bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low Threshold Microlasers Based on Organic-Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Chen Hong-xu , Qian Meng-dan , Yu Kun , Liu Yu-fang
Published: December 2021

Conjugated polymers have emerged as ideal organic laser materials for the excellent optoelectrical properties and facile processability. During a typical lasing process, resonator configurations with specific geometry are essential to provide optical feedback and then amplified light. Herein, we summarized the geometry and working mechanism of several typical resonator configurations formed with conjugated polymers. Meanwhile, recent advances in fabrication techniques and lasing performance are also discussed to provide new ideas for the design and optimization of microcavity geometries. Followed by the advances of practical applications in fields of laser sensing, bioimaging, and laser illumination/display, we make a summary of the existing bottlenecks and future perspectives of electrically driven organic lasers toward laser display and illumination.
Parasexuality of Candida Species
Authors: Mishra Abhishek , Forche Anja , Anderson Matthew Z.
Published: December 2021

While most fungi have the ability to reproduce sexually, multiple independent lineages have lost meiosis and developed parasexual cycles in its place. Emergence of parasexual cycles is particularly prominent in medically relevant fungi from the CUG paraphyletic group of Candida species. Since the discovery of parasex in C. albicans roughly two decades ago, it has served as the model for Candida species. Importantly, parasex in C. albicans retains hallmarks of meiosis including genetic recombination and chromosome segregation, making it a potential driver of genetic diversity. Furthermore, key meiotic genes play similar roles in C. albicans parasex and highlights parallels between these processes. Yet, the evolutionary role of parasex in Candida adaptation and the extent of resulting genotypic and phenotypic diversity remain as key knowledge gaps in this facultative reproductive program. Here, we present our current understanding of parasex, the mechanisms governing its regulation, and its relevance to Candida biology.
Intersectional and Entangled Risks: An Empirical Analysis of Disasters and Landfills
Authors: Cannon Clare E. B.
Published: December 2021

Landfills are environmental hazards linked to harms, such as the production of greenhouse gases and the accumulation of toxins in natural and human systems. Although environmental justice research has established such unwanted land uses as hazardous waste sites occur in poor communities and communities of color, less is known about the relationship between landfills and gender. As a driver of global climate change, there is also limited research into the relationships among disasters, landfills, and climate-related risks. To fill this gap, the current study uses an intersectional approach to theorize and empirically analyze relationships among landfills, disasters, race, class, and gender. We employ negative binomial regression to analyze a unique U.S. dataset of landfill counts, total number of disasters, and socio-demographic characteristics, including the use of two-way interactions among race, sex, and socioeconomic status variables, and number of federally-declared disasters that influence landfill counts. Findings suggest that intersecting axes of social location (specifically gender and race) are not multiplicative when it comes to landfills or the environmental risks they pose, but we argue may be entangled—that is related in non-linear and complicated ways. Using intersectionality theory, we interpret the findings to indicate that women of color are agents of resistance enacting their own forms of power against dominant structural arrangements that produce and maintain environmental injustices. Conclusions and implications for environmental justice, intersectionality, and climate risks are further discussed.
New Perspectives on the Neurobiology of Sign Languages
Authors: Emmorey Karen
Published: December 2021

The first 40 years of research on the neurobiology of sign languages (1960–2000) established that the same key left hemisphere brain regions support both signed and spoken languages, based primarily on evidence from signers with brain injury and at the end of the 20th century, based on evidence from emerging functional neuroimaging technologies (positron emission tomography and fMRI). Building on this earlier work, this review focuses on what we have learned about the neurobiology of sign languages in the last 15–20 years, what controversies remain unresolved, and directions for future research. Production and comprehension processes are addressed separately in order to capture whether and how output and input differences between sign and speech impact the neural substrates supporting language. In addition, the review includes aspects of language that are unique to sign languages, such as pervasive lexical iconicity, fingerspelling, linguistic facial expressions, and depictive classifier constructions. Summary sketches of the neural networks supporting sign language production and comprehension are provided with the hope that these will inspire future research as we begin to develop a more complete neurobiological model of sign language processing.
Dealing With Deadstock: A Case Study of Carnivore Conflict Mitigation From Southwestern Alberta
Authors: Morehouse Andrea T. , Hughes Courtney , Manners Nora , Bectell Jeff , Tigner Jesse
Published: December 2021

Livestock deaths are an unfortunate reality for livestock producers and dead livestock (i.e., deadstock) disposal options can have implications beyond the ranch itself. In Alberta, Canada, natural disposal (i.e., disposing of the carcass in a manner that allows for scavenging) has increased since the 2003 detection of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in Canadian cattle. Prior to BSE, rendering companies removed deadstock for free. However, rendering companies started charging producers to remove deadstock to offset costs associated with new regulatory requirements enacted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, which has resulted in increased on-farm natural disposal of deadstock. This increase has ecological implications because deadstock are a major attractant for large carnivores. Carnivores feeding on deadstock are often near other agricultural attractants such as stored grain and feed, silage, and living livestock, which can exacerbate conflict potential and pose a risk to human safety. To help mitigate conflicts associated with deadstock, the Waterton Biosphere Reserve's (a local non-profit) Carnivores and Communities Program (CACP) supported expansion of community deadstock removal efforts beginning in 2009, including reimbursement of on-farm removal costs, bear-resistant deadstock bins, and a livestock compost facility (operational 2013–2014). Here, we present an evaluative case study describing the development, implementation, and results of the deadstock removal program, including the compost facility. We tracked the number of head of livestock removed each year, the number of participating landowners, the average cost per head, and total program costs. We also used an online survey to assess participants' perspectives of the deadstock removal program and future needs. To date, the CACP has removed >5,400 livestock carcasses, representing between 15.1 and 22.6% of available carcasses in the program area, and 67.3% of livestock owners indicated they currently use the deadstock removal program to dispose of deadstock. Average cost to compost an animal was significantly less than other removal methods ($36.89 composting vs. $79.59 non-composting, one-tailed t-test, unequal sampling variances: t = 4.08, df = 5.87, p = 0.003). We conclude by discussing both ecological and social implications for deadstock removal as a conflict mitigation measure and make suggestions for future management considerations.
Effects of Clopidogrel, Prasugrel and Ticagrelor on Microvascular Function and Platelet Reactivity in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Coronary Artery Stenting. A Randomized, Blinded, Parallel Group Trial
Authors: Schnorbus Boris , Jurk Kerstin , Lackner Karl J. , Welk Caroline , Münzel Thomas , Gori Tommaso
Published: December 2021

Aims: In this pre-specified analysis of the “endothelium, stent and antiplatelet therapy” study, we investigate the impact of antiplatelet therapies on microvascular function in patients undergoing stenting for an acute coronary syndrome.

Methods and Results: Fifty-six patients [age: 63(55–67) years, males, 10 diabetics, 27 non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction] were randomized to receive clopidogrel, ticagrelor or prasugrel in form of oral loading 2 h before stenting followed by oral therapy. Investigators were blinded to the allocation. Laser-Doppler microvascular function and ADP-induced platelet aggregation capacity were measured at baseline, 2 h after oral antiplatelet loading, and 1 day, 1 week and 1 month after stenting during chronic therapy with the same antiplatelet agent. Platelet aggregation decreased in all groups 2 h after oral loading, with a significantly larger effect in the prasugrel group (P = 0.009). Similarly, prasugrel and ticagrelor loading was followed by an increase in microvascular reactive hyperemia (P = 0.007 and P = 0.042 compared to clopidogrel). This effect disappeared one day after coronary intervention, with a significant decrease in the prasugrel group (P = 0.026). Similarly, analysis of microvascular conductance showed a larger increase in the prasugrel group 2 h after loading (P = 0.022 among groups), and a decrease in all groups after stenting.

Conclusions: Oral loading with prasugrel (and less consistently ticagrelor) is associated with improved microvascular function and stronger platelet inhibition in acute coronary syndrome patients. The microvascular effect was however lost 1 day after stenting and during subsequent follow-up. Further studies are necessary to clarify the the long-term effects and potential benefits of P2Y12 inhibitors on microvascular damage.

ClINICALTRIALS.gov N°: NCT01700322

EUDRACT-N°: 2011-005305-73.
Influence of the Seismic Wave Velocity of the Damage Zone on Near-Field Ground Motions
Authors: Wang Qiankuan , Qiu Shili , Cheng Yao , Li Ping , Kou Yongyuan , Zhang Shirui
Published: December 2021

In burst-prone deep underground engineering, seismic waves generated from a near-field ground motion event may play a critical role in causing localized rockburst damage. Accurate estimation of near-field ground motions around excavations is important for seismic hazard risk assessment and dynamic rock support design in underground engineering. During the excavation of an underground cavern, stress redistribution in the surrounding rock leads to the formation of damage zones, including the excavation damage zone (EDZ) and excavation fracture zone (EFZ). The poor properties of the rock in the damage zones cause the wave velocities of the rock mass to decrease and the dynamic wave interaction to change, thereby affecting the ground motions around the excavation. This paper studies the near-field ground motion behavior and reveals the control effect of the seismic wave velocity in the damage zones on the near-field ground motions by the aid of the finite fracturing source model (FFSSM). The research results provide a new knowledge of the influence of excavation disturbance on the ground motion distribution around the excavation, and provide new ideas for the seismic hazard risk assessment and prevention in underground engineering.
Graphene-Based Assemblies for Moist-Electric Generation
Authors: Chen Qing , Zhao Jian , Cheng Huhu
Published: December 2021

Moisture is a ubiquitous and clean resource in nature, which continuously diffuses in the atmosphere and demonstrates huge chemical potential energy that is difficult to be utilized. Recently, the generation of power from interactions between graphene and gaseous water molecules in moisture has triggered great research interest that could provide a novel energy conversion system for our society. graphene-based assemblies have been considered as ideal platforms for moist-electric generation (MEG) in many studies, because of the abundant of functional groups, controllable microstructure and diverse macro morphologies. Therefore, in this short review, we will first state the preparation techniques of graphene-based assemblies for MEG. Then, the fundamental mechanisms of MEG are discussed and the latest advances on graphene MEG are reviewed. Finally, an overview of the current challenges and future development trends in graphene MEG is provided.
Emplacement of the Photovoltaic Water Pumping System in Remote Areas by a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Method: A Case Study
Authors: Heydari Fatemehzahra , Maleki Akbar , Jabari Moghadam Ali , Haghighat Siavash
Published: December 2021

Utilizing the solar energy from photovoltaic panels integrated into a water pumping system to provide electricity for dispersed villages that have no access to backup systems not only reduces the electricity grid costs and environmental pollutants but also is an innovative approach in areas with sufficient solar irradiation. Therefore, identifying and studying the feasibility of stand-alone solar power plants in various locations is the first step in using this reliable source of energy. For this reason, 93 sites in the provinces of Razavi Khorasan, Northern Khorasan, and Southern Khorasan, Iran, were chosen by the renewable energy organization engineers as regions with high potential for establishing a solar water pumping station. The goals of this research were to prioritize the 93 sites and find the perfect location for the establishment of the aforementioned station. In order to investigate and prioritize these sites, a multi-criteria decision-making method, namely, TOPSIS (technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution), has been used. Therefore, the geographical locations of the sites and the weather in these provinces have been studied; consequently, 15 important and essential criteria, including slope, solar irradiation, precipitation, wind speed, relative humidity, altitude, distance from substation, distance from grid, obtainable solar energy capacity, distance from river, population, distance from city center, distance from road, average temperature, and number of dams in the vicinity of the site, have been chosen. All the aforementioned criteria have been weighted using the Shannon entropy method, and then the sites have been prioritized using the TOPSIS method. The results indicated that Sarayan, Isk, Esfadan, and Dasht Byaz in Southern Khorasan and then Beydokht 2 in Razavi Khorasan are the top five locations and Shosef in Southern Khorasan is the least favorite location for establishing a solar pumping station. In order to achieve more reliable results, sensitivity analysis was implemented.
The Role of ZnO as a Dopant and an Intergranular Phase in the Electrical Properties of Ca0.6Sr0.4TiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wang Qian , Li Jie , Wang Chuanhui
Published: December 2021

ZnO was introduced into Ca0.6Sr0.4TiO3ceramics as a dopant and an intergrangular phase in this research, followed by detailed structure characterization, energy storage performance analysis, and electrical behavior studies. The results revealed that the existence of ZnO as a dopant led to the decrease of conduction activation energy and the deterioration of energy storage behavior, while appropriate introduction of ZnO as an intergranular phase resulted in the increase of conduction activation energy and the optimization of energy storage performance. Additionally, the inverse relation between interfacial polarization and energy storage performance was observed in this study. Finally, an increased energy storage density of 1.16 J/cm3was achieved in 1 mol% ZnO-added Ca0.6Sr0.4TiO3ceramics.
Environmentally Modulated Repeat Evolution of Polymorphic Arctic Charr Life History Traits
Authors: Grenier Gabrielle , Smalås Aslak , Kjær Runar , Knudsen Rune
Published: December 2021

Sympatric Arctic charr, Salvelinus alpinus (L. 1758), morphs have flexible but repeated life history strategies tested across five Norwegian lakes. In several Scandinavian polymorphic Arctic charr populations differentiated by their diet and habitat use, a large littoral omnivorous (LO) morph commonly cooccurs with a smaller profundal spawning (PB/PZ) morph. A third, large piscivorous (PP) morph is also known to occur within a portion of Arctic charr populations in the profundal habitat along with the PB/PZ individuals. Life history traits, such as age at maturity, growth, and diet are known to differ among coexisting morphs. Notably, the PP morph was the longest morph with the oldest age at maturity while the PB/PZ morph showed the shortest lengths overall and youngest age with LO morph being intermediate in both traits. Growth parameters differed across all the morphs. When examining growth within morph groups, the LO morph was found to have different growth across all lakes, while similar reproductive investments and different energy acquisition patterns were seen within the PB/PZ and PP morphs. These results suggest repeat evolution in several life history strategies of reproductively isolated Arctic charr sympatric morphs, notably for the first time in the PP morph, while also highlighting the importance of the local environment in modulating life history traits.
Identification and Functional Characterization of a Novel Nonsense Variant in ARR3 in a Southern Chinese Family With High Myopia
Authors: Yuan Dejian , Yan Tizhen , Luo Shiqiang , Huang Jun , Tan Jianqiang , Zhang Jianping , Zhang Victor Wei , Lan Yueyuan , Hu Taobo , Guo Jing , Huang Mingwei , Zeng Dingyuan
Published: December 2021

ARR3has been associated with X-linked, female-limited, high myopia. However, using exome sequencing (ES), we identified the first high myopia case with hemizygousARR3-related mutation in a male patient in a Southern Chinese family. This novel truncated mutation (ARR3: c.569C>G, p.S190*) co-segregated with the disease phenotype in affected family members and demonstrated that high myopia caused byARR3is not X-linked, female-limited, where a complicated X-linked inheritance pattern may exist. Thus, our case expanded the variant spectrum inARR3and provided additional information for genetic counseling, prenatal testing, and diagnosis. Moreover, we characterized the nonsense-mediated decay of theARR3mutant mRNA and discussed the possible underlying pathogenic mechanisms.
Polymorphonuclear Cells Show Features of Dysfunctional Activation During Fatal Sepsis
Authors: Hortová-Kohoutková Marcela , De Zuani Marco , Lázničková Petra , Bendíčková Kamila , Mrkva Ondřej , Andrejčinová Ivana , Mýtniková Alexandra , Polanský Ondřej , Kočí Kamila , Tomášková Veronika , Šrámek Vladimír , Helán Martin , Frič Jan
Published: December 2021

Sepsis and septic shock remain leading causes of morbidity and mortality for patients in the intensive care unit. During the early phase, immune cells produce various cytokines leading to prompt activation of the immune system. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) respond to different signals producing inflammatory factors and executing their antimicrobial mechanisms, resulting in the engulfment and elimination of invading pathogens. However, excessive activation caused by various inflammatory signals produced during sepsis progression can lead to the alteration of PMN signaling and subsequent defects in their functionality. Here, we analyzed samples from 34 patients in septic shock, focusing on PMNs gene expression and proteome changes associated with septic shock. We revealed that, compared to those patients who survived longer than five days, PMNs from patients who had fulminant sepsis were characterized by a dysfunctional hyper-activation, show altered metabolism, and recent exit from the cell cycle and signs of cellular lifespan. We believe that this multi-omics approach, although limited, pinpoints the alterations in PMNs’ functionality, which may be rescued by targeted treatments.
Vascular Damage, Thromboinflammation, Plasmablast Activation, T-Cell Dysregulation and Pathological Histiocytic Response in Pulmonary Draining Lymph Nodes of COVID-19
Authors: Haslbauer Jasmin D. , Zinner Carl , Stalder Anna K. , Schneeberger Jan , Menter Thomas , Bassetti Stefano , Mertz Kirsten D. , Went Philip , Matter Matthias S. , Tzankov Alexandar
Published: December 2021

Although initial immunophenotypical studies on peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage samples have provided a glimpse into the immunopathology of COVID-19, analyses of pulmonary draining lymph nodes are currently scarce. 22 lethal COVID-19 cases and 28 controls were enrolled in this study. Pulmonary draining lymph nodes (mediastinal, tracheal, peribronchial) were collected at autopsy. Control lymph nodes were selected from a range of histomorphological sequelae [unremarkable histology, infectious mononucleosis, follicular hyperplasia, non-SARS related HLH, extrafollicular plasmablast activation, non-SARS related diffuse alveolar damage (DAD), pneumonia]. Samples were mounted on a tissue microarray and underwent immunohistochemical staining for a selection of immunological markers and in-situ hybridization for Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) and SARS-CoV-2. Gene expression profiling was performed using the HTG EdgeSeq Immune Response Panel. Characteristic patterns of a dysregulated immune response were detected in COVID-19: 1. An accumulation of extrafollicular plasmablasts with a relative paucity or depletion of germinal centers. 2. Evidence of T-cell dysregulation demonstrated by immunohistochemical paucity of FOXP3+, Tbet+ and LEF1+ positive T-cells and a downregulation of key genes responsible for T-cell crosstalk, maturation and migration as well as a reactivation of herpes viruses in 6 COVID-19 lymph nodes (EBV, HSV). 3. Macrophage activation by a M2-polarized, CD163+ phenotype and increased incidence of hemophagocytic activity. 4. Microvascular dysfunction, evidenced by an upregulation of hemostatic (CD36, PROCR, VWF) and proangiogenic (FLT1, TEK) genes and an increase of fibrin microthrombi and CD105+ microvessels. Taken together, these findings imply widespread dysregulation of both innate and adoptive pathways with concordant microvascular dysfunction in severe COVID-19.
BpOmpW Antigen Stimulates the Necessary Protective T-Cell Responses Against Melioidosis
Authors: Tomás-Cortázar Julen , Bossi Lorenzo , Quinn Conor , Reynolds Catherine J. , Butler David K. , Corcoran Niamh , Murchú Maitiú Ó , McMahon Eve , Singh Mahavir , Rongkard Patpong , Anguita Juan , Blanco Alfonso , Dunachie Susanna J. , Altmann Daniel , Boyton Rosemary J. , Arnold Johan , Giltaire Severine , McClean Siobhán
Published: December 2021

Melioidosis is a potentially fatal bacterial disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei and is estimated to cause 89,000 deaths per year in endemic areas of Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. People with diabetes mellitus are most at risk of melioidosis, with a 12-fold increased susceptibility for severe disease. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) responses from CD4 and CD8 T cells, but also from natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells, are necessary to eliminate the pathogen. We previously reported that immunization with B. pseudomallei OmpW (BpOmpW antigen) protected mice from lethal B. pseudomallei challenge for up to 81 days. Elucidating the immune correlates of protection of the protective BpOmpW vaccine is an essential step prior to clinical trials. Thus, we immunized either non-insulin-resistant C57BL/6J mice or an insulin-resistant C57BL/6J mouse model of type 2 diabetes (T2D) with a single dose of BpOmpW. BpOmpW induced strong antibody responses, stimulated effector CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells, and produced higher IFN-γ responses in CD4+, CD8+, NK, and NKT cells in non-insulin-resistant mice. The T-cell responses of insulin-resistant mice to BpOmpW were comparable to those of non-insulin-resistant mice. In addition, as a precursor to its evaluation in human studies, humanized HLA-DR and HLA-DQ (human leukocyte antigen DR and DQ isotypes, respectively) transgenic mice elicited IFN-γ recall responses in an enzyme-linked immune absorbent spot (ELISpot)-based study. Moreover, human donor peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) exposed to BpOmpW for 7 days showed T-cell proliferation. Finally, plasma from melioidosis survivors with diabetes recognized our BpOmpW vaccine antigen. Overall, the range of approaches used strongly indicated that BpOmpW elicits the necessary immune responses to combat melioidosis and bring this vaccine closer to clinical trials.
Carbon Source Starvation of a Sulfate-Reducing Bacterium–Elevated MIC Deterioration of Tensile Strength and Strain of X80 Pipeline Steel
Authors: Li Zhong , Yang Jike , Guo Huihua , Kumseranee Sith , Punpruk Suchada , Mohamed Magdy E. , Saleh Mazen A. , Gu Tingyue
Published: December 2021

It is known that starved sulfate-reducing bacterial biofilms corrode carbon steel more aggressively because they use electrons from elemental iron oxidation as an alternative source of energy. This work used carbon source starvation to vary MIC (microbiologically influenced corrosion) severity for studying subsequent MIC impacts on the degradation of X80 carbon steel mechanical properties. X80 square coupons and dogbone coupons were immersed in ATCC 1249 culture medium (200 ml in 450-ml anaerobic bottles) inoculated with Desulfovibrio vulgaris for 3-day pre-growth and then for an additional 14 days in fresh media with adjusted carbon source levels for starvation testing. After the starvation test, the sessile cell counts (cells/cm2) on the dogbone coupons in the bottles with carbon source levels of 0, 10, 50, and 100% (vs that in the full-strength medium) were 8.1 × 106, 3.2 × 107, 8.3 × 107, and 1.3 × 108, respectively. The pit depths from the X80 dogbone coupons were 1.9 μm (0%), 4.9 μm (10%), 9.1 μm (50%), and 6.4 μm (100%). The corresponding weight losses (mg/cm2) from the square coupons were 1.9 (0%), 3.3 (10%), 4.4 (50%), and 3.7 (100%). The 50% carbon source level had the combination of carbon starvation without suffering too much sessile cell loss. Thus, both its pit depth and weight loss were the highest. The electrochemical tests corroborated the pit depth and weight loss trends. The tensile tests of the dogbone coupons after the starvation incubation indicated that sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) made X80 more brittle and weaker. Compared with the fresh (no-SRB-exposure) X80 dogbone coupon’s ultimate tensile strain of 13.6% and ultimate tensile stress of 860 MPa, the 50% carbon source level led to the lowest ultimate tensile strain of 10.3% (24% loss when compared with the fresh dogbone) and ultimate tensile stress of 672 MPa (22% loss). The 100% carbon source level had a smaller loss in ultimate tensile strain than the 50% carbon source level, followed by 10% and then 0%. Moreover, the 100% carbon source level had a smaller loss in ultimate tensile strength than the 50%, followed by 10% and 0% in a tie. This outcome shows that even in the 17-day short-term test, significant degradation of the mechanical properties occurred and more severe MIC pitting caused more severe degradation.
A Case-Control Study for the Effectiveness of Oral Zinc in the Prevention and Mitigation of COVID-19
Authors: Gordon Antonio M. , Hardigan Patrick C.
Published: December 2021

Background: The ongoing coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic (caused by an infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronavirus (CoV-2) has put a burden on the medical community and society at large. Efforts to reduce the disease burden and mortality over the course of the pandemic have focused on research to rapidly determine age-stratified seroepidemiologic surveys, a centralized research program to fast-track the most promising rapid diagnostics and serologic assays, and the testing of potential anti-viral agents, immunologic therapies, and vaccine candidates. Despite the lack of official recognition for the role of nutrition in the fight against COVID-19 infection, multiple groups proposed zinc supplementation as an adjuvant for the management of participants.

Method: In an ambulatory, interventional, prospective, single-blind study, we evaluated the effectiveness of zinc supplementation in the prevention and mitigation of COVID-19 in two similar participant groups. In Clinic A (n = 104) participants were randomized to receive 10 mg, 25 mg, or 50 mg zinc picolinate daily, and Clinic B control participants paired according to their demographics and clinical parameters (n = 96). All participants were compared based on demographics, clinical comorbidities, blood counts, renal functions, vitamin D levels, and their development of symptomatic COVID-19 infection.

Results: Symptomatic COVID-19 infection was significantly higher among the control group participants (N = 9, 10.4%) than the treatment participants (N = 2, 1.9%), p = 0.015. The unadjusted odds ratio indicates that symptomatic COVID-19 infection was 5.93 [95% CI: 1.51, 39.26] higher in the control group, p < 0.01. Controlling for co-morbidities, individuals in the control group were 7.38 (95% CI: 1.80, 50.28) times more likely to develop symptomatic COVID-19 infection as compared with individuals in the treatment group (p < 0.01). For every-one unit increase in the number of co-morbidities, the likelihood of developing symptomatic COVID-19 infection increased 1.57 (95% CI: 1.16, 2.19) (p = 0.01).

Discussion: The findings from our study suggest that zinc supplementation in all three doses (10, 25, and 50 mg) may be an effective prophylaxis of symptomatic COVID-19 and may mitigate the severity of COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion: Zinc is a relatively inexpensive mineral nutrient that is an effective prophylactic agent to prevent and mitigate the potentially deadly symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues with a lag in vaccinations in some regions and the continued emergence of dangerously infectious variants of SARS-CoV-2, it is important to replicate our data in other populations and locations and to engage public health and nutrition services on the emergent need to use zinc supplantation or fortification of staple foods in the prevention and mitigation of COVID-19 infection severity.
Assessing the Fungal Simultaneous Removal Efficiency of Carbamazepine, Diclofenac and Ibuprofen in Aquatic Environment
Authors: Kasonga Teddy K. , Coetzee Martie A. A. , Kamika Ilunga , Momba Maggy N. B.
Published: December 2021

Unused pharmaceutical compounds (PhCs) discharged into the aquatic environment have been regarded as emerging pollutants due to potential harmful effects on humans and the environment. Microbial bioremediation is considered as a viable option for their removal from wastewater. The aim of this study was to assess the simultaneous removal of carbamazepine (CBZ), diclofenac (DCF) and ibuprofen (IBP) by previously isolated fungi (Aspergillus niger, Mucor circinelloides, Trichoderma longibrachiatum, Trametes polyzona, and Rhizopus microsporus). The tolerance to PhCs was conducted by tracking the fungal mycelium mat diameters in solid media and its dry biomass in liquid media, at the drug concentration range of 0.1 to 15 mg/L. The fungal enzymatic activities were determined for lignin peroxidase (LiP), manganese peroxidase (MnP) and laccase (Lac), respectively. The PhC removal efficiency of the fungi was assessed in aerated batch flasks and the drug concentrations and intermediate compounds formation were determined by using SPE-UPLC/MS. A tolerance over 70% was recorded for all the fungi at drug concentration of 0.1 mg/L. Manganese peroxidase was produced by all the fungi with very low amount of LiP, while all the enzymes were produced by T. polyzona. The pH of 4.3, temperature 37 ± 1.5°C and incubation time of 6 days were the optimum parameters for the fungal enzymatic activities. The best removal of CBZ (87%) was achieved by R. microsporus after 10 days. Between 78 and 100% removal of DCF was observed by all the fungi after 24 h, while 98% of IBP was removed after 2 days by M. circinelloides. Only a few intermediate compounds were identified after 3 days and disappeared after 10 days of incubation. This study demonstrated that apart from the basidiomycetes, the ascomycetes and zygomycetes are also producers of ligninolytic enzymes and have the ability to biodegrade emerging pollutants such as PhCs.
Certain Environmental Conditions Maximize Ammonium Accumulation and Minimize Nitrogen Loss During Nitrate Reduction Process by Pseudomonas putida Y-9
Authors: Huang Xuejiao , Tie Wenzhou , Xie Deti , Jiang Daihua , Li Zhenlun
Published: December 2021

Realizing the smallest nitrogen loss is a challenge in the nitrate reduction process. Dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) and nitrate assimilation play crucial roles in nitrogen retention. In this study, the effects of the carbon source, C/N ratio, pH, and dissolved oxygen on the multiple nitrate reduction pathways conducted by Pseudomonas putida Y-9 are explored. Strain Y-9 efficiently removed nitrate (up to 89.79%) with glucose as the sole carbon source, and the nitrogen loss in this system was 15.43%. The total nitrogen decrease and ammonium accumulation at a C/N ratio of 9 were lower than that at 12 and higher than that at 15, respectively (P < 0.05). Besides, neutral and alkaline conditions (pH 7–9) favored nitrate reduction. Largest nitrate removal (81.78%) and minimum nitrogen loss (10.63%) were observed at pH 7. The nitrate removal and ammonium production efficiencies of strain Y-9 increased due to an increased shaking speed. The expression patterns of nirBD (the gene that controls nitrate assimilation and DNRA) in strain Y-9 were similar to ammonium patterns of the tested incubation conditions. In summary, the following conditions facilitated nitrate assimilation and DNRA by strain Y-9, while reducing the denitrification: glucose as the carbon source, a C/N ratio of 9, a pH of 7, and a shaking speed of 150 rpm. Under these conditions, nitrate removal was substantial, and nitrogen loss from the system was minimal.
A Round Trip to the Desert: In situ Nanopore Sequencing Informs Targeted Bioprospecting
Authors: Latorre-Pérez Adriel , Gimeno-Valero Helena , Tanner Kristie , Pascual Javier , Vilanova Cristina , Porcar Manuel
Published: December 2021

Bioprospecting expeditions are often performed in remote locations, in order to access previously unexplored samples. Nevertheless, the actual potential of those samples is only assessed once scientists are back in the laboratory, where a time-consuming screening must take place. This work evaluates the suitability of using Nanopore sequencing during a journey to the Tabernas Desert (Spain) for forecasting the potential of specific samples in terms of bacterial diversity and prevalence of radiation- and desiccation-resistant taxa, which were the target of the bioprospecting activities. Samples collected during the first day were analyzed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing using a mobile laboratory. Results enabled the identification of locations showing the greatest and the least potential, and a second, informed sampling was performed focusing on those sites. After finishing the expedition, a culture collection of 166 strains belonging to 50 different genera was established. Overall, Nanopore and culturing data correlated well, since samples holding a greater potential at the microbiome level also yielded a more interesting set of microbial isolates, whereas samples showing less biodiversity resulted in a reduced (and redundant) set of culturable bacteria. Thus, we anticipate that portable sequencers hold potential as key, easy-to-use tools for in situ-informed bioprospecting strategies.
Emergence of Multiple Novel Inter-Genotype Recombinant Strains of Human Astroviruses Detected in Pediatric Patients With Acute Gastroenteritis in Thailand
Authors: Wei Hongyu , Khamrin Pattara , Kumthip Kattareeya , Yodmeeklin Arpaporn , Maneekarn Niwat
Published: December 2021

Objective: Human astrovirus (HAstV) is recognized as an important cause of acute gastroenteritis in children. Recombination between different genotypes of HAstV can contribute to diversity and evolution of the virus. This study aimed to investigate the emergence of HAstV recombinant strains in pediatric patients hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis in Chiang Mai, Thailand, spanning 2011–2020.

Methods: A total of 92 archival HAstV strains collected from pediatric patients with acute gastroenteritis during 2011–2020 were further characterized to identify the recombinant strains. The ORF1b and ORF2 junction region of each strain was amplified and sequenced. The obtained sequences were analyzed in comparison with the reference sequences retrieved from GenBank database. Their genotypes were assigned using MEGA X software based on the partial ORF1b (RdRp) and ORF2 (capsid) regions, and the recombination breakpoints of recombinant strains were determined by SimPlot and RDP4 analyses.

Results: Five inter-genotype recombinant strains with three recombination patterns of ORF1b/ORF2 of classic HAstV, HAstV8/HAstV1, HAstV8/HAstV3, and HAstV3/HAstV2, were detected. The recombination breakpoints of all strains were located at the 3′-end region of ORF1b close to the ORF1b/ORF2 junction.

Conclusion: Several novel inter-genotype recombinant strains of classic HAstV genotypes were detected in pediatric patients with acute gastroenteritis in Chiang Mai, Thailand, during the period of 10 years from 2011 to 2020.
Cellular Deubiquitylating Enzyme: A Regulatory Factor of Antiviral Innate Immunity
Authors: Long Sijing , Yang Li , Dang Wei , Xin Shuyu , Jiang Mingjuan , Zhang Wentao , Li Jing , Wang Yiwei , Zhang Senmiao , Lu Jianhong
Published: December 2021

Deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs) are proteases that crack the ubiquitin code from ubiquitylated substrates to reverse the fate of substrate proteins. Recently, DUBs have been found to mediate various cellular biological functions, including antiviral innate immune response mediated by pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) and NLR Family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes. So far, many DUBs have been identified to exert a distinct function in fine-tuning antiviral innate immunity and are utilized by viruses for immune evasion. Here, the recent advances in the regulation of antiviral responses by DUBs are reviewed. We also discussed the DUBs-mediated interaction between the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and antiviral innate immunity. The understanding of the mechanisms on antiviral innate immunity regulated by DUBs may provide therapeutic opportunities for viral infection.
Synthesis and Preliminary Immunological Evaluation of a Pseudotetrasaccharide Related to a Repeating Unit of the Streptococcus pneumoniae Serotype 6A Capsular Polysaccharide
Authors: Sukhova Elena V. , Yashunsky Dmitry V. , Kurbatova Ekaterina A. , Akhmatova Elina A. , Tsvetkov Yury E. , Nifantiev Nikolay E.
Published: December 2021

2-Aminoethyl glycoside of the pseudotetrasaccharide α-d-Glcp-(1→3)-α-l-Rhap-(1→3)-d-Rib-ol-(5-P-2)-α-d-Galp corresponding to a repeating unit of the Streptococcus pneumoniae type 6A capsular polysaccharide has been synthesized. A suitably protected pseudotrisaccharide α-d-Glcp-(1→3)-α-l-Rhap-(1→3)-d-Rib-ol with a free 5-OH group in the ribitol moiety and a 2-OH derivative of 2-trifluoroacetamidoethyl α-d-galactopyranoside have been efficiently prepared and then connected via a phosphate bridge using the hydrogen phosphonate procedure. Preliminary immunological evaluation of this pseudotetrasaccharide and the previously synthesized pseudotetrasaccharide corresponding to a repeating unit of the capsular polysaccharide of S. pneumoniae serotype 6B has shown that they contain epitopes specifically recognized by anti-serogroup 6 antibodies and are able to model well the corresponding capsular polysaccharides. Conjugates of the synthetic pseudotetrasaccharides with bovine serum albumin were shown to be immunogenic in mice.
Correlation Between Amygdala Nuclei Volumes and Memory in Cognitively Normal Adults Carrying the ApoE ε3/ε3 Allele
Authors: Liao Wenqing , Cui Dong , Jin Jingna , Liu Wenbo , Wang Xin , Wang He , Li Ying , Liu Zhipeng , Yin Tao
Published: December 2021

The amygdala is known to be related to cognitive function. In this study, we used an automated approach to segment the amygdala into nine nuclei and evaluated amygdala and nuclei volumetric changes across the adult lifespan in subjects carrying the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) ε3/ε3 allele, and we related those changes to memory function alteration. We found that except the left medial nucleus (Me), whose volume decreased in the old group compared with the middle-early group, all other nuclei volumes presented a significant decline in the old group compared with the young group. Left accessory basal nucleus (AB) and left cortico-amygdaloid transition area (CAT) volumes were also diminished in the middle-late group. In addition, immediate memory recall is impaired by the process of aging, whereas delayed recall and delayed recognition memory functions were not significantly changed. We found significant positive correlations between immediate recall scores and volumes of the bilateral basal nucleus (Ba), AB, anterior amygdaloid area (AAA), CAT, whole amygdala, left lateral nucleus (La), left paralaminar nucleus (PL), and right cortical nucleus (Co). The results suggest that immediate recall memory decline might be associated with volumetric reduction of the amygdala and its nuclei, and the left AB and left CAT might be considered as potential imaging biomarkers of memory decline in aging.
Neurology Telemusic Program at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Turning Hospital Time Into Aesthetic Time During Crisis
Authors: Bonakdarpour Borna , McFadden Alyssa , Zlotkowski Skye , Huang Daniel , Shaker Michelle , Shibata Bailey , Haben William , Brashear Charlinda , Sandoval Anny , Breitenbach Carianne , Rodriguez Caren , Viamille Jennifer , Porter Mark , Galic Kristin , Schaeve Michelle , Thatcher Daniel , Takarabe Clara
Published: December 2021

Strict precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic left patients isolated during already stressful hospital stays. Research indicates that listening to music recruits regions in the brain involved with social interaction and reduces feelings of loneliness. We formed a team of clinicians and clinical musicians to bring music to the bedside, as “psychological first aid.” Our goal was to reduce feelings of anxiety and isolation in patients admitted to the Northwestern Memorial Hospital's neurosciences unit. Participants were offered 30–40-min live music sessions over FaceTime by a violist in consultation with a music therapist and a certified music practitioner. Music used for the interventions was personalized. Participants were evaluated with the Music Assessment Tool where they indicated their musical preferences and music to which they objected. Following the intervention, participants answered a questionnaire assessing how music impacted their emotional state based on a 1–10 Likert scale. Scores were then averaged across all patients and were calculated as percentages. Eighty-seven sessions were completed during a 3-month period. Despite different degrees of disability, most patients engaged aesthetically with the music. The likelihood to recommend (LTR) for the program was 98%; participants tended to highly agree that the intervention improved their emotional state (92%); that it provided a pleasurable experience (92.4%); and that it reduced their stress and anxiety (89.5%). This pilot project showed that the telemusic intervention was feasible for our neurosciences patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our results are consistent with previous in-person hospital-based music interventions and highlight the importance of such programs when in-person interventions are not possible. This pilot project serves as a prelude to further investigate mechanisms by which music interventions can support admitted neurology patients.
Cerebral Microcirculation, Perivascular Unit, and Glymphatic System: Role of Aquaporin-4 as the Gatekeeper for Water Homeostasis
Authors: Szczygielski Jacek , Kopańska Marta , Wysocka Anna , Oertel Joachim
Published: December 2021

In the past, water homeostasis of the brain was understood as a certain quantitative equilibrium of water content between intravascular, interstitial, and intracellular spaces governed mostly by hydrostatic effects i.e., strictly by physical laws. The recent achievements in molecular bioscience have led to substantial changes in this regard. Some new concepts elaborate the idea that all compartments involved in cerebral fluid homeostasis create a functional continuum with an active and precise regulation of fluid exchange between them rather than only serving as separate fluid receptacles with mere passive diffusion mechanisms, based on hydrostatic pressure. According to these concepts, aquaporin-4 (AQP4) plays the central role in cerebral fluid homeostasis, acting as a water channel protein. The AQP4 not only enables water permeability through the blood-brain barrier but also regulates water exchange between perivascular spaces and the rest of the glymphatic system, described as pan-cerebral fluid pathway interlacing macroscopic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces with the interstitial fluid of brain tissue. With regards to this, AQP4 makes water shift strongly dependent on active processes including changes in cerebral microcirculation and autoregulation of brain vessels capacity. In this paper, the role of the AQP4 as the gatekeeper, regulating the water exchange between intracellular space, glymphatic system (including the so-called neurovascular units), and intravascular compartment is reviewed. In addition, the new concepts of brain edema as a misbalance in water homeostasis are critically appraised based on the newly described role of AQP4 for fluid permeation. Finally, the relevance of these hypotheses for clinical conditions (including brain trauma and stroke) and for both new and old therapy concepts are analyzed.
Sprout Caffeoylquinic Acid Profiles as Affected by Variety, Cooking, and Storage
Authors: Khaksar Gholamreza , Cheevarungnapakul Ketthida , Boonjing Patwira , Sirikantaramas Supaart
Published: December 2021

Various health-promoting properties inherent to plant-based foods have been attributed to their rich bioactive compounds, including caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs). The potential health benefits of CQAs have been well-documented. While sprouts are widely recognized as health-promoting foods owing to their high phytonutrient content, our knowledge regarding the effect of cooking and storage, commonly practiced by consumers, on the CQA content remains limited. First, sunflower sprouts were found to have the highest total CQA content (~ 22 mg/g dry weight) out of 11 commonly available sprouts. Then, the effect of variety, cooking, and low-temperature storage on the CQA profile of sunflower sprouts was investigated. Among the four different varieties of sunflower sprouts, variety 1 harbored the highest total CQA content. Notably, cooking adversely affected the CQA content of sunflower sprouts relative to the uncooked samples in a time-dependent manner, possibly due to the heat sensitivity of CQAs. Under simulated home-refrigeration storage conditions, we observed a significant decline in the content of major CQA compounds (5-monoCQA and 3,5-diCQA) at days 10 and 13 of storage. The results obtained herein provide consumers and food industrialists with increased insight into the effect of cooking and refrigeration on the CQA content of sunflower sprouts.