pontodrilus longissimus from Thailand was described. These species are sympatric but their burrowing depths on Thai beaches are different. In this study, we examined the in vivo and in vitro bioluminescence properties of P. longissimus and P. litoralis. Mechanical stimulation induced in vivo luminescence in P. litoralis, as reported previously, but not in P. longissimus. In vitro cross-reaction tests between these species revealed the absence of luciferin and luciferase activities in P. longissimus. P. litoralis had strong fluorescence in a coelomic fluid that matches to the spectral maximum of its bioluminescence, but P. longissimus did not. These results suggest that P. longissimus does not have luminescence ability due to the lack of all bioluminescent components, luciferin, luciferase, and light emitter, despite its close relationship to the luminous P. litoralis. The presence of both luminous and non-luminous species in a single genus is uncommon, and our present findings will shed insight on the possible functions of bioluminescence in the earthworm, such as avoiding predation by littoral earwigs.
Drug Repurposing for COVID-19 using Graph Neural Network with Genetic, Mechanistic, and Epidemiological Validation
Authors: Hsieh Kang-Lin , Wang Yinyin , Chen Luyao , Zhao Zhongming , Savitz Sean , Jiang Xiaoqian , Tang Jing , Kim Yejin
Published: December 2020

Amid the pandemic of 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infected by SARS-CoV-2, a
vast amount of drug research for prevention and treatment has been quickly conducted, but these
efforts have been unsuccessful thus far. Our objective is to prioritize repurposable drugs using a
drug repurposing pipeline that systematically integrates multiple SARS-CoV-2 and drug
interactions, deep graph neural networks, and in-vitro/population-based validations. We first
collected all the available drugs (n= 3,635) involved in COVID-19 patient treatment through
CTDbase. We built a SARS-CoV-2 knowledge graph based on the interactions among virus baits,
host genes, pathways, drugs, and phenotypes. A deep graph neural network approach was used to
derive the candidate drug’s representation based on the biological interactions. We prioritized the
candidate drugs using clinical trial history, and then validated them with their genetic profiles, in
vitro experimental efficacy, and electronic health records. We highlight the top 22 drugs including
Azithromycin, Atorvastatin, Aspirin, Acetaminophen, and Albuterol. We further pinpointed drug
combinations that may synergistically target COVID-19. In summary, we demonstrated that the
integration of extensive interactions, deep neural networks, and rigorous validation can facilitate
the rapid identification of candidate drugs for COVID-19 treatment.
This paper had been uploaded to arXiv : https://arxiv.org/abs/2009.10931
NAV2V: Navigation Assisted V2V Routing Protocol for Urban Areas
Authors: Teixeira Lincoln H. , Huszák Árpád
Published: December 2020

Vehicular AdHoc networks (VANETs) allow connectivity in dispersed vehicle environments and in other areas of difficult access, where conventional network systems are not satisfactory. One of the most significant technical challenges faced in implementing VANET is to design an efficient routing protocol able to provide a reliable path between the source and destination of the information. This paper discusses a routing scheme that incorporates the control strategy for transmitting messages and Global Navigation Satellite System (GGNS) information to optimise network routing. This scheme uses geolocation information to select the best path to forward the messages. To simulate a communication in real-life scenario, we used the Simulation of Urban MObility (SUMO) and Network Simulator-version 3 (NS-3) platform to compare our proposed algorithm to the traditional routing protocols in scenarios where the number of nodes as well as the number of source-destination pairs vary. Our results show that the proposed NAV2V algorithm can decrease the packet loss rate, end-to-end delay, and enhance network efficiency.
Self-powered, ultraflexible photonic skin for continuous bio-signal detection via air-operation-stable polymer light-emitting diodes
Authors: Jinno Hiroaki , Yokota Tomoyuki , Koizumi Mari , Yukita Wakako , Saito Masahiko , Osaka Itaru , Fukuda Kenjiro , Someya Takao
Published: December 2020

Flexible organic optical devices have been used extensively in next-generation wearable electronics owing to advantages such as light-weight, thinness, and flexibility. Making such organic optical devices ultrathin enables long-term monitoring of health conditions owing to the increased conformability of ultrathin devices to human skin. Long-term biological signal monitoring also requires the integration of organic optical devices with an energy harvesting power sources which does not require recharging; to make devices self-powered. However, system-level integration of such thin organic optical sensors with power sources is challenging. An important obstacle to this type of integration is the insufficient operational stability of ultrathin organic light-emitting diodes under ambient air conditions. Here we develop an ultrathin self-powered organic optical system for photoplethysmogram (PPG) monitoring. This system consists of three types of ultrathin electronic devices: polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs), organic solar cells, and organic photodetectors. By adopting an inverted structure and a polyethylenimine ethoxylated layer doped with 8-hydroxyquinolinato-lithium as the electron-transport layer, PLEDs exhibit improved operational stability under ambient air conditions without external encapsulation. Ultraflexible PLEDs with no passivation retain 70% of the initial luminance lifetime of 11.3 h under ambient air. Integrated optical sensors exhibit a high linearity with the light intensity exponent of 0.98 by PLED light source. Such self-powered, ultraflexible PPG sensors can perform long-term stable monitoring of blood pulse signals on human hands.
Central Asian Modulation of Northern Hemisphere Moisture Transfer Over the Late Cenozoic
Authors: Prud'homme Charlotte , Scardia Giancarlo , Vonhof Hubert , Guinoiseau Damien , Nigmatova Saida , Fiebig Jens , Gerdes Axel , Janssen Renée , Fitzsimmons Kathryn
Published: December 2020

Earth’s climatic evolution over the last 5 million years (Myr) is primarily understood from the perspective of marine mechanisms. While changes in ocean circulation go a long way towards explaining the transport of moisture onto the continents, the role of terrestrial feedbacks in the opposite direction remain largely unexplored. Here we reconstruct the last 5 Myr of rainfall variability in Central Eurasia from an 80 m-thick sedimentary succession at Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan. Charyn Canyon lies at the centre of the world’s largest land mass and at the present-day transition between the mid-latitude westerlies and Siberian high-pressure system. Our record provides the first opportunity to interrogate long-term interactions between mid-latitude westerly and high latitude climate systems over the Eurasian continent. This missing terrestrial link highlights the significance of land-water feedbacks for long-term global climate.
A Cross Sectional Assessment on Distribution of Snail and Risk Factors of Schistosoma Mansoni Infection in Proximity to Water Contact Points in Gorgora Town, Western Dembia District, Northwest Ethiopia.
Authors: Abere Aberham , Worku Ligabaw , Genetu Abebe , Abebaw Dessie , Derso Adane , Aemero Mulugeta
Published: December 2020

Background: Schistosomiasis is one of the great neglected tropical diseases with socio-economic and health problem worldwide. In Ethiopia numerous studies reported S. mansoni is high among school-age and preschool age children. Though intensive prevalence studies are conducted the snail distribution and infectivity status and human infection rate dynamics in Ethiopian context remains poorly understood. Thus the purpose of the current study was to assess distribution of snail and risk factors of Schistosoma mansoni infection in proximity to water contact points in Gorgora town, Western Dembia District, Northwest Ethiopia. Method: A Community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Gorgora Town from March to May 2020. A total of 385 study participants were selected by systematic random sampling technique. Stool sample was collected and examined by Kato-Katz technique. Malacological survey was done from sampling sites showing signs of human activity near Lake Tana shoreline. Live snails collected in plastic bucket containing water and weed were transported within four hours to the University of Gondar, Medical parasitology laboratory for identification and determination of infection. Data was entered with EPI Data version 4.4.2.1. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 20.0 and STATA version 15.0. p-value ≤ 0.05 was reported as statistically significant. Spatial distribution analysis was done using ArcGIS system for Geographical Information System (GIS). Result: The overall prevalence of S. mansoni infection was 36.6% (CI: 32-41.9) with intensity of 30.5%, 27.0% and 42.6% for light, moderate, and heavy, respectively. Among the different fresh water snails collected on the basis of shell morphology 546(%) were Biomphalaria pfeifferi, 310(28.1%) were Bulinus spp, 101(9.1%) were Lymnaea, and 147(13.3%) were Bivalve. Schistosome infection in Biomphalaria spp. was 0.0%. Swimming frequency and proximity to water body were observed to be the most associated risk factor to S. mansoni infection. Conclusion: The study showed that S. mansoni is an ongoing health problem in Gorgora. Different fresh water snails with a potential of transmitting diseases of human and veterinary importance that requires attention had been identified. Longitudinal and molecular study on Biomphalaria pfeifferi infection rate as well as susceptibility to schistosome infection is recommended.
Non-Invasive Transdermal Delivery of Chemotherapeutic Molecules In Vivo Using Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Raviraj Vanisri , Pham Binh T.T. , Pham Nguyen T.H. , Kim Byung J. , Kok Lai F. , Painter Nicole , Delic Naomi C. , Jones Stephen K. , Hawkett Brian S. , Lyons J. Guy
Published: December 2020

Background: The skin is both a target and a potential conduit for the delivery of drugs, but its cornified cell layer resists penetration by most molecules. This study investigated the potential of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles to facilitate the transdermal delivery of anti-cancer agents. Results: Chemotherapeutic cancer drugs were applied with or without nanoparticles to the skin of hairless mice, and their ability to penetrate the skin was assessed using fluorescence microscopy and tumor growth. Nanoparticles enhanced the penetration of the skin by doxorubicin and 5-fluorouracil as determined by fluorescence microscopy and growth retardation of experimental melanoma in immunocompetent, syngeneic mice. This drug enhancement did not require conjugation or encapsulation of the drugs by the nanoparticles – simple co-administration sufficed. Nanoparticles applied topically to melanomas increased the cytotoxicity and immune cell infiltration induced by co-administered 5-fluorouracil, and also reduced vascularization of the tumors independently of 5-fluorouracil. Conclusion: Correctly formulated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles can facilitate the chemotherapeutic effectiveness of cytotoxic drugs on skin tumors by both increasing their transdermal penetration and ameliorating host-tumor interactions. This enhancement of skin penetration occurs without the need for conjugation or encapsulation of the co-administered drugs and so will likely be applicable to other drugs, also.
CRISPR-guided reversion reveals the immunogenicity of a “non-MHC binding” cancer neoepitope in vivo
Authors: Ebrahimi-Nik Hakimeh , Moussa Marmar , Englander Ryan , Singhaviranon Summit , Michaux Justine , Pak HuiSong , Miyadera Hiroko , Corwin William , Keller Grant , Hagymasi Adam , Shcheglova Tatiana , Coukos George , Baker Brian , Mandoiu Ion , Bassani-Sternberg Michal , Srivast Pramod
Published: December 2020

A high- affinity MHC I-peptide interaction is considered essential for immunogenicity. However, some neoepitopes with low affinities for MHC have been reported to elicit CD8-dependent tumor rejection in immunization-challenge studies. Here, we ask if a non-binder, tumor-rejection- mediating neoepitope influences the natural immunogenicity of a tumor in vivo, in the absence of artificial immunization. A mutation in tumor MUT1 was edited to its WT counterpart; the mutation was then re-introduced into the WT tumor, recapitulating the mutation in a tumor MUT2. TILs from all three tumors show T cell activation. However, TILs of MUT1 and MUT2 show significantly stronger transcriptional signatures of cytotoxicity and TCR engagement as well as the greater breadth of TCR reactivity than those of WT. Structural modeling of the Kd-neoepitope complex suggests increased hydrophobicity of the neoepitope surface consistent with higher TCR reactivity. These results reveal the immunogenicity in vivo of low affinity or “non-binding” epitopes that do not follow the canonical view of MHC I-peptide recognition.
Statistical Optimization of Saccharification Process Using Amorphophallus Paeoniifolius Tubers into Fermentable Sugars for Bioethanol Production in Stirred Tank Batch Reactor (STBR)
Authors: Rakshitha S.P. , Keerthana K. V. , Anjuna P. , Sangam S.G. , Sandesh K. , Shet Vinayaka B. , Neetha J. N. , Ujwal P. , Mubarak N.M.
Published: December 2020

Current technologies for the production of biofuels from various renewable feedstocks have considerably captured vast scientific attention due to the fact that they can be used as an alternative fuels. Bioethanol being one of the most interesting biofuels and due to its positive impact on the environment has been categorised significantly in terms of scientific and technological investments. The aim of this study was to investigate, tubers of Amorphophallus paeoniifolius biomass as a feedstock for bioethanol production. The composition analysis of A.paeoniifolius tubers revealed high carbohydrate content (78.30 ± 0.33%). The feedstock was subjected to physicochemical pretreatment by treating with dilute acid followed by pressure cooking. The pretreatment factors were optimized by CCD using RSM approach. The optimum condition was found to be 1.32%v/v of HCl, 5.83%w/v of Elephant Foot Yam Biomass and 66.84 min of pressure cooking time yielding 45.87 g/L of total sugar. The second order polynomial equation was generated for the saccharification of the biomass and validated with R2 0.89. The fermentation of pretreated biomass in the presence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae MTCC170 yielded 22.12 ± 0.62 g/L of bioethanol at 120 h utilising 92% of initial total sugar. The resultant ethanol yield and productivity was estimated to be 0.51 g/g and 0.30 g/L.h respectively. The Gompertz model equation was applied to experimental data using nonlinear regression with the least square method and the kinetic fermentation parameters such as maximum ethanol concentration (Pm), production rate (rpm) and lag phase (h) were estimated to be Pm =21.90 g/L, rpm =0.57 g/L.h and tL =8.22 h.
Evolutionary history is a powerful means to evince significant levels of plant services for humankind
Authors: Molina-Venegas Rafael , Rodriguez Miguel , Pardo-de-Santayana Manuel , Ronquillo Cristina , Mabberley David J.
Published: December 2020

The divergent nature of evolution suggests that securing the human benefits that are directly provided by biodiversity may require counting on disparate lineages of the Tree of Life. However, quantitative evidence connecting evolutionary history to human well-being is still surprisingly tenuous. Here, we drew on a global review of plant-use records and the most comprehensive vascular plant phylogeny available demonstrating that, at any sample size, maximum levels of phylogenetic diversity captured significantly greater numbers of plant-use records than random selection, both globally and across the main continental regions of the world. Our study establishes an empirical foundation that links evolutionary history to human well-being, and it will serve as a discussion baseline to promote better-grounded accounts of the services that are directly provided by biodiversity.
Conversations Between Women with Vulval Lichen Sclerosus: A Thematic Analysis of Online Forums.
Authors: Bentham Gemma , Manley Kristyn , Halawa Shehrazad , Biddle Lucy
Published: December 2020

Background Vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a common condition. Despite this, there is a paucity of research investigating the impact on women’s lives. Some women with VLS utilise online forums to discuss their priorities and concerns. This dialogue gives insight into the experiences of women living with VLS. Methods We identified the most popular public forums containing discussions between women with VLS. Inductive, thematic analysis was applied to 202 online posts spanning a six-year period. Results Five key themes were identified. Theme 1 pertained to difficulties with diagnosis. Women experience frequent delays and misdiagnosis. They report health care professionals (HCPs) with poor knowledge of their condition and some that were dismissive of their symptoms. Upon diagnosis women expressed relief and frustration. Theme 2 related to rationalisation and validation of their experience. Women expressed a desire to know why they were affected, what caused their symptoms and gain reassurance. Theme 3 dealt with women’s motivation to control their condition. Women want to know what triggers a flare-up so they can limit their relapses. They want to self-manage their condition and have an active role in partnership with HCPs. Theme 4 related to women sharing and seeking advice from the forums. The lived experiences of other women is valued by fellow sufferers. In particular, women are keen to try other treatments, conventional and alternative. The final theme related to the social repercussions of the condition. Sociocultural factors may prevent women from talking about their condition to friends, family and HCPs. They feel embarrassed by their symptoms. Some women reported relationship breakdown as a repercussion of the disease.Conclusions Improving the knowledge of HCPs with regards to VLS may reduce problems with diagnosis. In addition, delivering improved women’s health education in schools may reduce the taboo attached to women’s health. This may empower women to talk about their condition and seek help sooner. Once diagnosed, clinicians with the appropriate expertise should care for women with VLS. Women should be encouraged to take an active role in managing their condition in partnership with clinicians. Future research priorities include identifying the aetiology, triggers for flare-ups and novel therapies.
Analysis of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA Expression Pattern in Heart Tissue After Total Body Irradiation in a Mouse Model
Authors: Aryankalayil Molykutty J. , Martello Shannon , Bylicky Michelle , May Jared M. , Chopra Sunita , Shankardass Aman , MacMillan Laurel , Sun Landy , Sanjak Jaleal , Vanpouille-Box Claire , Eke Iris , Coleman C. Norman
Published: December 2020

Background: Radiation therapy is integral to effective thoracic cancer treatments, but its application is limited by sensitivity of critical organs such as the heart. The impacts of acute radiation-induced damage and its chronic effects on normal heart cells are highly relevant in radiotherapy with increasing lifespans of patients. Biomarkers for normal tissue damage after radiation exposure, whether accidental or therapeutic, are being studied as indicators of both acute and delayed effects. Recent research has highlighted the potential importance of RNAs, including messenger RNAs (mRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as biomarkers to assess radiation damage. Understanding changes in mRNA and non-coding RNA expression will elucidate biological pathway changes after radiation. Methods: To identify significant expression changes in mRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs, we performed whole transcriptome microarray analysis of mouse heart tissue at 48h after whole-body irradiation with 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 Gray (Gy). We also validated changes in specific lncRNAs through RT-qPCR. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was used to identify pathways associated with gene expression changes. Results: We observed sustained increases in lncRNAs and mRNAs, across all doses of radiation. Alas2, Aplnr, and Cxc3r1 were the most significantly downregulated mRNAs across all doses. Among the significantly upregulated mRNAs were cell-cycle arrest biomarkers Gdf15, Cdkn1a, and Ckap2. Additionally, IPA identified significant changes in gene expression relevant to senescence, apoptosis, hemoglobin synthesis, inflammation, and metabolism. LncRNAs Abhd11os, Pvt1, Trp53cor1, and Dino showed increased expression with increasing doses of radiation. We did not observe any miRNAs with sustained up- or downregulation across all doses, but miR-149-3p, miR-6538, miR-8101, miR-7118-5p, miR-211-3p, and miR-3960 were significantly upregulated after 12 Gy. Conclusions: Radiation-induced RNA expression changes may be predictive of normal tissue toxicities and may indicate targetable pathways for radiation countermeasure development and improved radiotherapy treatment plans.
A Novel Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ramulus Mori (Sangzhi) Alkaloids Ameliorate Glucose Metabolism Accompanied by the Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Ileal Inflammatory Damage in Type 2 Diabetic KKAy Mice
Authors: Liu Quan , Liu Shuainan , Cao Hui , Ji Wenming , Li Caina , Huan Yi , Lei Lei , Fu Yaxin , Liu Yuling , Shen Zhufang
Published: December 2020

Background: The novel Traditional Chinese Medicine Ramulus Mori (Sangzhi) alkaloid tablets (SZ-A) are approved by The China National Medical Products Administration for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the extensive pharmacological characteristics and the underlying mechanism are unknown. This study investigated the mechanisms by which SZ-A ameliorates glucose metabolism in KKAy mice, an animal model of T2DM.Methods: Diabetic KKAy mice were treated intragastrically with SZ-A once daily for 8 weeks, after which glucose levels, lipid metabolism, gut microbiome, systemic inflammatory factors, luminal concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (fecal samples), and ileal proteomic changes were evaluated. The ileum tissues were collected, and the effects of SZ-A on pathological inflammatory damage were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein expression levels of various inflammatory markers, including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B p65, were detected in the ileum tissues. Results: SZ-A improved glucose metabolism with enhanced insulin response and elevated glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) during the glucose tolerance test in diabetic KKAy mice. Gut microbiota analysis demonstrated that SZ-A administration elevated the abundance of Bacteroidaceae and Verrucomicrobia, reduced the levels of Rikenellaceae and Desulfovibrionaceae; and increased the concentrations of fecal acetic and propionic acids compared to the diabetic model group. Additionally, SZ-A markedly improved ileal inflammatory injury and pro-inflammatory macrophage infiltration and improved intestinal mucosal barrier function in diabetic KKAy mice. SZ-A also attenuated the levels of circulating endotoxin, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and chemokines in the mice sera.Conclusions: SZ-A ameliorated the overall metabolic profile including glucose and lipid metabolism in KKAy mice, which may be associated with an improvement in GLP-1 and insulin secretion, at least in part by modulating the gut microbiome and relieving the degree of ileal and systemic inflammation.
Association Between Leaf Photosynthesis and Biomass Accumulation in Rice Illustrated by A Comprehensive Gas Exchange Profile Across the Growing Season
Authors: Honda Sotaro , Ohkubo Satoshi , San Nan , Nakkasame Anothai , Tomisawa Kazuki , Katsura Keisuke , Ookawa Taiichiro , Nagano Atsushi , Adachi Shunsuke
Published: December 2020

Leaf photosynthetic rate changes across the growing season as crop plants age. Most studies of leaf photosynthesis focus on a specific growth stage, leaving the question of which pattern of photosynthetic dynamics maximizes crop productivity unanswered. Here we obtained high-frequency data of canopy leaf CO2 assimilation rate (A) of two elite rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars and 76 inbred lines across the whole growing season. The integrated A value after heading was closely associated with crop growth rate (CGR) from heading to harvest, but that before heading was not. A curve-smoothing analysis of A after heading showed that accumulated A at >80% of its maximum (A80) was closely correlated with CGR in analyses of all lines mixed and of lines grouped by genetic background, while the maximum A and accumulated A at ≤80% were less strongly correlated with CGR. We also found a genomic region that may enhance both A80 and aboveground biomass at harvest. We propose that maintaining a high A after heading, rather than having high maximum A, is a potential target for enhancing rice biomass accumulation.