bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Chicken Spleen Transfer Factor on Intestinal Mucosa Immunity Barrier of Laying Hens
Authors: yu jiayu , Ma Baochen , Li Jing , Chen Yaoxing , Wang Zixu , Cao Jing , Dong Yulan
Published: May 2021

Background

Chicken spleen transfer factor (TF) is a low-molecular-weight lymphocyte extract composed of polypeptide and nucleotide. This factor is obtained by repeated freeze-thaw dialysis of the specific-pathogen-free chicken spleen and can transfer cell-mediated immunity from immunocompetent donors to recipients. However, its role in regulating intestinal digestion and absorption and mucosal immunity in laying hens has remained largely unknown.
Results

To explore the effect of TF on intestinal mucosa barrier function, 100 one-day-old White Leghorns laying hens were randomly divided into five groups and administered with different doses of TF (0.00 [control], 0.05 mL, 0.10 mL, 0.25 mL, and 1.00 mL). The chickens received orally TF from days 5 to 12, and they were then raised a week without it. Tissue sampling was performed on the 12th and 19th days. The results showed that the high dose of TF (1.00 mL) improved the intestinal mucosa morphology and strengthened the digestive and absorption function. Furthermore, the histology analysis revealed an increase in the number of intraepithelial lymphocytes and goblet cells. Similarly, the results from ELISA demonstrated an increase in the content of IL-10 in the intestinal tract, while the content of TNF-α showed a decrease in this regard. The RT-PCR assay also demonstrated the upregulation of the relative mRNA expressions of Muc2, TLR-2, and TLR-4 genes in the small intestine and rectum. The intestinal antioxidant function was significantly enhanced. After stopping the TF administration for a week, its effect on the intestinal mucosa barrier was still detectable; however, it was followed by a weakened effect.
Conclusions

In conclusion, high-dose (TF-1.00mL) of TF can improve the intestinal mucosa morphology and structure, enhance digestion and absorption functions, enhance the intestinal mucosal barrier immune function and antioxidant function, and up-regulate Muc2, TLR-2 and TLR-4 gene relative expression.
Laughlin anyon complexes with Bose properties
Authors: Kulik Leonid , Zhuravlev Andrey , Musina Liliya , Belozerov Evgenii , Vankov Alexander , Volkov Oleg , Zagitova Azaliia , Kukushkin Igor , Umansky Vladimir
Published: May 2021

Two-dimensional electron systems in a quantizing magnetic field are regarded as of exceptional interest, considering the possible role of anyons – quasiparticles with non-boson and non-fermion statistics – in applied physics. To this day, essentially none but the fractional states of the quantum Hall effect (FQHE) have been experimentally realized as a system with anyonic statistics. In determining the thermodynamic properties of anyon matter, it is crucial to gain insight into the physics of its neutral excitations. Such excitations can be either neutral complexes of several anyons, or “vortex-antivortex” pairs in anyon density, or compositions of an integer number of magnetic flux quanta and electron complexes having fermionic or bosonic statistics. The very abundance of the possible theoretical descriptions of neutral excitations in the anyon matter evidence that they have not been given much consideration in experimental physics so far. We form a macroscopic quasi-equilibrium ensemble of neutral excitations - spin one anyon complexes in the Laughlin state ν = 1/3, experimentally, where ν is the electron filling factor. The ensemble is found to have such a long lifetime that it can be considered the new state of anyon matter. The properties of this state are investigated by optical techniques to reveal its Bose properties.
Recurrent hepatic artery thrombosis following living donor liver transplant as sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection: case report
Authors: Raj Anupam , Shankar Vijay , Singhal Saurabh , Goyal Neerav , Arunkumar Venuthurimilli , Garg Hitendra Kumar
Published: May 2021

Background: As the second wave of COVID-19 is gripping the globe, liver transplant centers are increasingly receiving patients with a recent recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Despite full clinical recovery, unexpected, unusual and potentially life-threatening complications in these patients are increasingly being recognized, one such patient is discussed here. By far, this is the first ever reported case of a COVID-19 recovered recipient developing recurrent thrombotic complications, which led us to change our routine anticoagulation protocols.Case presentation: We performed liver transplantation on a 51-year-old gentleman with decompensated liver disease 23-days after recovering from SARS-CoV-2 infection. At the time of surgery, he had no known sequalae of COVID-19. His routine preoperative work-up showed no underlying coagulation disorders. He underwent living related liver transplant (modified right lobe graft) during which, despite massive blood loss and a prolonged anhepatic phase, his thromboelastographic (TEG) parameters persistently revealed hypercoagulability. He received anti-coagulation according to our standard protocol which is based on aPTT ratio and INR. After a brief uneventful early post-operative period, he developed hepatic arterial thrombosis (HAT) on the 14th postoperative day, and again after 4 days, both of which required surgical intervention. He was eventually discharged with normal graft function but was soon readmitted with recurrent HAT and necrosis of anterior sector with cholangiolar abscesses, further leading to graft loss, necessitating re-transplantation, from which he could not recover due to a rejection resistant to all conventional measures.Conclusions: There is emerging evidence that patients following SARS-CoV-2 infection tend to be hypercoagulable. We believe that this hyper coagulability might have played a significant role in the development of hepatic arterial thrombosis and eventual graft loss in this patient. This highlights the importance of revisiting anticoagulation protocols in liver transplant recipients recovered from COVID-19 and base them on TEG rather than routine parameters such as INR and aPTT, which are routinely deranged in such patients.
Direct-Current Generators Based on Conductive Polymers for Self-Powered Flexible Devices
Authors: Meng Yanfang , Zhang Long , Xu Guangyuan , Ma Yinji , Wang Heling , Feng Xue
Published: May 2021

Direct-current generators, especially those based on the Schottky contact between conductive polymers and metal electrodes, are efficient in converting mechanical stimuli into electrical energy. In contrast to triboelectric and piezoelectric generators, direct-current generators readily produce direct-current outputs and high currents that are crucial for integrating multiple energy-harvesting units in large scale and driving some types of devices. To further increase the current/voltage output of direct-current generator, here, we systematically investigate the effects of various conductive polymers and electrodes on the outputs by both computations and experiments. Particularly, the direct-current generator based on Cu/PANI/Ag is found to exhibit overwhelmingly current and voltage outputs over previous ones (current: 800 µA, 4 times larger; voltage: 3.5 V, 5 times larger.) under the same mechanical deformation. The preparation method of electrochemical deposition endows the generators flexibility, the linear relationship of current/voltage output vs. strain applied on the generators, combined with the large outputs offer advantages for the generator to work as flexible sensors. Furthermore, a mechanosensation-active matrix array based on direct-current generator for the strain monitoring demonstrated its promising prospects in flexible electronics. The direct-current generators with improved performance could serve as a stream new blood for versatile sensory systems and human-machine interactive interfaces.
Persistence behavior in African trypanosomes during adipose tissue colonization
Authors: Trindade Sandra , De Niz Mariana , Sequeira Mariana , Bizarra-Rebelo Tiago , Bento Fabio , Dejung Mario , Ferreira Joao , Butter Falk , Bringaud Frederic , Gjini Erida , Figueiredo Luisa
Published: May 2021

Persistence is an important and ancient evolutionary adaptive mechanism used by several organisms to survive environmental changes. During its life cycle Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of sleeping sickness, inhabits several microenvironments, including the adipose tissue. Here we used a mathematical model to investigate how this large parasite reservoir contributes to the global parasite population dynamics. By modeling the total number of parasites and the proportion of transmissible forms in the blood and the adipose tissue during an infection, we estimated that adipose tissue parasites proliferate more slowly. Intravital microscopy of parasites stained with CellTraceTM Violet confirmed that adipose tissue forms divide twice slower than the blood counterparts. Consistent with a reduced growth, proteome analysis revealed that adipose tissue forms undergo a metabolic adaptation and downregulate proteins involved in translation. Quantification of protein synthesis using L-Homopropargylglycine confirmed that this rate is 24% lower in adipose tissue forms. We propose that in adipose tissue, T. brucei acquire a persistence-like behavior, which could contribute to disease chronicity and treatment failure.
Telehealth Challenges During COVID-19 As Reported by Primary Healthcare Physicians in Quebec and Massachusetts
Authors: Breton Mylaine , Sullivan Erin E. , Deville-Stoetzel Nadia , McKinstry Danielle , DePuccio Matthew , Sriha Abi , Deslauriers Véronique , Dong Anson , McAlearney Ann Scheck
Published: May 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has driven primary healthcare (PHC) providers to use telehealth as an alternative to traditional face-to-face consultations. Providing telehealth that meets the needs of patients in a pandemic has presented many challenges for PHC providers. The aim of this study was to describe the positive and negative implications of using telehealth in one Canadian (Quebec) and one American (Massachusetts) PHC setting during the COVID-19 pandemic as reported by physicians.Methods: We conducted 42 individual semi-structured video interviews with physicians in Quebec (N = 20) and Massachusetts (N = 22) in 2020. Topics covered included their practice history, changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the advantages and challenges of telehealth. An inductive and deductive thematic analysis was carried out to identify implications of delivering care via telehealth.Results: Four key themes were identified, each with positive and negative implications: 1) access for patients; 2) efficiency of care delivery; 3) professional impacts; and 4) relational dimensions of care. For patients’ access, positive implications referred to increased availability of services; negative implications involved barriers due to difficulties with access to and use of technologies. Positive implications for efficiency were related to improved follow-up care; negative implications involved difficulties in diagnosing in the absence of direct physical examination and non-verbal cues. For professional impacts, positive implications were related to flexibility (teleworking, more availability for patients) and reimbursement, while negative implications were related to technological limitations experienced by both patients and practitioners. For relational dimensions, positive implications included improved communication, as patients were more at ease at home, and the possibility of gathering information from what could be seen of the patient’s environment; negative implications were related to concerns around maintaining the therapeutic relationship and changes in patients’ engagement and expectations.Conclusion: Ensuring that health services provision meets patients’ needs at all times calls for flexibility in care delivery modalities, role shifting to adapt to virtual care, sustained relationships with patients, and interprofessional collaboration. To succeed, these efforts require guidelines and training, as well as careful attention to technological barriers and interpersonal relationship needs.
Plasticity, Pleiotropy and Fitness Tradeoffs in Arabidopsis Genotypes with Different Telomere Lengths
Authors: Campitelli Brandon , Razzaque Samsad , Barbero Borja , Abdulkina Liliia , Hall Mitchell , Shippen Dorothy , Juenger Thomas , Shakirov Eugene
Published: May 2021

Telomere length has been implicated in the organismal response to stress, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Here we examine the impact of telomere length changes on Arabidopsis thaliana responses to three contrasting abiotic environments, and measure 31 fitness, development, physiology and leaf-level anatomy traits. We report that telomere length in wild type and short telomere mutants is resistant to abiotic stress, while elongated telomeres in ku70 mutants are more plastic. We also detect significant pleiotropic effects of telomere length on flowering time and key leaf physiology and anatomical traits. Furthermore, our data reveal a significant genotype by environment (GxE) interaction for reproductive fitness, with the benefits and costs to performance depending on the growth conditions. These results imply that life-history tradeoffs between flowering time and reproductive fitness are impacted by telomere length variation. We postulate that telomere length in plants is subject to natural selection imposed by different environments.
Novel Variants in Phosphodiesterase 6A and Phosphodiesterase 6B Genes and Its Phenotypes in Patients With Retinitis Pigmentosa in Chinese Families
Authors: Li Yuyu , Li Ruyi , Dai Hehua , Li Genlin
Published: May 2021

Background: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a genetically heterogeneous disease with 65 causative genes identified to date. However, only approximately 60% of RP cases genetically solved to date, predicating that many novel disease-causing variants are yet to be identified. The purpose of this study is to identify novel variants in phosphodiesterase 6A and phosphodiesterase 6B genes and present its phenotypes in patients with retinitis pigmentosa in Chinese families.Methods: Five retinitis pigmentosa patients with PDE6A variants and three with PDE6B variants were identified through a hereditary eye disease enrichment panel (HEDEP), all patients’ medical and ophthalmic histories were collected, and ophthalmological examinations were performed, then we analysed the possible causative variants. Sanger sequencing was used to verify the variants.Results: We identified 20 mutations sites in eight patients, two heterozygous variants were identified per patient of either PDE6A or PDE6B variants, others are from CA4, OPTN, RHO, ADGRA3 variants. We identified two novel variants in PDE6A: c.1246G > A;p.(Asp416Asn) and c.1747T > A;p.(Tyr583Asn). Three novel mutations in PDE6B: c.401T > C;p.(Leu134Pro), c.2293G > C;p.(Ala765Pro) and c.1610-1612del;p.(537-538del).CA4: c.243G > A;p.(Trp81*) and RHO: c.688G>A;p.(Val230Ile) are novel variants and maybe affecting the phenotype. Among them, c.401T > C;p.(Leu134Pro) variant in PDE6B is non- pathogenic; RHO: c.688G>A;p.(Val230Ile) is conflicting interpretations of pathogenicity;Other novel variants are all pathogenic.Conclusions: This study reveals novel and known variants in Chinese families with PDE6A and PDE6B mutations in autosomal recessive RP, expanding the clinical and genetic findings of photoreceptor-specific enzyme deficiencies.
Conditional Heteroskedasticity and Cross-sectional Dependence in Panel MGARCH: Exchange Rate and Stock Market Uncertainty
Authors: Tour Mansour , Abounoori Esmaiel
Published: May 2021

Despite lots of research concerning different GARCH and Panel-GARCH as well as MGARCH models, we have not seen Panel MGARCH so far reviewing literatures. Though there are spillover effects between cross-sections for one variable, there may be spillover effects and cross-sections dependence for several variables too. The main aim in this research is to use the Panel MGARCH (P-MGARCH) model regarding weekly exchange rate and the stock market index across countries UK, Canada and China during 2010: 10 to 2020: 08. According to the results, the volatility spillover among cross-sections (UK, China and Canada) for variables (Exchange rates and Stock exchange returns) has been confirmed.JEL Classification: C33, C58, F30
Phytochemical Screening, Acute Toxicity and Anti-Rabies Activities of Extracts of Selected Ethiopian Traditional Medicinal Plants
Authors: Tesera Yeweynshet , Desalegn Asnake , Tadele Ashenif , Mengesha Abebe , Hurisa Birhanu , Mohammed Jemal , Mulugeta Demise , Ashenafi Sintayehu , Alemu Anberbir , Degu Sileshi , Bizuneh Ayele
Published: May 2021

Background: Rabies, endemic in most African and Asian countries, is a viral zoonosis that causes an estimated 59,000 human deaths a year, despite the existence of safe and effective vaccines. In most developing countries people believe to cure rabies with different traditional and religious treatment rather than seeking effective post exposure prophylaxis. Purpose: To investigate the phytochemical constituents, acute toxicity and antirabies activity of crude extracts of the leaves of Justicia schimperiana and Ricinus communis and the stem bark of Croton macrostachyus. Methods: To test the presence of various phytochemicals, standard procedures were used. For the determination of acute toxicity and in vivo antirabies activities, Organization for Economic Corporation and Development (OECD) Guideline No.423 was used. Different concentrations of extracts (0.4, 0.8, 1.6, 3.2, 6.4 and 12.8 mg/ml) were tested for their cytotoxic effect on Vero cells through 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay. The in vitro antirabies assay was carried out based on the minimal cytotoxic concentration of extracts. Results: The phytochemical screening result has revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, tannins and terpenoids in all plant extracts screened but lack saponins. All the extracts were slightly toxic in Swiss albino mice model but non cytotoxic in Vero cell lines. The antirabies assay result showed that all plant extracts had a moderate to good antirabies potential. The methanol extracts exhibited higher antirabies activity compared to the other extracts under investigation. Conclusion: The present study concluded that the studied plants have possessed different phytochemicals that helps in their antirabies potential. Utilization of these pharmacological properties involves further investigation of these active ingredients by implementation techniques of extraction, purification, separation, crystallization and identification.
Topical sirolimus solution for lingual microcystic lymphatic malformations in children and adults (TOPGUN): study protocol for a multicenter, randomized, assessor-blinded, controlled, stepped-wedge clinical trial
Authors: MARCHAND Antoine , CAILLE Agnès , GISSOT Valérie , GIRAUDEAU Bruno , LENGELLE Céline , BOURGOIN Hélène , LARGEAU Bérenger , LEDUCQ Sophie , MARUANI Annabel
Published: May 2021

BackgroundLingual microcystic lymphatic malformations (LMLMs) are rare congenital vascular malformations presenting as clusters of cysts filled with lymph fluid or blood. Even small well-limited lesions can be responsible for a heavy burden, inducing pain, aesthetic prejudice, or oozing, bleeding, infections. The natural history of LMLMs is progressive worsening punctuated by acute flares. Therapeutic options include surgery, laser excision and radiofrequency ablation but all are potentially detrimental and expose to local relapse. Therefore, the management frequently relies on a “watchful waiting” approach. In complicated LMLMs, treatment with oral sirolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, is often used. Topical applications of sirolimus on the buccal mucosae have been reported in other oral diseases with good tolerance and none to slight detectable blood sirolimus concentrations. We aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 1 mg/mL sirolimus solution applied once daily on LMLM of any stage in children and adults after 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks of treatment compared to usual care (no treatment).MethodsThis is a randomized, multicentric study using an individually randomized stepped-wedge design over 24 weeks to evaluate topical application of a 1 mg/mL sirolimus solution once daily, on LMLM, versus usual care (no treatment), the control condition. Participants begin with an observational period and later switch to the intervention at a randomized time (week 0,4 8 or 12). Visits occur every 4 weeks, either in the study center or by teleconsulting. The primary outcome will be the evaluation of global severity of the LMLM on monthly standardized photographs by 3 independent blinded experts using the physical global assessment (PGA) 0 to 5 scale. Secondary outcomes will include lesion size measurement and quality of life assessment, investigator and patient-assessed global disease and specific symptoms (oozing, bleeding, sialorrhea, eating impairment, taste modification, aesthetic impairment, pain, and global discomfort) assessment. A biological monitoring will be performed including residual blood sirolimus concentration and usual laboratory parameters.DiscussionGiven the disappointing state of current treatment options in LMLMs, topical sirolimus could become first-line therapy in treating LMLMs if its efficacy and safety were to be demonstrated.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov : NCT04128722, registered 24th September 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04128722EudraCT : EUCTR2019-001530-33-FRSponsor (University Hospital Center of Tours – CHRU Tours) : DR190041-TOPGUNFrench regulatory authorities : ID RCB: 2019-001530-33
Reproductive Behavior of Different Species of the Genus Ovis (Ovis Linnaeus, 1758) During Hybridization
Authors: Iolchiev Baylar , Khusnetdinova Neilia , Yuri Prytkov , Bagirov Vugar , Volkova Natalya
Published: May 2021

BackgroundThere are several mechanisms of species isolation and species conservation, one of which is the behavior of individuals during the mating season. Inter specific hybridization is used to create new breeding forms and breeds of farm animals. The aim of this study was to look into the reproductive behavior of males of cultured sheep breeds and their wild relatives during the mating period in order to identify consistent patterns of movements, elementary motor acts, and individual reactions.ResultsIt was found that the duration of the courtship display in the European mouflon was, with a high degree of confidence, longer than in the male domestic sheep. In mouflons, it was 246.5 ± 31.85 minutes, while in rams, it was 88.46 ± 9.23 minutes (p < 0.0001). Many patterns in purebred sheep were shorter, or absent. In wild species, there is a connection between sexual activity and time of day. The highest frequency of intromission in mouflons occurred in the time interval between 6–8 a.m. and 11 p.m.–4 a.m.; in rams, the dependence of sexual activity on the time of day was not observed. During the estrus period, the relationship between females changed. If there were several individuals in the group in the state of estrus at the same time, the dominant females hindered the reproductive success of the lower-ranking sheep.ConclusionsThe present study shows that the patterns of reproductive behavior in males of different species of sheep are similar. However, it was revealed that the species differ in the length of those patterns. A high variability in the strategies of sheep reproduction was observed. For future research, it would be beneficial to focus on the features of the reproductive behavior of female sheep depending on the genotype.
REBOA as a Bridge to Brain CT in a Patient With Concomitant Brain Herniation and Haemorrhagic Shock - a Case Report
Authors: Bissoni Luca , Gamberini Emiliano , Viola Lorenzo , Bergamini Carlo , Russo Emanuele , Bolondi Giuliano , Agnoletti Vanni
Published: May 2021

Introduction The management of complex trauma patient with concomitant brain injury and extra-cranial lesions is challenging since the requirement of a low pressure to limit the bleeding clashes with the need to maintain an adequate cerebral perfusion and to obtain a brain CT-scan. Here we present the use of REBOA as a bridge to CT scan in complex head and torso trauma. Case presentation A 59-years male patient involved in a car accident was admitted to our hospital after a car accident. He had a GCS of 3 with a left fixed pupil anisocoria. Despite right-sided chest decompression for pneumothorax and massive transfusion protocol for hemoperitoneum, blood pressure remained low; to temporally stabilize the patient and perform a brain CT scan a zone 1 REBOA was inserted and systolic blood pressure rose up from 60 mmHg to 110 mmHg. A brain CT scan highlighted a right subdural hematoma with a 8-mm midline shift. The patient went to the operating room to perform damage control surgery and, subsequently, a decompressive craniotomy. After 96 days of hospital stay, the patient was discharged at home with a complete neurological recovery. Conclusions The achievement of a rapid brain CT scan in traumatic brain injury is often crucial and has a deep impact in changing surgical management; moreover, duration of cerebral herniation is associated with worse outcome and increased mortality. In the light of this, the use of REBOA in selected cases of complex head and torso trauma could allow to gain time to go to the CT room in safe conditions.
In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Tetrastigma Sulcatum Leaf Extract, Pure Compound and Its Derivatives
Authors: Waghole Ravindra Jagannath , Misar Ashwini Vivek , Kulkarni Neha Shashikant , Khan Feroz , Naik Dattatraya Gopal , Jadhav Sachin H
Published: May 2021

The severity and perseverance of the inflammation have been demonstrated in many health conditions. The limitations of existing medications, propose the need for newer alternative anti-inflammatory medications. In our earlier studies, we demonstrated the topical anti-inflammatory potential of crude ethanolic extract of Tetrastigma sulcatum leaves and its fractions. In the present study, we further explored anti-inflammatory activity of T. sulcatum extract, fractions, pure compound and its derivatives using in vitro and in vivo bioassay techniques. We attempted to isolate a pure compound from leaf extract and was identified as Friedelan-3β-ol (CI) and its derivatives Friedelinol acetate (C II) and Friedelinol methyl ether (C III) were synthesized. Treatment with crude extract and its fractions demonstrated a significant reduction in the mRNA expression levels of pro-inﬂammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells. Likewise, compounds CI, CII and CIII showed a similar pattern of significant inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines and NO production. In vivo study in Carrageenan induced paw-inflammatory mice model demonstrated reduced paw oedema and proinflammatory cytokines levels in a dose-dependent manner upon treatment of extract, its fractions, pure compound (CI), and their derivatives (CII and CIII.). The docking study showed all the compounds (CI, CII and CIII) share common residues with Dexamethasone. TNF- α exhibited the most interacting residues with the compounds. The present study confirmed the T. sulcatum ’s anti-inflammatory activity, suggesting Friedelan-3β-ol as an active component in a crude extract.
Study protocol for the Multimodal Approach to Preventing Suicide in Schools (MAPSS) project: A regionally-based trial of an integrated response to suicide risk among secondary school students.
Authors: Byrne Sadhbh Josephine , Bailey Eleanor , Lamblin Michelle , Pirkis Jane , Mihalopoulos Cathrine , Spittal Matthew J. , Rice Simon , Hetrick Sarah , Hamilton Matthew , Yuen Hok Pan , Lee Yong Yi , Boland Alexandra , Robinson Jo
Published: May 2021

Background Suicide is the leading cause of death among young Australians, accounting for one-third of all deaths in those under 25. Schools are a logical setting for youth suicide prevention activities, with universal, selective and indicated approaches all demonstrating efficacy. Given that international best practice recommends suicide prevention programs combine these approaches, and that to date this has not been done in school settings, this study aims to evaluate a suicide prevention program incorporating universal, selective and indicated components in schools.Methods This study is a trial of a multimodal suicide prevention program for young people. The program involves delivering universal psychoeducation (safeTALK) to all students, screening them for suicide risk, and delivering internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Reframe IT) to those students identified as being at high risk for suicide. The program will be trialled in secondary schools in Melbourne, Australia, and target year 10 students (15 and 16 year-olds). safeTALK and screening will be evaluated using a single group pre-test/post-test case series, and Reframe IT will be evaluated in a Randomised Controlled Trial. The primary outcome is change in suicidal ideation; other outcomes include help-seeking behaviour and intentions, and suicide knowledge and stigma. The program’s cost-effectiveness will also be evaluated.Discussion This study is the first to evaluate a suicide prevention program comprising universal, selective and indicated components in Australian schools. If the program is found to be efficacious and cost-effective, it could be more widely disseminated in schools and may ultimately lead to reduced rates of suicide and suicidal behaviour in school students across the region.
Low Tech Biochar Production Could Be a Highly Effective Nature-Based Solution for Climate Change Mitigation in the Developing World.
Authors: ladd brenton , Aquije Camila , Schmidt Hans-Peter , Draper Kathleen , Joseph Stephen
Published: May 2021

AimTo compare the climate change mitigation benefits of nature-based solutions for management of municipal green waste with conventional management. MethodsThis study analyzed the carbon footprint of managing one ton of municipal green waste (MGW) in Lima Peru under 4 different scenarios: 1) Final disposal in authorized landfill, 2) Final disposal in informal landfill, 3) composting and 4) biochar production using a low-cost low tech Kon-Tiki reactor. ResultsThe results demonstrate the very clear potential for climate change mitigation from biochar production using low tech and therefore accessible technology in a typical developing world context. The carbon footprint of producing biochar was lower than for composting and biochar and compost both had carbon footprints significantly lower than waste management achieved via landfilling. ConclusionWe argue that the standards used by nascent platforms for trading carbon removal credits generated by biochar should be expanded to include small scale market participants in the so-called developing world. Waste management in the developing world presents significant challenges but often starts from a very low base which means there is very large potential for reducing emissions as well as sequestering carbon.
Predicting The Sign of Trophic Effects: Individual-Based Simulation Versus Loop Analysis
Authors: Fábián Virág Adrienn , Jordán Ferenc
Published: May 2021

Food web research needs to be predictive in order to support decisions system-based conservation. In order to increase predictability and applicability, complexity needs to be reduced to simple and clear results. One question emerging frequently is whether certain perturbations (environmental effects or human impact) have positive or negative effects on natural ecosystems or their particular components. Yet, most of food web studies do not consider the sign of effects.Here, we study 6 versions of the Kelian River (Borneo) food web, representing six study sites along the river. For each network, we study the sign of the effect of a perturbed trophic group i on each other j groups. We compare the outcome of the relatively complicated dynamical simulation model and the relatively simple loop analysis model. We compare these results for the 6 sites and also the 14 trophic groups. Finally, we see if sign-agreement and sign-determinacy depend on certain structural features (node centrality, interaction strength).We found major differences between different modelling scenarios, with herbivore-detritivore fish behaving in the most consistent, while algae and particulate organic matter behaving in the least consistent way.
The Design of Optical Diodes
Authors: Ren Ming-Li , Han Meng , Liu Zhang-Hui , Jiang Ming-Qi , Zhu Xiang-Jiu , Liu Xiao-Jing , Wu Xiang-Yao
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the optical diodes has been designed by one-dimensional function photonic crystals (FPCs), which the refractive indexes of media A and B are not constant, but it is the functions of space coordinate. By calculation the transmissivity and electric field distribution, we found the positive incident light can pass the function photonic crystals, but the negative incident light can not pass through it, the function photonic crystals (FPCs) can be made into optical diodes.
A Numerical Analysis of Skin-PPE Interaction to Prevent Facial Tissue Injury
Authors: Jobanputra Rikeen D. , Hayes Jack , Royyuru Sravani , Masen Marc A.
Published: May 2021

The use of close-fitting PPE is essential to prevent exposure to dispersed airborne matter, including the COVID-19 virus. The current pandemic has increased pressure on the healthcare system, leading to medical professionals using high-grade PPE for prolonged times, resulting in device-insduced skin injuries. This study focuses on computationally improving the interaction between skin and PPE to reduce the likelihood of discomfort and tissue damage. A finite element model is developed to simulate the movement of PPE against the face during day-to-day tasks. Due to limited available data on skin characteristics and how these vary interpersonally between sexes, races and ages, the main objective of this study was to establish the effects and trends that mask modifications have on the resulting subsurface strain energy density distribution in the skin. These modifications include the material, geometry and interfacial properties. Overall, the results show that skin injury can be reduced by using softer mask materials, whilst friction against the skin should be minimised, e.g. through use of micro-textures, humidity control and topical creams. Furthermore, the contact area between the mask and skin should be maximised, whilst the use of soft materials with incompressible behaviours (e.g. most elastomers) should be avoided.
Activated Gas Tungsten Arc Welding Process Optimization Using Artificial Neural Network and Heuristic Algorithms
Authors: Moghaddam Masoud Azadi , Kolahan Farhad
Published: May 2021

Apart from different merits of using conventional gas tungsten arc welding (C-GTAW) process, shallow penetration has been considered as the most important drawback of the process. Recently, in order to cope with the low penetration, using a paste like coating of activating flux during welding process known as activated GTAW (A-GTAW) has been proposed. In this paper, effect of A-GTAW process input parameters (welding speed (S), welding current (C)) and percentage of activating fluxes (TiO2 and SiO2) combination (F)) on the most important quality characteristics (weld bead width (WBW), depth of penetration (DOP), and consequently aspect ratio (ASR)) for AISI316L parts have been considered. The data needed for the modeling and optimization objectives, box-behnken design (BBD) of experiments, back propagation neural network (BPNN), simulated annealing (SA), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms have been employed. Moreover, PSO algorithm has been used to determine the proper ANN architecture (hidden layers number and their corresponding neurons/nodes) and optimize the proper ANN model to obtain the desired aspect ratio, maximum depth of penetration, and minimum weld bead width. Next, SA algorithm has been used to avoid getting trapped in local minima. Finally, confirmation experimental tests have been carried out to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. Due to the obtained results, the suggested method for modeling and optimization of A-GTAW process is quite efficient (with less than 4% error).
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress as a Key Mechanism in Stunted Growth of Seawater Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss)
Authors: Morro Bernat , Broughton Richard , Balseiro Pablo , Handeland Sigurd O. , Mackenzie Simon , Doherty Mary K. , Whitfield Phillip D. , Shimizu Munetaka , Gorissen Marnix , Sveier Harald , Albalat Amaya
Published: May 2021

Background: Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is a salmonid species with a complex life-history. Wild populations are naturally divided into freshwater residents and sea-run migrants. Migrants undergo an energy-demanding adaptation for life in seawater, known as smoltification, while freshwater residents display these changes in an attenuated magnitude and rate. Despite this, in seawater rainbow trout farming all animals are transferred to seawater. Under these circumstances, weeks after seawater transfer, a significant portion of the fish die (around 10%) or experience growth stunting (GS; around 10%), which represents an important profitability and welfare issue. The underlying causes leading to GS in seawater-transferred rainbow trout remain unknown. In this study, we aimed at characterising the GS phenotype in seawater-transferred rainbow trout using untargeted and targeted approaches. To this end, the liver proteome (LC-MS/MS) and lipidome (LC-MS) of GS and fast-growing phenotypes were profiled to identify molecules and processes that are characteristic of the GS phenotype. Moreover, the transcription, abundance or activity of key proteins and hormones related to osmoregulation (Gill Na+, K+–ATPase activity), growth (plasma IGF-I, and liver igf1, igfbp1b, ghr1 and ctsl) and stress (plasma cortisol) were measured using targeted approaches. Results: No differences in Gill Na+, K+–ATPase activity and plasma cortisol were detected between the two groups. However, a significant downregulation in plasma IGF-I and liver igf1 transcription pointed at this growth factor as an important pathomechanism for GS. Changes in the liver proteome revealed reactive-oxygen-species-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress as a key mechanism underlying the GS phenotype. From the lipidomic analysis, key observations include a reduction in triacylglycerols and elevated amounts of cardiolipins, a characteristic lipid class associated with oxidative stress, in GS phenotype. Conclusion: While the triggers to the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress are still unknown, data from this study point towards either an unresolved infection or a nutritional deficiency as underlying drivers of this phenotype.
Clinical Characteristics And Outcomes of 16 Cases With COVID19 and Mucormycosis: Experience From A Tertiary Care Center In India and Review of Literature
Authors: Paul Saurav Sekhar , Kumar Rohit , Meena Ved Prakash , Ramprasad Aishwarya , Garg Prerna , Keri Vishakh C , Singh Komal , Dhir Ankita , Sakhtivel Pirabu , Vig Saurabh , Pandit Anuja , Tiwari Pavan , Singh Gagandeep , Dhamija Ekta , Soneja Manish , Xess Immaculata , Thakar Alok , Bhatnagar Sushma , Mohan Anant , Wig Naveet
Published: May 2021

Background-The sharp uptick in the cases of mucormycosis in the background of the COVID19 pandemic is a cause of concern and the reasons and it’s impact remains to be seen. We studied the clinical characteristics in patients with mucormycosis and COVID19 co-infection and performed a literature review.Methods-This retrospective study was conducted at tertiary centre in India. All patients admitted with COVID19 and mucormycosis were included, clinical details were obtained from hospital records. We did review of literatures using the terms “SARS-CoV2” OR “COVID19” AND “Mucormycosis” AND “co-infection” on Pubmed published before February 20, 2021.Results-Sixteen cases (M:F–13:3), mean age 46·5 years (24-75years), were included. Fourteen had known risk factors for mucormycosis, the most common being diabetes mellitus. Most patients (n=14) were symptomatic with mucormycosis before diagnosis of COVID19. There was delay in surgery by 22.5 days (IQR–>17.75–29.5), pending SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR negativity. There were six deaths in this cohort, unrelated to the COVID19 severity. The literature review revealed eleven case reports on co-infection. Patients who had developed mucormycosis were found to have history of mechanical ventilation.Conclusion-The apparent increase in the incidence of mucormycosis may be due to decompensation of underlying comorbidities (decreased access to healthcare), and increased use of immunosuppressants in COVID19. Patients with co-infection were noted to have poorer outcomes.
Probabilistically Weighted Multilayer Networks Disclose the Link Between Default Mode Network Instability and Psychosis-Like Experiences in Healthy Adults
Authors: Plinio Simone Di , Ebisch Sjoerd JH
Published: May 2021

The brain is a complex system in which the functional interactions among its subunits vary over time. The trajectories of this dynamic variation contribute to inter-individual behavioral differences and psychopathologic phenotypes. Despite many methodological advancements, the study of dynamic brain networks still relies on biased assumptions in the temporal domain. The current paper has two goals. First, we present a novel method to study multilayer networks by modelling intra-nodal probabilistic connections in a biologically driven way. We introduce a temporal resolution of the multilayer network based on signal similarity within time series. This new method is tested on synthetic networks by varying the number of modules and the sources of noise in the simulation. Secondly, we implement these probabilistically weighted (PW) multilayer networks to study the association between network dynamics and subclinical, psychosis-relevant personality traits in healthy adults. We show that the PW method for multilayer networks outperforms the standard procedure in modular detection and is less affected by increasing noise levels. Additionally, the PW method highlighted associations between the temporal instability of default mode network connections and psychosis-like experiences in healthy adults. PW multilayer networks allow an unbiased study of dynamic brain functioning and its behavioral correlates.
Clinical Features And Neuroimaging Findings In Acute Cerebral Infarction Patients Using RAPID Artificial Intelligent (RAPID AI) Software Analysis – A Series Of 54 Cases
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Huy , Hoang Minh Van , Rudd Anthony , Nguyen An Quang , Nguyen Thong Van , Tran Luc Quang , Nguyen Tuan Ngoc Minh
Published: May 2021

Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of death and the leading cause of permanent disability globally. Vietnam is a developing country with a high prevalence of stroke but is under-resourced in terms of specialist staff able to interpret complex brain imaging. Methods: A case series of 54 stroke patients admitted between October 2019 and October 2020 where thrombectomy was being considered and where ‘Rapid’ Artificial Intelligence (AI) was used to analyze images of stroke. Results: The mean age of patients was 73.39 ± 12.46 years with 57% male. The most common risk factors were (76%), atrial fibrillation (24%), diabetes (20%), alcohol (15%), and smoking (9%). The most common clinical signs were hemiparesis in 76% of the patients, followed by dysphasia in 50% and memory loss in 28% of the sample. 7% presented with dizziness and 7% with headache. 6% were unconscious on admission. ASPECTS evaluation showed that 24 (44%) patients had good ASPECTS scores of 8-10, 17 (32%) patients had ASPECTS scores of 5-7, and 13 (24%) patients had ASPECTS scores of 0-4. The number of patients with an infarct core volume <70 mL was 50 (93%), while a mismatch volume of >15 mL was observed in 31 (55%) patients and 22 (41%) patients had a mismatch ratio >1.8. The assessment of CT imaging of thrombi showed 51 cases of anterior cerebral circulation, including 13 (24%) cases diagnosed as ICA, 30 (76%) cases diagnosed as MCA, and 8 (15%) cases diagnosed as SA. There were 10 cases of MCA-M1 (19%), 7 cases of MCA-M2 and MCA-M4 (13%) cases and 6 cases of MCA-M3 (11%), respectively. There were three cases of posterior cerebral circulation, comprising Posterior Cerebral artery (PCA) infarction and two cases of Basilar Artery (BA) territory infarction. Conclusions: RAPID Artificial Intelligent (RAPID AI) Software Analysis combined with clinical assessment can be used in identify the size and site of cerebral infarction and diffusion perfusion mismatch in routine clinical practice in Vietnam.
Efficacy of Ibuprofen Gargle for Postoperative Pain After Mandibular Third Molar Extraction: A Phase II, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Kakei Yasumasa , Ioroi Takeshi , Ito Takahiro , Okazaki Yutaro , Hasegawa Takumi , Yano Ikuko , Akashi Masaya
Published: May 2021

BackgroundExtraction of mandibular third molars is one of the most commonly performed oral surgical procedures, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for pain management. Oral administration of NSAIDs produces various adverse events such as gastrointestinal disorders, renal and hepatic dysfunction, and platelet dysfunction. Topical use of analgesics has been proposed as an alternative to oral and injectable medications to safely improve postoperative pain relief. We will conduct a single-center, placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized crossover trial to assess the pain-relieving effect of an ibuprofen-containing gargle in patients undergoing extraction of mandibular third molars in comparison with a placebo gargle.MethodsThis study will be performed at Kobe University Hospital. Participants (n = 40) will be randomized equally to one of two groups. The IP group will receive ibuprofen gargle on postoperative day (POD) 1 and placebo gargle on POD 2. The PI group will receive placebo gargle on POD 1 and ibuprofen gargle on POD 2. Both groups will receive ibuprofen gargle on PODs 3 to 5 at least once daily. The primary objective is to estimate the within-subject difference in a visual analogue scale (VAS) before and 5 minutes after use of ibuprofen or placebo gargle on PODs 1 and 2. The secondary objectives are to estimate the within-subject difference in ΔVAS before and 15 minutes after use of ibuprofen or placebo gargle on PODs 1 and 2, the ΔVAS before and after 5 or 15 minutes of use of ibuprofen gargle on PODs 3 to 5, the overall effectiveness (self-completion, five scales) on PODs 1 to 5, the daily frequency of use (ibuprofen or placebo gargle and analgesics) on PODs 1 to 7, and the occurrence of adverse events.DiscussionThis will be the first well-designed clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of ibuprofen gargle for relieving postoperative pain after extraction of mandibular third molars. This trial will provide exploratory evidence of the efficacy and safety of ibuprofen gargle for pain reduction after mandibular third molar extraction.Trial registrationJapan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCT) identifier: jRCTs051210022. Registered on 10 May 2021.