bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nurse-led telephone outreach for a COVID-adapted suspected colorectal cancer pathway
Authors: Bell Sheila E , Crawford Jill , Gunn Frances , Noble Colin , Miller Janice , Dunlop Malcolm G , Maeda Yasuko , Din Farhat VN
Published: February 2021

Background:

COVID-19 has brought about unprecedented challenges to healthcare services in the UK. The pandemic led to the cessation of colonoscopy and outpatient clinics. A bespoke COVID-adapted cancer pathway, using computed tomography (CT) scanning and the quantitative faecal immunochemical test (qFIT), was introduced to mitigate the risks of patients referred with potential colorectal cancer.

Aims:

This study aims to evaluate the workload of patient telephone calls undertaken by nurses and their impact on the operation of the pathway.

Methods:

Data were collected prospectively and analysed to assess the volume of patient flow, number of calls made and content of conversations.

Findings:

During a 2-month period, 975 patients (56.6% female, median age 63 years) were registered on the COVID-adapted cancer pathway. The 45.9% (n=448) of patients who did not return qFIT tests in a timely manner were contacted. Of these, 9.4% (n=42) requested to postpone or declined an appointment. Most were appreciative of the opportunity to clarify the rationale of the pathway and address any concerns.

Conclusions:

Phone calls made and received by nursing staff were helpful to discuss patient concerns and increase patients' understanding of the alternative treatment options available during the pandemic.
Connect on campus
Authors: Radford Shellie Jean
Published: February 2021

News and professional development from the committee of the British Society of Gastroenterology Nurses' Association
The right to healthy housing
Authors: Oldman Crystal
Published: February 2021

Health visitors are ideally placed to advise government on the plight of homeless families and the significant, enduring impact on the health of children
Proposal and proof-of-principle demonstration of fast-switching broadband frequency shifting for a frequency-multiplexed quantum repeater
Authors: Wang Peng-Cheng , Pietx-Casas Oriol , Falamarzi Askarani Mohsen , do Amaral Gustavo Castro
Published: February 2021

A proposal for fast-switching broadband frequency-shifting technology making use of frequency conversion in a nonlinear crystal is set forth, whereby the shifting is imparted to the converted photons by creating a bank of frequency-displaced pump modes that can be selected by a photonic switch and directed to the nonlinear crystal. Proof-of-principle results show that the expected frequency-shifting operation can be achieved. Even though the dimensions of the currently employed crystal and significant excess loss in the experimental setup prevented conversion of single-photon-level inputs, thorough experimental and theoretical analysis of the noise contribution allowed for estimation of the system performance in an optimized scenario, where the expected signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for single-photon conversion and frequency shifting can reach up to 25 dB with proper narrowband filtering and state-of-the-art devices. The proposed frequency-shifting solution figures as a promising candidate for applications in frequency-multiplexed quantum repeater architectures with 25 dB output SNR (with 20% conversion efficiency) and capacity for 16 channels spread around a 100 GHz spectral region.
Joint artifact correction and super-resolution of image slicing and mapping system via a convolutional neural network
Authors: Liu Anqi , Zeng Xianzi , Yuan Yan , Su Lijuan , Wang Wanyue
Published: February 2021

As the key component of the image mapping spectrometer, the image mapper introduces complex image degradation in the reconstructed images, including low spatial resolution and intensity artifacts. In this paper, we propose a novel image processing method based on the convolutional neural network to perform artifact correction and super-resolution (SR) simultaneously. The proposed joint network contains two branches to handle the artifact correction task and SR task in parallel. The artifact correction module is designed to remove the artifacts in the image and the SR module is used to improve the spatial resolution. An attention fusion module is constructed to combine the features extracted by the artifact correction and SR modules. The fused features are used to reconstruct an artifact-free high-resolution image. We present extensive simulation results to demonstrate that the proposed joint method outperforms state-of-the-art methods and can be generalized to other image mapper designs. We also provide experimental results to prove the efficiency of the joint network.
Effect of alloying on the dynamics of coherent acoustic phonons in bismuth double perovskite single crystals
Authors: Lin Xihong , Wu Bo , Ning Weihua , Feng Minjun , Xu Qiang , Gao Feng , Sum Tze Chien , Zhou Guofu
Published: February 2021

The bismuth double perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6 has been regarded as a potential candidate for lead-free perovskite photovoltaics. A detailed study on the coherent acoustic phonon dynamics in the pure, Sb- and Tl-alloyed Cs2AgBiBr6 single crystals is performed to understand the effects of alloying on the phonon dynamics and band edge characteristics. The coherent acoustic phonon frequencies are found to be independent of the alloying, while the damping rates are highly dependent on the alloying. Based on the mechanism of coherent acoustic phonon damping, a technique has been successfully developed that can accurately extract the absorption spectra near the indirect band gap for these single crystals with coefficients on the order of 102 cm−1.
Random quasi-phase-matching in polycrystalline media and its effects on pulse coherence properties
Authors: Gu Jiahui , Schweinsberg Aaron , Vanderhoef Laura , Tripepi Michael , Valenzuela Anthony , Wolfe Christopher , Ensley Trenton R. , Chowdhury Enam , Kolesik Miroslav
Published: February 2021

Polycrystalline materials can mediate efficient frequency up-conversion for mid-infrared light. Motivated by the need to understand the properties of the harmonic and supercontinuum radiation from such media, we utilize realistic numerical simulations to reveal its complex temporal and spatial structure. We show that the generated radiation propagates in the form of long-duration pulse trains that can be difficult to compress and that optical filamentation in high-energy pulses gives rise to fine-structured beam profiles. We identify trends concerning pulse energy, sample length, and the microstructure of the material that can inform optimization for different applications.
Lithographic pattern quality enhancement of DMD lithography with spatiotemporal modulated technology
Authors: Guo Shuping , Lu Zifeng , Xiong Zheng , Huang Long , Liu Hua , Li Jinhuan
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we propose spatiotemporal modulation projection lithography (STPL) technology, which is a spatiotemporal modulation technology applied to the conventional digital micromirror device (DMD) projection lithography system. Through coordinating the micro-movement of the piezoelectric stage, the flexible pattern generation of DMD, and the exposure time, the proposed STPL enables us to fabricate a microstructure with smooth edges, accurate linewidth, and accurate line position. Further application on fabricating a diffraction lens has been implemented. The edge sawtooth of the Fresnel zone plate fabricated by using the STPL is reduced to 0.3 µm, the error between the actual measured linewidth and the ideal linewidth is only within

±
0.1

µ

m

, and the focal length is 15 mm, which is basically consistent with the designed focal length. These results indicated that STPL can serve a significant role in the micromanufacturing field for achieving high-fidelity microdevices.
Low loss single-mode polymer optical waveguide with circular cores
Authors: Yakabe Sho , Kobayashi Yui , Matsui Hitomi , Saito Yuki , Manabe Ken , Ishigure Takaaki
Published: February 2021

We experimentally demonstrate that the Mosquito method is capable of fabricating single-mode polymer optical waveguides with multiple cores while maintaining an identical mode-field diameter among them. The Mosquito method we developed is a technique to form circular cores in polymer waveguides using a commercially available microdispenser and multi-axis syringe scanning robot. However, the core shape tends to deteriorate from a circle because of the monomer flow due to the needle scan. We also demonstrate both theoretically and experimentally for the first time in this paper that the needles with a tapered outer form or just titled straight needles enable to form cores with a high circularity even if those cores are dispensed on any heights from the substrate surface.
IAA3-mediated repression of PIF proteins coordinates light and auxin signaling in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xi Yulin , Yang Yan , Yang Jie , Zhang Xing , Pan Yajie , Guo Hongwei
Published: February 2021

The exogenous light signal and endogenous auxin are two critical factors that antagonistically regulate hypocotyl growth. However, the regulatory mechanisms integrating light and auxin signaling pathways need further investigation. In this study, we identified a direct link between the light and auxin signaling pathways mediated by the auxin transcriptional repressor IAA3 and light-controlled PIF transcription factors inArabidopsis. The gain-of-function mutation inIAA3caused hyposensitivity to light, whereas disruption ofIAA3led to an elongated hypocotyl under different light intensity conditions, indicating that IAA3 is required in light regulated hypocotyl growth. Genetic studies showed that the function of IAA3 in hypocotyl elongation is dependent on PIFs. Our data further demonstrated that IAA3 interacts with PIFsin vitroandin vivo, and it attenuates the DNA binding activities of PIFs to the target genes. Moreover, IAA3 negatively regulates the expression of PIFs-dependent genes. Collectively, our study reveals an interplay mechanism of light and auxin on the regulation of hypocotyl growth, coordinated by the IAA3 and PIFs transcriptional regulatory module.
Identifying and validating the presence of Guanine-Quadruplexes (G4) within the blood fluke parasite Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Craven Holly M. , Bonsignore Riccardo , Lenis Vasilis , Santi Nicolo , Berrar Daniel , Swain Martin , Whiteland Helen , Casini Angela , Hoffmann Karl F.
Published: February 2021

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that currently affects over 250 million individuals worldwide. In the absence of an immunoprophylactic vaccine and the recognition that mono-chemotherapeutic control of schistosomiasis by praziquantel has limitations, new strategies for managing disease burden are urgently needed. A better understanding of schistosome biology could identify previously undocumented areas suitable for the development of novel interventions. Here, for the first time, we detail the presence of G-quadruplexes (G4) and putative quadruplex forming sequences (PQS) within theSchistosoma mansonigenome. We find that G4 are present in both intragenic and intergenic regions of the seven autosomes as well as the sex-defining allosome pair. Amongst intragenic regions, G4 are particularly enriched in 3´ UTR regions. Gene Ontology (GO) term analysis evidenced significant G4 enrichment in thewntsignalling pathway (p<0.05) and PQS oligonucleotides synthetically derived fromwnt-related genes resolve into parallel and anti-parallel G4 motifs as elucidated by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Finally, utilising a single chain anti-G4 antibody called BG4, we confirm thein situpresence of G4 within both adult female and male worm nuclei. These results collectively suggest that G4-targeted compounds could be tested as novel anthelmintic agents and highlights the possibility that G4-stabilizing molecules could be progressed as candidates for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
A novel, sequencing-free strategy for the functional characterization of Taenia solium proteomic fingerprint
Authors: Gomez-Fuentes Sandra , Hernández-de la Fuente Sarah , Morales-Ruiz Valeria , López-Recinos Dina , Guevara-Salinas Adrián , Parada-Colin María Cristina , Espitia Clara , Ochoa-Leyva Adrián , Sánchez Filiberto , Villalobos Nelly , Arce-Sillas Asiel , Hernández Marisela , Mora Silvia Ivonne , Fragoso Gladis , Sciutto Edda , Adalid-Peralta Laura
Published: February 2021

The flatworm Taenia solium causes human and pig cysticercosis. When cysticerci are established in the human central nervous system, they cause neurocysticercosis, a potentially fatal disease. Neurocysticercosis is a persisting public health problem in rural regions of Mexico and other developing countries of Latin America, Asia, and Africa, where the infection is endemic. The great variability observed in the phenotypic and genotypic traits of cysticerci result in a great heterogeneity in the patterns of molecules secreted by them within their host.

This work is aimed to identify and characterize cysticercal secretion proteins of T. solium cysticerci obtained from 5 naturally infected pigs from Guerrero, Mexico, using 2D-PAGE proteomic analysis. The isoelectric point (IP) and molecular weight (MW) of the spots were identified using the software ImageMaster 2D Platinum v.7.0. Since most secreted proteins are impossible to identify by mass spectrometry (MS) due to their low concentration in the sample, a novel strategy to predict their sequence was applied. In total, 108 conserved and 186 differential proteins were identified in five cysticercus cultures. Interestingly, we predicted the sequence of 14 proteins that were common in four out of five cysticercus cultures, which could be used to design vaccines or diagnostic methods for neurocysticercosis. A functional characterization of all sequences was performed using the algorithms SecretomeP, SignalP, and BlastKOALA. We found a possible link between signal transduction pathways in parasite cells and human cancer due to deregulation in signal transduction pathways. Bioinformatics analysis also demonstrated that the parasite release proteins by an exosome-like mechanism, which could be of biological interest.
The adoption of the One Health approach to improve surveillance of venomous animal injury, vector-borne and zoonotic diseases in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
Authors: Leandro André de Souza , Lopes Renata Defante , Martins Caroline Amaral , Rivas Açucena Veleh , da Silva Isaac , Galvão Sandro Roberto , Maciel-de-Freitas Rafael
Published: February 2021

Public health institutions with sectorized structure and low integration among field teams, old-fashioned practices such as paper-based storage system, and poorly qualified health agents have limited ability to conduct accurate surveillance and design effective timely interventions. Herein, we describe the steps taken by the Zoonosis Control Center of Foz do Iguaçu (CCZ-Foz) in the last 23 years to move from an archaic and sectorized structure to a modern and timely surveillance program embracing zoonotic diseases, venomous animal injuries, and vector-borne diseases epidemiology under the One Health approach. The full implementation of the One Health approach was based on 5 axes: (1) merging sectorized field teams; (2) adoption of digital solutions; (3) health agents empowerment and permanent capacitation; (4) social mobilization; and (5) active surveys. By doing so, notifications related to zoonotic diseases and venomous animals increased 10 and 21 times, respectively, with no impairment on arbovirus surveillance (major concern in the city). Open sources database (PostgreSQL) and software (QGis) are daily updated and create real-time maps to support timely decisions. The adoption of One Health approach increased preparedness for endemic diseases and reemerging and emerging threats such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
Surveillance of Trypanosoma cruzi infection in Triatomine vectors, feral dogs and cats, and wild animals in and around El Paso county, Texas, and New Mexico
Authors: Rodriguez Felipe , Luna Brenda S. , Calderon Olivia , Manriquez-Roman Claudia , Amezcua-Winter Karsten , Cedillo Jonathan , Garcia-Vazquez Rebeca , Tejeda Itzel A. , Romero Alvaro , Waldrup Kenneth , Watts Douglas M. , Khatchikian Camilo , Maldonado Rosa A.
Published: February 2021

The causative agent of Chagas disease,Trypanosoma cruzi, is transmitted by triatomine vectors. The insect is endemic in the Americas, including the United States, where epidemiological studies are limited, particularly in the Southwestern region. Here, we have determined the prevalence ofT.cruziin triatomines, feral cats and dogs, and wild animals, the infecting parasite genotypes and the mammalian host bloodmeal sources of the triatomines at four different geographical sites in the U.S.-Mexico border, including El Paso County, Texas, and nearby cities in New Mexico. Using qualitative polymerase chain reaction to detectT.cruziinfections, we found 66.4% (n = 225) of triatomines, 45.3% (n = 95) of feral dogs, 39.2% (n = 24) of feral cats, and 71.4% (n = 7) of wild animals positive forT.cruzi. Over 95% ofT.cruzigenotypes or discrete typing units (DTUs) identified were TcI and some TcIV. Furthermore,Triatoma rubidawas the triatomine species most frequently (98.2%) collected in all samples analyzed. These findings suggest a high prevalence ofT.cruziinfections among triatomines, and feral and wild animals in the studied sites. Therefore, our results underscore the urgent need for implementation of a systematic epidemiological surveillance program forT.cruziinfections in insect vectors, and feral and wild animals, and Chagas disease in the human population in the southwestern region of the United States.
Pollen morphology and variability of Polish native species from genus Salix L.
Authors: Maciejewska-Rutkowska Irmina , Bocianowski Jan , Wrońska-Pilarek Dorota
Published: February 2021

The pollen morphology was studied of 24 Salix species native to Poland, which represented two subgenera, 17 sections and five subsections occurring in Poland. The aim of this study was to discover the taxonomical usefulness of the pollen features under analysis, and to investigate the ranges of their interspecific variability. In total, 720 pollen grains were studied. They were analysed with respect to seven quantitative features (length of the polar axis ˗ P, equatorial diameter ˗ E, length of the ectoaperture ˗ Le, exine thickness ˗ Ex, and P/E, Ex/P and Le/P ratios) and the following qualitative ones: pollen outline and exine ornamentation. The most important features were exine ornamentation (muri, lumina and margo) characters. The pollen features should be treated as auxiliary because they allowed to distinguish eight individual Salix species, and five groups of species. Statistical analysis of the studied traits indicated a high variability among the tested species. The most variable biometric features were P, E and Le, while lower variability occurred in P/E, Le/P and d/E.
Assessment of muscular tone of the tongue using a digital measure spoon in a healthy population: A pilot study
Authors: Rodríguez-Alcalá Laura , Martín-Lagos Martínez Juan , O´Connor-Reina Carlos , Plaza Guillermo
Published: February 2021

The study of the muscles of the tongue forms part of a basic evaluation of upper airway function that includes swallowing, speaking and chewing. It is important because the upper airway presents a region of collapse during sleep. Through the action of the dilator muscles, mainly the genioglossus, such collapse can be prevented. In this study, we present a simple tool that can be used to measure the strength of the tongue. This tool may provide an easy way to measure tongue function and allow a simple evaluation of pathologies that affect the tone of the tongue. We have carried out 20 tongue strength measurements using the Tongue Digital Spoon (TDS) in a healthy adult population, using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) as the gold standard. To validate the procedure, we performed replicate measurements on 20 individuals aged 20–70 years. We found a mean TDS measurement of 115.99 g/cm2 in young subjects, 98.47 g/cm2 in middle-aged subjects and 84.23 g/cm2 in the elderly. There was a significant difference in the measurements between young and elderly participants. There was also a significant correlation between TDS and IOPI measurements (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = 0.69, P < 0.001). We found the TDS to be a useful tool in daily clinical practice for the measurement of the strength of the tongue in the healthy population. It has potential application in oropharyngeal monitoring and rehabilitation.
Secondary bile acid ursodeoxycholic acid alters weight, the gut microbiota, and the bile acid pool in conventional mice
Authors: Winston Jenessa A. , Rivera Alissa , Cai Jingwei , Patterson Andrew D. , Theriot Casey M.
Published: February 2021

Ursodeoxycholic acid (commercially available as ursodiol) is a naturally occurring bile acid that is used to treat a variety of hepatic and gastrointestinal diseases. Ursodiol can modulate bile acid pools, which have the potential to alter the gut microbiota community structure. In turn, the gut microbial community can modulate bile acid pools, thus highlighting the interconnectedness of the gut microbiota-bile acid-host axis. Despite these interactions, it remains unclear if and how exogenously administered ursodiol shapes the gut microbial community structure and bile acid pool in conventional mice. This study aims to characterize how ursodiol alters the gastrointestinal ecosystem in conventional mice. C57BL/6J wildtype mice were given one of three doses of ursodiol (50, 150, or 450 mg/kg/day) by oral gavage for 21 days. Alterations in the gut microbiota and bile acids were examined including stool, ileal, and cecal content. Bile acids were also measured in serum. Significant weight loss was seen in mice treated with the low and high dose of ursodiol. Alterations in the microbial community structure and bile acid pool were seen in ileal and cecal content compared to pretreatment, and longitudinally in feces following the 21-day ursodiol treatment. In both ileal and cecal content, members of the Lachnospiraceae Family significantly contributed to the changes observed. This study is the first to provide a comprehensive view of how exogenously administered ursodiol shapes the healthy gastrointestinal ecosystem in conventional mice. Further studies to investigate how these changes in turn modify the host physiologic response are important.
The economics of abortion and its links with stigma: A secondary analysis from a scoping review on the economics of abortion
Authors: Moore Brittany , Poss Cheri , Coast Ernestina , Lattof Samantha R. , van der Meulen Rodgers Yana
Published: February 2021

Background

Although abortions are a common aspect of people’s reproductive lives, the economic implications of abortion and the stigmas that surround abortion are poorly understood. This article provides an analysis of secondary data from a scoping review on the economic impact of abortion to understand the intersections between stigma and economics outcomes at the microeconomic (i.e., abortion seekers and their households), mesoeconomic (i.e., communities and health systems), and macroeconomic (i.e., societies and nation states) levels.

Methods and findings

We conducted a scoping review using the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews. Studies reporting on qualitative and/or quantitative data from any world region were considered. For inclusion, studies must have examined one of the following microeconomic, mesoeconomic, or macroeconomic outcomes: costs, benefits, impacts, and/or value of abortion-related care or abortion policies. Our searches yielded 19,653 items, of which 365 items were included in our final inventory. As a secondary outcome, every article in the final inventory was screened for abortion-related stigma, discrimination, and exclusion. One quarter (89/365) of the included studies contained information on stigma, though only 32 studies included stigma findings directly tied to economic outcomes. Studies most frequently reported stigma’s links with costs (n = 24), followed by economic impact (n = 11) and economic benefit (n = 1). Abortion stigma can prevent women from obtaining correct information about abortion services and laws, which can lead to unnecessary increases in costs of care and sizeable delays in care. Women who are unable to confide in and rely on their social support network are less likely to have adequate financial resources to access abortion.

Conclusions

Abortion stigma has a clear impact on women seeking abortion or post-abortion care at each level. Programmatic interventions and policies should consider how stigma affects delays to care, access to accurate information, and available social and financial support, all of which have economic and health implications.
Metformin doses to ensure efficacy and safety in patients with reduced kidney function
Authors: Kuan Isabelle H. S. , Wilson Luke C. , Leishman Jed C. , Cosgrove Samuel , Walker Robert J. , Putt Tracey L. , Schollum John B. W. , Wright Daniel F. B.
Published: February 2021

We aimed to develop a metformin dosing strategy to optimise efficacy and safety in patients with reduced kidney function. Metformin data from two studies stratified by kidney function were analysed. The relationship between metformin clearance and kidney function estimates was explored using a regression analysis. The maintenance dose range was predicted at different bands of kidney function to achieve an efficacy target of 1 mg/L for steady-state plasma concentrations. The dosing strategy was evaluated using simulations from a published metformin pharmacokinetic model to determine the probability of concentrations exceeding those associated with lactic acidosis risk, i.e. a steady-state average concentration of 3 mg/L and a maximum (peak) concentration of 5 mg/L. A strong relationship between metformin clearance and estimated kidney function using the Cockcroft and Gault (r2 = 0.699), MDRD (r2 = 0.717) and CKD-Epi (r2 = 0.735) equations was found. The probability of exceeding the safety targets for plasma metformin concentration was <5% for most doses and kidney function levels. The lower dose of 500 mg daily was required to maintain concentrations below the safety limits for patients with an eGFR of 15–29 mL/min. Our analysis suggests that a maximum daily dose of 2250, 1700, 1250, 1000, and 500 in patients with normal kidney function, CKD stage 2, 3a, 3b and 4, respectively, will provide a reasonable probability of achieving efficacy and safety. Our results support the cautious of use metformin at appropriate doses in patients with impaired kidney function.
Genetically-determined body mass index and the risk of atrial fibrillation progression in men and women
Authors: Siland J. E. , Nguyen B. O. , de With R. R. , Van Gelder I. C. , van der Harst P. , Rienstra M.
Published: February 2021

Aims

Limited causal evidence is available on the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and atrial fibrillation (AF) progression. Sex differences have been noted and may be relevant for AF progression. We investigated the association between the BMI Genetic Risk Score (GRS) and AF progression in men and women of the Groningen Genetic Atrial Fibrillation (GGAF) cohort.

Methods and results

The GGAF cohort (n = 2207) is a composite of 5 prospective cohorts with individuals of European ancestry. AF patients with genetic information, with at least 12 months follow-up and AF progression data were included. AF progression was defined as progression from paroxysmal to persistent/permanent AF, or persistent to permanent AF. A BMI GRS was constructed of genetic variants associated with BMI. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were performed in the total population and in men and women, separately. During a median follow-up of 34 [interquartile range 19–48] months 630 AF patients (mean age 62±11, 36% women, BMI of 28±5) were analyzed, and men and women developed similar AF progression rates (respectively 6.5% versus 6.1%). The BMI GRS was not associated with AF progression either as a continuous variable or in tertiles in the overall population. However, the BMI GRS was associated with the tertile of the highest BMI GRS in women (n = 225), also after multivariable adjustments of clinical risk factors (Hazard ratio 2.611 (95% confidence interval 1.151–5.924) p = 0.022).

Conclusions

Genetically-determined BMI is only associated with women at risk of AF progression. The results may be supporting evidence for a causal link between observed BMI and AF progression in women. We emphasize the need for further investigation of genetically determined BMI and observed BMI to optimize AF management in women with increased risk for AF progression.
Assessment of right atrial dyssynchrony by 2D speckle-tracking in healthy young men following high altitude exposure at 4100 m
Authors: He Chunyan , Xiang Hedong , Liu Chuan , Yu Shiyong , Yang Jie , Ding Xiaohan , Bian Shizhu , Zhang Jihang , Tan Hu , Jin Jun , Hu Mingdong , Zhang Chen , Rao Rongsheng , Huang Lan
Published: February 2021

Background

High altitude exposure induces overload of right-sided heart and may further predispose to supraventricular arrhythmia. It has been reported that atrial mechanical dyssynchrony is associated with atrial arrhythmia. Whether high altitude exposure causes higher right atrial (RA) dyssynchrony is still unknown. The aim of study was to investigate the effect of high altitude exposure on right atrial mechanical synchrony.

Methods

In this study, 98 healthy young men underwent clinical examination and echocardiography at sea level (400 m) and high altitude (4100 m) after an ascent within 7 days. RA dyssynchrony was defined as inhomogeneous timing to peak strain and strain rate using 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography.

Results

Following high altitude exposure, standard deviation of the time to peak strain (SD-TPS) [36.2 (24.5, 48.6) ms vs. 21.7 (12.9, 32.1) ms, p<0.001] and SD-TPS as percentage of R–R’ interval (4.6 ± 2.1% vs. 2.5 ± 1.8%, p<0.001) significantly increased. Additionally, subjects with higher SD-TPS (%) at high altitude presented decreased right ventricular global longitudinal strain and RA active emptying fraction, but increased RA minimal volume index, which were not observed in lower group. Multivariable analysis showed that mean pulmonary arterial pressure and tricuspid E/A were independently associated with SD-TPS (%) at high altitude.

Conclusion

Our data for the first time demonstrated that high altitude exposure causes RA dyssynchrony in healthy young men, which may be secondary to increased pulmonary arterial pressure. In addition, subjects with higher RA dyssynchrony presented worse RA contractile function and right ventricular performance.
Shared and distinct roles of Esc2 and Mms21 in suppressing genome rearrangements and regulating intracellular sumoylation
Authors: Suhandynata Raymond T. , Gao Yong-Qi , Zhou Ann L. , Yang Yusheng , Wang Pang-Che , Zhou Huilin
Published: February 2021

Protein sumoylation, especially when catalyzed by the Mms21 SUMO E3 ligase, plays a major role in suppressing duplication-mediated gross chromosomal rearrangements (dGCRs). How Mms21 targets its substrates in the cell is insufficiently understood. Here, we demonstrate that Esc2, a protein with SUMO-like domains (SLDs), recruits the Ubc9 SUMO conjugating enzyme to specifically facilitate Mms21-dependent sumoylation and suppress dGCRs. The D430R mutation in Esc2 impairs its binding to Ubc9 and causes a synergistic growth defect and accumulation of dGCRs with mutations that delete the Siz1 and Siz2 E3 ligases. By contrast, esc2-D430R does not appreciably affect sensitivity to DNA damage or the dGCRs caused by the catalytically inactive mms21-CH. Moreover, proteome-wide analysis of intracellular sumoylation demonstrates that esc2-D430R specifically down-regulates sumoylation levels of Mms21-preferred targets, including the nucleolar proteins, components of the SMC complexes and the MCM complex that acts as the catalytic core of the replicative DNA helicase. These effects closely resemble those caused by mms21-CH, and are relatively unaffected by deleting Siz1 and Siz2. Thus, by recruiting Ubc9, Esc2 facilitates Mms21-dependent sumoylation to suppress the accumulation of dGCRs independent of Siz1 and Siz2.
Clinical features of behavioral symptoms in patients with semantic dementia: Does semantic dementia cause autistic traits?
Authors: Sakuta Shizuka , Hashimoto Mamoru , Ikeda Manabu , Koyama Asuka , Takasaki Akihiro , Hotta Maki , Fukuhara Ryuji , Ishikawa Tomohisa , Yuki Seiji , Miyagawa Yusuke , Hidaka Yosuke , Kaneda Keiichiro , Takebayashi Minoru
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate the behavioral characteristics of semantic dementia (SD) using an instrument originally developed for patients with autism spectrum disorder.

Methods

The behavioral symptoms of 20 patients with SD and 20 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in both the preclinical state and the dementia state were evaluated using the Pervasive Developmental Disorders Autism Society Japan Rating Scale (PARS).

Results

The SD group showed high prevalence in four behaviors related to stereotypy and social impairment: eating very few food items, selfishness, difficulty in recognizing others’ feeling and thoughts, and interpreting language literally. Scores on the PARS short version, which is sensitive for diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, were significantly higher in the dementia state than in the preclinical state in both the SD (11.5 ± 6.0 and 1.7 ± 2.5, respectively; t (19) = 6.7, p < 0.001) and AD (6.9 ± 4.6 and 1.7 ± 2.0, respectively; t (19) = 5.1, p < 0.001) groups. PARS short version scores after dementia onset increased in both the SD and AD groups, although the increase was significantly larger in the SD group (F = 5.6, p = 0.023). Additionally, a significantly higher rate of patients exceeded the cutoff score for autism diagnosis in the dementia state in the SD group (75%) than in the AD group (40%; χ2 = 5.0, p = 0.025). PARS scores in the dementia state were significantly correlated with illness duration (r = 0.46, p = 0.04) and Mini-Mental State Examination scores (r = −0.75, p < 0.001) in the SD group only.

Conclusions

Although SD and autism spectrum disorder are etiologically distinct diseases, patients with semantic dementia behave like those with autism spectrum disorder. Our findings suggest the symptomatic similarity of the two disorders.
Microplastic pollution on island beaches, Oahu, Hawai`i
Authors: Rey Savannah Franklin , Franklin Janet , Rey Sergio J.
Published: February 2021

We report microplastic densities on windward beaches of Oahu, Hawai`i, USA, an island that received about 6 million tourist visits a year. Microplastic densities, surveyed on six Oahu beaches, were highest on the beaches with the coarsest sands, associated with high wave energy. On those beaches, densities were very high (700–1700 particles m-2), as high as those recorded on other remote island beaches worldwide. Densities were higher at storm tide lines than high tide lines. Results from our study provide empirical data on the distribution of microplastics on the most populated and visited of the Hawaiian islands.
Human cytomegalovirus infection among treatment-naive HIV-1 infected patients in Ethiopia
Authors: Kiros Mulugeta , Geteneh Alene , Andualem Henok , Alemu Derbie , Tesfaye Abebech , Tefera Dessalegne Abeje , Mihret Adane , Alemayehu Dawit Hailu , Mulu Andargachew
Published: February 2021

Subclinical human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replication is associated with immune dysfunction in immuno-suppressed antiretroviral therapy (ART) naive HIV infected individuals. No data is documented in Ethiopia so far concerning HCMV co-infection among HIV infected individuals. Hence, this study was aimed at generating data regarding the prevalence of active HCMV infection among treatment-naive HIV-infected individuals from Ethiopia. For this purpose, we enrolled 97 treatment-naive HIV infected study subjects in Addis Ababa from June to December 2018. ELISA and conventional PCR were performed consecutively to detect HCMV specific IgM antibody and HCMV DNA respectively. Of the 97 study subjects, 12 (12.4%) were positive for anti-CMV IgM antibodies but were not confirmed by PCR. With regard to the PCR positivity, 4/97 (4.1%) samples were positive for HCMV DNA. No statically significant associations were found between the dependent and independent variables. The presence of HCMV DNA in the current study highlights the need for a routine laboratory diagnosis for preventing HCMV disease among HIV-infected individuals early. Besides, the use of anti-CMV therapy for these CMV viremic individuals is also recommended as this can reduce the burden of CMV complications and consecutively prolonging the life of HIV infected individuals.
Quantitative analysis of seven plant hormones in Lotus japonicus using standard addition method
Authors: Hashiguchi Takuyu , Hashiguchi Masatsugu , Tanaka Hidenori , Fukushima Koki , Gondo Takahiro , Akashi Ryo
Published: February 2021

Plant hormones have been identified to be versatile signaling molecules essential for plant growth, development, and stress response. Their content levels vary depending on the species, and they also change in response to any external stimuli. Thus, simultaneous quantification of multiple plant hormones is required to understand plant physiology. Sensitive and quantitative analysis using liquid chromatography-linked mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has been used in detecting plant hormones; however, quantification without stable isotopes is yet to be established. In this study, we quantified seven representative plant hormones of Lotus japonicus, which is a model legume for standard addition method. Accurate masses for monoisotopic ions of seven phytohormones were determined for high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS). Selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode based on accurate masses was used in detecting phytohormones in the roots, stems, and leaves. Evaluation of matrix effects showed ion suppression ranging from 10.2% to 87.3%. Both stable isotope dilution and standard addition methods were able to detect plant hormones in the roots, stems, and leaves, with no significant differences in using both approaches and thus a standard addition method can be used to quantify phytohormones in L. japonicus. The method will be effective, especially when stable isotopes are not available to correct for matrix effects.
Educação musical escolar em Portugal: a disciplina canto coral na Primeira República (1910-1926)
Authors: Souza Dos Santos Elias , Louro Felgueiras Margarida , Ferronato Cristiano
Published: February 2021

Este trabalho tem como propósito analisar o modo pelo qual a disciplina Canto Coral se configurou no currículo da escola portuguesa, durante o regime da Primeira República. Trata-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, respaldada nos presupostos teóricos da Cultura Escolar. Foi através do Decreto n.º 4650, de 14 de julho de 1918, que a disciplina Canto Coral passou a fazer parte do currículo dos Liceus. Oobjetivo era contribuir para a educação da voz, do sentimento estético e, especialmente, para o desenvolvimento do nacionalismo. O mesmo Decreto que criou a disciplina Canto Coral estabelecia, também, a criação de um Orfeão nos estabelecimentos de ensino. Os Orfeões se tornaram veículos de difusão das ideias republicanas. Sua função primeira, não era atribuir um papel educativo à disciplina Canto Coral, na formação dos escolares, mas, propagar a ideologia do governo vigente.
Concepciones de la geometría analítica en los libros de texto de secundaria y universidad en España durante el siglo XIX
Authors: Sánchez Sierra Isabel M.ª , González Astudillo M.ª Teresa
Published: February 2021

Este artículo muestra las concepciones acerca de la Geometría Analítica que aparecen en los libros de texto utilizados en España durante el siglo xix y que se extraen de la presentación de los conceptos matemáticos en dichos libros. Mediante el análisis de contenido de diez obras hemos identificado cuatro términos para referirse a ella: Aplicación del Álgebra a la Geometría, Geometría Analítica, Análisis determinada y Análisis indeterminada. Y dos concepciones: la primera de ellas es considerarla como un método de resolución de problemas geométricos por medio del Álgebra, de manera similar a como se utiliza para resolver problemas aritméticos, pero operando con segmentos en vez de operar con cantidades y la segunda, como un método de resolución de problemas geométricos por medio del Álgebra utilizando sistemas de coordenadas.
Influence of the addition of chitin nanocrystals on the characteristics of cellulose acetate films
Authors: Ravikumar Preethi , Sagadevan Suresh
Published: February 2021

The present study deals with chitin nanocrystal (CHNC)-reinforced cellulose acetate (CA) films formed by the solvent casting method that makes use of  poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as a plasticizing agent. Three different films containing various mass ratios of CHNCs (0.5, 1, and 2 wt %) in CA were investigated for hydrophilicity, mechanical properties, soil degradation, strength, water solubility, light transmittance, and antifungal activity. From the FT-IR analysis, no detectable shifts to the cellulose acetate bands with the loading of small amounts of CHNCs were observed. However, the light transmittance capacity of CA films decreased due to chitin addition. The chitosan incorporation enhanced the hydrophilic character of CA films, and also, the mechanical properties of the lower percentage of CHNCs in CA, like Young’s modulus, had a slight positive effect, while the tensile strength and elongation at breaks – had a negative influence. Finally, an increasing trend of antifungal activity with that of increased CHNC content was observed, i.e., the 2 wt % CHNCs containing CA film showed an inhibition rate (FGI) of 35%, 1 wt % CHNCs had a 15% inhibition rate, which is higher than that of 0.5 wt % CHNCs and pure CA, thereby indicating the potential role of CHNCs-reinforced CA films for packaging applications.
Burn Notice: A Practical Solution for Labels Damaged by Pyritic Specimens
Authors: Allington-Jones Lu , Miles Kieran , Petrera Lucia , Fenlon Anna
Published: February 2021

Oxidation of pyritic fossils and iron sulfide-bearing minerals is a common problem in natural history collections, and several solutions have been developed to treat and restore these specimens to reduce continued deterioration. Labels associated with these specimens are often also severely damaged by the sulfuric acid and iron sulfate products of pyrite oxidation. This article documents trials undertaken on labels that have been contaminated with these deterioration products to a high extent and are therefore extremely fragile. It recommends a potential salvage method, even for labels that are seemingly impossible to lift out of storage trays. This project exemplifies how techniques developed across different conservation disciplines can benefit natural history collections.
Modern approaches to drug treatment for vestibular vertigo
Authors: Zamergrad M. V. , Morozova S. V.
Published: February 2021

In recent years, some progress has been achieved in elaborating the algorithms and standards for the treatment of many conditions accompanied by vertigo. The current possibilities of treating vestibular vertigo consist of a gradually expanding arsenal of symptomatic and pathogenetic drugs. Among the drugs used for the symptomatic treatment of vestibular vertigo, there are vestibular suppressants (antihistamines, benzodiazepines, and calcium antagonists) and antiemetics (dopamine antagonists and serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists). The paper discusses the possibilities of using betahistine and vitamin D as pathogenetic agents for recurrent benign paroxysmal positional vertigo; diuretics, betahistine (including the new prolonged release formulation Betaserc® Long), glucocorticoids, and gentamicin for Meniere's disease; triptans, beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, and anticonvulsants for vestibular migraine; glucocorticoids, antiviral agents, and drugs that accelerate vestibular compensation for acute unilateral peripheral vestibulopathy (vestibular neuritis and Ramsey Hunt syndrome).

The emergence of new drugs, as well as the design of new dosage forms that enhance patient adherence to the prescribed treatment, can improve quality of life in patients suffering from diseases that have recently led to long-term disability or even incapacitation.
Synthesis of the BEAC4ND4 Ionophore from p-t-Butylcalix[4]arene Carboxylic Acid
Authors: Dali Nasriadi , Dali Arniah , Dali Seniwati , Amalia Hilda Ayu Melvi
Published: February 2021

The BEAC4ND4 ionophore has been successfully synthesized from p-t-butylcalix[4]arene carboxylic acid. The BEAC4ND4 ionophore was obtained in two steps of the synthesis reaction. The first step is the chlorination reaction of p-t-butylcalix[4]arene carboxylic acid with thionyl chloride in dry benzene solvent. The chlorination reaction product is p-t-butylcalix[4]arene acyl chloride in the form of the light brown viscous liquid with a yield of 78.25% and TLC (SiO2, CH3OH: CH2Cl2 = 1: 1 v/v, Rf = 0.65). The second step is the amidation reaction of ethyl 2-aminoacetate with p-t-butylcalix[4]arene acyl chloride in dry tetrahydrofuran solvent. The product of the amidation reaction is p-t-butylcalix[4]arene ethylesteramide or the BEAC4ND4 ionophore in the form of a white solid with the yield of 75.22%, a melting point of 314-316°C, and TLC (SiO2, CH3OH: CH2Cl2 = 1: 1 v/v, Rf = 0.75).
Reduciendo la ideación suicida en adolescentes con terapia de perspectiva temporal. Un estudio experimental
Authors: Oyanadel Cristián , Carrasco-Correa Héctor , Latorre-Nanjarí Javier , Peñate-Castro Wenceslao , Sepúlveda-Queipul Camilo
Published: February 2021

El suicidio es una de las principales causas de muerte en el mundo, problema que en los últimos años ha venido en aumento sostenido para la población adolescente. En particular, la ideación suicida se ha relacionado fuertemente con el intento suicida, un predictor directo del suicidio; sin embargo, se encuentran escasas estrategias para disminuir la ideación suicida diseñadas principalmente para la depresión. Considerando las posibilidades terapéuticas de la teoría de Zimbardo sobre la perspectiva temporal equilibrada, en el presente estudio se diseñó una intervención breve basada en la perspectiva del tiempo para adolescentes con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto de una intervención de perspectiva temporal en la modificación de indicadores de ideación y conducta suicida en adolescentes. De este modo, se realizó un estudio experimental, donde 82 participantes de 15 a 19 años fueron asignados a una intervención experimental o a un grupo control. Los participantes del grupo experimental (n = 43) participaron durante 8 sesiones del programa de intervención de perspectiva del tiempo denominado “Serenamente”. Las mediciones pre-post se realizaron sobre las variables de ideación suicida (Okasha), el perfil temporal (ZTPI) y la calidad de vida (SF-36). Como resultados, se encontró que la intervención reduce la ideación suicida en un 41 %; y que, posiblemente, mejora la salud física de quienes reciben este tipo de tratamiento. Los resultados son un avance promisorio con fines preventivos en contextos educativos y de salud.
The Code of Capital: How the Law Creates Wealth and Inequality – Core Themes
Authors: Pistor Katharina
Published: February 2021

In this brief introduction, I summarize the core themes of my book “The Code of Capital: How the Law Creates Wealth and Inequality”. Capital, I argue, is coded in law – predominantly in a handful of private law institutions. By relying on legal coding techniques, asset holders invoke the right to enforce claims against others, if necessary with the help of the state’s coercive power.