bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LPG fiber optic sensor applied to the flexural vibration monitoring and determination of dynamic Young’s modulus of woods
Authors: Mosquera L , Yana L. , Basurto J. , Torre Ana
Published: February 2021

Wooden bars arranged in cantilever configuration are put in oscillation. LPG fiber grating is used to register the flexural movement of the bar as a function of time to obtain the bar material’s Young’s modulus.
Optical sensing and optomechanics in liquid droplets
Authors: Gagliardi Gianluca
Published: February 2021

We show that droplet resonators enable direct liquid sensing via cavity-enhanced spectroscopy. Also, we prove the feasibility of all-liquid micro-mechanical oscillators in the hundreds MHz range for viscous-elastic characterization and mass sensing of nanoliter samples.
Analysis of large bandwidths of Volume Phase grating and the derived equations of the bandwidths
Authors: Nakajima Kaoru
Published: February 2021

To expand the bandwidths with high diffraction efficiency of volume phase gratings, the combination of the rectangular type of refractive index distribution and larger refractive index modulation in the Bragg diffraction regime is important.
The ubiquinone synthesis pathway is a promising drug target for Chagas disease
Authors: Nara Takeshi , Nakagawa Yukari , Tsuganezawa Keiko , Yuki Hitomi , Sekimata Katsuhiko , Koyama Hiroo , Ogawa Naoko , Honma Teruki , Shirouzu Mikako , Fukami Takehiro , Matsuo Yuichi , Inaoka Daniel Ken , Kita Kiyoshi , Tanaka Akiko
Published: February 2021

Chagas disease is caused by infection with the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi). It was originally a Latin American endemic health problem, but now is expanding worldwide as a result of increasing migration. The currently available drugs for Chagas disease, benznidazole and nifurtimox, provoke severe adverse effects, and thus the development of new drugs is urgently required. Ubiquinone (UQ) is essential for respiratory chain and redox balance in trypanosomatid protozoans, therefore we aimed to provide evidence that inhibitors of the UQ biosynthesis have trypanocidal activities. In this study, inhibitors of the human COQ7, a key enzyme of the UQ synthesis, were tested for their trypanocidal activities because they were expected to cross-react and inhibit trypanosomal COQ7 due to their genetic homology. We show the trypanocidal activity of a newly found human COQ7 inhibitor, an oxazinoquinoline derivative. The structurally similar compounds were selected from the commercially available compounds by 2D and 3D ligand-based similarity searches. Among 38 compounds selected, 12 compounds with the oxazinoquinoline structure inhibited significantly the growth of epimastigotes of T. cruzi. The most effective 3 compounds also showed the significant antitrypanosomal activity against the mammalian stage of T. cruzi at lower concentrations than benznidazole, a commonly used drug today. We found that epimastigotes treated with the inhibitor contained reduced levels of UQ9. Further, the growth of epimastigotes treated with the inhibitors was partially rescued by UQ10 supplementation to the culture medium. These results suggest that the antitrypanosomal mechanism of the oxazinoquinoline derivatives results from inhibition of the trypanosomal UQ synthesis leading to a shortage of the UQ pool. Our data indicate that the UQ synthesis pathway of T. cruzi is a promising drug target for Chagas disease.
Comparative analysis of stress distribution in one-piece and two-piece implants with narrow and extra-narrow diameters: A finite element study
Authors: Barbosa Fabricia Teixeira , Zanatta Luiz Carlos Silveira , de Souza Rendohl Edélcio , Gehrke Sergio Alexandre
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the stress distribution on three implant models with narrow and extra-narrow diameters using the finite element method (FEA).

Materials and methods

Dental implants of extra-narrow diameter of 2.5 mm for a one-piece implant (group G1), a narrow diameter of 3.0 mm for a one-piece implant (group G2) and a narrow diameter of 3.5 mm for a two-piece implant with a Morse taper connection (group G3). A three-dimensional model was designed with cortical and cancellous bone, a crown and an implant/abutment set of each group. Axial and angled (30°) loads of 150 N was applied. The equivalent von Mises stress was used for the implants and peri-implant bone plus the Mohr-Coulomb analysis to confirm the data of the peri-implant bone.

Results

In the axial load, the maximum stress value of the cortical bone for the group G1 was 22.35% higher than that the group G2 and 321.23% than the group G3. Whereas in angled load, the groups G1 and G2 showing a similar value (# 3.5%) and a highest difference for the group G3 (391.8%). In the implant structure, the group G1 showed a value of 2188MPa, 93.6% higher than the limit.

Conclusions

The results of this study show that the extra-narrow one-piece implant should be used with great caution, especially in areas of non-axial loads, whereas the one- and two-piece narrow-diameter implants show adequate behavior in both directions of the applied load.
Low use of condom and high STI incidence among men who have sex with men in PrEP programs
Authors: Ayerdi Aguirrebengoa Oskar , Vera García Mar , Arias Ramírez Daniel , Gil García Natalia , Puerta López Teresa , Clavo Escribano Petunia , Ballesteros Martín Juan , Lejarraga Cañas Clara , Fernandez Piñeiro Nuria , Fuentes Ferrer Manuel Enrique , García Lotero Mónica , Hurtado Gallegos Estefanía , Raposo Utrilla Montserrat , Estrada Pérez Vicente , Del Romero Guerrero Jorge , Rodríguez Martín Carmen
Published: February 2021

Objective

Since the recent introduction of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), several studies have reported a decrease in the use of condoms and a rise in STIs among users. This rise in risk behavior associated with the advent of PrEP is known as “risk compensation.” The aim of this study is to measure clinical and behavioral changes associated with the introduction of PrEP by analyzing condom use for anal intercourse, number of sexual partners, sexualized drug use and STI incidence.

Methods

We performed a retrospective descriptive study of PrEP users followed every 3months over a 2-year period spanning 2017–2019 in a referral clinic specializing in STI/HIV in Madrid, Spain. One hundred ten men who have sex with men and transgender women underwent regular screening for STIs and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral data were gathered for all subjects studied.

Results

The risk compensation observed in this study consisted primarily of a lower rate of condom use, while the number of sexual partners and recreational drug consumption remained stable. We observed a very high incidence of STIs in this sample, particularly rectal gonorrhea and chlamydia. The factors shown to be independently associated with the presence of an STI on multivariate analysis were age below 30 years and over 10 sexual partners/month.

Conclusion

The incidence of STI acquisition was higher than expected, indicating a need for strategies to minimize this impact, particularly among younger individuals with a higher number of sexual partners.
Relationship of common hemodynamic and respiratory target parameters with brain tissue oxygen tension in the absence of hypoxemia or hypotension after cardiac arrest: A post-hoc analysis of an experimental study using a pig model
Authors: Jung Yong Hun , Shamsiev Kamoljon , Mamadjonov Najmiddin , Jeung Kyung Woon , Lee Hyoung Youn , Lee Byung Kook , Kang Byung Soo , Heo Tag , Min Yong Il
Published: February 2021

Brain tissue oxygen tension (PbtO2)-guided care, a therapeutic strategy to treat or prevent cerebral hypoxia through modifying determinants of cerebral oxygen delivery, including arterial oxygen tension (PaO2), end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2), and mean arterial pressure (MAP), has recently been introduced. Studies have reported that cerebral hypoxia occurs after cardiac arrest in the absence of hypoxemia or hypotension. To obtain preliminary information on the degree to which PbtO2 is responsive to changes in the common target variables for PbtO2-guided care in conditions without hypoxemia or hypotension, we investigated the relationships between the common target variables for PbtO2-guided care and PbtO2 using data from an experimental study in which the animals did not experience hypoxemia or hypotension after resuscitation. We retrospectively analyzed 170 sets of MAP, ETCO2, PaO2, PbtO2, and cerebral microcirculation parameters obtained during the 60-min post-resuscitation period in 10 pigs resuscitated from ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest. PbtO2 and cerebral microcirculation parameters were measured on parietal cortices exposed through burr holes. Multiple linear mixed effect models were used to test the independent effects of each variable on PbtO2. Despite the absence of arterial hypoxemia or hypotension, seven (70%) animals experienced cerebral hypoxia (defined as PbtO2 <20 mmHg). Linear mixed effect models revealed that neither MAP nor ETCO2 were related to PbtO2. PaO2 had a significant linear relationship with PbtO2 after adjusting for significant covariates (P = 0.030), but it could explain only 17.5% of the total PbtO2 variance (semi-partial R2 = 0.175; 95% confidence interval, 0.086–0.282). In conclusion, MAP and ETCO2 were not significantly related to PbtO2 in animals without hypoxemia or hypotension during the early post-resuscitation period. PaO2 had a significant linear association with PbtO2, but its ability to explain PbtO2 variance was small.
Spatiotemporal differentiation of urban-rural income disparity and its driving force in the Yangtze River Economic Belt during 2000-2017
Authors: Chen Lingling , Shen Wei
Published: February 2021

The income imbalance between urban and rural areas has seriously affected social fairness and justice and has become a key factor restricting the sustainable development of the economy and society. The analysis of the spatiotemporal laws and causes of urban-rural income disparity is of great significance to realizing the coordinated and integrated development of regional urban and rural areas. In this study, the coefficient of variation, Theil decomposition index, spatial autocorrelation method and GeoDetector model were used to analyze the spatiotemporal characteristics of the urban-rural income gap and its driving force in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 2000 to 2017. The results show that the per capita disposable income of urban and rural residents in the study area shows a trend of rapid growth from 2000 to 2017. The urban-rural income gap in the study area showed an inverted "U"-shaped development process as a whole, and the relative difference showed an increasing trend. Regarding the spatial pattern, the study area showed a significant east-west differentiation pattern. The spatial distribution of the urban-rural income gap in the study area has an obvious positive spatial correlation, that is, the phenomena of high-value agglomeration and low-value agglomeration were significant. The economic development level, the industrial structure, the regional development policy, transportation, topographical conditions and resource endowments can strongly explain the spatial differentiation pattern of the urban-rural income gap in the study area. The spatial differentiation pattern of the urban-rural income gap is affected by both natural factors and socioeconomic factors. Among them, socioeconomic factors are the dominant factors, followed by natural factors. There is a significant interaction between natural factors and socio-economic factors, and the combination of socio-economic factors and adverse natural factors can significantly affect the regional urban-rural income gap.
Usefulness of the MALDI-TOF MS technology with membrane filter protocol for the rapid identification of microorganisms in perioperative drainage fluids of hepatobiliary pancreatic surgery
Authors: Sogawa Kazuyuki , Takano Shigetsugu , Ishige Takayuki , Yoshitomi Hideyuki , Kagawa Shingo , Furukawa Katsunori , Takayashiki Tsukasa , Kuboki Satoshi , Nomura Fumio , Ohtsuka Masayuki
Published: February 2021

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are significant and frequent perioperative complications, occurring due to the contamination of the surgical site. The late detection of SSIs, especially organ/space SSIs which are the more difficult to treat, often leads to severe complications. An effective method that can identify bacteria with a high accuracy, leading to the early detection of organ/space SSIs, is needed. Ninety-eight drainage fluid samples obtained from 22 patients with hepatobiliary pancreatic disease were analyzed to identify microorganisms using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) with a new membrane filtration protocol and rapid BACpro® pretreatment compared to sole rapid BACpro® pretreatment. The levels of detail of rapid BACpro® pretreatment with or without filtration were also evaluated for the accuracy of bacterial identification. We found that reliable scores for E. coli and E. faecalis were obtained by inoculation with 1.0 × 104 CFU/ml after preparation of the membrane filter with rapid BACpro®, indicating approximately 10-folds more sensitive compared to sole rapid BACpro® pretreatment in drainage fluid specimens. Among 60 bacterial positive colonies in drainage fluid specimens, the MALDI-TOF MS and the membrane filtration with rapid BACpro® identified 53 isolates (88.3%) with a significantly higher accuracy, compared to 25 isolates in the rapid BACpro® pretreatment group (41.7%) (p < 0.001). Among the 78 strains, 14 enteric Gram-negative bacteria (93.0%) and 55 Gram-positive cocci (87.3%) were correctly identified by the membrane filtration with rapid BACpro® with a high reliability. This novel protocol could identify bacterial species within 30 min, at $2-$3 per sample, thus leading to cost and time savings. MALDI-TOF MS with membrane filter and rapid BACpro® is a quick and reliable method for bacterial identification in drainage fluids. The shortened analysis time will enable earlier selection of suitable antibiotics for treatment of organ/space SSIs to improve patients’ outcomes.
The relation of fibromyalgia and fibromyalgia symptoms to self-reported seizures
Authors: Rasker Johannes J. , Wolfe Frederick , Klaver-Krol Ewa G. , Zwarts Machiel J. , ten Klooster Peter M.
Published: February 2021

Objective

Several epidemiological and clinical reports associate fibromyalgia (FM) with seizure disorders, and clinical studies associate FM diagnosis with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. However, these associations rely on self-reports of being diagnosed with FM or unstandardized clinical diagnosis in combination with small samples. We investigated the association of FM and self-reported seizures using a large rheumatic disease databank and the current established self-reported, symptom-based FM diagnostic criteria.

Methods

We selected a random observation from 11,378 subjects with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 2,390 (21.0%) of whom satisfied 2016 revised criteria for FM. Patients were inquired about the presence of any kind of seizures in the previous 6 months, anti-epileptic medications, and patient-reported symptoms and outcomes.

Results

Seizures were reported by 89 RA patients who met FM criteria (FM+) and by 97 patients who did not (FM-), resulting in an age- and sex-adjusted seizure prevalence of 3.74 (95% CI 2.95 to 4.53) per 100 FM+ subjects and 1.08 (95% CI 0.87 to 1.30) in FM- subjects. The seizure odds ratio of FM+ to FM- cases was 3.54 (95% CI 2.65 to 4.74). Seizures were associated to a very similar degree with symptom reporting (somatic symptom count and comorbidity index) as to FM diagnosis variables. RA patients reporting seizures also reported worse pain, quality of life, and functional status. Seizure patients treated with anti-seizure medication had worse outcomes and more comorbidities than seizure patients with no seizure drugs.

Conclusions

We found a significant and similar association of both FM diagnostic variables and FM-related symptom variables, including the number of symptoms and comorbidities, with self-reported seizures in people with RA. The observed association was similar to those found in previous studies of symptoms variables and seizures and does not suggest a unique role for fibromyalgia diagnosis. Rather, it suggests that multi-symptom comorbidity is linked to seizures in a complex and not yet clearly understood way. As the current study relied on self-reported seizures and was not able to distinguish between epileptic and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, future studies are needed to replicate the findings using both validated FM criteria assessments and clinically verified diagnoses of epileptic and psychogenic seizures.
Blue-wavelength light therapy for post-traumatic brain injury sleepiness, sleep disturbance, depression, and fatigue: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Srisurapanont Karan , Samakarn Yanisa , Kamklong Boonyasit , Siratrairat Phichayakan , Bumiputra Arina , Jaikwang Montita , Srisurapanont Manit
Published: February 2021

Objective

This review aimed to determine the efficacy of blue-wavelength light therapy (BWLT) for post-traumatic brain injury (TBI) sleepiness, sleep disturbance, depression, and fatigue.

Methods

Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Academic Search Complete, and CINAHL. Included trials were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of BWLT in adults with a history of TBI. Outcomes of interest included sleepiness, sleep disturbance, depression, or fatigue. Two reviewers independently screened the searched items, selected the trials, extracted the data, and rating the quality of trials. We aggregated the data using a random-effect, frequentist network meta-analysis (NMA).

Results

We searched the databases on July 4, 2020. This review included four RCTs of 117 patients with a history of TBI who were randomized to received BWLT, amber light therapy (ALT), or no light therapy (NLT). Moderate-quality evidence revealed that: i) BWLT was significantly superior to NLT in reducing depression (SMD = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.20 to 1.43) ii) BWLT reduced fatigue at a significantly greater extent than NLT (SMD = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.41 to 1.76) and ALT (SMD = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.14 to 1.86). Low-quality evidence suggested that BWLT reduced depression at a greater extent than ALT (SMD = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.04 to 1.10). Low-quality evidence found that the dropout rates of those receiving BWLT and ALT were not significantly different (RR = 3.72, 95% CI = 0.65 to 21.34).

Conclusion

Moderate-quality evidence suggests that BWLT may be useful for post-TBI depression and fatigue.
Trends and projections of under-5 mortality in Bangladesh including the effects of maternal high-risk fertility behaviours and use of healthcare services
Authors: Khan Mostaured Ali , Khan Nuruzzaman , Rahman Obaidur , Mustagir Golam , Hossain Kamal , Islam Rafiqul , Khan Hafiz T. A.
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study examines trends and puts forward projections of under-5 mortality (U5M) in Bangladesh and identifies the effects of maternal high-risk fertility behaviours and use of healthcare services.

Methods

Data from seven waves of the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (1994–2014) were analyzed for trends and projections of U5M and a Chi-square (χ2) test was used to identify if there was any association with maternal high-risk fertility behaviours and use of healthcare services. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to determine the effects of fertility behaviors and healthcare usage on the occurrence of U5M adjusting with confounders.

Results

U5M declined from 82.5 to 41.0 per 1000 livebirths during 1994–2014 and is projected to further reduce to 17.6 per 1000 livebirths by 2030. The study identified a noticeable regional variation in U5M with maternal high-risk fertility behaviours including age at birth <18 years (aOR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.23–2.76) and birth interval <24 months (aOR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.02–2.37) found to be significant determinants. There was a 39–53% decline in this rate of mortality among women that had used antenatal care services at least four times (aOR, 0.51, 95% CI: 0.27–0.97), delivery care (aOR, 0.47, 95% CI: 0.24–0.95), and had received postnatal care (aOR, 0.61, 95% CI: 0.41–0.91) in their last birth. Cesarean section was found to be associated with a 51% reduction in U5M (aOR, 0.49, 95% CI: 0.29–0.82) compared to its non-use.

Conclusion

The Sustainable Development Goals require a U5M rate of 25 per 1000 livebirths to be achieved by 2030. This study suggests that with the current trend of reduction, Bangladesh will achieve this target before the deadline. This study also found that maternal high-risk fertility behaviours and non-use of maternal healthcare services are very prevalent in some regions of Bangladesh and have increased the occurrence of U5M in those areas. This suggests therefore, that policies and programmes designed to reduce the pregnancy rates of women that are at risk and to encourage an increase in the use of maternal healthcare services are needed.
Allelic composition of carotenoid metabolic genes in 13 founders influences carotenoid composition in juice sac tissues of fruits among Japanese citrus breeding population
Authors: Fujii Hiroshi , Nonaka Keisuke , Minamikawa Mai F. , Endo Tomoko , Sugiyama Aiko , Hamazaki Kosuke , Iwata Hiroyoshi , Omura Mitsuo , Shimada Takehiko
Published: February 2021

To enrich carotenoids, especially β-cryptoxanthin, in juice sac tissues of fruits via molecular breeding in citrus, allele mining was utilized to dissect allelic variation of carotenoid metabolic genes and identify an optimum allele on the target loci characterized by expression quantitative trait (eQTL) analysis. SNPs of target carotenoid metabolic genes in 13 founders of the Japanese citrus breeding population were explored using the SureSelect target enrichment method. An independent allele was determined based on the presence or absence of reliable SNPs, using trio analysis to confirm inheritability between parent and offspring. Among the 13 founders, there were 7 PSY alleles, 7 HYb alleles, 11 ZEP alleles, 5 NCED alleles, and 4 alleles for the eQTL that control the transcription levels of PDS and ZDS among the ancestral species, indicating that some founders acquired those alleles from them. The carotenoid composition data of 263 breeding pedigrees in juice sac tissues revealed that the phenotypic variance of carotenoid composition was similar to that in the 13 founders, whereas the mean of total carotenoid content increased. This increase in total carotenoid content correlated with the increase in either or both β-cryptoxanthin and violaxanthin in juice sac tissues. Bayesian statistical analysis between allelic composition of target genes and carotenoid composition in 263 breeding pedigrees indicated that PSY-a and ZEP-e alleles at PSY and ZEP loci had strong positive effects on increasing the total carotenoid content, including β-cryptoxanthin and violaxanthin, in juice sac tissues. Moreover, the pyramiding of these alleles also increased the β-cryptoxanthin content. Interestingly, the offset interaction between the alleles with increasing and decreasing effects on carotenoid content and the epistatic interaction among carotenoid metabolic genes were observed and these interactions complexed carotenoid profiles in breeding population. These results revealed that allele composition would highly influence the carotenoid composition in citrus fruits. The allelic genotype information for the examined carotenoid metabolic genes in major citrus varieties and the trio-tagged SNPs to discriminate the optimum alleles (PSY-a and ZEP-e) from the rest would promise citrus breeders carotenoid enrichment in fruit via molecular breeding.
A multi-year assessment of blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) population establishment and Lyme disease risk areas in Ottawa, Canada, 2017-2019
Authors: Burrows Holly , Talbot Benoit , McKay Roman , Slatculescu Andreea , Logan James , Thickstun Charles , Lindsay L. Robbin , Dibernardo Antonia , Koffi Jules K. , Ogden Nicholas H. , Kulkarni Manisha A.
Published: February 2021

Canadians face an emerging threat of Lyme disease due to the northward expansion of the tick vector,Ixodes scapularis. We evaluated the degree ofI.scapularispopulation establishment andBorrelia burgdorferioccurrence in the city of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada from 2017–2019 using active surveillance at 28 sites. We used a field indicator tool developed by Clow et al. to determine the risk ofI.scapularisestablishment for each tick cohort at each site using the results of drag sampling. Based on results obtained with the field indicator tool, we assigned each site an ecological classification describing the pattern of tick colonization over two successive cohorts (cohort 1 was comprised of ticks collected in fall 2017 and spring 2018, and cohort 2 was collected in fall 2018 and spring 2019). Total annual site-specificI.scapularisdensity ranged from 0 to 16.3 ticks per person-hour. Sites with the highest density were located within the Greenbelt zone, in the suburban/rural areas in the western portion of the city of Ottawa, and along the Ottawa River; the lowest densities occurred at sites in the suburban/urban core.B.burgdorferiinfection rates exhibited a similar spatial distribution pattern. Of the 23 sites for which data for two tick cohorts were available, 11 sites were classified as “high-stable”, 4 were classified as “emerging”, 2 were classified as “low-stable”, and 6 were classified as “non-zero”.B.burgdorferi-infected ticks were found at all high-stable sites, and at one emerging site. These findings suggest that high-stable sites pose a risk of Lyme disease exposure to the community as they have reproducing tick populations with consistent levels ofB.burgdorferiinfection. Continued surveillance forI.scapularis,B.burgdorferi, and range expansion of other tick species and emerging tick-borne pathogens is important to identify areas posing a high risk for human exposure to tick-borne pathogens in the face of ongoing climate change and urban expansion.
Proposal of Lentzea deserti (Okoro et al. 2010) Nouioui et al. 2018 as a later heterotypic synonym of Lentzea atacamensis (Okoro et al. 2010) Nouioui et al. 2018 and an emended description of Lentzea atacamensis
Authors: Ping Mo , Yun-Lin Zhao , Jun Liu , Jian Gao , Zheng-Gang Xu
Published: February 2021

The taxonomic relationship of Lentzea atacamensis and Lentzea deserti were re-evaluated using comparative genome analysis. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that the type strains of L. atacamensis and L. deserti shared 99.7% sequence similarity. The digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between the genomes of two type strains were 88.6% and 98.8%, respectively, greater than the two recognized thresholds values of 70% dDDH and 95–96% ANI for bacterial species delineation. These results suggested that L. atacamensis and L. deserti should share the same taxonomic position. And this conclusion was further supported by similar phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features between them. Therefore, we propose that L. deserti is a later heterotypic synonym of L. atacamensis.
Prenylated quinolinecarboxylic acid compound-18 prevents sensory nerve fiber outgrowth through inhibition of the interleukin-31 pathway
Authors: Ogura Masato , Endo Kumiko , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Homma Yoshimi
Published: February 2021

Interleukin-31 (IL-31) is involved in excessive development of cutaneous sensory nerves in atopic dermatitis (AD), leading to severe pruritus. We previously reported that PQA-18, a prenylated quinolinecarboxylic acid (PQA) derivative, is an immunosuppressant with inhibition of p21-activated kinase 2 (PAK2) and improves skin lesions in Nc/Nga mice as an AD model. In the present study, we investigate the effect of PQA-18 on sensory nerves in lesional skin. PQA-18 alleviates cutaneous nerve fiber density in the skin of Nc/Nga mice. PQA-18 also inhibits IL-31-induced sensory nerve fiber outgrowth in dorsal root ganglion cultures. Signaling analysis reveals that PQA-18 suppresses phosphorylation of PAK2, Janus kinase 2, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), activated by IL-31 receptor (IL-31R), resulting in inhibition of neurite outgrowth in Neuro2A cells. Gene silencing analysis for PAK2 confirms the requirement for STAT3 phosphorylation and neurite outgrowth elicited by IL-31R activation. LC/MS/MS analysis reveals that PQA-18 prevents the formation of PAK2 activation complexes induced by IL-31R activation. These results suggest that PQA-18 inhibits the IL-31 pathway through suppressing PAK2 activity, which suppresses sensory nerve outgrowth. PQA-18 may be a valuable lead for the development of a novel drug for pruritus of AD.
Polycystic ovary syndrome and extremely preterm birth: A nationwide register-based study
Authors: Valgeirsdottir Heiddis , Sundström Poromaa Inger , Kunovac Kallak Theodora , Vanky Eszter , Akhter Tansim , Roos Nathalie , Stephansson Olof , Wikström Anna-Karin
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have increased risk of pregnancy complications, including preterm birth before 37 weeks. However, if this increased risk also includes extremely preterm births (<28 weeks) is unknown. Such information is important to identify women at risk and tailor antenatal care, since child morbidity and mortality become more prevalent with increasing prematurity.

Aims

To investigate the association between PCOS and extremely preterm birth, and whether onset of PCOS-related preterm birth is predominantly spontaneous or medically indicated.

Material and methods

This was a nationwide register-based cohort study in Sweden. The study population was all live singleton births registered in the Swedish Medical Birth Register 2005–2014 (n = 1 046 448). Women with and without PCOS were compared by severity of preterm birth [extremely (22+0 to 27+6 weeks), very (28+0 to 31+6 weeks) and moderately (32+0 to 36+6 weeks)] and delivery onset mode (spontaneous or medically indicated). Multinomial logistic regression was performed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Adjustments were made for maternal age, parity, body mass index, smoking, country of birth and year of delivery.

Results

During the study period, 1.3% of the women giving birth had PCOS diagnosis. They had an overall higher preterm birth rate than women without PCOS (6.7% and 4.8%, respectively). Women with PCOS had increased odds of preterm birth of all severities, with the highest odds for extremely preterm birth (aOR 2.3; 95% CI 1.7–3.0), particularly of spontaneous onset (aOR 2.7; 95% CI 2.0–3.6).

Conclusions

Women with PCOS had more than a two-fold increased risk of extremely preterm birth with spontaneous onset than women without such diagnosis. This can be important in antenatal risk assessment of preterm birth in women with PCOS. Future research is warranted to investigate the biological mechanisms behind preterm birth in women with PCOS.
COVID-19 Trend Analysis using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Jaglan Abhishek , Trehan Daksh , Megha Ms , Singhal Priyansh
Published: February 2021

With COVID-19 being the highlight of the decade and information related to it on the rise in an unorganized manner, the need for a centralized platform to gather information from on an international front doesn't seem to be far fetched.
Tutorial on the fragmentation of the railway ballast particles and calibration methods in discrete element modelling
Authors: Juhász Erika , Fischer Szabolcs
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a short literature review related to the fragmentation of the railway crushed ballast particles. With the help of the processed articles with the main topic of discrete element modelling (DEM) we aim to provide some insight into the international achievements and forward progress of the subject. Rock materials as granular elements can be investigated from several perspectives. The elements can be examined in laboratory conditions purely from the quarry, or even by obtaining already fragmented particles from the real railway tracks. In addition, DEM models can be created by using computer software. This article tackles only a small segment of the literature. Though each DEM topic was unique, they all involved examination of degradation of particles in some way. This review focuses on model building, including particle construction and calibration. The selected publications do not cover the current state of the entire DEM research related to ballast degradation.
Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) in Children: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Tugasworo Dodik , Kurnianto Aditya , Retnaningsih Retnaningsih , Andhitara Yovita , Ardhini Rahmi , Nugroho Tomy , Budiman Jethro
Published: February 2021

Background: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare autoimmune disease that covers 20-30% of diseases related to autoimmune disorders and about 1% of demyelination diseases. NMO symptoms are vary between individuals, there are generally 2 main symptoms, transverse myelitis and optic neuritis. This article reported a child with NMO disease based on The Consensus of the International Panel for NMO Diagnosis (IPND) 2015.Case Presentation: An 8-year old boy with spastic tetraparesis, bilateral nervus opticus dysfunction, urinary retention, and allodynia et causa suspected NMO. Patient received therapy using high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone and showing a clinical improvement.Conclusion: This patient was diagnosed NMO based on IPND 2015 with an unknown AQP4-Ab status accompanied by supporting clinical symptoms. The management of NMO with high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone in this patient provides a meaningful response to the clinical improvement of the disease.
SRY-negative in 46, XX Male Testicular DSD: a case report
Authors: Listyasari Nurin Aisyiyah , Santosa Ardy , Juniarto Achmad Zulfa
Published: February 2021

Background: The sex determination process requires distinct signaling pathways to generate either testis or ovaries from the same precursor structures, the primordial gonad. Deviations of this signaling mechanism may result in disorders/differences of sex development (DSD). The 46, XX testicular DSD is a rare genetic condition identified by a discrepancy between genetic and phenotypic sex caused sex reversal syndrome. Case Presentation: We describe the case of a 5 years-old 46, XX boy with ambiguous genitalia. On physical examination he had severe hypospadias, bifid scrotum, micropenis and palpable bilateral testes. Cytogenetic analysis of patient reveals a 46, XX karyotype. Hormonal assay showed low level of FSH, LH and Testosterone and there was no evidence of Mullerian structures based on pelvic imaging. The histopathology of gonadal tissue showed a Leydig cell hyperplasia which gives the impression of Sertoli cell nodule. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis failed to identify the presence of SRY gene, therefore a diagnosis of 46, XX Testicular DSD with SRY-negative was established. Conclusion: This report presents a rare case of SRY-negative 46, XX Testicular DSD in a boy with ambiguous genitalia. A comprehensive management including clinical, cytogenetic and molecular analyses have indicated that undiscovered genetic or environmental factors needs to be elucidated. It is important to carry out further molecular testing to establish precise diagnosis of DSD and to provide appropriate genetic counseling for patients and their family.
Hyperuricemia as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Hisatome Ichiro , Li Peili , Taufiq Fikri , Maharani Nani , Kuwabara Masanari , Ninomiya Haruaki , Bahrudin Udin
Published: February 2021

Serum uric acid level above 7 mg/dl is defined as hyperuricemia, which gives rise to the monosodium urate (MSU), causing gout and urolithiasis. Hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor as well as a marker for hypertension, heart failure, atherosclerosis, atrial fibrillation, and chronic kidney disease. MSU crystals, soluble uric acid (UA), or oxidative stress derived from xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) might be plausible explanations for the association of cardio-renovascular diseases with hyperuricemia. In macrophages, MSU activates the Nod-like receptor family, pyrin　domain containing 3(NLRP3) inflammasome, and proteolytic processing mediated by caspase-1 with enhanced interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 secretion. Soluble UA accumulates intracellularly through UA transporters (UAT) in vascular and atrial myocytes, causing endothelial dysfunction ad atrial electrical remodeling. XOR generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that lead to cardiovascular diseases. Since it remains unclear whether asymptomatic hyperuricemia could be a risk factor for cardiovascular and kidney diseases, European and American guidelines do not recommend pharmacological treatment for asymptomatic patients with cardio-renovascular diseases. The Japanese guideline, on the contrary, recommends pharmacological treatment for hyperuricemia with CKD to protect renal function, and it attaches importance of the cardio-renal interaction for the treatment of asymptomatic hyperuricemia patients with hypertension and heart failure.
Cyclic nucleotide in oocyte In vitro maturation in Assisted Reproductive Technology
Authors: Sun Christie L , Catt Sally L , Beilby Kiri , Pangestu Mulyoto
Published: February 2021

In vitro maturation (IVM) is a promising assisted reproductive technology (ART) for human infertility treatment. However, when cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) are removed from their follicular environment when manipulated in vitro, it can lead to a decrease of intra-oocyte cyclic adenosine 3’, 5’-monophosphare (cAMP) causing spontaneous nuclear maturation and an asynchrony with the oocytes’ cytoplasmic maturation, resulting in poor embryo developmental outcomes. Nuclear and cytoplasmic synchrony is important during oocyte maturation within antral follicles.It is maintained partially by the actions of c-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) binding with natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2), supporting high cAMP levels thus holding the oocyte in meiotic arrest. Addition of CNP to pre-IVM media has the capacity of maintaining cAMP levels and thus improve synchrony. Moreover, in women with advanced maternal age, successful IVM of aging oocytes faces significant challenges due to the morphological and cellular changes.  Inhibiting initiation of nuclear maturation by cAMP modulator, CNP during pre-IVM period and thus improve oocyte developmental competence regardless of oocyte age.
Badania naukowe w zakresie rozwoju obszarów wiejskich w Zakładzie Geografii Rolnictwa i Wsi UAM
Authors: Kołodziejczak Anna
Published: February 2021

Badania nad rozwojem obszarów wiejskich początkowo nie cieszyły się dużym zainteresowaniem wśród badaczy i związane były z geografią rolnictwa. Było to podejście monofunkcyjne (sektorowe), czyli obszary wiejskie rozpatrywane były pod kątem rolnictwa. Obszar rolniczy był to obszar wiejski, natomiast ludność rolnicza odpowiadała ludności wiejskiej. Przełom nastąpił w latach 90. XX w., kiedy zastosowano podejście wielofunkcyjne. W polskiej geografii pojawiła się subdyscyplina, tj. geografia wsi, a w pracach najczęściej podkreśla się jej wieloprzedmiotowy charakter w przeciwieństwie do jej poprzedniczki i zarazem tylko części obecnego zróżnicowanego zbioru zainteresowań, czyli geografii rolnictwa. Na początku XXI w. narodziła się koncepcja zintegrowanego rozwoju rolnictwa i wsi, która stała się podstawą do prowadzenia badań kompleksowych. W koncepcji tej uwarunkowania gospodarcze, społeczne i przyrodnicze są przedstawiane jako istotna zmienna wyjaśniająca deformacje struktury przestrzennej obszarów wiejskich w kategorii miejsca rozumianego jako pewna całość terytorialna. Założenia tej koncepcji oparte na wielofunkcyjności obszaru wiejskiego i rolnictwa są często wykorzystywane jako podstawa teoretyczna w opracowaniach planistycznych, diagnostycznych i typologiach. Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie wyników badań związanych z rozwojem obszarów wiejskich wykonanych przez pracowników Zakładu Geografii Rolnictwa i Wsi. Badania te były i są bardzo zróżnicowane – w sensie ilościowym, jakościowym oraz przestrzeni, której dotyczyły. Zaowocowały one wieloma postulatami dla polityki rozwoju obszarów wiejskich.
Biomarcadores en la enfermedad de Alzheimer
Authors: Janeiro Manuel H. , Ardanaz Carlos G. , Sola-Sevilla Noemí , Dong Jinya , Cortés-Erice María , Solas Maite , Puerta Elena , Ramírez María J.
Published: February 2021

Objetivos

La enfermedad de Alzheimer (EA) es una enfermedad neurodegenerativa. La EA es la principal causa de demencia en el mundo, siendo el envejecimiento el principal factor de riesgo. Los criterios diagnósticos para la enfermedad de Alzheimer suelen basarse en datos clínicos. No obstante, es necesario establecer una definición biológica de la enfermedad de Alzheimer basada en biomarcadores que reflejen la neuropatología subyacente.

Contenido

El objetivo de esta revisión es presentar los resultados obtenidos en la medición de biomarcadores nuevos y ya conocidos en los fluidos biológicos o en neuroimágenes.

Actualmente se emplean tres biomarcadores para el diagnóstico de la enfermedad de Alzheimer_Aβ42, t-Tau y p-Tau. El uso diagnóstico de biomarcadores en el líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) presenta algunas limitaciones debido a que la obtención invasiva mediante punción lumbar puede provocar efectos secundarios. La práctica más común en los centros clínicos es la medición en plasma o suero, ya que es mínimamente invasiva y, en consecuencia, se puede obtener y procesar con mayor facilidad. Las dos principales proteínas implicadas en el proceso patológico, Aβ y Tau, se pueden visualizar empleando técnicas de neuroimagen como la PET.

Perspectivas

Dado que está ampliamente aceptado que la enfermedad de Alzheimer comienza décadas antes de que se diagnostiquen los primeros síntomas clínicos, la detección de alteraciones biológicas previa a la aparición de la sintomatología clínica permitiría su diagnóstico precoz o incluso abriría la puerta a nuevas opciones terapéuticas.
Taking research from periphery to core in a Caribbean Language Centre
Authors: Carter Beverly-Anne
Published: February 2021

This paper draws on two research activities to discuss the role of research at the Centre for Language Learning (CLL) at The University of the West Indies St. Augustine Campus in Trinidad and Tobago. Established in 1997, the CLL introduced languages for all into this Caribbean higher education (HE) context. The CLL also introduced an expanded language curriculum beyond the historical focus on Romance languages and literatures. As the language centre evolved with more languages being taught and more language services offered, research, nonetheless, remained a marginal activity. Yet without a research agenda, the CLL risked being seen as a “service unit” - an outlier in a university seeking to confirm its place in the highly competitive global HE landscape. As the CLL sought to embrace more fully the research mandate of The UWI and of language centres internationally, CercleS publications and documents, for example, “Quality Assessment Criteria for Language Centres” were of great utility. The latter document’s focus on research as a quality indicator was consistent with The UWI’s focus on quality assurance and research. Taking research from periphery to core is thus intrinsic to moving the CLL into closer alignment with both institutional and international norms.
Integrating entrepreneurial working life skills with foreign language teaching – two cases from the University of Oulu
Authors: Sorvari Jaana , Rusko Satu , Jackson Nina , Ainonen Hanna-Leena
Published: February 2021

This activity report describes two cases of Language teaching for degree students in the University of Oulu with new pedagogical approaches aiming towards authentic working life skills. Co-creation, collaborative learning and cooperation across borders are the building blocks for these innovative language teaching projects. Case 1 describes Entrepreneurial Language Studies in English and Swedish courses, co-created with the Ministry of Culture and Education Key Projects, which aim for fostering entrepreneurial culture and creating entrepreneurial learning environments at universities. Case 2 is about Teaching English and Course Cooperation in English language between the students of Information Processing Science in Finland and Russia. In both of these cases, students have been challenging themselves with new ways to learn the language and at the same time acquire important skills for working life, virtual learning, presentations, communication, problem solving and business idea creation. What unites these cases is the emphasis on authentic language learning, creativity and self-efficacy. Because career paths today are increasingly complex, multidisciplinary and diverse, the ability to adapt, innovate and be flexible is vital in evolving and collaborative working environments.
Celebrating CercleS: introductory notes to 30 years of professional activity in the field of language learning and teaching
Authors: Argondizzo Carmen , Mansfield Gillian
Published: February 2021

Abstract and acknowledgements

This introduction provides a glimpse of CercleS’ mission over the past 30 years, as clearly emerges in the contributions this issue contains. It is a Special Issue which celebrates the 30th anniversary of CercleS (1991-2021) and coincides with our being invited to become Editors-in-Chief of Language Learning in Higher Education, indeed a great honour for us. We would like to thank the present and past Executive Boards and Coordinating Committees for placing their faith and trust in us. We would also like to thank the authors who contributed to this special issue and the De Gruyter staff for their ongoing support. In this and future issues, we intend to carry forward the precious work of our predecessors, encouraging the CercleS community to continue to join forces in fostering best practices of modern language education both in Europe and the world at large.
Negativity about Europe: Does it propel parties’ media visibility?
Authors: Eugster Beatrice , Adam Silke , Jansen Severin , Maier Michaela
Published: February 2021

In recent decades, the prevalence of negative communication has intensified across the world. In this article, we seek to understand the mechanisms that spread negativity about a unified Europe. We study the specific conditions under which negative party communication boosts media visibility, focusing on the role of country-specific party conflicts on European Union (EU) integration. Our analysis is based on content analysis data of parties’ press releases and media coverage in the 12 weeks preceding the 2014 European Parliamentary elections in seven countries (Austria, France, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Portugal, and the United Kingdom). We find that EU-negative party communication by and large does not matter for party visibility in the media, though the results provide scant evidence that cross-national differences relate to a country’s party conflict.
Zeros of GL2 𝐿-functions on the critical line
Authors: Andersen Nickolas , Thorner Jesse
Published: February 2021

We use Levinson’s method and the work of Blomer and Harcos on the

GL
2

\mathrm{GL}_{2}

shifted convolution problem to prove that at least 6.96 % of the nontrivial zeros of the 𝐿-function of a

GL
2

\mathrm{GL}_{2}

automorphic form lie on the critical line.