bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of myxomatous mitral valve disease severity on packed cell volume in dogs
Authors: Wilshaw J. , Stein M. , Lotter N. , Elliott J. , Boswood A.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine whether associations between disease severity and packed cell volume exist in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease.

Materials and Methods

Data were selected from 289 dogs that had been examined at a research clinic (2004–2017) on multiple occasions (n=1465). American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine stage and echocardiographic measurements were entered in separate multivariable linear mixed effects models with packed cell volume as the dependent variable. Age, breed, sex, weight and blood urea nitrogen concentrations were additionally tested in these analyses to control for patient characteristics.

Results

Packed cell volume (% whole blood) in stages B1 and B2 (B1: 42.62 ±0.27, P=0.001; B2: 41.77± 0.42, P < 0.001) was lower than stage A (44.57 ±0.53). In stage C, packed cell volume was greater than both preclinical stages (C: 43.84 ±0.46). When the administration of loop diuretics was included in statistical models, packed cell volume was inversely related to normalised left ventricular internal diameters (β: −2.37; 95% confidence intervals: −3.49, −1.25; P < 0.001).

Clinical Significance

Dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease may develop reductions in packed cell volume as their disease progresses. Although this finding was statistically significant at a population level, it should be noted that the differences described are relatively small. This, along with other causes of variation in packed cell volume, means that changes would be challenging to appreciate within individual patients. Plasma volume depletion following diuretic administration may explain why findings differed in stage C.
Retrospective analysis of the effects of Blastomyces antigen concentration in urine and radiographic findings on survival in dogs with blastomycosis
Authors: Motschenbacher Laura O. , Furrow Eva , Rendahl Aaron K. , Nell Esther G. , Anderson Kari L. , Merkel Lindsay K. , Patterson Edward E.
Published: February 2021

Background

The Blastomyces antigen concentration in urine (BACU) test is used to diagnose blastomycosis and monitor treatment in dogs. It is unknown if a higher BACU is associated with shorter survival.

Objectives

To determine if the magnitude of BACU before treatment is associated with survival in dogs with blastomycosis.

Animals

Fifty‐two dogs with blastomycosis.

Methods

Retrospective case review. BACU, radiographic lung severity (RLS) score (0‐4 scale), and survival time up to 1 year after diagnosis were obtained through medical record review of dogs with Blastomyces dermatitidis.

Results

The overall survival was: discharge, 87%; 1 week, 85%; 2 months, 74%; and 6 months, 69%. BACU correlated with RLS score (rs = 0.33, P = .02). BACU and RLS scores were lower in survivors to 2 months than nonsurvivors (average BACU difference of 2.5 ng/mL, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2‐4.8 ng/mL, P = .04; median RLS difference of 2; range, 0‐4, P = .02). Dogs with BACU <5 ng/mL and dogs with mild (0‐1) RLS scores had a greater proportion surviving than those with BACU >5 ng/mL (P = .03) and dogs with severe (3‐4) RLS scores (P = .04). All dogs with a BACU <5 ng/mL or mild RLS score were alive at last follow‐up (median, 365 days; range, 44‐365 days). In all, 68.1% of other dogs survived to 2 months (95% CI, 54.8%‐84.8%).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs with lower BACU and RLS scores have improved survival; however, it is unclear what specific cutoffs should be used for prognosis.
In Vitro activity of ravuconazole against Candida auris and vaginal candida isolates
Authors: Dong Jiacheng , Liang Guanzhao , Zheng Hailin , Kan Siyue , Song Nana , Zhang Meijie , Liu Weida
Published: February 2021

Background

Ravuconazole is an extended‐spectrum triazole agent that is efficient in vitro against Candida spp. and has been approved to work as an oral formulae for onychomycosis in Japan in 2018. However, nobody had determined the MIC of ravuconazole against the Candida auris, which is known as an emerging multidrug‐resistant yeast. Meanwhile, rare is known of the in vitro activity of ravuconazole against vaginal Candida isolates.

Objectives

To investigate the activity of ravuconazole against C. auris and vaginal Candida isolates of China and assess the feasibility of ravuconazole in the treatment of candidiasis caused by C. auris and other Candida spp.

Methods

We determined the in vitro activity of ravuconazole and 9 comparators against 15 C. auris isolates and determined the MIC of ravuconazole on 525 vaginal Candida isolates (Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata and Candida parapsilosis) from 9 provinces of China by Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) methodology.

Results

The MICs of fluconazole and amphotericin B on C. auris were much higher than second‐generation azoles and echinocandins. Ravuconazole was active against all the C. auris isolates and as effective as isavuconazole, posaconazole and echinocandins while showed a better antifungal activity than itraconazole, voriconazole to C. auris. For vaginal Candida isolates, the proportion of ravuconazole‐resistant isolates is 0.19% (1/525).

Conclusions

Ravuconazole was in good active against C. auris and vaginal Candida isolates, which suggested ravuconazole could be used in the treatment of drug‐resistant candidiasis.
The moral dilemma of interpreting workplace violence
Authors: Copeland Darcy , Arnold Susan
Published: February 2021

Workplace violence is a significant problem in healthcare. It was believed that in the context of patient violence nurses faced a moral dilemma regarding conflicting duties to self and patients. A qualitative study was conducted with nurses who experienced physical violence perpetrated by a patient. The aim was to examine the ethical decision‐making process nurses used to determine the “right” course of action. Nurses did not perceive the conflict between these two duties as the primary dilemma they faced. They appreciated their patients’ vulnerability and the power differential inherent in the RN–patient relationship and maintained that their primary responsibility was patient safety. Interpretation of the event was the primary dilemma they described. Patient violence was framed as a dichotomous experience: an expected part of the job or a crime. The middle space between these two choices was bounded by a fuzzy, porous, extremely difficult to interpret line. The dichotomous interpretation resulted in a perception of dichotomous responses: do nothing or file criminal charges. Violence in the context of the RN–patient relationship is a complex phenomenon involving a host of factors. We need to direct more attention to this complexity, to individualized responses to workplace violence, and to depolarizing this issue.
The interaction of SKP2 with p27 enhances the progression and stemness of osteosarcoma
Authors: Wang Jichuan , Aldahamsheh Osama , Ferrena Alexander , Borjihan Hasibagan , Singla Amit , Yaguare Simon , Singh Swapnil , Viscarret Valentina , Tingling Janet , Zi Xiaolin , Lo Yungtai , Gorlick Richard , Zheng Deyou , Schwartz Edward L. , Zhao Hongling , Yang Rui , Geller David S. , Hoang Bang H.
Published: February 2021

Osteosarcoma is a highly aggressive malignancy for which treatment has remained essentially unchanged for years. Our previous studies found that the F‐box protein SKP2 is overexpressed in osteosarcoma, acting as a proto‐oncogene; p27Kip1 (p27) is an inhibitor of cyclin‐dependent kinases and a downstream substrate of SKP2‐mediated ubiquitination. Overexpression of SKP2 and underexpression of p27 are common characteristics of cancer cells. The SCFSKP2 E3 ligase ubiquitinates Thr187‐phosphorylated p27 for proteasome degradation, which can be abolished by a Thr187Ala knock‐in (p27T187A KI) mutation. RB1 and TP53 are two major tumor suppressors commonly coinactivated in osteosarcoma. We generated a mouse model with a double knockout (DKO) of Rb1 and Trp53 within cells of the osteoblastic lineage, which developed osteosarcoma with full penetrance. When p27T187A KI mice were crossed on to the DKO background, p27T187A protein was found to accumulate in osteosarcoma tumor tissues. Furthermore, p27T187A promoted apoptosis in DKO tumors, slowed disease progression, and significantly prolonged overall survival. RNA sequencing analysis also linked the SCFSKP2–p27T187A axis to potentially reduced cancer stemness. Given that RB1 and TP53 loss or coinactivation is common in human osteosarcoma, our study suggests that inhibiting the SKP2–p27 axis may represent a desirable therapeutic strategy for this cancer.
Three‐dimensional analysis of craniofacial morphology in patients with pycnodysostosis
Authors: Ferlias Nikolaos , Gjørup Hans , Aagaard Doherty Mia , Haagerup Annette , Klit Pedersen Thomas
Published: February 2021

Objective

To perform a 3D cephalometric analysis of the craniofacial characteristics of patients with pycnodysostosis and compare this with a matched control group.

Setting and Sample population

This cross‐sectional descriptive study assessed eight CBCTs obtained in patients with pycnodysostosis (4 males, 4 females, mean age: 31.8 years).

Materials and methods

Eight Danish patients with pycnodysostosis were seen at the University's Orthodontic Clinic. All CBCTs were analysed using the Mimics 21.0 software (Materialise®, Belgium) and compared with a control group (6 males, 8 females, mean age: 33.6 years).

Results

Interclass correlation coefficient showed excellent intra‐rater reliability (> 0.93). All measurements in the 3D cephalometric analysis revealed statistical significance (P < .05) when compared with controls. Patients with pycnodysostosis generally had significantly smaller maxilla in the transverse (P < .001), sagittal (P < .002) and vertical (P < .001) dimensions. Their mandibles were also smaller vertically (P < .001) and in length (P < .001). Gonial angle was significantly larger than controls (P < .001), while mandibular volumes were considerably smaller (P < .001).

Conclusion

Patients with pycnodysostosis have significantly smaller jaws in the vertical, sagittal and transverse dimensions compared with controls. Furthermore, the gonial angle was significantly larger, while the volume of the mandible was significantly smaller.
Identification of rice (Oryza sativa L.) genes involved in sheath blight resistance via a genome‐wide association study
Authors: Wang Aijun , Shu Xinyue , Jing Xin , Jiao Chengzhi , Chen Lei , Zhang Jinfeng , Ma Li , Jiang Yuqi , Yamamoto Naoki , Li Shuangcheng , Deng Qiming , Wang Shiquan , Zhu Jun , Liang Yueyang , Zou Ting , Liu Huainian , Wang Lingxia , Huang Yubi , Li Ping , Zheng Aiping
Published: February 2021

Rice sheath blight (RSB) is an economically significant disease affecting rice yield worldwide. Genetic resistance to RSB is associated with multiple minor genes, with each providing a minor phenotypic effect, but the underlying dominant resistance genes remain unknown. A genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of 259 diverse rice varieties, with genotypes based on a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and haplotype, was conducted to assess their sheath blight reactions at three developmental stages (seedlings, tillering and booting). A total of 653 genes were correlated with sheath blight resistance, of which the disease resistance protein RPM1 (OsRSR1) and protein kinase domain‐containing protein (OsRLCK5) were validated by overexpression and knockdown assays. We further found that the coiled‐coil (CC) domain of OsRSR1 (OsRSR1‐CC) and full‐length OsRLCK5 interacted with serine hydroxymethyltransferase 1 (OsSHM1) and glutaredoxin (OsGRX20), respectively. It was found that OsSHM1, which has a role in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst, and OsGRX20 enhanced the antioxidation ability of plants. A regulation model of the new RSB resistance though the glutathione (GSH)‐ascorbic acid (AsA) antioxidant system was therefore revealed. These results enhance our understanding of RSB resistance mechanisms and provide better gene resources for the breeding of disease resistance in rice.
Characterization and pathogenicity of Septoria gaurina associated with leaf blotch disease on Gaura parviflora in China
Authors: Wang Yadi , Dong Yanhan , Wang Huizheng , Zou Jian , Liang Wenxing , Li Delong
Published: February 2021

Gaura parviflora, a flowering plant of the family Onagraceae, is regarded as an invasive plant in China, but is subject to leaf blotch disease. Based on morphological features, we identified the causal agent to be Septoria gaurina. However, the phylogenetic position of S. gaurina remains unknown. Multilocus phylogenetic analysis using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), β‐tubulin (Tub2), actin (Act), calmodulin (Cal), translation elongation factor 1‐α (EF), and 28S nrDNA (LSU) nucleotide sequences indicated that the isolates belonged to the Septoria genus. Pathogenicity tests demonstrated that the isolates produced symptoms on the leaves of G. parviflora. These symptoms included small, water‐soaked, circular lesions formed on leaves inoculated with conidial droplets, and bigger, water‐soaked lesions on leaves inoculated by conidial spraying. To our knowledge, this is the first report of S. gaurina as the causative agent of leaf blotch disease of G. parviflora in China.
Apathy and agitation in institutionalized older adults: an empirically derived classification
Authors: Mouriz‐Corbelle Romina , Caamaño‐Ponte José , Dosil Carlos , Picón Eduardo , Facal David
Published: February 2021

Background

Apathy and agitation are often recognized as the most problematic behavioural and psychological symptoms in care settings. In this study, we analyze the relationship between apathy and agitation symptoms other and their relationship with demographic, cognitive, and neuropsychiatric variables and psychotropic medication use.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted at a gerontological care centre in Láncara, Spain. Participants were 196 residents of the gerontological care centre, including 143 with a diagnosis of dementia. Apathy and agitation were assessed with the Apathy Scale for Institutionalized Patients with Dementia, Nursing Home version, and the Spanish version of the Cohen‐Mansfield Agitation Inventory, respectively. Two‐stage hierarchical cluster analysis (hierarchical cluster analysis in a first exploratory stage and K‐means clustering to obtain the final solution in the second stage) was conducted to assign residents to different groups based on apathy and agitation scores.

Results

In cluster 1, a certain level of apathy, the highest levels of agitation, and the most frequent intake of atypical antipsychotics and clomethiazole were observed. The highest levels of apathy and the most frequent intake of memantine were seen in cluster 2. The lowest levels of agitation and apathy and the highest levels of cognitive performance were found in cluster 3.

Conclusions

In this study, subjects with dementia were in a state of high agitation and eventual apathy, had low cognitive status, and were very old. Patients with this profile require well‐designed non‐pharmacological interventions.
Lipid microsphere‐coated PGE1 improves peritoneal transport and reduces inflammation in peritoneal dialysis: A randomized clinical pilot trial
Authors: Wang Jianwen , Tang Shiqi , Xie Yang , Liu Jun , Liu Jishi , Wu Hong , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate the effects of lipid microspheres coated with prostaglandin E1 (lipo‐PGE1) on peritoneal transport function and inflammation in patients with end‐stage renal disease undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).

Methods

In total, 89 patients were randomly allocated to the lipo‐PGE1 and control groups. All the patients received conventional treatment, and those in the lipo‐PGE1 group received lipo‐PGE1 intravenously for 2 weeks. The levels of β2‐microglobulin (β2‐MG), cystatin C, albumin, urea, creatinine, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2), and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) were measured before and at 1 and 2 weeks after treatment.

Results

In the lipo‐PGE1 group, the peritoneal clearance rates of β2‐MG, cystatin C, and albumin were significantly increased comparing with pre‐treatment values, and the IL‐6 appearance rate (AR) in the peritoneal dialysate and the serum levels of IL‐6 and hs‐CRP were markedly decreased (p < 0.05). The lipo‐PGE1 group had significantly higher peritoneal clearance rates of β2‐MG and cystatin C and lower IL‐6 AR in the peritoneal dialysate than the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Lipid microspheres coated with prostaglandin E1 may increase the peritoneal clearance of moderately sized molecules and macromolecules with insignificant effect on the clearance of small molecules. The reduction in IL‐6 level following treatment with lipo‐PGE1 may alleviate inflammation.
Hermeneutics in Heidegger’s Science of Being
Authors: Kinkaid James
Published: February 2021

Heidegger calls his early philosophy a “science of being.” Being and Time combines phenomenological, ontological, hermeneutical, and existential themes in a way that is not obviously coherent. Commentators have worried in particular that Heidegger’s hermeneutical transformation of phenomenology is incompatible with his “scientific” aspirations. I outline three interpretations on which Heidegger cannot adopt Husserl’s “scientific” conception of phenomenology as eidetic, intuitive, propositionally articulated, and non‐relativistic due to his hermeneutical commitments. I argue that each of these readings rests on a misinterpretation of one or more of three hermeneutical concepts that are central to Heidegger’s early thought: the understanding of being, the hermeneutical situation, and phenomenological destruction. By giving fresh analyses of these concepts, I show that Heidegger retains the scientific conception while refining it to avoid distortions that are introduced when inquiry is “infiltrated with traditional theories and opinions about being.” I also respond to the charge that Being and Time is a “disguised theology.”
Evaluating the Longitudinal Efficacy of SafeTALK Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training in a General Community Sample
Authors: Holmes Glenn , Clacy Amanda , Hermens Daniel F. , Lagopoulos Jim
Published: February 2021

Objective

The majority of individuals experiencing depression or in crisis do not seek assistance through formal support pathways. Thus, the presence of informal “gatekeepers” in the community is vital to identifying and supporting these individuals through crisis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the longitudinal effectiveness of “SafeTALK” suicide prevention gatekeeper training in a general community sample.

Method

Two hundred and sixty‐two community members participated in half‐day (4‐h) gatekeeper training sessions. Surveys were taken pre‐ and post‐training and at 6‐month follow‐up to evaluate participants’ knowledge, preparedness, and efficacy, as well as reluctance to intervene as a suicide prevention gatekeeper.

Results

Longitudinal effects were revealed for three of four evaluated appraisals. Scores for knowledge, preparedness, and efficacy were significantly higher (improved) 6 months after training, compared to pre‐test. While participants showed even greater immediate effects (i.e., pre‐test to post‐test), follow‐up scores indicate that the positive effects of training were sustained over 6 months.

Conclusions

This study is the first to evaluate SafeTALK in a community population. SafeTALK was shown to be effective at improving knowledge, preparedness, and efficacy with effects declining over time but remaining significant from pre‐test. Community suicide prevention programs can benefit from the inclusion of gatekeeper training programs.
Shifting categories, changing attitudes: A boundary work approach in the study of attitudes toward migrants
Authors: Rétiová Alica , Rapoš Božič Ivana , Klvaňová Radka , Jaworsky Bernadette Nadya
Published: February 2021

Considerable research exists that examines attitudes toward migrants. Most studies are quantitative, relying on surveys or survey experiments, but a growing body of literature explores such attitudes from a qualitative perspective. At the same time, the study of symbolic boundaries and how people use cultural repertoires of meanings to draw distinctions between “us” and “them” is increasing. This review looks at research, both quantitative and qualitative, which has put these two streams of work into conversation with one another. We organize this work along three dimensions: (1) the micro‐level of individuals and their life‐worlds; (2) the meso‐level of negotiation among the moral communities of civil society; and (3) the macro‐level of institutions and policy. We also highlight those studies that cut across levels. By doing so, we help bridge the quantitative/qualitative divide. Studying attitudes toward migrants through the concept of symbolic boundaries allows us to apply a more sensitive and meaning‐centered approach toward attitude formation, contestation and change and to explore the linkages to available cultural repertoires.
Migration and the senses
Authors: Bascuñan‐Wiley Nicholas
Published: February 2021

Recent scholarship in the sociological subfields of culture and immigration offers several promising directions for studying how people experience the world in embodied ways and move through and across boundaries. Yet, the lack of overlap between fields has left numerous theoretical angles unexplored. In this review, I consider the limited existing scholarship at the intersection of migration and the senses. I discuss literature on the role of sensation during three critical moments of migration: movement, encounter, and return. These moments highlight the sensorially dislocating nature of travel, the felt politics of inclusion and exclusion, and the transporting power of embodied memories. These works dive deep into the everyday realities of bodies on the move that public and academic discourse has previously ignored. I conclude by briefly outlining exciting new directions to expand work connecting migration and the senses and suggest that we begin to explore globalized migrant sensibilities.
Identification of two novel alleles, HLA‐A*02:01:193 and ‐DQA1*02:17, in Greek individuals
Authors: Zamanakou Maria , Vatsiou Sophia , Stokidis Savvas , Fortis Sotirios P. , Germenis Anastasios E.
Published: February 2021

Identification by NGS of two novel alleles, HLA‐A*02:01:193 and ‐DQA1*02:17, in Greek individuals.
Complete genomic characterization of a new KLRC2 allele, NKG2C*03
Authors: Asenjo Judit , Muntasell Aura , López‐Botet Miguel , Moraru Manuela , Vilches Carlos
Published: February 2021

The novel NKG2C*03 allele encodes a hybrid of the NKG2C*01 and NKG2C*02 primary structures.
PyCLiPSM: Harnessing heterogeneous computing resources on CPUs and GPUs for accelerated digital soil mapping
Authors: Zhang Guiming , Zhu A‐Xing , Liu Jing , Guo Shanxin , Zhu Yunqiang
Published: February 2021

Digital soil mapping (DSM) at high spatial resolutions over large areas often demands considerable computing power. This study aims to harness the heterogeneous computing resources on multi‐core central processing units (CPUs) and graphics processing units (GPUs) to accelerate DSM by implementing PyCLiPSM, a parallel version of the iPSM (individual predictive soil mapping) algorithm which represents the type of geospatial algorithms that is data‐ and compute‐intensive and highly parallelizable. PyCLiPSM was implemented in Python based on the PyOpenCL parallel programming library, which runs on any operating system and exploits the computing power of both CPUs and GPUs. Experiments show that PyCLiPSM can effectively leverage multi‐core CPUs and GPUs to speed up DSM tasks. PyCLiPSM is open‐source and freely available. Using PyCLiPSM as an example, we advocate implementing parallel geospatial algorithms using the PyOpenCL framework to harness the heterogeneous computing resources available to researchers and practitioners for accelerated geospatial analysis.
Hepatitis E virus: Efficacy of pasteurization of plasma‐derived VWF/FVIII concentrate determined by pig bioassay
Authors: Dähnert Lisa , Schlosser Josephine , Fast Christine , Fröhlich Andreas , Gröner Albrecht , Lange Elke , Roth Nathan J. , Schäfer Wolfram , Schröder Charlotte , Eiden Martin , Groschup Martin H.
Published: February 2021

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the leading cause of acute hepatitis throughout the world. Increasing blood component transfusion‐associated HEV infections highlight the need for reliable virus inactivation procedures for plasma derivatives from pooled plasma donations.

Study Design and Methods

An animal infection study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of HEV inactivation by pasteurization during the manufacturing process of the von Willebrand Factor/Factor VIII (VWF/FVIII) concentrate Haemate P/Humate‐P (CSL Behring, Marburg, Germany). For this purpose, groups of pigs were inoculated with stabilized VWF/FVIII intermediate spiked with HEV‐positive liver homogenate and exposed to increasing incubation times of 0, 3, 6, and 10 h at 60°C. Animals were evaluated for virus replication over 27 days and in a subsequent trial over 92 days.

Results

Virus replication was detected in animals up to the 6‐h pasteurization group. In contrast, pasteurization for 10 h did not reveal virus detection when the observation period was 27 days. In an additional experiment using the 10‐h pasteurized material, two individuals started virus excretion and seroconverted when the observation period was extended to 92 days. Based on the total infection rate (2 of 12) of the animals inoculated with the sample pasteurized for 10 h, a virus reduction factor of at least 4.7 log10 is calculated.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that pasteurization at 60°C for 10 h of an HEV‐positive plasma derivative leads to the effective reduction of infectivity, resulting in a VWF/FVIII product with an appropriate margin of safety for HEV.
Ocular anatomy and correlation with histopathologic findings in two common octopuses (Octopusvulgaris) and one giant Pacific octopus (Enteroctopusdofleini) diagnosed with inflammatory phakitis and retinitis
Authors: de Linde Henriksen Michala , Ofri Ron , Shomrat Tal , Nesher Nir , Cleymaet Allison , Ross Maya , Pe’er Oren , Arad Dikla , Katzenbach Julia , Dubielzig Richard R.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Review octopus ocular anatomy and describe the histopathologic findings in three octopuses diagnosed with phakitis and retinitis.

Animals

Two common octopuses (Octopus vulgaris) and one giant Pacific octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) with a history of ophthalmic disease.

Methods

A literature search was performed for the ocular anatomy section. Both eyes from all three octopuses, and two control eyes, were submitted for histopathologic evaluation. Hematoxylin and eosin stain was used for standard histopathologic evaluation; GMS stain was used to screen for fungi, gram stain for bacteria; and Fite's acid fast stain for acid fast bacteria.

Results

Anatomically, the anterior chamber of the octopus has direct contact with ambient water due to an opening in the dorsal aspect of a pseudocornea. The octopus lens is divided into anterior and posterior segments. The anterior half is exposed to the environment through the opening into the anterior chamber. Neither part of the lens has a lens capsule. The retina is everted, unlike the inverted vertebrate retina, and consists of just two layers. Histopathology revealed inflammatory phakitis and retinitis of varying severity in all six eyes of the study animals. No intraocular infectious organisms were recognized but one common octopus eye had clusters of coccidian parasites, identified as Aggregata sp., in extraocular tissues and blood vessels.

Conclusion

We describe inflammatory phakitis and retinitis in two species of octopuses. The underlying cause for the severe intraocular response may be direct intraocular infection, water quality, an ocular manifestation of a systemic disease, or natural senescence.
Molecular characterization and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Salmonella Heidelberg isolates from poultry
Authors: Dominguez Johana Elizabeth , Viñas María Rosa , Herrera Mariana , Moroni Mirian , Gutkind Gabriel Omar , Mercado Elsa Cristina , Di Conza José Alejandro , Chacana Pablo Anibal
Published: February 2021

In the last 10 years, Salmonella Heidelberg has been extensively isolated from poultry in several countries. In this context, molecular characterization is essential to understand whether the strains have entered the farms from a single or several sources. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the genetic relationship and antimicrobial susceptibility of S. Heidelberg strains isolated between 2011 and 2012 from broiler farms belonging to three integrated poultry companies located in Argentina. The genetic relatedness of the S. Heidelberg isolates was determined by pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), and resistance to 21 antimicrobials was determined by the disc diffusion method. The isolates were assigned to four PFGE patterns. Most of the strains showed 100% similarity and belonged to the same integrated poultry company. This PFGE pattern was also prevalent in S. Heidelberg strains isolated from humans in several provinces of Argentina, which suggests an epidemiological association between human and poultry strains. All the isolates were classified as multidrug‐resistant (MDR), and no clear relationship was observed between PFGE and resistance patterns. S. Heidelberg strains may circulate among farms from the same integrated company due to common sources of contamination. To guarantee the safety of the poultry product for the consumers, holistic approaches including surveillance of Salmonella throughout the production chain together with control measures are crucial.
Typography Design’s New Trajectory Towards Visual Literacy for Digital Mediums
Authors: Poon Stephen T.F.
Published: February 2021

Typographic elements have a huge impact on how designed mediums affect visual literacy. This paper reviews the principles, perspectives and approaches in the production and function of typographic design visual media (print and digital), with the aim to understand the relationship between typographic design on digital mediums, with the aim of examining its influence on people’s ability to communicate ideas, meaning and messages effectively, while reflecting on its commercial implications for brands and marketers. Research via survey and a focus group implied there is a positive association between literacy and the application of graphic design and typography on digital communication mediums. Findings revealed that type design complements textual word elements to enhance cognition and understanding of messages. The integration of visual and texts facilitates reading, and for digital mediums, both legible layout and engaging typefaces are equally crucial. Graphic typeface for digital media, from smartphones to e-texts for learning, should apply visual hierarchy arrangement to achieve these objectives. Findings show typographic design is an essential aspect of social communication today, and digital designers play a fundamental role to enable audiences to improve their economic and social participation and gain its full advantages.
Molecular mechanisms underlying fructose‐induced cardiovascular disease: exercise, metabolic pathways and microRNAs
Authors: Kindlovits Raquel , Bertoldi Julia Maria Cabral Relvas Jacome , Rocha Helena Naly Miguens , Bento‐Bernardes Thais , Gomes João Lucas Penteado , de Oliveira Edilamar Menezes , Muniz Ingrid Cristina , Pereira Juliana Frota , Fernandes‐Santos Caroline , Rocha Natália Galito , Nóbrega Antonio Claudio Lucas da , Medeiros Renata Frauches
Published: February 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What are the mechanisms underlying the cardiac protective effect of aerobic training in the progression of a high fructose‐induced cardiometabolic disease in Wistar rats?

What is the main finding and its importance?

At the onset of cardiovascular disease, aerobic training activates the p‐p70S6K, ERK and IRβ–PI3K–AKT pathways, without changing the miR‐126 and miR‐195 levels, thereby providing evidence that aerobic training modulates the insulin signalling pathway. These data contribute to the understanding of the molecular cardiac changes that are associated with physiological left ventricular hypertrophy during the development of a cardiovascular disease.

During the onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD), disturbances in myocardial vascularization, cell proliferation and protein expression are observed. Aerobic training prevents CVD, but the underlying mechanisms behind left ventricle (LV) hypertrophy are not fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms by which aerobic training protects the heart from LV hypertrophy during the onset of fructose‐induced cardiometabolic disease. Male Wistar rats were allocated to four groups (n = 8/group): control sedentary (C), control training (CT), fructose sedentary (F) and fructose training (FT). The C and CT groups received drinking water, and the F and FT groups received d‐fructose (10% in water). After 2 weeks, the CT and FT rats were assigned to a treadmill training protocol at moderate intensity for 8 weeks (60 min/day, 4 days/week). After 10 weeks, LV morphological remodelling, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, microRNAs and the insulin signalling pathway were investigated. The F group had systemic cardiometabolic alterations, which were normalised by aerobic training. The LV weight increased in the FT group, myocardium vascularisation decreased in the F group, and the cardiomyocyte area increased in the CT, F and FT groups. Regarding protein expression, total insulin receptor β‐subunit (IRβ) decreased in the F group; phospho (p)‐IRβ and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) increased in the FT group; total‐AKT and p‐AKT increased in all of the groups; p‐p70S6 kinase (p70S6K) protein was higher in the CT group; and p‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) increased in the CT and FT groups. MiR‐126, miR‐195 and cardiomyocyte apoptosis did not differ among the groups. Aerobic training activates p‐p70S6K and p‐ERK, and during the onset of a CVD, it can activate the IRβ–PI3K–AKT pathway.
Motion Prediction of a Free-Floating Noncooperative Target Considering J2 Perturbation
Authors: Wang Qishuai , Zhou Bangzhao , Liu Xiaofeng , Cai Guoping
Published: February 2021

Motion prediction of space noncooperative target is an important issue for spacecraft on-orbit service. After obtaining high-precision motion prediction results, the chaser can efficiently plan a motion trajectory to approach the target and then capture it. In this paper, a motion prediction method considering J2 perturbation is proposed for a free-floating noncooperative target. The core idea of this method is to identify dynamic parameters of the target, and then realize the motion prediction through a dynamic model of the target that considering J2 perturbation. In the identification of the dynamic parameters, inertia parameters of the target are preliminarily identified first, then a noise-adaptive unscented Kalman filter (UKF) is applied to roughly identify the dynamic parameters, and finally, the identification precision is further improved through optimization. At the end of this paper, the significance of considering J2 perturbation is demonstrated by numerical simulations, and the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified. Simulation results indicate that J2 perturbation has a great influence on the motion prediction of the target and that the proposed method can yield long-time high-precision motion prediction results. Specifically, under the simulation conditions of this paper, the predicted time obtained by the proposed method is longer than 200 s, and the errors of the motion prediction results of the target's attitude and position are less than 2 deg and 0.02 m, respectively.
Lorentzian Toda field theories
Authors: Fring Andreas , Whittington Samuel
Published: February 2021

We propose several different types of construction principles for new classes of Toda field theories based on root systems defined on Lorentzian lattices. In analogy to conformal and affine Toda theories based on root systems of semi-simple Lie algebras, also their Lorentzian extensions come about in conformal and massive variants. We carry out the Painlevé integrability test for the proposed theories, finding in general only one integer valued resonance corresponding to the energy-momentum tensor. Thus most of the Lorentzian Toda field theories are not integrable, as the remaining resonances, that grade the spins of the W-algebras in the semi-simple cases, are either non-integer or complex valued. We analyze in detail the classical mass spectra of several massive variants. Lorentzian Toda field theories may be viewed as perturbed versions of integrable theories equipped with an algebraic framework.
Analysis of Buongiorno’s nanofluid model in marangoni convective flow with gyrotactic microorganism and activation energy
Authors: Khan M. Ijaz , Chu Yu-Ming , Alzahrani Faris , Hobiny Aatef
Published: February 2021

This communication is to analyze the Marangoni convection MHD flow of nanofluid. Marangoni convection is very useful physical phenomena in presence of microgravity conditions which is generated by gradient of surface tension at interface. We have also studied the swimming of migratory gyrotactic microorganisms in nanofluid. Flow is due to rotation of disk. Heat and mass transfer equations are examined in detail in the presence of heat source sink and Joule heating. Nonlinear mixed convection effect is inserted in momentum equation. Appropriate transformations are applied to find system of equation. HAM technique is used for convergence of equations. Radial and axial velocities, concentration, temperature, motile microorganism profile, Nusselt number and Sherwood number are sketched against important parameters. Marangoni ratio parameter and Marangoni number are increasing functions of axial and radial velocities. Temperature rises for Marangoni number and heat source sink parameter. Activation energy and chemical reaction rate parameter have opposite impact on concentration profile. Motile density profile decays via Peclet number and Schmidt number. Magnitude of Nusselt number enhances via Marangoni ratio parameter.
The method of Puiseux series and invariant algebraic curves
Authors: Demina Maria V.
Published: February 2021

An explicit expression for the cofactor related to an irreducible invariant algebraic curve of a polynomial dynamical system in the plane is derived. A sufficient condition for a polynomial dynamical system in the plane to have a finite number of irreducible invariant algebraic curves is obtained. All these results are applied to Liénard dynamical systems [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. The general structure of their irreducible invariant algebraic curves and cofactors is found. It is shown that Liénard dynamical systems with [Formula: see text] can have at most two distinct irreducible invariant algebraic curves simultaneously and, consequently, are not integrable with a rational first integral.
Discovering Traffic Anomaly Propagation in Urban Space Using Enhanced Traffic Change Peaks
Authors: Huang Guang-Li , Kocaturk Tuba , Chi Chi-Hung
Published: February 2021

Discovering traffic anomaly propagation enables a thorough understanding of traffic anomalies and dynamics. Existing methods, such as Outlier-Tree, are not accurate to find out the trend of abnormal traffic for two reasons. First, they discover the propagation pattern based on the detected traffic anomalies. The imperfection of the detection method itself may introduce false anomalies and miss the real anomaly. Second, they develop a propagation tree of anomalies by searching continuous spatial and temporal outlier neighborhoods rather than considering from a global perspective, and thus cannot form a complete propagation tree if a spatial or temporal gap exists. In this paper, we propose a novel discovering traffic anomaly propagation method using the mesh data and enhanced traffic change peaks (en-TCP) to visualize the change of traffic anomalies (e.g., an area where vehicles are gathering or evacuating) and thus accurately capture traffic anomaly propagation. Inspired by image processing techniques, the GPS trajectory dataset in each time bin can be converted to one grid traffic image and be stored in the grid density matrix, in which the grid cell corresponds to the pixel and the density of grid cells corresponds to the Gray level ([Formula: see text]) of pixels. An enhanced adaptive filter is developed to generate traffic change graph sequences from grid traffic images in consecutive periods, and clustering en-TCP in a continuous period is to discover the propagation of traffic anomalies. The accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method have been demonstrated using a real-world GPS trajectory dataset.
Highly Photoluminescent Carbon Dots with pH-Dependent Switchable Fluorescence and Sensitivity to Tetracycline
Authors: Wang Chengwei , Li Lei , Wu Yamin , Gu Jiao , Ma Chaoqun , Zhu Chun , Gao Hui , Zhang Ye , Shang Yunpeng , Yang Zichen , Chen Guoqing
Published: February 2021

In this paper, multifunctional nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) were synthesized from 3,5-diaminobenzonitrile by a simple one-step hydrothermal method. The N-CDs have a high quantum yield of 67.0% in ethanol with great water solubility, temperature stability, light stability and resistance to ion interference. Experiments showed that pH has an effect on the fluorescence intensity and emission wavelength of N-CDs. Especially, the switchable fluorescence of N-CDs caused by changes of pH value could be distinguished to the naked eye. Additionally, the multifunctional N-CDs also showed a selective response to tetracycline. We studied the influence of tetracycline on the luminescence intensity of N-CDs in the concentration range of 0–1000[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/L. A linear equation was established in the range of 10–80[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/L with a limit of detection (LOD) of 3.5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/L. Based on the above excellent characteristics, N-CDs are expected to be applied in the field of sensing.
Unbiased Learning to Rank
Authors: Ai Qingyao , Yang Tao , Wang Huazheng , Mao Jiaxin
Published: February 2021

How to obtain an unbiased ranking model by learning to rank with biased user feedback is an important research question for IR. Existing work on unbiased learning to rank (ULTR) can be broadly categorized into two groups—the studies on unbiased learning algorithms with logged data, namely, the
offline
unbiased learning, and the studies on unbiased parameters estimation with real-time user interactions, namely, the
online
learning to rank. While their definitions of
unbiasness
are different, these two types of ULTR algorithms share the same goal—to find the best models that rank documents based on their intrinsic relevance or utility. However, most studies on offline and online unbiased learning to rank are carried in parallel without detailed comparisons on their background theories and empirical performance. In this article, we formalize the task of unbiased learning to rank and show that existing algorithms for offline unbiased learning and online learning to rank are just the two sides of the same coin. We evaluate eight state-of-the-art ULTR algorithms and find that many of them can be used in both offline settings and online environments with or without minor modifications. Further, we analyze how different offline and online learning paradigms would affect the theoretical foundation and empirical effectiveness of each algorithm on both synthetic and real search data. Our findings provide important insights and guidelines for choosing and deploying ULTR algorithms in practice.
Network Pharmacology Interpretation of Fuzheng–Jiedu Decoction against Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Shi Hongshuo , Tian Sisheng , Tian Hu
Published: February 2021

Introduction. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) believes that the pathogenic factors of colorectal cancer (CRC) are “deficiency, dampness, stasis, and toxin,” and Fuzheng–Jiedu Decoction (FJD) can resist these factors. In this study, we want to find out the potential targets and pathways of FJD in the treatment of CRC and also explain from a scientific point of view that FJD multidrug combination can resist “deficiency, dampness, stasis, and toxin.” Methods. We get the composition of FJD from the TCMSP database and get its potential target. We also get the potential target of colorectal cancer according to the OMIM Database, TTD Database, GeneCards Database, CTD Database, DrugBank Database, and DisGeNET Database. Subsequently, PPI analysis, KEGG pathways analysis, and GO biological processes analysis were carried out for the target of FJD in the therapy of colorectal cancer. In addition, we have also built a relevant network diagram. Results. In this study, we identified four core compounds of FJD in the therapy of colorectal cancer, including quercetin, kaempferol, beta-sitosterol, and stigmasterol. At the same time, we also obtained 30 core targets, including STAT3, INS, TP53, VEGFA, AKT1, TNF, IL6, JUN, EGF, CASP3, MAPK3, MAPK1, MAPK8, SRC, IGF1, CCND1, ESR1, EGFR, PTEN, MTOR, FOS, PTGS2, CXCL8, HRAS, CDH1, BCL2L1, FN1, MMP9, ERBB2, and JAK2. FJD treatment of colorectal cancer mainly involves 112 KEGG pathways, including FoxO (hsa04068) signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt (hsa04151) signaling pathway, HIF-1 (hsa04066) signaling pathway, T cell receptor (hsa04660) signaling pathway, and ErbB (hsa04012) signaling pathway. At the same time, 330 GO biological processes were summarized, including cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, angiogenesis, inflammation, and immune. Conclusions. In this study, we found that FJD can regulate cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation and immunity, and angiogenesis through PI3K-Akt signaling pathway to play an anti-CRC effect.
Some Graph-Based Encryption Schemes
Authors: Ni Baizhu , Qazi Rabiha , Rehman Shafiq Ur , Farid Ghulam
Published: February 2021

In today’s technological world, confidentiality is an important issue to deal with, and it is carried out through different proficiencies. Cryptography is a scientific technique of securing a communication from unauthenticated approach. There exist many encryption algorithms in cryptography for data security. The need of new nonstandard encryption algorithms has been raised to prevent the communication from traditional attacks. This paper proposes some new encryption algorithms for secure transmission of messages using some special corona graphs and bipartite graph along with some algebraic properties. These proposed encryption schemes will lead to more secure communication of secret messages.